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Showing posts from March, 2019

Paul Gascoigne’s poignant cameo sets the stage for Spurs’ next chapter | David Hytner

Club’s past and future converged at the new stadium and left the crowd hungry for Wednesday’s curtain-raiser “He’s still the same Gazza,” says Robbie Keane. “On the bus on the way in, he had me in stitches. I cannot repeat the stories ...” Go on, Robbie. Tell at least one. “Something about a pheasant,” Keane replies. “But I cannot say any more than that. He had everyone in stitches.” The Tottenham Legends squad contained some big names on Saturday, as the club staged the second of two test events needed to secure the safety certificate for their new stadium ahead of the grand Premier League opening against Crystal Palace on Wednesday night. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/31/gascoigne-spurs-history-stadium

The Dozen: the weekend’s best Premier League photos

Featuring Sergio Agüero and Neil Warnock, it’s your weekend roundup of the best photography from England’s top flight View the Dozen archive Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/gallery/2019/mar/31/the-dozen-the-weekends-best-premier-league-photos

Neil Warnock ‘sickened’ by officials’ decisions as Cardiff lose to Chelsea

• Warnock criticises offside goal and penalty not given • Cardiff manager: ‘At this level these mistakes shouldn’t happen’ Neil Warnock vented his anger on the standard of officiating in the Premier League after Chelsea defeated Cardiff in hugely controversial circumstances, leaving the Welsh club five points adrift of safety and nursing a simmering sense of injustice. César Azpilicueta was a yard offside when he headed an equaliser six minutes from time, prompting Warnock to say that the Premier League had the “worst officials” and that matches were being decided by “who you get in the middle and who has a flag”. Related: Ruben Loftus-Cheek seals controversial late win for Chelsea over Cardiff Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/31/neil-warnock-sickened-officials-cardiff-lose-chelsea

Labour plans national bank using Post Office network

Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell says the proposed Post Bank would protect community banking.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek seals controversial late win for Chelsea over Cardiff

Football can be a cruel game at times. With less than 10 minutes remaining, Cardiff were leading 1-0 and the mood in the away end was mutinous. “We want Sarri out” reverberated loud and clear time and again, so much so that it was tempting to wonder whether Chelsea’s manager was fighting to hold on to his job. How quickly things can change. By the time the final whistle blew the Chelsea fans were celebrating a victory that kept alive their hopes of a top-four finish and left Cardiff crestfallen. The killer goal was César Azpilicueta’s equaliser, in the 84th minute, and it should never have been allowed to stand. The Chelsea captain was a yard offside as he nodded home Marcos Alonso’s flick on. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/31/cardiff-city-chelsea-premier-league-match-report

‘No Room for Racism’: Sterling, Lingard and Van Dijk star in new Premier League campaign – video

The  Premier League  has released a new promotional video featuring Raheem Sterling, Virgil van Dijk and several other footballers as part of their 'No Room for Racism’ campaign to tackle the perceived rise in the number of discriminatory incidents at games. The awareness campaign runs from Saturday 30 March, to Monday 8 April, and will see branded promotional material at stadiums and on social media. Premier League risks Kick It Out confusion with ‘No Room for Racism’ campaign Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/sport/video/2019/mar/31/no-room-for-racism-sterling-lingard-and-van-dijk-star-in-new-premier-league-campaign-video

Liverpool v Tottenham: Premier League – live!

James Forrest earns Celtic late win after Rangers have Alfredo Morelos sent off

Whether or not Celtic deserved this win will not matter one iota to Neil Lennon. A crucial match in Lennon’s tenure – as is only guaranteed to be in charge until this summer – produced yet another late Celtic winner. On account of their second half display, Rangers can legitimately feel hard done by. A match which had continually threatened to boil over concluded with both sets of players involved in an ugly melee; Old Firm fixtures are not famous for both sides routinely covering themselves in glory. Related: Celtic 2-1 Rangers: Scottish Premiership – live! Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/31/celtic-rangers-scottish-premiership-match-report

Cardiff City v Chelsea: Premier League – live!

Saudi Arabia 'hacked Amazon boss's phone', says investigator

An investigator working for Jeff Bezos says Saudi Arabia accessed data on the Amazon boss's phone.

Saudi Arabia 'hacked Amazon boss's phone', says investigator

An investigator working for Jeff Bezos says Saudi Arabia accessed data on the Amazon boss's phone.

Birmingham City v Arsenal: Women's Super League – live!

Celtic v Rangers: Scottish Premiership – live!

Mark Zuckerberg asks governments to help control internet content

Mark Zuckerberg writes an open letter calling for new laws to monitor internet content.

Life after a devastating mining disaster

Brazil's Brumadinho dam disaster is having consequences in towns which are near similar dams.

Lyft, Uber, Pinterest: Are internet unicorns really worth billions?

Lyft is the first tech company to float this year but the $24bn business is yet to make profit.

Son Heung-min: ‘I miss White Hart Lane but the new stadium is amazing’

The Spurs forward believes the move to a shiny new ground can provide fresh impetus for their stuttering Premier League form Son Heung-min has never known anything like it. Not since his arrival at Tottenham in August 2015 have the team endured a worse run of Premier League form during a single season. And, by the forward’s reckoning, he has never gone three weeks without a match inside a domestic campaign. Seismic change is also afoot. After all the delays, Spurs are primed to enter their 62,062-capacity new stadium on Wednesday for the Premier League fixture with Crystal Palace. Son and his teammates trained there for the first time on Thursday and, it is fair to say, they are champing at the bit to perform in front of a full house. The atmosphere against Palace promises to be special. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/son-heung-min-white-hart-lane-spurs-premier-league

Jürgen Klopp piles praise on Spurs and Pochettino before Anfield clash

The Liverpool manager makes no secret of his admiration for his counterpart and the way he has built his ‘world-class’ team This is supposed to be the business end of the season, squeaky-bum time in terms of the title race, yet Tottenham’s visit to Anfield on Sunday afternoon may turn out to be more of a love-in than a leadership contest. For one thing, games between the two clubs in recent seasons have featured exquisite goals, open football and marvellous entertainment . For another, Jürgen Klopp makes no secret of his admiration for Spurs, their manager and their leading scorer, even if they do arrive on Merseyside looking for their first Premier League win in more than a month. “We can expect a strong Tottenham, they are a world-class team,” the Liverpool manager says. “In England, the country of transfers, it makes a pretty big statement when you don’t sign anyone at all , but in a way I could see why Mauricio Pochettino did that, why they were not too concerned last summer when

Mark Zuckerberg asks governments to help control internet content

Mark Zuckerberg writes an open letter calling for new laws to monitor internet content.

Football’s double jeopardy will take Forestieri racism case into extra time | Daniel Taylor

As John Terry knows, acquittal in a court of law on the basis of ‘beyond a reasonable doubt’ does not mean the FA will not take action on the balance of probabilities It is coming up for seven years now since John Terry found himself in the dock of Westminster magistrates court on charges of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand and, though I could never say sitting through that week-long trial was a particularly fulfilling experience, there is one memory that offers some light relief amid all the other numbing details. It goes back to the penultimate day, when Terry was being taken through some of the evidence related to his exchange of words with Ferdinand, then of QPR, and having to repeat some of it for the benefit of the court. Terry was obediently following the instructions, albeit not looking absolutely sure what purpose it served, until he was asked to let the court know the number of times he had been sent off throughout his Chelsea career. Continue reading... from Football | T

Careful Huddersfield pay inevitable price but are set up to return | Paul Doyle

With Premier League’s lowest wage bill and ineffective strikers, relegation is no surprise but Jan Siewert’s men are equipped to come back And so Huddersfield’s Premier League journey nears the end that has long been signposted, via a sequence of results that reads like a faux-Welsh train station: LLDDLLLDLLWDWLLLLLLLLDLLLLLWLLLL. The No Limits hashtag and flags can be retired, as the two words that became the club’s de facto motto during their sensational rise from the depths of the Championship no longer apply. Huddersfield have hit the buffers. They have been on a hell of a ride. Related: ‘We weren’t good enough to stay up’: Huddersfield deflated as they go down Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/careful-huddersfield-inevitable-relegation-return

Compensation unlikely for London Capital & Finance investors

Rules suggest investments did not qualify for compensation as "personal advice was not involved".

‘We weren’t good enough to stay up’: Huddersfield deflated as they go down

• Town relegated from Premier League after defeat at Selhurst Park • Jan Siewert: ‘I’m willing to work as hard as we can to get back’ Jan Siewert insisted he was proud of his players despite Huddersfield becoming the second team in Premier League history to be relegated before the end of March after their 2-0 defeat at Crystal Palace . Victories for Burnley over Wolves and Southampton over Brighton ensured that Huddersfield will return to the Championship after two seasons in the top flight, also equalling Derby’s record for the earliest relegation with six fixtures to play. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/huddersfield-town-relegated-jan-siewert

Onel Hernández sinks Boro to put promised land in Norwich sights

An evening billed as a celebration of Middlesbrough’s once powerful international influence was hijacked by a Cuban winger and a Finnish forward who have made Norwich their home. Reminders of Teesside’s history as a breeding ground of globe trotting explorers and industrialists were everywhere but, with the stuttering home side failing to rise to the challenge, two visiting imports assumed centre stage. While Onel Hernández’s beautifully executed second-half goal secured Norwich’s seventh straight win, sending Daniel Farke’s Championship leaders five points clear of second placed Leeds United and seven ahead of third placed Sheffield United, Teemu Pukki did a fine job of destabilising Boro’s back five – and derailing their play-off ambitions. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/middlesbrough-norwich-city-championship-match-report

Kurt Zouma and Bernard punish sloppy West Ham as Everton ease to victory

Everton’s claim to be best of the rest no longer looks far-fetched. They have moved to a point from seventh place and, even if it takes some energy to afford the battle for that spot too much hype, this convincing victory should be taken for what it was. Marco Silva’s side played the slick football his appointment originally promised in what, as 90-minute performances go, was perhaps the most accomplished display of his reign. Kurt Zouma and Bernard scored the goals that defeated a West Ham side whose bloodless showing was, for their part, as bad as anything mustered under Manuel Pellegrini. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/west-ham-everton-premier-league-match-report

Will Grigg fired by Wembley ambition before Sunderland face Portsmouth

The striker wants to make memories for the club’s fans at the Checkatrade Trophy final, even if the Black Cats have bigger aims Will Grigg appreciates the potential conflict of interests. He fully understands the tension between short- and longer-term ambitions. Yet there is nothing remotely bittersweet about his anticipation of a first Wembley appearance. “It’s no secret that promotion’s our aim, but football’s about giving fans great days and memories of being at big games,” says Sunderland’s Northern Ireland striker as he prepares for Sunday’s Checkatrade Trophy final against Portsmouth. “I understand there are circumstances where people have to sacrifice cups for the league, but these finals are the things you remember throughout your career, and your life. We’ve got 40,000 fans going to Wembley. Different generations of the same families will all be walking down Wembley Way together and we want it to be one of those landmark days. We want to make memories.” Continue reading...

Football League: Weimann stuns Sheffield United as Derby romp to win

• Bristol City forward hits hat-trick to blunt Blades • Derby breeze to 6-1 win over lowly Rotherham • Sheffield United slipped to third after Bristol City came from behind to take victory at Bramall Lane, with Andreas Weimann scoring his first career hat-trick. Chris Wilder’s side twice took the lead through Billy Sharp and Scott Hogan before Weimann completed a fine comeback to dent the hosts’ automatic promotion hopes. Leeds United returned second with their own heroic fightback at Elland Road on what proved a good day for the pack of teams chasing a play-off berth. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/football-league-weimann-stuns-sheffield-united-as-derby-romp-to-win

Pablo Hernández double downs Millwall to send Leeds into automatic places

Leeds moved back into the automatic promotion places in dramatic fashion with a thrilling 3-2 win over relegation-threatened Millwall. For a long time it looked as if Leeds would back up their crushing defeat to promotion rivals Sheffield United with another damaging result. But Pablo Hernández - overlooked for the Sky Bet Championship team of the season - hauled Leeds from the brink with a double in an inspirational performance. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/pablo-hernandez-double-downs-millwall-to-send-leeds-into-automatic-places

Huddersfield relegated after Milivojevic puts Crystal Palace on way to win

In the end, there was a strange sense of symmetry about it all. A penalty from Luka Milivojevic and Patrick van Aanholt’s late goal sealed Huddersfield’s relegation at the ground where their adventure began a little more than 18 months ago with a brilliant 3-0 victory under David Wagner. Yet after a campaign that has already seen the departure of the man who achieved the impossible last season, by surviving the club’s first top-flight campaign in more than 40 years, this was a harsh lesson in the realities of the modern game as Jan Siewert’s side became only the second team in Premier League history to be relegated before the end of March. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/crystal-palace-huddersfield-town-premier-league-match-report

Anthony Martial goal proves key as Manchester United hold off Watford

The sun shone, a gigantic banner sporting bearing Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s face swirled in the Stretford End, and Manchester United claimed victory. This was the perfect way to herald the Norwegian being made full-time manager and to respond to the last two defeats. It was hardly pretty: United were stuck in second gear, the goals apart, but as winning while underperforming is a yardstick of a team it was a satisfactory afternoon, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial the home scorers, with Abdoulaye Doucouré producing Watford’s late response. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/manchester-united-watford-premier-league-match-report

Pierre-Emile Højbjerg fires Southampton to vital win over Brighton

Southampton climbed closer to safety thanks to their third win in four matches, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg securing a deserved victory with a second-half strike on the counter. The win puts Ralph Hasenhüttl’s side level on points with Brighton, who, in addition to trying to figure out a way to get past Manchester City in next week’s FA Cup semi-final, must be wary of slipping into bottom three. The battle to avoid 18th place is getting more fierce. Coming off the back of a victory over Tottenham Hotspur and knowing their need for points was more pressing, Southampton made by far the better start here. They play as a swarm, buzzing around their opponents in a shape that is as difficult to define as they are to repel. But Chris Hughton’s side have never been ashamed to defend in numbers at home, even against lower-ranked teams, and they gave Southampton little room in which to manoeuvre. The visitors would need to be fast and very precise to break through, and for the first half-hour that lo

Alcácer late show takes Dortmund top as Bayern held at Freiburg

• Paco Alcácer scores twice in injury time against Wolfsburg • Mönchengladbach’s top-four hopes hit by surprise 3-1 loss Borussia Dortmund climbed back to the top of the Bundesliga after late drama in their match with Wolfsburg as Freiburg held Bayern Munich to a surprise draw. Paco Alcácer’s two goals in Dortmund’s 2-0 win, the first a fiercely struck free-kick, the second scored on the counter, did not arrive until the 91st and 94th minutes, just when it appeared Lucien Favre’s team would not be able to capitalise on Bayern’s slip-up. Bayern began poorly at Freiburg, and conceded a goal from striker Lucas Höler in the third minute, and it took a combination of Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng making a goalline clearance to prevent a second for 12th-placed Freiburg. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/borussia-dortmund-top-bundesliga-bayern-munich

Dwight McNeil strikes to seal crucial Burnley victory over Wolves

Sean Dyche’s 300th game as Burnley manager ended with a 2-0 home victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers, just as his first one had in 2012. As Wolves are no longer the unremarkable mid-table Championship opponents who turned up seven years ago this victory must have given Dyche even more satisfaction, especially as it ended a run of four straight defeats and should go a long way to easing any relegation fears. Burnley are not out of the woods yet, but they are five points ahead of 18th-placed Cardiff, who are the next visitors to Turf Moor. While Dyche’s team do not have the easiest of run-ins, they would surely only have themselves to blame were they to allow the Welsh team to climb above them from that position. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/burnley-wolves-premier-league-match-report

Sergio Agüero ensures Manchester City return to top with win at Fulham

This felt like little more than a box-ticking exercise for a team with Manchester City’s ambitions. There was never any jeopardy, no sense that they were ever in any danger against opponents with all the nous and snarl of a sleeping kitten, and City did not have to do much more than tickle Fulham’s tummy to return to the Premier League’s summit. It was over as a contest long before the end, goals from Bernardo Silva and Sergio Agüero enough for Pep Guardiola’s side, who will be hoping for a slip-up when Liverpool host Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/30/fulham-manchester-city-premier-league-match-report

Manchester United v Watford, Crystal Palace v Huddersfield and more – live!

Spurs’ new stadium: let’s call it a home win

Around the pitch and in the stands, the Tottenham Hotspur stadium is both magnificent and intimate, but the jarring exterior is mid-table fodder It was, for a while, all about the cheese room . The new Tottenham Hotspur stadium , it was reported, was to offer its premium customers a selection of specially sourced cheeses, a concept which encapsulated how far the football fan has come from those black-and-white, crackly-voiced days when a gristly pie was all you got, an edible version of the brown balls that were hacked around the Flanders-like mud of those bygone fields – a distillation (conceptually speaking) of the catarrh of a million Capstans. Which, goes the narrative, was how it should be. In the tribal warfare of football you don’t want the food to be too nice. And what could be more Waitrose, more metropolitan elite, more Highbury and Islington than a range of fermented curds? What could be less likely, except perhaps CO 2 foam or a flame-retardant blanket, to put fire in th

Fulham v Manchester City: Premier League – live!

Football’s final furlong: our writers predict how the season will finish

Who will win the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Champions League? And who is going up and down? Dominic Fifield: Manchester City. The race with Liverpool should go to the wire but greater squad depth and experience may just tilt it towards the reigning champions. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2019/mar/30/football-final-furlong-our-writers-predict-how-season-will-conclude-premier-champions-league-fa-cup

Meet the man glamming up supercars for the stars

Yianni Charalambous transforms cars for the rich and famous people searching for that extra shine.

Gambling industry warned over fixed-odds stake cut

Firms are warned to be responsible as the maximum bet on fixed-odds betting terminals is cut to £2.

‘Dig in and stay in’: resilience key as epic season enters final lap | Andy Hunter

Jürgen Klopp believes rewards will be earned by clubs that can hang on, while Pep Guardiola says team must be ready to suffer Jürgen Klopp paused for a moment as he trawled his extensive English vocabulary for the appropriate word. He eventually settled for “resilience”. This, the Liverpool manager explained, is the quality that will define the fortunes of those Premier League clubs fighting for the title, Champions League qualification and survival over the coming six weeks. There can be no wavering now. The time for worrying about injuries on international duty is over for another season. We can agonise over every Premier League point without interruption instead. Manchester City stand eight games from becoming the first club to retain the English title since Manchester United a decade ago. Liverpool are seven steps from the heaven of their first championship in 29 years. Klopp’s team have amassed more points after 31 matches than in the entirety of 24 of the 28 seasons since Liver

Mauricio Pochettino would withdraw team if players were racially abused

• ‘Football is strong weapon to defend principles of humanity’ • Tottenham manager backed by Liverpool’s Jürgen Klopp Mauricio Pochettino has said he would not hesitate to call his Tottenham players off the field if any of them were subjected to racist abuse – a stance echoed by Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool. Pochettino was appalled when one of his players – Danny Rose – had monkey chants directed at him during England’s Euro 2020 qualifying win in Montenegro on Monday night. Related: European football bosses should take Raheem Sterling’s lead on fighting racism | Dario Brentin Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/mauricio-pochettino-withdraw-players-racially-abused

Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba ‘vital’ to United, says Ole Gunnar Solskjær

• Players said to be targets of Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid • ‘They are vital for our future,’ Manchester United manager says Ole Gunnar Solskjær is determined to keep Paul Pogba and Marcus Rashford at Manchester United and says they are both vital to the club. Related: Ole Gunnar Solskjær was always ambitious - he is an inspiration to us in Norway | Dan Eggen Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/marcus-rashford-paul-pogba-manchester-united-ole-gunnar-solskjaer

Baines and Jagielka are special and we will decide soon, says Everton manager

• Veteran England defenders out of contract in June • Club keen to make loans of Zouma and Gomes permanent Marco Silva has said Everton will delay a decision on the futures of Leighton Baines and Phil Jagielka until the summer when the club plans another overhaul that, it hopes, features the permanent signings of Kurt Zouma and André Gomes. Related: Marco Silva stresses Everton’s desire to keep hold of André Gomes Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/baines-jagielka-everton-marco-silva-zouma-gomes

New Lennon plays it cool before his first Old Firm renewal | Ewan Murray

Celtic manager insists his future will not be defined by Sunday’s Rangers game as he prepares to face ‘modern great’ Gerrard If Neil Lennon’s pre-match demeanour is anything to go by, his return to the Old Firm fixture will not further intensify an already manic scene. A relaxed, composed Lennon on Friday expressed hope that his prospects will not be intrinsically linked to success or otherwise against Rangers. When Celtic tumbled, 1-0 at Ibrox in late December, Lennon was still the Hibernian manager. Two months later, after Brendan Rodgers had abruptly exited Scotland for Leicester City and Lennon had done likewise from Easter Road, the 47-year-old was handed a managerial return to the club with which he will always be instantly associated. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/neil-lennon-celtic-rangers-gerrard

Jake Livermore’s late thunderbolt seals dramatic West Brom win over Birmingham

West Brom kept alive their slim hopes of an automatic promotion spot with Jake Livermore’s crashing half-volley sealing a dramatic comeback win against Birmingham at the Hawthorns, their third victory in succession under the caretaker manager, James Shan. Related: Norwich’s Onel Hernández: ‘It’s sad. Cuban players want to play for free’ Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/west-brom-birmingham-city-championship-match-report

Big university gender pay gap revealed

Most British universities pay their average male employee more than they pay their average female employee.

Why is Turkey fighting the markets?

Financial markets in Turkey have been volatile as elections loom - and the president blames the West.

UK fashion brands battle for China's growing market

UK fashion designers are chasing business in Shanghai - one of Asia's biggest fashion weeks.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær was always very ambitious - he is an inspiration to us in Norway | Dan Eggen

My former teammate getting the Manchester United job was brilliant for him, and don’t be surprised if he is a success I was a Norway teammate of Ole Gunnar Solskjær but now I am head of coaching education for the Norwegian football federation and it was absolutely marvellous and brilliant – as well as really surprising – that he got the offer to be Manchester United temporary manager last December. Related: Ole Gunnar Solskjær needs to be more than high priest of Fergianity | Jonathan Wilson Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2019/mar/29/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-manchester-united-norway-dan-eggen

Mo Salah remains remarkable but Liverpool’s strength is in the collective | Barney Ronay

Salah could not have a better moment to rediscover his best form but the title will be decided by togetherness not star power There was an interesting story last year on the Al-Monitor website about Mo Salah’s home town of Nagrig . An Al-Monitor journalist had travelled the dust roads from Cairo to discover exactly how Salah’s rise had inspired hope, laughter and joy. And found … no joy, very little laughter and only a grudging amount of hope. Instead the people of Nagrig wanted to talk about how nothing works, how they have no jobs and how all the people suddenly turning up looking for a kind of Scouse Bethlehem were quite annoying. As were the newspaper stories about beaming, Salah-crazed Egyptians capering in the streets like ham actors in a generic Indiana Jones bazaar scene. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2019/mar/29/mo-salah-liverpool-strength-premier-league

Tech Tent: Apple, Lyft and feel-good tech

Lyft shares, Apple TV+, and those times when tech gets it right.

Callum Hudson-Odoi set to remain on Chelsea bench at Cardiff

• Maurizio Sarri did not see all of winger’s England displays • Hudson-Odoi, 18, still waiting for first Premier League start Callum Hudson-Odoi’s wait for a first Premier League start is set to continue with Maurizio Sarri having opted against watching the youngster’s full England debut in its entirety and set to lean on more experienced campaigners for Chelsea’s trip to Cardiff City. The winger had been a surprise call-up to Gareth Southgate’s senior squad from the under-21s and became his country’s youngest debutant in a competitive match, against the Czech Republic, before starting in Montenegro. After a slow start, Hudson-Odoi excelled in Podgorica as the visitors won 5-1. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/callum-hudson-odoi-chelsea-bench-cardiff-maurizio-sarri

Manchester United v Watford: match preview

Saturday at 3pm, what better time for Ole Gunnar Soslkjær to take on his first game as Manchester United’s permanent manager? It is a sobering thought that had things been different at the end of the Alex Ferguson era, David Moyes would still have four months left on his six-year deal. Solskjær is the third appointment since Moyes was sacked and he will immediately have to correct a dip in form which has seen United lose their past two games. Watford would seem to be timely visitors, preparing as they are for an FA Cup semi-final on Sunday week. “We have to know some players have been with their national teams and with three games in a row in a short time, we need to make decisions in selection,” said Javi Gracia, Watford’s manager. Mark Tallentire Saturday 3pm Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/manchester-united-watford-match-preview-premier-league

Russia police probe 'dark net' murder case

Investigators are looking into claims that a killing was arranged and paid for via covert net forums.

Lyft shares surge over 20% in market debut

The ride-hailing company's shares jump 21% in the much anticipated flotation.

Leicester v Bournemouth: match preview

Regardless of what happens on the pitch, Leicester supporters will be well catered for off it here. The club are marking the birthday of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, their former owner who passed away in October, by laying on free beer, water and cupcakes for their fans. They should be fairly confident of picking up three points, too, given that Leicester have won three of their last four matches. Junior Stanislas, Adam Smith and Dan Gosling could all make a return for Bournemouth, whose away form has been desperately poor this season. Stuart James Saturday 3pm Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/leicester-bournemouth-match-preview-premier-league

Fulham v Manchester City: match preview

Fulham have improved in recent weeks, and pushed Liverpool all the way in their last game, but it is hard to escape the feeling they will take a hammering in this one. Manchester City arrive in west London fully intent on returning to top spot and with a host of first-team players expected to return from injury, including Kevin De Bruyne and Fernandinho. Pep Guardiola’s side will dominate and, barring a miracle, win comfortably. Sachin Nakrani Saturday 12.30pm Sky Sports Premier League Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/fulham-manchester-city-match-preview-premier-league

The Fiver | Hooray! Hooray for us! What a glorious nation! Huzzah!

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now! $exually Repressed Morris Dancing Fiver, our stereotypical English cousin, skipped merrily out of the house earlier today, a Union Jack draped around its waist and a tattoo of Mark Francois on its chest. The Fiver didn’t check where its cousin was heading, but assumed it was off somewhere nice. The sun’s out, so it’s a good time to have a pleasant stroll around central London. Soak up the atmosphere, that sort of thing. After all, everybody must be very full of patriotic pride given that the best and most British league in the world returns this weekend. Hooray! Hooray for us! What a glorious nation! Huzzah! Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/hooray-hooray-for-us-what-a-glorious-nation-huzzah

Business ‘devastated’ by Brexit vote

Industry bodies say the Brexit uncertainty puts the UK's reputation, jobs and livelihoods at stake.

George Clooney calls for hotel boycott over Brunei LGBT laws

The actor urges a boycott after the country said homosexuality would soon be punishable by death.

Sky Bet criticised for featuring gambling addict Paul Merson in adverts

Company says it no longer uses pundit in promotional material Campaigners say betting firms should stop using sport stars Sky Bet has come under fire for using Paul Merson in its adverts despite his well-documented struggles with gambling addiction. The former England, Arsenal and Portsmouth forward first revealed he was battling alcohol, cocaine and gambling addictions in 1994 while still playing football professionally but recently revealed that he has suffered a relapse of his betting problems. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/sky-bet-criticised-for-featuring-gambling-addict-paul-merson-in-adverts

Crystal Palace v Huddersfield: match preview

Huddersfield’s emphatic 3-0 win at Selhurst Park on the opening day of last season has proved to be one of the highlights of their stint back in the top-flight. But, even if Crystal Palace’s shoddy home form offers hope the agony can be prolonged for another week, their first return to south London could be the day the descent back into the Championship is confirmed. At least they will return to the second tier far stronger off the pitch, and with the likes of Karlan Grant offering promise for the future. Dominic Fifield Saturday 3pm Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/crystal-palace-huddersfield-match-preview-premier-league

Brexit has 'left our lifestyle in limbo'

Recently retired Pat and John say their motor home travel plans are on hold because of Brexit.

Facebook begins new EU political ads rules

The new rules, are part of attempts by the social network to clamp down on election abuse.

Anti-bullying organisation questions Ronaldo’s pre-season trip to Stockholm

• Organisation which has given name to Friends Arena unhappy • Ronaldo has been accused of rape by Kathryn Mayorga The organisation that has given its name to the Friends Arena in Stockholm has expressed its dismay that Cristiano Ronaldo has been invited to play there with Juventus in August. The Portuguese forward has been accused of rape by Kathryn Mayorga, who says she was sexually assaulted in 2009, and last October Las Vegas police reopened the investigation into the claim. Ronaldo has protested his innocence throughout, saying the sex was consensual. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/friends-unhappy-cristiano-ronaldo-friendly-stockholm

NSA contractor pleads guilty to data theft

The former programmer could get a jail sentence of nine years for stealing terabytes of sensitive data.

Can Mike Ashley save debt-laden Debenhams?

Sports Direct boss Mike Ashley is considering a £61m bid for Debenhams, but can he can save it?

Burnley v Wolves: match preview

Burnley have lost four games in a row to leave them on the brink of moving into the relegation zone, and it might be hard to arrest that slide against a carefree Wolves side in the top half of the table and battling it out with fellow FA Cup semi-finalists Watford for seventh place. Sean Dyche needs points quickly, though perhaps the next home game against Cardiff will have the greatest bearing on who survives. Paul Wilson Saturday 3pm Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/burnley-wolves-match-preview

Mobile barbering: Would you order a haircut in a van?

A start-up in London thinks it can shake up the barbering industry by persuading people to get their hair cut in a van.

Facebook challenges Belgian tracking ban

The company faces a fine of 250,000 euros per day for not complying with a request to delete personal data.

Debenhams secures £200m lifeline with lenders

The chain completes a £200m deal to stay afloat, and leaves the door open for a bid from Sports Direct.

First house price fall in England since 2012

But the Nationwide says house price rises in the other nations mean the UK average is still growing.

Premier League team news and more: weekend football countdown – live!

Boeing Ethiopia crash probe 'finds anti-stall device activated'

A flight-control feature activated before the Ethiopian Airlines plane crashed, a report says.

Tui travel firm warns Boeing grounding to hit profits

The travel company says the grounding of Boeing 737 Max planes will cost it €200m (£173m) this year.

Football transfer rumours: Antoine Griezmann to Barcelona for £100m?

Today’s piffle expects nothing less than pure chaos Now that Ole Gunnar Solskjær has the Manchester United job under lock and key, he can stop pretending that he cares about promoting youth. Give Ole the moolah! The Norwegian’s already drawn up an expensive shopping list, with Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho , Crystal Palace’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka , West Ham’s Declan Rice , Napoli’s Kalidou Koulibaly and Real Madrid’s Raphael Varane prominent in his thoughts. Ed Woodward had better have the chequebook ready. Related: Tie down De Gea, deal with Sánchez: Solskjær’s key Old Trafford tasks Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/29/football-transfer-rumours-antoine-griezmann-barcelona-sancho-wan-bissaka-declan-rice-manchester-united

Debenhams advisors 'should be jailed', says Ashley

Sports Direct's Mike Ashley hits out after Debenhams bondholders clear the way for a refinancing.

Lyft arrives at the US stock exchange

Lyft is the first ride-sharing company to go public but Uber is expected to follow soon.

Huawei sales top $100bn despite US-led pressure

The result comes against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny of the Chinese telecoms firm by the West.

Premier League: 10 things to look out for this weekend

Fernandinho should be fit for Man City, Mohamed Salah will be refreshed and Huddersfield could go down on Saturday Manchester City could welcome back Fernandinho, Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones from the treatment room when they travel to Fulham for the first of nine fixtures in 30 days. Fernandinho is considered by many to be City’s most important player, including Pep Guardiola who has previously said the Brazilian is indispensable. His team have done just fine without him though, winning five games in three different competitions since he limped off in the latter stages of the Carabao Cup final. During the 33-year-old’s spell on the sidelines in December, City lost both league games they played in his absence and needed penalties to see off Leicester in the Carabao Cup. Despite maintaining a perfect record without him this time, they will be delighted to welcome him back at such a crucial time of the season. BG Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.thegua

How the ring pull became a million dollar idea

The BBC's Aaron Heslehurst explains how the ring pull became a million dollar idea

MPs call for inquiry into alleged forgery of signatures

MPs are pressing for an investigation into allegations that signatures on bank court documents were forged.

Google, Facebook, Amazon & co: Should we break them up?

Some think the US tech giants are far too powerful. What would be the best way to curb their power?

Gonzalo Higuaín retires from Argentina duty with final swipe at his critics

• Striker announces retirement ‘to the delight of many people’ • ‘When you criticise someone maliciously, it hurts everyone’ Chelsea striker Gonzalo Higuaín has announced his retirement from international football, and taken a swipe at those who have criticised his performances with Argentina. “My time with Argentina is over. Thinking things through in depth, my time is up,” Higuaín said in an interview with Fox Sports. “To the delight of many people, now I will only look at it from the outside. I have spoken to [the manager, Lionel] Scaloni and told him my point of view.” Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/gonzalo-higuain-retires-argentina-attacks-critics-chelsea

Lyft valued at $24bn ahead of share market debut

The ride-hailing firm has priced its shares at the top of the expected range amid strong investor demand.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær needs to be more than high priest of Fergianity | Jonathan Wilson

Manchester United’s new permanent manager has calmed nerves and brought back the spirit of 1999 but is inexperienced Backwards, then, to a glorious future. Where change has failed, let there be continuity. After six years of churn and unconvincing change, Manchester United in appointing Ole Gunnar Solskjær on a permanent basis have turned not merely to an icon of their past but to a manager who seems determined to be a conduit for that past. Let there be progress through history. Let it always be 1999. It is a popular move and, on the face of it, a good one. Solskjær has transformed this season . Yet Ed Woodward’s track record is such that every time he takes a decision the instinct is to flinch and assume it must in some way be flawed. And there are questions. Solskjær is inexperienced. He has never undertaken a rebuilding project like this before . The charm of his Scandi‑manc vowels and sheer excitement at being in the job may not last for ever. Continue reading... from Football

Virgil van Dijk forced to move home after Solskjær signs United deal

• Liverpool defender lives in United manager’s Cheshire house • Solskjær’s appointment hailed by former United greats Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s appointment as the permanent manager of Manchester United will have the knock-on effect of leaving the Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk homeless. After signing a three-year contract to become the permanent successor to José Mourinho, Solskjær revealed he and his family plan to live in the house he bought in Cheshire 12 years ago . Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/virgil-van-dijk-move-home-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-deal

Raheem Sterling is a better player but is still the man the media criticised | Eni Aluko

Praise for Raheem Sterling for his displays and his standing up to racial abuse is welcome but as a person he hasn’t really changed. Early perceptions of him were wrong Once again there has been lots of media focus on Raheem Sterling this week, though after scoring a hat-trick against the Czech Republic and another goal in Montenegro, assisting two others and standing up once again to racist abuse, the most recent articles have been entirely positive. I think this is brilliant and totally deserved but while the media are busy praising his skills it is the journalists who have performed a 180-degree turn. Everybody is taking this opportunity to praise Sterling but I think it’s an opportunity to learn from the way he has been spoken and written about in the past, and to say we need to be less quick to judge people in football, particularly black players. Paul Pogba is another good example. People have been very quick to judge young black players on their lifestyles and then when they go

Airlines face lawsuits over 'toxic' cabin air

Pilots and cabin crew are taking legal action saying they are exposed to "toxic" air during flights.

Brexit: Rolled-over UK free trade deals 'are incomplete'

Deals agreed by the UK government do not guarantee trade will continue in a no-deal Brexit, say experts.

Solskjær at the wheel and England in Montenegro – Football Weekly Extra

Max Rushden , Barry Glendenning , Jonathan Wilson and Mike Calvin discuss the appointment of Ole Gunnar Solskjær, the ups and the downs of England’s trip to Montenegro, Gordon Taylor and Harry Kane’s NFL dreams Join the conversation on Facebook , Twitter and email . We look back at the last few days of football, starting with the breaking news that Ole Gunnar Solskjær has been appointed as permanent manager of Manchester United . Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/audio/2019/mar/28/solskjaer-at-the-wheel-manchester-united-england-montenegro-football-weekly-extra-podcast

Farkhad Akhmedov wins $436m superyacht in divorce fight

Russian businessman Farkhad Akhmedov wins back his vessel in a Dubai court.

Chad - where social media has been cut for a year

Activists in Chad are demanding that the government restore access to social media after it was cut a year ago.

The Fiver | Ole Gunnar Solskjær takes a more long-term place at the wheel

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now! Alt + quote mark = æ. Now that Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s been given the Manchester United manager’s job on a full-time basis , The Fiver thought it was finally time to stop relying on copy-and-paste and actually learn the key code for the æ that appears towards the end of his name when it’s written in his native language. For as long as he remained in the role on an interim basis we simply weren’t prepared to use up precious space in our addled brain, but if United have decided to go all in and take a leap of faith, then The Fiver is prepared to join them. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/the-fiver-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-see-it-doesnt-like-it-for-urls

Manchester United’s 1999 Champions League winners: where are they now?

United’s match-winner against Bayern is now their permanent manager , but what of Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s teammates? We look at what they have done in the 20 years since that treble The Dane left United after the 1998-99 treble season and played for Sporting Lisbon, Aston Villa and Manchester City before retiring in 2003. Has since worked as a television pundit for TV3 in Denmark and the BBC but was criticised in his home country when he agreed to host a show on Russia Today in 2018. Often seen watching his son, Kasper, play for either Denmark or Leicester City. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/manchester-united-1999-champions-league-winners-where-are-they-now-ole-gunnar-solskjaer

Do Schär and Ospina incidents show football has a concussion problem?

Breakthrough on a concussion test appears close but in the meantime there are questions about the treatment of head injuries Risk is part of life’s fabric and a big part of football’s attraction but when it comes to suspected concussion, even the most calculated gambles have no place in the game. Stringent protocols adopted by the Football Association perform a largely excellent job in protecting players with possible head injuries, while Fifa and Uefa competitions fall under the umbrella of separate, but broadly similar, guidelines. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/schar-ospina-concussion-test-head-injuries-football

Football Association set to rebrand as EFA in attempt to shed ‘arrogant’ image

• ‘English’ in line to be added to title but no renaming of FA Cup • Change comes with possible 2030 World Cup bid on horizon The Football Association is seeking to rebrand as the English Football Association in an attempt to dispel a perception of arrogance from counterparts in the international game. The case for renaming the governing body was discussed by the FA board at its meeting at Wembley on Thursday having long been a bug-bear of the outgoing chief executive, Martin Glenn. He described the name as “the ultimate expression of arrogance” shortly after his appointment in 2015 but has had to wait until the final few months of his tenure to address the issue properly. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/fa-rebrand-efa-arrogant-2030-world-cup-bid

From Nazi to football hero: the incredible story of Man City's Bert Trautmann

Famous for playing the 1956 FA cup final with a broken neck, Trautmann went from Nazi idealist to goalkeeping legend and symbol of truth and reconciliation. Now, his life is the subject of a new film Film director Marcus H Rosenmüller looks out of the car window, a little spooked. “It is only one kilometre from the concentration camp ,” he says. We are in a quiet, pretty, well-heeled town, a short drive from Munich. It is called Dachau . “It’s quite shocking to be coming to Dachau, isn’t it?” says the British producer Chris Curling. Both men agree there is something eerily appropriate about filming here. They are making a movie about the life of the legendary German Manchester City goalkeeper Bert Trautmann , who is still best known for his part in the 1956 FA Cup Final against Birmingham City. With 17 minutes of the match left, he dived at the feet of Birmingham City’s Peter Murphy, and sustained a nasty neck injury. But he continued to play, making two crucial saves as Manchester C

Sackler billions targeted in New York fraud lawsuit

The wealthy dynasty is facing new charges it fraudulently transferred money from opioid-maker Purdue.

Declan Rice available at a price says West Ham’s Manuel Pellegrini

• ‘If it is a good deal for the club and the player then we can do it’ • England midfielder under contract at West Ham until 2024 Manuel Pellegrini has warned the Premier League’s big clubs they will need to pay a huge fee if they want to prise Declan Rice away from West Ham. The midfielder is already being linked with Manchester United following his successful first England appearances against the Czech Republic and Montenegro. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/declan-rice-west-ham-manuel-pellegrini

Tie down De Gea, deal with Sánchez: Solskjær’s key Old Trafford tasks

A top-four finish and positive showing against Barcelona will also be vital to Manchester United’s new permanent manager Important this, because any projected summer signings will think twice if Manchester United are competing in the Europa League next season. Most people imagined the club would wait until the end of the season before making an announcement on the next permanent manager, if only to wait and see whether Solskjær really could deliver the Champions League place that seemed to be beyond José Mourinho. The club have jumped the gun to an extent, perhaps bceause of the novelty of finding themselves with a universally popular candidate in situ, but the danger is Arsenal and Tottenham holding tight to third and fourth places and leaving Solskjær and his fairytale appointment with a sense of deflation after three months of euphoria. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/de-gea-sanchez-solskjaer-manchester-united-key-

Smart meter fitting slows despite deadline

Smart meters, which avoid the need for customer readings, should be in British homes by the end of 2020.

Grindr 'up for sale on security grounds'

The app's Chinese owner, Kunlun Group, is reportedly seen as a security risk by US authorities.

‘They’ve just scratched the surface’ – football tackling mental health but more can be done

Work by charities, the PFA, clubs and players is helping the sport open up, though no one claims to have all the answers By Richard Foster , author of The Agony and the Ecstasy Gary Speed’s family are inviting fans to take part in the Speed Cycle , a fundraising challenge in which supporters will visit each of his former clubs. The cycle will begin at St James’ Park in Newcastle before moving on to Leeds, Sheffield and Bolton before it finishes at Goodison Park in Liverpool. All the money raised will go towards building a mental health facility close to Goodison. Speed took his own life in 2011 and his widow, Louise, explained last year that he would often explain away occasional low moods as tiredness: “Looking back now,” she said, “I do wonder if it was something else, but blokes don’t talk, do they?” The need to encourage players to be more open about depression and mental health issues has never been more pressing. Michael Bennett, the director of welfare at the Professional Fo

Salesforce.com sued over links to trafficking site

The software firm is accused of helping a site known to be involved in the trafficking of women.

As United and Madrid doors close on Pochettino, what now for him at Spurs?

The manager faces a tricky-looking summer of restructuring with money tight and he may have lost leverage with Daniel Levy Those close to Mauricio Pochettino have described it as a ridiculously intense 10-day period, when he and his coaching staff were locked so deeply into talks about Tottenham’s immediate future that it was a struggle for them to come up for air. It was the end of last season and Pochettino had given a pointer as to what was on his mind after the wild 5-4 victory over Leicester at Wembley, which secured a third consecutive top-three Premier League finish and Champions League qualification. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/mauricio-pochettino-manchester-united-real-madrid-tottenham

Grindr 'up for sale on security grounds'

The app's Chinese owner, Kunlun Group, is reportedly seen as a security risk by US authorities.

Goldman Sachs fined £34m for reporting failures

The US investment bank failed to provide accurate information for a decade, the FCA said.

Premier League run-in: who will be each club’s most important player?

The title, European places, relegation and merit money are at stake. We select the man each team most need fit and firing Unai Emery’s selections have been almost impossible to second guess but if there is one outfield player who is guaranteed to start – when fit – it is Koscielny. Arsenal have often looked shaky at the back away from home and the captain stands to be a galvanising figure in the run-in, particularly as five of the club’s eight games are on the road. David Hytner Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/premier-league-run-in-most-important-player-title-europe-relegation

Actua Soccer, Geoff Capes v Superdog and Michael Jordan's biggest haul | Classic YouTube

This week’s roundup also features motorbiking biff, Montserratian heartache and Jesse Owens in full flight 1) It wasn’t always a case of Fifa v Pro Evo. For a spell in the mid-90s, EA’s juggernaut had two other rivals – the still-loved Sensible Soccer , but also the little-lamented Actua Soccer, Gremlin Interactive’s groundbreaking title which was the first fully 3D home videogaming take on football. This time next year it will be a quarter of a century old, but some of the series’ glitches and Barry Davies commentary snippets will live forever. 2) During the motorcycling in Costa Rica, leaping from bike to bike is apparently the done thing . And then having a bit of biff, before walking off, more or less oblivious to the fact that there’s a race still happening (both riders have been suspended for two years). Plenty more racing rucks here , starting with a textbook two-footed leap and stroppy helmet fling combo. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theg

Grieving families 'charged high funeral prices'

The essential costs of a funeral have increased by 6% each year for the past 14 years, a regulator says.

Alex McLeish’s future as Scotland manager in doubt amid talks with SFA

• Discussions may lead to McLeish’s departure • Scotland lost 3-0 in Kazakhstan last week Talks between Alex McLeish and the Scottish Football Association on Thursday may well trigger the end of the 60-year-old’s second tenure as Scotland manager. McLeish, appointed last year , has been under intense pressure since Thursday’s 3-0 Scotland defeat in Kazakhstan . The visiting support subsequently booed for concerted spells of the unconvincing 2-0 win in San Marino on Sunday. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/alex-mcleish-scotland-manager-future-doubt-talks-sfa

Facebook to ban white nationalism and separatism

The social media firm is under pressure after the New Zealand mosque attack was live-streamed.

Football transfer rumours: Aaron Wan-Bissaka to Manchester United?

Today’s right honourable tell-all makes some characteristically Wykehamist points – highly intelligent but fundamentally wrong With Ole Gunnar Solskjær finally officially announced as Manchester United’s new manager , the club will presumably set about trying to acquire the summer transfer targets he has identified. The Manchester Evening News say the club’s executive vice-chairman, Ed Woodward, is ready to abandon the Mourinho-esque policy of signing big-name players with plenty of experience and then leaving them on the bench or in the stands, in favour of a more long-term approach involving the recruitment of signing younger big-name players that have forged their reputations at other clubs. In the market for a central defender, full-back, a central midfielder and a forward, the names of West Ham’s Declan Rice , Chelsea’s Callum Hudson-Odoi , Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho and Crystal Palace’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka are the latest to be – preposterously in at least two cases – ban

Ole Gunnar Solskjær appointed as Manchester United’s permanent manager

• Solskjær was due to stay in interim charge until summer • Norwegian signs three-year contract after reviving United Ole Gunnar Solskjær has been confirmed as the permanent manager of Manchester United on a three-year contract after a successful period in interim charge. Solskjær was due to continue in a caretaker capacity until the end of the season but has revived the team so impressively since taking over from José Mourinho in December that his appointment on a longer-term basis has been announced by the club. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/28/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-appointed-manchester-united-permanent-manager

Iceland's Wow airline postpones all flights

The Icelandic carrier says all flights are off for now amid discussions with investors over new funds.

Labour to outline National Grid ownership plans

Labour is set to outline how it will transfer the UK's National Grid to public ownership.

Facebook to ban white nationalism and separatism

The social media firm is under pressure after the New Zealand mosque attack was live-streamed.

Car theft rise prompts keyless warning

Insurers say £376m was paid out on claims last year following vehicles being stolen, a 29% rise on 2017.

Artificial intelligence used in kitchen bin

Can technology help to cut the vast amounts of food that never gets eaten?

Brexit: Firms tell MPs to 'stop chasing rainbows'

Businesses are 'angry and frustrated' at MPs for putting politics before prosperity.

Firms drag their feet on gender pay gap reporting

Nearly two-thirds of big companies have yet to disclose their pay gap, figures show.

Government ‘never met’ Seaborne Freight's financial backers

The Department for Transport held no face-to-face meetings with the backers of the ferry-less shipping firm Seaborne Freight, the BBC has learned.

Dumbo Review

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via CinemaBlend Latest Content https://www.cinemablend.com/reviews/2469030/dumbo-review

Maren Mjelde strikes late to put Chelsea into Champions League semi-finals

• PSG 2-1 Chelsea • Chelsea win 3-2 on aggregate to set up tie with holders Lyon Maren Mjelde’s injury-time goal against Paris Saint-Germain spared the blushes of Chelsea keeper Ann-Katrin Berger and handed the Blues a Champions League semi-final match against holders Lyon. Having dominated the first period, PSG scored two minutes into the second-half before a terrible own-goal by Berger levelled the tie. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/mar/27/maren-mjelde-strikes-late-chelsea-champions-league-semi-finals

You want AIs with that? McDonald's buys into machine learning

The American burger chain is acquiring a tech start up that will help it predict customers' orders.

Boeing has launched fixes for its 737 Max plane

The US planemaker is making cockpit alterations in the plane model involved in two fatal crashes.

It’s not just Montenegro – there’s still racism in English football | Adrian Chiles

We’ve learned to abhor open displays of prejudice, but evidence shows it remains a major and shameful part of our culture I have got a friend called Bernie. Like me, he is a supporter of West Bromwich Albion. He runs gyms in prisons; he can look after himself. He is black, and remembers that our club was something of a pioneer in the British game in the 70s, with three magnificent black players: Brendon Batson, Laurie Cunningham and Cyrille Regis. Like Raheem Sterling and other England players in Montenegro this week, Batson, Cunningham and Regis endured racist abuse. Back then, fans made monkey noises, used unspeakable words, threw bananas and other associated horrors. Bernie was in the crowd in those days. The players were outnumbered 10 or 20 to one on the pitch, but for black fans such as Bernie, it was thousands to one. “That must have been awful,” I said to him. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2019/mar/27/not-just-mon

Britain's 'bullied' chatbots fight back

Chatbot designers are writing witty responses to abusive messages.

Bayern Munich confirm £68m signing of Lucas Hernandez from Atlético Madrid

• France defender is most expensive player in Bundesliga history • Hernandez will join Bayern in the summer Bayern Munich have confirmed the signing of France international Lucas Hernandez from Atlético Madrid for a fee that is believed to be a club record €80m (£68m). Related: Clubs looking to announce away ticket price cap for European competitions Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/bayern-munich-lucas-hernandez-signing-atletico-madrid

Chapecoense plane crash survivor dies after suffering heart attack on pitch

• Rafael Henzel fell ill after playing football with friends • Brazilian club says he was ‘a symbol of club’s reconstruction[‘ A journalist who was one of the six survivors of the Chapecoense football team air crash has died after a heart attack. Related: Chapecoense tragedy one year on: victims’ loved ones tell their story Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/mar/27/chapecoense-plane-crash-survivor-dies-after-suffering-heart-attack-on-pitch

The Fiver | Not so much marred as enhanced by a planned protest against John Delaney

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now! It is unusual for the CEO of a major organisation to agree to a demotion, the “substantial reduction in salary” that comes with it and the adoption of a new role with similar, albeit diminished, responsibilities for no reason anyone in that organisation feels inclined to explain. But that is exactly what happened over the weekend at the Football Association O’Ireland, which announced on Saturday night that former chief executive John Delaney has taken a pay cut to become executive vice-suit of the organisation, just a week after newspaper revelations that he had once generously loaned his own cash-strapped employers €100,000 to solve a cash-flow problem. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/not-so-much-marred-as-enhanced-by-a-planned-protest-against-john-delaney

British-Canadian AI expert Geoffrey Hinton wins Turing Award

Geoffrey Hinton shares this year's award with two other leading figures in artificial intelligence.

European football bosses can no longer turn a blind eye to racism | Dario Brentin

The abuse of black England players in Montenegro highlights the need for a new approach in the Balkans and beyond The shameful racist abuse of Raheem Sterling, Danny Rose and Callum Hudson-Odoi during England’s Euro 2020 qualifying match against Montenegro on Monday understandably triggered outrage in British football. Sadly, however, it is not the first time that black England players have been targeted during games in the Balkans. The scenes in the Montenegrin capital, Podgorica, were grimly similar to those in 2012, when again Rose was subjected to monkey chants during an England U21 game against Serbia in Kruševac, and to Zagreb in 2008, when Emile Heskey suffered the same ordeal playing against Croatia. England’s black players are not alone. A banana was thrown at the Italian international Mario Balotelli by Croatian fans at Euro 2012, Partizan Belgrade’s Brazilian midfielder Everton Luiz was abused by FK Rad fans in the Serbian SuperLiga a couple of years back – the list is d

Nissan boss was too powerful report finds

An outside panel of experts finds the Nissan gave too much power to former boss Carlos Ghosn.

Chelsea hope for 'peaceful' Champions League clash at PSG after fan controversy in first leg – video

The Chelsea head coach, Emma Hayes, has said her team are 'feeling confident' before their Women's Champions League quarter-final second-leg at Paris Saint-Germain, and is hoping for a 'peaceful' match. The Blues won the first game 2-0 in London last week, but the match was marred by a group of visiting PSG supporters armed with weapons who were turned away from the ground by police before kick-off. PSG fans caught with drugs, knives and knuckledusters before Chelsea win Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/video/2019/mar/27/chelsea-hope-for-peaceful-champions-league-clash-at-psg-after-fan-controversy-in-first-leg-video

Premier League managers – the satisfaction index 2018-19

Pep Guardiola and Jürgen Klopp have the expected high ratings, Mauricio Pochettino’s stock is slowly slipping and Chelsea’s incumbent is probably lucky to be in lower mid-table The international break appears to be coming to an end without any further managerial departures on the domestic front, so it is probably safe to assume, with only seven or eight games remaining, that the 20 incumbents will be in situ until the end of the season. Related: Harry Redknapp is playing a familiar tune to disown Birmingham’s blues | Daniel Taylor Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/premier-league-managers-satisfaction-index-2018-19

Karren Brady defends West Ham’s stance on Democratic Football Lads Alliance

• Vice-chair highlights club’s record fighting discrimination • She says singling out DFLA gives them ‘oxygen and publicity’ Karren Brady has defended West Ham’s work combating racism in the face of calls for the club to issue an unequivocal condemnation of the Democratic Football Lads Alliance. Unmesh Desai, a London assembly member and a trustee of the West Ham United Foundation, has asked West Ham’s board for a statement against the DFLA, a group accused of spreading Islamophobia and of having links with far-right organisations, before this Saturday’s game against Everton at the London Stadium. An open letter from Desai was signed by Rokhsana Fiaz, the mayor of Newham, John Biggs, the mayor of Tower Hamlets, and four Labour MPs on Tuesday. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/karren-brady-west-ham-democratic-football-lads-alliance

Pinch of Nom: Food bloggers beat Jamie Oliver to smash book sales record

A cookbook by the creators of the Pinch of Nom blog is the UK's fastest-selling non-fiction book.

The forgotten story of … the referee smuggled from irate fans in disguise

AH Blythe infuriated Newport fans by abandoning a game at 5-1 – and escaped in a police car disguised as an ambulanceman On this day in 1951, Good Friday as it happened, promotion-chasing Norwich City travelled to Newport County for a game in the Third Division (South). The Canaries had won three of their last four and drawn the other, and were two points behind Nottingham Forest in the chase for the single promotion spot, while County were in ordinary form and marooned in the middest of mid-table. But in this match form, logic and, in the end, common decency went out the window. Related: The forgotten story of … Di Jones and the footballers who died of tetanus Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/forgotten-story-referee-disguise-newport-police-ambulanceman

Typical council tax will rise by 4.7% in April

The second biggest rise for a decade means a £78 increase in April for a typical Band D property.

Twitter birth-year hoax locks users out of accounts

The social network says that changing your birth year to 2007 won't launch a colourful design on the site.

Road safety: UK set to adopt vehicle speed limiters

The EU plans to make the technology mandatory from 2022 and the UK says it will follow suit.

Gordon Taylor expected to announce departure as PFA chief executive

• Taylor, 74, to tell AGM he will step aside after 38 years • He has faced scrutiny from PFA chairman Ben Purkiss Gordon Taylor is expected to inform a Professional Footballers’ Association AGM on Wednesday afternoon that he plans to step down as chief executive after 38 years, the Guardian understands. There is a belief that during the meeting at the Midland Hotel in Manchester Taylor will announce his intention to stand aside and set out his timetable for doing so. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/gordon-taylor-departure-pfa-chief-executive

Lloyd's of London blames £1bn loss on natural disasters

A host of natural disasters including hurricanes and the California wildfires hit the insurance market.

Aluminium firm cyber-attack cost at least £25.6m

Norsk Hydro is still recovering from the attack, with one part of the company remaining "at a standstill".

Aluminium firm cyber-attack cost at least £25.6m

Norsk Hydro is still recovering from the attack, with one part of the company remaining "at a standstill".

International football: 10 talking points from the latest round of games

Giroud is now among the French greats, Williams’s time could be up and Scotland captaincy weighs heavy on Robertson The team sheet submitted by Mick McCarthy caused shudders. Was he really playing at home to Georgia with the 35-year-old Glenn Whelan anchoring midfield and only one forward, David McGoldrick? Yes, he was. And his plan worked a treat because those players excelled in a 1-0 win , as did most of the ones around them. The Republic of Ireland played progressive, high-tempo, joined-up football and actually looked like a coherent and confident unit. It has been more than a year since that was the case. There are bigger assignments to come, of course, but in his first match in Dublin since his return as Ireland manager, McCarthy delivered a performance that restored hope to a country that appeared to have little only a week ago. Paul Doyle Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/international-football-10-talking-point

Portsmouth’s Jamal Lowe: ‘I thought, is this worth it, shall I pack it in?’

Sunday’s Checkatrade Trophy final marks an impressive shift from when the forward could not get a non-league game “Sometimes you do think: ‘Bloody hell, that could still be my reality,’” says Jamal Lowe, nursing an envelope with a stash of Wembley tickets for 34 friends and family. When Portsmouth take on Sunderland in the Checkatrade Trophy final this Sunday in front of a record crowd of more than 80,000, it will be almost three years since Lowe helped Hampton & Richmond Borough thrash Brentwood Town 5-1 in the seventh tier, in front of 727 people. After being released by Barnet at 20, occasions such as this final were a pipedream. “I’m just thankful I have managed to progress my career back into the league. All of my mates still play in the Conference South. They will be telling me how they’re going to this game on a Tuesday night and they have to make their own way there, a two-hour drive after finishing work at 5pm. That is very real to them, and it was very real to me. It is

Football transfer rumours: Marcus Rashford heading to Barcelona?

Today’s fluff is seventh in line Let the mind games begin! Barcelona play Manchester United in the Champions League next month and the Spanish champions are already trying to get the psychological upper hand. How else to explain the whispers about Marcus Rashford heading to the Nou Camp for £100m this summer? Fair play to Barça for forward thinking, too. There’s a chance they could face Liverpool in the semi-finals as well, so that explains the story about them going after one of Jürgen Klopp’s stars. Can’t be too careful. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/27/football-transfer-rumours-marcus-rashford-heading-to-barcelona

Goals Soccer Centres admits 'substantial' VAT error

The VAT error has cost it £12m, but this figure could rise, the five-a-side football firm warns.

Mike Ashley's Sports Direct considers Debenhams bid

Sports Direct considers making £61m buyout offer for the struggling department store chain.

Road safety: EU plans vehicle speed limiters from 2022

The UK is urged to adopt similar rules to those provisionally approved by the EU, even after Brexit.

Christian Pulisic injured as USA draw with Chile in friendly

Chelsea-bound midfielder scores before limping off injured 1-1 draw ends run of three consecutive wins for USMNT Christian Pulisic became the youngest American to score 10 international goals, then left in the first half of Tuesday night’s 1-1 friendly draw against Chile after injuring his right quadriceps. Pulisic went down in the 34th minute and limped off under his own power, but could not continue and was replaced by Sebastian Lletget. *brb watching this on repeat* Sick finish from @cpulisic_10 . Even better touch from @gyasinho . pic.twitter.com/qTKLTr9NKg Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/26/christian-pulisic-injured-as-usa-draw-with-chile-in-friendly

Cathay Pacific to buy budget airline Hong Kong Express

The airline will pay $628m for Hong Kong Express, a low-cost carrier which operates flights across Asia.

Tate Modern overtakes British Museum as top UK visitor attraction

The London art gallery overtakes the British Museum's visitor numbers for the first time.

How to create a period-friendly workplace

Breaking down office taboos around menstruation: what makes a period-friendly workplace?

Ireland fans throw tennis balls onto pitch during qualifier against Georgia – video

Republic of Ireland fans threw dozens of tennis balls onto the pitch in the 33rd minute of their team's 1-0 Euro 2020 qualifier win over Georgia on Tuesday night. The stunt was a protest against the Football Association of Ireland's controversial chief executive, John Delaney Hourihane free-kick downs Georgia after Ireland fans’ tennis-ball protest Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/video/2019/mar/26/republic-ireland-fans-throw-tennis-balls-protest-qualifier-georgia-video

If you haven’t experienced racism, it’s very difficult to understand it | Danny Gabbidon

Years after I was targeted by Serbia-Montenegro fans, England’s players endured the same abuse. Time for action and education Sadness. That was the overriding feeling for me when I was racially abused playing for my country. It was August 2003, I was 24 years old, and just starting out on my international career with Wales. We were playing Serbia-Montenegro away in a Euro 2004 qualifier in Belgrade and I knew beforehand that it was going to be a hostile atmosphere. One or two of the experienced players had marked our cards in that respect. But nothing really prepares you for hearing monkey noises when you’re on a football pitch. Related: Uefa president decries racist abuse ‘disaster’ during England game Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/26/racism-montenegro-abuse-england

West Ham face calls to condemn Democratic Football Lads Alliance

• Open letter asks club to speak out against the DFLA • Newham and Tower Hamlets mayors among signatures An open letter calling on the West Ham board to issue an unequivocal condemnation of the Democratic Football Lads Alliance has received the backing of four Labour MPs and the mayors of Newham and Tower Hamlets. Unmesh Desai, a London Assembly member and an unpaid director of the West Ham United Foundation, has pushed West Ham to speak out against the DFLA, who have been accused of spreading Islamaphobia, before this Saturday’s home game against Everton and sent an open letter asking for a statement from the club on Tuesday. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/26/west-ham-face-calls-to-condemn-democratic-football-lads-alliance

Former Barclays trader guilty of Euribor rate-rigging

Carlo Palombo is the latest trader found guilty of conspiring to manipulate Euribor interest rates.

Republic of Ireland v Georgia and more: Euro 2020 qualifiers – live!

Crewe agree first settlement with Barry Bennell victim after U-turn

• Out-of-court deal signals change of position by club • Club have declined to offer an apology to player’s parents Crewe Alexandra have dramatically changed their position in the face of widespread legal action from Barry Bennell’s victims and agreed the first out-of-court settlement for damages since the club’s former youth-team coach was sentenced to 31 years in prison. The deal was signed off on Tuesday and represents a significant climbdown on Crewe’s part bearing in mind the aggressive tactics they have been using to fight the claims in the high court. The club’s lawyers were calling for the cases to be thrown out but the Guardian’s information is that they will now offer similar settlements to more of their former players. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/26/crewe-first-out-of-court-settlement-barry-bennell-victim

Fair play: Galatasaray youngster intentionally misses penalty – video

The Under-14 captain of Galatasaray's youth team has been widely praised for his reaction to wrongly being awarded a penalty. Beknaz Almazbekov fell over without being touched during his team's match against Istanbulspor but, instead of using it as a opportunity to score, the 13-year-old intentionally kicked the ball out of play. Galatasaray went on to beat the visitors 3-0. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/video/2019/mar/26/fair-play-galatasaray-youngster-intentionally-misses-penalty-video

Three-unique-words 'map' used to rescue mother and child

How three words - "weekend", "foggy" and "earphones" - rescued a mother and child after a car crash.

Lloyd's of London to tackle sexual harassment reports

The Lloyd's of London insurer unveils its plan after women complain of "entrenched" sexist culture.

Ryanair trolling of British Airways' mistake backfires

Ryanair's attempt to tease British Airways over its flight plan mistake backfires.

The Fiver | Other meaninglessly limp sanctions are available

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now! On Monday afternoon news broke that, in an attempt to frustrate English infiltrators attempting to gain access to the home stands at the Podgorica City Stadium in Montenegro, supporters would be denied entry if they failed to pass a “language test”. A few hours later some fans who passed that test were showering England’s footballers with racist abuse , raising a question about precisely what kind of language they had been tested on. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/26/the-fiver-england-montenegro-uefa-limp-sanctions

Huawei shows off flagship camera phone

Two new smartphones from Huawei use artificial intelligence to create better exposures.

As women’s football skyrockets, Spurs miss a trick at stadium test event | Suzanne Wrack

While Italian and Spanish clubs draw huge attendances, British clubs need to throw off the shackles and get people excited Juventus women welcomed a sellout crowd of 39,000 to the Allianz stadium to watch them take on their title rivals Fiorentina on Sunday, with the Turin team, in their second season, making their debut in the club’s stadium. With the match taking place only a week after Atlético Madrid broke the 99-year-old world-record attendance for a domestic women’s game with over 60,000 at the Wanda Metropolitano , and after the announcement of Barclays’ £10m sponsorship of their Women’s Super League in England, there seems to be little that can slow the momentum of the women’s game as we gallop towards what is likely to be a transformative World Cup in France. Related: Arsenal’s elite girls thrive after being put on an equal footing with the boys Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2019/mar/26/womens-football-spurs-stadium