🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Wayne Rooney criticizes Gareth Southgate for Trent Alexander-Arnold's exclusion from England squad
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
Former England captain Wayne Rooney has expressed strong criticism regarding England manager Gareth Southgate's decision to omit Trent Alexander-Arnold from the squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, labeling the choice as "mind-boggling." Alexander-Arnold has not been included in Southgate's last four England squads, despite his return to regular play for Madrid after recovering from a thigh injury earlier this year. Speaking on his podcast, Rooney questioned the selection of Ben White over Alexander-Arnold, stating, "No disrespect to Ben White – I think he’s a fantastic player – but for him to be in the squad and playing ahead of Trent is mind-boggling." England's defensive options for the final home friendlies before the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States include Tino Livramento, Djed Spence, and Ezri Konsa. Rooney acknowledged that he would still prefer Reece James as England’s primary right-back if he were fit, but he also noted concerns about James's consistency. Former England defender Phil Jagielka also supported Alexander-Arnold's inclusion, suggesting that if he performs as he did for Liverpool, he should be in the squad. The discussion also touched upon England's left-back choices, with Nico O’Reilly and Lewis Hall vying for a starting position. Jagielka praised O’Reilly’s attacking prowess but highlighted his defensive vulnerabilities. Rooney, however, emphasized the importance of experience in major tournaments, stating he would trust Luke Shaw, a
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The Kwara State Government has expressed significant concern following the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria's discovery and closure of 724 illegal drug premises across the state. Dr. Abdulraheem Malik, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Hospitals Management Board, stated that while the enforcement exercise is commendable, the sheer number of illegal outlets is alarming and highlights the scale of unregulated medicine distribution. He noted that many of these premises are operated by individuals lacking the necessary pharmaceutical training, leading to risks such as improper drug handling, treatment failures, and serious health complications for residents who unknowingly patronize them. Malik emphasized that the findings should prompt the Kwara State Pharmaceutical Inspectors Committee to strengthen its surveillance and enforcement strategies. He recommended leveraging Community Health Committees in 46 communities to improve grassroots monitoring and reporting of illegal drug outlets and support public awareness campaigns on the dangers of unauthorized medicine vendors. The government aims for a significant reduction in illegal drug premises during future inspections, underscoring public health protection as a top priority and calling for stronger regulatory vigilance.
Two students opened fire inside San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte province, resulting in the deaths of three teenagers and injuries to seven others, according to police. The alleged shooters, aged 15 and 14, fired "randomly," causing panic among students. A social studies teacher, Irvin Nogar, described hearing gunshots and instructing students to hide. A video verified by AFP showed children screaming and crying during the incident. The mother of one of the slain students called for accountability for those who provided the guns. Police Lieutenant Evalyn Diaz stated that "bullying was the motive" and that the alleged shooters were being interrogated. The police are investigating the origin of the firearms and how they were brought into the school. The Department of Education described the situation as "high-alert" and is coordinating with law enforcement. While school shootings are rare in the Philippines, a knife attack injured seven students last month in Cavite province. President Ferdinand Marcos's spokeswoman, Claire Castro, expressed the president's sadness and mentioned that measures are being taken to ensure safety in public spaces. Legal gun ownership is strictly regulated in the Philippines, but a significant black market for firearms exists.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly considering stepping down, with UK media indicating a potential announcement as early as Monday. This comes as Andy Burnham, who recently won a by-election, is expected to be sworn in as a Member of Parliament, clearing the way for a leadership challenge. Starmer's office has not confirmed any decision or press conference timings, though junior education minister Jacqui Smith stated Starmer was reflecting on what is best for the country. Speculation about Starmer's resignation intensified following Burnham's decisive victory in the Makerfield constituency. Under Labour rules, the party leader must be an MP. If Starmer resigns, it would mark Britain's seventh prime minister in a decade. The Guardian reported that Starmer is expected to announce his resignation due to pressure from Labour MPs to make way for Burnham. The BBC also noted growing signs of Starmer's potential resignation. US President Donald Trump predicted Starmer's departure, citing failures in immigration and energy policies. Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor since 2017, has expressed his intention to lead the Labour party. Starmer, who took office in July 2024, has faced a tenure marked by missteps, policy U-turns, scandals, and ministerial resignations, including a near ousting in March over the appointment of Peter Mandelson. Recent local and regional poll losses further intensified pressure on Starmer, leading to the Makerfield by-election that allowed Bu