Soccer

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Liverpool release blunt statement about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s exit after he announces he is quitting club

      by

      LIVERPOOL have issued a blunt statement after Trent Alexander-Arnold confirmed he would be leaving the club after 20 years.Alexander-Arnold, 26, broke through the Reds’ Academy into the first team under Jurgen Klopp and emerged into one of the best right-backs in world football.Trent Alexander-Arnold has announced he is leaving Liverpool after a 20-year associationCredit: GettyThe Reds issued a blunt statement on the decisionCredit: EPAHis exploits helped Liverpool land two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.However, in an emotional statement, the defender announced he would be leaving Liverpool when his contract expires this summer.The Englishman, who is expected to be heading to Real Madrid on a free transfer after agreeing a five-year deal worth £240,000 a week, called it “easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life”.Liverpool made a statement of their own following the news.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt read: “Trent Alexander-Arnold has informed Liverpool FC of his intention to leave the club this summer upon the expiry of his current contract.”The 26-year-old will bring his two-decade-long association with the Reds to an end having made the decision to depart Anfield once his deal ceases on June 30, 2025…”Alexander-Arnold joined Liverpool’s Academy at the age of six and progressed through the ranks at youth level before making his senior debut in 2016.”He has gone on to make 352 appearances for the Reds to date, scoring 23 goals and lifting eight major honours, including this season’s Premier League title…Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Alexander-Arnold will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success.”The club added a statement from Alexander-Arnold in the announcement.Inside raucous Liverpool dressing room as Trent Alexander-Arnold leads celebrations and Darwin Nunez smokes a cigarAlexander-Arnold said: “I think first and foremost, I want to say it’s not an easy decision and there’s a lot of thought and feeling that has gone into it. “I’ve been here 20 years now, loved every single minute of it, achieved all my dreams, achieved everything I’ve ever wanted to here.“Giving everything day in, day out for 20 years, I’ve got to a point now where I feel like I need a new change, a new challenge for me as a player and as a person.”And I think now is the right time for me to do that.”Addressing supporters directly, he continued: “There’s a lot I would like to say. The main thing is a massive thank you. “You guys have been there from the start with me, you guys have supported me, been there.“I’ve felt the support, the love, everything that you guys have done has never been unnoticed by me, I’ve loved every single minute of it. “I hope they have felt that has been reciprocated and that I’ve given everything I could to the club.“I’m just hoping that we’re able to carry on winning games, the noise [around my decision] doesn’t take away from the fact of what we’ve achieved this season.”It has been an amazing season. It has been amazing to be part of it and I just hope that everyone is able to maybe not dwell on this news for too long and be able to celebrate what the rest of the lads have done.”The Athletic report Alexander-Arnold informed manager Arne Slot of his decision to leave the club in a face-to-face meeting at the club’s Kirkby training complex in March after the ankle injury he sustained against Paris Saint-Germain in the last-16 of the Champions League.Slot is said to have expressed his disappointment but respected the decision, telling him: “You’re a huge part of this team and let’s end it on a high together.”Alexander-Arnold then replied: “My mindset and commitment won’t change. I’ll continue to give everything for this club until the final day.”The report adds how fractures began appearing last season when he was left unsettled by fresh contract talks only starting in April.He said to have understood the circumstances of why this was the case due to new sporting director Richard Hughes only just starting his role, but privately wondered if the 2024/25 season would be his final one at Anfield.Hughes’ first call in the job was to Alexander-Arnold’s camp before subsequent offers would have made the defender the best-paid defender in the Premier League.But ultimately, his exit appeared to help pave the way for the club to sign new and improved deals with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, with the pair now reportedly earning £400,000-per-week each.In a separate statement directly on social media, Alexander-Arnold said: “After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season.”This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.”I know many of you have wondered why or been frustrated that I haven’t spoken about this yet, but it was always my intention to keep my full focus on the team’s best interests, which was securing No.20.”This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years.”From the Academy right through until now, the support and love I have felt from everyone inside and outside of the club will stay with me forever. I will forever be in debt to you all.”But, I have never known anything else and this decision is about experiencing a new challenge, taking myself out of my comfort zone and pushing myself both professionally and personally.”I’ve given my all every single day I’ve been at this club, and I hope you feel like I’ve given back to you during my time here.”From the bottom of my heart, I thank everybody – my coaches, my managers, my team-mates, the staff and our incredible supporters – for the last 20 years.”I’ve been blessed enough to live out my dreams here and I will never, ever take for granted the special moments I’ve been fortunate enough to have lived through with you all.”My love for this club will never die.”Read More on The SunAlexander-Arnold’s expected move to Real Madrid in the summer could happen BEFORE the Club World Cup, though this would mean the Spanish side need to fork out a transfer fee to secure his services in time for the Fifa competition being held in the United States.He will be joining fellow England international and close friend Jude Bellingham in Madrid after he joined the club for £115million in July 2023.What happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD looks set to join Real Madrid this summer and will join an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So had did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally. More

    • 213 Shares69 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘The GOAT in LaLiga’ – Man Utd flop Antony leaves fans stunned with another last-minute worldie winner

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED flop Antony scored a last-gasp winning stunner as he continues to shine while on loan at Real Betis.The winger joined United in 2022 after a whopping £86million deal with Ajax but never lived up to expectations as he only managed a mere total of 12 goals and five assists in 96 appearances.Manchester United flop Antony scored a worldie for Real Betis against EspanyolAntony continues to shine while on loan at Betis from Man UtdThat led Man Utd shipping the struggling 25-year-old out on loan as he fell out of favour in November once manager Ruben Amorim replaced the man who brought him to Old Trafford, Erik ten Hag.But the Brazil international has been a revelation in LaLiga ever since linking up with Betis as he has already registered seven goals and four assists in 20 appearances.Antony’s stunning form continued on Sunday as he led Manuel Pellegrini’s side to a dramatic 2-1 victory at Espanyol.The game was tied after the Brazilian’s team-mate and ex-Tottenham ace Giovani Lo Celso cancelled out Roberto Fernandez’s opener.Read More on Man Utd And so the ex-Ajax star took it upon himself during the first minute of stoppage time.The forward drove the ball from the right wing and found the space to fire an incredible curling shot with his left foot just outside the area that gave Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia no chance.Man Utd fans watched in awe with many still arguing they’re missing out on a talented player.Many have continuously suggested the Red Devils were wrong to offload Antony as he could have helped them during their worst ever Premier League season.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSOne fan tweeted: “Jokes apart he is actually the Goat in LaLiga.”Another commented: “Pick that out, I am absolutely loving his form in Spain.”Antony shows his excitement as he joins Real Betis A third gasped: “Bloody hell.”This fan said: “Bro is just scoring bangers every week.”And that one wrote: “@ManUtd could do with a player like this!” More

    • 238 Shares118 Views

      in Soccer

      Trent Alexander-Arnold announces he is leaving Liverpool after 20 years with star to join Real Madrid on free transfer

      by

      TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD has announced that he is leaving Liverpool at the end of the season.The Liverpool right-back is calling time on his career with Liverpool after winning two Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to announce his move to Real MadridCredit: GettyAlexander-Arnold joined the Liverpool academy aged sixCredit: X @TrentAALocal Liverpool lad Alexander-Arnold, 26, has been with The Reds since he was just six years old – becoming one of their greatest ever academy graduates since his debut in 2016, aged 18.But after over 350 appearances for the club he will now be heading to Spain to take the next step in his career.The England full-back has been heavily linked with Real Madrid all season and is understood to have agreed a five-year deal with the LaLiga giants worth £240,000-per-week – including a mega signing on fee.While reports in Spain on Monday suggest a proposed SIX YEAR deal with Madrid on the table.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLiverpool fans had been waiting for an announcement on Alexander-Arnold’s future – with speculation growing more intense after Mo Salah and Virgil van Dijk extended their own deals on Merseyside.Now Alexander-Arnold has confirmed their supporters’ fear and confirmed his departure in an emotional statement on social media, just a week after securing his second Premier League crown.It read: “After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club, now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season.”This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.Most read in FootballAlexander-Arnold helped Liverpool win a historic 20th Premier League title this seasonCredit: PAHe lifted the Champions League with Liverpool in 2019Credit: PACASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I know many of you have wondered why or been frustrated that I haven’t spoken about this yet, but it was always my intention to keep my full focus on the team’s best interests, which was securing No.20.”This club has been my whole life – my whole world – for 20 years. Inside raucous Liverpool dressing room as Trent Alexander-Arnold leads celebrations and Darwin Nunez smokes a cigar”From the Academy right through until now, the support and love I have felt from everyone inside and outside of the club will stay with me forever. I will forever be in debt to you all.”But, I have never known anything else and this decision is about experiencing a new challenge, taking myself out of my comfort zone and pushing myself both professionally and personally.”I’ve given my all every single day I’ve been at this club, and I hope you feel like I’ve given back to you during my time here.”From the bottom of my heart, I thank everybody – my coaches, my managers, my teammates, the staff and our incredible supporters – for the last 20 years.”I’ve been blessed enough to live out my dreams here and I will never, ever take for granted the special moments I’ve been fortunate enough to have lived through with you all. “My love for this club will never die.”While a blunt club statement from Liverpool read: “Trent Alexander-Arnold has informed Liverpool FC of his intention to leave the club this summer upon the expiry of his current contract.People won’t be happy with the decision, but it’s something I feel that I need to do with my career.Trent Alexander-Arnold”The 26-year-old will bring his two-decade-long association with the Reds to an end having made the decision to depart Anfield once his deal ceases on June 30, 2025.”Adding: “Alexander-Arnold will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success.”There had been speculation around Alexander-Arnold potentially extending his stay with a new deal, however the star has decided against doing so.Both Salah and Van Dijk signed new deals in the past month that will keep them at Liverpool until 2027.The Athletic report Alexander-Arnold informed manager Arne Slot of his decision to leave the club in a face-to-face meeting at the club’s Kirkby training complex in March after the ankle injury he sustained against Paris Saint-Germain in the Last-16 of the Champions League.Slot is said to have expressed his disappointment but respected the decision, telling him: “You’re a huge part of this team and let’s end it on a high together.”Alexander-Arnold then replied: “My mindset and commitment won’t change. I’ll continue to give everything for this club until the final day.”The report adds how fractures began appearing last season when he was left unsettled by fresh contract talks only starting last April.He is said to have understood the circumstances of why this was the case, due to new sporting director Richard Hughes only just starting his new role, but privately wondered if the 2024/25 season would be his final one at Anfield.Alexander-Arnold looks set to join England pal Jude Bellingham at Real MadridCredit: GettyTrent Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool exit interviewTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD spoke to Liverpool’s in-house club media to explain his decision to leave Anfield.Here are the key parts…I think first and foremost, I want to say it’s not an easy decision and there’s a lot of thought and feeling that has gone into it. I’ve been here 20 years now, loved every single minute of it, achieved all my dreams, achieved everything I’ve ever wanted to here. Giving everything day in, day out for 20 years, I’ve got to a point now where I feel like I need a change, a new challenge for me as a player and as a person. And I think now is the right time for me to do that.Obviously there’s been a lot of noise around what the decision was going to be and how that was going to look. I know a lot of people will say I should have said sooner, a lot of people will say maybe I waited for the right time. But I felt personally the focus should always be on the pitch.I’ve got full confidence in the manager and the staff and the club going forward. It’s not about me thinking we’re not going to fight for titles or fight for trophies season in, season out… it was never about not having confidence in that, it just boiled down to what I felt I needed, and that is a change.Growing up, seeing players leave that I’ve loved watching and have helped the team win trophies, you feel a connection to the players that you watch, especially when they bring success to the club as well. So, I completely understand the feelings that go with that and I’ve felt it myself so I completely understand that the news will disappoint a lot of people, will anger people, it will make them upset. Obviously that went into the decision as well – it’s something you don’t want to do, you don’t want to ever have these moments where you feel like you’re letting a lot of people down, you’re disappointing a lot of people. But I’ve had to make a decision for me, it’s as simple as that. It’s a difficult one, it’s one that has played on my mind for a long time but being able now to get it off my chest will feel like a weight is lifted. And I think it’s important for the fans to know where I stand and know what the truth is.I fell in love with the club from a very, very young age and that’s something that has grown and grown day in, day out. This club has given me the opportunities to achieve everything beyond my wildest dreams. I can never repay enough of what’s been given to me and I don’t take it for granted at all. I’ve given everything every single day for 20 years now. I’ve sacrificed everything. I know the news will take a bit of time to set in and people won’t be happy and they’ll be disappointed. At the end of the day, you can be angry and hurt at me but I just hope that the lads, the rest of the team, the staff, everyone else is able to feel how good a season this has been and able to feel the love and support from the fans as they have done all season.There’s no doubt about it, I’ll be back – I’d love one day to be able to bring my kids to Anfield and show them that that’s where I’ve played and show them the videos and highlights of what we were able to achieve together. So just a huge thank you for that, thank you for everything you’ve ever done for me. Thank you for the support, thank you for the love that I’ve always felt, thank you for always having my back. I will always love the club, I will always love the people of the club, I will always love the fans and the supporters. Even though I’m leaving as player, as a fan I’ll always be a Liverpool fan.Hughes’ first call in the job was to Alexander-Arnold’s camp before subsequent offers to him would have made the defender the best paid defender in the Premier League.Despite no official announcement, he now looks set to make his way to Real Madrid – joining close friend and England teammate Jude Bellingham.Madrid considered trying to sign Alexander-Arnold in January to cover for injured right-back Dani Carvajal.But he decided to stay put to see out the campaign and bows out with another Premier League winner’s medal.During an emotional announcement video, Alexander-Arnold hinted at his future.He said: “I think the decision for me is personal. To change my environment, to challenge myself elsewhere.”It’s not about wanting to find something better, it’s about me and my personal journey as a player and I feel like now is the best time for me to go and experience that.”People won’t be happy with the decision, but it’s something I feel that I need to do with my career”.Read More on The SunAlexander-Arnold will become the seventh Englishman to lace up his boots for Real Madrid.He joins Laurie Cunningham, Steve McManaman, David Beckham, Michael Owen, Jonathon Woodgate and Bellingham in the exclusive club.What happened to the Englishmen who joined Real Madrid?TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD looks set to join Real Madrid this summer and will join an exclusive club to pull on the famous white jersey.So had did those who came before him get on?LAURIE CUNNINGHAM (1979-1984)Real Madrid splashed out £950,000 to sign Cunningham from West Brom in 1979.As one of the “Three Degrees” alongside Cyrille Regis and Brendon Batson, Cunningham had left an unforgettable mark at the Hawthorns.The left winger became an instant hit in the Spanish capital, scoring twice on his debut.Cunningham helped his side to the LaLiga title in 1980, and played in the European Cup final against Liverpool the following year.Following a loan spell with Manchester United, Cunningham moved to Marseille in 1984.Having played for Leicester, Charleroi and Wimbledon, Cunningham returned to Madrid with Rayo Vallecano in 1988.The following year he tragically died in a car crash in the city aged just 33.STEVE MCMANAMAN (1999-2003)Like Alexander-Arnold is set to, McManaman left boyhood club Liverpool for the bright lights of Madrid in 1999.A silky winger, McManaman proved to be a hit in Madrid.The Bernabeu crowd immediately took to their new English hero, with his floppy hair and nonchalant flair.McManaman helped Real win six trophies in four years, and scored his side’s second goal in their victorious 2000 Champions League final.He went on to leave Madrid in 2003, spending the final two years of his career with Manchester City.After hanging up his boots, McManaman worked as a pundit for Setanta Sports, BT Sport and ESPN.Now 53, he can regularly be seen on TNT Sports’ football coverage, especially when Liverpool or Real Madrid are playing.DAVID BECKHAM (2003-2007)In 2003, Real Madrid made Manchester United superstar Beckham their latest Galactico.Golden Balls joined a squad boasting the likes of Ronaldo, Raul, Zinedine Zidane and Roberto Carlos in the Spanish capital.Despite his love for high-end fashion and the celebrity lifestyle, Beckham became much beloved in Spain for his incredible work rate, professionalism and of course, quality.Despite boasting a star-studded squad, the fabled La Decima – a tenth Champions League triumph – eluded Real Madrid during his four-year stint.He didn’t leave empty-handed, however, winning the LaLiga title in 2007 before leaving for LA Galaxy.Since Beckham hung up his boots in 2013 he has continued to have several endorsement deals; including the likes of Adidas, Armani, Pepsi and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.Beckham, 49, also owns MLS side Inter Miami, and played a big role in their groundbreaking deal for Lionel Messi in 2023.MICHAEL OWEN (2004-2005)Like McManaman before him, Owen quit Liverpool for Real Madrid.But the former Ballon d’Or winner endured a frustrating season at the Bernabeu, finding himself stuck behind Ronaldo and Raul.Twelve months on from Owen’s £8million switch, Real Madrid doubled their money by flogging him to Newcastle.Owen then spent three years with Liverpool’s rivals Man Utd, before one final year at Stoke.Immediately after hanging up his boots, Owen signed up to be BT Sport’s primary co-commentator upon the channel’s launch.In addition to his punditry work, the former striker has enjoyed several other ventures.Owen, 45, has his own clothing range with Peacocks, while he also appeared on The Masked Singer.JONATHAN WOODGATE (2004-2007)Woodgate endured one of the most infamous debuts of all time after switching Newcastle for Real Madrid in 2004.The luckless defender went through injury hell following the £13.4m transfer, having to wait 17 months before playing his first game.Just 25 minutes in, the England international headed into his own net. Things then got even worse when he was sent off just after the hour mark.Woodgate played just 14 times that season, before a loan move to Middlesbrough effectively ended his Real Madrid career.After signing permanently for Boro, Woody earned a move to Tottenham in January 2008. He won the League Cup barely a month later, and remains the last Spurs player to score a winning goal in a cup final.Following spells with Stoke and back at Middlesbrough, Woodgate retired in 2016.He has since gone into coaching, managing Boro and Bournemouth.Woodgate, 45, returned to Middlesbrough once again in 2022, where he works as a first team coach under Michael Carrick.JUDE BELLINGHAM (2023-present)England superstar Bellingham sealed a blockbuster £115m transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid in the summer of 2023.The move has been a resounding success, with the midfielder immediately excelling in Spain.Bellingham scored on his debut, and went on net five times in his first four LaLiga matches.The image of the 21-year-old with his arms outstretched has quickly become an iconic one.Birmingham’s finest has already won LaLiga and the Champions League during his young career.And with Alexander-Arnold soon to be alongside him, Bellingham will feel that he can add plenty more to his already impressive trophy tally. More

    • 263 Shares125 Views

      in Soccer

      Liverpool legend Fowler urges boss Slot to go all out for ‘tremendous player’ if they fail to sign Newcastle ace Isak

      by

      LIVERPOOL legend Robbie Fowler has urges his former club to veer away from their usual transfer model this summer.Fowler, 50, has revealed who he would like to see The Reds sign up front if they can’t sign Newcastle United ace Alexander Isak.Liverpool icon Robbie Fowler has revealed which striker he thinks his former club should sign this summerCredit: GettyThe Reds have been linked with Newcastle United’s Alexander IsakCredit: GettyLiverpool are thought to be in the market for a new striker this summer after Darwin Nunez’s minutes have dried up under boss Arne Slot.Magpies front-man Isak has been the biggest name linked with the Anfield outfit, but Liverpool bosses could be deterred by his mega £150MILLION asking price.And Fowler, who is currently undertaking a two-year sports directorship course with the PFA, reckons that he knows who they should sign in the Swede’s place.Speaking to the i Paper, Fowler urged Liverpool to sign Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins instead. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe said: “The problem is clubs know that they are potentially on the lookout for a No.9, so the prices will become silly. “If you look at [Alexander] Isak, he’s going to be £100m plus easily. He’s a wonderful player, but Liverpool may not want to pay that, and they’ll look around.“You could look at Ollie Watkins. He doesn’t really fit the model in terms of what Liverpool want, given his age [29 years old], but I’d go and get him for a couple of years because he’s a tremendous player and established and experienced in the Premier League.”Watkins has fallen out of favour at Aston Villa this term, with boss Unai Emery preferring loanee Marcus Rashford in the second half of the season.Most read in FootballFowler has suggested that Liverpool sign Ollie WatkinsCredit: PACASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHowever the 29-year-old striker has still managed 22 goal contributions in 35 Premier League appearances this season.While he racked up 34 goal contributions in a full campaign for Villa last season.Cheeky Mo Salah reveals Liverpool’s Premier League title felt way better without Klopp, Mane and FirminoOn the other hand, Alexander Isak has cemented himself as one of Europe’s deadliest striker this season.The former Real Sociedad bagsman is the Prem’s second-top goal scorer this season with 23 goals in 32 games.But the Toon hierarchy know his worth, reportedly slapping a £150m price tag on the 25-year-old, who they spent £63m on themselves back in 2022. More

    • 250 Shares76 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘It would be unfair’ – Premier League legend says Man Utd and Tottenham ‘don’t deserve’ to play in Champions League

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED and Tottenham “absolutely” do not deserve to play in the Champions League next season.That is according to an Arsenal legend who insists it would be “unfair” if either United or Spurs win the Europa League this month.Man Utd don’t deserve to play in the Champions League next season, according to a Prem legendThe Arsenal legend makes the same claim about TottenhamEmmanuel Petit believes none of the Premier League clubs deserve to win the Europa LeagueMan Utd and the North Londoners are the absolute favourites to compete in the final on May 21 at San Mames after dominating Athletic Bilbao and Bodo/Glimt respectively in the first leg of the semi-finals.The Red Devils destroyed Bilbao 3-0 in Spain on Thursday and dealt Ernesto Valverde’s side a devastating blow in heir hopes of playing in the final that takes place in their own stadium later this month.And Tottenham defeated Bodo/Glimt 3-1 in London and now need to survive the Norwegian outfit’s artificial pitch that has claimed so many other big names this season.Emmanuel Petit admits the Premier League duo have a massive chance to save their “terrible” season.Read More on Man UtdThe Manchester giants are set for their worst ever Prem finish as they are currently 15th in the table with Spurs below them.But one of them will still advance to next season’s Champions League if they win the Europa League.And Petit, 54, is adamant none of them deserve to be among Europe’s elite next season after their disastrous campaigns.Nevertheless, the ex-Chelsea star wishes both teams luck ahead of their crunch second leg.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSPetit told FastSlots: “Tottenham and Manchester United both have the chance to save terrible seasons in the Europa League, but does either side deserve to play in the Champions League next season?”Absolutely not. Both teams don’t deserve to be among the Champions League teams for the next season. Ange Postecoglou says he will be around ‘for a little bit longer’ after Tottenham victory over Eintracht Frankfurt “I wish the best of luck for Manchester United against Bilbao, but looking at the game against Lyon [in Leg 2 of the quarter-finals], Lyon should’ve finished United off.”Spurs could spring a surprise, but I don’t expect anything from Spurs or Manchester United this season. “To be honest with you, if one of those clubs wins the Europa League, I think that would be unfair.” More

    • 225 Shares83 Views

      in Soccer

      How Wrexham was transformed from Spice-ridden hellhole to Welsh Hollywood as locals say ‘next stop’s the Premier League’

      by

      AMERICAN and Japanese tourists seek some Hollywood glamour when they make a pilgrimage to Rob Clarke’s second hand DVD shop.The owner of Mad4Movies happily pulls his cardboard cut-out of Deadpool actor and local club owner Ryan Reynolds for the football tourists as they soak up all things Wrexham AFC.Wrexham recently secured promotion to the ChampionshipCredit: GettyThe Welsh team’s success has thrown the town into a frenzyCredit: GettyRyan Reynolds watched them secure promotion along with his wife Blake LivelyCredit: GettyDad-of-two Rob, 47, has his own claim to fame as he starred in Disney+ documentary Welcome to Wrexham which charts the town’s incredible football fairytale.The club has just secured a third historic promotion after beating Charlton Athletic 3-0, taking them from non-league to the Championship and one step from the Premier League.In delirious scenes, the club’s owners Ryan, 48, and his fellow Hollywood actor Rob McElhenney hugged the players as the fans raced onto the pitch at their Racecourse Ground.Ryan was also joined by his Gossip Girl actress wife Blake Lively who also greeted fans in the stands.Read More FeaturesHer husband Ryan, 48, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia actor Rob McElhenney bought the club for £2 million nearly five years ago with the lofty ambition of getting to the Premier League.Now the Welsh club, which was formed in 1864 and is the third oldest in the world, has an army of fans around the world.Foreign tourists fly in to take in a game and take coach tours of the former mining town.It’s a welcome turnaround for an area once dubbed ‘Spice Town’, after images emerged of people under the influence of drugs at its bus station, in 2018.Most read in ChampionshipIt was also found to have the highest number of rough sleepers in North Wales, with 57, in 2020.But the “Ryan and Rob effect” has meant the town is teeming with visitors – boosting the local economy and creating jobs. Danny Devito celebrates Wrexham’s last-gasp win over Barnsley as he watches from virtual stadium in LATourism and hospitality revenue has increased by £120m in just three years and is now worth £180 million.Many tourists beat a path to Mad4Movies, which also sells books, music CDs and tapes, as well as Wrexham postcards for £1.Lifelong fan Rob said: “Ryan and Rob came to the shop when they first bought the club.”They wanted to meet fans who’d supported the club for a long time.”They were lovely. Ryan said he’s never seen so many DVDs and then he said: ‘There must be one you’ve never sold, that’s been here for years?'”I told him: ‘Well, we won’t talk about the Green Lantern’. This is one of his flops.”Fortunately he laughed. To be fair he signed my copy of the film.”It read: ‘Apologies in advance, Ryan.’ That got in the documentary.”Rob added: “I can’t believe how far the club has come – it’s amazing.”A while ago we nearly went out of existence and we were only saved by a fan whip round which raised £100,000.”Now we have fans come in for coach tours so all over the world.”Prem dreamsWalking down the main shopping street in the town, one ex-player said he is stunned by the club’s transformation.DVD shop owner Rob Clarke met Reynolds and McElhenney when they first bought the clubCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONTheir ownership of the club has been documented in the documentary Welcome to WrexhamCredit: GettyImages of Spice addicts in the bus station shocked the world in 2018Credit: Daily Post Wales/Gavin RoddaThe centre was dubbed ‘Spice Town’Credit: Daily Post WalesWinger Nick Hencher, 63, who played for the club in the 1985-86 season, said: “It’s great – it’s galvanised everybody.”It’s a massive season in the Championship as it’s a big step-up.”You never know, we might see four promotions in a row.”He added: “The club has changed a hell of a lot.”I enjoyed playing for them, it was a great experience for a local lad.”But it’s big time now and I’m still a small part of it, being chairman of the former players’ association.”So I just stay involved a little bit.”Match days, the town is buzzing with thousand of people here enjoying the limelight.”The last few years since Ryan and Rob took over, it’s just boomed in football and tourismJames VealOther fans cannot also believe the transformation of the club.Former builder Brian Roberts, 60, said: “Three promotions in a row – I never thought I’d see it.”It’s fantastic for the town.”Miners’ charity worker James Veal, 27, said: “There’s just this buzz around Wrexham,”The last few years since Ryan and Rob took over, it’s just boomed in football and tourism.”It just seems brighter, there’s more going on.”More people want to invest in the the town, there’s more shops, more restaurants, bars.”It’s fantastic to see the growth and what these two lads have brought to Wrexham.James Veal has noticed a huge boom in tourismCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONWrexham were just a non-league club when it was purchased by the Hollywood starsCredit: PAEleanor Swash has met tourists from all over the worldCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSION”Wrexham seemed to be on the up and just doing its own thing, but they have shone a spotlight and given it a good boost.”Shop worker Eleanor Swash, 18, works in a Wrexham AFC pop-up shop in the town.She said: “We got lots of tourists from all over – America, Canada, Germany and Japan.”It’s crazy really but it’s so good for the town.”A-list fansDad-of-four Ryan has recruited a host of his Hollywood friends to the Red Dragons causes including Danny DeVito and Will Ferrell.He even took Magic Mike star Channing Tatum to The Fat Boar pub on a Friday night in December and bought everyone a drink.Manager Sean Cooney, 35, said: “We got a phone call from their team who said they’d be here in half an hour.The Ryan and Rob effect seems to be getting bigger all the timeSean Cooney”They turned up and were lovely.”We had a singer performing and they got on the mic to say drinks were on them.”We then put them upstairs in a room.”He added: “This place has become closely associated with the team.”We get lots of tourists especially Canadian and Americans.”In fact we are getting more and more Americans.”The Ryan and Rob effect seems to be getting bigger all the time.”I mean it must be them as you don’t normally get many Americans coming to Wrexham on holiday.”Now fans are dreaming of a fourth promotion in a rowCredit: Instagram/Ryan ReynoldsBlake and Ryan love supporting the gamesCredit: InstagramFans piled round the stars to snap a picCredit: APRyan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club for a mere £2millionCredit: GettyThe club itself is in a healthy financial position thanks to Rob and Ryan’s backing and shrewd deals.Club accounts going up to June 2024 covering their season in League Two show revenues of £26.7million – which is a figure greater than seven of the Championship clubs.The Red Dragons have now even been linked to some stellar Premier League players including Man Utd’s Jonny Evans and Leicester City’s Jamie Vardy.And the latest series of the Welcome to Wrexham doc is to be screened on May 16.Councillor Nigel Williams, Wrexham Council’s lead member for economy, business and tourism, said: “The impact of Ryan and Rob as well as the documentary has been phenomenal.Read More on The Sun”We used to go to trade fairs and people would see we were from Wrexham and just walk past.”Now they are beating down our door.”Ryan took Channing Tatum for a night out at The Fat BoarCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONBusiness is booming in the centre of the townCredit: iSKANDU AGENCY / SUN COMMISSIONHow Ryan Reynolds has been watching Wrexham games in styleCO-OWNER Ryan Reynolds hasn’t been able to make it to Wrexham in recent weeks due to filming commitments.But that hasn’t stopped him from watching his team in style.Streaming the match on a laptop or even a TV was not grand enough for the Deadpool star as he worked on the set of his latest movie.With a giant green screen behind him, he could not resist broadcasting Wrexham’s recent game on to the huge projector.Reynolds and his crew watched on as the Welsh side notched their 23rd win of the season against Crawley Town.He looked enamoured as the game played on behind him while surrounding by various pieces of Hollywood machinery.And Reynolds captioned the moment: “Watching the Wrexham game at work: new level unlocked.”It’s not clear what project Reynolds was working on at the time, with the actor currently developing several new movies including sequels to smash hits Free Guy and Red Notice. More

    • 175 Shares90 Views

      in Soccer

      Izzy Goodwin relishing chance to battle London City Lionesses’ new rivals in women’s top-flight

      by

      IZZY GOODWIN says her promotional-winning goal left her buzzing after London City Lionesses clinched a draw with Birmingham and a place in the WSL. The forward’s fiercely struck shot helped her side make the leap into the Women’s Super League for the first time in their history. Skipper Kosovare Asllani and her London City Lionesses team-mates will compete in the WSL for the first time next seasonCredit: GettyIzzy Goodwin netted the second goal that sealed an away draw with Birmingham City and the point required to ensure her team’s promotionCredit: GettyLondon City owner Michele Kang says the team have been structured with the aim of them functioning as a mid-table top-flight sideCredit: GettyLondon City’s promotion win means the WSL will have a women’s team, not affiliated with a men’s club, battling it out for points in the division next season. Their second tier triumph marks a highpoint for a side that has undergone considerable change since being acquired by American businesswoman and sports investor Michelle Kang. Goodwin, who finished this season as the second tier’s highest scorer, told Sky Sports: “I don’t think I’ve ever scored a goal like that in my life. “I put everything into it. I’m absolutely buzzing and happy I could help the team.Read More Football Stories “By the end I was so tired, I’m so happy we could get over the line.”London City winning the Women’s Championship title comes a year after they finished eighth in the second year last term. Since Kang’s December 2023 takeover, with London City becoming the third side purchased through her women’s sports organisation Kynsica, their squad has undergone an overhaul. The club signed 17 players between last summer and the end of this January including Kosovare Asllani and Sofia Jakobsson with the Sweden players joining from AC Milan and San Diego Wave.Most read in FootballKang, who also owns eight-time Champions League winners Lyon and US outfit Washington Spirit, insists rebuilding has been done with the purpose of London City evolving into a mid-tier WSL side. The Kynsica Sports owner told Sky Sports: “We’ve been actually building the team to be a minimum, from day one, mid-tier WSL side. “It remains to be seen, but we’ve seen so many clubs go up (to the WSL) and then come down, so we’ve been, on purpose, building the team to be somewhere in mid-tier, but who knows?”We’re very excited. When I first came here a lot of people were concerned for me that as an independent team. “They asked how could you do this, because you don’t have a men’s team from which you can draw the equity, brand power and the fanbase. “For us, as an independent team to accomplish this in one year, this is proof that with the proper investment and the resources, anything is possible.”Goodwin, who joined the club from Sheffield United last July, added: “We all love Michelle and what she has done for this club.”To play top teams like that week in, week out, is what you dream of. I can’t wait.”London broke the deadlock in the second half at St Andrews with Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah scoring their openerCredit: GettyGoodwin broke the deadlock two minutes into second-half yesterday with a powerful right-footed effort. Read More on The SunChantelle Boye Hlorkah made it 2-0 for the visitors in the 59th minute before Birmingham struck back with goals from Emily van Egmond and Cho So-Hyun. The visitors held on to seal the win that earned them a place in the top tier six years on from them becoming a standalone side after their breakaway from Millwall.  More

    • 225 Shares124 Views

      in Soccer

      Ryan Reynolds splashes out £500k to send Wrexham squad to Las Vegas for third year in a row

      by

      ACTOR Ryan Reynolds is splashing out £500,000 to send his Wrexham squad on a trip to Las Vegas to celebrate promotion — for the third year in a row.He and fellow owner Rob McElhenney promised to reward the players and staff if they made it to the Championship.Ryan Reynolds is splashing out £500,000 to send his Wrexham squad on a trip to Las VegasCredit: APDefender Max Cleworth is looking forward to the Vegas tripCredit: APDefender Max Cleworth said: “I can’t wait. “That’s the main thing this week. “I don’t think I’ll sleep until we go.”It will be his first trip to Sin City in Nevada but the third for some of the club — with Ryan and Rob picking up the tab.read more on wrexhamWrexham was a non-league club when the two actors bought it in 2020. Next season, the Welsh side will be in the second tier of English football.Manager Phil Parkinson, who is not going, said: “They deserve it.“I’ll be turning my phone off.Most read in Football“I just want a message when they’re all back in the country in one piece.”Celebrity Wrexham owner spotted in retro Celtic strip as he asks ‘are they Catholics or Protestants’Ryan and Rob McElhenney promised to reward the players and staff if they made it to the Championship.Credit: ReutersUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club. More