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Manchester City: Richard Keys lashes out at ‘disgrace’ Guardiola

Richard Keys has labelled Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola a “disgrace” and accused him of being arrogant towards a beIN Sport reporter.

Guardiola was interviewed by beIN’s Andy Kerr following yesterday’s 1-1 draw at Liverpool with Keys angry at what he perceived as dismissive behaviour from the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach towards his colleague.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Rodri sets target for City to win the league
Ronaldo would love to se Haaland team up with Bellingham and Mbappe at Madrid
Cancelo tips Manchester City for Champions League glory

Writing in his blog published on X, Keys said: “Guardiola was just plain rude [to] our reporter – the excellent Andy Kerr. If I’d been Kerr I’d have shut the interview down and walked away. And I told him as much afterwards.

“Guardiola was a disgrace. He couldn’t be bothered. He offered nothing – just one-word answers and a daft smile. He looked at Kerr like he was a piece of s*** on his shoe. He did the same last week. In fact – he does the same most weeks.

“But here’s the thing Senor Guardiola. We’re all trying to do a job – just like you. Nobody, whilst doing that job, deserves to be ridiculed by you. Andy Kerr deserved better Sunday, not because you have a contractual obligation to speak to him – but because you have a moral obligation to treat him – and others – with manners and respect.”

Former Sky frontman Keys would rather broadcasters didn’t interview Guardiola, unless he shows interviewers more respect.

He added: “I’ve suggested to my bosses that we should simply ignore you unless you come down off your high horse and behave. Sadly that won’t happen. But it should.

“I could understand Guardiola’s attitude a little more if the pen had been given [for a late challenge by Jeremy Doku on Alexis Mac Allister]. If City had been beaten. If frustration had got the better of him – but none of those things applied.

“When I watch him, Guardiola gives me the impression that nobody has a right to ask him questions, because none of us has the same lofty genius that he clearly believes elevates him above everybody else. He might be right – but, as my old mum used to say – good manners cost nothing.”

Ronaldo would love to see Haaland, Mbappe and Bellingham team up at Real Madrid

Former Brazil striker Ronaldo would relish the possibility of Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham teaming up together at Real Madrid.

Bellingham has made a wonderful start to his Madrid career following his switch from Borussia Dortmund and leads the goalscoring charts with 16 from 22 league starts. He is expected to be joined at the Bernabeu by Mbappe with the France captain having told Paris Saint-Germain he will leave the club at the end of the season.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Rodri sets target for City to win the league
Littler accused of arrogance after on-stage beef
Cancelo tips Manchester City for Champions League glory

Haaland is still nothing more than a dream for Madrid even though they will have been encouraged by the Norway striker last week refusing to commit his long-term future to Manchester City.

Should the three players ever turn out for Madrid, Ronaldo believes it would be similar to the Galacticos team that he played in alongside the likes of Zinedine Zidane, David Beckham and Luis Figo.

He told the Daily Mail, as part of a Paddy Power promotion: “Real Madrid’s policy is to have the best players in the world. Haaland is one of the best players in the world. Everyone wants to have Haaland. He is at an unbelievable club.

“City are doing an amazing job, I think he is very happy there at the moment. But, we will see. I hope we can see all of those players together in the one club. It will remind me of the Galacticos if they all [Haaland, Mbappe and Bellingham] do end up at Real Madrid.

“If it happens, it’s going to be crazy. Watching Real Madrid playing with all of those players together. It will be an unbelievable team that will achieve remarkable things.

“But I think it’s going to be a great challenge for Carlo Ancelotti to manage all of those players. But, putting good players together is easier than putting bad players together. It won’t be too much of a problem for the coach.”

Ronaldo has been impressed by Bellingham’s impact at Madrid, even comparing him with former France great Zidane, while he hopes the rumours of Mbappe’s impending move to Spain are correct.

He added: “We have to wait until it’s official before talking about it in detail, but everyone is excited about Kylian Mbappe in Madrid. He is an amazing player. He is going to be one of the best players in this moment. I think it’s a very good choice for him if he joins Madrid. I think he will finally get the Ballon d’Or if he joins Real.

“I don’t know what is true but people are talking about his situation at PSG. For sure, in Madrid he will have a team supporting him with every decision he makes. He will have a team to support him on the field and off the field as well. They will protect him. But, I think he had a very good time at PSG.

“Of course, PSG made a big effort to keep hold of him. He was the big star of the PSG project. But, we will see what happens with Mbappe at Real Madrid. One thing is for sure and that’s that we are going to enjoy a lot more of Mbappe for the coming years.”

Manchester City outcast Cancelo tips Guardiola’s men for glory

Disgarded full-back Joao Cancelo believes Manchester City are favourites to win the Champions League, closely followed by Inter.

Cancelo is still contracted to City until 2027 after moving to Manchester from Juventus in 2019, signing an initial six-year deal which he extended for a further two years in 2022.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Rodri sets target for City to win the league
Littler accused of arrogance after on-stage beef
Guardiola pleased with De Bruyne’s angry reaction

However, a public disagreement with Pep Guardiola saw him spend the second half of last season on loan at Bayern Munich and this season with Barcelona on a similar arrangement.

The Portugal international, who has also played for Valencia and Inter, is happy at Camp Nou and hopes to stay there beyond the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

He told Gazzetta dello Sport: “I know nothing yet [about the future], but I’d like to stay here. 

“I grew up watching Ronaldinho’s Barcelona. He’s my idol. I am proud to wear this jersey, and there aren’t other clubs I can join, right?

“I was lucky enough to play for only big teams. I am proud of my career because nobody has ever gifted me anything. I’ve conquered everything with sacrifice.”

Barcelona remain in the Champions League – they face Napoli tomorrow night in the second leg of their last-16 clash with the tie delicately poised at 1-1 – but Cancelo thinks the trophy will end up elsewhere.

He added: “Anything can happen even if Inter always win and have the Scudetto in their hands. 

“Right now, they are at the top, only second to Manchester City. Pep Guardiola’s side is favourite to win [the Champions League] because of their players, playing style and coach. 

“They are the only team to have won eight games from eight, but after them, there’s Inter.”

Manchester City: Rodri sets target of nine wins from 10 to retain title

Rodri has set Manchester City a target of winning at least nine of their remaining 10 games if they want to retain the Premier League title.

City ground out a 1-1 draw at Liverpool yesterday despite not being at their best and end the weekend in third place, a point adrift of the Merseysiders and Arsenal.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Liverpool 1-1 Man City
Littler accused of arrogance after on-stage beef
Guardiola pleased with De Bruyne’s angry reaction

Pep Guardiola’s men have arguably the toughest run-in of the three with games against Arsenal, Tottenham and Aston Villa to come and Rodri knows there is very little room for manoeuvre.

He told the Independent: “We need a break. We have the FA Cup game [against Newcastle] and then the international break so it will be good for us to refresh and give the last push at the end of the season.

“We know how good we are in the last part of the season, we just need to charge the batteries again and focus on the last 10 games.

“It seems you have to win nine or 10 games to win this Premier League. This is the challenge and we are going to go for it.”

City dominated the early exchanges at Anfield and deservedly went in front when John Stones converted a clever corner routine at the near post.

But Liverpool improved as the game went on. Alexis Mac Allister equalised from the penalty spot after Ederson’s clumsy challenge on Darwin Nunez and the hosts felt they should have had a penalty late on when Jeremy Doku’s high challenge on Mac Allister went unpunished.

Rodri added: “An incredible game. We started really well in terms of chances and dominance and I think it was quite good. The second half was their half.

“Of course with the crowd and the way they played and pressed, we weren’t clinical enough to find the spaces.

“We made a few mistakes but with the high press it is difficult, you are not precise with the ball and that’s what happened in terms of the penalty.

“We are there in the fight and this club is about the mentality of the team. Sometimes when we don’t play well, [it’s important] we don’t lose.”

Crimestoppers launches new North West campaign

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With figures showing that serious violent crime is increasing, the charity Crimestoppers is reminding the public that by speaking up anonymously, we can all make a difference in a new campaign.

Over the past decade, there has been a 75% increase in knife crime and a 29% increase in gun related offences in England and Wales.

In 2023, Crimestoppers received almost 20,000 reports on firearms, knives and assault, harassment and violence.

Criminals use violence, exploitation and intimidation to control people and profit from the sale of drugs and other illegal activities. In this campaign, Crimestoppers is asking people to speak up and not remain silent when violent criminals are known to them.
Any piece of information passed to the charity 100% anonymously could help to prevent genuine harm and injury. Things to tell Crimestoppers include:

  • Who is supplying and selling guns
  • How and by who are these guns being transported
  • Where a weapon has been hidden or stored
  • Anyone in your area that carries a knife or gun
  • Those who have carried out recent shootings or stabbings
  • How weapons are disposed of after use
  • Whether you know about any planned violent attacks

Information given to Crimestoppers anonymously that made a difference:

Drug trafficker arrested, weapons and drugs seized
Crimestoppers information named an individual who was trafficking drugs and was in possession of knives and guns. The subsequent search by police at two named addresses uncovered a substantial quantity of crack cocaine and heroin at an estimated street value of £10,000, alongside £4,500 cash, together with weapons (sword and gun) and 150-200 rounds of home-made ammunition. Two individuals were arrested and charged.

Fatal knife attack suspects arrested
A young man was robbed at knifepoint and ultimately stabbed to death. Two men were arrested and charged with murder after key information was passed to Crimestoppers. The attack was targeted and planned.

Weapons seized
Crimestoppers received information about an individual who was in possession of a number of weapons. Police searched the property and found an imitation firearm and a Rambo knife as well as three knives in the suspect’s car.

Sex slavery stopped
Several addresses operating as illegal brothels for many years under the guise of massage shops were identified from information given to the charity. The workers were victims of modern slavery and human trafficking and were safeguarded during a police raid. Arrests were made and all the businesses were closed down.

Independent charity

Gary Murray, serious and organised crime lead at Crimestoppers, said: “We know it can be difficult and intimidating to speak up about crime, especially if it involves somebody close to you. Crimestoppers, which is independent of the police, exists to give you peace of mind that no-one will ever know that you contacted our charity.

“Your information can help to bring justice to victims of violent crime and can help to prevent future incidents from happening. We can take information in over 140 different languages 100% anonymously, either online or by phone. Only you will ever know that you contacted Crimestoppers.

“Every year we receive thousands of actionable pieces of information; this leads to a significant number of arrests, millions of pounds of drugs seized and weapons being taken off our streets. We would like to thank those who have previously contacted Crimestoppers.”

To report crime 100% anonymously, visit the charity’s website Crimestoppers-uk.org or Fearless.org for young people.

Editorial credit: Tony Dunn / Shutterstock.com

Witnesses needed following fatal road crash in Oldham

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Police are asking witnesses to come forward following a fatal road collision in Oldham.

Emergency services responded to reports of a collision on Park Road, at the junction with Alexandra Retail Park at around 3.15pm on Saturday.

It is believed that one vehicle was travelling South East along Park Road, with another travelling in the opposite direction, waiting to turn into the retail park.

As one has travelled through the junction, the two vehicles have collided, causing one of the vehicles to collide with two men on a pedestrian refuge island.

One of the pedestrians, aged 59, suffered fatal injuries. Another man, also 59, suffered serious injuries and remains in hospital.

Two drivers – a man and a woman, aged 32 and 36 respectively – have been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. Both remain in custody for questioning.

Witnesses needed

GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident to come forward.

They are also keen to speak to anyone who may have any footage, including dashcam, CCTV, or mobile phone footage from the area in the moments leading up to the collision.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 4741, quoting log number 2040 of 09/03/2024.

Information can also be shared by using the LiveChat function at: www.gmp.police.uk

 

Littler accused of arrogance with angry opponent getting in his face

Luke Littler was baffled by accusations of arrogance after beating Ricardo Pietreczko on his way to winning the Belgian Open.

Littler saw off the German in the semi-finals 7-3 with a visibly angry Pietreczko getting in his opponent’s face when they shook hands at the end.

Read our other sports news stories here:
Liverpool 1-1 Man City
England beat Ireland in Six Nations
Guardiola pleased with De Bruyne’s angry reaction

Pietreczko wrote on Instagram: “So I appreciated him a lot, that you can play such a game at such an age, but I hope the arrogance punishes him.”

Littler was as confused afterwards as he appeared on stage, saying: “No idea what I did wrong, no idea what he said, something then don’t do it again.”

Littler had the last laugh by going on to claim the title, and throwing a nine-darter in the final against Rob Cross.

The 17-year-old won 8-7 with the nine-darter coming at 5-5.

“I hit the nine and then lost the next two legs, so I’m just glad to get over the line,” said Littler.

“It’s always good to be involved in a good game. We always push ourselves to the last leg.

“I’m really happy to hit a nine-darter, I prefer 144 to 141 to finish a nine because when the first treble 20 goes in I’m confident of following it with another.

“I know the spotlight is on me because I’ve done so well but I just play my darts and get on with it. I just do what I do.”

Emmanuel Katto (EMKA) Foresees an Exhilarating Future for Ugandan Motorsports

Transforming the Scene with Zeal and Insight

Emmanuel Katto, widely recognised as EMKA in the exhilarating realm of motorsports, stands among the rally drivers who have sculpted the future of Uganda’s flourishing motorsport scene. Even though he no longer competes, EMKA remains an integral part of the Ugandan motorsport community, casting light on the sport’s existing opportunities and challenges in Uganda.

A Legendary Figure Re-emerges with a Vision

With a colourful career, Emmanuel Katto’s accomplishments are monumental in Uganda’s motorsport history. Renowned for his intrepid driving and as a symbol of excitement, EMKA embodies the essence of thrill and vigour in the sport. Now residing in Dubai, his fervour for motorsports, both within Uganda and internationally, hasn’t waned. EMKA keeps up with every twist and turn of the FIA WRC Kenya Safari Rally and Formula 1 whenever possible, showing his undying dedication to the sport that shaped his life.

Reflecting on Uganda’s Motorsport Odyssey

Having witnessed the evolution of Uganda’s motorsport landscape firsthand, Emmanuel Katto is cognisant of the enduring challenges. Motorsport, a beloved and historic sport in Uganda, boasts a passionate fan base and a legacy of nurturing exceptional talent. EMKA, from his unique perspective, believes that with the right support and conditions, Ugandan rally drivers could once again achieve regional supremacy, reminiscent of their dominance in the 1990s.

Challenges and Prospects

EMKA openly discusses the hurdles that have stymied the progression of motorsports in Uganda. He acknowledges that challenges are part and parcel of evolving sports landscapes, with Uganda being no exception. Nonetheless, he remains optimistic about the future, envisioning new opportunities for burgeoning talent. EMKA stresses that confronting these challenges and fostering a positive environment are crucial steps towards enhancing Uganda’s motorsport status in the region.

EMKA’s Blueprint for Uganda’s Motorsport Tomorrow

With fervour and optimism, EMKA outlines his aspirations for the future of Ugandan motorsports. He underscores the importance of consistent support, infrastructural development, and the cultivation of young talent. EMKA dreams of a future where Uganda produces a new generation of skilled drivers who can fiercely compete with regional counterparts and make their mark in various regional competitions.

Fostering Community Involvement and Backing

Recognising the importance of a vibrant fan base, EMKA advocates for broader community involvement and support for Uganda’s motorsport talents. The survival of sports like Formula 1 and rallying hinges on the enthusiasm, energy, and financial backing of their fans. EMKA encourages financial support for local talent, engagement in events, and participation in motorsport-related activities, highlighting the sport’s struggle with securing substantial corporate sponsorship due to its perceived riskiness, which has deterred potential backers.

Navigating Uganda’s Motorsports Towards New Frontiers Collectively

EMKA calls for unity, envisioning a prosperous future for Uganda’s motorsport community. He urges sponsors, supporters, and stakeholders to collaborate in propelling the sport to greater heights. EMKA views rallying not just as a competition but as a platform to showcase Uganda’s talent and national pride.

In the dynamic world of rallying, Emmanuel Katto (EMKA) emerges as a visionary figure, shaping the sport’s future and heralding a new era of motorsport in Uganda, beyond his celebrated past as a rally driver.

Combining a Ghost Immobiliser with a tracker for ultimate car security

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A Ghost Immobiliser and a GPS Vehicle tracker are two of the most effective and popular methods of vehicle security and theft prevention currently on the market.

Utilising the advancements in modern technology, both devices provide a high-tech solution for protecting a vehicle from theft. Popular with owners of high-value cars, the Ghost Immobiliser and a vehicle tracker, like those with Thatcham approval, can work together to provide the most secure level of vehicle protection, providing peace of mind for drivers. 

In this article we will discuss the many benefits of these two pieces of technology and evaluate them working in conjunction with one another. 

The unique features of a Ghost Immobiliser 

One of the very best and most advanced security devices available today, a Ghost Immobiliser provides an advanced level of protection against vehicle theft. Compatible with the majority of major vehicle models, the immobiliser device can be installed discreetly and is undetectable. Requiring the input of a unique sequence code that the main driver can set, the vehicle is completely immobilised unless this sequence is entered correctly. Therefore preventing any way of a thief being able to drive away with the vehicle, even if they have managed to get inside. 

This is an excellent theft prevention solution against modern types of theft, such as relay car theft, which specifically targets keyless entry models. 

Is the Ghost Immobiliser a GPS tracking device?

The Ghost Immobiliser does not offer any vehicle tracking features, it is solely an immobiliser. With its main purpose being to stop anyone who is not authorised from driving the vehicle. Protecting against key theft, keyless entry and key cloning.

If you did want a tracking feature, in addition to the installation of a Ghost Immobiliser, many drivers choose to install an S7 vehicle tracking device. This is one of the most advanced options when it comes to GPS tracking systems and is Thatcham approved. 

How does a GPS tracker work 

A GPS tracker is a device that provides 24/7 monitoring of your vehicle’s location. No matter where you have left your car parked, if at home or away, the device will provide live tracking data of your vehicle directly to a connected mobile device. From this you can keep a close eye on your vehicle and receive alerts to any suspicious activity, reckless driving, or detection of movement.

What roles do these two systems play in preventing vehicle theft? 

Both systems can play a key role in the prevention of vehicle theft. With an immobiliser acting as a way to stop thieves in their tracks and a GPS tracker to assist in the theft recovery process. Both technologies are incredibly valuable and can play a major part in the fight against organised crime gangs that target high value vehicles and sell these for parts and through illegal stolen to order requests. 

Installing a Ghost Immobiliser with a tracker into your vehicle 

Recognising the benefits of both an immobiliser and a vehicle tracker, it is now very common for drivers, particularly those of prestige models, to combine the powers of a Ghost Immobiliser and a GPS tracker for a secure layer of protection. Not only helping to prevent theft and protect the value of their car but simply for peace of mind. The installation of both devices can be done quickly and efficiently and can be found included in many vehicle security packages offered by UK distributors. 

Editorial credit: Peteri / Shutterstock.com

Kevin De Bruyne substituted: Guardiola calls Man City midfielder’s reaction ‘good’ against Liverpool

Kevin De Bruyne’s disgruntled reaction to being substituted during Manchester City’s draw at Liverpool was “good”, manager Pep Guardiola says.

Midfielder De Bruyne remonstrated with Guardiola when he was replaced by Mateo Kovacic in the 69th minute of the 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday, with the Spaniard later sitting next to him to engage in a discussion as the 32-year-old continued to argue his case.

Alexis Mac Allister’s penalty had brought Liverpool level five minutes into the second half, replying to John Stones’ 23rd-minute opener as neither side secured the win they required to displace Arsenal at the top of the table.

“It’s fine,” Guardiola told Sky Sports. “We needed a player who could have the ball and keep it – it was not about pressing.

“Mateo is really good at that… he can keep the ball and make an extra pass, arrive in the box. It’s not a problem.”

Read our other sports news stories here:
Liverpool 1-1 Man City
England beat Ireland in Six Nations
Verstappen wins in Jeddah

Asked for his thoughts on De Bruyne’s dissatisfaction, Guardiola said: “That’s good. He will have a chance in the next game to prove how wrong I was. We’re fine.”

De Bruyne set up Stones’ goal with a clever corner to the near post for his first direct goal involvement in three Premier League starts, having set up four goals and scored one in his previous four top-flight appearances.

Liverpool vs Man City result: Guardiola satisfied

City came under pressure from Liverpool after the interval, matching their opponents’ total of six attempts on target across the game but having only 10 of the 29 efforts overall.

“I know how difficult it is at Anfield, but the Etihad is difficult too,” said Guardiola. “In eight years, Liverpool haven’t won there.

“Both teams are incredible competitors. We would prefer to win but… the game we played was good for everyone.”

Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp is the only manager to have stopped City from winning the Premier League in the last six seasons, taking the title in style in 2019/20 as part of a managerial rivalry with Guardiola which has continued from the German’s time as boss of German giants Borussia Dortmund, with whom he took on Guardiola’s Bayern Munich.

Klopp has 12 wins to Guardiola’s 11 in their head-to-head record against each other, and the former Barcelona head coach was asked about their warm embrace on the sideline during what will be the Reds manager’s final season of his tenure.

“We don’t need a hug to show it,” Guardiola said, predicting that Klopp’s love for the game will entice him to return to football after a break. “He defends his club and I defend mine.”