AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze has emphasised the positive atmosphere at the club, declaring that everyone is happy and working hard despite ongoing speculation about his future at the San Siro. The Nigeria international made these comments following Milan’s impressive 9-0 victory over Perth Glory on Thursday, which wrapped up their pre-season tour in Australia. Chukwueze scored one of the nine goals alongside strikes from Filippo Terracciano, Christian Comotto, Samuele Ricci, Yunus Musah, and two each from Noah Okafor and Rafael Leao. Speaking to MilanTV after the match, Chukwueze praised new coach Massimiliano Allegri whilst highlighting the squad’s unity. “Coach Allegri is a great coach—everyone knows that. He has won a lot throughout his career, and now that he’s here, he’ll aim to win trophies with Milan as well,” Chukwueze said. “He’s excellent at working with players; he understands what they want and what he needs from them, both in terms of defence and attack.” The Super Eagles winger painted a picture of harmony within the Milan dressing room, revealing the lighter side of professional football. “Everyone is happy and working hard, and there’s a fantastic atmosphere in the dressing room. Some teammates even dance, and I’m one of them,” he said with a laugh. “Having fun makes everything easier.” The 26-year-old reflected positively on the comprehensive victory against Perth Glory, viewing it as crucial preparation for the upcoming Serie A campaign. “We’re pleased to have won two matches. It was a good game. Every match during pre-season is important to prepare us for the start of Serie A,” he said. “The win reminds us that we need to keep working hard and stay focused on the upcoming challenges. It doesn’t matter if we’re facing a small or big team; we must strive to win every game to achieve our season goals.” Chukwueze emphasised the importance of maintaining a positive mindset both on and off the pitch, offering insight into his philosophical approach to football. “You always need to smile and take joy in what we do. Football can be stressful at times, leading you to dwell too much on what you can’t accomplish, but it’s vital to smile and remain happy,” he explained. “When you’re happy, everything falls into place, allowing you to play with the right mindset, which impacts football and every other aspect of life. When things go well, smile; when they don’t, smile nonetheless. The most important thing is to focus on yourself.” He added, “There’s a time to joke and a time to concentrate. Now that our work is done, we can indulge in some fun.” Chukwueze’s positive comments come amid ongoing speculation about his future at Milan, with Fulham reportedly opening discussions about a potential move for the Nigeria international. According to journalist Nicolo Schira, the London club have begun negotiations with Milan for the winger, who has been deemed surplus to requirements at the Italian giants.

The Adeola Odeku, Victoria Island, Lagos branch of Sterling Bank came alive on Thursday as actor Uzor Arukwe made a surprise appearance to publicly endorse the bank’s newly launched zero digital bank charges policy. Arukwe drew a crowd of enthusiastic customers and admirers as he opened two personal accounts with the bank’s OneBank platform, which offers digital banking services with zero transfer fees. This was after he had made a viral tweet in support of the initiative. Speaking at the bank, the actor said, “This is about putting people first. For creatives and small business owners like me, this is a game changer. If a bank is willing to stop charging us just to move our own money, then it deserves our support.” Arukwe’s visit was met with a warm reception from the bank’s executive team, including the Chief Operating Officer, Temitayo Adegoke; and the Growth Executive of Consumer and Business Banking, Obinna Ukachukwu. Both executives highlighted the bank’s commitment to reducing the cost of banking for Nigerians. “This is not just a tweak—it’s a full reset. Every Naira saved in bank fees can go into food, education or investment. We’re reimagining the role of banks in people’s lives,” Ukachukwu said.

FT: Bradford City 1-1 Notts County Ciaran Kelly heads Bradford ahead early on in the second half but David McGoldrick curls home from distance to equalise in style Bradford miss chance to move back to the top of League Two Notts County's pursuit of an automatic promotion place suffers a blow with just three games remaining Get Involved: #bbcfootball, via WhatsApp on 03301231826 or text 81111 (UK only, standard message rates apply) League Two promotion rivals Bradford and Notts County fought out a 1-1 draw in a frenzied atmosphere at Valley Parade. Ciaran Kelly headed the Bantams in front but the hosts' hopes of going top were dashed by a superb equaliser from David McGoldrick. Bradford fashioned the first chances in a frantic first half. Alex Pattison half-volleyed over the bar and Antoni Sarcevic shot into the side-netting. Notts County responded with an effort from striker McGoldrick that flew past the post from 20 yards. Visiting goalkeeper Sam Slocombe was called into action to push away Bobby Pointon's drive as Bradford tried to up the pressure. They won a series of corners and Neill Byrne was not far away from converting one from Pointon. The home side made the breakthrough in the 53rd minute as Kelly glanced home from Brandon Khela's free-kick. County levelled in the 70th minute with a brilliant finish from McGoldrick, who cut inside Khela before curling a shot into the top corner. McGoldrick then threatened with a left-foot attempt but that was held by Bradford keeper Sam Walker. Report supplied by PA Media.