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  • Garth Brooks’ Catalogue Still Isn’t on Spotify, After Fans Get Their Hopes Up Due to Brief ‘No Fences’ Appearance

    Garth Brooks’ Catalogue Still Isn’t on Spotify, After Fans Get Their Hopes Up Due to Brief ‘No Fences’ Appearance


    Garth Brooks fans thought the moment they’d been dreaming of since he cut that exclusive deal with Amazon Music in 2016 had finally arrived, with the country megastar’s beloved sophomore album, No Fences, briefly being made available on Spotify.

    The internet became rife with speculation as to whether Garth Brooks had revised his deal with Amazon Music, and was now beginning to upload his catalogue to other platforms.

    Alas, this fleeting appearance of 1990’s No Fences on Spotify appears to have been a mistake, with some suggesting it might be the result of the latest wave of streaming fraud.

    Whoever it was that uploaded No Fences, it seems, did not have the approval of Brooks’ team, with one track – ‘New Way to Fly’ – being a live recording, and three other songs that feature on the original album, ‘Unanswered Prayers’, ‘Same Old Story’ and ‘Wolves’, nowhere to be seen on the since-deleted Spotify tracklist.

    Garth Brooks has had a deal to make his discography exclusively available on Amazon Music for almost a decade now, with the only album you can stream on Spotify Live in Germany 1995.

    Although you certainly can’t blame Brooks for selling his catalogue to the highest bidder, his move has meant that younger generations of country fans often don’t realise just how influential the ‘Friends in Low Places’ hitmaker has been on the genre, as his music is generally absent from the likes of Spotify, YouTube and Apple Music.

    Earlier in the week, Garth Brooks took to Instagram to offer a heartfelt tribute to former president Jimmy Carter, following Carter’s death on December 29th, 2024, “President Carter, the legacy you and Rosalynn have left us is as beautiful as the life you lived. Thank you for your lifetime of service to our country and the world. You inspired us not just by what you said, but by what you built. We love you”.

    If it had been legitimate, the timing of this mysterious No Fences upload would have been strange, given Garth Brooks is currently facing charges of rape, sexual assault and battery as part of a California lawsuit. Brooks has dismissed the accusations, sharing, “I do not fear the truth, and I am not the man they have painted me to be”.

    After a packed month of shows as part of his Caesars Palace Plus ONE Las Vegas residency, Garth Brooks is preparing for the final run of that stint in Sin City, with performances lined up at The Colosseum Theater throughout February and March.

    For more on Garth Brooks, see below:

    Author - Garth Brooks





    Country music fans were left disappointed once again as Garth Brooks’ catalogue is still not available on Spotify, despite a brief appearance of his iconic album ‘No Fences’ on the streaming platform.

    Fans of the legendary country artist were excited when ‘No Fences’ briefly appeared on Spotify, leading many to believe that Brooks’ entire discography would finally be available for streaming. However, their hopes were quickly dashed as the album was soon removed from the platform.

    This isn’t the first time that Brooks’ music has been absent from Spotify, as the singer has famously kept his catalogue off streaming services in the past. Despite the growing popularity of streaming platforms, Brooks has chosen to release his music exclusively through his own digital platform, GhostTunes.

    While many fans are eager to have access to Brooks’ music on Spotify, it seems that they will have to continue waiting for now. In the meantime, they can still enjoy his music through other platforms and live performances as the country music icon continues to tour and entertain audiences around the world.

    Tags:

    Garth Brooks, Spotify, No Fences, music streaming, country music, Garth Brooks catalogue, streaming services, music industry, digital music, music fans, country music legend

    #Garth #Brooks #Catalogue #Isnt #Spotify #Fans #Hopes #Due #Fences #Appearance

  • Canada’s fight with Trump isn’t just economic, it’s existential

    Canada’s fight with Trump isn’t just economic, it’s existential


    United States President-elect Donald Trump has reiterated his apparent desire to make Canada a 51st American state, sharing a recent social media post about Canadian entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary’s support of the idea.

    Trump was roundly mocked for his latest trolling of Canada, but his apparent fixation is dangerous at a time when the country’s Liberal government, long weakened, is in disarray following the shock resignation of Chrystia Freeland as finance minister and deputy prime minister.

    In fact, in her December resignation letter, Freeland placed the country’s response to Trump at the heart of her critique of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

    Among the many broadsides delivered to her former boss, the fact that Canada is ill-prepared to face the dire new threat of Trump’s second term was a recurring theme.

    Trump wasted no time inserting himself into Canada’s internal affairs, calling Freeland “toxic” and continuing his running gag of referring to Trudeau as the governor of an American state rather than the leader of a sovereign nation.

    The attacks are becoming routine, with Trump suggesting in another post that Canadians would “save massively on taxes and military protection” as the 51st state.

    Economic and democratic decline

    Whoever becomes prime minister in the weeks or months to come will have to figure out how to deal with Trump — and the existential threat he poses to Canada — in a much more effective manner than the Liberals have under Trudeau.

    Trump is flagrantly disrespecting Canadian independence and, along with it, Canadian identity. He’s openly challenging the very idea of Canadian sovereignty. Canada must respond accordingly.

    It can be hard to fully understand the nature and the extent of threats posed by someone so willing to flaunt respected political and diplomatic conventions. His annexation threats create a constant set of multifaceted challenges to Canada’s economic prosperity, democratic norms and sovereignty.

    The economic dimension of his threat to Canada is now well-known. Trump’s proposed 25 per cent tariffs on all Canadian exports to the U.S. are going to be incredibly costly to both countries, given the integration of their economies. But given the size disparity between the two countries, the impact will be bigger in Canada.

    The democratic threat is also clear. Trump has shown he regards democracy not as a crucial set of rules and norms, but as a set of obstacles to overcome.

    He’s unable to admit defeat or even graciously accept victory.

    Trump 2020 signs hang in front of the Capitol Building.
    Violent protesters loyal to Trump storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.
    (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

    His revenge tour has begun, with lawsuits against media outlets and even against a pollster whose data suggested Democrat Kamala Harris was pulling ahead during the late days of the U.S. election campaign.

    Once back in the White House, Trump has promised to use public institutions to punish opponents. A partisan U.S. Supreme Court decision last year ensures that even if his own actions are criminal, he will remain immune from prosecution.

    Trump’s disrespect of democratic institutions is corrosive and contagious. During his first term, experts sounded alarm bells about how he was linked to democratic decline around the world. If the U.S. president can openly challenge democratic norms, after all, what’s to stop other would-be demagogues from doing the same?

    A second Trump administration is likely to continue such trends, and his willingness to intervene in Canadian politics is already causing shock waves north of the border.

    A threat to Canadian sovereignty

    Trump’s actions have repeatedly suggested he has no respect for those he views as powerless — and right now Canada fits the bill. He’s made it a running joke that Canada is not a real country, but just another American state. Nervously laughing off this threat doesn’t cut it as a response.

    Canada has so far acted in a manner that makes it seem as though Trump has a point. Rather than pushing back by defending Canada’s strong record in managing its part of the border relationship, the government immediately promised more than $1 billion in new border spending. Canada’s leaders have failed to call out Trump’s threats as the bluster of a bully.

    In the face of Trump’s tariff threats, Trudeau made a surprise trip to Florida to pay his respects to the president-elect and plead Canada’s case, rather than observing the normal protocol and waiting for a formal post-inauguration state visit. This made Trudeau appear more like a supplicant than a visiting head of government.

    It’s helpful in this situation to think of Trump as a schoolyard bully demanding someone else do his homework — in this case, defend America’s borders. Such bullying doesn’t end when you give in to the bully, but only when it becomes clear you won’t.

    Border protection is a core function of any state, and a responsibility of any American president. Trump’s demand that others do it for him is both a sign of weakness and an attempt to create a scapegoat should his efforts fail.

    As with any bully, if you promise to do the work for him, you’ll just encourage additional torment. So when Trudeau promised to do more in exchange for an end to the bullying, he got a kick in the pants for his efforts as Trump began to taunt him about being the governor of the 51st American state.

    The world is watching how Canada responds to the bully. If Canada hopes to enjoy the respect of its peers, it must show a willingness to fight for itself, its prosperity and its values. It must defend its sovereignty from those who refuse to respect it, and act assertively to maintain Canadian prosperity. That could mean a trade war.

    A dark-haired man and an older man with grey-ish blond hair smile at a dinner table.
    Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and president-elect Donald Trump at a recent dinner at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
    (X/@JustinTrudeau)

    Power imbalance

    For more than a century, Canada and the U.S. have found ways to co-operate and prosper side by side despite the fact that the U.S. is a much more powerful nation. They’ve built alliances and agreements founded on shared norms, values and customs as part of a deep and multifaceted relationship.




    Read more:
    Biden-Trudeau meeting caps two and a half centuries of Canada-U.S. relations


    None of that history seems to matter to Trump, and now American power seemingly matters more than Canadian sovereignty. This power imbalance is all the more acute given Canada’s dependence on the American economy and American military might.

    But Canada is not powerless. Dependency works both ways, and the deep integration of the two countries’ economies makes the U.S. vulnerable as well. Shutting off power exports, as Ontario Premier Doug Ford suggests, is one course of action that would have an immediate and significant detrimental effect on the American economy. Ditto for petroleum. Energy is power in more ways than one.

    The U.S. consumes millions of barrels of Canadian petroleum every day, and a tax on that fuel would be inflationary and ultimately unpopular with American voters.

    Other countries stand to lose if the U.S. gets away with disrespecting Canadian sovereignty as well. If Trump refuses to respect Canadian sovereignty, no country is safe. Panama and Denmark can already attest to that.

    Finding ways to creatively push back against such demands should be an imperative for any country that values its independence, and Canada needs to work with such allies.

    Trump will soon be U.S. president again. But he is not and should not be treated as the president of Canada. Whoever leads Canada in the months to come has tools at their disposal to defend Canadian sovereignty, and they must be prepared to use them.



    In recent years, Canada has found itself embroiled in a tense and often tumultuous relationship with the United States, particularly under the leadership of President Donald Trump. While much of the focus has been on trade disputes and economic tensions, the conflict between the two countries goes much deeper than just dollars and cents. In fact, Canada’s fight with Trump isn’t just economic – it’s existential.

    At the heart of the issue is a fundamental clash of values and principles. Canada, with its commitment to multiculturalism, diversity, and inclusion, stands in stark contrast to the divisive rhetoric and policies of the Trump administration. From the Muslim travel ban to the separation of families at the border, Canada has found itself at odds with many of the actions taken by the US government.

    But it’s not just about policy differences – it’s about the very essence of what it means to be Canadian. Canada prides itself on being a welcoming and tolerant society, one that embraces people of all backgrounds and beliefs. The rise of Trumpism in the US has forced Canadians to confront the possibility that their values and way of life could be under threat.

    The US has long been seen as Canada’s closest ally and neighbor, but under Trump, that relationship has been strained like never before. The imposition of tariffs, the renegotiation of NAFTA, and the constant threats and insults from the President have put Canada in a difficult position. The country must now navigate the challenges of dealing with an unpredictable and hostile neighbor, while also standing firm in defense of its principles and ideals.

    In this sense, Canada’s fight with Trump is not just about trade deals or economic interests – it’s about the very soul of the nation. Will Canada be able to maintain its commitment to openness and diversity in the face of growing hostility from its southern neighbor? Can it continue to uphold its values and principles in the face of external pressure and threats?

    These are difficult questions with no easy answers, but one thing is clear – Canada’s fight with Trump goes beyond mere politics. It is a battle for the identity and future of the country, a struggle to defend the values that define what it means to be Canadian. And in this fight, Canada must stand strong and united, ready to face whatever challenges may come its way.

    Tags:

    Canada, Trump, trade war, economy, international relations, political tensions, North America, tariffs, diplomatic relations, global impact.

    #Canadas #fight #Trump #isnt #economic #existential

  • Al Golden isn’t letting Miami define him. He’s just what Notre Dame’s Playoff run needed

    Al Golden isn’t letting Miami define him. He’s just what Notre Dame’s Playoff run needed


    Editor’s note: The Sugar Bowl between Notre Dame and Georgia has been postponed until Thursday following a suspected terrorist attack in New Orleans early Wednesday morning. Follow live updates here.

    NEW ORLEANS — The lasting image of Al Golden’s college coaching career could have come on a warm October day in 2015.

    Golden, in a white shirt and orange tie, walked out of a nearly empty stadium after leading the worst loss in Hurricanes history, a 58-0 home humiliation against Clemson. But even though it cost him his job, Golden knew it wouldn’t be the end of his major college coaching.

    “I had zero doubt,” Golden said Monday. “That was not going to define my career.”

    It shouldn’t. Especially after this season.

    Golden has quietly revived his reputation through one of the best coaching jobs of the year as Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator.

    Despite season-ending injuries to at least four key players — the latest being senior captain tackle Rylie Mills — his defense has carried Notre Dame to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals. In the past four decades, only two Notre Dame teams have allowed fewer points per game (13.8) than the one that faces Georgia in Wednesday’s Sugar Bowl: the 2012 Manti Te’o-led team that made the BCS national title game and the 1988 national champions.

    Whether these Irish can have a shot at the Jan. 20 national title game in Atlanta hinges largely on whether Golden’s defense can continue that success as adversity piles up. It’s familiar territory for Golden.

    go-deeper

    GO DEEPER

    Notre Dame hasn’t won a major bowl in a generation. Is it finally ready?

    Long before he became a central figure in the Fighting Irish’s Playoff run, Golden was a rising star with experience on offense and defense. A former Penn State tight end, he led what former Temple athletic director Bill Bradshaw called “one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Division I history” — from 0-11 before his arrival to the program’s first nine-win seasons in three decades — in his first head coaching job at Temple

    That performance got him the keys to a premier program, Miami, at age 41. Though the Hurricanes were only nine years removed from their fifth national championship, the Nevin Shapiro scandal was about to blow up. Scholarship reductions and a self-imposed bowl ban were coming.

    “Nobody cares about the excuses, but at the end of the day, that was a hard situation he was under down there,” said Georgia assistant James Coley, who spent three years on Golden’s Miami staff.

    Golden went 32-25 in four and a half seasons. He never won a bowl game, never beat Florida State, never finished in the Top 25. Fans gave up and drew national attention for paying planes to circle the stadium with derisive banners. The last one: Our pilot has as many Top 25 wins #FireAlGolden. When Golden’s Hurricanes were so outclassed by Clemson that they were outrushed by the Tigers’ third-string quarterback (Kelly Bryant) in October 2015, the end was inevitable.


    Al Golden’s Miami tenure ended with a 58-0 loss to Clemson. (Mike Ehrmann / Getty Images)

    Even if players like backup quarterback Malik Rosier understood the decision, they weren’t happy about it.

    “There’s not many coaches that care for your success off the field,” said Rosier, who later quarterbacked the Hurricanes to the 2017 ACC title game. “He always wanted his players to become better humans, better players, better fathers.”

    During Monday’s Sugar Bowl media day, Golden called it a “difficult challenge” — one he had to move on from quickly.

    The NFL gave him that chance, even though he had never coached in the league until the Detroit Lions hired him three and a half months after Miami fired him. Golden coached tight ends, then linebackers for Detroit before joining the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020. In Year 2, he led Cincinnati’s linebackers against the Rams in Super Bowl LVI.

    Golden no longer felt burned out. He was rejuvenated. Without recruiting and the responsibilities of a head coach, he could study details more. Who led the league in interceptions and why? What made the NFL’s best tacklers successful?

    “More than anything, I just had a clear picture of when I was going to return to college of what I wanted it to look like,” Golden said. “This is the way we’re going to teach ball disruption. This is the way we’re going to teach tackling. I think the time in the NFL kind of gave me an opportunity to do that.”

    He wasn’t looking to get back into the college game, necessarily. The Bengals had star quarterback Joe Burrow on a team-friendly rookie contract. The window for more championship runs was wide open after the 2021 season.

    “But when Notre Dame calls,” Golden said, “you have to listen.”

    The call came from Marcus Freeman, who was tasked with replacing Brian Kelly at age 35 at a place that historically hasn’t been friendly to first-time head coaches. In learning on the job, Freeman has surrounded himself with experience, from new offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock — who’s 60 and has coached in South Bend before — to Golden.

    “The knowledge that he provides, the teaching that our young people are able to learn has been tremendous,” Freeman said. “The addition to our coaching staff, the wisdom he’s able to provide to our coaching staff, and the piece of our coaching staff that he is, it’s been tremendous. The knowledge that he has as a former head coach, I can go on and on.

    “I’ve utilized some of his experience in terms of being a head coach, asked him what he’s done. There’s a lot of different things I could say that he’s provided to this program.”

    Coley remembers his former boss as the type of overly communicative coach who would send a text message about something, then an email, then remind you in the hallway that he sent you a text message and email. Coley isn’t surprised, then, that the opposing defense he watched on film is in constant communication. The connection extends to the rest of the staff; Golden and special teams coordinator Marty Biagi teach the same fundamentals about ball disruption, so two phases rep the same things.

    Rosier considered Golden an energetic, life-of-the-party players’ coach. Notre Dame star lineman Howard Cross III described him as someone “always ready to run through a brick wall at all times.”

    But Golden’s NFL tenure is just as instrumental to his defense’s success in his third season.

    His time in the league taught him how to get a free agent signed off the streets on Monday ready for a game on Sunday. That has allowed him to quickly prepare Notre Dame backups for bigger roles to replace the half-dozen starters who missed time with injuries (including preseason All-American cornerback Benjamin Morrison, who hasn’t played since Oct. 12).


    Notre Dame held Indiana to 278 total yards in the first round. (Justin Casterline / Getty Images)

    The pointers Golden picked up about ball disruption have helped Notre Dame force 29 takeaways, tied for most in the country. The tackling techniques he passed along have made the Irish the nation’s eighth-best team in that category, according to Pro Football Focus’ metrics. The Bengals’ run to the Super Bowl showed him and the Irish how to prepare and install game plans for an expanded Playoff.

    Beyond that, Golden’s resume earned him instant credibility in a locker room filled with blue-chip talent looking to make it to the next level.

    “When you’re coming in as an NFL coach who just got off the Super Bowl, everybody’s like, ‘All right, this guy’s legit,’” All-America safety Xavier Watts said. “We need to do what he says.”

    The result is a unit that ranks in the top 10 nationally in scoring defense, total defense, red zone defense, opponents’ passing efficiency, rushing touchdowns allowed and defensive touchdowns scored while allowing the program’s third-lowest completion percentage (49.6) since 1990. The statistics have made Golden a finalist for the Broyles Award, given annually to the nation’s top assistant.

    “He’s amazing,” ESPN analyst Greg McElroy said. “I’m just shocked that there haven’t been more teams in pursuit of Al Golden to be their head coach.”

    Perhaps they will be in future cycles. Though Golden is no longer the rising star he was when he got the Miami job, he’s still only 55. A deep CFP run would boost his resume if he wants another shot at being a head coach. If he does, it’s not something he was willing to discuss Monday; Golden has experienced enough to know to focus on the moment.

    Before he was a head coach, he was an assistant on the Virginia team that won a share of the ACC title in 1995. The Cavaliers haven’t won one since. It’s a lesson that Golden has shared multiple times this week.

    “We have to be grateful for the opportunity,” Golden said. “That’s what fuels the journey.

    “I don’t want to go home.”

    go-deeper

    GO DEEPER

    Notre Dame mailbag: Are Irish more ‘bought-in’ than before? What needs to happen to beat Georgia?

    (Top photo: Michael Reaves / Getty Images)



    Al Golden isn’t letting his past with Miami define him. After a successful stint as the head coach of the Hurricanes, Golden is now making his mark on Notre Dame’s Playoff run as the team’s linebackers coach.

    Golden’s experience and expertise have been invaluable to the Fighting Irish, helping to solidify their defense and guide them to the top of the rankings. Despite facing some criticism and skepticism from fans and analysts, Golden has remained focused on his role with Notre Dame and is determined to help the team reach their ultimate goal of winning a national championship.

    Golden’s ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment speaks volumes about his character and coaching abilities. He has embraced the challenge of coaching at a new program and has quickly become an integral part of Notre Dame’s success.

    As Notre Dame continues their Playoff run, Al Golden’s presence on the sidelines will undoubtedly be a key factor in the team’s success. He may not be letting Miami define him, but he’s certainly making a name for himself at Notre Dame.

    Tags:

    Al Golden, Miami, Notre Dame, Playoff, college football, coach, leadership, success, determination, resilience, sports, teamwork, ambition, achievement, inspiration

    #Golden #isnt #letting #Miami #define #Hes #Notre #Dames #Playoff #run #needed

  • Rangers vs Celtic: Philippe Clement insists season isn’t over as Brendan Rodgers vows league leaders will not soften up | Football News

    Rangers vs Celtic: Philippe Clement insists season isn’t over as Brendan Rodgers vows league leaders will not soften up | Football News


    Philippe Clement insists Rangers’ season is not over ahead of Thursday’s Old Firm clash, while Brendan Rodgers has vowed Celtic will not “soften up” despite their 14-point lead in the Scottish Premiership.

    The latest instalment of this fixture – live on Sky Sports – comes weeks after the two met in a controversial League Cup final which Celtic won on penalties.

    Clement insists that defeat at Hampden Park proves Rangers can beat the champions, with the Scottish FA’s head of refereeing admitting afterwards they should have been awarded a penalty in extra-time when the score was level at 3-3.


    Thursday 2nd January 2:00pm


    Kick off 3:00pm


    However, if the Belgian is to mastermind a much-needed victory in this fixture, he will need to do it without captain James Tavernier, who has joined a growing injury list, while goalkeeper Jack Butland will also be absent after being admitted to hospital after suffering an internal leg bleed.

    Clement: We must prove they can beat Celtic

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    Philippe Clement believes his team have proven they can take on Celtic and insists their season is not over despite trailing their rivals by 14 points ahead of Thursday’s match

    “We deserved to win [the last match against Celtic], we had the best chances and some other circumstances also,” Clement told Sky Sports News.

    “The team has shown that. It is about showing that again and taking the three points.”

    When asked if some fans were right to think if the season was already over due to Celtic’s lead in the league, he added: “No, for sure [that is] not [the case].

    “We are going to fight for every game and every result. That is the duty of everybody and also what everybody wants.

    “It is a new squad, with a new long-term project, with young players getting better. It is about having the hunger and desire to win every game. That is what this club is about and that will never change.”

    Rangers go into the game having lost at St Mirren and then drawing against Motherwell, with Clement adding: “Everybody who has seen the two games against Motherwell and St Mirren – we were the team who deserved to win these games with the amount of chances that we had.

    “We need to be more clinical and efficient and the luck needs to drop more than we had in those games.”

    Rodgers: Celtic will not soften up

    GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - DECEMBER 26: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers at full time during a William Hill Premiership match between Celtic and Motherwell at Celtic Park, on December 26, 2024, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Rob Casey / SNS Group)
    Image:
    Brendan Rodgers has won 16 of his 20 Old Firm matches, losing just one

    The champions meanwhile are unbeaten in their last 27 league games but Rodgers insists they are taking nothing for granted against a Gers side who are coming under fire from their own supporters.

    “Listen, we will always assume the pressure,” the Northern Irishman said. “We put ourselves under pressure in every game to win and to win well. So nothing changes in this aspect.

    “We always stay in a humble way to prepare for games. People look at the gap, but that doesn’t even come into it. We cannot soften up, we will not soften up.

    “We perform for the next game because we know how much this game means to people.

    “I went there last season, the first game, under pressure and all the things. Now I go there with 14 points… but there’s no change for us, the mentality is to go and perform and look to play our game.

    “That pressure will always be there and especially a game at Ibrox with no supporters.”

    Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

    Celtic’s Paulo Bernardo looks ahead to facing Rangers on January 2, live on Sky Sports, and says the team are targeting an even better 2025 – despite only losing two games this year

    After growing up in a Celtic-supporting family in Country Antrim, Rodgers knows how much the fixture means to supporters regardless of the context of the league table.

    “I understand the game – I understood it as a supporter – and I understood it from the first game I had as manager in September 2016,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed every single one of them. The build-ups to them are always great.

    “There’s always pressure of some sort. I hear the talk about a ‘dead rubber’. There is never a Rangers-Celtic game that’s a dead rubber – not in my book.

    “You want to win every game and you want to perform at the very best level. For me, I love the occasion, I love the game – it’s an iconic game and one that I always want to win.”

    Rodgers has generally won them, 16 in total, and suffered only one defeat in 20 derbies. Victory on Thursday would mean he has enjoyed a career-high 17 wins against both Aberdeen and the Light Blues, more than against any other club.

    Watch the Old Firm clash live on Sky Sports Football and Main Event from 2pm on Thursday January 2, kick-off 3pm.



    The highly anticipated Old Firm derby between Rangers and Celtic is set to take place this weekend, and tensions are running high as both teams are fighting for the top spot in the Scottish Premiership.

    Rangers manager Philippe Clement has insisted that the season is far from over, despite his team currently sitting in second place behind their bitter rivals. Clement has emphasized the importance of staying focused and giving it their all in every match remaining in the season.

    On the other hand, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has vowed that his league-leading team will not be taking their foot off the gas in the upcoming derby. Rodgers has made it clear that his players will not be softening up and will be giving their all to maintain their position at the top of the table.

    With so much at stake in this highly anticipated match, fans can expect an intense and thrilling battle between these two fierce rivals. Stay tuned for what is sure to be a game filled with drama, passion, and excitement.

    Tags:

    1. Rangers vs Celtic
    2. Philippe Clement
    3. Brendan Rodgers
    4. Football News
    5. Scottish Premiership
    6. Season Outlook
    7. League Leaders
    8. Competitive Rivalry
    9. Title Race
    10. Managerial Mindset

    #Rangers #Celtic #Philippe #Clement #insists #season #isnt #Brendan #Rodgers #vows #league #leaders #soften #Football #News

  • Samuel L Jackson Isn’t Bent Out Of Shape About Never Winning An Oscar (And Yes Star Wars And Marvel Are Involved)

    Samuel L Jackson Isn’t Bent Out Of Shape About Never Winning An Oscar (And Yes Star Wars And Marvel Are Involved)


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     Samuel L. Jackson holding purple lightsaber as Mace Windu.

    Credit: Lucasfilm

    Through his work across the history of Marvel movies, the timeline of Star Wars movies and more, Samuel L. Jackson has shown broad range and continued to hone his talent across decades of acting experience. For an actor of his caliber, it’s kind of surprising that he’s only ever been nominated once for an Academy Award (outside of the honorary statue he brought home in 2021).

    Some might stoke a passionate defenses for the veteran of the Marvel and Star Wars cinematic universes; however, the man himself isn’t bent out of shape one bit. In conversation with The L.A. Times, the noted f-bomb dropper admits that the annual chase for that golden path doesn’t necessarily motivate him. So, what does keep Samuel L. Jackson going in his career pursuits?

    I was never going to let the Oscars be a measure of my success or failure as an actor. My yardstick of success is my happiness: Am I satisfied with what I’m doing? I’m not doing statue-chasing movies. You know [whispers]: “If you do this movie, you’ll win an Oscar.” No, thanks. I’d rather be Nick Fury. Or having fun being Mace Windu with a lightsaber in my hand.

    Knowing that The Avengers alum values the blockbuster entries in the pantheon of the best Samuel L. Jackson movies as much as any actor would treasure an award-winning act is unsurprising. Even when you’re watching Jackson at work in something like the Star Wars movies, you can see that he’s having fun with what he does.

    Further explaining why he doesn’t pay too much mind to the Oscars, Jackson also admitted to no regrets letting “statue chasing” projects go in favor of other projects. Providing a self evaluation of his mythically awesome career, the Jurassic Park co-star pretty much summed it up in a manner most fans would totally agree with. In Samuel L. Jackson’s eyes, he’s very quotable. In fact he’s…

    “..the guy who does the lines that people see on T-shirts.

    Nick Fury in Secret Invasion

    Nick Fury in Secret Invasion

    Honestly, there is not a more perfect summary of what you could call the Jackson Oeuvre. And that’s something that we’ve seen the Argylle cast member wear rather proudly on his chest, as seen through several Samuel L. Jackson t-shirt photos on social media. Hell, you could even put the quote mentioned above on its own t-shirt, in the font of his most recognizable projects, and it would probably sell quite well.

    Seeing as he’s a fan of the many times characters like John Shaft, Mace Windu, and even his solo Academy Award nominated role as Pulp Fiction’s Jules Winfield pop up on such garments, it would perhaps make even more sense to chase those sort of projects. But possibly the best thing about Jackson is that he takes roles across the board, from popcorn flicks to b-movies, to awards contenders and big budget successes. He’s a stable, solid player at the box office with a great reputation for fun.

    Oh, and if anyone’s actually made Mr. Jackson’s perfect Secret Invasion t-shirt, make yourself known. Whatever 2025 movie release next gets to benefit from his exceptional talents is probably going to need some fresh one-liners for more memes and tees. Maybe it’ll even be an Oscars contender this time.



    Samuel L Jackson Isn’t Bent Out Of Shape About Never Winning An Oscar (And Yes Star Wars And Marvel Are Involved)

    Samuel L Jackson is a Hollywood legend known for his iconic roles in films like Pulp Fiction, Django Unchained, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Despite his impressive resume, one thing that has eluded him throughout his career is an Oscar win.

    But if you think Jackson is losing sleep over not having that little gold statue on his mantle, think again. In a recent interview, the actor revealed that he’s not at all bothered by his lack of Oscar recognition.

    “I don’t think about it. I have an Oscar – it’s sitting at my manager’s office. I don’t even know where it is,” Jackson said. “I don’t put too much stock into awards. I do what I do because I love it, not for the accolades.”

    And let’s not forget, Jackson has had a wildly successful career outside of the Oscars. He’s been a part of two of the biggest franchises in movie history – Star Wars and Marvel. His portrayal of Mace Windu in the Star Wars prequels and Nick Fury in the Marvel Cinematic Universe has solidified his place in pop culture history.

    When asked about his involvement in these blockbuster franchises, Jackson had this to say: “I’ve been lucky to be a part of these amazing worlds. It’s been a wild ride and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

    So there you have it – Samuel L Jackson isn’t losing any sleep over not winning an Oscar. And with his incredible body of work, it’s safe to say he’s already a winner in our eyes.

    Tags:

    1. Samuel L Jackson
    2. Oscars
    3. Star Wars
    4. Marvel
    5. Actor
    6. Awards
    7. Hollywood
    8. Snubbed
    9. Film industry
    10. Diversity in film

    #Samuel #Jackson #Isnt #Bent #Shape #Winning #Oscar #Star #Wars #Marvel #Involved

  • Why Kai Havertz Isn’t Playing for Arsenal vs. Brentford on New Year’s Day

    Why Kai Havertz Isn’t Playing for Arsenal vs. Brentford on New Year’s Day


    Arsenal face Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on New Year’s Day, but the Gunners will do so without the man that scored winners both home and away against the Bees last season.

    Kai Havertz was a shock omission from the squad given his importance in the wake of Bukayo Saka’s long term injury. The german’s scored 12 goals so far this season in all competitions while providing three assists. He’s played as a striker, but more recently as a midfielder to accomodate for the inclusion of Gabriel Jesus.

    Here’s why Havertz is absent from the Arsenal matchday squad vs. Brentford.

    According to TNT Sports in the build-up, Havertz is under the weather. The severity of Havertz’s sickness hasn’t been confirmed by Mikel Arteta, but the Spanish manager can ill afford more absences for the rest of the season.

    Havertz scored the winning goals both home and away last season against the Bees. His absence means a first-ever Premier League start for Ethan Nwaneri who should start on the right. The Hale End product has a big opportunity to impress supporters and fans after performing well in the Carabao Cup so far.

    READ THE LATEST ARSENAL NEWS, PREVIEWS, PREDICTIONS, TRANSFER RUMORS AND MORE



    There has been much speculation surrounding the absence of Kai Havertz in Arsenal’s lineup for their match against Brentford on New Year’s Day. The German midfielder, who has been a key player for the Gunners this season, was notably missing from the squad.

    There are several reasons why Havertz may not have been selected to play in this important fixture. One possible explanation could be that he is dealing with an injury or fitness issue that is preventing him from taking part in the game. It is not uncommon for players to be sidelined due to injuries or other physical setbacks, especially during a busy period of fixtures.

    Another reason for Havertz’s absence could be tactical decisions made by the coaching staff. Perhaps the manager felt that other players were better suited to the style of play or tactics needed to face Brentford. In football, lineup decisions are often based on a variety of factors, including form, fitness, and opposition analysis.

    It is also possible that Havertz was simply given a rest or rotation opportunity, as managers often rotate their squad to keep players fresh and prevent burnout during a congested schedule.

    Regardless of the reason for Havertz’s absence, Arsenal fans will undoubtedly be eager to see him back in action soon. His creativity and goal-scoring prowess have been crucial for the team this season, and his presence on the pitch is sorely missed when he is not playing. Hopefully, he will be back in the lineup for the next match and continue to make a significant impact for the Gunners.

    Tags:

    Kai Havertz, Arsenal, Brentford, New Year’s Day, Premier League, football, soccer, Chelsea, transfer news, injury update, team news, match preview, lineup, analysis

    #Kai #Havertz #Isnt #Playing #Arsenal #Brentford #Years #Day

  • Esports isn’t dead, but new games need to be “memorable” like League of Legends

    Esports isn’t dead, but new games need to be “memorable” like League of Legends


    There’s a rumor out there that esports is dying. It was just another COVID-19 phase, some say, while others compare it to the NFT rush and the scramble for the metaverse, two trends that, while still popular, don’t carry the weight that they once did. But esports isn’t dying – in fact, it’s very much alive. In 2024 League of Legends Worlds pulled in almost 7 million viewers, up on 2023 where that total sat around 6.4 million. Year upon year Worlds has slowly snowballed in popularity, so I asked Team Liquid‘s co-CEO Steve Arhancet and VP of esports John Lewis about their views on the current esports market, and how new games can break into it.

    We haven’t seen a new esports-ready title in a while, after all. The last real breakout was Valorant, propped up by Riot’s stellar esports ecosystem and nurtured by a series of well-constructed smaller hype tournaments like First Strike. Now, the sector has five real pillars: Dota 2, Call of Duty, Counter-Strike 2, League of Legends, and Valorant, with once-popular multiplayer games Overwatch and Smite falling into relative obscurity.

    I ask Arhancet about the state of the industry at the moment – despite LoL and Valorant’s continued growth, many believe it’s on the brink of collapse. “I completely disagree,” Arhancet says.

    YouTube Thumbnail

    “League of Legends, a game that started over 13 years ago, just broke several viewership records this year,” he tells me. “Viewership for esports is up and to the right; the number of gamers is up and to the right. We are in it for the long haul with a solid plan to be a multi-generational global organization, a leader in our space. We see this time as an opportunity.”

    While Arhancet admits that Liquid “performed under our expectations” at Worlds, 2024 hasn’t been a write-off. Where it was once TL versus TSM in North America, Flyquest has emerged as the plucky new rival hoping to topple Blue and company. Arhancet tells me that it’s “great to have storylines and rivalries in the league,” noting that both teams “are committed to building winning rosters,” fanning the flames of what promises to be “the makings of a healthy rivalry.”

    Esports, after all, isn’t just about the winning and the losing or those coveted viewership stats. The first ever esports match I watched was the 2019 LCS Summer Finals, where Liquid beat TSM’s record by scoring their fourth trophy in a row. It was the rivalry between Soren ‘Bjergson’ Bjerg and Yilang ‘Doublelift’ Peng that kickstarted my love for esports – it’s about the stories, not just the numbers.

    An image of Team Liquid's League of Legends squad standing at a table

    The formation of new rivalries makes the sector so interesting, but we haven’t seen any fresh, big esports games in the past few years – certainly not independently run ones. I’ve been waiting for a new addition to the fray, and Theorycraft Games’ Supervive is the one that’s on my radar. Created by a team of former Rioters determined to build “the deepest games in the world,” the MOBA/brawler hybrid is smashing internal records everywhere, and has no plans to slow down.

    I ask Lewis about what makes an esports game, and how you break into a saturated market. He tells me that it “takes a special game,” one that’s “fun, that players will play for years, and a deep game at the highest level that creates memorable viewing experiences for fans.

    “The gameplay and mechanics of the game also need to allow substantial skill expression,” he continues, “so that the best players in the world can truly shine for fans to keep watching. Lastly, a very important component is a publisher that has a clear (positive) vision for their place in helping build that esports ecosystem.” Supervive certainly feels like it’s on the right track.

    YouTube Thumbnail

    As we look ahead to League of Legends in 2025, with its new themed seasons and fearless draft pro system, I’m intrigued to see how Liquid performs. In the meantime, however, check out our LoL tier list if you’re looking to stomp on the Rift this holiday season or, alternatively, our rundown of the League of Legends ranks if you’re hoping to climb the ladder next year.

    You can also follow us on Google News for daily PC games news, reviews, and guides, or join our community Discord to stay in the know.



    The esports industry has seen exponential growth in recent years, with massive tournaments, multi-million dollar prize pools, and a dedicated fanbase. However, with the constant influx of new games entering the scene, it can be easy for certain titles to fall by the wayside.

    One game that has stood the test of time and remained a staple in the esports world is League of Legends. Since its release in 2009, League of Legends has captivated millions of players and viewers alike with its strategic gameplay, diverse champion pool, and exciting competitive scene.

    But what sets League of Legends apart from other esports titles? The answer lies in its memorability. League of Legends has created a rich and immersive world that players can truly get lost in. From the intricate lore surrounding each champion to the intense team dynamics required for victory, League of Legends has created an experience that is both challenging and rewarding for players.

    In order for new games to succeed in the esports world, they need to be just as memorable as League of Legends. This means creating a unique and engaging gameplay experience, developing a strong community around the game, and fostering a competitive scene that keeps players and viewers coming back for more.

    Esports isn’t dead, but new games need to step up their game if they want to compete with the likes of League of Legends. By creating memorable experiences that resonate with players, new games have the potential to carve out their own place in the esports world and attract a dedicated fanbase.

    Tags:

    1. Esports industry
    2. Popular video games
    3. League of Legends
    4. Gaming community
    5. Competitive gaming
    6. Online multiplayer games
    7. Esports tournaments
    8. Gaming industry trends
    9. Memorable games
    10. Esports success.

    #Esports #isnt #dead #games #memorable #League #Legends

  • Netflix’s Harlan Coben adaptation ‘Missing You’ is a twist-filled tale of deceit. Here’s why a second season isn’t on the cards.

    Netflix’s Harlan Coben adaptation ‘Missing You’ is a twist-filled tale of deceit. Here’s why a second season isn’t on the cards.


    • Netflix has delivered another thriller based on one of Harlan Coben’s books.

    • “Missing You” follows a detective whose fiancé has been missing for 11 years.

    • The show is billed as a limited series, but there would be plenty to explore in a second season.

    Warning: Major spoilers ahead for “Missing You.”

    Fans of “Missing You,” Netflix’s latest adaptation of a Harlan Coben book, may be wondering if a second season is coming.

    The show comes after Coben’s “Fool Me Once,” which was released on January 1, 2024 and became one of Netflix’s most-watched shows of all time. It has been viewed 98 million times, according to the streamer.

    In “Missing You,” detective Kat Donovan (Rosalind Eleazar) tries to uncover why her fiancé disappeared and her father died 11 years ago.

    Netflix has promoted the show as a limited series, so it seems unlikely a second season will be made. None of the other Coben adaptations have had one, either.

    But the ending leaves things on an emotional cliffhanger and it would be possible for Netflix to continue the story, which it might be tempted to do if it’s as big a success as “Fool Me Once.”

    The series ends with Josh Buchanan (Ashley Walters), Kat’s fiancé, confessing to her that he accidentally killed her father, Clint Donovan (Lenny Henry) while trying to defend his friend, Aqua Venech (Mary Malone).

    Aqua accidentally learned that Clint was secretly gay and had been in a relationship with a man for 14 years. Josh arrived at Aqua’s apartment when Clint was threatening her with a knife, and accidentally stabbed him during the fight.

    Josh then left Kat suddenly because he couldn’t deal with the guilt of killing her father.

    Kat is shocked, and although the couple had started to rekindle their relationship, it’s unclear whether they could stay together now she knows the truth.

    A hypothetical second season of “Missing You” could explore whether the pair stay together and if Kat goes to the police. It could also return to the organized crime subplot involving gangster Dominic Calligan (James Nesbitt).

    But for now, it looks like “Missing You” is a one-off.

    Read the original article on Business Insider



    Netflix’s Harlan Coben adaptation ‘Missing You’ is a twist-filled tale of deceit that has kept viewers on the edge of their seats since it premiered. The show follows the story of a young woman who goes missing, and the web of lies and secrets that unravels as her loved ones search for her.

    Despite the gripping plot and stellar performances from the cast, fans of the show may be disappointed to learn that a second season isn’t in the cards. The decision not to renew the series for another season was made by Netflix, citing a desire to focus on other projects and keep the show’s story contained within a single season.

    While it’s always sad to say goodbye to a show we love, sometimes it’s better to let a story end on a high note rather than drag it out past its expiration date. And with ‘Missing You’ delivering a satisfying conclusion to its mystery, perhaps it’s best to leave it as a standalone season that will continue to intrigue and captivate viewers for years to come.

    So, while we may not get a second season of ‘Missing You’, we can still appreciate the fantastic storytelling and thrilling twists that made the show a must-watch for fans of suspense and mystery. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll see Harlan Coben’s work adapted for the screen again in a whole new, equally captivating way.

    Tags:

    Netflix, Harlan Coben, Missing You, adaptation, twist-filled tale, deceit, second season, Harlan Coben adaptation, Netflix series, TV show, suspense, mystery, drama, thriller, crime, binge-worthy, streaming, suspenseful, plot twists, cliffhangers.

    #Netflixs #Harlan #Coben #adaptation #Missing #twistfilled #tale #deceit #Heres #season #isnt #cards

  • Samuel L Jackson Isn’t Bent Out Of Shape About Never Winning An Oscar (And Yes Star Wars And Marvel Are Involved)

    Samuel L Jackson Isn’t Bent Out Of Shape About Never Winning An Oscar (And Yes Star Wars And Marvel Are Involved)


    Through his work across the history of Marvel movies, the timeline of Star Wars movies and more, Samuel L. Jackson has shown broad range and continued to hone his talent across decades of acting experience. For an actor of his caliber, it’s kind of surprising that he’s only ever been nominated once for an Academy Award (outside of the honorary statue he brought home in 2021).

    Some might stoke a passionate defenses for the veteran of the Marvel and Star Wars cinematic universes; however, the man himself isn’t bent out of shape one bit. In conversation with The L.A. Times, the noted f-bomb dropper admits that the annual chase for that golden path doesn’t necessarily motivate him. So, what does keep Samuel L. Jackson going in his career pursuits?

    I was never going to let the Oscars be a measure of my success or failure as an actor. My yardstick of success is my happiness: Am I satisfied with what I’m doing? I’m not doing statue-chasing movies. You know [whispers]: “If you do this movie, you’ll win an Oscar.” No, thanks. I’d rather be Nick Fury. Or having fun being Mace Windu with a lightsaber in my hand.



    Samuel L Jackson Isn’t Bent Out Of Shape About Never Winning An Oscar (And Yes Star Wars And Marvel Are Involved)

    Samuel L Jackson, the iconic actor known for his unforgettable roles in films like Pulp Fiction, Django Unchained, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has never won an Oscar. Despite this, Jackson remains unfazed by the lack of recognition from the Academy.

    In a recent interview, Jackson expressed his nonchalant attitude towards the prestigious award, stating that he doesn’t “need a gold guy on [his] shelf” to validate his talent. He went on to say that he’s proud of the work he’s done and the impact he’s had on the film industry, regardless of any awards.

    One might think that Jackson’s roles in blockbuster franchises like Star Wars and Marvel would have earned him some Oscar love, but the actor seems content with his contributions to these beloved series. He’s brought to life some of the most memorable characters in these universes, from Mace Windu to Nick Fury, and fans couldn’t imagine anyone else in these roles.

    While some actors may feel bitter about never winning an Oscar, Jackson’s laid-back attitude and focus on the work itself is refreshing. He continues to deliver outstanding performances and entertain audiences around the world, proving that awards aren’t the only measure of success in Hollywood. And with more exciting projects on the horizon, it’s safe to say that Samuel L Jackson’s legacy will only continue to grow.

    Tags:

    1. Samuel L Jackson
    2. Oscars
    3. Hollywood
    4. Star Wars
    5. Marvel
    6. Actor
    7. Film industry
    8. Awards
    9. Celebrity
    10. Entertainment industry

    #Samuel #Jackson #Isnt #Bent #Shape #Winning #Oscar #Star #Wars #Marvel #Involved

  • The Mystery of Koo: Why Isn’t He Playing?

    The Mystery of Koo: Why Isn’t He Playing?


    Koo Ja-cheol, also known as Koo, is a South Korean professional footballer who currently plays for Augsburg in the Bundesliga. However, in recent weeks, fans and pundits alike have been left scratching their heads as to why the talented midfielder has been left out of the starting lineup.

    Koo has been a key player for Augsburg since joining the club in 2016, consistently delivering strong performances in the midfield and chipping in with crucial goals. His leadership on the field and ability to dictate play have made him a fan favorite and an integral part of the team.

    So, why has Koo been relegated to the bench in recent matches? The mystery surrounding his absence from the starting lineup has sparked speculation and debate among fans and experts alike.

    One theory is that Koo may be dealing with an injury or fitness issues that have prevented him from playing at his best. However, there has been no official confirmation from the club regarding any such concerns, leaving fans to wonder what the real reason behind his absence may be.

    Another possibility is that the coaching staff may be experimenting with different tactics and formations that do not include Koo in the starting lineup. This could be a strategic decision to try out new combinations and see how the team performs without their star midfielder on the pitch.

    Regardless of the reason, one thing is clear: Koo’s absence has been felt on the field. Augsburg has struggled in his absence, with the team failing to secure wins and dropping points in crucial matches.

    Fans are eagerly awaiting Koo’s return to the starting lineup, hoping that his presence will provide the spark needed to turn things around for the team. Until then, the mystery of Koo’s absence continues to baffle fans and leave them wondering why one of their best players isn’t getting the playing time he deserves.


    #Mystery #Koo #Isnt #Playing,why is koo not playing

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