Chili's suddenly confirms it will close store doors giving less than two weeks' notice to loyal customers and workers | 1MND9K5 | 2024-04-30 17:08:01
A CHILI'S restaurant in Maine is set to permanently close in the coming days, leaving one location remaining in the state.
The popular chain's establishment in South Portland will shut for the last time on May 7.
Chili's suddenly confirms it will close store doors giving less than two weeks' notice to loyal customers and workersGoogle MapsA Chili's restaurant in South Portland, Maine, is to close in days[/caption]
News of the closure was confirmed by a manager weeks before the restaurant's set to shutter, per the ABC affiliate WMTW-TV.
It means staffers and customers were only given around two weeks notice regarding the closure.
There are only two Chili's restaurants in the state of Maine, according to its restaurant locator.
The other establishment is in Bangor – located more than 130 miles from the South Portland restaurant.
Chili's has six restaurants in New Hampshire – in Dover, Keene, Nashua, Salem, Seabrook, and West Lebanon.
The Chili's restaurant is located near the Maine Mall – a shopping center home to major retailers including Banana Republic, Macy's,Foot Locker, and J.Crew.
I'm a Taco Bell employee – the best option for more beans without breaking the bank all comes down to the green scooper | 1MND9K5 | 2024-04-30 17:08:01
A TACO Bell employee has revealed a crucial hack to customers that could let them get more beans for less.
The staffer noted that the menu secret wouldn't cost much money, but the bean benefit would be significant.
I'm a Taco Bell employee – the best option for more beans without breaking the bank all comes down to the green scooperAlamyAn employee at Taco Bell seemingly revealed a bean hack for customers[/caption]
They spilled the information after a request from a fan, who noted their love for Taco Bell's beans.
The customer wanted to know which specific order combination would allow for the most beans at the same relative purchase price.
"Taco Bell employees…which option would get me the most beans?" they asked in a thread on Reddit.
"No judgment, please…I just love their beans."
They also included a screenshot of their order.
It showed a Pintos N Cheese bowl along with a Bean Burrito with extra beans added.
The price for both were listed at $2.49 and $2.44, respectively.
An employee quickly replied that the customer had already selected the menu item with the opportunity for the most beans at Taco Bell.
It would be through the Bean Burrito and selecting extra beans.
The staffer claimed that beans are distributed to menu options at the fast food chain through two different scoops, a "green scoop" and a "red scoop."
<!--End ofBrightcovePlayer-->
Green scoops supposedly offer a standard amount of beans, while red is designated for smaller quantities.
In the Bean Burrito, according to the employee, there is typically one green scoop of beans.
With the extra beans selection, a red scoop is added.
They also confirmed that the Pinto N Cheese bowl comes with a green scoop of beans.
That means the customer would be getting a total of two green scoops and one red scoop of beans in their order.
The employee noted its the best option price-wise for the beans at a total of $4.93.
ANOTHER WAY?
Another suggested that the customer should instead opt for a Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito in their order, as it is "$1 less" in comparison to the Bean Burrito.
They'd get slightly less beans, as it only features one red scoop, but it would be cheaper, and they'd still get the complete green scoop in the Pinto N Cheese bowl.
"Your best bean/$ ratio though would probably be cheesy bean and rice burrito," the Taco Bell staffer wrote in a post.
"It gets one small scoop but it's $1 less."
"Need to do more math on it, but that's my theory so far," they added.
It would seemingly make more sense for the customer to add the Cheesy Bean and Rice Burrito for the extra $1, or leave it out altogether and stick with their original order.
They would have to decide if the extra $1 was worth the small red scoop of additional beans.
For more related content, check out The U.S. Sun's coverage of a Taco Bell employee's crucial reasoning as to why more customers should fill out the survey on receipts.
The U.S. Sun also has the story on the way customers can swap toppings at the chain for a "fresco" style, according to a staffer.
I trusted my gut and won $2million lottery – but next decision saw me walk away with less than half my jackpot | 1MND9K5 | 2024-04-30 17:08:01
A LOTTO player said he trusted his gut decision and ended up $2 million richer.
Donnie Leviner, from Laurinburg, North Carolina, by the state border with South Carolina, explained what led him to make his life-changing lottery purchase.
I trusted my gut and won $2million lottery – but next decision saw me walk away with less than half my jackpotNC LotteryDonnie Leviner won $2million from a scratch card game[/caption]
The 18-year-old purchased a $20 Big Cash Payout ticket on a whim, according to NC Education Lottery.
"Something just told me to buy it," he said.
The young man said he hadn't purchased many lotto tickets before this lucky win.
Leviner bought the ticket at Sneads Grove Convenience in Laurel Hill, an hour southwest of Fayetteville, North Carolina.
"I initially just went there to fill up the lawn mower," he said.
Leviner had matched the correct numbers on his scratch card ticket.
"I was in disbelief," Leviner said.
"I really didn't think it was true."
Leviner visited his state's lottery office to claim the money but an important decision meant he walked away with less than half of his jackpot prize.
Players are given the option between a lump sum or annuity payments, which are spread over 20 years.
<!--End ofBrightcovePlayer-->
These $100,000-a-year installments would total $2 million with rising interest rates.
Players can also select the lump-sum option, which is subject to fees and taxes.
Leviner opted for the one-time payment of $1.2 million but his take-home dropped to $858,006 after state and federal taxes.
The young man said he was unsure how he wanted to use his newfound wealth but would "spend it wisely."
I won $2million lottery thanks to random twist of fate – but I walked away with just over half after tough decision | 1MND9K5 | 2024-04-30 17:08:01
A LOTTO player explained how an out-of-the-ordinary decision for her led to a $2 million win.
An anonymous lottery player in Michigan said she won big on an instant win scratch card game.
I won $2million lottery thanks to random twist of fate – but I walked away with just over half after tough decisionMichigan LotteryA lottery player won $2 million from an instant win scratch card[/caption]
The 41-year-old, from Macomb County, north of Detriot, played the $2,000 Large Instant Game.
She purchased her ticket at Party Palace Liquor in Shelby Township, according to Michigan Lottery Connect.
The winner explained that she stopped to buy a lotto slip on her way to pick up pizza.
She also shared that the random twist of fate was that she was not the typical person in her household to purchase lottery tickets.
"My husband is usually the one who buys scratch off tickets, but I decided to stop and buy one on my way to pick up pizza," she said.
The player added that she instantly found out she had won a life-changing amount of cash.
"While I was waiting for my pizza, I sat in my car and scratched the ticket," she said.
"It was surreal when I realized I'd won $2 million."
The lucky player explained what she did next as soon as she found out the good news.
"I called my husband to tell him the big news because I was so excited.
<!--End ofBrightcovePlayer-->
"I couldn't wait until I got home!"
She later visited the state's lottery headquarters in Lansing to claim her money.
Players are given the option between a one-time payment or an annuity option that would spread out the installments across years.
The 41-year-old chose the one-time option but this wiped a large chunk of her winnings off after fees and taxes were taken.
Mark Lawrenson claims 'woke' BBC axed him for being '65 and white' | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
Mark Lawrenson featured on Football Focus for 25 years (Picture: Getty)
Mark Lawrenson has claimed that the 'woke' BBC axed him as a football pundit for being a 65-year-old white male.
The Liverpool legend featured on BBC show Football Focus for 25 years with his first appearance on Match of the Day coming even earlier.
Lawrenson, 66, last appeared on Football Focus at the end of the 2021-22 campaign before the BBC went 'top of the woke league'.
Two years on, Lawrenson has opened up about his exit from the BBC and has slammed the national broadcaster for how he and his fellow pundits were treated.
'I wasn't happy with the way they dealt with me, basically,' Lawrenson told The Ben Heath Podcast. 'I'd been there nearly 25 years, great, but I was just signing one-year contracts, season to season.'
Lawrenson added that he was 'really p***ed off' but 'kind of knew' what would happen because he was '65 and white'.
He then suggested that Steve Wright, Ken Bruce and Sue Barker had been treated similarly and insisted that the BBC was the most woke media outlet in the country.
The BBC have decided not to respond to Mark Lawrenson's claims (Picture: Getty)
Quizzed about the BBC's controversial decision to briefly suspend Gary Lineker in 2023 after he compared the Home Office's migrant boat policy to Nazi Germany, Lawrenson said: 'They're frightened to death.
'Absolutely, totally frightened to death. I think day by day the integrity of the corporation gets chipped off.
'It used to be absolutely fantastic, but they are woke plus 100 per cent.'
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Metro.co.uk approached the BBC for a response over Lawrenson's claims but they were not willing to make a comment.
Last month, Alan Shearer defended the BBC after Jeff Stelling blasted the broadcaster for a 'terrible production decision' on Match of the Day.
Stelling took issue with how Newcastle's 4-3 win over West Ham was covered, with pundits failing to properly analyse Kalvin Phillips' foul on Anthony Gordon, which led to a penalty and subsequent goal.
Betfred promo code – get £50 Betfred sign up offer here | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
(Picture: Acround Media/Metro)
New customers to Betfred are in for a treat. The bookmaker is offering new customers a fantastic welcome offer of £50 in bonuses when signing up and betting £10 using theBetfredpromo code WELCOME50. To learn more, the betting experts at Wisegambler.com have tried it out firsthand and provided everything you need to know below. Continue reading to discover the experts' thoughts, where to use it, how to sign up, and more.
T&Cs: New customers only. Register (excl. 13/04/24) with WELCOME50. First bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get Free Bets: £20 In-Play, £20 Acca & 50 x £0.20 (£10) Free Spins on Fishin' Frenzy within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply.
18+ Gambling Can Be Addictive. Please Play Responsibly. BeGambleAware GamStop Gambling Commission
DISCLAIMER: This article is provided by wisegambler.com, part of the Acroud group and all opinions are their own. All offers are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change without notice.
Where to use the Betfred Bonus Code?
New customers can use the Betfred bonus code at Betfred Sports and Betfred Casino platforms. Below, we have provided everything you need to know about these sites.
Betfred Sports platform is one of the most prominent bookmakers in the country, offering a variety of betting markets and regular promotions for its new and existing customers. Signing up with the bookmaker is quick and easy, as is navigating and using the site and mobile app. While it may provide a smooth and seamless experience, the interface is a little outdated compared to its competitors and could come across as boring. However, the rest of its great user-friendly features continue to attract customers to join and continue coming back.
Pros
✅ Well-established bookmaker.
✅ Lots of promotions for new and existing customers.
✅ A Mobile app is available to download on iOS and Android devices.
The Betfred Casino site is one of the most jam-packed platforms for those looking for a top online casino. Home to hundreds of games from top providers, including but not limited to Playtech, Microgaming, and IGT, Betfred casino players know they are spending their time at a worthwhile site. Like the sportsbook, it has frequent promotions for new and existing customers and an organised interface that makes finding what you want to play as easy as possible. A feature we noticed was that Betfred Casino does not offer 24-hour withdrawals, unlike some competitors which is something to be added in future.
Pros
✅ Top software providers.
✅ Huge variety of casino games.
✅ Good user-interface.
Cons
❌ No 24-hour withdrawals.
How to Use the Betfred Bonus Code
It is super easy to sign up and claim the Betfred promo code for new customers. To help you get started, we have provided a step-by-step guide below.
Enter your personal details, such as your name, address, date of birth, email address, and phone number.
Create a memorable username and password combination.
Sign in and enter the Betfred promo code WELCOME50 when prompted.
Make your first deposit of at least £10.
Place a first bet of £10 on any qualifying sports market at odds of Evens or greater (2.0+) at Betfred.
Wait for your qualifying wager to settle.
Receive your £50 in bonuses into your account shortly after.
Enjoy!
What did Wise Gambler Think of Betfred? – Our Betting Experience
Betfred, as a sports betting site, is one of the most user-friendly and experienced platforms to play on. Its site navigation is smooth, seamless, easy to grasp for beginners, and not too simple for experienced sports bettors. It has a great range of promotions for existing customers, ensuring their returned custom is valued and a great welcome offer for new sign-ups to continue attracting keen sports bettors. It has a good range of markets available, however, next to competitors, these could be expanded upon in the future to match what is available at other bookmakers. However, Betfred is still a reliable and reputable brand that, with consistent and continuous improvement, will always be one of the top.
✅ Established bookmaker and platform in the sports betting industry.
✅ Great range of different betting markets.
✅ Frequent promotions for new and existing customers are available.
✅ It is mobile-friendly via browser and on its exclusive mobile app.
Cons
❌ No 24-hour withdrawals are currently available.
❌ The platform's interface is slightly outdated.
Betfred Signup Offer: Terms and Conditions
New customers looking to claim the Betfred signup offer must be aware of the relevant terms and conditions relating to the offer, we have included details on these below.
Qualifying Bet
The first important T&C to look out for before signing up is the qualifying bet to be placed to be eligible for the Betfred promo code. This is often one of the first things listed to ensure customers see this prior to placing their bet, and it is vital to confirm before taking advantage of an offer. For example, to qualify for the Betfred UK offer, customers must place a minimum £10 bet on any sports market at odds of Evens or greater (2.0+).
Minimum odds
Minimum odds are often attached to a signup offer when placing your qualifying wager. You must meet these to place a qualifying bet and claim your £50 in bonuses from Betfred. These will be stated in the terms and conditions and look like the following: Place your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets at odds of Evens or greater (2.0+). You can receive your £50 worth of Betfred bonuses if you meet these requirements.
Bet Builders
Exclusive to Betfred is the bet builder functionality #PickYourPunt. It allows you to build your own bets and request a price for your selections. It is similar to an acca bet, except your bet is built up of selections from the same fixture, not multiple across various days. Just tweet Betfred using the hashtag, and they will respond with the odds. It is important to check the terms and conditions of bet builders and how to ensure you can claim your exclusive bet builder odds.
Opt In
In some instances, to claim a welcome bonus from a bookmaker, you will be required to 'opt in. ' This involves ticking a box to receive and benefit from the site's promotions and to confirm that you have read and accepted the relevant terms and conditions. Once you have opted in, you can start claiming the Betfred promo code.
Minimum Bet
Placing a minimum bet is often a requirement of a promotion to qualify for the attached rewards. It is important to check this so that you can ensure your first wager is eligible and you do not miss the opportunity to receive your £50 worth of bonuses. Attached to the Betfred promo code WELCOME50 is a minimum required bet to be placed of £10 or more.
Best Betting Sites: How Does Betfred Compare?
Betfred is a top player in the sports betting industry and well regarded by many. One of the brand's closest competitor sites is undoubtedly William Hill, another well-established and long-serving bookmaker. Both have a huge range of different sports available to wager on, along with great sign-up offers, in particular Betfred's, where new customers can claim £50 in bonuses when wagering £10 with the Betfred promo code WELCOME50. Live streaming is now an integral feature to an online bookmaker, and next to newer and more modern bookies such as BetMGM and bet365, Betfred continues to meet and beat customers' expectations, providing a smooth and seamless experience. It has been reported by several users that they have trouble accessing a consistent live stream at sites such as BetMGM and its experienced counterpart, William Hill, as well as there being a limited choice of sports to choose from. It receives lots of praise from customers for the existing customer promotions available at Betfred and that they are of significantly higher value than those found at William Hill. With Betfred being a tough competitor for other bookmakers, it also reportedly has one of the most hassle-free sign-up processes, making life even more challenging for other bookmakers such as William Hill, bet365 and BetMGM
Betting on Mobile with Betfred
Betfred's customers can use the bookmaker both on the desktop site and on the exclusive mobile app that can be downloaded to both iOS and Android devices. Both offer the same top experience and great features, but the app allows for the added ability to be taken on the go with users. This allows for increased accessibility and means things can be picked up right where the user left them on their desktop on their mobile and accessed from wherever they are.
Betfred Live Streaming
Betfred UK offers fantastic live-streaming services across a wide range of sports. Whether you are after football, horse racing, or boxing, Betfred has it all. Its streams run smoothly, ensuring no action is missed. Players can also take advantage of Betfred's live in-play betting options, placing and amending bets according to the live action. To take advantage of the live streaming service, customers must be signed into their Betfred accounts and have a bet placed on the match, race or event they wish to stream.
What Payment Methods Does Betfred Accept?
As one of the largest and most established bookmakers, Betfred accepts one of the top ranges of recognised and trusted payment providers. We have included a list of these below:
Deposits
Visa Debit
MasterCard
Maestro
Electron
Neteller
Visa Checkout
PayPal
Skrill
Paysafecard
Bank Transfer
Withdrawals
Visa Debit
MasterCard
Maestro
Electron
Visa Fast Funds
Neteller
Skrill
Bank Transfer
What Sports Can I Bet On Using Betfred Promo Code?
Betfred is home to a variety of different sports, tournaments and events for customers at the bookmaker to get involved with ensuring that there is something for everyone's interests. We have listed the sports available at Betfred below.
Football
Horse Racing
Greyhounds
American Football
Baseball
Basketball
Boxing
Cricket
Cycling
Darts
Formula 1
Golf
Ice Hockey
Politics
Rugby League
Rugby Union
Snooker
Tennis
UFC/MMA
Summary: Final Thoughts on Betfred
Overall, after thoroughly reviewing all of Betfred's features, it is no surprise that it remains a top choice among sports bettors. With a good range of betting markets, a great variety of sports available to customers, and the added ability to live stream sports, it has everything keen sports fans and bettors will be looking for from a betting site. We, the experts at Wisegambler.com, recommend Betfred UK as one of the best sports betting destinations in the country.
Alternative Brand Promo Codes
Now that you know all there is to know about the BetMGM bonus code, the experts at wisegambler.com thought you might be interested in some alternative brands too:
We understand that gambling can be fun, but it's important to gamble responsibly. If you are struggling with a gambling problem, please do not hesitate to ask for help. There are people who can help you get on the road to recovery.
The Betfred bonus code for new customers to the bookmaker to claim £50 in bonuses when they bet £10 is WELCOME50.
What is Betfred's Payout Limit?
Betfred UK has set payout limits depending on the sport where the bet was placed and won. Check out the Betfred website for more information regarding the payout limits on your chosen sports.
Is Betfred safe to use?
Betfred is a completely legal and safe betting site in the country, licensed and regulated by the United Kingdom Gambling Commission (UKGC). It is fully equipped with the best encryption software and technology to ensure that customers' details and payments are safe.
Can I Bet In-Play Using Betfred?
Yes, customers at Betfred can place live in-play bets on the website and on the app alongside live streaming.
Does Betfred have an app?
Betfred UK has a mobile app that can be downloaded from the dedicated app store for iOS and Android devices.
Chelsea shut down claims they met with Ruben Amorim to replace Mauricio Pochettino | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
The Sporting boss was in London last week for talks over his future (Picture: Getty)
Chelsea have shot down claims from Portugal that Ruben Amorim's trip to London last week was actually to speak to the Blues – not West Ham – about replacing Mauricio Pochettino.
The Sporting coach was forced to apologise over the weekend after he was spotted in London just days before his side were due to face Porto in the league, with the assumption being that he was in the capital to speak with West Ham.
For a long time, Amorim had been mooted as a potential replacement for Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, though the Reds' move for Feyenoord's Arne Slot saw him switch his attention elsewhere and it was believed that he had spoken to West Ham's hierarchy about taking over from David Moyes.
But on Tuesday morning, Portuguese journalist Pedro Sepulveda sensationally claimed that the trip had actually been set up by Chelsea, with Amorim meeting members of the club's board to discuss succeeding the under-pressure Pochettino.
Chelsea, though, have moved quickly to deny the rumour, with The Telegraph's Matt Law reporting that the west Londoners are 'absolutely adamant' they did not pay for Amorim's flight to London.
Moreover, they did not hold any meetings or talks with the 39-year-old during his stay, with a decision over Pochettino's future – and any potential managerial search – only happening once the season is over.
The Blues are currently marooned in ninth place in the Premier League table and are facing a fight to qualify for Europe next season, with a failure to do so potentially costing Pochettino his job.
Pochettino needs a strong end to the season to solidify his position (Picture: Getty)
At the moment, his future is in the balance and results – and performances – in the run-in will play a huge factor in determining his fate, with any suggestion of the squad downing tools reflecting badly on him.
Amorim, meanwhile, apologised for taking the trip to London while Sporting are still fighting for the title and says it was a 'mistake' to hold talks with another club.
'Let's get the elephant out of the room. I'll talk about this once. The first thing is that the club was aware of my trip. It's important and changes the context,' Amorim said on Saturday afternoon.
'The second situation, talking about the cloak of secrecy surrounding the trip. I "secretly" parked the car outside, passed around 15 people, took photos with people and got on the plane.
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'Therefore, remove a little bit of that thing that was done behind our backs, mainly from the club.
'The most important point – my trip was a mistake. The timing was completely off, it didn't seem right to me at the time.
'It was inappropriate, even more so when I am so demanding with my players, I am always the first to say that each one's individual problems cannot be overcome by the team and, therefore, it was my fault.
'I have to accept it and live with it. Thinking coldly afterwards, it is very clear. It's also not true that I didn't explain to the players. I gave it to the players and the staff.
'Now it's time to move forward, also using the public part to apologise to Sporting fans, the staff and especially, publicly, to my players.'
Dave Gilbert credits Andy Lee as 'mega' force behind resurgent form | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
Dave Gilbert will take on Stephen Maguire in the Crucible quarter-finals (Picture: Getty Images)
Dave Gilbert is playing as well and feeling as good as he has done in a long time, crediting the man he has dubbed 'The Caddie' for his resurgence on the table.
The Angry Farmer is into the World Championship quarter-finals after coming through qualifying and scoring impressive wins over defending champion Luca Brecel and Rob Milkins, now facing Stephen Maguire in the last eight.
This didn't look likely as recently as March when Gilbert pulled out of the World Open in Yushan for personal reasons, with seemingly little hope of improving a forgettable season in its final months.
However, old friend and fellow player Andy Lee stepped in and refocussed the Farmer's mind, quickly turning things around on and off the table.
'I pulled out of China literally hours before I was supposed to fly,' Gilbert explained. 'Andy Lee came and saw me. Since then the last four weeks I have hit more snooker balls than in two years, probably.
'He just said: "Come on son, let's have a game. Let's get to the gym. Let's eat some good food." That is pretty much it. A chat with your good old mate, who you've not seen for a while. It's as good as anything.'
43-year-old Lee is an old friend of Gilbert's, both growing up in the Midlands, and has just finished his third stint as a professional player after defeat in World Championship qualifying.
Andy Lee is helping his old pal fulfil some of his immense potential (Picture: Getty Images)
He is now planning to turn his attention away from snooker, but the Farmer would love him to stick around in his new role as coach/practice partner/advisor as it is clearly paying off.
'The Caddie has been helping me out a lot, he's got me back playing and practicing,' said Gilbert. 'Been in the gym and eating good. I've told him he can't ever leave me. He's told me he's off to get a job, but if we take it [the world title] down he's going nowhere. He's been a massive help.
'I'd love him to start coming to comps with me regularly going forward. He knows me as a person, knows how I feel so he knows what to say and do.
'A couple of things I like technically, he knows exactly what I'm looking at and thinking. He's been mega. He went through the disappointment of losing in the World Championships and I thought he was going to leave me then because I know what it feels like. He said, no we're sticking to the plan and we'll see it through. I'm very grateful.'
Gilbert is bidding to reach his second Crucible semi-final (Picture: Getty Images)
Lee and Gilbert came up with a plan to turn things around when they looked at their most bleak for the Farmer, and the Caddie is delighted to see it come together.
'Loving every minute of it,' he told Metro. 'I didn't know how it was going to pan out, but it's gone beyond expectations. I'm just enjoying the ride.
'I knew I was finishing playing after the Worlds. I committed to the plan, so I was never going to let him down and he's done great. Credit to him. He's put in all the hard work. As long as he committed to the plan, that was enough for me, it wasn't about winning or losing.
'I've been fortunate I've been able to help him. It's nice that he trusts my opinion on and off the table. It's nice to have a relationship where I can be a confidant on stuff.
'He doesn't need any coaching. Dave's a far better player than I am. But it's nice for him to lean on me for things, I know what he's looking for. I've been quite involved on the technical side as a player, I've picked up a few things along the way, if he feels like he wants to ask me things I can have an input. If he feels ok there's no need to fry his brain with anything though.
'I didn't want to stay after losing at the qualifiers, it's been tough, but I'm a man of my word and I'm committed. Hopefully we're here till the end.
'I'd already decided I wasn't carrying on playing, so it's been a nice retirement present for me so far and long may it continue for another seven days.'
'I've got a job with the home office, in immigration as a policy officer' Lee said. 'I actually applied in August and it's worked out nicely. I'm still waiting on a start date but it's worked out nicely that I can support Dave on this Crucible quest before I go and do that.'
Lee did remind his pal that if they land the £500,000 top prize together at the Crucible, all this will not come free of charge.
'The invoice is going in, he just hasn't realised yet,' Lee joked. 'I'm pricing it up as we speak.'
Their quest continues with Maguire in the quarter-finals over three sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Crucible.
Pep Guardiola was keen to welcome the then-Hammers captain to his squad at the Etihad Stadium but Rice's preference was a move to north London to join Mikel Arteta at Arsenal.
Rice's current club and former suitor have been locked in an intense title battle this season, with just one point separating the sides with a handful of games remaining.
Unless Manchester City slip up, Arsenal and Rice will miss out on winning the Premier League, but the England midfielder appears to have no regrets over his transfer decision.
When it was pointed out to him that he could well have been playing alongside Rodri rather than battling Man City for the title, Rice told The Athletic: 'I know.
'But this project seemed more exciting and that's why I chose to come to Arsenal, because I believe we're on to big things here.'
Rice heaped praise on Manchester City rival Rodri (Picture: Getty)
Rice, who is set to be a key member of England's squad at Euro 2024, also insisted he enjoys his midfield battles with Rodri, who he views as the 'best in the world' in that position.
'It's good, I enjoy it,' Rice added. 'We're different players, I feel. With Rodri, he was born in Spain, he's always been a natural No 6.
'You can just tell by the way he plays that he's worked under Pep (Guardiola) for so long. He's a lot more structured than I am.
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'I'd say I'm a lot more off-the-cuff. Obviously, this season I've been more structured. But in terms of the way I play, I feel like… being free a little bit more.
'There are different things that we complement each other on — but no doubt, he's the best in the world.'
Arsenal have not won the Premier League since 2004 but have mounted back-to-back title challenges under Arteta.
The Gunners finished five points behind Manchester City last season and will finish two points behind Guardiola's side if both teams win their remaining fixtures.
Arteta's team continue their title challenge on Saturday with a home match against Bournemouth, before taking on Manchester United at Old Trafford and then hosting Everton on the final day.
City, meanwhile, face Wolves this weekend before taking on Fulham, Tottenham and West Ham. Guardiola will also lead his team out in another FA Cup final, with Man City meeting locals rivals United at Wembley on May 25.
Emotional John Higgins reflects on 'best ever' clearance: 'That will live with me forever' | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
John Higgins' clearance to beat Mark Allen will be replayed for years to come (Picture: Getty Images)
John Higgins says his stunning deciding-frame clearance to beat Mark Allen at the World Championship will live with him forever, describing it as one of his best moments in snooker.
The Wizard of Wishaw and the Pistol played out an epic contest at the Crucible which went all the way to 12-12 late on Monday night.
Allen looked to be the one getting over the line as he made a break of 62 before missing a red with the rest and allowing Higgins a slim chance of pinching victory.
The Scot came to the table with little on and immediately took on a reverse double which went in and put him perfectly on the black, a shot that Stephen Hendry suggested was the bravest he had ever seen.
Higgins would go on to make 71, winning the match on the final black and booking his place in the quarter-finals where he will meet Kyren Wilson.
The four-time world champion is known for his epic 'dishes' to win frames, but it has been a testing time for him over the last two or three years, being on the wrong end of a number of painful and close defeats rather than handing them out.
Given that context, he feels this latest dish is his finest ever.
'The best, probably,' Higgins said of his clearance. 'With everything that's been before in the last couple of years, to stand up there under the ultimate pressure. It's the best.'
The 48-year-old admitted that emotions were running high while Allen was at the table, with his top 16 place on the line if he lost and the possibility he may never return to the Crucible.
'I was just trying to stay positive in my chair, not give off any negative energy,' he said. 'But I was also steeling myself, I was getting my speech ready, what I was going to say to Mark. I never expected him to miss.
'I thoroughly enjoyed the occasion of playing here at the Crucible again. I had a little look round about when Mark was on about 50 and thought, "I'll miss this place if I never get here again." So luckily for me it changed round and I've got another chance to get out there and make more memories.'
Allen congratulated Higgins after the stunning climax (Picture: Getty Images)
Doubling in the opening red was a moment of snooker genius from the Scot, but one that reminded him of another of his classic moments on the table.
Higgins cleared up to win a deciding frame in the 2006 Masters final against Ronnie O'Sullivan, which also included a doubled red along the way.
'When I was on the double I was thinking it reminds me a bit of the Ronnie O'Sullivan in the Masters,' he said. 'I was thinking it could be special if I doubled it.'
Then came an immense break, followed by a memorable celebration as he held his arms aloft to the Crucible crowd.
'You're just trying to stay in the moment. Trying to push the cue through straight,' he said. 'I felt really calm. Just as that black goes in, I can't even remember whatever I did, but it was a proud moment for me, really proud. It was incredible. One of my best ever moments.'
Higgins has admitted that belief in big moments has sapped away over the last couple of years, but things could change after that effort under monumental pressure.
'It should do a hell of a lot, it should do wonders for me, now that I can do it at the hardest place to play snooker. That should give me confidence,' he said.
Higgins wowed the Crucible crowd (Picture: Getty Images)
'Onwards and upwards. Some good things can happen now, when you believe. Brilliant memory. That will live with me forever, that clearance.
'Just keep believing. Don't get too down on yourself, because I am still capable of producing some good memories. Always believe.'
Allen had a classy message for the winner despite the nightmare end to the game,saying Higgins can go all the way to a fifth world title.
'I said to him at the end, he can go on and win this, he's one of the very few that can. He just needs to believe it,' said Allen. 'I know he hasn't had the best of times in regards to winning things, but there's not many people can do that at 12-12 in the Crucible.
'He needs to give himself a massive pat on the back. He can go on and win this thing. John's a good guy, one of the guys I would class as a friend on the tour. Yes I'm disappointed but he's one of the ones I'm going to be cheering on.'
Every record Harry Kane has broken for Bayern Munich in his historic first season in Germany | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
Kane is enjoying a historic season in Bavaria (Picture: Getty)
Harry Kane has sent records tumbling since his big money move to Bayern Munich from Tottenham last summer.
The England captain has bagged an astonishing 42 goals for the German giants in all competitions this season, with 35 of those coming in the Bundesliga, making this campaign Kane's most prolific in front of goal to date.
But despite his goalscoring heroics, Kane could remarkably finish the season empty-handed, with the league and cup having evaded Bayern meaning their Champions League semi-final clash with Real Madrid now takes on extra significance.
Let's take a look at all the records the former Tottenham man has broken this season with Bayern Munich.
Which records has Harry Kane broken this season?
Record Bundesliga and Bayern Munich signing – Bayern paid £100m for Kane's services, which could rise to £120m in add-ons, smashing the £68m which Bayern parted with to sign Lucas Hernandez from Atletico Madrid in 2019.
Kane has been in stunning form this season (Picture: Getty)
Bundesliga 22/23 Golden Boot tally surpassed – Kane took just 11 games to surpass the 16 goals scored by Christopher Nkunku and Niclas Fullkrug last season.
Fastest player to reach 20 Bundesliga goals– The benchmark was reached after just 15 games, breaking the record previously held by the legendary Uwe Seeler, who required 21 matches to reach the landmark in the 1963/64 season.
Top scoring Englishman in a single Bundesliga season – Jadon Sancho and Kevin Keegan held the previous record with 17 goals, for Borussia Dortmund in 2019/20 and for Hamburg in 1978/79 respectively. Kane required only 12 games to set the new record.
Most goals scored in a player's opening five Bayern league games – Mario Mandzukic, Miroslav Klose and Gerd Muller all scored five goals in their first five games, with Kane edging past that tally with seven strikes.
Most goals in first 10 Bundesliga appearances – Kane scored 15 goals in his first ten league outings. Only Klaus Matischak had scored at least 13 in a player's first ten Bundesliga appearances, with his goals arriving for Schalke in 1963/64.
Most goals in a single season of Kane's career – Surpassing the 41 he scored for Tottenham in 2017/18.
Most Bundesliga goals in a debut season – Uwe Seeler held the previous record with 30 goals scored for Hamburg in the inaugural Bundesliga campaign in 1963/64.
Kane will be hoping to add the Champions League trophy to go with his individual records this season (Picture: Getty)
Top English goalscorer in the Bundesliga – Jadon Sancho is second on the list with 40 for Borussia Dortmund, whilst Tony Woodcock is third with 39 goals in 131 appearances across two spells with Cologne.
Fewest games needed to reach 30 Bundesliga goals – Kane needed just 25 matches to rack up goal number 30. For comparison, Erling Haaland needed 32 for Borussia Dortmund.
First player to score at least two goals in eight matches during his debut season – Kane (9) has beaten the previous record of seven matches managed by Friedhelm Konietzka in 1963/64 and then by Toni Polster in 1993/94.
Could Harry Kane beat Robert Lewandowski's record for the most goals ever in a Bundesliga season?
Kane is currently seven goals away from claiming the ultimate record set by the Polish icon, but faces a race against time with only three league games remaining.
Jack Lisowski admits breakaway tour temptation but calls for co-existence | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
Jack Lisowski says there are 'big numbers being thrown around' over a new snooker tour (Picture: Getty Images)
Jack Lisowski admits that the money being talked about for a breakaway snooker tour is head-turning, but does not want to leave the main circuit and hopes that both can co-exist.
Jackpot was beaten in the second round of the World Championship 13-11 by Stuart Bingham on Monday night, ending his hopes of landing a first ranking title at the biggest event in the sport.
The potential of joining a rival tour has been floated to the 32-year-old, just as it has to the likes of Judd Trump and Kyren Wilson, with the latter saying he is yet to decide on his future.
Lisowski does not want to turn his back on the major WST events, likely to stay on the main tour, but hopes that organisers of new tournaments can agree to put them on in gaps in the calendar, leaving players to enjoy the best of both worlds.
'There are big numbers being thrown around but I think I'll be back, I'm pretty sure I will,' Lisowski told a press conference at the Crucible.
'I don't know. I'd be lying if I said it's not tempting, but I can't see myself leaving the tour. The Masters is such a good event, the UK and the Worlds are special to play in. So I'm pretty sure I'll be back for that.
Lisowski scored a fine win over Ding Junhui before losing out to Bingham (Picture: Getty Images)
'Who knows? Maybe they'll be able to run something alongside. Because we're allowed to play in other stuff now.
'The prize money is going up on this tour, we're getting looked after better, the games' going in the right direction. People don't need to be like, "Oh, new tour, that could be the worst thing ever." Maybe they can have something run alongside.
'It just shows that the players and the game are starting to get valued more by the people. It's marketable, people enjoy watching it, so I think it's all good for the game.
'I don't think it's as serious as everyone's saying. Maybe there can just be more tournaments for everyone to play in. Let's see what happens, I'm just a snooker player.'
On the nature of any approach he has received, Lisowski wasn't too clear, saying: 'There's just numbers being thrown about. I don't know what's going on.'
Those numbers are reportedly in the region of £320,000 guaranteed for a year playing in the new tournaments, with much more to be won on top of that in prize money.
Lisowski's good friend Trump snubbed the idea of playing on another tour last week, saying he would rather be landing titles that matter and earn money rather than being 'gifted' it.
Jackpot is less convinced, although he was talking after a tough loss to Bingham and had a grin on his face as he said: 'To be honest, Judd's Judd, but I'd probably rather have a couple of million quid and lose. I'm not going to lie. That would feel a bit easier than being donked out here.
'I don't know what's going to happen but I'm pretty sure I'll be on the tour next season.'
Jofra Archer recalled as England name T20 World Cup squad | HXR6S24 | 2024-04-30 16:08:01
Jofra Archer has not played for England in over a year (Picture: Getty)
Jofra Archer has been recalled to the England squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The fast bowler, 29, has not featured for England in over a year due to a reoccurring elbow injury but has played club cricket in Barbados and turned out for Sussex in pre-season.
England's 15-man provisional squad also includes Chris Jordan and uncapped spinner Tom Hartley, but two-time World Cup winner Chris Woakes misses out.
The same squad will face Pakistan in a four-match T20 series starting on May 22 before flying to the Caribbean at the end of the month ahead of their first T20 World Cup game against Scotland on June 4.
The eight members of the squad currently playing in the Indian Premier League will return for the beginning of the Pakistan series, the ECB have confirmed.
The England selectors and head coach Matthew Mott have until a May 25 deadline to update their squad.
Buttler will lead the side and has enjoyed a return to form at the IPL, scoring two unbeaten centuries for Rajasthan Royals.
England will look for batting firepower from the likes of Buttler, Harry Brook, Phil Salt and Jonny Bairstow, who also hit an unbeaten ton in the IPL after being dropped by Punjab Kings.
Archer and Jordan are joined in the bowling ranks by Sam Curran, Mark Wood and Reece Topley, while Adil Rashid goes into the T20 World Cup as the No. 1 ranked bowler in the world.
The T20 World Cup, which takes place in the West Indies and United States, begins on June 2 with co-hosts United States facing Canada at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas.
England won the last T20 World Cup (Picture: Getty)
Discussing Archer's recall, England chief Rob Key said: 'Jofra is that bowler that is just so special that you do everything you can to get him back playing.
'We've taken the longer road this time but as always with Jofra it's fingers crossed until he's out there playing. Like when you're waiting for something really good to happen, you don't quite believe it until he's there, but he's tracking well at the moment.
'The next step is when he gets into that Pakistan series – it's going to be full-match intensity – and how he keeps going through there, but at the moment we're doing everything we can and he's in a good spot.'
