Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 163 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Sky Sports pundit tipped to replace under-fire Julen Lopetegui as West Ham manager

      by

      A SKY SPORTS pundit has been tipped to take over from under-fire West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui.The Hammers boss is under mounting pressure in East London after a poor start to the season was compounded by a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Nottingham Forest on Saturday.Julen Lopetegui has had a poor start to the season as West Ham managerCredit: GettyThat defeat has left West Ham looming in 14th spot, losing half of their league games already this term.With former Wolves boss Lopetegui now under a microscope, managers up and down the country are being linked with the job.And Jeff Stelling reckons that a Sky Sports pundit could be the right man to replace the Spaniard.Speaking on talkSPORT breakfast, Stelling backed Frank Lampard to fill the hot-seat.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLLampard has been working as a Sky Sports pundit since his last foray into management as Chelsea’s interim boss last year. It’s understood that Lopetegui is still being backed by chiefs at West Ham, but Stelling reckons Lampard would do a great job at filling his boots if that changes.He said: “I’m going to mention someone who might divide opinions.“Is it time, if Lopetegui goes, for West Ham to bring Frank Lampard home? Just a thought.Most read in FootballJeff Stelling has tipped Frank Lampard to take over from LopeteguiCredit: GettyLampard is currently without a job after last managing Chelsea in 2023Credit: PAFrank Lampard managerial careerA brief look at Lampard’s managerial career so far…July 2017 – June 2018: Chelsea Youth CoachJuly 2018 – July 2019: Derby County Manager July 2019 – Jan 2021: Chelsea ManagerJan 2022 – Jan 2023: Everton ManagerApril 2023 – June 2023: Chelsea Interim ManagerFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“He is available. He’s been mentioned in connection with the Roma job, but West Ham would be ideal for him.“I know there’s a man in situ at the moment, but it is just a speculative suggestion at the moment.”I played with Frank Lampard at Chelsea and we never lost.. but I’d still rather line up alongside Steven Gerrard’Lampard started his playing career with West Ham as a youngster, making 179 appearances for the club before switching to London rivals Chelsea in 2001.His managerial career has seen him take charge of Everton and Derby, as well as having two spells at Chelsea.He hasn’t ventured back into coaching since his second spell at Stamford Bridge ended in June 2023, but has been linked with a return to the technical area in Italy.According to reports, Lampard is being eyed as the potential new boss at Italian giants Roma.Lampard started his career at West HamCredit: GettyHe has managed Chelsea twice, once as permanent boss and once as interim managerCredit: GettyLampard has been working as a pundit since his last job with the BluesCredit: X / SkySportsPL More

    • 263 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      England could be forced to field World Cup qualifying ‘bomb squad’ as new Fifa rule threatens to rule out ELEVEN players

      by

      THOMAS TUCHEL could be plunged into a club versus country row after Fifa ordered Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich to play their strongest teams in the new Club World Cup.New England boss Tuchel will discover next month if he will have to start the Three Lions World Cup campaign in June.New England boss Thomas TuchelCredit: GettyBut Fifa’s demand that the 32 competing teams field their strongest slides for the £600m new tournament which starts in the USA less than a week after the scheduled international dates may leave Tuchel in the middle of a major dilemma.Skipper Harry Kane will spearhead Munich’s glory push in the States, with Jude Bellingham central to Real Madrid’s chances and Conor Gallagher scheduled to appear for Atletico Madrid.Tuchel will also see Cole Palmer, Reece James and Levi Colwill required by Chelsea, with Kyle Walker, John Stones, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Rico Lewis in City’s ranks.Fifa’s desperate determination to make the inaugural episode of the tournament a major success has now seen world chiefs giving themselves the power to order clubs to release players to Club World Cup sides BEFORE their current contracts end.READ MORE IN football World chiefs have now released regulations that state clubs must field their “strongest teams throughout the tournament”.Fifa said that competing clubs must still release their players for the international window including World Cup qualifiers from June 2 to June 9.But the prospect of top clubs pulling rank and demanding their needs are put ahead of international commitments in the immediate lead-up to the tournament – due to start on June 15 – tees up a serious worry for German Tuchel.That Fifa window will leave little time for the players involved to get back into club groove before the new tournament.Most read in FootballSouthgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-2024P102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%Honours: Euros runners up, 2020, 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe possible problems come after the international players’ union Fifpro launched a legal challenge against Fifa in the European Court, with the aim of forcing Zurich chiefs to back down on their plan.But Fifa put the screws on the clubs by announcing that any team which pulls out now will be fined “at least” £220,000, while withdrawals after mid-May would see that fine doubled to nearly £450,000.Thomas Tuchel’s first England XI predicted by Jamie Carragher with ultra-attacking team and one-cap international The hardline expectations came as it emerged FIFA chiefs could order clubs to release players due to join Club World Cup sides early.Fifa announced last month that they were creating a special transfer loophole to apply at the tournament that will be played in the USA.Competing clubs will be able to complete some of next term’s transfers early to allow the players to take part in Fifa’s new flagship competition.Under the special regulations, clubs will be able to register new players between June 1 and June 10 – rather than being forced to stick to the usual June 30 cut-off for registration changes.Current contracts for City’s Kevin de Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan will expire on June 30, while Jadon Sancho’s loan spell at Chelsea.Canada left-back Alphonso Davies is one of SEVEN senior players at Kane’s Bayern Munich who are out of contract at the end of the season.Initially it had been suggested that early registration would only be permitted if both clubs and the players involved approve, with nobody will be allowed to play for two teams during the month of action.READ MORE SUN STORIESFifa said the “objective” was to “encourage clubs and players whose contracts are expiring to find an appropriate solution to facilitate the players’ participation”.But it has now emerged that FIFA will decide on any disputes between Club World Cup teams who each want to take the same player to the tournament.Man City won the Club World Cup in 2023Credit: Getty More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Gary Lineker gives six-word update on Match of the Day future as BBC host, 63, drops fresh quit hint

      by

      GARY LINEKER has given an update on his Match of the Day future and hinted he could quit the BBC.The 63-year-old has been the Premier League highlight show’s host since 1999.Gary Lineker has given a fresh update on his BBC futureCredit: BBCLineker, who has also presented England World Cup and Euros games, sees his deal with the Beeb expire this summer.He has held talks with chiefs over extending his stay but plans have also been drawn up for his departure.In an interview with Esquire Magazine, Lineker was asked if was stepping down from the Match of the Day hotseat.He replied: “I could do. Whether that will be the case I don’t know. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”At some point, I have to slow down somewhere… I’m getting old.”Lineker is open to staying at the BBC, with The Sun exclusively revealing that he has offered to take a pay cut.The former Leicester, Tottenham and Barcelona striker could sign a new deal for £1million per year, which is £350,000 less than his current salary.Lineker remains relaxed about his contract situation, saying: “There are bigger problems in the world that is for sure.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I’m coming to the end of my contract in the summer, so it is natural at some point to have conversations and they have started.”Pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards are also in discussions over their futures.Should Lineker leave – Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott are among the bookies favourites to fill his boots.Gary Lineker’s BBC pay negotiations More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘The game is gone’ Fans outraged as Noel Gallagher joins commentary for TNT Sports for Man City Champions League clash

      by

      FANS couldn’t believe what they were hearing when they realised which unexpected superstar was on TNT Sports’ Champions League coverage.Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist were joined by music royalty in the gantry for their broadcast of Sporting Lisbon vs Manchester City.There was an unusual addition to the commentary team for TNT Sports’ coverage of Man City vs SportingCredit: PAThe pair were accompanied by Man City superfan and Oasis star Noel Gallagher.Gallagher wasn’t only on the commentary team for TNT, but also down pitch-side ahead of kick off to discuss his beloved City’s form.Supporters are used to seeing the Rock ‘N’ Roll Star in the crowd at City games, but his presence on the broadcast is Half the World Away from his usual Tuesday night.Fans reacted to the unbelievable moment on social media.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLOne wrote: “So bizarre that Noel Gallagher is on co-commentary on TNT Sports tonight”.While another added: “Noel Gallagher adding a lot to commentary tonight. So enthusiastic.”A third posted: “Why is Noel Gallagher on punditry duty for TNT Sport?!”And a fourth commented: “No way that’s Noel Gallagher on commentary. I thought it was just some random ex-City player”.Most read in FootballAnother wrote: “Is Noel Gallagher seriously on commentary on the City game? The game is gone.”Oasis superstar Noel Gallagher joined TNT Sports in the gantry for commentary on the gameGallagher joined the TNT Sports coverage pitch side tooCredit: ReutersGallagher will have been looking down on a familiar sight when watching on the game.That’s because the City players were wearing his handwriting on the back of their shirts for the occasion.Pep Guardiola reveals ‘incredible’ Noel Gallagher sends him text message before and after Man City gamesTheir cup font has been designed by Gallagher with the 57-year-old writing out every player name and number to create the unique look.The Oasis icon also helped design a kit for Man City, honouring the 30th anniversary of album ‘Definitely Maybe’.The kit, dubbed ‘Definitely City’, will be worn for select European fixtures this season, and was donned by players in City’s Champions League opener against Inter Milan earlier in the campaign.The font on the back of Man City’s shirts is Gallagher’s handwritingCredit: ReutersGallagher helped design an Oasis themed kit for Man City this season tooCredit: Manchester CityThe superstar posed with Pep Guardiola for the ad campaignCredit: Manchester City More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Sporting Lisbon fans unveil stunning two-tier Ruben Amorim banner bigger than centre circle ahead of exit for Man Utd

      by

      SPORTING fans unfurled a huge banner in tribute to Ruben Amorim ahead of this evening’s clash with Manchester City.Amorim, 39, was taking charge of his final home game in charge of the Portuguese giants ahead of his move to Manchester United.Sporting fans unfurled an incredible bannerCredit: GettyAmorim, 39, accepted the adulation of the fansCredit: GettyThe Portuguese’s side took on Manchester CityCredit: ReutersRather than show any bitterness towards their outgoing coach, Sporting fans expressed their immense gratitude.Ahead of kick-off they unfurled an enormous banner even bigger than the centre circle.It featured an illustration of Amorim with his arms folded, as well as the five trophies he won as Sporting boss.The banner read “Obrigado” – Portuguese for “thank you”.READ MORE ON RUBEN AMORIMAmorim joined Sporting as boss in 2020 following a season at Braga.As their boss he won two league titles, two domestic cups and one Super Cup.He will take charge of his final game in charge away to his former side Braga on Sunday.Amorim is then set to formally begin work as Man Utd boss on Monday.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAhead of the clash with Man City, Amorim was involved in an awkward exchange with a British reporter.In his pre-match press conference, Amorim was asked about potentially getting one over United’s rivals City by Sky Sports’ Gary Cotterill.Dimitar Berbatov tips Viktor Gyokeres to follow Ruben Amorim to Man Utd When the incoming Man Utd boss politely refused to speak English, Cotterill bizarrely claimed: “It’s like a cold shoulder to your English fans.”Amorim laughed off the comment, and was backed up by hordes of fans online.The banner read ‘Obrigado’ – meaning thank you in PortugueseCredit: EPA More

    • 238 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Declan Rice could miss Chelsea clash as Mikel Arteta admits Arsenal star ‘wasn’t feeling good the last few days’

      by

      DECLAN RICE is a doubt for Arsenal’s clash against Chelsea next Sunday.Mikel Arteta has confirmed the midfielder will need to be assessed for the weekend clash.Mikel Arteta could be without £100m midfielder Declan Rice for Sunday’s clash against ChelseaCredit: ReutersRice missed training on Tuesday morning and did not travel with the squad to take on Inter MilanCredit: GettyIt comes after Rice, 25, did not travel with the squad for the Gunners’ Champions League clash with Inter Milan on Wednesday.The £105million star played for the full 90 minutes against Newcastle on Saturday, before missing training on Tuesday morning.Speaking to reporters before the trip to Italy, Arteta said: “Declan unfortunately picked up an injury against Newcastle. “He was able to finish and he wasn’t feeling good the last few days. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We’ll have to assess him on Thursday and see if he’s ready for Chelsea.”It is a potentially huge blow to Arsenal given their already stacked medical room.Club captain Martin Odegaard remains sidelined, while Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu will continue to be absent with knee injuries.Kieran Tierney is another who remains sidelined as he is yet to return to full training.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal now sit below Chelsea in the Premier League table after Enzo Maresca’s side rescued a point in a 1-1 draw with Manchester United on Sunday.The North London side were also rocked this week by the news that Edu was stepping down from his position of sporting director.Huge Arsenal boost as Martin Odegaard returns to training ahead of Inter Milan clash The Invincibles star is set to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’ footballing empire in a triple-your-money deal.The news was confirmed in a statement on Monday evening.Arsenal and Edu resignation statement in fullEdu Gaspar has today resigned from his position as our Sporting Director.Edu, our former player and Invincible, re-joined us in the role of Technical Director in July 2019. He progressed through the club and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022, where he oversaw men’s, women’s and academy football.   We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart. Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.”Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.  “I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend. “Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”Our Co-Chair, Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.  “Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.  “Change and evolution is a part of our club.  We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.”Edu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      England hit with four-man injury list as Harry Maguire leads stars ruled out of Nations League decider in Greece

      by

      HARRY MAGUIRE will miss England’s Nations League deciders against Greece and Republic of Ireland.Interim manager Lee Carsley is set to name the squad for his final two games in charge before Thomas Tuchel takes over.Harry Maguire is set to miss out on England’s clashes with Greece and FinlandCredit: GettyManchester United defender Maguire, 31, has not played since October 6 due to a calf problem.He featured in Carsley’s first match against Ireland but was left out of the last squad for the games with Greece and Finland.United team-mate Kobbie Mainoo, 19, is struggling with a muscle injury.Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, 29, looks set to miss out with injury, while Etihad pal John Stones, 30, has a foot problem.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSEngland were stunned by Greece at Wembley last month.Vangelis Pavlidis gave the brilliant visitors a deserved lead on 49 minutes.Jude Bellingham thought he’d rescued the Three Lions a point when he levelled three minutes from time.But Pavlidis would have the final say, netting four minutes into stoppage time to secure all three points.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSJack Grealish and John Stones are set to miss outCredit: SportsfileKobbie Mainoo is struggling with a muscular injuryCredit: ReutersCarsley’s men recovered three days later to beat Finland 3-1 in Helsinki.They trail Greece by three points going into their two final matches of the group stage.’I wasn’t contacted about the England job,’ admits Eddie Howe as he gives verdict on Thomas Tuchel appointment The Wembley clash with Ireland will be Carsley’s last in caretaker charge.New boss Tuchel will officially take over on January 1.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. More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League chairman reveals 40,000-seater new stadium plan as he confirms ‘it’s on the to-do list’

      by

      A PREMIER LEAGUE chairman has admitted that he hopes to raise his club’s stadium capacity to 40,000.Their current ground houses 29,673 supporters.A Premier League club has revealed exciting new plans for their stadiumCredit: BBCTheir chairman has revealed that he’d love to increase the capacity to 40,000Credit: BBCAhead of this season, the former FA Cup winners made some promising improvements.They upgraded media facilities upon their return to the top flight.While they introduced new VIP executive lounges.Among their next goals is to significantly increase the stadium’s capacity.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIpswich Town have been planning to redevelop the Cobbold Stand, which was built in the 1970s and houses away fans, as well as home supporters.During an appearance on BBC Radio Suffolk, chairman Mark Ashton was asked about the Cobbold Stand by Town fans.He said of the stand, which houses 750 season ticket holders as well as the away end: “It’s on the to-do list – it’s not the top of the to-do list, I must be honest with you.”Why? Because I’m certainly not going to take a stand down in the midst of a Premier League season, that’s just not the right thing to do.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIpswich’s Cobbold Stadium houses 750 season ticket holders as well as the away endCredit: GettyAshton has instead thought of a solution that would prevent those 750 season ticket holders being left stranded during a redevelopment.He added: “There’s a train of thought that says ‘no’, the next development there is the West Stand.Nottingham Forest owner Marinakis wants 50,000-seat City Ground “Which sees an increase in capacity in the West Stand, of surprise, surprise, circa 4,000 people.”So when you take down the Cobbold Stand people don’t lose their season tickets and they could move across.”While the expansion of Portman Road is on the radar, Ipswich are instead prioritising making improvements to their Playford Road training facility.They are set to submit a planning application for the training ground upgrades in the next fortnight.On the pitch, Kieran McKenna’s men are yet to win in 10 Premier League matches this season.They have been competitive, however, collecting five draws thus far.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis weekend they will seek their first Prem win in more than 22 years when they take on McKenna’s former side Tottenham.The contest will take place in North London on Sunday afternoon, with Spurs first travelling to Istanbul for a Europa League clash with Galatasaray.Boss Kieran McKenna is hoping to mastermind Ipswich’s first Prem win in more than two decadesCredit: Rex More