Violent clashes between West Ham and Fiorentina fans lead to arrests ahead of European final
Czech police have detained 16 people after violent clashes between West Ham United and Fiorentina fans marred the build-up to the Europa Conference League final in Prague. A group of black-clad Fiorentina fans attacked Hammers supporters in a bar in central Prague on Wednesday afternoon, injuring three patrons, authorities said. Videos on social media showed fans setting off flares and throwing tables at the bar located just off Prague’s Old Town Square. A police officer was also attacked. “Italy fans attacked West Ham fans in a bar on Rytirska street, injuring three,” Czech police said on Twitter. “A police officer was also attacked. We have restricted the personal liberty of 16 people.” More than 10,000 officers are on duty in the Czech capital with major security concerns around the game given the vast numbers of supporters who have travelled without tickets. An estimated 20,000 West Ham fans are believed to have travelled to Prague, even though the club’s allocation of match tickets was fewer than 6,000, given the small size of Slavia Prague’s stadium hosting the showpiece. Uefa have also promised a beefed-up security presence at the Eden Arena as the governing body are desperate to avoid a repeat of the chaotic scenes that marred last season’s Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid in Paris. Additional reporting by Reuters and PA Read More Carlton Cole on West Ham’s final, a coaching career and his surprise ‘love’ of the world’s most sustainable sport I might miss flight home if West Ham win European title, says fan in Prague West Ham fans take over Prague ahead of Europa Conference League final
2023-06-08 00:23
Fans detained by Czech police after West Ham supporters are attacked in Prague
Czech police have detained several people following a clash between West Ham and Fiorentina fans ahead of the Europa Conference League final in Prague on Wednesday. The force said Italian fans attacked West Ham fans in a bar in the country’s capital, with three people being left injured as a result. It was also confirmed a police officer had been attacked during the incident. Following the clash, 16 people were detained as police “restricted the personal freedom” of those suspected to be involved. A translation of a Czech police tweet said: “Italy fans attacked West Ham fans in a bar in Rytirska Street, injuring three. One policeman was also attacked. We have restricted the personal freedom of 16 people and we are currently investigating the whole incident.” Outside the Tek’ila Tek’ila bar in the city centre, a burnt-out chair and broken glass were seen littered across the ground. One West Ham fan, who did not want to be named, said “a large group” of Italian fans attacked the bar. “About eight Italians walked past, swinging bands and chains,” he said. “Five minutes later there was a big group that come down the road and attacked us.” The man said five West Ham fans were injured. He said: “Three of our mates (were injured), out of all of this lot there were five. Three of them were our mates. They’ve gone to hospital.” He added that one of his friends was “quite badly” injured with a “massive cut” on his head. Videos were also shared on social media appearing to show people throwing chairs at each other in Prague on Wednesday. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Sheffield United release Billy Sharp after promotion to Premier League Man City keeper Ederson will not opt for safe option in Champions League final Kyle Walker insists Champions League win will not define Man City’s achievements
2023-06-08 00:18
Tammy Abraham has surgery to repair anterior cruciate ligament damage
England and Roma striker Tammy Abraham is recovering in a London hospital after surgery to repair anterior cruciate ligament damage. Former Chelsea forward Abraham, 25, sustained the injury in Roma’s final game of the season last Sunday when a 2-1 home win against Spezia secured them a sixth-placed Serie A finish. A Roma statement read: “Tammy Abraham underwent reconstructive surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee on Wednesday. “The operation was performed by Dr Andy Williams at London’s Cromwell Hospital, with AS Roma head of medical Massimo Manara in attendance, and was a complete success. “The player will remain at the London clinic for a few days before beginning the rehabilitation programme drawn up by the club’s medical staff. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Tammy!” The Italian club, managed by former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, signed Abraham from the Blues in August 2021 for £34million. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live
2023-06-07 23:51
Jude Bellingham set for Real Madrid after Dortmund announce deal
Jude Bellingham will join Real Madrid from Borussia Dortmund this summer after the Germans announced a deal in principle worth €103 million (£88.5m) plus add-ons. The German club, who missed out on the Bundesliga title to Bayern Munich after a heartbreaking final day of the season, confirmed the terms on the club website. The statement outlined how the add-ons could rise to 30 percent of the fixed amount. The 19-year-old will now undergo medical tests and agree personal terms with the Spanish giants. The England star joins Real’s collection of young midfield stars, including Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde. Read More Real Madrid agree deal to sign England’s Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund Why has Saudi Arabia become big player in world sport and what does future hold? Al-Ittihad confirm Karim Benzema deal after striker’s Real Madrid farewell
2023-06-07 22:53
NBA Draft rumors: Lillard threatens trade demand, Rockets shopping No. 20, Pacers focusing in?
NBA Draft rumors: Damian Lillard could demand trade from BlazersThe Portland Trail Blazers own the No. 3 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. That doesn't really align with the team's immediate goal of building a championship contender around Damian Lillard, something the front office has man...
2023-06-07 22:50
Real Madrid agree deal to sign England’s Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund
Jude Bellingham is closing in on a move to Real Madrid after the Spanish side struck a deal with Borussia Dortmund worth an initial £88.5million. The 19-year-old moved to Germany from boyhood club Birmingham in 2020 and has long dreamt of moving to the LaLiga giants. England star Bellingham is now on the cusp of completing his move to Madrid. Dortmund confirmed in a statement that the Spanish side have agreed to pay 103m euros (£88.5m), with an additional amount of around 30 per cent of that fixed fee agreed. If those add-ons are achieved, the deal could reach 133.9m euros (£115m). Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live
2023-06-07 22:49
Lionel Messi agrees ‘in principle’ on next move after PSG exit
Leo Messi has agreed a deal in principle to join Inter Miami, in what could represent a first defeat for the burgeoning Saudi Pro League's new era. The Argentine great had huge offers from both since the conclusion of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain, but it is understood he is being swayed by the prospect of a legacy in the United States, as well as his family's preference to live in the Florida city. Also of attraction were a prospective deal with Apple, who are huge broadcast backers of Major League Soccer. There is an argument that Messi could prove a transformative figure for the competition in the guise of Pele in the 1970s, although now where football is fast becoming the USA's fourth most popular sport, and ahead of the hosting of the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine's plan is currently to play in that and defend the trophy. That hasn't totally locked out the possibility of eventually playing in the Saudi Pro League and there was still a certain nervousness in Inter Miami that no deal is done until it is signed. The Messis have told those in Saudi Arabia that, even if they go with MLS now, they would be willing to return to negotiations in future. The 35-year-old has already faced criticism as regards "sportswashing" for being an ambassador for Saudi Tourism. Read More Why has Saudi Arabia become big player in world sport and what does future hold? Where might Lionel Messi go next after Paris St Germain spell ends? First Lionel Messi, now Sergio Ramos – Veteran defender waves goodbye to PSG
2023-06-07 22:24
Rory McIlroy Says PGA Tour-LIV Golf Deal Is Good for Sport
Rory McIlroy, the world’s No. 3-ranked professional golfer, said the proposed partnership between the PGA Tour and Saudi-backed
2023-06-07 22:19
Leeds charged with failing to control crowd after Eddie Howe confronted
Leeds have been charged with failing to control their crowd after a fan confronted Newcastle boss Eddie Howe at Elland Road during a recent Premier League game. The fan was charged with assault by West Yorkshire Police and banned for life by Leeds after he entered the technical area to remonstrate with Howe during last month’s 2-2 draw. The FA said on its spokesperson Twitter site: “Leeds United has been charged with misconduct in relation to crowd control that occurred during its Premier League game against Newcastle United FC on Saturday 13 May 2023. “It’s alleged that the club failed to ensure its spectators and/or supporters – and anyone purporting to be its supporters or followers – conduct themselves in an orderly fashion and don’t use words or behave in an improper, offensive, violent, threatening, abusive or insulting or provocative way. “Leeds United FC has until Wednesday 14 June 2023 to provide a response.” Howe said after the game that his confrontation should act as a wake-up call for those responsible for the safety of players and staff. “I actually can’t remember whether he pushed me or not, I’ve got no idea, it’s such a strange thing because you’re concentrating on the game and you don’t expect it to happen,” Howe said. “He confronted me, said something that I can’t repeat and was then led away. “I’m OK, moments like that do make you think about the safety of staff and players is paramount for me at any matches in the Premier League and Football League. We need to be mindful, security is so important. “I don’t know if I had time to be fearful because it was over in a flash but it certainly makes you think ‘what if’ and I think it is moments like this that should make people look and analyse how we can improve safety for staff and players.” West Yorkshire Police later confirmed that the man had been charged with assault and will appear before magistrates on July 21. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Sheikh Jassim wants answer by Friday after submitting final bid for Man Utd London Irish file for administration after suspension from all club competitions Beatriz Haddad Maia claims historic victory to reach French Open semi-finals
2023-06-07 21:48
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will meet in a youth-vs.-experience clash at the French Open
Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic will face each other in the French Open semifinals
2023-06-07 20:49
Ukraine appoint former Tottenham and West Ham striker Serhiy Rebrov as new boss
Serhiy Rebrov, the former Tottenham and West Ham striker, has been appointed as head coach of Ukraine. The 49-year-old has enjoyed a varied managerial career, with spells in charge of Dinamo Kyiv, Al-Ahli, Ferencvaros and most recently Al-Ain. Former Ukraine striker Rebrov, who won 75 caps as a player, has now taken the reins of his national team on a deal until 2026. Ukrainian Football Association chief Andriy Pavelko said: “This is a long-awaited event. A new stage in the history of Ukrainian football. “A special moment, since the new page will be written during martial law, in a special period for our country.” Rebrov takes charge of a Ukraine side looking to kickstart their Euro 2024 qualification hopes having lost their opener against England in March. Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka scored in a 2-0 win at Wembley, where the visitors were managed by interim boss Ruslan Rotan. Rebrov’s first game will be at North Macedonia next Friday, before playing Malta three days later – a match that will be hosted in Trnava, Slovakia due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Pavelko added: “We will expect from our national team, a game that will please Ukrainian fans.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live
2023-06-07 18:54
Wearing a helmet, Damar Hamlin participates in full Buffalo Bills practice
Wearing a helmet and seemingly in good spirits, Damar Hamlin participated in full practice with the Buffalo Bills for the first time since his cardiac arrest in January.
2023-06-07 17:48