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      Leicester 1 Forest 3: Chris Wood downs old boss Steve Cooper with stunning double as high-flying visitors go FIFTH

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      CHRIS WOOD haunted former boss Steve Cooper with the goals that took Nottingham Forest fifth in the table.It was the now-Leicester City manager Cooper who took Wood to Forest 16 months ago in a £15million deal from Newcastle.Chris Wood celebrates his match-winning double for ForestCredit: AFPWood fired home his brilliant first goal to make it 2-1Credit: GettyThe striker looped home a header to complete Forest’s victoryCredit: ReutersCooper may have known what he was doing – but he would not have seen this scenario coming.The Kiwi striker struck in the space of 13 minutes after the break to make it a miserable reunion for Cooper – who was sacked by Forest last December.And the travelling City Ground fans did not let him forget it at this East Midlands derby – as they revived a chant from his days on Trentside.They sang: ‘Stevie Cooper, he hates the Leicester, he hates the Derby, Forest are magic’.READ MORE TOP STORIESForest had taken the lead through home-grown skipper Ryan Yates – only for Jamie Vardy to level the scores.But it was Wood, 32, who had the final say as he scored for the third game running to make it seven for the season as Forest gatecrashed the top six.Cooper will be furious with his side’s defending though – as Leicester made mistakes for all three of Forest’s goals.The Foxes boss was reluctant to talk about his City Ground spell in the build up to the game – and only mentioned them once once in a paragraph near to the end of his programme notes.Most read in FootballJamie Vardy had put Leicester level midway in the first halfCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSForest boss Nuno Espirito Santo was serving the second game of a three-match touchline ban and sat at the back of the main stand with the Forest analysts as his side clinched their second win in five days.The Portuguese coach saw Forest take a 16th minute lead when Yates made the most of a series of defensive errors.Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese modelFacundo Buonanotte misplaced a pass and when the ball came back into the Leicester box from Elliot Anderson, James Justin sliced his clearance to Yates to net from the edge of the area.But the Foxes levelled just seven minutes later as Vardy displayed his poacher instincts.Harry Winks delivered an ideal cross into the six yard box – and Vardy got in ahead of Murillo to grab his fourth goal of the season after a superb team move.But Forest should have regained the lead just moments later as Foxes keeper Mads Hermansen made a point blank save from Nicolas Dominguez.Hermansen made another crucial save nine minutes before the break when the Dane produced a flying stop to keep out a long range effort from Callum Hudson-Odoi.It was end to end stuff and Stephy Mavididi almost put Leicester ahead in first half stoppage time when he curled a shot just wide of the far post. But Forest went ahead just one minute after the restart.Again, Leicester were at fault with Winks losing the ball with the Foxes in little danger.It was Anderson once more who took advantage and slid the ball in for Wood to turn and fire home just out of Hermansen’s reach as the ball squeezed in.Ryan Yates drilled the opener for Forest on 16 minutesCredit: ReutersThe goal put Forest in control, and Hudson-Odoi almost made it three when he swept a shot against the post – with Anderson putting the rebound wide.But Leicester shot themselves in the foot yet again on the hour when they gifted Wood his second of the game.Belgium defender Wout Faes appeared to have a long ball from Forest keeper Matz Sels under control – but when he mis-timed his header back to Hermansen, Wood nipped in to finish the job.Wood was subbed as Forest saw out the game – wary of Leicester’s comeback at Southampton last weekend. But the Foxes looked a beaten side after Forest’s third goal.READ MORE SUN STORIESForest fans continued to taunt Cooper in the final stages with a chant of: “Take them down, take them down Stevie Cooper”.In contrast, Leicester fans booed their team off at the final whistle. More

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      Troy Deeney: There is NO conspiracy against Arsenal – their red cards have been stupid and petulant… it’s worrying

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      ARSENAL’S red-card run has me worried — but not for why you might think.If the likes of Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard and William Saliba had been sent off for violent conduct, aggressive behaviour or arguing with refs, I could understand.Mikel Arteta can’t legislate for stupid things his players are doingCredit: AlamyDeclan Rice’s red card was unlucky but showed Arsenal’s recklessnessCredit: RexLeandro Trossard’s actions for his dismissal were so needlessCredit: GettyThese things happen, move on.But in Arsenal’s case, none of them were for tackles. They were simply for petulant, lazy and stupid actions — things that manager Mikel Arteta cannot account for.In all fairness, Rice’s red against Brighton for kicking the ball away was mental. The ref handled that badly.But Trossard’s against Manchester City was incredibly petulant.READ MORE TOP STORIESAnd with Saliba’s at Bournemouth, he has got credit for reacting to a poor pass — ironically from Trossard — but I would have backed him to get back and for David Raya to save it.It is something that keeps happening.My other concern is the Arsenal players are starting to feel there is an agenda against them from the Prem refs — which there is NOT.I have seen it in dressing rooms — you can find an excuse if you are looking for it. As players, it is never our fault.Most read in FootballWilliam Saliba saw red for a challenge that was clumsy in more ways than one as he felled Bournemouth striker Evanilson in mid-pitchCredit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd if you are hearing it on social media and begin talking about it then it will seep in.I am also worried that when these red cards have been given, I haven’t seen or heard of anyone screaming or shouting, pointing fingers.  That’s maybe a sign of the times.Arsenal star Saka of three key men to miss training ahead of crunch Liverpool Premier League showdown I was sent off five times in my professional career and every time in the dressing room after the games, I’ve got hammered for letting the team down.I have experienced all of the emotions. Sometimes you feel hard-done-by and there is an element of smashing the dressing room up because you are angry, and sometimes I felt like a kid again getting told off by my parents — there is so much shame.I don’t sense that has happened at Arsenal; more: “Unlucky, mate. Better luck next time.”Arsenal players are starting to feel there is an agenda against them from the Prem refs — which there is NOT.Troy DeeneyYou need accountability, you need players to show their frustration.When Saliba was sent off and the team then lost 2-0, I would expect someone to at least ask: “Why did you do that?”You are supposed to have conflict. You are allowed to hold people to a high standard.Arsenal have obviously been doing that to get to the position they are at, challenging for the title.But in these situations, if they are going into games without their best players — especially an avoidable one in Saliba — then that should rightly boil over behind the scenes.And do not underestimate the toll it takes on you playing with ten men on several occasions in quick succession.It is almost impossible physically to pull it off just once, let alone three times, as well as the psychological damage of not having the ball.When that is the case, it becomes a long, hard slog.You can still see what that draw at Man City did to them — it is still in their legs, in their heads.Bukayo Saka showed commendable confidence in saying it will be Arsenal’s year but ‘with great expectation comes great responsibility’Credit: ReutersDrawing 2-2 so late on. You’ve played for so long with ten men, defended so well, contained them, and then someone scores and the whole emotion leaves your body.City now have an effect on Arsenal whereby if they are not six or seven points ahead going into the last ten games of a season, they know they will be caught.At the start of this campaign, they put a lot of pressure on themselves — maybe too much.Bukayo Saka came out and said: “This is our year, we can do it.” I liked it.I don’t see Arsenal getting a result but, for their sakes, I hope they do.Troy DeeneyBut with great expectation comes great responsibility and I don’t remember a game this season where they have looked like the Arsenal of the previous two years.They have looked clunky and looked like they are forcing things.And they are now in a position already this season where they have to go out and attack and win games, like against Liverpool on Sunday.I don’t see Arsenal getting a result but, for their sakes, I hope they do. And as a neutral fan, I don’t want them to be done. Seven points adrift is huge.So Arsenal have to deliver. And I am beginning to think of the question: When is Arteta under pressure?READ MORE SUN STORIESMaybe if they drift away from the title race by Christmas?It is a harsh question given what he has done for the club but you have to deliver at some point.Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A More

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      I’m a rising Premier League star and been tipped for England – but I’m training to be an AIRLINE PILOT when I retire

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      THE SKY’S the limit for Leif Davis, who has propelled Ipswich from League One to the Prem.Attacking left-back Davis has even been tipped as an England international after his stunning rise with the Tractor Boys.Ipswich Town star Leif Davis is training to become an airline pilotDavis has been tipped to become an England star after a bright start in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyAnd he will still be aiming high once he hangs up his boots — in a new career as an airline pilot.Aviation-mad Davis, 24, spends his down-time on the controls of a flight simulator.He said: “A private pilot licence would be the start and I can decide what I want to do after what is hopefully a successful career.“I taught myself to do it. The software is called FlightSim, which is where other people in the world are also on it.Read More on Football“There will be someone, say, on a computer in London and he will be doing air traffic control.“So if I’m flying I have got to speak to him while doing that as well. It is like real life but on the computer.“It’s a thing I’ve always done. You don’t have to look at your phone, you don’t have to think about football, it just switches you off from everything.”Ipswich travel to Brentford on Saturday — just five miles from Heathrow Airport — still searching for that elusive first Premier League win in over 24 years.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKieran McKenna’s side, who jumped from League One to the top flight in successive seasons, have drawn four games and lost four so far.It has been a steep learning curve for the Town players, few of whom have played at the top level before.Football icons’ strange hobbiesDavis already has big plans for his retirementCredit: GettyDavis couldn’t believe he was lining up against Mo Salah at the start of the seasonCredit: GettyBut Davis insists his hobby of coaxing virtual Boeings and Airbuses into the air has helped him improve on the pitch.He said: “You have got to focus on that one thing — or your plane is going down!“You have to focus on it all the time but that focus helps me take it into training.“You know what you have got to do when you are focused — how good you can be.“It’s when you switch off for a second that’s when disasters can happen.”Former Leeds man Davis revealed he has spent time in the wide blue yonder in the cockpit of a light aircraft.Impressing experienced pilotsAnd he surprised an airline pilot with his knowledge of how to land a jet.He said: “I have been up there a few times in a little Cessna but not flying a big plane.“I actually got the chance when we went to Austria for pre-season to go in the cockpit and do the landing with the pilot, which was my highlight of the year.You have got to focus on that one thing — or your plane is going down!Leif Davis“It was the best thing I have ever done in my life, just seeing in person how they do it.“The captain was talking us through it and I’d say, ‘Oh, you are not doing that’ and he would say, ‘I’m just about to!’“I actually knew a lot of what he was doing and he was shocked.Surprise Prem pilot ace“He kept looking at me as though, ‘How do you know this?’ but I just kept my mouth shut.“It was mad how I knew what he was doing.”Davis, who has just penned a new four-year deal at Town, would not be the first celebrity pilot should he get his wings eventually.Iron Maiden singer Bruce Dickinson has flown Liverpool and Rangers to European matches in the past.And Davis revealed that he is not the only current Prem star who likes to get airborne.When we got promoted it didn’t sink in properly until that first day when we were in the tunnel. You look to your left and there is Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk.Leif DavisHe said: “I think Chris Wood at Nottingham Forest has got his pilot licence as well.“I don’t think it’s just me that would love to do it, there are other players who have their licence already.“It’s a different hobby to everyone else. Look at Ben White, he doesn’t even watch football.“When I was at Leeds with him he hated watching it. Well, probably not hated it but his hobby was something else.”’Welcome back to the Prem’Davis is the only Portman Road promotion hero to play every minute of league action so far, starting with a narrow 2-1 defeat at home to Liverpool on the opening day.The defender, who made two top-flight appearances off the bench at Leeds, said: “It was welcome back to the Prem!READ MORE SUN STORIES“When we got promoted it didn’t sink in properly until that first day when we were in the tunnel. You look to your left and there is Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk.“I’ve loved every minute of it even though we have not yet got the win we wanted.” More

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      Karren Brady: Football isn’t broken and Keir Starmer’s plan to fix it will create many more problems than it solves

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      TO change, and to change for the better, are two different things.And the Government’s plan to change football is more likely to create many more problems than it solves.Keir Starmer’s Government will introduce the Football Governance Bill this weekCredit: GettySunSport columnist, and West Ham vice chairman, Karren Brady thinks the bill will only cause more problemsCredit: PAI remain wholly unconvinced about the role of regulators, both in and out of football.Just look at some of our leading industries and the way regulators have worked. Or not.Water is the obvious one as our beaches and rivers have been transformed into a toxic dumping ground while the companies rake in millions in wages, bonuses and shareholder dividends — almost always of little or no benefit to the UK.And don’t get me started on the trains. We have the most expensive railway network in the Western world, and best-paid train drivers, yet actually getting trains to run on time has been well-nigh impossible.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSSo, please, when politicians preach about how the Football Governance Bill introduced in the House of Lords this week will make everything rosy in football’s garden, don’t believe the hype.There is no need for another layer of administration and regulation. And I’ll tell you why…The Premier League has been one of this country’s major success stories of the past three decades.It has taken a game which was crumbling and collapsing around our feet to the best and most-watched football league in the world. It is the global Big One.Most read in FootballThere are critics who say the Premier League just looks after the hotshots, the Manchester Uniteds and Arsenals. Rubbish.In the last three years the Premier League has given a world-leading £1.6billion to the EFL, National Leagues, grass-roots football and the women’s game. Nowhere else in the world can even get close to matching that.Jose Mourinho makes cheeky dig at the referee after being sent off against old club Manchester UnitedThe PL give nearly £8m on average to every EFL Championship club, £1.4m to each League One club and £900,000 to each League Two club.Politicians tell you the regulator will make clubs more fan-friendly but it is already being done.The Premier League instigated a Fan Engagement Standard, meaning there has to be a Fan Advisory Board at every single club.An away ticket price cap was introduced years ago, which ensures supporters pay a maximum of £30 when they travel.At the rate we’re going you’ll get about half a bathtub for that from our regulated water companies.What happened to Bury and others like them was terribly sad but you cannot blame the Premier League for their financial mess.Karren BradyI’ll give you some other numbers. The Premier League annually hands over £4.2bn in tax to the Treasury and directly employs 90,000 people, a third of whom are in the North West, an area which sadly has pockets of high deprivation.A total of 51 clubs have reached the Premier League, which surely underlines the fact that the financial distributions do broadly work.And while going into administration is a worrying time for fans, the likes of Crystal Palace, Luton, Bournemouth, Southampton and Leeds all reset and got to the Premier League — with three of them still in it.What happened to Bury and others like them was terribly sad but you cannot blame the Premier League for their financial mess.I’ve heard it said, mainly by ill-informed politicians, that parachute payments are fundamentally wrong. Not so. They allow clubs to remain financially sustainable should they suffer relegation from the top flight.The regulator will have to consider INCREASING parachute payments as that is the only way established relegated clubs can be more sustainable.There are critics who say the Premier League just looks after the hotshots, the Manchester Uniteds and Arsenals. Rubbish.Karren BradyThey give clubs the security to be able to invest in competitive squads, sign players and coaches on multi-year contracts and invest in world-class stadia and fan experience, with the knowledge that there will be some financial protection in the event of relegation.When you are relegated you still have to pay all the staff, including the players, and have all the same overheads, so if you don’t have the parachute payment you are effectively bust.The numbers are what makes the Premier League the world’s leading domestic club competition.Over 15million fans go to games every year and internationally OUR Premier League is watched annually by 1.5bn supporters from 189 countries.In every sense of the word it is a success, with not a regulator in sight.The Bill will change the way football operates, impacting supporters and clubs.READ MORE SUN STORIESA regulator that delivers stronger oversight of fan engagement and club heritage — and prevents breakaway leagues — is welcome.But one that significantly impacts the competitive balance of the league is not. More

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      Lincoln star Ethan Erhahon reveals team hid physio’s car in training ground prank and he was offered ‘scrap’ by fan

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      ETHAN ERHAHON has already packed plenty into his career.Only 23, the midfielder has played at three levels and been capped by Scotland in four age groups – up to Under-21s.Ethan Erhahon has had some lively experiences down SouthThe midfielder arrived at Lincoln from St Mirren in January 2023Credit: GettyBut the former St Mirren star might play another decade and never encounter a wackier episode than the prank his Lincoln City team-mates pulled on the club physio.That was a mischievous jape worthy of City’s nickname – The Imps.In contrast, one experience with an opposition fan, who threatened more than just banter, could have turned out far nastier.Here are some of the trials and tribulations of League One life seen by Erhahon – in his own wordsREAD MORE IN FOOTBALLBest opponent?Ronnie Edwards. Peterborough last season. He was really good. We played against Peterborough and they liked to play it from the back, but we liked to get after them and he kept breaking and pressing stuff.(Defender Edwards, 21, was named in the L1 team of the year – winning a £3million summer move to Southampton.)Erhahon showed his good judgement with his choice of finest rival playerFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMost difficult EFL fans?I got a bit from Blackpool this season. Especially after the game, some fella offered me a scrap or something, so I’d probably say Blackpool, yeah. Most read in EFLFormer Watford and Gillingham hero Andy Hessenthaler shares crazy EFL story after being attacked by the owner I What the EFL?!I don’t know what he was doing, he was gesturing to me anyway, that he wanted me to come over to the barrier and give him a scrap or something.Best away fans?I’d say Portsmouth, for sure, they backed the team the whole way.Last season, missing out in the play-offs, coming down to the final day, and we obviously missed out by two points in the final day, Portsmouth beat us, that still kind of haunts me. Maddest dressing room tale?Last season’s end-of-season do was pretty crazy.Ended up with some players till like five or six in the morning, all the boys had the ties round their head and the tops open and stuff, so, you know, might do the same again this year, hopefully, after we get promoted.(Team-mates) took the physio’s car last year and drove it up the side of the pitch.There’s fields around here, so if you know the training ground, it looks like fields… drove it up the side of the pitch… took the keys and… didn’t have a clue where his car went! So that’s probably one of the funniest moments I’ve ever had at a training ground, for sure.Craziest transfer tale?Don’t want to name players or agents, but I’ve heard a few stories!One guy getting a haircut in the city he was going to play for – the team he was going to play for – and he ended up changing his mind after the haircut, coming out and saying to his agent he doesn’t want to go. I think it was Blackpool, maybe. Not a good barber, maybe, around there!Dressing-room antics?Probably something to do with the darts, maybe. The kit man plays, he always gets beat, so it’s always a funny moment when he’s in there getting beat, we’re all laughing at him and stuff. Owner Harvey [Jabara] put a lot into the club, and they brought us all baseball gloves, signed, and with little Lincoln imps on them, so I’ve still got that up in my room.It’s a nice gesture. I don’t play baseball, but it was certainly a nice gesture, and one that I’ll keep forever.READ MORE SUN STORIESAway-day dressing-room grumble!I have to say probably in the [Bristol Street Motors] Trophy last week, Grimsby, away. The changing room’s a bit old-school, shall we say!A bit small and stuff, so, I’d have to say Grimsby’s changing room.Erhahon is hoping Lincoln go up to the Championship after they just missed out on reaching the League One play-offs last seasonCredit: Rex More

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      ‘What happened?’, asks Nicolas Jackson as Chelsea ace and Mo Salah SNUBBED from African Player of the Year shortlist

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      CHELSEA ace Nicolas Jackson addressed the controversial African Player of the Year shortlist that includes some major omissions, such as Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah.The Confederation of African Football released the list of players who are nominated for this year’s esteemed POTY award but sparked a heated debate.Chelsea ace Nicolas Jackson fired back at the controversial African Player of the Year award shortlistCredit: RexJackson and Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah were both snubbed from the shortlistCredit: GettyThe list includes Brighton’s Simon Adingra, Rennes’ Amine Gouiri, Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy, Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi, Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman, Marseille’s Chancel Mbemba, Al-Ain’s Soufiane Rahimi, Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba, Al-Kholood’s William Troost-Ekong and Mamelodi Sundowns’ Ronwen Williams.However, some big names were left out, such as West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz, Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface as well as Jackson and Salah.The Chelsea ace was left baffled and took to social media to express his surprise.Jackson posted on his Instagram story: “What happened?!”Read More on FootballSalah, 32, stood out for Liverpool once more last season as he won the Carabao Cup and amassed a staggering 25 goals and 14 assists in 44 appearances across all competitions.The Egypt international broke another record just an hour into the new season only two months ago as he recorded the most opening-day goals in Premier League history.Senegalese star Jackson, 23, has been on fire for Chelsea this season with five goals and three assists in eight Prem matches.Ghanaian ace Kudus already counts 16 goals in 55 matches for West Ham after only moving to east London a year ago.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBoniface was among the brightest African stars last season as he played a key role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph, which saw them winning their first ever title undefeated.The Nigeria international scored 21 goals and produced 10 assists in 34 matches for Xabi Alonso’s side last term.Mo Salah appears to confirm Liverpool transfer exit live on Sky Sports after ripping Man Utd to shredsAnd Moroccan star Diaz helped Real win LaLiga as well as the Champions League.But none of those exploits were enough to make the shortlist. More

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      I went from non-league to FA Cup Final with Sunderland and won promotion at Oxford… now I’m helping kids with autism

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      MARTIN GRAY went from naughty schoolboy to a promotion winner at both Sunderland and Oxford – now he is helping other youngsters in need.The 53-year-old was a self-confessed bad boy as a kid and he never dreamed that he would make it as a footballer when he was released by Middlesbrough aged 15.Martin Gray is now making a big impact off the pitch by helping kids in the North EastCredit: GettyThe former midfielder went from non-league to being a Sunderland heroCredit: PAThree years later he was handed a lifeline by Denis Smith and Malcolm Crosby at Sunderland, and that led to him working under the pair for the best part of ten years.“I remember leaving the Northern League, where I was playing for Ferryhill, and Denis Smith signed me for Sunderland,” Gray told Sun Sport. “Seven years later he and Malcolm Crosby signed me for Oxford United. I probably had ten years playing under them.“Malcolm was an inspiration and like a father figure to me if I’m honest. I was a late developer and wasn’t at the level of the other players when I first went to Sunderland but I don’t think they signed me based just on my skills.“I think they got me for my work ethic, hunger and toughness etc. I found it really difficult at first as I knew I didn’t have the qualities of the lads that were there but Dennis and Malcolm, mainly, what they did to try and help me as a person and player was amazing.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“Malcolm was the best person that I worked with in football and had the biggest impact. He’s a great person.”Smith was sacked by Sunderland in December 1991 with assistant Crosby taking over, and Gray would go on to make his debut and was even part of the travelling squad that went to Wembley in the 1992 FA Cup Final where they lost 2-0 to Liverpool.He said: “That was special. I played against Blackburn the week before as he had rested Paul Bracewell and a few others. I was involved in the last couple of matches leading up to the final and managed to get in the travelling squad.“I never, and didn’t deserve to, make the bench but that whole occasion of wearing the suits and being part of it was unbelievable.”Most read in ChampionshipFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSGray was part of Peter Reid’s squad that won promotion to the Premier League – and that was a campaign he enjoyed double joy after departing the North East for a reunion with his mentors at Oxford.He said: “I signed on deadline day and we were celebrating promotion a few weeks later. That was amazing.Sunderland fans in hysterics as captain Luke O’Nien ‘auditions for WWE’ in post-match brawl at Luton “I played the last ten or 12 games of that season and it was good to contribute to help get over the line and reach the Championship.“I was eventually made club captain down there and I had an amazing time there. I had four special years at Oxford.“We were the small club in the big league going up against the likes of Birmingham, Middlesbrough, Man City, Sunderland, many thought that we would just be the whipping boys.“We had Joey Beauchamp and some other really good players that went on to become Premier League regulars like Matty Elliott, Phil Gilchrist, Darren Purse and Dean Windass, who I still speak with almost every day.“Dennis created a great working ethic within the club and we were a very close team with no superstars and if anybody got above themselves then they were soon brought back into line.”Oxford, whose draws with West Brom and Derby over the past week have left them 11th, are now back in the Championship and travel to the Stadium of Light to face table-topping Sunderland tomorrow.Gray, who moved to Darlington in 1999 before hanging up his boots, said: “It’s great to see them back after coming close a few times.Martin Gray pictured in action for Oxford United against Man CityCredit: PA“They are still a small fish in a big pond but they are holding their own. It goes to show that by putting trust in young managers and allowing people to develop can really pay off.“They are in the top half and got a good result last weekend against a tough opponent. “They’ve done great and then you look at Sunderland and wonder where all this has come from.“I didn’t know much about Regis Le Bris but I heard after pre-season some really good feedback about what he was doing. And what he is doing is working and they’ve got off to a start that most of us never expected.“I’ve been to the Derby and Leeds matches recently and from where they were two or three years ago to now is something I didn’t foresee to be honest.”Gray is set to attend the clash between his two former teams, but unlike his tigerish displays on the pitch, he is holding back when it comes to making a prediction.“I’m sitting on the fence and going for a draw aren’t I,” he says with a huge grin when pressed for a prediction.“Both clubs have had a great start to the season and I want them to each do well. So I’ll be supporting both teams massively as they both played a massive part in my career.”The midfielder enjoyed promotion with Oxford in 1996Credit: PAAway from the pro game and his coaching career, including leading Darlington to numerous promotions, Gray has also made a huge impact in the North East with his work in education – especially in providing alternative provision for children and young people.In 2018 Future Pathways began in Darlington, a provision which set out to offer support and education to young people. The young people accessing the service have a range of complex needs, and felt mainstream schooling was unable to meet them, but are now thriving in the small bespoke environment.Gray added: “Whether you are dealing with a young child that has difficulties due to trauma that they have unfortunately come across to a footballer that is not getting a new contract or being released, then you have to deal with people in a caring way.“It’s amazing. It used to be kids just getting kicked out of school and being labelled as naughty, and I’ll be honest, that was me.“But there was no alternative education around then, you were just labelled and got excluded.“Our provision is based around a sporting theme from boxing, biking, football… They do their education around the sport and the education is built around that and developing life skills, it feels so rewarding and it’s just great to help the kids we have.”Still keen to stick to his sporting roots, Gray still runs a sporting academy in partnership with a local college, where he hopes to inspire the next generation of players and offer high quality coaching. Staff from Gray’s Future Pathways Alternative Provision company are about to embark on a sponsored 30-mile walk from Sunderland Royal Hospital to Darlington Memorial Hospital.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe money earned from this fundraiser will go towards delivering Christmas Presents to children in both of these hospitals in December.If you would like to sponsor them please visit: Fundraiser for Anthony Verity by Tyler Hutchinson : Future Pathways Staff Walk from Sunderland to DarlingtonWho are these famous footballers? 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      England 3-4 Germany LIVE RESULT: Lionesses beaten by Germans in frantic seven-goal thriller at Wembley – latest updates

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      ENGLAND lost a seven-goal thriller against Germany as they were beaten 4-3 at Wembley. The Lionesses went 3-0 down in 27 minutes but pulled two back before the break, including one from the spot. After half-time, however, Germany restored their two-goal lead before Lucy Bronze pulled one back again a few minutes from time. Kick off time: 7.30pmTV/Stream: ITV 1 / ITVXEngland XI: To follow…Germany XI : To follow…FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…England looking for repeat performanceWhen it comes to the Euros, it brings fond memories for all fans of the Lionesses.Next summer’s tournament will be held in Switzerland, something which will be seen as a positive for England.Sarina Wiegman will be looking to ensure that her squad is in fine form by then to look to get their hands on the trophy once again.Copy linkCopiedLionesses needing to bounce backAs they look to build towards next summer’s Euros, England go into another friendly next Tuesday.They welcome South Africa to the Coventry Building Society Arena.Sarina Wiegman will hoping to see a more rounded performance for her team than against Germany tonight.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGermans offer real firework displayIt is difficult for any side to stamp their authority away from home in internatonal football.Germany proved to be the exception to the rule this evening.Finding themselves 3-0 up after 29 minutes, it all started to look a little to easy for the visitors.The Lionesses fought back but the damage was done and Germany held on for the victory.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedReality check for LionessesThe coach seemed to take a lot from tonight’s defeat against the Germans:We wanted to press high but we lost the ball in too many moments when we should not lose the ball. Unforced errors were too high. There were moments that challenged us tactically. That is why we play these games, we have been challenged. We wanted to see where we are right now.Sarina WiegmanEnglandCopy linkCopiedLionesses pay the penaltyEngland struggled with to control their temperament this evening.Gifting the visitors two goals by giving away blatant penalties.Defensively, the Lionesses struggled to cope with the visitors although they still looked dangerous on the attack.Copy linkCopiedEngland ship most goals under bossSince Sarina Wiegman took over the Lionesses, tonight is the most goals they have conceded.The visitors stunned the home crowd into silence by steaming into a three goal lead at Wembley.Despite the comeback from England, a second half goal from the Germans secured victory.Copy linkCopiedFT: England 3-4 GermanyThe referee brings the game to a close at Wembley.Germany have come out on top in this one.It is a big wake-up call for the Lionesses.Copy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany90+3. Naz does brilliantly to take the ball in her stride and use her pace down the wing.She is brought down and the referee awards a free kick and produces a yellow card.The resulting free kick is cleared and the visitors look to hit England on the counter-attack.Copy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany90. Germany have put down a real marker tonight.Unless England can find at least an equaliser, this defeat will hurt despite it being a friendly.The Lionesses have six added minutes to try and rectify that.Copy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany86. This has been some game for a friendly.It shows just what a terrible tournnament the Nations League is in the men’s format.Germany almost add a fifth as the cross comes in and Cerci almost pokes it past Hampton.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany82. England have been offered a lifeline in this game.A seemingly harmless corner comes into the box and Berger comes out to make a regulation catch.She drops the ball and allows Bronze to slot home with a goal from nothing.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Lucy Bronze (England)Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-4 Germany77. Dejection for the English camp. Walsh plays the ball through to Hemp, who slams the ball into the far corner of the goal.As she wheels away to celebrate, the assistant’s flag goes up.VAR confirms that she was offside.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-4 Germany72. Carnage at Wembley in the penalty area.England struggle to clear their lines and then Wolter kicks the bottom of Russo’s boot without getting any contact on the ball.The referee points to the spot and VAR does not change the decision.Dabritz drills the ball home to make this even more of an uphill challenge for the Lionesses.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Sara Dabritz (Germany)Copy linkCopiedPenalty to GermanyCopy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany68. As both sides ring the changes, England force a corner.The Lionesses need to show their attacking roar a bit more here.Berger comes to punch the corner clear and the visitors manage to clear their lines.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany64. It would be quite ironic if this half ends goalless.Germany are starting to turn the screw more and more.This time it is Rauch who drills a shot at goal but Hampton tips it over the bar.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany60. Big chance for Germany to extend their lead.Some brilliant play by Brand on the right, checking inside with the goal at her mercy.Hampton gets down well to save at the near post to deny her.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany56. This is certainly not a game for defensive coaches to brag about.However, it sure is entertaining.It is almost like Man Utd have offered to coach both teams in the preparation for this game.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany52. Germany almost doubled their lead.As England struggled to clear their linesm the ball broke to Brand at the back post.She drilled the ball into the back of the net but fortunately for the hosts the assistant immediately raised her flag for offside.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany48. Toone has been replaced by Park at the interval.For the visitors, Rauch has replaced Linder and Cerci comes on for Hoffmann.It has been a cagey start to the second half so far, neither side able to get a grip on the game.Copy linkCopiedKick-off: England 2-3 GermanyWe are back underway at Wembley.It has been a goal-fest so far.England get the second half started.Copy linkCopiedHT: England 2-3 GermanyThe fans will be hoping for more of the same in the second half.Most of Wembley was stunned to see the Lionesses 3-0 down at home but they have clawed their way back into this one.What a second half we have in store from what we have seen so far.Copy linkCopiedHT: England 2-3 GermanyThe referee brings an entertaining half to a close.Germany have a slender lead after making a jaw-dropping start to this game.Both managers will have a lot to say in the interval.Copy linkCopied More