An Australian writers’ festival cut a Palestinian author in the wake of a terror attack. Then it fell apart

An Australian writers’ festival cut a Palestinian author in the wake of a terror attack. Then it fell apart

Randa Abdel-Fattah, who is Palestinian Australian, has faced criticism for controversial comments on Israel, including alleging Zionists had ‘no claim or right to cultural safety’ When the board of a South Australian festival cut a prominent Palestinian Australian author from its lineup, citing her “past statements” in the context of the deadly Bondi terror attack, it no doubt braced itself for controversy. What it may not have foreseen, however, is an implosion. Continue reading...

Football transfer rumours: Manchester United to bid £30m for Marcos Llorente?

Football transfer rumours: Manchester United to bid £30m for Marcos Llorente?

Today’s rumours are misty-eyed The fun has only just begun at Old Trafford where Michael Carrick will become the head coach until the end of the season. As someone who knows a thing or two about central midfielders, Carrick will immediately realise Manchester United are desperately in need of one. Al-Hilal’s Rúben Neves is on the radar, as is Atlético Madrid’s Marcos Llorente . The 30-year-old is valued at £30m, leaving Jason Wilcox and chums plenty to ponder. There are, supposedly, admirers of Sassuolo’s Tarik Muharemovic at United but if they really want to acquire the centre-back’s services they will need to overcome competing interest from Tottenham and Newcastle. Continue reading...