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      Frank Lampard brutally trolled by Portsmouth in now-deleted tweet as Coventry fall apart after taking early lead

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      PORTSMOUTH’S official X account seemingly took a cheeky swipe at Frank Lampard after battering his Coventry side 4-1 at Fratton Park.Pompey lifted themselves off the base of the Championship table with a victory over Coventry, and made sure to throw a jibe at Lampard after the victory.Portsmouth’s X account appeared to take a playful jibe at Frank LampardCredit: PALampard’s Coventry side were beaten 4-1 by Portsmouth this afternoonCredit: RexThe club’s official X account shared a post with their 184,000 followers that appeared to tease the former Chelsea star for his trademark face-change interviews.Lampard has become well known for answering a question with a beaming smile on his face before quickly displaying a deadpan look as he continues his answer.And the Portsmouth account appeared to poke fun at that by posting two images of man of the match Callum Lang smiling and with a serious face, alongside the caption “no, but seriously”. The post was swiftly deleted after just a few minutes.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLang single-handedly tore Coventry to pieces after The Sky Blues blew a 1-0 lead from Norman Bassette’s third minute opener.Lang bagged all four of Portsmouth’s goals to give the home fans an early Christmas present on the south coast.The Liverpool lad claimed that his display was the best day of his career after the game.He said: “One hundred per cent That’s the best day of my career.Most read in FootballA now-deleted post seemed to poke fun at Frank Lampard’s trademark face changeCredit: XCallum Lang scored four goals to turn the game around for PortsmouthCredit: RexBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“We got three important points and to top it off with four goals in front of my family was perfect.“I’ve not scored a senior hat-trick before and the lads have all signed the match ball.”Sports Direct unveils new Xmas adWhile Pompey boss John Mousinho saluted his goal hero saying: “Callum has been our most outstanding player this year and I’m so pleased he’s got his hat-trick.“He has a physical presence and the energy he puts in is fantastic-and that was a fantastic result and performance from the team”.Coventry boss Lampard tasted defeat for the second time since taking over at the CBS Arena last month.His time with the club has got off to a mixed start with two wins, two defeats and one draw from his first five games in charge.The retired England international slammed his side as “not good enough” in the second spell after giving up their early lead.He said: “The second half was just not good enough and this is the first game that I’ve felt this way.“They were too aggressive in the second half and we weren’t good enough.“I knew what I was letting myself in for coming here but this is a big, big learning curve for the players but I’m not going to harp on individual errors.“I’ve played here many times and you know what you are getting when you come here.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’ve worked in the Championship before and I know you have to respect every team.”Coventry currently sit 17th in the Championship table. More

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      Phil Foden gave me a footballing lesson I’ll never forget – now I’m making my own way under Man Utd legend

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      FINN AZAZ was shown the way to the top by Phil Foden.And the Middlesbrough midfielder hopes to join Manchester City’s England superstar in the Premier League next year by completing an EFL hat-trick of promotions.Phil Foden and his Man City team-mates taught Finn Azaz a footballing lessonCredit: AlamyBut Azaz is now aiming to get revenge but first needs to earn a promotion with Michael Carrick’s MiddlesbroughCredit: GettyAzaz, 24, went up from League Two with Cheltenham in 2021 and then League One in 2023 at Plymouth — who Boro visit today.And he can keep his biennial promotion streak going by helping Middlesbrough into the Prem. During his stint at Cheltenham he played against Foden in the 2020-21 FA Cup — and the Robins gave Pep Guardiola’s stars a fright, leading through an Alfie May goal until the 81st minute.But late strikes from Foden, Gabriel Jesus and Ferran Torres spared City’s blushes.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAzaz admits that match taught him a lesson. He said: “I’ve always wanted to play in the Premier League but that day showed me the gap I had to bridge if I was ever going to make it.“I did well and realised that although these are guys you’re watching every week on TV, they’re just normal people when playing them.“But it was an eye-opener. Foden was wearing moulds and the pitch was terrible that day. Yet he showed incredible balance.“I never get cramps — but that day I did! All that taught me I must do a lot better if I want to reach that level. That was my first season playing men’s football and to win League Two was special.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“I grew so much as a person and the manager Michael Duff showed so much trust to play me.”Azaz — who did not play a competitive game for Aston Villa in three years there — was on loan at Argyle 12 months ago, where he scored 15 goals and made 15 assists in 67 games.Manchester City’s Phil Foden shuns posh holiday for £100 tent at a £14-a-day fishing lake in the CotswoldsAnd he has had a fantastic 2024 since deciding to join Michael Carrick’s Boro in January for £2million.Not only has he been a key cog for the  Teessiders — reflected by him winning the Sky Bet Championship player of the month for November — but he has broken into the Republic of Ireland team too.He said: “I find it hard to reflect on a year while you’re still in the moment. “I came here to help get this team promoted but we weren’t able to do that last season — so that’s the target come May. That’s all I’m thinking about.“And with the Republic of Ireland, the goal is to reach the 2026 World Cup. So everything is a work in progress.”He says his game has kicked on since moving to the Riverside, with 14 goal contributions this season (six goals, eight assists) — only  Norwich’s Borja Sainz has more (15 goals, two assists) in the Championship.Plus he is one of only two players with five goals and five assists in the division, along with Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer. His assist tally is the most in the division.And he credits Carrick as a huge influence.The former Manchester United, West Ham, Tottenham and England ace has slowly got Boro moving in the right direction since taking over two years ago — and holds an impressive 50 per cent win record.Azaz explained: “The manager is detailed and the tempo of the sessions is unreal. You must be on it all the time.“He has made sure everyone knows their job and what is expected of them in training. There is a lot of trust from players to management.“The boss demands high standards but he’s also calm in his approach. The way he explains things I really like.“Every manager I’ve worked with has been different but from an experience point of view from playing, he’s far and away the best.”Azaz believes the team spirit at the Riverside has been particularly impressive, with a strong bond among his team-mates.He added: “We’re always doing stuff together. We have a pool table, two table tennis tables and darts at the training ground.“You will still see some of the players shooting pool at 4pm. Most changing rooms I’ve been involved in want to get off but here people stay.“Dan Barlaser is a good pool player — but I’ve got his number. I’m decent, I take my time and it frustrates the opponent.”Azaz has an interesting family background — son of an Israeli mother and an Irish father.He enjoys visiting Israel and said: “I love doing all the cultural stuff. I’ve been to  Jerusalem and gone to the desert.“But Tel Aviv is my favourite. It’s such a vibrant city. The beaches are unreal.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAzaz has already made a New Year’s resolution: “To be present in 2025.”He could well be so — in the Premier League. More

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      EFL club receive update on new £130million stadium that would see capacity boosted by thousands

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      OXFORD UNITED have received an update on their new £130million stadium.The Championship side are set to leave the Kassam Stadium in 2026 after 25 years at the ground.Oxford are planning to move into a 16,000 capacity groundCredit: Oxford UnitedThe complex would also include new restaurants and a gymCredit: https://twitter.com/_LiamWalker_A planning application for a 16,000-capacity ground was submitted to Cherwell District Council at the end of February, but it was announced that the application would not be considered until early next year.Oxford then submitted a pre-application request to the council over a transport matter – with the local authority now responding.A note on their website stated that the council will undertake a period of statutory reconsultation ‘following the receipt of additional environmental information, pursuant to the council’s request for further information’.It read: “The council is awaiting receipt of further information relating to alternative site assessment.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“Upon receipt of this additional information, there will be a further period of reconsultation, which is likely to be in the new year.“Please be advised that whilst there is no statutory obligation to take late comments into account, we will exercise discretion in a positive manner and accept late comments, as far as it is reasonably practicable to do so, up until the application is ready to be determined.“Late responses may only be made via email or letter.”Oxford are planning to move to land known as The Triangle north of the city which would also see a restaurant, conference centre, health and wellbeing space, and community plaza created.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe plans include a potential stunning complex, which would include a 180-bed hotel and a gym.The club is also keen to improve the ecology of the stadium.Oxford sign forgotten Chelsea wonderkid and aim sly dig at John Terry in stunning announcement That means a transport model has been updated to allow for buses and bicycles to pass through matchday road diversions.A footpath and cycleway has also been proposed to provide “additional connectivity and enhanced sustainable transport options”. More

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      Liverpool eyeing EFL transfer raid for prolific wonderkid with eight goals in just seven games this season

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      LIVERPOOL are plotting a raid for Sunderland wonderkid Trey Ogunsunyi, according to reports.The Black Cats have given plenty of game time to youngsters this season.Liverpool are eyeing Trey OgunsunyiCredit: AlamyBut Ogunsunyi has had to remain patient for his chance, despite scoring eight goals in seven games for Sunderland Under-21s.His performances have caught the eye and Liverpool are ready to make a move, according to the Daily Mail.The Reds have looked to poach young talent in recent years, snapping up the likes of Rio Ngumoha, Trey Nyoni and Amara Nallo from Premier League rivals.Ogunsunyi, 17, could also make the switch to Anfield although he is still under contract for another 18 months.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe teenager, who is capable of playing across the front three, is highly regarded at the Stadium of Light with manager Regis Le Bris describing him as a “very interesting player for the future”.Meanwhile Liverpool have hit a major stumbling block in their efforts to keep Trent Alexander-Arnold at the club.Anfield chiefs have offered the England full-back a £70,000 rise on his current £180,000 weekly wage.But Alexander-Arnold is holding out for £350,000 to match another of the Prem leaders’ contract rebels, Mo Salah.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlexander-Arnold’s contract is up in the summer and he knows Real Madrid are waiting to offer him what he wants.Like Salah and skipper Virgil van Dijk, Alexander-Arnold can talk to interested foreign parties next month.Mo Salah drops yet another hint about leaving Liverpool win days after admitting he was ‘more out than in’ Alexander-Arnold’s has told close pals that he would like to stay, especially as he is now settled into a £5million Cheshire mansion. More

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      English manager SACKED by EFL club in shock move with fans left in disbelief as 84-word statement released

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      DES BUCKINGHAM has been SACKED from role as Oxford United manager.The Championship strugglers confirmed his exit on social media.Des Buckingham has been sacked by Oxford UnitedCredit: GettyBuckingham, 39, helped the club get promoted from League One after being appointed last season.However, his time in charge of the club came to an end following the 3-1 defeat to Sheffield on Wednesday at the Kassam Stadium on Saturday.A statement read: “Oxford United can confirm that Des Buckingham has left his role as men’s first team head coach.”Des was appointed in November 2023 and led the club to promotion to the EFL Sky Bet Championship at the end of the 2023/24 season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”The club would like to place on record its thanks to Des for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”The appointment of a new head coach will be confirmed in due course.”Fans have been left in disbelief over Buckingham’s departure from the club.One posted: “You’ve lost your minds.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA second wrote: “Not impressed with that.”A third commented: “Completely unexpected but got to see who the next guy in is and support them.”Football teams that controversially changed their badgeA fourth said: “Well, that’s ruined my enthusiasm for this season. We must have an incredible name lined up as a replacement. Otherwise, we’re going to look silly.”Another added: “Well that’s a decision I can’t get my head around.”Oxford’s last win under Buckingham came in the 1-0 victory over Hull City on November 5.Since then, the club has lost five of six matches, including a 6-2 drubbing by Middlesborough.In October he was forced to have medical attention after the draw with Derby County.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Leeds set to go back in for Sporting Lisbon starlet Dario Essugo to boost Prem promotion bid after missing out in summer

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      LEEDS are planning a daring raid for midfield dynamo Dario Essugo at Sporting Lisbon.Powerful Portugal Under-21s ace Essugo has been loaned to Las Palmas in Spain.Leeds are interested in signing Dario EssugoCredit: GettyLeeds tried for the 19-year-old in the summer and now want to offer a loan-to-buy arrangement.Essugo played 25 times for Sporting as a teen.In the summer, former boss Ruben Amorim decided to loan him out.He has spent this season in LaLiga with Las Palmas.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEssugo has played 10 times for his loan club so far.He scored his first goal during a match against Mallorca last month.Meanwhile, Leeds are set to sign Australian keeper Robbie Cook after a trial.Cook, 17, was wanted by Manchester United and Sunderland.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLeeds salvaged a late draw at Preston yesterday.Daniel Farke’s side fell behind courtesy of Brad Potts’ 23rd minute opener.Wolves players and staff clashing with one another after full-timeThey finally levelled in the 93rd minute, via Jack Whatmough’s own goal.The draw saw Leeds fall three points behind leaders Sheffield United, who beat Plymouth Argyle 2-0 at Bramall Lane.Daniel Farke is chasing reinforcements for Leeds’ promotion bidCredit: Rex More

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      Championship promotion chasers lining up transfer for Ben Brereton Diaz despite his record-breaking Prem nightmare

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      SOUTHAMPTON forgotten man Ben Brereton Diaz will be offered an escape route and a return trip to promotion-chasing Sheffield United.The Chile forward, 25, has struggled and is out of Saints’ plans so he could be available for a move next month.Ben Brereton Díaz is a January transfer target for Sheffield UnitedCredit: GettyBrereton Diaz had a good spell on loan at then-Prem side Blades from Villarreal last term before a summer move to St Mary’s.But things have not gone to plan for the striker, who is still yet to taste victory in the Premier League.His winless run of 24 matches – 14 at Sheffield United last term and now ten so far for Southampton – is an unwanted new Prem record. Now Blades boss Chris Wilder wants him and the new club-owners-in-waiting are willing to fund either a loan or permanent switch.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSheffield United are looking to boost their Championship title tilt and have several targets in mind for a signing spree.They also want promotion expert Ashley Barnes, 35, in a shock deal from Norwich.The striker helped Burnley reach the Premier League in 2023 before heading for the Canaries but he could be on the move again.The battle-hardened target man was back in the Norwich side in midweek.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut he could be available and that opens the door for a short-term switch to the Blades.Barnes’ contract is up in June and he is on big wages.Wolves players and staff clashing with one another after full-timeSo City may want to sell him if the terms are right.The Blades are also looking at Southampton right-back James Bree, 26.And they could also join the bidding for Peterborough forward Ricky-Jade Jones, 22.Brereton Diaz joined the Blades on loan last seasonCredit: Reuters More

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      Government plans for football will backfire… damaging the Premier League is in NOBODY’S interest

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      NO ONE watching this year’s Premier League could think English football isn’t in rude health.Liverpool are on top, with Chelsea in hot pursuit and Aston Villa flying high in the Champions League. Bournemouth, Brentford and Brighton are all pushing for Europe.The Football Governance Bill is currently being debated in ParliamentCredit: AlamyThe Premier League provides support further down the football pyramidCredit: GettyOur second league, the Championship, is thriving like never before.It’s now the sixth richest league in Europe, thanks to the EFL’s £1billion broadcasting deals and the Premier League’s financial support — the most generous of any major league in the world.Incredibly, our second tier is now far wealthier than even the Portuguese or Dutch first leagues.Meanwhile, club insolvencies across the pyramid are at a 30-year low.READ MORE ON FOTBALLBut a lot of our politicians seem to think English football is a fragile house of cards. Other countries would love to have our so-called “problems”.There’s a reason 1.5bn people around the world tune into English football.Because, from top to bottom, our leagues crackle with tension, high stakes and meaning.They are not boring hierarchies where one team dominates in half-full stadiums, but the best competitions on the planet — forged by those willing to take risks, invest millions and back their judgment.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIn what was promised to be a “light touch” regulator concentrating on the issues that are very important to clubs and fans — heritage issues, better fan engagement, proper owners and so on — the Government has given the Independent Football Regulator a so-called “Backstop” power.It’s part of the Football Governance Bill, currently being debated in Parliament, although it is making slower than expected progress. Former Premier League star begins new career as rapper with debut album set to be released – Labour’s own backbenchers have suggested over 150 new clauses they believe should be added to their own Government’s Bill.That’s on everything from forcing clubs to socially engineer the make-up of their season ticket holders, to demanding that fans are defined as only those who have season tickets, regardless of if you can actually get a season ticket at your club or not.The Backstop power gives the Regulator the right to forcibly take money from Prem clubs, even if it harms or affects their own competitiveness.Less cash means less to spend on transfer fees or less cash to pay their players.Not all Prem clubs have endless wealth, that’s why there is over £2bn of debt in the Prem.The Prem is no miserly Scrooge. Every Championship club receives around £7million a season, each League One club gets around £1.5m and each League One club gets over £1m.These payments are a helping hand, agreed freely and with goodwill.And since their inception in 2007, they have increased more than tenfold.But the Government believes this generosity, more money shared than any other league on the planet, should make way for state intervention.The result of which could mean that Prem clubs have to take on more debt (which ironically makes them less sustainable) or invest less in their own team so that fellow owners in the other leagues no longer have to take similar risks themselves. This is trickle-down turned upside-down.The Championship is no soup kitchen queue. It hosts incredibly wealthy owners, nine of them billionaires, who plough millions into efforts to reach the promised land.Yet, a Prem side that has climbed the ladder the hard way,  through calculated risk-taking and sustained investment, may be forced to hand over more millions so that Championship owners don’t have to.That’s even if those owners have mismanaged their clubs, made bad decisions and ­deliberately put their clubs at financial risk.It won’t be their owners that have to face the consequences, it will be the Prem owners who have to pick up their tab!The Prem willingly supports the pyramid with £1.6bn over a three-year broadcast cycle.That’s how I believe it should stay: negotiated, reasonable and always voluntary.That’s why I think the Regulator could well consider £1.6bn is far too generous and decide to cut it back.Or wonder why League Two only get eight per cent of the total PL handout, as the Championship keeps 80 per cent.Or they may decide the Prem should not fund every part of the pyramid themselves and the EFL should support the National League, the league directly below them, rather than asking the Prem to do that for them.Or they may just simply decide to impose far more stringent self-help measures that the EFL will have to implement to ensure they manage their own money better.Any good Regulator will surely see that damaging the appeal of the PL, and creating a competition that’s less vibrant, less exciting and much less appealing is in no one’s interests.Because if that happens, the Premier League will go into reverse and there will be far less money for everyone in the football pyramid.Less money for grassroots football. Less money for the PFA. Less money for the Football Foundation. Less money for the women’s game.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd less money for all the many community projects and charities the PL supports to the tune of over £50m a year.As they say, be careful what you wish for…Who are these famous footballers? More