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      Darrell Clarke SACKED by Barnsley as former Premier League star, 34, handed reins until end of the season

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      BARNSLEY have sacked manager Darrell Clarke following a horror run of form.The League One side have won just two of their last 11 games and slipped to tenth in the table.Darrell Clarke has been sacked by BarnsleyCredit: GettyConor Hourihane takes over until the end of the seasonCredit: AlamyClarke has lasted just ten months in the job and leaves the club eight points off the play-off places. Former Premier League star Conor Hourihane will now take charge until the end of the season.The 34-year-old ex-Aston Villa and Republic of Ireland midfielder rejoined Barnsley in a player-coach role before the start of the season.He officially hung up his boots in December and became assistant manager. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLJon Stead, who played for the likes of Blackburn, Sunderland and Sheffield United in the Prem, will be Hourihane’s right-hand man.On the sacking of Clarke, Barnsley chairman Neerav Parekh said: “We would like to thank Darrell for his efforts in a season which has been difficult for various reasons. “Darrell has worked extremely hard to try and get the team competitive and pushing for promotion, unfortunately, we find ourselves eight points away from the play-offs and feel that a change is needed.”Sporting director Mladen Sormaz said: “Darrell is someone I respect and have enjoyed working with and I’d like to thank him for his efforts this season. Most read in EFLCheltenham Festival betting offers and free bets”Whilst a list of replacements has been identified, we will take some time to ensure the next appointment is the right one with a focus on playing identity, returning to high pressing and attacking football.”We believe that Conor can help to create enough bounce to keep us fighting for the top six until the end of the season. “We will also be working in parallel to have a new Head Coach in place over the summer.”Wayne Rooney is back in football management as Soccer Aid’s England boss alongside Tyson Fury More

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      Compete for £250 cash prize in Score Predictor Matchweek 25 – top tips!

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      YOU should know the drill by now.We’re putting up £250 in prize money for Matchweek 25 in Score Predictor, which is free to play as usual.Play Score Predictor now!Credit: Dream TeamSimply enter your predictions for the five selected Premier League games and earn points for the accuracy of your forecast as the action unfolds.If you earn the most points then you’ll claim the cash prize!Allow us to present some key stats and facts for each relevant fixture to help inform your decisions…Manchester City v BrightonOnly Liverpool have taken more points than the Seagulls from their last six league games.And Fabian Hurzeler’s side will head to the Etihad with fond memories of the reverse fixture back in November, when they came from behind to win 2-1.Brighton lost 7-0 to Nottingham Forest at the start of February but have won six successive games in all competitions since.Pep Guardiola’s side have not been at their best for a long while but it’s still difficult to bet against them on their own patch.Just one point separates these two teams in the table.Most read in FootballOur Prediction: 2-2 drawBrighton have been in good form latelyCredit: ReutersBournemouth v BrentfordThe Cherries are without a win in their last three league outings but that doesn’t tell the full story.They played some superb football against Spurs last time out and would have been worthy winners were it not for a rash decision by Kepa Arrizabalaga.Bournemouth rank fourth for total shots and third for expected goals (xG) in the top flight this season.The Bees aren’t to be underestimated either and an open game may favour Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa, a formidable counterattacking duo.Thomas Frank’s mob won 3-2 in West London earlier in the campaign but we think Andoni Iraola might take revenge this Saturday.Our Prediction: 3-1 to BournemouthBournemouth pack a punch in attackCredit: GettyArsenal v ChelseaIt’s second versus fourth at the Emirates on Sunday afternoon.Both clubs have a European round of 16 second leg to complete before then but the Gunners have the luxury of a 7-1 aggregate lead over PSV in the Champions League and so Mikel Arteta may be able to manage his squad’s workload.Arsenal won this fixture 5-0 last season but that was with Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, who are all sidelined with injury at present.The hosts boast the best defensive record in the league at this stage having conceded 24 goals.As for the Blues, they bounced back after a poor results of form with wins over Southampton, Copenhagen and Leicester but Arsenal are a different calibre of opposition.Cole Palmer’s diminishing form is a big cause for concern – Chelsea’s talisman even missed a penalty last time out.Our Prediction: 2-0 to ArsenalPalmer has gone off the boilCredit: GettyFulham v TottenhamAnge Postecoglou should prioritise this Thursday’s Europa League meeting with AZ Alkmaar as Spurs need to overturn a 1-0 deficit if they are to keep their trophy hopes alive.The Cottagers head into this fixture eight points clear of their opponents but they have fared better on the road this season.Even so, Marco Silva will be quietly confident having had a few extra days to prepare.Fulham are one of the league’s most consistent teams whereas Spurs are equally capable of the sublime as the ridiculous.The former have lost eight league games to the latter’s 14!If Spurs are to focus on Europe then it’s easy to see them coming unstuck at Craven Cottage.Our Prediction: 2-1 to FulhamPostecoglou will be desperate to remain in the Europa LeagueCredit: GettyLeicester v Manchester UnitedThe Red Devils also have a Europa League game this Thursday but, unlike Spurs, their next league opponent is one of the most favourable the top flight has to offer.Only Southampton have fewer points than the Foxes after 28 games and it appears Jamie Vardy and company are sinking towards the Championship after five consecutive defeats.Man United’s recent performances have still left much to be desired but draws against Everton and Arsenal either side of a win over Ipswich are not to be sniffed at.Bruno Fernandes has earned more than a few points single-handedly this campaign and he will enjoy himself if Leicester replicate their recent showings.Ruben Amorim got the better of Ruud van Nistelrooy in the FA Cup a few weeks back.Leicester haven’t scored a league goal since late February!READ MORE SUN STORIESOur Prediction: 1-0 to Man UnitedProve you know better by entering your predictions for Matchweek 25 now!Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

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      Heartwarming reason Tottenham stars all wore mismatched socks in training ahead of Europa League tie with AZ Alkmaar

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      TOTTENHAM stars all wore mismatched socks for training ahead of their Europa League clash with AZ Alkmaar.Many may have been confused by the different kit – but it was for a good reason.Tottenham Hotspur players all wore mismatched socks for trainingCredit: GettyThe reason was to raise awareness for World Down Syndrome DayCredit: GettyThe team trained ahead of the match against AZ AlkmaarCredit: GettyAnge Postecoglou’s players were prepping for their round of 16 second leg tie when they wore the mismatched socks.The reason behind the choice of different socks was to raise awareness for World Down Syndrome Day on March 21.A club statement read: “We are proudly supporting Down Syndrome Awareness Week, with our men’s and women’s first team players today training in colourful mismatched socks.”Wearing mismatched socks is the perfect way to show that no two people are the same – regardless of the number of chromosomes they have.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”People across the world are encouraged to take part by ‘rocking their socks’ on Thursday March 21, World Down Syndrome Day.”Our players wore a range of colourful mismatched socks, provided by Nike, at a session attended by young people with Down syndrome and their families.”Meanwhile, there were some concerns for Spurs ahead of the clash against Alkmaar.The North London side lost the first leg 1-0 in Holland after Lucas Bergvall’s own-goal.Most read in Europa LeaguePostcoglou was without January signing Kevin Danso, who was not spotted.The manager admitted: “Kevin got a hamstring injury in the last game so he’s out.”Ange Postecoglou says Tottenham performance ‘nowhere near’ required standard after AZ Alkmaar loss Ange Postecoglou admitted that Kevin Danso was injuredCredit: ReutersForward Richarlison was also training by himself as he builds his fitness.The Europa League is Spurs’ last chance to win silverware this season after exits in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.It also represents the only likely entry into European football for the 2025/26 season.In Postecoglou’s press conference, he was asked if he regretted making the claim that he always wins a trophy in his second season with a club.He said: “My view has always been when you’re asked something, you answer it.”People have used it for their own purposes to make out I was making a bold claim. I was just stating a fact [about the past].”If we do win a trophy this season, then some people might say ‘oh isn’t it nice that he did that after making such a bold claim’.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It wasn’t.”People will just use it the way they want to, whatever the circumstances.” More

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      Mason Mount returns to Man Utd training after THREE MONTHS out but Ruben Amorim facing another selection crisis

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      MANCHESTER UNITED star Mason Mount has returned to training after three months out injured.The 26-year-old midfielder has not played since the 2-1 derby win over Manchester City on December 15 due to a hamstring tear.Mason Mountis back in training ahead of the Real Sociedad gameCredit: EPAIt was Mount’s first session back after a hamstring tearCredit: PAManuel Ugarte also returned after a brief period out injuredCredit: GettyRuben Amorim still has an injury crisis to deal withCredit: EPAMan Utd welcome Real Sociedad to Old Trafford on Thursday in the second leg of their last-16 Europa League tie.The fixture will reportedly come too soon for Mount, but he is nearing a return to fitness.In another boost for Ruben Amorim, there is hope Manuel Ugarte will be back after he was also spotted in training today.The midfielder missed the last two matches with a minor problem and the manager admitted he “thinks” he will be fit to face Real Sociedad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDespite the duo’s much-needed return, Amorim still has an injury crisis to contend with. In a major blow, centre-backs Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire were not pictured at Carrington today. They join Altay Bayindir, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo on the sidelines.Man Utd will also be without teenage striker Chido Obi as he is not eligible to play in the Europa League. Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsAmorim is “desperate” for Mount to avoid anymore injury problems as he views him as key to his plans.The boss did not hide his feelings on the former Chelsea man earlier this season, saying: “Mason Mount… I have to tell you I love that kid.How Ruben Amorim’s genius tweak unleashed Mazraoui to give Man Utd new attacking threat”You can look in his eyes that he wants this so bad. This is the most important thing.”He played in this system, so it’s perfect for him… I have two positions for Mason Mount, so he should be very happy.”He fits our style. He’s a very good player inside and also outside the pitch. The type of character we want in this team and the club want.”Mount’s Man Utd career has struggled to take off since his £55million move from Chelsea before the start of last season.He has got just one goal and one assist, missing 49 games through various injury problems.Mount is seen as a key player by AmorimCredit: PAUnited are 1-1 with Real Sociedad after the first legCredit: PAMan Utd ratings vs Arsenal as De Ligt shows exactly why Red Devils signed him but Zirkzee is as frustrating as everIT was a performance that would have pleased Ruben Amorim but a 1-1 draw with Arsenal does little to paper over the cracks at Manchester United.On a day when the Old Trafford crowd protested the owners, the players stood up to show their remains life in a club that fans say is experiencing a “slow death”.There was a lack of clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes as both sides goalscoring troubles continued.A moment of magic was needed and Fernandes stepped up as he so often does.Arsenal’s wall was full of man mountains, but Fernandes found the power, dip and accuracy to beat David Raya with his free-kick – even if the wall was marched 11.2 yards back instead of the regulated ten.Mikel Arteta’s side came out swinging in the second-half with their makeshift No9 up top, and it took a brilliant effort from Declan Rice to level the scores.United were able to frustrate them and remain a threat on the counter but eventually had to settle for a point in a much-improved performance.Here is how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the United performances. More

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      Man Utd’s plans for Old Trafford revealed as Sir Jim Ratcliffe unveils £2billion new stadium project

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S iconic Old Trafford may be deconstructed a year after moving into their brand new stadium.United revealed images and graphics of the 100,000-seater super ground worth a staggering £2billion they are planning to build near their current home.Manchester United’s Old Trafford may be deconstructed a year after movingCredit: EPAMan Utd chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe has yet to make a final decision about Old TraffordCredit: PAThe Red Devils’ minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is targeting the 2030-31 season for the move to the “New Trafford” stadium.The plan is to continue playing at Old Trafford until the permanent switch.Foster + Partners, the firm hired to design the new stadium as well as the renovation of Carrington training complex, insist Man Utd would not spend a day away from Old Trafford during construction.According to Manchester Evening News, the architects also suggested that their legendary ground could be demolished within a year.Read More on Man UtdThe Manchester giants explored the possibility of keeping Old Trafford as a mini stadium that would host women’s and academy matches, but that idea appears to have been scrapped.United chief executive Omar Berrada stated that a final decision regarding Old Trafford has yet to be taken but added it’s “unlikely” they will keep it in operation.Berrada said when asked if Old Trafford could be kept: “I’d say it’s unlikely.”We haven’t made a decision on it yet. It’s true that at some point there was some thinking either keeping it as it is or reducing the capacity to 25 or 30,000, as somewhere where the women’s team could play, the youth teams could play.Most read in Football”I think given our ambition to build what you saw today [Tuesday], maybe that needs to be re-visited. “Again, our ambition is for the women’s team to have a big enough fan base that they’re playing in the main stadium, not in a smaller capacity stadium.Sir Jim Ratcliffe launches scathing attack on struggling Man Utd squad saying some ‘not good enough’ and ‘overpaid'”It’s not off the table [to have a mini Old Trafford]. It’s feasible but we have to find the best ways to finance a new stadium and we’re thinking about this in the context of how can it benefit the wider regeneration project.”If we feel the space where Old Trafford currently is can be used in a different way whilst preserving the history of Old Trafford then we’ll explore it.” More

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      Arsenal ‘interested in signing Leroy Sane’ in free transfer with ex-Man City yet to be offered new contract

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      ARSENAL are reportedly interested in signing Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane.Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is in desperate need of some attacking reinforcements.Arsenal are interested in Leroy SaneCredit: GettyThe club’s recent injury crisis has highlighted the lack of squad depth at the Emirates, with 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard and on-loan winger Raheem Sterling the only available options in attack.Arteta is determined to strengthen his squad when the summer transfer window opens.And German outlet Bild has claimed that Sane could be a top pick.The 29-year-old’s Bayern Munich contract is set to expire at the end of the season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe is yet to agree terms for a new deal so could become available on a free transfer come July.Arteta is understood to be keen on the prospect of signing Sane.The German winger joined Bayern from Manchester City for around £55million in July 2020 and has since managed 106 goal contributions in 209 appearances.Prior to his time in Munich, Sane spent four years with Man City and won two Premier League titles.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsArsenal are also interested in signing Joshua Kimmich in a free transfer from Bayern.The German side allegedly withdrew his contract offer last month.Leroy Sane PUNCHES TV camera after Bayern Munich concede third goal in devastating defeat to Bayer Leverkusen More

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      Man City ‘hero’ and former coach who ‘gave so much to help footballers’ dies aged 87 as emotional tributes pour in

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      TRIBUTES have been paid to ex-Manchester City player and coach Steve Fleet who’s died aged 87.The goalkeeper was recently diagnosed with pancreatic and liver cancer.Former club Stockport County confirmed on social media he recently passed away.Fleet, from Salford, Greater Manchester, played for Bolton Wanderers as a schoolboy, before joining City as an amateur in 1953.After retirement he began coaching at County in 1970, which included a brief stint as caretaker manager, before returning to City and coaching its young stars for 25 years.County said in a tribute: “Everyone at Stockport County was saddened to learn about the death of our former goalkeeper, Football League champion and coach Steve Fleet, who passed away at the age of 87. “Everyone at Edgeley Park sends their condolences to Steve’s loved ones at this difficult time.”Fleet had also played for Wrexham for three years from 1963 before joining County as a player and winning the Fourth Division championship in 1966-67.He returned to City and then finished his career on the pitch at Altrincham.In a post shared on X earlier this month, the Once a Blue Man City Former Players Club wrote: “It is with great sadness that we have to tell you about the passing of yet another former City player, Steve Fleet.Most read in Football”Our thoughts are with Steve’s family and friends. He was truly committed to our football club. God bless Steve x.”Steve Fleet played for Manchester City before becoming a coach More

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      Virgil van Dijk hints Liverpool career could be over in 10 GAMES with no breakthrough in talks over new contract

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      VIRGIL VAN DIJK has added to the misery of Liverpool’s Champions League exit by insisting he has “no idea” whether he will be at the club next season.The Reds skipper is out of contract this summer, along with Mo Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, and the Dutchman claims that anybody who claims to know where he will be playing next term is “lying to your face”.Virgil van Dijk has ‘no idea’ whether he will be at Liverpool next seasonCredit: RexLiverpool boss Arne Slot could lose Van Dijk, Mo Salah and Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: RexArne Slot’s runaway Premier League leaders were knocked out of the Champions League in the last-16 in a 4-1 penalty shoot-out defeat by Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday night – having been outplayed by the French champions for the most of the tie.And when asked if he will be back for another crack at winning a second European Cup with Liverpool next season, Van Dijk said: “I have no idea. I still have no idea at the moment. Genuinely.“It is not on hold. Nothing is on hold. Listen, there are 10 games to go [in the season] and that is my full focus. If there is news, you guys will know it. But I don’t even know myself.“Everyone knows there are some conversations behind the scenes but that is about it. At the moment I don’t even know what will happen next year.Read More on Football“If anyone says they do know, they are lying to your face.”Van Dijk, Salah and Alexander-Arnold have all attracted significant interest from abroad, with Real Madrid and Bayern Munich both keen to sign the Dutch centre-half.But Van Dijk, 33, is adamant that he is focused on winning Sunday’s Carabao Cup Final against Newcastle, then securing a second Premier League title – with the Reds 15 points clear of Arsenal.He said: “There are 10 games left, not many, and there are two big prizes we can still get.Most read in Football“We are going to give it everything. We have to feel the disappointment of this [PSG] loss but now it is about recovery. Be ready for a good one.“If we bring this intensity to Wembley with our fans, then I am positive. I am always positive. But I am really looking forward to being back out there.‘The ref made a mistake’ – Virgil van Dijk furious at Bergvall’s winner moments after Spurs star should have seen red“We don’t need any added motivation. We have 10 games, the Carabao Cup Final on Sunday, if you need any added motivation you are in the wrong business.” More