Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes has been labelled a disgrace by former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher after questioning manager Michael Carrick's tactics. Fernandes said his side lacked pressure and adopted a mood of defeat after conceding early in a 4-1 Champions League loss to Como. Asked whether his comments criticised Carrick, Fernandes said that was for the manager and staff to judge. Carrick apologised for the performance, saying the team had not brought the required intensity. United have won no matches in seven games, and host AS Roma next in the competition.
Film critics have panned Digger, a new satire directed by Alejandro González Iñárritu and starring Tom Cruise, calling it an insufferable slog and a misfire. However, audience scores on aggregator sites like Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes are significantly higher than critic scores, with many viewers defending the film. Academics suggest the negative reviews may be driven by a desire to see the film fail, as well as a trend of criticising high-budget Hollywood films. Some celebrities, including Ben Affleck and Anne Hathaway, have publicly defended the film, warning that its rejection could lead to less risk-taking by studios.
Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has faced criticism from fans after a poor performance in a 26-20 loss to the Titans. Jones completed under 50% of his passes and threw two interceptions, leading some supporters to call for his benching. Despite the backlash, coach Shane Steichen confirmed Jones remains the starting quarterback. The Colts are now 2-4 for the season, with Jones' six interceptions in six games raising concerns about his form.
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Tasmania's treasurer Eric Abetz has defended the state's proposed pokie reforms, saying any improvement in harm minimisation is better than sticking with the current system. The government previously committed to implementing a mandatory pre-commitment card, but dropped the policy in favour of different measures. Anti-gambling advocates have criticised the reforms as 'cowardly' and said they would have minimal harm-minimisation benefits. Mr Abetz said the reforms were based on all available evidence and were a sensible, middle-of-the-road decision.
Adelaide mums Alisha and Deanne have criticised the meals served by Jane and Shane during their MKR Instant Restaurant. Jane and Shane served duck egg chawanmushi, followed by masterstock pigeon, including the heads and feet, and a tomato sour dessert. Deanne said the entree looked delicious but tasted terrible. Alisha said the plating skills were nowhere to be found. The couple said they were now more confident in their own abilities after making it through the instant restaurant round.
US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has unveiled a federal initiative to find evidence of vaccine injuries. The Department of Health and Human Services plans to overhaul the VAERS reporting system, making it available on mobile devices and adding tools for researchers. A financial incentive will encourage doctors to file reports. Electronic health records will also be required to record vaccine injuries. Kennedy said the government must listen to patients who report such injuries. Critics, including Protect Our Care, argue the plan will inflate vaccine risks and could raise insurance costs.
Angus Taylor, Opposition Leader, faced criticism after seeking donations for the Liberal Party's campaign. A letter to the editor questioned his migration policy promises, citing past inaction and broken commitments. The writer accused the Liberals of betraying constituents, particularly regarding water rights, alleging constitutional violations and corporate influence. The letter suggested energy corporations with Chinese Communist Party ties might fund the Liberals, given their policy favours. The author refused to donate, expressing disillusionment with both major parties.
A $560 million election funding program has sparked criticism for favouring Labor-held electorates, with a $6 million grant to Marrickville Golf Club in Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's electorate drawing particular scrutiny. The infrastructure department has distanced itself from the decision-making process, stating it had no role in selecting or funding projects. Good-governance groups have labelled the process as lacking transparency and integrity, with a Senate inquiry set to examine the funding round later this month.
A letter writer has criticised the inclusion of a civilian aid worker in a National Peacekeeper Day Service in Mullumbimby, arguing it was a political act. The service conductor defended the decision, stating the event honours all peacekeepers, including civilians and women, and that the aid worker's sacrifice should be remembered. The conductor also dismissed the criticism as overly sensitive.
Travis Head has accused former Australian players of unfairly criticising the current Test squad, saying the game has changed significantly. The vice-captain noted the team had faced challenges, including Justin Langer's exit as coach. He acknowledged the respect for past players but said their comments were sometimes unfair, particularly regarding batting averages and pitch conditions. The first Test against South Africa is scheduled for Durban.
Indianapolis Colts owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon defends her hands-on approach to team management, despite criticism. She frequently stands on the sidelines during games, using a headset to follow plays. Irsay-Gordon, who became the youngest NFL owner at 45 after inheriting the team in 2025, believes her involvement helps her lead effectively. She acknowledges she lacks deep football knowledge but values asking questions and listening to the coaching staff.
King Charles is reportedly feeling “very let down” as he has not spent much time with his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, since their arrival in the UK. Sources say the King was expecting more quality time with them, but their schedules have not aligned. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, has been balancing family commitments with her work, including launching a Christmas advent calendar through her lifestyle brand. A royal expert criticised the product for portraying a life she does not currently live. Meanwhile, the King is determined to see his grandchildren soon, despite recent family drama.
