Taylor Swift is mixing things up for her first night at Wembley Stadium … inviting frequent collaborator Ed Sheeran onstage for a mega mashup. The pop star brought out the British singer in London Thursday evening for the popular acoustic set she’s been doing during the “Eras” tour. It frequently includes songs she rarely performs and fans got an extra special treat this time. β€” Ed Sheeran News (Fanpage) πŸ‚ (@EdSheeran_EU) August 15, 2024 @EdSheeran_EU Taylor and Ed proved to be quite “The A Team,” as the BFFs sang a mash-up of “Everything Has Changed,” “End Game” and “Thinking Out Loud” for surprised Swifties. TS has performed more than 100 “Eras” tour shows, and sometimes special guests join her onstage … including Hayley Williams, Ice Spice, Phoebe Bridgers, Sabrina Carpenter, Gracie Abrams, Jack Antonoff, Aaron Dessner and HAIM. β€” Taylor Swift Updates (@tswiftscoop) August 15, 2024 @tswiftscoop Taylor referred to Ed as her “second brother” while introducing him to the crowd … putting an emphasis on their special bond. She added … “He works so hard and he’s on tour right now and he’s probably so tired, but he wanted to come and play for you and do this for all of us. So, give it up again for Ed Sheeran.” β€” Taylor Swift Updates (@TSwiftLA) August 15, 2024 @TSwiftLA Taylor and Ed have collaborated a number of times over the years. Not only did Ed open for Taylor on her “Red” world tour, but they’ve recorded several duets … including “Everything Has Changed,” “End Game,” “Run” and “The Joker and the Queen.” taylor swift ed sheeran sub 2 Ed wasn’t the only notable name in attendance at Wembley Thursday evening … as Idris Elba, and a couple of UK comedic celebs Ambika Mod and Amelia Dimoldenberg were also spotted in the crowd. Taylor is wrapping up the European leg of her “Eras” tour with 5 sold-out London shows … so, we imagine Ed isn’t the only surprise she has in store.

BBC Sport columnist Chris Sutton has backed Liverpool to defeat newly promoted Ipswich Town 3-1 in their Premier League opener at Portman Road on Saturday (August 17).

A lot of eyes will be on new Reds boss Arne Slot, who has succeeded Jurgen Klopp earlier this summer. To his credit, the Dutchman won four of five friendlies in pre-season, including wins against Arsenal and Manchester United, and drew against Las Palmas.

The Merseysiders are yet to make a signing this summer, unlike their rivals, much to the frustration of the Anfield faithful. However, they remain the firm favourites to beat Ipswich, as they have never lost a league game at Portman Road, winning three and drawing two.

Predicting a 3-1 win for the Reds, he wrote (via BBC Sport):

“I love the job Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna has done, with back-to-back promotions, and they have brought a few players in, including goalkeeper Arijanet Muric from Burnley. Kalvin Phillips is set to sign on loan for the season too.”

He continued:

“The way they start the season is going to be so important to get some confidence and a foothold in the top flight, as it is with all the promoted clubs, and Ipswich have got it tough because after facing Liverpool they go to the Etihad Stadium next weekend.”

He added:

“Liverpool have not signed anyone yet under new boss Arne Slot but their firepower is incredible, and I don’t see Ipswich keeping them out. Ipswich were really brave with their playing style in the Championship but this is another step up, and it is a big one. I reckon they will score, but Liverpool will get more.”


Michael Owen predicts where Liverpool will finish in 2024-25 Premier League season

Liverpool legend Michael Owen reckons Arne Slot and Co. will finish second in the league this season, with Arsenal to win their first title in 21 years. He also backed Aston Villa to finish third, while shockingly placing four-time defending champions Manchester City in fourth.

The Reds exceeded expectations last season in Klopp’s final year in charge. Despite finishing fifth and missing out on Champions League football during the 2022-23 campaign, they bounced back to finish third, finishing behind Manchester City and Arsenal. They also won the Carabao Cup as well.

Slot will have a fully fit squad to choose from going into Saturday’s clash against Ipswich. While the Dutchman isn’t expected to immediately win trophies, fans will hope to have a strong season and retain their spot in the UEFA Champions League.