[BBC]There is nothing like the wonder of your first World Cup - the misty-eyed nostalgia of youth, summers that seemed to last forever, the gargantuan stars you believed were immortal.In a blink of an eye those childhood heroes became a cut-to in the crowd - Ronaldo, the original, with Roberto Carlos and Kaka - greying legends in suits instead of swashbuckling boots. Still a twinkle in their eye. Aura with achy knees.Tournaments once so defined now blur into adulthood ambivalence, postcards plotted along the timeline of your life, the details growing grainy. That one you rushed home from school for, those barbecues with your mates, the one you watched in your first house. The summers ended - with a wink,a shootout or a "why didn't he square it?"The World Cup cycle seems to pedal round far quicker as an adult, yet something huge changed since Qatar four years ago - a tournament lived through a sleep-deprived haze in soft-play centres and binge-watching Bluey. But the past few weeks have brought an unexpected joy.Because, yes, there is nothing like your first World Cup, but there's also nothing like the first World Cup you enjoy with your kid.In the nick of time, our almost six-year-old has become head-over-heels obsessed with the beautiful game - marvelling at its greatest stars, hooked by a cast of new characters in vibrant kits, kidsplaining their celebrations to his parents. What a privilege to share those earliest footballing memories with him.We thought it might not happen, and that would be absolutely fine, because you can dress them up in Three Lions babygrows and joke about Project Mbappe, but falling in love with the sport has to come naturally - through knees grazed on the playground and a childhood intrigue that breeds between young mates. "Who's better, Messi or Ronaldo?!" The eternal question.Lionel Messi, at 38, stills resonates with kids in the playground [Getty Images]Four years ago, any effort to watch a game together was met with the same stubborn toddler resistance as suggesting a midday nap. Suddenly, here we are, knee-deep in Panini swapsies, reeling off an all-star French attack, pointing out the flags and badges of all 48 nations. Shiny Brazil!Of course, the medium through which he is engaging with this World Cup is different from our childhood experiences, which in turn are different to our parents'. "Grandad saw Pele at Goodison Park?" Poignant for Grandad because he's an Evertonian, impressive for the little one because his favourite YouTuber - Chuffsters - pulled a 99-ranked Pele icon card.This isn't a bedtime-friendly World Cup for those this side of the pond - we've not yet stayed up late and there's no dashing into school early, class teacher wheeling out a chunky television to catch Senegal shock France.Instead, this World Cup is about climbing into our bed at first light with his little brother, listing yesterday's fixtures and predicting which star player is going to score - a thirst fulfilled through highlights packages. A hearty hit of goals before breakfast.Waking up last Wednesday was like Christmas morning. Every clip unwrapped the gift of another stunning display. Kylian Mbappe,Erling Haaland,LIONEL MESSI GOT A HAT-TRICK! Because, despite being the same age as most of their parents, it's still Messi who resonates for today's kids - his shirt dotted across Sunday morning playing fields.But for all that's different, the core things stay the same. Filling out sticker books and writing on wallcharts, unboxing football figures - we've two Bradley Barcolas, if anyone needs? - hours spent pretending to be Harry Kane or Jude Bellingham in the garden, trying to recreate the tournament's greatest goals. This will be the summer we buy a new fence.It's seeing your heroes come alive on screen and falling in love with unexpected new ones. Where can you find a Vozinha shirt?To enjoy the game through the eyes of your kids is to see it in a different light. One of wonder and a million questions, those you haven't thought about for decades. An experience completely ignorant to the ills of modern football, to politics, ticket prices or hydration breaks. Just the pure magic of the game, an innocent curiosity to know more about it, the uncontrollable desire to 'Siuuuuu!' down supermarket shopping aisles.Football can be tribal and divisive but at its heart is a sport that unites, whether that's supporters from across the globe embracing each other in a Mexico City fan park or a dad and his young lads gathered around a sticker book in Manchester.Because the World Cup is a phenomenon that transcends generations. My grandpa died earlier in the tournament - his last interaction with the boys was to post some England stickers picked up with his weekly shop. The sadness of losing him sated by a small, thoughtful gesture - that will be how they remember him.Whether our young football anorak will remember the tournament too, who knows, and it doesn't really matter. Such is the glorious childhood gift of living in the moment, perhaps next week he'll have moved on to something else, maybe we'll be chasing Pokemon again. And we'll enjoy that together too.But right now, what a beautiful satisfaction it is to experience this World Cup through his wide-eyed wonder, to treasure this passion we share. So, here's to this summer. For me, this is the one that will last forever.Play BBC Sport's new World Cup predictor gameWorld Cup fixtures and group standingsHow to watch the World Cup on the BBCEverything you need to know about the World Cup

We catch up with The Times’s restaurant critics.

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — There comes a point in every runaway tournament victory when the only story bigger than a player winning would be that player not winning. Unlike, say, football or basketball, you can’t run out the clock in golf, and that means there’s always the chance, however slight, that even a massive lead can vanish into the late-Sunday-afternoon air. Wyndham Clark leads the U.S. Open by six strokes. This is a substantial lead by any measure; it’s the third-largest 54-hole lead at a U.S. Open in the modern era, behind Tiger Woods’ 10 in 2000 and Rory McIlroy’s 8 in 2011. Both of those leads resulted in victories, and there’s a whiff of inevitability about Clark, too, simply because of the way he’s worked his way around Shinnecock Hills with a kind of determined precision that’s eluded the rest of the field. For Clark, the moment of inevitability came on Shinnecock Hills’ 614-yard, par-5 16th hole, when he arced a brilliant second shot just over the sloping edge of the green, inches from disaster, and set up the eagle putt that would put him a touchdown ahead of the field. It’s the kind of shot that deserves to be remembered, and if it had happened on Sunday — or if the fans hadn’t already streamed to Shinnecock’s exits to catch the train — it would have gotten its due from the gallery:That moment right there ensured that Clark will be the story Sunday, win or lose. Coronation or collapse, that’s all that remains here at Shinnecock Hills and the 2026 U.S. Open. And here’s where we get to the tricky part of this story. With very few exceptions, there’s an anticlimactic air about any march to a multi-stroke victory. There aren’t many players who can inspire the gallery to cheer a runaway win. (There aren’t many players who could inspire the empty grandstands at Shinnecock, period.) Clark, who’s never really been a fan favorite, has a checkered recent history, but he’s doing his best to restore some connections with the gallery. Would a runaway win do that? Maybe, maybe not. But there’s another possibility here, too. The agonizing element here is that the more compelling story is the more (potentially) heartbreaking one. Clark will start Sunday alongside Scottie Scheffler, who’s both celebrating a birthday and chasing a career grand slam. Scheffler will be the overwhelming fan favorite, and any cuts he can make in Clark’s lead — a birdie on the first, say — will send a charge through the gallery. And it’ll be up to Clark, who will surely be feeling like a man on an island, to hold on … or not. That’s what makes golf so fascinating. For every Tiger Woods march to glory, there are a dozen stories of collapse and heartbreak, a life’s dreams crumbling as millions watch. Greg Norman at the 1996 Masters. Jean van de Velde at the 1999 Open Championship. Jordan Spieth at the 2016 Masters. All of them close enough to taste victory, close enough to see the flag on the 18th hole … only to squander it all, to watch their hopes vanish like wisps of smoke. It’s painful as hell to watch, but you can’t deny that it’s compelling. What awaits Wyndham Clark on Sunday afternoon? A second U.S. Open trophy, an elevation to his generation’s best? Or one of golf’s most momentous collapses, one that will haunt him the rest of his career? It’s all waiting out there at Shinnecock, and it will all the way to the final green.

Aug 12, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; New York Liberty center Jonquel Jones (35) posts up against Los Angeles Sparks forward Dearica Hamby (5) during the first quarter at Crypto.com Arena.LOS ANGELES – This upcoming Sparks game on Sunday will be special. On June 21, 1997, the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) played its very first game. The New York Liberty visited the Los Angeles Sparks in the then-Great Western Forum. The Liberty defeated the Sparks, 67-57, and a revolution was on. The revolution had its twists and turns, ups and downs, and lefts and rights. But now in its 30th season, the WNBA is here to stay. And the Sparks and Liberty will commemorate that game by playing on the anniversary of the inaugural WNBA contest. Three decades later, two of the original teams will clash at Crypto.Com Arena. It is not lost upon today’s Sparks. "This year for the WNBA has just been insane," Sparks guard Ariel Atkins said. "I hope everything that we're doing is giving people not only hope for the future for their sports but also understanding that we aren't going anywhere. We're here to stay and we're only going to get better."Past Sparks players such as Delisha Milton-Jones, Essence Carson, and Tamecka Dixon stopped by practice on Saturday and gave speeches to the current players. "I think it's awesome," Sparks coach Lynne Roberts said when asked about the Sparks legends stopping by. "And I think it's great for all of us to be reminded of how far this league has come. And when you hear the stories of these women what they went through and how excited they are for this next generation, it's motivating. And that's why we wanted to have them talk to the team and talk to the players. It's really cool. This franchise has a tremendous storied history and that's why a lot of us are here to get back to where it belongs. And so it's super motivating to hear from these guys."Atkins is looking forward to the Anniversary Game."30 years for the W is absolutely insane. Being a little girl, being able to watch it, and being excited about it. And now not only be playing in it but to be playing in the anniversary of the 30th game. I just think that's insane. I don't even know if I have words for it. But we're here. This is only the beginning. Only 30 years in, which is crazy, because we have forever to go," Atkins added.Atkins smiled while talking about it. She was not only happy to hear from these legends but proud to see how far the WNBA has come."I think the dope part about it is all those players are still around us," Atkins beamed. "Obviously, the ones who are still living, God bless. But they're around. And it's really nice. We had our alumni here today. Just having them here and just seeing the smiles on their face. And seeing how happy they are for us. And how happy they are about where the league is. It just makes you think, like, 30 years down the line; I'm really excited and hope I have the opportunity to come back."Just be able to see the league for what it will be," Atkins continued. "Just watching them and their energy. And just the way that they even communicate with their teammates still to this day. Because it's one of your favorite parts about being on the team, right? Like your teammates. And being able to be around them. And just watching them kind of interact and everything. It's always fun. I really enjoy when alumni get to come back. And also just their passion for the organization. It's super contagious. It's nice to always have them around."Coach Roberts knew what this moment meant."It's incredible and it's humbling to be a part of it," Roberts said. "30 years ago, I was playing in college and the game has come a long ways. So, again, it's just really cool playing the Liberty. The names on both teams, the stars that are playing for both teams. It's Nneka (Ogwumike), Kelsey (Plum), and Dearica (Hamby) and Stewie (Breanna Stewart), JJ (Jonquel Jones), and Sabrina (Ionescu). There's some big names. But we've got a lot going on in the game. At the end of the day, it's a 40-minute game that we've got to be ready to play in. But really cool experience and I'm honored to be a part of it."Yes. The game itself. The Sparks (7-8) have lost their last two and the Liberty (11-5) are mad after their eight-game win streak was snapped in an upset from the visiting Mystics on Friday."Everybody's angry coming in here," Atkins joked. "They've been playing together for a while. They have their core players who know each other kind of like the back of their hand. They know what they're trying to get and they run it down to the nose.""They're a really big team," Sparks newcomer guard Kiana Williams said, who has played the Liberty twice while suiting up for the Mercury. "We've just got to be physical from the jump. When you're laidback and you're waiting for things to happen, it's like, no, you've got to go out there and make things happen. For me, coming in, my mindset is defense. How can I bring the Sparks defensively and on the offensive end, just letting things come because you don't really learn the playbook in one day. So I'm going to go back and watch some film, watch some old games that the Sparks have played, and just try to see where I see myself in spots and just go from there. But I'm really excited."The Sparks continue to have home court woes; they are 2-6 in Los Angeles."We have to start showing up at Crypto with a mentality of aggression," Coach Roberts said, "And tomorrow's a great opportunity against a really good Liberty team."It was brought up that the Mystics on Friday used a lot of physicality to defeat the Liberty."Yes, I think that's going to be something we're going to try to do, too," Roberts said. "And I think they had 48 points in the paint, Washington did. As big as New York is, we've got to have the mindset of being the aggressor."Jones (6'6"), Stewart (6'4"), and Leonie Fiebich (6'4") certainly provide that size. And they have Satou Sabally (6'4") and Han Xu (6'11"!) coming off the bench. It's a lot to overcome.And the Liberty just got back all-star guard Sabrina Ionescu to pair with the electrifying three-point shooter Marine Johannes. Rookie Pauline Astier provided firepower when Ionescu was out. And Rebekah Gardner always provides the energy.As for the Sparks, Kelsey Plum is off the injury report and the team is only short of Cameron Brink. The season is about a third done and the Sparks hope to get something going."I think a lot of the times when things don't necessarily go our way, we find a way to adjust," Atkins offered."It's what Delisha (Milton-Jones) was just saying to the team," Coach Roberts said. "People are hurt. Next man up. You've got to be ready. And there's a mentality there of no excuses. Next man up. They're all here. Everyone's here for a reason. They're skilled. They've got to be ready to roll."Just like the league will continue to roll. But there is still a game to be played. And the Sparks need this win to not get too far behind in the standings.

NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli was named in India's ODI squad for the upcoming tour of England after missing the Afghanistan series due to injury. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad on Sunday. However, Virat Kohli's participation in the much-anticipated ODI series is subject to fitness clearance.India will play the three ODIs against England at Edgbaston (July 14), Sophia Gardens (July 16) and Lord's (July 19).Jasprit Bumrah is also back in the ODI setup. The fast bowler was rested for both the one-off Test and the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan as part of the BCCI’s workload management plan.Kohli had suffered a hamstring injury during the IPL 2026 final and was subsequently ruled out of the ODI series against Afghanistan.All-rounder Axar Patel has returned to the ODI squad after missing the Afghanistan series. However, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Mohammed Siraj have not been included in the squad for the England tour.Gurnoor Brar has retained his place in the squad. Prince Yadav, meanwhile, has missed out, with Harshit Rana returning to the side.The BCCI also said that Varun Chakaravarthy is in the final stages of recovery from a foot injury sustained during IPL 2026 and will therefore miss the T20I series in Ireland.India's ODI squad: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli*, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar.India’s updated squad for Ireland T20Is: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma (Vice-Captain), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Prasidh Krishna. 131888838

Barcelona credited with interest in €50 million-rated Ivory Coast starlet after World Cup breakthroughChrist Inao Oulai has become one of the breakout stories of the World Cup, and Barcelona are now being mentioned among the major clubs watching his rise closely.According to reports in Turkey, as relayed by AS, the Ivory Coast midfielder is on the radars of Barça, while Premier League and Bundesliga clubs are also keeping an eye on him.His impressive performances for his country have caught everyone’s attention. Trabzonspor could demand around €50 million for the 20-year-old.Oulai’s rise has been quick. He came through the JMG Academy in Ivory Coast, moved into European football with Bastia and was then signed by Trabzonspor for €5.5 million after only a short spell in France.A midfield profile Barça should studyOn Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)Oulai plays with energy, pressure, dynamism and personality. Against Germany, he looked fearless, giving Ivory Coast a midfield presence that made some of Europe’s biggest names uncomfortable.That kind of profile is interesting for Barcelona. Hansi Flick wants more intensity, more physical edge and more aggressive pressing.Oulai appears to offer exactly the kind of legs and bite the Catalans sometimes lack in European matches.He is not just a destroyer either. His ability on the ball, confidence under pressure and capacity to cover ground also highlight that he is an all-round midfield profile.Price will decide everythingFor Barça, the problem is not interest. The problem is price. A €50 million valuation makes this a serious operation, not a low-risk talent bet.€50 million valuation on Oulai. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)Barcelona cannot chase every World Cup revelation at inflated prices. The club have to be careful, especially when one strong tournament can push a player’s market beyond its real value.Still, Oulai is exactly the kind of name the Blaugrana should be tracking. He is young, physically sharp, technically useful and already showing he can compete against elite opponents.The last World Cup saw the breakout of young talents like Enzo Fernandez, who then went on to transfer to Chelsea for a nine-figure fee.Oulai might not cost as much, but he will still be very expensive for Barcelona, especially in a position where they are relatively well stocked.For now, the interest seems surface-level more than anything else. It remains to be seen how Oulai performs between now and the end of the World Cup for Ivory Coast.

The Minnesota Vikings may or may not have a hole at the OLB3 position in 2026, depending on the maturation of young in-house candidates like Bo Richter, Tyler Batty, and Chaz Chambliss. The club could also utilize second-year defensive tackle Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins in an EDGE capacity or bring rookie off-ball linebacker Jake Golday along sooner than expected in a hybrid OLB function.Or — the club could sign Za’Darius Smith for cheap, who stopped by Minnesota in 2022 and reached the Pro Bowl that year. Vikings Could Use Another Proven Rotational RusherMinnesota Vikings outside linebacker Za’Darius Smith watches practice activities during training camp at U.S. Bank Stadium. The veteran defender was photographed on July 29, 2022, in Minneapolis as he prepared for his first season with the Vikings and acclimated to the team’s defensive system during the early days of camp. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY SportsSmith Out in PHIThe Philadelphia Eagles parted ways with Smith earlier this month, as PennLive‘s Johnny McGonical wrote, “The Philadelphia Eagles made a flurry of moves on Wednesday, signing edge rusher A.J. Epenesa and guard Michael Jordan while cutting ties with a pair of reserves. But one more move might have been lost in the shuffle. The Eagles released edge rusher Za’Darius Smith from the reserve/retired list.”“That makes Smith a free agent, months after abruptly retiring from football. There’s no word on if Smith will keep playing. But now the three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher is free to sign with another team and continue his career, if he so chooses.”Smith is 33 and could have a season or two left in the tank, especially as a situational pass rusher. Some Vikings fans have thought since his release: Why not Minnesota?Career Stats and Recent DownturnSmith remains a viable option for an OLB3, so long as expectations are tempered and folks are not anticipating his 2022 performance.His career statistics are impressive: 145 games, 98 starts, 70.5 sacks, 87 tackles for loss, 176 quarterback hits, 16 passes defensed, 10 forced fumbles, and 3 Pro Bowl selections. He was particularly effective with Green Bay and Minnesota, accumulating 36 sacks in three full seasons between 2019 and 2022.His tenure with the Vikings was notably strong, featuring 44 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 24 quarterback hits, and 10 sacks, earning him consideration for Comeback Player of the Year.Concerns now primarily revolve around his age. His 2023 stint with the Eagles yielded only 1.5 sacks in five games. Nevertheless, Pro Football Focus still assigned him a favorable pass rush grade — 77.7 — which is obviously crucial for the would-be Vikings role.As an OLB3 supporting Andrew Van Ginkel and Dallas Turner, Smith is a sensible choice, especially as an economical rotational rusher. A Wise Fit in Minnesota?Smith knows the Vikings — and even most of the current coaching staff, stopping by Minnesota after his Packers chapter in 2022. He curiously asked for a ticket out of town after just one productive season, but in all likelihood, he has a positive opinion of Kevin O’Connell.And let’s face it — what else is he going to do? He’s winding down his career, and NFL teams won’t bang on his door in full force. He’d also have the perk of joining a Top 3 defense, led by Brian Flores, over the last few years.Cleveland Browns defensive end Za’Darius Smith speaks with teammate Jordan Elliott during a preseason matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. The interaction occurred on Aug. 17, 2023, in Philadelphia as the Browns evaluated personnel and prepared for the upcoming regular season. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY SportsFor Minnesota, it might just need a seasoned pass rusher who can get after quarterbacks on 3rd Down and be in line for spot starting duty if Van Ginkel and Turner miss time. Smith isn’t unfathomably old; he can likely still start in a pinch.Overall, a reunion angle makes sense, and Smith can likely be signed for a few million bucks.SI.com‘s Will Ragatz wrote this week, “On paper, Smith has the kind of skill set that should work in a Flores defense. He can line up on the edge or present a blitz look in the A gap. He’s always been a solid run defender, even if that’s not the most notable part of his game. The three-time Pro Bowler has all kinds of experience in various schemes from his 11 seasons with six different teams.”The Other Options in Free AgencySuppose Smith does not move the needle for the Vikings in summer free agency, but they still want a veteran OLB. The options are plentiful:Derek BarnettHaason ReddickJadeveon ClowneyJoey BosaKyle Van NoyLeonard FloydMarcus DavenportPreston SmithVon MillerMinnesota Vikings linebacker Za’Darius Smith watches from the field during fourth-quarter action against the Dallas Cowboys at U.S. Bank Stadium. The moment was captured on Nov. 20, 2022, in Minneapolis as the veteran pass rusher remained engaged during a difficult afternoon for Minnesota’s defense. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY SportsBosa and Clowney, for example, will be more expensive than Smith, but the moral of the story is that a litany of EDGE options remains.Smith will turn 34 in September. New Vikings general manager Nolan Teasley has about $13 million to spend on free agents, more than enough to sign Smith if he’s in the mood. For cheap, the guy seems like a wise choice for OLB insurance. Why not?

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson addresses his supporters prior to boarding his General Election campaign trail bus in Manchester, England, Friday, Nov. 15, 2019. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein, Pool, File)2026-06-21T11:18:15Z LONDON (AP) — Ten years ago, the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union in a referendum that forges political identities to this day and that shattered a half-century project to get closer to the continent.Brexit, short for British exit, became a reality on June 23, 2016, when 52% — or more than 17 million people — voted to leave the EU. Though the margin was narrow, the vote led to the most dramatic shake-up of the U.K. economy and society since World War II. But like any divorce, the paperwork and process of completing the breakup was not swift: It took nearly five years.Brexit was born out of a growing sense of frustration not only with the EU but over the global financial crisis of 2008. Supporters were able to tap into that frustration, and argued that the U.K. on its own, would be revitalized and able to focus just on domestic priorities. Opponents warned that Brexit would lead to an economic disruption and that it risked the country’s standing in the world.A decade on, here is where Brexit stands. Brexit ushered in a harsh economic realityBackers of Brexit — commonly known as Brexiters — held out a vision that the British economy could thrive outside the EU by harnessing the buccaneering spirit that had once made it the world’s biggest. Though the COVID-19 pandemic and the wars in Ukraine and more recently, the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran have not helped, it’s clear that the British economy has not been revitalized.Merchants have complained about the hurdles that they now have to clear when trading with their European neighbors — the 27-nation EU remains by far the U.K.’s biggest trading partner. Read More And though there are no tariffs imposed on British goods entering the EU, there is a raft of non-tariff barriers, such as cumbersome customs paperwork, border certifications, and visa restrictions. Many of the trade deals that the Brexiters touted, most notably one with the United States, have not materialized. Experts say the British economy is between 4% and 8% smaller than it would have been had the country voted to remain in the EU. That would translate to much higher living standards and billions more pumped into public services, including the cherished National Health Service, which was promised an extra 350 million pounds ($468 million) a week by Brexit campaigners. That pledge was emblazoned on their big red campaigning bus. Sign up for Morning Wire: Our flagship newsletter breaks down the biggest headlines of the day. Email address Sign up By checking this box, you agree to AP's Terms of Use and acknowledge that AP may collect and use your data pursuant to our Privacy Policy. “Brexit has made the U.K. economy smaller than it otherwise would have been,” said Jonathan Portes, professor at King’s College London. “The effect has not been a sudden collapse, but a gradual and cumulative drag on trade, investment and productivity,” he wrote in an article for The UK in a Changing Europe think tank. A policeman escorts the driver of a shellfish export truck as he is stopped for an unnecessary journey in London, Monday, Jan, 18, 2021. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File) A policeman escorts the driver of a shellfish export truck as he is stopped for an unnecessary journey in London, Monday, Jan, 18, 2021. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Brexiters argue, however, that leaving the EU is not something that can be judged in the short-term — there was always going to be a short-term economic disruption in return for greater control over an array of policy levers, including on migration. The uproar over immigration is escalatingBrexit put an end to free movement between the U.K. and EU, but securing Britain’s border has had mixed outcomes. Getting a grip on immigration was a key promise of the Brexiters — their message of taking back control resonated. Nigel Farage, the leader of the UK Independence Party, celebrates and poses for photographers as he leaves a “Leave.EU” organization party for the British European Union membership referendum in London., June 24, 2016. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File) Nigel Farage, the leader of the UK Independence Party, celebrates and poses for photographers as he leaves a “Leave.EU” organization party for the British European Union membership referendum in London., June 24, 2016. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Though net migration — the difference between those entering the U.K. and those leaving in any one year, from Europe — has plunged, it has soared from non-EU countries. That’s partly because of changes in visa rules that the previous Conservative government introduced to help out sectors that desperately needed migrant labor, such as workers to care for the elderly.Overall though, there are signs the government is getting a grip on who can and cannot enter the country legally. Net migration has fallen sharply, from more than 900,000 in 2023 to 171,000 last year. Though net migration is down, many are angered by migrants entering the country illegally — specifically the sight of people, often escaping war zones such as Afghanistan and Sudan, arriving on British shores in inflatable boats after making the dangerous journey across the English Channel.The uproar over the number of small boat crossings, which peaked at 46,000 in 2022 and reached 41,000 last year, has become one of the main top political issues despite being a fraction of overall migration. Anger has focused on asylum seekers, often housed at public cost. Unruly mobs have protested outside and even tried to set fire to some hotels housing asylum seekers.Voters have expressed remorseIn the years since Brexit, Britain’s political landscape has fractured, with declining support for the two long-dominant parties, Conservatives and Labour. The Conservatives were ejected in 2024 after 14 years in power, much of it dominated by wrangling over U.K.-European relations. The Labour government hasn’t impressed either and Prime Minister Keir Starmer looks like he will be announcing his resignation very soon. Millions of voters are being tempted by Reform U.K., led by Nigel Farage, who perhaps more than any other politician campaigned for Brexit. His party has led in almost every opinion poll for more than a year.At the same, there’s a growing feeling in the country that Brexit has failed.According to two polls from Ipsos, 52% of people in the U.K. would like to rejoin the EU while 33% are against it. The pollster also found that 48% think Brexit is going worse than expected against just 9% who think it’s going better. Also, Ipsos found that 48% would back another referendum today on the U.K.’s membership of the EU against 27% who oppose one. A reset would be complicatedAgainst this backdrop, the Labour Party has walked a tightrope since being elected in 2024. Having explicitly ruled out reversing Brexit — or even rejoining the EU’s frictionless single market — it hasn’t got a huge amount of political space to maneouver. FILE- Anti Brexit campaigner Steve Bray walks on the beach to pose for a photograph during the Labour Party Conference at the Brighton Centre in Brighton, England, Monday, Sept. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File) FILE- Anti Brexit campaigner Steve Bray walks on the beach to pose for a photograph during the Labour Party Conference at the Brighton Centre in Brighton, England, Monday, Sept. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth, File) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Protestors are reflected in a large puddle as they wave European flags to demonstrate against Brexit in front of the Parliament in London, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein, File) Protestors are reflected in a large puddle as they wave European flags to demonstrate against Brexit in front of the Parliament in London, Dec. 3, 2018. (AP Photo/Frank Augstein, File) Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share Share Facebook Copy Link copied Print Email X LinkedIn Bluesky Flipboard Pinterest Reddit Read More Starmer has sought a “reset” of ties following the distrust built over the years of the Brexit negotiations, largely centered around making trading easier. He is hoping to announce further measures at a summit with the EU next month — provided he’s still the prime minister.His most likely successor, Andy Burnham, tempered his language on the U.K. rejoining the EU while out on the campaign trail over the past month, ahead of his victory in a special election on Thursday that saw him beat back a challenge from Reform in a seat that overwhelmingly backed Brexit.“I am not proposing that the U.K. considers rejoining the EU,” Burnham said. “I respect the decision that was made at the referendum and it is going to undermine everything I have said about strengthening democracy if we don’t respect that vote.”___Associated Press writer Jill Lawless in London contributed to this story

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Yankees' Ryan Jeffers trade plans made crystal clear originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.It's not exactly sneaking up on anyone that the New York Yankees want to trade for Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers."The Yankees are making it no secret they want Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers at the trade deadline," USA Today's Bob Nightengale wrote in a new column on Sunday.It's not necessarily a need the Yanks planned on having at the start of the season. Everything looked pretty solid with Austin Wells, J.C. Escarra and even potentially Ben Rice able to get behind the plate.Yeah, those guys are all left-handed hitters, so that was the one potential flaw. The Yankees couldn't have imagined the struggles at the plate of both Wells and Escarra, though.Not only would it help the Yankees to have a right-handed hitter as a catcher. It would also simply help to have someone who can actually hit a little bit doing those duties.MORE: How Pirates lost on maddening interference call for final out vs. RockiesJeffers was actually having a bit of a career year before getting hurt, but as long as he can prove at some point that he's healthy, he certainly is someone New York should take a chance on.Minnesota is surely open to trading him, given both their struggles and the fact that he's in the final year of his contract.The catcher trade market will be interesting, because there aren't a ton of players available, but there also may not be too many teams that actually want a catcher in a deal before the deadline.The Yankees would certainly be better served in their own interests if they didn't have to get into a massive bidding war for Jeffers. Either way, though, he certainly looks like a player that the Yanks need to get in pinstripes before the trade deadline arrives.More MLB news:Cam Schlittler breaks an all-time Yankees recordA 'gentlemanly' baserunning move confused the umpires, and everyone elsePaul Skenes holds a really weird MLB recordOutfielder retires from baseball to go play college footballDodgers have a very simple reason to trade for Tarik Skubal

SPRINGFIELD, MO - APRIL 09: Chris Newell #9 of the Tulsa Drillers celebrates with teammates at home plate after hitting a two-run home run in the third inning during the game between the Tulsa Drillers and the Springfield Cardinals at Hammons Field on Thursday, April 9, 2026 in Springfield, Missouri. (Photo by Shanna Stafford/Minor League Baseball via Getty Images) Two of three Dodgers affiliates that played on Saturday won their games.Player of the dayTulsa outfielder Chris Newell was designated to hit on Saturday, and that he did. He hit the game-tying home run in the ninth inning, then smashed the game-winning two-run shot in the 11th.Chris Newell crushes his second home run of the night and the Drillers are in front 7-5 🚀 pic.twitter.com/D3NmMC46aF— Tulsa Drillers (@TulsaDrillers) June 21, 2026Triple-A Oklahoma CityCole Irvin pitched six scoreless innings in the Comets’ third shutout win of the season, on Saturday blanking the Sacramento River Cats (Giants). All three shutouts have been home games in Oklahoma City, including April 10 vs. Round Rock and May 21 vs. Reno.Ryan Fitzgerald doubled, singled, and drove in three runs. Noah Miller also had two hits and, shifting over from his usual shortstop to play third base, made this fantastic diving stab and throw at the hot corner in the sixth inning.Noah Miller is superhuman🤯 pic.twitter.com/hYAgKcFmKU— Oklahoma City Comets (@OKC_comets) June 21, 2026Double-A TulsaDown 5-1 in the ninth inning, the Drillers rallied for four runs to force extra innings, then beat the Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Royals) in the 11th. Before Newell’s tying blast in the ninth, Jake Gelof hit a three-run shot, his team-leading 14th of the season.Before Newell’s winning home run in the 11th, Northwest Arkansas had runners at the corners with one out in the 10th. Gelof threw home on a grounder to nail the potential winning run to keep the game going.NWA out at home 😤 pic.twitter.com/tu425kIhUO— Tulsa Drillers (@TulsaDrillers) June 21, 2026Adam Serwinowski struck out six in his 6 1/3 innings, and allowed three runs, one of them earned. Antonio Knowles struck out three and stranded a pair of free runners over the final two inning scoreless to earn the win.High-A Great LakesThe penultimate game of the series between the Loons and the Lake County Captains (Guardians) was rained out.The game will be made up during the last week of the regular season, September 1-6, when Great Lakes travels to Lake County. That means we could see a Great Lakes home game while on the road, the opposite of what happened in the second game of a doubleheader this Wednesday, then Lake County was the home team for a game at Great Lakes.Class-A OntarioAllowing runs in seven of nine innings spoiled the voyage for the Tower Buzzers in a loss to the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes (Angels).Most of the offense for Ontario came out of the 9-1-2 spots. Oswaldo Osorio had three hits batting ninth. Catcher Bryan Gonzalez Garcia and second baseman Mairo Martinus each had two hits, with a double for Gonzalez Garcia and a triple for Martinus. Those three combined to score six of Ontario’s eight runs.TransactionTriple-A: Right-hander Chayce McDermott was called up to the Dodgers.Saturday scoresOklahoma City 6, Sacramento 0Tulsa 7, NW Arkansas 5 (11 innings)Great Lakes vs. Lake County, postponed (rain)Rancho Cucamonga 13, Ontario 8Sunday schedule10:05 a.m. PT: Great Lakes (Sterling Patick) vs. Lake County (Jogly Garcia)12:05 p.m.: Tulsa (Payton Martin) at NW Arkansas (Hunter Patteson)1:05 p.m.: Ontario (TBA) vs. Rancho Cucamonga (Derek Clark)4:05 p.m.: Oklahoma City (Jackson Ferris) vs. Sacramento (Carson Seymour)

Phillies get bad news amid trade rumor on 37-homer Angels outfielder originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Philadelphia Phillies might be one of the more desperate teams in Major League Baseball when it comes to adding help to the outfield this summer by the trade deadline.After losing Adolis Garcia, the Phillies very clearly need to address the outfield, and more specifically, add a right-handed hitting outfielder. There aren't a lot of trade options, so any news on the top trade targets will be very important for the team.That's why the trade rumor from Bob Nightengale of USA Today on one top trade target, a 37-homer outfielder from the Los Angeles Angels, was bad news. It no longer looks like Jo Adell could be on the move this summer.Phillies get bad news amid Jo Adell Angels trade rumor"The Los Angeles Angels also plan to retain their key players at the deadline with owner Arte Moreno not wanting to unload starters Reid Detmers and Jose Soriano, or outfielder Jo Adell," Nightengale writes.For the Phillies, someone like Adell, a right-handed hitting outfielder with some home-run power and decent enough defense, would be an ideal deadline target.The 27-year-old is under club control through 2027, and while he might not hit 37 homers this season, with 10 through 78 games so far in 2026, he's still putting together a solid offensive season.MORE: Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was geniusAdell is hitting .252 with a .691 OPS, and would instantly be an upgrade over the current right-handed hitting outfielders on the Phillies roster.While he might struggle against right-handers, with a .633 OPS this season, his .834 OPS against left-handers is exactly what this Phillies lineup so desperately needs.Adell would be a great trade target, but this update from Nightengale indicates that Adell might not be available for trade.If this rumor sticks through the deadline, it would be some especially bad news for the Phillies, as their right-handed hitting outfield trade targets would be even more limited than they already are.More MLB news:5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for CardinalsEx-MLB GM projects White Sox to sell at trade deadline despite 2026 successTarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agencyCubs’ cost to trade for Tarik Skubal from Tigers revealed by ex-MLB GMYankees’ Ryan McMahon problem has a $25 million release solution

The Cincinnati Bengals knocked out most of their really obvious needs this offseason. In fact, one could argue that the linebacker spot is the biggest remaining need that could pop up as a problem. Despite all of the aggressive win-now moves, the Bengals didn't do anything to upgrade on the Oren Burks-led depth behind Demetrius Knight and Barrett Carter, the two second-year guys they’re all-in with at the spot. But there’s another problem perhaps lurking just below the surface: Offensive line depth. The Bengals might return the same starting five players for the first time in the Zac Taylor era, sure. That’s a strength. But the depth behind those guys is suspect. Cody Ford, for example, is back as the main swing tackle backup to Orlando Brown and Amairus Mims, but he’s back on a pay cut after never seizing a guard job. Rookie Brian Parker is a guard who was a sixth-round pick. Fellow rookie Connor Lew was hyped as a steal, but he was only a steal because he fell while recovering from an ACL tear. He should be the backup center behind Ted Karras, but the medical side of things continues to be a factor. All that is to say that it wouldn’t be a shocker if the Bengals got a little active in free agency or on the waiver wire, at the least, during training camp. It should go without saying, but proper protection in front of Joe Burrow is a must. Granted, line depth is a major problem around the NFL. The Bengals, at least, have the starting five locked down. But more of a win-now bit of depth behind those five would be ideal, too. This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: 1 quiet need could emerge for Bengals during training camp

The Los Angeles Lakers need help at the center position in order to match up with the NBA's best teams, and the rumor mill is starting to heat up with the draft and free agency just days away.According to one report, Luka Doncic may be trying to recruit Jalen Duren, a rising star center for the Detroit Pistons. However, Duren will be a restricted free agent, and the Pistons, who finished first in the Eastern Conference this season, will almost surely match any offer he gets from another team.Two interesting options for the Lakers as far as unrestricted free agents are Mitchell Robinson of the New York Knicks and Robert Williams III of the Portland Trail Blazers. According to Jake Fischer, a reporter who covers the NBA, both Robinson and Williams could be options for Los Angeles, via NBACentral.“The Lakers have been linked to all sorts of veteran big men in the forthcoming free agent market as well. They could emerge as a suitor for the Knicks' Mitchell Robinson and the Trail Blazers' Robert Williams III, although sources say both players are very open to remaining in their incumbent roles with the Knicks and Blazers.”Both men are energetic, defensive-minded centers who could gobble up plenty of quality minutes for the Purple and Gold. Williams averaged 6.7 points, seven rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 17.1 minutes a game this season, while Robinson put up 5.7 points, 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 19.6 minutes a game.However, both men have a long history of being injury-prone. The Lakers will have to think long and hard about committing money and minutes to such a player if there is a good chance he will miss a few dozen games a season and possibly not be available during the playoffs.While both players may be gettable at a reasonable price, one has to think the Knicks, who just won the NBA championship, will want to retain Robinson. Perhaps Williams could be had, although Portland was somewhat competitive this season and may want to keep enough of its core for next season.This article originally appeared on LeBron Wire: Lakers linked to two defensive-minded unrestricted free agent centers

As the anniversary of the Battle of the Little Bighorn approaches, relatives of the two men still grapple with the legacy of a contentious moment in U.S. history.

India's preparations for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland have suffered a setback, with leg-spinner Varun Chakravarthy ruled out due to a lingering foot injury.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Chakravarthy is currently in the final stages of rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) after sustaining a left foot injury during the closing stages of IPL 2026. The mystery spinner will continue his recovery programme and will not travel with the squad for the two-match series. His overall international stats stand at 73 wickets across 45 T20Is and 10 wickets across 4 ODIs. Varun Chakravarthy's last international match was the T20 World Cup Final match against New Zealand on March 8, 2026, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.The Ireland tour, scheduled from June 26 to June 28, will be played entirely at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Belfast. Both matches are set to begin at 5:30 PM IST under lights.Shreyas Iyer's era to beginThe series will mark the beginning of a new era in India's T20 setup, with Shreyas Iyer taking over the captaincy following a tactical shift by the selectors. Tilak Varma has been named vice-captain as the management looks to build towards future ICC events. One of the biggest talking points from the squad announcement is the inclusion of 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. India have also made a change in the pace department, with Mohammed Siraj rested as part of workload management. Prasidh Krishna has been drafted in as his replacement. Head-to-headHistorically, India have dominated this rivalry, winning all eight T20Is played against Ireland. The Men in Blue's most recent meeting with Ireland came during the 2024 T20 World Cup, where India registered a comfortable eight-wicket victory. India updated squad for Ireland T20I seriesShreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma (vice-captain), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Prasidh Krishna.

Angels' Mike Trout teases potential exciting Home Run Derby decision originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Los Angeles Angels might be in last place in the American League West and one of the worst teams in Major League Baseball, but they still have some players who deserve All-Star consideration.Jose Soriano has a good case for the honor, and Reid Detmers is even making a late push. But if there is one player who deserves it more than any other, it's Mike Trout. And with the game in Philadelphia being close to his hometown, it is an even more exciting opportunity for Trout.But, there could be a lot more excitement with his All-Star bid than in years past. According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, Mike Trout teased he could join the Home Run Derby in Philadelphia this summer.Mike Trout might join MLB Home Run Derby in Philadelphia"Mike Trout has never participated in the Home Run derby, but with the All-Star Game being in Philadelphia, a 40-minute drive from his hometown of Millville, N.J., he said he'd consider it this year if All-Star officials invite him," Nightengale writes.Trout earning an All-Star nod looks to be a foregone conclusion at this point, but the question remains of whether he will be joining the Home Run Derby, or even if he's healthy enough to participate during the midsummer classic.He is currently on the injured list with a hamstring strain, though there's a chance it's not going to be a long one, and he's back before the All-Star break.If he does return before then and is participating, he is certainly one of the sluggers who deserves, at the very least, consideration for the chance to participate in the derby.MORE: Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was geniusTrout has 17 homers this season, which is one of the top marks in all of the Majors. While it's not as much as Kyle Schwarber and his ridiculous league-leading 28 homers, Trout is someone who could earn a spot in the derby, and no one would bat an eye.But seeing Trout in the derby this season would be very exciting. He's never done it before in his career, and this might be his last chance at doing so.Trout hasn't made the All-Star team, and he might not even be healthy enough for the All-Star Game and Home Run Derby.But, if he is, and All-Star officials do invite him to participate in the derby, it does appear a lot more likely than in previous seasons that Trout will participate in the Home Run Derby this season.More MLB news:5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for CardinalsEx-MLB GM projects White Sox to sell at trade deadline despite 2026 successTarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agencyCubs’ cost to trade for Tarik Skubal from Tigers revealed by ex-MLB GMYankees’ Ryan McMahon problem has a $25 million release solution

ORCHARD PARK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 04: Keon Coleman #0 of the Buffalo Bills runs after the catch in the third quarter at Highmark Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) | Getty Images As a fan of the Buffalo Bills, I generally tend to be pretty optimistic when it comes to the team. Even through the years of the drought, I would regularly talk about “hope” and how one or two plays could swing things in our favor each season. While those years were tough for many of us, I always preferred to keep that sense of optimism.Now as we get ready for training camp, I find myself feeling that same sense of optimism around Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman. I am sure some of you are reading that sentence and immediately rolling your eyes — or maybe you did not even make it past the headline before jumping right to the comments section. That is completely understandable based on the disappointing moments from these past two seasons.With Joe Brady being named the new head coach of the club, I feel it is a bit of a clean slate for Coleman. Obviously Brady has served as the offensive coordinator over the past two seasons, so there is plenty of history there. But Brady has gone out of his way stating that he is the “best thing” that could ever happen to Coleman. Those are bold words for a first time head coach. He’s making a commitment to the 23-year-old receiver.I also think that for the first time in Coleman’s pro career, the expectations will be reasonable for him on the field. In 2024 the team had to fill the void left after Stefon Diggs was traded (even with the Curtis Samuel signing). The team made modest additions at receiver in 2025, with the addition of Joshua Palmer, but there was no major move from Brandon Beane. Many of us felt that Coleman would need to step up — and we all know how these past two years went.Now as we head into the 2026 season, the Bills have added DJ Moore and Skyler Bell to the roster. Khalil Shakir is still his reliable self, and we can all hope for a healthy Dalton Kincaid. Add a healthy Palmer to the mix, and the expectations for Coleman will be in check. Defensive coordinators will have other issues to worry about, which could give Coleman a chance to thrive.I get it, this is all very hypothetical and Coleman will need to step up off the field as well. But at the time of year when we sit and wait for training camp to get started, I am going to choose to be optimistic about Keon Coleman. For the sake of all Bills fans, lets hope that I am right.

Alex Freeman has become one of the breakout stars for the U.S. in the World Cup, with an assist in the first game against Paraguay and a goal against Australia.His connection to former NFL standout receiver Antonio Freeman would have been more obvious, if Alex had been named "Antonio Jr."As explained by Rick Maese of the Washington Post, Antonio didn’t want to put extra pressure on his son.The pressure has found Alex anyway, thanks to his achievements on the pitch. And he's still only 21.“It was kind of good to be able to make my own path, make my own future and kind of my own person,” Alex Freeman said.Alex sees the positives in having a father who competed at the highest level of sport.“I think, for me, it just shows how great the family tree is," Alex Freeman said. “He can be great, but I can be great in my own way as well. And I think it just shows how amazing it is to have a dad who’s successful and that can mentor me to be able to be ready for moments like these."Friday's moment came in the same city where Antonio caught a pair of touchdown passes in a 31-10 win over the Seahawks, during Green Bay's championship season of 1996. (Here's one of them.)“Before it was, ‘Hey, it’s Antonio Freeman, congratulations on a great career,’” Antonio Freeman told Maese. “And now it’s, ‘Hey, congratulations to your son.’ So that’s a good transition. And it’s healthy, and man, I love it."Would it still be happening if Alex were Antonio Jr.? It's irrelevant at this point, because Alex Freeman is doing a great job of making his own name one to remember.

📋 Spain name line-up with CHANGES against Saudi ArabiaSpain's national team is LINEUPED UP to face Saudi Arabia and seek its first victory in this FIFA World Cup.The Group H second-round clash is scheduled for 1 p.m. this Sunday (21), at Atlanta Stadium.Coach Luis De La Fuente makes THREE changes from the goalless draw with Cape Verde in the opener.Pedro Porro, Alex Baena and Lamine Yamal are the NEW FACES in the starting 11; Llorente, Fabián Ruiz and Gavi drop out of the team.Unai Simón; Pedro Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte and Cucurella; Alex Baena, Rodri and Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Oyarzabal.CLICK HERE to find out where to watch Spain vs Saudi Arabia and today’s other matches.Did you like De La Fuente's choices? Leave your opinion and your prediction for Spain vs Saudi Arabia!This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Fofana played 38 times in a largely injury-free campaign last season [Getty Images]In Wesley Fofana's final act of the season, he was sent off as Chelsea suffered the consequences of failing to qualify for Europe.The 25-year-old centre-back, signed for £70m in 2022, pulled down Wilson Isidor as Sunderland held on for a vital win on the final day of the Premier League season to secure European qualification at Chelsea's expense.It was another low point for Fofana, who received a second yellow card moments after Cole Palmer had pulled a goal back in the 2-1 defeat at the Stadium of Light. The incident added to the late-season criticism he has received from supporters.It was his second red card and a club-record eighth in the Premier League (11 overall) in a torrid campaign where the club finished 10th in the table. Yet, internally, there is no indication that Chelsea are actively looking to sell Fofana.The France international, who was not selected for his country's World Cup squad, is effectively under scrutiny as Chelsea look to reduce the size of their squad before next season under Xabi Alonso.The picture at centre-back is already crowded, and Chelsea are looking to add at least one high-quality option in that area and perhaps another depending on sales. The idea is to deliver a Premier League-ready option to partner highly regarded defender Levi Colwill, a role once reserved for Fofana given his price tag, but which is now no longer guaranteed.The situation may be recoverable, but it remains uncertain for Fofana, who must impress Alonso upon arrival when pre-season begins at the end of the month.The beauty of sharing the first World Cup with your childChelsea know where they need to strengthenFofana was highly rated by former manager Enzo Maresca, who, according to sources, often told him privately he was "better than the others". His pace was integral to the Italian's preferred high line and style of play.Under Maresca, Fofana built an effective partnership with Colwill, but the England international suffered a long-term knee injury and missed almost the entirety of last season.Throughout the campaign, Chelsea's defensive record lagged behind eventual champions Arsenal, even when they were being touted as title contenders in November.There was a rapid decline in all areas of the squad following Maresca's departure after a falling-out with the hierarchy, while his successor Liam Rosenior lasted just four months.Fofana was among a large group of players, including members of the Spanish-speaking contingent, who were not enamoured with Rosenior and his form declined further as a result.During this period, Chelsea also recalled Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at Strasbourg to reunite with Rosenior, but he struggled for minutes, as did Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo and Josh Acheampong.This was despite Colwill being sidelined, and now, without European football and with another centre-back expected to arrive, the position appears overcrowded.Acheampong and Colwill are regarded as "untouchable", leaving Tosin, Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah and Fofana as potential candidates for sale, while Sarr remains highly regarded.Adding into the mix, Tosin and Chalobah have just two years left on their contracts, which usually sparks talks over a new deal or a sale at Chelsea, with Fofana having three years left and Badiashile four. In Fofana's case, he arrived with the highest price tag, and due to the way football accounting works, the club would need to receive at least £30m to avoid recording a loss on their accounts.Fofana is not actively seeking a move but his previous injury record may deter potential suitors. That said, he was largely injury-free last season, aside from a spell out with concussion following a clash with goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen.Ultimately, Alonso will have a huge say, alongside the wider hierarchy at Stamford Bridge, as the squad is trimmed in a season without European football.'Star in the making' - what is Man City's plan for forgotten man Reis?Who will Chelsea sign at centre-back?Chelsea acknowledge they need to add physicality, quality and leadership in their incoming signings, particularly at centre-back.Those within the club have been tight-lipped on specific targets, but checks were made on Ibrahima Konate before he joined Real Madrid from Liverpool, while Nottingham Forest's Murillo is admired.Jan Paul van Hecke was linked before his move to Tottenham from Brighton, while Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix is also reportedly on the radar.Chelsea are also looking to sign a versatile attacker. Multiple sources suggest a deal has been agreed for Argentina international Valentin Barco from Strasbourg, who can play in central midfield and at left-back, although the club have not confirmed the transfer.Marc Cucurella has joined Real Madrid for £51.8m, while there is uncertainty surrounding several other players, including Enzo Fernandez, Alejandro Garnacho and most of the club's strikers, with the exception of another 'untouchable' in Brazil forward Joao Pedro.The World Cup records that look set to be brokenLatest Chelsea news, analysis and fan viewsAsk about Chelsea - what do you want to know?

Dana White thinks Alex Pereira's frustration in the aftermath of UFC Freedom 250 is notable because it's out of character from what he knows about the former two-division champion.Pereira (13-4 MMA, 10-3 UFC) has taken advantage of the many opportunities that have come his way since joining the UFC in November 2021, and it's let to unprecedented success in a short window. His bid to become the promotion's first three-division titleholder was stifled at the White House this month when he suffered a second-round TKO defeat to Ciryl Gane (14-2 MMA, 11-2 UFC) in their interim championship bout.In the aftermath of the contest, Pereira has expressed outrage toward the closing sequence of the fight, where Gane seemingly landed a number of illegal blows to the back of the head as he attempted to finish the fight. He's called for referee Herb Dean's retirement, and also revealed interest in pursuing an appeal of the outcome.UFC CEO White has seen Pereira's complaints, and he takes them seriously becomes it's not in tone with how he's come to know the Brazilian."If you watch the fight it's undeniable that he got hit with some strikes to the back of the head, but in the middle of the action, when it's going on and guys are rolling around trying to get out of it," White told MMA Junkie and other reporters at Saturday's UFC Fight Night 279 post-fight news conference. "Sometimes the fouls happen. Maybe Dean should've said, 'Watch the back of the head' or warned him or something like that. But I don't know. I can tell you this: Alex Pereira is not a whiner. And Alex Pereira doesn't complain about things or make excuses after fights. So I have to believe that he believed that. That he truly believed that was true."It remains to be seen if Pereira's camp will actually file an appeal to have the result overturned. White said that's not in his wheelhouse to comment on the validity of an appeal, but reiterated that if Pereira is pushing back this hard over what happened, then it should not be easily dismissed."I don't have any thoughts on (the appeal)," White said. "That's something they'll have to work out with the commission. Not my area. Like I said: Alex Pereira is not a whiner. The guy doesn't ever complain about anything. So you have to believe if the's that serious about it, that he's upset about and believes it to be true."This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Dana White reacts to Alex Pereira's outrage at Ciryl Gane, Herb Dean

The Los Angeles Rams, after spending hundreds of millions during the offseason, have chosen to hold off on signing players from their 2023 draft class to extensions. The class that includes Puka Nacua, Kobie Turner, Byron Young, Steve Avila, Warren McClendon Jr., and others, who are all set to be free agents after this season.The Rams' strategy to hold off on signing extensions has come at a price as the league's highest-paid positions continue to set record amounts. The Rams have already given Trent McDuffie the NFL's top deal for cornerbacks, while Matthew Stafford signed an extension that will put him as one of the top-paid quarterbacks for the 2027 season if he plays.In the meantime, Seattle's Jaxon Smith-Njigba signed a record-setting four-year, $168 million deal for receivers, with Nacua expected to exceed that mark on his new deal. More recently, Tennessee's Jeffery Simmons signed a new deal, pushing his current contract from $31.75 million per year to $35.2 million, making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in the league. Kobie Turner's price tag has naturally increased as a result, while the market for edge defenders has prompted a potential Byron Young extension to exceed $100 million.Turning 29 in July, with two years left on his contract, Jeffery Simmons now becomes the first defensive tackle to land $100 million guaranteed.Here are the highest-paid DTs in the NFL on a per-year basis:🏈Jeffery Simmons: $35.3M🏈Chris Jones: $31.75M🏈Dexter Lawrence:… pic.twitter.com/FxyyoO5S1J— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 19, 2026For the majority of the Sean McVay era, the Rams have been able to maintain a competitive roster, but with rates rising across the league, the Rams may be forced to make deals at a quicker pace than they are currently operating on.This article originally appeared on Rams Wire: Rams' price tag for 2023 draft class keeps going up

Credit: The CWThe NASCAR Cup Series is in San Diego this weekend for the Anduril 250 on Sunday at Naval Base Coronado. On Saturday, a fan made a poor decision during the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series United Rentals Driven to Serve 250 at the active military base, and The CW Sports broadcast gave viewers a clear look at it.First, a huge crash forced a red flag.BIG crash after the restart with @sam_mayer_ hitting the wall hard. pic.twitter.com/JL9k9XpJmM— The CW Sports (@TheCW_Sports) June 20, 2026During the pause in action, a fan wearing flip-flops scaled two fences to reach the track. And once on the track, the fan approached the car of driver Sheldon Creed before concluding the interaction with a fist bump. The fan then hopped the fences again to exit the track.The CW broadcasters were in disbelief.On his radio, Creed said, “I think he’s wasted. I didn’t even understand what he was saying. Please let the officials know that we do have no part in this guy.”“I think he’s wasted.”A fan just hopped the fence to chat with @sheldoncreedpic.twitter.com/QPZyCbP6TI— The CW Sports (@TheCW_Sports) June 21, 2026The CW also showed the fan getting arrested by federal agents.Attention race fans: Don’t do this. This guy really wanted to chat with Sheldon Creed. pic.twitter.com/0IwYDittA3— SPEED on FOX (@SPEEDonFOX) June 21, 2026Apparently it’s illegal to be a Sheldon Creed fan pic.twitter.com/p1hg3z7HuR— Daniel Céspedes (@_DanielCespedes) June 21, 2026If I’m not mistaken, since this occurred on a military base, the individual is facing federal charges. https://t.co/uNtFeinmH1— Jordan Bianchi (@Jordan_Bianchi) June 21, 2026While that fan might be in a whole lot of trouble, Creed told the media that he thought the incident was “hilarious.”I have two questions for Sheldon Creed and he knows what one of them is pic.twitter.com/kLsrIZlSOA— Matt Weaver (@MattWeaverRA) June 21, 2026“My spotter was like, ‘Ask him the damage,'” Creed explained. “And I’m like, ‘How’s all my damage look?’ Like, yelling at him. And he looks at it, and he’s like, ‘Bad!’ I’m like, ‘Alright.’ And then he said something else, and I didn’t make out what he said. Probably boozing a little bit. And then he looks around and goes, ‘Are you guys still racing?’ I was like, ‘What?’ Like, obviously. And then my spotter, Andy, again was like, ‘You better tell him to get out of there. They’re starting to head that way.’ So, then I just started pointing. Did you see how fast he shot up the fence?“To be honest, I thought it was hilarious. I know this stuff is taken pretty [seriously]. But from my seat, it was hilarious.”The post The CW shows fan climb onto NASCAR track at naval base, get arrested by NCIS appeared first on Awful Announcing.

Ruben Dias hands Portugal significant fitness update ahead of Uzbekistan clashManchester City’s Ruben Dias has returned to full on-field training ahead of Portugal’s second World Cup fixture.The 29-year-old has successfully shaken off a load-management problem that ruled him out of the opening Group K clash with DR Congo.The fitness boost will no doubt give Portugal plenty of hope when it comes to their aims of securing their first three points in North America.Manchester City star Ruben Dias could make his first appearance at the FIFA World Cup this week by returning to Portugal’s line-up against Uzbekistan.Following his omission from Portugal’s opening World Cup fixture owing to a minor fitness concern, Roberto Martínez’s backline looked vulnerable without their defensive leader during a frustrating 1-1 draw against a physical DR Congo side in Houston.For a player who has arguably anchored City’s biggest successes since arriving from Benfica, ensuring his physical presence remains intact is paramount for his country’s aspirations deeper into the North American tournament.Dias’ impending re-entry into competitive action provides structural reassurance to incoming City manager Enzo Maresca, who is believed to be starting work ahead of pre-season at the Etihad Stadium.With transfer speculation swirling around the defender regarding Real Madrid’s summer recruitment drive, seeing the 29-year-old focus on hitting peak physical fitness highlights his sole focus being centred on national team commitments as opposed to his club future.Ruben Dias returns to Portugal trainingNow, according to Record, Ruben Dias has been reintegrated into Portugal’s main group as they continue their training ground preparations for Tuesday’s meeting with Uzbekistan at the FIFA World Cup.A separate report from fellow Portuguese outlet A Bola states that Dias returned to on-field work with teammates after missing the opening fixture against DR Congo, and the Manchester City man is already expected to be available for selection.Finally, Jornal de Notícias – as relayed by Sport Witness – report that Ruben Dias took part in training with players who were not involved against DR Congo, whilst simultaneously working to ‘strengthen his physical condition’.Dias brings stability to Man City and PortugalBy carefully partitioning workload and embedding him alongside non-playing figures, Martínez has conditioned his star centre-back to handle the humidity and high-intensity demands of the transatlantic tournament.His expected availability for Tuesday’s match somewhat transforms Portugal’s defensive comfort, possibly allowing the Seleção to implement a much calmer showing against a disciplined, counter-attacking Uzbekistan side in the knowledge that the City star is a cog in their rearguard unit.Elsewhere, Hugo Viana is moving behind the scenes to bolster the Manchester City squad this summer, with an expected record-breaking transfer for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson entering its final stages.

Israel directs its military to limit its actions in Lebanon, though tensions persist.

Pirates Frustrated With Weird Ending To Rockies Game originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Pittsburgh Pirates suffered a weird 2-1 loss to the Colorado Rockies on Saturday.In the top of the ninth inning with the bases loaded and two outs, Rockies third baseman Kyle Karros went after a slow ground ball by Jake Mangum and felt Billy Cook’s foot graze his glove. Karros never threw the ball and instead turned his arm in protest.After the umpires met, they ruled Cook committed interference and was ruled out, which ended the game.“The runner failed to avoid the defender in the act of fielding the baseball; therefore, he’s called out. It’s very simple,” crew chief Todd Tichenor said to a pool reporter after the game on Saturday.Cook, meanwhile, doesn’t think he touched Karros’ glove until he saw the video but was frustrated with the ending."No, I didn’t feel contact, and then all of a sudden they called me out and I was like, ‘Dude, I didn’t feel it,’” Cook said. “I watched the replay and it nicks just enough of his glove, but the cleat and everything, I didn’t feel it in the toe area. I guess the replay shows that I did. The video doesn’t lie. Just unfortunate how that played out.”Pirates manager Don Kelly, meanwhile, also wasn’t pleased that the umpire who had a clear view of the play didn’t call it. Instead, after a protest, they all had to get together.“They said that they got together and that Billy kicked his glove, which he did, looking at the replay,” Kelly said. “I just didn't know [why,] if you saw that, why it wasn't called immediately. You had to get together to call it.”With the loss on Saturday, the Pirates fell to 38-39 and will look to avoid being swept on Sunday at 3:10 p.m. ET.More MLB: Pirates Manager Reflects On 'Really Tough' Series Opener Loss To Rockies

Ducks' Mason McTavish trade plans made clear, and it could matter to Maple Leafs, Red Wings originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Mason McTavish seems ready for a fresh start.He's still young and talented, but his welcome with the Anaheim Ducks feels to have been worn out. A trade could be in everyone's best interests.In a new trade rankings board this week, The Athletic's Chris Johnston puts McTavish as his sixth-ranked player who could potentially be available.And in his blurb, Johnston makes it quite clear that the Ducks and McTavish are likely to split up:"This was not the kind of season McTavish or the Ducks had in mind when they agreed to a $42 million, six-year extension in September. Not only did the 23-year-old find himself an occasional healthy scratch, including during the playoffs, but he saw a decline in his average ice time and offensive production. The puck-handling skills, vision and shot that made McTavish a top draft pick remain, but so do some of the questions about his skating ability. A fresh start is likely coming."MORE: It's time to ask a serious Matthew Knies questionMaybe most intriguingly is that within The Athletic article itself, they link to a story they wrote earlier this month about McTavish being a potential trade chip in a bigger blockbuster.The names thrown out in that earlier story: Toronto's Auston Matthews, and Detroit's Dylan Larkin.Now at this point, Matthews hasn't requested a trade, and Larkin's reported trade list doesn't include Anaheim.Things can change, though, particularly if a talented young player like McTavish gets brought to the table.This isn't to say deals like that will materialize, but simply that they're worth watching as McTavish trade rumors start to bubble into the summer.More NHL news:Jack Eichel turned into Ben SimmonsFrederik Andersen heading toward an unceremonious exitCale Makar is about to become a lot more expensiveSabres have reached the Alex Tuch pivot pointSidney Crosby trade plans did a 180 for the Penguins

Paige Bueckers changed everything as the Chicago Sky blew a late lead originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Dallas Wings looked finished entering the fourth quarter Saturday night. Then they produced the kind of closing stretch that can change a season.Dallas erased a 14-point deficit in the final period and stunned the Chicago Sky 93-92 at College Park Center, completing one of the wildest finishes of the WNBA season. The Wings improved to 10-6 and already matched their win total from all of last season.DALLAS WINGS PULL OFF THE MIRACULOUS COMEBACK AND TAKE DOWN THE SKY 93-92 🤯 pic.twitter.com/BTRBhOBTRl— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) June 21, 2026Chicago controlled most of the night and led 71-57 heading into the fourth behind Kamilla Cardoso, who finished with 26 points and nine rebounds. The Sky still held a five-point lead in the final 36 seconds before Dallas flipped the game in an instant.Paige Bueckers started the comeback’s final push. She drilled a three while drawing a foul from Natasha Cloud, then made the free throw to cut the deficit to 92-91. On Chicago’s next possession, Li Yueru forced an over-and-back turnover from Cardoso, giving Dallas one more chance to steal the game.Li delivered the decisive blow. The Wings' backup center drew a foul with 12.5 seconds left and calmly hit both free throws, giving Dallas its first lead of the night at 93-92. Chicago still had two chances to answer, but Jacy Sheldon and Azurá Stevens both missed before the horn.Jessica Shepard led Dallas with 21 points and eight rebounds, scoring 17 after halftime. Bueckers added 19 points, eight assists and seven rebounds in another big late-game moment. Dallas scored 36 points in the fourth quarter alone, turning what looked like a routine Sky win into a statement comeback.More WNBA news:Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese's latest on-court exchange quickly grabs attention during Fever-Dream matchupAngel Reese reaches historic rebound milestone as Dream star rewrites WNBA record bookCheryl Reeve's reaction to Olivia Miles' first rough WNBA game says everything about the Lynx rookieBefore a huge game in Atlanta, the Indiana Fever had one message for Stephanie WhiteToronto Tempo receive concerning Brittney Sykes, Kiki Rice injury news after Fever loss

Chicago Sky’s Sydney Taylor didn’t hold back after late calls helped sink team vs Wings originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Chicago Sky rookie Sydney Taylor did not hide her frustration after Saturday’s 93-92 loss to the Dallas Wings, and the target of that frustration was clear.Taylor said after the game that Chicago got some tough whistles late in a one-point loss that slipped away in the final seconds. “You never want to blame the officials, but there were some bad calls there at the end of the game,” Taylor said after the Sky let a late lead disappear against Dallas.Chicago Sky’s Sydney Taylor calls out the officiating in the team’s matchup against the Wings.“You never want to blame the officials, but there were some bad calls there at the end of the game.”@Winsidrpic.twitter.com/5SrJihIwG3— Madisyn Cunningham (@MadisynCunn) June 21, 2026The ending gave her plenty to be upset about. Chicago led by 17 points in the fourth quarter before Dallas stormed back. The game was ultimately decided in the final seconds with a four-point play from Paige Bueckers and two late free throws from Li Yueru. It was another brutal finish for a Sky team that has spent much of the season living on the edge of close games. Taylor’s comments landed because she was right in the middle of it. The undrafted rookie scored 18 points in 25 minutes, shot 6-of-13 from the field and again gave Chicago needed offense in a game that turned chaotic late. She eventually fouled out, which only added to the frustration around a closing stretch that had both the Sky bench and fans questioning several whistles.That reaction also fits the bigger picture of Taylor’s month. She has gone from training camp long shot to one of Chicago’s most important scorers in a hurry. Taylor recently scored 30 points against Indiana and followed it up with 24 points against New York. Her performance has helped her secure a significant role on a roster that desperately needed perimeter scoring. The Sky have leaned on her shot creation with Rickea Jackson sidelined, and she has responded by playing without much fear.So while the quote was about one game, it also reflected where Chicago is right now. The Sky are losing tight games, Taylor is becoming a central piece of the offense, and every late whistle feels bigger when the margin is one point. Saturday’s finish will be remembered for Dallas’ comeback, but Taylor made sure Chicago’s side of the frustration was heard too.More WNBA news:Angel Reese's flagrant foul vs. Fever could come with immediate consequenceCaitlin Clark and Angel Reese's latest on-court exchange quickly grabs attention during Fever-Dream matchupAngel Reese reaches historic rebound milestone as Dream star rewrites WNBA record bookCheryl Reeve's reaction to Olivia Miles' first rough WNBA game says everything about the Lynx rookieBefore a huge game in Atlanta, the Indiana Fever had one message for Stephanie White

Michael Irvin’s Cowboys Super Bowl bet says quiet part out loud originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.Michael Irvin is not pretending to be cautious about the Dallas Cowboys.With the NBA season over and the New York Knicks ending a 53-year title drought, Irvin used the moment to turn the spotlight back to Dallas. The Hall of Fame receiver posted on X that if the Knicks could finally get over the line, maybe the Cowboys could do the same with their own 30-year championship drought. He backed it up with a $100 bet on Dallas to win the Super Bowl, a ticket that would return $12,350 if it hits.Now that the @NBA season is over and the @nyknicks have gotten rid of the 53 year CHAMPIONSHIP drought !!! We must turn our attention towards @nfl Football and see if the @dallascowboys can now erase a 30 year CHAMPIONSHIP drought and get on top of the leaderboard just like “THE… pic.twitter.com/kgU87LJNfZ— Michael Irvin (@michaelirvin88) June 20, 2026That is the emotional side of the Cowboys' story. The harder part is deciding whether this roster actually gives Irvin a reason to believe.Dallas is trying to sell a reset after a 7-9-1 season that got away from them on defense. Dak Prescott still gives the offense a chance, and the passing game remains dangerous with CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. But none of that mattered enough last season because Dallas could not stop anybody. That is why the biggest offseason changes came on the other side of the ball.The Cowboys handed the defense to first-time coordinator Christian Parker and then spent the spring loading him with new pieces. Caleb Downs arrived as the headline addition in the secondary. Jaishawn Barham and Rashan Gary were added to a front seven that badly needed speed, range and pass-rush help. Dallas clearly believes the fastest way back to January relevance is fixing the unit that dragged everything down in 2025.That still leaves a fair question. Better is one thing. Good enough to end a three-decade title drought is something else entirely.Irvin’s wager captures where Dallas sits entering the season. The Cowboys have just enough talent to talk themselves into a run, just enough changes to convince fans this year could feel different, and still enough uncertainty to make any Super Bowl bet look more emotional than safe.More NFL news: Jerry Jones faces unwelcome advice as 6× Pro Bowler urges George Pickens to take different routeCowboys ended minicamp early, but several questions remain unansweredDallas Goedert explains decision to remain with Philadelphia Eagles in free agencyJerry Jones will absolutely love the offense vs. defense rivalry brewing in Cowboys practiceTwo Philadelphia Eagles stars among NFL's top merchandise sellers

Countdown to kickoff is back! USC will kick off its 2026 football season on August 29 when the Trojans host San Jose State at the Coliseum. In this series, we will be counting down the days until the season opener by highlighting a notable Trojan who wore each number.The options for No. 69 are rather limited, but today, we take a look at former USC offensive lineman Cyrus Hobbi.Position: Offensive lineYears played at USC: 2011-2015Career highlights: After redshirting in 2011, Hobbi served as a reserve offensive lineman for the Trojans for the next four years. He saw playing time at both offensive guard and center, even making occasional spot starts when called upon. He wore the No. 69 for his first three years on campus, before switching to No. 47 following the 2013 season.After USC: Hobbi did not get the opportunity to play professional football. Instead, however, he has pursued another passion of his: acting. A theater major during his time at USC, Hobbi has earned several acting roles over the past five years, perhaps his most notable of which being Yuri on the popular ABC television show General Hospital.This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC football countdown to kickoff recalls Trojans OL Cyrus Hobbi

The 2026 Formula 1 world championship battle is shifting gears as the paddock moves to the Red Bull Ring, and Scuderia Ferrari is pulling out all the stops to halt the momentum of the front-runners. While Mercedes engineers frantically scramble to fix the sudden electrical blackouts plaguing the W17, Maranello is launching a highly calculated, two-pronged technical assault in Spielberg.According to an update from La Gazzetta Ferrari, highlighting an underlying report from AutoRacer, Ferrari is arriving in Austria with significant upgrades designed to directly wipe out their performance deficit to Mercedes and Red Bull.Ferrari aiming for Aerodynamic Dominance in the Final SectorThe Red Bull Ring is a track of two halves, demanding extreme straight-line speed in the first two sectors before throwing drivers into a relentless series of high-speed corners at the end of the lap. It is in this final sequence that Maranello expects to unleash the true potential of the SF-26.The team is projected to be exceptionally strong in Austria’s fast final sector. The circuit’s sweeping right-handers will perfectly cater to the SF-26’s incredibly stable aerodynamic platform and high-downforce characteristics. While George Russell and Kimi Antonelli might hold the edge on pure top speed down the straights, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will have a massive stability advantage when loading up the tires through the final turns, allowing them to carry immense apex speed.Unleashing the First ADUO Engine EvolutionAerodynamics aren’t the only weapon Ferrari is bringing to the fight. The Austrian Grand Prix will also mark the official track debut of Ferrari’s very first ADUO-approved power unit upgrade.Source: Scuderia Ferrari F1 teamUnder the complex 2026 engine rules, Ferrari masterfully managed their internal combustion engine (ICE) metrics earlier in the season, successfully qualifying for development allowances under the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities framework. Because of this strategic positioning:Red Bull remains completely frozen: Laurent Mekies’ squad is legally barred from introducing performance upgrades because their power unit was officially designated as the grid benchmark.Ferrari can aggressively develop: The incoming power unit evolution gives Maranello a direct mechanical lifeline that its closest competitors cannot replicate.Even though paddock insiders expect the pure horsepower gain from this initial step to be relatively minor, La Gazzetta Ferrari notes that even a small performance jump could be completely decisive in closing the gap to the top step of the podium. On a short, high-altitude layout where lap times are separated by mere thousandths of a second, any extra electrical deployment or top-end efficiency is a massive advantage.Pushing Mercedes to the EdgeWith Lewis Hamilton currently trailing championship leader Kimi Antonelli in the standings, this upgrade package represents Ferrari’s best opportunity yet to completely break open the title race.If the SF-26 can combine its lethal high-speed cornering stability with an upgraded, reliable power unit, Ferrari won’t just be fighting for a podium in Austria—they will be actively forcing Mercedes into making a critical mistake.

The 2026 MLB Draft is looming and LSU baseball could see yet another one of its players selected in the first round. Derek Curiel, after two seasons in Baton Rouge, is projected to be an early pick. ESPN's Kiley McDaniel predicted the Arizona Diamondbacks would select Curiel at No. 15 overall. He is projected to be the fourth outfielder off the board and fifth-highest draft pick out of the SEC."The D-backs tend to lean to position players, specifically lefty-hitting hit-first types at up-the-middle positions, so I'll lean into that in this glut of similarly valued players," McDaniel said. "Curiel can hit and play multiple outfield positions and has enough power but doesn't pull/lift enough; he has a high floor and medium upside."Curiel didn't commit to leaving LSU for the MLB but if he gets selected in the top 20, he will likely be off to play professional baseball. He raked in his two seasons with the Tigers and played multiple outfield positions. As a freshman, Curiel batted leadoff and played left field while leading LSU to its second national championship in three years. He earned multiple freshman player of the year and All-American honors then took another step forward in 2026. Over his two years donning the purple and gold, Curiel slashed .349 with a .975 OPS and .522 slugging percentage. He totaled 171 hits, 131 runs scored and 101 RBI. This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU baseball's Derek Curiel projected among top draft picks

Tottenham rebuild eyes Liverpool winger as next targetTottenham Hotspur are interested in a deal to sign Cody Gakpo from Liverpool as the North Londoners accelerate their rebuild under Roberto De Zerbi.De Zerbi has identified Gakpo as a top target to reinforce his frontline, with Spurs readying an approach for the Netherlands international.Gakpo has impressed at the World Cup this summer, scoring twice and providing an assist in the Netherlands’ 5-1 win over Sweden on Sunday.However, his future at Liverpool is in doubt following the club’s recruitment drive this summer. Liverpool have signed Victor Munoz from Osasuna for a €40m fee, with the 22-year-old favouring a role from the left.The Reds also remain in pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande and are expected to return with an improved bid, after an initial €100m offer was rejected. With Rio Ngumoha’s development also a priority, Gakpo’s sale could be sanctioned for a suitable fee.According to Italian journalist Nicolo Schira, Spurs boss De Zerbi is ready to offer Gakpo a prominent place in his plans, with a five-year contract on offer.It continues an active summer for Spurs, who have already finalised the signings Jan Paul va Hecke, Marcos Senesi, and former Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson. Spurs have also had an opening offer of around £80m rejected by Newcastle for Sandro Tonali.Read – World Cup Day 10: Super sub Undav, Curacao make historySee more – How FIFA’s new World Cup format manufactures dead rubbersFollow the Football Faithful on Social Media:Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

King and Queen join Curaçao dressing-room party after draw; watch 🎥The Curaçao squad’s celebration after the draw against Ecuador in the World Cup this Saturday (20) included a visit from the Dutch royal family.King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima went to the team’s locker room to celebrate the result with the players.They greeted the players and joined the group in the dance that fueled the celebration. See below:Curaçao is an autonomous territory, but it is still part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.Among the 26 called-up players, only one was born in the country located in Central America.The others are from the Netherlands, in Europe, but have Curaçaoan ancestry.With the result achieved this Saturday, Curaçao earned its first point in World Cup history.In their tournament debut, the team was crushed 7-1 by Germany. Their next challenge is against Ivory Coast next Thursday (25).This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were made unavailable for England's defeat by New Zealand in the second Test [Getty Images]Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson breached "contractual obligations" but were blameless for "violent conduct" in a London nightclub, according to an investigation.Captain Stokes and pace bowler Atkinson were made unavailable for England's second Test defeat by New Zealand pending an inquiry into events that unfolded when they were out celebrating victory in the first Test two weeks ago.They breached the team's midnight curfew and were present when a member of security staff was struck by a Saracens rugby player.A disciplinary hearing by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) found Stokes and Atkinson to have "breached specific contractual obligations that require England players to at all times maintain the highest standards of conduct and act in the best interests of England cricket".Both men have been given a written a warning, with no further action added to their removal from the second Test. They have been named in the squad for the deciding Test at Trent Bridge, starting on Thursday, with Stokes restored as captain.A separate inquiry by the Cricket Regulator has found that Stokes and Atkinson have no further case to answer.The member of England's security staff was left bloodied and in need of medical attention when he was struck by Saracens player Totoa Avuaa. The ECB statement said Avuaa attacked both Atkinson and the security guard."No blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub," said the ECB."Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness either incident."The evidence the ECB has seen demonstrates that Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on either occasion."Saracens have been approached for comment.McCullum welcomes Stokes return as captain for third TestChaotic England fortnight ends with huge defeatEngland have included seamer Ollie Robinson in the squad for the third Test, after he missed the second with a knee injury. Wicketkeeper Jamie Smith also returns after paternity leave.However, pace bowler Sonny Baker and keeper James Rew, who both made their debuts in the second Test, have been left out.England squad for third Test: Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh TongueThe decision on Stokes and Atkinson brings an element of closure to an extraordinary period, as English cricket has had to deal with yet another off-field controversy.Without Stokes and Atkinson, an inexperienced England team showing five changes to the one that won the first Test was soundly beaten in the second.It means Stokes will be back for a crucial decider at Trent Bridge, with England desperate for a series win to alleviate pressure that has grown over the dismal Ashes winter and this latest chaotic episode.And while Stokes' return as a leader and all-rounder is vital for his team, there will be renewed scrutiny on his relationship with the rest of the England hierarchy, in particular head coach Brendon McCullum.All of Stokes, McCullum and director of cricket Rob Key denied the captain and coach were at odds during the Ashes, when England were hammered 4-1.Speaking on Sunday, after the loss at The Oval, McCullum said he is ready to work with Stokes again."We've worked together intimately for four years," said McCullum. "We've achieved some cool things and let ourselves down in other things."Our motivation, belief and ambition for this side has not wavered. We have robust conversations all the way through and I think that is to be expected when you're in positions of leadership. There is a mutual respect to how we operate with those."I anticipate we'll be able to work together really well in the week coming and I'm sure that both of us have that same vision for this cricket team."Get cricket news sent straight to your phone

HALLE, Germany (AP) — Frances Tiafoe beat fifth-seeded Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4 in an all-American final in Halle on Sunday.Tiafoe served eight aces and did not face a break point on the way to his first title of the year, his first ever on grass, and his fourth overall. It was only his second win in nine matches against Fritz, who beat him in the U.S. Open semifinals two years ago.French Open champion Alexander Zverev lost to Fritz in Saturday’s semifinals. The ATP 500 grass-court event in eastern Germany serves as a tune-up for Wimbledon, which starts on June 29. Fritz reached the semifinals last year, losing to Carlos Alcaraz.___AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis

Although the Hornets remain keen on re-signing recent trade acquisition Coby White, they are expected to have competition for the former UNC guard, with other potential suitors said to include the Detroit Pistons and Brooklyn Nets.Recently, NBA insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype speculated about a possible sign-and-trade idea that would bring a center to Charlotte in exchange for White. "While the Nets have the necessary cap space to pursue White and other players outright, could both teams discuss a sign-and-trade deal involving the two players if Brooklyn uses its cap space on other players?" asked Scotto.In 69 games with the Nets last season, Claxton averaged 11.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 1.1 blocks, 0.7 steals and a career-high 3.7 assists. Not to mention, he's already been linked to Charlotte this offseason.Although the Hornets would love to retain White and add depth at center in other ways, a sign-and-trade could be the next best thing for Charlotte if White has his mind made up on departing.This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Sign-and-trade proposal sends Coby White to rebuilding team

Maignan tempted by Premier League as Chelsea revive interest in Milan goalkeeperChelsea have intensified contact with the entourage of Mike Maignan, with the Premier League club in dialogue with the French goalkeeper’s agent Jonathan Kebe over the feasibility of a move this summer, though no formal offer has yet been submitted.The development represents a fresh complication for Milan, who are already navigating significant uncertainty across their squad.Ruben Amorim considers Maignan a cornerstone of his project and has no desire to lose one of Europe’s finest goalkeepers, a player whose leadership, personality and technical quality would be extremely difficult to replace in the market.COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 15: Mike Maignan of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and AC Milan at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 15, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)Maignan desire for new challenge could prove decisive as Chelsea circleThe decisive factor may ultimately be the player himself.According to MilanNews24, Maignan is understood to be genuinely open to a new professional challenge, with the Premier League representing a particularly appealing destination.His contract renewal was agreed under the previous regime of Allegri and Tare, both of whom have since departed, adding an extra dimension of uncertainty to his long-term commitment to the club.Chelsea’s interest appears concrete and is expected to develop further in the coming weeks, setting up what could become one of the summer’s most significant goalkeeper negotiations.

Barcelona superstar enduring a nightmare 2026 as injury problems continueRaphinha’s difficult run with injuries has continued after the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed that the Barcelona winger has suffered a muscle injury to the back of his right thigh. It is the latest setback in what has become a frustrating 2026 for the Brazilian international, who has now sustained four separate injuries in less than six months.Between his commitments with Barcelona and Brazil, Raphinha has already missed 11 matches during the first half of 2026 alone.A season plagued by problemsThe physical issues, however, date back even further. At the beginning of the 2025/26 campaign, Raphinha spent almost two months on the sidelines with a thigh injury, keeping him out from late September until the end of November.When that spell is combined with the absences suffered throughout 2026, the winger has missed a total of 24 official matches for both club and country.Such has been his ordeal that Raphinha played less than half as many minutes for Barcelona this season (2194 minutes) as he did last season (4,661 minutes).A troubling start to 2026The first warning signs arrived in January when Raphinha missed Barcelona’s La Liga fixture against Real Sociedad due to physical discomfort.Just weeks later, in February, a strain in his right adductor forced him back onto the treatment table. The injury ruled him out for three matches and raised concerns within the club.At the time, Hansi Flick openly admitted his frustration over the player’s recurring fitness problems.Another blow with BrazilRaphinha’s bad luck continued during the March international break. While away with Brazil, he suffered a hamstring injury in his right leg and was sidelined for more than a month.He did not receive medical clearance until 2 May, and his return was managed carefully. He played only 26 minutes in El Clasico and featured for 63 minutes against Real Betis as Barcelona eased him back into action.Everything seemed to indicate that the winger had finally regained his best physical condition ahead of the 2026 World Cup.Fresh injury at the World CupInjured again. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)Those hopes were shattered during Brazil’s second match of the tournament. In the 38th minute of Brazil’s 3-0 victory over Haiti, Raphinha immediately signalled to the bench after feeling discomfort and was substituted straight away. His reaction as he left the pitch suggested another muscular problem, fears that were later confirmed by the CBF.The 29-year-old will miss Brazil’s upcoming game against Scotland, while his availability for the next phase of the World Cup remains up in the air.The new injury adds another chapter to what has become a cruel cycle of setbacks for the 29-year-old. After showing signs of rediscovering his best form, Raphinha once again finds himself facing a spell on the sidelines. For Brazil, Barcelona and the player himself, 2026 has become a year defined not by performances, but by an exhausting battle to stay fit.

Even the most powerful state in the world is not all that powerful when it decides to go it alone.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — Sunday is Father's Day. Except, perhaps, for Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha.The feel-good story of the World Cup will be back on the field Sunday, when Cape Verde takes on Uruguay in the second group-stage match for both teams. And Vozinha — whose name is Josimar José Évora Dias — will have his mother in the stands for that match; she was unable to attend Cape Verde's stunning opening draw against Spain because she couldn't obtain a visa.Ana Candida Evora is here now, though — making Cape Verde's story even better.“I want to thank all the fans, everyone who helped in the process, for the support you gave to the team, especially to Cabo Verde,” Evora said Sunday in remarks distributed by FIFA in a video message. “We’re all rooting for Cabo Verde to play well, to shine on the pitch. The players need to have faith and everything will go well.“Keep your heads held high, go onto that pitch, push for a goal and you’ll perform beautifully, my boys. A kiss for you, be strong and brave. Blue Sharks!”The team is commonly called ‘Tubarões Azuis' in Portuguese, which translates to Blue Sharks.Her visa issues — primarily raising the money needed for one — were worked out after the U.S. State Department, FIFA, U.S. lawmakers and Cape Verde's soccer federation evidently combined efforts and cleared a path for Evora to come to Miami. She arrived Friday afternoon after more than 24 hours of travel from Cape Verde and was immediately surrounded by FIFA officials and volunteers as she made her way through the airport.Vozinha had about 50,000 followers on Instagram as the World Cup was starting. He was up to 14.9 million followers by Sunday morning after he grabbed the world's sporting attention by leading Cape Verde to a scoreless draw against Spain — one of the pre-tournament favorites to win the title.He went viral after that match against Spain with tearful comments, wishing that his late grandparents could have seen him play in the World Cup and that his mother's visa issues had been resolved in time to be there. That sparked an immediate effort to find ways for Evora to get to the U.S. for the tournament.And the tie, combined with a story of a 40-year-old goalie and his mom, brought attention onto Cape Verde's soccer team like never before.“It’s been intense,” Cape Verde forward Garry Rodrigues said. "But as we are professionals, the game (against) Spain is now in the past. ... We're still human. Seeing everything on the internet has been very intense. But we cannot use that as an excuse. We know our targets. We know our goals.”___AP World Cup: https://apnews.com/fifa-world-cup

Red Sox's Rival Reportedly Targeting This Player At Trade Deadline originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Boston Red Sox are not playing at the level many fans expected coming into the season, but one of their rivals is looking like a World Series contender.While the Red Sox are trying to get into a position to be buyers at the deadline and make a postseason push, the New York Yankees are already thinking about what they should add at the deadline. Barring a disaster, the Yankees should be adding some new faces to their roster at the trade deadline.Despite some injuries, the Yankees entered Sunday at 46-29. They have some clear needs, and a catcher is one of them. Austin Wells is on the injured list, but has a .166 batting average through 47 games. They do not have another reliable option at catcher, and USA Today's Bob Nightengale reports that they are targeting Ryan Jeffers at the deadline."The Yankees are making it no secret they want Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers at the trade deadline," wrote Nightengale on Sunday.Jeffers has a .295/.408/.541 slash line in 37 games this season. He is currently on the injured list with a hamate bone fracture, but is expected to return this season. Even if his numbers take a slight dip, he would be an upgrade for the Yankees.More MLB: Red Sox Dreams Of Trading For Former World Series MVP Are Dead After Latest Report

Legendary U.S. goalkeeper Tim Howard is not impressed with the USMNT’s chances of winning the 2026 World Cup despite winning its first two matches versus Paraguay and Australia in group play. On his “Unfiltered Soccer” podcast with former teammate Landon Donovan, the Hall of Famer was skeptical of the U.S. being able to continue its success in the tournament’s round of 32. "The U.S. cannot, unequivocally, win the World Cup," Howard said while discussing the USMNT’s chances with Donovan. "The U.S. will have to play the greatest game they've ever played... four games in a row — round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, finals.”“It is literally impossible for the U.S. to win the World Cup,” he added. “That's just the reality."In its first two matches in Group D play, the U.S. defeated Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0. In both instances, the Americans looked impressive and confident. Perhaps even… dominant? However, those performances did not come against the top teams in the world, which will change after the group stage. Donovan was more optimistic about the USMNT’s prospects of advancing in the World Cup, but ultimately agreed with Howard’s conclusion. “Can we? Yes. Has this group proven they can beat a top team? No,” Donovan said. “If they play the way they’re playing, they can absolutely compete with any team in this World Cup. For sure.”“I’ve said this over and over. Can you do it four times in a row?” he continued. “Can you do it in the round of 16, the quarter, the semi, the final. That is where it gets really hard. But momentum gets going, you never know.” The U.S. has already advanced to the knockout round with its two victories. But the Stars and Stripes have one last group stage matchup, facing Türkiye on Thursday at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Christian Pulisic, who missed the match with Australia due to a calf injury, could be available versus Türkiye. However, with the USMNT’s place in the round of 32 already assured, the team staff may opt to give its star more time to recover.

Former India and Karnataka fast bowler Dodda Ganesh has criticised the Indian team management, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, for resting KL Rahul during the third and final ODI against Afghanistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.Rahul, who featured in the first two matches of the three-game series, was left out of the playing XI for the final ODI despite having spent very little time in the middle. The wicketkeeper-batter faced 19 balls in the series opener, remaining unbeaten on 39 as India secured a seven-wicket win in a rain-curtailed contest. He was then dismissed for a first-ball duck in the second ODI in Lucknow.With Rahul rested, Ishan Kishan took over wicketkeeping duties in Chennai. However, Kishan did not get an opportunity to bat as India comfortably chased down Afghanistan's total to seal a 3-0 series sweep.Ganesh questioned the logic behind the decision and took to X to express his frustration.“KL Rahul didn’t need this rest. He’s played only 20 balls in the series. Absolutely makes zero sense,” Ganesh wrote on X (formerly Twitter).India, however, continued their dominant run in the series. Fast bowler Prasidh Krishna starred with a maiden five-wicket haul, returning figures of 5-23 in nine overs, as Afghanistan were bowled out for 218 in 44.2 overs despite captain Hashmatullah Shahidi scoring a fighting 102.Chasing 219, India made light work of the target through a commanding opening stand between Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal. The duo added 170 runs for the first wicket, with Rohit scoring 79 before falling to Mohammad Nabi.Jaiswal carried on and produced a superb unbeaten 110 off 86 balls, his second ODI century in just three innings. Shreyas Iyer provided support at the other end as India completed the chase with 128 balls to spare and secured a nine-wicket victory.The result also handed India their first ODI series win under captain Shubman Gill, who led from the front in the field with two direct-hit run-outs during Afghanistan's innings.

The NFL offseason is often defined by roster building and contract disputes. While it’s unclear whether he’ll hold out during training camp, Jalen Carter has already been holding in during Philadelphia Eagles minicamp. A recent report suggests this contract situation won’t be resolved quickly. In fact, it could become contentious if Carter’s camp decides to push the issue.According to a report from Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the Eagles are not only in no rush to extend Carter. They are also hesitant to seriously engage in negotiations at this stage. Carter underwent offseason surgery on both shoulders. The team may want to see him return to form before committing to a long-term deal.MORE: Los Angeles Chargers RB Omarion Hampton gets exceptional endorsement from OC“[The Eagles] are hesitant to pay him,” Breer wrote in a Q&A response regarding Carter’s contract situation.Jan 11, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (98) against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images“Philadelphia is telling you what you need to know with its actions. The Eagles have always been aggressive paying their own, in large part because they know that the earlier you do the deal, the better the price you’ll get.”History makes this tellingThat’s a significant indicator of how the Eagles may be approaching a contract situation that could linger into the regular season. The organization had no issue extending Carter’s longtime teammate, Jordan Davis, this offseason. There has never been any doubt about Carter’s talent, which made him a projected top-five pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.MORE: Adonai Mitchell starting to make Indianapolis Colts look foolishHowever, health concerns are no longer the only consideration. Carter’s history has also raised questions about maturity and discipline. He has been ejected from games, penalized for costly personal fouls, and was involved in a fatal car crash while at Georgia. That’s not to suggest those issues are driving Philadelphia’s hesitation, but they could be part of the overall evaluation.Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Jalen Carter celebrates after defeating the Kansas City Chiefs – Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesBreer also noted that some of the delay may stem from the Eagles’ desire to secure more team-friendly terms.“The fact that we’re into June without Jalen Carter having a deal is notable. And I’d guess if they do one now, before his fourth season as a pro, then it’d come with flexibility for the team. If Carter won’t give them that flexibility now, maybe he’ll just wait another year,” Breer said.Whether the concern centers on Carter’s health, the structure of a potential contract, or the broader picture surrounding him as a player, the Eagles appear to have reasons for proceeding cautiously. If Carter’s camp decides to escalate the situation, a training camp hold-in could be the next step.

BEREA, OHIO - APRIL 21: Offensive line coach George Warhop of the Cleveland Browns instructs KT Leveston #72 during a voluntary veteran minicamp at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on April 21, 2026 in Berea, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback. It’s the position battle that Cleveland Browns fans will see atop the headlines in training camp again, but ultimately, it feels like it’ll be like last year in which it doesn’t really matter who Todd Monken chooses, as the team probably doesn’t have the quarterback of the future on the roster.That’s why in our Reacts poll this week, we excluded the quarterback position to gauge what other position Browns fans are most interested in following this training camp. I gave three positions to choose from: offensive line, wide receiver, or defensive end.54% of fans voted for the offensive line, while 39% of fans voted for wide receiver. I figured that defensive end wouldn’t get too much support, even with the recent departure of Myles Garrett. Sure enough, defensive end only had 7% of the vote.With the wide receivers, fans are curious how it will play out, but I think are encouraged by a pair of youngsters being added to the group. With the offensive line, the entire line was replaced. Although they were replaced with players who are rather durable and have had some good seasons, we also don’t know exactly who will slot into what positions and what the chemistry will be like. As one fan said:“[The offensive line] is critical to the success of this team this year. With the potential of five new starters and the possibility of two of them being rookies, it should be quite entertaining to see them develop into a cohesive unit. I know that QB and WR positions will probably get the most ink in the media, but the OL is the key to their ability to be productive this season.”The Browns are still heavy underdogs to capture the AFC North, at 22/1 compared to the other teams, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.