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‘I’m ready’ – Man City star Haaland sends title warning to Arsenal

Harry Carr
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‘I’m ready’ – Man City star Haaland sends title warning to Arsenal

Erling Haaland has warned Manchester City’s rivals Arsenal he is ready to attack the run-in after recovering from injury, pledging the champions will keep their cool in the heat of the title race.

Haaland missed two games – an FA Cup semi-final win over Chelsea and a 4-0 Premier League rout of Brighton and Hove Albion – after sustaining a muscle injury during City’s Champions League quarter-final tie against Real Madrid, who prevailed on penalties after a 4-4 aggregate draw.

The Norwegian returned with a bang on Sunday, though, coming off the bench to score the all-important second goal in City’s 2-0 win at Nottingham Forest.

Read our other sports news stories here:
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The champions remain one point behind Arsenal with a game in hand, knowing four wins from four games will ensure they capture an unprecedented fourth straight title.

Haaland – who now leads the Premier League’s Golden Boot race outright with 21 goals for the season – is raring to go.

“I’m ready – I had a bit of a problem and it’s nice to bounce back from when we went out to Madrid in the Champions League,” he said.

“It’s been scratching inside of me to get back, and now I’m back and feeling good. I’m ready to attack the last five finals.”

With Liverpool’s title hopes fading during a miserable April for Jurgen Klopp’s side, it now appears to be a straight shoot-out for the trophy between City and Arsenal – just as it was last season.

Some accused Arsenal of being overly emotional as their title charge collapsed in 2022-23, and Haaland says there is no chance of City replicating that mistake.

“It’s nice – exactly like last season. This is maybe the most exciting time to be a footballer,” Haaland added.

“There’s not many who can relate but this is why I play football, for the feeling before the game, when you’re a bit nervous.

“This is fantastic and it’s why I love football because of these feelings. So many of these guys have done it before and it’s about keeping the head calm and not wanting it too much.

“We relax, smile and enjoy our time then we focus on the next game.”

Appacut Surpasses UK’s Largest Barber Chain with Extensive Network of Mobile Barbers

News Desk
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Appacut Surpasses UK’s Largest Barber Chain with Extensive Network of Mobile Barbers

Based in Manchester, the innovative barber app Appacut has achieved a significant milestone by hosting more professional barbers than any other high-street chain in the UK. Launched just last year, the platform has become a powerhouse in connecting independent, fully mobile barbers and stylists with clients, facilitating the establishment of successful online businesses free from the high costs associated with running a physical shop.

The success of Appacut is underscored by its unique business model; the company does not employ barbers directly but instead, functions similarly to Uber or Airbnb by not owning the primary resources it offers. This strategy has enabled a rapid rise in the barbering industry.

The app’s design ensures customers can easily book home services with just a few clicks—ideal for those short on time or those preferring not to travel. The potential for earnings on the platform is substantial, with guarantees of double or triple the income barbers might achieve in traditional settings, depending on their level of activity.

Michael Lawes of Appacut commented on the trend towards convenient service delivery: “Consumers now want to access their essential services at the click of a button. And if possible, they want the service brought to them. You only have to take a look at the rise of apps like Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber for evidence of that. Appacut is the barbering and hairdressing sector’s answer to this changing demand. Here in the UK, we pay for more than 360 million haircuts every year, so the demand is staggering. Our unique app gives customers the ability to browse dozens of barbers and stylists in their area and choose the one that most closely matches their preferences. That’s a process that requires just four clicks.”

CTO Jordan Ryan Madeley further explains the pivotal role of technology in their service: “The barber visits the customer’s home at the specified time – equipped with everything required for a successful hair-styling appointment. The professional slashes their operating overheads, and the client doesn’t have to venture into a High Street or worry about travel expenses. High Street rents and utility bills are at an all-time high in the UK, so Appacut is proving increasingly popular among independent barbers and business owners looking for ways to boost their profitability.”

Appacut is particularly popular in Manchester, attracting VIPs and celebrities who appreciate the privacy and convenience offered by the service. The company is currently seeking further investment to expand its reach across the UK and internationally.

Yorkshire’s A Really Cool Company Joins Viso Logistics Following Acquisition

News Desk
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Yorkshire’s A Really Cool Company Joins Viso Logistics Following Acquisition

Viso Logistics has further strengthened its logistics network in the UK by acquiring A Really Cool Company (ARCC), a distinguished specialist in temperature-controlled transport based in Wetherby, Yorkshire. ARCC has established a solid reputation over its 15-year history, servicing clients primarily in the food and beverage industry, as well as other sectors requiring temperature-sensitive delivery services throughout the UK and Europe.

In 2021, Viso Logistics kicked off their ambitious plan to build an independent, specialised logistics network across the UK. Jag Express, a leading specialist courier in Cambridge, was the first company to join the network.

Andrew Wood, Managing Director of ARCC, shared his thoughts on joining forces with Viso Logistics: “The ARCC team are very excited about this next step in the evolution of our business. A partnership with Viso Logistics gives us the best of both worlds – we retain our company values, team and everything that makes us unique, but we also get to leverage off some excellent knowledge both inside and out of the logistics sector. Ultimately, this means that our loyal customers continue to get the same care and attention they have always had. What’s great is that they will now have some extras to help elevate their experience with us, such as access to an expanded network.”

Alexi Jones, Managing Partner at Viso Logistics, also commented on the new addition to their network: “Our strategy is to acquire long-established, successful specialist logistics companies that have expertise in specific sectors. To work with a business like ARCC that is so highly regarded in the food and beverage and pharmaceutical sectors, and complimentary to our existing network, makes them a perfect fit for Viso Logistics. The ARCC team are passionate about the service they provide and are real experts in their field. We have been impressed with their depth of industry knowledge and committed team, and know that their service will be one that our expanding customer base will benefit from. The addition of ARCC expands our Group’s growing footprint. Together with Jag Express in Cambridge, we now have a North-South axis which expands the scope of work we can undertake for our combined client base.”

Rafael Nadal Madrid Open 2024 results: Tennis great ‘found a way’ to beat Cachin in thriller

Ben Miller
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Rafael Nadal Madrid Open 2024 results: Tennis great ‘found a way’ to beat Cachin in thriller

Former world number one Rafael Nadal said he did not have “any concerns” about playing on successive days after spending more than three hours on court in a 6-1 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 over world number 91 Pedro Cachin at the Madrid Open.

In his second tournament since a brief return from injury in January, Nadal reached the round of 16 to set up a meeting with 30th seed Jiri Lehecka on Tuesday.

“That’s tennis,” the 37-year-old said when he was asked about the demands of the quick turnaround.

“I cannot have any concerns about playing tomorrow. That’s the way the tournament goes. I need to find a way to play days in a row and still be competitive.

“I don’t know if I am at that moment yet but let’s see tomorrow. I’m just happy to be on court again and, hopefully, ready.”

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The 37-year-old is the tournament’s most successful player with five titles, and fans are hoping the Spaniard will come through unscathed during what is expected to be his final year on the ATP tour because of recurring injury problems.

“I don’t feel that something went wrong on my body but I need to wait,” he added. “I am not saying that to try to protect myself, I am just saying what I am feeling.”

Nadal results: ‘I need to give more’

Nadal dropped a set for the first time in his third win, having beaten 10th seed Alex de Minaur in the second round on Saturday.

“Some moments were good, some not good,” he said. “I found a way to win through. In the first set, even with some mistakes, I was able to be a little bit more unpredictable.

“That probably changed the match. The opportunity to play again tomorrow means a lot and I know I need to give more.”

The 14-time French Open winner is hoping to play at Roland Garros when the second grand slam of the year starts next month.

Nadal said last week that he would not participate in Paris unless he felt he was in a position to “compete”.

Man United transfer news: Hojlund, Mainoo, Garnacho ‘only players not available for moves’

Ben Miller
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Man United transfer news: Hojlund, Mainoo, Garnacho ‘only players not available for moves’

Manchester United will consider transfer bids for any of their regular starters except Rasmus Hojlund, Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, according to a report.

Striker Marcus Rashford, goalkeeper Andre Onana and full-back Diogo Dalot are among the high-profile players available under new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans to transform the club’s fortunes, BBC Sport has said.

The outlet added that it would take a “major offer” to persuade United to sell captain and key playmaker Bruno Fernandes.

Without the lucrative Uefa Champions League to look forward to, United’s wasteful spending during recent years has put them under more pressure as they attempt to meet the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

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A Premier League vote on Monday began a process which could lead to those rules being replaced for the 2025/26 season, with the report suggesting United may not be able to financially “flex their muscles” until then.

Rashford has been linked with French giants Paris St-Germain, who may be looking for attacking options after top scorer Kylian Mbappe leaves at the end of the season.

Man United transfers: Antony for sale?

The situation could make embattled manager Erik ten Hag’s position even more difficult after an underwhelming season at Old Trafford.

After a dismal first half of Ten Hag’s second season in charge, United had a mini-revival with a seven-match unbeaten run to start 2024.

That came to a crashing halt with a home defeat to Fulham, who had previously won one away game all season, and led to more questions about the Dutchman’s expensively-assembled squad and United’s spending before his arrival.

Winger Antony remains the club’s second-most expensive signing ever after becoming one of Ten Hag’s first signings in 2022, but the Brazil international only opened his Premier League account for the season on Saturday.

Even a rare goal for the 24-year-old could not spare his side another poor result, United protecting their lead for eight minutes before a late Burnley equaliser rescued a 1-1 draw for the second-bottom club.

United have won one of their last seven matches in all competitions, coming from behind to beat relegation certainties Sheffield United at home.

Manchester United winger Antony determined to prove doubters wrong

Jon Fisher
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Manchester United winger Antony determined to prove doubters wrong

Manchester United winger Antony says he “knows his worth” and is determined to prove his critics wrong and succeed at Old Trafford.

The Brazil international is nearing the end of his second season at United after joining from Ajax – reportedly at the behest of coach Erik ten Hag – for £84.8million in September 2022.

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Antony netted against Burnley on Saturday – his first Premier League goal of the season – and is already targeting an improvement next season.

He told reporters: “It’s been a very tough year for me and the team. The results are not ones we have expected.

“I am someone who takes criticism very well and I want to work on it, and I think we all have to focus on finishing the season the best as we can.

“We still have a few Premier League games and the [FA Cup] final, but then we need to focus on the next season and not commit the mistakes we’ve committed this year.”

With Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos now in charge of the football operations at United, players will have to start justifying their transfer fees, although Antony is not concerned by how much the club paid for his services.

He added: “That doesn’t really impact me because I know my worth.

“The money is the money and obviously everyone speaks about it but no one would if the performances of everyone and myself were at the top.

“So, it’s something that is just a way of working harder, knowing I can get better, I know my worth and I will.

“As I said the critics are going to exist, and it’s something that makes me want to work harder, prove to myself first.

“I’m going to keep working, giving everything for the group because it’s most important to have a good mentality and to be focused.”

Saturday’s stalemate with relegation-threatened Burnley leaves United sixth in the Premier League table with four games remaining.

Vunipola apologises after bar incident leads to arrest

Jon Fisher
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Vunipola apologises after bar incident leads to arrest

England international Billy Vunipola has apologised for an “unfortunate misunderstanding” that led to his arrest in a Majorca bar in the early hours of Sunday morning.

The Saracens back row reportedly refused to put his shirt back on in Epic bar in Palma, prompting staff to call police to come and intervene. He was subsequently tasered twice.

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Vunipola was taken to a local police station and appeared in court on Sunday afternoon, charged with resisting the law.

The 31-year-old released a statement today which read: “I can confirm I was involved in an unfortunate misunderstanding when I was leaving a club in Majorca on Sunday, which got out of hand.

“Contrary to media reports there was no violence, no fight and I did not threaten anybody at any stage, with bottles, chairs or anything else.

“I was charged with resisting the law and, following an ‘express trial’, I have paid a fine of 240 euros. The Spanish police investigation is now closed, and I am flying back to the UK today.

“I will obviously cooperate with the Saracens internal process and unreservedly apologise for any inconvenience to all involved.”

Bar owner Toni Rocha told the Sun newspaper: “I heard him insult police and there was another moment where he had his shirt off and hit an officer in the face with the top in his hand as the officer tried to reason with him.”

Mr Rocha’s business partner Janek Krause added: “He was very drunk and got aggressive.

“He didn’t attack any customers or pick up bottles or any chairs but he was taking his shirt off when that’s not allowed in our bar and refusing requests to leave.

“He was a very big guy with big muscles and a massive back. Our two doormen tried to reason with him before the police were called but it was impossible.

“He laughed after the first taser shot and only went down after the second.”

Two men charged with murder, following human remains finds

Helen Greaney
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Two men charged with murder, following human remains finds

Two men have been charged with murder, as more suspected human remains have been discovered this morning in an alleyway close to the railway lines off Worsley Road, Eccles.

This follows earlier discoveries of human remains at Kersal Dale, Blackleach Reservoir and Colliery Wood, all in Salford, over the past three weeks.

Michal Jaroslaw Polchowski (68) and Marcin Majerkiewicz (42) both of Worsley Road, Eccles, have been charged with murder. They are due to appear at Tameside Magistrates Court this afternoon.

Formal identification is ongoing, but the remains found at Kersal Dale are believed to be of a local man in his 60s.

The remains found at the other three locations are still to be tested, but we are confident belong to the same victim.

ACC Sarah Jackson said, “We have had large numbers of officers, staff and specialists working diligently on this investigation over the last three weeks. It has been very much a large, collective effort, with the victim and family at the heart of it from the outset.

“We have specially trained officers deployed to support the family as they come to terms with this tragic news. They are aware of this morning’s further discovery and will continue to be kept up to date with how we are progressing.

“Despite the charges brought today, our work is far from over.

“The scenes we already have established in Bury and Salford will remain in place for much of this week whilst our searches and enquiries continue. Local officers will continue to patrol the impacted areas to provide reassurance.

“We will continue following every line of enquiry to recover and reunite the victim with his family, bringing a dignified end to this terrible scenario.

“I’d like to thank the communities of Salford and beyond for their cooperation throughout this investigation. I know this incident has come as a shock, and the support we’ve had from those in the area is very much appreciated.”

Lottery Winners and Heather Small to headline Rochdale Feel Good Festival

Helen Greaney
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Lottery Winners and Heather Small to headline Rochdale Feel Good Festival

Chart topping indie pop band Lottery Winners and Heather Small of M People, are the first two headliners announced for this year’s Rochdale Feel Good Festival.

The main stage returns to its usual location on Rochdale Town Hall Square on Saturday, August 10, after a five-year absence, along with live music across indoor venues, a quality food and drink village and other entertainment.

Lottery Winners’ third album ‘Anxiety Replacement Therapy’ became the band’s first number one last year, followed by a sold-out UK tour, appearances at some of the country’s biggest festivals, a huge arena tour supporting Rick Astley and a sold-out show at Manchester Apollo this January.

The band (pictured) comprises front man Thom Rylance, Katie Lloyd on bass, Joe Singleton on drums with the melodies of Rob Lally. It will be the Leigh four-piece’s second appearance at Rochdale Feel Good Festival, having played the main stage in 2014.

Multi award-winning Heather Small achieved worldwide success both as a solo artist and the voice of Brit and Mercury Award winning dance act M People, well known for a stack of hits including Moving On Up, One Night in Heaven, Renaissance, How Can I Love You More? and Sight for Sore Eyes.

Lots more acts are still to be announced, including a major platinum-selling UK indie rock band, and a local battle of the bands winner.

Early bird tickets are now sold out, but general sale tickets were released last week (£15) at rochdale.gov.uk/feelgoodfestival or in person at Middleton Arena.

For the first time, to cut single use plastic, all tickets include a Rochdale Feel Good Festival re-usable drink cup to be collected upon arrival at the festival site.

Julie Murphy, director of corporate services at Rochdale Borough Council said: “The return of Rochdale Feel Good Festival is eagerly awaited by thousands of residents and visitors, with all early bird tickets snapped up before any line-up news was revealed. It’s great to secure the return of Lottery Winners, who are becoming one of the UK’s biggest and best live acts and Heather Small has one of the most recognisable voices in British pop.”

More body parts found in Kersal Dale investigation

Helen Greaney
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More body parts found in Kersal Dale investigation

Police have found further body parts as they continue to investigate remains found at Kersal Dale.

More human remains were discovered in two separate locations over the weekend – Blackleach Reservoir in Salford and at Linnyshaw Colliery Woods.

The initial discovery of a torso was found by passer-by in the wetlands on April 4.

Officers now believe the victim was a white man in his sixties and have made contact with his family. They believe he died in late March.

Two men held on suspicion of murder lived with him in a house in Salford, police said.

Detective superintendent Lewis Hughes said: “Thanks to meticulous forensic work, we are now confident we have identified the man. Formal identification hasn’t taken place but we believe he is a man in his sixties and lived in Salford.

“We believe he is known to the two suspects we have in custody. They have remained in custody over the weekend as we work to establish how the victim met this tragic outcome.

“We have had four scenes in place for extensive outdoor searches and an indoor search. One is a warehouse in Bury and three are sites in Salford.”

Officers searched a warehouse in Mitchell Street, Bury after household items were found there, but said there was no information that anybody who owns or works there is in any way involved in any criminality regarding this offence.

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