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      Ex-Man Utd star Aaron Wan-Bissaka is the answer to unwanted trivia question – but he might not be for much longer

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      AARON WAN-BISSAKA is the answer to one of the more difficult football quiz questions.That poser is: Which player has cost the most money without making a single England international appearance?Aaron Wan-Bissaka has reignited his career at West HamCredit: GettyAnd it may see new England boss Thomas Tuchel take noticeCredit: SplashYet the one-time £50million Manchester United defender has breathed new life into his flagging career with a summer move to West Ham.And if the right-back keeps playing like he is at the moment, there is no reason why he could not be in the frame for a call-up by Thomas Tuchel when the German takes over as England manager in a month.Wan-Bissaka was included in then Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate’s squad in November 2019 but the Croydon-born star withdrew with a back injury.The 27-year-old, who played for the DR Congo Under-20s side in 2015 before appearing for England U20s and U21s, has proved to be a relative snip at £15m for West Ham.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUnder Hammers manager Julen Lopetegui, he has added a more attacking dimension to his game which for the most part was lacking in his largely underwhelming five years at Old Trafford after his 2019 switch from Crystal Palace.Ahead of this evening’s home derby clash with Arsenal, Lopetegui said: “Aaron is a good player, he has started a new period in his life here, building a new career at West Ham.“He is very happy here and we are very happy with him and we trust in him.“When you are in a new group, it is not easy at first.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“But step-by-step, he is adapting better. He can improve offensively. And the most important thing is that Aaron wants to improve. He was a good signing for the club.”A couple of years ago, it was no surprise that Wan-Bissaka was out of the picture with England as Southgate had an embarrassment of riches on the right side of defence.Thomas Tuchel’s first England XI predicted by Jamie Carragher with ultra-attacking team and one-cap international But Manchester City’s Kyle Walker has suffered a huge drop in form, and doubts remain over Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in this position for England.Chelsea’s Reece James continues to suffer injury problems, while Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier retired from international football in August.Arsenal’s Ben White has previously stated he does not want to play for the national team and Reds star Joe Gomez has struggled with injuries and form.Newcastle’s Tino Livramento, 22, and Manchester City starlet Rico Lewis, 20, have huge potential, but Tuchel might go for some experience when he names his first squad in March.So, maybe there could be an opening for Wan-Bissaka.Asked about England, Lopetegui said: “This question is for Tuchel not for me.Inside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel.“I would like all my players in the English national team.“For me, the most important thing is that Aaron remains hungry and wants to improve.“His attitude tells me he is able to achieve anything.”Defender Max Kilman, a £40m summer buy from Wolves, is another Irons star who could be in the frame for Tuchel.As for Lopetegui, he is merely hoping West Ham can continue where they left off against Newcastle after Monday’s impressive 2-0 win.The Spanish coach has a few injury doubts but one player who could eventually be in action soon is £27.5m signing Niclas Fullkrug.German striker Fullkrug, 31, has only played four times since arriving from Borussia Dortmund in August due to an Achilles injury but Lopetegui could get him back next month.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Hammers boss said: “I hope he is in the last part of his recovery. Let’s see.“He’s not going to be ready for the next two or three matches but I know he is feeling better.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Uefa make subtle change to World Cup qualifying draw protocol that could lead to tougher group for England

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      UEFA have made a significant change to the World Cup qualifying draw protocols – and it could spell trouble for England.New boss Thomas Tuchel could now potentially face multiple Home Nations rivals as he prepares to guide the Three Lions to the World Cup finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States in 2026.Uefa have made significant change to the protocols for the World Cup qualifying drawEngland could technically be drawn against multiple home nations after the changeThe World Cup qualifying draw takes place on December 13Previously, all Nations League quarter-finalists and play-off teams in Pots 2, 3 and 4 were to be “in priority allocated to groups of four.”As a result of being fourth in the world rankings, England were placed into Pot 1 with all of the Nations League A quarter-finalists.Those Nations League quarter-finalists, including Portugal, Germany and France to name a few, were set to placed into a group of four with the play-off teams across Pots 2 – 4.As Nations League group winners – and having avoided the play-offs – England are likely to be in a five-team group that starts in March.READ MORE ON ENGLANDThis means before the rule change, England were to be locked out of playing half of Pot 2 once they were drawn by Pot 1.But now that’s all changed – and Tuchel’s side can be drawn against more than one Home Nation rival on December 13.And while Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland aren’t ranked particularly highly, England will want to avoid any unnecessary derbies.The tension of the occasion leaves the Three Lions vulnerable to losing points. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe play-off teams, including Belgium, Scotland and Hungary, can now potentially be in a group of five.That’s said, England aren’t 100 per cent in a five team group as a matter of certainty – but in the game of chances, it looks like they will be. Jude Bellingham says he feels like a ‘scapegoat’ as he discusses England woesWhat are the World Cup European Qualifying pots?Pot 1Spain – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)Germany – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)Portugal – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)France – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)Italy – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)Netherlands – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)Denmark – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)Croatia – (Nations League Quarter-finalist)EnglandBelgium – (Nations League play-offs)Switzerland Austria – (Nations League play-offs)Pot 2Ukraine – (Nations League play-offs)Sweden – (Nations League play-offs)Turkey – (Nations League play-offs)WalesHungary – (Nations League play-offs)Serbia – (Nations League play-offs)PolandGreece – (Nations League play-offs)Romania – (Nations League play-offs)Slovakia – (Nations League play-offs)Czech RepublicNorwayPot 3Scotland – (Nations League play-offs)Slovenia – (Nations League play-offs)Republic of Ireland – (Nations League play-offs)AlbaniaNorth MacedoniaGeorgia – (Nations League play-offs)FinlandIceland – (Nations League play-offs)Northern IrelandMontenegroBosnia and HerzegovinaIsraelPot 4Bulgaria – (Nations League play-offs)Luxembourg – (Nations League play-offs)Kosovo – (Nations League play-offs)BelarusArmenia – (Nations League play-offs)KazakhstanAzerbaijanEstoniaCyprusFaroe IslandsLatvia – (Nations League play-offs)LithuaniaPot 5MoldovaMalta – (Nations League play-offs)AndorraGibraltar – (Nations League play-offs)LiechtensteinSan MarinoBut the change is potentially bigger for Wales, who won their Nations League group (B4).Under the old conditions, Wales had to be in a group of five and thought they’d avoided playing a quarter-finalist from Pot 1.But now, they can be a group of four or five and face the prospect of playing a quarter-finalist.That means a potential face-off with one of Croatia, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal and Euro winners Spain.But before, there was a higher chance of Wales drawing Austria or Switzerland from Pot 1 as both didn’t have to be in a group of four.Wales were also effectively blocked from playing the top two seeds in Pot 3, and three of the top five seeds in Pot 4, who all had to be in a group of four.Previously, Scotland and Republic Ireland had to be in a group of four as a result of their involvement in the Nations League play-offs.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis is no longer set in stone, but the chances of being in a group of five are very low.This is because after Pot 1 and 2 there might not be any five-team groups left which can contain a Nations League play-off side.England’s worst-case scenario draw after the changeWorst-case drawEnglandNorwayGeorgiaAzerbaijanMoldovaAlternative tough drawEnglandWalesScotlandKazakhstanMoldova More

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      Real Madrid ‘IGNORED detailed dossier with worrying stats about Kylian Mbappe’s physical condition’ before signing him

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      REAL MADRID “ignored a dossier” showing Kylian Mbappe’s physical condition was declining before they signed him, according to reports.The France captain, 25, has struggled since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer.Kylian Mbappe has been criticised for his displays since joining Real MadridCredit: GettyReal Madrid were reportedly handed a dossier showing his decline in performanceCredit: GettyHe has scored just once in his last five games and missed a penalty against Liverpool on Wednesday night as Carlo Ancelotti’s men were beaten 2-0 by the Premier League leaders.Following the Liverpool loss, one fan even filmed themselves burning an Mbappe shirt.But according to Relevo, the drop-off in Mbappe’s performances was highlighted to Real Madrid in documents before he signed on a free transfer.The report laid out stats such as average distance travelled, high-intensity efforts and sustained sprint speed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey showed he has continued to decline since winning the 2018 World Cup.It would explain Mbappe’s output since moving to Spain – which has seen him run an average of less than nine kilometres per Champions League game, compared to his team-mates who are racking up more than 10kms.He has scored nine goals and assisted two in 18 appearances this season.And he has been playing out of position, with Ancelotti putting him through the middle due to Vinicius Junior occupying the left-hand side.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMbappe has scored nine goals in 18 games this seasonYet he continues to receive criticism from Real Madrid fans and was even dropped by France for their November Nations League games against Israel and Italy.Ancelotti leapt to Mbappe’s defence following the Liverpool defeat, saying: “Mbappe’s situation parallels that of the entire squad.Kylian Mbappe dropped from France squad as Deschamps explains decision and says ‘it’s better this way’ “Our focus is to rediscover our best performances, be it from him, myself, or the other players.”We do not see it as a solitary issue for a player who is still acclimatising to his new surroundings, having netted eight goals and contributed with vital assists in our attack.”There’s always room for improvement.”Real Madrid sit second in the LaLiga table but are down in 24th place in the Champions League, the final qualification spot for the play-off round.Their final three European fixtures in the league phase are against Atalanta, RB Salzburg and Brest. More

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      Last Arsenal Invincible to announce his retirement says ‘this is bittersweet for me’ as he quits football at 40

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      THE last of Arsenal’s Invincible squad has called quits on his career.Justin Hoyte, who was the final member of Arsenal’s unbeaten 2003/04 title winners still playing, has announced his retirement from the game at the age of 40.Justin Hoyte has announced his retirement from professional footballCredit: Times Newspapers LtdHoyte was part of Arsenal’s Invincible squadCredit: GettyThe 40-year-old announced his retirement on social mediaCredit: X formerly Twitter / @JustinHoyte32Hoyte played just one time as Arsenal went through an entire Premier League campaign without losing a single game.But the 18-time Trinidad and Tobago international has enjoyed a lengthy career that saw him go on to represent the Gunners 68 times.In a statement announcing that he is bringing an end to his playing days, Hoyte described the moment as bittersweet.He said: “This moment is bittersweet for me as I announce my retirement from professional football. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of my journey. From my early days in youth football to my time in the Premier League and beyond.”He added: “To the fans, your unwavering support has been the highlight of my career. “Whether you cheered us on from the stands or followed us from afar, you brought passion and energy that fuelled us during every match. “Thank you for believing in me, for your encouragement, and for your loyalty.”Most read in FootballHoyte played alongside some superb players ArsenalCredit: GettyHoyte made 68 appearances for the GunnersCredit: PA:Press AssociationHoyte also had a spell with FC Cincinatti in the USCredit: GettyHe played in the MLS for three yearsCredit: GettyHe also played under Gareth Southgate during his time at MiddlesbroughCredit: Getty Images – GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHotye even suggested that he may make a move into coaching in the near future.The statement continued: “As I turn the page on this chapter of my life, I am excited about the future. While I may not be playing professionally anymore, football will always be a part of me.Arsenal Invincibles star unrecognisable as he spars in boxing ring with 18-cap international CEO of his own business”I look forward to exploring new opportunities and perhaps coaching or mentoring the next generation of players. In closing, I carry with me the lessons learned and the friendships made.”Thank you for the incredible journey, and I look forward to staying connected with you all in this beautiful game we love. Thank you football/soccer.” Hoyte’s career saw him play in both the UK and the US starring for Arsenal, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Millwall, Dagenham and Redbridge and FC Cincinnati. The versatile full-back and centre-back represented England at youth level from U16s to U21s before making the decision to switch allegiance to Trinidad and Tobago at the age of 28.He made 18 appearances for the nation and represented The Soca Warriors at the 2013 Gold Cup.He retires having made over 360 professional appearances, scoring six goals and registering 15 assists.Justin Hoyte’s careerA brief look at the career of Justin Hoyte…2003 – 2008: Arsenal2005 – 2006: Sunderland (loan)2008 – 2012: Middlesbrough2012 – 2015: Millwall2015 – 2016: Dagenham and Redbridge2017 – 2020: FC Cincinnati2020 – 2024: Miami Beach CFHoyte joined Middlesbrough after leaving ArsenalCredit: GettyHe also had a spell with MillwallCredit: Action Images – Reuters More

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      Barcelona star ‘vomits BLOOD’ before being stretchered off in worrying scenes in LaLiga clash

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      BARCELONA defender Alejandro Balde was stretchered off after appearing to vomit blood following a nasty collision.The incident occurred midway through the first half of the Catalan giants’ 2-1 defeat to Las Palmas in LaLiga – their first home defeat of the season.Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde went down following a collisionCredit: GettyThe left-back appeared to be coughing up blood on the pitchCredit: beIN Sports via XBalde was taken off on a stretcher following the incidentCredit: AFPBalde, 21, went down after coming together with Sandro Ramirez while wrestling for the ball.He fell to the floor and was holding his neck while coughing and choking.The Spaniard then vomited up something which Dentro De Juego have claimed was blood.He was put onto a stretcher and replaced by Gerard Martin.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBalde has started 11 of Barcelona’s 15 LaLiga games so far this season.He has already made 95 appearances for the club despite having only turned 21 last month.He made his international debut for Spain in 2022 and has earned seven caps.But he missed out on his country’s Euro 2024 squad – a tournament they went on to win.Most read in FootballBarcelona came into the clash with Las Palmas four points clear of Real Madrid but having played one more game.They have also made an impressive start to their Champions League campaign, winning four out of five matches.Ronaldinho scores stunning free-kick aged 44 as Barcelona legend proves he’s still got it in El Clasico Legends game Hansi Flick’s men sit third in the league phase table, safely in the top eight who all automatically qualify for the last-16. More

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      Eagle-eyed Man Utd fans spot moment Mason Mount proved he would be Ruben Amorim’s favourite – before he’d even played

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fans reckon they’ve spotted one reason that Mason Mount could already be a favourite of Ruben Amorim’s – and it happened before he even played.Amorim has already gushed about Mount who has found it difficult to settle in at United since his arrival last summer.Manchester United fans reckon they know why Mason Mount could already be a favourite of Ruben Amorim’sCredit: PAEagle-eyed supporters spotted Mount pointing for a teammate to pass to Diogo Dalot during Man Utd’s draw with IpswichCredit: X formerly TwitterAmorim immediately pointed the same wayCredit: X formerly TwitterThe new Man Utd boss has said that he “loves” Mount and his attitude towards trying to get back on the pitch.And supporters reckon that the Portuguese gaffer and the Red Devils’ midfielder might be aligned tactically too.Eagle-eyed fans online found a clip of Mount sitting on the bench behind Amorim during last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town, seemingly telling his teammates the same thing as the gaffer.The video shows Mount pointing in the direction of Diogo Dalot, before Amorim does exactly the same thing just moments later.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn social media, one fan gushed: “Mason Mount is the player who understands the Amorim system the most of all the players we have, just look at him pointing to Dalot before Amorim.”While another added: “Yes. This shows he knows the system. Absolutely.”A third commented: “Mount will be literally like a new signing . He gets me so excited. I hope he reaches his full potential now with Amorim and Tuchel now at the England job.”And a fourth wishfully claimed: “I am very sure he is gonna come good for Ruben. The system suits him. Please stay fit, Mason.”Most read in FootballMount struggled for game-time last seasonFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMount’s time in Manchester has been riddled with injuries, starting just seven Premier League games since his £55m move from Chelsea.But with the 36-time England international now fit once more, Amorim has laid out his plans to get Mount playing more regular minutes.Manchester United vs Bodo/Glimt: Player RatingsSpeaking ahead of Sunday’s clash with Everton, Amorim said: “The first thing is he is working really hard. “And then you have to understand the human also. He wants this really badly. That is the most important thing.“I have to tell you I love that kid. You can see in his eyes that he wants this so bad.“He has proven to all of you that he is a talented player. He was European champion. So we believe a lot in him.”Touching on Mount’s injury record, Amorim added: “I know he was suffering from injuries, he was not on the pitch, but now he’s trying to stay fit and we hope he can continue to be fit, to show all the talent that he’s shown, for example, in Chelsea.“He has to stay fit. And like all the guys in the team, they are quality players, they have to improve and believe in themselves.”Amorim has been full of praise for Mason Mount since his arrival at Man UtdCredit: X More

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      ‘Pay Man Utd an extra £20m’ Chelsea fans in raptures over ‘silky’ clip of Jadon Sancho’s dribbling skills

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      CHELSEA fans have told the club to “pay Man Utd and extra £20million” after being left in awe at Jadon Sancho’s skill against Heidenheim.The Blues loanee, 24, assisted both of Chelsea’s goals in their 2-0 win in the Europa Conference League on Thursday evening.Jadon Sancho produced a superb piece of skill against HeidenheimCredit: XChelsea fans were loving the dummy and dribble past the Heidenheim playerCredit: XSancho is on loan but will join permanently at the end of the seasonCredit: X formerly TwitterIt brings his tally to five assists in eight games since arriving from Old Trafford in the summer.Sancho is on loan at Chelsea but Enzo Maresca’s men have a £23million obligation to buy at the end of the season.And the Stamford Bridge faithful are more than happy for their club to pay that fee – or even a lot more.That is after seeing a clip shared by Chelsea which shows him pulling off an outrageous dummy and leaving a Heidenheim player on the floor as he saunters past him.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLReacting to the video, which Chelsea described as “silky”, one fan said: “What a player we have thanks to United.”Another added: “Pay United an extra £20m.”A third replied: “We robbed United 🤝🏼.”While a fourth responded: “Magician in action 🎬.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd a fifth said: “This man is loving life at the Blues.”Sancho has only started four of Chelsea’s 12 Premier League games so far this season.Ruud van Nistelrooy announced as Leicester manager as Man Utd legend makes swift return to Premier LeagueThere is huge competition for places to play behind Nicolas Jackson, with Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke and Pedro Neto the preferred trio at the moment.Joao Felix, Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk are also pushing for spots in the team.Chelsea sit fourth in the Premier League table and are unbeaten in five games in all competitions. More

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      Chris Wood reveals his next career move after retiring saying ‘it takes my fancy more than coaching does’

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      CHRIS WOOD has his heart set on watching football forever – but he doesn’t want to go down the traditional coaching route.The in-form striker has scored eight Premier League goals in 12 starts this season as Forest host Ipswich Town on Saturday.Nottingham Forest star Chris Wood has revealed his plans for next career pathThe New Zealand international wants to move into commentary when he retiresIn fact, only Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah have found the back of the net on more occasions this season.But Wood has admitted he would like to pursue a career as a football commentator when he hangs up his boots.The New Zealander has no plans to enter coaching after retirement and aims to do his talking off the pitch as well as on it.He told The Mail: “It really intrigues me. In certain sports, I would be OK.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”Commentary feels like it would come a bit more naturally to me. It certainly takes my fancy a bit more than coaching. “The play-by-play commentary is a very different skill from punditry that would have to be enhanced and worked on.”You need to have a good understanding of what you’re talking about, and to me that means you must have played the sport or been involved in it for a long time.”‘It’s not a case of being able to do it straightaway. It will take a lot of time to learn and understand from people above me but it’s a nice option that might be possible.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”With television you can jump in and out when you need to, but on radio you have to do a lot more to get the picture across.”If I’m driving somewhere and there’s a Premier League or Champions League game on, I’ll chuck it on. It’s nice to hear what people are doing.Top 10 highest-paid Premier League stars”You want to be able to visualise what’s happening. Sometimes you won’t get a clear picture but when it’s a great commentator, they can make you feel like you’re watching it. “It’s definitely a step I could take after football, through New Zealand outlets or international outlets. Who knows?”Wood also played cricket and rugby before focusing completely on football when he was 14.Despite leaving New Zealand in his mid-teens to pursue a career in English football with West Brom, Wood remains a proud Kiwi. He has clocked up around 85,000 miles between club and international duty this season.Wood and his partner are expecting their first child early next year and he has won 74 caps for his country over 15 years.Nottingham Forest sit seventh – three points behind the top fourWood is adored by Forest fans More