According to sources, Joao Pedro felt his thigh a few days prior to the match, leading to uncertainty regarding his availability. Liam Rosenior, Chelsea’s manager, indicated that Pedro was ‘touch and go’ for the fixture, expressing hope that he would return in time for the next match against Brighton. This absence was particularly notable as Pedro has emerged as Chelsea’s top scorer this season, netting 19 goals across all competitions.

In light of Pedro’s injury, Liam Delap took his place in the starting line-up—a decision that emphasized the tactical adjustments required by Rosenior. Delap’s style contrasts with that of Pedro; as Rosenior noted, ‘Liam likes to stretch and run behind, Joao likes to play to feet.’ This difference in playing style could have implications on how Chelsea approached their offensive strategy against United.

Prior to this encounter, Chelsea had suffered three consecutive losses in the Premier League, which added further pressure on the team to perform without one of their key players. The stakes were high; fans were eager for a turnaround after disappointing results.

Enzo Fernandez returned to the starting lineup after missing two matches, which may have provided a boost in midfield. Nonetheless, without Pedro’s character and drive—qualities that Rosenior acknowledged were sorely missed—the team’s dynamics were evidently altered.

The current state of affairs leaves Chelsea in a precarious position as they navigate through this challenging period. While the immediate focus is on recovering from their recent defeats and adapting without Pedro, there is also anticipation regarding his potential return.

Looking ahead, should Joao Pedro regain fitness for the upcoming match against Brighton on Tuesday, it could significantly bolster Chelsea’s chances of securing much-needed points. However, until then, details remain unconfirmed about his condition and readiness.

The post Joao Pedro’s Absence Impacts Chelsea Against Manchester United appeared first on DG News Sport.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but the focus quickly shifted to Holtby’s condition. Fans and commentators alike expressed their shock at the incident, with one fan on X questioning, “Should footballers maybe start wearing shin guards again? With those mini pieces these days, you get this…” Another fan humorously remarked, “Exactly the reason why shin pads are supposed to be bigger than a two-finger Kit Kat.”

Despite the severity of the injury, Holtby took to social media to reassure supporters, stating, “Some stitches, Eis… will be back in no time. Thanks for the messages.” His positive outlook is a testament to his resilience, as he has previously played for notable clubs including Tottenham, Fulham, and Blackburn.

Holtby, now 35 years old, joined NAC Breda in 2025 and has made a significant impact in the Eredivisie. His experience includes three caps with the German national team and a total of 35 appearances in the Premier League, where he registered two goals and five assists.

In the aftermath of the incident, Justin Hubner, the player involved in the foul that led to Holtby’s injury, expressed his regret, saying, “My friend I hope ur leg is ok it was never my intention to hit you like that hopefully you be back soon.” This sentiment reflects the camaraderie often seen in the sport, even amidst competitive rivalries.

As Holtby recovers, observers are keenly watching his progress. If he heals quickly, he may be fit to face Ajax in just two weeks, a crucial match for NAC Breda as they strive to improve their standing in the league, currently two points behind Excelsior.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of Holtby’s injury, but the football community is rallying around him, hoping for a swift return to the pitch.

The post Lewis Holtby Suffers Injury During Match Against Fortuna Sittard appeared first on DG News Sport.

As production on the highly anticipated new Tomb Raider series commenced in January 2026, excitement was palpable among fans eager to see Sophie Turner take on the iconic role of Lara Croft. However, just a few months into filming, an unexpected development has led to a temporary halt in production.

On March 30, 2026, it was reported that Turner suffered a minor injury, prompting a pause to allow her time to recover. A spokesperson for Amazon MGM Studios expressed optimism, stating, “We look forward to resuming production as soon as possible.” This sentiment was echoed by a representative for Prime Video, who confirmed that the decision to pause was made as a precautionary measure.

Turner, who is known for her portrayal of Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, has been undergoing rigorous training for her role in Tomb Raider. Since February of the previous year, she has committed to an intense regimen of eight hours of training per day, five days a week. This dedication reflects her eagerness to embody a character that is far removed from her previous roles.

Unfortunately, during this training, Turner discovered a pre-existing back problem that has now been aggravated. Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether the injury occurred while filming or during training sessions. Nevertheless, the production team is prioritizing her health and recovery.

Despite the setback, Turner has expressed her enthusiasm for the role, stating, “It’s quite nice to learn how to throw a punch and not just take it.” She has also emphasized her desire to portray “nuanced, layered characters,” hinting at the depth she aims to bring to Lara Croft.

The new Tomb Raider series, which is being developed by acclaimed writer Phoebe Waller-Bridge, is expected to drop in 2027. However, the timeline for production resumption remains uncertain, as the team awaits Turner’s recovery.

As fans and industry insiders alike await further updates, the situation underscores the physical demands placed on actors in action roles. The commitment to safety and health in the film industry remains paramount, especially in high-stakes productions like this one.

With the series still in its early stages, the pause in production raises questions about potential delays in its release. For now, all eyes are on Turner as she navigates her recovery and prepares to bring Lara Croft to life on screen.

The post Sophie Turner Injured, Production on Tomb Raider Series Halted appeared first on DG News Sport.

On March 27, 2026, Aston Villa faced Elche in a friendly match at the Pinatar Arena Football Center, a crucial part of their preparations for the Europa League quarter-finals against Bologna. The match kicked off at 10:30 UTC, with Villa aiming to maintain momentum ahead of a busy schedule.

However, the game took a concerning turn when Jadon Sancho suffered a shoulder injury in the 40th minute. Reports indicate that he landed awkwardly after a challenge, prompting immediate concern from the coaching staff and fans alike. Sancho, who has been on loan at Aston Villa from Manchester United, has been working to rebuild his career after a challenging stint at Old Trafford.

Sancho was replaced by Ollie Watkins shortly after the injury, as Villa’s management sought to minimize any further risk to their players. The timing of this setback is particularly unfortunate for Sancho, who has made 19 appearances in the Premier League this season, contributing two assists and scoring once in European competition against Fenerbahce.

With only 13 days left to recover before the first leg against Bologna, the pressure is on for Sancho to regain fitness. His contract with Manchester United is set to expire at the end of the season, adding further stakes to his performance and health.

Aston Villa’s starting lineup against Elche included notable players such as Bizot, Garcia, and Mings, all of whom played significant roles in the match. Despite the injury, the game served a purpose in keeping many players up to speed and providing others with much-needed game time ahead of a hectic period.

As the team looks ahead, the focus will be on Sancho’s recovery and the implications of his injury for Villa’s upcoming fixtures. The club will need to navigate this challenge carefully as they aim to advance in the Europa League.

The situation remains fluid, and details about the severity of Sancho’s injury are still emerging. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this impacts Aston Villa’s strategy moving forward.

The post Elche: Aston Villa vs : Jadon Sancho’s Injury Overshadows Friendly Match appeared first on DG News Sport.

As the England national team prepares for their upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, a significant development has emerged regarding player availability. Just days before the matches, Eberechi Eze has been ruled out due to a calf injury.

On March 22, 2026, it was confirmed that Eze, who is 27 years old, will not participate in the friendlies scheduled for March 27 and March 31. Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, stated, “No. He’s out. We have to do another scan in six or seven days and wait and see the results. It is his calf.” This injury follows Eze’s absence from the Carabao Cup final, where he was also sidelined due to a lower leg injury.

In light of Eze’s injury, Harvey Barnes, aged 28, has been called up to replace him in the squad. Barnes has had an impressive season with Newcastle United, scoring 14 goals across all competitions and missing only one Premier League game this season. His last appearance in an England squad was in October 2020, when he earned his only cap in a friendly against Wales.

Barnes’s inclusion comes at a crucial time as England looks to solidify their squad ahead of the international fixtures. The team will face Uruguay on March 27 and Japan on March 31, both of which are vital for team cohesion and preparation for future competitions.

The decision to replace Eze with Barnes highlights the depth of talent available to the England national team. While Eze’s absence is a setback, Barnes’s current form and experience could provide the necessary boost for the squad.

As the days progress, the focus will remain on Eze’s recovery and the results of his upcoming scan. The England coaching staff will be monitoring the situation closely, hoping for a swift return to fitness for the talented midfielder.

In summary, the injury to Eberechi Eze not only affects his immediate participation but also opens the door for Harvey Barnes to showcase his abilities on the international stage once again. The upcoming friendlies will be an opportunity for Barnes to make an impact and potentially secure his place in future squads.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of Eze’s injury and his timeline for recovery, but the situation will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.

The post Eze: Eberechi Injury Update and Replacement in England Squad appeared first on DG News Sport.

Tottenham Hotspur has been grappling with a series of injuries that have significantly impacted their squad depth this season. With key players sidelined, the team has struggled to maintain its competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions. The absence of 11 players during the recent Champions League match against Atletico Madrid highlighted the severity of the situation, leaving the coaching staff to navigate a challenging landscape.

Among the injured players is Dominic Solanke, who was unable to participate in the crucial Champions League fixture due to a hip injury. This setback comes at a time when Tottenham is already facing a daunting challenge, with a total of 13 players unavailable ahead of their upcoming Premier League game against Liverpool. Solanke’s absence was felt keenly, as he has been a pivotal figure in the team’s attacking lineup.

Igor Tudor, Tottenham’s head coach, provided an update on Solanke’s condition, stating, “Unfortunately he has some problem with the hip. It is no big deal but he hasn’t made it for today but I think he will be good for Sunday.” This optimistic outlook suggests that while the injury is concerning, it is not deemed serious, and Solanke’s return is anticipated shortly.

Prior to the Champions League match, Solanke had trained with the team, indicating that he was close to a return. However, the decision to hold him back was made to ensure he does not aggravate the injury further. The coaching staff’s cautious approach reflects a broader strategy to manage player fitness amid a congested fixture schedule.

Looking ahead, the expected return date for Solanke is March 22, 2026, when Tottenham faces Nottingham Forest. His presence on the pitch could be a game-changer for the team, providing much-needed support in their quest for points in the Premier League. Observers are keenly watching how his return will influence Tottenham’s performance, particularly given the current injury crisis.

As the team prepares for the match against Nottingham Forest, the focus will be on integrating Solanke back into the squad effectively. His ability to contribute to the team’s attacking play will be crucial, especially as Tottenham seeks to regain momentum in the league. The coaching staff will likely monitor his fitness closely in the lead-up to the match to ensure he is fully prepared.

In summary, while Dominic Solanke’s absence has been felt during a critical phase of the season, the prognosis for his return is positive. With the support of the medical team and careful management of his recovery, fans and analysts alike are hopeful that he will be back in action soon, ready to help Tottenham navigate through their injury woes and reclaim their competitive stature.

The post Dominic Solanke Injury Update: Key Player Returns for Tottenham appeared first on DG News Sport.

Alvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid’s manager, stated that Mendy’s injury “does not look good” after the player suffered a hamstring injury during the Champions League match against Manchester City on March 12, 2026.

Mendy was substituted at halftime due to the injury, which has raised significant concerns for the club as they navigate a challenging season. Arbeloa noted, “I subbed off Mendy because he was carrying a knock and didn’t look good,” highlighting the immediate impact of the injury on the match.

Prior to this setback, Mendy had played a full 90 minutes in Real Madrid’s previous match against Celta Vigo on March 6, 2026, contributing to the team’s 3-0 victory. However, this season has been difficult for Mendy, who has been limited to just five appearances at club level due to ongoing fitness issues.

Fran Garcia replaced Mendy in the second half of the match against Manchester City, stepping in during a crucial moment for the team. Mendy’s injury is particularly concerning given that Real Madrid is already missing several key players due to various injuries.

Real Madrid will conduct medical tests on Mendy on March 13, 2026, to assess the severity of the injury and determine his availability for the second leg against Manchester City. This upcoming assessment will be critical for the team’s strategy moving forward.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of Mendy’s injury, but the club’s medical staff will work diligently to provide updates as soon as they are available. The outcome of these tests could have significant implications for Real Madrid’s campaign in both domestic and European competitions.

The post Ferland mendy suffers injury during match against Manchester City appeared first on DG News Sport.

Marc Bernal’s recent health issues have cast uncertainty over his participation in Newcastle United’s crucial Champions League last-16 tie against Barcelona, scheduled for March 10, 2026. The match will kick off at 8pm GMT at St James’ Park, where Newcastle aims to secure a vital result against a formidable opponent.

During a recent match at San Mamés, Bernal was substituted at half-time due to illness, having experienced stomach discomfort and vomiting prior to the game. This incident has raised alarms among fans and coaching staff alike, particularly given Bernal’s impressive form, having scored four goals in six matches leading up to the encounter.

The coaching staff, including head coach Eddie Howe, remain cautiously optimistic about Bernal’s availability for the upcoming fixture. An unnamed source confirmed that the issue was not muscular, suggesting that Bernal should be okay for the match against Barcelona.

Newcastle United is looking to bounce back after being eliminated by Atlético de Madrid in the Copa del Rey semifinals. The team is under pressure to perform well in the Champions League, especially with Barcelona currently sitting atop La Liga after four consecutive wins.

Bernal traveled with the squad to Newcastle and will be closely monitored by medical staff leading up to the match. His presence is deemed crucial, as the midfield battle is expected to be decisive in determining the outcome of the game.

Coverage of the match is set to begin at 6.55pm GMT on Amazon Prime Video, with fans eager to see how the team adapts in light of Bernal’s health situation.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding Bernal’s final availability for the match, as further medical checks and training sessions will dictate his participation. The extent of Bernal’s illness and its impact on his performance is not fully confirmed, leaving fans and teammates in anticipation.

The post Marc Bernal’s Health Concerns Ahead of Champions League Clash appeared first on DG News Sport.

As West Ham prepares for their crucial FA Cup fifth-round clash against Brentford on March 9, 2026, the status of player Pablo remains uncertain. The team is currently facing relegation issues in the Premier League, making this match even more significant.

Pablo has been sidelined for the last six matches due to a calf injury, which has raised concerns about his availability for the upcoming game. Since joining West Ham in January, he has yet to score, adding pressure on his return to the pitch.

Day-by-Day Assessment

West Ham’s coach, Nuno Espirito Santo, has indicated that they are assessing Pablo’s condition day by day. “We’re still assessing him day by day. He’s improving a lot, so we’ll keep assessing him, and see how it goes,” he stated, providing a glimmer of hope for fans and teammates alike.

Despite his ongoing recovery, it is likely that Pablo will return to the bench for the match against Brentford. His presence, even as a substitute, could provide a much-needed boost to the team as they aim for a place in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

Current State and Implications

As of now, Pablo’s exact return date remains unclear, and details remain unconfirmed. The team is in a precarious position, and his absence could impact their performance in both the FA Cup and the Premier League.

With the stakes high, West Ham is looking to capitalize on any advantage they can muster. The outcome of the match against Brentford could be pivotal for the club’s aspirations this season, making Pablo’s potential return a key factor in their strategy.

The post Pablo’s Injury Status Ahead of West Ham’s FA Cup Clash appeared first on DG News Sport.

Callum McGregor was absent from Celtic’s Scottish Cup clash against Rangers on March 8, 2026, due to a calf injury. His absence was felt deeply as he was not only missing from the starting line-up but also from the bench for this crucial derby match.

Manager Martin O’Neill confirmed that McGregor was feeling sore after the previous match against Aberdeen, which likely contributed to his inability to recover in time for the cup tie. “He was feeling pretty sore by the end of the Aberdeen game and he’s just not recovered in time,” O’Neill stated.

McGregor’s injury alters the balance of Celtic’s midfield, a significant concern for the team as they faced their fierce rivals. In his absence, Liam Scales took over the captain’s armband, highlighting the leadership void left by McGregor.

Compounding the situation, Kieran Tierney was also sidelined due to a foot injury sustained in the same match against Aberdeen. Additionally, goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel missed the game as he was recovering from an injection.

Historically, McGregor has been a nearly constant presence on the pitch for Celtic, and his absence is particularly poignant given that he missed several matches late last season due to a similar calf complaint, including a derby during that period.

O’Neill expressed the impact of McGregor’s absence, saying, “It’s a big blow. It’s a blow to us. He’s the captain in every aspect of it, both a leader in the dressing room and on the field. He’ll be a big miss for us.” This sentiment underscores the critical role McGregor plays within the team.

Reports suggest that McGregor’s current injury may be a recurrence of his previous calf issue, although the severity and duration of this latest setback remain unconfirmed. Emma Dodds noted, “We’re hearing it’s a recurrence of an injury he had last season, but we’re not yet aware whether or not it’ll be long-term.”

As Celtic navigates this challenging period, the focus will be on how they adapt without their captain and the potential timeline for McGregor’s return to the pitch.

The post Callum McGregor Misses Scottish Cup Clash Due to Injury appeared first on DG News Sport.