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Marti Cifuentes Appointed New QPR Manager After Gareth Ainsworth’s Departure

Marti Cifuentes Appointed New QPR Manager After Gareth Ainsworth’s Departure

Spaniard leaves Hammarby to take over struggling Championship side

Queens Park Rangers (QPR) have confirmed the appointment of Marti Cifuentes as their new head coach, following the sacking of Gareth Ainsworth. The decision comes after the team suffered a sixth consecutive league defeat, losing 2-1 at home to league leaders Leicester on Saturday. This defeat left QPR sitting second from the bottom of the Sky Bet Championship, prompting the club to part ways with Ainsworth.

Cifuentes, 41, arrives from Swedish top-flight club Hammarby, where he has been coaching for the past two seasons. His appointment is contingent on receiving a work permit.

QPR’s chief executive, Lee Hoos, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointment: “We are delighted to bring Marti in, and I would firstly like to thank Hammarby for being fantastic to deal with throughout the process. Marti is an exciting appointment, and we look forward to seeing the impact he can have. Having a succession plan in place is a necessary part of football, irrespective of how the team are performing, and Marti is someone we have been aware of for some time. We are really pleased to have been able to secure his services.”

Cifuentes’ arrival marks a new chapter for QPR as they aim to reverse their poor form and climb out of the Championship relegation zone.

Claudia Winkleman Sends Love to Amanda Abbington After Strictly Departure

Claudia Winkleman Sends Love to Amanda Abbington After Strictly Departure

Abbington exits BBC competition for personal reasons during Halloween Week

During Saturday night’s episode of Strictly Come Dancing, Claudia Winkleman expressed her heartfelt support for Amanda Abbington, telling the actress, “We are sending you all our love.” Abbington, who had been competing in the BBC One competition, confirmed on Monday’s It Takes Two that she would be leaving the show due to personal reasons.

In a post on Instagram, Abbington shared her regret at the decision: “It is with deepest regret that I had to leave Strictly. I did not come to this decision easily or lightly but for personal reasons I am unable to continue.” Her departure was met with an outpouring of support from fans and fellow competitors.

Meanwhile, Strictly’s Halloween Week kicked off with a dramatic performance by Irish TV presenter Angela Scanlon and professional dancer Carlos Gu. The pair danced a Black Swan pasodoble to Swan Lake, earning high praise from the judges. Head judge Shirley Ballas praised their performance, saying, “You set the tone for the evening absolutely fabulously,” while Anton Du Beke called the drama “exquisite.” They scored 33 points for their performance.

Waterloo Road actor Adam Thomas and his partner Luba Mushtuk followed with an American smooth to Perry Como’s Magic Moments. Thomas, dressed as a wizard, impressed the judges with his footwork. Du Beke described it as “lovely,” but Craig Revel Horwood, who was dressed as Professor Snape for Halloween, said it was “too sweet” for his liking. However, Oti Mabuse and Shirley Ballas both praised Thomas, with Ballas calling it one of his “much better performances.” The couple earned 32 points.

As the competition intensifies, Strictly continues to captivate viewers with its mix of spooky themes and show-stopping performances.

Pro-Palestinian Protesters Demand Ceasefire in Glasgow

Pro-Palestinian Protesters Demand Ceasefire in Glasgow

Hundreds march in solidarity with Palestinians amidst Gaza crisis

Pro-Palestinian Protesters Demand Ceasefire in Glasgow
Hundreds march in solidarity with Palestinians amidst Gaza crisis
Human Rights

Hundreds of demonstrators convened in George Square, Glasgow, rallying in support of Palestinians and urging an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza conflict. Organised by the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign and various pro-Palestinian groups, chants of “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” echoed as keynote speakers voiced their concerns over the escalating crisis.

SNP MP Alison Thewliss passionately addressed the crowd, stating the ongoing violence does not represent the people of Glasgow. “I have never received as many emails as I have over these past two weeks,” she said, highlighting Glasgow’s demand for a ceasefire and condemning civilian casualties. Thewliss criticised Britain’s abstention from a recent UN resolution on civilian protection, declaring, “Not in our name, Glasgow. Not in our name.”

Ivan McKee, SNP MSP for Glasgow Provan, also spoke, decrying the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “No food, no water, no medicine, no electricity… absolutely shocking, unacceptable,” he said, urging citizens to pressure politicians to take a stand.

The demonstration in Glasgow was part of broader protests across Scotland, with simultaneous gatherings in Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, Greenock, Forres, and Stirling. Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf, whose in-laws are trapped in Gaza, expressed solidarity, tweeting support for global peace demonstrations, hoping “humanity prevails.”

Protesters marched through Glasgow city centre, waving Palestinian flags and carrying banners, with police ensuring order as traffic was momentarily disrupted. Demonstrations also took place in London and other parts of the UK.

Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge Struggles Continue as Brentford Deliver Another Blow

Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge Struggles Continue as Brentford Deliver Another Blow

Bees extend unbeaten run at Chelsea’s home ground as Spurs clash looms

Chelsea’s woes at Stamford Bridge deepened with a 2-0 loss to Brentford, marking a third consecutive home defeat by their West London rivals. Brentford’s away dressing room was a scene of celebration as the Bees secured another derby triumph, leaving Chelsea with just one win at home in their last seven outings. For Mauricio Pochettino, this defeat heightens pressure as he prepares for a high-stakes clash against league leaders Tottenham, who sit 14 points ahead in the table.

While the manager faces scrutiny, Chelsea’s issues stretch throughout the club, as exemplified by assistant Jesus Perez’s touchline dismissal for clashing with Brentford’s bench. More concerning, however, is the squad’s continued lack of clinical finishing. Despite recording an expected goals (xG) of 1.59, Chelsea’s missed chances mirrored earlier losses to Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa. Nicolas Jackson, Marc Cucurella, Noni Madueke, and Raheem Sterling all failed to convert in the first half, with Jackson particularly struggling to assert himself as a forward.

The second half saw Chelsea’s young side grow anxious, their creativity waning. Such missteps are becoming a familiar narrative under the Boehly-Clearlake era and must be rectified to avoid another season of mediocrity. Amid the frustration, Cole Palmer stood out, delivering a dynamic display of dribbling, vision, and precise crosses. Despite his efforts, teammates squandered the chances he crafted, leaving him blameless for the loss.

Pochettino faces a daunting task to reignite Stamford Bridge’s atmosphere and deliver consistent results. With just one home win since taking charge, the honeymoon period may end abruptly if Chelsea falter against Tottenham. Fans’ patience, already tested, may not extend far into another difficult season.

Liverpool Dominate Toulouse with 5-1 Victory at Anfield

Liverpool Dominate Toulouse with 5-1 Victory at Anfield

Reds maintain perfect record in Europa League group stage

Liverpool showcased their dominance in the Europa League, defeating Toulouse 5-1 at Anfield to continue their unbeaten run in the competition’s group stage. Diogo Jota set the tone early, weaving through four defenders to slot the opener in the ninth minute. Despite Thijs Dallinga’s swift equaliser for Toulouse, Liverpool reclaimed control with Wataru Endo’s header and Darwin Nunez’s clinical finish just before the half-hour mark.

The second half saw Nunez narrowly miss another goal when his shot struck the post, but Ryan Gravenberch was on hand to capitalise on the rebound. Mohamed Salah completed the rout in added time with a precise shot into the top corner. The victory places Liverpool five points clear at the top of Group E, while Toulouse and Union Saint Gilloise are level on four points, and LASK remains without a point.

Manager Jurgen Klopp praised the “incredible” performance of Ryan Gravenberch, as the Reds now shift focus to maintaining their strong form in domestic and European competitions.

Destruction in Gaza Captured by New Satellite Images

Destruction in Gaza Captured by New Satellite Images

Hospitals face overwhelming challenges while neighbourhoods lie in ruins

Recent satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies, released via Reuters, reveals extensive damage across Gaza’s neighbourhoods due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes amid the conflict, now entering its 20th day. Particularly affected areas include Atatra, Al-Karama, and Beit Hanoun, where buildings and green spaces have been reduced to rubble since Hamas’s October 7 attack on southern Israel.

Intensive strikes have led to extensive devastation, with hospitals across Gaza struggling to manage overwhelming numbers of injured patients due to severe shortages of medical supplies and fuel. UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths expressed concern over the “bare trickle” of aid entering Gaza, stating that civilians’ basic needs are not being met, despite escalating bombardments.

Israel’s military reports targeting Hamas fighters and infrastructure, with ground operations and strikes overnight near Gaza’s northern region, including tank shelling. Palestinians in central Gaza described heavy overnight attacks, while the southern Khan Younis refugee camp saw at least 15 fatalities after several homes were levelled.

The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry reports over 7,000 Palestinian deaths since the conflict began, while Israeli officials have confirmed over 1,400 fatalities, predominantly civilians from the initial Hamas assault. Israel has announced that 222 hostages, including foreign nationals, are being held by Hamas, with the militant group claiming that about 50 have died from Israeli airstrikes—a claim yet to be independently verified.

UN officials warn of Gaza’s dire state, emphasising that civilians face grave risks amid a lack of safe refuge, food, water, and assurances for any return.

Sharon Stone Reveals Doctors Dismissed Her Brain Haemorrhage as ‘Faking’

Sharon Stone Reveals Doctors Dismissed Her Brain Haemorrhage as ‘Faking’

The actress recalls her harrowing experience with a nine-day brain bleed in 2001

Sharon Stone has disclosed that doctors initially thought she was “faking” a serious medical condition that turned out to be a brain haemorrhage resulting from a ruptured vertebral artery. The “Basic Instinct” star, now 65, suffered a stroke in 2001 that led to a life-threatening nine-day brain bleed.

Reflecting on the incident, Stone recounted waking up in a Los Angeles emergency room in severe pain. Speaking to Vogue, she described the shocking moment when she realised she was being taken for brain surgery without her knowledge or consent. “A doctor had decided… to give me exploratory brain surgery,” Stone revealed.

She highlighted the gender bias she faced, explaining that “in a medical setting, women often just aren’t heard, particularly when you don’t have a female doctor.” Initially, the medical team dismissed her symptoms, but a second angiogram—conducted at her best friend’s insistence—revealed extensive bleeding into her brain and a ruptured vertebral artery. Stone asserted she would not have survived if she had been sent home.

The actress described the physical toll of the haemorrhage, including facial paralysis, severe dragging of her left foot, and stuttering. “I bled so much into my subarachnoid pool… that the right side of my face fell,” she said. For years, Stone also endured painful, knot-like swellings on her head.

Initially concealing her condition due to fear of public rejection, Stone admitted, “I hid my disability and was afraid to go out… I just thought no-one would accept me.”

Now an advocate for brain health, Stone serves on the board of the Barrow Neurological Foundation in the U.S., which focuses on treating complex brain and spine conditions. She is involved in fundraising efforts, including Neuro Night, a charity event on October 27 dedicated to supporting the foundation’s work.

Investigation into Human Rights Watchdog Chair Closes

Investigation into Human Rights Watchdog Chair Closes

EHRC Internal Inquiry into Baroness Kishwer Falkner Concludes Amidst Controversy

Investigation into Human Rights Watchdog Chair Closes
EHRC Internal Inquiry into Baroness Kishwer Falkner Concludes Amidst Controversy
News

The investigation into Baroness Kishwer Falkner, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), has formally concluded. The inquiry, which began after Channel 4 News reported allegations about her conduct in May, included claims of bullying, harassment, and concerns about a toxic workplace culture within the commission.

Supporters of Baroness Falkner argued that she was unfairly targeted by pro-trans rights activists within the EHRC, sparking broader debate. In July, Minister for Women and Equalities Kemi Badenoch called for an independent legal review of the handling of the complaints. Following its findings, the EHRC board determined the internal investigation should be closed.

The EHRC stated it would address outstanding matters confidentially and conduct a full review of process failures and its governance rules to implement necessary changes. While specific findings of the internal investigation were not disclosed, Baroness Falkner expressed relief and gratitude for the closure of the inquiry, denouncing the claims as unsubstantiated.

She affirmed her commitment to public service and the EHRC’s mission of promoting equality and human rights. Falkner pledged to learn lessons from the experience and implement improvements, while remaining focused on her role.

Ministerial support was evident, with a source close to Kemi Badenoch praising Baroness Falkner’s leadership in navigating contentious issues and expressing satisfaction at the inquiry’s conclusion. The outcome aims to allow the EHRC to refocus on its core responsibilities and public service goals.

Stormzy Surprises Fans with High-Energy Secret Liverpool Show

Stormzy Surprises Fans with High-Energy Secret Liverpool Show

Competition Winners Treated to Exclusive Performance at Intimate Venue

Grime sensation Stormzy thrilled a crowd of 500 lucky fans during a secret performance in Liverpool, as part of a campaign with Rockstar Energy Drink. Ticket winners were informed of the location, Camp and Furnace, only on the morning of the exclusive event.

The 30-year-old artist, known for his electrifying stage presence, opened the half-hour set with “This Is What I Mean,” setting the tone for a night filled with hits. Following an intro by his sister, DJ Rachael Anson, Stormzy engaged fans with his trademark energy, joking with the crowd and acknowledging fans from Liverpool and beyond.

Stormzy’s setlist included fan favourites like “Hide And Seek” and “The Weekend,” as well as his popular tracks “Toxic Trait” and “Big For Your Boots.” The Croydon-born star ended with “Vossi Bop,” urging the crowd to join in with its politically charged lyrics. Throughout the performance, he kept the energy high, even handing out his bucket hat to a fan during a crowd interaction.

Expressing his gratitude, Stormzy said, “Connecting with my audience on such a personal and intimate level tonight was a privilege.” Rising Afrobeats artist JayO also performed, adding to the night’s electric atmosphere.

This special gig marks the second part of Stormzy’s collaboration with Rockstar Energy Drink, following a virtual concert on Spotify earlier this year. Bart LaCount of PepsiCo praised Stormzy for embodying the “Press Play” ethos through his captivating performances and infectious energy.

Arteta Praises Gabriel Jesus’ ‘Paramount’ Role in Arsenal’s Win Over Sevilla

Arteta Praises Gabriel Jesus’ ‘Paramount’ Role in Arsenal’s Win Over Sevilla

Striker Shines with Goal and Assist as Gunners Top Champions League Group B

Arteta Praises Gabriel Jesus’ ‘Paramount’ Role in Arsenal’s Win Over Sevilla
Striker Shines with Goal and Assist as Gunners Top Champions League Group B
Sports

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta commended Gabriel Jesus for his standout performance in Arsenal’s 2-1 Champions League victory over Sevilla, emphasizing that “big games are for big players.” Jesus, who scored one goal and provided an assist, was crucial in helping the Gunners ascend to the top of Group B. Arteta highlighted that performances like this justify why Arsenal signed the Brazilian forward.

“He needed to deliver moments like this to win in such a challenging environment,” said Arteta. “He has transformed our team, bringing energy and belief. Games of this calibre demand players of his level.” Arteta praised Jesus’ influence on the pitch and his ability to deliver in critical moments, stressing that such contributions are key for winning at top venues.

The match was bittersweet for Arsenal, however, as Jesus had to leave the field in the final minutes due to a hamstring concern. Arteta expressed worry, noting that it was unusual for the striker to ask for a substitution. “He straight away asked to be subbed, which is not typical for him,” Arteta said. “We will have to assess the situation in the coming days.”

Jesus himself commented on the injury, expressing cautious optimism. “I felt something and did some initial tests with the physio. It doesn’t seem major, but we’ll know more after a scan,” he stated.