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      Lincoln star Ethan Erhahon reveals team hid physio’s car in training ground prank and he was offered ‘scrap’ by fan

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      ETHAN ERHAHON has already packed plenty into his career.Only 23, the midfielder has played at three levels and been capped by Scotland in four age groups – up to Under-21s.Ethan Erhahon has had some lively experiences down SouthThe midfielder arrived at Lincoln from St Mirren in January 2023Credit: GettyBut the former St Mirren star might play another decade and never encounter a wackier episode than the prank his Lincoln City team-mates pulled on the club physio.That was a mischievous jape worthy of City’s nickname – The Imps.In contrast, one experience with an opposition fan, who threatened more than just banter, could have turned out far nastier.Here are some of the trials and tribulations of League One life seen by Erhahon – in his own wordsREAD MORE IN FOOTBALLBest opponent?Ronnie Edwards. Peterborough last season. He was really good. We played against Peterborough and they liked to play it from the back, but we liked to get after them and he kept breaking and pressing stuff.(Defender Edwards, 21, was named in the L1 team of the year – winning a £3million summer move to Southampton.)Erhahon showed his good judgement with his choice of finest rival playerFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMost difficult EFL fans?I got a bit from Blackpool this season. Especially after the game, some fella offered me a scrap or something, so I’d probably say Blackpool, yeah. Most read in EFLFormer Watford and Gillingham hero Andy Hessenthaler shares crazy EFL story after being attacked by the owner I What the EFL?!I don’t know what he was doing, he was gesturing to me anyway, that he wanted me to come over to the barrier and give him a scrap or something.Best away fans?I’d say Portsmouth, for sure, they backed the team the whole way.Last season, missing out in the play-offs, coming down to the final day, and we obviously missed out by two points in the final day, Portsmouth beat us, that still kind of haunts me. Maddest dressing room tale?Last season’s end-of-season do was pretty crazy.Ended up with some players till like five or six in the morning, all the boys had the ties round their head and the tops open and stuff, so, you know, might do the same again this year, hopefully, after we get promoted.(Team-mates) took the physio’s car last year and drove it up the side of the pitch.There’s fields around here, so if you know the training ground, it looks like fields… drove it up the side of the pitch… took the keys and… didn’t have a clue where his car went! So that’s probably one of the funniest moments I’ve ever had at a training ground, for sure.Craziest transfer tale?Don’t want to name players or agents, but I’ve heard a few stories!One guy getting a haircut in the city he was going to play for – the team he was going to play for – and he ended up changing his mind after the haircut, coming out and saying to his agent he doesn’t want to go. I think it was Blackpool, maybe. Not a good barber, maybe, around there!Dressing-room antics?Probably something to do with the darts, maybe. The kit man plays, he always gets beat, so it’s always a funny moment when he’s in there getting beat, we’re all laughing at him and stuff. Owner Harvey [Jabara] put a lot into the club, and they brought us all baseball gloves, signed, and with little Lincoln imps on them, so I’ve still got that up in my room.It’s a nice gesture. I don’t play baseball, but it was certainly a nice gesture, and one that I’ll keep forever.READ MORE SUN STORIESAway-day dressing-room grumble!I have to say probably in the [Bristol Street Motors] Trophy last week, Grimsby, away. The changing room’s a bit old-school, shall we say!A bit small and stuff, so, I’d have to say Grimsby’s changing room.Erhahon is hoping Lincoln go up to the Championship after they just missed out on reaching the League One play-offs last seasonCredit: Rex More

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      Ian Holloway lands first manager job in football in four years as he is named boss of EFL club

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      IAN HOLLOWAY has been appointed manager of EFL side Swindon Town.The League Two strugglers parted company with Mark Kennedy following their underwhelming start to the season.Ian Holloway has been appointed Swindon managerCredit: PAThey have wasted little time in appointing his successor with Holloway confirmed just hours after his sacking.Holloway, 61, has signed a deal until the end of the season.He said on joining The Robins: “I’m delighted to be back working in football after a period out of the game as I wanted to get back into it if the right opportunity arose which, with this opportunity, I feel is the perfect fit for me.”Conversations happened very quickly and both sides were very keen to get the deal done and of course, I was delighted to engage with a club like Swindon Town, a club of whom I know a lot about due to my location and knowledge of the local area.”I want to be able to bring everyone together to deliver success and positivity on and off the pitch and I’m delighted to be at The Nigel Eady County Ground tomorrow to meet you all for the first time as Swindon Town Manager and I look forward to a successful time working together.”Holloway has not managed since he was sacked by Grimsby four years ago after winning just 11 out of 38 games in charge.He is just 11 games away from 1000 matches managed in a managerial career that has seen him win promotion three times.Holloway’s first taste of success came at QPR when he won promotion to the Championship in 2004.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe then twice one promotion to the Premier League, first with Blackpool in 2010 and again three years later with Crystal Palace – both of which came via the play-offs.Swindon will hope Holloway can add a bit of inspiration immediately as they have just two wins from 13 games and sit three points above the relegation zone.Worthing FC owner George Dowell describes club’s ambition to reach EFL for first time More

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      Swindon SACK manager Mark Kennedy after less than five months as they release brief 90-word statement

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      SWINDON have sacked boss Mark Kennedy after just five months in charge.The League Two side have confirmed that first team coaches Marcus Bignot, Steve Mildenhall and Gavin Gunning will remain in place to take charge of this weekend’s clash with Gillingham.Swindon have sacked manager Mark KennedyCredit: GettyKennedy, 48, signed a two-year deal with Swindon back in May.But following a poor start to the season, the Irishman has been relieved of his duties.In a 90-word statement, the fourth-tier side confirmed: “Swindon Town Football Club have parted company with head coach Mark Kennedy.”Marcus Bignot, Steve Mildenhall and Gavin Gunning will continue in their current positions, with all three first-team coaches in place to oversee this weekend’s game against Gillingham.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Everyone at Swindon Town Football Club would like to express their appreciation to Mark for his commitment and hard work during his time with the Club and wish him all the best in the future.”A further update on the club’s new head coach will be provided at the earliest opportunity.”The former Ireland international won three of his 16 games in charge of Swindon in all competitions.In his final game in charge they were beaten 2-1 by Salford on Tuesday night.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollowing the match, Kennedy went on to blame his players’ decision making.He told the BBC: “Unfortunately we found a way to lose the game.Former Watford and Gillingham hero Andy Hessenthaler shares crazy EFL story after being attacked by the owner I What the EFL?!”Our decision making leaves me scratching my head a little bit. The games we’ve lost, I don’t feel this season, with the exception of Walsall, anybody’s come and beat us.”Kennedy went on to add: “When I look at Darren [Moore] at Port Vale, Grant [McCann] on Saturday, Karl [Robinson] tonight (Tuesday), when I look back and reflect and visualise the following day having played my team and what they did to beat us, I keep coming up with the same answer: ‘We were really lucky there, they didn’t half help us’.”We’re handing teams wins – Carlisle, two set-pieces, Port Vale first goal, set-piece.’DIFFICULT FOR ME TO TAKE'”Second goal tonight, clear your lines. We bizarrely think we’re going to take somebody on in the box and go across the goal and put ourselves in difficult situations.”That’s really difficult for me to take as a head coach.”Swindon are 22nd in League Two – three points above the relegation zone and already 10 back from the play-off places.Kennedy previously worked as Macclesfield boss in 2020 amid the club’s financial turmoil.He was then appointed Lincoln manager in May 2022 before leaving in October last year.As a player Kennedy represented the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool, before eventually hanging up his boots in 2012 following a spell with Ipswich.Swindon have moved quickly to appoint Ian Holloway as Kennedy’s replacement.The former Crystal Palace, QPR Blackpool and Plymouth Argyle boss will officially begin work on Monday, but will be in attendance as his new side take on Gillingham tomorrow.’SUCCESS AND POSITIVITY’Upon joining the Robins, Holloway said: “I’m delighted to be back working in football after a period out of the game as I wanted to get back into it if the right opportunity arose which, with this opportunity, I feel is the perfect fit for me.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Conversations happened very quickly and both sides were very keen to get the deal done and of course, I was delighted to engage with a club like Swindon Town, a club of whom I know a lot about due to my location and knowledge of the local area.”I want to be able to bring everyone together to deliver success and positivity on and off the pitch and I’m delighted to be at The Nigel Eady County Ground tomorrow to meet you all for the first time as Swindon Town Manager and I look forward to a successful time working together.”Kennedy, 48, previously worked as Lincoln bossCredit: Getty More

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      Former Man Utd wonderkid and Premier League title winner spotted in Wrexham training and set to sign on free transfer

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      AN ex-Manchester United star and Premier League winner is set to join Wrexham, according to reports.Matty James is currently without a club after his deal with Bristol City expired at the end of last season.Wrexham chiefs Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds are closing in on signing a former Man Utd starCredit: PAMatty James is set to sign a short-term deal at the clubCredit: AFPBut he has been spotted training with Wrexham ahead of signing a short-term contract until January.James has reportedly had interest from Championship sides but is choosing Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s League One outfit.The 33-year-old midfielder came through the ranks at Man Utd but never made a senior appearance for them.He was instead loaned out to Preston twice before he was signed by Leicester in a double deal with Ritchie De Laet.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLJames went on to play 117 times for the Foxes in nine years at the club.He played a huge role in the club’s promotion and then survival in the Premier League back in 2014.The former England Under-20s star was in the squad as Leicester famously clinched the title, but he did not play a minute that season due to a ligament injury.He has since had spells at Barnsley, Coventry and Bristol City.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSJames will help Wrexham’s promotion push as they currently sit second in League One.Ex-West Brom man James McClean and ex-Sunderland striker Steven Fletcher are the other former Premier League players in the squad.Wrexham’s James McClean catches beer thrown by Birmingham fans and pretends to drink it as he winds up supporters in huge League One clash More

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      Wrexham appoint architects behind incredible Las Vegas sphere to redesign stadium and make it fit for European football

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      WREXHAM have appointed new architects as they plan to expand their stadium.Plans to rebuild The Kop have been in the works for years, with a temporary structure installed last December.Wrexham plan to increase the capacity of the Racecourse by 5,500 seatsCredit: AlamyOwners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have been left frustrated by delays to constructionCredit: PAThe new stand could host 5,500 more fans after receiving approval from the council.A temporary stand is currently in place with a capacity of 3,000.Work on the new stand was delayed as a drain beneath the site was moved and legal matters had to be resolved, but architects Populous have now been appointed to oversee the project.The group, who worked on Wembley, the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and the Las Vegas Sphere, have been tasked with “creating a masterplan” for the Racecourse stadium.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat will include a Kop rebuild which could include upgraded hospitality sections, accessible seating and a provision for safe standing which will make it fully compliant with Uefa category four stadium requirements.Wrexham are hopeful the work will be completed in time for the Uefa European Under-19 Championships in 2026.North Wales is set to host the Under-19 Euros across five venues in 2026, including Bangor, Denbigh, Colwyn Bay, Connah’s Quay and the Racecourse.Wrexham’s executive director Humphrey Ker previously estimated the building process could take 11 months – so the work will likely have to begin before next summer.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile chief executive Michael Williamson said: “We are determined to ensure the new Kop stand and the future vision of the SToK Cae Ras satisfies the needs and expectations of our fans and the local community, and the appointment of Populous as architect for the redesign reflects that.“We appreciate the efforts of those who have worked on this project to date, allowing us to now focus our attention on the activation of areas within the new stand, while remaining consistent with the capacity and volume that was previously presented.” Tom Brady in hilarious reaction after getting X-rated welcome from Wrexham fans for Birmingham clashThe original Kop was abandoned in 2007 and owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have previously expressed their frustrations at the delay to the rebuild.However the delay has given them time to reconsider plans and they will consider ways to build the stand that makes it capable of being developed further.McElhenney has spoken of his ambition to increase the capacity of the Racecourse to 55,000. More

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      Sunderland fans in hysterics as captain Luke O’Nien ‘auditions for WWE’ in post-match brawl at Luton

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      SUNDERLAND captain Luke O’Nien left fans in stitches after launching himself into a post-match brawl against Luton.The Black Cats came from behind to claim a 2-1 win at Kenilworth Road thanks to goals from Chris Rigg and Romaine Mundle.Sunderland captain Luke O’Nien left fans in hysterics on Wednesday nightCredit: RexO’Nien leapt into the post-match brawl between Sunderland and LutonCredit: XHis jump into the fight was compared to a WWE wrestling moveCredit: XThe three points maintains their impressive start which sees them top the Championship table.But the victory was not without incident after the final whistle.A melee ensued between both sets of players, with members of the coaching staff also getting involved.Skipper O’Nien, 29, then flew into shot as he launched himself over a number of bodies and on top of the fighting.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe centre-back came through the academy of Luton’s bitter rivals Watford.And Sunderland fans were loving the way he reacted to the brawl in “absolutely mad” fashion.One said: “Royal Rumble winner heading in over the top rope.”Another added: “@LukeONien loves it and we love him.”Most read in EFLCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA third replied: “Yes but he’s OUR kind of mad 🤣.”While a fourth responded: “Might as well jump…”Chris Rigg talks about his journey to becoming a player for Sunderland O’Nien was one of four players booked for the incident alongside team-mate Jobe Bellingham and Luton pair Tom Holmes and Carlton Morris.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Oxford boss forced to have medical attention post-match with players ‘shocked and upset’ after he was rushed home

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      OXFORD UNITED manager Des Buckingham was given medical attention last night following the club’s draw at home to Derby.Nathaniel Mendez-Laing’s equaliser cancelled out Tottenham loanee Dane Scarlett’s 12th minute opener – but the game was overshadowed by concerns for the home side’s manager.Des Buckingham felt dizzy on the touchline and was taken home after doctors gave him medical attentionCredit: RexBuckingham’s assistant Craig Short said after the game: “He was feeling dizzy in the last half an hour and kept walking from pitch side to the dugout.”He spent some time holding onto the rails by the dugout talking to the club doctor and told me he could just about shake hands at the end.”He added: “The doctor is treating him now and we feel it is probably best that he gets off home as quickly as possible.”The players were all a bit shocked and upset when we told them.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOxford made it five consecutive draws in the Championship with Tuesday night’s stalemate.Buckingham guided The U’s to promotion from League One last season, toppling Bolton Wanderers in the play-off final at Wembley.They have started the Championship season in impressive form, currently sitting in 10th and in a six-game unbeaten run.Fellow promoted side Derby County sit just behind them in 12th, while last year’s League One title winners Portsmouth are footing up the table with just one win from their opening 11 games, losing 2-0 at Cardiff in a relegation six-pointer.Most read in EFLElsewhere in the Championship, Leeds pulled level with table-toppers Sunderland by beating Watford at Elland Road.Every other game in the second tier finished with honours even on Tuesday night – Preston drawing with Norwich, Sheffield Wednesday being held to a goalless draw by Swansea, and QPR vs Coventry also finishing level.’My pro football team-mate thought he was Spiderman after being spiked on night out’ | What the EFL?! More

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      League One stadium hosting European football for first time in history THIS WEEK with tickets on sale for just £16

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      A LEAGUE ONE stadium is set to host European football for the first time.The decision was agreed by Uefa despite the 9,875-capacity ground never hosting football at higher than third tier level in England.A League One stadium will host European football for the first timeCredit: GettyWrexham’s Racecourse Ground was unavailable to host the fixturesCredit: GettyIn fact, the club that own the ground have never been in the top flight before.However, Welsh side The New Saints were forced to make contingency plans following their shock run to qualify for the Conference League.Despite being from Wales, TNS already play their home games in England – however their 3,000-capacity Park Hall ground in Oswestry, Shropshire, was deemed too small to host European group games by Uefa.As a Welsh club, TNS’ preference was to host games in Wales – and their first port of call was Hollywood-owned Wrexham.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIn 2005, when the team was still called Total Network Solutions, Wrexham hosted their Champions League qualifier with Liverpool.However, the Racecourse Ground was not available to host the games on this occasion.Chairman Mike Harris said back in August: “Places like Cardiff are three hours away from where we are, so our fans and stakeholders can’t really get there. “It’s got to be somewhere more local.Most read in SportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“It’s [Shrewsbury’s Croud Meadow] a ground that fits Uefa criteria and it’s 20 minutes down the road from us, so it’s an option.”Wrexham and Shrewsbury would be most ideal for us, but I’m not sure the Racecourse is available. Bolivia move to stadium 2,000 FEET higher in bizarre bid to qualify for World Cup 2026 “So it’s our priority to get the games in a stadium that can cater for the games, but also giving the people around us a chance to go and watch.”TNS take on Astana on Thursday evening at 8pm in their first ever European group stage home game.Tickets are now on sale from £16 for adults.In their opening game, they put up a brave fight away at last season’s finalists Fiorentina, who feature former Man Utd goalkeeper David de Gea in their side.The New Saints had never reached a European group stage beforeCredit: GettyShrewsbury’s Croud Meadow will be their temporary homeCredit: GettyThe Welsh champions held the Italians for over an hour before succumbing to a 2-0 defeat after goals from Yacine Adli and Moise Kean.Their other four group games will be against Djurgarden and Panathinaikos at home and Shamrock Rovers and Celje away. More