After blowing a two-goal lead to draw against the Premier League’s bottom club Wolves, there will be no dodging the questions on whether Arsenal are mentally ready to end their 22-year wait to become champions.
For the first time really this season, the title race is not completely in the control of Mikel Arteta and his players.
If Manchester City – five points behind in second place – win all of their remaining 12 games, which includes a home meeting against Arsenal, they will finish first.
The same, though, can be said for the Gunners, who have 11 matches left – and they win the April encounter at Etihad Stadium.
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But after dropping four crucial points in successive draws against Brentford and Wolves, they are in danger of being haunted by the ghost of past failures.
Three successive runners-up finishes, two of them to Pep Guardiola’s men, provide a constant reminder.
Former Arsenal forward Alan Smith admitted “that word bottle will be used quite a bit in the next few days”.
The scenario seemed a lot different when Piero Hincapie slotted home his first goal for the club in the 56th minute, adding to Bukayo Saka’s fifth-minute opener.
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But the Gunners lacked the control and ruthlessness to finish off a Wolves side that had lost their nine previous meetings and are heading for the Championship.
The hosts showed remarkable spirit to fight back with Hugo Bueno’s 20-yard curler giving them hope. Then, in the fourth minute of added time, 19-year-old Tom Edozie – off the bench for his senior debut – pounced on a mix-up between Arsenal pair David Raya and Gabriel and his shot went in off Riccardo Calafiori for a dramatic, dreamy leveller.
Arsenal next face London derbies with Tottenham and Chelsea and they have worryingly started to wobble at a decisive stage in the season.
Arteta knows his side will come under fire and scrutiny.
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“Any opinion you have to take it on the chin,” he said. “Any bullet, take it, because we didn’t perform at the level required.
“Anything anyone says can be right because we didn’t do what we had to do. The way to do it is on the pitch on Sunday [against Spurs].”
Wolves boss Rob Edwards said his side “knew there is a massive pressure” on Arsenal at the minute – and they capitalised on that.
The Gunners have not been performing at their best since the start of 2026 and won only two of their last seven league matches, with victories against Leeds and Sunderland.
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Arteta added: “Certain basics we have to do, we did them so poorly, one after the other.
“It is better not to judge it. We are all too emotional about it. You have to take the hit because we deserve it. It is very easy with emotion to say things that can damage the team. Everyone wants to do their best.”
Only Crystal Palace and West Ham (both eight) have dropped more points from winning positions in the league in 2026 than Arsenal (seven) and the Gunners have now failed to win from a leading position in three of their last five league games.
This was also the first time in Premier League history that a side starting the day bottom of the table avoided defeat to the leaders, despite trailing by two or more goals.
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“It feels like a pivotal moment, a vital one, maybe a turning point,” Smith added on Sky Sports.
“It’s in Manchester City‘s hands now. With their experience and Guardiola’s experience they will really fancy it now. They can almost feel the nerves of the Arsenal team watching that.
“Having been 2-0 up against the team rock bottom on nine points is just not good enough for the team hoping to win the title. It doesn’t bode well for Arsenal to be able to handle the pressure.”
It was part of the annual ‘Hearts Across the Hospital’ event hosted by charity Little Heroes on February 13. Designed to show patients, families, and the paediatric team the immense support of the local community, the event delivered joy and much-needed recharge moments to those on the front line.
A “love train” made its way through the paediatric wards, bringing smiles to patients and staff alike, as the team handed out toys, teddies, and 500 “prescriptions of appreciation” – special gift bags filled with treats to mark the day.
The hospital was buzzing with activity, including a recharge station pop-up hosted by Neighbourhood Cafe, offering a dedicated space for staff and parents to take a breather with a coffee or tea.
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To encourage everyone to share the love, an appreciation station was set up, inviting everyone in the hospital to write personal notes of thanks and encouragement to one another.
Attendees were treated to a mini pancake station from The Waffle Bar and a custom cake bar provided by Bellatorta NI, while singer Karen Maisie Mullan provided a beautiful acoustic backdrop to the day’s celebrations.
Wellness and relaxation were also a priority, with Yumi Ash from Nagomi Wellness providing hand massages and Gerard from Balanced Living offering Reiki sessions, both of whom generously donated their time to support the well-being of parents and staff.
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Aoife Hunter, head of marketing and communications for Little Heroes, said: “We wanted to show the paediatric team, the parents, and the families exactly how much the community stands behind them.
“From the ‘Love Train’ on the wards to the singers and the pancake bar, the energy was incredible. We are so grateful to our partners—from those providing the logistics like Agnew Leasing to those providing the treats like Tayto and Musgrave—for helping us show this appreciation in such a unique and meaningful way.”
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The final episode of Grantchester’s tenth season is set to air tonight, with another show set to replace it.
ITV’s ‘Grantchester’ returns to our screens for a seventh series
The tenth season of Grantchester has been delighting ITV viewers over recent weeks, but it’s set to come to an end tonight (Thursday, February 19).
The British crime drama was first broadcast in 2014 and followed Anglican vicar Sidney Chambers (James Norton), who investigated a series of mysterious wrongdoings in his small Cambridgeshire village. Sidney undertook his sleuthing adventures alongside Detective Inspector Geordie Keating (Robson Green).
Geordie and Alphy embarked on several new investigations when the show returned to ITV for its tenth season last month. As well as solving cases, there have also been some emotional revelations, including Alphy tearfully reading a letter written by his mother when she gave him up for adoption.
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The heartbreaking scenes left viewers in tears, with one person writing on X (formerly Twitter): “What another brilliant, heartbreaking and heartwarming episode of #Grantchester. Top performances from all the cast. I’m absolutely broken.”
Another added: “I’m in absolute bits. Absolutely broke me,” while others have praised the cast’s compelling performances.
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“Once again, Robson Green knocking it out of the park tonight,” one person wrote, with another adding: “Honestly #Grantchester is up there with the best on TV with great performances. I have no idea why @ITV @itvstudios @masterpiecepbs are ending it.”
Grantchester has had viewers gripped every week and will likely leave a gaping hole when the last episode airs at 9pm tonight. Ahead of the final season airing sometime next year, ITV bosses have confirmed what will takeover from Grantchester on Thursday nights.
The first episode of True Crime Presents’ second season, Murder on a Knife’s Edge, is set to begin at 9pm on Thursday, February 26.
For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the newEverything Gossipwebsite
It will centre around the case of Wayne Coventry, who sought love after 18 years with his childhood sweetheart, but the 37-year-old father-of-three was involved in a toxic relationship, and was sadly murdered in October 2019.
The first series of True Crime Presents aired last year, offering thought provoking and insightful input from victims and witnesses on a series of shocking murders.
The initial ten episodes explored several heartbreaking cases, including the death of EastEnders star Gemma McCluskie and 17-year-old Shafilea Ahmed.
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Fans have praised the show since its release, with one IMDb user writing: “Quite a decent documentary series. Experts and witnesses given an in-depth analysis on five different murders… The stories are all engaging, some you may know quite well, while others may be new to you.”
Murder on a Knife’s Edge: True Crime Presents premieres at 9pm on Thursday, February 26 on ITV1, while Grantchester is available to stream on ITVX
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National Highways has advised road users to use the M60, M62 and M1 as alternative routes.
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“Road users are also advised to allow extra time for their journey. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey,” National Highways said.
The Met Office has issued a “yellow” level snow warning for both Greater Manchester and South Yorkshire on Wednesday and into Thursday. Several other areas across the United Kingdom are also under the warning.
Between two to five centimetres of snow could accumulate quite widely above 150 to 200 metres, the forecaster said. Between 10 to 15 centimetres is possible in parts above 250 to 300 metres in mid and southeast Wales, as well as Herefordshire, Shropshire and the southern Pennines.
The Met Office said some small accumulations of snow, typically less than two centimetres, are possible to lower elevations. This is most likely from later Wednesday evening into the early hours of Thursday morning.
I asked my family to help me sample the steaks and here’s what we discovered.
Tesco
Tesco Sirloin Steak costs £6.50 for 227g, which works out to £28.63 per kilo.
It was 21-day matured British beef, had the Red Tractor logo for certified standards and was described as a ‘tender prime cut matured for extra flavour’.
Per 100g, it contained 21.6g of protein, had a 12-day shelf life and was suitable for freezing.
This appeared to be very red with a good marbling of fat running through it when it was raw in the packet.
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However, once it was cooked, the texture was quite fatty and it was very chewy. We gave it 2 out of 5 stars.
Morrisons
Morrisons Sirloin Steak costs £7 for 227g, which works out to £30.84 per kilo.
Twenty-one day matured British beef, it also had the Red Tractor logo.
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Per 100g, it contained 21.6g of protein, had a 16-day shelf life and was suitable for freezing.
This looked like a big chunky steak in the brown cardboard packaging.
It had the least amount of fat along the length and none of the end. In fact, it appeared somewhat processed compared to the others, as it was a very smooth cut and there wasn’t much visible marbling of fat and very little blood once opened.
Upon cooking, it was chewy and a bit dry, it needed mustard to make it enjoyable. We gave it 2 out of 5 stars.
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Sainsbury’s
Sainsbury’s Sirloin Steak costs £6.50 for 225g, which works out to £28.89 per kilo.
I couldn’t spot the Red Tractor logo on this one, just the union flag to show it was slaughtered in Great Britain, but it said it was ‘expertly matured for 21 days for tenderness and reared by our trusted farmers. ‘.
It had a 12-day shelf life and was freezable.
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Per 100g, it contained 27.6g of protein, had a 16-day shelf life and was suitable for freezing.
This one appeared to have a large chunk of fat on the end and all along the rim. It meant we had to trim a fair bit off once it was cooked.
However, the steak that remained was succulent, tender and bursting with flavour. We gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
Lidl
Lidl Sirloin Steak costs £5.49 for 195g, which works out to £28.15 per kilo.
Again, 21-day matured British beef, it had the Red Tractor logo.
Per 100g, it contained 23.5g of protein, had a 12-day shelf life and was suitable for freezing.
This was the bloodiest of all the steaks upon opening the plastic packaging.
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To me, it appeared the most appetising when raw but I suppose that depends on how you like your steak. There was a narrow strip of fat running along the length and at the end with excellent marbling throughout.
And it didn’t disappoint. It was packed with flavour and so delicious, it would have been a sin to add mustard.
We gave it 5 out of 5 stars.
Aldi
Aldi’s Ashfields Sirloin Steak costs £5.49 for 195g, which works out to £28.15 per kilo.
It was 21-day matured British beef and had the Red Tractor logo and was said to be reared on ‘trusted British farms to assured welfare standards’.
Per 100g, it contained 23.5g of protein, had a 14-day shelf life and was suitable for freezing.
This was the most vibrant red of all the steaks once the white cardboard packaging was opened.
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It appeared the most succulent too with a modest amount of fat along the length and the end and really excellent marbling throughout.
And it tasted as impressive as it looked – tender, juicy and bursting with flavour. We gave it 5 out of 5 stars.
M&S
MandS Sirloin Steak costs £7.75 for 227g, which works out to £34.14 per kilo.
It was 21-day matured British beef and didn’t have the Red Tractor logo but said ‘MandS is the only national retailer who can trace all our beef back to every farm and animal. Always British’.
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Per 100g, it contained 21.6g of protein, had a 13-day shelf life and was suitable for freezing.
This appeared like a substantial chunky steak in plastic, recyclable packaging.
It had a strip of fat along the top and a portion of fat at the end. Compared to the others, this piece of meat appeared pale and there wasn’t much blood upon opening.
Once cooked, it was tender, not at all sinewy or chewy, but it wasn’t as flavoursome as some of the others. We gave it 4 out of 5 stars.
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Asda
Asda Sirloin Steak costs £6.97 for 227g, although it says it costs £6.64 online, which works out to £29.25 per kilo.
Described as ‘hand selected and matured for 21 days, a flavourful and tender cut’, this was British beef and carried the Red Tractor logo.
Per 100g, it contained 24g of protein, had a 10-day shelf life and was suitable for freezing.
This steak appeared nicely marbled with fat when raw and it was tender and flavoursome once cooked.
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There was however a large chunk of meat that was inedible because it was just fat, which was somewhat disappointing as the rest tasted good. We gave it 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Overall verdict
The steak with the highest protein content was the one from Sainsbury’s, which stated on the label ‘healthy choice, high in protein’ but it wasn’t the tastiest.
The priciest was M&S followed by Morrisons but, again, they weren’t our favourites.
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For us, the best by far were the Aldi and Lidl sirloin steaks – and they were the cheapest per kilo too.
The Lidl one was slightly more flavoursome so that was probably the best overall but we’d definitely purchase either of them again.
Plans have been approved by Huntingdonshire District Council to turn an old water tower into a four-bedroom home.
A “redundant” water tower on the edge of a Cambridgeshire village is set to be converted into a family home.
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Huntingdonshire District Council has granted planning permission for the Perry Water Tower, in Crow Spinney Lane, Perry, to be turned into a four-bedroom home.
Timothy Matthews, who submitted the application, said he and his wife Lydia Dearden want to turn the old water tower into their new home.
He said: “We are hoping to convert the redundant water tower to become our family home. We are both retired and want to create our new shared family home in Perry.
“The water tower has been redundant for several years and has not been maintained by the previous owner who purchased the property from Anglian Water approximately three years ago.
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“We believe the [proposed] design is of high quality and will enhance the street scene, specifically we have not increased the height and we have not included any windows on the elevations that overlook our three neighbours to ensure their privacy and avoid any light pollution.”
The plans proposed to create four-bedrooms, as well as building a single-storey extension to the back, and the creation of a standalone double garage.
The floorplans submitted to the district council show how rooms are proposed to be created within the old water tower, with main rooms in the centre of each floor, and smaller rooms around the edge.
Two balconies are also proposed to be created on the first floor of the water tower. The plans also show how a spiral staircase and a lift are proposed to be installed.
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A planning officer at the district council who considered the application said the current water tower is a “stark concrete structure”.
They said the materials proposed to be used as part of the conversion would be acceptable and that the “scale, bulk and design of the development would not harm the general character of the area”.
The district council granted planning permission for the work subject to conditions, including that work must start within three years.
Angela Jackman KC, a partner at Irwin Mitchell, representing the veterans, said: “The Scheme makes no allowance for Dismissed or Discharged Payment to potentially thousands of enlisted personnel who say they were subjected to discrimination and harassment, including disciplinary proceedings, which forced them to resign.
An avalanche — a mass of snow moving down a slope — happens most often in the wilderness. Watching for forecasts, bringing the proper gear and getting training to prepare for them can help with outings, according to the National Avalanche Center.
Each winter, about 25 people on average die in avalanches in the United States, the center says, adding, “Some days are dangerous and some days are not.”
Here’s a look at avalanches, how they occur and some tips on how to stay safe:
How do avalanches occur?
It generally takes just two ingredients to create dangerous conditions: A slope of 30 degrees or more and layers upon layers of snow.
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Extra pressure on top of that snowpack from weight, wind, rain, heavy snow or motion can cause some of the layers to shear off and slide downhill.
Sometimes a slide happens in the form of loose snow, called a sluff. Sluffs account for only a small percentage of deaths and property damage from avalanches, according to the Sierra Avalanche Center.
Other avalanches are made up of slabs, which happen when a large layer of snow breaks away. Those account for most fatalities.
Another kind of avalanche occurs when wind creates a cornice of snow that hangs over a ridge or the edge of a steep slope. The overhang can collapse suddenly, catching anyone underneath or on top of it by surprise, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center.
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What triggers an avalanche?
Movement, rapidly changing weather, wind — any one of these things can set off an avalanche. But experts say 90% of slides that cause an injury or death are triggered by the victim or a companion.
That means people who ski, snowmobile, snowshoe or enjoy other winter backcountry activities should check the avalanche forecast before they head out and make sure they have the right safety gear.
Most ski resorts have avalanche protocols or mitigation systems. Often that means checking snowpack stability. Remote detonations are also used to trigger slides intentionally and remove risky buildup before skiers are allowed on the slopes, said Chris Lundy, an avalanche specialist with the National Avalanche Center.
How can one avoid an avalanche?
Don’t think for a second that you can outrun one. Dry slab avalanches typically reach speeds up to 80 mph (129 kph) within seconds, according to the Sierra Avalanche Center. Wet avalanches usually travel around 20 mph (32 kph).
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By comparison eight-time Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt set a record of just under 28 mph (45 kph) in the 100-meter dash in 2009 — and that was on a flat track, not a snow-covered slope. Most people caught in avalanches are on the slope when they occur.
The better plan is to make sure you’re not in a place where one is at risk of occurring. Outdoor enthusiasts can check forecasts at regional avalanche centers or www.avalanche.org.
If you do venture out, it’s a good idea to use the buddy system and be versed in wilderness first aid. Experts say three pieces of gear are essential: an avalanche beacon or transceiver, which sends location signals to others; a shovel to test snowpack or dig out companions; and a thin, folding pole to poke into the snow in search of anyone buried. An avalanche airbag backpack that inflates after the skier pulls the trigger giving the person a chance to stay above or close to the surface during an avalanche.
What were some recent avalanches?
On Jan. 5, an avalanche in California’s Sierra Nevada buried a snowmobiler in snow and killed him, authorities said. The snowmobiler was initially reported missing but then was found under the snow several minutes later, the Nevada County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
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In June 2025, a skier died after being caught in an avalanche on Alaska’s Mount McKinley, North America’s tallest peak. The Denali National Park and Preserve said the skier and his climbing partner, a snowboarder, triggered the avalanche high on the 20,310-foot (6,190-meter) peak while descending a slope.
That March, a snowmachiner riding on the backside of a popular winter recreation area about 60 miles (97 kilometers) southeast of Anchorage, triggered an avalanche after riding over a weak layer of snow that was buried under newer snow, according to the Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center. He was buried about 10-feet (3-meter) deep in the slide that measured about 500 feet (152 meters) wide.
Earlier that month, three heli-skiers were killed. That accident happened when they were caught in an avalanche near Girdwood, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of Anchorage. Heli-skiing is a type of backcountry skiing that involves using a helicopter to access remote areas and slopes of fresh snow.
TUI will offer city breaks to the Basque Country destination from Manchester Airport this spring, with flights taking under two hours
Natalie King Travel Journalist
02:19, 19 Feb 2026
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has introduced a new city break destination to its spring line-up, located in a region of Spain that’s increasingly catching the attention of Brits and boasts a distinctive charm.
For those weary of the Spanish Costas and seeking to avoid the typical crowded tourist locales, Northern Spain is emerging as an alternative for Brits keen to explore a different side of the country. The Basque Country alone witnessed a 40% surge in visitors last year, although this still only equates to 182,000 tourists annually – a mere fraction compared to Southern Spain.
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Bilbao, nestled in the heart of the Basque Country, serves as an excellent introduction to this part of Spain, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the area’s unique beauty and culture.
This spring, TUI will be providing city breaks to Bilbao from four major UK airports: Bristol, London-Gatwick, London-Heathrow, and Manchester. With flights from the UK clocking in at around two hours, it’s perfect for a long weekend or mini break.
In a Lonely Planet article, one travel writer wrote: “When your plane banks toward Bilbao Airport for the final approach, the lush forest passing below looks nothing like the Spain you thought you knew.”
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This region’s climate and landscapes are vastly different from the arid, sun-drenched south, offering milder conditions that provide relief from summer heatwaves. Between March and April, daytime temperatures hover around 17C, whilst throughout summer months they reach approximately 26C, as the south frequently swelters in mid-30s heat.
The area also receives greater rainfall than its southern counterpart, lending the surroundings a vibrant green appearance.
Situated along the Nervión River’s banks, Bilbao’s most beloved area is its historic quarter, known locally as Casco Viejo. Featuring vibrant buildings from medieval periods, an impressive cathedral, and the stunning neoclassical Plaza Nueva, packed with bars and eateries, it makes for an ideal short break location.
By contrast, the Guggenheim Museum, with its distinctive Frank Gehry-designed facade, stands apart from everything else in the city, yet attracts visitors with its extensive contemporary art collection. Even without stepping inside, it’s worthwhile passing by to admire its titanium-covered exterior gleaming in the sunlight.
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Beyond its cultural attractions, Bilbao is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, and whilst exploring the streets, you’ll discover numerous pintxos bars. A northern variation on tapas, pintxos consist of bite-sized bread portions topped with ingredients ranging from jamón to seafood or cheese, secured together with a cocktail stick.
Another renowned product of Northern Spain is its Rioja wines, which perfectly complement a serving of pintxos. You can indulge in a day trip to nearby vineyards, or simply pop into one of the numerous wine bars for a tasting session.
TUI’s offers feature a 7-night stay at the 4T NYX Hotel Bilbao by Leonardo Hotels on a room only basis from £583 per person. The price is based on two adults sharing a Double or Twin Comfort Room, departing from London Gatwick on 14th April 2026 with hand luggage only.
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Alternatively, you can reserve a seven-night holiday at Hotel Sirimiri on a room-only basis from £451 per person. The price is based on two adults sharing a Double or Twin Standard Room, departing from London Heathrow on 21st April 2026 with hand luggage only.
Prices are subject to availability and may vary. For more information, visit the TUI website or download the official app.
Despite supporting the Red Devils, it was the blue half of Manchester who poached Palmer at the age of eight and took him through the club’s academy to the first-team.
But Palmer only made 19 Premier League appearances for Man City before selling him to Chelsea, where he has become one of the biggest stars in world football.
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Palmer enjoyed a sensational first season at Stamford Bridge, scoring 27 goals and making 15 assists – the most of any player in the Premier League.
Palmer was slightly less effective last season but still scored 18 goals in all competitions to help the Blues qualify for the Champions League, win the Europa Conference League and then lift the Club World Cup trophy.
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From the latest transfer rumours and managerial moves to analysis of the biggest games and a lot more, our experts have you covered.
But Palmer has continued to be linked with a move and one of his friends has made it his mission to get him to Manchester United.
Manchester-based rapper Tunde spent some time with Palmer during his holiday to Dubai this week as some Chelsea players were given time off ahead of the business end of the season.
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Tunde uploaded two pictures of him and Palmer together with the Instagram caption: ‘Bro from early.
‘1 day I will get CP to UTD back home where he belongs. Go ask him who his favourite team is.’
Palmer and rapper Tunde in Dubai (Picture: Instagram)
Asked about Palmer’s future at Stamford Bridge last month, new Chelsea boss Rosenior said: ‘Is he untouchable, is he happy? Yes and yes.
‘It’s simple, Cole Palmer is an incredible player like many players in the group. Cole is here, he’s very happy and I can’t wait to see him back on the pitch.
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‘Cole is very happy. I’ve had numerous conversations with him. Our thoughts are on how we can make this team better, how he can improve and how I can help him.
Man Utd have been linked with a stunning move (Picture: Getty)
‘He loves being here and he wants to be a Chelsea player.’
Former Chelsea captain Ruud Gullit certainly hopes Palmer stays put, telling Gambling Insider earlier this week: ‘I don’t know what’s going on with Cole Palmer. Nobody seems to know.
‘If he continues to be in and out of the Chelsea team, then that suggests that something is going on behind the scenes and it’s not just his fitness issues.
‘It’s possible that he’s still a little bit injured and that’s affecting his form, but only Liam Rosenior and the medical staff know the true story.
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‘We haven’t heard Cole’s side of the story yet, so we’re in the dark with what’s going on with him.
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‘I really hope he doesn’t leave Chelsea in the summer – I want him to have his chance to win big trophies at Stamford Bridge.
‘We can only speculate at the moment, so let’s see what happens between now and the end of the season.’
‘It would be incredibly exciting to see Cole Palmer at Manchester United,’ Saha told CasinoHawks. ‘He is just a terrific player.
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‘If he does think about going back to Manchester again, I’m sure that he’s going to be exciting for United fans.’
For now, Palmer will hope to help Chelsea finish in the top-four – they arefifth with 12 games remaining – and enjoy a deep run in the Champions League.
NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. stock market ticked higher on Wednesday, led by its most influential stock, Nvidia.
The S&P 500 rose 0.6% and pulled a bit closer to its all-time high set late last month. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 129 points, or 0.3%, and the Nasdaq composite gained 0.8%.
Nvidia helped lift the market and climbed 1.6% after Meta Platforms announced a long-term partnership where it will use millions of chips and other equipment from Nvidia for its artificial-intelligence data centers.
“No one deploys AI at Meta’s scale,” Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said. Because his company is the most valuable on Wall Street, Nvidia’s stock was the single most powerful force pulling the S&P 500 higher.
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That performance demonstrated the upside of AI development for the U.S. stock market. But investors have also focused on the potential downsides recently, which has led to sharp swings for Wall Street. Worries are rising, for example, about how much companies like Meta are spending on AI and whether they can make back their huge investments through higher profits and productivity in the future.
Meta’s stock fell as much as 1.7% before recovering and rising 0.6%.
Another worry is that if AI succeeds in creating tools to do complicated tasks more cheaply, companies in industries as far flung as software and legal services and trucking logistics could see their businesses get undercut. That has pushed investors to suddenly and aggressively punish stocks of companies seen as under threat, and analysts have likened it to a “shoot first-ask questions later” mentality.
Several profit reports from companies helped to lift stocks Wednesday. They continued what’s been a strong reporting season for the big U.S. companies in the S&P 500.
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Cadence Design Systems climbed 7.6% after delivering both profit and revenue for the latest quarter that topped analysts’ expectations. CEO Anirudh Devgan credited what he called “the essential nature of Cadence’s engineering software,” even as investors worry about AI threatening to remake the industry.
Analog Devices rose 2.6% after likewise topping analysts’ estimates for profit and revenue. The chip company said it saw record orders during the quarter for its data center business.
They helped offset a 6.8% drop for Palo Alto Networks. The cybersecurity company reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected, but it gave profit forecasts for the current quarter and the remainder of its fiscal year that fell short of their estimates.
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All told, the S&P 500 rose 38.09 points to 6,881.31. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 129.47 to 49,662.66, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 175.25 to 22,753.63.
In the bond market, Treasury yields ticked higher following reports on the U.S. economy that came in better than economists expected. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.08% from 4.05% late Tuesday.
One report said that industrial production improved last month by more than economists expected. Another said orders for computers, fabricated metal products and other long-lasting manufactured goods rose more in December than economists expected, when not including airplanes and other transportation equipment. A third report said homebuilders broke ground on more new homes in December than expected.
Such strong data could encourage the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates steady.
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The Fed has put its cuts to interest rates on hold, but many on Wall Street expect it to resume later this year. The widespread forecast is that will come during the summer, after a new chair is scheduled to step in atop the Fed.
Lower rates can give a boost to the economy and prices for investments, but that comes at the cost of potentially worsening inflation.
In stock markets abroad, London’s FTSE 100 climbed 1.2% after the latest update on U.K. inflation bolstered expectations that the Bank of England may soon cut interest rates.
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Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 1% as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi was reappointed by the parliament following a landslide victory for her ruling Liberal Democrats in a Feb. 8 election. The expectation is that she will push through policies to help the economy and markets.
Elsewhere in Asia, several markets were closed for the Lunar New Year holiday.
