More stories

  • in

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

    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

  • in

    Let football fans drink alcohol in the stands again, demands Labour MP

    FOOTBALL fans should be allowed to enjoy a pint in the stands while cheering on their team, an MP says.Labour’s Luke Charters wants designated drinking zones set aside in stadiums to allow supporters to have alcoholic drinks.Labour’s Luke Charters wants designated drinking zones set aside in stadiumsCredit: SuppliedAnd the Football Supporters’ Association has given its backing to the call by the MP for York Outer.Booze is currently prohibited from being consumed in sight of the pitch in the Premier League, English Football League and National League.But it is permitted further down the football league pyramid — and in other countries, such as Germany.Mr Charters said: “I think it’s time to reconsider the alcohol ban in view of the pitch, and at least try to run some trials of designated drinking zones.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL FANS“You can sit with a beer and watch the Bundesliga — so why can’t you have a pint while watching the Prem?“As a dad, I think it’s right that some parts of the ground should probably stay booze-free.“But let’s have a common-sense conversation about what we can do to make the matchday experience better — and back our great local breweries in the process.”The FSA backed Mr Charters’ call for drinking zone trials and said: “In the past, this is actually something many clubs have called for too.”Most read in FootballAlcohol can be sold on the concourse at games before and during matches but cannot be taken in to the stands.The ban has been in place in the men’s game since 1985.Shock moment ‘drunk’ football fans bellow crass chants at Ryanair hostess mid-flight and tell her to ‘get her t**s out’But trials allowing the consumption of alcohol in view of the pitch have taken place in the women’s game, which is not covered by the ban.Southampton, Birmingham City, Bristol City and Newcastle United took part this season.Mr Charters also tore into ticket prices and wants the £30 cap for away fans in the Premier League extended to the EFL and National League.He said: “Whether it’s clubs canning concessions or FA Cup Final ticket prices flying up, this fleecing of fans is blighting our beautiful game.”Football fans enjoy terrace drinking in 1984, one year before the banCredit: Getty More

  • in

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

    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

  • in

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

    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

  • in

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

    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

  • in

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

    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

  • in

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

    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

  • in

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

    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