Connect with us

Sports

Man United told to complete Micky van de Ven transfer on one condition this summer

Published

on

Former Premier League manager Tim Sherwood believes Liverpool and Manchester United could still target Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven

Manchester United have been told why they could have a chance of signing Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven this summer. United had a quiet January transfer window with no new signings arriving at Old Trafford, but it could be a different story in the summer.

Ruben Amorim left the club at the start of January and was subsequently replaced by Michael Carrick, who was named as United’s interim head coach until the end of the season.

Advertisement

It remains to be seen what plans United will have for the summer transfer window, and the Reds have already been linked with a host of potential targets, particularly in midfield.

However, former Tottenham boss Tim Sherwood has argued why Van de Ven, a centre-back, could be a player of interest to United in the summer, reports the Liverpool Echo.

READ MORE: Hansi Flick ‘contacts Barcelona board’ over Marcus Rashford as Man United discover new plansREAD MORE: £1m Manchester United signing causes immediate stir after joining new club

Speaking to CasinoStugan, Tim Sherwood suggested Van de Ven’s Spurss future hinges on his fitness record, while also explaining why United may not be alone in showing an interest in the defender.

Advertisement

FOLLOW OUR MAN UNITED FB PAGE! Latest news and analysis via the MEN’s Manchester United Facebook page

“If he proves his fitness, I think there will be a queue around the block for him,” Sherwood said. “Hopefully Tottenham can keep hold of him but you know what it’s like when a player decides he wants to leave. Unfortunately, if you don’t let him go, you’re left without the money and the player in the end.

“People may be shocked by that but it all depends on who they have as manager in the summer because they’ve got it wrong so many times before and it looks like they have got it right at the moment.

“United are a club that can go from where they have been to the top quicker than most because they’ve got the brand power, the money to do it. They can pay the big wages for the big players.

Advertisement

“They missed the boat before. They could have signed Declan Rice and Harry Kane. Instead, they ended up with seven or eight signings who were alright but mostly very poor.

“They won’t want to miss the boat this time on Van de Ven. He will certainly be at the top of a lot of lists at any number of clubs and Tottenham will have to fight tooth and nail to keep hold of him.

“I think the only real way they keep hold of him is if Micky [Van de Ven] decides that there might be a bright future ahead at Tottenham, and right now they’re down in 14th in the Premier League and out of the running for the two domestic cups. They’re flying high in the Champions League but there are stiffer tests to come in that competition.”

Sherwood went on to explain why United’s bitter rivals, Liverpool, could be another club who have an interest in signing Van de Ven. This is despite the Anfield club agreeing a £60million deal with Rennes for centre-back Jeremy Jacquet on deadline day.

Advertisement

“Is Micky van de Ven to Liverpool off? All Micky has got to do is to prove his fitness between now and the end of the season but that will make it very difficult for Tottenham,” Sherwood said.

“Van de Ven is what I call a hierarchy player, players who when they are fit, they will play. They are the players that fans crave, and Tottenham fans want those top players like Harry Kane.

“When he was fit, you knew he was playing, and they’ve only got one of those players at the moment and that’s Micky van de Ven. If he’s fit, he plays. Other than him, Tottenham’s players are all a much of a muchness.

“I think Tottenham have got more chance of keeping Micky van de Ven than they have of bringing in another one of these players. That is the issue.”

Advertisement

Here at The Manchester Evening News, we are dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis.

Make sure you don’t miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe.

You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day’s biggest stories.

And, finally, if you would rather listen to our expert analysis then make sure to check out our Manchester is Red podcast. Our shows are available on all podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and you can also watch along on YouTube.

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sports

Best Betting Sign Up Offers and Free Bets UK

Published

on

Free bets are widely available on UK betting sites for new and existing customers.

At The Independent, our experts have done the hard work to find the best free bet offers through our impartial, detailed analysis focusing on providing you with optimum value.

This in-depth research involves testing to assess odds requirements, free bet key terms and conditions and availability, ensuring our recommendations are reliable and up to date, including our daily offers section.

What Are Free Bets?

Advertisement

Free bets are promotions offered by betting sites that allow you to place a bet without risking your own money.

Free bets come with terms and conditions. Usually, you must deposit or stake a qualifying amount to receive a free bet, which can be used on selected sports and events.

UK betting sites may apply wagering requirements, meaning winnings must be played through a set number of times before you can withdraw, but this is more common on casino sites.

How Do Free Bets UK Work?

Advertisement

Free bets are simple to use. Betting sites attach either a box or toggle on the bet slip that users need only to tick or move to enable free bets on their wager.

If your bet wins, you keep the profit, but the free bet stake itself isn’t returned.

Some bookmakers may require you to use free bets in precise portions, such as £5 or £10, while others will allow you to bet with amounts of your choosing until you’ve used up your balance.

Today’s Free Bet Offers

Advertisement

Here are the latest betting sign up offers and free bets available for today’s major sporting events.

Parimatch: 50/1 Odds England To Win Six Nations

The Six Nations is here and Parimatch are offering great value 50/1 odds for England to win the Six Nations for new customers signing up online.

To qualify for this betting offer, new users must use the link below before signing up for Parimatch. After that, deposit £5 using an eligible payment method before staking a maximum £1 on England to win the Six Nations at the normal odds before February 7th at 3.40pm GMT.

Advertisement

If England win the Six Nations, you’ll receive a cash payout at the normal odds and the rest of the 50/1 odds are paid out in free bets to use on the sportsbook. Free bets are active for seven days.

NetBet: Six Nations First Tryscorer Insurance France vs Ireland

NetBet are running bet insurance on the first tryscore of the Six Nations 2026 opener between France and Ireland.

To qualify, customers can place a bet on any player to score the first try in the clash between France and Ireland at the Stade de France tonight.

Advertisement

If your chosen player does not score the first try, but goes on to score later in the contest, you’ll receive your money back in free bets up to £10 to use on the entire sportsbook.

LiveScore Bet: Moneyback Horse Racing Special

LiveScore Bet are running a moneyback special today if your horse finishes second, third or fourth in selected races.

Customers can bet up to £10 on any horse on the win-only market and will qualify to receive their money back as a free bet if their selection fails to win but finishes second, third or fourth.

Advertisement

Free bets are made available within 48 hours and are active for seven days. Free bets can be used across the sportsbook.

Unibet: US Bet Builder Refund

Unibet are offering customers that place bet builders on US sports, including the Super Bowl, £10 in free bets if their selection loses.

Bettors that place a minimum £1 bet builder on the NFL or NBA games with three selections or more and odds of evens or greater before selecting the Bet Builder Refund box on the bet slip.

Advertisement

If your selection loses, you’ll receive your stake back up to £10 in free bets within 24 hours of your qualifying wager settling. Free bets can be used across the sportsbook and are active for up to seven days.

Best Betting Offers

We’ve looked at all the best betting offers online and broken down our top picks by category.

Betting Site

Advertisement

Standout Offer Category

Rating

Bonus Code

Ladbrokes

Advertisement

Betting Sign Up Offer

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

N/A

Virgin Bet

Free Bet Club

Advertisement

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

N/A

Bet365

Moneyback Special

★ ★ ★ ★★

N/A

Advertisement

NetBet

Bet & Get

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

N/A

Best Betting Sign Up Offers

Advertisement

We’ve looked at the betting sign up offers provided by many of the best betting sites to bring you our top offer on the market for new customers.

1

Ladbrokes

Bet £5 Get £30 Free Bets UK

Offer rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Advertisement

Promo Code: N/A

Ladbrokes is our top pick for the betting sign up offer that provides the best value for new customers online.

Customers on a smaller budget will love using Ladbrokes compared to other bookies given that new users only need to deposit £5 to claim the Ladbrokes sign up offer.

Ladbrokes is the best £5 deposit betting site on the market, allowing users to deposit and bet £5 to unlock £30 in free bets after signing up online.

Advertisement

The 1/2 odds threshold is one of the lowest available for welcome offers, while new users can bet on any sport on its vast sportsbook. So, there’s plenty of flexibility where to place your qualifying bet, which must be made within 14 days of signing up.

Ladbrokes have a vast sportsbook to use free bets

Ladbrokes have a vast sportsbook to use free bets (Ladbrokes)

Once that qualifying bet settles, you’ll receive £30 in free bets paid out in 6 x £5 installments within 24 hours. There’s also flexibility regarding these free bets with 4 x £5 free bets available to use on any sport on Ladbrokes, while 2 x £5 free bets are reserved for football bet builders.

New users get seven days to use their free bets, which is standard across the industry. Beyond that, existing customers have plenty of promotions at hand.

Advertisement

But in terms of betting sign up offers, you’ll struggle to find better value from such a low deposit and qualifying bet, which is why we rate it as the second best betting offer on the market.

Ladbrokes Betting Sign Up Offer Pros

Ladbrokes Betting Sign Up Offer Cons

  • Low £5 deposit and bet threshold
  • Not a huge amount of time to claim offer
  • Qualifying odds 1/2 also lower than rivals
  • Portion of free bet reserved for bet builders
  • Flexbility regarding most of free bets

Alternative Betting Sign Up Offer

Betfred

Advertisement

Betfred offer one of the best value betting offers on the market, where new customers that bet £10 on a market with odds of evens or greater can claim £50 in free bets after using the Betfred promo code BETFRED50.

We like the value and simplicity of the betting sign up offer, although the odds requirement of evens and the fact that portions of allocated free bets are not available to use on the entire sportsbook knock it down slightly.

It’s still a tremendous value bonus for new users.

Betting Offers: Top Free Bet Club

Advertisement

Free bet offers are widely available on the best betting sites for existing customers that place regular bets online. Depending on your chosen betting site, these can be called rewards, loyalty bonuses or free bet clubs.

1

Virgin Bet

Bet £20 Get £5 Free Bets

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Advertisement

Available to: New and existing customers

Virgin Bet rewards club is straightforward to use and is available on a weekly. Customers that place four qualifying acca bets worth £5 are rewarded with a £5 free bet to use on an acca bet.

Users only need to opt-in on the promotion before placing four £5 accas with odds of 2/1 or greater between Monday to Sunday.

After the qualifying bets have settled, customers will receive a £5 free acca bet to use across the Virgin Bet sportsbook.

Advertisement

The minimum odds to use your free bet are 1/100, so you’re spoiled for choice and there are no restrictions where you can use your bonus.

Better yet, bettors have seven day to use their free bets.

Virgin Bet Free Bets Pros

Virgin Bet Free Bets Cons

Advertisement
  • Lower free bet amount than rivals
  • Lower stake requirement than rivals
  • Slightly higher odds requirement for qualifying bets
  • Solid timeframe to use free bets

Alternative Free Bet Club

Betway

Customers that opt-in on Betway’s Free Bet Club can claim £10 in free bets after betting £25 or more on trebles, accumulators or bet builders with at least three selections.

The qualifying terms are straightforward and accessible for all users, with a reasonable minimum odds requirement of 2/1 for bets.

Once qualifying your bets are settled, £10 in free bets are paid in two £5 installments. Free bets are credited one at a time – one on Saturday and another on Monday.

Advertisement

Free Bet Offers: Best Moneyback Specials

Moneyback specials are one of the most intriguing betting offers available for existing customers. It protects customers’ stakes if their selection loses and are most commonly found on leading football betting sites and horse racing betting sites.

1

Bet365

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Advertisement

Available to: New and existing customers

Sports: Football, Horse Racing

Bet365 are relative newcomers to moneyback specials, but have expanded their free bet offers to include this feature for bets on a number of sports, including football and horse racing.

Bet365 moneyback specials are most common on football, and notably the Premier League where the game of the week will be covered with a moneyback special, although Champions League and Europa League midweek games have also featured with this betting offer.

Advertisement

To qualify, customers simply have to place a qualifying bet builder on the eligbile game.

What we love about the offer is the low odds threshold for qualifying bet builders, requiring odds of evens or greater. Bet365 also include their ‘Sub Play On’ promotion for bet builders giving your wager that extra chance to succeed.

Bet365 offer its moneyback special on the Premier League game of the week and others

Bet365 offer its moneyback special on the Premier League game of the week and others (The Independent)

Bettors can wager up to £10 and will receive their stake back in free bets back if their bet fails, while you must tick the ‘Money Back As Free Bets’ box on the bet slip to ensure you qualify for the betting offer.

Advertisement

Free bets are credited with 24 hours and bettors can use their credits anywhere on one of the best betting sites in the business.

Horse racing has also been added to the repotoire recently, with customers being able to claim their moneyback as free bets if their horse loses on eligible races.

Bet365 Free Bets Pros

Bet365 Free Bets Cons

Advertisement
  • Offer is regularly available
  • Not widely available across all sports
  • Low odds threshold for qualifying bet builders
  • Offer is limited to £10 free bets
  • Free bets can be used anywhere on sportsbook

Alternative Moneyback Special

BoyleSports

BoyleSports provides moneyback specials for an extra safety net on bets on the horses.

This betting offer is available for selected horse races, where bettors will receive a refund on their stake up to £20 should their selection finishes runner-up to the Starting Price (SP) favourite.

These moneyback specials are available daily and applies to both win and each-way singles. Free bets are credited within 24 hours and are valid for seven days.

Advertisement

However, bettors must bear in mind there are restrictions with this promotion. Ante-post, in-play and void bets are not eligible, and there must be at least five runners in the race you bet on.

Free Bet Offers: Top Bet and Get Offers

Bet and get promos are extremely popular betting offers. These are regular promotions that are offered around major events, notably football matches.

1

NetBet

Advertisement

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Available to: New and existing customers

Qualifying odds: 2/1

NetBet provide this promo on a wide range of sports and betting markets, particularly for acca bets and bet builders.

Advertisement

Free bet offers are common around major events including football, horse racing and UFC events. The odds thresholds are extremely fair around 2/1 for qualifying wagers.

Waiting for a qualifying wager to settle is usually the standard practice before receiving free bets, but NetBet have been known to credit free bets after the confirmation of qualifying wagers.

NetBet Free Bets Pros

NetBet Free Bets Cons

Advertisement
  • Regular offers across all sports
  • Not as valuable as other betting sites
  • Free bets credited on bet placement
  • Odds threshold slightly higher than others

Alternative Bet & Get

Midnite

Midnite are one of the newest betting sites on the market, but offer competitive bet and get offers for existing customers that match many established brands.

Users can find the Midnite bet and get offers in the ‘Rewards’ section, with betting offers including coverage of football, darts, NFL, cricket and more.

The qualifying bet is more often than not £10, with the free bet payout ranging from a 100 per cent match to a 50 per cent match with £10 and £5 free bets available.

Advertisement

The odds requirements are also fair at evens, which is an improvement on NetBet albeit not as frequent.

Types Of Free Bets

Free bets come in two main forms: betting sign up offers for new customers and ongoing betting offers for existing bettors.

There are certain types of free bet offers that are commonly available on betting sites including:

Advertisement
  • Matched free bets: Sometimes referred to as ‘bet and get’. Here users are required to bet a certain amount and wager on minimum odds set by the bookie to unlock the corresponding free bet. This is common for betting sign up offers.
  • Matched deposits: Not as common on betting sites, but can still be prevalent. With this betting offer, bookmakers will match the value of your deposit in free bet credits. Usually the value of the deposit will be capped at a certain threshold.
  • Moneyback: These betting offers provide a refund in either cash or free bets if your selection loses. Free bet offers are usually capped at a certain amount and bettors must meet the terms of the offer to qualify.
  • Rewards: Free bet clubs are very popular on betting sites. Here, bettors place a series of qualifying wagers over a week or longer to unlock a free bet the following week.
  • No deposit free bets: The holy grail for bettors and almost always reserved for existing customers. Betting sites reward loyalty with no deposit free bets that can be claimed to use on a variety of markets and sports.
  • Enhanced odds: Bookies such as Parimatch and talkSPORT BET are known to boost the price of a market for high-profile football, boxing, UFC and other events for new customers that sign up and bet. Customers receive a portion of funds in cash for the value of their bet, while the rest is made up of free bets to use on the sportsbook.

How The Independent Rate and Review Free Bets

Before a bookmaker makes our list of free bet offers, they must meet key criteria to ensure a high-quality betting experience.

1. Licensing

Only sites with a valid UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licence are considered on our list of recommended operators.

It is non-negotiable. The UKGC ensures fair play and consumer protection, working alongside independent testing agencies like eCOGRA, whose rigorous standards all our recommended bookies have met.

Advertisement

If a bookmaker isn’t regulated, it’s not safe – anyone can verify a licence via the UKGC register.

2. Security

Security is a top priority when evaluating betting sites. Every bookmaker we recommend must implement high-quality security measures such as SSL encryption and two-factor authentication to protect customer data.

3. Reputation

Advertisement

Reputation also plays a role – established brands like Betfred and Bet365 consistently rank highly with us, but we also highlight new, reputable operators such as BetMGM when their free bet offers meet our expectations.

4. Mobile

With most bets now placed on phones and tablets, mobile betting functionality is essential.

Bookmakers with dedicated betting apps that mirror the desktop experience are given preference, and we also consider user app reviews from the Apple and Google Play stores.

Advertisement

5. Experience

The customer experience is equally crucial – we rigorously test bookmaker support channels, favouring those that provide fast, effective resolutions.

Ultimately, our rankings focus on the quality of the free bet offers – how rewarding, flexible and accessible they are to the average punter.

We also take into account matters including odds restrictions, timeframe to both unlock free bet offers and use your bonus funds, wagering requirements and what payment methods are available.

Advertisement

6. Value

Operators that provide valuable betting sign up offers, competitive terms, and ongoing free bet promotions for returning customers get the highest ratings and we constantly review our top betting offers.

Free Bet Promo Codes

Why Trust Us?

Chris Wilson is a betting content producer and sports reporter who has been working at The Independent since 2023.

Advertisement

He writes betting tips across a range of sporting events as well as reviewing dozens of betting sites and casino sites across the UK.

Chris has extensively tested and reviewed offers from established operators and new betting sites to find the best free bet offers for readers of The Independent.

Responsible gambling is always at the forefront of his research, ensuring customers have a fair and secure experience claiming and using betting offers online.

Please Gamble Responsibly

Advertisement

If you decide to engage with any of the online betting sites highlighted on this page, remember to gamble responsibly, even when using free bets and betting sign up offers.

When betting, always assume you’ll lose and therefore, only bet what you can afford to lose.

The same applies if you’re using new casino sitesslot sitespoker sites or any other form of gambling.

Make sure you use the responsible gambling tools offered by betting companies such as deposit limits, reality checks, loss limits and time outs. These can stop gambling from getting out of hand.

Advertisement

If you have gambling-related concerns, then seek independent help. There are several UK charities and institutions that offer support, advice and information, with a few listed below:

Free Bets FAQs

What is a free bet?

A free bet is a bonus that is credited to a customer by a betting site to bet on an event. The free bet will carry a numerical value that customers can either use in whole or use partial funds. Customers may be limited to certain sports or events with free bets.

Advertisement

How do you get free bets?

Free bets can be acquired by new customers by signing up for betting site. Bookmakers will also offer promotional free bets for existing customers though betting offers such as bet and get and loyalty.

Can you withdraw free bets?

No. Free bets are non-withdrawable. Customers must use the bonus on the sportsbook in their entirety within the timeframe specified by the bookmaker. Free bets that are not used in the timeframe will expire.

Advertisement

Which bookmaker offers the best betting sign up offer?

In our research we found that Ladbrokes offer the best betting sign up offer on the market, providing new customers with £30 in free bets after signing up online and betting £5. Betfred also offer an impressive betting sign up offer.

We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Commanders Quickly Becoming a Threat to Sign 3 Vikings Free Agents

Published

on

Advertisement

Commanders mascot in 2023
Sep 24, 2023; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders mascot Tuddy takes the field against the Buffalo Bills at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

The Washington Commanders hired Minnesota Vikings defensive passing game coordinator Daronte Jones to be their next defensive coordinator last week, and based on how the NFL usually works, a handful of purple free agents could follow Jones to the nation’s capital: Eric Wilson, Ivan Pace Jr., and Fabian Moreau.

Washington’s interest looks plausible with Jones in town, so Vikings fans should be prepared for some Commanders’ signings.

Adding those free agents certainly isn’t a foregone conclusion, but add Wilson, Pace Jr., and Moreau as possible Commanders’ free-agent signees in 4.5 weeks.

Advertisement

Washington Emeres as a Real FA Threat

Free agency is just around the corner, believe it or not.

Eric Wilson warming up at SoFi Stadium. Commanders sign Vikings free agents.
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Wilson goes through pregame warmups at SoFi Stadium, framed ahead of kickoff on Oct 23, 2025, as Minnesota prepared to face the Chargers in Inglewood. The moment captures Wilson’s routine and readiness, highlighting his return to a familiar environment while reestablishing his role within the Vikings’ defensive rotation. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Eric Wilson (LB)

Wilson will turn 32 during the 2026 regular season, and based on his 2025 performance, he may simply reunite in Minnesota. But what if the age scares away the Vikings’ brass? Wilson would need a new NFL home. Jones running the show in Washington makes sense in that example.

Minnesota signed him as depth, a rotational linebacker slotted behind Blake Cashman and Ivan Pace Jr. He entered 2025 as a backup and special teamer, barely part of the defensive conversation.

Advertisement

By December, Wilson was a bona fide starter. He turned into a true disruptor, collapsing offensive lines and appearing behind the line with startling consistency. He finished the season leading all off-ball linebackers in sacks and pressures, hovering near the top of the league in forced fumbles.

The impact reshaped how the defense felt when he wasn’t on the field. At 31, Wilson authored the best season of his career, even if it arrived later than expected.

Now, free agency brings the business side again. Wilson can sign with any NFL team when that process opens on March 9th, and league expectations point toward Minnesota prioritizing a return. Given the breakout and the age curve, a deal in the $5–7 million range makes sense.

If the Commanders pay more than the Vikings, it could be a no-brainer for Wilson.

Advertisement

CBS Sports David Harrison on Wilson as a Commanders’ free-agent target: “Fans of the team are going to flinch at the idea of the oldest team in the NFL last year adding a 32-year-old linebacker this offseason, but not only should Eric Wilson be a priority target, but he might also be the most important addition of the year if general manager Adam Peters can bring him in.”

“Coming to Washington, Wilson would become an immediate translator between Jones and his new roster of players, and could also play a pivotal role on the defense itself were he thrust into increased action like he was in Minnesota. Even if he is in his 30s.”

Ivan Pace Jr. (LB)

Pace Jr. had a rough year. Let’s just get that out in the open.

Advertisement

He began the 2025 campaign as a starter, and within six weeks, Wilson snatched his job. As mentioned above, Wilson was too good to sit on the bench. Meanwhile, the timing was flat-out terrible for Pace Jr., as he’ll hit restricted free agency in March. He was supposed to spend all of 2025 as a starter and cash in big with the Vikings or a new team.

Now, Pace Jr. will basically start from scratch, hoping to prove he has the juice of an NFL starter. Missed tackles plagued his first six games, and Minnesota evidently soured on his snap count.

Ivan Pace Jr. reacting during a Vikings game
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. reacts following a defensive sequence at SoFi Stadium during second-half action on Oct 24, 2024, as Minnesota battled the Rams in Inglewood. The image reflects Pace’s intensity and emotional presence, underscoring his growing influence within the defense during a tightly contested road matchup. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

In Washington, the off-ball linebackers aren’t young: Frankie Luvu (29) and Bobby Wagner (35), if Wagner re-signs. Pace Jr., on the other hand, won’t turn 26 until December.

Fabian Moreau (CB)

Minnesota entered the 2025 season with concerns about cornerback depth. Isaiah Rodgers, Byron Murphy Jr., and Jeff Okudah were the only viable starters, while Dwight McGlothern and rookie Zemaiah Vaughn remained on the practice squad. Depth appeared dangerously thin, leaving little room for error.

Advertisement

A bit of panic set in when Okudah suffered multiple concussions. The Vikings promoted Fabian Moreau from the practice squad, opting for him over McGlothern, and quietly filled a void that could have crippled the secondary. The results then exceeded expectations. Moreau earned a 70.9 PFF grade and allowed a 47.4 passer rating on 19 targets, providing consistent production in a role that was overlooked and deprioritized during Minnesota’s 2025 offseason.

Fabian Moreau on the field before a game
Washington cornerback Fabian Moreau stands on the field during pregame moments at Raymond James Stadium, captured on Aug 31, 2017, as Washington prepared for action in Tampa. The image offers an early-career snapshot of Moreau, highlighting his transition into NFL game settings before settling into a rotational defensive role. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Looking forward for the Vikings, Moreau would be a sensible CB3-CB4 option for 2026, assuming interim general manager Rob Brzezinski acquires a true CB1 through free agency or the draft. While he will turn 32 this offseason, his performance suggests he has another year or two left. In effect, he gave the Vikings what they had hoped to receive from Okudah. It worked out.

Or — Moreau could follow Jones to Washington. Moreau spent his entire rookie contract in Washington, drafted in 2017 as a 3rd-Round pick by Jay Gruden’s Commanders.


avatar

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Pep Guardiola gets immediate answer to Marc Guehi plea for Man City Carabao Cup final vs Arsenal

Published

on

Pep Guardiola said that Manchester City would be writing to the EFL in a bid to ensure Marc Guehi could play for the club in their Carabao Cup final against Arsenal

Advertisement

EFL sources have firmly stated that Marc Guehi will not be permitted to participate in the Carabao Cup final, even if they receive a formal request for a rule change from Manchester City.

Following last night’s 3-1 (5-1 aggregate) semi-final second leg triumph over Newcastle at the Etihad Stadium, Pep Guardiola indicated that City were planning to write to the EFL to discuss Guehi’s ineligibility.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: “Hopefully we can convince the Carabao Cup that Marc can play in this competition [in] the final. It’s difficult to understand that the club makes a big investment to take one player, [he] belongs to us and I don’t understand why he cannot play in the final. Honestly.

“Hopefully we make a letter and hopefully the Carabao Cup can understand. Once you buy a player for a lot of money and he’s not able to play (because of) a rule that I don’t understand why. Hopefully they can change it and he can play.”

Advertisement

Try MEN Premium NOW for just £1

FOLLOW OUR MAN CITY FACEBOOK PAGE! Latest news and analysis via the MEN’s Manchester City Facebook page

Ahead of the 2025/26 season, the EFL actually revised their rules to allow players who have already participated in early rounds of the competition to play for their new clubs (following a January transfer), as long as they signed before the first leg of the semi-final.

For instance, in past seasons, Antoine Semenyo would have been ineligible to play due to the cup-tied rule, but this time he was able to take to the pitch for City against Newcastle, even scoring in the 2-0 first-leg triumph at St James’ Park.

Advertisement

Eddie Howe voiced his disapproval of the rule change prior to the match, stating: “It was nice to find out that rule had changed after finding out they had signed him,” he said during his pre-match press conference. “I have to say that’s one rule change I probably wouldn’t be supportive of at this current moment.”

While City have already reaped the benefits of the rule change, Guardiola still believes that Guehi should also be allowed to play against Arsenal at Wembley next month.

The first leg of the semi-final against Newcastle took place on January 13, but the England international didn’t finalise his move to the Etihad Stadium from Crystal Palace until January 19.

When approached by football.london, the EFL made it clear that they will stand their ground even if City make a request, meaning Guehi will have to watch his team-mates vie for the season’s first trophy from the stands in London.

Advertisement

The central defender is also unlikely to receive a medal if City clinch the competition, as he will not have played for his new club during the tournament.

The winners of the Carabao Cup are assured a play-off spot for next season’s UEFA Conference League – although Arsenal and City are still on course to qualify for the Champions League – in addition, they will also pocket £100,000 in tournament prize money.

Content cannot be displayed without consent

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Puka Nacua hints that chances with Sydney Sweeney are slim to none

Published

on

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

It does not sound like Puka Nacua and Sydney Sweeney will be getting together any time soon.

Sure, Sweeney has long been rumored to be dating music manager Scooter Braun, but that did not stop the Los Angeles Rams wide receiver from shooting his shot last week.

Sweeney talked about her type of man in a recent interview with Cosmopolitan, saying he should be “athletic and outgoing and funny” and someone who needs to “go skydiving with me.”

Advertisement

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM 

Puka Nacua and Sydney Sweeney

(Left) Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua (12) leaves the field following a game against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on Jan. 4, 2026. (Right) Sydney Sweeney attends the Variety and Golden Globes Pre-Golden Globes Party, presented by Morgan Stanley, at the Polo Lounge at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on Jan. 9, 2026. (Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Imagn Images;Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images)

Nacua is obviously athletic, but he tried to make a play for Sweeney, saying on X that he “love[s] skydiving.”

Nacua was asked Wednesday if he believed he had a chance with Sweeney, but he actually let out the truth.

“I have an actual fear of heights, so it’ll be interesting,” Nacua said.

Advertisement

Another reporter asked Nacua who the last person to slide into his direct messages was. After pondering, he gave the answer.

Puka Nacua reacts during a game

Puka Nacua (12) of the Los Angeles Rams reacts after a catch during the third quarter against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on Dec. 18, 2025 in Seattle, Washington.  (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

AMERICA250 JOINS NFL AT SUPER BOWL TO MARK NATION’S 250TH BIRTHDAY IN RED, WHITE AND BLUE

“The NFL is the last verified DM I had because they told me I didn’t get tickets to the Warriors game, and I was pretty sad,” he said.

Nacua and Hallie Aiono were in a long-term relationship before a highly public breakup. Aiono later became pregnant and underwent paternity testing to determine whether Nacua was the father of her son, Kingston.

Advertisement

She filed court documents in June to determine the parental relationship after testing confirmed Nacua was the father.

Sydney Sweeney on stage

Actress Sydney Sweeney speaks onstage at the Gala Screening of “Christy” and Award Presentation to Sydney Sweeney for the Spotlight Award during the 28th SCAD Savannah Film Festival on Oct. 27, 2025, in Savannah, Georgia. (Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Sweeney and ex-fiancé Jonathan Davino called off their engagement in March 2025. She has been seen with Braun since the breakup.

Fox News’ Ryan Canfield contributed to this report.

Advertisement

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Kristaps Porziņģis-Jonathan Kuminga trade grades: Warriors, Hawks take upside swings

Published

on

It’s been five long years in Golden State, and the Jonathan Kuminga saga is officially over. The Golden State Warriors are reportedly trading Kuminga and Buddy Hield to the Atlanta Hawks for Kristaps Porziņģis. 

This deal seemingly puts an end to Golden State’s pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo, according to Charania. Reports had indicated that the Warriors hoped not to include Jimmy Butler‘s max contract in a deal, which would have meant using contracts like Kuminga’s, Hield’s and Draymond Green‘s to make a deal. With this deal now made and the Bucks having turned down Golden State’s picks-based offer, the Warriors moved on to another target.

The Hawks, meanwhile, continue their retool by trading away their second former All-Star of the season. With Trae Young gone as well, the Hawks no longer have a single fully guaranteed contract on their books for next season belonging to a player above the age of 27. The youth movement is fully on, so let’s grade this deal for both sides.

Golden State Warriors: B

After five years of inconsistent playing time in a system that he didn’t fit within, Kuminga no longer held meaningful trade value. There were reports over the summer that Sacramento was willing to give up a lottery-protected first-round pick for him, but any hope of a deal there seemingly passed when the Kings landed De’Andre Hunter. He had essentially become little more than matching salary, and with the odds of an Antetokounmpo deal seeming low, the Warriors moved on.

Now, if this were a healthy Porziņģis, Golden State would get an A+. The Warriors have spent years looking for this sort of player. Part of the motivation of signing Al Horford this offseason was the need to pair Draymond Green with a center who can shoot. Golden State has never really had a gigantic, stationary rim-protector before, and his size near the rim gives them a dimension they’ve largely lacked as well.

Of course, this is not a healthy Porziņģis. Even if this was the standard, “misses games due to injury, but is great when he plays” Porziņģis the Warriors would come away as clear winners, Instead, he’s struggled with POTS, an autoimmune disorder with a number of troubling symptoms including rapid heart rate, dizziness and lethargy. Porziņģis was spectacular in his first 11 games in October and November, averaging over 18 points and posting spectacular on-off splits. He’s played six times since, mostly ineffectively. It is not clear when or if he will ever be able to play at 100% again, and that doesn’t even factor in the other injuries he’s dealt with for most of his career.

The version of Porziņģis Golden State is getting, at least for now, is a compromised one. Yet it’s still a gamble worth taking for a number of reasons. The risk, for example, was minimal. Porziņģis is on an expiring contract. The Warriors gave up no draft picks to get him. If they have him in the building for three months and decide they don’t trust his health, they can wash their hands of this relatively easily. They even got off of the $3 million guaranteed to Hield for next season, so it’d be a minor win.

But more likely, they look to re-sign Porziņģis to a team-friendly deal. If he can be had for $10-15 million instead of the $30 million he’s making now, the risk-reward calculus shifts quite a bit. The stakes aren’t especially high here. Golden State isn’t betting a championship core on his health. They know they need to hit a home run if they’re going to win anything in the near future, so it made sense to take a high-reward swing. Generally speaking, low-risk, high-reward moves make sense.

Advertisement

And then there are the optics here. It’s no secret that the Warriors are near the end of a legendary run. Stephen Curry is about to turn 38. The only reason they ever seemingly had a chance at landing Antetokounmpo was that their post-Curry future is so bleak their draft picks held theoretical value. Given how little else they have in the cupboard, one could argue that an all-in push for Giannis represented far greater risk than reward. Yet the Warriors had to try. They owe it to Curry. A player of his stature deserves to end his career at least competing in the playoffs, if not for a championship.

The Porziņģis trade isn’t nearly as exciting as an Antetokounmpo deal, but it shows Curry and their fans that they’re trying. He’s a respectable name, someone who has a chance to be very helpful for them, but like Jimmy Butler, doesn’t come at an exorbitant cost. Truthfully, those are the sort of players they should be targeting right now. The goal should be to retain as much of their draft capital as possible to ensure they’re capable of rebuilding once Curry is gone, but still at least making some attempt to give Curry a competitive roster now. This deal straddles that line. It creates hope without a major cost looming down the line, and it relieves the locker room of all lingering Kuminga-related tension. So it makes sense even if this isn’t the best version of Porziņģis.

Atlanta Hawks: B

The Hawks and Warriors are operating one different timetables. They genuinely hoped Porziņģis could form a center tandem with Onyeka Okongwu that they could build around moving forward. That didn’t happen. They simply couldn’t justify paying Porziņģis on a long-term deal. They need certainty at the center position, and he couldn’t provide it. So moving on made sense.

Could they have gotten, say, a meager draft capital return? Sure, but it likely would have been attached to unsavory salary. Atlanta has very valuable first-round picks coming from the Pelicans or Bucks both this summer and next. Maintaining financial flexibility is far more important to them than accumulating draft capital. They need their money to both find a reliable center and look for a shot-creating guard to replace Trae Young.

Advertisement

So, like Golden State, the Hawks took a low-risk, high-reward flyer. Hield is only guaranteed $3 million next season, but because he has two years left on his deal, that can even be stretched across five years if he’s waived. That’s an easy enough contract to dispose of. And Kuminga has a $24.3 million team option for next season. If they need to use him as matching salary in a summer trade, they can. If they want to just get off of the contract for whatever reason, they can do so as well.

If we’re operating under the assumption that Atlanta did not plan to re-sign Porziņģis, turning him into a different potential expiring contract makes plenty of sense. Why not give Kuminga a two-month audition and see if he looks better away from the Warriors? Atlanta does run a system somewhat similar to Golden State’s. The Warriors lead the league in passes every year and in 3s this season. The Hawks are 10th in passes and 11th in 3-point attempt rate. Quin Snyder wants the ball zipping around the court and the 3-pointers flying. But nobody really plays the way Golden State does. 

The Hawks are closer to a normal NBA ecosystem, and it’s worth seeing how Kuminga might fit into one. He does still have stellar athletic traits, after all. We’re talking about someone who just faced Minnesota in a playoff series and averaged 24 points on 55-49-72 shooting in the four games in which he played significant minutes last year. There is clearly something here. The Hawks love their big wing ball-handlers. They already run plenty of offense through Jalen Johnson and Dyson Daniels, though all three have pretty distinct offensive strengths and weaknesses.

Snyder is a creative offensive coach. You can never have enough wings. And the Hawks have made no real commitment here. Considering they’re only giving up a player they seemingly didn’t plan to keep, this is a solid lottery ticket. They were only a Play-In Tournament team anyway, so there’s no harm in devoting a few months to seeing if you can unlock a former high draft pick so that next year you might be something more.

Advertisement

Source link

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Sports

Six Nations 2026: Wales name Louis Rees-Zammit at full-back against England

Published

on

Wales: Rees-Zammit; Mee, James, B Thomas, Adams; Edwards, T Williams; Smith, Lake (capt), Griffin, D Jenkins, Beard, Mann, Macleod, Wainwright.

Replacements: Belcher, Carre, T Francis, Carter, Plumtree, Deaves, Hardy, Grady.

England: Steward; Feyi-Waboso, Freeman, Dingwall, Arundell; Ford, Mitchell; Genge, George, Heyes; Coles, Chessum; Pepper, Underhill, Earl

Replacements: Cowan-Dickie, Rodd, Davison, Itoje, T Curry, Pollock, Spencer, M Smith

Advertisement

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Oklahoma State survives an AJ Dybantsa explosion to upset No. 16 BYU, earn key win for NCAA Tournament hopes

Published

on


The Cowboys secured a much-needed marquee victory over BYU with major Bracketology implications

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

2026 Winter Olympics: Italy foils ‘Russian cyber-attacks’ at Milan-Cortina Games

Published

on

Italy has foiled “Russian origin” cyber-attacks targeting the Winter Olympics, says Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani.

He said websites linked to the Games, hotels in host town Cortina d’Ampezzo and foreign ministry facilities, including an embassy in Washington, were targeted.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, one of five host clusters for the Olympics, will stage alpine skiing, biathlon, curling, and sliding events.

“We prevented a series of cyber-attacks against foreign ministry sites. These are actions of Russian origin,” said Tajani.

Advertisement

The Games officially begin on Friday, although the first action got under way on Wednesday.

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

A 5-step guide for setting your golf goals in 2026

Published

on

Source link

Continue Reading

Sports

Manchester United interested in RB Leipzig winger ahead of potential summer transfer

Published

on

Man Utd are set to try and sign a left-winger in the summer and RB Leipzig teenager Yan Diomande is a player they are interested in.

Manchester United are interested in RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as they consider attacking reinforcements this summer, but they will face serious competition for the Ivory Coast star. United missed out on a January move for Antoine Semenyo, with the forward joining Manchester City for £62.5million, and opted not to pursue any other targets during the window.

While central midfield is a major priority heading into the summer, United will also try to sign a left-winger and Diomande is a player they have monitored and someone who is of interest.

Advertisement

The 19-year-old has had a breakthrough season for RB Leipzig, registering eight goals and six assists in 21 games in Germany. Diomande only turned 19 in November but is already attracting the attention of some of Europe’s biggest clubs. The right-footed attacker can play on both wings but would be seen as an option on the left at Old Trafford.

Try MEN Premium NOW for just £1

United have monitored Diomande’s emergence this season and after staying at RB Leipzig in the January window, there is now an expectation that he will leave the club in the summer.

He was in the Ivory Coast squad for the Africa Cup of Nations alongside Amad and played in all five of his country’s games in Morocco. He has three goals in his nine caps so far.

Advertisement

Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Diomande and Paris Saint-Germain are expected to challenge for his signature in the summer. Reports in Germany have suggested Leipzig have slapped a €100million price tag on the player, but the teenager is likely to leave the club for a fee lower than that.

FOLLOW OUR MAN UNITED FACEBOOK PAGE! Latest news and analysis via the MEN’s Manchester United Facebook page

United intended to use Semenyo as a left-wing option had they signed the 26-year-old. Patrick Dorgu has since impressed in that position for Michael Carrick and Matheus Cunha played there against Fulham, but both are versatile players who could be needed elsewhere.

Dorgu can also play on the right wing, and with Tyrell Malacia leaving the club this summer, he might be needed as cover at left-back. Cunha can play as a false nine and has done so off the bench in Carrick’s first two games, while he can also fulfil the No.10 role.

Advertisement

United are set to see two left-wingers depart this summer. Jadon Sancho is out of contract and will leave the club, while Marcus Rashford will aim to complete a permanent transfer to Barcelona.

Content cannot be displayed without consent

Source link

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025