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      Wrexham appoint architects behind incredible Las Vegas sphere to redesign stadium and make it fit for European football

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      WREXHAM have appointed new architects as they plan to expand their stadium.Plans to rebuild The Kop have been in the works for years, with a temporary structure installed last December.Wrexham plan to increase the capacity of the Racecourse by 5,500 seatsCredit: AlamyOwners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have been left frustrated by delays to constructionCredit: PAThe new stand could host 5,500 more fans after receiving approval from the council.A temporary stand is currently in place with a capacity of 3,000.Work on the new stand was delayed as a drain beneath the site was moved and legal matters had to be resolved, but architects Populous have now been appointed to oversee the project.The group, who worked on Wembley, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the Las Vegas Sphere, have been tasked with “creating a masterplan” for the Racecourse stadium.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat will include a Kop rebuild which could include upgraded hospitality sections, accessible seating and a provision for safe standing which will make it fully compliant with Uefa category four stadium requirements.Wrexham are hopeful the work will be completed in time for the Uefa European Under-19 Championships in 2026.North Wales is set to host the Under-19 Euros across five venues in 2026, including Bangor, Denbigh, Colwyn Bay, Connah’s Quay and the Racecourse.Wrexham’s executive director Humphrey Ker previously estimated the building process could take 11 months – so the work will likely have to begin before next summer.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile chief executive Michael Williamson said: “We are determined to ensure the new Kop stand and the future vision of the SToK Cae Ras satisfies the needs and expectations of our fans and the local community, and the appointment of Populous as architect for the redesign reflects that.“We appreciate the efforts of those who have worked on this project to date, allowing us to now focus our attention on the activation of areas within the new stand, while remaining consistent with the capacity and volume that was previously presented.” Tom Brady in hilarious reaction after getting X-rated welcome from Wrexham fans for Birmingham clashThe original Kop was abandoned in 2007 and owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have previously expressed their frustrations at the delay to the rebuild.However the delay has given them time to reconsider plans and they will consider ways to build the stand that makes it capable of being developed further.McElhenney has spoken of his ambition to increase the capacity of the Racecourse to 55,000. More

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      ‘That’s a cracking football.. lovely memories’, say fans as retro Mitre ball for FA Cup released

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      THIS season’s official FA Cup ball has taken fans on a trip down memory lane.The FA revealed a nostalgic Mitre football to be used throughout the 2024/25 edition of the world’s oldest football competition. Mitre have unveiled the new Ultimax Pro to be used in FA Cup games this seasonCredit: https://x.com/MitreSportsThe new balls have transported nostalgic fans of a certain age back to their childhoodsCredit: https://x.com/MitreSportsMitre unveiled the Ultimax Pro 3 on Thursday ahead of the FA Cup first round proper next month. The company have supplied official match balls for the tournament since 2018, taking over from Nike. And the latest, featuring an iconic V-shape and dashes of silver, has fans of a certain age remembering the classic Mitre Delta and Mouldmaster. Both of the balls were used throughout English football in the 1990s and early 200s, with the Mouldmaster a staple in playgrounds across the country. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Mitre official X account wrote: “Introducing the @emiratesfacup Official 24/25 Match Ball. “Inspired by the magic of the cup, and what it means to the fans. “Flashes of silver, etched and scratched to reflect tin foil trophies. Power, precision, perfection.”One nostalgic fan wrote on X: “That is a cracking football. Came along way since the mouldmaster. Lovely memories of that skelping my leg in a gale force wind.”#Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnother said: “Great to mitre balls being used in top games again.”While a third added: “Absolutely love these!Non-league club labelled ‘absolute class’ as they rock up to FA Cup tie in bizarre pina colada kitBut a baffled non-league fan commented: “Why now? We’ve already had 6 rounds!”The first round of this season’s FA Cup will be held between Friday, November 1 and Monday, November 4.The original Mitre Ultimax was used over 20 years ago in the Premier LeagueCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWhy FA Cup changes are GOOD NEWSBy Martin LiptonTHE FA and Premier League should have done the deal to scrap FA Cup replays years ago.No doubt traditionalists will moan but it is right that the competition has finally been brought into the 21st century.Ending replays will bring extra sharpness and excitement to the ties, with the knowledge that there will be a winner, whether in 90 minutes, extra-time or penalties.If big guns have a bad day, they are more likely to pay the price. Replays after draws give them a fall-back they do not deserve.Giving the FA Cup total and absolute priority over four weekends – and ensuring there is no competing match on the day of the Final – will enhance the profile of a competition that was in danger of falling out of the spotlight.And as long as the FA ensures a better split of the prize money fund, weighting it more towards the earlier rounds, and potentially a similar move with  TV match money, there should be few losers.Read more on the FA Cup.Tamworth’s clash against League One outfit Huddersfield Town will begin a bumper weekend of TV coverage.Other ties set for broadcast include Northampton’s match-up against Kettering Town and Birmingham City’s clash with Sutton United. More

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      Premier League table without VAR revealed with Man City two points worse off and Bournemouth in fifth

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      THE Premier League table would look very different if VAR wasn’t in use.Several fans, players and managers have criticised the use of the technology since it was introduced to England’s top division five years ago.Wolves boss Gary O’Neil has criticised VARCredit: GettyMan City’s John Stones scored a controversial late goal against Wolves at the weekend that was reviewed and given by VARCredit: GettyWolves boss Gary O’Neil claimed officials have a “subconscious” bias towards the Prem’s top clubs after his team conceded a controversial late goal against Manchester City on Sunday.He said: “There’s no chance people are purposely against Wolves.”But is there something in the subconscious around the decision-making, without even knowing it? Are you more likely to give it to Man City than Wolves?”My senses are heightened when we are facing Man City. Are the officials the same?Read More in Football”If I had to upset someone and there’s a big and a little guy, I’m upsetting the little guy.”Wolves could have been one point better off in the league table had John Stones’ dramatic late winner not been given.Birmingham World recently investigated how the standings would look if VAR wasn’t used in the Prem.At the bottom of the table, Wolves and Southampton would be one point better off without the technology.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHow the Prem table would look without VARBournemouth would be four points better off without VARCredit: ReutersHowever, they would both still remain in the relegation zone.Crystal Palace would also be on two points – one less than they are currently on.How Liverpool outsmarted Chelsea with Slot’s genius ‘traffic jam’ trick and Curtis Jones masterclassThe use of VAR has not majorly affected the likes of Ipswich, West Ham, Leicester and Brentford.But the findings suggest Everton would have benefited if VAR wasn’t in use.In arguably the biggest surprise, Bournemouth would be fifth with 15 points without VAR.The Cherries would be four points better off without the technology.Liverpool would remain at the top of the table with 21 points – the same total they currently have.Manchester City would stay in second – but with two points less.The absence of VAR would not affect the current standings of Arsenal and Aston Villa in third and fourth.Man City would have two less pointsCredit: EPA More

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      Arsenal’s craziest Invincible took the team bus for a spin at 17 and nearly put the driver through the window’

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      ARSENAL’S “craziest” Invincible took the team minibus for a spin at 17 years old, according to Jermaine Pennant.Former goalkeeper Graham Stack was the joker of the pack – who almost put Arsenal’s coach driver through the windscreen during one of his moments of mayhem.Jermaine Pennant has lifted the lid on his time spent at Arsenal’s academyPennant recalled an outrageous story about ‘crazy’ Graham StackSpeaking at the launch of Ladbrokes’ “Gaffer of all Accas”, Pennant said: “Graham Stack was part of the academy team I played with at Arsenal.”And he went on to become a part of the first-team in the Invincible season; he didn’t play but he was on the bench a lot that year. “He was always a bit of a loose cannon, right the way through the youth team and into the first-team set-up, but he was a great guy. “I don’t think he’s changed much over the years, by the way; I think he’s still a bit of a loose cannon now – he’s such a great character. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”Boy, you don’t want to get in his crosshairs… he’s crazy! “I’d love to tell you some stories that spring to mind when I think of him, but I don’t think they’d be able to go out! He’s a mad man.”We’d all meet up at Highbury and this coach would take us to London Colney for training. “Graham decided one afternoon, when he got on, and the driver was waiting, that he was going to drive the coach… he’d have been about 17 at the time, and he’s driving it.Most read in FootballPennant came through the ranks at ArsenalFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”The driver was standing in the aisles and Graham’s slammed his foot on the brakes, and our driver’s almost gone through the window!”I think he smashed the whole window to bits. Honestly, there’s just loads of stories like that; he was just a crazy guy. Arsenal fans say ‘time to upgrade the wardrobe’ as Gunners release ‘orgasmic’ new clothing range “He was a good goalkeeper as well, to be fair to him!”Jens Lehmann was the No1 shot stopper for Arsenal’s “Invincibles” team during the 2003–04 season, when the team went undefeated to win the Premier League title.A mischievous local lad who grew up in a pub, Stack was an unlikely choice for Arsene Wenger’s famously tight ship.Stack was sent out on loan to Belgian side Beveren in 2002, but trouble found him again.When two Antwerp ultras rushed the field, Stack, then 21 years old, was forced to knock out a yob who assaulted him.He spent six years at Arsenal without ever playing a Prem game, though he did make five League Cup appearances.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe goalie spent time at Millwall and Reading on loan from the Gunners, joining the latter on a permanent basis in 2006.He also had spells at Leeds, Wolves, Plymouth, Blackpool and Hibs before a four year stint at Barnet, where he made 125 league appearances.Stack was attacked by hooligans who charged onto the pitch More

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      Arsenal wonderkid who ‘could have been next Dennis Bergkamp’ is now managing in the sixth tier of English football

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      JERMAINE PENNANT has lifted the lid on the Arsenal wonderkid who “could have been the next Dennis Bergkamp”.The former winger, 41, was part of an impressive crop of Gunners academy starlets in the early 2000s.Jermaine Pennant came through the ranks at ArsenalCredit: GettyPennant likened one of his former Arsenal academy team-mates to Dennis BergkampCredit: Times Newspapers LtdPennant went on to star for Liverpool, playing in the 2007 Champions League final.Among his academy team-mates were fellow future Premier League stars Steve Sidwell, Jay Bothroyd, Jeremie Aliadiere and Jerome Thomas.But speaking at the launch of Ladbrokes’ “Gaffer of all Accas”, Pennant has revealed that a less heralded member of the team could have gone all the way in the game.He said: “I look back at my team-mates in the academy, and pretty much everyone went on to have pretty good careers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”And the ones that didn’t really kick on, and maybe stayed in the lower tiers, were all probably fair.”You know, if you look at who was in my team, there was myself, Jerome [Thomas], David Bentley, Steve Sidwell, Jeremie Aliadiere, Jay Bothroyd… these were all guys who went on to have successful careers at the top, playing in the Premier League.”And you’d have identified all of us in that youth set-up at the time and said we’d have gone on to have good careers.”There’s probably one player who springs to mind for me, who didn’t live up to the expectation: David Noble.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDavid Noble came through the ranks at HighburyCredit: Getty”I thought he was going to be the next Dennis Bergkamp. He was unbelievable. He could’ve had a huge career.”I don’t know what happened there, really; I don’t know whether it was injuries, or a bit of bad luck, or was his heart really in it, to make it even further than he did?Jermaine Pennant sings R Kelly in the Billericay Town dressing room before Cup Final win “Yeah, he made it as a professional, but not as a Premier League player, and he easily could have.”Did he really care? I don’t know. But he’s the one from that generation who surprises me, when I think about the career he could have gone on to have.”Hitchin-born Noble, now 42, never made a first team appearance for Arsenal, leaving for West Ham in 2003 following a loan spell at Watford.After just four outings for the East Londoners he was on the move again – signing for Boston United.The midfielder went on to have a long EFL career, representing Bristol City, Yeovil, Exeter, Rotherham and Cheltenham.In 2016 he signed for sixth-tier St Albans, where he stayed as a player for six years before becoming their manager in 2022.He worked as City boss for two years, before landing the Wealdstone job in the National League in January this year.Noble was sacked after just 73 days in charge of the Stones, having won three of his 17 games at the helm.Following his Wealdstone axe he returned to St Albans, where he remains boss.While Noble never played in the Premier League, he did come to within 90 minutes of promotion to the top flight.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was part of the Bristol City team that reached the 2008 Championship play-off final, even scoring in the semi-final triumph over Crystal Palace.Noble started the Wembley showpiece, only for Bristol City to be beaten 1-0 by Dean Windass’ thunderbolt for Hull.Noble went on to play for Bristol CityCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWho are these famous footballers? More

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      Tragic Southampton fan only able to communicate using tongue after fall at stadium told doctors to turn of life support

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      A TRAGIC fan only able to communicate with his tongue after falling at Southampton’s stadium told doctors he wanted to die, an inquest heard.Simon Oakley, 59, was watching his beloved Saints play when he plummeted down ten concrete steps at half time.Simon Oakley fell down the stairs at St Mary’s stadiumCredit: SolentThe dad-of-four was rushed from St Mary’s to Southampton General Hospital and then transferred to a neuroscience intensive care ward.An inquest heard Simon was left paralysed from the neck down after suffering two fractures in his spine in the October 7 horror.He was told by medics he would be dependent on a ventilator and a require a wheelchair for the rest of his life.Simon, who was only able to communicate by sticking his tongue out, expressed that he wished to die instead.Winchester Coroner’s Court heard he was repeatedly assessed over the next three weeks to ensure he was capable of making that decision.Doctors concluded it would be unlawful to treat him against his wishes and the choice was made to switch his ventilator off.On November 13, the dad was visited by his family and friends to say goodbye and he passed away 30 minutes after the life support was removed.Brave Simon, who also received a visit from Southampton legend Francis Benali, donated his organs to help other patients.Most read in FootballFriend Andy Takle told the inquest how the pair had been watching Southampton play Rotherham United when the horror unfolded.He said: “I was standing next to Simon watching the game and the next thing I saw was him rolling down the stairs in front of me.”I could not catch him, we had scuffled to the stairs to head down just before half time.”We were not drunk, we had had two pints at the most, one at the pub and a second at the stadium.”When he made his decision in November I knew this is what he truly wanted.”Simon was treated by an off-duty ambulance worker at the stadium as the second half kick-off was delayed.Assistant coroner for Southampton, Kiran Chahal Musgrave, recorded an open verdict.He said: “There is insufficient evidence as to determine how Mr Oakley came to be on the ground.”He may have tripped or been pushed, deliberately or not, but there is lack of evidence to as to which of those possibilities it may have been.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I would like to offer my sincere condolences.”Simon’s brother Brian is now calling for handrails to be installed following the tragic accident.He was heading to the concourse when the horror unfoldedCredit: SolentSaints fans and players paid tribute to Simon following his deathCredit: Solent More

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      ‘I don’t think he’ll be on a horse soon’ jokes commentator as Alexis Mac Allister takes thunderous shot to the groin

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      ALEXIS MAC ALLISTER was taken out by a thunderous shot to his groin against RB Leipzig – but the commentator saw the funny side at least.The midfielder put his body on the line to help Liverpool win Wednesday’s Champions League game in Germany.Alexis Mac Allister took a thunderous shot to the groinHe appeared to be in agony as he dropped to the floorCredit: RexThe midfielder received treatment and was able to continueCredit: GettyMac Allister bravely moved across to block a powerful shot from Leipzig defender Benjamin Henrichs.The ball smacked the Argentine in his crotch and knocked him to the floor.Mac Allister appeared to be in some discomfort as he received assistance from a physio – he even left the pitch momentarily before returning.BBC commentator Steve Wilson joked in response, saying: “That will sting. I don’t think he’ll be getting on a horse any time soon.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMac Allister was able to complete the 90 minutes as Liverpool won 1-0 courtesy of a well worked Darwin Nunez goal in the first half.Arne Slot has now won 11 of his 12 games in charge and the Reds are well placed to qualify for the knock-out phase of the Champions League.They are second in the table behind Aston Villa but boast a 100 per cent record having also beat AC Milan and Bologna.Mac Allister was rested for most of the game against Chelsea last weekend after returning from international duty in South America.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAside from that match he has started every Prem and Champions League game, proving a pivotal member of Slot’s new look Reds.He has been a hit at Anfield since his arrival last year and is reportedly attracting transfer interest from Real Madrid. More

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      Inside Erling Haaland’s ‘karate kick’ wonder goal as team-mate is caught literally scratching his head live on camera

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      ERLING HAALAND amazed fans, pundits and his manager Pep Guardiola by scoring an incredible “karate kick” for Manchester City last night.Guardiola’s men took on Sparta Prague at the Etihad on matchday three of the Champions League’s new “League Phase”.Erling Haaland produced a sensational acrobatic finishCredit: GettyThe forward impressive contorted his 6ft 4in frameCredit: GettyBernardo Silva placed his hand on his head after Haaland’s goalCredit: X @ManCitySilva looked in awe of his team-mateCredit: X @footballontntCity led 1-0 at half-time via Phil Foden’s strike, before really turning on the style in the second period.Just short of the hour mark, Haaland provided a piece of skill that will live long in City’s fans’ memories.Winger Savinho took on his full-back, jinking towards the byline.He then prodded a cross towards City’s centre-forward.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith the pass far from perfect, Haaland used all of his hulking 6ft 4in frame to make the ball his.The Norwegian, 24, launched himself into the air – showing remarkable athleticism to get to the ball.While 1.96m off the ground, Haaland’s lethal left foot made contact with the ball, directing it towards goal.As the striker landed in a heap, his shot bounced beyond the reach of goalkeeper Peter Vindahl Jensen.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPep Guardiola congratulates his strikerCredit: APHaaland then gingerly got to his feet, while wearing a smug grin on his face.His team-mates, who surely must be used to his exploits by now, were left stunned by the goal.Man City player ratings: Even Pep Guardiola can’t believe how good Erling Haaland is as new Samba man fails to shine (1)Bernardo Silva and Nathan Ake both put their hands on their heads.Speaking after the game Matheus Nunes, who grabbed City’s fifth in their 5-0 win, admitted that he was “speechless” after Haaland’s goal.Chatting to TNT Sports, he said: “It was an amazing goal. I was speechless after his shot.”Referencing one of Haaland’s previous wonder-goals, he added: “When he scored against Dortmund I was watching on TV and to see this live, it was amazing.”Guardiola, 53, could be seen simply applauding his striker’s brilliant goal.He then gushed after the game: “I didn’t know how he scored. For a human being, I would say no [it’s not normal].”He made a fantastic goal. He can touch 15 or 20 balls but have seven or eight chances. It’s unbelievable.”‘I’D HAVE PULLED MY GROIN!’Foden, meanwhile, joked: “I just spoke to him and said: ‘If I tried to do that I’d pull my groin!'”I don’t know how he did it I just think it’s just his long legs. He’s a freak, isn’t he?”Opposition coach Lars Friis lamented: “What can you say? He’s maybe the best striker in the world. He’s world class. We felt we had good hands on him but then he pops up with a goal like this.”READ MORE SUN STORIESCity’s win saw them set a new Champions League record for games unbeaten in the competition.Their tally now stands at 26 – with last season’s penalty shoot-out exit to Real Madrid not counted as a defeat by Uefa due to both legs finishing as draws in regulation time.Man City ratings vs Sparta PragueBy Ken LawrenceMANCHESTER CITY put in a five star performance as they romped to victory over Sparta Prague.The Citizens ran out 5-0 winners at the Etihad with Pep Guardiola’s side bagging four goals in the second half.Phil Foden gave the hosts the perfect start as he fired in the opener inside just three minutes.Erling Haaland also got himself on the scoresheet in the second half.The Norweigian striker had plenty of attempts to score, but it was his improvised finish in the 58th minute that found its way past Peter Vindahl Jensen.John Stones made it three with a brilliant looping header to add to his solid performance at the back.Haaland got his second in the 67th minute to make it 44 in the Champions League.Matheus Nunes was also impressed as he netted from the spot in the closing stages, which added to his two assists.SunSport’s Ken Lawrence has given his ratings of Pep Guardiola’s side…Stefan Ortega – 5Almost a spectator, but at least it wasn’t cold or pouring down.Nathan Ake – 5Back after injury and unlucky to have City’s second chalked off.Manuel Akanji – 5Training games against his own team-mates are far harder than this was.John Stones – 7Followed his winner against Wolves with another towering header.Rico Lewis – 6The young multi-tasker produced a typical all-action displayMatheus Nunes – 7He claimed two assists and bagged his first-ever Champions League goal from the spot late on.Savinho – 5Supposed to be the new Samba man but didn’t dance that great.Ilkay Gundogan – 7The midfielder cruised through the 100th Champions League game of his career.Bernardo Silva – 6Quiet, effective and a non-stop cog spinning the City wheel.Phil Foden – 7It was a slick early finish in only his fourth start of the season, but the spark faded.Erling Haaland – 9Even Pep Guardiola couldn’t quite believe his amazing airborne strike before he added his second.SubsMateo Kovacic (for Bernardo Silva 69) – 5Couldn’t have had an easier task by the time he emerged.James McAtee (for Gundogan 69) – 5A few minutes of Champions League experience with no strain.Josko Gvardiol (for Ake 74) – 5Just a pleasant walk in the park….Ruben Dias (for Stones 74) – 5He won’t have minded stretching his legs for a bit.Nico O’Reilly (for Haaland 81) – 5The young attacker replaced a living legend. 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