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      Wrexham ‘in talks over signing Fulham captain Tom Cairney’ to bolster Championship promotion hopes

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      WREXHAM are in talks to sign Fulham captain Tom Cairney, according to reports.The Red Dragons could spend big once again after winning a third successive promotion to reach the Championship.Wrexham are in talks to sign Tom CairneyCredit: RexThe Fulham captain has made 27 appearances this seasonCredit: Shutterstock EditorialWrexham owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have spent big since taking overCredit: GettyWrexham have already been linked with a number of targets and Cairney is now on their radar, according to The Telegraph.The club has opened talks over a move for the midfielder, who would be one of their most ambitious signings after breaking the bank to sign Sam Smith for £2million in January.Cairney is out of contract in the summer so could be snapped up for free but would command hefty wages.Wrexham are believed to want experienced players as they return to the second tier for the first time in 21 years, and Cairney fits the mould.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has played 318 games at Championship level and has 412 top-flight appearances, as well as two Scotland caps.Cairney, 34, has made 27 appearances this season, 23 of which have been in the Premier League although nearly all from the bench.Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson has often gone down the experienced route when recruiting players – Jay Rodriguez, 35, James McClean, 36, and Steven Fletcher, 37, have joined the club in recent years.In total Wrexham have 11 players aged 30 or over, with more potentially arriving.Most read in FootballJamie Vardy has been linked with a move to North Wales after confirming he will leave Leicester after 13 years at the club.BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSManchester United defender Jonny Evans has also been mooted as a potential arrival with his contract up next month.Parkinson said the club was “always planning” but admitted that while they have not spoken about anyone in particular they do have a profile of targets who are free agents.’He’s got the fastest hands’ – Wrexham star James McClean tipped to beat up Jake Paul in boxing fightHe said: “We haven’t really spoken about anything. We’ve always got our eye on players who are free transfers and are going to be available.”I think it’s interesting because the jump in salaries is incredible, mind-blowing. Even coming up to this level, the jump to get players of Championship quality is expensive.”But obviously the next level, I don’t think people outside football quite realise.”They think players in League One must be multi-millionaires, but the drop-off from what people read in the press about Premier League players is huge.”That is a challenge but what we’ve always tried to do is make sure the culture in the club is right.”No superstars, no egos in the dressing room, and we’ve got to try to get that balance right again, to make sure the right people come into the building.” More

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      ‘I cannot thank you enough’ – Wrexham legend thanks Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as he announces departure

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      WREXHAM fan-favourite Mark Howard has announced his exit from the Welsh club after helping them climb the Football League.Howard, 38, confirmed his exit from the Racecourse in an emotional statement on social media – thanking Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney for bringing him to the club.Mark Howard has announced his exit from WrexhamCredit: instagram @markhoward.1The goalkeeper thanked Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in an emotional statementCredit: RexHoward joined Wrexham in 2022, helping the club secure promotion into the Football League as the first choice goalkeeper alongside former Premier League star Ben Foster.While he has had a smaller role in recent seasons, losing his starting spot to Arthur Okonkwo as Wrexham have earned another two successive promotions from League Two and League One.Howard, who is nicknamed Chomp, featured just 11 times in League One last season and will depart ahead of the Red Dragon’s return to the Championship.In a statement revealing that he isn’t planning on retiring just yet, he wrote: “From the moment I pulled on the Wrexham shirt, I have tried to bring professionalism, passion, and personality to the club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”As I reflect on what an incredible journey it’s been, I consider myself fortunate to have shared a dressing room with the best teammates.”Everyday I have left with a smile on my face wanting to come back and do it all over again. Love you boys.”Being able to say I’m the only goalkeeper ever to do the three-peat. Back-to-back-to-back. I say tongue in cheek.”I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Working alongside some of the most amazing staff on and off the pitch, giving me the encouragement to do more, I cannot thank you enough.”The connection with the fans was tough at times but now I feel part of the family, I would like to think you’ve all grown to love me.Wrexham stars celebrate in iconic Las Vegas casino and hijack luggage cart after Hollywood owners splash £500k on party”At this stage I still feel like I have more football in me, so it’s not retirement yet, I still want to dive around while my body lets me.”Finally a huge thank you to these two amazing people. Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds.”Wrexham stars were quick to pass on their well-wishes to the experienced shot-stopper.Elliot Lee wrote: “The oldest goalkeeper there ever was. I will miss you old man”.While Andy Cannon added: “One of the best. What a man”.Steven Fletcher posted: “Chompy, what a fella. Friend for life big man.”And Wrexham director and comedian Humphrey Ker wrote: “Farewell to a man who never let us down and always lifted us up. One of the greats. The Chomp.”Howard, who previously played for the likes of Sheffield United and Blackpool, leaves Wrexham having made 58 appearances and kept 19 clean sheets for the club.Read More on The SunHe could be the first of many to leave on the expiration of their current deals at Wrexham as the club look to bring in more talent to compete in the Championship next season.Wrexham are yet to release their retained list, however a number of players are set to run out of contract – including former Scotland international Steven Fletcher.Wrexham earned promotion into the Championship this seasonCredit: RexSteven Fletcher is out of contract in the summerCredit: Getty More

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      EFL club set to SACK third manager in 12 months while former boss is flying high in Europe

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      HULL CITY are set to sack their third manager in 12 months after reports suggested they would give the boot to boss Ruben Selles.Selles, 41, has been in charge of the team since December.Hull are set to sack manager Ruben Selles after narrowly avoiding relegationCredit: GettyThe club managed to avoid relegation from the Championship on goal difference after a 1-1 draw at Portsmouth on the final day.But following their narrow survival, club chiefs have opted to go into next season with new leadership as first-team coach Tobias Loveland and joint-assistant James Oliver-Pearce are also set to leave, according to The Telegraph.The Spanish boss, who was relegated from the Premier League with Southampton in 2022/23, won just nine of his 28 games in charge of the Tigers while drawing eight and losing 11.His imminent exit means Hull will now be looking to appoint their fourth manager in a year and the fifth under owner Acun Ilicali.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLReports in Turkey suggest the businessman previously spoke to close friend and football legend Arda Turan about his future, with the ex-Barcelona star currently managing Super Lig outfit Eyupspor – although a move is not currently on the agenda.Instead, the odds on favourites for the job at this stage are former Derby manager Phillip Cocu, ex-Leicester boss Steve Cooper and Tayfun Korkut, formerly of Stuttgart and Hertha Berlin.Selles was the successor of caretaker boss Andy Dawson, who was in charge for two games following the departure of Tim Walter in November.The German was appointed into the role in July of last year and lasted just 18 games after winning a mere three times while also picking up six draws and nine defeats.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKLiam Rosenior was the last boss to last more than half a year at the MKM Stadium, departing in May last year after narrowly missing out on the play-offs.The decision to sack him came down to a difference in football philosophy, according to Ilicali, who wanted to play attacking football.Hull City captain and his teammate brother ‘in brawl on nightclub dance floor’ – as club issues statementFormerly the assistant to Wayne Rooney at Derby before he became interim manager when the ex-Manchester United star resigned in June 2022, Rosenior now manages Ligue 1 side Strasbourg.The French outfit, owned by Chelsea owner Todd Boehly as part of the BlueCo group, are in the fight to qualify for European football next season.They currently sit sixth in France’s top flight, level on points with fourth and fifth placed Nice and Lille, with Nice currently occupying a Champions League qualifying spot.The final game of the season commences this Saturday, with Strasbourg facing 16th place Le Havre while rivals Nice face top half side Brest and Lille take on 14th place Reims.Sun Sport exclusively revealed earlier this month how Hull captain Lewie Coyle, 29, was involved in a street brawl outside a pub in the city centre.A local resident, who asked not to be named, said: “It all happened yesterday at around 8pm in town in Hull in the city centre.”I was just on my way home when I saw lots of people fighting. At the time I wasn’t aware it was Lewie Coyle – I saw him being pushed by his brother.”The witness said the bus came to a stop as Rocco Coyle guided his brother across the road by putting both hands on his chest.Lewie walked backwards away from the scene to the other side of the road as two women walked with them.The source added: “The bus stopped because it was starting in the middle of the street.”They were fighting right in the middle of the road so the bus was blocked. This bus and the other side of the road were both blocked.”Read More on The SunA club statement on the incident said: “Hull City is aware of a video currently circulating on social media and has launched an investigation into the matter.”The club will refrain from making further comment until the investigation has been concluded.” More

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      Norwich City ‘to hold talks with Jurgen Klopp’s former assistant for manager’s job after snubbing Jack Wilshere’

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      NORWICH are set to hold talks with Jurgen Klopp’s former assistant manager Pepijn Lijnders, according to reports.The Canaries are on the hunt for a successor to axed ex-boss Johannes Hoff Thorup.Pepijn Lijnders worked under Jurgen Klopp at LiverpoolCredit: AlamyFormer Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere stepped in as caretaker for the final two matches of the season.But the 33-year-old is set to depart Carrow Road after being informed that he will not be considered for the job on a permanent basis.According to the Telegraph, Lijnders has emerged as a serious candidate and will speak to Norwich chiefs later this week.The Dutchman, 42, worked as Jurgen Klopp’s assistant manager for several years before leaving Liverpool alongside the German last summer.READ MORE NORWICH CITY NEWSLijnders was briefly in charge of Dutch side NEC in 2018, while last May he joined Red Bull Salzburg upon his Anfield exit.The former Liverpool No2 lasted just 29 games in charge of the Austrian outfit after finding himself 10 points off the pace in the title race.Norwich are claimed to have already spoken to former Bournemouth and Wolves boss Gary O’Neil.The 41-year-old, who played for the Canaries between 2014 and 2016, has been out of work since leaving Molineux last December.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLijnders, 42, worked alongside Jurgen Klopp for several yearsCredit: GettyNorwich chiefs are also said to be keen on ex-Nottingham Forest and Leicester boss Steve Cooper.But the Welshman is not believed to be keen on the move at this stage.Jack Wilshere in race against time as he faces huge 350-mile commute from managerial debut to run London MarathonDespite not having a manager, Norwich have released their retained list.While they have also confirmed that they will go on a pre-season training camp in the Netherlands, Lijnders home country.Norwich sporting director Ben Knapper, who succeeded Stuart Webber in December 2023, said: “We want somebody in as soon as we can without compromising the quality of our process and of the candidate, and finding the right person.”It’s not something we expect to wrap up in a week or two but we don’t want this to drag. We absolutely will have a head coach in place long before pre-season starts.”Norwich are expected to confirm an appointment before the end of this month.Gary O’Neil has also emerged as a contender for the Norwich jobCredit: AP More

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      Beanpole ex-Premier League striker, 42, comes out of retirement for shock sport switch to Vikings American football team

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      FORMER Premier League striker Stefan Maierhofer has swapped goals for gridirons … by becoming an American football star.The 6ft 7ins Austria international had a top-flight spell with Wolves, scoring once in 10 games before leaving in 2011.Ex-Premier League ace Stefan Maierhofer has crossed over to American footballMaierhofer played for the likes of Wolves, Bayern Munich and MillwallHe joined Bristol City on loan in 2010, and four years later had a brief stint with their Championship rivals Millwall.Former Bayern Munich youngster Maierhofer has also played for a host of German, Austrian and Slovak clubs.But the 42-year-old has now switched sports by joining the Vienna Vikings American football club.They compete in the European League of Football, and won the title in 2022.Read More on FootballMaierhofer said: “I’m making my sporting comeback as a kicker in American football, and I’m going to play for Vienna Vikings in 2025.”From my first minute at the club I was clear in my mind that I wanted to join them.  Everyone from the owner down to the equipment manager speaks with one voice.”Everything is all about success and respect, and that impressed me.  I trained with the former NFL kicker, Giorgio Tavecchio, and worked on perfecting my technique.”I want to reach the 2025 final with the Vikings, and play in front of 50,000 American football fans.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSVikings head coach Chris Calaycay said: “Stefan is a very tall man, extremely popular, and with a unique body language.”The transition from kicking a soccer ball to kicking a football is tough, but he is going tremendously well.”Patrick Mahomes says ‘cut the cameras’ in emotional locker room scenes as new K ansas City Chiefs doc trailer is releasedClub owner Robin Lumsden added: “A number of prominent footballers wanted to play for us, and many found the trials difficult.”But it became clear very quickly that Stefan was the right man for us.  He embodies our fighting mentality – he is highly professional and competitive.” More

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      Emotional Frank Lampard struggles through Sky Sports interview after Coventry’s gut-wrenching play-off defeat

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      EMOTIONAL Frank Lampard struggled through a Sky Sports interview after Coventry’s gut-wrenching playoff defeat to Sunderland.The Sky Blues fought back from a goal down to level things up in the north east last night.Frank Lampard struggled through an interview after Coventry’s playoff defeat to SunderlandThe Chelsea legend saw his side knocked out by a 122nd minute goalCredit: GettyCoventry and Sunderland then looked set for a penalty shootout to settle their thrilling tie.But disaster struck for the visitors as Dan Ballard headed home a winner in the 122nd minute.Sunderland’s 3-2 aggregate win means they will now face Sheffield United at Wembley for a place in the Premier League.However, Coventry have been left to pick up the pieces of their heartbreaking defeat after an epic season under Lampard.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Chelsea legend replaced Mark Robins in November and led his side from a relegation battle to a fifth-place finish.But despite the amazing run, Lampard was left stunned after seeing his promotion hopes fade away.In an interview with Sky Sports, the former England midfielder was clearly shell-shocked as he opened up on one of the “cruellest” moments of his career.Yet Super Frank, who was harassed by a shirtless home fan at the final whistle, remained gracious as he congratulated Sunderland on their victory.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHe said: “(Cruel way to go?) Yeah, that’s the biggest example I think I’ve probably been involved in.”Firstly, congratulations to Sunderland, they go to the final. But, I’ve got immense pride in my players, over the two games, we dominated at home and dominated huge periods of this game.Frank Lampard fumes after being harassed for selfie by pitch invader after last gasp Coventry loss at Sunderland”We came here with absolute bravery to play the way we play. They had to concede to us because of the way we played, the way the lads controlled the game. “They don’t deserve it, the players. I’m a lot older, I’ve been around a lot, so I’ve taken whacks and I’ve had success.”I suppose I can be maybe a tiny bit more balanced in my job, but for those players, they don’t deserve that. So, congratulations to Sunderland. We’re not bitter, but we were the better team over the two football matches.”I can’t ask for any more. I’m so disappointed for the club, for the fans, the owner and the players. Once the dust settles, I cannot be disappointed with the way they play.”It’s cruel. But I can’t think of anything but pride for the season and for tonight. We wanted to go to Wembley. But sometimes the gods conspire against you in certain ways.” More

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      Championship club handed final deadline to leave stadium with side’s long-term future ‘not guaranteed’

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      OXFORD UNITED have been told when they must leave the Kassam Stadium.The Championship club have been playing at the 12,500-seater venue for the last 24 years.Oxford have been set a date they must leave the Kassam StadiumCredit: RexThe ground only has three standsCredit: GettyBut it is owned by former chairman Firoz Kassam and his Firoka Group, who want Oxford to move out.The license was due to expire at the end of next season and leave the team without a home in just 12 months’ time.But an agreement has been struck that sees the deal extended to the end of the 2026/27 campaign, with the option of one further year maximum.It means Oxford must move out the three-stand Kassam Stadium by June 2028 at the latest.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFormer club chief Kassam stated: “Oxford United have been a hugely important part of my life for over 25 years, but now is the right time for all of us to look to the next chapter. “Agreeing to this extension allows Firoka Group to focus on developing the wider site for local people and the city of Oxford, whilst providing the club with clarity in the short-term. “It’s now up to others to approve planning to guarantee Oxford United’s long-term future.”Current U’s chief Grant Ferguson added: “The club was facing some very difficult decisions on where to play after our licence expired in June 2026 and before our new stadium is ready. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS“There has been a massive amount of work going on behind the scenes to get us to this point, and I would like to place on record my thanks to Firoz Kassam who personally oversaw the discussions which led to this short-term extension being signed. “Agreeing this goes well beyond the terms of our existing arrangement and demonstrates Firoz’s support for the Club, particularly given this could potentially delay his plans for the site.”We can now move forward with certainty as both parties look to the future.” Oxford plan to build a new 16,000-seater ground and have submitted the proposal to Cherwell District Council.The new home is set to be on land known as the Triangle near Kidlington and the stadium will include a 180-bedroom hotel, restaurant, conference centre, health & well-being space, gym and community plaza.  Oxford have unveiled plans for their new homeCredit: AFL Architects / Oxford UnitedAn extra 3,500 fans will fit in the groundCredit: AFL Architects / Oxford United More

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      Frank Lampard fumes after being harassed for selfie by pitch invader after last gasp Coventry loss at Sunderland

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      FRANK LAMPARD reacted furiously as a taunting pitch invader tried to take a selfie after Coventry’s last-gasp play-off agony.Dan Ballard’s 122nd-minute equalizer booked Sunderland a Wembley final against Sheffield United as a 1-1 draw nicked a 3-2 aggregate triumph.Frank Lampard was in the middle as some fans got on the pitchCredit: GettyA bare-topped supporter ran towards LampardCredit: SUNSPORTLampard rebuffed the fan and turned to walk awayCredit: GettyThere were frenzied scenes as Sunderland revelled in victoryCredit: SUNSPORTAnd as a batch of supporters swarmed onto the turf at the Stadium of Light, Sky Blues chief Lampard was caught in the middle.The grim-faced Chelsea legend responded agitatedly when a grinning, bare-topped fan quickly approached him and got up close.The supporter was holding a phone high and appeared to be attempting to take a photo with Lampard.The ex-England midfielder rebuffed him, then turned to make his way off.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSOne viewer shared a clip of the unfortunate incident on social media – and hit out at the fan’s antics.He wrote: “Not sure trying to get a selfie with a manager that’s literally just lost a play-off semi final, in injury time of EXTRA time, is the smartest move… Keep it together super Frank Lampard!”Another posted: “The cheek of this Sunderland fan trying to get a selfie with Frank Lampard after that last gasp winner…”A third blasted: “No way bro.”Most read in FootballDan Ballard was in ecstasy after his Sunderland clincherCredit: Shutterstock EditorialBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKThe ugly exchange on the turf came just as Lampard was rueing the most heartbreaking of semi-final defeats.Trailing 2-1 from the first leg, Coventry’s high-energy tactics edged much of the return at the SoL.’One of the best things I’ve ever seen’ – Frank Lampard stunned as Coventry star hits 180 with first-ever three dartsEphron Mason-Clark deservedly struck on 76 minutes to take the tie into extra time.And it was deep into stoppage time during that extra half-hour when Ballard soared to nod home off the underside of the bar.That sent Sunderland through to a £200million shootout with the Blades on May 24 for a place in the Premier League.Ballard sunk Coventry at the death in the play-off semi-finalCredit: GettyChris Rigg led Sunderland celebrations after victory over Coventry booked a Wembley play-off final against Sheffield United on May 24Credit: Reuters More