Andy Hampson

Luke Littler unveiled a large mural celebrating his rise to darts stardom at Warrington’s Golden Square shopping centre, although his grandmother saw it being prepared the day before. The tribute follows Littler’s World Matchplay victory over Gerwyn Price, in which he set tournament records for average and maximum scores. With major titles including the World Championship, UK Open, Premier League and World Masters already secured, Littler believes an unprecedented clean sweep remains possible. He will take a break in Orlando before returning to competition, while acknowledging comparisons with 16-time world champion Phil Taylor. Littler also promoted Target Darts’ initiative to provide equipment to 63 local schools.

Ronnie O’Sullivan says he has only two more opportunities to win an eighth World Championship title, which would break his tie with Stephen Hendry for the modern-era record. The 50-year-old, who last won in 2022, has slipped to 12th in the rankings and says he will retire rather than enter qualifying for major events. He intends to continue for at least two more seasons before reassessing in 2028, citing the increasing mental demands of competition. He opened the 2026-27 season with a 6-1 victory over Liu Linhao at the Shanghai Masters.

Bryson DeChambeau worked to recover from a two‑stroke penalty as he navigated his third round at The Open, receiving strong crowd support throughout. Despite inconsistent driving and numerous challenges from rough lies and bunkers, he produced several key par saves and momentum‑building birdies, particularly on the back nine. Sam Burns often outshone him with birdies of his own, but DeChambeau’s resilience and rapport with spectators kept him in contention heading into the final stretch, although a bogey at the 18th slightly weakened his position.

Bryson DeChambeau worked to recover from a two‑stroke penalty controversy as he navigated his third round at Royal Birkdale, receiving strong crowd support throughout. Despite mixed play, including key birdies at holes 6, 15, 17 and near‑miss opportunities elsewhere, he remained in contention while playing alongside Sam Burns, who produced several standout moments. Fan engagement was high across the course, with DeChambeau responding positively, though a bogey at the final hole slightly set back his pursuit of the Claret Jug.

Rory McIlroy delivered a three‑under‑par 67 in his second round at Royal Birkdale, regaining momentum in his Open campaign. Strong driving, solid recovery play and timely birdies offset occasional frustration with missed chances and wind‑affected shots. Large, supportive crowds followed him throughout, and he finished with a composed par save on the 18th to keep his tournament prospects alive.

Argentinian golfer Mateo Pulcini responded to light‑hearted boos at the Open by sinking a long birdie putt on the 18th hole and celebrating with Enzo Fernandez’s cupped‑ears gesture from Argentina’s World Cup win over England. Pulcini said the idea came spontaneously and praised the supportive crowd despite his five‑over‑par round. English contenders Justin Rose and Matthew Jordan struggled, while Tommy Fleetwood admitted pre‑round nerves after consoling his son over England’s defeat. Jon Rahm, also opening with a 69, expressed hopes he would be busy competing rather than watching Spain face Argentina in the World Cup final.

Argentina defeated Wales 35-21 in the Nations Championship, overturning an early Welsh try and dominating through five tries led by Joaquin Oviedo’s standout performance. Wales briefly drew level through Rhys Carre but Argentina surged ahead with scores from Justo Piccardo, Marcos Kremer and Santiago Carreras, supported by Tomas Albornoz’s kicking. A late Ben Warren try reduced the deficit, but Argentina controlled the match and secured a comfortable victory.

Matt Fitzpatrick reached a share of the lead at 11 under during a fog-disrupted third round of the Genesis Scottish Open, while Rory McIlroy dropped back after three early bogeys. Play was suspended with 22 players still on the course and will resume Sunday before the fourth round is completed the same day. Michael Thorbjornsen matched Fitzpatrick at the top after a bogey-free stretch, and Johnny Keefer set the clubhouse target at 10 under, joined by several contenders still on course.

The ICC reviewed but took no action regarding a retirement announcement video featuring Ben Stokes that was filmed in the England dressing room during a Test against New Zealand, despite rules restricting such recordings without prior approval. The ICC contacted the ECB, but the issue was resolved without sanction. Stokes joked about the situation on social media, and the retirement message, released during the match, came as a surprise as England went on to lose the series 2-1.

Rory McIlroy shot a second‑round 66 to retain a share of the lead at the Genesis Scottish Open alongside Jordan Smith and Tom Kim. Smith surged with a seven‑under 63, while Matt Fitzpatrick and Min Woo Lee stayed close behind. Several notable players, including Scottie Scheffler, Aaron Rai, Padraig Harrington, Shane Lowry and Xander Schauffele, missed the cut at two under. Jon Rahm recovered from a poor start to qualify for the weekend with a round of 65.

Burnley hired Belgian coach Nicky Hayen on a three-year contract following their relegation to the Championship, turning to him after talks for Craig Bellamy to return collapsed. Hayen arrives from Genk and previously won league and cup titles with Club Brugge. Chairman Alan Pace said the appointment aligns with the club’s long-term plan. Bellamy, formerly an assistant at Burnley, remains Wales manager and will lead their Euro 2028 qualification campaign.

Jon Rahm said he would not rule out personally investing in LIV Golf as the tour faces uncertainty with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund expected to withdraw support at year’s end. Preparing for the Genesis Scottish Open, he reflected on his return to European events and praised the tournament’s quality. Fellow LIV players are also participating as they tune up for the Open. Viktor Hovland welcomed Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton’s presence, highlighting their importance to European Ryder Cup team strength.

Liam Rosenior has been appointed head coach of Paris FC on a two‑year contract following Antoine Kombouare’s departure. His return to France comes after a brief and unsuccessful spell at Chelsea, where a run of five scoreless defeats led to his dismissal. Rosenior previously achieved success with Strasbourg, securing European competition. Paris FC, recently back in Ligue 1, chose new leadership despite Kombouare guiding the team to safety. The club praised Rosenior’s modern approach and leadership qualities, and he expressed enthusiasm for implementing an intense, expressive playing style.

Nottingham Forest confirmed the departure of manager Vitor Pereira and his coaching staff after invoking a mutual break clause, despite Pereira calling the decision a complete surprise. The club thanked Pereira for guiding the team to Premier League safety and a Europa League semi-final, while reports indicate Oliver Glasner may replace him. Pereira expressed disappointment but pride in the progress made during his tenure.

Vitor Pereira said his unexpected departure from Nottingham Forest came without warning despite guiding the club to Premier League safety and a Europa League semi-final. His contract included a June break clause the club chose to activate as it prepares to appoint former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner. Pereira expressed disappointment but gratitude toward the club, players and supporters, while Forest declined to comment on the decision.

Tino Livramento underwent surgery after a calf injury forced him out of England’s World Cup squad, with Newcastle United confirming he is expected to return during pre-season. His absence, combined with Reece James’s injury and Jarell Quansah’s ankle issue, has left England manager Thomas Tuchel with limited full-back options ahead of the round‑of‑32 match against DR Congo. England aim to progress to a potential last‑16 meeting with Mexico or Ecuador, amid notable tournament upsets including Germany and the Netherlands exiting on penalties. Brazil’s win over Japan raises the possibility of a quarter-final clash with England, echoing their 2002 meeting.

Enzo Maresca assumes leadership of Manchester City with the task of succeeding Pep Guardiola, balancing continuity with establishing his own identity. He faces key decisions on player futures amid recent departures and ongoing uncertainty, while expected to influence squad recruitment alongside director Hugo Viana. Expectations for a smooth transition remain high despite the difficulty of matching Guardiola’s success. Maresca must also contend with the unresolved Premier League financial charges that continue to create instability around the club.

Burnley’s attempt to appoint Wales manager Craig Bellamy has fallen through, leaving him set to continue leading the Welsh national team. Despite advanced talks, neither Burnley nor the Football Association of Wales provided reasons for the collapse in negotiations. Bellamy, under contract for two more years, recently affirmed his commitment to Wales, where he has achieved promotion to Nations League A but missed out on World Cup qualification. With Bellamy expected to guide Wales into Euro 2028 qualifying, Burnley must resume their search for a manager as they prepare for the new Championship season following their relegation.

Francesco Molinari has been appointed for a third time as a Ryder Cup vice-captain, joining his brother Edoardo on Luke Donald’s leadership team for the 2027 event at Adare Manor in Ireland. Donald praised Molinari’s experience and previous contributions to Europe’s victories in 2023 and 2025. Molinari expressed enthusiasm for returning to the role, noting his strong past experiences. Europe seeks a third consecutive win after narrowly defeating the United States 15–13 in the most recent competition.

Burnley have approached the Football Association of Wales about appointing Craig Bellamy as manager as they search for a replacement for Scott Parker following relegation. Bellamy, currently committed to leading Wales through Euro 2028 qualifying and under contract for two more years, has publicly expressed dedication to the national team despite receiving other offers. He previously served as Burnley’s assistant manager under Vincent Kompany and recently guided Wales to the World Cup play‑offs, where they were eliminated by Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Iran’s national football team plans to file an official complaint with Fifa over US travel restrictions limiting their entry to the country to the day before World Cup matches and requiring immediate departure afterward. The constraints forced the team to base their training camp in Mexico and led to denied requests for earlier arrivals ahead of matches in Los Angeles. US officials cited security concerns, accusing Iran of potentially exploiting the system. Some Iranian staff and federation members were reportedly denied visas, and protests against Iran’s government occurred before the team’s opening match. Fifa has been asked to comment on the situation.

Robbie Williams will sponsor Port Vale’s home and away shirts for the 2026–27 and 2027–28 seasons and serve as ambassador for the club’s charitable foundation. His RW logo will feature on the kits as part of a partnership tied to the foundation’s new three-year One Vale strategy aimed at supporting health, education, inclusion and opportunity projects in Stoke. Club executives highlight Williams’s lifelong connection to Port Vale and the anticipated positive impact of the collaboration on community outreach and visibility.

Wimbledon increased its prize money to £64.2 million, the largest single‑year rise in its history, but leading ATP and WTA players say the change does not resolve longstanding concerns over revenue sharing. Players argue they still receive a smaller share of tournament revenues than in previous years and want a path toward a 22 percent allocation by 2030, in line with other major events. They continue to push for a transparent revenue‑sharing model, a player welfare fund, and a formal player council. The All England Club maintains that a revenue‑based formula is inappropriate due to its nonprofit structure and its need to reinvest in facilities and sport development.

Former player and manager Kenny Jackett has died at 64, prompting tributes from multiple clubs including Watford, Millwall, Swansea and Wolves. Recognised for significant contributions both as a player and manager, he achieved promotions with several teams and played a key role in the rise of clubs such as Swansea and Wolves. Watford highlighted his legendary status, while Millwall, Swansea and Wolves praised his long‑lasting impact and foundational work. He transitioned to coaching after injury ended his playing career early and later served as Gillingham’s director of football before stepping down for medical reasons.

Sarina Wiegman plans tactical changes as England aim to rebound from a heavy defeat to Spain and keep World Cup qualification hopes alive. England must outperform Spain’s result to secure automatic qualification, otherwise facing the play-offs. Wiegman emphasized squad unity, expects different tactical challenges from Ukraine, and aims for an early goal to control the match while monitoring Spain’s result in Iceland.

Tom Heaton signed a one‑year extension with Manchester United, with club leadership emphasizing his leadership and professionalism. The contract comes amid possible changes in the goalkeeping department, including uncertainty surrounding Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana.

Manchester United goalkeeper Tom Heaton has signed a one-year contract extension, continuing his role as an experienced backup within the squad. The 40-year-old, who previously rose through United’s youth system and enjoyed notable success at Burnley, expressed enthusiasm about contributing to the club's ambitions. Changes may be forthcoming in United’s goalkeeping department, with uncertainty surrounding Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana. Director of football Jason Wilcox highlighted Heaton’s leadership and professionalism as key reasons for his extension.

John Kear is remembered across rugby league for his influential 40‑year coaching career, highlighted by Sheffield Eagles’ 1998 Challenge Cup upset and Hull’s 2005 triumph. Former players and colleagues describe him as an exceptional mentor known for instilling belief, managing people with empathy and elevating performance. Tributes from figures including Johnny Lawless, Chris Chester and Paul Cooke emphasise his leadership, personal kindness and enduring impact on their careers and lives.

Pep Guardiola ended his decade-long tenure at Manchester City after a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, closing a spell that delivered 20 trophies including six Premier League titles and the club’s first Champions League. He plans a long break from football but pledged to advise his successor, with Enzo Maresca emerging as the likely candidate. The farewell match also marked goodbyes for Bernardo Silva and John Stones, who reflected on the club’s achievements under Guardiola’s leadership.

Pep Guardiola ended his decade-long tenure as Manchester City manager with an emotional farewell after a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, reflecting on his exhaustion, memories, and strong connections within the club. Bernardo Silva and John Stones also made final appearances, while Unai Emery praised Guardiola and guided Villa to a comeback win with two goals from Ollie Watkins. Guardiola affirmed his decision to step away and take an extended break, emphasising gratitude for the club’s support and his belief that the timing was right.

Manchester City’s final match under Pep Guardiola ended in a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, with Ollie Watkins scoring twice after Antoine Semenyo’s opener. The day marked farewells for Guardiola, Bernardo Silva and John Stones. Elsewhere on the Premier League’s final day, West Ham were relegated despite beating Leeds, Tottenham secured safety with a win over Everton, and Manchester United claimed a 3-0 victory over Brighton to seal a European place. Sunderland defeated Chelsea, Bournemouth secured Europa League football despite a draw with Nottingham Forest, Fulham beat Newcastle, and Burnley drew with Wolves to avoid finishing bottom.

Pep Guardiola prepares for his final match as Manchester City manager after announcing his departure at the end of the season. His decade-long tenure, marked by 20 trophies, will be honored with the renaming of the Etihad Stadium’s expanded North Stand as the Pep Guardiola Stand. The match will also serve as a farewell for long‑serving players Bernardo Silva and John Stones, with celebrations boosted by the club’s recent FA Cup win despite falling short in the Premier League title race.

John Stones reflects on Pep Guardiola’s transformative influence on his understanding of football as both prepare to leave Manchester City at the end of the season. He praises Guardiola’s unique tactical vision and credits him for reshaping his role, particularly during the treble-winning 2022–23 campaign. Stones highlights the emotional significance of his time at City, where he has made 294 appearances since joining in 2016, while acknowledging uncertainty about his future beyond the club.

Pep Guardiola arrived at Bournemouth without addressing reports that he plans to leave Manchester City after the season’s final match against Aston Villa. Manchester City have not commented on the speculation, and Guardiola dismissed its impact on preparations. His departure would end a highly successful tenure that includes 20 trophies since 2016. Former assistant Enzo Maresca is reported to be the leading candidate to replace him, following managerial stints at Leicester City and Chelsea.

Pep Guardiola’s tenure at Manchester City is highlighted through defining moments, from major transfer decisions and landmark wins to tactical reinventions and historic achievements. Key events include the early decision to move on from Joe Hart, pivotal domestic victories, record-breaking league campaigns, and decisive contributions from players such as Vincent Kompany and John Stones. Successes in Europe feature prominently, culminating in the 2023 Champions League triumph that completed a historic treble. His final season continued to deliver crucial moments, including Stefan Ortega’s decisive save that helped secure a fourth consecutive Premier League title.

Pep Guardiola urges Manchester City to push the Premier League title race to the final day as they trail leaders Arsenal with two matches remaining. He stresses the need to beat Bournemouth despite the opponents’ long unbeaten run and recent scheduling frustrations. City travel with confidence after winning the FA Cup and have a fully fit squad, including Rodri’s return.

Pep Guardiola maintained uncertainty over his long-term future at Manchester City while joking with reporters ahead of the FA Cup final. He highlighted his record of 19 trophies in 10 years and reiterated that he still has a year left on his contract without committing beyond that. Guardiola also responded humorously to reports that two members of his backroom staff may leave, stressing he supports staff and players pursuing opportunities if they are unhappy.

Pep Guardiola joked that Wembley should name a stand after him as Manchester City prepare for their fourth straight FA Cup final and their 24th neutral‑venue appearance at the stadium under his tenure. He reflected on past successes there with Barcelona and expressed confidence ahead of facing a struggling Chelsea side. The match briefly interrupts City’s Premier League title pursuit, though Guardiola insisted it does not affect preparation. Ongoing speculation about his future continues, which he dismissed sarcastically, and City will evaluate Rodri’s fitness after his recent groin injury.

Pep Guardiola urges Manchester City to perform strongly enough to eliminate dependence on VAR after controversial decisions in recent matches and past FA Cup finals. He cites disputed calls involving Arsenal and West Ham and previous incidents against Manchester United and Crystal Palace, insisting that focusing on better performances is the only way to avoid uncertainty in the Premier League title race. The team aims to secure a decisive result against Crystal Palace to narrow Arsenal’s lead.

Pep Guardiola expects Crystal Palace to compete strongly against Manchester City despite potential squad rotation as Palace prepare for a European final. Palace also face Arsenal on the final day, giving them influence over the title race. Guardiola emphasises professionalism across the league and urges focus on controllable factors. Manchester City hope to narrow the gap to Arsenal, with fitness assessments pending for Rodri and Abdukodir Khusanov.

Pep Guardiola criticizes the Premier League’s tight scheduling but accepts it as a consequence of Manchester City competing for major trophies. With a congested run of fixtures deciding their title challenge against Arsenal and an FA Cup final versus Chelsea, he emphasizes the club’s commitment to taking every competition seriously. Guardiola highlights the demanding nature of knockout and end‑of‑season matches while stressing the responsibility of players and staff to perform at their best in all games.

Jeremy Doku’s strong scoring run continued with his opener in Manchester City’s 3-0 win over Brentford, marking his third consecutive game with a goal and his eighth of the season. He highlighted growing confidence, consistency, and gratitude while crediting his father and faith for motivation. Additional goals from Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush sealed the victory as Doku emphasized hard work and resilience despite physical challenges from opponents.

Manchester City closed the gap in the Premier League title race with a 3-0 win over Brentford as Jeremy Doku opened the scoring with a curling finish before Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush added goals. Brentford saw two penalty appeals denied and City survived disciplinary controversy involving Bernardo Silva, but the home side maintained control despite missing Rodri. Late goals strengthened City’s position as both they and Arsenal head into the final three matches of the season.

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City showed a champion’s mentality by recovering from 1-3 to draw 3-3 against Everton, keeping them in the Premier League title race despite missing a chance to close the gap on Arsenal. He praised his players’ attitude but acknowledged defensive errors that made Everton’s goals too easy. Guardiola also backed Phil Foden, who has struggled recently but is expected to sign a new four‑year contract, expressing confidence in his long‑term importance to the team.

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City must win all remaining matches to secure the Premier League title after moving top with a 1-0 victory over Burnley, which confirmed Burnley’s relegation. He highlighted the physical demands following the recent win against Arsenal and acknowledged missed chances that could have improved goal difference. City now prepare for an FA Cup semi-final against Southampton, with Guardiola considering lineup changes due to fatigue.

England footballer Jude Bellingham has purchased a one per cent stake in Birmingham Phoenix, investing about £800,000 in the franchise valued at roughly £82 million. The stake was acquired equally from Knighthead Capital and Warwickshire County Cricket Club. The move reflects Bellingham’s long-standing interest in cricket, with the official announcement expected shortly.

Erling Haaland’s winning goal cut Arsenal’s Premier League lead to three points, positioning Manchester City to overtake them with a game in hand. Haaland noted Arsenal’s recent history of falling short in title races while stressing City’s focus and experience. The match featured missed chances for both sides and a late confrontation between Haaland and Gabriel, with Haaland suggesting the defender was fortunate to avoid a red card. City’s win intensifies the title race ahead of their upcoming match against Burnley.

Manchester City supporters sold Arsenal-themed water bottles outside the Etihad Stadium as part of fan banter before a key title clash, building on viral jokes about Arsenal “bottling” their campaign following a recent defeat. The atmosphere included flares and celebrations as City entered the match with strong momentum after recent wins in multiple competitions.

Virgil van Dijk says Liverpool must deliver an exceptional performance to overturn a 2–0 deficit against Paris Saint‑Germain in their Champions League quarter‑final second leg. He emphasizes the crucial role of fans in driving a comeback and reflects on past memorable atmospheres at Anfield. Van Dijk also acknowledges ongoing supporter protests over ticket price increases, affirming fans’ right to speak out and calling for a resolution that benefits everyone.

Virgil van Dijk expressed confidence that 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha can handle a potential start against Paris St Germain, praising the youngster’s work ethic and maturity. Ngumoha, now Liverpool’s youngest Premier League goalscorer at Anfield, impressed with an opening goal in a crucial win over Fulham that revived Liverpool’s Champions League hopes. Mohamed Salah added a second, while the match also marked the final Anfield appearances of Salah and Andy Robertson before their end‑of‑season exits. Van Dijk emphasized the need for emerging players to step up as senior figures depart.

Pep Guardiola warns his Manchester City squad that their upcoming match against Chelsea is crucial, insisting that failing to win at Stamford Bridge would undermine their ability to challenge Arsenal in the Premier League title race. Despite Arsenal holding a nine-point lead, City have two games in hand and a chance to close the gap, but Guardiola stresses they must win all remaining fixtures. He plays down talk of an aura around City, emphasising performance over perception, while goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma highlights the difficulty of the Chelsea match as City focus on maintaining control of their title hopes.

Rio Ngumoha’s early goal and Mohamed Salah’s finish secured Liverpool a 2-0 win over Fulham, offering relief to manager Arne Slot after recent heavy defeats. Slot praised Ngumoha’s growing strength and individuality, likening his finish to Salah’s and suggesting the teenager is ready for greater responsibility, including a possible start in the upcoming Champions League match against PSG. Curtis Jones faces uncertainty after a groin injury. Fulham manager Marco Silva attributed the loss to a poor first-half approach and missed chances despite a stronger second-half performance.

Pep Guardiola says Manchester City must win all their remaining Premier League matches to have any chance of overtaking Arsenal, acknowledging earlier inconsistency has left no margin for error. City enter the final stretch with momentum after winning the Carabao Cup and beating Liverpool in the FA Cup, but continue to face defensive absences including Ruben Dias, John Stones and Josko Gvardiol. Guardiola downplays the significance of April performance statistics and stresses that the team’s focus remains on winning every game regardless of scheduling.

Pep Guardiola says he has not been informed of Bernardo Silva’s expected departure from Manchester City despite widespread indications that the midfielder will leave when his contract expires this summer. Assistant manager Pep Lijnders previously suggested Silva was nearing a farewell, though no official announcement has been made. Guardiola praised Silva’s leadership, consistency, and versatility throughout their nine seasons together, calling him one of the club’s most reliable players. He reiterated his hope that Silva stays but stressed the decision rests entirely with the player as City prepare to face Chelsea in the Premier League.

Atletico Madrid gained a strong advantage in their Champions League quarter-final by defeating 10-man Barcelona 2-0 at the Nou Camp with goals from Julian Alvarez and Alexander Sorloth after Pau Cubarsi’s red card. Barcelona missed several scoring opportunities, including multiple chances from Marcus Rashford. In the Europa League, Cucho Hernandez converted a penalty to earn Real Betis a 1-1 draw at Braga after Florian Grillitsch’s early opener.

Luke Humphries downplays the recent confrontation between Luke Littler and Gian van Veen, predicting the incident will soon be forgotten as the Premier League Darts season continues. Littler’s heated exchange with Van Veen in Manchester included celebratory gestures and a ‘cry baby’ signal before Van Veen won their match 6–5. Despite the episode, Littler remains top of the standings, with Humphries aiming to revive his own campaign amid tight competition for playoff positions.

Antoine Semenyo praised teammate Rayan Cherki as one of the world’s best after Manchester City’s 4-0 FA Cup win over Liverpool, highlighting their strong on‑field connection and Cherki’s creativity. Despite moments of flair that have previously drawn criticism, Cherki impressed again while contributing to goals alongside Erling Haaland. City’s dominant performance reinforced their pursuit of a domestic treble, with Semenyo stressing the team’s ambition and focus for the remainder of the season.