Championship

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares32 Views

      in Soccer

      Never-before-seen FA Cup rule change proposed as footie bosses battle huge backlash to controversial replay decision

      by

      EFL chiefs will demand a change in the FA Cup prize fund after being left out of the decision to scrap replays.And a significant number of club bosses want EFL and non-league teams to have the right to decide whether to switch venues if they are drawn at home to Prem sides.EFL clubs are hoping to take action following the scrapping of FA Cup replaysCredit: RexClub chiefs in the lower three divisions are furious at claims they were part of the process that led to Thursday’s announcement, which came during an EFL board meeting.The EFL does have three representatives on the Professional Game Board, which agreed the proposed FA Cup changes and other parts of a revised fixtures calendar.But senior EFL representatives insist the ending of replays was effectively sprung on them at the end of a virtual meeting of the PGB two weeks ago.It is understood that EFL chief Rick Parry made the point that he had not been consulted – although it is recognised the prospect of replays being scrapped has been a discussion point for two or more seasons.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEFL bosses are adamant there was not a formal vote at either the PGB meeting or the subsequent FA Council gathering where the decision was effectively ratified.And while there is a reluctant acceptance that the announcement effectively means the EFL clubs have been left with no option, that does not mean they will roll over.That, though, is extremely unlikely to see the “aggrieved” EFL clubs refuse to take part in the FA Cup in protest.Doing so would be a breach of the current tri-partite agreement between the FA, Prem and EFL.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWhy FA Cup changes are GOOD NEWSBy Martin Lipton
      THE FA and Premier League should have done the deal to scrap FA Cup replays years ago.
      No doubt traditionalists will moan but it is right that the competition has finally been brought into the 21st century.
      Ending replays will bring extra sharpness and excitement to the ties, with the knowledge that there will be a winner, whether in 90 minutes, extra-time or penalties.
      If big guns have a bad day, they are more likely to pay the price. Replays after draws give them a fall-back they do not deserve.
      Giving the FA Cup total and absolute priority over four weekends – and ensuring there is no competing match on the day of the Final – will enhance the profile of a competition that was in danger of falling out of the spotlight.
      And as long as the FA ensures a better split of the prize money fund, weighting it more towards the earlier rounds, and potentially a similar move with  TV match money, there should be few losers.
      Read more on the FA Cup by clicking here.

      It includes an undertaking by the Premier League sides that they will take part in the Carabao Cup which is a huge money earner for the 72 clubs.Senior EFL figures recognise that breaking the agreement would give the Premier League sides the opportunity to pull out of the competition and therefore wreck a major financial stream.Top ten greatest Premier League players of all time as Kevin de Bruyne and Cristiano Ronaldo both miss out on top spotBut EFL clubs are likely to demand a change on the prize money structure so that it is weighted more towards the earlier rounds of the competition.One well-placed source said: “It’s the lack of proper consultation on this that has caused the most anger.“The reality is that the EFL is outnumbered on these committees and sometimes we think our voice simply doesn’t count.“Realistically we have to fight a battle we can win and one of those is about prize money and how it is distributed because if we do not have replays and that income, it has to be made up in another way.“The other thing that has to be discussed now is whether clubs should have the right to change the venue if they are drawn at home to a Premier League club.“That was allowed a few years ago before it was stopped but many people think it has to be back on the agenda now.”The latest development came as football lobbying group The People’s FA slammed the decision to scrap replays as a further erosion of the game.Co-chair and former Charlton player Mickey Ambrose said: “Once again, our weak governing body is pandering to the needs of the Premier League.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAmbrose has now organised a petition he hopes will be signed by all 92 clubs across the top four divisions to then be sent to FA chairman Prince William.He added: “Once again this proves the FA is not fit for purpose and needs to be reformed.”The FA have received huge backlash on their decisionCredit: PA More

    • 225 Shares66 Views

      in Soccer

      How Man Utd lined up last time they played Coventry with Barcelona legend unable to prevent humiliating defeat

      by

      A BARCELONA legend was left red-faced the last time Manchester United faced Coventry City.The Red Devils will meet the Sky Blues in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley on Sunday.Coventry City’s Michael Mifsud celebrates after his second goal against United in 2007Credit: PA:Press AssociationGerard Pique was in defence for United on that night against the Sky BluesCredit: GettyJonny Evans (pictured in 2007) is back at Old Trafford playing under current boss Erik ten HagCredit: GettyJohn O’Shea has just taken his first job in managementCredit: GettyErik ten Hag’s side will go into the clash as heavy favourites against the Championship team managed by their former striker Mark Robins.The two clubs were regular opponents in the Premier League throughout the 1990s but have barely met since Coventry were relegated from the top-flight in 2001.However, there was a shock the last time they went head-to-head back in September 2007.Old Trafford hosted the League Cup third round tie with over 74,000 fans packed in to watch the action.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut it was Coventry who were left celebrating as they ran out 2-0 victors thanks to a brace from Michael Mifsud.It was far from a star-studded line-up named by Sir Alex Ferguson that night.And the result seemed to have little impact on their season as they lifted both the Premier League and Champions League.Here’s who was in the United starting XI that night:Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTOMASZ KUSZCZAKThe Polish goalie spent six years at United having caught the eye previously at West Brom.He later played for Watford, Brighton and Wolves before finishing his career at Birmingham City in 2009.It’s baffling,’ says Gary Neville as he blasts Ten Hag’s coaching and reveals what Man Utd are ‘worst in the league at’DANNY SIMPSONCame through the academy at Man Utd but it would be at Leicester City where he enjoyed his greatest success as he helped them to Premier League glory in 2016.PHIL BARDSLEYThe ex-Scotland defender left United for Sunderland at the end of this season and later played for Stoke, Burnley and Stockport.JONNY EVANSThe veteran defender is now back at United after rejoining on a free transfer following an eight-year absence that included spells at West Brom and Leicester.GERARD PIQUEThe Spanish icon won the Euros and World Cup with Spain and everything possible at Barcelona after his move to the Nou Camp in 2008 but he was given a torrid time by Mifsud on this night. JOHN O’SHEAThe versatile Irishman was a huge favourite with Fergie and fans but left in 2011 to join Sunderland and then ended his career at Reading.ANDERSONThe Brazilian spent eight years at United before returning to his homeland, and then he headed to Turkey to finish his career.LEE MARTINAlso played for Rangers and Nottingham Forest on loan before he dropped down the pyramid and ended up in non-league.CHRIS EAGLESLeft for Burnley in 2011 and became a big fave and was equally loved at Bolton before spending the latter years of his career with several clubs in the lower leagues and Scotland.READ MORE SUN STORIESNANIThe Portuguese winger was a first-team regular for years at United after this and still plays as a winger for Super Lig club Adana Demirspor.DONG FANG ZHOUThe Chinese forward was simply not good enough to cut it at United and after just a handful of appearances he was shipped out, and following some stints elsewhere in Europe, he finished his career back in his homeland.WHERE ARE THEY NOW?Here’s what the United players from that night are doing now:
      KUSZCZAK
      He was most recently the goalkeeping coach of the Poland national team.
      SIMPSON
      Still plays for Northern Premier League Premier Division club Macclesfield.
      BARDSLEY
      Assistant manager of Macclesfield.
      EVANS
      Back playing for Man Utd under Ten Hag.
      PIQUE
      Retired from football in 2022 and then hit the headlines after splitting with his pop star wife Shakira.
      O’SHEA
      Recently appointed interim manager of the Republic of Ireland.
      ANDERSON 
      Assistant manager of Adana Demirspor in Turkey.
      MARTIN
      Signed for Isthmian League South East Division club Ramsgate at the start of the season.
      EAGLES
      He joined Alcoholics Anonymous in September 2021.
      NANI
      Still playing for Super Lig club Adana Demirspor.
      DONGCoaches youngsters back in China after retiring from playing More

    • 238 Shares32 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Breathtaking’ BBC Sport presenter Emma Louise Jones stuns in daring low cut dress as she hosts major awards dinner

      by

      EMMA LOUISE JONES presented Leeds United’s Player of the Year Awards ceremony last night.The 34-year-old is a favourite among the Yorkshire club’s fans, having presented on Leeds United TV.Emma Louise Jones showed off her glamorous outfitCredit: INSTAGRAM / @eljonesukThe popular presenter was on hosting duties for LeedsCredit: INSTAGRAM / @eljonesukEmma presented plenty of awards at the lavish bashCredit: X /@LUFCLast night she wore a glamorous black dress as she hosted Leeds’ awards do.Daniel Farke’s side sit third in the Championship, having lost top spot last weekend following their shock 1-0 home defeat to Blackburn.With their next game not until Monday night, Leeds’ stars headed out to celebrate their season.Among the awards that Jones handed out was the prestigious Player of the Year gong, which went to former Chelsea ace Ethan Ampadu.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSCrysencio Summerville picked up the Players’ Player of the Year award.While highly sought after teenager Archie Gray earned Young Player of the Year honours.Patrick Bamford won Goal of the Season for his brilliant FA Cup effort against Peterborough United.And Jess Rousseau was named Leeds’ Women’s Player of the Year.Most read in FootballOld favourite Luke Ayling was also back among his former Leeds colleagues.The defender has been on loan at Middlesbrough during the second half of the season, but was given a Special Achievement Award alongside fellow stalwarts Liam Cooper and Stuart Dallas.Emma Louise Jones ‘breaks the internet’ as she shares video of herself awkwardly trying her hand at MMA Jones recently shared a video of herself trying her hand at MMA.The presenter uploaded a clip of herself grappling on the floor as she was taught some basic moves.After the session, she wrote: “I’m not sure I’ll ever be an MMA fighter after this training session.”Emma Louise Jones is a popular BBC sports presenterCredit: Instagram / @eljonesukJones covers rugby league for the BBC alongside other sportsCredit: Twitter / @eljonesukJones had put together a strong social media game and can boast over a quarter of a million followersCredit: Instagram / @eljonesukJones loves to share glam pics with her legion of followersCredit: instagramJones’ posts attract a lot of engagement from her followersCredit: Instagram, @eljones90 More

    • 238 Shares37 Views

      in Soccer

      Chris Wilder leads furious backlash to FA Cup replays being scrapped as fans urged to protest at ‘ridiculous’ decision

      by

      CHRIS WILDER led a furious backlash after FA Cup replays were scrapped.Yesterday’s deal between the FA and Premier League will end 151 YEARS  of tradition in the world’s oldest cup  competition, starting next season.Already troubled by Prem relegation fears, Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder is now also upset by FA Cup replays being ditchedCredit: GettyThe FA Cup will see replays disappear from the first-round stageCredit: ReutersMillwall chief Neil Harris slammed the ‘absolutely ridiculous’ decisionCredit: RexBut  it sparked an EFL demand for  compensation, while League Two Tranmere branded it a “disgrace” — and called for fans’ protests and the introduction of an independent football regulator.Sheffield United boss Wilder claimed it was the latest example of the top-flight’s leading clubs overwhelming all opposition.Wilder, who has also bossed Halifax, Oxford and Northampton, said: “The game is dominated and dictated by the big boys — and they don’t want FA Cup replays.“What does that do to non-league clubs who get into the fairytale rounds and the financial implications?READ MORE TOP STORIES“I’ve been at both ends of the scale. The replay is a great reward. I’d have liked them kept.”Wilder’s criticism was echoed by EFL bigwigs and club chiefs.Tranmere’s vice-chair Nicola Palios — the  wife of club chairman and former FA chief executive Mark — claimed the Prem and their boss Richard Masters wanted to ­“strangle” football’s pyramid.That came despite top-flight chiefs agreeing to pay a total of £133m per season to the lower tiers.Most read in FA CupBut angry Palios wrote on X: “The FA and the Premier League have reached an agreement to suit themselves at the expense of the rest of the football pyramid.“Why were EFL clubs not given a say? Why is the Premier League even dictating whether replays are allowed in rounds they don’t participate in? Protest is needed!Huge changes being made to English football schedule next season“Bring on the regulator and make sure it has some teeth before the Premier League strangle the pyramid.”Fuming Accrington chairman Andy Holt also posted his views on social media.He said: “Why would the hapless FA scrap early round replays that can be lucrative  to minnows? Against EFL clubs? I expect nothing less of Richard Masters and Co.”The changes to the FA Cup come in the wake of an expanded Uefa Champions League and Fifa Club World Cup — which both kick in from next season — plus the axing of the Prem’s mid-winter break.The EFL were involved in discussions over the domestic calendar, including the potential end of two-legged Carabao Cup semis.But they pulled out of the talks over the failure of the Prem to agree a new funding deal for the lower divisions.EFL chief executive Trevor Birch said the decision was “frustrating and disappointing” and added: “Our domestic calendar has been put under extreme pressure by the expansion of Uefa competitions.“This represents another lost traditional revenue stream for EFL clubs at a time when the financial gap between the biggest clubs and those further down the pyramid is growing bigger than ever.“We will now be and seeking appropriate compensation arrangements.”Tranmere vice-chair Nicola Palios claims the FA and Prem have ditched replays to ‘suit themselves’ rather than the wider football pyramidCredit: PAAnd Millwall boss Neil Harris stormed: “It is absolutely ridiculous. European football is a joke. It’s all about money!”Under the new agreement, all Cup rounds will return to weekend dates with the final played on the penultimate Saturday of the campaign and not as the season finale.Changes to prize money — which could involve compensation to lower-league clubs for the loss of replay income — have yet to be agreed.The 2024-25 Prem season kicks off a week after the Community Shield, which takes place at Wembley on Saturday, August 10.Niall Couper, chief of the Fair Game football reform group, described the changes as “another nail in the coffin for the already crumbling football pyramid”.But FA chief Mark Bullingham insisted: “The Emirates FA Cup is our biggest asset. READ MORE SUN STORIES”This agreement ensures the magic of the Cup is protected and enhanced, whilst working for the whole of the English game.”And his Prem counterpart Masters added: “The FA and the Premier League have worked  to deliver more exclusive weekends without compromising the excitement of knockout football.” More

    • 225 Shares41 Views

      in Soccer

      Enzo Maresca, 44, could leave Leicester even if they get promoted as ‘Euro giants line up Foxes boss’

      by

      LEICESTER boss Enzo Maresca is rated a top Sevilla target.And even if the Foxes return to the Premier League in his first season, he could be lured back to the Spanish club where he made his name.Leicester hope to make an immediate Prem return in Enzo Maresca’s first season in charge but he is reportedly on the radar of old club SevillaCredit: RexFormer Watford manager Quique Sanchez Flores is under pressure at Sevilla as they sit a disappointing 13th in LaLiga.And Relevo claim the club’s ex-midfielder Maresca, 44, would be one of three main contenders lined up to replace him.Real Madrid legend Raul, who has been coaching Bernabeu junior teams, is also said to be in the running.The third man on Sevilla’s reported wish-list is Jagoba Arrasate – currently manager at their top-flight rivals Osasuna.READ MORE TOP STORIESMaresca’s strong coaching reputation in England is mainly based on two spells working under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.He also spent 13 months inbetween as Parma chief in Serie A.And in June 2023 he departed the Etihad once more for a second stab at being the main man in the dugout.That was when the Foxes pounced for the former West Brom and Juventus player following relegation from the Prem.Most read in ChampionshipAnd he helped Leicester romp 17 points clear in the Championship with flowing, attacking football. But a remarkable slump, including three straight losses, sent Maresca’s men out of the two automatic promotion spots.Harry Winks voices his disappointment as Leicester blows 17-point lead as Leeds overtake Foxes in table And only a recent revival has taken them back up to second spot.However, Leicester face a probe for allegedly breaching Prem financial rules before their demotion.And even if they go up, that investigation might be another factor for Maresca to ponder. More

    • 150 Shares54 Views

      in Soccer

      Leeds goalkeeper Kristoffer Klaesson rushed to hospital after car crash in Norway

      by

      LEEDS UNITED star Kristoffer Klaesson was taken to hospital after a car crash in his home country of Norway.The 23-year-old goalkeeper’s BMW M5 Cs collided with a roadblock barrier late on Wednesday night in Berger, Lillestrom.Leeds star Kristoffer Klaesson crashed his BMW M5 late last night in NorwayCredit: RexThe goalkeeper was taken by ambulance to hospital afterwards and could reportedly face chargesCredit: GettyLeeds have confirmed to the Yorkshire Evening Post that Klaesson was driving the motor involved in the road accident.Lillestrom news outlet Romerikes Blad says that Terge Marstad, a police operations manager, informed them that the Norway U21 international was able to stand and appeared to be uninjured.However, he was taken by ambulance to Akershus University Hospital as a precaution and was questioned by police at the medical facility.The YEP added that Klaesson did not sustain any injuries.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLPolice attorney Henrik Skrimstad told RB: “All I can say is that the police are investigating a traffic accident.”Bjorn Bratteng, the head of Lillestrom police station district’s investigation section, also revealed that Klaesson’s driving licence had been temporarily seized, without the footy ace’s consent. However, RB are reporting that cops do not suspect that he had alcohol in his system.But Norwegian media outlet, Verdens Gang, are reporting that Klaesson is charged with violating Section 3 of the Road Traffic Act.Most read in FootballThat states: “Any person shall travel showing consideration, and being alert and cautious so that no damage or risk is caused, and so that other traffic is not unnecessarily obstructed or inconvenienced.”That can carry a penalty of up to one year in prison.Patrick Bamford reveals terrifying moment Leeds fans confronted him at his house leaving his fiancee shakenKlaesson signed a four-year contract at Elland Road in 2021 after Leeds paid £1.6m to Norwegian side Valerenga.He has only made three first-team appearances for them, two of which have come this season.He did manage to get a Premier League outing as well last term in the club’s relegation campaign when he replaced the injured Illan Meslier away to Wolves.However, he has found himself reduced to being third-choice stopper over recent weeks after Karl Darlow returned to being No.2 after thumb surgery.Kristoffer KlaessonHere’s all you need to know about the star:
      Club: Leeds United
      Position: Goalkeeper
      Age: 23
      DOB: November 27, 2000
      Place of birth: Oslo, Norway
      Height: 6ft 4in
      Previous club: Valerenga (2015-2021)
      International: Norway U21 (17 caps)
      Honours: 2016 Syrenka Cup

      Leeds are next in Championship action away to Middlesbrough on Monday as they look to try and seal an instant return to the top-flight.They are currently third, two points behind leaders Ipswich Town and one behind second-placed Leicester City, who have played a game less than their two rivals.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut Southampton in fourth have also returned to the title race and sit three points behind Leeds with a game in hand on Daniel Farke’s side.The German boss is likely to give an update on the stopper’s condition on Friday at his next pre-match press conference. More

    • 200 Shares62 Views

      in Soccer

      Rotherham United poach new manager from rival club less than three hours after sacking Leam Richardson

      by

      ROTHERHAM have announced the return of Steve Evans as manager, less than three hours after sacking Leam Richardson.Richardson, 44, only lasted four months at the helm and was dismissed two weeks after Rotherham were relegated from the Championship.Leam Richardson was sacked by Rotherham on Wednesday morningCredit: PASteve Evans has returned to Rotherham, leaving Stevenage with two games of the season remainingCredit: GettyHe departed with the club rock bottom of the second tier, 21 points adrift of 23rd-place Sheffield Wednesday.And they have wasted no time in filling the vacancy as Stevenage boss Evans, 61, has been appointed for a second stint in charge.A statement from the club read: “Rotherham United are delighted to welcome back Steve Evans as the club’s new first team manager.”Evans returns to AESSEAL New York Stadium alongside assistant Paul Raynor, with the duo signing contracts which will run until 2027.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Talks with Steve, Paul and their representatives were opened upon permission being granted by Stevenage and the swift nature in which they were concluded outlines the desire of the club, Steve and Paul to make this move happen.”Evans will return to the club alongside his Assistant Paul Raynor.”Evans spent three years at Rotherham between 2012 and 2015, winning 72 of his 173 games.He secured promotion to League One in his first full season in charge.Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd back-to-back promotions were clinched 12 months later as Rotherham beat Leyton Orient on penalties in the play-off final.Evans guided the club to survival in their first season in the Championship, before he left in September 2015 with the team in 20th place.Watch Stevenage star blindside keeper to score cheeky goal and send fans wildHours before Evans’ return was confirmed, Rotherham revealed the search for a new manager was underway in their statement about ex-Wigan head coach Richardson’s exit.It read: “Rotherham United can confirm that the club have parted company with first team Head Coach Leam Richardson with immediate effect.”They went on to add: “Everyone at Rotherham United would like to thank Leam and Rob for all their efforts and wish them well for the future.”The search to appoint a new first team manager is already under way, with further communication to follow in due course.”Rotherham United will be making no further comment at this time.” More

    • 200 Shares41 Views

      in Soccer

      Eberechi Eze was rejected by SIX teams including Arsenal as fans admit ‘absolute stinker in hindsight’

      by

      CRYSTAL PALACE star Eberechi Eze revealed SIX clubs rejected the chance to sign him before his Selhurst Park heroics.Eze, 25, has shone bright in the Premier League with Palace in the last four years and has amassed a total of seven goals and four assists in 26 appearances this season.Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze was rejected by six clubs, including ArsenalCredit: GettyEze now commands an asking price in the region of £70mCredit: GettyEze was also turned down by Fulham, Sunderland, Bristol City, Reading and MillwallThe versatile forward’s impressive appearances have attracted interest from some of the Prem’s biggest clubs, such as Manchester City and Tottenham, ahead of the summer transfer window.And he could go for as much as £70million.However, the two-cap England star wasn’t so spoiled for choice earlier in his career.When starting out as a kid, Eze dealt with a series of rejections from various different teams, including Arsenal.Read More on FootballThe Gunners scouted the attacking midfielder in 2006, when he was playing for Sunday League outfit Bruin at the age of eight.The North Londoners signed the youngster, only to release him as a teenager.And that wasn’t the end of the rejection for Eze.Speaking to the Second Tier Podcast, Eze recalled: “So I started at Bruin, that’s a Sunday League team.Most read in FootballGobsmacked Jurgen Klopp appears to mouth three-letter response as Eze scores Crystal Palace winner at Liverpool”Was there for maybe half a year before getting scouted by a few teams like Arsenal, Chelsea – more London-based teams.”I decided to go to Arsenal, was there for maybe five years, played there then got released.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKER”Went to Fulham for two-and-a-half years or so, got released from there.”Went to Reading for half a year, got released from there. The went to Millwall for my scholar, was there for two years then got released from there.”Went on trial to a few teams afterwards. Went to Sunderland, went to Bristol City, got released from there – well not released, but didn’t get in.”Then, thankfully to God, I got signed by QPR. They gave me a year contract.”Worked for maybe three or four months, got offered a new contract and from there started to grow, started to get better and improve, play first-team football and from there I got a move to Palace.”Fans couldn’t believe how their favourite clubs missed out on such a talent like Eze, who is poised to make a big money move soon with his Palace contract running until 2027.Eze’s asking priceReports suggest the Eagles won’t let their star man go for less than £70m, especially after he dealt a crushing blow to Liverpool’s title chances by scoring the winner on Sunday’s 1-0 victory at Anfield.One supporter tweeted: “It is MAD how many teams rejected Eberechi Eze.”Another commented: “Can’t forgive Sunderland for this one, absolute stinker in hindsight.”A third wrote: “The thought of Eze and [Palace team-mate Michael] Olise in the same #ReadingFC side is frightening.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThis fan said: “@SunderlandAFC f**k sake lads, dropped a right b*****k there.”And that one pleaded: “Come home to Arsenal.”Eze has stood out in the Premier League these past four years More