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      Forgotten Harry Kane team-mate was Ballon d’Or nominee and wants to join fellow Aussie Postecoglou in Premier League

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      MASSIMO LUONGO hopes to join Ange Postecoglou as an Aussie hero in the Premier League with Ipswich.The Tractor Boys, riding high in the Championship after promotion from League One last season, are just two points off leaders Leicester and are eight clear of the play-off places after 11 games.
      Massimo Luongo is starring in the Championship with IpswichCredit: Rex
      The Aussie played for his country under Ange PostecoglouCredit: Getty
      Kieran McKenna has Ipswich dreaming of back-to-back promotions, something no side has achieved in over a decade.
      The squad are keeping their feet firmly on the ground, but having watched Australia turn into a nation of Tottenham fans since Postecoglou’s arrival, it is hard not to dream of converting a few of them to Ipswich.
      Luongo told SunSport: “That would be lovely… we’ll see.
      “What Ange is doing is incredible.
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      “Every Aussie is following Tottenham now, every Aussie is a secret Tottenham supporter. 
      “It is great to watch from afar. Being in this country, everyone knows he’s a genuine person. You can see that in his interviews and he’s got passion for the game, he is hungry for the success.
      “Has it surprised me? No, definitely not. I’m surprised that an Aussie had the opportunity to get into the Premier League. 
      “He’s already blown expectations out by doing that.”
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      Harry Kane is now starring at Bayern MunichCredit: Getty
      On Ipswich’s flying start, the midfielder added: “We’re doing alright, only 11 games in but we’re doing some good stuff and it’s enjoyable which is the main thing. 
      “Promotion last season was the plan but even now we’re not talking about promotion. 
      “We’re talking about building our performances. 
      “We know where we’re at, we’re not stupid. We’re second in the league but we need to stay humble and do the right things.”
      Luongo’s success at Ipswich has seen him recalled to the Australia squad ahead of Friday’s game with England at a sold out Wembley.
      The former Swindon man, 31, is relishing a reunion with former Spurs academy team-mate Harry Kane, but is also ready to see just how far Jude Bellingham has come since the two met in a 1-1 draw between Birmingham and Sheffield Wednesday four years ago.
      Luongo said: “He is a top player, I played against him when he was at Birmingham and was 17. 
      “The hype was huge at that age. As an experienced Champ player you think he’s not that good but then you realise he’s 17. 
      “He matched the hype, for sure.
      “He was able to shine, he looked incredible. His brother is doing the same in the Championship. 
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      “It will be a bit different playing Jude to Jobe, he’s got a few years on him. 
      “He is playing at the best club in the world, I always look forward to coming up against someone like that.”
      Luongo began his professional career at TottenhamCredit: Getty
      Bellingham starred for Birmingham as a teenagerCredit: Getty More

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      League One club unveil plans for £100m new stadium and face race against time or risk being HOMELESS in three years

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      OXFORD UNITED have unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art new £100million 16,000-seater stadium.The O’s are contracted to play at their current Kassam home until 2026.
      Oxford United have unveiled their new stadium plansCredit: Oxford United
      The O’s want to move into their new home by 2026Credit: Oxford United
      The new stadium will seat 16,000 fansCredit: Oxford United
      Rather than extend their agreement, however, they are instead looking to move.
      Oxford have revealed plans to build a new stadium at The Triangle in Kidlington.
      In addition to their playing facilities, the Os’ plan to incorporate a 180-bed hotel, restaurant, conference centre and health and wellbeing space.
      They also aim to build a community plaza, featuring a new club shop as well as further retail, restaurant, bar and cafe facilities.
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      While Oxford’s current Kassam Stadium home infamously only has three stands, with a car park behind one of the goals, their new home would feature an enclosed bowl.
      The modern design includes a tight bowl that will take fans closer to the action.
      Oxford want both their men’s and women’s teams to use the their proposed new ground.
      While they believe that the new stadium site is better connected by public transport than the Kassam.
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      Oxford want to turn their new ground into a community hubCredit: Oxford United
      The project would cost around £100millionCredit: Oxford United
      Speaking about the project, Oxford chief executive Tim Williams said: “With our right to use the Kassam Stadium coming to an end in 2026 and no option to renew the lease, we must find a new home.
      “The club is committed to developing a proposal which is highly sustainable and community focused whilst providing a state-of-the-art destination for all.
      “The further detail we have released today shows how seriously we take these principles, and I am delighted to share the first glimpse of our stadium with the whole of Oxfordshire.
      “I hope everyone from Kidlington, the surrounding areas and across the county will come to the exhibition and take a look at the plans.
      “We want to hear all your feedback.”
      Oxford chiefs will be meeting fans to discuss the project and answer questions in the coming weeks.
      Oxford’s current Kassam Stadium home only has three standsCredit: Rex More

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      Crisis-club Reading’s players suffer barrage of abuse from fans after manager makes them stand in front of fuming crowd

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      READING stars were subject to abuse from their own fans after suffering yet another defeat.George Moncur’s last-minute winner for Leyton Orient left the Royals in the League One relegation zone – four points off safety thanks to their four-point deduction.
      Several Reading players approached the away end to apologise for the defeat
      Harlee Dean spoke to raging supporters
      Manager Ruben Selles also spoke with some of the travelling contingent
      That sparked outrage in the away end with chants of: “You’re not fit to wear the shirt” ringing around Brisbane Road.
      Fans also sang: “We want our Reading back.”
      Manager Ruben Selles approached fans to apologise for yet another away defeat – Reading have now picked up just 12 points from a possible 87 on the road dating back to the beginning of last season.
      Several Reading players applauded the more than 1,200 travelling support with defender Harlee Dean also speaking to fans.
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      However he was met with a lot of finger-pointing from fed up supporters, who saw their club suffer relegation from the Championship last season.
      Reading have been embroiled in crisis for several months and have been deducted 16 points over the last two years.
      Last month they were hit with a four-point sanction by the EFL after failing to deposit funds.
      The club was also placed under another transfer embargo and came close to a further points deduction by almost failing to pay their players on time.
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      On the pitch the team has not fared much better with just three wins in 11 games.
      Fans have protested against the club’s owner Dai Yongge and managed to get last week’s match with Burton suspended after throwing tennis balls onto the pitch.
      Yongge is open to selling the club but has reportedly set his asking price at £80million, which some fans believe is too high. More

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      League Two club sack manager with stunned fans left saying ‘didn’t see that happening’ after mixed start to season

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      GILLINGHAM have sacked manager Neil Harris.The League Two side fell to eighth in the table following their 2-0 defeat at Crewe on Tuesday night.
      Gillingham have sacked manager Neil HarrisCredit: PA
      Harris, 46, joined Gillingham in January 2022 having previously managed Millwall and Cardiff.
      The former striker couldn’t prevent the Gills from League One relegation during his first half-season in charge.
      He subsequently guided them to a 17th finish in League Two amid a takeover last term.
      In a club statement, the Gills confirmed: “Gillingham Football Club has today decided to part company with Manager Neil Harris, who has been in charge at Priestfield for just over 20 months.
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      “Having joined the Club in February of 2022, Neil nearly kept the team in League One, getting relegated on the last day of the season on goal difference, making up a 10-point deficit in the process.
      “The Club has decided it now wishes to go in a different direction and will begin the process of identifying a Head Coach to take the team forward.”
      Harris’ assistant David Livermore has also departed Priestfield.
      Gillingham have confirmed that Keith Millen will step in as interim boss while they conduct their new manager search.
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      Millen, 57, has previously managed Bristol City and Carlisle United, as well as Swedish side Orgryte IS.
      He also had three spells as Crystal Palace’s caretaker boss.

      Fans have had a mixed reaction to Harris’ dismissal.
      One tweeted: “Never saw that coming.”
      While a second wrote: “Bit of a dip in form and sacked? Seems a strange one.”
      Another fan replied, however: “Bit of a dip of form? We’ve not played well even when winning.”
      A further social media user commented: “Do feel for Neil but was never going to be anything but a mid table side watching a defensive minded team I do feel he has created a brilliant team that can really achieve in this league but hasn’t been able to execute it I wish him all the best thank you for everything!”
      And a fourth added: “That’s come out of the blue! Not too sad about it though, hopefully a new manager will get the best out of what is a very talented squad.”
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      Harris won 31 of his 90 games in charge of Gillingham, drawing 25 and losing 34.
      The Gills are set to host MK Dons on Saturday.
      Keith Millen has stepped in as caretaker bossCredit: Rex More

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      Man Utd legend SACKED by League Two strugglers after horror spell in charge with club languishing in 18th spot

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      BRADFORD have sacked manager Mark Hughes after 20 months in charge of the League Two club.It comes after the fourth-tier side were beaten 2-1 by fellow strugglers Tranmere on Tuesday night.
      Mark Hughes took charge of Bradford in February 2022Credit: Alamy
      Bradford have won just one of their last seven games in all competitions and sit 18th in League Two.
      Midfielder Kevin McDonald will take charge of the team while they look for a permanent successor to Hughes – who took the club to the play-offs last season where they lost to Carlisle.
      Bradford’s CEO Ryan Sparks confirmed the news, saying: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mark and Glyn for their efforts and services to our football club over the past 19 months.
      “They made a great impact when they arrived at the club, both on and off the field, and last season came close to delivering on our aims.
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      “Unfortunately, since our defeat at Carlisle in the play-off semi-final, results have been disappointing, and after 11 league games we find ourselves a long way away from where we expect to be.
      “As a result, the decision has been taken to move in a different direction in an effort to get our season on track.

      “On a personal level, I have very much enjoyed working alongside Mark and Glyn, and we go our separate ways on good terms.
      “I would ask supporters to join me in wishing both them and their families the very best for the future, while reflecting on some of the memorable moments they brought us.”
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      Hughes had spent more than three years out of work before taking the Bradford job having been sacked by Southampton in December 2018.
      He began his coaching career in 1999 after a storied playing career which saw him enjoy spells with Man Utd, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Everton.
      Since hanging up his boots, he has coached the likes of Wales, Blackburn, Man City, Fulham, QPR and Stoke.
      But Bradford fans seemed to be happy to see him go following a dismal run of form.
      Speaking on social media, one said: “What a disaster of an appointment that was.”
      While another added: “Was a nice guys but the lack of wanting to play the ball forward was bizarre. No idea what happens now, hope there is a plan in for place.”
      And a third replied: “Thank you for last season Hughes, but it was needed.” More

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      Leyton Orient match ABANDONED after desperate fans run onto pitch to stop game for medical emergency in stands

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      LEYTON ORIENT’S clash with Lincoln was abandoned on Tuesday night due to a medical emergency.Orient led 1-0 in the 84th minute when the match was halted.
      Medics rushed to the scene of the crowd emergency
      Leyton Orient’s clash with Lincoln was initially suspendedCredit: Getty
      Fans ran onto the pitch in an attempt to stop the gameCredit: Getty
      The match was eventually halted by the referee – and then abandonedCredit: Getty
      Prior to the game being stopped, supporters invaded the pitch and sat on the field of play in a desperate attempt to halt the match at Brisbane Road so the stricken fan could receive attention.
      Both sets of players were eventually taken off the field as the game was suspended until further notice.
      SunSport understands medics were seen helping a member of the crowd on the side of the pitch.
      Nearly an hour after the game had been stopped, Orient confirmed on social media that it would not be restarting.
      They tweeted: “This evening’s match will not be restarted due to the ongoing medical emergency in the East Stand.
      “All of our hopes are prayers are with the supporter and his loved ones at this incredibly distressing time.”
      And Lincoln shared their best wishes, adding: “Tonight’s match at Brisbane Road will not be restarted due to the ongoing medical emergency.
      “All our thoughts are with the Orient supporter at this time.”
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      Orient first tweeted after the emergency had happened, saying: “The game is paused due to a crowd emergency.
      “We’re keeping everything crossed for those involved, and will update with further information when we have it.”
      Nine minutes later, the League One side then provided another update.
      They said: “The players are now being taken off the field of play.
      “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Leyton Orient are with everyone involved.
      “We will update further when we have more information.”
      Messages of support were also posted on social media following the worrying scene.
      One person said: “Hope they’re OK. Forget the football life is more important.”
      While another added: “Wish the O’s fan a speedy recovery.” More

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      EFL club set unwanted record and face another with their last goal coming when Frank Lampard was still a manager

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      CHELTENHAM set an EFL record when they failed to score against Stevenage.The League One side’s 3-0 defeat marked a ninth consecutive game in which they failed to hit the back of the net.
      Cheltenham have failed to hit the back of the net in 10 games this seasonCredit: Rex
      It means they now hold the record for the longest run of matches without scoring at the start of a campaign.
      Then, on Saturday, they extended that run to 10 games with a 2-0 defeat away at Lincoln.
      Their last goal came nearly five months ago on May 7 when they played out a 2-2 draw with Charlton.
      In fact, it was so long ago, Frank Lampard was still in charge of Chelsea at the time.
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      And it could get even worse for the third-tier side.
      Two more games without a goal and they will claim the record for the longest run of matches without a goal at any point in EFL history.
      Cheltenham’s next two matches come against second-bottom Fleetwood on Tuesday and 12th-place Derby on Saturday.
      They have picked up just one point from their scoreless 10 games.
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      Rather remarkably, that came in a stalemate with table-toppers Portsmouth.
      Cheltenham were promoted to League One after winning League Two a couple of years ago.
      And they have safely avoided relegation in each of the past two seasons, finishing 15th and 16th. More

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      Justin Allen: Guardiola’s comments show everything that’s wrong with the Prem… I’d love to see him try to boss Exeter

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      PEP GUARDIOLA made two ridiculous comments during the last week that illustrate everything that is wrong with Premier League elites.Don’t get me wrong, Guardiola deserves our respect and adulation for what he has achieved at Manchester City, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. We all marvel at the exhibition of football his teams produce.
      Pep Guardiola made two ridiculous comments last week
      Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was not happy with taking a two-hour bus journey home after their Carabao Cup loss at Newcastle
      But I’d love to see him try managing an EFL club to see how he’d get on.
      When he whinged about his precious City lambs forced to make a two-hour 123-mile coach journey home from Newcastle after Wednesday’s Carabao Cup tie rather than fly, I wondered how he might cope if he was in charge of clubs like Exeter and Carlisle?
      Neither team have the luxury of jetting to matches — like the majority of clubs outside the top flight.
      When the Grecians, managed by Gary Caldwell, travel to deepest Cumbria — and vice versa — both teams face a SIXTEEN-HOUR journey … on a coach! That would have surely sent Pep into meltdown.
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      In August for that Saturday game, Exeter broke up their epic trip by taking their team on a five-hour bus ride on Thursday to Mottram Hall in Cheshire where they stayed overnight.
      They then did another three hours to Penrith on Friday to train with another overnight stay before playing the Cumbrians 3pm the next day.
      Exeter boss Gary Caldwell has a far harder job than Pep Guardiola
      Pep Guardiola should try swapping places with Carlisle boss Paul Simpson
      But as soon as the players were showered and changed after the game, they were herded onto a coach to take them directly back to Devon. They arrived into Exeter at almost 2am.
      At least their journey was a happy one after a 2-0 win.
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      Only Bristol Rovers sit within a two-hour radius for the Grecians in League One.
      Pep would also be sent into a spin if he swapped places with Paul Simpson at Carlisle. They are a geographical outpost in the third tier.
      Championship side Plymouth, another team out on a limb, coach to most games. 
      They did fly to Hull on Friday ahead of their clash on Humberside — although had to take a six-hour bus ride home afterwards, getting back around midnight.
      You didn’t hear Pilgrims boss Steven Schumacher whinging.
      It’s good Guardiola’s chairman isn’t Forest Green’s Just Stop Oil campaigner Dale Vince. He’d never endorse flying.
      And I dread to think how many times the likes of Erling Haaland would have to hang around doing keepie-uppies while waiting for them to charge their soon-to-be-unveiled electric bus!
      But when Pep went on to later say he was “not going to waste one per cent of energy for the Carabao Cup” before complaining about how tired his first-team stars are, I had to laugh.
      Pep backed up his reasoning by saying he couldn’t play stars such as Kyle Walker and Ruben Dias because they were “exhausted”.
      City skipper Walker, who has played most, had clocked 11 matches for club and country this season ahead of being left out at Newcastle — only being substituted once, in the 89th-minute of the Premier League opener against Burnley. 
      Yet Exeter captain Will Aimson has not missed a single minute of THIRTEEN matches — while team-mate Alex Hartridge has also started 13 and played more minutes than the Man City star.
      Kyle Walker has played 12 matches for club and country this tem and is “exhausted”
      But Exeter City captain Will Aimson has played 13 and is not “exhausted”
      I decided to give Aimson a call because I was intrigued to know if he was “exhausted” having played more matches than Walker, who is now up to 12, over the same time period.
      “No, I’m feeling great,” Aimson told me as he was excitedly preparing for game No13 against Northampton on Saturday.
      And how is he finding riding on buses before and after games — especially the huge schlep for Carlisle?
      He laughed: “I had a couple of seasons previously at Plymouth so am used to it!“But we pass the time well — playing a few games, catching the late Premier League kick-offs if they’re on and building a rapport.”
      There are countless lower league footballers like Aimson who play 90 minutes twice a week and must endure long coach journeys to and from games.
      You also must remember clubs in the six divisions immediately below the Premier League play eight extra league games a season.
      And it’s even more difficult when you get into non-league. Imagine being a semi-pro at Dover Athletic and having a job on a building site but having to endure a 10-hour round coach trip to Truro City in the National League South.
      I wonder how “exhausted” some of those players are.
      But, thankfully, not everyone in the golden corridors of the Premier League have such a blinkered view of competitions like the Carabao Cup.
      Take West Ham’s Tomas Soucek for example.
      I had a chat with the Czech midfielder after the Hammers survived a huge scare at League One club Lincoln to win 1-0 on Wednesday thanks to his winning goal.
      Tomas Soucek loves playing lower-league teams and scored the winner at Lincoln
      And he told me: “I love these cup matches against lower league opponents because you can see how excited their players are to face a Premier League club.
      “The atmosphere at EFL grounds like this are sometimes better than it is in the Premier League.
      “It’s not a big stadium but the atmosphere is perfect. I love it because we all know where we came from. It’s great to play in this competition.”
      The atmosphere at EFL grounds like Lincoln are sometimes better than it is in the Premier League.Tomas Soucek, West Ham
      Soucek has hit the nail on the head. These matches are huge for clubs like Lincoln. 
      The Carabao Cup is worth an estimated £50MILLION a season to the EFL — which is a lifeline to clubs in the three divisions below the Prem.
      Yes, I know — it’s small change to Guardiola when you consider he spent £210m on four signings this summer. 
      Let’s hope £78m Josko Gvardiol didn’t get too exhausted playing 90 minutes at Newcastle and having to hop on a coach for that damn two-hour ride home.
      Wednesday are a huge turn off
      I MUST have witnessed the shortest fan attendance of the season at Hillsborough on Friday night.
      A Sheffield Wednesday supporter, looking flustered and out of breath, arrived 10 minutes late for their game against Sunderland. 
      He took to his seat, then looked up at the scoreboard to see his team were already 2-0 down, promptly stood up again and walked out!
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      What a sad indictment of how bad things have become for the Owls that fans cannot bear to watch another minute of the shower of rubbish being served up in front of them.
      He would have been better off staying at home to watch Dragons’ Den. Who knows maybe some boffin could invent something new on the show — like a winning Sheffield Wednesday football team! More