'Are the computers on lunch break?' blasts Walmart customer as self-checkout shakeup makes shopping 'infuriating' | 3V98ZFG | 2024-05-12 17:08:01
A WALMART shopper is fed up over frequently closed self-checkout lanes and is confused as to why they would not always be available.
The shopper argued Walmart self-checkouts should always be available to use since they are machines.
'Are the computers on lunch break?' blasts Walmart customer as self-checkout shakeup makes shopping 'infuriating'GettyWalmart customers made sarcastic jokes about its self-checkout consistently being closed down[/caption]
A user on X, formerly Twitter, explained their frustration with the closed self-checkouts.
"It drives me nuts when you go to a place like Walmart or anywhere with self-checkout and half of the stations are closed," Tony (@cardinalfan9633) said on X.
"Are the self-checkout computers on their lunch breaks?"
Another Walmart shopper made a sarcastic comment about the store's checkout process.
"Shopping at Walmart is usually easy until you have to checkout," they replied to Tony's tweet.
"Can be infuriating!"
SELF-CHECKOUT WOES
Many shoppers are unhappy with the number of self-checkouts kept open throughout the day at their Walmart store.
Walmart shopper Colleen shared a post on Facebook to explain her self-checkout troubles and how there were "rarely any lanes open."
"Walmart I have a huge bone to pick with you," Colleen said.
"You have removed the option to self-checkout unless you are a Walmart member."
"I am still waiting on my paycheck for working there every single time I have to use self-checkout," another Walmart customer said on X.
Someone else said, "I am going to start to bill you for my time if you can't solve these service issues."
Some Walmart stores have even started to limit who can use self-checkout.
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This is due to certain self-checkouts being reserved for Walmart+ subscribers.
A Walmart+ membership costs $98 annually.
"We continually look at ways to provide our customers with the best shopping experience and that includes adjusting the checkout area in stores," Walmart spokesperson Josh Havens told Business Insider.
'Fix this' Target shoppers demand over self-checkout issue that leaves store 'looking like Walmart' | 3V98ZFG | 2024-05-12 17:08:01
TARGET shoppers are being tested as they stand in long checkout lines to purchase a few items.
Ranting on social media about shopping trips gone wrong, some compared the checkout experience to long wait times at Walmart.
'Fix this' Target shoppers demand over self-checkout issue that leaves store 'looking like Walmart'Target shoppers say they're stuck in long lines after self-checkout was shutteredGetty
Lengthy checkout lines with few workers available have set off Target shoppers across the US.
Despite complaints about self-checkout, some customers are even yearning for the kiosks back.
"Why is the self-checkout lane closed?" questioned one user on X, the website formerly known as Twitter.
"These lines [are] looking like Walmart. Girl fix this. I have three items," he continued.
The shopper said his five-minute trip turned into a 25-minute one because there were only two lanes open, with lines extending into the women's section.
Target responded to the post and said it's "prioritizing full-service check lanes to support [its] guests during the entire day and intends to open Express Self-Checkout to support busier times."
But many customers would classify their trips as happening in busy times, with another describing a 35-minute wait in line.
Posting from Jansen Beach in Portland, Oregon, another user described a line that was 26 people deep "with only one checkout person."
"You decided you didn't want people going through self-checkout," he continued. "And you are confused when people just walk out with stuff."
Meanwhile, a Target shopper in El Cajon, Californiaposted a picture of the scene at their store.
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"Once again. 10-15 people in every open line and self-checkout closed," he said.
The customer described self-checkout as "four lanes that move faster than any manned station" but "closed every single time and in no seemingly logical time frame either."
Target once again responded to the shopper, explaining that self-checkouts are open during busiest times, but that these times "might not be convenient for everyone."
The U.S. Sun reached out to Target in a request for comment.
SHIFTS AT THE SELF-CHECKOUT
Complaints are flying amid recent changes by the big box retailer to curb theft and prevent long lines at the self-checkout.
'I haven't had my check in 21 months,' cries Social Security user who claims IRS issue and now she's stuck on hold | 3V98ZFG | 2024-05-12 17:08:01
A SOCIAL Security beneficiary is facing some gloomy news after not getting their check for months.
In a comment on a Social Security Association (SSA) Facebook post, this user aired their grievances.
'I haven't had my check in 21 months,' cries Social Security user who claims IRS issue and now she's stuck on holdA person impacted by the situation conveyed their troubling ordeal in a comment on the aforementioned post. (Stock Image)Getty Images - Getty
The SSA shared a post on how to appeal an overpayment decision or amount to the agency along with ways to waive the debt if you're unable to pay it back.
An affected individual, who has been receiving Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits for 18 years, shared their distressing experience in a comment on the aforementioned post.
"I personally haven't had my check in 21 months," they lamented. "How do you expect us to live without money?"
The individual continued, "I have been trying all this time since July 2022 responding showing agents actual documents of payments not received also have fixed my IRS issue.
"When I call them… no answer or after being on hold an hour; call drop," the affected individual recounted.
"They don't pay me because of any reason they come up with out of the clear blue sky," they added.
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OVERPAYMENT PAINS
This kind of issue is not rare for those who do are being paid through Social Security.
A recipient of Social Security benefits has alleged that they are being demanded to reimburse thousands of dollars due to an apparent overpayment matter.
Expressing frustration, the individual asserted that they were provided with just a single month to generate the required funds and remit them to the SSA.
"I just got a notice giving me only 30 days to pay back $5,235.80," the recipient wrote in a post to a SSA blog on Facebook.
"I would have to dip into my dwindling IRA funds to get this kind of cash, which would further cause me to get hit with income tax on these funds," he added.
"I don't see an 'effective as of' date anywhere."
According to the recipient's remarks, it appears that they were not informed in advance about the overpayments until the total reached $5,235.80.
Overpayments may arise from either a mistake made by the recipient or by the SSA.
If the SSA is accountable for the error, they will notify the recipient accordingly.
Typically, the repayment procedure can be tailored to accommodate the recipient's circumstances, with deductions periodically made from future checks.
Elsewhere, another Social Security beneficiary lodged an appeal with the administration after experiencing a decrease in her benefits stemming from an overpayment dating back three years.
Additionally, a separate beneficiary was informed that they owed SSA over $8,000 due to being overpaid.
'I can make my own,' say Starbucks customers turning their back on chain – as ex-CEO calls for 3 changes to address rut | 3V98ZFG | 2024-05-12 17:08:01
STARBUCKS customers have revealed how the cafe chain's star has lost its shine in the face of falling profits and more competition from rivals.
Now Howard Schultz, who served as Starbucks CEO for 24 years in three different spells, has broken his silence on the coffee giant's money woes.
'I can make my own,' say Starbucks customers turning their back on chain – as ex-CEO calls for 3 changes to address rutGettyStarbucks has seen a downward trend in profits in recent years[/caption]
'I can make my own,' say Starbucks customers turning their back on chain – as ex-CEO calls for 3 changes to address rutGettyThe coffee giant has been hit by union disputes and other financial woes[/caption]
'I can make my own,' say Starbucks customers turning their back on chain – as ex-CEO calls for 3 changes to address rutAP:Associated PressFormer CEO, Howard Schultz, took to LinkedIn to offer the chain advice[/caption]
Posting on LinkedIn this week, Schultz wrote that Starbucks' stores, which have been hit by labor disputes, accusations of illegal union-busting, and declining sales globally, need to establish a "maniacal focus on the customer experience, through the eyes of a merchant."
The answer to their problems, he says, "does not lie in data, but in the stores."
Starbucks, which has over 17,000 stores in the U.S., recently experienced its first drop in quarterly revenue since 2020, with sales in North America declining by 3% in this year's second quarter, according to the chain's financial reports.
The reason behind the revenue drop, according to Starbucks' leadership, is the rise of the "cautious customer."
As inflation is running rampant in the country, consumers are forced to be more aware of where they spend their hard-earned cash.
While corporate profits now account for the highest share of national income in more than 10 years, according to the National Bureau of Economic Analysis, consumers are feeling the strain more than ever in their lifetimes.
A majority of Americans are worse off financially now than compared to before the start of the pandemic, according to Yahoo! Finance.
"Money changed," Jacqueline Phillips, a New Yorker and daily coffee drinker, told the U.S. Sun as she explained why she stopped frequenting the chain.
"The price of everything going up leaves little extra for the spoils," Phillips said. "Starbucks has become more of a treat than an everyday necessity. I can make my own latte now at 7-11 for $2 as opposed to $6 at Starbucks. Does it taste as good? Eh, but it's good enough and I can afford it."
Phillips also details how changes to how the chain gives customers rewards, now having to earn twice as many points to earn a free cup of hot coffee, turned her off from the brand.
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But it isn't just points and finances that are pushing customers away from the coffee giant.
For customers like Morgan Bissett-Tessier, a 31-year-old law school student and part-time school administrator in New York, reports about mistreatment of Starbucks employees, union-busting, and not being allowed to wear Black Lives Matter attire, despite that policy being reversed, ruined the brand for her.
"Starbucks was never a regular thing for me because it was expensive, so it was a treat," Bissett-Tessier told CBS Money Watch. "Now it doesn't feel worth it."
Last year, the National Labor Relations Board found that Starbucks violated federal labor law over 270 times since the campaign to unionize started in Buffalo, New York two years ago.
This makes Starbucks "one of the worst violators of labor law in modern U.S. history," said Clara Wheatley-Schaller, the political director for Workers United, the union representing Starbucks workers.
But despite these roadblocks causing customers to look elsewhere, Schultz believes Starbucks will recover from their recent downturn.
"Of that, I am certain," he added.
"Senior leaders — including board members — need to spend more time with those who wear the green apron," he went on.
Schultz also advises the chain to "reinvent the mobile ordering and payment platform," to "make it the uplifting experience it was designed to be."
He also says the chain's go-to-market strategy needs to be overhauled and elevated with "coffee-forward innovation that inspires partners and creates differentiation in the marketplace," saying the brand needs to "focus on being experiential, not transactional."
"We always appreciate Howard's perspective. The challenges and opportunities he highlights are the ones we are focused on," a Starbucks spokesperson said in response to Schultz's remarks.
"And like Howard, we are confident in Starbucks' long-term success," they concluded.
But is that enough to win customers back?
Diane Cantave, an activist with Long Island Jobs for Justice who helped unionize seven Starbucks locations on Long Island, including two in Hempstead – the most populated town in the country, isn't so sure.
She believes that if Starbucks were to treat their workers fairly and stop creating a name for themselves that is synonymous with illegal labor practices, maybe more customers would be willing to support their business.
'I'm going to bill you for my time,' blasts Walmart shoppers over long lines and do-it-yourself bagging self-checkout | 3V98ZFG | 2024-05-12 17:08:01
WALMART shoppers are struggling to stay loyal to the store amid growing frustrations with self-checkout.
Airing out on social media, customers say they say they're sick of bagging their own groceries and dealing with long lines.
'I'm going to bill you for my time,' blasts Walmart shoppers over long lines and do-it-yourself bagging self-checkoutSome Walmart shoppers say they feel like they're working for the store when they use self-checkoutGetty
'I'm going to bill you for my time,' blasts Walmart shoppers over long lines and do-it-yourself bagging self-checkoutWalmart has implemented a series of changes to its checkout policies in an effort to curb theftGetty
In an effort to cut back and curb theft in the wake of financial struggles, Walmart is revising its self-checkout policies.
But customers are still consistently frustrated over the same issues.
"I am still waiting on my paycheck for working there every single time I have to use self-checkout," said one customer on X, the website formerly known as Twitter.
It's common for Walmart customers to say they feel like they're working for the retailer when using the kiosks.
With 77 grocery items, I had to bag my own stuff at self checkout," one user recalled after saying they waited 20 minutes for an associate to unhook a television they were buying due to the store's anti-theft policies.
"I am going to start to bill you for my time if you can't solve for these service issues," they continued.
Walmart responded back with a post, imploring the user to provide more details on the shopping experience the retailer said it "does not want" for the customer.
But stories vary from store to store, with one user saying their local Walmart "regularly forces [them] to use self checkout due to zero cashiers."
They described their self-checkout process as "soooo slow" because they "try to show everything clear on the cameras to avoid false accusations" of stealing.
"The lack of any human cashiers is why I don't shop at Walmart anymore," another user responded to them.
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Meanwhile, another X user said their local Walmart has "no human cashiers and the self-checkout line is ALWAYS long as f**k!"
"Please hire more cashiers," pled one user in response.
Walmart has shuttered self-checkout in some locations to prevent theft, and Target has reportedly followed suit at some locations.
Meanwhile, some users say their local Walmart is still open but with a limit of 20 items.
The U.S. Sun reached out to Walmart in a request for comment.
'It's a great opportunity for customers,' says Whole Foods CEO as he announces plans to open 30 new stores | 3V98ZFG | 2024-05-12 17:08:01
WHOLE Foods has confirmed plans to largely expand its operational footprint as it makes the most of new technology and processes.
CEO Jason Buechel who has been at the helm for a year and a half has announced hopes for the 30 new Whole Foods stores.
'It's a great opportunity for customers,' says Whole Foods CEO as he announces plans to open 30 new storesWHOLE FOODSWhole Foods CEO Jason Buechel has spoken out about his pride surrounding the retailer's growth while announcing plans to add 30 stores annually to its portfolio[/caption]
'It's a great opportunity for customers,' says Whole Foods CEO as he announces plans to open 30 new storesGettyWhole Foods will continue to grow its operational footprint while introducing new store formats for those who are 'on-the-go'[/caption]
Not only that, but he hopes to see this level of expansion year on year.
"Everything from my perspective is going great," Buechel told Yahoo Finance at a conference in Califonia.
The CEO detailed how the Texas-based chain launched its 10-year vision for the company at the beginning of 2024 in which it vowed to "grow with purpose."
Buechel explained that the company would be focusing on "expanding our reach" and "serving our customers in more ways."
As well as this, the team behind the retail giant will be looking at how they can continue to serve customers while also helping the planet which the CEO said is its "higher purpose."
While discussing goals to expand, Buechel noted that the growth of Whole Foods is something he is "really proud of."
He detailed how the chain has gone from single-digit store growth to now having a goal of opening "30 plus stores a year."
In addition to this Whole Foods currently has 75 stores in development.
But talking of his annual increase of 30 or more stores, the CEO proudly acknowledged, "That's expansive growth that we have taken on."
"We are really excited about it because we've got a lot of customer interest a lot of communities that are looking for us to bring stores and I'm excited because we're going to be bringing new formats as well."
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Buechel detailed how a new version of a Whole Foods store will first be arriving in Manhattan.
The retailer announced in March that it will launch Whole Foods Market Daily Shop which is a smaller version of the usual store.
"This will allow us to open stores where we can't fit another full physical whole foods market store," Buechel said.
"This will be an opportunity for us to serve customers in a new way and I think this will be a great opportunity, especially for fill-in shops for customers."
Explaining the new format, Buechel said that larger shops may be completed once a week at an original Whole Foods store.
Then, during the week for smaller items such as milk or bread, or items on the go, the new Market Daily Shop will come in.
Regular Whole Foods customers will soon be noticing more changes that will benefit them including "seamless checkout" and lower prices.
Buechel highlighted how the cost of inflation has been "on the minds of many customers" and that as a result, the retailer has been working with its suppliers to try to limit the impact.
However, the "reality is inflation has been real," he said though Whole Foods has tried to minimize it for customers by increasing promotions.
Arsenal put seven players up for sale ahead of summer transfer window | 24F596N | 2024-05-12 16:08:01
Mikel Arteta is set to be backed with a significant transfer budget this summer (AFP via Getty)
Arsenal are ready to listen to offers for seven players this summer, according to reports.
Mikel Arteta is set to be backed by Arsenal's hierarchy with another significant transfer budget this summer as the Gunners look to cement their place as one of the Premier League's frontrunners.
According to the Sunday Mirror, Jesus is not among the players who Arsenal are looking to sell but the club are open to offers for Aaron Ramsdale, Eddie Nketiah, Emile Smith Rowe, Reiss Nelson Kieran Tierney, Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga.
The report adds that Arsenal will also 'evaluate the future' of Thomas Partey, who will have just a year remaining on his contract this summer.
Arsenal are open to offers for Emile Smith Rowe (Getty)
Smith Rowe has previously attracted interest from Aston Villa, with Arsenal turning down a bid in the region of £30m for the midfielder in 2021.
The 23-year-old still has two years remaining on his contract, while he has been restricted to just three starts in the Premier League this season.
Ramsdale has also struggled for playing time following Arteta's decision to sign David Raya from Brentford last summer.
Arsenal are expected to make the Spaniard's loan deal permanent for £27m at the end of the season and Ramsdale has already indicated that he needs to be playing regular football.
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Earlier this week, Tierney made it clear that he expects to leave Arsenal this summer following his loan spell with Real Sociedad this season.
'There is every chance,' Tierney told The Athletic. 'Look at the squad depth in that position now.
'They have [Oleksandr] Zinchenko, [Jurrien] Timber, [Takehiro] Tomiyasu, [Jakub] Kiwior. Four players can play there. So if I go back and it's the same as before then I'm not silly, I know the chances are I'll be leaving.
'But you never know in football. You get the rare case with [William] Saliba, where he came back after a couple of good seasons [out on loan] but you don't see it too often with someone who has played for four years, left, and then come back to play again.'
Bukayo Saka makes surprise Old Trafford admission ahead of Manchester United clash | 24F596N | 2024-05-12 16:08:01
Bukayo Saka has enjoyed another stellar season for Arsenal (Picture: Getty)
Bukayo Saka has revealed Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium is his favourite ground to play at.
Arsenal face the Red Devils on Sunday knowing only a win will do if they are to retain even an outside chance of ending their 20-year wait for the Premier League title.
The Theatre of Dreams has been anything but a happy hunting ground for the north London club in recent years with their only win since 2006 coming four years ago when no fans were in attendance.
Saka does, at least, have some fond memories of United's home having registered an assist during a breakthrough performance when Unai Emery was still in charge.
The 22-year-old also scored against United in last season's 3-1 defeat while he registered his first England hat-trick at the same venue in last year's thrashing of North Macedonia.
'Growing up watching football, because I love football, I've been watching football for years,' the Arsenal winger told Sky Sports.
'The special nights you've seen in the Preimer League and in the Champions League at Old Trafford. It was nice to be on the pitch and to play.
Bukayo Saka scored Arsenal's opening goal in last weekend's 3-0 win over Bournemouth (Picture: Getty)
'I've played there a few times now and it's definitely my favourite stadium to play in.'
Despite his relatively tender age, Saka currently ranks as one of the more experienced players in Mikel Arteta's emerging young team.
The Arsenal manager has relied heavily on the Hale End Academy graduate again this term, but Saka is more than comfortable with accepting extra responsiblity.
'It's just the hunger to win that keeps me going,' he told Arsenal's official website. 'That's why I keep getting up. It's part of it.
'I feel like I'm physically much stronger than I was four or five years ago. I've got more experience now, in terms of knowing which tackles to go through and which ones to jump. I try to avoid the big tackles, so I think I'm much smarter now as well as being more physical.
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'I'm just trying to play the game, do what the game takes. If I stay on the floor then it can disrupt the momentum we've built up in the team, so I just try to get on with it.
'Yes, he told me that the elite players all do that, so if I want to be at that level too then I need to be ready to play that many games.
'I need to try and help my team in all of those games too. It's big numbers, but it's achievable. You see the best players in the world doing it, so I believe I can do it as well.'
The Portugal international wore protective strapping on his right hand during United's 1-1 draw with Burnley at Old Trafford on April 27 and has now missed two Premier League games in a row due to the issue.
'In the last moment Bruno couldn't make it,' Ten Hag said prior to kick off.
Asked if he expected Fernandes to play, Ten Hag replied: 'Actually, yeah.
'The last days we trained with Rashy but he didn't make it yesterday, Bruno trained for two days but he was not far enough to recover from his injury to get back into the team.'
Rashford suffered a knock in United's win over Coventry City in the FA Cup semi final on April 21 and has now missed the following four league matches for Ten Hag's side.
Ten Hag has made three changes from the loss at Crystal Palace with Amad Diallo, Sofyan Amrabat and Scott McTominay handed starts, while Christian Eriksen and Antony drop to the bench. Mason Mount misses out altogether due to injury.
Jurrien Timber travelled with the matchday squad but has not made the bench as he awaits his return from an ACL injury which has kept him sidelined since last August.
A win for Arsenal at Old Trafford would put them back at the top of the Premier League, one point clear of Manchester City who will have a game in hand.
United will remain eighth in the Premier League even if they beat Arsenal but will be level on points with both Newcastle United and Chelsea.
Ten Hag is under a lot of pressure as Red Devils boss and there is plenty of doubt over whether he will hold onto his job at the end of the campaign.
Manchester United sit eighth in the Premier League table after a 4-0 thrashing at Crystal Palace last time out and have a tough test against Arsenal on Sunday, with the Gunners needing a win to return to the top of the table.
Arteta is very firmly safe in his job at the Emirates, and asked about Ten Hag's future he hopes that the Dutchman avoids the sack, rating him highly as a coach from his time at Ajax and now in England.
'I can only talk about what I think about him as a coach. He's an excellent coach. I admire his teams, both Ajax and United,' Arteta said of Ten Hag.
'I know what he's trying to do, I know how he does it, I know how difficult it is to prepare against him, so I have huge respect for him.
'Hopefully, yes, he gets the time because we are colleagues and we know how difficult it is in this league and what the margins are and yeah, hopefully that's the case because I think he is an excellent coach.
Erik ten Hag will aim to ruin Arteta's title push on Sunday (Picture: Getty Images)
'If you want to win the Premier League and big trophies, you have to go to these grounds and impose yourself and beat them. That's the journey we are on and that's for sure what we are going to try to do on Sunday.'
Ten Hag has consistently defended his questionable record at Manchester United, pointing to the huge amount of injuries the squad has suffered over the campaign.
Asked if he is concerned about his future, he said: 'No. The [owners] have common sense.
'You see when we have 32 different back lines, we've used 13 partnerships in centre half, when they see we don't have a left back, they know that will have a negative impact on results.
'It's a huge FA Cup final [coming up against Manchester City]. We are happy to be there. It can be a highlight for this season. We know the reasons we are underperforming is because of the injuries. No team will perform when you have so many injuries in key areas.'
Cole Palmer disagrees with huge claim about him from Chelsea teammate Reece James | 24F596N | 2024-05-12 16:08:01
Cole Palmer's incredible debut season at Chelsea continues (Picture: Getty Images)
Reece James believes Cole Palmer is already one of the best players in the world, but the young superstar is not so sure about that just yet.
The Blues won a memorable game at Nottingham Forest on Saturday afternoon, taking an early lead, then falling behind but bouncing back to win 3-2 at the City Ground.
Palmer did not get on the scoresheet, but he did provide a brilliant assist for Mykhailo Mudryk's opener.
James also provided an assist as he came off the bench to make his first Premier League appearance since December, finally recovered from a hamstring injury.
The full-back was thrilled to be back in the action and had a special word for Palmer who is enjoying a stunning first season with Chelsea, netting 21 Premier League goals.
'It's been a long wait for me so I'm happy to come back into the team,' James told Sky Sports. 'We learn every day, we're still young but we are improving and we're coming strong at the end of the season.
'Cole Palmer is one of the best in the world, I think personally. At [Manchester] City he didn't play as much as he would like but he has come here and taken the chance with both hands.
Reece James was finally back in action for Chelsea at Nottingham Forest (Picture: Getty Images)
'Slowly but surely we are finding our feet and reaching a level.'
Presented with quite a hefty claim about his talents, Palmer wasn't convinced, saying: 'I wouldn't go that far! But it's nice to hear.
'It's all new to me. This is my first season playing properly in the league. It was a very important win and now we focus on the next one.'
The victory in Nottingham leaves Chelsea seventh, but only behind Newcastle in sixth on goal difference as their push for European football gathers pace thanks to three wins on the spin.
On their late bid for a Europa League spot, manager Mauricio Pochettino said: 'I hope yes, but there are still two big games.'
Liverpool can put Aston Villa's Champions League qualification party on hold | 24F596N | 2024-05-12 16:08:01
Unai Emery has to make sure Villa get over the final hurdle (Picture: Getty Images)
Aston Villa faltered when the chance to win the Europa Conference League was in touching distance, now they have to hold their nerve with a place in next season's Champions League within their grasp.
Victory at home to Liverpool in the last Monday Night Football match of the season will guarantee Villa finish fourth in the Premier League, punching their ticket to European football's top club tournament.
But two crushing defeats to Olympiakos in the Conference League semi-finals show Unai Emery's side have some way to go before they can consider themselves to be ranked among the best.
They aren't finishing the season strongly as they were beaten at Brighton between the defeats to the Greek giants and playing in front of the Holte End is not the massive bonus it was earlier in the season when they won 15 times on home soil as they have triumphed in just three of their last eight top-flight games at Villa Park.
Micky van de Ven's late winner against Burnley means Tottenham can still steal fourth place and a final day excursion to Crystal Palace isn't as easy as it may have appeared before the Eagles hammered Manchester United and won convincingly at Wolves.
Villa may well get the job done but it will probably be because Spurs, who go to basement club Sheffield United on the final day, fall to Manchester City on Tuesday – although that's not a gimme as they have a great recent record against the defending champions, particularly in N17.
Liverpool are also ending the season on a low note having fallen out of the title race at the last fence, ironically with the Grand National at Aintree still fresh in the memory.
Jurgen Klopp's tenure as Liverpool manager is nearly over (Picture: Visionhaus/Getty Images)
This will be Jurgen Klopp's last away game as their manager and he may have to settle for a point in what promises to be an entertaining affair. A share of the spoils is 15/4 with bet365 and a 2-2 draw is 12/1 with the same firm.
Ollie Watkins is 15/8 to score at any time for Villa while Liverpool's Louis Diaz is 5/2 with Sky Bet to hit the net.
• Naomi Osaka is 10/11 with bet365 to beat Qinwen Zhang in the women's singles in Rome, stick her in a double with Coco Gauff to defeat Paula Badosa by over 3.5 games at the same price with the same firm.
• Stefanos Tsitsipas can advance in Rome by beating Britain's Cameron Norrie in straight sets at 3/4 with William Hill while Felix Auger-Aliassime is 7/5 with Betway to defeat Alex de Minaur.
Owen Hargreaves issues warning to Chelsea if they miss out on two transfers | 24F596N | 2024-05-12 16:08:01
Nicolas Jackson scored his 14th Premier League goal of the season to seal Chelsea's 3-2 win over Nottingham Forest (Getty)
Owen Hargreaves has warned Chelsea they face another 'tricky season' if they fail to sign a new goalkeeper and striker this summer.
Mauricio Pochettino's side made it three consecutive wins in the Premier League for the first time this season with their 3-2 victory over Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
Nicolas Jackson scored his 14th goal in the Premier League this term to secure the three points for Chelsea as he got on the end of an excellent cross from Reece James, who made his first appearance since December.
Hargreaves also feels Chelsea will need to upgrade for Robert Sanchez and Djordje Petrovic, who has started every Premier League game for Pochettino's side since December 10.
'They're probably delighted to get Reece James back,' Hargreaves told Premier League Productions after Chelsea's win over Forest.
'He's such a talented player, probably could be one of the best right-backs in the world but they've got to find a way to keep him fit.
Owen Hargreaves believes Chelsea need to sign an upgrade for goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic (Getty)
'I think if they can work on finding a centre-forward in the summer, sort out the goalkeeping position, they've got some amazing young talents there, it would be really interesting to see what Chelsea do next season because I honestly don't have a clue how they're going to play.
'Don't spend money – just get a goalkeeper, get a striker.
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'Find some leaders within the group, they're almost all at the same age, at the same point in their career, I don't think that's a good thing.
'I think when you're a team and you're young and you're struggling, you need reference points. You need leaders and I don't think they have that outside Thiago Silva.
'Right now they're in great form, that's good but I think they could have another tricky season next season if they don't address key positions.'
Chelsea must sign 'big name' up front to support Nicolas Jackson, says Alan Shearer | 24F596N | 2024-05-12 16:08:01
Nicolas Jackson scored an 82nd-minute winner for Chelsea against Nottingham Forest (Picture: Getty)
Alan Shearer says Nicolas Jackson is not ready to be a guaranteed starter for Chelsea and believes the club need to sign a 'big name' up front in the summer transfer window.
Jackson struck late on as Chelsea overcame Nottingham Forest in an entertaining 3-2 victory on Saturday, with Mykhailo Mudryk and Raheem Sterling also on the scoresheet at the City Ground.
The Blues' last away win in the Premier League came way back on February 12, when Mauricio Pochettino's men beat Crystal Palace 3-1 in an all-London affair at Selhurst Park.
Jackson's 82nd-minute winner took his goal tally to 14 in what has been a mixed debut season for the forward in the English top flight following a £32million transfer move from Villarreal last summer.
The Senegal international has shown glimpses of his undoubted quality across the campaign and Shearer – the Premier League's all-time record goalscorer – feels Chelsea have a player with 'big potential'.
However, the legendary ex-Newcastle, Blackburn and England striker believes Jackson will benefit in the long-term if Chelsea bring in a No.9 with proven pedigree ahead of next season.
'I think his performance summed up his season. Some really good bits and some poor bits,' Shearer said on Match of the Day.
Shearer believes Chelsea need to sign a 'big name' in attack (Picture: Getty)
'He's definitely raw but there is big potential there. He's good at running with the ball, his runs in behind are really intelligent but little things like this [misplacing a pass in the final third], making simple decisions, when and how to pass that ball.
'Sometimes the easiest ones are the most difficult ones to do.
'It's that final thing where he's got to brush up on and get in behind.'
Jackson has scored 14 league goals in his debut season with the Blues (Picture: Getty)
Shearer added: 'He's 22 years of age, 29 starts, 14 goals… I think that's a decent return.
'It's been a little unfair on him at times because he needed to be left out but couldn't because of the lack of numbers in that squad.
'He'll learn, get better, they will bring someone in, I'm sure.'
Pochettino's side picked up their first away victory since February 12 (Picture: Getty)
Asked whether Chelsea need to sign another No.9, Shearer replied: 'Yeah they do need another No.9 because he's not ready to be a regular there.
'He's had to put up with that this season and that's why we're picking up little bits on him where his game can improve.
'But another No.9 in there, a big name that he can work alongside and work with, he'll get better. I'm sure of it.
The Senegal striker completed a £32m switch from Villarreal to Stamford Bridge (Picture: Getty)
Chris Waddle was in agreement with Shearer as he rated Jackson's performance on BBC Radio 5 Live, arguing that Chelsea must sign a goalscorer if they are to be in the mix for the top four next season.
Chelsea have got ability and some very good players,' Waddle said after the side's defeat of Forest.
'There is a lot of players you can build around next season, but they definitely need a goal scorer.
Ange Postecoglou sends message to Man City as Arsenal hope for huge title favour
Manchester United vs Arsenal: Confirmed line ups and team news
Gary Neville says Arsenal star 'can't run either' as he defends Casemiro
David Wagner provides Josh Sargent injury update after Norwich's draw with Leeds | 24F596N | 2024-05-12 16:08:01
Norwich ace Josh Sargent came off with an ankle injury in the 84th minute at Carrow Road (Picture: Getty)
David Wagner has confirmed Josh Sargent was forced off with an ankle injury in Norwich's goalless draw with Leeds, but expects the forward to be available for the second leg of the sides' Championship play-off semi-final.
Neither team managed to make the breakthrough in what was a cagey first leg at Carrow Road, leaving the tie evenly poised ahead of Thursday's meeting at Elland Road.
Sargent, Norwich's top scorer with 16 goals this season, hobbled off the field after picking up an ankle problem in the 84th minute, with Sydney van Hooijdonk coming on in place of the United States international.
Given Sargent's importance throughout the campaign, the Canaries will no doubt be desperate to have the American back to full fitness in time for their trip to West Yorkshire.
Asked for an update on Sargent's injury, Norwich boss Wagner told the club's official website: 'He was not able to carry on, obviously.
'I think he has some problems with the ankle. I haven't spoken with him or with the medical department.
'But he's a tough guy and I'm sure he will be ready for Thursday in a very, very big game.'
The United States international was replaced by Van Hooijdonk (Picture: Getty)
Wagner was 'absolutely satisfied' with the performance his players put in and looking forward to a 'great occasion' when the teams resume their battle on Thursday night.
'It was a very intense game, quite even. I think the guys have done fantastic, they put a proper shift in, both teams neutralised each other a little bit. There were not a lot of clear-cut chances,' he added.
'So at half-time, 0-0, we're fully in the game, I'm absolutely satisfied with how the guys defended, work their socks off.
'We keep going, we keep pushing, we prepare for Thursday. It's going to be a great occasion.'
Wagner was 'absolutely satisfied' with Norwich's showing (Picture: Getty)
Leeds head coach Daniel Farke was similarly pleased with his team's display and felt they controlled the contest for long periods of the second half.
'I'm happy with the performance and happy also with the result,' Farke told reporters at his post-match press conference.
'Obviously the last games in the regular season were not that great in terms of results and also we've conceded too many goals after many clean sheets across the season, especially in the away games we've conceded too many goals and wanted to be rock solid here today. We didn't allow them to have one chance.
'Norwich is a big threat from set pieces. We allowed a few but we dealt with them quite well.
'It was a really, really good effort from my lads and the longer the game went, the more control we had over the game so we gained more and more confidence and control, especially in the second half we put lots of pressure on them.
