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Showing posts from August, 2020

Yegor Zhukov: Leading Russian opposition blogger beaten up

Yegor Zhukov, who is critical of President Putin, narrowly avoided prison last year.

India GDP shows worst quarterly slump in decades

It contracted by 23.9% in the quarter from April to June, according to official data.

Real Salt Lake owner to sell club in wake of reports of racist comments

Dell Loy Hansen was also critical of protests against racism ‘I recognize that at times I have spoken too quickly’ Real Salt Lake owner Dell Loy Hansen will sell his teams in the wake of reports that he made racist comments, Major League Soccer said on Sunday. Hansen’s Utah Soccer Holdings includes his MLS club, the Utah Royals of the National Women’s Soccer League and the United Soccer League’s Real Monarchs. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/31/real-salt-lake-owner-dell-loy-hansen-sells-clubs-reports-of-racism

TikTok owner to 'strictly' obey China's tech takeover law

New rules mean Beijing could block the sale of the app's video recommendation engine.

TikTok owner to 'strictly' obey China's tech takeover law

New rules mean Beijing could block the sale of the app's video recommendation engine.

Google-Facebook ditch plans to dock giant data cable in Hong Kong

The US government had expressed concerns that China might steal data carried by the cable.

Chelsea agree initial £72m fee for Kai Havertz with Bayer Leverkusen

Germany international set to sign five-year deal Leverkusen confirm Havertz will not train with them again Chelsea have agreed a deal with Bayer Leverkusen to sign Kai Havertz for an initial club record fee of £72m that will take their summer spending on transfers past the £200m mark. Negotiations over the Germany international have been continuing for several weeks after Havertz had made it clear he wanted to leave Leverkusen following their failure to qualify for the Champions League. An initial bid of €65m (£58.6m) plus €15m in add-ons was rejected in July but it is understood that Chelsea have now agreed a deal that will surpass the club record £71.6m paid for goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga in 2018 if addons are included. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/31/chelsea-agree-initial-72m-fee-for-kai-havertz-with-bayer-leverkusen

Women's Champions League: the best goal, player, match and memory

Lyon have won the trophy for the fifth year in a row after a tournament high on quality and drama Goal of the tournament Marie-Antoinette Katoto has finished as the top scorer in the DF1 [Division 1 Feminine] for the last two seasons and the 21-year-old PSG striker demonstrated why with a wonderful strike against Arsenal in the quarter-finals. Drifting from the penalty spot towards the near post as PSG took a corner and peeling away from Leah Williamson, Katoto met the flight of the ball perfectly, swivelling her hips and stroking a first-time volley into the bottom corner. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/31/womens-champions-league-the-best-goal-player-match-and-memory

All or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur review – where is Mourinho's dirty laundry?

Despite the promise of ‘access all areas’, the latest outing for the sports documentary series is as obligingly sanitised as ever Not so long ago, football clubs were happy to lay themselves bare for TV cameras. The gold standard remains Channel 4’s 1995 documentary Orient: Club for a Fiver , in which Leyton Orient’s then manager, John Sitton, offered to fight two of his players in a peerless – if counterproductive – rant. “And you can pair up if you like and you can bring your fucking dinner,” he told them. “’Cos by the time I’ve finished with you, you’ll fucking need it.” Sitton is now a taxi driver. If you ever find yourself in his cab, tip him well if you know what’s good for you. All or Nothing, by contrast, comes from our boringly sanitised era of sports documentary. We don’t get profiles of hopeless clubs on the fuzzy end of the footballing lollipop, but of plutocrats’ playthings – the Dallas Cowboys, Manchester City, the Philadelphia Eagles and now Tottenham Hotspur. It is o

Tesla Autopilot detects speed limits and green lights

The new update is available to drivers in the US with Autopilot activated.

Premier League 2020-21 preview No 2: Aston Villa

Dean Smith and co will be hopeful of avoiding a relegation scrap this time around but reinforcements are required Guardian writers’ predicted position: 15th (NB: this is not necessarily Paul Doyle’s prediction but the average of our writers’ tips) Last season’s position: 17th Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/31/premier-league-2020-21-preview-no-2-aston-villa

England Women to play Germany in first game since Phil Neville's exit confirmed

Lionesses will travel to Wiesbaden for friendly on 27 October Neville to be replaced by Sarina Weigman next September England Women will travel to play Germany in a friendly on 27 October, in their first match since it was announced that Phil Neville will be stepping down as manager next year. The Lionesses will take on Germany in Wiesbaden, and Neville will gather his players for a training camp at St George’s Park from 15-21 September. The current Netherlands head coach, Sarina Weigman, will take over from Neville as England manager in September 2021. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/31/england-women-to-play-germany-in-first-game-since-phil-nevilles-exit-confirmed

Lyon push the right buttons and remain in a league of their own

Injuries and suspensions were supposed to have helped Wolfsburg close the gap but in the final analysis the French club remain the one to beat This year. Maybe this year. There was a sense that Lyon’s vice-like grip on the Champions League trophy was loosening. Maybe. Possibly that stranglehold had relaxed, that now the French behemoths had only one firm hand and four fingers on silverware they have colonised for the past four seasons. There are signs, not of Lyon slackening, but of the competition closing the gap. Shorn of the talents of the Norwegian sensation Ada Hegerberg, dominant centre-half Mbock Bathy and midfield lynchpin Amandine Henry due to injury for this mini-tournament in northern Spain, there was an optimism that 2020 might see someone other than the familiar, towering figure of Wendie Renard hoisting the trophy aloft. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/31/lyon-push-the-right-buttons-and-remain-in-a-league

How the white football was dismissed as an unwanted fad – podcast

The white ball was widely disliked during trials in 1927 and one manufacturer declared it ‘practically impossible to make’. It would take another 24 years for the Football League to give it the go-ahead The best stories from the beautiful game that you may never have heard before, written by some of the world’s leading sports journalists, and spanning more than 100 years of sporting history from across the footballing planet. In this episode: the white ball was widely disliked during trials in 1927 and one manufacturer declared it ‘practically impossible to make’. It would take another 24 years for the Football League to give it the go-ahead. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/audio/2020/aug/31/how-white-football-dismissed-unwanted-fad-forgotten-stories-podcast

Chess Olympiad: India and Russia both get gold after controversial final

India is declared joint winner with Russia after two players lost connection during the final round.

Sir Isaac Newton's notes among Cambridge web gallery 'treasures'

Cambridge University Library adds high-resolution images of its collection to a free culture site.

Coronavirus: 'Covidiots' criticised on Tui quarantine flight

Mask rules were ignored on a Zante flight where everyone was told to self-isolate, a passenger says.

The airline founder building Asia’s next super app

AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes is expanding into banking, music and e-payments to help tackle the travel slump.

The airline founder building Asia’s next super app

AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes is expanding into banking, music and e-payments to help tackle the travel slump.

Price of plastic carrier bags to double to 10p next year

The fee for single-use bags will rise to 10p and be extended to all shops from April 2021.

The search engine boss who wants to help us all plant trees

Christian Kroll is the boss of Ecosia, which donates 80% of its profits to tree-planting projects.

Government paid influencers to promote Test and Trace

Taxpayer money was used to pay influencers to promote Test and Trace.

The search engine boss who wants to help us all plant trees

Christian Kroll is the boss of Ecosia, which donates 80% of its profits to tree-planting projects.

Premier League 2020-21 preview No 1: Arsenal | Nick Ames

FA Cup glory came ahead of schedule for Mikel Arteta but he may need to be patient to complete his planned transformation Guardian writers’ predicted position: 6th (NB: this is not necessarily Nick Ames’s prediction but the average of our writers’ tips) Last season’s position: 8th Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2020/aug/31/premier-league-2020-21-preview-no-1-arsenal

Government paid influencers to promote Test and Trace

Taxpayer money was used to pay influencers to promote Test and Trace.

Eat Out to Help Out discount comes to an end

The government's dining discount scheme ends on Monday, but there are calls for it to be extended.

'We need Eat Out To Help Out to run in the autumn'

A group of restaurateurs wants the Eat Out To Help Out scheme to be brought back in the autumn.

Arsenal must improve to deliver consistently, says Mikel Arteta

Gunners beat Liverpool to lift Community Shield ‘It is another thing to sustain it for 10 months’ Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal are closing the gap on the Premier League’s leading sides but must improve internally and via the transfer market to sustain their progress over an entire season. Arsenal secured the second trophy of Arteta’s short managerial career on Saturday with a penalty shootout victory over Liverpool in the Community Shield. Since mid-July Arsenal, who finished eighth in the Premier League last season and ten points adrift of Champions League qualification, have beaten the champions in the league plus both Manchester City and Chelsea in the FA Cup as the new manager’s reign gathers momentum as well as silverware. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/30/arsenal-must-improve-to-deliver-consistently-says-mikel-arteta

Capita to close over a third of offices permanently

Outsourcing firm Capita is looking to close offices as the trend for flexible working accelerates.

Lyon sink Wolfsburg to maintain Champions League dominance

Five years have passed and Olympique Lyon remain determined that their opponents will not. Superb in the first half, resolute in the second, they are European champions again, captain Wendie Renard lifting a trophy she and they have now won seven times – as many as all of Europe’s other teams put together. A 3-1 win over Wolfsburg continues their dominance, goals from Eugenie Le Sommer, Saki Kumagai and Sara Bjork Gunnarsdottir seeing them end another untouchable season showered with confetti, this time in San Sebastián. The Icelander, who only joined Lyon from Wolfsburg a month ago and would have been eligible for a medal whoever won, barely celebrated when she got the late goal that finally secured the title in what were shaping up to be difficult final minutes. Her teammates, though did, subs streaming onto the pitch to join them at the final whistle. They are used to winning but it is a feeling they continue to chase voraciously, driven by players that are still the envy of the co

Melbourne City’s search for identity ramps up with first grand final appearance | Simon Hill

A maiden A-League title would go some way to discovering what has so far remained elusive to the City Football Group It has been a decade in the making but Melbourne City, for so long the A-League’s great underachievers, will finally take their seat at the A-League’s top table on Sunday. Whether they win or not, the monkey is off their back – yet on-field success is but one part of the City conundrum. The time-worn joke around their lack of cut-through in the Melbourne market will – for fans of other clubs – simply write itself this weekend. When they run out for that inaugural grand final against Sydney FC, it will be to a backdrop of largely empty seats. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the crowd will be limited to around 7,500 (25% capacity at BankWest Stadium) – roughly City’s average attendance. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/melbourne-citys-search-for-identity-ramps-up-with-first-grand-final-appearance

Women's Champions League final: Wolfsburg v Lyon – live!

Live updates from the Anoeta, kick-off 7pm (BST) Wolfsburg out to dethrone Lyon in final clash of heavyweights Email Rob with your thoughts 5.44pm BST Pre-match reading Related: Wolfsburg out to dethrone Lyon in final clash of heavyweights | Sid Lowe Related: Women's Champions League final: Wolfsburg and Lyon team guides 5.44pm BST Wolfsburg make two changes, both in defence: Anna Blasse and Lena Goessling replace Kathrin-Julia Hendrich and Joelle Wedemeyer. Lyon make one change from the semi-final win over PSG, with Eugenie Le Sommer in for the suspended Nikita Parris up front. Amandine Henry is only fit enough for the bench. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2020/aug/30/womens-champions-league-final-wolfsburg-v-lyon-live

Celtic bounce back from Champions League exit by defeating Motherwell

Celtic demonstrated their domestic prowess once again by eventually overcoming Motherwell 3-0 at Parkhead. The Hoops were knocked out of the Champions League qualifiers by Ferencvaros on Wednesday night and were again unconvincing before winger James Forrest scored five minutes before the break. The Steelmen had been tenacious and remained so in the second half until Albian Ajeti fired in a second in the 74th minute, just a few minutes after coming on as substitute, with defender Christopher Jullien netting a third in stoppage time to move within six points of Rangers with two games in hand. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/30/celtic-bounce-back-from-champions-league-exit-by-defeating-motherwell

Arsenal display more reason for optimism than they have had for years | Jonathan Wilson

Mikel Arteta has a modern plan and is exhibiting the personality to put it into effect at the Emirates Stadium It was only the Community Shield. It’s unlikely to be remembered in a month, never mind in a year or five or 10. Sports historians of decades to come will probably not be basing grand theses around some slightly tentative probing between two undercooked teams on a damp and blustery afternoon at Wembley. But it was another success for Mikel Arteta, further evidence that he might be building something exciting at Arsenal. Nobody at the Emirates Stadium should get carried away. This, fundamentally, does not matter – go on, without checking, what happened in the Community Shield last year? (Manchester City won on penalties, after Joël Matip had cancelled out Raheem Sterling’s opener.) Arsenal have now won it in four of the past seven seasons and nobody would claim this has been a golden era for the club. And it probably matters even less this summer than most given the bizarre c

Leeds United told to pay up to £31m for Udinese midfielder Rodrigo De Paul

Marcelo Bielsa very keen on Argentinian international Everton agree deal with Napoli’s Allan for £22.3m plus add-ons Leeds United are interested in signing Udinese’s Argentinian international Rodrigo De Paul but have been told any move for the midfielder would cost in the region of €30m-€35m. Related: Leeds break club transfer record to sign striker Rodrigo from Valencia Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/30/leeds-united-told-to-pay-up-to-31m-for-udinese-midfielder-rodrigo-de-paul

Manchester United in contention to sign Donny van de Beek from Ajax

Netherlands midfielder also wanted by Real Madrid Midfielder Van de Beek available for €40m Manchester United are hopeful of signing Donny van de Beek from Ajax as the race for the Netherlands midfielder nears completion. Van de Beek has attracted interest from several of Europe’s leading clubs having excelled for the Dutch side over the past three seasons, with Real Madrid and Barcelona among those to have been linked with the 23-year-old in recent months. But it is understood that United are in touch with his agents and believe they have a good chance of concluding a deal with Ajax given their strong links to the Eredivisie champions thanks to former goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who is Ajax’s chief executive. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/30/manchester-united-in-contention-to-sign-donny-van-de-beek-from-ajax

Moss Bros considering closing stores in rescue deal

The suit maker has been hit by Covid-19 restrictions on events such as Royal Ascot and large weddings.

Lionel Messi fails to attend Barcelona pre-season medical amid City links

Argentina forward absent from training ground on Sunday Reports claim Messi’s €700m clause no longer applies Lionel Messi did not attend a pre-season medical with Barcelona on Sunday following his shock announcement on Tuesday that he wants to leave the club. Video footage showed players arriving for coronavirus tests on Sunday morning and Messi did not appear. He had been due at Barcelona’s training ground at 10.15am local time. Players had been given staggered appointments throughout the morning until midday. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/30/lionel-messi-fails-to-attend-barcelona-pre-season-medical-amid-city-links

Rhyan Grant chests home extra-time winner as Sydney FC secure fifth A-League title

Sydney FC 1-0 Melbourne City (aet) Grant scores improvised effort in 100th minute Sydney FC secured a fifth A-League championship after Rhyan Grant’s chested goal in extra-time proved the unlikely match-winner in the grand final against Melbourne City. Grant, awarded the Joe Marston medal for his man-of-the-match performance, popped up at the back post on the 100-minute mark to guide a sublime Luke Brattan ball past Thomas Glover in the City goal with a clever bit of improvisation. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/30/rhyan-grant-chests-home-extra-time-winner-as-sydney-fc-secure-fifth-a-league-title

Wolfsburg out to dethrone Lyon in final clash of heavyweights | Sid Lowe

Europe’s two best sides will cross swords in the Women’s Champions League final for the third time in five years Them again. From north London to northern Italy and on to northern Spain, via Germany and France, Lyon and Wolfsburg meet in another Champions League final. San Sebastián, the city with the A-list film festival and the greatest concentration of Michelin stars on earth, brings together Europe’s two best women’s football teams, domestic double winners demonstrating they still dominate this competition. Others draw ever closer, PSG and Barcelona taking them to the wire, but only this familiar pair are still standing. When Wendie Renard rose way above the rest to head in the only goal at San Mamés on Wednesday night , dancing her way back to the dressing room after her 19th European semi-final game, she took Lyon to their fifth consecutive final. “They’re familiar with games like this,” said the Wolfsburg coach, Stephan Lerch, with admirable understatement. Continue reading..

Brilliant Bukayo Saka shows Mikel Arteta has plenty of talent at Arsenal | Paul Wilson

Until the 18-year-old forward got on the ball, it seemed Arsenal were in for a long afternoon against Liverpool at Wembley Arsenal’s David Luiz made two careless mistakes in the opening minutes of this game and got away with both of them. First he brought down Georginio Wijnaldum of Liverpool with a flailing attempt at a rugby tackle and saw Virgil van Dijk’s neat finish to an Andy Robertson free-kick correctly ruled out for offside. A couple of minutes later he needlessly passed the ball out of play to set up the position for Neco Williams to cross from the right, James Milner heading too high in the middle when he should probably have hit the target. Related: Aubameyang keeps his cool as Arsenal win Community Shield on penalties Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2020/aug/29/bukayo-saka-mikel-arteta-arsenal-community-shield-liverpool

A-League 2020 grand final: Sydney FC v Melbourne City – live!

Updates from the title decider at Bankwest Stadium Any thoughts? Email or tweet @scott_heinrich 9.43am BST 6 mins: Neither side has really settled into stride yet. City have started the brighter but it’s all nervous energy for the time being. Barbarouses makes a dashing run down the right side but off side is the inevitable call. 9.41am BST 2 mins: Sydney FC enjoy their first venture forward of any note and it’s left to Caceres to have a speculative crack from outside the box, however a swing and a miss almost causes a crack in Good’s shin. Free kick deep in defence for City. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2020/aug/30/a-league-2020-grand-final-sydney-fc-v-melbourne-city-live

One in four BHS stores remain vacant four years after collapse

Department store chain closed its last stores in 2016 but finding new uses is a lengthy process.

Gareth Southgate warns clubs: I will always pick strongest squads possible

When the clubs’ call to rest players comes it always lands with England, and that has to change, insists the manager Gareth Southgate has warned Premier League managers that he will not hinder England’s chances of winning Euro 2020 next summer by resting their players. While the England manager understands why clubs are unhappy about an international break coming in the week leading up to the new Premier League season, he has refused to bow to pressure to pick a weakened squad for the Nations League games away to Iceland next Saturday and Denmark on Tuesday 8 September. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/gareth-southgate-warns-clubs-i-will-always-pick-strongest-squads-possible

Chelsea set to increase offer for Rennes goalkeeper Édouard Mendy

Frank Lampard has first bid for Senegalese rejected Chelsea struggle to find buyer for Kepa Arrizabalaga Chelsea hope to persuade Rennes to sell Édouard Mendy, despite having their first offer of €16m (£14.2m) for the goalkeeper rejected. Frank Lampard is keen to sign a new goalkeeper after losing faith in Kepa Arrizabalaga, who has failed to convince since moving to Stamford Bridge for a world record fee of £72.6m two years ago. However, Chelsea are struggling to find a club capable of affording Arrizabalaga and although they have considered trying to replace him with Atlético Madrid’s Jan Oblak, they have started to look at cheaper options to compete with the Spaniard. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/chelsea-set-to-increase-offer-for-rennes-goalkeeper-edouard-mendy

Forget the romance, a Messi-Guardiola reunion would not make City better | Jonathan Wilson

A possible Pep and Leo show at the Etihad is a mouthwatering prospect but a defensive rejig is more pressing for the club’s title ambitions than the addition of a strolling goalscoring genius A fortnight ago, two key storylines emerged from Lisbon. There was the collapse of Barcelona and another premature Manchester City exit . From a narrative point of view, the reunion of Lionel Messi and Pep Guardiola makes perfect sense, a fusion of two current storylines, the rekindling of one of football’s great romances. Related: The end of the affair: after Messi, Barcelona will never be the same | Sid Lowe Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2020/aug/29/forget-the-romance-lionel-messi-will-not-make-manchester-city-better

'A little bit of normality': Brighton fans' relief as they watch their team

Brighton’s friendly against Chelsea was the first meeting between two Premier League sides in front of a paying audience for almost six months “You can hold things up against yourself,” the assistant at the door of the Seagulls Store said, politely but firmly, “just don’t try anything on.” Welcome to the Covid-secure live football experience, and one of many new rules that fans will need to get used to if pilots with paying spectators lead, as everyone hopes, to a steady return of crowds at football and other sports from 1 October. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/a-little-bit-of-normality-brighton-fans-relief-as-they-watch-their-team

Scottish roundup: Hagi and Tavernier take Rangers past Hamilton

Early goals secure 2-0 win then Hamilton’s McCann sent off Kabamba double helps Kilmarnock thump Dundee United 4-0 Ianis Hagi and James Tavernier struck early as Rangers strengthened their grip at the top of the Scottish Premiership table with a 2-0 victory at Hamilton . In the process, Steven Gerrard’s men secured a record-equalling sixth successive clean sheet and went three points clear of second-placed Hibernian. Rangers took a 15th-minute lead when Hagi stabbed home after Kemar Roofe’s header had come back off the crossbar and not been cleared. Tavernier doubled the dose five minutes later, pouncing on the rebound following keeper Ryan Fulton’s save from Ryan Kent. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/scottish-roundup-hagi-and-tavernier-take-rangers-past-hamilton

Aubameyang keeps his cool as Arsenal win Community Shield on penalties

It was probably fitting that an empty-feeling, at times impressively intense Community Shield should finish with a penalty shootout. An even game had finished 1-1 after 90 energetic minutes. At which point it was Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, current king of Wembley, who scored the winning penalty, ensuring the first trophy of the new season went to Arsenal, who also won the last trophy of the old one. Rhian Brewster was the only player to miss in the shootout, having only just arrived on the pitch, spanking the ball a little wildly on to the bar. In truth neither team had really looked ready to win this game, although there were intriguing subplots. Arsenal’s impressive counterattacking reorganisation under Mikel Arteta continued. And Takumi Minamino not only scored his first goal for Liverpool, but dropped deep and found some unusual attacking spaces in the second half. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/arsenal-liverpoo

Arsenal v Liverpool: 2020 Community Shield – live!

Live updates from the 4.30pm BST kick-off at Wembley Saturday scoreboard: keep up with all the goals as they go in Why not drop Scott an email 3.39pm BST Eight of the Arsenal team that started the FA Cup final four weeks ago are named again. Not here at all this time: Dani Ceballos, Nicolas Pepe and Alexandre Lacazette. James Milner captains Liverpool in the absence of the injured Jordan Henderson. Trent Alexander-Arnold is also unfit; he’s replaced at right-back by Neco Williams. 3.33pm BST Arsenal: Martinez, Bellerin, Luiz, Holding, Tierney, Maitland-Niles, Elneny, Xhaka, Saka, Nketiah, Aubameyang. Subs: Leno, Cedric, Saliba, Kolasinac, Olayinka, Willock, Nelson, Smith Rowe, John-Jules. Liverpool: Alisson, Williams, Gomez, van Dijk, Robertson, Fabinho, Milner, Wijnaldum, Mane, Salah, Firmino. Subs: Adrian, Keita, Grujic, Jones, Minamino, Tsimikas, Brewster, Elliott, Koumetio. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/live

Bright's dazzling strike helps Chelsea to Women's Community Shield triumph

Chelsea Women 2-0 Manchester City Bright 66, Cuthbert 90 After months of uncertainty the curtain raised on a new season of women’s football as Chelsea drew first blood against Manchester City with an assured 2-0 win, crowning them first Women’s Community Shield victors since 2008. The last time the two teams faced off, their last game before coronavirus changed everything, the match unfolded into an unhinged 3-3 draw that would ultimately define the season. Although City sat atop of the league when it was curtailed and decided on points per game, Chelsea were only one point behind with a game in hand and were awarded the title. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/brights-dazzling-strike-wins-womens-community-shield-for-chelsea

Greek lawyer in Harry Maguire case reveals details of hate mail he received

Prosecutor Ioannis Paradissis says messages from supporters of Manchester United footballer have shocked him The fallout from Harry’s Maguire’s calamitous holiday in Mykonos has been swift, brutal and revelatory, not least for the Manchester United captain. Yet for Ioannis Paradissis, the Greek prosecution lawyer at the centre of the case following the footballer’s arrest after a late-night brawl on the isle, the drama is far from over. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/greek-lawyer-in-harry-maguire-case-reveals-details-of-hate-mail-he-received

Lava touches and teal accents: the Premier League's 2020-21 kits

Who is offering ‘a touch of Savile Row’ and who is promising ‘glory pink’? A lowdown on the jerseys released for next season It may seem only five minutes ago that Jordan Henderson lifted the Premier League trophy in an empty Anfield, but it’s only a fortnight before the new season kicks off on 12 September and kit manufactures have wasted no time designing egregiously priced holes in punters’ pockets. Still, new kits are one of the best flavours of anticipation to a season and, despite all the changes to football in current times, this is one thing that remains the same. Here, we take a look at all the new strips released: home and away; goalkeeper and third; dull and interesting; ugly and beautiful. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/lava-touches-and-teal-accents-the-premier-league-2020-21-kits

Women's Champions League final: Wolfsburg and Lyon team guides

A player-by-player run-through of Sunday’s probable starting XIs and the substitutes who could make the difference Goalkeeper: Friederike Abt Signed from Hoffenheim last summer, Abt deposed the former Chelsea goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl from the No 1 spot this season and cemented her status with two saves in the DfB Pokal final penalty shootout against Essen in July. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/womens-champions-league-final-wolfsburg-and-lyon-team-guides

Neuralink: Elon Musk unveils pig with chip in its brain

Gertrude the pig is a prototype of a brain-to-machine interface.

Chelsea v Manchester City: Women's Community Shield – live!

Live updates from the 12.30pm BST kick-off at Wembley Saturday scoreboard: keep up with all the goals as they go in Drop Will an email | Tweet @Will_Unwin 11.38am BST Chelsea: Berger, Mjelde, Bright, Eriksson, Andersson, Ingle, Reiten, Leupolz, Ji, Kerr, Kirby Subs: Telford, Thorisdottir, Blundell, Carter, England, Fleming, Charles, Cuthbert, Spence 10.29am BST Good morning! The football season is upon just a few hours after the last one finished. For the women’s game, however, this is a huge day as there has been no competitive matches since before lockdown began. Additionally, it is the first time there has been a Women’s Community Shield in 12 years, so there is plenty to celebrate. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2020/aug/29/chelsea-v-manchester-city-womens-community-shield-live

Leeds break club transfer record to sign striker Rodrigo from Valencia

Spain international signs four-year deal at Elland Road The 29-year-old previously had a loan spell at Bolton Leeds United have broken their transfer record in order to sign striker Rodrigo from Valencia. The Spain international has signed a four-year deal at Elland Road and will cost the Premier League newcomers £30m. The 29-year-old, who has 22 caps for Spain, has previous Premier League experience having spent the 2010-11 season on loan at Bolton Wanderers. Rodrigo is the latest in a number of players to have left Valencia this summer after Dani Parejo, Francis Coquelin and Ferran Torres. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/29/leeds-break-club-transfer-record-to-sign-striker-rodrigo-from-valencia

Cloud gaming: Are game streaming services bad for the planet?

Remote streaming services may be the future but could cause a sharp rise in emissions, a study shows.

What must Jack Grealish do to earn an England call-up?

The Aston Villa captain may have to adopt a new position or sign for a new club to convince Gareth Southgate of his merits By Martin Laurence for WhoScored In a week in which Gareth Southgate has had to field a number of questions regarding his latest England squad, the omission of one player in particular has, yet again, drawn widespread interest. It’s telling that there should be such a strong reaction to an uncapped player being overlooked, but at this point it is the frequency with which Southgate has snubbed Jack Grealish that is the real story. The Aston Villa captain certainly polarises opinion. His supporters view his skillset as almost unique in the English game. He is a silky ball carrier with an eye for a pass and a dangling leg that opponents cannot resist taking a swipe at. As Grealish glides around the pitch, with seemingly non-existent shin pads and calves as big as his thighs bursting out from what appear to be socks pulled from a junior kit, that lower leg is one o

Mikel Arteta expecting 'many more cases' of Covid-19 in Premier League

Arsenal manager fears upcoming season is on a knife-edge ‘There are uncertainties we cannot control at the moment’ Mikel Arteta believes the rise in coronavirus cases among Premier League players proves the upcoming season is on a knife-edge. A number of players, including Paul Pogba, have tested positive for Covid-19 as they return from short holidays to begin pre-season training before the top-flight kick-off on 12 September. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/28/mikel-arteta-expecting-many-more-cases-of-covid-19-in-premier-league

Coronavirus: Fitness industry 'devastated' by lockdown

Gym owners call for government support similar to the Eat Out to Help Out scheme.

Football was fine in its biosecure bubbles – now it's not looking so simple | Paul Wilson

Allowing players a break with no travel restrictions was laudable in some ways but the Premier League is counting the cost as some players test positive and many face quarantine Now the pandemic-interrupted 2019-20 season is over and a new one is ready to start, it is easy to believe some sort of normality is around the corner, that football at least has found a way to play through the complications imposed by Covid-19. By the same token it is easy to forget that just a few months ago the main item of news when there was no football anywhere in sight was the drip feed of test results from the Premier League, which would release weekly figures on how many tests had been carried out and how many positive cases had been confirmed. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/28/football-was-fine-in-its-biosecure-bubbles-now-its-not-looking-so-simple

Crystal Palace buy Eberechi Eze from QPR in deal worth up to £19.5m

Forward was wanted by other clubs including Leeds West Brom consider loan move for Watford’s Troy Deeney Crystal Palace have strengthened their attack by signing Eberechi Eze from Queens Park Rangers in a deal that could rise to £19.5m. Eze, who scored 14 goals in the Championship last season, has joined Roy Hodgson’s side on a five-year deal after Palace fended off interest from Aston Villa, Fulham, Leeds, West Bromwich Albion and West Ham. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/28/crystal-palace-sign-eberechi-eze-qpr-transfer-news

Seaweed: The food and fuel of the future?

The farming of seaweed is accelerating as firms exploit its fast growth and green credentials.

Harry Maguire 'disappointed' Gareth Southgate cut him from England squad

Manchester United defender dropped after guilty verdict ‘I’m physically and mentally ready ... but I understand’ Harry Maguire has admitted disappointment at Gareth Southgate’s decision to drop him from the England squad , though Manchester United’s captain does understand why the manager did so in the wake of his conviction in a Greek court . On Tuesday Southgate initially selected Maguire for next month’s games against Iceland and Denmark, citing how the defender was denying the charges and how discussions with Maguire had convinced him of the 27-year-old’s innocence. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/28/harry-maguire-disappointed-gareth-southgate-cut-him-from-england-squad

No way José: Football is no soap opera, despite Amazon's efforts

Mourinho steals every scene in All Or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur, but even Tom Hardy can’t add any drama to a gussied up end of season DVD The most revealing moment in the opening episode of All Or Nothing: Tottenham Hotspur occurs during a private meeting between the newly appointed manager, José Mourinho, and his captain, England’s star striker, Harry Kane. “The world looks to English football with respect, but they still think the movie stars of football belong to other places … I am a little bit [like] that as a coach,” says Mourinho. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/tvandradioblog/2020/aug/28/jose-mourinho-tottenham-hotspur-all-or-nothing

Coronavirus: Gatwick passenger numbers collapse by 14.7 million

The airport says it will take four to five years for air traffic to return to pre-pandemic levels.

Mobile users still "ripped off" by operators says Which?

Some customers are still paying full price for contracts even after they paid off expensive phones.

Scrapping 213 local councils could save £3bn says report

It comes as the government prepares to publish plans on overhauling the local government system.

NZ takes action over stock market cyber attacks

The comments from New Zealand's finance minister come after trading was hit for the fourth day in a row.

Walmart joins Microsoft in bid for TikTok's US operations

US retail giant Walmart is the latest firm to bid for the Chinese video sharing app's US operations.

Mini robo-surgeon performs mock surgery and other news

BBC Click’s Omar Mehtab looks at some of the best technology news stories of the week.

Football transfer rumours: Liverpool's Sadio Mané to join Barcelona?

Today’s gossip sees grit in your teeth Lionel Messi ’s decision to desert the sinking ship FC Barcelona will have a number of knock-on effects. The first is that, over the next few weeks, any forward capable of putting one foot in front of the other with vague regularity will be linked with a move to the Camp Nou. Barcelona will want at least one and possibly 472 high-profile signings to replace Messi, and according to reports in Spain they are aiming high by targeting Liverpool’s Sadio Mané . Barcelona have reportedly noticed that Mané, the best player in arguably the world’s best team, is really, really good at association football. And while it would not be entirely without precedent for a transfer rumour to be pulled from the human fundament, there is a link here: Mané worked with Ronald Koeman during his brilliant two-year spell at Southampton. And more worryingly for Liverpool fans, reports in Spain claim he would not be averse to getting the band back together. Apparently Sh

Coronavirus: Renters need financial help, campaigners warn

A charity says families are behind with rent after being "punched unexpectedly into debt" due to the pandemic.

Coronavirus: Back-to-work message to be aired as schools reopen

A government campaign starting next week will urge people to go back to the workplace.

Benefits claimants face landlord discrimination despite ruling

Thousands of listings on a property website are not available to people on benefits.

Tough times to continue for Chinese firms in the US

It doesn't matter if Trump or Biden wins, the anti-Chinese sentiment will remain on the White House agenda.

NZ takes action over stock market cyber attacks

The comments from New Zealand's finance minister come after trading was hit for the fourth day in a row.

Mobile users still "ripped off" by operators says Which?

Some customers are still paying full price for contracts even after they paid off expensive phones.

Elon Musk to show off working brain-hacking device

Neuralink is working on ways to connect the human brain to machines.

Bill And Ted Face The Music Review: A Reunion Tour That’s More Excellent Than Bogus

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Tenet Review: It’s Hard To Imagine Movies Getting Much Better Than This

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Community Shield offers a speedy but surreal start to new football season | Paul Wilson

It’s back but not as we want to know it – a Community Shield game that arrives less than a week after a Champions League final is a very strange thing It goes without saying that times have changed since Liverpool last lifted the Community Shield in 2006, the last time the showpiece was held in Cardiff. And it is trite but traditional to observe that the Community Shield is a glorified friendly that has little bearing on the season it introduces, though this year there is no need to say that either. When the new season eventually gets under way we will be in uncharted territory, an unfamiliar world where anything seems possible, and not just because Lionel Messi has served notice on Barcelona or Everton have got Carlo Ancelotti to go through his contact book either. If it serves a purpose at all, the point of the Community Shield game is to warn cricket fans, holidaymakers abroad and youngsters contemplating a return to school that summer is drawing to a close and football is about

Facebook says Apple ad-blocking settings could halve revenue

In the upcoming iOS 14, apps have to explicitly ask users' permission to collect and share data.

When Arsenal beat Liverpool at Wembley to seal their first Double

In one glorious week in the 1970-71 season, Arsenal won the league at White Hart Lane and the FA Cup at Wembley By Richard Foster for the Guardian Sport Network Given that Liverpool and Arsenal have won so many trophies – 32 leagues titles, 21 FA Cups, 10 League Cups and 30 Community Shields between them – it is a surprise that they have only faced each other at Wembley five times: twice in the Community Shield, once in the League Cup final and twice in the FA Cup finals. The most recent of those FA Cup finals at the national stadium, in 1971, was hugely significant for Arsenal fans as it not only saw them secure their first Double but also emulate their local rivals. Arsenal went into their final match of the 1970-71 season one point behind league leaders Leeds, who had already completed their domestic campaign. League positions were decided on goal average rather than goal difference at the time, meaning Arsenal had to either win their final match or secure a goalless draw. To ma

Netflix’s I'm Thinking Of Ending Things Review: A Fascinating, Surreal Thriller That Only Charlie Kaufman Could Make

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Wilfried Zaha intent on leaving Crystal Palace despite club's transfer push

QPR’s Eberechi Eze set for medical to become latest arrival Zaha aware he may need to wait until October for move Wilfried Zaha remains determined to leave Crystal Palace, with the Ivory Coast forward prepared to remain patient to secure a move. Zaha has made no secret of his desire to test himself at a higher level and Roy Hodgson admitted in July that the 27-year-old’s form had been affected by the saga about his future. Palace turned down two bids from Everton last summer, and interest from Arsenal ended with the club signing his international teammate Nicolas Pépé after they were put off by an £80m price tag. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/27/wilfried-zaha-intent-on-leaving-crystal-palace-despite-clubs-transfer-push

Premier League record-breaker Gareth Barry retires after leaving West Brom

Barry played 653 Premier League games, won 53 England caps Midfielder also played for Aston Villa, Man City and Everton Gareth Barry has retired from football at the age of 39 after ending his three-year spell with West Bromwich Albion. The midfielder made a record 653 Premier League appearances, scoring 53 goals, and also earned 53 England caps. Barry developed as a youth player at Brighton before joining Aston Villa where he made his senior debut, going on to make 365 appearances in defence and midfield for the club. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/27/gareth-barry-retires-after-leaving-west-brom-premier-league-aston-villa-england

Europe to start Boeing 737 Max test flights

EU aviation regulators say clearance by their US counterparts will not automatically apply in Europe.

Chelsea's pre-season preparations disrupted with players in quarantine

Abraham, Mount, Pulisic and Tomori self-isolating Others also believed to be staying away from training Chelsea’s pre-season plans have run into complications after it emerged that a number of Frank Lampard’s players are in quarantine. Tammy Abraham, Mason Mount, Christian Pulisic and Fikayo Tomori are self-isolating after returning from their holiday to Mykonos, and four other players are believed to be staying away from the training ground under Covid-19 guidelines. Related: Manchester United's Wan-Bissaka facing 14-day quarantine after Dubai trip Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/27/chelseas-pre-season-preparations-disrupted-with-players-in-quarantine

Apple Fortnite players left behind in new update

The new season of Epic's popular game does not - and will not - appear on any Apple devices.

British Gas sorry for winter prepayment top-up switch failure

The firm will pay £1.73m after prepayment meter customers were not told about a new provider.

MLS joins wave of protests against racial injustice with five games postponed

Major League Soccer joins NBA and MLB in calling games off Boycotts follow police shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin Five Major League Soccer matches were postponed Wednesday night as players made a collective statement against racial injustice. The action came amid a wave of boycotts in US sports, with NBA play-off games , baseball and tennis matches all called off in protest over the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin on Sunday. Atlanta United v Inter Miami, FC Dallas v Colorado, Portland v San Jose, Real Salt Lake v LAFC, LA Galaxy v Seattle were all called off as players decided not to take part in solidarity. The lone match played was between Orlando City and Nashville SC. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/27/mls-joins-wave-of-protests-against-racial-injustice-with-five-games-postponed

Manchester United's Wan-Bissaka facing 14-day quarantine after Dubai trip

Defender to miss Wednesday’s start of pre-season training Some players have been given extra time to recuperate Aaron Wan-Bissaka will miss the start of Manchester United’s pre-season training on Wednesday because he faces a 14-day quarantine after a holiday in Dubai. The Guardian has contacted the club to clarify whether Wan-Bissaka had permission to travel to Dubai and whether, even though the bulk of the squad are expected back on Wednesday, the defender was among those given extra time to recuperate. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/27/manchester-united-wan-bissaka-facing-14-day-quarantine-after-dubai-trip

Mike Pompeo steps up criticism of HSBC over Hong Kong

The US secretary of state accuses the banking giant of aiding China's "political repression".

'A really bad thing for players': views on the Football League salary cap

After the League One and League Two vote to implement a cap we get thoughts from inside the game on its impact Omar Beckles, 28, free agent , turned down two-year contract extension at Shrewsbury Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/27/a-really-bad-thing-for-players-views-on-the-football-league-salary-cap-league-one-league-two

Online retailer The Hut Group plans £4.5bn listing

The move by the owner of the Lookfantasic and Illamasqua brands could land its founder a £700m windfall.

TikTok boss quits as Trump's ban looms

Kevin Mayer is leaving after two months at the video-sharing app at the centre of US-China tensions.

Football transfer rumours: Barcelona eye Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus?

Today’s fluff is on the streets of Barcelona With Luis Suárez about to be unceremoniously shown the door at the Nou Camp, in a state of affairs that is believed to be one of many reasons behind his best pal Leo Messi’s decision to hand in a transfer request, Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus has been identified as a potential replacement by Barcelona for the Uruguayan striker. Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain are both reported to be interested in signing Messi, although Manchester City are reported to be in the box-seat with one tabloid reporting the player’s father is already in talks with the club. In the increasingly likely event of Messi’s departure from the club he has served for 20 years, it remains to be seen who will be given the unenviable and frankly impossible task of filling his Adidas Nemeziz 19.1s. By his own lofty standards N’Golo Kanté had a fairly underwhelming season punctuated by injury at Chelsea but that hasn’t put off Internazionale , whose

Coronavirus: Payment for people on low incomes who must self-isolate

The benefit will be trialled in some parts of north-west England where coronavirus cases have risen.

Coronavirus: Rolls-Royce reports record loss as travel slumps

The company which makes engines for planes is cutting jobs and selling business to bolster the firm.

TikTok boss quits as Trump's ban looms

Kevin Mayer is leaving the video-sharing app at the centre of controversy amid US-China tensions.

Warnings of 'ghost towns' if staff do not return to the office

Local businesses and jobs will suffer if workers do not return to the office, says the head of the CBI.

Coronavirus: Pent-up demand 'leading to quicker home sales'

Property deals are racing though compared to last year, as the market recovers after the lockdown freeze.

'So much more to achieve': Jamie Vardy extends Leicester City contract to 2023

New deal will mean striker is 36 when contract expires ‘The journey that I’ve been on with this club is hard to describe’ Jamie Vardy has signed a one-year contract extension with Leicester City. The former England striker has been rewarded after he scored 23 goals to claim the Premier League’s golden boot award last season. The deal will take Vardy to 2023 with the 33-year-old having joined from Fleetwood in 2012. He said: “The journey that I’ve been on with this football club is hard to describe, and although we’ve accomplished so much together already, I know that I’ve got so much more to achieve with this team, so it’s a special feeling to be able to commit my future to Leicester City once again. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/26/jamie-vardy-leicester-transfer-roundup-football

Coronavirus: UK worst hit among major economies

The OECD think tank says the UK was the worst affected among major economies between April and June.

BMW Mini Oxford car plant set for hundreds of job losses

The number of shifts are to be reduced because of a "substantial" fall in customer demand.

Manchester City believe they have a chance of signing Barça's Lionel Messi

Pep Guardiola would love to link up again with forward Legal battle with Barcelona may determine Messi’s future Manchester City believe they have a chance of signing Lionel Messi after the forward told Barcelona he wants to leave . Related: Where next for Lionel Messi after his decision to leave Barcelona? Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/26/manchester-city-believe-they-have-a-chance-of-signing-lionel-messi

Did Messi really send his Barcelona transfer request by fax?

A short history of fax, why Messi had to use Spain's burofax system and some more fax facts.

Chelsea's first great splurge failed miserably. Will Lampard fare better?

With the club spending big again in pursuit of success the transfer experiences of 90 years ago provide a salutary lesson As Frank Lampard romps up and down the aisles of soccer’s summer supermarket with carefree abandon, tittering hysterically as he loads his trolley to a height that makes Sheikh Mansour look like Mike Ashley, excitement and anticipation builds among the Chelsea faithful. Off-the-shelf glory may be just around the corner! Who can blame anyone for succumbing to their wildest dreams? Lampard’s binge will peal loud bells among Chelsea fans of a certain vintage. A 28-day burst of luxury transfer activity during the summer of 2004 brought Petr Cech, Arjen Robben, Didier Drogba, Ricardo Carvalho and Mateja Kezman to Stamford Bridge, and, well, four out of five ain’t bad. José Mourinho’s box-fresh team went on to win the Premier League in short order, a root-and-branch refresh paying instant dividends. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguar

Harry Maguire set to stay Manchester United captain for immediate future

Defender due to return for pre-season training next week Ole Gunnar Solskjær set to make long-term decision then Harry Maguire will remain as Manchester United captain in the immediate future, with Ole Gunnar Solskjær to make a long-term decision when returning for pre-season training next week following the defender’s conviction for assaulting a police officer, swearing, resisting arrest and attempted bribery on the Greek island of Mykonos. Related: Harry Maguire's lack of apology 'shocking', says police officers' lawyer Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/26/harry-maguire-set-to-stay-manchester-united-captain-for-immediate-future

Coronavirus: Rail passengers to be warned when trains are busy

Rail companies plan to share capacity information with passengers so they can avoid crowded trains.

Germany extends coronavirus pay top-up scheme

Short-time work subsidies had been due to expire next March, but will now run until the end of 2021.

New Zealand stock exchange halted by cyber-attack

Relatively simple DDoS attacks knocked trading offline on Tuesday and Wednesday, NZX says.

Harry Maguire's lack of apology 'shocking', says police officers' lawyer

Lawyer says apology would affect any appeals process Footballer has said he is victim and vowed to clear name The lawyer who represented two police officers in the Harry Maguire assault case says it is “shocking” there has been no apology from the Manchester United captain and his co-defendants. Maguire, along with his brother Joe and their friend Christopher Sharman, were found guilty of assaulting a police officer, swearing, resisting arrest and attempted bribery at a court on the Greek island of Syros on Tuesday. The England player was handed a suspended 21-month prison sentence. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/26/harry-maguire-lack-of-apology-shocking-says-police-officers-lawyer

EFL strikes deal to stream non-televised matches for clubs' season-ticket holders

Sky Sports and Football League agree to show home games Deal is ‘a temporary option’ during Covid-19 pandemic An agreement has been reached between the English Football League and Sky Sports to enable fans to stream non-televised matches while attendance at games is restricted by the coronavirus pandemic. Season ticket holders at EFL clubs will be able to stream home league matches involving their side subject to the agreement of the individual clubs, while in the Championship season ticket holders will also be able to watch their side’s midweek away matches. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/26/football-league-strikes-deal-sky-stream-non-televised-matches

Which football clubs have statues of people who did not play for them? | The Knowledge

Plus: teams with the same name in the top flight; qualifying for Europe with a -30 goal difference; and low-scoring title winners Mail us your questions or tweet @TheKnowledge_GU “Has a club ever built a statue in tribute to somebody who has never played for them?” wonders James Preston. Let’s start by addressing the obvious loophole in this question: the managers. “There is a statue of Bob Stokoe outside the Stadium of Light , in the famous pose of him running on to the pitch at the final whistle of the 1973 FA Cup final,” says Steve Hart. “He never played for Sunderland.” Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/26/which-football-clubs-have-statues-of-people-who-did-not-play-for-them-the-knowledge

Hulu’s The Binge Review: A Radically Uneven Comedy That’s Ultimately Satisfying Enough

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Football transfer rumours: Real Madrid's James Rodríguez to Everton?

Today’s fluff is easy like Sunday morning It’s finally happening: Lionel Messi is going to up sleeves and leave Barcelona . After years of quiet glowering and reserved control, captaining a succession of coaches undeserving of their proximity to his genius, he has had enough. So, though the mes que un mess still hope to change his mind, the oligarchs and autocrats are preparing their pitches for the privilege of paying him £1m a week. There is a strong chance that Manchester United feign interest before briefing their moral high ground: it is irresponsible to spend money in such uncertain times (other than on dividends). Juventus are an option, but the city limits of Turin are not thought wide enough to contain both his and Cristiano Ronaldo’s ego, while Internazionale hope that watching Ashley Young feint outside before coming inside and hitting the first man – in person – might be enough to seal the deal. Paris Saint-Germain , meanwhile, are offering a master’s in agriculture a

Spreadsheet error delays Scottish hospital opening

A new report reveals the catalogue of mistakes that left an Edinburgh children's hospital unusable.

What’s behind the US’s proposed WeChat ban?

The billion user social networking app can also be used for shopping, gaming and other activities.

Plane built on Mumbai rooftop takes to the skies

No one believed pilot Amol Yadav when he told them his plans, but he proved them wrong.

Where next for Lionel Messi after his decision to leave Barcelona?

Europe’s elite are queuing up to sign arguably the world’s best player, but Messi may still surprise everyone with his next move As the minutes ticked by after the bombshell news that Messi wanted out of Barcelona , it was little surprise to see City emerge as early favourites for his signature. Pep Guardiola and Messi won two Champions Leagues together at Barça, and there may be a temptation to reunite for another tilt at the trophy. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/26/lionel-messi-where-next-after-decision-to-leave-barcelona-manchester-city-psg-inter

A-League semi-finals: Melbourne City v Western United and Sydney FC v Perth Glory – live!

Updates from the double header at Bankwest Stadium Any thoughts? Email or tweet @JPHowcroft 8.33am BST 28 mins: This is one of those matches that needs a proper crowd to add some spice.* *Insert your own A-League attendance joke here. 8.31am BST 26 mins: City have barely threatened all half and a rare interplay from Luna and Maclaren almost ends with a shooting opportunity for the Socceroo but United have enough bodies around to snuff out the threat. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2020/aug/26/a-league-semi-finals-melbourne-city-v-western-united-and-sydney-fc-v-perth-glory-live

Ant IPO: China's mighty financial group heads for a mega market debut

Little known in the West, China's dominant mobile payment firm is tipped for the world's biggest IPO.

'We're giving up our office forever to work from home'

Why one Birmingham-based company has decided to give up its office and let its staff permanently work from home.

Why are clothing sizes so erratic and can they be fixed?

New apps use your phone to record your dimensions and recommend what size to buy at shops.

Harry Maguire found guilty of aggravated assault and attempted bribery in Greece

Manchester United defender had denied all charges Maguire found guilty in court on Greek island Harry Maguire has been found guilty of aggravated assault, resisting arrest and attempted bribery by a three-member misdemeanours court convening on the Greek island of Syros. The £190,000-a-week Manchester United and England defender was shown no remorse by the panel of judges, having denied all charges. He is able to appeal. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/harry-maguire-found-guilty-of-aggravated-assault-and-bribery-in-greece

The Fiver | This eventful chapter for Ronaldinho comes to an end

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now ! Dinho. Idol. Mentor. Don Flip Flap. Seaman’s Poseidon. Friend. Boss. Entertainer. Ronaldinho has been called many things in his life, but a crook is not one of them. Yes, the fabled Brazilian may have been guilty of drinking a can of Pepsi shortly after signing a big-money deal, but he paid his dues, or rather lost Coke’s $750,000 sponsorship wonga, and kept smiling. Sure, he’s also guilty of not always tracking his man, but who cares when he’s senselessly popping no-look passes about, setting up counter-attacks by controlling the ball WITH HIS BACK, and sending Gennaro Gattuso to the shops so many times that the Italian has now got enough Nectar points to fly himself off to a secluded island for a bit of rehab. The point is, whenever he has made mistakes, Ronaldinho has always made up for them. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/the-fiver-ronaldinho-paraguay-big-hous

Virgin Atlantic wins backing for £1.2bn rescue deal

An agreement with creditors will secure the airline's future for the next 18 months.

DFS reports jump in sofa sales as shoppers sit it out

DFS reports a £100m rise in sales as people splash out after spending more time at home.

Chinese phones with built-in malware sold in Africa

The malicious code could sign owners up to subscription services without permission.

Manchester City 'comfortable' if Agüero and Guardiola leave after next season

Chairman Khaldoon al-Mubarak says: ‘What’s best will happen’ Sergio Agüero wants to finish his career with Independiente Manchester City’s chairman, Khaldoon al-Mubarak, has indicated the club would be comfortable should Pep Guardiola and Sergio Agüero choose to leave at the end of next season. The contracts of the manager and City’s record goalscorer end in summer 2021 and each is yet to extend terms. Guardiola has been guarded when discussing his future beyond then. Agüero will be 33 in June and has stated he will at some point return to his hometown club, Independiente, to finish his career. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/manchester-city-comfortable-if-sergio-aguero-pep-guardiola-leave-after-next-season-chairman-khaldoon-al-mubarak

Harry Maguire named in England squad amid trial in Greece

Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips gets first England call-up Greenwood, Foden and Sterling also in squad Gareth Southgate has named Harry Maguire in his England squad for the Nations League ties against Iceland and Denmark early next month despite the defender’s involvement in court proceedings in Greece. Maguire has been at the centre of a scandal since last Thursday night after he was arrested and later charged following a violent argument outside a bar in Mykonos, which also involved police officers. He has vigorously denied all charges. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/harry-maguire-named-in-england-squad-trial-in-greece-kalvin-phillips-greenwood-foden-sterling

Southampton say 'no alternative' but to ditch shirt sponsor LD Sports

Chinese brand to be replaced by Sportsbet.io for next season Club will work with fans who have already bought 2020-21 shirts Southampton have announced an abrupt end to their sponsorship arrangement with LD Sports, suggesting that the Chinese brand is no longer an appropriate and viable partner. The club have struck a one-year deal at short notice with Sportsbet.io and the online gambling company will be their front-of-shirt sponsor for the 2020-21 season. It is hugely embarrassing for Southampton, less than three weeks before the start of the new campaign, and they have pledged to work with supporters who have bought LD Sports-sponsored shirts to provide a suitable solution. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/southampton-say-no-alternative-but-to-ditch-shirt-sponsor-ld-sports

Chelsea in talks to sign former Nice defender Malang Sarr for free

21-year-old centre-back is a free agent after leaving Nice Chelsea ready to give young Frenchman a five-year-deal Chelsea could continue their recruitment drive by signing Malang Sarr on a free. The 21-year-old defender is available after leaving Nice and his representatives have held talks with the west London club over a five-year deal. Sarr made 20 appearances for Nice last season and parted company with them after failing to agree terms on a new contract. He has been tracked by Real Betis and several Bundesliga clubs but it is understood his wage demands have put off potential suitors. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/chelsea-in-talks-to-sign-former-nice-defender-malang-sarr-for-free

Apple can block Epic's Fortnite but not Unreal Engine

The ruling, which protects Epic's Unreal Engine tool, holds until a full hearing on 28 September.

Apple can block Epic's Fortnite but not Unreal Engine

The ruling, which protects Epic's Unreal Engine tool, holds until a full hearing on 28 September.

The history of the Premier League in red cards

The Premier League has come a long way since 1992, as can be seen by the evolution of its sendings off By Alex Hess for The Squall In the Premier League’s inaugural season, the whiff of glamour was still very, very distant. The games were televised, and Gazza’s tears had given the “slum sport” of the 80s a new voguishness, but the football itself left a bit to be desired. While the terraces were now largely free of bloodthirsty oafs inflicting head wounds on each other, the same could not said of the pitch. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/the-history-of-the-premier-league-in-red-cards

MLS is pulling fans into stadiums, but TV audiences remain underwhelming

The league is behind only the NFL and MLB in terms of average attendance at games, but attracting television viewers is still tough The ties between the MLS Is Back Tournament and TV were undeniable. The mid-season tournament, designed to keep the league rolling during the Covid-19 pandemic, was by its very nature a TV product right down to its hosting at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando, Florida. No fans in the stands didn’t mean no fans watching. In fact, with almost every other major sports league in the United States put on ice over the early part of the summer this was a chance for MLS to dominate the airwaves. The NBA would eventually join MLS in gathering in Florida, but there was nearly a month between the start of the MLS Is Back Tournament and the resumption of the basketball season. Soccer had Walt Disney World to itself for weeks. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/mls-tv-audiences-viewing-f

Appledore Shipyard to reopen after £7m InfraStrata deal

Appledore Shipyard in Devon closed in March 2019 but has now been bought by InfraStrata.

David Squires on … Bayern beating PSG to be crowned kings of Europe

Our cartoonist on the Germans’ cheers and Neymar’s tears after the 2020 Champions League final Buy a copy of this cartoon in our print store Look through David’s Guardian cartoon archive Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/ng-interactive/2020/aug/25/david-squires-on-bayern-beating-psg-to-be-crowned-kings-of-europe

Co-op Bank to shed 350 jobs and close branches

Economic uncertainty and the shift to online banking have prompted the cuts, the bank says.

Virgin Atlantic awaits key vote on survival deal

The airline agreed the £1.2bn rescue deal in July to secure its future beyond the coronavirus crisis.

Facebook blocks Thai access to group critical of monarchy

The social media giant says it's preparing legal action after being ordered to block access in Thailand.

Football transfer rumours: Chelsea to continue spree with Malang Sarr?

Today’s tittle-tattle is a blessed release Manchester City are doing a bit of maths in order to work out if they can sign Lionel Mess i from Crisis Club Barcelona and stay within the bounds of Uefa’s entirely uncontroversial FFP regulations . ESPN reckons Barcelona’s “official stance” is that the Argentinian is not for sale, and that the club have pointed potential buyers to the preposterous £625m release clause necessary to prize the 33-year-old away from his contract. But, so the story goes, City would be interested in saving Messi from the shambles Barcelona have become if the figure involved was ‘reasonable’. Messi is reportedly unimpressed at the decision to call on Ronald Koeman to try and turn things around , and it’s also being reported that club and player may strike a release deal similar to the one that saw Cristiano Ronaldo leave Real Madrid and sign for Juventus . Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/25/footbal

KFC drops Finger Lickin' Good slogan amid coronavirus

Fast food giant says the slogan does not feel "quite right" amid the global pandemic.

Climate change: New UK law to curb deforestation in supply chains

UK businesses will have to show that products and supply lines are free from illegal deforestation.

US and China hold 'constructive' trade talks after delay

President Trump had previously postponed the trade meeting as he didn't "want to talk to China right now."

Why are clothes sizes so erratic and can they be fixed?

New apps use your phone to record your dimensions and recommend what size to buy at shops.

Manchester City chairman says he holds no grudge against Uefa over ban

City won appeal against Uefa’s two-year ban for FFP breaches Khaldoon al-Mubarak: ‘Life is too short to carry grudges’ Manchester City’s chairman, Khaldoon al-Mubarak, has said there is no grudge against Uefa after the club’s successful appeal against a two-year ban from European competition. City won the case in July at the court of arbitration for sport, overturning the penalty imposed by Uefa after its adjudicatory chamber concluded the club contravened financial fair play regulations. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/24/manchester-city-chairman-says-he-holds-no-grudge-against-uefa-over-ban

The Fiver | The image that most captivated football fans after Bayern's win

Sign up now! Sign up now! Sign up now? Sign up now ! Shortly before former Uefa secretary general Hans Bangerter commissioned the current incarnation of Big Cup, its designer Jürg Stadelman and his father went to his office and covered the floor with drawings of different trophies. “He made comments like ‘The Bulgarians would like the bottom of that’,” Stadelman would later recall. “‘The Spaniards would like this but the Italians would prefer that and the Germans would go for this.’ We put the design together like a jigsaw puzzle.” It remains unclear whether or not Stadelman specified that Bangerter insisted on making the mouth of the trophy wide enough so that one day, decades in the future, Lucas Hernandez might hit upon the innovative and unprecedented wheeze of sticking his head inside and prancing about with it, but that seems to be the image that most captivated football fans after Bayern Munich won the trophy on Sunday night. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian

Microsoft backs Epic Games in legal row with Apple

The Xbox company has declared support for the Fortnite-maker as it battles Apple's "monopoly".

'Creepy men' message women on Scrabble Go app

Men, believed to be romance scammers, are approaching women via the chat function of the game.

'Creepy men' message women on Scrabble Go app

Men, believed to be romance scammers, are approaching women via the chat function of the game.

BTS's Dynamite shatters YouTube records - and heads for UK number one

Dynamite is the first video in YouTube history to gain over 100 million views in a 24-hour period.

Chelsea close to £90m Kai Havertz deal and expect to land Thiago Silva

Chelsea poised to pay Leverkusen initial £72m for Havertz Silva a free agent after Brazilian defender leaves PSG Chelsea are on the verge of an agreement with Bayer Leverkusen over a £90m deal for Kai Havertz and are confident about signing Thiago Silva on a free following the defender’s exit from Paris Saint-Germain. Frank Lampard has focused on reshaping his attack since becoming Chelsea’s manager last year and although he has already spent big on Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner , the chance to bring Havertz to Stamford Bridge is regarded as too good to ignore. The Germany winger is one of the best young talents for Europe and has been targeted in the past by Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Real Madrid. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/24/chelsea-close-to-90m-kai-havertz-deal-and-expect-to-land-thiago-silva

Lorient and Lens offer newly promoted clubs a lesson in purpose

Two of Ligue 1’s new clubs showed the benefits of playing a well-organised, contemporary style of football By Eric Devin for Get French Football News It is easy to get carried away with the results of one round of football, especially in France where we have been deprived of Ligue 1 for more than five months. Cardiff City and Norwich City have enjoyed early 3-2 wins over Manchester City in recent Premier League seasons, but both sides went on to finish bottom of the table. So, while newly promoted Lorient and Lens are historic clubs with passionate fans who will be popular with neutrals in Ligue 1, we must take their fine performances on Sunday with a grain of salt. That said, neither side appears likely to drop back into Ligue 2 immediately and they seem determined to stay up while playing some surprisingly compelling football. Lorient hosted Strasbourg on Sunday, playing a 4-2-3-1 with record signing Adrian Grbic leading the line, the Austrian youth international having shaken of

Bletchley Park: New crisis for code-breaking hub

The chief executive of the Bletchley Park Trust says it is struggling to survive.

PSG are not European champions but they have earned their rivals' respect

Thomas Tuchel and his players made mistakes against Bayern Munich but should leave Lisbon with their heads held high By Adam White for Get French Football News Wasted opportunities are something of a theme for PSG. They famously squandered a four-goal lead against Barcelona in 2017 and the two away goals they scored against Manchester United at Old Trafford last season meant little by the end of the second leg. In Lisbon, Kylian Mbappé’s limp shot, Thomas Tuchel’s curious team selection and Manuel Neuer’s ankles conspired to deby them of another opportunity in the Champions League. Even though they conceded most of the ball to a relentless Bayern Munich team who slowly suffocated them as the second half wore on, PSG were nevertheless presented with a chance. Yet, at the end of a season where everyone at PSG – the coach, players and club – had at last got things right, last night they got everything wrong. Over their last five games – their three Champions League knockout ties as w

Tesco's 16,000 jobs drive to reward lockdown temps

The supermarket says people hired to deal with a surge in deliveries will get permanent roles.

Trump's postal-vote tweet misleading, says Twitter

The platform flagged the president's tweet and said it could "dissuade voters".

Fortnite Apple row: Microsoft backs Epic in court filing

The Xbox company has declared support for the Fortnite-maker as it battles Apple's "monopoly".

Coronavirus: Bailiffs return to chase pre-lockdown unpaid debts

Bailiffs are resuming operations after a five-month suspension due to coronavirus.

Floating caravans: Tech for socially distant holidays

From caravans that can go on land and water to a kit that can convert your car into a motorhome.

For PSG this final defeat signals a dream not ended but deferred | Jonathan Wilson

Bayern Munich prevented all-out victory for sportswashing but PSG, with the Qatari state behind them, are not going away Football, or that part of it that professes to have a conscience, breathed a huge sigh of relief but as it did so, some still small voice perhaps niggled. The only goal of the Champions League final was scored by Kingsley Coman, a player convicted in 2017 of twice assaulting the mother of his child . The game was won by Bayern Munich, the swaggering superclub whose eight straight league titles means they have won more Bundesligas than the rest of Germany put together. Since 2011, they have regularly trained in Qatar, an emirate with a highly questionable human rights record, and in 2018 they signed a sponsorship deal with its state-owned airline. And somehow, their win represented a victory for the good guys. Continue reading... from Football | The Guardian https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2020/aug/24/psg-final-defeat-dream-not-ended-but-deferred-spor