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    Paul Pogba finally free to make Prem return as Juventus rip up ex-Man Utd star’s contract with blunt 34-word statement

    JUVENTUS have ripped up Paul Pogba’s contract after his recent doping ban.Pogba, 31, was initially handed a four-year ban from football for a doping offence, before the suspension was reduced to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.Paul Pogba and Juventus reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contractCredit: GettyEx-Manchester United star Pogba’s future is currently uncertainCredit: APIt meant he was able to return to training with Juve from January and could have played as soon as March.However, the Bianconeri and the former Manchester United star have mutually decided to terminate his contract.The Serie A giants confirmed the news with a short and blunt 34-word statement that stated Pogba will become a free agent on November 30.It read: “Juventus Football Club and Paul Pogba announce that they have reached a mutual agreement for the termination of their contract as of 30 November, 2024.Read More on Football”The club wishes Paul the very best for his professional future.”Pogba, 31, tested positive for banned substance DHEA — which naturally boosts testosterone production — in August 2023.The former Manchester United star claimed he took it by accident.But the Anti-Doping Prosecutor’s Office dismissed Pogba’s pleas and handed him a four-year ban in February — effectively ending the French World Cup winner’s playing career.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, Pogba was handed a major lifeline this month after taking his case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.They reduced his ban from four years to 18 months.Paul Pogba ban reducedPogba’s future is currently unknown but the ex-France star appears keen to return at top level and that has sparked immense speculation about a potential Premier League return.And Arsenal heroes Emmanuel Petit and Bacary Sagna have urged their former club to sign the midfielder.Petit claims his fellow Frenchman would make a perfect addition to Mikel Arteta’s side due to his motivation to “wash his name”.Sagna, on the other hand, argues Pogba would be bringing a lot of Premier League experience combined with a “desire” to start fresh.The ex-France captain issued a touching farewell message to Juventus fans after his contract was terminated.Pogba posted on Instagram: “There are moments when things don’t go the way we want, but one thing is certain: the bond I have with you, dear fans, will remain unforgettable. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You have given me so much, more than I can put into words, and I will always carry with me all the affection you gave me. “You’ll be in my heart, aways. Good luck @juventus.”What is DHEA?PAUL POGBA tested positive for elevated levels of DHEA, a hormone that naturally occurs in the adrenal gland, in August 2023.DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, can be used to naturally boost testosterone production. It does not produce testosterone itself.It is on the world anti-doping banned substances list and carries a maximum of four years if the athlete took it deliberately to enhance their performance.DHEA can legally be sold over-the-counter in the US as a dietary product, known as prasterone.It is also taken as an anti-ageing therapy, and to treat depression and the symptoms of menopause, although there is little evidence to suggest it is effective, and it can cause serious side effects.In 2022, UFC fighter Bobby Green received a six-month ban after testing positive for a DHEA.Green said he had not realised that DHEA was banned after seeing a video on YouTube, and took the supplement after his wife bought it from a supermarket. More

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    Coote’s language is warm air in thunderstorm of disgraceful behaviour… what about the poor ref PUNCHED by club chief?

    QUESTION of the week — who would be a referee?One faces the sack after using a naughty word about Jurgen Klopp.David Coote’s outburst was as nothing compared to other incidentsCredit: APCoote was captured sniffing white powder at Euro 2024His future in officiating is clearly in doubtCredit: XAnother in Turkey at least got some justice after being whacked in the face by a club president.We can dispense quickly with ref David Coote’s angry little outburst against the former Liverpool manager.His addition of “German” to a part of a woman’s anatomy is not going down well with the FA,  which ordered an investigation.Coote failed to prevent the release of a private video which recorded his comment and this particular coot was out of the bag and flying at Klopp.READ MORE TOP STORIESIt wasn’t much of an insult really, one heard all the time on the field and in the stands — without the “German” bit.No doubt even the full curse has been heard by Klopp himself.Even so, with the subsequent other videos which have surfaced in this newspaper to add to the first, you can expect Coote’s sacking to be confirmed.If you require something rather more painful, try MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca’s right-hander that broke the eye socket of Halil Umut Meler.Most read in FootballEx-Liverpool chief Jurgen Klopp was the subject of Coote’s little rantCredit: APFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKoca was furious after Ankaragucu conceded an equaliser to ten-man Caykur in the 97th minute of a game in December 2023. Who blew the final whistle — if it was ever blown — has been lost in translation.Snorting ref David Coote set up drugs party in Travelodge before Man City game – & even sent half time text about itShocking David Coote Klopp video in fullFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.“Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.“So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.“Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”As Meler collapsed to the floor,  other men started kicking him.He was taken to hospital for emergency surgery as politicians and football gentry queued to say how appalling the incident was.That incident led to all Turkish Super Lig football being suspended for a week.Yet last week, that self-anointed sage of world football Jose Mourinho suggested officiating in the country’s top flight “smells bad”.Mourinho — Fenerbahce boss since June — questioned why fans from other countries would watch the game there.The former Chelsea manager has complained about refs wherever he has coached.But his views have forceful support, even if many people in football see his criticism as an application for a job elsewhere.However, Meler has a good reputation as a top Fifa and Uefa ref and officiated West Ham in the Conference League last season.Meler recalled: “Faruk Koca punched me under my left eye.Faruk Koca is appealing against a jail term for punching a refereeCredit: GettyJose Mourinho blasted refereeing in the Turkish top flightCredit: Getty“I fell. While I was on the ground, other people kicked me in the face and other parts of my body many times.”Koca was this week sentenced to 3½ years in jail. But he is yet to start that term pending an appeal, with Ankaragucu chairman Ismail Mert Firat arguing “no disgraceful crime” was committed.There isn’t a football-playing country in the world without conflict between fans and referees — and Turkey isn’t alone in featuring furious club officers.In Brazil, a fourth-division president punched a referee last year and was banned for 30 days.In DR Congo, a referee was chased from the field by women players and supporters for failing to award a penalty. Women! I thought better of us.Verbal attacks and match violence all over the world.In Spain, they count offences in the hundreds. In the UK, too.Ivan Savvidis, the gun-carrying owner of Greek side Thessaloniki and his bodyguards marched on to the pitch after the ref disallowed a last-minute goal during a game with AEK Athens in 2018.And in the United States, a player was jailed for a minimum eight years in 2015 after punching a ref — who died two days after.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe world  seems to be suffering from a social disease and at the centre of it is the poor old ref.By comparison, Coote’s language is warm air in a thunderstorm of disgraceful behaviour.No referees have EVER been tested for drugs as David Coote faces end of Premier League careerEXCLUSIVE by Martin LiptonNO referees or match officials have ever been tested for drugs – as David Coote’s apparent “cocaine shame” is set to end his career.While all players and other athletes in British sport are subject to drug testing rules, including post-match and out of competition action, the regulations do not apply to match officials.That is the case globally across not just football and throughout the world rather than only in the UK.All sports follow the World Anti-Doping Authority code, aimed at preventing athletes gaining an advantage by using performance-enhancing substances.The Wada banned list also includes recreational drugs.But the Wada provisions, also followed by UK Anti Doping, which conducts tests across British sport, makes no reference to match officials.UKAD explains: “Any UK athlete subject to the anti-doping rules of their sport and non-UK athlete staying, training, residing, entering a competition,”Or named as a member of a team participating in a competition at any level within the UK is eligible for testing as part of UKAD’s national anti-doping programme.“Any athlete eligible for testing can be tested anytime, anywhere.”But the regulations do not apply to match officials – because of the “performance enhancing” provision of the world code.The PGMOL have revealed they are aware of the video of him sniffing a white powder.They told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.” More

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    Jude Bellingham shows he can be Tuchel’s main man for England but Cole Palmer and Phil Foden will struggle for minutes

    JUDE BELLINGHAM’S comments were as pointed as the rampaging run through the Greek defence which led to England’s second goal.“A lot was made of the lads that weren’t here but the lads that were here, who showed up, were amazing,” said the Real Madrid Galactico.Jude Bellingham put on a masterclass as England beat Greece 3-0Cole Palmer withdrew from the squad after picking up a knock his last two Prem gamesBellingham showed up, big time, in Athens on Thursday, with a leader’s performance which propelled England to the top of their Nations League and confirmed him as his nation’s first-choice No 10.Since the Euros we have spent a lot of time wondering whether Lee Carsley – and, soon, Thomas Tuchel – could fit England’s three great attacking midfield talents into the same team.The conundrum surrounding Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer – who all prefer to play in that No 10 role – has become like the old Gerrard-Lampard riddle writ large.Interim boss Carsley started with all three in central positions – and no recognised centre-forward – in the chaotic 2-1 home defeat by Greece last month.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut when Foden and Palmer were part of a mass withdrawal from this England squad, Bellingham bossed Thursday night’s 3-0 victory over the same opposition.The feeling – shared by skipper Harry Kane – is that certain players who pulled out of Carsley’s squad would have been present had Tuchel taken up his post before these final two Nations League matches against Greece and at home to Ireland on Sunday.Chelsea talisman Palmer and Manchester City’s Footballer of the Year Foden both played the full 90 minutes for their clubs last weekend and, if you were a betting man, you might fancy them to do the same next weekend too.In their absence, England thrived in a hostile environment producing the sort of truly convincing performance which has been rare in 2024.  Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBellingham has often been shoved into unfavoured positions on the left and in a deeper midfield role for Real but he is surely the man Tuchel will build his England team around.Palmer and Foden, as outstanding as they are at club level, will struggle to nail down places in the starting line-up when everyone is fit.England fans tear gassed by ‘heavy-handed’ riot cops as FA launch probePhil Foden started the season injured and again withdrew from England dutyFoden has rarely impressed in 43 international appearances and during this summer’s Euros, he and Bellingham did not co-exist effectively.Could Palmer or Foden be accommodated on the right by Tuchel? It is difficult to imagine them starting ahead of Bukayo Saka or Noni Madueke, whose pace and intelligence were key to England’s win over Greece.“There would have been a million and one excuses if we hadn’t played well or not got over the line,” said Bellingham, “but the lads did their business so professionally.”Curtis Jones enjoyed an excellent debut in central midfield and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers shone as a second-half sub on his first senior appearance for the Three Lions.The absentees have inadvertently given Tuchel plenty of food for thought because those who stepped into the breach proved their own credentials against a Greek side who wiped the Wembley floor with England last month.Lee Carsley will go back to the under-21s after this international breakThomas Tuchel will begin work as England manager in JanuaryWhile Carsley’s brief reign has often felt confusing, he will leave a decent legacy of having promoted several members of his European champion Under-21 side into the senior ranks.Jones, Madueke, Angel Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White all triumphed at that tournament in Georgia last year and all have enjoyed their elevation to the first team.Asked about their impact, Carsley said: “They’ve put themselves in a really good position.“We spoke about the amount of players who weren’t here but it’s given six or seven players some opportunity to be in a venue like that, to experience that kind of atmosphere. They’ve done themselves a lot of good.“To get an opportunity to play and be as exciting and attacking as they were is good to watch. We want to see a side that’s playing with energy, enthusiasm, creating chances and we had that.“They won at under-18 level as well and I think it definitely helps. We’ve seen that with Germany in the past and with Spain so why can’t that be England?”Carsley sees Bellingham, 21, as a leader for the clutch of emerging England players – even though some of them are older than the Real man.He added: “Jude always plays with responsibility. You only see it during games but he does it in training, he leads by example.“He’s a really good person to have around because people want to aspire to him.”As for Carsley’s biggest gamble of Thursday night – benching Kane in favour of Ollie Watkins – that was a ballsy move which paid off when the Villa man netted the early opener.Yet he will revert to starting Kane against the Irish and tried to claim that England’s record goalscorer had been rotated rather than dropped – a euphemism which the skipper is unlikely to appreciate.Carsley said: “Harry’s playing on Sunday, he’ll start. He’s captain, he’s so important to the team. Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel.“It was just a case of having a look at something different, giving someone else the experience who has not had a lot of chances.“I definitely didn’t drop Harry Kane. He’s done well for me every game he’s played and been involved with. It wasn’t a case of being dropped, far from it.“Ollie is playing in the Champions League with Villa, he’s doing really well, the same with Morgan Rogers. It’s great he got a goal, it looks like a great decision then doesn’t it?”READ MORE SUN STORIESIt certainly did look like a great decision from Carsley.Just as it looked like a terrible decision for several others not to turn up.England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money. More

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    Ruben Amorim gives first Man Utd interview and reveals number one priority to revive fallen giants

    RUBEN AMORIM may have been at Old Trafford for less than a week – but already there is no doubt that he is a quick learner.As the latest man charged with bringing the glory days back to Manchester United, Amorim knows the mountain he must climb.Ruben Amorim gave his first interview as Manchester United bossCredit: Manchester UnitedAmorim replaces Erik ten Hag as new permanent Man Utd managerCredit: GettyAmorim is focused on finding Man Utd’s identity as managerCredit: GettyThere will be no quick fix, no magic wand and no guarantee a 21st title is just around the corner.He might be one of the youngest gaffers in the game, but the Portuguese boss is already way too old-head wise to make promises he will struggle to deliver.But Amorim – like his fellow countryman Jose Mourinho – knows the value of words. Not the Special One so much as the Shrewd One.This is a guy who Cristiano Ronaldo once dubbed The Poet because he is such an impressive speaker.Read More on Man UtdThere was certainly much to like in his first interview since becoming the sixth man of the post-Fergie decade to fill the Old Trafford hotseat.And the loudest message will have been music to the ears of every United fan – every football fan in fact – who scratched their head throughout the Erik ten Hag reign.When Ten Hag packed his bags for the final time last month, no-one – supporters, pundits, most worryingly of all players – could give a definitive answer as to United’s identity.United had none when he arrived and an even more confusing one when he left. Amorim arrived armed with that knowledge – and rest assured, those days have gone.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThere will be no muddy waters in that respect under the new chief. No wasting time in proving it either – he wants it now, from day one, as clear as a bell.Forget all talk of formations, of 3-4-3 or 4-3-3. Ignore whether he’ll go with wing-backs or wingers. All that can come over time.Ruben Amorim arrives in Manchester ahead of starting role as Man United managerRight now the job is to bring back that identity. And he isn’t prepared to wait.Amorim insisted: “A lot of people talk about the 3-4-3, 4-3-3 and all that stuff. But when I think as a player or as a team-mate at United, it is not a system of formation.“It’s the character of the players, the way they see the club. So we have to focus on that before everything about how we play, how we press.“The most important thing for me at this moment is to create the principles, the identity and the character that we had in the past.“It’s about the team, that’s the most important thing for me, because if you work as a team, then the talent individually is going to shine.“But if I had to explain the important thing, it is the character, the way we fight, the way we play – we must have an identity.Amorim is determined to get Man Utd back to the top of English footballCredit: Getty’We must have an identity’“If our players take the shirt, they will know it is the Manchester United team. Where everybody thinks the same, running back, playing, enjoying it.“I can say the popular thing, which is to win. And of course everybody wants to win – I want to win with my players and with the fans.“But to win with an identity and one idea, that is the thing that I am focused on all the time.”After the often deadpan and straight bat days of Ten Hag – for all it brought two Cups – Amorim is already blowing through Old Trafford like a breath of fresh air.Don’t be fooled into thinking the smile is the sign of a soft touch. He showed in four years that turned Sporting Lisbon from fallen giants into champions there is a ruthless streak too.So when United’s stars return from international duty next week, there will be no honeymoon period, no gentle easing in under the new gaffer.The Portuguese gaffer will have a job on his hands to bring back the killer instinctCredit: GettyNo honeymoon periodHe wants them at it straight away – in his eyes, the only way to buy breathing space is through victory. So they’d better be prepared to graft.Amorim added: “We know we need time, but we have to win time and the way to do that is to win games.“But again the most important thing for me is identity. So from day one we will start with our identity.“Of course we are going to prepare, how to play, how to press, these small things, small details.“But you cannot go 100 per cent on every detail because it will be confusing for the players – so if I have to say one thing, my main goal, my first goal, is identity.”Amorim already knows all about the United one of old, too, after a top-to-bottom tour of the place. He reckons it’s a trip every one who pulls on a red shirt should make.Amorim left Sporting fans devastated when he opted to move to the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty’You have to FEEL this is Man Utd’He added: “You see the trophies, you see the tragedy we have as a club. You can understand the history, after the crash, then we were European champions.“It is important to put that kind of strength in our team. So when players come here, they should make the same tour.“You have to FEEL this is Manchester United because if you go a lot of years without winning, you start losing that.“So you have to be very clear on the message you want to put to the players.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhatever the next couple of years bring, there will be no doubting that under Amorim. Maybe not happy days are here again just yet…but you sense they might be just around the corner.FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW GO TO MANUTD.COM, MUTV AND THE CLUB’S SOCIAL MEDIA OUTLETS.Three Sporting stars Amorim could swoop for after joining Man UtdRUBEN AMORIM has ruled out poaching any of his Sporting Lisbon players in the January transfer window.But the Portuguese side’s chiefs expect Amorim will come calling in the summer – with his cheque book wide open.Here’s are three Sporting starts United could swoop for… but they won’t come cheap:VIKTOR GYOKERESAge: 26Position: StrikerCost: £84millionSwede has shone since joining Sporting last summer from Coventry — catching the eye of all Europe’s top clubs.Hit 43 goals in 50 games last season and boasts 18 strikes already this term.GONCALO INACIOAge: 23Position: DefenderCost: £50millionBall-playing centre-back was handed his debut by Amorim and has since become a key figure in Sporting’s recent title successes.Can also slot in at left-back if required and has 12 caps for Portugal.MORTEN HJULMANDAge: 25Position: MidfieldCost: £40millionDane is one of the top holding midfielders in Portugal — and made skipper by Amorim.He could be the man to replace Casemiro. 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    Ruud van Nistelrooy ‘applies to become Coventry City manager’ just days after brutal Man Utd axe

    RUUD VAN NISTELROOY has applied for the vacant Coventry City managerial job just days after leaving Manchester United.Van Nistelrooy, 48, was axed by United on Monday despite an undefeated short stint as interim boss that saw him winning three out of four matches in charge.Ruud van Nistelrooy has applied for the managerial job at Coventry after leaving Manchester UnitedCredit: PABut the Dutch tactician seems keen to forge a coaching career in English football after a successful spell in the Eredivisie with PSV Eindhoven, where he won the Dutch Cup in 2023.According to talkSPORT, the legendary striker has put his name in the hat for the Coventry job to replace Mark Robins in the Championship.Robins’ dismissal was met with shock by Sky Blues fans after an impressive seven-year stint that saw him turning the club from League Two strugglers to Premier League promotion contenders.Coventry owner Doug King claims the EFL side has received plenty of CVs from “high-quality” managers.Read More on Man UtdOne of which is reportedly ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard, which means Van Nistelrooy may face some intense competition for the job.The Real Madrid great would have a tough act to follow at the CBS Arena after a brilliant job by fellow Man Utd hero Robins, who also has a lot of history at Old Trafford.The former striker famously saved Sir Alex Ferguson’s job back in 1990 when he scored the winner in a 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the third round of the FA Cup, which led to the Scottish legend’s first ever trophy with the Manchester giants.However, Van Nistelrooy did an impressive job at United after replacing Erik ten Hag at the helm as he restored excitement and confidence.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUnder the Netherlands legend, the Red Devils beat Leicester twice, drew with Chelsea and registered their first European win in a year by beating PAOK in the Europa League.Many were sad to see the former assistant boss go following the decision to start anew under Amorim, who is bringing in his own team from Sporting Lisbon.Ruud van Nistelrooy impressed by Amad Diallo after Man Utd end European drought Van Nistelrooy penned an emotional farewell message to the fans insisting the club will always have a “special place” in his heart More

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    Ex-Man Utd ace Roy Keane declares WAR on his noisy neighbours who use their leaf blowers before 8am

    ROY Keane has declared war on his noisy neighbours after one of them used a leaf blower before 8am.The fiery former Manchester United ace is no stranger to confrontation following his glittering 26-year career which saw him handed 13 red cards.Roy Keane has declared war on his noisy neighbours who use their leaf blowers before 8amCredit: PAHe heard one of the machines being used in the leafy area of Altrincham, CheshireCredit: AlamyThe Irishman, 53, was appearing on The OverlapTrafford council advises that noisy building work should not start before 7.30am on a weekdayCredit: GettyAnd despite calming since he became a TV pundit, he revealed a local has annoyed him by using the noisy power tool to tidy up the garden.Roy, 53, told pals Gary Neville, Ian Wright and Jill Scott how he was walking his dog after fireworks night at 7.15am when he heard one of the machines being used in the leafy area of Altrincham, Cheshire, where he lives.After calling for fireworks to be banned because they scare dogs, the Irishman, who was appearing on The Overlap continued: “Do you know what else should be banned?”I took my dog out this morning at 7.15 and where I live and someone is on the blower with the leaves at quarter past seven in the morning.Read more Sports News”It’s a disgrace. I think it should be banned.”Jill Scott joked: “Do you think they should just leave them?”Roy responded: “I was gonna go over and say ‘people are in bed!'”He continued his rant saying: “You’re not allowed to use them. It’s 8 o’clock.”Most read in FootballGas powered leaf blowers can reach between 80 and 90 decibels.85dB is considered damaging to human hearing and any noise exceeding 70 dB considered too loud for residential environments.’He should get a job somewhere else,’ fumes Roy Keane as he blasts Man Utd star for gesture after goal Trafford council, where Keane lives, advises that noisy building work should not start before 7.30am on a weekday and 8am at weekends.During Keane’s time at Old Trafford, Sir Alex Ferguson famously labelled City a “noisy neighbour” in 2009 when United came out on top 3-2 in a thrilling derby.He said at the time: “Sometimes you have a noisy neighbour. You cannot do anything about that. They will always be noisy.”You just have to get on with your life, put your television on and turn it up a bit louder.”It comes after Keane blasted Alejandro Garnacho for his refusal to celebrate his goal against Leicester.The winger was on the end of criticism from a Manchester United fan outside of Old Trafford before the Europa League clash against PAOK.Appearing on the Stick to Football podcast, brought to you by Sky Bet, Keane and co were asked: “What advice would you give to young players when they get hassled by their own fans?”In response, Keane fumed: “If you can’t celebrate a goal, there is something drastically wrong with this game.”Whatever has gone on off the pitch for any player – it could be family stuff – you work all week, you’re playing the game to score a goal.READ MORE SUN STORIES”When you score a goal, there should be nothing else on your mind.”You’ve got fans who have travelled, paid fortunes to get there, and he’s on about people having a go at him.”Alejandro Garnacho had a muted celebration after scoring against Leicester in Man Utd’s 3-0 winCredit: AlamyKeane had a passionate response to the lack of celebrationIt sparked a passionate debate between himself and Ian Wright More

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    Newly emerged footage shows Curtis Jones has scored same goal for England before after incredible flick against Greece

    LIVERPOOL ace Curtis Jones made his long-awaited senior debut with England on Thursday against Greece.Jones, 23, enjoyed a bow to remember as he also hit the back of the net during the Three Lions’ 3-0 win over the Greeks in Athens.Liverpool ace Curtis Jones scored on his England senior debut against GreeceCredit: GettyJones scored a fantastic flick to seal England’s 3-0 win over GreeceCredit: X @itvfootballJones did the exact same thing last year for England’s Under-21s against FranceCredit: X @englandAnd the midfielder did it in style as he sealed the three points and first place in their Nations League group with a stunning flick on 83 minutes.Morgan Gibbs-White played a clever pass from the right flank and found the popular Liverpudlian, who beat Greek goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos with a slick back-heel.That was Jones’ first ever England goal at senior level, however resurfaced footage shows he has done the exact same thing before with the Under-21s.In fact, he did it only last year in an international friendly against France at the King Power Stadium.Read More on FootballAnd just like against Greece, the Liverpool ace had scored the Young Lions’ third goal to seal the win.Noni Madueke played a brilliant low ball from the left and found the incoming Jones who finished brilliantly with a scintillating flick.Lee Carsley’s Young Lions went on to win 4-0, as Emile Smith Rowe, Madueke and Jacob Ramsey also got on the scoresheet.Jones’ goal against Greece allowed England to exact revenge following last month’s embarrassing 2-1 defeat at Wembley against Ivan Jovanovic’s side.Most read in FootballThe Three Lions are also top of their group and in charge of their destiny as a victory over the Republic of Ireland on Sunday in London will see them returning to League A.Jones was among the standouts in Athens on a night that saw Carsley without nine key players who dropped out.England fans tear gassed by ‘heavy-handed’ riot cops as FA launch probeThe former England youth international made a strong case for a place in the starting line-up under incoming permanent manager Thomas Tuchel, who takes over after the match with Ireland.England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money. More

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    Abandoned football ground once home of legendary Prem star left to rot – as furious fans demand bosses QUIT over eyesore

    AN ABANDONED football ground where Premier League legend Micah Richards started his career has been left to rot.Fans of West Yorkshire team Farsley Celtic – in the National League North – are demanding club bosses quit over the eyesore.Farsley Celtic’s Citadel – previously Throstle Nest ground – has fallen into a state of disrepairCredit: Glen MinikinThe pitch is in an unplayable state forcing the club to play home matches miles awayCredit: Glen MinikinPremier League pundit Micah Richards started his playing career at Farsley CelticsCredit: GettyThey are having to make round trips of 140 miles to watch HOME games – currently totalling almost 30 games. Their historic pitch, at The Citadel – previously called Throstle Nest, has been dug up and is just mud, the terracing is dilapidated and the gates and turnstiles are padlocked.Former Manchester City, Aston Villa and Fiorentina right back, Micah, 36, grew up in Chapeltown, Leeds, and played for local team Farsley Celtic as a youth. Since retiring, he now works as a pundit for the likes of Sky Sports Football and BBC’s Match of the Day.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSPlans to lay an artificial 4G playing surface at The Citadel are massively behind schedule and there is no sign of work at the ground.The club’s official supporters’ group continue to call for chairman/owner Paul Barthorpe to leave the club, saying they have shown ‘remarkable patience over several years’ with him.Farsley are currently playing home games at Buxton, in Derbyshire, with no fixed date for their return to The Citadel, while key players and staff have departed of late, including popular physio Gareth Liversidge after 18 years.Farsley’s chairman had his car windscreen smashed following his side’s FA Cup last month, allegedly by two fans.Most read in FootballLocal resident Isabell Jenkinson, 70, who was walking her 12 year old cocker spaniel Polly beside the empty Farsley ground, told The Sun: “All my kids used to play here. Football, cricket, the social life.“My ex husband used to go to the games and my lads were fans.Watch Micah Richards’ hilarious reaction after Arsenal hero David Raya reveals favourite CBS pundit in awkward interview“That pitch was supposed to be already laid, I believe, and it has never been done. But everything is dilapidated.“The explanation is that this geezer that has got it now is putting no money into it. He’s not looking after the community.“There is upset and anger in the community. The young men, they are angry.”Isabell said that Farsley Celtic used to be a “fantastic” club, but it has “gone to the dogs” and “wrack and ruin” since new owners took over.She said that she is missing the sound of the crowd on a Saturday home game.Miriam Hitchman, 70, lives directly beside the ground and has been forced to maintain the football club’s wooden boundary fence after it toppled over onto a public footpath.Miriam said: “A few winters ago, the Farsley Celtic’s wooden fence was practically down across the path.“Parents and children use the path and I could see a terrible accident could happen. So me and my son tied the fence up with string to try and right it.Fans are up in arms over the unkempt siteCredit: Glen MinikinLocal resident Isabell Jenkinson spoke to The SunCredit: Glen MinikinResident Miriam Hitchman lives directly beside the groundCredit: Glen Minikin“The string is still there and the fence is no closer to being repaired.”The club has a responsibility for that fence. I’ve warned the directors about it and I got my MP to come round, but it remains an accident waiting to happen.“We never have any problems with the football fans, but the club is terrible. The state of that pitch is appalling. It needs knocking down and houses built on it.“The whole thing is an eyesore.”She said the disuse of the pitch is now attracting youths from out of the area, throwing stones.A recent bonfire at the club for Plot Night attracted around 1,000 people paying £3 each.Miriam said: “That’s the biggest crowd the club has had here for ages, but there when no fans.”Farsley fan Derek Smith, 63, said: “It is shocking how we have been treated.“Some supporters are still making it to what are laughably called our ‘home games’, but it can’t go on like this. Buxton is not exactly close and takes hours to get there and back.“The chairman needs to go and money needs to be pumped into the club.”Another fan, George Fearnley, commenting on social media, stated: “Us fans have done 28 away games in a row because of him (Paul Barthorpe).“We’ve had problems way before this and we will way after this even if the pitch does ever get put down with him at the helm. “The supporters have unanimously realised one thing, he must leave, he must sell the club.”Farsley Celtic FC said: “The chairman and the board aren’t going anywhere.”We are committed to this club and this project and have backed this up with words, time, actions and significant investment over the years and continue to do so now on a daily basis.”‘NO MEANINGFUL INCOME’It said there had been “no meaningful income” at the club since April, “so all operating costs have been covered by the chairman since then”.The statement said Mr Barthorpe had covered the club’s operating costs of up to £15,000 a week, yet had been “subjected to constant ridicule, personal abuse, threats and even had his property criminally damaged with the value of the damage running into the thousands”.Farsley Celtic Football Club Supporters’ Club said in a statement: “Farsley Celtic Supporters’ Club notes with frustration yet another defensive statement from the owner which again sees him reluctant to take any responsibility for the current chaos surrounding the club.“As owner, the buck stops with you, no-one else.“The relationship between the owner and supporters have been strained for several years and we have shown remarkable patience.“We cannot envisage relationships with supporters improving should the owner remain.“The supporters’ club notes the owner provides no explanation for the delays in the pitchworks at the Citadel.“It fails to explain why no work has been undertaken for six months, nor does it state specifically the nature of the problems at the ground.“We have been given no reason why the dates stated by the chairman for the recommencement of pitch work have all been pushed back and the basic reason for why work has not been undertaken has not been addressed.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We still have no set restart date, or date when football will again be played at The Citadel.“The chairman’s statement also fails to mention or address why key staff have left the club.”The pitch has need resurfacing for some timeCredit: Glen MinikinThe ground has been left to rot by the club’s ownersCredit: Glen MinikinA lone goal can be seen on the rotting fieldCredit: Glen MinikinRichards, now 36, went on to play for the likes of Manchester CityCredit: PA:Press Association More