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      Six managers Man Utd could turn to now if they sack Ten Hag as Southgate rules himself out and Tuchel eyes ENGLAND job

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      ERIK TEN HAG appears to have avoided the chopping block at Manchester United, at least for now.A SEVEN-HOUR meeting with club chiefs on Tuesday came to an end with no movement on the future of the United boss despite the intense pressure and speculation surrounding him.Erik ten Hag remains under pressure at Man Utd despite appearing to survive talks in LondonCredit: GettyThomas Tuchel looks to be out of the running after entering talks for the England jobCredit: GettyUnited could possibly turn to other candidates such as Graham PotterCredit: PAHowever, the pursuit of other possible targets took a twist on Friday after it was reported that Thomas Tuchel was in talks for the England job.Tuchel, 51, has been heavily linked with replacing Ten Hag at Old Trafford.But according to Bild, he could now replace Gareth Southgate as the Three Lions’ next permanent head coach.Southgate himself played down his links to the Red Devils’ job by saying he would be taking a full year out of work.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd that has left the pool of potential successors to Ten Hag even more drained than it was in the summer. SunSport have looked at six options who could still be considered if Ten Hag’s time at United does ultimately come to a mid-season end.Graham PotterFormer Chelsea and Brighton boss Potter has been without a job since he was sacked by the Blues, but was known for his fluid brand of football and development of young players at the Seagulls, elements United want to champion.However, he directly addressed the speculation when appearing on Sky Sports last month, saying: “I am the only coach in world football to be linked with Stoke City and Napoli in the same week. I have had lots of conversations with lots of people and I think out of respect to those people it’s best those are kept private.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKieran McKennaA coach at Man Utd during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s time in charge, McKenna made his first move into management with Ipswich and has impressed ever since by getting them promoted to the top flight.He was consequently linked with a move to another club in the summer, but snubbed interest by signing a new contract. There are concerns whether he would be ready to take on the mammoth United job anyway.Thomas Tuchel Eyes England Manager Role Amid Man Utd SpeculationSimone InzaghiInter Milan manager Inzaghi is reported to have already rejected an approach from Man Utd.He was viewed as an ideal candidate given his experience at the top level and previous success, leading the Italians to the Serie A title, two Coppa Italias and a Champions League final.Ruben AmorimSporting Lisbon manager Amorim has caught the eye of many of Europe’s top sides as a potential new boss.Fresh reports have linked him with a move to Old Trafford should Ten Hag leave, with his Portuguese connections set to do wonders for the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot.Thomas FrankFrank has long been praised for how well he has done with Brentford, in terms of buying into their recruitment plan and getting the best out of players on the pitch.Indeed, Pep Guardiola said it was only a “question of time” before he lands a job at one of European football’s powerhouses.READ MORE SUN STORIESRuud Van NistelrooyLike Inzaghi and Potter on this list, Ruud van Nistelrooy seems to have squashed rumours about taking over the Man Utd job, with reports suggesting he does not want to betray Ten Hag.However, in the event Ten Hag is let go, Van Nistelrooy is likely to be offered the job at least on an interim basis. He impressed as a manager for PSV.Ruud van Nistelrooy would likely be offered the job on an interim basis but has expressed doubts over taking itCredit: Alamy More

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      How England could line up under Thomas Tuchel with brand new formation and return for forgotten man

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      ENGLAND could be set for a new look team should Thomas Tuchel be appointed as manager.The German is reportedly in negotiations with the FA over the role vacated by Gareth Southgate earlier this year.Thomas Tuchel is reportedly in talks to become the next England managerCredit: GettyHe could offer a recall to Mason Mount should he be appointedCredit: GettyRuben Loftus-Cheek could be given another chance in a England shirtCredit: GettyThe Three Lions are currently under the charge of interim boss Lee Carsley, who has won two of his three games.Last time out, though, England were uninspiring and humbled by Greece 2-1 at Wembley.Carsley experimented with his team due to Harry Kane’s absence but could not get a tune out of his attacking line-up, whch included Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden, with Cole Palmer behind them.Tuchel, however, could opt for a very different style to the interim boss should he be appointed.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation, which could provide an opportunity for one forgotten star.Mason Mount has not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.However, he enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.While playing under Tuchel, Mount scored 19 goals in 87 appearances in all competitions and won the Champions League in 2021.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSShould Tuchel land the England job, then he could get the best out of Mount for the national team.However, the midfielder would need to bounce back and improve his form at Manchester United, having missed a lot of football due to injury since joining the club.Lee Carsley’s slip of the tongue after Greece nightmare hints he wants England U21s job back and not replace SouthgateBen Chilwell could return to the England teamCredit: AlamyTuchel could reinstate Eric Dier to the Three Lions’ backlineCredit: GettyMount’s reintroduction could be the first of former England players to get another crack at the whip on the international stage.Although if Mount returns then it could be in the place of Phil Foden or Cole Palmer.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ben Chilwell, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.Luke Shaw is considered the nation’s best left-back, but due to his injury struggles Tuchel could opt for Chilwell in his place.The full-back starred for the German during his time at Stamford Bridge and has already earned 21 caps for England.Loftus-Cheek could come back into the team to partner Declan Rice in the midfield.The midfielder has excelled since his move to AC Milan, scoring ten goals in his 48 appearances.The Three Lions have struggled to find a partner for Rice, with Kobbie Mainoo, Adam Wharton and Angel Gomes all being given chances.Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Reece James could also be a beneficiary of Tuchel’s potential appointment.Should the Chelsea star regain his fitness, then he would certainly be a shoo-in over Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold in the right-wing-back role.Tuchel has also often used a 4-2-3-1 formation during his time as a manager.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis could see the likes of Mount, Dier, Chilwell and James keep their spots in the team but in more traditional roles.Dier could be used in the pivot alongside Rice, while James and Chilwell could line up a back four.Reece James excelled under TuchelCredit: APEngland player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      Premier League cult hero Mario Balotelli angrily says ‘I’ll f***ing smash Serie A’ in fiery live stream argument

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      MARIO BALOTELLI asserted that he is still capable of tearing up Serie A in an impassioned rant.The veteran striker is on the search for the 12th club of his career after leaving Turkish side Adana Demirspor in the summer.Mario Balotelli claims he could still ‘smash up’ Serie AThe striker is unemployed after leaving Adana Demirspor in the summerCredit: GettyHe has been linked with several moves including the Spanish third-tier side Alicante.While Torino were tipped to snap up the former Manchester City star this week as a replacement for the injured Duvan Zapata.Balotelli would likely be keen to return to playing in his native Italy and he is confident he would score goals in Serie A.He appeared on a stream where the host compared him to Venezia frontman Joel Pohjanpalo, which Balotelli took exception to.READ MORE IN FOOTBALThe former Liverpool man said: “What the f*** are you saying?”Just because I wasn’t in Serie A (in recent years), what I did doesn’t count? F*** off, you and Serie A.”It’s a promise, I’ll smash Serie A when I sign (for a new club), I’ll smash this f***ing Serie A.”Balotelli, 34, has also been linked with a move to Serie A strugglers Genoa, who are managed by former Italy striker Alberto Gilardino.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThey could become the 12th different club of his career, having previously played in Serie A for Inter, AC Milan, Brescia and Monza.Capped 36 times, Balotelli has been linked with clubs in Brazil, India and Spain since returning home from Turkey.Footage of Mario Balotelli falling in street during boozy night out with palsBut he has chosen to bide his time, recently stating his intent to play in Italy once more.The frontman has trained by himself in Brescia to keep up his fitness. More

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      George Baldock’s old club hold emotional minute’s applause for tragic star before FA Cup clash vs Wayne Rooney’s brother

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      GEORGE BALDOCK’S former club Tamworth paid a touching tribute to the late Greece, Premier League and EFL hero after his tragic death.Baldock was found dead on Wednesday night at his home in Athens after drowning in his swimming pool at the age of 31.Tamworth held a minute’s applause for ex-player George Baldock before their FA Cup matchBaldock was found dead at his home on Wednesday at the age of 31Credit: APThis tragic loss has seen the British and Greek football community come together in mourning with tributes pouring in for the popular full-back, who moved from Sheffield United to Panathinaikos last summer.National League side Tamworth also paid their respects to the Greece international and his family ahead of Saturday’s fourth qualifying round match in the FA Cup at The Lamb Ground.The Lambs lined up in the centre of the pitch along with opponents Macclesfield, where Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney’s younger brother John, 33, plays.The two teams and the crowd then held an emotional minute’s applause for Baldock, who played for Tamworth on loan from MK Dons in 2012.Read More on FootballThat moment of solidarity moved the fans, who took to social media to also pay tribute to the defender.One fan tweeted: “For you, George Baldock.”Another commented: “Once a Lamb, always a Lamb.”A third wrote: “That’s for George.”Most read in FA CupThis fan said: “Dedicating it to George.”And that one stated: “That’s for you George.”Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England Baldock made 18 appearances during his brief stint with Tamworth, where he also scored a goal.The Sheffield United legend then moved to Bramall Lane in 2017 and enjoyed tremendous success as he amassed 219 appearances and helped the team reach two Premier League promotions.The Buckingham-born ace also played a big part in the Blades’ stunning 2019-20 campaign that saw them finishing in the top half of the Prem table in their return to the top flight after 12 years.Ex-Sheffield United team-mate David McGoldrick didn’t forget that as he pointed to the heavens to dedicate his dramatic late equaliser for Notts County during Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Chesterfield.Baldock died the day before Greece, which is the homeland of his late grandmother, faced England, the country of his birth, at Wembley in the Nations League.The Greek national team went on to pick up an upset 2-1 win over the Three Lions and his team-mates dedicated the victory to their fallen brother in arms and his family.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Brazil stars including Vinicius Jr and Raphinha face ban from national team in bizarre proposal

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      BRAZIL’S Europe-based heroes  would be banned from international football under a radical idea from the country’s president.Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva claims “there are no stars” abroad – which might surprise fans of Vinicius Junior, Endrick, Ederson and Co.Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr would be among a string or Europe-based superstars affected by the type of ban Brazil president Lula wantsCredit: GettyMan Utd duo Casemiro and Antony are others that would be shut outCredit: GettyThe Brazilian president says he’s discussed the idea with his nation’s football chief.And if such a proposal was ever activated it would mean the end of World Cup dreams for a host of top performers in Europe’s major leagues.Arsenal have three leading Brazilians – all Gabriels – in Magalhaes, Jesus and Martinelli.Two come from Manchester United, although Casemiro and Antony have been under almost as much pressure for their efforts as their struggling Old Trafford boss Erik ten Hag.READ MORE TOP STORIESMeanwhile, a couple of the world’s best goalkeepers are with the Prem’s top two sides.Alisson is currently out injured for leaders Liverpool, while fellow stopper Ederson has won six titles in seven seasons with champs Manchester City, who now also have compatriot Savinho in their bulging squad.Spain offer arguably Brazil’s hottest talent in Vinicius Jr, as well as the brightest prospect in 18-year-old Real Madrid team-mate Endrick.And don’t forget Barcelona wideman Raphinha.Most read in FootballArsenal have three top Brazilians in their squad, including attackers Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel JesusCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLula was emboldened to speak out on his hopes after Botafogo duo Igor Jesus and Luiz Henrique netted in Friday’s vital 2-1 comeback win in a World Cup qualifier away to Chile.It means Dorival Junior’s Brazil have edged up to fourth after disappointing performances in the South American group.Vinicius Jr breaks down in tears in emotional moment during press conference after three questions about racismLula argued Brazil lack overseas players as good as legends like “Garrincha or Romario”.He insisted their contingent abroad instead contains just “a bunch of young players who are not yet stars”.Lula added: “In Brazil, there are good players of the same quality (as those abroad). So [the national team should] give opportunities to those who are here.”However, even if his proposal gained any traction in Brazil, it would almost certainly get nowhere thanks to Fifa rules.Football’s global chiefs ban political interference in team matters.Lula has reportedly mentioned his beliefs to Brazilian Football Confederation president Alejandro Dominguez.But any political attempts to formally stop overseas stars from playing for the country could even lead to Dominguez being suspended.And other possible sanctions include what would surely be the greatest one for the country’s football supporters – being banned from the World Cup.However, Lula’s leap into the country’s main sport did lead to an equally bizarre but more light-hearted suggestion.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne fan on X reckons the 78-year-old is a dead ringer for one of Britain’s most famous businessmen, a former Tottenham co-owner of The Apprentice fame, who is 18 months younger.He posted: “Sir Alan Sugar needs to leave the Brazilians to it.”Brazilian president Lula da Silva has been compared to Sir Alan SugarCredit: ReutersLondon entrepreneur Alan Sugar has a famous Brazilian look-alikeCredit: BBCWho are these famous footballers? More

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      I played for England alongside Eze, James and Ramsdale – now I play in Azerbaijan and captain a different country

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      STRAPPING centre-back Easah Suliman was a regular in the England age groups during a distinguished youth careerThe Brummie-born defender was also a star within Aston Villa’s academy, first appearing in a first-team matchday squad aged just 17.Easah Suliman was a regular for England youth sidesCredit: GettySuliman, front left, played for England up to Under-20 levelCredit: GettyHis one and only senior appearance for the Villans then came under Steve Bruce in August 2017, when he replaced Scott Hogan for the final nine minutes of a League Cup tie against Wigan.While attempting to make his way at club level, Suliman was marking himself out as a leader in the making on the international stage, wearing the captain’s armband for England from Under-16 to Under-20 level.He played alongside several stars of the future within the Three Lions set-up, including the likes of Eberechi Eze, Reece James, Aaron Ramsdale and Trent Alexander-Arnold, to name just a few.Now 26, the 6ft 2in centre-back’s career has gone in directions he may never have imagined.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFollowing loan spells at Cheltenham, Grimsby and FC Emmen, Suliman left Villa Park permanently in January 2020.At the time he wrote on his Instagram account: “Thank you to everyone at Aston Villa for supporting me and helping me develop as a player and a person since I started at 8 years old.”It has been a great 13 years and I wish the club all the best in the future.”Like many talented young English footballers, Suliman opted to take his chances overseas – moving to Portuguese side Vitoria.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSuliman made one first team appearance for Aston VillaCredit: GettyThe defender went on loan spells during his time in PortugalCredit: GettySuliman was joined in Portugal by two fellow England youth starlets, ex-Chelsea midfielder Jacob Maddox, now of Forest Green, and former Tottenham stand-out Marcus Edwards, who now excels for Sporting Lisbon.As he continued to adjust to men’s football, Suliman headed on further loans to second tier sides Nacional and Vilafranquense.Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer George Baldock caught on live TV after shock win over England During his youth career at Villa, Suliman spoke of how he was inspired by England cricketer Moeen Ali, who like him is a proud Brummie of Pakistani descent.Having worn the Three Lions at youth level, Suliman would switch his international allegiances to Pakistan last year.Suliman now appears to have found some stability in men’s football, having signed for Azerbaijan side Sumgayit last summer, for whom he was a regular last season.He has so far earned nine caps for Pakistan, and has already worn the captain’s armband on five occasions.Suliman, now 26, has captained PakistanCredit: GettyTAKING INSPIRATIONNow representing the South Asian nation, Suliman continues to be inspired by Ali.”I have met him many times and we are quite close,” Suliman said of the cricket icon in a conversation with The Hindu last year. “Anyone who plays sport in our city looks up to him.”He was part of the IPL-winning team recently and is back in the Ashes team.”It shows that irrespective of your origin, you can achieve at the highest level.”Suliman has taken inspiration from England cricket star Moeen AliCredit: GettyFURTHER CHALLENGES AHEADSuliman had plenty to look back on with pride last season, and he wrote on Instagram back in May: “End of a memorable season.”Perfect way to finish with securing european positions with @sumqayitfc_official 🟣⚪️ thanks to the fans for all the support throughout the season.”And not forgetting what we achieved with the national team earlier in the season by making history @pakistanffofficial”.Unfortunately, Suliman’s unusual career path will now face a major obstacle.READ MORE SUN STORIESAccording to Pakistan Football Mania, the former Villa youngster is nursing a torn ACL suffered in pre-season, and will face 8-9 months on the sidelines.With the character and resolve he has already shown in his career, however, he is bound to return next season stronger for the setback. More

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      AFC Wimbledon’s incredible pitch transformation revealed as club play at home 20 days after massive sinkhole opened up

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      AFC Wimbledon returned to action in League One on their OWN pitch.The Dons were in action against Carlisle – just 20 days after a SINKHOLE destroyed a part of their pitch.AFC Wimbledon returned to action 19 days after a sinkhole ruined their pitchBack in September, they were forced to postpone their Carabao Cup third round clash with Newcastle due to flooding.Adverse weather conditions in the area caused “significant damage” to both the stadium itself and the pitch.A sinkhole formed by the corner flag, prompting the fan-owned club to start a fundraiser to pay for the damage.An area behind the stands where fans would usually congregate is also completely underwater.Read more football newsBut, there was no sign of damage as AFC Wimbledon returned to action against the Cumbrians.Ground staff had worked tirelessly to ensure the club could return to action.Home matches against Accrington Stanley and Crewe Alexandra were also postponed, leaving AFC Wimbledon having to play catch up in the league.Their match against Newcastle was switched to St James’ Park, where they lost 1-0.Most read in FootballWork began on the pitch the morning after the floods, with significant progress made in just a matter of hours.Watch AFC Wimbledon begin work fixing sinkhole on pitch after pumping more than 100,000 LITRES of water out of stadiumFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDiscussing the impact of the storm, a statement read: “Staff encountered significant flooding of the ground level of the stadium, affecting our offices, the shop and museum, reception areas, lifts, and tunnel area, as well as all concourse areas at ground level.”This afternoon, several independent contractors have visited the site and conducted surface level investigations.”More investigations are required in the coming days in order to plan for repair works to the pitch as a priority, and we are in regular contact with our insurers.”We have overcome many setbacks by working together and this one will be no different.”We genuinely appreciate all the messages of support and offers from volunteers and members to help us fix the damage.  “We ask for some patience whilst we complete our investigations and formulate our plans before getting to work.”We will advise further what supporters can do to help us soon; thank you.”AFC Wimbledon shared a before and after clip of the work on social media to their followers.Who are these famous footballers?An aerial view shows the damage done by severe flooding in the areaThe Cherry Red Records was out of bounds for three homes gamesIt showed the first steps of the pitch being evened out to repair the huge sinkhole.READ MORE SUN STORIESWimbledon managed to raise over £100,000 for repairs by Wednesday afternoon.Newcastle donated £15,000 following the match postponement. More

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      Chelsea legend’s daughter opens up on feeling ‘at her lowest’ as she poses in lingerie to celebrate ‘inner strong woman’

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      JADE LEBOEUF has opened up on feeling at her “lowest” as she shared stunning pictures of herself.The daughter of Chelsea legend Frank has amassed a huge following of people interested in her glamorous lifestyle.Jade, 33, has almost a quarter of a million followers on Instagram as she shares pictures as an influencer and model. However, despite her apparent glam life she does not always feel on top of the world.In her latest collection of snaps, she admitted that they were taken when she felt low.The pictures showed her in a multiple series of poses in a set of black lingerie.READ MORE ON SPORTJade insisted that they were captured so she could feel the “strong women” inside herself.She wrote: “I made this series of photos at a time when I was at my lowest emotionally, and I needed to awaken the strong woman in me.”I assure you that it did me a world of good to feel beautiful and sensual.”It allowed me to reconnect with myself, with my identity, and with who I really am.”Most read in FootballFans loved the post as they hailed her honesty in sharing them.One posted: “I hope you get much better very quickly. Courage.”Chelsea legend’s daughter cheekily shows off her bum in bold outfit as stunned fans say ‘excuse me?’ She is the daughter of Chelsea legend Frank LeboeufCredit: PAA second wrote: “Very beautiful Jade.”A third commented: “Beautiful! And I find your way of facing challenges very inspiring because when you are underwater it is difficult to find a way to get back up.”A fourth said: “You are radiant!”Another added: “The most beautiful.”She is married to French reality TV personality Stephane Rodrigues and the pair have a three-year-old son together.Her father established himself as a Blues legend during his spell at the club between 1996 and 2001.Leboeuf, 56, played 203 times for Chelsea and scored 24 goals as he helped the club win the FA Cup in 1997 and 2000.Take a look inside Jade’s glamorous life…Jade has built up a loyal following on social mediaCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe stunning model is followed by over a quarter of a million peopleCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe regularly shares risque contentCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe French national works as a modelCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe was used to the limelight from an early age as the daughter of Chelsea legend Frank LeboeufCredit: Instagram @jadeleboeufJade describes herself as a digital creatorCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer posts tend to draw hoards of comments with fans often describing her as ‘beautiful’ and ‘sexy’Credit: instagram @jade_leboeufShe’s not afraid to wear revealing outfitsCredit: jade_leboeuf/instagramSee-through outfits are a favouriteCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer father Frank played for Chelsea from 1996 to 2001Credit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHe won two FA Cups during his time in West London when Jade was still a kidCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHe was also a World Cup winner with France in 1998, giving him legendary status in his home countryCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufJade is now making her own wayCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeuf More