More stories

  • in

    Wrexham owner Ryan Reynolds all but confirms football star to make cameo in Deadpool as striker ‘spotted in bar scene’

    RYAN REYNOLDS has heavily hinted that Wrexham striker Ollie Palmer makes a cameo in the new Deadpool film.The Hollywood A-lister shared a two-and-a-half-minute trailer for the upcoming movie “Deadpool & Wolverine” in which Reynolds co-stars with Hugh Jackman.Ryan Reynolds, right, stars as Deadpool alongside Hugh Jackman in the new filmWrexham forward Ollie Palmer can be seen in the background of a bar scenePalmer, far left, has all but been confirmed as an extra in the clipPalmer has impressed since joining Wrexham from Wimbledon in 2022Credit: PABut many football fans will be surprised to hear that Wrexham forward Palmer, 32, seems to have been confirmed as an extra.While Deadpool and Wolverine are talking at a bar, a man can be seen loitering in the background of the scene.And when the trailer was shared on Instagram, Palmer, who has scored 39 goals in 115 games for Wrexham, responded: “If you squint.. 😂.”Reynolds then chimed in with his own response to the rumour which was posted on X.READ MORE ON WREXHAMReplying to a tweet stating that Palmer is in the film, Reynolds added: “Keen eyesight.”And Wrexham fans were quick to praise the move as they prepare to see the ex-Leyton Orient and Wimbledon man on the big screen.One supporter said: “I thought I was seeing things when I watched it 😂 xx.”Another added: “There’s a recruiting tool that no one else in the EFL has. Genius.”Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHow Ryan Reynolds has been watching Wrexham games in styleCO-OWNER Ryan Reynolds hasn’t been able to make it to Wrexham in recent weeks due to filming commitments.
    But that hasn’t stopped him from watching his team in style.
    Streaming the match on a laptop or even a TV was not grand enough for the Deadpool star as he worked on the set of his latest movie.
    With a giant green screen behind him, he could not resist broadcasting Wrexham’s recent game on to the huge projector.
    Reynolds and his crew watched on as the Welsh side notched their 23rd win of the season against Crawley Town.
    He looked enamoured as the game played on behind him while surrounding by various pieces of Hollywood machinery.
    And Reynolds captioned the moment: “Watching the Wrexham game at work: new level unlocked.”
    It’s not clear what project Reynolds was working on at the time, with the actor currently developing several new movies including sequels to smash hits Free Guy and Red Notice.

    A third replied: “Ollie! Ollie! Ollie! ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿.”And a fourth responded: “Paul Mullin better be in it as well.”Inside Wrexham stars’ boozy promotion celebrations as they sink Jagerbombs with fans and belt out songs at restaurantThe film is set for release on July 25 this year in the UK, before it comes out the following day in the US.It has not yet been confirmed whether or not any more Wrexham players will appear in the film.Reynolds and co-owner Rob McElhenney celebrated Wrexham’s promotion to League One earlier this month.The Welsh outfit clinched a second successive promotion with a 6-0 win over Forest Green.Reynolds was reduced to tears as his club secured their place in the third tier.Reynolds celebrated Wrexham’s second successive promotion earlier this monthCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Former Premier League star forced to answer awkward question live on Sky Sports ahead of huge EFL clash

    LUKE AYLING was forced to answer an awkward question as his Middlesbrough side took on parent club Leeds.The defender spent eight years at Leeds before joining Boro on loan in January.Luke Ayling revealed he wanted football to win between Middlesbrough and LeedsThat meant he was not eligible to play as Leeds visited the Riverside Stadium on Monday in search of three points to help their promotion push.Ahead of kick-off Ayling spoke to Sky Sports and was asked for his score prediction and who he thought would win – leading to a nervy answer.He said: “I want football to win. I love football and if I’m totally honest I really cant call it.”Like I said I haven’t seen Leeds a lot lately but I’ve seen these boys on the training pitch and how we’ve played the last 9-10 games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’m really confident the boys can put in a good shift today. Who knows but I’m just hoping for a good game of football.”Ayling certainly got what he asked for as Boro raced into an early lead with Isaiah Jones scoring in the seventh minute.But the visitors hit back with two goals in four minutes – only for Emmanuel Latte Lath to equalise.However Wilfried Gnonto fired Leeds back in front to give Daniel Farke’s side a 3-2 lead at half-time.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERLeeds are on the promotion hunt but need Ipswich to drop points in their three remaining games to achieve automatic promotion.They ran out 4-3 winners at the Riverside after a late goal from Latte Lath set up a nervy finish.Leeds ‘make contact with Kalvin Phillips over emotional transfer return’ to end two-year nightmare More

  • in

    ‘Now is the right time’ – EFL club sack manager and appoint interim boss just days before play-offs

    BARNSLEY have sacked head coach Neill Collins just days before the League One Play-Offs.First team coach Martin Devaney has been appointed as interim manager until the end of the season.Neill Collins has been sacked by BarnsleyCredit: GettyDirector of Football Mladen Sormaz said: “Neill has been extremely professional throughout the period with which I have worked with him, he has done everything he can do to push the team in the direction we all want Barnsley to go.”He has conducted himself with professionalism and commitment throughout the period I have worked with him.”However, with a crucial season conclusion ahead of us, we feel that now is the right time to make a change.”We thank the fans for their continued support and urge you all to back the team this Saturday against Northampton. We will update supporters in the coming days.”Read More on FootballBarnsley face Northampton Town in their final League One match before the Play-Offs this Saturday.The Tykes need a win to secure a spot in the Play-off semi-finals.They are currently in contention alongside Bolton Wanderers, Peterborough United and Lincoln City.However, Oxford United and Blackpool are also pushing for a spot.Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPortsmouth have already earned promotion to the Championship, with Derby County expected to take the second automatic place.Collins was appointed as Barnsley boss last summer following a spell with USL Championship side Tampa Bay Rowdies.Most dramatic Premier League’s final daysBarnsley had won just two of their last 12 games prior to his dismissal. More

  • in

    EFL club reaches agreement to build stunning new stadium after 23 years at three-sided ground

    OXFORD UNITED have moved one step closer to leaving the Kassam Stadium after reaching an agreement to lease land for a new ground.The U’s have played at their current Kassam home since moving from the Manor Ground in 2001.Oxford United want to build a new 16,000-seater stadiumCredit: Oxford United football clubThey have pledged to make their new ground the most eco-friendly in the countryCredit: https://twitter.com/_LiamWalker_The U’s have played at the three-sided Kassam Stadium since 2001Credit: GettyThey are contracted to host home games at the three-sided stadium until 2026, when their current agreement expires.And Oxford have now launched plans to move to a new site at The Triangle in Kidlington.The ambitious new stadium would hold 16,000 fans, while also incorporating a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre and health and wellbeing space.The new stadium has moved one step closer to fruition after Oxford reached a landmark agreement with their local council.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAn Oxfordshire County Council statement has confirmed: “An agreement has been reached on heads of terms for the county council to lease land it owns near Kidlington for Oxford United to develop a new football stadium.”This agreement represents positive progress in helping the club secure a long-term home in the county.”However, while this is an important milestone, it is only one step in a wider process.”Responding to the news, Oxford wrote in their own statement: “Our focus is on securing the long-term future of Oxford United and delivering on our commitments to the Oxfordshire community.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERWho are these famous footballers?
    “The Heads of Terms being agreed is another step towards that ambition.”We’re delighted Oxfordshire County Council has also given an undertaking to sign the remaining key legal and partnership agreements this week.Furious EFL star has to be held back from his OWN FANS by stewards as he demands ‘respect’ in angry post-match clash”This shows the club has met the council’s criteria and addressed their strategic priorities.”In February, Oxford pledged to make their proposed new ground the “most-sustainable mid-sized sports venue in the country”.In addition to a slew of modern facilities, the proposed ground is set to become the nation’s first all-electric stadium.Rather than gas and other fossil fuels, Oxford’s new build will rely solely on electricity.The 16,000-seater stadium will also feature 3000m² solar panels along its roof – enough to boil three million three-litre kettles per year.’SOMETHING SPECIAL’On the new project, Oxford’s development director Jon Clarke said at the time: “The standout element of the stadium is it will be the most sustainable mid-sized sports venue in the country.”We want to make the most of the opportunity to create something special – it would be one of the greenest football stadiums to be built.”Managed by Des Buckingham, Oxford are currently chasing a League One play-off place.They sit seventh in the third-tier with one game remaining, only behind Lincoln on goal difference.READ MORE SUN STORIESBuckingham’s men could also still catch fifth-placed Barnsley, who are only one point ahead.The U’s go to Exeter on the final day, with Lincoln hosting champions Portsmouth and Barnsley welcoming Northampton.Oxford want to move into their new ground in 2026Credit: Oxford United More

  • in

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

    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

  • in

    Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney blow Wrexham stars away with ‘humble’ attitudes as dressing-room antics revealed

    WREXHAM goalkeeper Mark Howard has opened up about his relationship with “humble” co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Hollywood superstars Reynolds and McElhenney bought the Red Dragons back in 2020 and have since led them to back-to-back promotions.Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have transformed Wrexham in recent yearsCredit: PAMark Howard (L) has revealed the duo have helped him off the pitchCredit: PAWith the help of manager Phil Parkinson, the duo guided Wrexham from the National League to League Two last year.And on Saturday the club’s second successive promotion was confirmed following a 6-0 win over Forest Green Rovers.Reynolds was left in tears after watching his team secure a spot in League One, while McElhenney shared his joy from Los Angeles.The two Hollywood stars have been heavily praised for their dedication to the club since taking over.READ MORE ON WREXHAMAnd goalkeeper Howard admits their “humble” attitude in and around the Racecourse Ground still leaves players stunned.In an interview with OLBG, he said: “They have shown nothing but respect. They are humble people.”They have taken the pressure off the players with the way they have conducted themselves. They are a pleasure to work with and so are the staff they have brought in. “All hard working and humble people behind the scenes to make sure the players aren’t exposed to things outside of playing football.Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSInside Wrexham’s wild dressing room celebrations as stars scoff Madri on pitch and Ryan Reynolds reduced to tears”The popularity and growth is huge and we can see that but they have ensured we have all taken it in our stride.”They are people of their word. They have helped me massively. I’ve got my own podcast, Yours Mine Away, and Ryan kept to his promise that he would come on.”That has helped me massively to grow. They are the same with all the players, whether they have a clothing brand or other businesses. “I remember we actually had a meeting with Rob and he said anything that you have got going on, come and speak to us. They are good business people and know how to market themselves really well.”They have always been fully open to what we want to do in the background. They help a lot behind the scenes that people just wouldn’t realise. If you need a call or a text, they will answer.”They just get it. They know how to get the best out of people by being good people themselves.”Howard also recalled the time he met actor Will Ferrell, adding: “To meet Will was amazing. I remember myself and teammate Elliott Lee were in the physio room having some treatment and Will came in and we were soon cracking up.”He’s so funny. Hugh Jackman also came in. We are quite used to it now with some A-list movie stars being at the game.”Will Ferrell (R) is among the stars that have visited the team in WalesCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Wrexham set to give guard of honour to rivals on final home game of season despite already securing promotion

    WREXHAM will give Stockport a guard of honour on the last day of the season after their rivals secured the League Two title.The pair have chased promotion all season long and achieved their goals last weekend.Wrexham will give Stockport a guard of honour on the final day of the seasonCredit: ReutersWrexham secured back-to-back promotions at the weekendCredit: AlamyStockport also won promotion before wrapping up the title on TuesdayCredit: PAWrexham crossed the line in fine fashion as they thrashed Forest Green 6-0, while Stockport beat Morecambe.And Dave Challinor’s side followed up their victory by thrashing Notts County 5-2 to win the league.That means Wrexham are set to give Stockport a guard of honour – as is customary for the champions.There will be a party atmosphere at the Racecourse Stadium on April 27 after the Red Dragons secured back-to-back promotions for the first time in the club’s 159-year history.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWrexham will now compete in the third tier next season for the first time in 19 years.Owner Ryan Reynolds was reduced to tears as he hailed the promotion.He wrote on X: “A few years ago, if you told me I would be crying tears of joy over a football match taking place in North Wales, you would be Rob McElhenney.”Congrats to Wrexham and to my co-chairman in crime. Double up the town! This is the ride of our lives.”Most read in EFLHow Ryan Reynolds has been watching Wrexham games in styleCO-OWNER Ryan Reynolds hasn’t been able to make it to Wrexham in recent weeks due to filming commitments.

    But that hasn’t stopped him from watching his team in style.
    Streaming the match on a laptop or even a TV was not grand enough for the Deadpool star as he worked on the set of his latest movie.
    With a giant green screen behind him, he could not resist broadcasting Wrexham’s recent game on to the huge projector.
    Reynolds and his crew watched on as the Welsh side notched their 23rd win of the season against Crawley Town.
    He looked enamoured as the game played on behind him while surrounding by various pieces of Hollywood machinery.
    And Reynolds captioned the moment: “Watching the Wrexham game at work: new level unlocked.”
    It’s not clear what project Reynolds was working on at the time, with the actor currently developing several new movies including sequels to smash hits Free Guy and Red Notice.

    BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERCo-owner Rob McElhenney expressed his regret that he could not be in Wales to witness the promotion in person, and said the time away from the club to film in Hollywood was “killing him”.He has since posted on X to celebrate his club’s promotion, tweeting Wrexham’s stadium announcer to say: “Hey @m_griffiths92 noticed you’re reading tweets. My son and I just wanted to say hi from Los Angeles. Quite a lovely day, huh? #askwxm”He then quoted a post from the club celebrating promotion saying: “No words ❤️”Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson soaks up applause after winning promotion to League One More

  • in

    Watch former Premier League star, 39, score dramatic winner with first goal for relegation-threatened League One club

    FORMER Premier League star Curtis Davies scored his first goal for Cheltenham Town on Tuesday to keep the club’s survival hopes alive.The Robins came from behind to defeat Burton at the Pirelli Stadium thanks to goals from Davies and Matt Taylor.Curtis Davies scored his first goal for Cheltenham on TuesdayCredit: X / @CheltTweetsDavies joined Cheltenham last summerCredit: GettyCheltenham striker Taylor cancelled out Steve Seddon’s opening goal just after half time.But ex-Aston Villa star Davies sealed the win with less than 20 minutes to play.The centre-back made his presence known in the 71st minute by deflecting Will Ferry’s corner into the net with his head.After wheeling away in celebration, he was surrounded by his team-mates directly in front of the travelling fans.Read More on FootballThe Robins went on to win 2-1, keeping their hopes of League One survival alive.Cheltenham currently sit 21st in the table, two points adrift of safety with a game in hand.Speaking after Tuesday’s match, manager Darrell Clarke said: “Saturday, Tuesday, then away at Stevenage, we have to keep fighting.”The boys deserve the support right to the end and we’re thankful of their support tonight. They were fantastic!”Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSGoalscorer Davies joined the club last summer following a six-year spell with Derby County.The 39-year-old has also played for Luton Town, West Brom, Aston Villa, Leicester City, Birmingham and Hull City.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersHe made 173 appearances during his time in the Premier League, scoring seven goals. More