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      Sir Alex Ferguson looks in good spirits after Christmas as Man Utd legend is spotted in stands at EFL match

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON was the only family member with a huge smile as he sat in the stands at PeterboroughThe ex-Manchester United boss wore a festive grin – while son Darren’s expression became more like the Grinch.Sir Alex Ferguson went through the emotions at PeterboroughCredit: AlamyFergie saw his son Darren’s side trail 3-0 at half-timeCredit: GettyThe Scot, 82, was well wrapped up against the coldCredit: GettyFerguson Junior’s League One strugglers were thumped 3-0 at home by Mansfield.Sir Alex might not have been beaming quite so brightly later – as 78 miles down the road the Red Devils slumped 2-0 at Wolves.But his son was focused on a festive beast of a display from Peterborough that he called “unacceptable”.His legendary dad, 82, defied the chilly weather as he wrapped up warmly and watched on attentively, suggesting his love for the game is as deep as ever.READ MORE ON MAN UTDSir Alex reigned at Old Trafford like none before or since, finally retiring in 1986 after 27 years dripping in trophies.In contrast, 52-year-old Darren has spent most of his managerial career in the EFL, with brief spells in the Championship at Peterborough and Preston.The ex-United midfielder arrived back at Posh for a FOURTH time in charge in January 2023.And he’ll need another happy new year to turn things round as Peterborough sit 17th in the third tier after their Boxing Day beating.Most read in EFLDarren Ferguson labelled his team’s home performance as ‘unacceptable’Credit: AlamyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA Will Evans double and a soaring header from Baily Cargill showed its not just Santa’s reindeer with sparkling antlers at Christmas – as the Stags romped to a 3-0 half-time lead.Posh defender George Nevett. 16, was then given a straight red for a foul five minutes from time.Sir Alex Ferguson saved my Man Utd career with 10-word comment after I started going out every night, says Rio Ferdinand By that stage Fergie had switched to a more intense look, no doubt in sympathy with his son.And the big question then was: Would Darren give his flops the junior hairdryer treatment?Ferguson had a relaxing start to the afternoon at London RoadCredit: GettyBut Baily Cargill then put Mansfield on the way with a sixth-minute openerCredit: Alamy More

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      EFL club’s former stadium now housing estate with tiny strip of grass remaining from where old centre-circle once stood

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      A FOOTBALL stadium site that once played host to one of the EFL’s longest-reigning clubs is now a housing estate.But council developers ensured to keep a small strip of grass where the centre-circle once stood to remember the old ground by.A current EFL club was forced to leave their home in 2008The stadium was called Layer RoadThe site is now occupied by a council housing estate, with a strip of grass left roughly where the old centre circle was once foundCredit: Google EarthThe grass in the middle of the estate contains a fitting tribute to an EFL club’s former homeFrom the highs of promotions to the agony of relegation, the ground witnessed plenty of ups and downs.Built in 1907, Layer Road stood for 101 years before it was closed in 2008 and pulled down in 2012.In its pomp it was even able to house 19,000 passionate supporters.But capacity had dropped to just 6,320 by the time of its July 2008 closure for safety reasons, following closure of parts of the ground.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIt was current League Two strugglers Colchester United’s home for 71 years.In it’s early days, the ground was first used by the British Army and Colchester Town, an amateur side until 1937.But Colchester United moved in two years before the Second World War began.In 1948, 19,072 fans packed into a record capacity at Layer Road for an FA Cup tie against Reading, with the match later abandoned due to fog.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe following decades saw Colchester United float between Division Three and Four, with club debt mounting.As early as 1981, the club’s chairman Maurice Cadman announced that Layer Road was in need of £280,000 of basic safety improvements to meet legislation.Inside Arsenal’s new £300m+ stadium plans with futuristic Emirates project set to dwarf Spurs groundWith the club struggling financially, sections of the ground were closed off, reducing the capacity to 4,500.And in 1990-91, Colchester United was forced to sell Layer Road back to the Borough Council for £1.2m to help clear club debts. The council began started to identify potential sites for a new stadium, with Colchester briefly relegated from the Football League between 1989 and 1991.But anyone visiting the spot where it once stood these days will be greeted by a much-different sight – a cosy housing estate. The last first team match at Layer Road took place on 26 April 2008, when Colchester lost 1–0 to promotion chasers Stoke City.Richard Cresswell scored the last professional goal at the stadium.Colchester fans made their way to the last ever match at Layer Road in 2008The square and approach road from Layer Road is known as Turnstile Square and a statue commemorates the old stadiumThe U’s had made it all the way to the Championship by 2008, but suffered relegation in their final season at Layer Road.In 2011, Colchester Borough Council sold the 3.63 acre stadium site to developer Abbey New Homes in a deal worth around £1.5 million.Planning permission was subsequently granted to build 58 homes on the site, a mixture of flats and houses, with a central open grassed space to be left to reflect its history as a football ground.And as a mark of respect to supporters who had their ashes scattered on the pitch as an expression of their love for the club.In mid-2012, Layer Road was demolished with the construction of houses commencing immediately.In 2015 a bronze statue of Colchester United’s ‘Player of the Century’, Peter Wright was unveiled.Wright joined the club in 1951, making over 400 appearances and scoring 93 goals over a 13 year spell.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe inscription below the statue reads: “ON THIS SITE Football was played 1907-2008. This was the home of Colchester United FC from its birth in 1937 until 26th April 2008.”The square and approach road from Layer Road is known as Turnstile Square.General view of Layer Road ahead of the last ever match at the ground.Colchester Borough Council bought the land in 1991Colchester United now play at the JobServe Community Stadium More

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      Former England international eyed by Hollywood-owned Wrexham for sensational January transfer

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      WREXHAM are planning a January swoop for Patrick Bamford, SunSport can reveal.The Welsh club believe the former England international – who earned his only cap in 2021 – could help propel them to the Championship.Patrick Bamford has not scored in nine games for Leeds this seasonCredit: GettyHe could be looking for a way out of the Championship club in the January windowAnd with the forward out of favour at Leeds, Wrexham are confident they will be able to get a deal over the line.The League One high-fliers are thought to be pushing for a loan deal which would include a clause to sign Bamford permanently in the summer.But owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney will have to dig deep to bring the club.Bamford’s wages will impact the structure at the club so the celebrity owners will have to help out to land the striker.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWrexham certainly need a new striker with recent draws coming because of their failure to take chances.Phil Parkinson would have once called upon Paul Mullin to kill games off, but he has scored just once in League One.Wrexham think a striker who can make a big impact in League One and potentially score goals at Championship level will take them to the next level and Bamford fits that bill when at his best.The only snag could be concerns about his injury record and his lack of game time, and Wrexham will want assurances he is able to play straight away.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFor Leeds, offloading Bamford from their wage bill is a priority due to his high salary and limited playing time.His current wages represent a significant financial burden, particularly since he has only played in eight of Leeds’ league matches, contributing no goals or assists.Wrexham clash descends into huge brawl at full-time as tempers flare after fiery League One clashGiven his injury record and the team’s depth in forward positions, moving him out could free up funds for other squad investments or financial stability. More

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      Wrexham clash descends into huge brawl at full-time as tempers flare after fiery League One clash

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      WREXHAM and Bristol Rovers players got into a heated brawl after their League One clash came to an end.The Red Dragons and Rovers played out a 1-1 draw after Promise Omochere cancelled out Elliot Lee’s opener at the Memorial Stadium.Wrexham and Bristol Rovers players got into a heated brawlCredit: RexWrexham and Bristol Rovers played out a 1-1 drawCredit: RexAn intense altercation between Steven Fletcher and James Wilson led to a fiery rowCredit: RexThankfully the fracas between the two sides didn’t last longCredit: RexWrexham ace Lee opened the scoring after just 18 minutes but the hosts managed to find an answer four minutes before full-time.However, an intense altercation between the visitors’ Steven Fletcher and Bristol Rovers’ James Wilson led to a fiery row between both teams.Both sides tried to separate the two players and for a moment tensions flared up.But thankfully the fracas didn’t last long and the two opponents made their way down the tunnel.Read More on FootballWrexham are now third in the League One table after their draw in Bristol.Phil Parkinson’s men are tied in points with second-placed Birmingham and trail leaders Wycombe by two.Bristol Rovers, on the other hand, are 19th with five points off the bottom three.This is Wrexham’s second consecutive draw after playing out a 2-2 tie with Cambridge United last week.Most read in EFLThe game with Cambridge brought an end to a winning streak of five games across all competitions.Wrexham are looking for an immediate Championship promotion under Hollywood superstar owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Wrexham stars including ex-Premier League ace party with Hollywood hunk Channing Tatum after Cambridge drawThe Welsh outfit made it to League One just a year after their return to the EFL. More

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

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

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      Bristol Rovers sack manager Matt Taylor weeks after he was forced to step away due to ‘ongoing family emergency’

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      BRISTOL ROVERS have sacked manager Matt Taylor following Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Birmingham.Taylor’s assistant, Wayne Carlisle, has also been relieved of his duties amid the staff shake-up.Matt Taylor has been sacked by Bristol RoversCredit: GettyFormer Sunderland star Lee Cattermole has been announced as one of two interim replacementsCredit: Getty – ContributorA statement from Bristol Rovers on Monday morning read: “Bristol Rovers FC can confirm that Manager Matt Taylor and Assistant Manager Wayne Carlisle have been relieved of their first team duties.”The Club would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Matt and Wayne for all their hard work during their time with Bristol Rovers, and we wish them both every success in their respective future careers.”David Horseman and Lee Cattermole will take interim responsibility for first-team football duties while the Club undertakes a thorough recruitment process for a new first-team manager.”Taylor joined Bristol just over one year ago following spells in charge of Rotherham United and Exeter City.READ MORE FOOTBALLDuring his time at the club, the 42-year-old took charge of 57 games.Out of those he won 19, drew seven and suffered 31 defeats.Bristol Rovers now sit 20th in the League One table following a 2-0 loss to Birmingham at the weekend.After the match, Taylor admitted he had concerns about the future of his job.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe told BBC Radio Bristol: “I can’t control that. Whoever is in charge of this football team the same patterns will occur.”The manager went on to add: “People will say ‘Just kick it and chase it’ but we haven’t got the physicality to do that.EFL club owner gives update on new £2bn ‘spaceship’ stadium included in mega plans for state-of-the-art complex “So in terms of the plan at the start – slightly younger profile, slightly different in terms of using the ball and manipulating the ball – we have to believe they can still improve.”Confidence is now a big factor and you can’t hide away from it, so you need the ones who will stand up and be counted.”It’s my team and results haven’t been good enough. There are players coming back but something has to change in our direction.”Taylor was forced to temporarily step away from the job last month due to a family emergency.He went on to miss two fixtures before returning.Former Premier League star Lee Cattermole will take charge on an interim basis following Taylor’s departure, alongside David Horseman.Cattermole joined the club’s coaching staff just last week.Upon his arrival, he said: “I am delighted to join the coaching team at Bristol Rovers.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Having spoken to the guys here and George Friend, I very quickly got excited about the project being developed here at the Club.”Everything I’ve heard about Bristol Rovers tells me it’s an exciting time to be part of things here, and I’m looking forward to getting going.” More

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      Wrexham stars including ex-Premier League ace party with Hollywood hunk Channing Tatum after Cambridge draw

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      RYAN REYNOLDS reunited with Deadpool co-star Channing Tatum… in a Wrexham pub.The Hollywood A-listers chatted with locals and later partied with Dragons aces – the only downer being a 2-2 draw with Cambridge United.Channing Tatum found a new way to send good luck to Wrexham as he joined club owner Ryan Reynolds in a Welsh pubPerhaps Tatum putting a single finger up was his accurate prediction of the Dragons only earning one pointReynolds and Tatum surprised patrons of the Fat Boar – albeit before the League One side made a pig’s ear of seeing out victory.Lowly Cambridge netted an 89th-minute penalty point-saver as Wrexham – chasing a third successive promotion – dropped to third.However, Reynolds again charmed residents of his Welsh “second home” after flying in from the US.Punters took selfies with the movies heroes as they Chann-elled their inner silver screen- before the Canadian actor took the microphone for an even more crowd-pleasing development.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe star of The Proposal and three Deadpool films said: “I’m buying a round for everyone in here! “He added jokingly: “Although they might be bussing in another 100 people as we speak – but that’s fine.”Reynolds then revealed his special showbiz plans for later that night.He said: “I’m going to get the f*** out and go to bed. Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I have four kids and this is a night off where I get to just go to bed when I want to, which I am very excited about..”If I don’t come and visit each and every one of you tonight, in your homes, I just want to say happy holidays and my best to your families.”Danny Devito celebrates Wrexham’s last-gasp win over Barnsley as he watches from virtual stadium in LATatum – who was voted People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” in 2012 – shared in the relaxed evening at the pub.And he posed for some wacky snaps alongside Reynolds and what could be called a Deadpool mannequin.But the big-names got even wilder for antics with Wrexham aces – including ex-Premier Leaguers James McClean and Steven Fletcher – later.Dragons’ co-owner Rob McElhenney also posted a snap of the pair at the Ryan Rodney Reynolds Memorial Park – a huge new green community space under development in the town.McElhenney wrote: “Wow bringing another man to OUR spot @vancityreynolds.”He and Reynolds are also dreaming of another new spot over a similar timescale – in the Championship next season. More

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      Elon Musk told which EFL club he should buy if he wants to follow Ryan Reynolds and Tom Brady into English football

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      ELON MUSK has been urged to buy an EFL football club.The X owner, 53, is now said to be worth more than £300bn ($400bn).Elon Musk is worth more than £300bnCredit: ReutersRyan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney co-own WrexhamCredit: PATom Brady co-owns Birmingham with majority owner Tom Wagner, leftCredit: GettyMusk has previously joked that he will buy Manchester United.But football financial expert Dr Rob Wilson feels that the multi-billionaire should emulate the likes of Ryan Reynolds and Tom Brady by looking further down the pyramid.Per RDG Today, Wilson said: “If Elon Musk wants to get into football club ownership, Cheltenham Town are an extraordinarily interesting prospect, particularly to the US market.”Millions of people in the US love British culture, particularly quintessential Middle England and the Cotswolds where Cheltenham is based.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”You’ve got these beautiful rolling hills in the background, you’ve got the racecourse so there is a really powerful story and a powerful narrative at a club like Cheltenham.”They are up and coming and could be a great prospect.”Cheltenham Town currently find themselves 13th in League Two.The Robins were relegated from League One last term, having struggled for several years to maintain a spot in the third tier.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMusk has been urged to buy Cheltenham TownCredit: PAHollywood A-lister Reynolds, 48, has enjoyed incredible success with Wrexham.Alongside It’s Always Sunny star Rob McElhenney, Reynolds has helped Wrexham climb from the National League to League One.Danny Devito celebrates Wrexham’s last-gasp win over Barnsley as he watches from virtual stadium in LAThey now find themselves in a promotion battle with Birmingham City, who are owned by American Tom Wagner, with NFL icon Tom Brady possessing a stake.Wrexham were watched by Hollywood superstar Channing Tatum at the Racecourse Ground yesterday, with the actor joining pal Reynolds at the game.Elsewhere, A$AP Rocky has been linked with a shock swoop for Tranmere Rovers.While another financial expert has tipped Kim Kardashian and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to move for EFL clubs.Kim Kardashian has been urged to purchase an EFL clubCredit: GettyA$AP Rocky has been linked with Tranmere RoversCredit: Splash More