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      Blackburn release TWENTY players after narrowly missing out on Championship play-offs under Valerien Ismael

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      BLACKBURN have released 20 players and sprung a surprise over a midfielder.Rovers acted decisively after missing out on the Championship play-offs by one place and two points.Valerien Ismael has kept the core of a squad who finished seventhCredit: RexAdam Forshaw has been released – but there’s a twistCredit: AlamyBoss Valerien Ismael has kept his main men and reportedly wants around six key signings this summer.But Adam Forshaw’s inclusion in a big batch of departures has raised eyebrows in some quarters.The former Middlesbrough and Leeds star, 33, had been praised by Ismael in recent months.And Forshaw remained in Rovers’ matchday squad until the end of the season as they finished seventh.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL But although the ex-Brentford ace has been freed, Blackburn say they will “keep in close contact” with him over the summer.Rovers admit he is “entitled to explore other options”.But it leaves the door open for an intriguing transfer saga to develop.Blackburn also revealed they are still in talks with three senior players, having offered all of them new contracts.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThey are Danny Batth and Tyrhys Dolan – who both started Rovers’ season-ending 1-1 draw at Sheffield United – plus Andi Weimann.Rovers said in a statement over their released list: “Batth and Weimann both enjoyed magnificent maiden seasons at Ewood Park last term, bringing vast Championship experience, leadership qualities and high standards to the dressing room and out on the pitch.”Centre-back Danny Batth is in talks over extending his Blackburn stayCredit: RexMeanwhile, Blackburn have activated a one-year option to keep Wales winger Ryan Hedges another year after his 42 league games in 2024-25.Under-21 players Harrison Wood, Zack Stritch and Adam Khan have also had the option of an extra 12 months triggered.Jake Batty and Felix Goddard, who were both loaned out last season, have been offered fresh Ewood Park deals.And teenage midfielder Lorenze Mullarkey-Matthews has been handed the chance to sign his first professional contract.On the way out are: Dilan Markanday, Jack Vale, Zak Gilsenan, Patrick Gamble, Tom Bloxham, Jordan Eastham, Rhys Doherty, Isaac Whitehall, Jalil Saadi, Alex Baker, Adam Caddick, Paul Murphy-Worrell, Lewis Bell, Bradley Taylor, Jackson Shorrocks, Nathan Willis, Stephen Edmondson and Teddy Ramwell.On top of this, Dan Shaw’s registration has been cancelled by mutual consent.Read More on The SunFive loanees have returned to their parent clubs – Owen Beck, Amario Cozier-Duberry, Dion Sanderson, Cauley Woodrow and Emmanuel Dennis.Blackburn said: “Rovers would like to place on record its sincere thanks to all the players who will be leaving the club for their contribution and commitment during their time at Ewood Park, and we wish them all well in their future careers.” More

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      Millwall release eight stars including club legends Murray Wallace and Shaun Hutchinson after narrowly missing playoffs

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      MILLWALL have released eight players after narrowly missing out on the Championship playoffs.The Londoners finished eighth in the table, just two points off sixth-place Bristol City.Millwall have released eight players including long-time captain Shaun HutchinsonCredit: PAMurray Wallace is also heading out of The Den after years of serviceCredit: GettyClub legend Neil Harris saw his second spell come to an end 11 days before Christmas.Alex Neil took the reins with Millwall in 11th place.And he has gone on to win 13 of his 26 games at the helm.But the Scot is now looking to shake up his squad in the summer market.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt means no less than eight players have been shown the door following the end of the season.And among those departing are two icons who have become synonymous with The Den.Captain Shaun Hutchinson, 34, is the biggest name to depart on a free transfer.He joined Millwall from Fulham in 2016 and went on to make 256 appearances.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSJoining Hutchinson in leaving the club is fellow defender Murray Wallace, who is also out of contract.The 32-year-old moved to South London from Scunthorpe in 2018 and clocked up 207 games in the process.Millwall fan is beaten up by gang of Crystal Palace supporters after confronting rivals in Selhurt Park standsDuncan Watmore is moving on just 18 months after arrivingCredit: AlamyAaron Connolly only joined Millwall in January but is departing this summerCredit: GettyTwo more stars are leaving Millwall when their deals expire at the end of the month.Forward Duncan Watmore, 31, joined Millwall 18 months ago from Middlesbrough and scored 12 goals in 59 outings.Meanwhile, 25-year-old striker Aaron Connolly also departs just five months after a move from Sunderland which saw him net once in 14 games.And four loan stars will also return to their parent clubs, with 22-year-old forward Josh Coburn heading back to Middlesbrough after four goals in 12 outings.Midfielder Ryan Wintle, 27, is returning to Cardiff City after 16 games.Defender Zak Sturge, 20, will rejoin Chelsea following five appearances.And full-back Calum Scanlon has gone back to Liverpool after four matches. More

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      Sheffield United’s X HACKED as dozens of posts slamming Wednesday star Barry Bannan shared to club’s 600k followers

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      SHEFFIELD UNITED’S X account was hacked as dozens of posts slamming rival Wednesday captain Barry Bannan were shared online.The security breach occurred on Monday as the Blades prepare for this weekend’s Championship playoff final against Sunderland.Sheffield Utd’s X account was hacked on MondayCredit: X @SheffieldUnitedThe hacked messages took aim at Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry BannanCredit: AlamyChris Wilder’s men are hoping to seal a dramatic return to the Premier League with victory over the Black Cats at Wembley.But on social media, United did not enjoy a smooth ride.Their X account was briefly taken over by hackers, who fired out a series of posts to the club’s 600,000 followers.And each one took aim at Scottish midfielder Bannan, who captains rivals Sheffield Wednesday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA post from United’s hacked X account read: “Let’s forget Barry Bannan. New topic: MUFC > City.”Another, answering the question “score predictions for Sunday??”, added: “Oh s**t. Just figured out we’re playing a final.“Against SUNDERLAND? Is this a Metaverse? Easy win.“3×1 us with the bless of BBB (Bald Barry Bannan).”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSUnited’s hacked account then retweeted a series of anti-Bannan posts from other users.And fans of other clubs rushed online to react.Sheffield United pay incredible tribute to late George Baldock during play-off clash after tragic death aged just 31One said: “What is going on?”Another declared: “Absolute chaos.”One noted: “Admin spitting pure facts.”Another added: “As if Sheff United’s Twitter has been hacked.” More

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      Ex-Man Utd star Tom Cleverley in talks with Premier League club over manager job just days after Watford sacking

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      TOM CLEVERLEY is in talks with a Premier League club just days after being sacked by Watford, according to reports.The former Manchester United star was axed by the Hornets earlier this month after missing out on the Championship playoffs.Tom Cleverley has been linked with the Southampton jobCredit: AlamyCleverley, 35, took over at Vicarage Road in March 2024 as he replaced Valerien Ismael.But he could be set for a quick return to the dugout with Southampton interested.The Guardian have claimed that he is one of the leading candidates to take over at St Mary’s next season.It is suggested that he has a “strong chance” of being appointed as the new Saints boss.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCleverley has taken charge of 59 first-team games, winning 20, drawing 14 and losing 25.The Southampton team is currently playing under caretaker Simon Rusk, who took charge after the sacking of Ivan Juric.They are a top-flight club for two more games, which come against Everton and Southampton.Juric was only in charge for 14 Premier League games after replacing Russell Martin.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSCleverley does face competition for the job from fellow Englishman Will Still.Still has left Ligue 1 outfit RC Lens following the end of the season in order to move back to England.Football teams that controversially changed their badgeWill Still is in the running for the St Mary’s roleCredit: GettyStill’s parting message to RC LensHere is what Will Still told RC Lens fans about his decision to leave…He said: “I won’t be the coach of RC Lens next season.”It was the last season at Bollaert, for multiple reasons.”The main reason that pushed me to make this decision is the fact that I need to go home.”Everyone is well aware of what happened in my life. That’s why.”I had a lot of fun, I think we achieved great things despite everything. I’ve been in France for four years, four years that I’ve experienced intense moments.”The logical choice is that I get closer to my wife for her well-being too.”The manager wants to spend more time with his Sky Sports presenter partner Emma Saunders.His exit came just one season into a three-year deal.Reports have claimed that Still is in “advanced talks” with Southampton over the vacant manager role.In his final game, Lens beat AS Monaco 4-0 at the Stade Bollaert-Delelis.Neil El Aynaoui netted twice while Adrien Thomasson and Anass Zaroury wrapped up the scoring.The victory sealed an 8th-placed finish in the Ligue 1 table.Still has also had interest from Hull City and has previously turned down Rangers.Sheffield Wednesday’s Danny Rohl is also believed to be in the running for the job.Read More on The SunMeanwhile, Watford have already replaced Cleverley with former Real Valladolid boss Paulo Pezzolano.The Uruguayan becomes the 22nd manager to take charge of the Hornets since Gino Pozzo’s takeover in 2012. More

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      Leeds release ELEVEN stars after promotion to Premier League including former Atletico Madrid midfielder

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      LEEDS have made a bold statement by releasing ELEVEN players including former Atletico Madrid midfielder Joshua Guilavogui.The midfielder joined the club during the 2024-25 campaign and proved to be an important figure both on and off the pitch, playing in 18 games across all competitions.Josuha Guilavogui is one of 11 Leeds stars to have been set for releaseCredit: PAJosuha Guilavogui played 18 times in all competitionsCredit: GettyLeeds won the Championship to earned their Premier League spot backCredit: GettyHowever, the club surprisingly decided against offering him a new contract despite his popularity in the dressing room.Alongside Guilavogui, the club also confirmed that Manor Solomon will return to Tottenham and Joe Rothwell will go back to Bournemouth.Solomon scored 10 goals in 39 games and will be confident in fighting for his spot at Spurs next season.Further departures include Harry Christy, Cian Coleman, Connor Ferguson, Max McFadden, Amari Miller, Kris Moore, Joe Richards, and Joe Snowdon.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLeeds have had an up-and-down period recently but they will view their promotion to the Premier League as a chance to now establish themselves.One of the first decisions they made after promotion was confirming that Daniel Farke will remain in charge at Elland Road.That decision has further shown their intent for continuity especially after reports that he could leave.The gap between the Premier League and the Championship seems to have widened with all three teams promoted last season relegated again.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe 2025-26 season promises to be a testing one for Leeds. But if they can get the blend of experience and youth right then they stand a chance.Inside Leeds’ wild promotion celebrations with thousands of fans greeting team and former Man Utd star on the micPlus they have the experience of manager Farke. More

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      Arsenal left Eberechi Eze crying in his room for a whole week before becoming £60million Crystal Palace and England star

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      EBERECHI EZE almost didn’t make it as a footballer.By the time he was 20, the midfield maestro had become “used to the feeling” of being released.Eberechi Eze is preparing to face Man City in the FA Cup finalCredit: GettyThe likes of Arsenal, Fulham, Reading and Millwall brushed him aside.But now, at the age of 26, he is considered among the best English players in the Premier League.His journey hasn’t been straightforward – but his setbacks have clearly made him stronger.And he is now preparing for an FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe ‘not so nice part’ of GreenwichEze grew up in a ‘not so nice part’ of Greenwich in London and first established his love for the beautiful game in a football cage on his estate.Speaking to The Independent in 2020, he explained: “It wasn’t the easiest life and you don’t have as much as other kids around you.”The first place we’d go after school is to the cage. We’d stay there till our parents called us in, not eating, playing all day and night.”There wasn’t really anything else to do. But that’s where the love comes from. Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”You don’t realise it’s actually how you’re learning your trade.”His talent would eventually set him apart from many of his peers, resulting in Eze being scouted by Arsenal while at secondary school.Ebereche Eze wins £15,000 in celebrity online chess tournament – and celebrates more than his Wembley FA Cup goalArsenal heartacheEze’s time with the Gunners did not last long and he was released at just 13 years old.The setback left him devastated – so much so that he was close to tears the next time he played against Arsenal during his spell at Fulham.After unsuccessful trial spells with several EFL clubs, Eze was signed by QPRHe recalled to The Independent: “I remember crying in my room for a solid week, my mum telling me that it’s going to be OK but not being able to get over it.”Then I went to Fulham and I was finally starting to enjoy my football again.”We played Arsenal a few months later but, when I went over to shake the academy manager’s hand, I started welling up. All the feelings came back.”Following a series of unsuccessful spells at Fulham, Reading, Millwall, Sunderland, Bristol City and Swansea, Eze almost gave up on his dream of becoming a professional footballer and even prepared to take a part-time job at Tesco.However, his sheer determination helped him to secure a place at Queens Park Rangers.QPR breakthroughWhile studying at college, Eze enjoyed a successful trial with QPR and impressed the club’s technical director, Chris Ramsey.He officially signed in August 2016 and made his first-team debut five months later in an FA Cup match against Blackburn Rovers.The midfielder enjoyed four years at QPRCredit: Getty Images – GettyThat was his only senior appearance that campaign and he went on to join Wycombe Wanderers on loan the following season.There, he made 22 appearances and scored five goals before returning and featuring regularly for the Hoops.In 112 outings for QPR, Eze scored 20 goals and provided 12 assists.Then, his Premier League dream came true.Crystal Palace move & England debutIn August 2020, the midfielder completed a £17million move to Crystal Palace.He made his debut two weeks later against Southampton in the opening match of the Premier League season and scored his first goal – a free kick – a few months later.Eze has established himself as a fan favourite at Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyThe 26-year-old has scored 38 goals for Palace so farCredit: AlamyEze earned his first England call-up in 2023Credit: GettyEze quickly established himself as a fan-favourite and became one of the club’s most-important players.The 26-year-old has 38 Palace goals and 28 assists to his name from 164 appearances.He was also handed his first England cap in 2023 as a result of his impressive form.And now he is valued at around £60m, with some of England’s biggest clubs interested in a transfer.Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham have all expressed an interest.SunSport understands Crystal Palace are open to letting him leave this summer in order to fund a squad overhaul.Final countdownWith his future at the club up in the air, Eze will be eager to potentially end his time at Selhurst Park on a high by winning the FA Cup.The England international scored once to help Palace to a 3-0 win over Aston Villa in the semi-final last month.And he is set to start when the Eagles face Man City in the final at Wembley.Read More on The SunFrom the ‘not so nice part’ of Greenwich to Wembley, it’s been quite the journey for Eze so far…And the best is likely yet to come.Eze is now being linked with a huge transferCredit: Getty More

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      England’s biggest crisis club relegated THREE divisions after being left with no pitch and playing 70 miles away

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      NO senior football club in England has gone from nightmare to nightmare like debt-riddled Farsley Celtic.But it’s somehow got worse – AFTER the season finished.Farsley Celtic hope to set up a new groundshare for next seasonCredit: RexCeltic were not able to use their ground this seasonCredit: RexFans blasted an “absolutely crazy” situation as Celtic have been relegated THREE DIVISIONS.Crisis upon crisis has descended upon the semi-professional Yorkshire club following a failed decision to put in an artificial pitch at their Throstle Nest ground last year.It never got built – so Celtic played most of their 2024-25 ‘home’ games 70 miles away in Buxton, Derbyshire.They famously lost ex-Leeds star Neil Redfearn as manager in February after just three weeks in charge.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSControversial chairman Paul Barthorpe then departed – with Celtic forced to field youngsters on the way to finishing bottom of the National League North.But instead of dropping into the Northern Premier League, they have been booted all the way down to the ninth tier – the Northern Counties East League Premier Division.Low points of the season included a 6-1 defeat to then-bottom Needham Market – when Redfearn was absent without explanation.Women’s team manager Izzy Roads and youth coach Phil Lake took the reins, with Redfearn later revealing he had resigned days earlier.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKUnder-fire Barthorpe soon quit too after six years steering a club that had went bust in 2010 but reformed in 2015.Now homeless Celtic have been denied a licence to play in Steps 1-4 – the four highest levels below the EFL.The club said: “As a board we recognise this will be as disappointing for our fans as it is for us. It’s not what we wanted. “But sometimes you need to take a step backwards in order to move forwards, and pragmatically we believe this move to be necessary to protect the long-term financial future of our club.”One fan responded: “It’s absolutely crazy that Farsley Celtic has dropped three divisions to now the 9th tier of the English football pyramid. “It’s an absolute joke, should never have got this far out of hand.”Another wrote: “Triple relegation to Step 5… what a mess!”However, a third supporter took a longer-term view.He posted: “Like any fan I want to get back up ASAP but we need time to stabilise behind the scenes and then get back up where we belong. “I’d say 2-3 seasons hopefully then we go back up with a sustainable model.” While we could have appealed against this decision, the long-term future of the club remains our priority Club statementCeltic issued a lengthy statement on being booted down the leagues – insisting a groundsharing deal has already nearly been sorted for next term as they rebuild gradually.They said: “At the end of the last season we said our efforts would be concentrated around ensuring the financial stability of the club. “A season playing all our games away from The Citadel was always going to leave us with a financially challenging summer.”The debts facing the club have continued to mount in recent weeks.”We are in a situation where we have to be pragmatic. NCEL offers us significantly lower travelling costs and running costs in general as we seek to stabilise the club.”Celtic are finally hoping to get a new surface so they can return home.Their statement added: “Our funding bid for a new pitch will be decided by the Football Foundation next month. “Our planning application for new energy efficient and reliable floodlights is being considered by the council and is subject to a funding bid. “A ground share for the start of next season is almost agreed, and we are still working on securing a lease for the ground.Read More on The Sun”While we could have appealed against this decision, the long-term future of the club remains our priority and a lot of work is being put in by the board and others to ensure Farsley continues to have a semi professional football club. “The long-term future of our first team, Deaf, Junior and Women’s sides continues to be our priority.” More

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      Former Chelsea star, 32, once labelled next Luka Modric wakes up unemployed after release by Championship club

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      JOSH MCEACHRAN has woken up unemployed following Oxford United’s brutal end-of-season cull.The former Chelsea star, who was once compared to Luka Modric, joined the U’s in the summer of 2023 on a one-year deal following the expiration of his contract with MK Dons.Josh McEachran has been released by Championship side Oxford UnitedCredit: GETTYThe former Chelsea midfielder spent two seasons with the U’sCredit: GETTYHe inked a second-straight one-year deal with the club following the culmination of the 2023/24 season.But the U’s brass have opted NOT to hand the Oxford-born midfielder a new deal following their first season back in the Championship in 25 years.An excerpt of a club statement read: “Oxford United have confirmed the list of players to be retained and released following the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.”Josh McEachran, Joe Bennett, Max Woltman, Eddie Brearey and George Franklin will depart the Club following the expiration of their contracts this summer.”READ MORE CHELSEA NEWSOxford’s Head of Football Operations, Ed Waldron, said of the departures: “I would like to offer my thanks to each of the players departing the Club.“Both Joe Bennett and Josh McEachran have played important roles in the progression of Oxford United over the last few years, helping to deliver promotion and then stabilise the Club in the Championship.“Their quality and experience have been crucial in our development, and I’m certain both will be real assets to whichever club they continue their fantastic careers with.“Max Woltman has been through an incredibly difficult period with the Club due to injury.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSJosh McEachran was once tipped to become a big star at ChelseaCredit: ACTION IMAGES”Despite this, he has been an extremely popular figure at the Training Ground, and I want to wish him and the rest all the best going forward.“The recruitment process has been in motion for several months for the upcoming 2025/26 season.Cole Palmer eats sandwich and ketchup as Brit music legend makes cameo in brilliant Chelsea kit release video”We will continue to look at ways to improve the squad to build on what was a successful first campaign back in the Championship.”McEachran has bounced from club to club after leaving Chelsea in the summer of 2015 following FIVE loan moves in five years.Many at Stamford Bridge had high hopes for the midfielder, who made 22 appearances for the club, including former manager Andre Villas-Boas.In August 2011, the Portuguese gaffer said of McEachran: “This is a youngster with so much talent. “Physique-wise, there is nothing to him at the moment.”In the changing room you see him getting ready to go and train and he looks nothing like a footballer.”His power and pace is in his head. But you could say the same about Luka Modric, Jack Wilshere or Samir Nasri.” All are built with slight ­physiques but they are all among the finest ­midfield players in the world.Read More on The Sun”Josh is going that way. His brain is always five yards ahead of the rest.”I see in him very much as part of the future of this club.” More