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      Isak denied goal by ‘worst offside decision ever seen’ after VAR blunder as fans ‘can’t work out how it was ruled out’

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      ALEXANDER ISAK was bizarrely denied a goal for Sweden after a shocking error from VAR.The Newcastle ace was in action for his nation against Azerbaijan during a 6-0 mauling in the Uefa Nations League.Alexander Isak at the top of the screen was judged to be offside and had a goal ruled out for SwedenCredit: ViaplayVAR drew offside lines from Isak despite Viktor Gyokeres being the recipient of the passCredit: ViaplayIsak revealed there had been an argument between players and officials in the tunnel about the decisionCredit: RexTottenham star Dejan Kulusevski had opened the scoring after 10 minutes before Sporting Lisbon forward Viktor Gyokeres netted a brace before the break to make it 3-0.The ex-Coventry player soon turned provider as he picked up the ball in injury time and slipped a pass to Isak, who carried the ball down the left wing before cutting inside to shoot into the bottom left corner. However, despite no original suggestion of offside, VAR bizarrely ruled out the goal.The judgement was clearly incorrect when viewing a replay as Isak, 25, was well onside when Gyokeres played him the ball.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it turned out that VAR had drawn the lines to Isak at the wrong time.Instead, VAR had strangely drawn the lines from Isak when Gyokeres, 26, had originally picked up the move inside his OWN HALF.The decision left fans and even reporters confused, with Siavoush Fallahi writing on social media: “I’m crying they gave an offside on Isak when the ball went to Gyokeres in the middle.”A fan said: “Possibly the worst offside decision I’ve ever seen I still can’t work out how Isak’s goal has been ruled out.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA second added: “They drew the line on Isak for the pass to Gyokeres.”Another said: “We need a VAR check for VAR.”VAR footage of William Saliba red card released by PGMOL as Arsenal fans rage at Liverpool fan’s inputSweden went on to win the match 6-0, with Gyokeres scoring two more and Kulusevski bagging another while Isak also missed a penalty shortly after half-time.Speaking after the game, Isak revealed he and his team-mates had been engaged in an argument with the VAR officials over the decision in the player tunnel at half-time.According to the Sweden Herald, he said: “How is that possible? Seriously. It’s almost the worst I’ve seen.”I’m happy, of course, that we win, but I score a goal that should be allowed, then it’s clear that you get annoyed.”I don’t think I’ve ever experienced anything like this at this level when I’ve been involved. “You’ve seen a lot of mistakes, but this one was pretty rough. The VAR referees stood in the player tunnel at halftime. “We argued with them, but they stuck to their decision that they had made the right call.”National team coach Jon Dahl Tomasson was just as angry, adding: “I was furious, the whole team was furious. I don’t understand it. For me, it was a goal, but we can’t change it.”The game ensured Sweden won their Nations League C Group 1 with five wins and one draw, while Azerbaijan finished bottom of the group without a win.Sweden are the only nation inside the top 30 ranked leagues in Europe who do not use VAR.Having been written into IFAB rules in 2018, the Allsvenskan remains an exception by refusing to implement it.Ola Thews, vice-chairman of Swedish giant AIK’s largest supporter organization, ASK, said of VAR in August: “VAR is a symbol of modern, commercialised-to-the-point-of-destruction football.”Thews also believes VAR “ruins the euphoria” of scoring a goal.In England, Premier League chiefs fear they have to go without semi-automated offside technology until next season.Howard Webb had claimed last month that assistant VAR errors were down 80 per cent before Michael Oliver had a high-profile blunder during Manchester United’s clash at West Ham.READ MORE SUN STORIESOn-field referee David Coote had originally waved play on before being called back with Matthijs de Ligt accused of fouling Danny Ings following a coming together in the penalty area.The decision to then award a penalty with the off-field recommendation was maligned at the time before Webb admitted it was “on balance, probably not a penalty”.VAR: Imagine the future…Martin Lipton’s pro VAR viewFAST forward 12 months to May 18, 2025.After 89 minutes at Molineux, Wolves, needing to win their last game of the season to stay up, are beating Manchester United, who require a point for Champions League football.A ball over the top sends Rasmus Hojlund racing away. The flag stays down. Hojlund scores. Wolves are relegated.And on the way home, the dejected Wolves fans see the still image on their phones.Hojlund was 2ft offside. No question. A shocker.It means at least a year in the Championship, £100million income drop, a firesale of the squad. While United bank an extra £50m.But it’s OK. Every  one of those fans, plus smiling boss Gary O’Neil and the  Wolves board, will line up to say: “No worries. It’s what we voted for. Rough with the smooth.”Yes. And I’ve got a bridge to Ireland to sell you. More

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      Alex Scott shows off bold new look as BBC star stuns on GQ Men of the Year 2024 red carpet

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      YOU can’t beat Alex Scott for ‘sheer’ variety.The BBC presenter’s fashion choices are iconic yet unpredictable.Alex Scott unveiled a fresh style for the bash at London’s Roof GardensCredit: GettyScott and Leah Williamson paraded contrasting versions of chicCredit: PAHere’s what Alex wore 12 months earlier at the 2023 GQ awardsCredit: AlamyLast year at the GQ Men of the Year bash she went braless in a see-through dress.This time only her legs had a sheer covering – stockings to complement a very short velvety outfit, paired with white blouse and shoestring necktie.It meant there was a huge contrast in styles when the 40-year-old BBC football presenter posed alongside Leah Williamson.The Lionesses’ skipper, 27, wore only a black bra beneath an over-sized beige trousersuit for the event at London’s Roof Gardens.READ MORE TOP FOOTBALLYet the Arsenal ace’s outfit was in fact similar to a combo Scott paraded on Instagram over the summer.And the former England defender’s radical new look for the GQ night showed again how she keeps everyone guessing.That’s much like the Beeb are doing now – over their choice to succeed Gary Lineker as Match of the Day host when he bows out at the end of the season after 25 years.Scott, whose partner is singer Jess Glynne, currently sits second favourite, with Gabby Logan third in the bookies’ list.Most read in FootballDid Scott’s spring outfit inspire Williamson’s GQ choice?!Credit: Instagram @alexscott2FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSChelsea winger Cole Palmer, known for his flair and creativity on the pitch, opted instead for a route-one, no-nonsense tuxedo – as he was snapped at a public event with girlfriend Connie Grace for the first time.The England star’s mum Marie was also with him – with Palmer and his two guests all keeping it simple in black.Alex Scott joins girlfriend Jess Glynne as they stun on red carpet at amfAR Gala in Cannes The 22-year-old and Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, 19, were amongst the prime guests, after GQ put them on the cover of their Men of the Year edition for December.Palmer joked with the magazine he always wore “trackies” away from the cameras.Now that’s one item it’s difficult to imagine Scott ever being pictured in at a public do!A glimpse into the life of the ex-Lioness… Scott dazzled in a red leather outfit when presenting SoccerAidCredit: RexShe is a presenter on Football Focus and The One ShowAlex has appeared in magazines including AttitudeCredit: Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards and Attitude magazine – on sale nowThe former right-back won 140 England Women’s capsCredit: Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards and Attitude magazine – on sale nowScott began dating singer Jess Glynne in 2023Credit: RexThe 39-year-old was spotted sharing a kiss with Jess as the couple went public with their romanceCredit: PAShe also dressed up as a scary clown on October 31Credit: Instagram @alexscott2Scott loves to dress up and went to town on Halloween with this incredible outfitCredit: GettyShe attended Wimbledon with partner JessCredit: GettyScott was awarded an MBE in 2017Credit: PA More

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      Ruben Amorim tells Man Utd squad why all managers post-Fergie have failed with stars ‘blown away’ by ‘Mourinho 2.0’

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      RUBEN AMORIM believes Manchester United have failed because they have played in the shadow of Sir Alex Ferguson – instead of in his spirit.The new Old Trafford boss has not been shy of making huge statements to players in his early training sessions this week.Kobbie Mainoo, Amad Diallo and Marcus Rashford were among Red Devils’ players knuckling down to training under Ruben AmorimCredit: GettyNew chief Amorim has impressed Man Utd stars with his ‘confidence’Credit: GettyWinger Antony is one of the aces hoping Amorim revives their fortunesCredit: GettyAmad Diallo shared a glowing verdict on Amorim via social mediaCredit: GettyIn a video released by United on Monday, Amorim, 39, drilled his stars who were not on international duty.But SunSport can reveal the players have been ‘blown away’ by his immediate impact with ‘Mourinho-style confidence’.Fergie left 11 years ago and a string of managers, including most-recently sacked Erik ten Hag, have not won the Premier League since.A source said: “He told them that top managers have not replicated Sir Alex’s success because they have lived in his shadow, rather than getting their team to play with his spirit.READ MORE TOP FOOTBALL“Even before Monday’s first session, the players have been very impressed.“Then, after the sessions, they are blown away by his energy, approach and confidence.“There’s definite Mourinho vibes in the way he speaks and his self belief – but the style is his own.“The players think he’s very approachable and that he will understand them. Some of them are calling him Mourinho 2.0.”Most read in FootballUnited players have been told to be inspired not intimidated by the legendary 27-year reign of Sir Alex FergusonCredit: PA:Press AssociationFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAmorim was mentored by ex-United boss Jose Mourinho and even had a week internship at Old Trafford with him in 2018, shortly before his two-year spell as manager came to an end.Portuguese boss Mourinho was also one of Amorim’s first calls when he was offered the United job with the original Special One telling him ‘to go for it’.Ruben Amorim takes charge of first Man Utd training sessionThe source added: “He told the ones he’s seen so far that the talent in the squad is unbelievable – but they need to start playing as a team.”The new head coach met some players in the gym at Carrington last week, with others on holiday or with their national sides.But the likes of Luke Shaw, Casemiro, Marcus Rashford, Leny Yoro, Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo were part of early drills in a new 3-4-3 shape and with a new style on Monday.Amorim is desperate to give United a new identity and stamp his mark on the team from day one – with his first game at Ipswich on Sunday.Amad Diallo, Antony, Rashford and Jonny Evans all uploaded glowing social media posts after their first sessions under the new head coach and his backroom team.Amorim also told players he likes a settled team – but they all have the chance to impress him on the training pitch.Portugal stars Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot have been away on international duty but had already told their club team-mates they will be impressed and how good Amorim is in training.The former Sporting manager has been very affectionate with the players and told them it is only natural he will have pre-conceived ideas about them – but they have the time to change his minds.In his first interview, Amorim told fans they would have an idea immediately of how he wants his team to play.United are 13th with a zero goal difference – but only four points off Chelsea in third with the Prem returning on Saturday.And the stars on the training ground were left with no doubt on the shape and system he wants to play from the outset.Mainoo was singled out for tactical advice at CarringtonCredit: GettyAmorim has informed his squad he prefers a settled teamCredit: GettyThe source added: “One thing the players are going to have to learn fast is that it is imperative they stick to his system and principles.“He gets how they live, how they want to work and how to get the best out of them. ”“Because he’s only 39, he gets their fashion, their music and their feelings about the modern game.”Mainoo was given special treatment by ex-midfielder Amorim in the first session.The England star, 19, was getting instructions on where to receive the ball and spin into space.Antony was given a right wing-back role in training – but with Dalot, Alejandro Garnacho and Noussair Mazraoiu away, it is unlikely he will play there at Portman Road.Shaw is trying to regain fitness and he spent the 3-4-3 schooling to the left of Jonny Evans in the back three, with Yoro to the right.READ MORE SUN STORIESCasemiro and Mainoo were in midfield with Rashford up front. Mount and Amad slotted into the No10 roles behind the striker.The source added: “The players and club are energized. The other players will be anxious to get back to Carrington to prove themselves.” More

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      Wales promoted to Nations League A and could face ENGLAND after rivals fall to shock loss to previously winless minnows

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      NO wonder Swansea fans call Liam Cullen the ‘Kilgetty Messi’.The 25-year-old turned in the performance of his life – one the Argentina maestro himself would have been proud of.Wales have beaten Iceland to seal promotion to the Nations League ACredit: ReutersLiam Cullen stole the show with a braceCredit: GettyHe scored his first two international goals, created another for Brennan Johnson and even had a hand in Harry Wilson’s late strike.It all meant that – against all odds – Wales topped their Nations League group on another night to remember in the capital.Turkey’s shock defeat in Montenegro means the Dragons are promoted to Group A.This could see Wales drawn against England in the next edition of the tournament which kicks off in September 2026.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLMore importantly though, they will almost certainly have a World Cup play-off to fall back on if they fail to make it through their group.And the way Craig Bellamy’s reign has started, you wouldn’t bet against them finding a way to the USA in summer 2026.They showed some character here to come storming back after falling behind early on.Former Burnley man Johann Gudmundsson’s cross was headed goalwards by Orri Oskarsson and Danny Ward pushed it out.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIt fell nicely for Andri Gudjohnsen – son of ex-Chelsea forward Eidur – who despatched it back through the keeper’s legs.It was the first goal Wales have conceded at home in over five hours of football – since Finland scored in the Euro 2024 play off in March.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersAnd it was also the first time Bellamy had found his team behind since he took charge at the start of the autumn.So this was a new kind of test for him and his team were second best for the first half hour.Yet they finally got going and Premier League pair Neco Williams and Johnson worked the ball down the left.The Spurs man floated over a cross that was glanced home by Cullen for his first goal for his country.Cullen has not scored for his club since September 21 so it was just the tonic he needed.Wales were now on top and on the stroke of half-time they were ahead as Mark Harris played another ball out to Dan James.His shot was only half-stopped by Iceland keeper Hakon Valdimarsson, but Cullen was there to bundle in the rebound.The 25-year-old hails from the small town of Kilgetty in Pembrokeshire – hence the nickname back with his club.Things had really turned on their head – particularly as news came through that group leaders Turkey were behind in Podgorica.Iceland had not given up though and sub Mikael Ellertsson brought a smart save out of Ward soon after the restart.Harry Wilson was put clean through but unusually for him he lacked composure and gave the keeper an easy save.But midway through the second half the Dragons had breathing space as Cullen turned provider, winning the ball and sending Johnson clear.This time he kept his cool and thumped a low shot home home to score his fifth goal for his country.Cullen wasn’t finished there though as Cullen won his dual with his marker as they both went for a high ball.Wilson picked up the loose ball and steered a shot beyond the visiting keeper from the edge of the box.The Fulham man has been the stand-out performer in this Nations League campaign for the Dragons – and deserved his goal.What a night for Cullen though – he could barely get a look in under former boss Rob Page and now he gets a night like this.READ MORE SUN STORIESNews filtered through that Montenegro had extended their lead over the Turks – and the celebrations could really start among the home fans.Their World Cup qualifying campaign will start in March rather than June now – but their hopes of a ticket to America in 20 months’ time have increased significantly.Brennan Johnson made it 3-1 with a clinical finishCredit: GettyHarry Wilson wrapped up the result with Wales’ fourthCredit: GettyCraig Bellamy will be eying up a World Cup spot in 2026Credit: Getty More

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      Mourinho was the first man Amorim called after Man Utd interest, now his first test is against another Jose disciple

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      WHEN Ruben Amorim and Kieran McKenna have a post-match chat at Portman Road on Sunday, they will have one ‘special’ thing in common.Two young managers, still in their 30s, who were schooled in the art under the tutelage of Jose Mourinho.Ruben Amorim called Jose Mourinho after receiving the interest from Manchester UnitedCredit: Twitter @Mourinho_XtraMourinho was also a mentor to Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKennaCredit: GettyThe man, who himself credits the great Sir Bobby Robson for his own rise to the very top, has never been averse to giving a helping hand to those who want to follow him up the ladder.Ask Brendan Rodgers and Andre Villas-Boas, who worked with Mourinho at Chelsea, or Aitor Karanka, his No.2 at Real Madrid.Sat in Lisbon a few months back plotting another victory to keep Sporting on the road to a potential third Portuguese title, Amorim got a call to be told of interest from Manchester United.After putting the phone down, the first person he contacted for advice was the man he describes as his ‘reference point’, Mourinho.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGiven how the self-proclaimed Special One had become the ‘redundant one’ thanks to United sacking him back in December 2018, in his third season in charge, you might have thought he would warn him off.Not a bit of it. ‘Go for it’ was the response from the ex-Red Devils boss, who won the Europa League and League Cup during his spell at Old Trafford.Mourinho knew Amorim, 39, had the ability to lift the red giant, which is not so much sleeping right now but waiting to come out of a coma.The now Fenerbahce boss said recently: “He has the conditions to be able to coach in any league and he has the conditions to be able to coach in any club.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMourinho soaked up every piece of knowledge he could under Sir Bobby, first as a translator at Sporting, Porto and Barcelona, and later when Robson brought him into the coaching set-up at the Catalan giants.When his playing days were behind him, Amorim turned his attentions to coaching and was always a student of the game, scrutinising the likes of Antonio Conte and Mourinho.A look at the build-up to Ruben Amorim’s first match in charge of Man Utd Amorim starred for Benfica as a player before going on to manage Sporting LisbonCredit: GettyAmorim’s first game in charge of Man United will be against Ipswich on SundayCredit: GettySix years ago, while doing a Masters degree in high-performance football coaching at the University of Lisbon, he got the chance of a week-long internship at United — where Mourinho was boss.He effectively shadowed Mourinho in the week leading up to the visit of Arsenal in April 2018, which would be Arsene Wenger’s last match at Old Trafford as Gunners boss.In that short time, Amorim learned every facet of how to be a top manager, even how to speak in a press conference, and he has already been compared to Mourinho in his media dealings… the ones when he turns on the charm at least.Amorim said: “The impact he had on my career was the way he treated me, he showed me that you can win everything and be a different person than you think.“He’s very experienced. In terms of my experience at Manchester, it was the only club where I did an internship.“He’s a special coach who opened doors for us.”That first door opened for Amorim in his native Portugal at third-tier Casa Pia, then Braga and on to Sporting, where his success in lifting two titles brought him to United’s attention.Ipswich boss McKenna, 38, was linked with the United job last summer when it looked like Erik ten Hag was on his way.He knows the club well and learned under Mourinho when he promoted him from the youth set-up at the club to become his assistant after long-time wingman Rui Faria left his side.McKenna’s United warningKIERAN MCKENNA has warned Manchester United Portman Road will be rocking on Sunday, writes Rob MaulPrem new-boys Ipswich bagged a first win of the season at Tottenham last time out to drag them out of the drop zone.They host the Red Devils for the first time since 2002  in new boss Ruben Amorim’s first game in charge.Tractor Boys chief  McKenna — a former United coach who was considered for the hotseat — said: “If you had felt the atmosphere at Portman Road this season, you’d know it’s been electric anyway.“So I don’t know if it can go up too much.”McKenna’s playing career was cut short at 22 due to an ongoing hip problem while at Spurs. But he remained there as a coach in their academy before making the switch to United.Mourinho spotted the talent in the coach and elevated him to the bench next to him in May 2018.McKenna said: “I’ve said before it was a privilege for me to come on to his coaching staff, he’s such an iconic figure for coaches of my generation.“It was a relatively short period, but it was great to work and learn from him. You can see why he’s been so successful in his career.”It was the fact Mourinho achieved his success without a great playing CV that made McKenna realise he could achieve his dreams.McKenna said: “The coaches that came before us, Brendan Rodgers, Mourinho, people of that ilk, went into management through different pathways.“They have laid the groundwork and shown what can be achieved by coaches from different backgrounds.”McKenna was often unfairly labelled as a weak link on the training ground when things started to go wrong under Mourinho and then Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.But he quickly debunked that theory when Ipswich took a punt on him and he achieved successive promotions to get the Suffolk club back in the top flight for the first time since 2002.McKenna and Amorim face off in the Mourinho derby on Sunday.READ MORE SUN STORIESAfterwards, when the pair share a drink, they will no doubt raise a glass to the man who helped them on their way.Someone who remains ‘special’ to them both. 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      Cole Palmer makes first public appearance with girlfriend at GQ Men of the Year… and brings his MUM along too

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      COLE PALMER charmed the red carpet with his choice of two extra special companions at a glamorous GQ Men of the Year event.The England winger and his girlfriend – fellow Mancunian Connie Grace – made their first public appearance together.Cole Palmer and girlfriend Connie Grace looked ultra elegant togetherCredit: RexCole was also with mum Marie at the big do in LondonCredit: RexConnie reportedly met Palmer in their native Manchester but it was on holiday in Ibiza back in August where they were spotted outCredit: InstagramPalmer has joked he ‘just wears trackies’ away from the cameraCredit: GettyPalmer and Kobbie Mainoo made the front cover of GQCredit: Dan Martensen / GQAnd Palmer’s mum Marie was also alongside the Chelsea hero at the Kensington Roof Gardens bash in London.The two main women in the life of the ex-Manchester City starlet were snapped next to him separately – but with equal elegance.Palmer himself went for the timeless look of black tuxedo and bowtie.Connie, a nail artist, opted for a daring cut-out dress in the same colour.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn tandem, that meant a partnership as stylish as they come – in fashion or in football.Meanwhile, Marie wore a shimmering black dress and carried a matching clutch-bag on an occasion that underlined the great value Palmer places on his family.The 22-year-old credits dad Jermaine for teaching him all he knows about football, claiming: “He was Pep before I met Pep [Man City boss Guardiola].”Cole’s elder sister Hallie completes the happy unit.Most read in FootballThe nail artist is now in a relationship with PalmerCredit: instagram @conniegrace_Connie was on a holiday with him three months agoCredit: instagram @conniegrace_FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThree Lions’ pal Kobbie Mainoo was also at the London night-out – after he and Palmer adorned the cover of GQ’s magazine’s Men of the Year edition for December.Mainoo’s garb was brasher – a loose-fitting, leather-look suit and white T-shirt.Cole Palmer gives injury boost ahead of Arsenal clash as Chelsea star seen at Stamford BridgeBut in their GQ interview each was dressed in an array of spectacular outfits for the accompanying interview.However, it was in that chat when Palmer joked “I just wear trackies” – when away from the spotlight.Tuesday evening is not the first time he’s posed in public with Connie.They were snapped as he held his PFA Young Player of the year award in September.But the GQ do is their photographic debut together at a specific public event.Palmer and Connie were initially spotted in August – during an Ibiza holiday.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd he might have had a little downtime over the past week too – as one of nine players to drop out of the England squad due to fitness issues.But apart from taking in a Wrexham game, Palmer was spotted at a McDonald’s Drive Thru – suggesting his taste in food is just as casual as his ‘trackie’ taste in clothes!Palmer was joined by Usain Bolt at the eventCredit: GettyKobbie Mainoo was another big name at the London eventCredit: RexMainoo looked to be loving his cool outfitCredit: Rex More

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      Pep Guardiola on verge of sensational new Man City deal to extend stay past a decade despite being expected to leave

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      PEP GUARDIOLA is close to agreeing a new one-year contract extension with Manchester City.The 53-year-old’s existing deal is due to expire at the end of the season.Pep Guardiola has agreed a new one-year deal with Man CityCredit: EPAHowever, SunSport understands Guardiola has committed to a deal in principal with the reigning Premier League champions for at least another year.It’s expected he will put pen to paper on a new one-year deal with the option of a further 12 months.Should the terms be fulfilled, it would take his time at the Etihad to a decade.Guardiola joined City back in 2016 following the departure of Manuel Pellegrini.Read More in FootballOver the last eight years, the Spaniard has won 18 trophies including six Premier League titles, the Champions League, two FA Cups and the Club World Cup.But there had been speculation regarding his future in recent weeks amid the club’s legal battle with Prem bosses.The hearing into Man City’s alleged breaches of Financial Fair Play has entered it’s 10th week.City are currently facing 115 charges relating to their financial dealings between 2009 and 2018.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIf found guilty, the Prem giants could face a significant punishment.They may even be expelled from the top division.Man City player ratings: Even Pep Guardiola can’t believe how good Erling Haaland is as new Samba man fails to shine (1)With Guardiola set to stay, he will be forced to lead the Cityzens through the storm of whatever penalty – if any – they receive.Following Man City’s 4-1 defeat to Sporting Lisbon earlier this month, the manager said: “It is a tough challenge, but I am here.”It will be a tough season — we knew that from the start. But this is what it is. I like it, I love it, I want to face it and lift my players and try it.” More

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      Former Premier League chief now owns ‘Spanish Accrington Stanley’ with 6,000-capacity stadium

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      FORMER Burnley chief Mike Garlick has swapped Lancashire for Andalusia to become owner of Spanish third tier side Antequera.After stepping down from his role at Turf Moor in 2020 following ALK Capital’s takeover, the businessman set his sights on a new challenge.Former Burnley chairman Mike Garlick has embarked on a new ventureCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe 61-year-old has become owner of AntequeraCredit: PA:Press AssociationGarlick left Burnley in 2020Credit: Getty Images – GettyAnd when the opportunity arose to become Antequera boss at the start of this year, he grabbed it with both hands.”I didn’t want to buy a big club,” he told The Times.”The most enjoyable thing about Burnley wasn’t the day you won something or got promotion but the actual journey — and I wanted a journey.”I looked at Antequera and thought, ‘We could go on a journey here.’Read More in Football”I knew I’d miss the buzz of football and I got offered a lot of different clubs in England but I’m a Burnley fan so I wasn’t that keen.”We already had a house in Spain, near Marbella, and my wife speaks Spanish so why not here? I can get on a plane to Malaga, jump in a car and be here really quickly.”On top of that, they’d been promoted in three of the past five years so they are clearly on an upward trend.”Antequera currently sit second in Primera Federación Group 2 – only behind Betis Deportivo Balompie, the reserve team of Real Betis.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIf they win the group, the Spanish side will earn promotion to the second tier.Otherwise, they may have to do so via the play-offs at the end of the campaign.Bungling Burnley academy manager quits after sending bombshell message slamming ‘mad’ and ‘lazy’ players to WRONG groupGarlick has ambitions of leading the team all the way up to LaLiga.If Antequera achieve the feat, they would represent one of the smallest towns in the division.The 61-year-old continued: “I’ve compared it to Accrington as the population’s just over 40,000 so if we did get into La Liga one day, we’d be one of the smallest-ever towns in there.”Burnley was the smallest town in the Premier League — you’ve got 78,000 people there. It’s a dream but why not try for it?”Who are these famous footballers? More