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      Leeds make final Daniel Farke decision as chairman issues nine-word statement after Premier League promotion

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      LEEDS have made their final decision on the future of the promotion-winning manager Daniel Farke.The Yorkshire side sealed their return to the Premier League after relegation in 2023.Daniel Farke’s future at Leeds has been decidedCredit: PAThe manager has helped the club return to the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyFarke, 48, was also able to take Leeds to the Championship title as they edged out Burnley on goal difference.However, despite the great achievement, there had been question marks over Germany’s future.It had been suggested that Leeds could sack Farke due to his experience in the Premier League.He suffered relegation with Norwich City in 2020 and was then sacked just 11 games into the 2021/22 season after coming back up.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe has managed to achieve a win rate of just 12 per cent in the Premier League.He had also been on the end of some criticism at Elland Road after losing in the Play-Offs last season.Fans have also taken issue with his playing style, substitutes and until recently, an insistence on sticking with keeper Illan Meslier.Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe has issued a nine-word statement over the manager.Most read in ChampionshipCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe told the BBC: “I have ended the speculation. He is my man.”He added, “I’m not going to make comments based on rumours and gossip. But now, today is that day. Leeds on track to win TWO trophies in same week ahead of final day of Championship season”I was waiting for the season to conclude. I wanted to win a trophy, just like Daniel did, just like the players did, just like all the staff did, and we got that goal.”My plan was always to come and speak to you all right after the season concluded, and so that time is now, and I want to tell you all that I’m very excited to run it back with Daniel.”I’m really excited about collaborating with Daniel, with Robbie Evans, who we promoted to managing director, with Adam Underwood, who we promoted to sporting director, and together, we are going to build the best squad that we can with every penny that we’re allowed to spend to go and compete in the Premier League.Farke will be relieved with the news and can start planning for the summer ahead of the club’s return to the Premier League.Daniel Farke in the PremTHE German’s record in the top-flight with Norwich is not inspiring…Games – 49Wins – 6Draws – 8Defeats – 35Goals for – 31Goals against – 101Win % – 12 More

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      EFL club sack manager after horror run of just one point in their final 10 games

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      BRISTOL ROVERS have confirmed that Ingo Calderon has been sacked.The EFL outfit swung the axe on the manager less than 24 hours following the end of the League One season.Bristol Rovers have sacked Inigo CalderonCredit: PAHe has called his time at the club a ‘true honour’Credit: RexCalderon, 43, oversaw a disastrous end of the season that saw the club win just ONE POINT in their final ten games.The Spaniard was only appointed in December having signed a two-and-a-half-year deal.However, following relegation to League Two, he has been sacked by the club.A statement read: “Bristol Rovers can confirm that Inigo Calderon has departed his position as Men’s first team Head Coach. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”Miguel Llera, who has been assisting in the coaching department since March, has also left the Club.”Everyone at Bristol Rovers would like to thank Inigo and Miguel for their hard work, dedication and commitment and wish them both every success in their respective future careers.”A thorough process to recruit a replacement is underway and the club will be making no further comment at this time.”Calderon has also released his own statement following the decision.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe insisted that it was a “true honour” to lead the club and paid tribute to the fans.He wrote: “This is my time as Bristol Rovers manager.Football’s weirdest contract clauses revealed including non-Arsenal agreement and a private jet promiseHe spent six years at Brighton during his playing daysCredit: Getty Images – Getty”It has been a true honour and pleasure to have been part of this great club, obviously without the results I would have liked and that this club deserves, but still the pride and clear conscience of having tried everything possible to achieve the best.”Boxing Day at Exeter, the first home game on New Year’s Day, my family celebrating from the stands, the first win at Cambridge, the unconditional support in away games, and especially the games played at the Mem are unforgettable moments that I will always remember.”I’ve always said that a club is made great by the fans and the people who work behind the scenes, and this club is giant.”It’s a time for unity. I can only reiterate my gratitude to the entire Gasheads family, fans, players, staff, board. Now more than ever.”Calderon started his career as a player at Deportivo Alavés.He left Spain for England in 2010 as he joined Brighton and Hove Albion.He played a key role at the Seagulls as he helped them win promotion to the Championship in 2011.He spent six years on the South Coast before having spells with Anorthosis and Chennaiyin before retiring.Read More on The SunBristol Rovers was his first job as a manager and it came to an end after losing to 4-1 to Blackpool on Saturday.The club had already seen their relegation confirmed on Tuesday after Burton Albion drew with Wigan. More

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      Ex-Brentford striker suffers ‘potentially life-threatening’ injury as two stars rushed to hospital after collision

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      A FORMER Championship striker was rushed to hospital after suffering a “potentially life-threatening” injury in a Bundesliga relegation match.Ex-Brentford forward Philipp Hofmann was involved in a nasty collision with Marvin Pieringer during VfL Bochum’s 0-0 draw at Heidenheim on Friday.VfL Bochum’s Philipp Hofmann suffered a ‘potentially life-threatening’ injuryCredit: GettyHofmann underwent minor surgery after a rib fracture caused a lung collapseCredit: EPAHofmann, who is now recovering in hospital, starred for two seasons at BrentfordCredit: Getty Images – GettyBochum revealed the 32-year-old had suffered a rib fracture in his collision, which had seen the rib drill into his rib skin and trigger a lung collapse.A club statement had called Hofmann’s injury “potentially life-threatening”.The club said the German had undergone a minor operation by means of a thoracic drainage to restore lung function.Bochum added that Hofmann would remain at hospital for observation and treatment until he was fit to be transported.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was visited in hospital by club Managing Director Dirk Dufner on Saturday morning, who conveyed the best wishes for him to have a speedy recovery.Hofmann played for the Bees for two seasons from 2015 to 2017 while they were in the Championship, scoring four goals in 31 league games.However, it was not the only sickening injury the game saw.Heidenheim goalkeeper Kevin Muller was also rushed to hospital after a clash of heads with Ibrahima Sissoko while punching a ball clear early in the second half left him unconscious.Most read in FootballThe 34-year-old was put in the recovery position by team-mate Tim Siersleben before the match was stopped for 11 minutes, with privacy screens being set up while he was treated by medical staff on the pitch.Muller was then taken to hospital to receive treatment, with a club statement on Saturday confirming he had suffered a concussion from the incident.Heidenheim boss, Frank Schmidt, also confirmed Muller had regained consciousness on the field before he was whisked away for medical checks.The goalless draw in the game left Bochum bottom of the division on 22 points, while Heidenheim occupy the relegation play-off spot two places and four points above them.With only two games of the season to go, Bochum can at best reach the relegation play-offs, where they would then play the third-best team in the Bundesliga 2 – currently Paderborn – to hold on to their spot in the top flight.Meanwhile, Heidenheim are five points from total safety, with Hoffenheim in 15th place occupying the final safe league spot.At the top end of the table, Bayern Munich were forced to postpone their title celebrations – and Harry Kane’s first club trophy – after a late RB Leipzig equaliser in a 3-3 thriller. Heidenheim goalkeeper also suffered a concussion after being knocked unconsciousCredit: GettyPrivacy screens were set up as he was treated by medical staff on the pitchCredit: AP More

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      Burnley stars serenaded by chart-topping Noughties legend in surprise scenes following promotion to Premier League

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      BURNLEY stars were serenaded by Natasha Bedingfield on the Turf Moor pitch after their win over Millwall.The Clarets finished their season with a 3-1 win over the South London side and reached 100 points.Natasha Bedingfield serenaded the Burnley players at Turf MoorCredit: RexThe singer performed following the club’s win over MillwallCredit: RexShe shared a drink with Scott ParkerCredit: BurnleyShe continued to sing with the players in the changing roomCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BurnleyOfficialThe group all sang the hit song ‘Unwritten’ togetherCredit: X formerly Twitter / @BurnleyOfficialThere was disappointment as Leeds United sealed the Championship title on goal difference following their win over Plymouth Argyle.However, it was short-lived as Burnley players and fans were busy celebrating the return to the Premier League.Scott Parker’s side sealed promotion on April 21 but were now in full jubilation following the climax of the campaign.The players were treated to a special performance from noughties legend Natasha Bedingfield, 43, on the pitch.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPictures showed the British singer and songwriter serenading the promoted stars.Fans loved the surprise appearance from the Unwritten star as they reacted on social media.One posted: “Absolutely class, they got Natasha Bedingfield.”A second wrote: “Must admit, Natasha Beddingfield singing Unwritten live at the Turf was not on my 2025 bingo card.”Most read in ChampionshipJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSA third commented: “Natasha Beddingfield singing Unwritten at Burnley after the match today is one of the most random things I have seen in football.”A fourth said: “Yeah, Leeds may have won the league, but do they have Natasha Bedingfield singing at their promotion party?”Scott Parker sheds tears in emotional celebration with family as Burnley boss retains hundred per cent promotion recordJosh Brownhill netted twice to help Burnley beat MillwallCredit: GettyBurnley finished second in the ChampionshipCredit: ReutersAnother added: “Promotion party and a live appearance by Natasha Bedingfield. What a time to be alive.”Bedingfield continued to celebrate with the players in the changing room.The star and players came together to sing Unwritten.Her appearance could be down to the players singing the 2004 classic when they confirmed promotion against Sheffield United.She was also pictured having a celebratory drink with Parker.Burnley must have thought that they had won the title as Josh Brownhill’s brace and Jaydon Anthony fired them to victory.Read More on The SunLeeds were on the brink of succumbing to a 1-1 draw away at relegated Plymouth.That was until Manor Solomon fired in a 91st-minute winner at Home Park to send the first-place trophy to Yorkshire.Leeds won the Championship with a win at PlymouthCredit: GettyManor Solomon netted a dramatic winner to seal the titleCredit: GettyLeeds will return to the Premier League next seasonCredit: Getty More

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      ‘Harder to miss than score’ – Embarrassed Millwall star left floored after miss that could have put them in playoffs

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      MILLWALL striker Josh Coburn put in a contender for miss of the season – at the worst possible time. The Lions needed to better Bristol City’s result to sneak into the playoffs on a dramatic final day of Championship action.Millwall’s Josh Coburn missed a sitter against BurnleyCredit: AlamyThe 22-year-old somehow fired wide from yards out as the Lions missed out on the playoffsCredit: PAMillwall made the ideal start at Turf Moor, with Mihailo Ivanovic netting an early opener for the visitors. But Josh Brownhill responded with an instant equaliser for the hosts, who had already secured promotion the Premier League. Millwall pushed forward with their season on the line.And Coburn – on loan from Middlesbrough – was presented with a golden opportunity just minutes before half time. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA whipped ball across the box evaded Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, falling kindly to Coburn yards out.The 22-year-old was in the centre of the goal and looked destined to score.But he somehow shanked his effort inexplicably wide of the post, burying his face in the turf. Sky Sports pundit Kris Boyd gasped on commentary: “I cannot believe this. Oh, look at it. Oh my days.Most read in Football”Wait till you see this miss, wow. Wow.”BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKFans were equally as scathing, with one writing on X: “Harder to miss that than score.”Another joked: “No new deal for him in the summer!!Birmingham become first EFL club to win promotion as Tom Brady’s club bounce back to Championship at first attemptWhile a third added: “And to think @Boro wanted us to pay up to £3m for him – thank god it was only a loan.”The miss would prove costly for the Lions, who conceded twice after the break to lose 3-1.Millwall haven’t been in the top flight since 1990 and will now face a ninth-straight year in the Championship. Their defeat meant Bristol City – who drew 2-2 at home with Preston – take the final playoff spot. Elswhere, Frank Lampard’s Coventry City sealed fifth place thanks to a brace from Jack Rudoni. Frank Lampard’s Coventry have reached the playoffs after beating MiddlesbroughCredit: GettyThe 2-0 win over Boro ended Michael Carrick’s side’s own playoff hopes.The Sky Blues will now take on Sunderland, while Sheffield United face Bristol City.And Leeds sealed the title after a dramatic 2-1 win at Plymouth Argyle. Read More on The SunAt the other end of the table, Luton Town suffered back-to-back relegations. The Hatters were thrashed 5-3 at West Brom, joining Plymouth and Cardiff in dropping to League One. More

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      Former Liverpool star, 35, you may not know was still playing announces retirement hours before final match

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      FORMER Premier League star Joe Allen has announced his retirement from football.The 35-year-old midfielder will hang up his boots after Swansea’s final game of the season against Oxford tomorrow.Joe Allen has announced his retirement from footballCredit: GettyThe Welshman spent four seasons at LiverpoolCredit: PA:Press AssociationOn his decision to call it a day, Allen said: “This is incredibly difficult. This is not something I’ve taken lightly, I’ve spent a lot of time pondering it. “The timing’s right. I made the decision, got to 100 per cent about a month ago. “I wasn’t sure how the last few weeks would go, how I’d find things, but it’s actually been a good spell really. I’ve enjoyed it.”I’ve had a chance to reflect and take it all in. I’m really looking forward to what’s going to be my last game on Saturday.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’m very proud. I didn’t think I’d be sat here playing as many games as I have for clubs I have done at that level and for Wales as well.”I’ve been incredibly fortunate and as I’ve reflected over the last few weeks I’m very grateful and thankful to everyone who has has helped me on my way to have these amazing experiences.”Allen, who came through the academy at Swansea, has featured in 24 Championship games for them this season.In total, he will finish having played 221 games for the club.Most read in ChampionshipJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAllen left Swansea for Liverpool in 2012 for £15million as he followed manager Brendan Rodgers to Anfield.He featured 132 times for the Reds across four seasons before leaving for Stoke in 2016.Inside raucous Liverpool dressing room as Trent Alexander-Arnold leads celebrations and Darwin Nunez smokes a cigarThe 77-time capped international was also a key member of the Wales squad that made the semi-final of Euro 2016.Allen made the team of the tournament and he is a former winner of the Welsh player of the year award.His decision to quit football is a major blow for Wales boss Craig Bellamy, who convinced him out of international retirement just last year after he initially said his time with the Dragons was after the 2022 World Cup.Yet it is one midfield maestro for another at Swansea as Real Madrid legend Luka Modric has purchased a minority stake in the club.Joe Allen says he is 100 per cent sure he has made the right decisionCredit: @SwansOfficial More

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      Premier League cult hero, 35, scores last gasp winner in wild seventh tier play-off clash with FOUR stoppage time goals

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      PREMIER LEAGUE cult hero Charlie Austin scored a last gasp winner to send his seventh tier side into a promotion play-off final.AFC Totton beat Dorchester Town 4-3 in the semi-final of the Southern League Premier play-offs – but only after some incredible theatrics.Premier League cult hero Charlie Austin booked his non-league side a place in a seventh tier play-off finalCredit: Ben Sayers / Sayers Sports PhotographyAustin scored a last-second winner for AFC TottonOne of the most insane non-league football matches of all time saw FOUR goals scored in stoppage time.Austin’s side were trailing 2-0 in the final minute of normal time and were set to end their season there and then at home.But it was somehow 3-3 by the time the referee’s full-time whistle was blown in the 12th minute of injury time.Former Luton Town striker Scott Rendell, 38, scored from the spot to make it 2-1 in the 90th minute.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSTotton’s Tony Lee hit goals in the seventh and 10th minute of added time to lead 3-2.But Dorchester’s Jack Dickson levelled the scores straight away to ensure extra-time.But with penalties looming, former Premier League star Austin stepped up to poke home from close range in the 119th minute.One fan wrote on X: “This was the best end to a game I’ve ever seen live!”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAustin was still playing professional football last season for Swindon Town before joining the seventh tier Southampton side in July 2024.The 35-year-old is now at the 15th club of his career, having started in non-league before rising to the glittering heights of the Prem.Charlie Austin goes on furious rant about officials after Southampton’s draw with Watford Austin made 111 top-flight appearances across spells at Queens Park Rangers and Southampton.After scoring 18 goals in his debut Prem campaign with QPR, Austin was called up to the England national team by Roy Hodgson in 2015.He teamed up with former Southampton striker at AFC Totton – James Beattie, who is the club’s Director of Football.It is the second straight season that AFC Totton have reached the final, after they were beaten by Salisbury in May 2024.They will take on Gloucester City, who eliminated Walton & Hersham via penalties after a 2-2 draw in their semi final, on Wednesday. More

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      Tom Brady’s Birmingham break all-time EFL points record in just second season in charge of League One champions

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      BIRMINGHAM CITY have smashed the record for the most points scored in a single EFL campaign.The club’s 2-0 win over Blackpool on Wednesday evening took their overall points total up to 108 – two more than the record previously set by Reading (106) in the 2005-06 Championship season.Birmingham have broken the EFL points recordCredit: PAIt is a successful end to Tom Brady’s second season as co-owner of the clubCredit: ReutersEthan Laird broke the deadlock in the 39th minute before striker Alfie May secured the win at the start of the second half.Birmingham, co-owned by NFL legend Tom Brady, still have one more game left to play – against Cambridge United.The Blues were promoted back to the Championship earlier this month and clinched the League One title just days later.They have lost just three games all season and now remain 19 points clear of second-placed Wrexham.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAfter lifting the trophy on home soil at St Andrew’s last week, manager Chris Davies said: “It’s an incredible achievement.”I really have to reiterate that. I don’t want people to start taking this for granted and thinking that we just won another game.”We just got the most points any team in the history of English football have got in this league.”It’s an incredible achievement of how consistent the players have been, with all the ups and downs you have through a season, and injuries and everything else.Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”They’ve done exceptionally well, so it’s an achievement that will be hard to match, 105 points in a season and I’m very, very proud of everyone.”We’re unbeaten in the league at home, so I wanted to finish strong today.Birmingham become first EFL club to win promotion as Tom Brady’s club bounce back to Championship at first attempt”We scored some good goals, it was a dominant performance – a really good way to finish.”Birmingham now have the chance to hit a record-extending 111 points if they beat already-relegated Cambridge on Saturday. More