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      Carlisle complete transfer for tallest player in England after signing 6ft 9in giant keeper Tomas Holy

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      CARLISLE UNITED have completed the signing of gigantic goalie Tomas Holy – who is the TALLEST player in English football.The 6ft 9in ‘keeper, who is the same height as WBC heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury and two inches taller than Peter Crouch, has signed a two-year contract at Brunton Park.
      Carlisle United have signed the EFL’s tallest footballer Tomas HolyCredit: Twitter @officialcufc
      The former Ipswich goalkeeper stands at a whopping 6ft 9in tallCredit: Getty
      The former Czech youth international, 30, who is the tallest player in the top four divisions, joins the League Two club after being released by Ipswich Town.
      He played 65 league games for the Tractor Boys but found himself out of favour last season and headed to both Cambridge United and Port Vale on loan.
      Carlisle boss Paul Simpson said: “He’s a keeper I’ve known about for years.
      “He’s done really well at Ipswich, and he’s had a couple of good loans.
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      “Obviously when I found out he was being released and available, I knew it was something I’d be interested in.”
      Holy was at Sparta Prague as a youngster but was brought to England by Gillingham, spending 18 months there before joining Ipswich in 2019.
      Brighton’s 6ft 6in Kjell Scherpen is currently the tallest player in the Premier League – but the strapping stopper would still be left looking up to Holy.
      And even Newcastle United defender Dan Burn, who also stands a whopping 6ft 6in, would be dwarfed by the new Carlisle star.
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      However, big boy Holy still has some growing to do to catch up to non-league Simon Bloch Jorgensen.
      The 29-year-old Dane previously played for Accrington Stanley in the 2017/18 campaign, making just one appearance in the EFL Cup, but is now playing for Waltham Abbey in the Southern League Division One Central.
      He holds the honour of being the tallest footballer in the world at a humongous 6ft 10.5in.
      And Solihull Moors striker Kyle Hudlin, 21, has just missed out on joining Holy as being the joint-tallest in the EFL.
      The 6ft 9in frontman and his side were defeated by Grimsby Town at Wembley in the National League play-off final on Sunday.
      Solihull Moors striker Kyle Hudlin almost joined Tomas Holy as the EFL’s joint-biggest playerCredit: Rex More

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      in Soccer

      Brennan Johnson has unfinished family business as he bids to fire Forest into Prem… after legend dad David failed to

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      BRENNAN JOHNSON hopes to make dad David proud today by finishing some unfinished family business.Nottingham Forest legend David Johnson, 45, has always been gutted he could not shoot the club back into the Premier League when they lost in the play-off semi-finals to Sheffield United back in 2003.
      Brennan Johnson celebrates Forest’s shootout triumph with keeper Brice Samba
      David Johnson with his son Brennan who has followed in his Forest footsteps
      Johnson snr scored twice but they got edged out 5-4 on aggregate.
      But 19 years later his boy also netted twice against the Blades — only this time they prevailed after winning a thrilling tie on penalties — and today only Huddersfield stand in their way of returning to the top flight after 23 years.
      And Johnson snr told SunSport: “Wembley is the mecca of world football and I’m going to be so nervous watching Brennan playing there in front of almost 90,000.
      “It’s been tough watching him play because I can’t control anything. I just tell him, ‘Express yourself and enjoy it.’ Then everything is down to him.
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      “If it’s anything to go by last Tuesday night at the City Ground against Sheffield United it’s going to be an horrendous 90 minutes to watch.
      “When you’re in such a huge arena at such a young age in a big occasion, it’s tough. But Brennan can’t wait and this could be a defining moment in his career.”
      Johnson Jr netted in the first leg in a 2-1 win over the Blades and put Forest 3-1 up on aggregate early on in the second leg but a stunning comeback brought the scores back to 3-3 before keeper Brice Samba saved three penalties in the shootout.
      And his dad, who came through the Manchester United ranks with the likes of David Beckham, said: “Brennan has never been nervous before but he told me that the second half and extra-time was the worst experience he has had.
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      Young Brennan Johnson (second left) with his dad as one of the Forest mascots
      Brennan Johnson and his proud dad and Forest legend David Johnson
      David Johnson and the SkyBet Championship play-off trophy
      “That just shows you that the occasion at times can take over you.”
      Johnson Sr believes Forest will prevail against a Huddersfield team who will try to spoil their opponents’ attacking football.
      He said: “I think we’ll do it. We’ll play on the front foot and play exciting football. Hopefully the big pitch will exploit the gaps behind Huddersfield. Forest have the goals in their team and I’m predicting a 2-1 win.”
      Whatever happens today, it’s been an excellent breakthrough season for his son. 

      After spending last season on loan at Lincoln, where he lost at Wembley in the League One play-off final to Blackpool, Johnson jnr has been one of the stars of a stunning campaign which has seen the team rise from bottom of the table to today’s final since Steve Cooper took charge in September.
      And his dad explained: “Steve worked out Brennan’s personality quickly. He’s quiet and laid back — and you don’t really have to say much to him
      “They have their one-on-ones and he wants to learn. But sometimes when he hasn’t been playing well, he has to give Brennan a look to say, ‘come on, up your game’.
      “Brennan has virtually played every game and they have that trust between them. So if his level drops, the manager will let him know.”
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-xpuujo{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-tqcu81{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-bq4915{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,97,108,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-bq4915:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}NO KIDDING .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I rushed son to A&E after finding ‘hole’ in mouth & then realised huge blunder
      For a local boy like Johnson, promotion will be huge and his dad added: “It’s a club defining moment. It’ll literally change the face of Nottingham to be back in the Premier League.
      “It’s make-or-break. It’s that big and this is an opportunity they can’t miss — but the desire of Brennan and all the players to make history will be there.”DAVID JOHNSON was speaking on behalf of EFL sponsor Sky Bet as part of their Step Up campaign. More

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      Mansfield 0 Port Vale 3: Valiants promoted to League One after hammering ten-man rivals in Wembley thumping

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      THE last time Port Vale won at Wembley Oh Carolina by Shaggy was topping the charts.But today they ended a THIRTY-YEAR wait to win on the hallowed turf and clinch promotion to League One to the joy of their celebrity fan Robbie Williams.
      Darrell Clarke and Co lift the trophyCredit: Getty
      Mal Benning celebrates Port Vale’s clincherCredit: Rex
      The pop star singer will be performing for the first time in his home town in front of 20,000 packed into Vale Park next Saturday — and what a party that is going to be after their glorious afternoon under the arch.
      The Valiants ran riot and were two goals up after 24 minutes with goals from Kian Harratt and James Wilson.
      And Mal Benning brilliantly volleyed home the third with five minutes left.
      Oli Hawkins ruined any chance of a Mansfield comeback after his 35th-minute sending off for two bookings.
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}LIVERPOOL 0 Real Madrid 0 .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Champions League final underway after 36-minute delay
      The defender has been a walking yellow card all season and at Wembley he took his tally to the season to a staggering 16 — both of which were needless.
      Quite what he was doing when he decided to push Nathan Smith in the box after tugging his shirt for the first and then he took Wilson out with a late challenge which he did not even need to make.
      Vale have now returned to the third tier after five seasons out.
      Boss Darrell Clarke — who was given compassionate leave in February after a close member of his family died in February — only returned to work earlier this month after his 18-year-old daughter Ellie passed away.
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      FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
      And both sets of fans organised a minute’s applause in the eighth minute in solidarity of the Vale boss.
      Mansfield almost went in front in the ninth minute after a piece of shocking defending from James Gibbons
      As the ball was swung across, he looked set to make a regulation clearance but somehow left it after a miscommunication between him and his keeper.
      And the ball bounced into the path of Jamie Murphy, whose header was superbly kept out by Aidan Stone.
      It was a sitter for the Mansfield attacker. He should have put it away from six yards.
      Port Vale were looking so shaky and a poor header back towards Stone saw the keeper having to race out to beat the on-rushing Rhys Oates.
      But the Valiants went closest to opening the scoring when Ben Garrity set up Harratt and from just outside the box smacked an effort against the inside of the right post.
      Yet he made no mistake in the 20th minute by firing them in front.
      Mal Benning rampaged on the right and Harratt stooped to head home his cross from just six yards.
      Vale suddenly had the Stags shaking and Gibbons crashed an effort just over.
      However, the lead was doubled.
      David Worrall’s crossed was met by another Garrity header which this time bounced back off the bar — only for James Wilson to nod home the rebound for his 15th goal of the season.
      Port Vale were on the rampage and were denied a third when Jake Taylor played a glorious ball to send Benning on his way — but his fierce effort was beaten away by Nathan Bishop.
      And the Stags chances of getting back into the game were pretty much ended in the 35th minute when Hawkins was sent off.
      But incredibly Mansfield almost pulled one back when Stone fluffed a cross and Oates looked to have scored but Conor Hall was there to clear off the line.
      Goaline technology showed that only one eighth of the ball did not cross the line.
      Wilson then saw a free kick in first-half stoppage time kept out by Nathan Bishop.
      Harratt thought he had netted a third after the break when he slotted in after Bishop had spilled a Wilson shot — but he had strayed offside.
      Then Harry Charsley has one ruled out after he also ran offside before collecting Benning’s pass and firing home.
      Stone made a top save to stop Mansfield clawing themselves back into the game.
      George Harris laid a lovely ball into Oates, whose deflected shot was turned around the post by the keeper.
      And Oates then saw another effort flash wide.
      But it was game, set and match when Benning volleyed home from a wonderful cross from David Worrall.
      It was a wonderful finish — especially when you consider he raced 20 yards to connect with the cross.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}NO KIDDING .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I rushed son to A&E after finding ‘hole’ in mouth & then realised huge blunder
      As ref Jarred Gillett blew it sparked wild celebrations among the 17,000 Vale fans.
      The Valiants are going up and under Clarke as manager you would not bet against them doing better than simply just staying up. More

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      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale LIVE SCORE: Hawkins given RED CARD for Stags with Vale cruising in League Two play-off final

      by

      PORT VALE have one foot in League One after completely dominating the League Two play-off final so far against Mansfield.Headers from Kian Harratt and James Wilson gave Vale a two-goal lead before Oli Hawkins was sent off for the Stags.

      TV channel: Sky Sports Football
      Live stream: Sky Go/ Now TV
      Mansfield XI: Bishop, Hewitt, Perch, Hawkins, McLaughlin, O’Toole, Longstaff, Quinn, Murphy, Oates, Bowery
      Port Vale XI: Stone, Gibbons, Hall, Smith, Worrall, Garrity, Wilson, Benning, Taylor, Pett, Harratt

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      46 No changes from either side as we kick off second half.
      Bit of a surprise for Mansfield following a poor first half, but Clough stands by his guns
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      PEEP!
      And off we go again at Wembley!
      Stats
      Mansfield Town experienced a terrible first half even though they dominated 55 per cent of possession.
      Mansfield registered two shots, both of which were on target thanks to Port Vale goalkeeper Aidan Stone’s errors.
      Vale, on the other hand, produced a total of 12 shots throughout the first half.
      But only four of them were on target, two of which were goals
      HT: Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      Port Vale are in pole position for League One promotion as they are ahead by two goals against Mansfield Town, who experienced a terrible first half at Wembley.
      Vale opened the scoring with Kian Harratt on 20 minutes, shortly after he hit the bar.
      Mal Benning got an incredible pass from midfield down the left flank and crossed to Harratt, who scored with an incredible diving header.
      The Valiants doubled their lead with James Wilson just four minutes later.
      David Worrall got the ball down the right and had all the space as well as time in the world to do whatever he wanted as Mansfield were caught out in the wings once more.
      Worrall delivered a cross that saw Ben Garrity heading it off the crossbar, but Wilson was there for the rebound and headed it to the back of Nathan Bishop’s net.
      Things got even worse for Nigel Clough’s team as Oliver Hawkins was sent off on 35 minutes, just four minutes after his first yellow card, following a late challenge on Wilson
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      HT: Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      PEEP!
      And first half is mercifully over for Mansfield!
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      45+6 CHANCE!
      Port Vale come close again as Wilson’s low shot from the edge of the area is saved by Bishop!
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      45+5 WHAT A CHANCE!
      Port Vale ace Wilson takes on the free-kick after Perch’s foul and yellow card.
      He comes agonisingly close to a brace as his beautiful curling shot from the edge of the box just misses Bishop’s bottom right corner
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      45+4 YELLOW CARD
      Mansfield captain Perch gets booked after a late challenge on Garrity.
      This half needs to end urgently for the Stags!
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      45+3 Port Vale continue to dominate and look like they want a third.
      Mansfield just want the first half to end already
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      45+1 CHANCE
      Port Vale ace Smith gets a header after a long cross from a free-kick but sends it wide
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      45 Five more minutes of added time to go.
      Taylor is still down and receiving treatment after Hewitt’s horrendous challenge
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      44 YELLOW CARD
      Ouch!
      Mansfield ace Hewitt gets booked after a nasty collision with Taylor!
      The Stags defender practically kicked his opponent, who goes down screaming, and could have been sent off!
      If only I was a fly in the wall during Clough’s half-time speech!
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      42 WHAT A CHANCE!
      Mansfield almost get back into the game!
      Port Vale keeper Stone gets sloppy again as the ball slips off his hands.
      That sets Oates who shoots from close range but the ball is cleared on the goal line by Hall!
      Desperately close!
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      40 Mansfield ace Hawkins was very emotional on his way out of the pitch.
      The defender was sent off after two yellows inside four minutes!
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES

      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      38 Mansfield boss Clough has a lot of work to do at half-time.
      First, he needs to find way to score at least twice with 10 men.
      Second, he needs to have a word with his full-backs who are constantly caught out and allow all the space and time in the wold for Port Vale’s players down the wings
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      35 RED CARD!
      Oh dear, it keeps getting worse for Mansfield!
      Hawkins knocks Wilson with a late challenge that may have seen him using his studs as well!
      Horrible and reckless challenge that!
      Mansfield will play the rest of the final with 10 players and two goals down after a horrible first half
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      34 CHANCE!
      Port Vale want a third before half-time!
      Taylor dribbles past two Mansfield players with a Zidane-esque dribble in midfield and beautifully curls it into Benning down the left flank.
      The full-back has all the space and time in the world and shoots from a tight angle but Bishop saves it
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      32 CHANCE
      Port Vale ace Wilson tries a confident Zlatan-esque shot from the edge of the box but sends it wide
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      31 YELLOW CARD
      Mansfield ace Hawkins picks the first booking of the match for a rough challenge
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      30 Mansfield are back to pressing Port Vale like they did before Harratt’s opener.
      The Stags need a goal before the break to set the pace in the second half
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      28 In just less than five minutes Port Vale have one foot firmly place on League One.
      Vale have Harratt and Wilson to thank for this, but we still have a long game to go
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES

      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      25 Port Vale are making a strong case for League One!
      Mansfield have a mountain of a task ahead of them!
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      24 Incredible, absolutely magnificent! Port Vale are dominating!
      Worrall gets the ball down the right and has all the space and time in the world to do whatever he wants as Mansfield are caught out.
      He delivers a cross that sees Garrity heading it off the crossbar.
      But Wilson is there for the rebound and heads it to the back of Bishop’s net
      Mansfield 0-2 Port Vale
      24 GOAL!
      Port Vale double their lead with Wilson!
      Mansfield 0-1 Port Vale
      23 Wembley is absolutely rocking right now!
      Mansfield look dazed
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Lee Grant joins Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich Town coaching staff just hours after confirming Man Utd exit and retiring

      by

      LEE GRANT has joined Ipswich Town’s coaching staff just hours after announcing his retirement.The goalkeeper ended four years at Manchester United by calling time on his playing career aged 39.
      Lee Grant hung up his boots earlier todayCredit: Getty
      Grant, 39, will join up with former Man Utd first team coach Kieran McKennaCredit: Getty
      He will now join up with former Red Devils first team coach Kieran McKenna at Portman Road, with the Northern Irishman having left United to take charge of Ipswich last year.
      Grant has accepted a role as first team coach, with Rene Gilmartin staying in place as head of goalkeeping.
      Upon joining Town, Grant told the club’s media channels: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me, and I am really looking forward to it.
      “I know Kieran and Martyn (Pert) having worked with them at Manchester United and I loved the work we were being given from a playing perspective. Now I am excited about working with them again, albeit in a different role.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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      “I feel really blessed that I have been able to make the decision to retire and go straight into an exciting role with Ipswich Town.
      “Over the last few years, I have been preparing for this moment by obtaining my coaching licences, expanding my network and working on a business degree.
      “It has all been with the intention of being in a good place for a smooth transition at this point in my career.
      “I could not be joining a club with a more exciting footing than Ipswich either. There is new ownership, new direction, a driven manager and a squad that is also hungry to go and achieve things.
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      “As I say, I am excited to get to work and I will be ready for when the squad returns ahead of the new season.”
      On having his pal Grant come onboard ahead of next season McKenna, 36, added: “We are so happy to have Lee on board with the coaching staff.
      “I have worked closely with Lee, and he has been transitioning ready to make the move into a coaching role as soon as he called time on his playing career.
      “He has been a fantastic professional and he is someone that has great knowledge of the game. He has always been a respected member of every dressing room he has been in.
      “He will bring a wealth of quality to his role, and, given he had a number of opportunities for his next step in the game, it’s a great sign for the Club that he has made that commitment to us.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Sun.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BRUSHING UP .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I’m a dentist – it’s a waste of time brushing your teeth before you come in
      “Lee will add value right across the board and he will fit in really well with the coaching staff.
      “He will work with players on an individual basis but will also help the team as a collective, as well as working closely with the forwards in the squad.” More

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      in Soccer

      Barry Ferguson’s son Kyle being chased by EFL clubs after topping the charts in the National League with Altrincham

      by

      SCOTTISH football legend Barry Ferguson’s son Kyle is being chased by a number of League Two clubs.The 22-year-old centre-back has impressed during his brief spell in the National League at Altrincham.
      Kyle Ferguson has impressed in the National League with Altrincham
      Kyle Ferguson is being tracked by a number of EFL clubs
      Northampton, Salford and Barrow are all lining up the 6ft 5in ace, who is also the cousin of current Scotland international and Aberdeen star Lewis Ferguson.
      Ferguson has been clocking up some impressive stats in English football’s fifth tier — with more than 87 per cent success in the air, the best in the division including his centre-half partner and Portsmouth target Toby Mallarkey.
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      A source told SunSport: “He’s had a superb spell at Altrincham and his stats are eye-catching. There are so many clubs in League Two and National League interested in him.”
      His dad had two spells with Rangers as well as playing for Blackburn, Birmingham and Blackpool — clocking 45 caps for the Tartan Army.Ferguson, who came through the youth ranks at Rangers, said: “When I was born, my dad was just breaking into the Rangers team so all I’ve ever known is football. I’ve been playing since I learned to walk!“I went out to America for a couple of years on a scholarship and went out to Sweden to play for half a season at Ytterhogdal and  then went to Waterford before going to Altrincham. 
      “It’s always been my wish to play in English football and want to play at the highest level possible.” More

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      in Soccer

      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe LIVE – League One play-off final: Stewart adds second as Black Cats seal Championship return

      by

      SUNDERLAND are BACK in the Championship after beating Wycombe 2-0 in the League One play-off final.Ross Stewart and Elliot Embleton scored for the Black Cats as they triumphed at Wembley Stadium.

      Result: Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      TV/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event

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      Emotions running high
      Sunderland fans are over the moon after the victory over Wycombe Wanderers.
      Die-hard supporters broke down in tears after full-time as they finally get some good news after five soul-crushing years.
      The Black Cats’ misery started in 2017 when they were relegated from the Premier League following a number of turbulent seasons.
      They then dropped to the third division a year later but Alex Neil’s arrival has drastically improved the situation for the English giants, who are hoping to be restored to the top tier in another 12 months
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES

      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Stats
      Sunderland dominated most of the League One play-off final at Wembley.
      But Wycombe Wanderers had 52 per cent of possession after improving in the second half.
      The Black Cats registered a total of 13 shots, five of which were on target.
      The Chairboys, on the other hand, produced six shots, half of which were on target
      FT: Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      Wembley has experienced one of its biggest roars as Sunderland are finally out of League One and back into the Championship.
      Alex Neil’s men, who haven’t lost since February, kept it together and dominated Wycombe Wanderers throughout the entire match.
      The Black Cats opened the scoring after just 12 minutes thanks to Elliot Embleton’s long-range shot and David Stockdale’s blunder as the ball went through his left hand.
      Sunderland sealed promotion when Alex Pritchard set the team’s top scorer Ross Stewart up on the edge of the box and the striker sent the ball to Stockdale’s bottom right corner
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES

      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      FT: Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      PEEP!
      That’s it at Wembley, Sunderland are back in the Championship!
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      90+3 Sunderland ace Pritchard has been announced as Man oof the Match at Wembley.
      Wycombe have surrendered as the Black Cats are finally returning to the Championship
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      90 WHAT A CHANCE!
      Sunderland ace Clarke breaks inside the area and has only Stockdale to beat but the Wycombe keeper denies him.
      Five more minutes of stoppage time to go
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      90 CHANCE
      Akinfenwa got his retirement match and is looking for his retirement goal.
      A cross comes from the left and he catches a difficult shot in the far post that causes him to lose his balance.
      But it is too soft and Patterson picks it up
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      88 SUBSTITUTION
      Sunderland ace Broadhead comes on to replace the team’s best player this season Stewart.
      Both of the Black Cats’ scorers are off
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      87 Chance
      Wycombe push for a late goal to get back in the game.
      But Patterson clears a corner and saves Stewart’s shot from a tight angle on the right
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      87 They’re going up, as it stands!
      Stewart has given Sunderland a comfortable lead and they are pushing hard for a third!
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      85 Chance!
      Sunderland are still pushing for a third!
      Roberts runs down the right wing and fires a rather weak low shot that just misses Stockdale’s bottom right corner
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      82 CHANCE
      Sunderland star Stewart looks to end this once and for all with a shot from the right but just misses Stockdale’s bottom right corner
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      80 SUBSTITUTION
      Sunderland boss Neil makes another switch to protect his lead.
      Dyle comes on for Pritchard
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      79 And surely this is it! Surely, Sunderland’s League One misery ends after this!
      Pritchard and Stewart have a nice one-two and the club’s top scorer this season gets two touches on the edge of the area before firing a shot to Stockdale’s bottom right corner!
      Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
      GOAL!
      And Sunderland have scored what could be the winner with Stewart!
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      78 Wycombe star Akinfenwa is going to retire after this match.
      The 40-year-old has come on as a sub in the final
      Credit: GETTY IMAGES
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      78 It looks like Wycombe boss Ainsworth is now playing with two strikers.
      Akinfenwa and Vokes are leading the line
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      76 YELLOW CARD
      Sunderland ace Pritchard gets booked as he gets rough with Scowen there
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      75 Substitution
      And here he is!
      Akinfenwa comes on for his final ever match as he replaces the injured Gape.
      The Beast would love to end his remarkable career with a goal at Wembley
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      74 It looks like Gape’s day at Wembley is over.
      But is now time for AKINFENWA TIME!!!!
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      73 Wycombe ace Gape goes down with what could be a cramp.
      Play has been halted as he may need some medical attention.
      Meanwhile, a note is being passed around the Wycombe players from the bench.
      Looks very important, but what does it say?
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      70 Sunderland ace Roberts was sandwiched between Jacobson and Stewart.
      Close call that, there will be a lot of discussion about whether it was a penalty
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      68 PENALTY APPEAL!
      Sunderland are calling for another penalty as Roberts is caught between two Wycombe players!
      However, referee and VAR give a corner
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      65 Substitution
      Wycombe boss Ainsworth makes another switch as Hanlan replaces Obita
      Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
      63 Wycombe are picking up the pace and manager Ainsworth is preparing more changes.
      Sunderland ace Pritchard hasn’t been much in the game, which is great news for the Chairboys
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      Sunderland striker Ross Stewart is dubbed the Loch Ness Drogba and hopes to be seen firing Black Cats to play-off glory

      by

      ROSS STEWART is known as the Loch Ness Drogba.And the Scottish striker hopes the League One monster that is Sunderland finally show their teeth in tomorrow’s play-off final against Wycombe at Wembley.
      Sunderland ace Ross Stewart relaxes ahead of the big play-off final
      The striker has had a superb season up front for the Black Cats
      The Black Cats have been stuck in English football’s third tier for FOUR seasons now following their back-to-back relegations from the Premier League.
      But they stand potentially 90 minutes away from promotion back to the Championship at the third play-off attempt.
      And Stewart has provided them with some much-needed bite this season — scoring 25 goals.
      Stewart, 25, told SunSport: “When I signed here in January 2021, I knew Sunderland were massive but didn’t realise how much so until I got here and saw the stadium and everything which goes with the club.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}WEST END SHOW .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Crazy stat reveals why Sunderland may finally end Wembley hoodoo in play-offs
      “The fans are so passionate and that has been seen this season with the numbers that have been coming to our games up and down the country.
      “It’s a club that’s probably way too big for this division — and we know how important this game is because it could take them halfway to where they should be, which is the Premier League.”
      It is difficult to argue with that when you consider Sunderland boast the biggest average home attendances outside the top flight (31,426) and are even the 13th best-supported team in the country.
      Stewart missed out on playing under the arch when the Black Cats got there last season in the Papa John’s Trophy as they beat Tranmere because he was an unused sub following his return from a hamstring injury.
      .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      But that game was played behind closed doors due to the pandemic.
      The striker is no stranger to playing in front of large crowds in big stadiums, having played against both Old Firm clubs in Scotland during his time at Ross County and for Sunderland at the Emirates in the League Cup earlier this season.
      Yet, although Stewart scored against Celtic, tomorrow will be beyond doubt the biggest game he has ever played in 
      This has been the best campaign of Stewart’s career.
      And he said: “This is a season I’ve really enjoyed. I’m so happy to have stayed fit for all of it as well.
      “I’m buzzing with my goals return. My first target was to get double digits, then to add five on to that and then another five. To have got to 25, I’m really happy with that.
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      “But I’d love to add to that at Wembley — but getting promotion would be the big icing on the cake for me.”
      Stewart’s rise from Scottish youth football to today is quite a story.
      Having heartbreakingly been released by Celtic as a kid, his dad paid £500 on top of a whip-round from Albion Rovers fans six years ago to allow the club to sign him from Kilwinning Rangers for £1,500 because they were skint.
      The striker said: “I’ve sorted him a free ticket for Wembley — but would like to think I’ve paid him back now.
      “That was probably the best £500 he has ever spent. I’m glad he did it.” 
      Stewart had so desperately wanted to make it a Celtic but was released when he was 16 because he had not beefed out enough to their liking.
      I’m lucky to be here with the pathway I took but I want to play at the highest level I can and that’s the biggest motivation.ROSS STEWART
      He said: “Like any youngster at Celtic, I had always wanted to play in the Old Firm game but unfortunately I was released. I was a late developer and had not grown physically strong enough at the time.
      “When I joined as a kid, it was probably the best feeling I had ever had — to be at one of the biggest two clubs in Scotland.
      “But, in the end because I hadn’t grown enough physically, I didn’t really play much in my final year.”
      But rather than become disillusioned, Stewart stuck at it and joined Partick Thistle before playing senior football with Ardeer, Kilwinning, Albion Rovers, St Mirren, Alloa on loan before making his real breakthrough with Ross County — winning promotion with the club to the SPL.
      He said: “I always knew I could play football. When you drop out of the system some people can think it’s not for me but I clawed my way back.
      “I’m lucky to be here with the pathway I took but I want to play at the highest level I can and that’s the biggest motivation more than anything.”
      Sunderland play-off miseryTHE Black Cats have never won a play-off campaign. Here is their tale of woe in the end-of-season shootout lottery.
      1987 v Gillingham (Aggregate: 6-6, lost on away goals)
      Back then the club that finished 20th in the second tier went into a promotion-relegation play-off with the teams that finished third, fourth and fifth in the old third division. Sunderland, 20th, faced Gillingham over two legs and drew 6-6 on aggregate but were relegated on away goals.
      1990 Swindon 1 Sunderland 0 
      Great pub quiz question: which team lost a play-off final but still WON promotion? Sunderland.Despite this defeat, the Black Cats went up to the top flight because Swindon were stripped of their victory after being found guilty of 36 breaches of EFL rules and the Robins were relegated to the third division for good measure.
      1998 Charlton 4 Sunderland 4 (Charlton win 7-6 on pens)
      An incredible eight-goal thriller had to be decided by penalties which also proved to be an epic. Fourteen spot kicks were taken with Michael Gray seeing his one saved by keeper Sasa Ilic and the Addicks went into the Premier League.
      2004 Crystal Palace (Aggregate 4-4, Palace won 5-4 on pens)
      Having lost 3-2 at Selhurst Park, the Black Cats thought they were heading to the final 2-0 up at home through Kevin Kyle and Marcus Stewart strikers but Chris Powell netted in the last minute to force extra-time. Jeff Whitley missed the decisive spot-kick.
      2019  Charlton 2 Sunderland 1
      Nabby Sarr’s bizarre own goal put Sunderland in front before Ben Purrington levelled things up. Charlton snatched promotion four minutes into added time through Patrick Bauer.
      2021 Lincoln (lost 3-2 on aggregate)
      Having lost 2-0 at Sincil Bank, Sunderland roared back to level the tie 2-2 by netting two early goals at the Stadium of Light through Ross Stewart and Charlie Wyke but Tom Hopper scored to break their hearts in the second half.

      Stewart was signed by Lee Johnson — who he enjoyed playing for before the ex-Sunderland boss was sacked — but is loving life playing for fellow Scot Alex Neil since he took over in February.
      Since the former Norwich and Preston boss took over, the Black Cats have only lost one of his 17 games in charge, winning nine.
      And Stewart said: “The manager has been excellent. You have to give him big credit.
      “The one thing he has done since he came in is to shore up the defensive part of the team.
      “We have been getting results and not getting beat. We have only lost one game since he has been here.
      “He has really turned the club round in a sense and got us fired up. The players are really enjoying working and playing for him.
      He rose through the ranks in Scottish footballCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow
      In action for Ross County against boyhood club CelticCredit: The Sun
      Stewart has earned himself the nickname of Loch Ness Drogba – and loves itCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      “His training is really good, the recovery, the tempo and high intensity. Everything we do has been great.
      “He has been a breath of fresh air for a few boys and you can see that with the performances.”
      Stewart has no idea who coined his nickname “The Loch Ness Drogba” — which he loves — but revealed that his favourite player growing up was Thierry Henry.
      He said: “Arsenal was my team as a kid because I loved watching Henry.”
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      Maybe now he is currently living in Newcastle, they should call him: “The Tyneside Thierry.”But I think those Wearside Mackems might have something to say about that! More