More stories

  • in

    Fans praise Newcastle’s classy gesture as club donates £15,000 to fix AFC Wimbledon sinkhole after fixture postponed

    NEWCASTLE have been praised for donating £15,000 towards helping AFC Wimbledon deal with their flooded pitch.The Wombles had been due to host Eddie Howe’s side in the Carabao Cup this week.An aerial view shows the damage caused to AFC Wimbledon’s pitchCredit: GettyThe surface has been left looking like a golf courseCredit: GettyThe Wombles had been scheduled to host Newcastle in the Carabao Cup this weekCredit: GettyThe game was forced to be postponed, however, after a huge downpour caused extensive flooding to Wimbledon’s Plough Lane home – even opening up a sinkhole on the pitch.With the damage set to take a while to fix, the match was pushed back to October 1 and moved to Newcastle’s St James’ Park.As is customary in the Carabao Cup, Wimbledon will receive 45 per cent of the gate revenue raised at St James’ Park next week.And in a further boost to the club’s coffers, Newcastle have also made a generous donation.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn the wake of the damage caused to Plough Lane, a man named Graham Stacey set up a crowdfunding page to help cover the costs.Pitching in to help out, Newcastle donated £15,000 to the cause.The initial target was to raise £10,000, which was subsequently upped to £25k, £50k and now £100k.Responding to Newcastle’s gesture, one fan wrote on social media: “Thank you very much @NUFC. Top club. Top fans.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile a second commented: “Very good of the club. Nice to see. Hopefully the pitch can be sorted asap for them.””Unreal gesture,” another added.Ex-footie star Vinnie Jones urges men to learn how to perform CPRWimbledon are scheduled to host Accrington Stanley on Saturday, although the match is in severe doubt due to the Wombles’ pitch woes.They are then next due to be at home on October 12 against Carlisle.In a statement posted by Wimbledon last night, they confirmed that in addition to the playing surface, damage has also been sustained in their reception areas, offices, club shop, museum and lifts.While images have also circulated of the outdoor concourse area largely underwater.Referencing the clash with Accrington, which as of yet has not been postponed, they added: “We are still trying to find a solution for this Saturday’s match, although there is no possibility that this can be at our stadium.”We are also doing everything we can to ensure that the Blue & Yellow Club’s fundraising event on Thursday, as well as Geoff Northcott’s comedy fundraiser on Friday night, proceed as planned.”We have overcome many setbacks by working together and this one will be no different.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We genuinely appreciate all the messages of support and offers from volunteers and members to help us fix the damage.”We ask for some patience whilst we complete our investigations and formulate our plans before getting to work. We will advise further what supporters can do to help us soon; thank you.”Newcastle are set to host the Wombles at St James’ Park next weekCredit: GETTY More

  • in

    Arsenal vs Bolton: Get £50 in free bets for Carabao Cup clash with Betfred

    ARSENAL hit pause on their title ambitions this midweek when they host Bolton in the 3rd round of the Carabao Cup.And brand new Betfred customers can claim a terrific £50 in free bets when they sign-up and stake a tenner on the domestic cup encounter.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereArsenal vs Bolton: Get £50 free bets HERE*How to claim..Betfred welcome offerVisit the Betfred website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Deposit £10 using a Debit CardPlace your first bet of £10 or more on football, at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free BetsBetfred: Get £50 free bets HERE*Arsenal vs Bolton: Get £50 free bets HERE*New to Betfred? Then you can claim this incredible offer.Simply visit the Betfred website using this link HERE* and register a new account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Then you just need to deposit and stake £10 on any football market at odds of Evens or greater.When that first bet has settled — win or lose — Betfred will credit your account with the following free bets;3 x £10 to use on any Sportsbook Markets2 x £10 to use on Accumulators (4+ selections)Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply. More

  • in

    When is the Carabao Cup draw? Date, TV channel and FREE live stream as 16 clubs enter the hat for the fourth round

    THE third round of the Carabao Cup concludes this week as attention turns to Wednesday’s huge draw.Last week, Manchester United smashed League One promotion hopefuls Barnsley 7-0 at Old Trafford to secure their spot in the hat.Liverpool are the reigning Carabao Cup championsCredit: AlamyArsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa and Manchester City were unable to play their third-round fixtures last week due to their Champions League commitments – meaning their respective Carabao Cup campaigns get underway this week.The unique scheduling of the competition stems from the increase in Champions League and Europe League fixtures this season – that have been scheduled during the same period.When is the Carabao Cup fourth-round draw?The Carabao Cup fourth-round draw will take place on Wednesday, September 25.The draw will begin following the conclusion of Liverpool vs West Ham United.It will likely get underway at around 10.15pm BST.What TV channel is the Carabao Cup fourth-round draw on and can it be live streamed FREE?The Carabao Cup fourth-round draw will be shown live on Sky Sports Football/Sky Sports Main Event.Subscribers can live stream the draw via the NOW/Sky Sports app.Fear not if you don’t have a Sky Sports subscription, as you can watch the draw for free via the official Sky Sports Football YouTube channel.Alternatively, you can follow SunSport’s live blog to keep up to date with all the action.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhen will Carabao Cup fourth-round ties take place?The Carabao Cup fourth-round ties will take place the week commencing Monday, October 28.Fixtures will likely be on Tuesday, October 29 and Wednesday, October 30.Carabao Cup third-round scheduleTuesday, September 17Stoke 1-1 Fleetwood (2-1 PENS)Most read in FootballBlackpool 0-1 Sheffield WednesdayBrentford 3-1 Leyton Orient Everton 1-1 Southampton (5-6 PENS)Preston 1-1 Fulham (16-15 PENS)QPR 1-2 Crystal PalaceManchester United 7-0 BarnsleyWednesday, September 18Brighton 3-2 WolvesCoventry 1-2 TottenhamTuesday, September 24Postponed – AFC Wimbledon vs Newcastle United, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Chelsea vs Barrow, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Manchester City vs Watford, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Walsall vs Leicester City, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Wycombe Wanderers vs Aston Villa, 8pm (Sky Sports Football)Wednesday, September 25READ MORE SUN STORIESArsenal vs Bolton Wanderers, 7.45pm (Sky Sports+)Liverpool vs West Ham United, 8pm (Sky Sports Football) More

  • in

    AFC Wimbledon set to cancel all home matches for 19 days after stadium flooded and pitch left with sinkhole

    AFC WIMBLEDON will not play at home for at least another 19 days after severe flooding hit their stadium.The League Two side were going to face Newcastle in South West London tomorrow in the third round of the Carabao Cup.A huge sinkhole has formed in the corner of the pitchCredit: ReutersThe torrential rain has destroyed the surfaceCredit: ReutersOutside the ground is also floodedBut a huge downpour overnight saw their pitch destroyed and a sinkhole form in the corner.An area behind the stands where fans would usually congregate is also completely underwater.Wimbledon will now play Newcastle at St James’ Park tomorrow night after the EFL granted a venue swap.But the Dons’ next match at home to Accrington Stanley on Saturday is in danger of becoming postponed.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe club confirmed they are “trying to find a solution – although there is no possibility that this can be at our stadium.”Should the match be called off, Wimbledon will have two games at Plough Lane to rearrange as they were going to play Crewe tomorrow if not for their progression in the cup.They are next set to be on their home turf against Carlisle on October 12.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDiscussing the further impacts of the storm, the statement read: “Staff encountered significant flooding of the ground level of the stadium, affecting our offices, the shop and museum, reception areas, lifts, and tunnel area, as well as all concourse areas at ground level.Most read in EFL”This afternoon, several independent contractors have visited the site and conducted surface level investigations.  Etihad Stadium appears to suffer LEAK during Man City vs Arsenal as Man Utd fans say ‘happens to the best of us'”More investigations are required in the coming days in order to plan for repair works to the pitch as a priority, and we are in regular contact with our insurers.”We have overcome many setbacks by working together and this one will be no different. “We genuinely appreciate all the messages of support and offers from volunteers and members to help us fix the damage.  “We ask for some patience whilst we complete our investigations and formulate our plans before getting to work. “We will advise further what supporters can do to help us soon; thank you.” More

  • in

    EFL clash POSTPONED as Carabao Cup tie is sensationally moved to Premier League stadium after sinkhole found in pitch

    LEAGUE Two outfit AFC Wimbledon have had their second postponement of the day after suffering shocking damage to their pitch.The Dons announced the change in schedule on Monday afternoon following “extensive flooding” at Plough Lane.The flooding has seen Wimbledon’s match with Crewe postponed after switching their Carabao Cup game to Newcastle’s stadiumCredit: PAWimbledon have announced a change for two fixtures following ‘extensive’ flooding at Plough LaneCredit: GettyThe club were due to face Newcastle in the third round of the Carabao Cup tomorrow evening.However, damage to the pitch – including the creation of a sinkhole – caused by the flooding has seen the venue for the match switched to Newcastle’s St James’ Park on October 1.This has had a knock-on effect of seeing the previously scheduled match between Wimbledon and Crewe on the same date postponed.A Wimbledon statement, posted as a follow up to their original announcement about the Newcastle game’s postponement, said: “Our Carabao Cup fixture against Newcastle United has been rearranged – to be held at St James’ Park, Newcastle, on Tuesday 1st October, kick off 7.45pm.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We will confirm ticket arrangements as soon as possible (including refund process for the original fixture), and we are actively working with local travel companies on coach travel for our supporters wishing to travel as we recognise this will be extremely difficult for supporters looking to travel to support the Dons for this hugely anticipated fixture.”Furthermore, our upcoming home EFL League Two match vs Crewe Alexandra, scheduled for 1 October, has been postponed. “Tickets purchased for this fixture will remain valid, with more details to follow in due course.”We will advise on arrangements for this Saturday’s scheduled match v Accrington Stanley as soon as possible.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe heavy rain also caused damage around the stadium.Wimbledon’s game against Accrington is due to play out this Saturday, but could face a postponement of its own if the damage to the turf is too severe to fix in time.Football teams that controversially changed their badgeWimbledon beat MK Dons 3-0 in their last fixture at Plough Lane.They currently sit fifth in the League Two table. More

  • in

    Premier League club’s Carabao Cup clash POSTPONED over flooding as stadium appears to have ‘SINKHOLE’ in pitch

    NEWCASTLE’S Carabao Cup clash with AFC Wimbledon tomorrow night has been postponed.Heavy rain has caused flooding around the outside of the ground while there is also damage to the pitch at Plough Lane.The sinkhole on the pitch at the Cherry Red Records StadiumCredit: PADrone footage shows how bad the damage isCredit: PAA sinkhole appeared to emerge in the pitchCredit: XThere was severe flooding outside the Cherry Red Record StadiumCredit: XStorms have swept across the country over the past 24 hours but The Cherry Red Records Stadium has been hit hard by the wet weather.A clip has surfaced on social media appearing to show a huge sinkhole on one corner of the pitch.It then shows the refreshment area behind the stand completely underwater, making it virtually impossible that the match will go ahead as planned.Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was due to speak to the media at 9am this morning ahead of the game.However, his pre-match press conference was called off, and now the match has been postponed.It remains unclear on when the game will be rearranged for, but the Dons look set to face a huge fixture headache if the damage is as bad as first feared.Johnnie Jackson’s side were due to host Accrington Stanley on Saturday in League Two before welcoming Crewe there next Tuesday.The two clubs are currently locked in talks with EFL chiefs to try and work out a date in the already jam-packed schedule.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe when and where still needs to be determined, but the game must be decided before the fourth-round ties start on the week commencing October 28.Both Newcastle and Wimbledon will be in the hat for the last-16 draw on Wednesday.Anthony Gordon leaves Newcastle training in never-before-seen £190,000 car as fans say ‘looks like an armoured vehicle’It has been over 24 years since Newcastle took on Wimbledon.The last meeting was during Sir Bobby Robson’s era when the Dons triumphed 2-0.The news will be a frustrating blow to Howe as he looked to instantly bounce back from Saturday’s loss at Fulham.The Magpies were beaten 3-1 at Craven Cottage in their first defeat of the season thanks to goals from Raul Jimenez, Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson while Harvey Barnes responded for the visitors. More

  • in

    Arsenal could be forced to start fourth-choice goalkeeper Jack Porter, 16, in Carabao Cup after Raya injury scare

    ARSENAL could be forced to start 16-year-old keeper Jack Porter in their Carabao Cup clash against Bolton on Wednesday.Mikel Arteta’s men conceded a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser at Manchester City on Sunday as they suffered late heartbreak in a 2-2 draw having played more than half the game with 10 men.Jack Porter, 16, could start for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday nightCredit: RexDavid Raya received treatment during the Manchester City clash and left the stadium with a limpCredit: GettySpaniard Raya, 29, continued his fine form with a number of important saves in the second period as the champions searched for a way through.But the Gunners shot-stopper left fans concerned at one stage when he went down unchallenged before a goal kick.The Arsenal medical staff rushed on to treat him and he was able to finish the match.However, The Mail released a video on social media showing Raya limping past reporters after the game as he left the stadium.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe former Brentford man looked in some discomfort and also appeared to have a bandage on his right knee.Raya’s injury concern could prove to be a worrying one for Arteta ahead of their trip to League One Bolton in midweek.That is because Arsenal’s No2 Neto is cup-tied and cannot play in the competition having started for Bournemouth in their second-round defeat to West Ham before he completed his transfer to North London.Third-choice Tommy Setford also appears to be sideline with a fitness issue having not been named in the squad since the international break.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSInstead, Porter, 16, was on the bench for Arsenal’s goalless draw with Atalanta in the Champions League.Despite his age, circumstances could dictate he make his debut against Bolton due to the various problems with Arsenal’s other three keepers.Furious Pep Guardiola lashes out and kicks chair with Man City stars fuming at Arsenal’s stunning equaliserPorter has played six games for Arsenal’s U18s and one for the U21s.He has also featured four times for England’s U16 side. More

  • in

    Tottenham cult hero explains why Ange Postecoglou can end trophy hoodoo despite Coventry slog

    TOTTENHAM legend Gus Poyet believes Ange Postecoglou can win the Carabao Cup and end Spurs’ miserable trophyless run.The North Londoners haven’t won any silverware since 2008 when they lifted the League Cup after beating Chelsea 2-1 in the final.Gus Poyet believes Ange Postecoglou can win the Carabao CupCredit: GettyPoyet claimed Tottenham can turn things around despite a poor showing with CoventryCredit: EPATottenham haven’t won a trophy in 16 years and almost got eliminated by the Championship sideCredit: RexPostecoglou’s side didn’t convince that this streak will be coming to an end this season after a poor showing at Coventry in the Carabao Cup that saw them barely snatching a late 2-1 victory on Wednesday.The Aussie tactician issued a defiant statement last week when he insisted that he “always” wins silverware in his second year in charge of any team.Poyet loved the Tottenham manager’s confidence after years of predecessors compromising for a top-four spot and he believes his former club finally has a winner in the dugout.The Chelsea legend told SunSport on behalf of William Hill when asked if Postecoglou can win the Carabao Cup: “Yes, I think it Is the first time in many, many years that we’ve seen a coach saying, ‘I’m gonna win something’. Read More on Football”Before that it was always qualifying for the Champions League. So why not?”I mean, about the performances or about how the team plays, it’s difficult to make an opinion. “You know, the coaches, we’re looking for a different thing but at the end of the day you have to win football games.”Your identity is very important because that way you have consistency. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”But in cup games, you need to win. I mean, I don’t remember anyone saying, ‘Yeah, we won the cup but we really played bad’.”So nobody will remember how they played at Coventry if they win the Carabao Cup. Ange Postecoglou appears to promise Tottenham fans a trophy THIS SEASON in feisty interview after Arsenal loss, X Sky Sports PL”So it’s a matter of getting through and winning the final. I don’t remember anyone complaining about winning in a final playing badly.”Poyet, though, understands that it won’t be easy for Tottenham to best other cup favourites, such as Manchester City, Liverpool and rivals Arsenal.The ex-Brighton boss believes Spurs could do with a bit of luck in the draw but also insists Postecoglou will have to find consistency to finally end those 16 years of hurt following a poor start in the Prem.Poyet said: “There’s two different situations in here. One is the draw. You need to be lucky. The other situation, I think it’s always more or less the same.”I don’t think there’s too much difference to Spurs from this year and last year, [Dominic] Solanke maybe, the striker [is the only difference]. You need to start scoring. “I think the situation now with Spurs is more about consistency. Everybody wants consistency, one that will help win football games constantly, every weekend, big derbies, all those situations.”Poyet maintains strong belief in Postecoglou and advised Tottenham chiefs to back him.But the ex-Sunderland boss also urged the players to step up for the 59-year-old head coach.Poyet added: “I’m always in the situation of, let’s wait, give the coach a chance and let’s wait. And then the players, they need to do their jobs. “[Managers] Are part of the staff to try to help the players to go and win for them. But the ones that play are the players. “I believed in this when I was a player. I needed to play. I needed to perform. I needed to read the game. I needed to take the decisions. I needed to do the right thing. “If I got one chance I needed to score that one. Not next week. So I really believed that when I was a player and I didn’t change.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Now I’m a coach. Now, the more we help them, the more we clarify things or convene things, the team plays better and wins football games. “So I think now every single Spurs player knows clearly his role. So now they need to do it.” More