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      Chelsea looking to re-sign star they sold for just £18million but face transfer battle with Newcastle

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      CHELSEA are considering a summer swoop to re-sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, according to reports.Guehi came through the youth ranks at Chelsea before moving to South East London for £18m during the 2021 summer window. Marc Guehi has now attracted interest from his former club ChelseaBut Chelsea could find themselves in a battle with Newcastle, who also want to land their former star next summer.He agreed to leave Stamford Bridge three years ago after finding his first-team opportunities limited.However, Guehi, who joined Chelsea at the age of six, has since established himself as one of the Prem’s best centre-backs.He has come on leaps and bounds since arriving at Selhurst Park, with the defender breaking into Gareth Southgate’s England side last season.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSGuehi started five of the six games during the Three Lions’ Euros campaign, including the final 2-1 defeat to Spain.But the Palace star only missed the Switzerland game through suspension after picking up two yellow cards.The 24-year-old’s Palace contract expires at the end of next season.This has alerted the Enzo Maresca’s side to the fact he could be available for a cut-price fee next summer, according to talkSPORT.Most read in FootballGuehi is now a staple in England’s defenceFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe centre-back was wanted by Newcastle this summer, but Palace refused to lower their £70m price tag.Guehi, capped 22 times by England, was recently praised by interim Three Lions boss Lee Carsley for being “fast and aggressive”.’Referees don’t understand football!’ Ex-Prem ref slams PGMOL for serious Chelsea & Liverpool errorsHe only played two first-team games for Chelsea and was loaned out to Swansea City, before leaving to join Palace, who were then managed by Patrick Vieira.But transfer journalist Graeme Bailey has tipped Guehi for a possible return to the Blues. He said: “Guehi is someone who they like, he’s high up on the list. Palace have got issues, a January deal is not something Guehi is pushing for.“He’ll have a year left on his deal next summer, and will be a very attractive proposition for one of the top six. “He’s one to keep an eye on for sure, we know Chelsea like him, and Chelsea do want to upgrade the options behind Fofana and Colwill.”Chelsea player ratings vs LeicesterBy Graham HillCHELSEA survived a late Leicester fightback to win 2-1 at the King Power Stadium.SunSport’s Graham Hill rated each of the players in action.Robert Sanchez – 6He had a few shaky moments playing out from the back, which gave Leicester hope of getting back into the game before the break, but he will not be happy to have missed out on a clean sheet in stoppage time.Wesley Fofana – 7Booed on his second return to Leicester – but he refused to let it unsettle him, the fans could not put him off producing an assured display in the Chelsea defence.Benoit Badiashile – 7Controlled display at the back, he showed some superb vision at times but, apart from a spell in the first half, he was rarely troubled.Levi Colwill – 7Cool, calm and collected in defence – even when Leicester threatened to get back on level terms. A controlled second half display helped keep the Foxes at bay.Marc Cucurella – 7Looked a threat out left going forward and created some of Chelsea’s best opportunities of the game – including their second goal and he knew how to frustrate Leicester when he needed to.Moises Caicedo – 8Booked for dissent at a time when Leicester almost came back into it, but kept his head to make sure Chelsea stayed firmly in command of the game.Enzo Fernandez – 8Set up Jackson’s goal and is making a habit of providing key assists – this was fifth in his last three games.Headed number two from close range for good measure.Noni Madueke – 7Brought an excellent first half save from Mads Hermansen – who then stopped him scoring Chelsea’s second before the break.Blocked a certain Palmer goal though.Cole Palmer – 8Got some unwanted attention midway through the first half after a terrible challenge from Wilfred Ndidi – hit Maduke when he should have scored, otherwise he was excellent.Joao Felix – 6Peppered some shots in early on and proved a thorn in Leicester’s side, but drifted in and out of the game despite being part of a dominant Chelsea display.Nicolas Jackson – 7The opening goal – his seventh of the season – rounded off a powerful run and clinical finish after some help from Fernandez in the build-up. Also had a hand in Chelsea’s second.SubsChris Nkunku: for Joao Felix 81mins – 6Romeo Lavia: for Caicedo 81 mins – 5Jadon Sancho: for Maduke 84mins – 6Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: for Jackson 90 + 1mins – 5 More

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      ‘I’ll never forget that image’ – Theo Walcott reveals how bizarre Arsene Wenger moment convinced him to join Arsenal

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      THEO WALCOTT has revealed how Arsene Wenger convinced him to join Arsenal.Walcott joined the Gunners from Southampton in 2006, before making his debut for them as a 17-year-old.Theo Walcott has revealed how Arsene Wenger convinced him to join ArsenalCredit: PA:Press AssociationWalcott revealed one ‘unusual’ thing he will never forget about Arsene WengerCredit: AFPThe 35-year-old lifted the lid on the deal that took him to North London amid interest from Liverpool, Chelsea and a late offer from Manchester United.Speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, he said: “There was [options for me]. Chelsea, Liverpool, Man Utd came in with a very late bid which I wasn’t aware of at the time.”[But] To be honest my mind was already made up as soon as Arsene Wenger got involved. “I remember going back to his place with David Dein.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”His sofa was a little bit lower than this and his legs were higher than his actual face itself being how tall he was.”(Laughing) I’ll never forget that image it was very unusual.”And Thierry Henry of course was a player that I was really inspired to learn from.”As soon as I had Arsenal involved I just want to go there and play with him.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”It was my dream to play with someone like ‘that’ and if you ask any kid if they want the opportunity to play with their star they’re going to do it.”And it was an easy option.” Fans can’t believe Theo Walcott’s ‘shocking’ blind ranking of top 10 Champions League stars and ask ‘is this a prank?’Walcott had the chance to play with Henry for one season before he departed for Barcelona.However, having become one of the main figures at the Emirates, Walcott was still at the club when Henry made his return in 2012.He was substituted off the field moments before Henry’s famous late winner against Sunderland.Walcott scored 108 goals in 397 games for the Gunners overall.He eventually left the club in 2018 to join Everton.After 85 appearances with the Toffees Walcott returned to Southampton, initially on loan in 2020.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe switch was made permanent the following summer, with Walcott starring for the Saints for another two seasons before announcing his retirement.He also earned 47 caps for the England national team, scoring eight goals.Walcott said playing with idol Thierry Henry was a major factor in his decision to join ArsenalCredit: EPATheo Walcott career statsArsenal (2006-2018): 397 appearances, 108 goals, 73 assistsHonours: FA Cup x3, Community Shield x2Southampton (2005-2006 + 2020-21 on loan + 2021-2023): 82 appearances, 10 goals, five assistsEverton (2018-2021): 85 appearances, 11 goals, nine assists More

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      Forgotten former Chelsea star reveals Mauricio Pochettino tried to sign him before awkward ‘who’s that’ comment

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      FORMER Chelsea defender Malang Sarr has criticised Mauricio Pochettino for “forgetting” his name while he was at the club.The 25-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge in 2020 but made just eight Premier League appearances in four years.Malang Sarr has hit back at Mauricio Pochettino, claiming the manager DID know who he was at ChelseaCredit: GettyPochettino claimed he did not know who Sarr was last summerCredit: GettyHis last outing for the Blues came on the final day of the 2021-22 season – when Thomas Tuchel was still in charge.Sarr did not even train with the first team when Pochettino was at the helm.As a result, the manager claimed he did not know who the defender was last summer.Asked in a press conference about the Sarr’s future, Poch replied: “Who?”Read More in FootballBut the Frenchman hit back in a recent interview, claiming Pochettino did know who he was.He even claimed the manager tried to sign him for Tottenham during his time at White Hart Lane.Sarr told L’Equipe: “I took it badly. It shouldn’t have happened. He knew me.”He even tried to sign me at Tottenham. I didn’t ask for an explanation.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSarr now plays for RC LensCredit: RexThe centre-back had his Chelsea contract terminated in July.He subsequently joined RC Lens in a free transfer.Gianfranco Zola reveals Cole Palmer pledge as Chelsea icons meet for first time after EA FC comment Chelsea player ratings vs LeicesterBy Graham HillCHELSEA survived a late Leicester fightback to win 2-1 at the King Power Stadium.SunSport’s Graham Hill rated each of the players in action.Robert Sanchez – 6He had a few shaky moments playing out from the back, which gave Leicester hope of getting back into the game before the break, but he will not be happy to have missed out on a clean sheet in stoppage time.Wesley Fofana – 7Booed on his second return to Leicester – but he refused to let it unsettle him, the fans could not put him off producing an assured display in the Chelsea defence.Benoit Badiashile – 7Controlled display at the back, he showed some superb vision at times but, apart from a spell in the first half, he was rarely troubled.Levi Colwill – 7Cool, calm and collected in defence – even when Leicester threatened to get back on level terms. A controlled second half display helped keep the Foxes at bay.Marc Cucurella – 7Looked a threat out left going forward and created some of Chelsea’s best opportunities of the game – including their second goal and he knew how to frustrate Leicester when he needed to.Moises Caicedo – 8Booked for dissent at a time when Leicester almost came back into it, but kept his head to make sure Chelsea stayed firmly in command of the game.Enzo Fernandez – 8Set up Jackson’s goal and is making a habit of providing key assists – this was fifth in his last three games.Headed number two from close range for good measure.Noni Madueke – 7Brought an excellent first half save from Mads Hermansen – who then stopped him scoring Chelsea’s second before the break.Blocked a certain Palmer goal though.Cole Palmer – 8Got some unwanted attention midway through the first half after a terrible challenge from Wilfred Ndidi – hit Maduke when he should have scored, otherwise he was excellent.Joao Felix – 6Peppered some shots in early on and proved a thorn in Leicester’s side, but drifted in and out of the game despite being part of a dominant Chelsea display.Nicolas Jackson – 7The opening goal – his seventh of the season – rounded off a powerful run and clinical finish after some help from Fernandez in the build-up. Also had a hand in Chelsea’s second.SubsChris Nkunku: for Joao Felix 81mins – 6Romeo Lavia: for Caicedo 81 mins – 5Jadon Sancho: for Maduke 84mins – 6Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: for Jackson 90 + 1mins – 5 More

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      Bompastor hails Chelsea’s ‘perfect start’ but says team ‘still have a lot of improvement’ to make

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      SONIA BOMPASTOR wants Chelsea to stay focused on reality in their title hunt despite their flawless record so far this term. And the Blues boss thinks there is more room for improvement from her undefeated side who beat Manchester United 1-0.Guro Reiten netted the only goal of the game with a spot-kick for Chelsea in the 17th minuteCredit: ReutersBlues forward Sandi Baltimore was named player of the match after another a solid shift as a full-backCredit: GettyChelsea’s win increased their advantage at the top of the table with Man City trailing them by six pointsCredit: PAGuro Reiten’s sixth top-flight goal this season kept the title chase on target for the league leaders at their Kingsmeadow fortress. Melvine Malard came close to snatching a dramatic late away leveller for Man United with her thunderous shot bouncing off the crossbar. But Chelsea did enough to protect their lead and open a five-point gap on Man City, who are second. And the loss for the Red Devils in the WSL leaves the Blues as the only side unbeaten so far this term after eight top-flight games. Read More Football StoriesBompastor said: “In terms of results it’s a perfect start and a 100 per cent win record. But it’s important to stay in mind with reality. “This is really good in terms of confidence, but the reality is even if we beat Man City, Arsenal and Man United, we haven’t won anything yet. “We need to keep a good balance between having the confidence from getting these good results against the best teams in the league. “But we must also make sure we keep our mentality focused on working hard.Most read in Football”We need to progress and the good point is we are winning games and getting points. “But we still have a lot of improvement, especially when we have possession of the ball, being able to hold the ball more under pressure.”Coming into the game United’s attacking ranks had been dealt a fitness blow with Ella Toone and striker Elisabeth Terland both injured. Starting in their place were veteran forward Rachel Williams and Brazil winger Geyse who was the Red Devils’ most dangerous attacking threat. Man United began brightly with forward Geyse leading the way with some powerful runs and decent crosses into the box. But it was the hosts who would break the deadlock after United keeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce brought Mayra Ramirez down in the box. The game’s only goal was scored with Reiten rifling home from the penalty spot in the 17th minute despite Tullis-Joyce guessing the right way. United came close to equalising in the second half with Geyse forcing Hannah Hampton to parry away her shot away from the top corner And Malard struck the woodwork in the 90th minute. Man United were limited to one shot on target with their strongest attacking threat coming from Geyse (pictured) and Melvine MalardCredit: PABut their hosts held out with loss likely to see Marc Skinner’s side now nine points behind the league leaders. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Red Devils boss said: “Chelsea are running away with it. “All we can do is get closer, try and finish as high as we possibly can, and try and finish in those Champions League places.” More

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      ‘My family are a big inspiration – we love to talk about the game’, says Chelsea boss Sonia Bompastor

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      THE support of her retired football referee father has been an inspiration for Sonia Bompastor during her rise to the top of the game. The Chelsea chief’s dad was watching from the Stamford Bridge stands, as she guided her side to wins against Manchester City and Celtic.Sonia Bompastor hopes to guide Chelsea to their 12th win in 12 games played in the WSL and Champions LeagueCredit: AlamyA Blues win against Man United at Kingsmeadow would extend the team’s lead to five points at the top of the WSL before the international breakCredit: GettyAhead of their clash with Man United Bompastor’s players booked their place in the Champions League quarter finals by beating Celtic 3-0Credit: GettyBoth matches, played last Sunday and on Wednesday, led the Blues to extend their winning streak to 11 games under their boss.Results that pushed them to the WSL’s summit before a 12 midday clash with Manchester United today, and secured their place in the Champions League knockout stage.Bompastor, 44, said: “I know even when he’s back at home he’s watching the games and I really appreciate talking with him about football.”My family is a big inspiration and they have always been supporting me. We love to talk about the gameRead More Football Stories”My Dad was so happy to come (over here) to watch the Manchester City game, the Celtic game and he sometimes talks about tactics.”He pretends he knows a lot! And I’m like, ‘yes I’m listening’.Bompastor’s father Joaquim, who was born in Portugal, officiated amateur level games in France for more than 30 years before hanging up his whistle.Playing football from the age of six with him and her brother put Bompastor on a path that would later lead her to multiple trophy wins as a player and women’s team head coach at her old club Lyon. Most read in FootballThe former defender, who began her Chelsea managerial role in July, says her father had a knack for honing in on the small details of a game.And a referees’ performance is one aspect he keeps a close eye on.Bompastor, who steered Lyon to seven major trophies including a 2022 Champions League title, added  “We are all passionate (about football).”It’s the common thing we have in our family. That’s what brings us together.”When he comes to a game the first thing he does is watch the referee’s performance.”Today Chelsea play their third home match in eight days when they host Marc Skinner’s Man United at Kingsmeadow.Both sides are the only two teams currently unbeaten in the WSL this term after seven games played with both winning in their last league outings.We’re at the top of the table which is the main goal, but if you think that’s enough at the moment, you will drop some points Sonia Bompastor However three draws from their last four top-flight games has seen United drop six points off the leaders with Skinner coming under pressure from some Red Devils fans.While United will be without Ella Toone and possibly Elisabeth Terland, due to injury, Bompastor is mindful of the other attacking threats Players includes Rachel Williams and ex-Lyon forward Melvine Malard.The Blues chief said: “They have some other good players like Melvine.”I know Melvine and since she joined Manchester United (from Lyon) she’s been on fire (for them).”They also have Rachel Williams who might be starting. “She’s a player we know really well here at Chelsea so we are prepared for that.”She’s good with the ball technically, strong in the air and a really athletic player.”While their opponents are six points off them, Bompastor believes the Red Devils are still a threat in the race for the title.And she has no intention of underestimating her rivals.She adds: “We still have a lot of games to play. Everyone is still in the (title) race.”We’re at the top of the table which is the main goal, but if you think that’s enough at the moment, you will drop some points and won’t be focused.”We need to keep the right mentality, work hard and make sure that in every game we take things game by game.”We want to put all the ingredients together to get a good performance.”Having worked as an academy director for eight years at Lyon from 2013 after retiring as a player, Bompastor is keen to bring more promising young talents rise through the Blues ranks. Chelsea’s win against Celtic included the head coach handing a debut to Lola Brown who came on as a 86th-minute substitute. The 17-year-old, who plays in midfield, is among two teenagers who have featured for Chelsea in the Champions League this season. Wieke Kaptein, 19, who joined the Blues last summer before being loaned back to her old club FC Twente for one season, has made nine appearances in Europe and the WSL this term. Bompastor said: “I know my main job is to make sure we perform, get great results and we win titles. Bompastor is wary of Man United’s attacking threats who include ex-Lyon forward Melvine MalardCredit: PA”But I’m also really focused on developing the players, especially the young ones. READ MORE SUN STORIES”That’s something really important to have in Chelsea’s squad – young players being developed by the coaches and by me. “It’s enjoyable to work with young players when they have the talent.” More

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      Fans ask ‘how can anyone hate him?’ after spotting what Jamie Vardy did in tunnel before Chelsea clash

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      FOOTIE fans absolutely loved what Jamie Vardy did just minutes before Leicester’s clash with Chelsea.The veteran striker skippered the Foxes for the visit of the high-flying Blues on Saturday afternoon.Jamie Vardy led the line for Leicester against ChelseaCredit: GETTYThe 37-year-old had a cheeky Red Bull seconds before taking to the pitchCredit: TNT SPORTSFootage of Vardy knocking back his pick-me-up went viralCredit: TNT SPORTSAnd he necked a can of Red Bull seconds before leading the team out at the King Power Stadium.Cameras in the tunnel caught the 37-year-old casually sipping the drink as he held one of the child mascots’ hands.Footage of Vardy’s pre-match pick-me-up went viral and became the talk of footie fans.One wrote on X: “That is outrageous.”READ MORE ON LEICESTERAnother said with a series of laughing emojis: “He don’t give a f***ing flying wings.”And another said: “A Red Bull at 12:30 is crazy?”One remarked: “How can anyone hate him?”Another chimed in: “Can’t take him anywhere.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSJamie Vardy was subbed in the second half of the matchCredit: GETTYVardy revealed his love of Red Bull in an exclusive interview with SunSport in 2016.He said: “With a traditional 3pm Saturday kick-off, I’ll have a can of Red Bull as soon as I wake up, which is gone in 30 seconds.Fans tell Jamie Vardy ‘never change’ as footage emerges of Leicester star slide tackling a KID during title celebrations”I don’t have breakfast and won’t eat anything until I have a cheese-and-ham omelette with baked beans at 11.30am.”I wash that down with another Red Bull, which I also neck quickly.”While we’re waiting and killing a bit of time, I have a double espresso, normally with centre-half Marcin Wasilewski (now retired).”We get into the dressing room an hour and a half before kick-off, and I’ll have a third can of Red Bull straight away.”But with this one I sip it all the way until we go out for the warm-up, leaving a bit to finish off when I come back in.”So three Red Bulls, a double espresso and a cheese-and-ham omelette is what makes me run around like a nutjob on a match day.”Vardy’s pre-match caffeine fix didn’t help him find the back of the net and he ended up being subbed in the 79th minute.The Foxes suffered a 2-1 defeat to the visitors thanks to goals from Nicholas Jackson and Enzo Fernandez.READ MORE SUN STORIESSteve Cooper’s side pulled a goal back from the penalty spot through Jordan Ayew in second-half stoppage time but it proved to be a consolation.Leceister will look to pick up only their third win of the season next Saturday when they travel to west London to take on Brentford. More

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      Leicester vs Chelsea second half delayed after freak injury to linesman

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      THE second half of Leicester’s Premier League clash with Chelsea was delayed due to a freak injury.The match, which the visitors won 2-1, was all set to restart on time before it emerged the linesman Mark Scholes had suffered an injury.The second half of Chelsea’s trip to Leicester was delayedCredit: GETTYLinesman Mark Scholes suffered an injury during the matchCredit: TNT SPORTSHe was replaced by fourth official Leigh DoughtyCredit: TNT SPORTSAnd the injury prompted referee Andy Madley to call on the services of the fourth official, Leigh Doughty.Doughty, thankfully, was warmed up and ready to jump in on short notice, which he did before the restart.Despite being injured, Scholes wasn’t completely pulled off duty.The lino ended up swapping roles with Doughty, taking over fourth official duties for the remainder of the match.READ MORE ON CHELSEAIt’s currently unknown what injury Scholes suffered.But it’s seemingly not that severe if he’s been able to swap gigs with colleague Doughty.Chelsea went into the second half at the King Power leading 1-0.A neat finish from Nicholas Jackson in the 15th minute put Enzo Maresca’s troops ahead in the Italian’s return to the Midlands club.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSChelsea ratings vs ArsenalRobert Sanchez – 6Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.Malo Gusto – 6Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.Wesley Fofana – 7Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.Levi Colwill – 6Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.Marc Cucurella – 7Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.Moises Caicedo – 6Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.Romeo Lavia – 6A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.Noni Madueke – 6Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.Cole Palmer – 6Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.Pedro Neto – 7Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy. Nicolas Jackson – 6Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though.They should have doubled their lead in the 54th minute when Cole Palmer tapped the ball toward the gaping goal after a save from Mads Hermansen.But team-mate Noni Madueke sensationally STOPPED the ball from going in, despite his best efforts to get out of the way of the shot.Gianfranco Zola reveals Cole Palmer pledge as Chelsea icons meet for first time after EA FC comment Enzo Hernandez, however, put the Blues 2-0 up in the 75th minute, heading home after a brilliant save from Hermansen.Jordan Ayew pulled a goal back for the home side in stoppage time but his penalty ended up being nothing more than a consolation.Chelsea will be back in action on Thursday night, travelling to Germany to take on Heidenheim in the Europa Conference League. Leicester, meanwhile, will travel to west London next Saturday to take on Brentford. More

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      I played for Man Utd legend and ex-Premier League manager – he taught me absolutely nothing

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      MARK HUGHES was a huge disappointment as Bradford boss and lacked people skills.That is the damning view of Bantams midfielder Richie Smallwood, who has revealed how underwhelmed he was by the Manchester United legend’s spell at the club.Richie Smallwood was expecting much more from Mark HughesCredit: RexHughes was an Old Trafford hero as a striker and managed Man CityCredit: AlamyHughes had an illustrious playing career which also took in Chelsea, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Southampton, Everton and Blackburn.He also managed Rovers, Manchester City, Southampton, Stoke, Fulham and QPR in the Premier League as well as his home nation, Wales.But he had 19 months in charge at Valley Parade before he was sacked in October 2023 with the club sitting 18th in League Two.Smallwood, 33, took a two-division drop in 2022 having just racked up 42 Championship appearances as Hull captain because of the lure of Hughes.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut Sparky could only lead the Bantams to play-off semi-final agony in his only full season in charge.Asked if he enjoyed working for the former star striker, Smallwood said: “To be honest, no. We didn’t get the job done despite having a good enough team.“I didn’t learn anything from him. I was expecting a lot more. That’s how it is in football sometimes.“Hughes was the big draw for people to come here.Most read in FootballHughes, who was a popular frontman for the Red Devils, hasn’t managed since being sacked by Bradford in October 2023Credit: RexFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“Because of the player he was and the capabilities he had you think that’s going to transfer over as a manager.“But sometimes it didn’t and that led to us not getting the job done. That was the way it was. I didn’t learn too much from him.”Ruben Amorim makes Man Utd transfers vow as new boss wastes no time in stamping authority on new employers Smallwood even hit out at his lack of man-management and communication skills.He added: “That wasn’t one of his strengths. That’s my honest opinion.”Bradford sit ninth, two points behind the play-offs and five off the automatic places ahead of entertaining Accrington on Saturday.And Smallwood believes the team are heading in a better direction under Hughes’ successor Graham Alexander.The former Salford, Scunthorpe, Fleetwood and MK Dons boss may not have had the glittering career of Hughes but he has played at all levels from League Two to the Premier League.Smallwood, who played for Alexander at Scunny, said: “He’s intense and gets to work. He’s always early doing his analysis, research and getting his stats together.“Graham got to know the players when he replaced Hughes and has put his stamp on things during the summer. It has paid off.“The big thing is our home form, that’s improved hugely this season. We all respect him greatly.”Bradford has been a tough job to crack in recent years.The Bantams get almost 17,000 fans at home and yet this is their fifth season stuck in League Two — and it has been 20 years since they were in the second tier and 24 since the Prem.Bradford chief Graham Alexander, seen dishing instructions to loan defender Jay Benn, has been praised by SmallwoodCredit: RexSmallwood said: “People look from the outside and see we get big crowds and have a big  stadium.“There is a big expectation that comes from that but we’ve not been able to deal with it.“We’ve had a lot of players here who haven’t played in front of those sorts of crowds before. That might be a factor.“Also opposing teams set up to keep the crowd quiet and frustrate us — and they can get edgy if we don’t score.“But things are changing. And there is a great stat that is consistent now — when we score first, we go on to win the game. We’re scoring the first goal more often.”Smallwood’s drop into the fourth tier from being a Championship captain did seem a strange one from the outside — even with the lure of  Hughes.Yet Smallwood said: “Hull went through a takeover and you find new owners want to get their own people in.“Often the captain bears the brunt of that.“But I was excited by the project here. The head of recruitment, Stephen Gent, is a relative of my missus and he sold it to me.READ MORE SUN STORIES“My partner was also expecting at the time and while some players who left Hull were patient to wait for an offer, I wasn’t. “I don’t regret it and, hopefully, we can be promoted this season.”Smallwood is now targeting promotion under AlexanderCredit: Getty More