Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has apologised for his “choice of language” after remarks that offended some people. The Football Association is now set to probe the incident, adding fresh controversy around the Premier League club’s leadership.


Jim Ratcliffe Apologises for Comments; FA Launches Probe Into Man Utd Co-Owner 

Chelsea were charged by the Football Association on Thursday with 74 alleged breaches of rules related to payments to agents between 2009 and 2022. The FA said the charges primarily relate to the period between the 2010/11 and 2015/16 seasons. The Premier League club has until September 19 to respond. Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich transformed Chelsea's fortunes after buying the west London club in 2003.&nbsp;He sold the Blues in May 2022 to a consortium led by American investor Todd Boehly and private equity firm Clearlake Capital.&nbsp;Chelsea issued a statement saying the club were "pleased to confirm that its engagement with the FA concerning matters that were self-reported by the club is now reaching a conclusion".&nbsp;"The club's ownership group completed its purchase of the club on May 30, 2022," the statement said.&nbsp;"During a thorough due diligence process prior to completion of the purchase, the ownership group became aware of potentially incomplete financial reporting concerning historical transactions and other potential breaches of FA rules.&nbsp;"Immediately upon the completion of the purchase, the club self-reported these matters to all relevant regulators, including the FA."&nbsp;Chelsea said they had "demonstrated unprecedented transparency" and would continue working with the FA.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-asia-cup-2025-full-squads-complete-fixtures-date-time-venue-and-live-streaming-details-check-all-details-1755585771834">Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details</a>&nbsp;In July 2023, Chelsea agreed a resolution with European football's governing body to hand over 10 million euros ($11.7 million, £8.6 million) after owning up to "incomplete financial reporting" under the Abramovich regime.&nbsp;UEFA said it had been "proactively" approached with the information by Chelsea's new ownership group.&nbsp;Abramovich was sanctioned by the British government in March 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;He was described by ministers as part of Russian President Vladimir Putin's inner circle but has denied financial ties to the Kremlin.&nbsp;In June this year the British government threatened the former Chelsea owner with legal action over the frozen £2.5 billion generated from the sale of the club.&nbsp;Ministers want the funds to be directed towards humanitarian purposes in Ukraine, but the oligarch insists they be used for all victims of the conflict, including in Russia.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chelsea issued a statement saying the club were "pleased to confirm that its engagement with the FA concerning matters that were self-reported by the club is now reaching a conclusion".

Chelsea were charged by the Football Association on Thursday with 74 alleged breaches of rules related to payments to agents between 2009 and 2022. The FA said the charges primarily relate to the period between the 2010/11 and 2015/16 seasons. The Premier League club has until September 19 to respond. Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich transformed Chelsea's fortunes after buying the west London club in 2003. He sold the Blues in May 2022 to a consortium led by American investor Todd Boehly and private equity firm Clearlake Capital. Chelsea issued a statement saying the club were "pleased to confirm that its engagement with the FA concerning matters that were self-reported by the club is now reaching a conclusion". "The club's ownership group completed its purchase of the club on May 30, 2022," the statement said. "During a thorough due diligence process prior to completion of the purchase, the ownership group became aware of potentially incomplete financial reporting concerning historical transactions and other potential breaches of FA rules. "Immediately upon the completion of the purchase, the club self-reported these matters to all relevant regulators, including the FA." Chelsea said they had "demonstrated unprecedented transparency" and would continue working with the FA. ALSO READ | Asia Cup 2025: All you need to know - full squads, complete fixtures, date, time, venue and other key details In July 2023, Chelsea agreed a resolution with European football's governing body to hand over 10 million euros ($11.7 million, £8.6 million) after owning up to "incomplete financial reporting" under the Abramovich regime. UEFA said it had been "proactively" approached with the information by Chelsea's new ownership group. Abramovich was sanctioned by the British government in March 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) He was described by ministers as part of Russian President Vladimir Putin's inner circle but has denied financial ties to the Kremlin. In June this year the British government threatened the former Chelsea owner with legal action over the frozen £2.5 billion generated from the sale of the club. Ministers want the funds to be directed towards humanitarian purposes in Ukraine, but the oligarch insists they be used for all victims of the conflict, including in Russia. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chelsea issued a statement saying the club were "pleased to confirm that its engagement with the FA concerning matters that were self-reported by the club is now reaching a conclusion".

Premier League: Chelsea face 74 charges over alleged breaches of agent rules

The Scottish Football Association (SFA) is introducing a new gender policy that will ban transgender women from participating in women&rsquo;s competitive football, according to BBC Scotland.
Starting next season, only individuals who are female at birth will be eligible to compete in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/women-football">women&rsquo;s football</a> across all levels in Scotland, including grassroots matches for players aged 13 and up.
This marks a shift from the current approach, which allowed transgender women to participate in women&rsquo;s competitions on a case-by-case basis, with eligibility decisions influenced by testosterone levels.
The SFA&rsquo;s board approved the updated policy following a prolonged internal review. The decision was influenced by the recent UK Supreme Court ruling, which clarified that the definition of &ldquo;woman&rdquo; under equalities legislation refers to biological sex.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ipl-2025-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-delhi-capitals-kkr-vs-dc-9015846">IPL 2025: Raghuvanshi, Rinku power KKR to 204/9 against Delhi Capitals</a>
The new policy brings Scottish football in line with other sports such as rugby, swimming, and athletics, which have also moved toward policies based on biological sex rather than gender identity.
While the rule change is significant, it's understood that no transgender women are currently playing competitive football in Scotland.
<h2 data-start="1150" data-end="1287">Will England FA follow the same suit?</h2>
In England, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/football-association">Football Association</a> (FA) maintains a more flexible approach. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/transgender">Transgender</a> women can compete in the women&rsquo;s game if they meet specific criteria, including maintaining testosterone levels below a set threshold and undergoing an assessment process.
There are currently about 20 transgender women registered to play amateur football in England, out of millions participating in the grassroots game. There are no known transgender women playing professionally in England or Scotland.
However, the recent Supreme Court ruling&mdash;delivered on April 16&mdash;has prompted the FA to review its policies again. The judgment confirmed that Section 195 of the Equality Act allows for lawful exclusion from gender-affected sports based on biological sex.
Shortly before the ruling, the FA had already updated its transgender and non-binary inclusion policy, introducing a formal process that gives the governing body discretion to deny or revoke eligibility for safety or fairness reasons.
Critics of exclusionary policies argue that transgender women, who often already face social marginalization, risk further discrimination if barred from sports.
Elsewhere in sport, similar changes are being made. The Ultimate Pool Group recently decided to exclude transgender women from female competitions, citing both the Supreme Court decision and a report classifying pool as a gender-affected sport.

World, Sports: The English Football Association still allows trans women to compete against and alongside biological women, provided they meet reduced testosterone levels

The Scottish Football Association (SFA) is introducing a new gender policy that will ban transgender women from participating in women’s competitive football, according to BBC Scotland. Starting next season, only individuals who are female at birth will be eligible to compete in women’s football across all levels in Scotland, including grassroots matches for players aged 13 and up. This marks a shift from the current approach, which allowed transgender women to participate in women’s competitions on a case-by-case basis, with eligibility decisions influenced by testosterone levels. The SFA’s board approved the updated policy following a prolonged internal review. The decision was influenced by the recent UK Supreme Court ruling, which clarified that the definition of “woman” under equalities legislation refers to biological sex. Also Read: IPL 2025: Raghuvanshi, Rinku power KKR to 204/9 against Delhi Capitals The new policy brings Scottish football in line with other sports such as rugby, swimming, and athletics, which have also moved toward policies based on biological sex rather than gender identity. While the rule change is significant, it's understood that no transgender women are currently playing competitive football in Scotland. Will England FA follow the same suit? In England, the Football Association (FA) maintains a more flexible approach. Transgender women can compete in the women’s game if they meet specific criteria, including maintaining testosterone levels below a set threshold and undergoing an assessment process. There are currently about 20 transgender women registered to play amateur football in England, out of millions participating in the grassroots game. There are no known transgender women playing professionally in England or Scotland. However, the recent Supreme Court ruling—delivered on April 16—has prompted the FA to review its policies again. The judgment confirmed that Section 195 of the Equality Act allows for lawful exclusion from gender-affected sports based on biological sex. Shortly before the ruling, the FA had already updated its transgender and non-binary inclusion policy, introducing a formal process that gives the governing body discretion to deny or revoke eligibility for safety or fairness reasons. Critics of exclusionary policies argue that transgender women, who often already face social marginalization, risk further discrimination if barred from sports. Elsewhere in sport, similar changes are being made. The Ultimate Pool Group recently decided to exclude transgender women from female competitions, citing both the Supreme Court decision and a report classifying pool as a gender-affected sport.

Scottish FA bans trans women from women's football— Will England follow?

The Football Association is investigating after a video was posted on social media appearing to show Premier League referee David Coote making derogatory comments about Liverpool and their former manager Jurgen Klopp.

Referees body Professional Game Match Officials Ltd announced on Monday that Coote, 42, had been suspended pending a full investigation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/aston-villas-morgan-rogers-gets-first-england-call-up-after-mass-withdrawal-ahead-of-nations-league-games-775561">Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers gets first England call-up after mass withdrawal ahead of Nations League games</a>

The Football Association is also looking at Coote's comments. It is understood that part of its investigation will centre on whether Coote's reference to Klopp's nationality constitutes an aggravated breach of its misconduct rules.

"We are aware of the matter, and we are investigating it," an FA spokesman said on Tuesday.

According to the clip, Coote, who refereed Liverpool's 2-0 win against Aston Villa on Saturday, said Klopp was "arrogant" and used offensive language.

Retired referee Mike Dean, now a TV pundit, believes the incident will have a damaging effect on officials throughout English football.

In an interview with Sky Sports, the 56-year-old said: "As referees you can't put yourself in that position no matter what you do."&nbsp;

"You can say things away from camera, you can talk amongst your friends and things and colleagues, but you can't let somebody video this and then hope that it's never going to come out."

The video appears to refer to a match that Coote officiated between&nbsp;Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020, which finished 1-1. Liverpool had already been crowned champions.

Klopp criticised Coote after the match, saying the referee had been too lenient in his treatment of Burnley challenges.

Klopp left Liverpool at the end of last season after nearly nine years in charge at Anfield.

The German was also critical of Coote over an incident in a match against Arsenal last season in which Gunners midfielder Martin Odegaard's hand made contact with the ball.

Coote, as VAR, did not advise on-field official Chris Kavanagh to review the incident.

Coote was also the VAR in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park in October 2020 when Toffees goalkeeper Jordan Pickford inflicted a season-ending injury on Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk.

Pickford was not sent off for the challenge and did not face retrospective action because, under FA rules, that can only happen if an incident was not seen either at the time or when it was reviewed by VAR.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Football Association is investigating after a video was posted on social media appearing to show Premier League referee David Coote making derogatory comments about Liverpool and their former manager Jurgen Klopp.

The Football Association is investigating after a video was posted on social media appearing to show Premier League referee David Coote making derogatory comments about Liverpool and their former manager Jurgen Klopp. Referees body Professional Game Match Officials Ltd announced on Monday that Coote, 42, had been suspended pending a full investigation. Also Read: Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers gets first England call-up after mass withdrawal ahead of Nations League games The Football Association is also looking at Coote's comments. It is understood that part of its investigation will centre on whether Coote's reference to Klopp's nationality constitutes an aggravated breach of its misconduct rules. "We are aware of the matter, and we are investigating it," an FA spokesman said on Tuesday. According to the clip, Coote, who refereed Liverpool's 2-0 win against Aston Villa on Saturday, said Klopp was "arrogant" and used offensive language. Retired referee Mike Dean, now a TV pundit, believes the incident will have a damaging effect on officials throughout English football. In an interview with Sky Sports, the 56-year-old said: "As referees you can't put yourself in that position no matter what you do." "You can say things away from camera, you can talk amongst your friends and things and colleagues, but you can't let somebody video this and then hope that it's never going to come out." The video appears to refer to a match that Coote officiated between Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020, which finished 1-1. Liverpool had already been crowned champions. Klopp criticised Coote after the match, saying the referee had been too lenient in his treatment of Burnley challenges. Klopp left Liverpool at the end of last season after nearly nine years in charge at Anfield. The German was also critical of Coote over an incident in a match against Arsenal last season in which Gunners midfielder Martin Odegaard's hand made contact with the ball. Coote, as VAR, did not advise on-field official Chris Kavanagh to review the incident. Coote was also the VAR in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park in October 2020 when Toffees goalkeeper Jordan Pickford inflicted a season-ending injury on Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk. Pickford was not sent off for the challenge and did not face retrospective action because, under FA rules, that can only happen if an incident was not seen either at the time or when it was reviewed by VAR. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

FA to investigate Premier League referee David Coote about comments on Jurgen Klopp

Nottingham Forest have been fined 750,000 pounds ($979,500) and warned for misconduct in relation to a social media post criticising the referee after their Premier League defeat by Everton last season, the Football Association said on Friday.

Forest were angered at being denied three penalty claims in the 2-0 loss and minutes after the game they issued a statement on social media platform X accusing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Stuart Attwell of being a Luton Town fan.

At the time, Forest were involved in a relegation battle with Luton but they eventually finished 17th while Luton went down.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/argentina-held-by-venezuela-brazil-leave-it-late-vs-chile-in-2026-world-cup-qualifiers-766479">Argentina held by Venezuela, Brazil leave it late vs Chile in 2026 World Cup qualifiers</a>

"The club denied that the comments posted on social media imply bias and/or question the integrity of the match officials and/or the video assistant referee and/or bring the game into disrepute," the FA said in a statement. "An independent Regulatory Commission found the charge to be proven following a hearing and imposed the club's sanctions."

At the time, Forest said on X: "Three extremely poor decisions - three penalties not given - which we simply cannot accept.

"We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn't change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options."

Forest, who said they would appeal the decision, had asked for the fine to be suspended but the FA rejected the request.

"We are particularly concerned that the FA, in its submissions, sought a sanction 'in excess of 1,000,000 pounds'," Forest said in a statement. "We believe that this request, along with the subsequent fine, is wholly disproportionate and the club will be appealing the decision."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Nottingham Forest have been fined 750,000 pounds ($979,500) and warned for misconduct in relation to a social media post criticising the referee after their Premier League defeat by Everton last season, the Football Association said on Friday.

Nottingham Forest have been fined 750,000 pounds ($979,500) and warned for misconduct in relation to a social media post criticising the referee after their Premier League defeat by Everton last season, the Football Association said on Friday. Forest were angered at being denied three penalty claims in the 2-0 loss and minutes after the game they issued a statement on social media platform X accusing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Stuart Attwell of being a Luton Town fan. At the time, Forest were involved in a relegation battle with Luton but they eventually finished 17th while Luton went down. ALSO READ: Argentina held by Venezuela, Brazil leave it late vs Chile in 2026 World Cup qualifiers "The club denied that the comments posted on social media imply bias and/or question the integrity of the match officials and/or the video assistant referee and/or bring the game into disrepute," the FA said in a statement. "An independent Regulatory Commission found the charge to be proven following a hearing and imposed the club's sanctions." At the time, Forest said on X: "Three extremely poor decisions - three penalties not given - which we simply cannot accept. "We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn't change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options." Forest, who said they would appeal the decision, had asked for the fine to be suspended but the FA rejected the request. "We are particularly concerned that the FA, in its submissions, sought a sanction 'in excess of 1,000,000 pounds'," Forest said in a statement. "We believe that this request, along with the subsequent fine, is wholly disproportionate and the club will be appealing the decision." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

FA fines Nottingham Forest £75,000 for social media post targeting VAR last season

Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was charged by the Football Association on Thursday over an alleged misconduct breach for a remark made on Uruguayan TV about team-mate Son Heung-min.

The Uruguay international had been asked in June by the host of the Canal 10 show for a Spurs player's shirt, to which he replied: "Sonny's? It could be Sonny's cousin too as they all look the same."

British anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out said it had received a "significant number" of complaints related to the comment.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-great-cristiano-ronaldo-bashes-ten-hag-for-negative-mindset-urges-club-for-overhaul-758035">Manchester United great Cristiano Ronaldo bashes Ten Hag for 'negative mindset', urges club for overhaul</a>

Bentancur apologised to the South Korea international and Spurs skipper, who said his team-mate had "made a mistake".

A statement from the FA said Bentancur had been charged with an alleged breach of its rules in relation to a media interview.

"It's alleged that the Tottenham midfielder has breached FA Rule E3.1 as he acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or brought the game into disrepute," the statement said.

"It's further alleged that this constitutes an 'aggravated breach' which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin."

Bentancur has until September 19 to provide a response to the charge.

Former Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani was banned for three games and fined £100,000 ($130,000) in 2020 for using the Spanish term "negrito" (small black person) in a social media post.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was charged by the Football Association on Thursday over an alleged misconduct breach for a remark made on Uruguayan TV about team-mate Son Heung-min.

Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur was charged by the Football Association on Thursday over an alleged misconduct breach for a remark made on Uruguayan TV about team-mate Son Heung-min. The Uruguay international had been asked in June by the host of the Canal 10 show for a Spurs player's shirt, to which he replied: "Sonny's? It could be Sonny's cousin too as they all look the same." British anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out said it had received a "significant number" of complaints related to the comment. ALSO READ: Manchester United great Cristiano Ronaldo bashes Ten Hag for 'negative mindset', urges club for overhaul Bentancur apologised to the South Korea international and Spurs skipper, who said his team-mate had "made a mistake". A statement from the FA said Bentancur had been charged with an alleged breach of its rules in relation to a media interview. "It's alleged that the Tottenham midfielder has breached FA Rule E3.1 as he acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting words and/or brought the game into disrepute," the statement said. "It's further alleged that this constitutes an 'aggravated breach' which is defined in FA Rule E3.2, as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to nationality and/or race and/or ethnic origin." Bentancur has until September 19 to provide a response to the charge. Former Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani was banned for three games and fined £100,000 ($130,000) in 2020 for using the Spanish term "negrito" (small black person) in a social media post. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

FA charges Spurs midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur with misconduct over remarks about teammate Son

The British government issued a rare rebuke on Thursday to the&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Association (FA) for its decision not to light up Wembley Stadium's arch in blue and white in solidarity with Israel following last week's attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas. Wembley, the home of England's national&nbsp;football&nbsp;team, has previously lit up its iconic arch with the colours of Ukraine, Turkey and other countries in solidarity. However, it will not do the same for Israel, media reports said.

"I am extremely disappointed ... and have made my views clear to the FA," Britain's Secretary for Culture, Media and Sport Lucy Frazer said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

"It is especially disappointing in light of the FA's bold stance on other terrorist attacks in the recent past. Words and actions matter. The Government is clear: we stand with Israel," she added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-taylor-swift-simone-biles-bring-star-power-to-stand-during-packers-vs-chiefs-665943">Taylor Swift, Simone Biles bring star-power to stand during Packers vs Chiefs</a>

The government this week projected the Israeli flag onto Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Downing Street residence, while parliament lit itself up in blue and white, echoing similar displays of solidarity in other parts of the Western world.

The FA released a statement earlier on Thursday, saying flags and shirts showing support for victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will not be allowed for England's upcoming games against Australia and Italy at Wembley. England and Australia players will wear black armbands for their friendly on Friday, the FA said, and there will be a period of silence before kick off.

"On Friday evening, we will remember the innocent victims of the devastating events in Israel and Palestine," the FA said in the statement, without mentioning Wembley's arch.

"We will only permit flags, replica kits and other representations of nationality for the competing nations inside Wembley Stadium."

England then host Italy in a European Championship qualifier on Tuesday.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

&nbsp;

The British government issued a rare rebuke on Thursday to the Football Association (FA) for its decision not to light up Wembley Stadium's arch in blue and white in solidarity with Israel following last week's attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The British government issued a rare rebuke on Thursday to the Football Association (FA) for its decision not to light up Wembley Stadium's arch in blue and white in solidarity with Israel following last week's attacks by Palestinian militant group Hamas. Wembley, the home of England's national football team, has previously lit up its iconic arch with the colours of Ukraine, Turkey and other countries in solidarity. However, it will not do the same for Israel, media reports said. "I am extremely disappointed ... and have made my views clear to the FA," Britain's Secretary for Culture, Media and Sport Lucy Frazer said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "It is especially disappointing in light of the FA's bold stance on other terrorist attacks in the recent past. Words and actions matter. The Government is clear: we stand with Israel," she added. Also Read: Taylor Swift, Simone Biles bring star-power to stand during Packers vs Chiefs The government this week projected the Israeli flag onto Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Downing Street residence, while parliament lit itself up in blue and white, echoing similar displays of solidarity in other parts of the Western world. The FA released a statement earlier on Thursday, saying flags and shirts showing support for victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will not be allowed for England's upcoming games against Australia and Italy at Wembley. England and Australia players will wear black armbands for their friendly on Friday, the FA said, and there will be a period of silence before kick off. "On Friday evening, we will remember the innocent victims of the devastating events in Israel and Palestine," the FA said in the statement, without mentioning Wembley's arch. "We will only permit flags, replica kits and other representations of nationality for the competing nations inside Wembley Stadium." England then host Italy in a European Championship qualifier on Tuesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FA faces criticism for not lighting up iconic arch ahead of Australia friendly to support Israel war victims

An AFC Cup tie between Australia's Macarthur FC and Shan United of Myanmar has been moved from Sydney to a neutral venue in Bangkok after the Australian government refused to grant visas to the visiting players,&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Australia (FA) said on Monday. Macarthur, an A-League club based in the Sydney suburb of Campbelltown, were criticised by human rights groups for playing an away match against Shan United in Yangon in late September.

The return fixture will now be played at Bangkok's BG Stadium on Thursday. "This move to a neutral venue follows the Australian government&nbsp;declining to grant Australian&nbsp;visas for&nbsp;Shan United FC players and officials,&nbsp;meaning there was no viable way of playing the game on Australian soil," the FA said in a statement.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-italy-win-davis-cup-for-first-time-in-47-years-stun-australia-in-malaga-663265">Tennis: Italy win Davis Cup for first time in 47 years, stun Australia in Malaga</a>

Myanmar has been embroiled in bloody conflict since the country's military took power in a coup against the elected government in 2021. A recent surge in fighting between the military and ethnic minority insurgents as well as pro-democracy militias has displaced tens of thousands of people.

The Australian government currently advises against travel to Myanmar "due to the dangerous security situation". Visas to enter Australia are granted or refused on a case-by-case basis.

Macarthur would have had to forfeit their place in the second-tier continental club competition if they had failed to fulfil the fixture in Myanmar or been unable to stage the return match. "Football&nbsp;Australia would like to thank the (Asian&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Confederation) for their approval of these alternative arrangements," the FA statement added.

An AFC Cup tie between Australia's Macarthur FC and Shan United of Myanmar has been moved from Sydney to a neutral venue in Bangkok after the Australian government refused to grant visas to the visiting players, Football Australia (FA) said on Monday.

An AFC Cup tie between Australia's Macarthur FC and Shan United of Myanmar has been moved from Sydney to a neutral venue in Bangkok after the Australian government refused to grant visas to the visiting players, Football Australia (FA) said on Monday. Macarthur, an A-League club based in the Sydney suburb of Campbelltown, were criticised by human rights groups for playing an away match against Shan United in Yangon in late September. The return fixture will now be played at Bangkok's BG Stadium on Thursday. "This move to a neutral venue follows the Australian government declining to grant Australian visas for Shan United FC players and officials, meaning there was no viable way of playing the game on Australian soil," the FA said in a statement. Also Read: Tennis: Italy win Davis Cup for first time in 47 years, stun Australia in Malaga Myanmar has been embroiled in bloody conflict since the country's military took power in a coup against the elected government in 2021. A recent surge in fighting between the military and ethnic minority insurgents as well as pro-democracy militias has displaced tens of thousands of people. The Australian government currently advises against travel to Myanmar "due to the dangerous security situation". Visas to enter Australia are granted or refused on a case-by-case basis. Macarthur would have had to forfeit their place in the second-tier continental club competition if they had failed to fulfil the fixture in Myanmar or been unable to stage the return match. "Football Australia would like to thank the (Asian Football Confederation) for their approval of these alternative arrangements," the FA statement added.

AFC Cup match shifts to neutral venue after Australian government refuses to grant visas to Myanmar players

The England Football Association (FA) chief executive Mark Bullingham has said that LGBTQ+ fans will not face police action for kissing or holding hands in public during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.&nbsp;

The middle-eastern country has a strict rule regarding same-sex couples but the FA has assured the fans that they will not face any problems during the tournament in November-December. Earlier, there were reports that some English fans will be staying away from the competition because of this reason.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/laver-cup-2022-roger-federer-eyes-dream-farewell-alongside-long-time-rival-rafael-nadal-518447" hreflang="en">Roger Federer eyes dream farewell alongside Rafael Nadal at Laver Cup</a>

However, Bullingham made it clear that the police have been briefed to be “tolerant”.&nbsp;

"We have been asking those questions of the Qatari authorities over the last six months. They have absolutely told us all the right answers for anything we've talked about, even down to the point of 'are rainbow flags allowed?',” he told reporters while talking about the upcoming competition.&nbsp;

"Yes, absolutely (they are allowed) as long as someone doesn't go and drape them on the outside of a mosque - that was one example we were given - and were disrespectful in that way.”&nbsp;

"But they have absolutely been briefed to be very tolerant and act in the right way. Any time we ask a direct question we tend to get an answer," he added while speaking to AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/518425" hreflang="en">Chelsea sack director within a month for 'inappropriate messages' to agent</a>

Meanwhile, the England football team also joined nine other nations to join the 'OneLove' anti-discrimination campaign. Skipper&nbsp;Harry Kane&nbsp;will wear a rainbow armband during the World Cup.

"As captains, we may all be competing against each other on the pitch, but we stand together against all forms of discrimination," Kane said at the unveiling of their new jersey for the World Cup.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

The England Football Association (FA) chief executive Mark Bullingham has said that LGBTQ+ fans will not face police action for kissing or holding hands in public during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The England Football Association (FA) chief executive Mark Bullingham has said that LGBTQ+ fans will not face police action for kissing or holding hands in public during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The middle-eastern country has a strict rule regarding same-sex couples but the FA has assured the fans that they will not face any problems during the tournament in November-December. Earlier, there were reports that some English fans will be staying away from the competition because of this reason. Also read | Roger Federer eyes dream farewell alongside Rafael Nadal at Laver Cup However, Bullingham made it clear that the police have been briefed to be “tolerant”. "We have been asking those questions of the Qatari authorities over the last six months. They have absolutely told us all the right answers for anything we've talked about, even down to the point of 'are rainbow flags allowed?',” he told reporters while talking about the upcoming competition. "Yes, absolutely (they are allowed) as long as someone doesn't go and drape them on the outside of a mosque - that was one example we were given - and were disrespectful in that way.” "But they have absolutely been briefed to be very tolerant and act in the right way. Any time we ask a direct question we tend to get an answer," he added while speaking to AFP. Also read | Chelsea sack director within a month for 'inappropriate messages' to agent Meanwhile, the England football team also joined nine other nations to join the 'OneLove' anti-discrimination campaign. Skipper Harry Kane will wear a rainbow armband during the World Cup. "As captains, we may all be competing against each other on the pitch, but we stand together against all forms of discrimination," Kane said at the unveiling of their new jersey for the World Cup. (with inputs from agencies)

FA chief says LGBTQ+ fans won't face arrest for kissing at FIFA World Cup in Qatar

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Jammu and Kashmir has unearthed a $54,000 ''Biryani'' scam against the former Jammu Kashmir Football Association (JFKA) office bearers. The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau&nbsp;has filed an FIR against JKFA officials for misappropriation of funds of around $57,000 received from the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council (JKSC).

The initial enquiry conducted by the ACB shows the funds sanctioned by the government of India through JKSC&nbsp;to organise tournaments like Khelo India and Mufti Memorial Gold Cup were not utilised properly. A complaint was registered by a local Kashmiri Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat of Sopore alleging that funds allotted by JKSC and other government and semi-government agencies, for conducting football activities across J&amp;K were misused.&nbsp;

Biryani as refreshment for football players

“During the investigation, it was found that members of J&amp;K Football Association showed an amount of $54,000 paid to Mughal Darbar, Polo View Srinagar (a famous restaurant in Srinagar) for purchase of biryani as refreshment for the teams. But no such refreshment has ever been given to any team in any district of Kashmir province. '' said an ACB official. ''The bills raised and placed on record in this regard have been found to be fake.'' ACB stated in the FIR.

ACB during the probe also found out that the bills produced bore the same handwriting, thus being proved forged. The amount has been drawn by preparing false and fabricated bills by the J&amp;K Football Association members.&nbsp;

“Similarly, an amount of $1800&nbsp;was shown paid to Hindustan Photostat for various activities, which during inquiry also were found to be fake and prepared by resorting to forgery. An amount of $1300 was shown paid to Jan Hardware Tengpora by-pass Srinagar which was found non-existing,” the contents of the FIR read.

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmiri-calligrapher-writes-quran-on-500-metres-scroll-creates-a-record-502918">Kashmiri calligrapher writes Quran on 500 metres scroll, creates a record</a>

ACB has registered FIR 30/22 under Sections 5(1) (c), 5(1) (d) read with Section 5(2) of the JK PC Act Svt 2006 and Section 465, 467, 468, 471, and 120-B of the Ranbir Penal Code in Police Station ACB, SBG Srinagar against JKFA officials including its president Zamir Thakur, treasurer S S Bunty, chief executive S A Hameed, and member Fayaz Ahmad besides others.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau in Jammu and Kashmir has come down heavily on corruption in the Union territory. In the last few weeks, half a dozen government officials have been arrested by ACB concerning corruption cases. The arrests come under the zero-tolerance policy for corruption of the Modi government.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Jammu and Kashmir has unearthed a $54,000 ''Biryani'' scam against the former Jammu Kashmir Football Association (JFKA) office bearers.

The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) in Jammu and Kashmir has unearthed a $54,000 ''Biryani'' scam against the former Jammu Kashmir Football Association (JFKA) office bearers. The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau has filed an FIR against JKFA officials for misappropriation of funds of around $57,000 received from the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council (JKSC). The initial enquiry conducted by the ACB shows the funds sanctioned by the government of India through JKSC to organise tournaments like Khelo India and Mufti Memorial Gold Cup were not utilised properly. A complaint was registered by a local Kashmiri Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat of Sopore alleging that funds allotted by JKSC and other government and semi-government agencies, for conducting football activities across J&K were misused. Biryani as refreshment for football players “During the investigation, it was found that members of J&K Football Association showed an amount of $54,000 paid to Mughal Darbar, Polo View Srinagar (a famous restaurant in Srinagar) for purchase of biryani as refreshment for the teams. But no such refreshment has ever been given to any team in any district of Kashmir province. '' said an ACB official. ''The bills raised and placed on record in this regard have been found to be fake.'' ACB stated in the FIR. ACB during the probe also found out that the bills produced bore the same handwriting, thus being proved forged. The amount has been drawn by preparing false and fabricated bills by the J&K Football Association members. “Similarly, an amount of $1800 was shown paid to Hindustan Photostat for various activities, which during inquiry also were found to be fake and prepared by resorting to forgery. An amount of $1300 was shown paid to Jan Hardware Tengpora by-pass Srinagar which was found non-existing,” the contents of the FIR read. Read More: Kashmiri calligrapher writes Quran on 500 metres scroll, creates a record ACB has registered FIR 30/22 under Sections 5(1) (c), 5(1) (d) read with Section 5(2) of the JK PC Act Svt 2006 and Section 465, 467, 468, 471, and 120-B of the Ranbir Penal Code in Police Station ACB, SBG Srinagar against JKFA officials including its president Zamir Thakur, treasurer S S Bunty, chief executive S A Hameed, and member Fayaz Ahmad besides others. The Anti-Corruption Bureau in Jammu and Kashmir has come down heavily on corruption in the Union territory. In the last few weeks, half a dozen government officials have been arrested by ACB concerning corruption cases. The arrests come under the zero-tolerance policy for corruption of the Modi government. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Biryani Scam' unearthed by ACB in Kashmir. $54,000 fraud by ex-football association office bearers

FIFA has officially rejected Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-star-lionel-messi-receives-first-red-card-in-club-career-357496" hreflang="en">Barcelona star Lionel Messi receives first red card in club career</a>

On December 20, 2020, English Football Association (FA) suspended Atletico Madrid and England's defender Kieran Trippier for 10 weeks and fined £70,000 following a breach of betting rules.&nbsp;

The 30-year-old denied seven alleged breaches of FA Rule E8, which were said to occur in July 2019, and requested a personal hearing.

An FA statement read: "An independent regulatory commission was appointed to hear the case, with four of the alleged breaches found proven and three dismissed during a subsequent personal hearing.

"The independent regulatory commission's written reasons for its decisions and the associated sanction will be published in due course."

However, FIFA dismissed the appeal. They said: "The FIFA Appeal Committee has dismissed the appeal lodged by the club Atletico Madrid in a case concerning the player Kieran Trippier.

"As a consequence, the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee passed on 23 December 2020 is confirmed, extending sanctions imposed on the player by the English FA to have worldwide effect."

FIFA has officially rejected Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban. ALSO READ: Barcelona star Lionel Messi receives first red card in club career On December 20, 2020, English Football Association (FA) suspended Atletico Madrid and England's defender Kieran Trippier for 10 weeks and fined £70,000 following a breach of betting rules.

FIFA has officially rejected Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban. ALSO READ: Barcelona star Lionel Messi receives first red card in club career On December 20, 2020, English Football Association (FA) suspended Atletico Madrid and England's defender Kieran Trippier for 10 weeks and fined £70,000 following a breach of betting rules. The 30-year-old denied seven alleged breaches of FA Rule E8, which were said to occur in July 2019, and requested a personal hearing. An FA statement read: "An independent regulatory commission was appointed to hear the case, with four of the alleged breaches found proven and three dismissed during a subsequent personal hearing. "The independent regulatory commission's written reasons for its decisions and the associated sanction will be published in due course." However, FIFA dismissed the appeal. They said: "The FIFA Appeal Committee has dismissed the appeal lodged by the club Atletico Madrid in a case concerning the player Kieran Trippier. "As a consequence, the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee passed on 23 December 2020 is confirmed, extending sanctions imposed on the player by the English FA to have worldwide effect."

FIFA dismisses Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban

With a lot of debates and discussions going around the possible return of Premier League, the English Football Association (FA) are planning to slash its annual budget by 75 million pounds to tackle an estimated loss of 300 million pounds over the next four-year cycle due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Chairman Greg Clarke has also warned the FA Council members, in a letter, that it would take quite some time for the fans to return to stadiums to attend live matches again. Clarke further said that FA’s plans and the future project will also be impacted due to the cut in the annual budget and revised planning is already being chalked out.&nbsp;

“The Board has agreed that a sensible cut to the annual budget is 75 million pounds,” he said.

“In a worst-case scenario, this would be necessary for the next four years to offset a 300 million pounds deficit.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/english-fa-bracing-for-long-spell-without-fans-296592" hreflang="en">English FA bracing for long spell without fans</a>

“Clearly that will impact many of our plans as every area of the game will be touched and projects that we all value will be affected. There is no other way and I ask for all of you to help us to build this revised plan.”

The FA Council is set to meet again on May 21.&nbsp;

Professional football, including the Premier League, has been suspended since mid-March due to COVID-19 pandemic which has claimed around 28,500 people in Britain.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/philippe-coutinho-might-snub-english-teams-to-stay-in-bundesliga-296587" hreflang="en">Philippe Coutinho might snub English teams to stay in Bundesliga</a>

Premier League on Friday had a conference call to discuss the resumption of training later in the month of May followed by a return to competitive action in empty stadiums in June.&nbsp;

Events held at Wembley Stadium in 2018-19 generated income of 70.6 million pounds out of the FA’s total turnover of 467 million.

The FA also had broadcast income, from domestic and international rights to the FA Cup and England matches, of 262.6 million.

“The reality is that we just don’t know how things are going to pan out, but with social distancing in place for some time to come we do face substantial changes to the whole football ecosystem,” said Clarke.

“For example it’s hard to foresee crowds of fans, who are the lifeblood of the game, returning to matches any time soon.” 
(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

With a lot of debates and discussions going around the possible return of Premier League, the English Football Association (FA) are planning to slash its annual budget by 75 million pounds to tackle an estimated loss of 300 million pounds over the next four-year cycle due to COVID-19 pandemic.

With a lot of debates and discussions going around the possible return of Premier League, the English Football Association (FA) are planning to slash its annual budget by 75 million pounds to tackle an estimated loss of 300 million pounds over the next four-year cycle due to COVID-19 pandemic. Chairman Greg Clarke has also warned the FA Council members, in a letter, that it would take quite some time for the fans to return to stadiums to attend live matches again. Clarke further said that FA’s plans and the future project will also be impacted due to the cut in the annual budget and revised planning is already being chalked out. “The Board has agreed that a sensible cut to the annual budget is 75 million pounds,” he said. “In a worst-case scenario, this would be necessary for the next four years to offset a 300 million pounds deficit. ALSO READ: English FA bracing for long spell without fans “Clearly that will impact many of our plans as every area of the game will be touched and projects that we all value will be affected. There is no other way and I ask for all of you to help us to build this revised plan.” The FA Council is set to meet again on May 21. Professional football, including the Premier League, has been suspended since mid-March due to COVID-19 pandemic which has claimed around 28,500 people in Britain. ALSO READ: Philippe Coutinho might snub English teams to stay in Bundesliga Premier League on Friday had a conference call to discuss the resumption of training later in the month of May followed by a return to competitive action in empty stadiums in June. Events held at Wembley Stadium in 2018-19 generated income of 70.6 million pounds out of the FA’s total turnover of 467 million. The FA also had broadcast income, from domestic and international rights to the FA Cup and England matches, of 262.6 million. “The reality is that we just don’t know how things are going to pan out, but with social distancing in place for some time to come we do face substantial changes to the whole football ecosystem,” said Clarke. “For example it’s hard to foresee crowds of fans, who are the lifeblood of the game, returning to matches any time soon.” (With inputs from agencies)

FA expected to slash annual budget by 75 million pounds due to COVID-19 pandemic

Football Association (FA) has charged Tottenham Hotspurs midfielder Dele Alli for misconduct after his social media post related to coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-let-myself-down-and-club-eglish-footballer-dele-alli-apologies-over-coronavirus-video-279721">'I let myself down and club': English footballer Dele Alli apologies over coronavirus video</a>

Alli posted the video of him wearing a face mask in an airport departure lounge on with the message: "Corona whattt, please listen with volume." The 23-year-old then zooms the camera towards an unsuspecting man of Asian origin before panning to a bottle of antiseptic hand wash captioned: "This virus gunna have to be quicker than that to catch me."

According to the FA: "The post constitutes an "Aggravated Breach", which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to race and/or colour and/or ethnic origin and/or nationality."

After several complaints, the English midfielder deleted the video and said he had "let myself down and the club".

"I’d like to apologise for the video I posted on Snapchat yesterday," Alli said in a video released on the Chinese social media platform Weibo.

"It wasn’t funny. I realised that immediately and took it down. I let myself down and the club. I don’t want you guys to have that impression of me.

“It isn’t something that should be joked about. Sending all my love and thoughts and prayers for everyone in China.”

Dele Alli could face up to 6-match ban due to the severity of the charge.&nbsp;

Alli has until March 5 to respond to the Football Association. 
&nbsp;

Football Association (FA) has charged Tottenham Hotspurs midfielder Dele Alli for misconduct after his social media post related to coronavirus outbreak. Also read: 'I let myself down and club': English footballer Dele Alli apologies over coronavirus video Alli posted the video of him wearing a face mask in an airport departure lounge on with the message: "Corona whattt, please listen with volume.

Football Association (FA) has charged Tottenham Hotspurs midfielder Dele Alli for misconduct after his social media post related to coronavirus outbreak. Also read: 'I let myself down and club': English footballer Dele Alli apologies over coronavirus video Alli posted the video of him wearing a face mask in an airport departure lounge on with the message: "Corona whattt, please listen with volume." The 23-year-old then zooms the camera towards an unsuspecting man of Asian origin before panning to a bottle of antiseptic hand wash captioned: "This virus gunna have to be quicker than that to catch me." According to the FA: "The post constitutes an "Aggravated Breach", which is defined in FA Rule E3(2), as it included a reference, whether express or implied, to race and/or colour and/or ethnic origin and/or nationality." After several complaints, the English midfielder deleted the video and said he had "let myself down and the club". "I’d like to apologise for the video I posted on Snapchat yesterday," Alli said in a video released on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. "It wasn’t funny. I realised that immediately and took it down. I let myself down and the club. I don’t want you guys to have that impression of me. “It isn’t something that should be joked about. Sending all my love and thoughts and prayers for everyone in China.” Dele Alli could face up to 6-match ban due to the severity of the charge. Alli has until March 5 to respond to the Football Association.

Dele Alli charged after coronavirus post, ban threat looms

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Manchester&nbsp;City</a>'s Pep Guardiola believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has stamped his authority at&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United with a fresh tactical approach but said the Norwegian will need more time to build a squad capable of winning titles.

United have struggled for consistency in Solskjaer's first full season as manager and have won just two Premier League games since beating City last month.

The defeat to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-dominate-manchester-united-in-first-win-for-arteta-271539">Arsenal</a> on New Year's Day left United five points behind fourth-placed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-arteta-aims-to-solve-ozil-issue-as-chelsea-clash-looms-270702">Chelsea</a>, but Guardiola has seen signs of United players finally translating Solskjaer's gameplans onto the pitch.

"Ole has started seeing the team he wanted - that's my feeling," Guardiola told a news conference ahead of City's League Cup semi-final first-leg against United on Tuesday.

"Even the last (league) game against Arsenal, that they lost, we saw what they want.

"It's not easy to handle a team at a big, big club... always demanding to win competitions and every manager needs time. I have the feeling United started to play the way he wants."

Guardiola will look to ensure his team is not vulnerable to counter-attacks as they were when United duo <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-rashford-martial-dont-need-haaland-berbatov-269072">Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial</a> carved out an early lead at the Etihad Stadium last month.

"I think we conceded few counter-attacks in the beginning and in just two-three seconds they're in the box. They have incredible pace and talent to do that," the Spanish coach said.

"In general the game was good, we created chances."

City confirmed defender Nicolas Otamendi, who missed the last two games against Port Vale and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopps-kids-knock-everton-out-of-fa-cup-272440">Everton</a>, has returned to training and will be available for the match at Old Trafford.

"I have an idea of the way I want to play but I am not 100 per cent&nbsp;sure of the guys who play tomorrow," Guardiola added.

"Especially with the incredible amount of games some players have in the legs, they should be rested for the previous games."

Manchester City's Pep Guardiola believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has stamped his authority at Manchester United with a fresh tactical approach but said the Norwegian will need more time to build a squad capable of winning titles.

Manchester City's Pep Guardiola believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has stamped his authority at Manchester United with a fresh tactical approach but said the Norwegian will need more time to build a squad capable of winning titles. United have struggled for consistency in Solskjaer's first full season as manager and have won just two Premier League games since beating City last month. The defeat to Arsenal on New Year's Day left United five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea, but Guardiola has seen signs of United players finally translating Solskjaer's gameplans onto the pitch. "Ole has started seeing the team he wanted - that's my feeling," Guardiola told a news conference ahead of City's League Cup semi-final first-leg against United on Tuesday. "Even the last (league) game against Arsenal, that they lost, we saw what they want. "It's not easy to handle a team at a big, big club... always demanding to win competitions and every manager needs time. I have the feeling United started to play the way he wants." Guardiola will look to ensure his team is not vulnerable to counter-attacks as they were when United duo Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial carved out an early lead at the Etihad Stadium last month. "I think we conceded few counter-attacks in the beginning and in just two-three seconds they're in the box. They have incredible pace and talent to do that," the Spanish coach said. "In general the game was good, we created chances." City confirmed defender Nicolas Otamendi, who missed the last two games against Port Vale and Everton, has returned to training and will be available for the match at Old Trafford. "I have an idea of the way I want to play but I am not 100 per cent sure of the guys who play tomorrow," Guardiola added. "Especially with the incredible amount of games some players have in the legs, they should be rested for the previous games."

FA cup: Solskjaer needs time to make lasting impact at Manchester United — Guardiola

Manchester United must "earn the right" to win at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-title-bid-fades-after-stunning-loss-against-wolves-270681">Wolverhampton</a> Wanderers in the FA Cup on Saturday after crashing out against Wolves in the quarter-finals of the tournament last season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Friday.

United were knocked out after a 2-1 defeat at Molineux and Solskjaer is looking for his first win at the venue having been beaten 2-1 in the league last season and held 1-1 by Nuno Espirito Santo's side in the current campaign.

"It'll be the fourth time there in my time already and we haven't won there. It's a tough place. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-unbeaten-for-a-year-liverpool-271841">Liverpool</a> lost there last season and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jesus-double-helps-man-city-inflict-first-defeat-on-ancelotti-271641">Manchester City</a> have just lost there now," Solskjaer told a news conference.

"They have good players, a good manager who's had time, got his way of playing, his philosophy. The players are getting to know each other and swap between 3-5-2 and 3-4-3, and seem to know every little detail... We're up for a hard night.

"We've got to earn the right to win there. We've got to play well, perform and go there positive because we want a reaction after a defeat against Arsenal."

Record signing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-considering-january-reinforcements-with-pogba-mctominay-injured-271629">Paul Pogba</a>, who missed the 2-0 league defeat by Arsenal, is set for ankle surgery and faces up to four weeks out with Solskjaer confirming the problem was not the same issue that had sidelined the midfielder for three months this season.

"Here we go again - FA Cup third round and you are talking about Paul. He came back after a spell out, played two games, had a reaction and couldn't go to Burnley," Solskjaer said.

"We did a scan. It is not the same injury... you always consult your own medical people as well... you want the best second opinion. The advice was to have it done. It's not going to be a major one, probably three or four weeks."

Midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-uniteds-mctominay-set-for-ankle-scan-a-doubt-for-scotland-261323">Scott McTominay</a> is out for a long spell after sustaining knee ligament damage in the win over Newcastle United last month but Solskjaer said that he would not overpay for reinforcements in the January transfer window.

"We're still looking... we have our targets. If they become available, then it's something we want to do. If the right ones aren't there for the right money then we can't."

Manchester United must "earn the right" to win at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the FA Cup on Saturday after crashing out against Wolves in the quarter-finals of the tournament last season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Friday.

Manchester United must "earn the right" to win at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the FA Cup on Saturday after crashing out against Wolves in the quarter-finals of the tournament last season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said on Friday. United were knocked out after a 2-1 defeat at Molineux and Solskjaer is looking for his first win at the venue having been beaten 2-1 in the league last season and held 1-1 by Nuno Espirito Santo's side in the current campaign. "It'll be the fourth time there in my time already and we haven't won there. It's a tough place. Liverpool lost there last season and Manchester City have just lost there now," Solskjaer told a news conference. "They have good players, a good manager who's had time, got his way of playing, his philosophy. The players are getting to know each other and swap between 3-5-2 and 3-4-3, and seem to know every little detail... We're up for a hard night. "We've got to earn the right to win there. We've got to play well, perform and go there positive because we want a reaction after a defeat against Arsenal." Record signing Paul Pogba, who missed the 2-0 league defeat by Arsenal, is set for ankle surgery and faces up to four weeks out with Solskjaer confirming the problem was not the same issue that had sidelined the midfielder for three months this season. "Here we go again - FA Cup third round and you are talking about Paul. He came back after a spell out, played two games, had a reaction and couldn't go to Burnley," Solskjaer said. "We did a scan. It is not the same injury... you always consult your own medical people as well... you want the best second opinion. The advice was to have it done. It's not going to be a major one, probably three or four weeks." Midfielder Scott McTominay is out for a long spell after sustaining knee ligament damage in the win over Newcastle United last month but Solskjaer said that he would not overpay for reinforcements in the January transfer window. "We're still looking... we have our targets. If they become available, then it's something we want to do. If the right ones aren't there for the right money then we can't."

Hard night ahead for Manchester United: Solskjaer

England winger <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-we-figured-things-out-englands-sterling-draws-line-under-gomez-clash-261525">Raheem Sterling</a> has been dropped from the squad to face Montenegro in their Euro 2020 qualifier at Wembley after a "disturbance" at the national team's training camp on Monday, the Football Association said.

"The FA &nbsp;can confirm Raheem Sterling will not be considered for Thursday’s EURO 2020 qualifier against Montenegro as a result of a disturbance in a private team area at St. George’s Park today," the FA said in a statement.

The Daily Mail reported that Manchester City winger Sterling had clashed with Liverpool defender Joe Gomez after the England team got together at their Burton on Trent training centre on Monday,&nbsp;less than 24 hours after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238"> City lost 3-1 at Liverpool</a>.

The newspaper reported that "Sterling attempted to grab Gomez by the neck following his arrival in the players' canteen". The pair squared up in the latter stages of Sunday's Premier League clash after Gomez came on as a substitute.

The FA statement, which said Sterling will remain with the squad, did not address the specifics of the dispute or confirm if Gomez was the other party but England boss Gareth Southgate linked the incident to Sunday's top-of-the-table clash.

“We have taken the decision to not consider Raheem for the match against Montenegro on Thursday," Southgate said.

"One of the great challenges and strengths for us is that we’ve been able to separate club rivalries from the national team. Unfortunately the emotions of yesterday’s game were still raw," he added in the FA statement.

“My feeling is that the right thing for the team is the action we have taken. Now that the decision has been made with the agreement of the entire squad, it’s important that we support the players and focus on Thursday night," he added.

Sterling has become a key player for England in the past year after being criticised for his displays at the 2018 World Cup.

Last season he was named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association after scoring 25 goals in all competitions as City won a domestic treble of the Premier League title and the two Cup competitions.

For England, Sterling has scored 12 goals in 55 games but has been a regular under Southgate and scored twice in the recent 6-0 win away to Bulgaria.

England top Group A and will guarantee a place at the finals with a draw against Montenegro. They face another qualifier on Sunday away to Kosovo in which Sterling could feature.

England winger Raheem Sterling has been dropped from the squad to face Montenegro in their Euro 2020 qualifier at Wembley after a "disturbance" at the national team's training camp on Monday, the Football Association said.

England winger Raheem Sterling has been dropped from the squad to face Montenegro in their Euro 2020 qualifier at Wembley after a "disturbance" at the national team's training camp on Monday, the Football Association said. "The FA can confirm Raheem Sterling will not be considered for Thursday’s EURO 2020 qualifier against Montenegro as a result of a disturbance in a private team area at St. George’s Park today," the FA said in a statement. The Daily Mail reported that Manchester City winger Sterling had clashed with Liverpool defender Joe Gomez after the England team got together at their Burton on Trent training centre on Monday, less than 24 hours after City lost 3-1 at Liverpool. The newspaper reported that "Sterling attempted to grab Gomez by the neck following his arrival in the players' canteen". The pair squared up in the latter stages of Sunday's Premier League clash after Gomez came on as a substitute. The FA statement, which said Sterling will remain with the squad, did not address the specifics of the dispute or confirm if Gomez was the other party but England boss Gareth Southgate linked the incident to Sunday's top-of-the-table clash. “We have taken the decision to not consider Raheem for the match against Montenegro on Thursday," Southgate said. "One of the great challenges and strengths for us is that we’ve been able to separate club rivalries from the national team. Unfortunately the emotions of yesterday’s game were still raw," he added in the FA statement. “My feeling is that the right thing for the team is the action we have taken. Now that the decision has been made with the agreement of the entire squad, it’s important that we support the players and focus on Thursday night," he added. Sterling has become a key player for England in the past year after being criticised for his displays at the 2018 World Cup. Last season he was named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association after scoring 25 goals in all competitions as City won a domestic treble of the Premier League title and the two Cup competitions. For England, Sterling has scored 12 goals in 55 games but has been a regular under Southgate and scored twice in the recent 6-0 win away to Bulgaria. England top Group A and will guarantee a place at the finals with a draw against Montenegro. They face another qualifier on Sunday away to Kosovo in which Sterling could feature.

Football: Sterling dropped by England after training ground 'disturbance'

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-crush-watford-6-0-in-fa-cup-final-219717&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmtuPZ5rDiAhUc6nMBHTn-B4gQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2btHVha8mXSltZ0Dvh0ss-">Manchester City</a> forward Raheem Sterling, who is leading the fight against racism in soccer, said on Tuesday he hoped to talk to officials at England's Football Association and the Premier League about combating the menace.

Sterling told a conference in New York that the hectic nature of a footballer's schedule was the only thing that had kept him from meeting them already.

"In football, you can get caught up with training every day and games every two, three days so you don't really have a lot of time to be out and speaking to people," Sterling said during a moderated discussion at the Wall Street Journal's Future of Everything conference.

"But for sure on my off time and holidays if I can get around and speak to the FA and the people in the Premier League and see how we can go about doing things better in the future for sure I'll be there in person to try and do that", Sterling added.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/football%3Fpage%3D4&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmtuPZ5rDiAhUc6nMBHTn-B4gQFjAJegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1C9E2bO0UlLhGoTKtIW6Dx">Sterling, named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association</a> last month, scored two goals on Saturday as City crushed Watford 6-0 to become the first team to win the English domestic treble of the league championship and both domestic cups on Saturday.

He reiterated his hope to see clubs slapped with automatic nine-point deductions if their supporters indulged in racist behaviour.

"If I go to a football game and I support Manchester United, for example, I don't want to be the person that lets my team down by saying silly remarks in a stadium," said Sterling.

"If you know your team is going to get deducted nine points from them winning the league you are not going to say these racist remarks even though you shouldn't have it in your head", he added.

Last season, Sterling accused sections of the British media of fuelling racism with negative portrayals of young black players.

Sterling also encountered racist abuse during England's Euro 2020 qualifier in Montenegro in March, while there have been many other cases in European soccer in recent months.

Despite that, Sterling felt there had been some encouraging signs with regard to fan behaviour.

"Ten years ago it was a lot, lot worse than it is now. It's starting to get better and people are understanding that they can't say certain things," he said.

"But I think it's partly English culture on a Saturday to go out early and get ready for the game and start drinking. So a lot of these people are kind of drunk by the time they get (to the stadium). But it's getting a lot better than it used to be", Sterling said.

Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling, who is leading the fight against racism in soccer, said on Tuesday he hoped to talk to officials at England's Football Association and the Premier League about combating the menace.

Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling, who is leading the fight against racism in soccer, said on Tuesday he hoped to talk to officials at England's Football Association and the Premier League about combating the menace. Sterling told a conference in New York that the hectic nature of a footballer's schedule was the only thing that had kept him from meeting them already. "In football, you can get caught up with training every day and games every two, three days so you don't really have a lot of time to be out and speaking to people," Sterling said during a moderated discussion at the Wall Street Journal's Future of Everything conference. "But for sure on my off time and holidays if I can get around and speak to the FA and the people in the Premier League and see how we can go about doing things better in the future for sure I'll be there in person to try and do that", Sterling added. Sterling, named Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association last month, scored two goals on Saturday as City crushed Watford 6-0 to become the first team to win the English domestic treble of the league championship and both domestic cups on Saturday. He reiterated his hope to see clubs slapped with automatic nine-point deductions if their supporters indulged in racist behaviour. "If I go to a football game and I support Manchester United, for example, I don't want to be the person that lets my team down by saying silly remarks in a stadium," said Sterling. "If you know your team is going to get deducted nine points from them winning the league you are not going to say these racist remarks even though you shouldn't have it in your head", he added. Last season, Sterling accused sections of the British media of fuelling racism with negative portrayals of young black players. Sterling also encountered racist abuse during England's Euro 2020 qualifier in Montenegro in March, while there have been many other cases in European soccer in recent months. Despite that, Sterling felt there had been some encouraging signs with regard to fan behaviour. "Ten years ago it was a lot, lot worse than it is now. It's starting to get better and people are understanding that they can't say certain things," he said. "But I think it's partly English culture on a Saturday to go out early and get ready for the game and start drinking. So a lot of these people are kind of drunk by the time they get (to the stadium). But it's getting a lot better than it used to be", Sterling said.

Manchester City's Raheem Sterling wants to meet officials at FA and Premier League about racism

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenals-top-four-hopes-hit-in-3-0-defeat-at-leicester-214193&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4uuOS5v7hAhUE7nMBHXRgApMQFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2hrl5NCGAZMhv2r5dftfr1">Leicester City</a> midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association in relation to comments made on social media.

The 21-year-old posted a series of Tweets in 2013 and 2014, some with racial references and another in which he criticised women's football.

Choudhury apologised this week and Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers said his player was genuinely remorseful.

"They do not represent my true beliefs," England Under-21 international Choudhury said in a statement.

"I've learned a lot as a person in my early years as a professional - certainly enough to know that some of the thoughtless comments I have made in the past are both hurtful and offensive. I'm deeply sorry to anyone I have offended - both at the time and since they've been recirculated", Hamza said.

The FA said the comments constituted an "aggravated breach" as they included a reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation.

Choudhury has made 10 appearances for Leicester this season and started for the first time under Rodgers in their 3-0 Premier League victory over Arsenal last weekend.

He has until May 13 to respond to the charge.

Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association in relation to comments made on social media. The 21-year-old posted a series of Tweets in 2013 and 2014, some with racial references and another in which he criticised women's football.

Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury has been charged with misconduct by the Football Association in relation to comments made on social media. The 21-year-old posted a series of Tweets in 2013 and 2014, some with racial references and another in which he criticised women's football. Choudhury apologised this week and Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers said his player was genuinely remorseful. "They do not represent my true beliefs," England Under-21 international Choudhury said in a statement. "I've learned a lot as a person in my early years as a professional - certainly enough to know that some of the thoughtless comments I have made in the past are both hurtful and offensive. I'm deeply sorry to anyone I have offended - both at the time and since they've been recirculated", Hamza said. The FA said the comments constituted an "aggravated breach" as they included a reference to ethnic origin and/or race and/or sexual orientation. Choudhury has made 10 appearances for Leicester this season and started for the first time under Rodgers in their 3-0 Premier League victory over Arsenal last weekend. He has until May 13 to respond to the charge.

Leicester City's Hamza Choudhury charged with misconduct over social media comments

Former England women's soccer team manager Mark Sampson has apologised 'unreservedly' to Eniola Aluko and Drew Spence for comments he made during his tenure.

The FA sacked Sampson in September 2017 as a consequence of "inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour" in a previous position. It then reached a settlement with the 36-year-old after he brought a case of unfair dismissal against the governing body.

Before his contract was terminated, Sampson was investigated and subsequently cleared after being accused of discrimination and bullying by Aluko and Drew Spence.

"I believed strongly that the way the team worked, if I had said something that offended anyone, it would have been brought up at the time," Sampson told the Times.

"I was wrong. Ultimately two players were offended by language I used. For that I apologise to Drew and Eni unreservedly.

"When players made complaints, they needed to be handled with the respect they deserved," Sampson added.

"I don't think it was handled with the humility that it should have been by a lot of people ... I should have played a much more active role to ensure they were handled more respectfully. That's a big regret I will always have."

Former England women's soccer team manager Mark Sampson has apologised 'unreservedly' to Eniola Aluko and Drew Spence for comments he made during his tenure. The FA sacked Sampson in September 2017 as a consequence of "inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour" in a previous position.

Former England women's soccer team manager Mark Sampson has apologised 'unreservedly' to Eniola Aluko and Drew Spence for comments he made during his tenure. The FA sacked Sampson in September 2017 as a consequence of "inappropriate and unacceptable behaviour" in a previous position. It then reached a settlement with the 36-year-old after he brought a case of unfair dismissal against the governing body. Before his contract was terminated, Sampson was investigated and subsequently cleared after being accused of discrimination and bullying by Aluko and Drew Spence. "I believed strongly that the way the team worked, if I had said something that offended anyone, it would have been brought up at the time," Sampson told the Times. "I was wrong. Ultimately two players were offended by language I used. For that I apologise to Drew and Eni unreservedly. "When players made complaints, they needed to be handled with the respect they deserved," Sampson added. "I don't think it was handled with the humility that it should have been by a lot of people ... I should have played a much more active role to ensure they were handled more respectfully. That's a big regret I will always have."

Ex-England women's boss Mark Sampson apologises to Aluko, Spence

The Palestine Football Association chief urged fans on Sunday to burn pictures of Argentina striker Lionel Messi and replicas of his shirt if he plays against Israel in Jerusalem next weekend.

Twice world champions Argentina will play at Jerusalem`s Teddy Kollek Stadium on Saturday night in a World Cup warm-up match that has attracted huge interest among the Israeli fans, mainly because of Messi`s planned participation.

But the Palestinians are not happy that the match will be held in Jerusalem and Palestinian FA chief Jibril Rajoub wrote to Claudio Tapia, the head of the Argentinian FA, last week accusing Israel of using the match as a "political tool".

The stadium that will host the match is in west Jerusalem. The Palestinians want the eastern part of the city as the capital of a future state that will include the Gaza Strip and the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

However, the status of the city generally is highly sensitive. The match was originally slated to be played in Haifa but Israeli authorities contributed funding for it to be moved to Jerusalem, irking Palestinians further following U.S. President Donald

Trump`s recognition of the city as Israel`s capital. The U.S. embassy was moved there last month.

"The Israeli government has turned a regular sports match into a political tool. As was widely covered in Argentinian media, the match now is being played in order to celebrate the `70th&nbspanniversary of the State of Israel`," part of Rajoub`s letter said.

On Sunday, Rajoub declared a campaign against Argentina and particularly Messi, noting he has millions of fans across the Arab and Islamic world, Asia and Africa.

"He`s a big symbol so we are going to target him personally and we call on all to burn his picture and his shirt and to abandon him. We still hope that Messi will not come," he told reporters after leaving the Argentinian representative office in the West Bank town of Ramallah.

A small group of youths wearing Palestine soccer scarves demonstrated outside the representation office and attempted to set fire to an Argentinian flag.

Rajoub has long tried to get soccer`s world governing body, FIFA, and the International Olympic Committee to impose sanctions against Israel. This is mainly because of the Israeli government`s settlements policy in the West Bank and because it has imposed travel restrictions on Palestinian athletes citing security concerns. Those bodies have not heeded his calls.&nbsp

Argentina have made four previous pre-World Cup stopovers in Israel since 1986. The team has been drawn in World Cup Group D and will open its campaign against Iceland in Moscow on June 16.&nbsp

Most countries do not recognise either Israel`s or the Palestinians` sovereignty in Jerusalem and have embassies to Israel in the Tel Aviv area. However, Guatemala and Honduras followed the U.S. lead in moving their embassies last month.

Argentina will play at Jerusalem`s Teddy Kollek Stadium on Saturday night in a World Cup warm-up match

The Palestine Football Association chief urged fans on Sunday to burn pictures of Argentina striker Lionel Messi and replicas of his shirt if he plays against Israel in Jerusalem next weekend. Twice world champions Argentina will play at Jerusalem`s Teddy Kollek Stadium on Saturday night in a World Cup warm-up match that has attracted huge interest among the Israeli fans, mainly because of Messi`s planned participation. But the Palestinians are not happy that the match will be held in Jerusalem and Palestinian FA chief Jibril Rajoub wrote to Claudio Tapia, the head of the Argentinian FA, last week accusing Israel of using the match as a "political tool". The stadium that will host the match is in west Jerusalem. The Palestinians want the eastern part of the city as the capital of a future state that will include the Gaza Strip and the Israeli-occupied West Bank. However, the status of the city generally is highly sensitive. The match was originally slated to be played in Haifa but Israeli authorities contributed funding for it to be moved to Jerusalem, irking Palestinians further following U.S. President Donald Trump`s recognition of the city as Israel`s capital. The U.S. embassy was moved there last month. "The Israeli government has turned a regular sports match into a political tool. As was widely covered in Argentinian media, the match now is being played in order to celebrate the `70th&nbspanniversary of the State of Israel`," part of Rajoub`s letter said. On Sunday, Rajoub declared a campaign against Argentina and particularly Messi, noting he has millions of fans across the Arab and Islamic world, Asia and Africa. "He`s a big symbol so we are going to target him personally and we call on all to burn his picture and his shirt and to abandon him. We still hope that Messi will not come," he told reporters after leaving the Argentinian representative office in the West Bank town of Ramallah. A small group of youths wearing Palestine soccer scarves demonstrated outside the representation office and attempted to set fire to an Argentinian flag. Rajoub has long tried to get soccer`s world governing body, FIFA, and the International Olympic Committee to impose sanctions against Israel. This is mainly because of the Israeli government`s settlements policy in the West Bank and because it has imposed travel restrictions on Palestinian athletes citing security concerns. Those bodies have not heeded his calls. Argentina have made four previous pre-World Cup stopovers in Israel since 1986. The team has been drawn in World Cup Group D and will open its campaign against Iceland in Moscow on June 16. Most countries do not recognise either Israel`s or the Palestinians` sovereignty in Jerusalem and have embassies to Israel in the Tel Aviv area. However, Guatemala and Honduras followed the U.S. lead in moving their embassies last month.

Burn Messi shirts if he plays in Jerusalem: Palestine Football Association chief

England international Raheem Sterling has defended a new tattoo depicting an assault rifle after anti-gun campaigners labelled it "disgusting" on Tuesday.

The Manchester City forward posted a photograph on Instagram while training with the England team at St George's Park ahead of next month's World Cup in Russia with the tattoo of a rifle clearly visible on his right leg.

Founder of campaign group Mothers Against Guns, Lucy Cope, whose son was shot dead outside a London nightclub in July 2002, said: "This tattoo is disgusting. Raheem should hang his head in shame. It's totally unacceptable.

"We demand he has the tattoo lasered off or covered up with a different tattoo. If he refuses he should be dropped from the England team."

Sterling, who is part of Gareth Southgate's 23-man squad who begin their World Cup campaign in Volgograd against Tunisia on June 18, again took to Instagram to defend himself, insisting the tattoo has a "deeper meaning."

"When I was 2 my father died from being gunned down to death I made a promise to myself I would never touch a gun in my life time, I shoot with my right foot so it has a deeper meaning N (and it is) still unfinished," the 23-year-old wrote.

An FA spokesperson said: “We all support Raheem Sterling and acknowledge the honest and heartfelt account he gave via Instagram last night. He and the rest of the squad are focused solely on preparing for the forthcoming World Cup."

Raheem Sterling has defended a new tattoo depicting an assault rifle after anti-gun campaigners labelled it "disgusting"

England international Raheem Sterling has defended a new tattoo depicting an assault rifle after anti-gun campaigners labelled it "disgusting" on Tuesday. The Manchester City forward posted a photograph on Instagram while training with the England team at St George's Park ahead of next month's World Cup in Russia with the tattoo of a rifle clearly visible on his right leg. Founder of campaign group Mothers Against Guns, Lucy Cope, whose son was shot dead outside a London nightclub in July 2002, said: "This tattoo is disgusting. Raheem should hang his head in shame. It's totally unacceptable. "We demand he has the tattoo lasered off or covered up with a different tattoo. If he refuses he should be dropped from the England team." Sterling, who is part of Gareth Southgate's 23-man squad who begin their World Cup campaign in Volgograd against Tunisia on June 18, again took to Instagram to defend himself, insisting the tattoo has a "deeper meaning." "When I was 2 my father died from being gunned down to death I made a promise to myself I would never touch a gun in my life time, I shoot with my right foot so it has a deeper meaning N (and it is) still unfinished," the 23-year-old wrote. An FA spokesperson said: “We all support Raheem Sterling and acknowledge the honest and heartfelt account he gave via Instagram last night. He and the rest of the squad are focused solely on preparing for the forthcoming World Cup."

Football Association backs Raheem Sterling after gun tattoo row

United manager Jose Mourinho has been charged with misconduct in the wake of his comments about referee Anthony Taylor before Manchester United&#39;s goalless draw with Liverpool last week, the Football Association said on Thursday.

Mourinho said it would be &quot;difficult&quot; for Taylor, who is from the Greater Manchester area, to have &quot;a very good performance&quot; after being put in charge of the Premier League game between two fierce rivals.

&quot;Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has been charged with misconduct, in respect of comments he made relating to the appointed match referee prior to the Liverpool FC v Manchester United FC fixture on Monday 17 October 2016,&quot; the FA said in a statement.

The FA had earlier asked Mourinho to explain comments he made about the match referee. The 53-year-old has until Monday to respond to the charge.

FA rules prohibit managers and players from making comments about officials which could be viewed as intimidatory or influential before games.

On a busy day for the FA&#39;s disciplinary department, Sunderland boss Davis Moyes was also hit with a misconduct charge after he was sent off at Southampton in the League Cup on Wednesday.

Moyes has been accused by the FA of using &quot;abusive and/or insulting words towards a match official&quot; in their 1-0 defeat at St Mary&#39;s.

The Sunderland manager, who has until Tuesday to respond to the charge, was sent to the stands after referee Chris Kavanagh waved away a late penalty appeal.

Moyes, whose side are bottom of the Premier League, later admitted that he had deserved to be banished from the touchline.

(Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Manchester United and Sunderland managers were both hit with misconduct charges after making inappropriate comments about match referees

United manager Jose Mourinho has been charged with misconduct in the wake of his comments about referee Anthony Taylor before Manchester United's goalless draw with Liverpool last week, the Football Association said on Thursday. Mourinho said it would be "difficult" for Taylor, who is from the Greater Manchester area, to have "a very good performance" after being put in charge of the Premier League game between two fierce rivals. "Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has been charged with misconduct, in respect of comments he made relating to the appointed match referee prior to the Liverpool FC v Manchester United FC fixture on Monday 17 October 2016," the FA said in a statement. The FA had earlier asked Mourinho to explain comments he made about the match referee. The 53-year-old has until Monday to respond to the charge. FA rules prohibit managers and players from making comments about officials which could be viewed as intimidatory or influential before games. On a busy day for the FA's disciplinary department, Sunderland boss Davis Moyes was also hit with a misconduct charge after he was sent off at Southampton in the League Cup on Wednesday. Moyes has been accused by the FA of using "abusive and/or insulting words towards a match official" in their 1-0 defeat at St Mary's. The Sunderland manager, who has until Tuesday to respond to the charge, was sent to the stands after referee Chris Kavanagh waved away a late penalty appeal. Moyes, whose side are bottom of the Premier League, later admitted that he had deserved to be banished from the touchline. (Reuters)

EPL: Mourinho, Moyes charged with misconduct by FA

England&#39;s under-21 football coach Gareth Southgate looks likely to be put in temporary charge of the national team after the resignation of Roy Hodgson following the side&#39;s Euro 2016 exit, British media reported on Wednesday. 
 
&quot;Southgate is believed to have already been asked whether he is prepared to take over on a temporary basis and has indicated that he is,&quot; the Daily Telegraph said. 
 
A three-man Football Association (FA) panel has begun the job of finding a successor to Hodgson, who resigned in the wake of England&#39;s humiliating 2-1 defeat by Iceland in the last 16 of the European Championship on Monday. 
 
FA chief executive Martin Glenn has suggested that England might wait to fill the post because it is &quot;such an important decision&quot;, meaning it is unlikely they will have a new man permanently in place before their first World Cup qualifier away to Slovakia on Sept. 4. 
 
British media said that opened the way for former England centre-half Southgate. 
 
The prospect of a delay has intensified speculation that Frenchman Arsene Wenger could take the post in the long term. 
 
Wenger is the final year of his contract with Arsenal and was reported to be open to the idea of talking to England&#39;s football authorities about the job, but the FA may be unwilling to wait a year for the 66-year-old who has always maintained that he would never break a contract. 
 
Other names linked with the job include Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe, possibly in tandem with former England international Steven Gerrard, Hull City&#39;s Steve Bruce, former England manager Glenn Hoddle and Italian Claudio Ranieri, who won many admirers by steering Leicester City to their first Premier League title last month. 
 
The FA would have to move quickly to secure Ranieri, who is expected to sign an improved contract with Leicester next month. 
 
Glenn told a news conference on Tuesday: &quot;We clearly need an inspirational manager who can harness all of the resources that the English game... has got, everything we have now got at (the national football centre) St George&#39;s Park, to make us more resilient in tournaments. 
 
&quot;That I think is the brief... it is for an inspirational manager and management team to get the best out of a squad which has got high potential.&rdquo; 
 
(Reuters)

It is unlikely that the Football Association will have a new man in place before their first World Cup qualifier away to Slovakia

England's under-21 football coach Gareth Southgate looks likely to be put in temporary charge of the national team after the resignation of Roy Hodgson following the side's Euro 2016 exit, British media reported on Wednesday. "Southgate is believed to have already been asked whether he is prepared to take over on a temporary basis and has indicated that he is," the Daily Telegraph said. A three-man Football Association (FA) panel has begun the job of finding a successor to Hodgson, who resigned in the wake of England's humiliating 2-1 defeat by Iceland in the last 16 of the European Championship on Monday. FA chief executive Martin Glenn has suggested that England might wait to fill the post because it is "such an important decision", meaning it is unlikely they will have a new man permanently in place before their first World Cup qualifier away to Slovakia on Sept. 4. British media said that opened the way for former England centre-half Southgate. The prospect of a delay has intensified speculation that Frenchman Arsene Wenger could take the post in the long term. Wenger is the final year of his contract with Arsenal and was reported to be open to the idea of talking to England's football authorities about the job, but the FA may be unwilling to wait a year for the 66-year-old who has always maintained that he would never break a contract. Other names linked with the job include Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe, possibly in tandem with former England international Steven Gerrard, Hull City's Steve Bruce, former England manager Glenn Hoddle and Italian Claudio Ranieri, who won many admirers by steering Leicester City to their first Premier League title last month. The FA would have to move quickly to secure Ranieri, who is expected to sign an improved contract with Leicester next month. Glenn told a news conference on Tuesday: "We clearly need an inspirational manager who can harness all of the resources that the English game... has got, everything we have now got at (the national football centre) St George's Park, to make us more resilient in tournaments. "That I think is the brief... it is for an inspirational manager and management team to get the best out of a squad which has got high potential.” (Reuters)

Reports say Southgate may be England's temporary manager

Football Association chairman Greg Dyke has confirmed Sam Allardyce will be hired as England&#39;s next manager at an FA board meeting at Wembley today. 
 
Allardyce has been selected by a three-man panel who decided the Sunderland boss was the best bet on a short-list that also included Hull manager Steve Bruce, Bournemouth chief Eddie Howe and USA coach Jurgen Klinsmann. 
 
It has been reported that the FA&#39;s first choice was Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, but when he snubbed their approach, Allardyce, who had received a strong recommendation from former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson, shot to the top of their list of candidates to replace Roy Hodgson. 
 
Dyke is due to step down after three years as FA chairman today but, although he was not involved in the head-hunting process, he will be present as FA chief executive Martin Glenn and vice-chairman David Gill present their reasons for nominating Allardyce. 
 
Asked if Allardyce was the man to take over from Hodgson, who stepped down after England&#39;s humiliating Euro 2016 defeat against Iceland, Dyke told Sky Sports News: &quot;Clearly the three-man group are convinced he&#39;s the right man and I go along with that, yes. 
 
&quot;We appointed a three-man committee to go out and look at all the candidates, come back with a recommendation who they thought was the best man. They&#39;ve taken that decision and obviously we&#39;ll agree with them. I think you&#39;d have to ask them but as far as I understand it that&#39;s the discussion.&quot; 
 
Once that is ratified the business of finalising the details will take precedence, with personal terms still to be settled and a compensation package for Sunderland among the outstanding issues. 
 
All parties would prefer for a swift resolution, with the new Premier League season on the horizon and England&#39;s World Cup qualifying campaign beginning on September 4, but it is possible an official announcement on Allardyce&#39;s appointment could be held up by negotiations. 
 
The Black Cats, who appeared to have found stability in the dugout after several seasons of managerial strife, have already made their unhappiness clear and could hold out for a sizeable pay-off. 
 
Allardyce took charge of Sunderland for what should be the final time during a 3-0 friendly win over Hartlepool on Wednesday, but did not re-emerge for the second half as news of his impending appointment broke. 
 
(AFP)

Football Association's first choice reportedly was Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger

Football Association chairman Greg Dyke has confirmed Sam Allardyce will be hired as England's next manager at an FA board meeting at Wembley today. Allardyce has been selected by a three-man panel who decided the Sunderland boss was the best bet on a short-list that also included Hull manager Steve Bruce, Bournemouth chief Eddie Howe and USA coach Jurgen Klinsmann. It has been reported that the FA's first choice was Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, but when he snubbed their approach, Allardyce, who had received a strong recommendation from former Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson, shot to the top of their list of candidates to replace Roy Hodgson. Dyke is due to step down after three years as FA chairman today but, although he was not involved in the head-hunting process, he will be present as FA chief executive Martin Glenn and vice-chairman David Gill present their reasons for nominating Allardyce. Asked if Allardyce was the man to take over from Hodgson, who stepped down after England's humiliating Euro 2016 defeat against Iceland, Dyke told Sky Sports News: "Clearly the three-man group are convinced he's the right man and I go along with that, yes. "We appointed a three-man committee to go out and look at all the candidates, come back with a recommendation who they thought was the best man. They've taken that decision and obviously we'll agree with them. I think you'd have to ask them but as far as I understand it that's the discussion." Once that is ratified the business of finalising the details will take precedence, with personal terms still to be settled and a compensation package for Sunderland among the outstanding issues. All parties would prefer for a swift resolution, with the new Premier League season on the horizon and England's World Cup qualifying campaign beginning on September 4, but it is possible an official announcement on Allardyce's appointment could be held up by negotiations. The Black Cats, who appeared to have found stability in the dugout after several seasons of managerial strife, have already made their unhappiness clear and could hold out for a sizeable pay-off. Allardyce took charge of Sunderland for what should be the final time during a 3-0 friendly win over Hartlepool on Wednesday, but did not re-emerge for the second half as news of his impending appointment broke. (AFP)

Sam Allardyce set to become England's next manager

Belgium sacked national coach Marc Wilmots today after their highly fancied team of talents failed to advance beyond the quarter-finals at Euro 2016 this month, Belgian Football Association president Francois De Keersmaecker said. 
 
&quot;The objectives set for the Euros were not achieved. We need a new momentum,&quot; he told a news conference. 
 
A search was under way for a coach with international experience to take over before a friendly against Spain on September 1 ahead of the World Cup qualifiers. 
 
He thanked Wilmots for his achievements over the past four years and said an understanding had been reached over Wilmots contract, which had a compensation clause if he were sacked. 
 
The former Schalke midfielder, 47, took the Red Devils to the quarter-finals of the last World Cup and top of FIFAs world ranking chart with a team built around Chelseas Eden Hazard and Manchester City pair Vincent Kompany and Kevin De Bruyne. 
 
But a clueless and disjointed 3-1 defeat to Wales in the Euro 2016 quarters left critics calling for Wilmotshead and Belgian fans wondering what happened to the team that many had hoped would deliver the countrys first major trophy. 
 
(Reuters)

A search is under way for a coach with international experience to take over on September 1 ahead of the World Cup qualifiers

Belgium sacked national coach Marc Wilmots today after their highly fancied team of talents failed to advance beyond the quarter-finals at Euro 2016 this month, Belgian Football Association president Francois De Keersmaecker said. "The objectives set for the Euros were not achieved. We need a new momentum," he told a news conference. A search was under way for a coach with international experience to take over before a friendly against Spain on September 1 ahead of the World Cup qualifiers. He thanked Wilmots for his achievements over the past four years and said an understanding had been reached over Wilmots contract, which had a compensation clause if he were sacked. The former Schalke midfielder, 47, took the Red Devils to the quarter-finals of the last World Cup and top of FIFAs world ranking chart with a team built around Chelseas Eden Hazard and Manchester City pair Vincent Kompany and Kevin De Bruyne. But a clueless and disjointed 3-1 defeat to Wales in the Euro 2016 quarters left critics calling for Wilmotshead and Belgian fans wondering what happened to the team that many had hoped would deliver the countrys first major trophy. (Reuters)

Belgium sack coach Wilmots after Euro disappointment

England coach Roy Hodgson&#39;s plan to visit the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing with a few members of his squad have been dashed by Dave Reddin, the Football Association&#39;s(FA) head of performance services, according to British media reports. 
 
The memorial stands as testament to thousands of British and South African servicemen who died in the Battles of the Somme between 1915 and 1918 and is a three-hour round trip from England&#39;s European Championship base at Chantilly. 
 
The names of 37 footballers, including Evelyn Lintott, a former England player and the first chairman of the Professional Footballers&#39; Association (PFA), are also commemorated here. 
 
Reddin, along with the squad&#39;s sports scientists, said the trip would be too draining and likely to impact on the team&#39;s performance at the tournament, according to the Times. 
 
FA chief executive Martin Glenn will represent the FA and England at Thiepval later on Tuesday. 
 
Midfielder James Milner and goalkeeper Joe Hart made video messages after being blocked from travelling to the memorial. 
 
&quot;Among those who died were football players -- professional and amateur -- and of course football fans. Others were so badly injured they could never again play the game I love,&quot; Milner said. 
 
England, who are in Group B, play their first match of the tournament against Russia in Marseille on Saturday. Wales and Slovakia are the other teams in the group.

Reportedly FA head Dave Reddin believes, the trip to the memorial will be a very exhausting one and may affect the team's performance

England coach Roy Hodgson's plan to visit the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing with a few members of his squad have been dashed by Dave Reddin, the Football Association's(FA) head of performance services, according to British media reports. The memorial stands as testament to thousands of British and South African servicemen who died in the Battles of the Somme between 1915 and 1918 and is a three-hour round trip from England's European Championship base at Chantilly. The names of 37 footballers, including Evelyn Lintott, a former England player and the first chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), are also commemorated here. Reddin, along with the squad's sports scientists, said the trip would be too draining and likely to impact on the team's performance at the tournament, according to the Times. FA chief executive Martin Glenn will represent the FA and England at Thiepval later on Tuesday. Midfielder James Milner and goalkeeper Joe Hart made video messages after being blocked from travelling to the memorial. "Among those who died were football players -- professional and amateur -- and of course football fans. Others were so badly injured they could never again play the game I love," Milner said. England, who are in Group B, play their first match of the tournament against Russia in Marseille on Saturday. Wales and Slovakia are the other teams in the group.

Football Association blocks England squad's plan for Somme homage

Sunderland have given permission to the Football Association (FA) to speak to manager Sam Allardyce about the vacant England post, the Premier League club said on Wednesday. 
 
Allardyce, 61, is one of the favourites to succeed Roy Hodgson, who resigned last month after England&#39;s humiliating exit from the European Championship at the hands of Iceland. 
 
Sunderland said the ongoing speculation over the future of Allardyce, who, according to British media, has already been interviewed by a three-man FA panel, was &quot;extremely damaging&quot; to the club. 
 
&quot;Sam is very much key to our plans,&quot; the club, which narrowly escaped relegation last season, said in a statement. 
 
&quot;After what was an extremely challenging season, we are keen to see a period of stability, both on and off the field, and we want him to remain as manager of our football club.&quot; 
 
Sunderland said it allowed the FA to contact Allardyce at the manager&#39;s request but sought a quick end to the uncertainty. 
 
&quot;We urge the FA to respect the disruption that this process is causing and bring about a swift resolution to the matter,&quot; the club added. 
 
Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe, former England coach Glenn Hoddle, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and United States manager Juergen Klinsmann have also been linked with the post by the local media. 
 
(Reuters)

Sam Allardyce, 61, is one of the favourites to succeed Roy Hodgson, who resigned last month

Sunderland have given permission to the Football Association (FA) to speak to manager Sam Allardyce about the vacant England post, the Premier League club said on Wednesday. Allardyce, 61, is one of the favourites to succeed Roy Hodgson, who resigned last month after England's humiliating exit from the European Championship at the hands of Iceland. Sunderland said the ongoing speculation over the future of Allardyce, who, according to British media, has already been interviewed by a three-man FA panel, was "extremely damaging" to the club. "Sam is very much key to our plans," the club, which narrowly escaped relegation last season, said in a statement. "After what was an extremely challenging season, we are keen to see a period of stability, both on and off the field, and we want him to remain as manager of our football club." Sunderland said it allowed the FA to contact Allardyce at the manager's request but sought a quick end to the uncertainty. "We urge the FA to respect the disruption that this process is causing and bring about a swift resolution to the matter," the club added. Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe, former England coach Glenn Hoddle, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger and United States manager Juergen Klinsmann have also been linked with the post by the local media. (Reuters)

Sunderland confirm manager Sam Allardyce in England talks

football-association

Football Association, News on Football Association, stories on Football Association, articles on Football Association, Football Association stories at Wion, Football Association news, Football Association latest news