IPSWICH VS. LIVERPOOL POST-MATCH ANALYSIS | PREMIER LEAGUE

LIVERPOOL OVERCOME IPSWICH | PREMIER LEAGUE

 

DAVID RAYA IS THE FIFTH-FASTEST GOALKEEPER IN PREMIER LEAGUE HISTORY TO REACH 50 CLEAN SHEETS

 

David Raya becomes the fifth-fastest goalkeeper in Premier League 𝙝𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 to reach 50 clean sheets! 🧤

TWO TIME CHAMP SIGNS FOR LIVERPOOL | BRADLEY BARCOLA

 

4 REASONS FOR JEFF BEZOS TO BE BULLISH ON LIVERPOOL

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JULY 06: Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 match between USA and Belgium at Seattle Stadium on July 06, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Soobum Im - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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According to a report early Monday from Sky Sports, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is part of a consortium that is nearing a purchase of one-third of Liverpool Football Club. The transaction will value the famous English Premier League outfit at about $6 billion, per that report.

With a current net worth estimated at $283.8 billion, Bezos is the world’s third-wealthiest man. And while Amazon Prime Video has become an increasingly prominent player in the world of live sports TV rights, the investment would be Bezos’ first directly into a major professional sports team.

Bezos wouldn’t be anywhere close to a majority investor in the club, given that there are several members of the consortium that would take one-third control of the 20-time English league champions.

Even so, it’s intriguing that Bezos might begin his dalliance in sports ownership in the Premier League, rather than an American league such as the NFL, where he was once linked to a potential purchase of the Washington Commanders.

Why might one of the world’s most influential businessmen think the Premier League is the right place to invest right now? Read on for four possible reasons.

Bang for the Buck?

While $6 billion is a substantial figure, it’s less than half of the going rate for the Dallas Cowboys, currently the world’s highest valued sports franchise at $13 billion.

Yet Liverpool has exponentially more followers worldwide, a figure estimated in the hundreds of millions thanks to the Premier League’s unrivaled global distribution.

Of course, the overwhelming majority of Cowboys and other NFL fans live in United States, the world’s wealthiest economy, and it’s the NFL’s domination of that economy that leads to the high valuation of the Cowboys and other franchises. But there’s still a case that global soccer entities like Liverpool bring more for their investment buck.

Unique Growth Potential

The immediate aftermath of the 2026 World Cup in the United States could prove uniquely favorable when it comes to global soccer brands growing their profile among American audiences.

For better or worse, the assumption among sports media types has been that fans newly infatuated with the sport will seek to continue their interest by watching the Premier League, rather than MLS or other domestic U.S. leagues. And there could be a lot of those folks if the TV numbers are any indication.

The final between Spain and Argentina on July 19 drew an audience of more than 60 million viewers in the United States, according to data provided by rights holders Fox and Telemundo. That made it the most-watched non-NFL sporting event in the U.S. since the Nancy Kerrigan-Tanya Harding scandal captivated audiences at the 1994 Winter Olympic Games.

Premier League audiences on NBC have already proved sizable, rivaling national NBA or MLB regular season broadcasts on network TV.

More Revenue Control

Unlike NFL franchises, which operate with widespread revenue sharing between the 32 teams, Liverpool FC and other huge soccer brands have more control over their own revenue generation.

Money from the Premier League’s TV contracts are distributed partially by merit, meaning higher achieving clubs and those appearing in more televised games take in a larger share. And unlike the NFL, soccer clubs keep all of the revenue they generate from commercial partnerships, matchday revenue and merchandise sales.

If this is truly a watershed moment for major European soccer in the U.S., the revenue potential of that moment may be even larger than an equivalent opportunity within U.S. pro sports leagues.

Better Competitive Prospects

After a famously long drought, Liverpool have won two of the last seven English Premier League titles. And with Pep Guardiola departing as Manchester City manager following last season, it feels like there is an opportunity for another club to overtake City as the dominant force in English football.

Liverpool certainly won’t be the only team trying to do that. But they are among the clubs most suited to be successful, given the combination of their recent upward trends and history of success.

On the flip side, global soccer isn’t constrained by the same North American competitive models that create the parity of the NFL. Only seven clubs have won the Premier League since it split from the old English Football League in the early 1990s. So if Liverpool can emerge as the new dominant force, their place atop the English football pecking order could become relatively stable.

- Ian Nicholas Quillen, Forbes

LIVERPOOL OWNERS CLOSE TO €1.58BN SALE OF 30% STAKE TO CONSORTIUM INCLUDING JEFF BEZOS

Group including Amazon founder has held talks with Fenway Sports Group

It is understood the deal is effectively agreed but may take up to a month to complete. Photograph: Jan Kruger/Getty Images

A consortium including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is close to completing a deal for a 30 per cent stake in Liverpool after months of talks with Fenway Sports Group.

The investors are led by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, who previously was a shareholder at Queens Park Rangers. Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin is another member of the group who are set to pay in the region of £1.35 billion (€1.58 billion) for almost a third of the Premier League club. It is understood the deal is effectively agreed but may take up to a month to complete.

Bezos has a personal fortune of around $257 billion (€223 billion), according to Forbes, making him the fourth-richest person in the world, while Saverin is reportedly worth $32 billion (€28 billion). This will be Bezos’ first investment in football but he has previously looked into bidding for NFL franchises. The 62-year-old will receive equity as part of the deal, which it is understood Deloitte has advised on.

Bezos is the executive chair of Amazon having relinquished day-to-day control when he stepped down as chief executive five years ago. Under his leadership the online retailer has looked to diversify as an entertainment provider in recent years and has bought numerous sports rights for its streaming service.

Amazon had live UK rights for 20 Premier League games each season for six seasons until the end of last year, and broadcasts the Champions League in several European countries, as well as NFL in the US.

FSG bought the Merseyside club in 2010 and have overseen an era which has included two Premier League titles. FSG previously sold 3 per cent of the club to the US private equity firm Dynasty Equity in 2023.

It has been a summer of change at Anfield, with Andoni Iraola replacing Arne Slot as head coach, while Mohamed Salah left on a free transfer and has since joined Trabzonspor. Meanwhile, Michael Edwards departed his role as chief executive officer at FSG.

FSG has been approached for comment. 

– Guardian

- Will Unwin

ARSENAL ESTABLISH CONTACT FOR BRADLEY BARCOLA MOVE

Arsenal will attempt to sign 23-year-old French international Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain this summer after being snubbed by Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior.

According to a report by TEAMtalk, Bradley Barcola is also the subject of interest from Liverpool. The Reds are eager to bolster their offensive unit by signing a wide attacker in the ongoing transfer window, and they have their sights set on the 23-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger.

Per TEAMtalk, the Merseyside giants remain the front-runners in the battle for Barcola’s signature, even though Arsenal have contacted his camp to discuss a deal. Meanwhile, the report has added that PSG continue to hold out for €150 million to sell the Frenchman in the coming weeks.

Bradley Barcola and his time at PSG so far

Bradley Barcola has established himself as one of the world’s best young wingers since joining PSG from Lyon in August 2023. The 23-year-old hit the ground running at Parc des Princes, and he has made exponential progress in the last three seasons. Even though he has not been an undisputed first-choice starter, his pace, work rate, and technical ability have won him widespread recognition while making him a valued asset.

Barcola scored 13 goals and provided 7 assists in only 2,971 minutes of game time across 49 appearances in all competitions during the 2025/26 season. The French winger carried that form into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making his mark in France’s campaign. Meanwhile, his exploits have provoked interest from several high-profile clubs, with Arsenal and Liverpool among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Premier League move on the horizon?

Bradley Barcola has been on Arsenal’s wishlist for several months. The continued interest makes logical sense, as the Gunners need a productive attacker on the left flank after Gabriel Martinelli’s struggles in the 2025/26 season. With Leandro Trossard joining Besiktas, Barcola is now a primary target, particularly in the wake of Vinicius Junior’s decision to sign a new deal with Real Madrid.

As for Liverpool, the Reds are preparing for life after Mohamed Salah, who has departed from Anfield this summer. While Victor Munoz has been signed to fill Luis Diaz’s void on the left flank, they need another wide attacker to fill the quality gap in the final third. With Cody Gakpo struggling to perform consistently, Barcola represents a potentially transformative addition to their offensive arsenal.

Meanwhile, reports have revealed PSG’s hard stance on Barcola’s price is making a summer deal difficult. However, with PSG holding firm on their €150 million asking price and Barcola reportedly eager to leave Parc des Princes, a summer move to the Premier League remains on the agenda.

- Keshav Awasty

HIGHLIGHTS | LIVERPOOL VS. WREXHAM

 

JÜRGEN KLOPP | CAREER TIMELINE

 

LIVERPOOL RECEIVE OFFER FOR MINORITY STAKE FROM CONSORTIUM LED BY AMIT BHATIA WHICH COULD TAKE REDS' VALUE PAST £4.5BILLION - WITH BUSINESSMAN QUITTING ROLE AS QPR CO-OWNER

 

Businessman Amit Bhatia is part of a consortium in talks to buy a small stake in Liverpool

British-Indian businessman Amit Bhatia is part of a consortium in talks to buy a small stake in Liverpool that could take the club’s value to north of £4.5billion

Bhatia, the son-in-law of Indian billionaire Lakshmi Mittal, was co-owner at Championship side Queens Park Rangers – and has a stand named after him at Loftus Road – before surprisingly stepping down from their ownership setup on Tuesday.

A spokesperson for Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group said in a statement: ‘An investment consortium led, managed, and represented by Amit Bhatia has expressed interest in making a strategic minority investment in Liverpool Football Club.’

Nothing is official yet and, if it was to proceed, it would follow a similar structure to a deal made three years ago when FSG sold a small stake to sports investment firm Dynasty.

Liverpool are currently in Chicago as they begin their pre-season tour of the USA. 

Andoni Iraola's side play Sunderland in Nashville on Saturday, followed by Wrexham in New York and Leeds back in Chicago, before returning home at the start of August.

- LEWIS STEELE

KEVIN KEEGAN DIES AS NEWCASTLE UNITED LEGEND'S FAMILY RELEASE TEARFUL STATEMENT

The former Newcastle United player and manager has passed away at the age of 75

Kevin Keegan has died at the age of 75(Image: PA)

Kevin Keegan has sadly passed away at 75 after battling with cancer throughout 2026. The former Newcastle manager's family have released an emotional statement sharing his final few moments.

The family said: "It is with immense sadness that we announce that Kevin Keegan has passed away at the age of 75.

"Kevin had been battling cancer and was surrounded by his wife and daughters in his final moments.

"A double Ballon D’or winner, Kevin was a much loved husband, father and grandfather.

"The family would like to thank Kevin’s incredible medical team for all their support. “This is a hugely difficult time and they are requesting space and privacy."

Keegan had said in May, during a talk-in at the Tyne Theatre: "I want to say goodbye. I didn’t get the chance when I left (Newcastle United) last time."

Kevin Keegan has sadly been diagnosed with cancer(Image: Getty Images)

Back then Keegan, in great spirits, also said: "They said we have a top doctor with this new way of fighting what you have got. Which is stage four cancer.

“He was a Liverpool supporter so I went to meet him. I knew I wouldn’t be walking alone, if you know what I mean."

A club statement read: "We are devastated to learn of the passing of Kevin Keegan, one of the most iconic, influential and deeply loved figures in our club’s history.

"Kevin was more than a legendary footballer and manager. He was the beating heart of Newcastle United for generations of supporters.

"As a player, he brought world-class talent, ambition and belief to St. James’ Park, helping to transform perceptions of what Newcastle United could be.

"As a manager, he ignited our city. Kevin gave supporters hope and pride, and led a team whose style, spirit and passion captured the imagination of football fans around the world.

Kevin Keegan saying farewell to Newcastle United in May, 1984(Image: NEwcastle Chronicle)

"He was so much more than an Entertainer.

"Above all that, Kevin forged an extraordinary bond with Newcastle, built on the roots of his father, Joe.

"He understood our people. He embraced the North East with a passion that was genuine and unwavering, and in return, he earned his rightful place in the hearts of millions.

"Kevin’s impact will not be measured by appearances or results. It will live on in the memories he created with club and country, the dreams he inspired wherever he went, and the generations of supporters around the world who fell in love with football because of him.

"At this profoundly sad time, we send our love and deepest sympathy to Kevin’s wife Jean, his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

"Today, we mourn the loss of a true giant of our history, and at the appropriate moment, we will carefully consider how we shape a lasting tribute to Kevin’s remarkable life and legacy.

- Lee Ryder

JÜRGEN KLOPP RETURN 'DONE' AS LIVERPOOL LEGEND AGREES GERMANY MOVE

Liverpool legend Jurgen Klopp is set to return to management with Germany, with reports suggesting that his move is now complete, with an official unveiling to come next week

Liverpool legend Jurgen Klopp during the World Cup game between France and Morocco in Boston.(Image: Harry Langer/DeFodi via Getty Images)

Liverpool legend Jurgen Klopp's move to take over from Julian Nagelsmann is now fully completed, according to reports in Germany.

A report from Sky Germany says he will sign with the German national team until 2030, meaning he will oversee the next European Championship and World Cup, with a public unveiling said to be planned for Friday if all goes to plan.

Klopp will exit his position at the Red Bull group as part of the move. He left Liverpool two years ago and this will be the first time he has coached a team since, with Die Mannschaft set to face the Netherlands in his first match at the helm.

The former Hoffenheim and Bayern Munich head coach candidly acknowledged that his squad could no longer be considered among the elite sides on the world stage.

"If you are eliminated by Paraguay, you are just not a first-class football team. I am very disappointed," he said.

Klopp will offer fresh hope for Germany as a figurehead for the DFB. But Gary Neville warned this week that things will not be easy for the ex-Reds man.

Jurgen Klopp is set to return to management with Germany(Image: (Photo by Johnny Fidelin/Icon Sport via Getty Images))

"The thing is about international football is you’ve got a fixed pool of players that you can pick from whereas with clubs you can sign players from different nationalities," Neville said during a Q&A session for The Overlap.

"I wouldn’t say [club management] is easy but you’ve obviously got the pick of the world, you can go and sign players from everywhere.

"With Germany, if they haven’t got a good crop coming through and they haven’t got a good talent base for the next four or five years then there’s nothing he can do really."

Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz are among the star names that Klopp will be able to call upon. Bayern Munich starlet Lennart Karl is one to pin hopes for the future on too, but Neville isn't convinced.

"I look at England’s front players like [Bukayo] Saka and [Phil] Foden and [Cole] Palmer and [Harry] Kane and [Morgan] Rogers and [Jude] Bellingham, and I think our players are better than Germany’s," Neville continued.

"‘You can never write Germany off just because we’ve got their history of seeing them win but I wouldn’t be thinking he’s going to go in there and be able to get [them firing]."

- Matt Addison

DOMINIK SZOBOSZLAI SIGNS NEW LIVERPOOL DEAL

 

JORDAN HENDERSON'S DAD REVEALS GRIM DETAILS OF ENGLAND STAR'S INJURY AFTER FREAK ACCIDENT AT WORLD CUP

Jordan Henderson suffered a broken arm after slipping off an advertising board (Getty)

Jordan Henderson’s dad has revealed that the England midfielder’s arm is ‘completely smashed’ following his freak accident after the 3-2 win over Mexico at the World Cup.

England sealed their place in the World Cup quarter-final with a thrilling victory at Azteca Stadium as Jude Bellingham struck twice while Harry Kane scored from the penalty spot.

However, England’s win was overshadowed by Henderson’s injury, which he suffered during the team’s celebrations in the immediate aftermath of the game.

After celebrating with England’s travelling supporters, Henderson slipped while jumping over an advertising board and suffered a broken radius after he landed awkwardly.

The former Liverpool captain, who now plays for Brentford, left the pitch on a stretcher and was given oxygen, while he will now miss the remainder of England’s World Cup campaign as he requires surgery.

Henderson’s father, Brian Henderson, insists the midfielder will remain with England’s squad for the remainder of the tournament, despite being unable to play.

Jordan Henderson left the pitch on a stretcher after England’s 3-2 win against Mexico (PA Wire)

At first I just thought he’d fallen, I thought he’d maybe scraped his wrist,’ Brian told the Daily Mail.

‘I had no idea it was that serious until they were interviewing Harry Kane and a trolley came past with Jordan on it. I could see him on there with oxygen and things.

‘Straight away, I messaged his PA, who was over there, to try and find out what had happened. I was up all night waiting to hear the news. It’s just a waiting game now.

Jordan Henderson with his father Brian Henderson after Liverpool’s win in the Champions League final in 2019 (Shutterstock)

‘It’s his left forearm, he’s just completely smashed it. He’s going to have a cast on and then it depends on what the experts say.

‘He won’t be leaving his teammates. He’ll be there until it’s finished.’

In his first message to fans since the injury, Henderson praised England’s ‘incredible’ display and thanked supporters for their messages.

‘A night to remember that’s for sure!’ Henderson wrote.

‘What an incredible performance against all the different challenges. So proud to be a part of this special team.

‘Thanks for all the support, another big one Saturday.’

Meanwhile, England defender Marc Guehi says Henderson is now in ‘a better place’ after his accident.

‘Hendo’s good,’ Guehi said on England’s Lion’s Den programme on Tuesday.

‘He’s in a better place than he was yesterday.

‘It was obviously scary for him and his family and for everyone else, but we’re just glad that he’s on the road to a speedy recovery.’

- Chris Davie

LIVERPOOL REMEMBERS DIOGO JOTA AND ANDRÉ SILVA

Today, as every day, we remember Diogo Jota and André Silva, who tragically passed away one year ago.

Through immeasurable loss and incalculable pain, the impact they made and the legacies they left behind - not only within the footballing world, but in the hearts and minds of so many around the world - has shone through over the last 12 months.

All of our love, support, thoughts and prayers continue to be with Diogo and André's families, friends and all those whose lives were touched by them.

Forever in our hearts, forever our number 20 ❤️

- LFC

LIVERPOOL UNVEIL NEW £60M DEFENDER JEREMY JACQUET - AS ENGLISH FOOTBALL AGENTS INVOLVED IN DEAL FOR 20-YEAR-OLD LAUNCH NEW FRENCH VENTURE

English agency Unique Sports Group has invested in leading French counterparts One Team Football, to launch Unique France.

The two have collaborated on the £60million deal that took 20-year-old Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes to Liverpool which was confirmed today.

The move brings together two of the more established football agencies in England and France, combining decades of experience, extensive international networks and a shared philosophy of developing and representing elite players throughout all stages of their careers.

Unique already have operations in the UK, Germany, Spain, South Korea, Ivory Coast and the UAE.

One Team client Jeremy Jacquet, regarded as the best defensive prospect coming out of France, officially became a Liverpool player today on a five-year contract in a transaction where Unique Sports Group worked alongside Michael Manuello from the French agency.

Unique also concluded the transfer of Anthony Gordon to Barcelona in May, two of the biggest moves in terms of fees for the summer window so far.

Liverpool's new signing Jeremy Jacquet with Will Salthouse and Michael Manuello 

Unique’s client roster also includes three members of England’s World Cup squad in Gordon, Marc Guehi and Dean Henderson, as well as Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix who is representing France.

Discussing the launch of Unique France, Will Salthouse, CEO and founder of Unique Sports Group said: 'When Unique was formed, the ambition was always to build a business that could grow beyond the UK and become one of football's leading international agencies.

By making a key investment with One Team and launching Unique France alongside Michael and his team it represents another significant step on that journey. France continues to produce some of the world's best talent and bringing together the strengths of both businesses creates an exciting platform for the future.'

Steve Hitchen, Director of Football at Unique Sports Group added: 'I've known Michael and One Team for many years. They have built an outstanding reputation through their knowledge of the French market and their ability to identify and develop top players. 

'Bringing our joint experience together through Unique France is hugely exciting, not only because of the quality of players already within each of our organisations, but because of what we can build together over the coming years.'

Michael Manuello, founder of One Team Football said: 'This is an exciting new chapter for One Team. We have built a fantastic business in France and are proud of the players we represent. 

'Joining forces with Unique in this venture gives us access to one of the strongest Premier League platforms in football, creating even more opportunities for our clients and allowing us to continue doing what we do best in France. We share the same values and long-term vision, and I'm excited about what we can achieve together through Unique France.'

- SIMON JONES

JÜRGEN KLOPP' STORMS OUT OF INTERVIEW AS LIVERPOOL LEGEND REFUSES TO ANSWER QUESTIONS

Jurgen Klopp stormed out of an interview after the Liverpool legend refused to answer a question following controversy regarding one of his fellow World Cup pundits

Jurgen Klopp stormed out of an interview(Image: DW Sports)

Ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp abruptly ended an interview when questioned about the racism row involving Bastian Schweinsteiger.

The World Cup champion has been accused of making racist comments while analysing Germany's victory over the Ivory Coast. The former Manchester United and Bayern Munich star works for German broadcaster ARD.

Schweinsteiger, 41, has faced criticism for his depiction of the Ivory Coast's playing style. While evaluating the west African team, he referred to their football as "African football" before characterising it as being "a bit unorthodox sometimes, a bit wild, not quite as tactical."

Bastian Schweinsteiger has been accused of making racially insensitive comments(Image: Getty Images)

He also suggested that Julian Nagelsmann's squad must be "prepared for it to be unpredictable at times" prior to their 2-1 win. The ex-midfielder's comments have sparked backlash and become a significant talking point in Germany.

So much so that Klopp, who is currently working as a pundit for Magenta TV in the US, was pressed by another journalist to comment on the controversy. When confronted, he promptly cut off the interview and walked away.

In conversation with DW Sports, the former Liverpool boss said: "And now you want to carry on this subject. No, no, I have no chance, I have no chance to answer this question.

"Everybody likes it, so you bring me into this situation. It's not my job that everybody likes it, but this is a serious subject. I don't even know what is appropriate to say.

"For African people it's one thing, for other people it's another thing, and I'm not here. Thank god I thought nobody asked me about that. You found a moment and surprisingly you are German. That surprised me so much. Thank you very much."

Klopp then walked away from the gathered journalists, many of whom were heard calling out "no, no" as he departed.

Phillip Awounou, a sports journalist and author from Germany, slammed Schweinsteiger's comments in a recent article. Penning his column for Spiegel news magazine, he wrote: "Behind attributions like 'wild' and 'unpredictable' are stereotypes which are older than football and which have racist, colonial roots.

"In the past, Black people of African heritage were stigmatised as uncivilised ('wild'), different ('unorthodox') and potentially dangerous ('unpredictable').

"These are racist stereotypes," sports content creator Patrick Schnitzler told his 50,000 Instagram followers, referencing recent academic research which has demonstrated that commentators and supporters are more likely to emphasise Black footballers' physical attributes than those of non-Black players.

"We learn such stereotypes because we have grown up in a society with stereotypes. Schweinsteiger, too. You and me, too."

Awounou did make clear that he does not consider Schweinsteiger to be a racist, explaining: "That's simply wrong. Regardless of his problematic remarks, Schweinsteiger is absolutely not a racist and shouldn't be labelled as such."

After the match, Schweinsteiger took to social media, stating: "Ivory Coast were the difficult opponent we expected and showed their technical quality and physicality," shortly after Germany clinched a thrilling 2-1 victory.

- Cameron Winstanley and Cameron Winstanley

LIVERPOOL MEME 😂

 

JESSE LINGARD'S GRANDFATHER DIES AHEAD OF CHILD SEX OFFENCES TRIAL

Kenneth Lingard was accused of sexually abusing a girl from the age of five

Footballer Jesse Lingard's grandfather has died while awaiting a retrial for a number of alleged child sex offences.

Kenneth Lingard, who was aged 87, was accused of sexually abusing a girl from the age of five as he stood trial at Liverpool Crown Court in 2025.

While he was cleared of two counts of indecent assault by the jury, verdicts couldn't be reached on the remaining 15 counts, it can now be reported.

Benjamin Aina KC, prosecuting, told a hearing on Monday, June 15: "On June 10 this year, Kenneth Lingard passed away and a death certificate has been produced."

The 87-year-old, of Northway, Warrington, had been due to face a retrial in May but the proceedings were rescheduled for next year after the court heard he was in hospital.

The first trial heard the historic allegations about the pensioner were reported to police by the complainant in November 2022, following the release of a documentary in which Jesse Lingard spoke about his grandfather’s positive influence on his career.

The jury was told the woman messaged the midfielder after the programme was aired and said: "Shame on you Jesse Lingard. Loads of lies. Your grandad Kenneth Lingard molested and sexually abused me and you know he did."

The former Manchester United and England player flew to the UK from South Korea, where he was playing for FC Seoul, to give evidence in his grandfather’s defence last April.

The footballer, who now plays for Brazilian team Corinthians, denied he had known about any alleged abuse, telling the court: "If I knew any of these allegations, I’d have cut ties with him years ago."

Lingard, a former gymnastics coach and powerlifter, told the court the assaults "never happened".

Addressing the court on Monday, Judge Katherine Pierpoint said: "In the circumstances of this case, having seen the evidence which shows the death of the defendant on June 10 this year, any existing indictments no longer have any legal effect unless the court is shown otherwise."

- The Mirror

JÜRGEN KLOPP'S £4MILLIION FORMER HOME ON MERSEYSIDE'S MILLIONAIRE'S ROW FINALLY SELLS

EXCLUSIVE: The property - which boasts three living rooms, a games room, swimming pool, two-storey gym, solarium, jacuzzi, sauna and cinema - was put on the market after Jürgen Klopp left Liverpool

Jürgen Klopp moved into the home after Brendan Rogers was sacked by Liverpool (Image: (Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images))

Jürgen Klopp's former home has finally been sold - nearly two years after he quit Liverpool.

The luxury house in Formby’s exclusive Victoria Road - branded Merseyside's Millionaire's Row - was on the market for a cool £4.25million when it first went up for sale in October 2024. The new owners of the prestigious detached property are unknown.

It comes just days after the appointment of new Reds boss Andoni Iraola, 43. The palatial home boasts an impressive swimming pool and gym complex, six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and four reception rooms.

It sits in gated, manicured gardens and includes a grand entrance hall, open-plan kitchen, dining, and family areas. Upstairs, the master suite features two dressing rooms, an en-suite bathroom, and a balcony overlooking the garden.

Klopp's old house in Liverpool was put on the market after he left Liverpool but has only recently sold(Image: Rightmove)

Additional features include a cinema room and a luxury spa room. When it went on the market estate agent Berkeley Shaw described the property as a "beautiful home tucked away in the prestigious area of Freshfield, set on a private plot with impressive gardens and secure gated access".

At the time of it first being listed, estate agent William Goulden said: "This is an exceptional home in a beautiful part of the country. Many will be aware of the property's recent history." Property website Rightmove reported that the house as being one of the most viewed listings of 2024.

Klopp, 58, moved into the luxurious home on millionaire’s row in 2015 with his wife Ulla Sandrock and their children. The couple soon settled into the local Formby community, often being spotted at the local pub The Freshfield enjoying a meal or walking their dog in the local parks and on the beach.

The house has six bedrooms and the principal suite boasts two separate dressing rooms plus a luxury ensuite(Image: Berkeley Shaw)

Klopp was even spotted watching a one day match at the local Formby Cricket Club. The family were known to enjoy a take away from local chip shop The Good Catch, or restaurants Suay and Sorrento.

Ex-Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, 46, bought the home in Formby in 2005 after it was built by a local developer. When Gerrard left for US side LA Galaxy in 2015 he sold the house to incoming Reds boss Brendan Rodgers, 53.

He was sacked that October but kept the property and rented it to Klopp. In 2019 Liverpool bought it as an investment and are said to have allowed Klopp to stay on rent-free. His successor Arne Slot, 47, and wife Mirjam were shown around the seven-bed home when he was handed the job but turned it down.

The main house has an indoor pool wing that is like a spa and leisure suite at a fancy hotel.(Image: Berkeley Shaw)

It is believed to have been sold this month with the sold sign going up today. Klopp swapped life on the Sefton coast for Majorca at the end of the 2023/24 season.

Formby has long been a popular area for footballers and managers of the Merseyside clubs. Ex Blue Duncan Ferguson still lives in the area and current Everton defender Jarrod Branthwaite is a familiar face in the village.

- Dan Warburton