April Fool’s: Liverpool star signs for Everton, Roman Abramovich becomes Chelsea manager and other great football pranks

It’s April Fool’s day, so talkSPORT.com looks at the best pranks in football over the years. And there are some classics.

2

 

1. Roman Abramovich appoints himself as Chelsea manager

We start with one of our own April Fool’s Day gags. On 1 April, 2013, with Rafael Benitez proving a very unpopular interim manager at Stamford Bridge – and the ninth boss in less than a decade under Roman Abramovich’s ownership – our intrepid reporter ‘Paolo Fril’ informed the world that the Russian planned to name himself the next Chelsea manager. We even got ex-Blues boss Gianluca Vialli to confirm that Abramovich had been in contact for advice on being a manager, with the Italian informing us he wanted to buy his coaching badges!

2. Grandstand fight

As Des Lynam introduced viewers to the Beeb’s flagship Saturday sports show on 1 April 1989, two men in the studio behind started having a fight. One day we hope to see something similar on Sky Soccer Saturday, except for real.

3. Craven Cottage is sinking

BBC Teletext – remember that? – claimed on 1 April 2000 that Fulham’s riverside ground, Craven Cottage, was gradually sinking into the River Thames. It was an April Fool of course, but this season it seems Fulham really are sinking fast.

4. Ian Rush signs for Everton

In the 1980s Merseyside rivals Liverpool were undoubtedly the two best teams in England, if not Europe, and the one man who seemed to give the red half of Merseyside the edge was Ian Rush. Anfield’s muzzy-marksman made a habit of scoring against the Blues, particularly in cup finals. So when Shoot magazine pictured Rushie on the cover in an Everton shirt on 1 April 1989, Kopites couldn’t believe their eyes and Evertonians jumped for joy… until they turned to page seven, where it was revealed to be a cruel hoax under the headline, ‘Rush For Everton Neverton’.

@_shootfootball

2

5. Madonna Maradona

The year 1989 truly was a vintage one for April Fool’s Day football gags. An Italian TV channel claimed Diego Maradona was dating similarly named pop star Madonna. Only trouble was, Maradona was married and didn’t take too kindly to suggestions he was cheating on his missus. Maradona was worshipped like a god in Naples and, allegedly under pressure from local Mafia, a grovelling on-air apology was subsequently issued by the TV company.

6. Man United’s new manager

In April 2016, with Louis van Gaal on his way out – he’s still angry about it – Ferdinand tweeted a picture of himself standing on the touchline at Old Trafford, with the words: “New Chapter.. Contract signed.. Looking forward to going into management in June. Big summer ahead!”

Of course, Rio was not set for the dugout at Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho arriving instead. Turns out he’d ‘merk’d’ everyone. For those unfamiliar with the term, it was used when he pranked his team-mates in Rio’s World Cup wind-ups, including Wayne Rooney, Gary Neville and David Beckham.

7. Southampton’s new look

The Saints can be a funny lot and in 2016, they claimed, after meeting with focus groups, they were unveiling a ‘more modernised crest that continues to symbolise the city and its surrounding areas, while acknowledging more modern trends.’

The football on the crest was to be replaced by the Saint emoji. “The thinking being that over recent years the club has become much more than just a football club, with its work in the community and its forward-thinking approach,” a statement read.

southamptonfc.com

2

---

Relive Sports Mole's live coverage of Derby County's goalless draw with Sheffield Wednesday, as the Rams failed to reclaim their place in the top two. Derby County missed out on the chance to
Forest Green Rovers
forestgreenrovers.sportsprss.co.uk
30/03/2019 - • Bristol City forward hits hat-trick to blunt Blades• Derby breeze to 6-1 win over lowly Expand 30/03/2019 - • Bristol City forward hits hat-trick to blunt Blades• Derby breeze to 6-1 win over lowly Rotherham• Sheffield United slipped to third after Bristol City came from behind to take victory at Bramall Lane, with
Clockwatch | The Guardian

---

Steven Gerrard has accused Neil Lennon of playing the "victim card", following Sunday's fractious clash with Rangers. Celtic ran out 2-1 winners in a pulsating meeting with their bitter rivals at Parkhead, thanks to James Forrest's late winner. It was a match typically full of controversy
Celtic are playing the "victim card", claims Gerrard - msn.com

---

The Liverpool defender was full of praise for his club captain, who lifted the Champions League trophy after Saturday's win over Tottenham Virgil van Dijk says Liverpool's "overlooked
Bournemouth striker Josh King heaps praise on Liverpool

---

May 30, 2019 · James Milner and Joel Matip will be rewarded by Liverpool with new contracts after Champions League final Follow your club now for first access to all our news, views and analysis Liverpool.
Two Liverpool stars set for contract extensions after

---

Arsenal's least favorite fan, Piers Morgan, has said that Aaron Ramsey will not be missed. But his logic proves just how wrong he is. I think I'd gone a whole year without having to type the
Piers Morgan reveals why Arsenal won't miss Juventus-bound

---

Manchester United news: Gary Neville says 'really poor' Paul

---

Wilfried Zaha tells Crystal Palace he wants to quit to sign for a Champions League team will help him secure a summer transfer. He wants a quick resolution to his future and hopes to have a
Wilfried Zaha has told Crystal Palace he wants to leave the

---

Middlesbrough are looking for a new manager after deciding not to renew Tony Pulis' contract following the club's failure to win promotion back to the Premier League. The Teessiders announced

---

Liverpool release new home kit ahead of 2018-19 season with nod to Reds' history and identity. It has maintained the 'red pepper' colour of the 2017-18 shirt, the most popular in Liverpool history
Liverpool's 2019-20 home kit revealed - pre-order now

---

Manchester United transfer news: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 'wants' Juventus winger Douglas Costa but could face competition Manchester City and Paris Saint-German are also reportedly interested in
Manchester United transfer news: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer 'wants

---

Gareth Bale transfer news: Real Madrid star has not fallen out of love with football, says Wales boss Ryan Giggs. The Welsh forward is out of favour at the Bernabeu but the Wales boss has not seen
Tottenham news and transfers live: Gareth Bale latest

---

Callum Wilson 'happy' at Bournemouth amid Chelsea transfer links

---

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson is rewarded with No.1 shirt to cap remarkable debut season at Werder Bremen deny any Liverpool approach for goalkeeper Anfield HQ
Liverpool - Onefootball

---

ranked Top 10 captains of the Premier League era - where does Vincent Kompany stand among legendary skippers of Manchester United and Liverpool?
~ Top 10 captains of the Premier League era - where does

---

Chelsea midfielder Erin Cuthbert is among three WSL players who have been shortlisted for both the PFA Women's Players' Player of the Year and the Young Player of the Year gong. The Scotland
Brighton 0-4 Arsenal: Women's Super League - as it happened

---

'World Cup final' for Reds
LONDON • The Merseyside derby has always been a fiery affair, but tomorrow's clash at Goodison Park will have an added edge, with Liverpool eager to hold on to their lead at the top of the Premier League table and Everton desperate to claim bragging rights for once.
The last time the Toffees beat their cross-town rivals was in October 2010 under then manager David Moyes and the 18-match winless run against the Reds is their worst in history.
But, while Jurgen Klopp can empathise with the long-suffering home fans and is "generous enough to wish them luck", that magnanimity does not apply when both sides meet "in a World Cup final for us and them".
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the encounter, he said: "I have had no bad experiences so far with Evertonians. If we are first and second in the table, as long as it is the right first and second (place), I am okay."
Promising to keep his emotions in check unlike the reverse fixture in December, when he was fined £8,000 (S$14,326) for running onto the pitch to celebrate Divock Origi's added-time winner at Anfield, he said at his pre-match press conference yesterday: "I didn't want to do it, it just happened. We are not planning the celebrations, we are planning (for) the game.
"I'm not sure it's possible to be more motivated than we were in the previous derby.

NO LONGER THE FRIENDLY DERBY
We always want to be very aggressive in the best football way. We are ready to hurt ourselves and not the other guy. We fight for the ball, not the bone. The crowd wants to win and the best way to do that is to keep 11 players on the pitch.
JURGEN KLOPP, Liverpool manager, hoping t o keep his players' tempers in check.

"The game was tough and it will be tough again... Hopefully, it has a good end for us."
Klopp also called on his players to "use the loud atmosphere" to fuel their game and "be very aggressive (but) in the best football way".
The German told reporters: "It is a very, very, very important game in the season.
"Not only because of the situation, but because of the history. We are ready to hurt ourselves and not the other guy. We fight for the ball, not the bone.
"I was not involved a lot in crazy games, so for me, it's a misunderstanding. The crowd wants to win and the best way to do that is to keep 11 players on the pitch.
"There have been a few situations in the past where the red cards have played a factor but not recently.
"In the game, it's emotional and passionate - that's how football should be. You're against your opponent constantly and sometimes you forget to support your own team but, at Goodison, they support their team.
"Anything less than 100 per cent and you will lose. We always have pretty good games, but experience tells you, you have to be spot on and fight each fight and stay clear, stay fair and stay aggressive in the most legal way."
The 51-year-old also revealed that Roberto Firmino, who missed their midweek league win over Watford with an ankle injury, was in contention to play.
He said: "Firmino has been out there and running in training yesterday. He is very positive, but that is Bobby's nature. It looks really good, but I don't know for tomorrow."
However, even if the Brazil forward fails to make his starting line-up, Klopp still wants more goals from other areas of the pitch, including dead-ball situations.
He added: "Set pieces helped us in the beginning, it disappeared a little but, hopefully, we get it back because I love scoring from set pieces."
And, while Liverpool and Everton rarely agree on anything, Klopp's opposite number Marco Silva shared the same sentiments yesterday at his pre-match press conference that it was a "special match for the city and the fans".
Recalling Origi's "lucky goal", the Portuguese manager also mocked the manner in which the Reds boss celebrated the win as if it "was the final of a World Cup".

EVERTON V LIVERPOOL

Singtel TV Ch102 & StarHub Ch227, Monday, 12.15am

SEE ALSO Klopp needs to fire up his midfielders

---

Women's World Cup Women's Reds must forget 2018 final woes. are preparing for their first ever Champions League final and first final in any competition since the 2015 EFL Cup Final.
Champions League final: Liverpool defeats Tottenham, 2-0, for

---

On Saturday in the Champions League final, the Reds beat Tottenham 2-0 to lift the trophy for the sixth time, the first since 2005. standings, latest news and video. The Women's World Cup
Wijnaldum: Reds must forget 2018 final woes - espn.com

---

'World Cup final' for Reds, Football News & Top Stories - The

---

I don't look back at the big finals I won with the Reds and remember whether we played well or not, just that we got the job done. five epic Cricket World Cup moments. The man who lost a

---

Recalling Origi's "lucky goal", the Portuguese supervisor additionally mocked the style by which the Reds boss celebrated the win as if it "was the final of a World Cup". EVERTON V LIVERPOOL. Singtel TV Ch102 & StarHub Ch227, Monday, 12.15am
WOMEN'S WORLD CUP TICKET PACKAGE | Cincinnati Reds

---

Liverpool and FIFA Club World Cup - Confusion after Reds 'receive £100m invite' Liverpool are yet to find out if they will play in a FIFA Club World Cup 2019 - regardless of the outcome against
Tottenham 0-2 Liverpool: 'Reds were lacklustre, but who cares

---

Following the victory over Tottenham in the Champions League final, Liverpool will compete in the Club World Cup towards the end of the year. with the Reds also set to play in the Community
'World Cup remaining' for Reds - Latest News

---

Fans who purchase the World Cup Ticket Package on reds.com may pick up their T-shirt at the World Cup Viewing Village events, which coincide with every match the US Women's National team plays, or at any Reds home game at the Fan Club Corner (just inside the main entrance).
Liverpool vs. Tottenham Champions League score: Salah

---

Jun 01, 2019 · The Reds made a goal from Mohamed Salah in the second minuted stand up for the entire match en route to the win. In final test before Women's World Cup, U.S. flexes depth in 3-0 win over Mexico.
World Cup - Four Reds in Quarter Final

---

Recalling Origi's "lucky goal", the Portuguese manager also mocked the manner in which the Reds boss celebrated the win as if it "was the final of a World Cup". EVERTON V LIVERPOOL Singtel TV
When the Reds will compete in the Club World Cup

---

The quarter finals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup kick off tonight! Evra, van Persie & Fellaini and Januzaj are still in the hunt! We've felt a void the past two days with no football - well now it's finally back with an action-packed evening of quarter-final action: France vs. Germany and Brazil vs. Columbia.
Liverpool and FIFA Club World Cup - Confusion after Reds

Manchester United news: How Solskjaer could miss out on Champions League qualification even with Premier League top four finish

Manchester United may yet finish in the Premier League’s top four thanks to a remarkable turnaround under Ole manager Gunnar Solskjaer.

However, they could still be denied a place in next season’s Champions League!

Since replacing Jose Mourinho in December, Solskjaer has turned the club’s season around and put them back in contention to qualify for Europe’s elite competition.

4

His work has been so impressive, he has landed the job full-time, but despite the Norwegian’s sterling efforts, he may be cruelly denied a place in the UCL by UEFA regulations.

England could have five teams in the Champions League next season, but it is still possible that the team that finishes fourth may not be one of them.

UEFA qualification rules allocate four automatic group stage spots to the four best-performing countries over the past five years.

Spain, with five straight Champions League wins as well as four of the last five Europa League crowns, are well on top, but England are significantly clear in second of the chasing group and safe with four slots for at least the next few seasons.

4

However, a rule change after the 2014/15 season means the winners of the Europa League automatically gain a place in Europe’s top competition – in the same way the winners of the Champions League always have done.

However, the maximum number of places any country can have in the Champions League is five.

With Liverpool and Manchester City fighting it out for the title, they seem set to take the top two spaces.

And Tottenham fans will grimace and remember how they were denied a place in the Champions League, despite finishing fourth.

In 2012 Harry Redknapp’s men thought they had claimed the last qualifying spot, but were shunted into the Europa League after Chelsea beat Bayern Munich in the Allianz Arena to lift the prestigious trophy.

Chelsea, as holders, took their place as countries were only allowed four representatives.

Martin Lipton of The Sun explained how the stipulation could mean United missing out on a seat at Europe’s top table.

4

He wrote: “Since then, UEFA have changed the regulations to allow a fifth team – but ONLY if the Champions league or Europa League winners do not qualify through their domestic championship.

“If Manchester United or Spurs were to win the Champions League but finish outside the top four, they would be top seeds in the competition next season.

“Likewise, should Arsenal or Chelsea win the Europa League and not make the top four, they would also go into the Champions League.

“Just suppose the title race finished: 1 Manchester City; 2 Liverpool; 3 Chelsea; 4 Manchester United but that the two north London sides won their respective European trophies.

“It would mean the top three being joined by Spurs and Arsenal – both as top seeds – with United missing out.

“The other Europa League slot would either go to the FA Cup winners (if they are not a top four side) or the team finishing seventh in the Prem.

“Unlikely? Yes. And it could all become academic within a few weeks.

“For the moment, though, it remains a possibility. And a slight worry for fans of at least four clubs…”

---

Brazil Star Neymar Ruled Out of 2019 Copa America with Ankle

---

Callum Hudson-Odoi makes first England start before first Premier League start the Chelsea teen became the second youngest player ever to start a competitive match for England - behind the
Soccer: Racist abuse tarnishes England win in Montenegro

---

Arsenal transfer news: Unai Emery 'wants to bring' Paris Saint-Germain full-back Thomas Meunier to Emirates The pair worked together while Emery was manager of the Ligue 1 club By Josh Fordham
Unai Emery urges Arsenal board to sign Thomas Meunier despite

---

Transfer news and football gossip: Gareth Bale to stay at

---

The 2019 Women's World Cup gets underway from France on June 7 and will feature 24 teams vying for the title. Team USA is the favorite at 5-2 to win it all, followed closely by the host nation France at 7-2. But in order to hoist the trophy, teams must advance past the group stage.
Women's World Cup 2019 live stream: how to watch every

---

mixed feelings McTominay reveals he felt conflicted watching Liverpool win Champions League James | Jun. 04, 2019 Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay admits he struggled to watch bitter rivals Liverpool lift the Champions League trophy on Saturday night - but he was delighted for Andy Robertson.
Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay reveals he felt

---

Liverpool news: Everton fan Tony Bellew selects alternative Premier League XI with no Reds players Written by: fpnews Posted on: May 3, 2019 Die-hard Everton fan Tony Bellew has picked an alternative Premier League Team of the Year - without a single Liverpool player.
Everton fan Tony Bellew selects alternative Premier League XI

---

Tottenham Hotspur fans who can't make it to their new stadium's opening match have all been wondering the same thing - will the match be televised? Spurs have confirmed that, test events and safety certificates allowing, they will open their new 62,062-seater stadium on April 3 with the Premier League match against Crystal Palace.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium - Wikipedia

---

Tranmere will take a slender advantage into their Sky Bet League Two play-off semi-final second leg after goal-line technology helped them secure a 1-0 victory over 10-man Forest Green at Prenton
Tranmere 1-0 Forest Green: Rovers top ten-man Green in League

---

Arsenal consider offering Danny Welbeck new contract to fend off West Ham, Everton and Newcastle interest was posted by FreshAir on 27 April, 2019 .Click here to see the post on Troll Football - The best site for Football trolls, images, gifs, videos and more.
Arsenal news : Danny Welbeck may get new Arsenal deal amid

---

A win for Manchester City. in the FA Cup final would be their 50th triumph in all competitions this season.. It would also mark 50 years since another much admired and stylish side won the famous old trophy under Joe Mercer and his assistant Malcolm Allison.
manchester-city-won-the-fa-cup-in-1969-wearing-a-kit-inspired
fussboll.com/2019/05/17/manchester-city-won-the-fa-cup-in-1969-wearing-a-kit-inspired-by-milan/manchester-city-won-the-fa-cup-in-1969-wearing-a-kit-inspired-by-milan-jpg/
manchester-city-won-the-fa-cup-in-1969-wearing-a-kit-inspired-by-milan.jpg. Scroll for more . Tap. Popular; Latest; Comments; Paul Ince slams Manchester United for
Georgia Stanway: Manchester City FA Cup final star lauds

---

Manchester United have released their 2018/19 season review DVD, despite enduring a dire campaign. The Red Devils went trophyless for a second successive season and finished sixth in the Premier
Premier League: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Manchester United

---

Liverpool news: Joe Gomez returns to training after three months out with broken leg

Liverpool defender Joe Gomez has returned to training after three months on the sidelines with a broken leg.

The centre-back, 21, was enjoying a superb season for the Reds before he sustained the injury against Burnley in December.

2

In the 13 Premier League matches the Englishmen started this term, Liverpool conceded just four goals.

And Anfield chief Jurgen Klopp has admitted he will not rush the Gomez back into the fold.

He said: “Joe was out for 15 weeks. That’s long, so he needs to now create the basis again for the rest of the season.”

2

Klopp has also confirmed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could return to first-team training soon.

The midfielder has not featured this season after damaging his cruciate knee ligament last April.

“We’re careful of course,” Klopp said. “He is working, he is doing a lot and I think will be in training in a week again. Then he will be fine.”

Liverpool are currently one point ahead of Manchester City at the top of the table with two months to go, although Pep Guardiola’s side have a game in hand.

They are next in action against Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on Sunday.

---

Chelsea news: Eden Hazard goal stats show how hard it will be

---

Man United transfer news LIVE: Daniel James SIGNS, Wan-Bissaka is top target, Romas Icardi bid rejected next article Tottenham transfer news LIVE: Spurs sign Notts County teenager, Manchester United chasing Eric Dier, Striker set to join Fenerbache

---

Thousands of people falsely believed they had scooped tickets to the Champions League. final after a mistake from retail giants Zavvi.. The entertainment firm were hosting a competition with Mastercard, offering one lucky fan a VIP ticket to Madrid to watch Liverpool vs Tottenham on June 1.
Liverpool vs Tottenham: Zavvi accidentally email entire

---

Highlights from Arsenal's 4-2 win over Tottenham in the Premier League. In the first 25 minutes, Arsenal could have been three to the good; Spurs couldn't cope with the high press and were forced

---

Jurgen Klopp has explained why Roberto Firmino does not start Liverpool's Champions League semi-final first leg clash against Barcelona. Brazil international Firmino was a doubt for Wednesday's
Liverpool news: Why are Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino not

---

NOT SO FRIEND-LY FA Cup final referee: These fans are unsure about seeing Kevin Friend officiate Manchester City vs Watford clash - 'Cup final will be a bloodbath'
FA Cup final referee: These fans are unsure about seeing

---

Mourinho is really the special one, particularly when it comes to his Chelsea records. Indeed, even if the actual Chelsea Manager Maurizio Sarri's first season was awesome, the special one did better. Sarri finished the season a Europa League title winner. In terms of victories, only one Chelsea manager did better than Sarri.
Maurizio Sarri has the second best win rate for a debut

---

Ajax captain Matthijs de Ligt has spoken out on his future with both Barcelona and Manchester United linked with a move for the defender. The Dutchman has been getting rave reviews over the past few months for his performances in the Champions League. Captaining Ajax to the semi-finals, de Ligt
Matthijs de Ligt latest: Ajax defender speaks out amid

---

Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha has said he is ready to leave the club in order to play UEFA Champions League football.. The forward has been outstanding for the Eagles in recent years and is
Wilfried Zaha tells Crystal Palace he wants to quit to sign

---

Geoffrey Boycott DESTROYS Manchester United players and Ole

---

Solskjaer one defeat away from worst Man Utd run in 27 years… and stats show West Ham a bigger danger than many think A loss against West Ham will mean five defeats in six - something they have
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is one defeat away from Manchester
hollywoodadviser.com/ole-gunnar-solskjaer-is-one-defeat-away-from-manchester-uniteds-worst-run-in-27-years/
WHEEL-Y BAD The Red Devils welcome West Ham to Old Trafford on Saturday evening, a game you can hear live on talkSPORT Defeat for Manchester United on Saturday will equal their worst run of form in 27 years. The Red Devils welcome West Ham United to Old Trafford at 5.30pm in a game you can hear live on talkSPORT.

---

Why Roberto Firmino is so important to Liverpool. Salah's absence is devastating but Firmino's is even trickier to manage because it has a direct effect on how everyone else in the team plays.
Roberto Firmino is under appreciated in Brazil but that's

---

Billy Sharp: Inspirational Sheffield United skipper deserves a proper crack at the Premier League

He is the most prolific English League striker of his generation. He is the comeback king. His name is Billy Sharp.

Scoring 227 league goals since the year 2000 is a pretty remarkable achievement – that is before any mitigating factors come into the equation.

6

Sharp’s story has been one hell of a rollercoaster with more than a fair share of adversities along the way.

None more so than the tragic loss of his son, Luey Jacob, back in October 2011.

He was just two days old when he tragically died of gastroschisis.

Many would have understandably taken the necessary time out to get their head straight – not Sharp.

Three days later and he was captaining his side at that time, Doncaster, in a Championship clash at home to Middlesbrough.

He opened the scoring with a 14th-minute wonder goal, which he celebrated by lifting up his strip to reveal a T-shirt bearing the slogan ‘That’s for you, son’.

 

6

Despite eventually falling to a 3-1 defeat, Sharp labelled the goal ‘the most important of his career’, as the striker gained huge plaudits and respect for his show of incredible strength.

Now 33, you’d be thinking Sharp – the modern day ‘fox in the box’ – would be showing signs of slowing up. Think again.

He has already scored an incredible 24 goals in 38 appearances for Chris Wilder’s promotion chasers this season – including a superb hat-trick at Aston Villa back in February.

Not bad for a ‘fat lad from Sheffield’ – the words etched across a shirt he unveiled during a game back in 2010.

6

Sharp has regrets. Speaking after becoming the joint-highest scoring Englishman this century following a brace against Blackburn in December, he said: “If I could have played here all my career then I would have done.

“I’d have loved to have done that.

“I had to go away a couple of times to benefit myself but I feel as if I’ve come back at exactly the right time.

“I feel as fit and as strong as ever. I feel I can keep going for sometime yet.”

And who could argue with that?

It’s not just at Bramall Lane where Sharp has made his mark, though.

He made his first-team debut for the Blades during the 2004/05 season, but after struggling to make an impact was shipped out on loan to Rushden & Diamonds.

The potential was there for everyone to see even at that tender age.

Nine goals in 16 games prompted Scunthorpe United to sign the striker on a permanent basis in 2005.

Over the next two seasons Sharp quite literally had a field day.

He scored 23 times in his maiden campaign and followed that up with another 30 in the 2006/07 season helping guide the Iron to promotion to the Championship.

Come that summer the interest in Sharp was intensifying and deservedly so.

A number of clubs made bids for his services, but ultimately only one of those really floated his boat.

A return to the Steel City, it was to be. Sharp arrived back home with a £2million price tag slapped on his head and expectations galore.

However, it was not to be the dream return he would have envisaged.

He had to wait until March to score his first league goal against Coventry, finding the net just three more times that season.

Sharp went back to the drawing board and started the 2008/09 season in devastating fashion.

An opening day hat-trick against Queens Park Rangers looked like setting the tone for the rest of the campaign, following that up with a crucial equaliser in a 1-1 draw against Coventry a few weeks later.

But that was to be his last league goal of the season.

Come July and Sharp’s dream return had turned into a nightmare – finding himself on the transfer list following the Blades’ failure to secure promotion.

6

A season-long loan to Doncaster followed. Sharp was unusually handed the No 5 shirt for the new campaign – and that killer goal instinct was well and truly back.

Injury halted his progress towards the end of the 2009/10 season, but still Sharp notched 15 goals in 33 league games.

United rejected a £1m from Doncaster, before Sharp himself turned down a move to recently relegated Burnley – despite the offer in excess of £1m being accepted.

Doncaster finally struck gold though, agreeing a fee of around £1.15m to land Sharp on a three-year deal in July 2010.

6

The second chapter of Sharp’s Sheffield United career had closed.

Unsurprisingly, he was a big hit at Doncaster during his two years at the club – and was on the move again in January 2012, reuniting with his old Iron boss Nigel Adkins at St Mary’s, penning a three-and-a-half year deal in the process.

However, it proved to be a strange time for Sharp at Southampton – making just 17 appearances spanning a two-and-a-half year period.

While he found the net nine times during that time, he was shipped out on loan to Nottingham Forest, Reading and former side Doncaster during that time.

6

Leeds United was Sharp’s next port of call, albeit a brief one.

The front man will be the first person to tell you that his spell at Elland Road was not the finest time of his career, scoring just five times in 33 appearances.

But then it was time for him to return home – and as they say, the rest is history.

His first season back at Bramall Lane heralded 21 goals, with his 30-goal return the next season helping Wilder’s men return to the Championship.

He has continued his goalscoring heroics in the second tier, too.

After falling just short of making the play-offs last season, there is increasing confidence around the Steel City that this is the season they return to the big time.

And Sharp – voted in the EFL Team of the Year earlier last weekend – deserves that more than anyone.

He comes alive in front of the Bramall Lane faithful, who he deservedly holds legendary status with.

However, for the great goalscorer he is – Sharp has just two Premier League appearances to his name.

That could all change next season. A return to the promised land would be nothing more than that ‘fat lad from Sheffield’ deserves.

---

Loris Karius' partner was furious after she had the word 'LOSER' spray painted onto her car by vandals. Sophia Thomalla, a German actress, presenter and model had her car targeted after the goalkeeper - on loan from Liverpool - said he was keen to remain with Besiktas.
Liverpool news: Loris Karius' girlfriend Sophia Thomalla

---

Free stream, full coverage and confirmed teams for north London derby on talkSPORT. March 2, 2019 by admin 0 Comments.

---

Manchester United confirm stance on Paul Pogba future amid Real Madrid transfer interest. Man Utd midfielder Paul Pogba is interesting Real Madrid ahead of the summer transfer window.
Man Utd transfer news: Paul Pogba determined to leave United

---

May 08, 2019 · Emotional Lucas Moura reacts to replay of his match-winning goal against Ajax - video Another team might have crumpled after the struggles of the first half.

---

'The stadium is great, unlike Tottenham's long-term prospects

---

Frank Lampard has addressed the rumours linking him with the Chelsea manager's job.Lampard has impressed in his first season as m Chelsea news: Frank Lampard responds to rumours he will replace Maurizio Sarri ahead of Championship play-off - CHOCHILINO
Frank Lampard addresses rumours he will replace Maurizio
fussboll.com/2019/05/26/frank-lampard-addresses-rumours-he-will-replace-maurizio-sarri-ahead-of-championship-play-off-final/
Frank Lampard addresses rumours he will replace Maurizio Sarri ahead of Championship play-off final World Football May 26, 2019 Michael Gray and Sasa Ilic reunited on talkSPORT just days before League One play-off final
Chelsea news: Frank Lampard responds to rumours he will

---

Vincent Janssen in action for Spurs' U23s. Vincent Janssen. Don't let the fact that Pochettino had to perform a massive U-turn and restore Janssen to his first team squad after the club failed to move on the Dutchman fool you. Janssen is still fourth or fifth choice striker, depending on whether you believe Lucas Moura is also ahead of him with
Janssen, Onomah, Carter-Vickers - how Spurs' 6 loan players

---

Manchester United vs Chelsea confirmed teams: Five changes

---

talkSPORT.com rounds up all the latest transfer news and biggest football gossip from Thursday's papers and online… Real Madrid are planning to use Gareth Bale as makeweight in a move for Chelsea winger Eden Hazard, as the La Liga giants consider letting the Welshman leave in the summer.
Paul Pogba opens up about Real Madrid and Zinedine Zidane

---

~ David Seaman: Arsenal legend admits to being hurt at not being considered for a coaching role at club ~ Kenya Latest Arsenal legend admits to being hurt at not
Arsenal legend admits to being hurt at not being considered

---

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gets his dream job at Manchester United FC. The Norwegian has been appointed as the club's permanent manager. signed a three-year deal to become Manchester United

---

"There are so many different roles within the club, within the stadium, there literally is a job for everyone," he said. "This can make a huge difference …
Rafael van der Vaart points out one big difference between

---

UEFA.com is the official site of UEFA, the Union of European Football Associations, and the governing body of football in Europe. UEFA works to promote, protect and develop European football

---

Football: Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss rest of season with ruptured Achilles

LONDON (AFP) - Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's (April 22) 2-2 draw against Burnley.
Hudson-Odoi limped off, helped by two members of Chelsea's medical staff, after sustaining the injury in the first half of the Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
"Really gutted to end my season with an Ruptured Achilles, gotta work hard and try and come back stronger for next season!!!" Hudson-Odoi tweeted.
Chelsea assistant manager Gianfranco Zola admitted he feared the worst when he faced the media before Hudson-Odoi's tweet.
"Hudson: it looks a serious thing. Before I can tell you how serious, we have to wait until tomorrow. But it's not looking good. It's a problem with his Achilles tendon," Zola said.
The 18-year-old's injury is a major blow for Chelsea as they battle to qualify for next season's Champions League either by finishing in the Premier League's top four or winning the Europa League.
They are fourth in the top flight and face Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League semi-finals.
Hudson-Odoi has also broken into the England team this year and his injury means he is likely to miss the Nations League semi-finals in June.
His injury completes a roller-coaster season which saw Hudson-Odoi strongly linked with a move to Bayern Munich after growing frustrated at his lack of first-team action with Chelsea.
He eventually convinced Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri to start him in the Premier League towards the end of the season following a pair of impressive displays for England.
Hudson-Odoi's fine performances for Chelsea in recent weeks were one of the few bright spots in a turbulent campaign.
However, Zola expects France midfielder N'Golo Kante to recover quickly from a "contusion" to his ribs that forced him to come off at half-time against Burnley.

---

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's 2-2 draw against Burnley. Hudson-Odoi limped off helped by two members of Chelsea's medical staff after sustaining the injury in the first half of the Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea's Hudson-Odoi says he will miss rest of season

---

LONDON (AFP) - Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's (April 22) 2-2 draw against Burnley.. Read more at
Chelsea's Hudson-Odoi Says He Will Miss Rest Of Season

---

Football. LONDON — Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's 2-2 draw against Burnley. Hudson-Odoi limped off helped by two members of Chelsea's medical staff after sustaining the injury in the first half of the Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea to be without Callum Hudson-Odoi for rest of season

---

London: Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's 2-2 draw against Burnley. Hudson-Odoi limped off helped by two members of Chelsea's medical staff after sustaining the injury in the first half of the Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea's Hudson-Odoi says he will miss rest of season

---

London (AFP) - Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's 2-2 draw against Burnley. Hudson-Odoi limped off helped by two members of Chelsea's medical staff after sustaining the injury in the first half of the Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi to miss rest of the season after

---

Football: Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss rest

---

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's 2-2 draw against Burnley. Hudson-Odoi limped off helped by two members
Chelsea's Hudson-Odoi says he will miss rest of season

---

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi does not expect to play again this season after suffering from what he understands to be a ruptured Achilles tendon in Monday's 2-2 draw with Burnley. An entertaining opening period ended badly for Chelsea, as Hudson-Odoi was forced off and N'Golo Kante was then withdrawn with a knock to his ribs at half-time.

---

Chelsea's Callum-Hudson Odoi is set to miss the rest of the season after rupturing his Achilles tendon in the 2-2 draw against Burnley on Monday night. The 18-year-old was taken off four minutes
Callum Hudson-Odoi: Chelsea winger to undergo surgery on

---

Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi will undergo surgery after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon. The 18-year-old winger is set to miss the rest of the season after being taken off in the 41st minute
Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi says his season is over - Sportstar

---

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi says he will miss the rest of the season after suffering a ruptured Achilles in Monday's 2-2 draw against Burnley. Hudson-Odoi limped off helped by two members of
Chelsea Winger Hudson-Odoi Will Miss Rest of the Season With

What time is Man United vs Man City tonight? Live stream and TV channel details, kick-off time and team news for huge derby

Manchester United and Manchester City are set to go head-to-head in one of the biggest derbies in years.

Champions City head to Old Trafford with 14 wins from their last fifteen games and can take control of the title race with another victory against their rivals.

2

City will move a point ahead of Liverpool at the top with both side’s then having just three games left this season.

United suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat to Everton at the weekend and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be expecting a big response if they are to keep their top four hopes alive.

Man United vs Man City: What time is kick-off?

The huge game will be held on Wednesday, April 24 with kick-off at Old Trafford set for 8pm.

When the sides met at the Etihad earlier in the season, City ran out 3-1 winners.

Man United vs Man City: Which TV channel can I watch it on?

You can catch this game live on Sky Sports Premier League, Main Event and Ultra HD. Their coverage begins at 7pm.

If you’re not a Sky subscriber, you can still watch on your mobile, tablet, PC or TV box by purchasing a NOW TV pass from just £8.99.

And here at talkSPORT, we will be running a live blog for all the action from the Theatre of Dreams.

2

Man United vs Man City: What is the team news?

Solskjaer could ring the changes after the thrashing at Goodison Park, where he publicly apologised to the fans.

Luke Shaw is back in contention following suspension but Phil Jones is a doubt after being forced off at half-time against the Toffees.

City will be without Kevin De Bruyne, who has a hamstring problem.

Teenager Phil Foden could keep his starting place after netting his first Premier League goal against Tottenham last time out.

---

Louis van Gaal says he was surprised when Manchester United installed Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as their permanent manager in March. Solskjaer took the reins from Jose Mourinho in December and won each of his first eight games in charge of the club.
~ Everton 4-0 Manchester United: Ole Gunnar - fp-news.com

---

Spurs signing Zielinski would cushion the blow of Eriksen's eventual departure Tottenham are interested in signing Polish midfield maestro Piotr Zielinski from Napoli, according to reports from
Norwich City Football Club News and Results Football.co.uk

---

Who can qualify for Champions League and Europa League next season? Tottenham, Chelsea, Arsenal and Man United permutations explained. Man United won the Europa League in 2017, a year after
Who can qualify for Champions League and Europa League next

---

Liverpool vs Porto: Injuries and suspensions leave Portuguese side with just 16 available outfield players The first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash will be played at Anfield on
Liverpool vs Porto: Injuries and suspensions leave Portuguese
hollywoodadviser.com/liverpool-vs-porto-injuries-and-suspensions-leave-portuguese-side-with-just-16-available-outfield-players/
selection headache The first leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash will be played at Anfield on Tuesday Porto will have just 16 outfield players available for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final with Liverpool. The two sides will meet at Anfield on Tuesday but the Portuguese side will be missing a number of key
Liverpool vs Porto: Injuries and suspensions le | SportSpyder

---

Raheem Sterling has been named the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year. And it was double delight for Manchester City, with Nikita Parris winning the women's award. Sterling has
Manchester City's Sterling wins football writers' Footballer

---

Liverpool legend Terry McDermott is selling his three European Cup winners' medals… just days before Reds hope to win Champions League for a sixth time just days before the Reds hope to
News list for liverpool become third-most successful club in

---

~ Aaron Ramsey injury: Unai Emery unsure if Juventus bound midfielder has played his last game for the Gunners ~ Kenya Latest
Aaron Ramsey injury: Unai Emery unsure if Juventus bound

---

SURPRISING Barcelona 3-0 Liverpool: Champions League defeat for Reds creates stunning statistic for Premier League title challengers
Champions League defeat for Reds creates stunning statistic

---

Latest James Tavernier #2 news, stats, photos and videos on MSN Sport
Former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny admits he

---

Neil Warnock's transfer dealings at Cardiff are being probed by the FA after his son James was used in contract negotiations. Bolton owner Ken Anderson has apologised for failing to pay his players and revealed that a takeover deal is up in the air in a shock email. THE TIMES

---

The 2019 Women's World Cup kicks off in Paris on Friday. Let the month-long celebration begin. [ MORE: Women's World Cup news ] Host nation France are the joint-favorites to win the World Cup
2019 Women's World Cup: The Final Squad of Every Country in

---

~ Virgil van Dijk 'keen to commit' future to Liverpool by

---

Arsenal in 'pole position' to beat Roma to the signing of Samuel Umtiti from Barcelona - reports The World Cup winner is also wanted by Juventus and Manchester United By Joe Coleman
Arsenal in 'pole position' to beat Roma to the signing of
sportsalert.org/2019/04/16/arsenal-in-pole-position-to-beat-roma-to-the-signing-of-samuel-umtiti-from-barcelona/
Arsenal are in 'pole position' to sign Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti this summer, according to reports. The World Cup winner has reportedly been told he can leave Camp Nou in the summer after the incredible form of Clement Lenglet.
Arsenal news: Gunners in pole position to sign Barcelona star

---

According to him, Chelsea midfielders Ross Barkley, Mateo Kovacic and Jorginho who refer to themselves as attacking players in the Chelsea midfield hardly contribute goals to the team. Barkley, Kovacic and Jorginho are expected to start in the Chelsea midfield following the respective injuries to N'Golo Kante and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

---

Next Scunthorpe United manager - the names in the frame as club nears announcement. As they face up to life in EFL League Two following relegation, Scunthorpe United look set to make a decision on
Hurst: It's a club I feel I can take forward - News

---