More stories

  • in

    Inside Man Utd’s showdown talks as ‘one chief argues for Ten Hag to be SACKED and most likely successor is revealed’

    ERIK TEN HAG remains under immense pressure at Manchester United with one club chief reportedly wanting him SACKED.The Red Devils have stumbled to their worst start to a Premier League season under the Dutchman this term.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been in talks with Manchester United chiefs over the clubCredit: PAErik ten Hag’s future is still in questionCredit: GettyThomas Tuchel is one candidate to replace Ten HagCredit: GettyOld Trafford chiefs were locked in crisis talks on Tuesday in London over the manager’s future.It is believed that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has requested the club’s hierarchy to put forward all potential scenarios for Ten Hag’s future.This includes who would replace the coach should the axe swing and he be removed from his post.Ratcliffe was joined in the meeting by co-owner Joel Glazer, chief executive Omar Berrada, sporting director Dan Ashworth, technical director Jason Wilcox and director Sir Dave Brailsford.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe Independent has reported that one put forward a strong argument for Ten Hag to be sacked.However, the claim was countered by a couple of arguments.One is believed to be that Ten Hag’s era is still viewed to be in its early stages.Another argument was that the disruption of sacking him could further hurt his performance.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMan United chiefs were also concerned about the potential candidates that would replace Ten Hag should he leave.Should Ten Hag be axed, it would cost the club £17.5million due to the extension he signed in June.Roy Keane blasts ‘don’t bloody say it you fool’ in furious rant at Eriksen after Man Utd star’s controversial comment The report suggested that one question that they face is hiring a temporary boss or a permanent coach on a longer-term contract.One candidate is Thomas Tuchel, who was heavily linked to the hotseat at Old Trafford towards the end of last term.It is claimed that he has been spoken about as the most likely successor to the Dutchman.However, it is thought that there has been no contact between the club and the former Chelsea manager.Talks at the meeting at the London office also reached details of the squad’s suitabilities.This apparently included admitting that Ten Hag’s current players are more suited to a back four than a back three.Meanwhile, the club has been slammed by former players Roy Keane, Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney.READ MORE SUN STORIESKeane claimed that he has “given up” on the club, and Neville insisted it has become a graveyard for “good people and players”.Rooney himself hit out at the performance during the 3-0 defeat to Tottenham at Old Trafford as the “worst he has ever seen”. More

  • in

    Kobbie Mainoo goes out for stroll with Love Island star brother after Man Utd ace pulls out of England duty

    KOBBIE MAINOO stretched his legs as he looks to recover from a knock picked up against Aston Villa at the weekend.The Manchester United star was forced to withdraw from the England squad after struggling with a hamstring issue.Kobbie Mainoo took a stroll with Love Island star brother Jordan HamesCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMainoo has been forced to pull out of the England squad with injuryCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe Manchester United midfielder has been struggling with a hamstring problemCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMainoo managed to get out and stretch his legs amid the injury concernsCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe brothers were snapped walking around ManchesterCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe pair left in an AudiCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMainoo took a calm stroll with his Love Island star brother Jordan Hames as he rests up with hopes to return to action after the international break.The pair were pictured chatting away as they walked around Manchester.The brothers have both managed to make a name for themselves with Mainoo a top Premier League star and Hames a top model and social media sensation after his start on reality TV.The duo looked stylish on their plod as they both opted for comfort in baggy trousers and jumpers.READ MORE ON MAN UTDMainoo misses out on the chance to earn his 11th England cap this evening as Lee Carsley’s Three Lions take on Greece in the Nations League at Wembley.He was joined on the England absentee list by Morgan Gibbs-White and Ezri Konsa, who were both forced to withdraw from the squad with injury too.While Liverpool’s Curtis Jones and Newcastle full-back Tino Livramento have been drafted into the team in their place.Man Utd supporters will be hoping that Mainoo will be back in the fold in time for the Red Devils’ clash with Brentford after the break.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSErik ten Hag is already juggling a number of injury issues with Alejandro Garnacho and Noussiar Mazraoui also staying behind at Carrington over joining their national team with issues.And things got even more bleak for the under pressure boss when Harry Maguire revealed he would out of action for “a few weeks” after being substituted with an injury at half-time of the Villa game.Lee Carsley’s England train at St George’s Park ahead of Nations League matches Full-back duo Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw also remain out of action with long-term problems.There was some good news for Ten Hag and the Old Trafford faithful, however.This summer’s £52million arrival Leny Yoro appears to have stepped up his rehab following his pre-season injury, taking to social media to share a video of him running on an anti-gravity treadmill alongside the caption: “On the way back”.Mainoo left the pitch with an injury during Man Utd’s goalless draw against Aston VillaCredit: PA More

  • in

    Man Utd star Mazraoui undergoes procedure after experiencing heart palpitations as he’s ruled out for weeks

    NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI has undergone a procedure after experiencing heart palpitations. Mazraoui withdrew from the Morocco squad after being replaced by Victor Lindelof at half-time against Aston Villa.Noussair Mazraoui has undergone a procedure after experiencing heart palpitationsCredit: GettyIt has since emerged that the right-back – signed this summer from Bayern Munich – has been experiencing palpitations. And he has had successful surgery but is expected to be ruled out of action for some weeks.Team-mate Christian Eriksen suffered a cardiac arrest on the pitch during the Euros in 2021. The Danish international was fitted with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator device after being rushed to hospital. READ MORE ON MAN UTDLess than one year later, Eriksen made his return to football with Brentford before signing for United in the summer of 2022.Meanwhile Mazraoui joined Matthijs de Ligt in a double transfer this summer. He has made ten appearances this season in replace of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who left for West Ham. But Mazraoui was taken off at the break against Villa in the game that ended 0-0. Most read in FootballAnd Garnacho then followed with the Argentina winger feeling the effects of 90 minutes against Unai Emery’s side.He joined Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho in pulling out of international duty.Roy Keane reveals he has ‘given up’ with Man Utd as he, Rooney and Neville lay into Ten Hag’s ‘disgusting’ flops Mainoo had already ruled himself out of the England squad due to a fitness issue after he was replaced by Casemiro at Villa Park. The away point leaves United in 14th and manager Erik ten Hag still under huge pressure. But he survived the sack after SEVEN HOURS worth of showdown talks in London with Red Devils co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Ratcliffe – who was joined by Sir Dave Brailsford and sporting director Dan Ashworth – arrived at around 9:30am and left at 4:45pm.It comes after United fell to their worst ever return from the opening seven Premier League games, picking up just eight points.Without a win in five matches in all competitions, Ten Hag remains under-fire but not yet fired.Erik ten Hag remains under pressureCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Meet Saffie Khan: Model who is expecting a baby with England and Liverpool star Curtis Jones

    SAFFIE KHAN is a model and social media influencer who’s in a relationship with rising Liverpool star Curtis Jones.The couple made headlines with the joyous announcement in May 2024 that they are expecting their first child.Saffie Khan and her partner Curtis Jones, who stars for Liverpool and EnglandCredit: instagram @saffiekhan_Who is Saffie Khan?Saffie Khan has built a substantial following on social media platforms.As of October 10, 2024, she has almost 70k followers on Instagram, where she regularly shares glimpses of her life and modelling work.Her striking looks and fashionable posts have garnered her a dedicated fan base, contributing to her status as an influencer. Saffie is signed to M Models Management and has appeared in various fashion shoots.read more on curtis jonesRelationship with Curtis JonesSaffe and Liverpool and England ace Curtis Jones began dating in 2019, but until recently kept their romance private on social media.Curtis has been a rising star in football since his youth, joining Liverpool’s youth academy in 2010, before being promoted to the first team in 2018 at the age of 17.Jones was a bit-part player when Liverpool won the Premier League in 2020 and the FA Cup in 2022, but has become an important part of the squad in the last two years.His fine form was rewarded with an England call up by Lee Carsley in October 2024, who previously coached Jones when he helped England Under-21s win the U21 Euros in 2023.Most read in FootballJones and Saffie’s romance has become a point of interest for football fans and celebrity-watchers alike.Pregnancy announcementOn May 15, 2024, Saffie and Curtis shared the exciting news of her pregnancy through a joint Instagram post.Fans and players old and new were quick to congratulate the happy couple.Liverpool’s Owen Beck wrote “Congrats to both of you”, while Daniel Sturrage posted “Congrats bro”.Liverpool ace Curtis Jones aims sly dig at Arsenal for ‘stealing their stuff’ after wild celebrations following huge winOther Reds legends who shared their good wishes with the happy couple include Ryan Gravenberch, Bobby Clark, Stefan Bajcetic, Tyler Morton, Rhian Brewster, Rhys Williams and Neco Williams.In October 2024, Saffie shared a pregnancy update on Instagram.She said: “Ready for my autumn baby.”One follower commented: “What a perfect time of year to have a baby too, so much indoor bonding time! You look gorgeous! So excited for you.” Saffie and Curtis revealed they are expecting in an Insta postCredit: instagram @saffiekhan_Another gushed: “Gorgeous lady, so excited for you.” A third added: “So stunning.”Saffie has used Instagram to keep her followers updated on her pregnancy journey.Her openness about the experience has further endeared her to fans.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs they navigate this new phase of their lives, it seems likely that Saffie will continue to share updates and insights through her social media accounts.And her profile is likely to continue rising — both as a model, and as a partner to one of England’s top young footballers. More

  • in

    Why isn’t Harry Kane starting for England tonight?

    HARRY KANE has been on fire for the Three Lions of late, scoring a brace against Finland last time out.But the England captain and talisman will not be starting against Greece when the match kicks off at 7.45 pm on October 10 — here we take a look at why.Harry Kane went down in the 72nd minute during Bayern’s 3-3 draw with FrankfurtCredit: GettyThe England skipper requred treatment and was replaced by Mathys TelCredit: GettyWhy isn’t Harry Kane starting against Greece?Harry Kane will not be starting the match as a precaution because of a minor knock he picked up while playing in the Bundesliga.He sustained the injury during Bayern Munich’s 3-3 draw with Eintracht Frankfurt on Sunday, October 6, 2024.The Three Lions’ skipper needed 72nd-minute treatment and was replaced by Mathys Tel — just days ahead of two Nations League ties.This came came after Kane hurt his ankle late in a 1-1 home draw with Bayern Leverkusen the week before.read more on harry kaneThe injury prevented him from training with Lee Carsley’s England squad in the run-up to the Greece game, leading to his exclusion from the starting lineup for the Nations League match.The exact nature of the injury has not been reported.What Lee Carsley said about KaneInterim England manager Lee Carsley is taking a cautious approach with Kane’s fitness.He also confirmed Kane was doing individual training sessions on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the match.Most read in FootballCarsley said: “Harry’s nursing an injury, a small knock. Something that we won’t take a chance with.””We’re not ruling him out yet of the game, but he won’t start the game.”Hopefully he’ll be in contention then for Sunday (against Finland) but, again, time will tell.”It’s not something I think we should be rushing.”So while Kane won’t be starting the match, he hasn’t been ruled out completely.I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselvesLee CarsleyThere’s still a possibility he could be available as a substitute, though this remains uncertain.The team is hopeful that Kane may be able to play against Finland on October 13.Importance of cautionThis careful management of Kane’s injury is particularly important given his history of injuries.Over the years, Kane has dealt with various issues, including ankle, knee and hamstring problems.The team’s cautious approach aims to protect his long-term fitness and ensure he’s available for crucial matches in the future.What else do we know about the squad?Carsley confirmed that John Stones will step in to captain England for the first time as he picks up his 82nd cap.He also mentioned that Tino Livramento and Curtis Jones have been moved up from the under-21s and will be in the squad.The FA gave an update on Kane, and also Jack Grealish: “Harry Kane continued his individualised programme at St George’s Park on Wednesday [October 9] while Jack Grealish also sat out of training as a precaution with a minor knock.”Carsley emphasised a cautious approach with player fitness, stating: “I think it’s important that we put them [the players] first rather than ourselves.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also mentioned the abundance of options the national side is currently blessed with: “There were a lot of players who were close to this squad. With the talent we have available, it would have been possible to pick a 40-man squad and justify having them all in.”The challenge is making sure we pick a competitive squad and a squad that can win the two games.” More

  • in

    Dwight Yorke’s former ‘pub team’ club hit by transfer ban until they pay Man Utd legend small fortune in compensation

    AUSTRALIAN club Macarthur FC have been placed on a transfer ban until they pay former boss Dwight Yorke over £100,000 in compensation.Yorke, 52, was appointed manager of the A-League club back in July 2022 and spent just six months in New South Wales.Macarthur FC have been told to pay Dwight Yorke over £100,000 in compensationCredit: GettyDuring that time, he led Macarthur to victory in the Australia Cup and won 10 out of 18 matches.But he was sacked in January 2023 after a huge dressing room clash.Yorke compared his squad to a “pub team” and claimed the club was “run by muppets” in the wake of a 1-0 defeat to Adelaide United.He later took Macarthur to a FIFA tribunal and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt was ruled that Yorke had been sacked without just cause, meaning the club would have to pay him A$212,500 (£109,000) in compensation.FIFA have now banned Macarthur from signing any new players until they settle the fee.Club officials are now exploring legal alternatives.A statement from the Bulls read: “The club is not concerned of the immediate effect of FIFA’s decision and is exploring further legal avenues available.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”The club is confident the matter will be resolved between now and January 2025.”The club will be making no further comment on the matter.”How Erik Ten Hag finally got something right at Man Utd but selfish runners may still get him sackedCEO Sam Krslovic added: “This transfer ban is a non-event. We’re in the process of resolving this issue by the start of the January transfer window.”The club is currently exploring its legal options in regards to defamation following stories and interviews which have stemmed from the event.”Meanwhile, Yorke said: “I have maintained dignity throughout this and will continue to do so. FIFA and CAS have found in my favour.”As of now, I’m awaiting my settlement. I wish the players, the supporters and the club all the best.” More

  • in

    Adama Traore reveals what Pep Guardiola said to him after Man City’s rollercoaster win over Fulham

    ADAMA TRAORE has revealed what Pep Guardiola said to him after Manchester City’s rollercoaster win over Fulham.The two sides played out a thrilling Premier League clash at the Etihad last weekend.Adama Traore has lifted the lid on his conversation with Pep GuardiolaCredit: GettyThe pair linked up after Man City narrowly beat Fulham 3-2Credit: ReutersAndreas Pereira fired the visitors ahead before a double from Mateo Kovacic saw City take a 2-1 lead.The champs then looked to have sealed all three points with Jeremy Doku’s 81st minute effort.But Fulham left City sweating over their win as a late hit from Rodrigo Muniz saw the final score end 3-2 to the hosts.One man who had a whale of a time on the pitch was ex-Wolves winger Traore.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe lined up on the left instead of his usual right side, allowing him to get at Kyle Walker and leave the England star trailing in the wake of his even faster pace.But Traore was unable to bury any of his chances, which included a simple one-on-one against Ederson.At the final whistle, City boss Guardiola made a beeline for Traore before embracing the winger in a hug.They could be seen talking with great joy before parting ways.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTraore and Guardiola know each other from their time together at Barcelona, with the midfielder working his way through the youth ranks while Pep managed the senior side.And Traore admitted Guardiola gave him finishing advice while also hailing his performance.Man City director of football Txiki Begiristain discusses transfer strategy Traore said: “I’ve known him for a few years but it’s always appreciated.“I met him at Barcelona. When I arrived at Aston Villa I also had a call with him and he has always been friendly.”Meanwhile, Guardiola also talked about Traore, adding: “Adama, he was unstoppable in that game.“We couldn’t control when he had the ball. You have to defend in your 18-yard box.” More

  • in

    I was earning £10,000 a week at Newcastle before I went to jail – I’d still be in the Premier League now if I’d behaved

    NILE RANGER has been in prison twice and gone from a £10,000-a-week Premier League star to non-league – but insists he still “could play in any team”.And the 33-year-old is adamant he still has “one big move left in me” as he aims to use the FA Cup to fire himself back into the limelight.Nile Ranger is playing for Kettering Town these daysCredit: Instagram / @nilepowerrangerThe former Newcastle United striker played under both Kevin Keegan and Chris Hughton during his time at St. James’ Park as well as England’s youth sides.These days he is banging them in for Kettering Town and hoping to add to his impressive tally of five goals in five appearances when they travel to Farsley Celtic on Saturday to battle for a place in the FA Cup first round proper.Ranger signed a five-year contract worth £10,000-a-week with Newcastle but both Keegan and Chris Hughton could not get him away from his off-field issues.He had already served time for his role in an armed robbery as a teenager, and he revealed how extreme the latter manager’s warnings were.READ MORE IN football Discussing Hughton, Ranger explained: “He said: ‘Listen, if you’re late again I’ll make you pull out your gold tooth and sell it’. He still named me on the bench. It was a different world.“I’d not been long out of the young offenders’ institute – now I was getting changed next to Michael Owen. People would cut their leg off for the opportunity I had.“I would bring all my friends up to Newcastle [from London] for parties. “I had more money than sense. There was no discipline from me. I was living life in the fast lane.Most read in Football“Chris Hughton would say to me ‘you need to focus, you need to tell all your friends to go back to London’ because we used to cause havoc in Newcastle.Ranger runs his own football academy these days but wants others to learn from his own mistakes after serving time in a young offenders’ institute for his part in a robbery, although he denies using weapons. Former Premier League bad boy Nile Ranger returns to football with non-league club after two years unemployedHe ended up back in jail in 2017 for fraud following a spell at Southend.Ranger admitted: “Looking back I’ve realised the many silly decisions that led to the situations I found myself in. I messed up.”However, he still believes that his chance to reach the top has not passed him by as he prepares for FA Cup action.He added: “I could play in any team at my age if I’m fit – any team.“It has to be a fit me, not a rusty me. But the rust is coming off.“I still feel there is one big move left in me. I’m going to roll the dice one more time.”Ranger used to play for NewcastleCredit: Getty More