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      Heidenheim 0 Chelsea 2: Nkunku and Mudryk both score but Casadei is sent off with second last kick of game

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      CHELSEA’S second string maintained their 100 per cent record in the third tier of European competition – but not without a number of scares.Top scorer Christopher Nkunku claimed his seventh goal in the Europa Conference League and on another night might have had a hat-trick.Christopher Nkunku scored a close-range opener for ChelseaCredit: RexIt is the Frenchman’s 11th goal of the season in all competitionsCredit: ReutersMykhailo Mudryk doubled Chelsea’s lead with a brilliant finishCredit: GettyIt is the Ukrainian’s third Europa Conference League goal of the campaignCredit: RexHeidenheim had the share of chances despite having less of the ballBut Heidenheim, who also went into the game with three wins from three, caused plenty of problems for the Blues.Blues goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen made a string of saves, the best of them after Nkunku’s goal and before Mykhailo Mudryk sealed victory with less than five minutes to go.And apart from Jadon Sancho, none of the other outfield players in the cream-coloured kit made much of a case to rise into the first 11 for Sunday’s clash with Aston Villa.As usual Enzo Maresca made wholesale changes from his first 11, with only Benoit Badiashile keeping his place from the win at Leicester.READ MORE ON CHELSEABut Chelsea learned within a minute that it would not be another Thursday night stroll.Badiashile was booked for fouling Heidenheim winger Leonardo Scienza and Mikkel Kaufmann almost touched in the resulting free kick.It was an entertaining, end-to-end game in a festive atmosphere.Marc Guiu, twice, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall had shots saved, while Jorgensen denied Kaufmann, Scienza and Mathias Honsak.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMykhailo Mudryk wanted a penalty for a challenge on him but the referee waved it away even after going to the monitorCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca’s men remain the only side to have a 100 per cent record in the Europa Conference LeagueCredit: GettyAfter Nkunku spooned a finish over the bar, Chelsea were awarded a penalty when Mykhailo Mudryk went flying over a challenge by home captain Patrick Mainka.But Dutch referee Serdar Gozubuyuk went back on his decision after being summoned to the VAR monitor.Inside Frank Lampard’s superstitious routine as new Coventry boss’ success could depend on Chelsea legend’s DOGNkunku drew another save from home ‘keeper Kevin Muller, Tosin Adarabioyo shot just wide and the half somehow ended 0-0.Heidenheim had another chance before Nkunku broke the deadlock.Sancho’s cross sat up nicely and the France international found a fine finish.The home side, with their supporters keeping up constant noise behind the goal they were attacking, kept going and Scienza curled a shot just wide.Chelsea ratings vs HeidenheimChelsea remained at the top of the table with a hard-fought 2-0 win over Heidenheim.Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk got on the scoresheet as the Bundesliga side gave them their toughest test so far in the Conference League.The Blues were not at their best in the opening 45 minutes but were far better after a half-time team talk from Enzo Maresca.Click here to see how SunSport’s Alex Smith rated the Chelsea performances.Wanner should have equalised, but Jorgensen made a fine save and then another from Scienza’s follow-up.Substitute Joao Felix sent Nkunku through on the break but Muller kept his team in it with another save.Home sub Maximilian Breunig had the ball in the net but it was ruled out for offside and Muller denied Dewsbury-Hall at the other end.READ MORE SUN STORIESMudryk finally killed the game with an emphatic shot into the top corner after more good work by Sancho.Cesare Casadei was sent off for a second yellow card deep into stoppage time, which reflected a tough but ultimately successful evening for the Blues. More

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      Heidenheim 0-2 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Nkunku and Mudryk fire Blues to fourth straight win in Conference League – updates

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      CHELSEA have beaten Heidenheim 2-0 to continue their perfect record in the Conference League.Early in the second half, Christopher Nkunku broke the deadlock with a superb finish.On 86 minutes, Mykhailo Mudryk slammed one right in the top right corner to make it 2-0 and secure a fourth straight win for Chelsea in Europe.The Blues’ win was clouded by Cesare Casadei receiving a red card for a second yellow with seconds remaining.Match result: Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaHeidenheim starting team: Muller, Siersleben, Mainka, Scienza, Wanner, Honsak, Traore, Kaufmann, Theuerkauf, Maloney, DorschChelsea starting team: Jorgensen, Disasi, Tosin, Badiashile, Veiga, Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall, Sancho, Nkunku, Mudryk, GuiuBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the action from the Voith-Arena with our live blog below…ReportChelsea’s second string maintained their 100 per cent record in the third tier of European competition – but not without a number of scares.Top scorer Christopher Nkunku claimed his seventh goal in the Europa Conference League and on another night might have had a hat-trick.But Heidenheim, who also went into the game with three wins from three, caused plenty of problems for the Blues.Blues goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen made a string of saves, the best of them after Nkunku’s goal and before Mykhailo Mudryk sealed victory with less than five minutes to go.Copy linkCopiedFull time statsThe numbers behind the 90 minutes.Chelsea well in control of the ball but Heidenheim did have their chances – actually registering more efforts on target than Chelsea.The Blues with over double the completed passes.Copy linkCopiedFull time from SunSport’s Dan King in GermanyAfter the flood of goals that overwhelmed Noah, a far more challenging night for Chelsea in the depths of southern Germany. Heidenheim will surely climb higher than the 15th place they currently occupy in the Bundesliga. And Cesare Casadei will probably not be heartbroken by his late red card because it means he misses the trip to freezing Kazahkstan next month.
      Copy linkCopiedFull time in HeidenheimHeidenheim were perhaps a touch unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet tonight.But a second string Chelsea side proved just too strong in the second half.Two assists on the night for Jadon Sancho who was heavily involved in both goals.Christopher Nkunku and Mykhailo Mudryk the scorers and a decent away win in Europe.Copy linkCopiedFT! Chelsea win 2-0 at Heidenheim to guarantee European football after Christmas!Copy linkCopiedRED CARDCesare Casadei is shown a second yellow card with a few seconds to go.The youngster looks absolutely devastated with that as he trudges off. It takes the shine off what was a decent night for him too.Copy linkCopied90+4 – Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaChelsea win a corner and look quite happy to run the clock down as Joao Felix takes his time making it across.Copy linkCopiedFive minutes added onChelsea should have enough to see this one out from here.Smoke fills the air as yet more pyro is let off.Copy linkCopied90+1 – Heidenheim 0-2 ChelseaTwo late Chelsea changes:OFF: Sancho & Dewsbury-HallON: George & Rak-SakyiCopy linkCopiedGOOOO – NO!Nearly a grandstand finish.Max Breunig finds the net for the home side once again.Max Breunig is offside when doing so once again.Copy linkCopiedGOAL DETAILStunning finish from Mudryk and it’s game over in Germany.Again, Sancho is the architect. He works a really clever one-two with Dewsbury-Hall who has been bright all night.The pair work it well and Sancho darts into the box before laying it off to Mudryk on the edge of the box who smashes it into the top corner with a first time finish.Copy linkCopiedGame over now!Copy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaJorgensen and Veiga both booked in the space of 90 seconds.Veiga for a foul on halfway, Jorgensen for time-wasting.That shows where this game is at the minute.Copy linkCopiedGOOO – NO!The home fans just getting excited for a few seconds there when Max Breunig found the net with a header.But he’s roughly a mile offside and it’s quickly ruled out.Chelsea living dangerously here.Copy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaIt is game over – for Nkunku.He was hurt from that challenge and missed chance and signaled to the bench straight away.He makes his way to the sidelines but he’s going to be replaced. Hopefully nothing too serious.OFF: NkunkuON: ChukwuemekaCopy linkCopied73 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaShould be game over!From the edge of their own box, Chelsea play three slick passes which completely cut open the German side and Nkunku is inside his own half but is clean through.His first touch is good as he bears down on goal. The defender gets back to put him off with a slight nudge in the back but he gets his shot away and Muller keeps it out.Copy linkCopied69 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaHeidenheim just haven’t managed to get Paul Wanner on the ball enough tonight.But he’s involved here, capitalising on more strange Chelsea defending to get a strike on goal which Jorgensen saves tremendously well.The home side on top at the minute chasing a famous equaliser.Copy linkCopiedView from SunSport’s Dan King in GermanyHeidenheim aren’t giving up, nor are their fans. Those flares just keep on coming in the home end, no matter how many times they are politely told it’s not allowed. Joao Felix has replaced Marc Guiu, Christopher Nkunku has gone up top and the game is in the balance. Fabulous double save by Filip Jorgensen keeps Chelsea ahead.Copy linkCopied62 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaNearly a stunning equaliser from Scienza – but what on earth were Chelsea doing at the back there.From a goal kick, Badiashile gives it to Jorgensen when the keeper’s not looking. So he has to scramble to try and clear it but it’s charged down.The ball looks to be headed for a Chelsea throw and Disasi kids on he’s going to get it but tries to be clever to let it run out.He’s then made to look a right mug when Kaufmann bursts his lungs to keep it in on the slide. It’s knocked to Scienza who has a go from 25 yards on the angle but dips and curls agonisingly wide.Copy linkCopiedSome statTen goals in his last 11 European games for Nkunku.Copy linkCopied56 – Heidenheim 0-1 ChelseaGood work from Sancho once again.He beats his man with good footwork before a low cross into Guiu but good defending at the back sees the home side get bodies in the way to scramble it to safety.Copy linkCopiedToo goodChristopher Nkunku has to play more.In truth, his Chelsea career would probably be much different had he not been injured early into his Stamford Bridge life.He’s wasted as just a European player in this competition.Copy linkCopiedGOAL DETAILSmashing wee goal or Chelsea and a customary European goal from Christopher Nkunku.Dewsbury-Hall feeds Sancho down the right side of the area.His pick-out for the late run of Nkunku looks to be a difficult one for the forward.But on the stretch, Nkunku brings it down with his left foot and into his path superbly before finishing coolly from close range into the top corner with his right foot.Terrific goal.Copy linkCopiedHe’s done it again!Copy linkCopied49 – Heidenheim 0-0 Chelsea’Come on Chelsea, come on Chelsea’ – the chant from the Chelsea supporters as the Blues enjoy a couple of minutes of good possession.Dewsbury-Hall almost slips a great through-ball for Guiu to be sent clean through but it’s a last-ditch interception from Scienza which cuts it out.Copy linkCopied More

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      Ronaldinho scores stunning free-kick aged 44 as Barcelona legend proves he’s still got it in El Clasico Legends game

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      BARCELONA legend Ronaldinho rolled back the years by scoring a stunning free-kick in an El Clasico exhibition match.The 44-year-old shared the pitch with Luis Figo, Clarence Seedorf, former Arsenal striker Julio Baptista and Rivaldo in Qatar on Thursday.Ronaldinho showed he still has it with a sleek free-kickThe Barca legend doubled the lead in an El Clasico exhibition match on ThursdayThe Samba legend couldn’t help but celebrateBarca went 1-0 up early on through Juan Pablo Sorin, before winning a free-kick from around 22 yards out.Naturally, Ronaldinho stepped up and curled a beautiful right-footed effort into the top left corner past ex-keeper Francisco Buyo.The former Madrid stopper – who is, it must be said, 66 years old – had no hope of reaching it.The Brazilian World Cup winner doubled Barca’s lead inside 15 minutes.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut the Catalans couldn’t replicate the 4-0 pasting the current flock imposed on Carlo Ancelotti’s Madrid last month.The Madrid Legends eventually found a way back into the game, which went on to end 2-2 in Qatar.Former Portugal winger and Ballon d’Or winner Figo, who played for both sides in his prime, brought one back for Madrid in the second half.And Edwin Congo’s low finish in the 63rd minute levelled the score.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt was Jose Mourinho’s old foe Frank De Boer who fumbled the pass to put Congo in a one-on-one with the keeper.Barca had a chance to win the game late on from the penalty spot, but Kluivert’s effort was saved by substitute keeper Pedro Contreras.Spectacular Timelapse of the works in the Spotify Camp Nou But Ronaldinho went onto score in the penalty shootout afterwards.As did Figo, Congo and Sorin as the Catalan’s edged the shootout 4-2.Ronaldinho’s most famous free-kick was the effort he floated over England’s David Seaman at the 2002 World Cup.Ronaldinho’s son Joao Mendes joined Burnley’s under-21 squad this summer.The 19-year-old midfielder had previously been at Barca’s La Masia youth academy.Mendes most recently featured in Burnley’s 5-0 win over Luton Town’s under-21s last Friday.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis father won the World Cup in 2002 and the Champions League with Barcelona in 2006, and was awarded the Ballon d’Or in 2005.The legends will play in another El Clasico before the end of the year, with the halves lasting a slightly shortened 40 minutes each.Ronaldinho’s son Joao Mendes joined Burnley after coming through the ranks at BarcaCredit: FC Barcelona via InstagramWho are these famous footballers? More

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      Fans shocked to see who Sir Alex Ferguson was sat next to at Man Utd vs Bodo/Glimt as they say ‘not what I expected’

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON was in the stands at Old Trafford for Ruben Amorim’s first home game as Manchester United manager… and fans were stunned by the man sat next to him.Amorim, 39, took charge of his opening match as Red Devils boss on Sunday in a 1-1 draw with Ipswich at Portman Road.Sir Alex Ferguson smiled as he made his way into Old Trafford on Thursday nightCredit: X/MANUTDFerguson sat next to a veteran Scottish manager for the gameBut Thursday evening saw him step in front of the Old Trafford faithful as Man Utd took on Norwegian champions Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.And legendary manager Ferguson, 82, was seen coming into the ground as he prepared to catch his first glimpse of Amorim’s side.Man Utd shared a picture of a smiling Fergie and added the caption: “European nights 🤝 Sir Alex 🤩.”Then during the game he was seen in his seat alongside veteran Scottish manager Dick Campbell.READ MORE ON MAN UTDCampbell, 71, has coached a host of teams in Scotland across a 37-year period – Cowdenbeath, Dunfermline Athletic, Brechin City, Partick Thistle, Ross County, Forfar Athletic, Arbroath and East Fife.Reacting to Fergie being next to Campbell, one fan said: “Dick Campbell is not a face I expected to see on this video 😂.”While another added: “One of the greatest football managers of all time sitting besides Sir Alex Ferguson.”Man Utd recently stopped paying Ferguson’s £2million-a-year salary as an ambassador of the club.Most read in Europa LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRuben Amorim’s first home game as Manchester United boss comes on Thursday nightCredit: GettyHowever, he remains a non-executive member of the board.Fergie won 38 trophies including 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues during his 27 years as Man Utd manager.Sir Alex Ferguson ECSTATIC as his horse Spirit Dancer makes history with back-to-back wins in $1million Bahrain raceBut one record he lost on Wednesday night was his long-standing Champions League benchmark.Fergie had coached the most Champions League matches – 214 – a feat which was surpassed by Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti as he took charge of his 215th at Anfield in a 2-0 defeat. More

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      Jeff Stelling vows to go one step further than Gary Lineker in his pants if his beloved Hartlepool get to Championship

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      JEFF STELLING has promised go one step further than Gary Lineker if his beloved Hartlepool get to the Championship.The departing host memorably presented Match of the Day in his PANTS after Leicester won the Prem in 2015-2016.Jeff Stelling is ready to outshine Gary Linker live on air but under one conditionStelling promised to strip down like Lineker if Hartlepool climb the EFLLineker vowed to present MOTD in his underwear if Leicester won the PremCredit: GettyBut with Hartlepool languishing down in 13th in the National League, fans will likely have to wait a long time for Stelling to mimic Lineker.Life-long Hartlepool fan and club president Stelling hasn’t stopped dreaming about the Pools’ ascent back into the EFL after suffering relegation from League Two in 2023.But stranger things have happened – remember Leicester winning the Premier League title at 5000-1 eight seasons ago?And all after narrowly escaping relegation 12 months earlier.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSFew believed Leicester could win a Prem before Liverpool and Lineker promised to do MOTD in his undies if his hometown club got over the line.The Foxes ended up winning the league that year by a whopping 10 points ahead of their closest title rivals, Arsenal.And Lineker made headlines when he was forced to grab his white briefs and present MOTD in front of millions.But that is nothing compared to the lengths talkSPORT host Stelling is prepared to go.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAsked whether he would emulate Lineker: “I would host talkSPORT breakfast without my pants in order for Hartlepool to get into the Championship.“League Two would be fine, never mind the Championship.”Mark Chapman refuses Match of the Day job share as Gary Lineker quits after 25 yearsMeanwhile, Lineker will leave MOTD at the end of the season after 25 years in the hot seat.The 63-year-old will also quit the BBC after anchoring the Corporation’s 2025/26 FA Cup coverage and the next World Cup.And just two weeks later Lineker’s newest project has been unveiled as he prepares to get involved in Baller League UK.The football tournament was launched in Germany earlier this year and includes the likes of Mats Hummels and Lukasz Podolski.Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment. More

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      Arsenal star Kai Havertz and wife Sophia announce they are expecting a baby in heartwarming post

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      ARSENAL forward Kai Havertz and wife Sophia Weber are expecting a baby.The Germany international, 25, has been in a relationship with model and influencer Sophia, 25, since 2018.Kai Havertz and wife Sophia Weber have announced they are expecting their first childCredit: Instagram @ kaihavertz29One image showed a close-up shot of Sophia’s baby bumpCredit: Instagram @ kaihavertz29Kai and Sophia smiled as they revealed the news in the heartwarming postCredit: Instagram @ kaihavertz29A snap of the couple’s golden retriever holding a baby’s hat in its mouth was sharedCredit: Instagram @ kaihavertz29They got engaged in July 2023 and married this summer at what appeared to be a lavish country manor.Now the couple have announced Sophia is pregnant with their first child.Sophia shared pictures of her and Havertz hugging as she showed off her baby bump.Another image also showed their golden retriever holding a baby hat in its mouth.READ MORE ON ARSENALAlongside the snaps, Sophia added the heartwarming caption: “Our biggest blessing 🤎🧸.”And a host of other footballer’s partners were quick to send their congratulations on Sophia’s post. Helene Spilling, partner of Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, said: “We can’t wait to meet your little one.”Bukayo Saka’s girlfriend Tolami Benson added: “SO EXCITED!!!! ♥️”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHavertz and Sophia have been together for six yearsCredit: FacebookSophia celebrated Chelsea’s Champions League triumph with Havertz back in 2021Credit: GettyThe couple got engaged last year and married this summerCredit: Instagram @sophiaaemeliaBayern Munich keeper Manuel Neuer’s wife Anika replied: “Omg wow I can’t wait!!!!”Ben White’s wife Milly said: “AHHHHHHHHH the best.”Arsenal player ratings vs SportingAnd the wife of ex-Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen, Katrine, added: “CAN’T WAIT 😭😭❤️ love you!!”Havertz has scored eight goals and assisted once in 18 appearances so far this season.Arsenal were on a a run of just one win in five games before the international break.But they have returned from the two-week pause with impressive performances, beating Nottingham Forest 3-0 and thrashing Sporting Lisbon 5-1 in the Champions League.They travel to West Ham on Saturday evening before title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City face off against one another on Sunday. More

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      Transfer recommendations for Gameweek 13: Joao Pedro among tempting one-week punts

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      DREAM TEAM managers are spoiled for choice ahead of Gameweek 13 with all 20 Premier League clubs set to play twice.With so many options available to you, allow us to present some transfer recommendations bursting with potential.Before we get into the merits of specific players, it’s worth flagging that the Gameweek 13 deadline falls at 6:30pm on Friday – that’s earlier than usual so don’t get caught out!Gaffers are spoiled for choice this weekCredit: Dream TeamJoao Pedro (£4.1m)A rare double Gameweek across the board gives Dream Team bosses every reason to back a Brighton player and who better than their in-form No9?Pedro averages 8.7 points-per-game this season, a rate only bettered by Erling Haaland (£8.6m) and Mohamed Salah (£7.4m) among forwards.He’s registered six goal involvements in six games and his return from injury has yielded 25 points in two outings.The Seagulls will host Southampton on Friday (Saints have the worst away record in the top flight) before a trip to Fulham in the week.Matheus Cunha (£4.8m)A man in formCredit: GettyIf Pedro doesn’t float your boat then how about a midlands-based Brazilian forward instead?Most read in FootballCunha banked 20 points via two excellent goals at Fulham last weekend and is now Dream Team’s most in-form player.Wolves’ talisman has seven goals and three assists to his name but that only tells half the story.He ranks in the top three in his position for big chances created and bonus points; an impressive feat without European commitments to bolster his schedule.Cunha will be unleashed upon Bournemouth and Everton in Gameweek 13.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWJurrien Timber (£3.7m) and/or Riccardo Calafiori (£3.9m)Timber appears affordable ahead of Gameweek 13Credit: GettyGabriel (£4.8m) and William Saliba (£5m) are Arsenal’s top defenders in terms of total points but the full-backs offer more affordable routes into the Gunners’ defence.With Ben White (£4.1m) expected to be sidelined for a number of weeks, Timber is likely to start at right-back for the foreseeable future.The Dutchman banked 16 points in Gameweek 12 thanks to an assist and three points against Sporting CP in Lisbon.Calafiori’s minutes aren’t quite as assured but he’s also coming off the back of a healthy double-digit haul.More broadly, Arsenal’s fixtures appear relatively favourable from now until the new year.Fraser Forster (£1.8m)Vicario’s injury presents an opportunity for ForsterCredit: GettyTottenham’s 36-year-old veteran is no Caoimhin Kelleher (£2.6m) in the world of the reserve goalkeepers but he has to be considered a tempting option purely because of his bargain price.Guglielmo Vicario (£3.1m) faces several weeks on the sidelines having undergone surgery on his ankle and so Forster, who has made three appearances already this term, will surely start throughout the busy festive period.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpurs clean sheets aren’t guaranteed by any means but at £1.8m Forster is a low-cost punt who frees up budget to invest elsewhere.The North London side face Fulham and Bournemouth in Gameweek 13.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      I’m the longest-serving manager in England’s top four divisions and my dad is my boss

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      HARROGATE TOWN manager Simon Weaver is the longest-serving manager in the top four divisions of English football.But he’s answerable to his chairman dad Irving – who owns the North Yorkshire club in League Two.Simon Weaver is the longest-serving manager in England’s top four divisionsSimon Weaver and dad Irving have worked together at Harrogate Town since 2011Weaver Sr, 75, vowed to “put Harrogate further up the football pyramid” when he took over in 2011.Together with Simon, they are the father-and-son team that have lifted Harrogate from the National League North to League Two.But his son had already been manager for two years when dad stepped in, making it 15 years and 191 days in the Town dugout.The Sulphurites were drifting in the sixth tier of English football and surviving on crowds of around 200 just 11 years ago.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSFast forward 13 years, and Harrogate are enjoying their fifth season in League Two.And all with one of the smallest budgets in the division – finishing comfortably in 13th last term.Harrogate, it seems, have not yet realised that after 91 years in non-league, it boasts a team among the elite.Simon has led the club through two promotions in 2017-18 and 2019-20 and the FA Trophy success in the latter too.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFormer PE teacher George Thomson, 32, has played a significant part in the Town’s rise from the non-league, making more than 300 appearances.Winger Thomson scored at Wembley in their National League play-off final victory over Notts County to help seal a spot in the Football League back in 2020.EFL club owner gives update on new £2bn ‘spaceship’ stadium included in mega plans for state-of-the-art complex And he exclusively revealed to SunSport how he is eyeing a third promotion to add to his fairytale rise from non-league hopeful to Harrogate icon.He said: “It’s been an incredible journey and I’m hoping that there are a few more years left for me.”There were a group of us who have been here long-term that said straight after that Wembley win that we want one more.”More than a decade ago, Harrogate were spared relegation from the National League North only because of financial irregularities elsewhere.Harrogate beat Notts County in the National League Play Off final in 2020George Thomson is eyeing an incredible third promotion with Harrogate TownSimon, 45, who used to play for Sheffield Wednesday, took over with the club in turmoil.The former defender told the BBC: “We lost 3-0 away to Corby Town. I had a playing budget of £1,600. “I had to count on a few friends and some played for free as a favour.”We didn’t have anywhere to train and when we did train, I got in trouble with the club because we were damaging the pitch.”We eventually got an hour a week in the gym and and a half on the AstroTurf, which caused injuries because it was rock hard.”Watford have made more than 20 managerial changes since Simon took the reigns after answering an advert placed in the Non-League Paper.Simon will be looking to deliver his dad a financial boost when Harrogate host non-league Gainsborough Trinity in the FA Cup on Friday.Harrogate beat Wrexham in the FA Cup first round earlier this monthCredit: RexThey knocked out League One side Wrexham in the first round.The cup tie will be his 766th game in charge of the club.Victory will secure them a place in the third round for only the second time in their 105-year history – and a potential money-spinning tie against a Prem club.Pep Guardiola, who took over at Manchester City in 2016, is the longest-serving current manager in the Premier League.The Spaniard has enjoyed eight years and five months at the Etihad, while Thomas Frank has spent six years and one month at Brentford. Simon added: “I’m proud of it. Sometimes I think ‘gosh, how has he been in and out in such a short space of time’ when I hear about a manger losing their job.”Multi-millionaire Irving made his money as a property magnate and is not afraid to make tough business decisions when needed.So, has he ever come close to sacking his son?Irving told the Beeb: “We’ve never had to go that far. Arguments are a waste of time. READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’s a concern when we’re on a losing run. We’ve just been down to 20th in the table. “There’s a serious discussion about where the problems lie. But it’s a discussion – not an argument.”Can you name the famous fathers? More