LSU football star suspended vs. Florida State for highly questionable reason
LSU football will take on Florida State in Week 1 down a man after Maason Smith was suspended over an NIL from two years ago.
2023-08-24 11:26
Caleb Williams pondering 2024 NFL Draft decision is hilariously hard to believe
Caleb Williams refuses to commit to the 2024 NFL Draft, but there's every reason to believe the projected No. 1 pick will eventually be all-in on the NFL.
2023-08-24 07:16
In-N-Out owner reveals where ‘animal style’ name comes from
In-N-Out’s classic “animal style” burger and fries used to be a secret menu item at the fast food chain, but has since become one most customers are now familiar with. The option became so popular that it is now listed under the “not so secret menu” category on In-N-Out’s website. As for what it entails, “animal style” refers to a burger with a beef patty grilled with mustard then served with pickles, lettuce, grilled onions, and extra spread on a toasted bun. Animal style fries, meanwhile, are topped with cheese, spread, and grilled onions. Although part of the menu, it wasn’t previously clear where the name for the burger joint’s style came from, until now. Lynsi Snyder, one of the owners of In-N-Out, is sharing the chain’s secret, and other unknown details about the restaurant, in her book set to come out in October titled, The Ins-N-Outs of In-N-Out Burger: The Inside Story of California’s First Drive-Through and How it Became a Beloved Cultural Icon. According to Insider, which received an advance copy of Synder’s book, one of the sections is called “Birth of Icons,” in which Synder discussed how the “animal style” burger was named. It turns out that animal comes from rowdy customers or “animals.” Snyder wrote that these customers “would honk their horns while orders were taken,” or they would “leave trash on the lots and play their music extra loud”. According to Syner, they were sometimes so rowdy they would get into fights with each other. At the time, employees at In-N-Out were called “helpers” who began to call these customers “animals.” “Good naturedly, the helpers inside referred to them as ‘animals,’” Snyder wrote. She added that, one night in 1961, an “animal” spotted a manager making himself a burger. The joint was originally designed with floor-to-ceiling windows so customers could watch burgers being prepared, which was co-founder Harry Snyder’s idea, as he “believed customers would enjoy seeing their food made with care,” Snyder explained. The customer was intrigued as to what this burger was and asked him what was in it. “It’s mustard fried,” Roberts responded, according to the book. “I add pickles, grilled onions, and extra spread.” In response, the customer said: “Sounds amazing. Can you make me one too?” according to the book. Roberts obliged, and “the guy wolfed it down,” calling it the best burger he ever had, Snyder wrote. The customer liked it so much that he continued to order it, but had no idea what to call. Eventually Roberts told him, “Just call it Animal Style,” according to Synder. “That’s how Animal Style burgers got their name, and the request is the first known instance of a secret In-N-Out menu item,” Snyder wrote. Today, this style is a popular way to not only order burgers, but fries as well. Synder wrote that the case for other items on the “not so secret menu” comes from custom creations customers have come up with over the years. For example, the Double-Double was a custom “double meat, double cheese” off-menu order made by guests looking for a meatier meal, Snyder wrote. The Double-Double first appeared on the menu during the 1 August 1966 opening of store number six, according to the book. Read More Khloe Kardashian teases Kris Jenner for not knowing cost of fast food after she gave her $300 for In-N-Out Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez sparks debate after declaring In-N-Out ‘overrated’: ‘Thank you for saying this’ ‘We refuse to become vaccination police’: In-N-Out Burger is a leading mandate opponent on the West Coast Starbucks releases new fall menu with two brand-new drinks: ‘Pure joy’ What is the UK’s cheapest meal deal? Waitrose has launched its first ever lunchtime meal deal
2023-08-24 04:25
Starbucks releases new fall menu with two brand-new drinks: ‘Pure joy’
Starbucks has just dropped its 2023 fall lineup with the added surprise of two brand new drinks alongside fan favourites like the iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte. According to the coffee chain, fans should be prepared to say goodbye to summer with a taste of fall on 24 August, when items new and old make their way to Starbucks locations. As companies all over begin to decorate their storefronts with autumn-themed merchandise, Starbucks prepares to celebrate not only one of its most lucrative seasons but also the 20th anniversary of the Pumpkin Spice Latte. The popular seasonal drink has over the past two decades become synonymous with fall itself. Some other beloved drinks joining the 2023 lineup include newer fan favourites like the Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew and the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato. Meanwhile, the new drinks on the block will include the Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai Tea Latte, which was reportedly inspired by a popular barista and customer customisation. The new drink takes Starbucks’ classic chai up a notch with the added twist of the highly anticipated, seasonal pumpkin cream cold foam. Starbucks beverage developer Billy Altieri said in a press release: "The warm spice flavors of chai and pumpkin seamlessly blend together, creating a creamy and comforting iced beverage.” Meanwhile, another new addition will be the Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso, following in the footsteps of its much warmer predecessor. Altieri described the new twist on the fan-favourite as “the warm, gooey taste of apple crisp paired with a cup of coffee meld perfectly to unveil a cosy beverage”. Starbucks Reserve locations around the United States will also be offering pumpkin spice beverages, including the Starbucks Reserve Pumpkin Spice Latte, Pumpkin Spice Whiskey Barrel-Aged Iced Latt, and Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini. There will also be new items from the Princi Bakery on the menu, such as the Pumpkin Maritozzo and Pumpkin Spice cake among others. At Starbucks Reserve and select Starbucks locations, there will also be two special whole bean coffees available for purchase: the Starbucks Reserve Vietnam Du Lat and Malawi Sable Farms. Some tried and true classics will also be on the menu at regular Starbucks shops to satisfy customers alongside the new fall flavours, notably pastries like the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin, Baked Apple Croissant, and Owl Cake Pop. Staple coffee beans like the Guatemala Casi Cielo, which the company has been using since 2004 when the Pumpkin Spice Latte was first launched, will also return. Fans took to Twitter to express their excitement, with one user writing that they had “been waiting for this all year,” and another wondering: “Why not keep fan favourites year-round? Imagine sipping a Pumpkin Spice Latte in April! It’s more than just a drink; it’s an experience.” However, some were perplexed that the company was launching its lineup so early, writing: “it’s AUGUST bro.” But mostly, people were simply ecstatic that their favourite drinks were back: “Enjoying all the pumpkin spice and don’t care what anyone says!” Read More What is the UK’s cheapest meal deal? Waitrose has launched its first ever lunchtime meal deal 30-minute summer recipes for all the family to enjoy
2023-08-24 03:57
Manchester United receive interest in Mason Greenwood
Manchester United have received interest in Mason Greenwood after the decision was taken for the homegrown forward to leave Old Trafford, the PA news agency understands. The 21-year-old has been suspended by the club since January 30, 2022 over allegations relating to a young woman after images and videos were posted online. Greenwood was facing charges including attempted rape and assault until the Crown Prosecution Service announced six and a half months ago that the case had been discontinued. The forward remained suspended by United throughout that period and the club announced on Monday it had been mutually agreed he would leave following an internal investigation. United are working with Greenwood’s family to help find the right move and PA understands the club have received multiple expressions of interest in the young forward. Clubs in the free-spending Saudi Pro League have been strongly linked with the one-cap England international but Steven Gerrard has rubbished speculation that he could join his side Al-Ettifaq. The former Rangers and Aston Villa manager labelled a story saying his team were considering offering the 21-year-old a deal as “fake news”, while it has been reported a move for the player is seen as too risky by Saudi clubs. Teams in Turkey and Italy have been linked with Greenwood, who is under contract until 2025, with the option of a further year, and is understood to remain on full pay. United boss Erik ten Hag will be asked about the investigation at Friday’s press conference previewing the Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest. Saturday’s match is set to see more protests against the ownership, with the 1958 supporter group planning an hour-long sit-in after the match as fans look to keep pressure on the Glazers. It is now nine months since the owners announced they were conducting a strategic review, with the sale of United one option being considered. PA understands the Glazers have been warned about an intense backlash if they do not sell following bids from Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Sources close to prospective owner Sheikh Jassim were awaiting updates on their offer as of Wednesday, so too those close to fellow bidder Ratcliffe as the interminable process drags on. On the field, United have some squad shaping to do before the transfer window closes on September 1. Fenerbahce goalkeeper Altay Bayindir is understood to have undergone a medical and could possibly sign if back-up Dean Henderson departs. A return to Forest had been expected earlier in the summer, but a move to Crystal Palace is potentially on the cards. United are looking to ship out centre-back Eric Bailly and Ipswich, managed by former United coach Kieran McKenna, have made a move for left-back Brandon Williams. Scott McTominay looks set to stay having been of interest to West Ham, who defender Harry Maguire rejected a move to last week. Donny van de Beek’s future remains unclear. Facundo Pellistri and Alvaro Fernandez have attracted loan interest, while youngster Noam Emeran is closing in on a permanent move to Dutch side Groningen.
2023-08-24 00:25
The one problem England must solve to win the next Women’s World Cup
The Women’s World Cup final had barely started and England realised they were in a bind. Spain’s possession was dragging the players all over the pitch and completely distorting Sarina Wiegman’s shape, which meant they had to press that bit higher. As soon as they did that, however, Aitana Bonmati and those around her just passed their way into even more open space. “That’s the quality of Spain,” a magnanimous Wiegman said afterwards, almost resigned to their superior quality. But that is also a new twist on a vintage problem, one which may point to the future for both England and the game. It’s just over a decade since Premier League midfielders – and the rest of the world – were finding the exact same challenges against Andres Iniesta, Xavi and Sergio Busquets in the men’s game. The comparisons have already been made with this Spanish midfield, led by Aitana. The success of Spain’s men ended up influencing the entire sport, creating a spate of technically adept players, which has now come full circle. Frenetic pressing reigns for men, but it took over a decade. The women’s game is at the other side of the curve. Spain represent the extreme example of an ongoing transformation, that has already seen the technique of European academies take the game – and the ball – away from the United States. It is going to have increasing influence. It may also pose a problem for England. Because, in recent years, English academies have been among the few in Europe not producing this type of player. It is why, for all the optimism after another international final, there is an issue to work out if this is to be the start of an era rather than just the end of a cycle. There isn’t a single English midfielder at any of the top WSL clubs in Arsenal, Manchester City or Chelsea. At least one manager in the division is known to have complained about it, pointing to a lack of quality coming through in that area. “There’s no one in the pipeline,” one involved source says. England is obviously still producing a lot of talent, but it’s mostly in other positions. There’s also a feeling that this tournament – and especially that landmark final against Spain – showed England are missing exactly that approach. That is something that has been said before. An obvious response here is that Georgia Stanway is at Bayern Munich and Keira Walsh at Barcelona. That’s part of the issue, though. Stanway is superb in that role but was made isolated by Spain's superior numbers here. The Barcelona players deeply respect Walsh as a world-class midfielder, but not primarily for that pace of pass. The main point was that Spain were able to just play around and through them. And, having had such success with this, the rest of the world is going to seek to emulate Spain further. England may not be able to in the same way, for some time, because they lack that kind of player. It similarly points to a schism that was already evident throughout this World Cup, and again goes back further in the men’s game. Spain’s midfield technique both comes from and facilitates a deeper ideology. Without that, Wiegman had to go to a more pragmatic approach. That may have to continue if she does stay in the job, but could be an even bigger issue for her successor. That doesn’t mean it is a terminal problem, or even completely prohibitive to more trophies. English academies are still producing so much talent in general. They just need to get back to thinking about a specific type of talent in midfield, and also about how to stop such players. It is the future of the sport. Read More Fans wait overnight for Lionesses return – but team use private airport exit Spanish president’s kiss was an abuse of power that never should have happened Women’s World Cup 2023 LIVE: England head home after final heartbreak Lionesses receive surprise reception as they start journey back to England England’s impact will last far longer than pain of World Cup final defeat How not to win a World Cup: Spain, Jorge Vilda and the story of a complicated victory
2023-08-23 22:16
Foot Locker plummets, drags down peers, on forecast cut, dividend pause
By Juveria Tabassum (Reuters) -Shares of Foot Locker cratered over 30% in premarket trading on Wednesday, and dragged down those
2023-08-23 21:26
Meet Manchester City’s new roadrunner who took Kylian Mbappe’s breath away
Some bad news for Kyle Walker. Manchester City’s oldest player, the third-choice goalkeeper Scott Carson excepted, has age-defying speed and prides himself on his pace. And yet there may come a point in the near future when he finds himself only the second-quickest player on their right flank. Jeremy Doku’s acceleration impressed even Kylian Mbappe – “I have never seen someone develop so much strength from a standstill as him,” – football’s answer to Usain Bolt said in 2021, and his arrival in England might not be welcomed by opposing full-backs who are not as fast as Walker. If the Rennes winger signs as immediate replacement for Riyad Mahrez, in a sense he is more of a belated successor to Leroy Sane: the sprinter, the roadrunner with the scorched earth policy. And part of the intrigue behind his £55m deal is because, in various ways, Doku is the antithesis of a Pep Guardiola winger; certainly of a recent Guardiola winger. Think of Mahrez, Jack Grealish and Bernardo Silva and a common denominator is a midfielder’s skillset, a capacity to retain possession, often while cutting infield. In contrast, Doku is likelier to run forwards, often at a rate of knots, taking on defenders. He averaged more than 10 dribbles per 90 minutes last season. He had the most successful take-ons in Ligue 1 in 2020-21 and the second most last season, behind only Lionel Messi (and third only in the five major European leagues, in a table topped by Vinicius Junior). If the sense is that Grealish has been a more restrained player at City, exhibiting more positional discipline, running wild and free less often than at Aston Villa, Doku can be a spectacular solo artist. Perhaps the pick of his goals for Rennes was a burst from his own half against Ajaccio, taking him past three defenders. It was the sort that City rarely score these days but also one they rarely try to. And Doku invites comparisons with Allan Saint-Maximin and Adama Traore, two great entertainers and crowd-pleasers with the ability to torment defenders with electric surges but who can lack productivity. Doku’s goalscoring return – six in 37 games for Anderlecht, 12 in 92 for Rennes – is mediocre and emulating Sane, who scored 14 and 16 in successive seasons for City, or Mahrez, who got 24 and 15 in his last two campaigns, would require a dramatic improvement. Yet while he only registered two assists in Ligue 1 last season, his expected assists per 90 minutes was the joint fourth best in the division – his teammates missed too many of the chances he created. Nevertheless, he has the feel of a project player for Guardiola: it is easy to imagine melodramatic, if rather incomprehensible, gestures from the touchline if Doku is so busy on solo runs that he fails to pick out colleagues. But that speed and ability to commit several opponents comes with a capacity to mean other City players will be free; the key then will be the decision-making of when to pass and who to find. Certainly, Doku is young enough to learn: a prodigy at still just 21. He has been touted for the top for years. Doku’s father suggested that, on a visit to Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp saw his son as a successor to Sadio Mane. He has been on many shortlists, scouted by everyone. That Rennes paid a club record €26m (£22m) for a teenager seemed designed with resale value in mind and, while he did not realise his potential with them, they will pocket a healthy profit with a £55m sale. At international level, Roberto Martinez first capped him for Belgium at 18 but, while Doku excelled in the Euro 2020 quarter-final exit to Italy, he was given just 18 minutes in last year’s World Cup. With Eden Hazard in international retirement, he could take over from one of his country’s golden generation. For City, he might add another dimension or look a Plan B. His counter-attacking menace may be less relevant when teams defend deep against the treble winners, as they often do. Perhaps, though, it could make him more useful against more ambitious opponents, who are often the better sides. Or maybe he suggests another shift in their style of play. Guardiola used false nines but then got a towering, prolific centre-forward in Erling Haaland. His full-backs were often midfielders by trade until he started playing centre-backs there recently. His wingers often had certain similarities with midfielders – in the cases of Silva, Grealish and Phil Foden, they have spent much of their careers infield – but Doku is more dribbler than distributor, more touchline sprinter than tiki-taka passer. And, before he even gets on the pitch, his training-ground contests with Walker could be well worth watching. Read More Football rumours: Arsenal put £50million fee on Folarin Balogun as rival circles Pep Guardiola to miss Man City matches after emergency surgery Man City agree £55m fee for winger - which could see Cole Palmer depart
2023-08-23 21:24
Megan Rapinoe: Luis Rubiales antics highlight ‘misogyny and sexism’ within RFEF
The antics of Spain’s football federation president Luis Rubiales at Sunday’s World Cup final highlight the level of “misogyny and sexism” within the organisation, American star Megan Rapinoe has said. Rubiales issued an apology on Monday for kissing Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy presentation ceremony, something Rapinoe described as a “physical assault”, and was also pictured grabbing his crotch in celebration of his country’s win over England in Sydney. He is still facing calls to resign, with Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sanchez describing the apology as “insufficient”. The Spanish federation (RFEF) announced on Tuesday night it had called an extraordinary meeting of its general assembly for Friday, and that “internal proceedings” were open in relation to integrity issues arising from the trophy ceremony. Rapinoe, who featured in the World Cup for the United States, told American magazine The Atlantic: “There was another picture that signals such a deep level of misogyny and sexism in that federation and in that man (Rubiales) at the final whistle, just grabbing his crotch. “What kind of upside-down world are we in? On the biggest stage, where you should be celebrating, Jenni has to be physically assaulted by this guy.” Fifteen Spain players were involved in a dispute with the federation prior to the finals, with the coaching methods of Jorge Vilda reportedly among their concerns. However, the RFEF refused to budge, with a statement saying those involved would only be able to return to the national team “if they accept their mistake and ask for forgiveness”. “Think how much that Spanish team had to shoulder: some of the players who stood up way back last year still aren’t on the team,” Rapinoe said. “Maybe that was something that galvanised them, but you shouldn’t have to have that.” Rubiales said on Monday the kiss happened “in a spontaneous way” and “without bad intention” but said it “seems like it has caused a commotion”. Hermoso initially said on social media she “didn’t like” the kiss but a statement on her behalf was later released by the RFEF in which she described it as “spontaneous”. FIFA has so far not issued any comment on the matter, and nor has UEFA, for whom Rubiales is an executive committee member and a vice-president. World players’ union FIFPRO described Rubiales’ behaviour as “deeply lamentable”, adding: “Uninitiated and uninvited physical gestures towards players are not appropriate or acceptable in any context. “This is especially true when players are put in a position of vulnerability because a physical approach or gesture is initiated by a person who holds power over them.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Luke Donald losing sleep over Ryder Cup wild card selections Keely Hodgkinson predicts ‘good race’ against Athing Mu in 800m final Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink calls for patience at Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino
2023-08-23 19:52
Waitrose has launched its first ever lunchtime meal deal
Waitrose has joined major supermarkets by introducing its first lunchtime meal deal. The upmarket retailer has said that on 30 August, it will be introducing its Food To Go offer, which will include a main, side and drink for £5, due to the growing demand for easy lunches as workers return to the office following the end of the pandemic. The deal will include a range of sandwiches, wraps, sushi and salads, alongside fruit, cereal bars, juices and smoothies. Waitrose has long offered all these products as part of its Food To Go range, but this is the first time they will be available in a lunchtime deal. Waitrose joins other supermarket chains including Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Morrisons and also Boots, which all offer lunch deals – but Waitrose’s deal is the most expensive, with Tesco’s deal costing £3.90 and Sainsbury’s and Morrisons’s equivalents costing £3.50. Meanwhile, a Boots meal deal costs £3.99 but it is £3.60 if you use an Advantage Card. MyWaitrose customers who bring in their own cup can also get a free cup of coffee when they buy their £5 meal deal. The supermarket has launched its first vegan BLT sandwich, and have also included chilled snacks such as Taiko gyoza and Higgidy ham hock & cheddar rolls in the deal. Speaking about the new launch, Waitrose Food To Go buyer Jennifer Moscardini said: “We know lots of our customers are heading into our shops to grab something for their lunch, so to be able to offer them a convenient, high-quality and great value meal deal is really important for us.” It follows reports that Waitrose and John Lewis will start offering free hot drinks and discounted food to on-duty police officers in an attempt to tackle shoplifting. The upmarket shops hope uniformed police and patrol cars being on site will deter thieves in a similar way to which motorists slow down on the roads when they see officers. John Lewis Partnership, which owns the brands, has written to the Police Federation to say officers can get free coffee if they bring a reusable cup. Community support officers will also be able to take advantage of the initiative, which John Lewis has named “thanks a latte”. Read More Prince Harry and Meghan Markle sightseeing tour led by Thomas Markle’s friend sparks outrage over privacy Bride tries on mother’s wedding dress 30 years after parents’ wedding Former royal chef explains why Prince William and Kate’s children don’t eat with them
2023-08-23 16:56
Is Hibs vs Aston Villa on TV tonight? Kick-off time, channel and how to watch Europa Conference League play-off
A battle of Scotland vs England takes place in one of Europe’s admittedly less-than-stellar occasions on Wednesday, with Scottish Premiership outfit Hibernian hosting Premier League side Aston Villa in the Europa Conference League play-off. With a place in the group stage up for grabs, a positive first-leg result feels imperative for Hibs if they are to give themselves a chance of making it through to the competition proper - which would be their first true European campaign since a 2005/06 Uefa Cup first-round exit, aside from a few Intertoto Cup appearances. Domestically, matters haven’t gone well for Hibs though this term; despite coming through two qualifying rounds in Europe already, beating Andorran side Inter Club d’Escaldes and Swiss outfit Luzern, it’s so far two defeats from two in the SPL. Aston Villa were thrashed by Newcastle before hammering Everton in a topsy-turvy pair of fixtures themselves at the start of 2023/24. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the game and get all the latest football betting sites offers here. When is Hibs vs Aston Villa Hibs face Villa in the first leg of their play-off tie on Wednesday 23 August, with kick-off set for 5:45pm BST. Where can I watch it? The game will be broadcast live on BBC Scotland, while it can be streamed on the BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport website. What is the team news Hibs should have Jake Doyle-Hayes back from an injury lay-off, while Dylan Vente should be fine to start after going off injured at the weekend. Dylan Levitt will not play, however. For Villa, there may be a debut for new loan signing Nicolo Zaniolo, while John McGinn will hope to face the club he spent over three years with before signing for Villa in 2018. Youri Tielemans and Jhon Duran will hope to feature after coming off the bench to good effect in the weekend win over Everton, but Philippe Coutinho went off injured in that game and joins Alex Moreno, Jacob Ramsey, Emi Buendia, Tyrone Mings and Leander Dendoncker on the sidelines. Predicted lineups Hibs - Marshall, Fish, Hanlon, Stevenson, Miller, Jeggo, Boyle, Newell, Obita, Vente, Doidge. Villa - Martinez, Cash, Carlos, Torres, Digne, Kamara, Tielemans, Zaniolo, Diaby, McGinn, Watkins Odds Hibs 21/2 Draw 19/4 Villa 2/11 Get all the latest football betting sites offers here. Prediction Villa don’t need to go all-out to get the win away from home, but probably can do if they attack the same way they did at the weekend. Hibs 1-2 Aston Villa. Read More Unai Emery can draw on his own Europa legend to write Aston Villa history Everton condemn ‘vile’ racist abuse aimed at midfielder Amadou Onana Are Everton the first crisis club of the season? Unai Emery hails ‘amazing’ Aston Villa captain John McGinn after Everton rout Unai Emery Aston Villa masterclass delivers humiliating defeat for hapless Everton Pep Guardiola applauds Manchester City’s mentality following Newcastle victory
2023-08-23 16:49
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink calls for patience at Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino
Former Chelsea forward Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink has stressed the need for Mauricio Pochettino to be given time but knows not all of the club’s big-money signings will handle the pressure. The Blues are without a win after two matches of this season’s Premier League after an encouraging 1-1 draw at home to Liverpool was followed up by Sunday’s 3-1 defeat at West Ham. Chelsea have spent more than £350million on transfers this summer, which has taken their overall outlay under Todd Boehly’s Clearlake Capital consortium to nearly £1billion since he completed his takeover at the end of the 2021-22 season. Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and Mykhailo Mudryk are among the club’s biggest buys but while Pochettino insisted in July there is “no patience” in football, Hasselbaink has called for calm. LiveScore ambassador Hasselbaink told the PA news agency: “Look, it is a project. Chelsea is a project and it will take time. “You need to give time. They have a lot of players, a lot of talented players but they need to gel and that takes time. It doesn’t matter how much money you throw at it. “The only way they will learn is by playing and having that pressure. You will see some of them will make it and be able to handle it, but some, as always is the case, they won’t handle the pressure. That is the nature of the beast. “I do think Chelsea have bought well, really well with a lot of young players and the most important thing now is to trim the squad because there is still a lot of players. “Then mould it and everyone can get to know each other.” Hasselbaink reflected on Chelsea’s stuttering start to the season after being put through his paces by youngsters during a session put on by Bloomsbury Football, a grassroots charity who provide weekly football sessions for young people in London. Bloomsbury Football are set to receive a £5,000 donation from LiveScore, who have launched a Life-changing Goals campaign to mark their 25th anniversary. LiveScore will donate £25 to charity for every goal scored in the world’s top 25 leagues on the weekend of September 2-3, while goals scored at grassroots level and shared with the global sports media brand on social media will also trigger a donation. An overall total of £25,000 is set to be donated by LiveScore with £20,000 going to a mental health charity partner. Chelsea will host Nottingham Forest on September 2, after they entertain Luton this Friday, and Hasselbaink suggested a top-five finish, which should be enough to secure qualification for UEFA’s new-look Champions League format from 2024 given England’s coefficient rating, would be success this season. “I think to get in the Champions League this year it is the top five isn’t it, so look without getting ahead of everything, it is a project,” Hasselbaink added. “There are a lot of things that have changed in the last two years at Chelsea. It is not the Chelsea any more that we had, but they are building to that again. “It is different and what you really want as soon as possible is to get a win behind your belt because from there you try to get momentum, which will get people confidence. “The Liverpool game showed they can compete with the best but second half against West Ham you can see there are a lot of things to work at. “It will not change overnight, that is just a fact and everybody in football knows that but I think they have a lot and they are on the right track. “With all due respect to everyone who was there last year, I think they look a lot better than last year.” :: To get involved with LiveScore’s Life-changing Goals campaign, head to LiveScore’s official social media channels to find out how you can share your goal with #LiveScore25 and #LifeChangingGoals.
2023-08-23 16:15