- Roy Keane was wrong on his criticism of Erling Haaland, writes Ian Ladyman
- Christian Horner’s best man has also revealed what’s next for him and wife Geri
- Plus, Mail+ Sport talks with Yorkshire chairman Colin Graves about club’s future
Another day, another day of premium content provided by Mail+ Sport.
With a lot of English interest across the Champions League, Europa League and Europa Conference League this midweek, Mail Sport are delving into those stories and a lot more too.
Tuesday and Wednesday’s Champions League action was spellbinding and the fallout from UEFA elite club competition continues.
Meanwhile in the world of Formula One, Bernie Ecclestone has revealed what will happen next for Christian Horner and his wife Geri following his texting scandal.
You can find all this on Mail+ Sport, which has the best content on offer in terms of unrivalled insight, interesting opinions and exclusive interviews. Here’s the best from Mail+ Sport over the last few days…
Roy Keane made a scathing remark of Erling Haaland’s link-up play during Man City’s recent 0-0 draw with Arsenal, describing it as being the standard of someone playing in League Two.
While the remark made the headlines, IAN LADYMAN has written in his Thursday column how Keane was totally wrong with his opinion – and explains why he doesn’t need to emulate Harry Kane as a playmaking centre forward.
Erling Haaland was criticised by Roy Keane after his anonymous display against Arsenal
Christian Horner has endured some of the toughest few months both on and off the track following his scandal that hit the headlines in February.
Horner’s close friend and best man Bernie Ecclestone has revealed what is coming up next for the Red Bull boss and how he mending his marriage with wife Geri.
Bernie Ecclestone has shared his thoughts on the roiling scandal at Red Bull – and the state of Geri Halliwell and Christian Horner’s marriage
Following his controversial return to crisis-club Yorkshire, Colin Graves has insisted that it is his role as the club’s chairman to make sure the cricket institution survives.
Yorkshire are still emerging from the dark cloud of the Azeem Rafiq racism scandal and it is down to Graves to get the ship back on track.
Colin Graves completed a controversial return to Yorkshire as chairman two months ago
It’s the new diving. Throw out a leg as the defender moves in for the ball, make first contact and then find yourself in a heap. To the naked eye, it is a penalty. Cast iron.
But since VAR, players realise that diving alone will not get them a penalty so the trailing leg is on the rise and defenders need to beware. It will be coming to a penalty box near you soon.
Mail Sport’s columnists CHRIS SUTTON, MARTIN KEOWN and MARK CLATTENBURG have their say on the debate of players looking for penalties – following the controversial no-call on Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka against Bayern Munich in the dying embers of their Champions League quarter-final first leg.
Bukayo Saka was subject of a controversial moment at the end of Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich
It flashed across the International Olympic Committee’s skyline like a bolt from the blue on Wednesday morning. And so 128 years of Olympic tradition vanished with news that World Athletics would pay athletes for winning gold medals at this year’s Paris Games, and beyond.
Starting in the summer, victorious track and field competitors in each of the 48 disciplines will walk away with $50,000 (nearly £40,000). World Athletics have further committed to extend cash prizes to silver and bronze medallists in Los Angeles in 2028.
Mail Sport’s JONATHAN MCEVOY weighs in on the hot topic within athletics events at this summer’s and future Olympics – and it’s wider ramifications.
Gold medallists in track and field at the Paris 2024 Olympics will received £39,400 in prize money after World Athletics announced a £1.89m prize fund
It took some time to come down from Tuesday night. To actually remember the details of one of those nights inside the house of European football grandly hosting this era’s continental Clasico.
One of those that really requires a cerveza or three down a Madrid back street for a debrief. That yes, Vinicius Junior had dropped off the front to set Rodrygo away and who played that clever little ball for Phil Foden? John Stones, of course, how could you forget? Quite easily in the circumstances, actually. Blink and you miss it sort of stuff.
Mail Sport’s JACK GAUGHAN reflects on the brilliance he witnessed at the Bernabeu between Real Madrid and Manchester City – and why the Champions League delivers like no other sporting competition in the world.
There was drama and chaos as European champions Manchester City drew with Real Madrid
There were a number of tussles between world class stars that caught the eye at the Bernabeu
READ: Even in Bible-belt America, nobody believes in a Tiger miracle this time, writes RIATH AL-SAMARRAI
Tiger Woods answered 28 questions amid the mahogany and leather of an Augusta conference room. It was the one he wasn’t asked that spoke loudest about changing times and aching limbs.
For all the traditions of this grand old place, one that has established itself in recent years has been the invitation for an ageing, broken giant to state if he still has it. If he can still get it done in spite of himself.
Not now. It would seem that even within this Bible-belt state some miracles feel just too improbable, and so the standard enquiry — can you win? — was not fed to a cat with thinning fur and fusions of spine and ankle joints.
Mail Sport’s RIATH AL-SAMARRAI assesses the hopes of Tiger Woods, now 48, as he looks to add to his legacy by winning The Masters once more.
Tiger Woods is one of the most decorated golfers of all-time and has won the Masters five times
However, the legendary American has struggled with his form and fitness in recent years
READ: Arsenal shrank in the face of the occasion, writes OLIVER HOLT after 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich
When the time came to show that they were ready to mix with European royalty again without looking like paupers in rags next to the ermine of the elite, Arsenal shrunk in the face of the occasion.
Faced with a Bayern Munich side that has fallen from grace in its domestic season but which has won this competition six times, Arsenal played for large parts of the tie with all the uncertainty and gaucheness of schoolboys who didn’t believe they belonged among the adults.
Mail Sport’s OLIVER HOLT was at the Emirates for a pulsating Champions League quarter-final first-leg showdown between two European giants.
Bukayo Saka opened the scoring at the Emirates with a superb finish against Bayern Munich
READ: PLAYER RATINGS – Four Arsenal stars rate just 5.5/10 as mistakes litter 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane returned to north London to score his customary goal against Arsenal as the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie ended 2-2.
Mail Sport’s ISSAN KHAN was at the Emirates to rate the Gunners players.
Arsenal defender Gabriel tangles with Bayern Munch striker Harry Kane at the Emirates
By all accounts Real Madrid closed the roof of this fabulously remodelled and repurposed old stadium to help the atmosphere. They needn’t have worried. Six goals took care of all that.
What a game of European football this was. To describe it as a game of punch and counter punch would be wrong. It wasn’t like that.
Mail Sport’s IAN LADYMAN was at the Santiago Bernabeu to witness a Champions League quarter-final first-leg classic.
Phil Foden scored a stunning equaliser in a classic European time between Man City and Real
Real Madrid and Manchester City drew 3-3 after a breathtaking encounter at the Bernabeu in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final.
Mail Sport’s JACK GAUGHAN was in the Spanish capital to run the rule over the two sides.
Real Madrid and Man City couldn’t be separated after their clash at the Bernabeu ended 3-3
It was a breathtaking encounter, with both City and Real trading several blows throughout
John Murtough is a studious character who, for the most part, has liked operating in the shadows. ‘The Fixer’ was the nickname affixed to him by some staff at Carrington. From when he joined the academy set-up in 2013 through to his decision to step down later this week, he had a knack of getting things done.
Mail Sport’s Nathan Salt looks back at Murtough’s decade at Old Trafford after it was announced on Tuesday that he’ll be leaving Old Trafford.
John Murtough was a private figure at Manchester United who rarely spoke in interviews
Murtough – who was key in bringing Erik ten Hag (L) to Old Trafford – will leave United as a figurehead of the club’s demise having joined in 2013
The current crop of young players were not even born when Bryan Robson was United’s Captain Marvel – delivering in a way which would be remembered far more, had he played during the club’s peak Ferguson years.
But you could have heard a pin drop when he sat down with the under-18s and under-21s as part of a new project he is involved with, encouraging young players to take proper investment advice and avoid the chancers and financial predators on the edge of football.
Mail Sport’s Ian Herbert speaks with Manchester United club legend Bryan Robson about how he is ensuring the next crop of young talents don’t make the same mistakes he encountered off the pitch by making smart investments.
Bryan Robson is one of Man United’s greatest players of all time and is a link back to their past
Robson is now trying to pass his advice onto the next generation of United stars, encouraging them to take proper investment advice and avoid chancers and financial predators
Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Man United will have been disappointing for Jurgen Klopp’s men given how they dominated yet ultimately suffered a setback in their title hunt ambitions.
One Reds star make a big mistake to allow United back into the game but the manner in which he responded and excelled in adversity in what really stood out, which Mail Sport’s Oliver Holt insists rivalled Roy Keane’s heroics against Juventus all of those years ago.
A Liverpool star produced one of the finest performances this season, writes Oliver Holt
It’s not often many players will make a return to the Bernabeu after struggling at clubs like Stoke and Newcastle.
But that’s exactly what Joselu has done – and what’s even more impressive, he’s excelled back at Real Madrid on his second stint. Speaking to Mail Sport’s Pete Jenson, the lofty striker has opened up on his bonkers journey from Spain to England (and back) while recalling how Newcastle fans managed to drink his wedding dry while he was at St James’ Park.
Joselu is enjoying life back at Real Madrid and is part of the Spanish national team
Jurgen Klopp will bring the curtain down on his trophy-laden spell at Liverpool this summer and the hunt for his successor is firmly underway.
The No 1 target to replace him is Sporting Lisbon’s Ruben Amorim – but what exactly can Liverpool supporters expect from the Portuguese boss? What is he really like and what could the team play in his image? Mail Sport’s Lewis Steele travelled to Lisbon to find out more.
Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim has emerged as the favourite to succeed Jurgen Klopp
Manchester United were left to rue their decision-making as they let a 2-1 lead slip to draw 2-2 with Liverpool.
It remains a costly result in Liverpool’s bid to win the Premier League title, with this draw no doubt celebrated by fans of Arsenal and Manchester City.
Liverpool took the lead through Luis Diaz‘s acrobatic effort but the Reds failed to build on their dominance in a one-sided first half.
Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo rallied back for United with stunning goals, only for Aaron Wan-Bissaka to gift Mohamed Salah an equaliser from the penalty spot. Mail Sport’s NATHAN SALT ran the rule over the two sides…
Mohamed Salah rescued a point for Liverpool on a frustrating afternoon at Old Trafford
No club will gauge the health of its academy on a successful year in the FA Youth Cup but for the casual observer the prestigious competition is always a useful barometer.
Leeds United have reached the final for the first time this century and face Manchester City, a consistent force since the Abu Dhabi takeover.
They are elite academies, among 26 in English football bestowed with Category One status, but this season’s Youth Cup will go down as something of a triumph for those fighting for recognition in the undergrowth.
Millwall are one of the Cat Two sides who’s academy has impressed in the 2023-24 campaign
From the dregs of another dirge of a season, Manchester United conjured moments of consolation against Liverpool just as they had in their tumultuous FA Cup quarter-final last month. In the midst of their mediocrity, they have saved their best in the last few weeks for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
United will not win the Premier League this season. They will not even get remotely close. They probably won’t even finish in the top five. But United they put a dent in Liverpool’s hopes and for their players and supporters, that is probably the next best thing.
Liverpool blinked first in the title race, and Jarell Quansah felt it was his fault at full time
Uncertainty reigns over Erik ten Hag at Man United after a difficult season as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and right hand man Sir Dave Brailsford continue to analyse all areas of the club.
There are increasing calls for the Dutchman to be moved on in the summer and Mail Sport’s Riath Al-Samarrai suggests Ratcliffe may be leaning towards that opinion following their chaotic, and somewhat incredible last-gasp defeat to Chelsea on Thursday.
Erik ten Hag’s future continues to be a much-debated discussion amid Man United’s struggles
New part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe was in attendance for their dramatic 4-3 defeat by Chelsea
Tottenham produced an emphatic performance to beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 on Sunday and leapfrog Aston Villa into fourth place in the Premier League standings.
It was a dominant display for Ange Postecoglou‘s side who led after just 15 minutes against a relegation-threatened Forest side.
Murillo’s own goal opened the floodgates for the hosts as follow-up rockets from Micky van de Ven and Pedro Porro heaped more misery on Nuno Espirito Santo‘s side.
Tottenham produced an emphatic performance to beat Nottingham Forest 3-1 on Sunday
After a mediocre attacking display in their midweek draw at West Ham, Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou said he would have loved a joystick to put his players where he wanted them.
It is doubtful he would have placed two of his back four inside the Nottingham Forest box on Sunday night when their goalscoring opportunities arose. But where his forwards failed, his defenders triumphed.
Tottenham beat Nottingham Forest to move back into the Champions League places
The pigeon that somehow invaded the Bramall Lane press room felt like a fitting reminder of the flapping on show from Mauricio Pochettino’s band of multimillion-pound players, Sunday’s surrender being the latest example in a season plagued by softness.
Chelsea had chances to clear their lines in stoppage time against the side propping up the Premier League table. Instead, they watched as Gustavo Hamer and Cameron Archer won headers ahead of Mykhailo Mudryk and Trevoh Chalobah to leave Oli McBurnie to equalise for a Sheffield United side that never said die.
Chelsea thought they had secured victory at Sheffield United with Noni Madueke’s strike
Man City kept up their side of the bargain in this three-way title push with a thumping 4-2 victory over Crystal Palace.
The star of the show was the evergreen Kevin De Bruyne, who put in a stunning display, and Mail Sport’s Sami Mokbel hails the Belgian and insists if this is a sign he’s back to his best, then Arsenal and Liverpool will have big problems.
Kevin De Bruyne inspired Man City to a thumping 4-2 win over Crystal Palace on Saturday
Alongside Kevin De Bruyne, several Man City players put in impressive displays after a difficult start to the game when they went 1-0 down.
Mail Sport’s Jack Gaughan was at Selhurst Park and has rated Pep Guardiola’s men, picking out two stars who shone alongside the Belgian, but also highlighted a few who struggled to assert themselves.
Mail Sport’s Jack Gaughan was at Selhurst Park to rate the performance of Man City’s stars
Newcastle kept up their hopes of European football with a battling backs-to-the-wall victory against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Bruno Guimaraes’ late winner was enough and Mail Sport’s Dominic Hogan writes about the endearing heart on show from Eddie Howe’s side.
Newcastle kept up their hopes of European football thanks to Bruno Guimaraes’ late winner
While it was a team performance at Craven Cottage, a couple of players stood out for Eddie Howe’s side, while others also faltered.
Meanwhile, it wasn’t all bad from Fulham, who failed to convert their dominance into goals. Mail Sport’s Dominic Hogan rates the players from both sides.
Guimaraes scored the winner, but several other Newcastle stars also shone at Craven Cottage
After Man City won it was Arsenal’s turn to outline their title credentials and they did just that with a controlled 3-0 victory over Brighton.
Mail Sport’s Matt Barlow was there and he examines the Gunners’ maturity and insisted it looks like Mikel Arteta’s side have learned from their late season collapse a year ago.
Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League with a convincing 3-0 victory over Brighton
The victory – which took Arsenal back to the top of the Premier League – was based on several strong performances from key players.
But which stars stood out, and who struggled? Mail Sport’s Isaan Khan was at the Amex and he has rated the Gunners’ players.
Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka shone for Mikel Arteta’s side, but one Arsenal star struggled
It’s been another extremely tough week for Everton. On Monday, their financial results showed they’d doubled their losses, to £89.1million, last season. On Tuesday, they set a club record for games without a win in the Premier League.
Mail Sport’s Graeme Souness delves into the Toffees’ ongoing crisis and explains who is to blame for years of chronic mismanagement and underwhelming performances.
Everton have reported losses of over £89million – almost double the deficit of the last year
Before Sir Jim Ratcliffe announced his own grand plans to renovate Old Trafford and reinvent the stadium as a ‘Wembley of the North’, Manchester United’s hallowed home was itself inaugurated as a one-of-a-kind triumph for the sport.
Mail Sport’s Ian Herbert takes you back to the first game at the ground – before it received its now iconic name – when United faced off with ‘the Anfielders’, Liverpool.
The first game at Old Trafford took place in 1910, and saw Manchester United host Liverpool
The Arsenal defender’s priorities have been much-discussed since last month’s furore over his decision not to join up with Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
But in an article spanning the length and breadth of his career, Sami Mokbel takes a look at the player behind the facade.
White’s priorities are his family, wife and his beloved dogs – but is there anything wrong with that?
Erik ten Hag’s thought they had won it – but in just 82 seconds, Chelsea flipped the script at Old Trafford and handed Manchester United another unedifying defeat.
As they prepare to face Jurgen Klopp’s title-chasers, Mail Sport columnist ponders the team’s increasingly consistent unpredictability.
Manchester United endured a rollercoaster of emotions during their defeat to Chelsea
Chelsea and Manchester United produced one of the most entertaining games of the season in a match that epitomised their struggles throughout the 2023-24 campaign.
Erik ten Hag’s side have swung between shambolic and sensational this season, and Mail Sport’s Chris Wheeler witnessed a mixture of the two all on the same night at Stamford Bridge.
Manchester United’s Champions League hopes took a huge dent in a late 4-3 loss to Chelsea
Cole Palmer has enjoyed an excellent debut season at Chelsea despite their struggles, and this continued as he sealed a dramatic late win for the Blues over Manchester United.
Mail Sport’s KIERAN GILL was in attendance to witness a scarcely believable comeback to rate the players at Stamford Bridge.
Emile Smith Rowe had the bit between his teeth for Arsenal in their victory over Luton
Liverpool had a slice of luck with their first goal against Sheffield United, but Alexis Mac Allister’s thunderbolt was a potential season-award winner in a game where everything the Argentine touched, turned to gold.
Jurgen Klopp’s side ultimately won 3-1 to go back to the top of the Premier League, and Mail Sport’s Lewis Steele was in attendance to see their hard-fought victory against the Blades.
Alexis Mac Allister thundered in a stunning winner for Liverpool against Sheffield United
Alexis Mac Allister was nominated for Player of the Month for March, and he started April off with a bang with his strike carrying shades of Steven Gerrard’s against Olympiakos 20 years ago.
So it comes as no surprise that he was rated as one of Liverpool’s better performers on the night by Mail Sport’s Aadam Patel, but there was one player who was surprisingly quiet.
Alexis Mac Allister is growing in importance for Jurgen Klopp’s title challenging side
England legend Alec Stewart shocked the world of cricket last month when he announced he would step down from his director role at Surrey after 11 successful years which brought three Championship titles.
Speaking exclusively to Mail Sport, the 60-year-old has opened up on the difficult decision that he made to give more time to his wife, Lynn, who has battled with cancer since 2013.
Alec Stewart announced his shock decision to leave Surrey after 11 successful years last month
Red Bull might lead the way in both championships, but the Christian Horner saga continues to rumble off-track, with another development ahead of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.
Mail Sport’s Jonathan McEvoy gives his thoughts on the latest twist that few saw coming, and what an email sign-off could hint at around his future.
Red Bull lead the way on the track but the Christian Horner saga continues to rumble on
Football violence is on the rise with supporters turning up to grounds looking for trouble after consuming a dangerous combination of alcohol and drugs.
Mail Sport delves into the rise of the ultras ahead of this summer’s European Championship in Germany.
Simon Jordan reflects on last weekend’s incident which saw Kalvin Phillips stick his middle finger up at a West Ham fan following his side’s 4-3 defeat by Newcastle.
Former Crystal Palace owner Jordan knows a thing or two about fan abuse so read what he has to say.
Daniel Levy’s pay rise at Tottenham has irked Mail Sport’s very own Paul Newman after he was told his season ticket will be going up by six per cent next year.
Our cricket correspondent and lifelong Tottenham fan does not hold back in this powerful column.
The Masters gets underway at the Augusta National Golf Course in just over a week’s time, and Tommy Fleetwood will be one of many who have a point to prove.
It is a course that has got the better of him in the past – with a best finish of 14th at the Masters – and he has exclusively spoken to Mail Sport about his plan for the course that ‘kicks you’.
Tommy Fleetwood has never finished inside the top 10 at the Masters at Augusta
Chelsea manager Emma Hayes caused a stir when she pushed Arsenal’s Jonas Eidevall in response to what she claimed was ‘male aggression’ from the Gunners boss.
Mail Sport columnist SIMON JORDAN writes that Hayes bringing gender into the debate diminished her argument, and speaks about how women’s football is at risk of a culture war.
Emma Hayes caused a stir by accusing Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall of showing ‘male aggression’
Arsenal jumped back to the top of the Premier League in a 2-0 victory over Luton – on a night where three points never appeared to be in any doubt against a side struggling to stay in the top flight.
Mail Sport’s Sami Mokbel was in attendance at the Emirates, where the Gunners made a host of changes with Emile Smith Rowe – in a rare start – playing a starring role.
Martin Odegaard (left) scored the opening goal for Arsenal in a convincing 2-0 win over Luton
Emile Smith Rowe and Martin Odegaard starred at the Emirates, in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Luton – as the Gunners produced a performance which shows why they are serious contenders to win this season’s Premier League title.
Mail Sport’s ISAAN KHAN was on hand to give his player ratings, focusing on Mikel Arteta’s title chasing side.
Emile Smith Rowe had the bit between his teeth for Arsenal in their victory over Luton
Manchester City kept in touch with their title rivals with a 4-1 victory against Aston Villa, despite benching Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne, as others star came to the forefront.
It was a bold decision by the Spaniard against tough opposition, and Mail Sport’s Jack Gaughan was at the Etihad to write about how they fared without the two superstar players.
Pep Guardiola’s brave decision to drop Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne paid off
Phil Foden scored a stunning hat-trick as Manchester City showed no signs of missing Erling Haaland or Kevin De Bruyne in their 4-1 victory over Aston Villa.
Mail Sport’s Nathan Salt was at the Etihad to provide player ratings for both sides, as Pep Guardiola’s side bounced back from two draws against their title rivals.
Phil Foden scored a stunning hat-trick as Manchester City thrashed Aston Villa 4-1
Tottenham lost two vital points in their push for the Champions League qualification spots, as West Ham came from behind to snatch a point.
It was a hard-fought point for David Moyes’ side, and Mail Sport’s MATT BARLOW was on hand to provide his analysis of the game.
West Ham took a hard-fought point from their clash with top-four chasing Tottenham
Kurt Zouma cancelled out Brennan Johnson’s opening goal to earn West Ham a point at the London Stadium against Tottenham.
Mail Sport’s Kathryn Batte provided player ratings for both sides, with two Spurs stars in particular struggling during the 1-1 draw.
Brennan Johnson scored the opening goal but Tottenham couldn’t hold on for the victory
Everton took a massive point on the road with Dominic Calvert-Lewin scoring an 88th minute penalty against Newcastle.
Mail Sport’s CRAIG HOPE was at St James’ Park, where Aleksandar Isak continued to impress by scoring on his fifth consecutive home game for the Magpies.
Alexander Isak will continue to attract interest from clubs given his current vein of form
Newcastle and Everton clashed in a fiercely contested clash on Tuesday night – which ended in a stalemate.
Mail Sport’s CRAIG HOPE was at St James’ Park to provide player ratings for both sides, with Elliot Anderson starring and one Everton player in particular struggling.
Elliot Anderson played a starring role for Newcastle despite the Magpies being held at home
The fortunes of Wrexham – both as a club and town – have transformed since the arrival of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds.
Mail Sport’s IAN HERBERT writes about one of the most remarkable and moving stories from Wrexham, in which the work of Kerry Evans – which started long before the Hollywood investment – helped kids with autism find refuge.
Wrexham fan Theo Smith, 10, poses with Kerry Evans, right, who established a 120-seat section at the Racecourse Ground for fans with autism and physical challenges to watch football
Macaulay Langstaff of Notts County is currently the top scorer in League Two but last season, the 27-year-old from Stockton was being hailed as ‘the non-league Erling Haaland ’ because of the sheer stupidity of his numbers.
Goal-a-game Langstaff said he was thrilled with that comparison at the time, as anybody would be. I’m not so sure Haaland will share in his delight upon hearing how Roy Keane has likened him to Langstaff in a way, saying the Manchester City striker’s all-round performance against Arsenal was like that of a ‘League Two player’.
Erling Haaland was liked to a League Two player after Man City’s draw with Arsenal
Premier League fans have begun protesting over rising ticket prices, with supporters of Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham among those voicing their concerns.
Mail Sport’s OLIVER HOLT writes how the top flight of English football is choosing to eradicate and erase loyal supporters – with the Premier League heading for self destruction.
Manchester City fans unfurled this banner during their Premier League clash with Arsenal
After struggling for starts at Manchester City, many had hoped that Kalvin Phillips would return to the kind of form he produced at Leeds, during his loan spell with West Ham. However, the midfielder has continued to suffer a dramatic demise over the past few months.
Mail Sport’s SAMI MOKBEL details what has gone wrong for the England star at the London Stadium.
Kalvin Phillips has endured a torrid loan stint at West Ham after his struggles at Man City
Many questioned whether Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal had the capabilities to go toe-to-toe with Man City in their quest for the title – however their performance at the Etihad proved them all wrong.
The Gunners dug in to secure a point against Pep Guardiola’s side, with Mail Sport’s OLIVER HOLT on hand to analyse all the action from the top of the table clash.
Erling Haaland was shackled superbly by the visitors, with William Saliba standing firm
After much anticipation, Manchester City and Arsenal clashed in a fiercely contested top of the table clash on Sunday afternoon – which ended in a stalemate.
Mail Sport’s Jack Gaughan was at the Etihad to provide player ratings for both sides, with Spanish midfielder Rodri shining in the heart of midfield for the hosts.
Rodri ran the game in midfield but they were unable to find a way through the Arsenal defence
While Mohamed Salah may take the plaudits for his winning goal against Brighton however those who watched the tie will heap praise on Alexis Mac Allister.
Mail Sport’s LEWIS STEELE was at Anfield as the former Seagulls playmaker shone in the heart of midfield for the Reds, making up for the dithering Darwin Nunez.
Alexis Mac Allister produced a virtuoso performance against his former club on Saturday afternoon
Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool maintained their Premier League title charge with a 2-1 victory over Brighton – with Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz on target.
It wasn’t as straightforward a victory as Klopp would’ve hoped, after Danny Welbeck’s opener put pressure on the Reds. Mail Sport’s NATHAN SALT was on hand to provide ratings for both sides.
Mo Salah salutes the crowd after scoring the goal that sent Liverpool back to the top
In devastating news, Phil Vickery was declared bankrupt – forcing the former England captain and World Cup-winner to stand down from several businesses.
Mail Sport’s CHRIS FOY looks at how the 48-year-old’s struggles are far from rare – with so many of his former team-mates having moved on to disparate careers
It is sad to see another of England’s 2003 World Cup winners has fallen after Phil Vickery was declared bankrupt
Despite securing victory over Tranmere Rovers, there is little to cheer about for Bradford City fans, as yet another disappointing season nears it’s end.
Having languished in League Two for five years, fans activated plans for protests against owner Stefan Rupp and Mail Sport’s MATT BARLOW was on hand to assess the situation down at Valley Parade.
Bradford have spent five years languishing in League Two and disillusion reigns at the club
It was the wildest of finales at the GTech Community Stadium, that saw two goals between the 96th and 99th minutes, it is necessary to reflect on the craziness that proceeded it.
Mail Sport’s RIATH AL-SAMARRAI provides an in depth look at how a shambolic Manchester United were held to a dramatic late draw by Brentford on Saturday night in what could be one of the worst defeats in Erik ten Hag’s reign.
Manchester United were trapped by the realities of their own ineptitude, writes RIATH AL-SAMARRAI, just as they were on the cusp of completing a dramatic smash and grab heist
Bedlam ensued at Stamford Bridge on Saturday as Chelsea gave away their lead twice against a 10-man Burnley side who also had no manager for the majority of the game. It was another rank return for the west London side after an international break, having won none of their first games back in September, October or November.
They have now conceded at least two or more goals in their last five games at Stamford Bridge and Mail Sport’s KIERAN GILL analyses what Chelsea lacked against Burnley and why their fans lambasted their team at full-time.
Kieran Gill delves into why Chelsea having won none of their first games back in September, October or November after they were held to a chaotic 2-2 draw by Brentford
Sandro Tonali’s first appearance for Newcastle against Aston Villa may be something of a collectors item. He delivered a fine goal contribution to help the Magpies win 5-1 – but it would be just one of 12 appearances he’d make this season before he was suspended for 10 months.
It’s ever so easy to be wise after the event, which is why there’s a clip circulating on social media of an unwise yellow card Tonali picked up during that match, writes RIATH AL-SAMARRAI. He has delved into the questions surrounding THAT video and why sporting director Dan Ashworth is being scrutinised after the Italian was charged for fresh betting breaches by the Football Association this week.
By gambling on football Sandro Tonali has gambled on his reputation, writes RIATH AL-SAMARRAI. He’s given breathing room for folk to have a few doubts about what he’s made of
READ: GRAEME SOUNESS: Why Liverpool have it tougher in the Premier League run-in than Man City and Arsenal
To quote Sir Alex Ferguson, it truly is squeaky bum time in the Premier League title race and Liverpool are going to have to deal with unprecendented levels of tension and emotion until the end of the season.
Jurgen Klopp is preparing for his farewell this summer but the pressure to go out on a high will be pressure that Arsenal and City don’t have to deal with, writes GRAEME SOUNESS. He has analysed the title run-in and what he believes is one of the most fiercly-contested scrap for the Premier League in recent memory.
Liverpool are going to have to deal with an unprecedented level of emotion as Jurgen Klopp heads into his final five home games at Anfield, says Graeme Souness
When Mikel Arteta first took over at Arsenal, the Gunners were soft. Demotivated. Directionless. Dysfunctional. The Spaniard knew what was wrong, he just had to find a way to fix it. Since then the Spaniard has attempted to create a culture, laying down the law to discipline players and fix the bones of a broken club.
Arteta always has a quirky way of motivating his players and five seasons later his unorthodox methods have lifted Arsenal to the top of the Premier League as he prepares to face his former mentor at Man City Pep Guardiola.
IAN LADYMAN has taken a look at the secrets of Arteta’s revolution at Arsenal and how he turned a club dismantled by Man City into one of their main rivals.
Ian Ladyman has taken a look at the quirky secrets of Mikel Arteta as the Arsenal boss prepares to go up against his former mentor Pep Guardiola
Four years on from his appointment, the only madness around Ruben Amorim is that he is not yet at one of Europe’s continental giants. He will be soon. He has scored high on data tests led by Liverpool and will almost certainly get invited to interview for the soon-to-be vacant manager’s job.
LEWIS STEELE provides an in-depth lowdown on Bruno Amorim – with the in-demand Sporting manager – who openly idolises Jose Mourinho – Liverpool’s prime target to replace the outgoing Jurgen Klopp this summer.
Liverpool’s No 1 managerial target Ruben Amorim idolises fellow countryman Jose Mourinho
Rumours of a split in Chelsea’s American powerbase – strongly denied by club officials – have swirled around Stamford Bridge for months. After March 28’s Mail Sport exclusive, revealing that Chelsea WILL appoint a new chairman to replace under-fire Todd Boehly in 2027, will do little to dispel them.
However, the reality is that – thanks to the extraordinary agreement struck by Boehly and majority stakeholders Clearlake Capital – a switch five years after the takeover was always likely to happen.
MIKE KEEGAN breaks down what the future holds for Chelsea amid their impending boardroom changes.
Chelsea will appoint a new chairman in 2027 to replace Todd Boehly, Mail Sport understands
We care first and foremost about what these lads do for us on the field. We want them to win. We have waited a long time and once again we feel as though England have an opportunity this summer in the European Championships. We don’t expect these young men to live perfect lives. It is unrealistic. There will be blemishes. But they have been placed on the right path.
Kobbie Mainoo took international football like a duck to water during March’s break – excelling against Brazil and Belgium. IAN LADYMAN writes about that bright spot for England moving forward but warns of the problems that the Three Lions face if things aren’t altered within the domestic game’s structure.
Kobbie Mainoo is the latest example of a star who has broken through from an English academy
READ: Why Lewis Hamilton should quit this F1 season NOW, writes JONATHAN McEVOY
Lewis Hamilton is preparing for his final season with Mercedes before his big move to Ferrari after the shock news the British racer would be making the switch to the iconic Italian team.
But JONATHAN MCEVOY has argued that Hamilton is ‘out of sorts’ and that it would benefit him to take the rest of the season out of the sport before returning for his stint at Ferrari the following year.
Lewis Hamilton should take the year out from F1 before returning to action for Ferrari, says Jonathan McEvoy
READ: Why Premier League clubs want to kill off season tickets – is yours at risk?
The price of being a football fan is going up all the time, with clubs constantly raising the costs of their season tickets – and fans, particularly at Arsenal and Tottenham have voiced their opposition.
But now clubs are starting to move away from season tickets, writes JACK GAUGHAN, who says a feeling festers that those who have contributed to our country’s spectacle and that envied soul are being eased aside.
Fans are increasingly subject to season ticket price increases and now clubs could be looking to revamp the idea, says JACK GAUGHAN
Fans will remember some iconic stadiums of the past that are no longer around having been bulldozed – like the Dell, Upton Park and Higbury.
IAN HERBERT has looked at how those ‘ghost grounds’ have since been transformed, embarking on a quest to look at their modern day state compared to their glorious past, with help from Mail Sport’s chief sports photographer Andy Hooper.
Ian Herbert and Andy Hooper have taken a look at the current state of ‘ghost grounds’
Marcus Rashford was an unused substitute for England’s friendly against Belgium, with Gareth Southgate later revealing that his absence wasn’t due to injury.
The striker’s fall from grace has been apparent in recent years and SIMON JORDAN explains why Rashford should leave Manchester United if he is to flourish again on the pitch.
Marcus Rashford should leave boyhood club Manchester United, explains Simon Jordan
In a sign of the times, Fulham announced audacious plans to include a swimming pool and Michelin-starred chefs in a new hospitality area – which is set to be the priciest in all of English football – at Craven Cottage.
A far cry from the days of bovril and bobble hats, IAN HERBERT charts how the experience for a football-going fan has changed beyond all recognition.
Fulham’s plans for a new-look Craven Cottage hospitality area – a VIP box with bar and a swimming pool – point to the changing face of football
A photo of Fulham’s match with Chelsea at a packed Craven Cottage in August 1965 gave the the sense that it was a place for the entire spectrum of society
Raheem Sterling had a weekend to forget in the FA Cup earlier this month after he missed a penalty against Leicester, leading him to being booed by a pocket of Chelsea fans and Mauricio Pochettino substituting him.
And in an exclusive interview with JACK GAUGHAN, Sterling’s Blues team-mate Noni Madueke has blasted those supporters who rounded on him while also providing an insight into all the goings on at Stamford Bridge.
In an exclusive interview with Mail Sport, Chelsea star Noni Madueke (left) has provided a message for the boo-boys who rounded on Raheem Sterling (right) earlier this month
Looking back is something Everton fans are having to do more and more these days, because the future doesn’t really bear thinking about.
Ian Herbert looks at the future of the Toffees as they continue continue to be limbo under current owner Farhad Moshiri and prospective owners 777 Partners’ track record not painting them in the best of light.
Everton’s prospective owners have been told to prove access to more than £400m (777 co-founder Josh Wander pictured with Genoa manager Alexander Blessin)
The Premier League’s demands are so substantial that 777 will be unlikely to meet them
Any list – your list as well as my list – can become dominated by those who are not on it. But really, it should be about the players who are on it. This list is meant as a celebration of them and of football’s rich, rich history and of what the game means to all of us and of what players mean to us and why they capture something in us.
Mail Sport’s Oliver Holt counts down his 50-1 greatest male footballer’s of all-time in part two of his top-100 list. Do you agree with his selections?
Mail Sport’s Oliver Holt has compiled his personal list of the 100 greatest ever players
READ: Why Jude Bellingham is streets ahead of a young Wayne Rooney
Bellingham won’t win the European Championship on his own but England have got a hell of a lot of a better chance of doing it now that he is at the heart of the team.
Mail Sport’s Oliver Holt explains why the Real Madrid star could lead the Three Lions to tournament glory this summer and surpass a young Wayne Rooney, who could not get his team over the line at Euro 2004.
Jude Bellingham could be the man to finally lead England to Euros glory this summer
READ: At 15 I was the football league’s youngest player. 10 years later I was contemplating suicide
In the late summer of 2008, Reuben Noble-Lazarus picked up a surprising honour when his 84th minute substitution for Barnsley against Ipswich made him the youngest-ever player to play in English football.
But as Matt Barlow found out when the pair met, the word he chose after much pondering to describe his playing career was ‘unfulfilled’.
Reuben Noble-Lazarus hasn’t kicked a ball in two years, after once breaking an English record
England may not have had a night to remember against Brazil at Wembley on Saturday, but Southgate’s selection allowed for Sami Mokbel to consider the future.
Mail Sport’s chief football reporter shares his thoughts on the strongest starting XI ahead of the Three Lions’ summer trip to Germany.
Sami Mokbel believes Phil Foden could play centrally if Jude Bellingham drops back and plays in a box-to-box role
The astonishing success of Wrexham after their Hollywood fairytale takeover has left a number of lower-league strugglers open-mouthed in admiration and jealousy.
But after Farnham received their own big-money investment – and featured in their own documentary – the eighth-tier side are keen to have a run at emulating their meteoric rise, as Matt Barlow found out.
Farnham produce their own behind-the-scenes documentary and have 100,000 followers
READ: Jay Bothroyd reveals the impact of playing football with an epilepsy diagnosis
The scars on Jay Bothroyd’s body tell a story. Many stories in fact, of searing pain and melting skin, perhaps even one of police brutality. Some of the scars you can see and feel, like the thickened ridges on his arms and legs, or the crack in his skull.
In an astonishing interview with Chris Cutmore, JAY BOTHROYD reveals how he played professional football for 23 years with a secret health battle – and holds an extraordinary record.
The many scars on Jay Bothroyd’s body tell a story, but one that can’t be seen could kill him
It seems inevitable that Graham Potter’s appointment would be deemed woefully underwhelming to many if he ends up at Manchester United. Same goes for England. Doubly so. But that seems misguided. He is a manager who found Brighton in 17th and took them into the Premier League’s top 10 playing brilliant, attacking football.
Riath Al-Samarrai reveals why Potter really is perfect for Manchester United or England and insists we must forget about what happened at Chelsea’s burning circus.
It seems inevitable that Graham Potter’s appointment would be deemed woefully underwhelming to many if he ends up at United. Same goes for England. Doubly so
READ: Gareth Southgate should forget about Manchester United. He’s better off staying with England
England will be the team to beat at the European Championships this summer, but could the tournament be Gareth Southgate’s swansong as Three Lions manager? The 53-year-old is reportedly Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s preferred candidate to replace Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, should the Dutchman depart at the end of the season.
In his Mail+ Sport column, GRAEME SOUNESS argues Southgate should ignore interest from Old Trafford and remain in charge of England instead. This Three Lions squad have at least two more tournaments in them – going by their age – and he should hang around and enjoy the fruits of that.
Gareth Southgate has been linked with the Manchester United job to replace Erik ten Hag
Everything in Formula One has been real forked-tongue vengeance these past few weeks. It is by tradition a sport beset by – or indeed set alight by – scandal over the years, but arguably never on so many fronts as in 2024.
JONATHAN McEVOY peels back the curtain on the scandal that have dominated the sport this season, from Christian Horner’s sexting imbroglio to a power struggle involving the sport’s top executives.
Christian Horner has been involved in a sexting scandal that overshadowed the first month of the Formula One season
READ: The murky reason why Brazil’s Beatles haven’t been here more
The 25-year-old Pele cut a bashful figure as he stepped out from a wooden cabin on Scotland’s west coast in the summer of 1966, immaculately attired as the Brazilian football team always were back then, boots polished to a shine, white towel in hand.
From that day to this, there has been something unique and irresistible about having the Brazilians, their samba football and that iconic canary yellow shirt within these shores. Mail Sport’s IAN HERBERT analyses why they haven’t been here more often.
READ: The men who put the F in Formula 1
The new series of Drive to Survive has provided Formula One fans more content to binge watch with the Netflix cameras already documenting the furore over Red Bull boss Christian Horner.
OLIVER HOLT examines how the modern version of F1 has changed from the swashbuckling Playboy drivers, rebels, lunatics and dreamers from the sport’s heyday. Read his analysis exclusively on Mail+ Sport.
Formula One is a far cry from its heyday, featuring Playboy drivers like James Hunt
READ: 10 reasons Max Verstappen will stay at Red Bull
Max Verstappen’s future at Red Bull has been the subject of speculation amid the Horner scandal. The three-time world champion is believed to have toyed with the notion of a move.
JONATHAN MCEVOY outlines the reasons why Verstappen will likely stay put, as well as news of a tribute for the legendary Sir Stirling Moss and the conceited Drive to Survive star who gives clowns a bad name. Read his latest Pole Position column on Mail+ Sport.
Max Verstappen looks set to stay at Red Bull despite the ongoing Christian Horner scandal
READ: Ange Postecoglou takes on the ‘plastic fans’ trolls
Price rises at Premier League clubs have led to a backlash from some who have claimed overseas supporters are attending matches in place of more local fans. Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has since spoken in defence of so-called ‘plastic fans’ and highlighted their passion for Premier League clubs.
Mail Sport’s Football Editor Ian Ladyman agrees that critics have an ‘outdated view’ and explains why overseas fans have become key to the Premier League. Read his column exclusively on Mail+ Sport.
Ange Postecoglou has responded to criticism of overseas fans of Premier League clubs
READ: Why football is in danger of killing itself
Financial regulation, such as it is, might end up killing the Premier League if we’re not careful. If we are getting to the point where you cannot believe the table until the accountants and lawyers have ruled then the thrill of the competition becomes an illusion.
Delving into the topic is our columnist SIMON JORDAN, explaining what could befall the sport, if we give the suits and lawyers too much of a say. Read his column exclusively on Mail+ Sport.
Financial regulation, such as it is, might end up killing the Premier League if we’re not careful
READ: The unique insight into what makes Jim Ratcliffe tick
There aren’t many who can lay their hands on more gold than Sir Ben Ainslie, but he’s thinking back to the day he found one. It still makes him smile. ‘It was a great gin and tonic,’ Ainslie tells Mail Sport, and with it comes the origin story of his relationship with Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Sir Ben Ainslie spoke exclusively to Mail Sport’s RIATH AL-SAMARRAI about his close relationship with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, what makes the billionaire tick and what Man United fans can expect him to bring to Old Trafford. Read the full interview on Mail+ Sport now.
Sir Ben Ainslie has spoken to Mail Sport about his experience working with Sir Jim Ratcliffe
READ: The Ineos Wheel behind Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s success
New Manchester United part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe uses an innovative word compass to help inspire best practices at his INEOS company. The INEOS Compass was created by chairman Ratcliffe as ‘a fun way of attempting to capture how the company works’.
It contains more than 100 phrases, words and terms that are either heavily encouraged or discouraged inside the company, in order to promote the best possible practices. DOMINIC HOGAN has broken down what is on the compass, which you can read on Mail+ Sport here.
Ineos’ compass of words they do and don’t like has pride of place in Ben Ainslie’s office
READ: How Newcastle came crashing back down to earth
At Newcastle, the Saudi-backed ownership have got a lot right and they beat modern football convention by taking the club from 19th to fourth in just 19 months.
Eddie Howe’s side, led by captain Kieran Trippier (right) exceeded expectations by qualifying for the Champions League last campaign, but staying there is proving a more difficult task
READ: How Barry McGuigan’s son is no longer living in his shadow
When Barry McGuigan turned 63 two weeks ago, he remained the stand-alone undisputed No 1 trainer in his family. Not any more. On St Patrick’s Day, Shane McGuigan – son and protege – won his second British Boxing Board of Control Trainer of the Year title, so it’s now 2-2. And you sense it might not stay that way for long.
Barry and Shane spoke exclusively to Mail Sport’s CHARLOTTE DALY about their family business and how the 36-year-old stepped out of his father’s shadow. Read and watch the full interview on Mail+ Sport now.
Barry and Shane McGuigan exclusively spoke to Mail Sport about their family business
READ: Inside story of Kobbie Mainoo’s stratospheric rise
Gareth Southgate has reversed his decision to leave Kobbie Mainoo out of his senior England squad, promoting the Manchester United youngster to his ranks after another superb display against Liverpool in the FA Cup.
The 18-year-old’s impressive and short career to date has been the story of a gifted boy who has cleared every obstacle put in front of him by some distance. CHRIS WHEELER takes you inside the life of England’s new humble star on Mail+ Sport.
Man United’s humble star Kobbie Mainoo earned his first senior England call-up on Tuesday
READ: Why Raducanu has fallen from glory to 288th in the world
Emma Raducanu was forced to pull out of the Miami Open due to another injury setback – this time a lower back issue – and it seems like a lifetime ago since the Brit shocked the tennis world to win the US Open as an up-and-coming teenager.
Raducanu has battled for the right formula ever since her triumph in 2021, chopping and changing her coaching team, but has struggled to replicate anywhere near the levels she once displayed on the court. NATHAN SALT dives into the questions haunting her declining career.
Emma Raducanu’s injury problems have returned as she withdraws from the Miami Open
Did it actually take five minutes and 37 seconds to decide whether Tomas Soucek had handled the ball before scoring what would have been West Ham’s winner against Aston Villa last weekend? Compare VAR in the Premier League to the calm, confident and correct chalking off of two Irish tries in the Six Nations, and football has plenty to think about.
IAN HERBERT proposes a simple fix that would stop VAR ruining football for fans on Mail+ Sport.
The decision to disallow Tomas Soucek’s goal took VAR officials five minutes and 37 seconds
READ: Jordan Pickford is an England great who must be cherished
Not that there was ever really any question, but Nick Pope’s injury-plagued season and Aaron Ramsdale’s fall to the Arsenal bench has made one thing abundantly clear ahead of the Euros: Jordan Pickford will start in goal again for England.
But the Everton star is not without his critics. Pundits ridicule Pickford for his abrasive and mouthy style between the sticks. BRIAN VINER insists on Mail+ Sport that Pickford is an England great who deserves to be praised more.
England No 1 Jordan Pickford can become the Three Lions’ most-capped goalkeeper – but still the Everton shot-stopper attracts criticism from a string of pundits and football fans
READ: How Arsenal are trying to close the financial gulf on Spurs
It’s a good time to be an Arsenal fan. Sitting pretty at the top of the Premier League table and through to the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in well over a decade, it seems like there’s nothing but good news rolling through the Emirates doors.
But Arsenal are still behind north London rivals Tottenham financially and are working hard to change that. ISAAN KHAN takes a look at how the Gunners are closing the gap.
Arsenal are working behind the scenes to improve their commercial assets and sponsorships
READ: What victory over Liverpool means for Erik ten Hag
It’s no secret that Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival as Manchester United’s new part owner has ramped up the pressure on Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman is essentially on trial between now and the end of the season.
Beating archrivals Liverpool 4-3 in the FA Cup – and in such thrilling circumstances after an 120-minute epic at Old Trafford – has given Ten Hag something to build on. But what does this mean for his United future? Read IAN LADYMAN’s verdict on Mail+ Sport.
Old Trafford was in a state of pandemonium after Manchester United beat Liverpool on Sunday
READ: How Nottingham Forest lost the plot
Even when Brian Clough walked the City Ground’s narrow corridors like a colossus, Nottingham Forest were capable of blowing a hell of a lot money in the transfer market to relatively little effect.
Now, after their four-point sanction for breaking Premier League financial rules, Forest find themselves inside the relegation zone ahead of the final international break of the season. IAN HERBERT analyses where it all went wrong over three crazy transfer windows.
Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis had delegated transfer business to his son
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