English Football League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Why England were the Spurs of Euro 2024 with results equivalent to 1-0 win over Preston and 0-0 with Exeter

      by

      ENGLAND’S rocky road to the final saw results equivalent to Tottenham failing to beat Exeter and Portsmouth in 90 minutes.The performances of Gareth Southgate’s side were far from convincing throughout the Euros – with it coming to a devastating end at the last hurdle against Spain.Gareth Southgate’s side stumbled to the finalCredit: PAEngland drew with Slovenia, who are 57th in the world rankingsCredit: RexDomestically, Slovakia have been compared to PortsmouthCredit: APEngland currently sit fifth in the Fifa world rankings and when comparing the list to the football pyramid, that would make the Three Lions the equivalent of Spurs, who finished in the Premier League.England kicked-off their tournament by holding on for a nervy 1-0 win over Serbia.They are 32nd in world rankings and in the English football pyramid, that side is Preston.Next up was a bore 1-1 draw with Denmark and again converting the international positions to domestic, the Danes are the equivalent to Leicester.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Another dull draw followed against Slovenia and they are ranked 57th by Fifa.Exeter, who finished 13th in League One last season, are their EFL equivalents. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane were the saviours as the Three Lions left it late to beat Slovakia 2-1 in extra-time.The Slovakians are 43rd in the world, according to Fifa, which puts them in the position of third tier champions Portsmouth.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEngland’s results in domestic positionsEngland and Tottenham both fifth in Fifa world rankings and Premier League respectively. Converting nations into their domestic positions, England’s results would be:Spurs 1-0 Preston Spurs 1-1 Leicester Spurs 0-0 ExeterSpurs 2-1 Portsmouth (AET)Spurs 1-1 Burnley (5-3 on Penalties)Spurs 2-1 NewcastleSpurs 1-2 Man Utd England beat Switzerland on penalties in the quarter-final as the heroes converted all five spot-kicks.The Swiss are ranked 19th in the world, which would see them in the Premier League relegation zone, taking Burnley’s place.Gareth Southgate drops quit hint on live TV minutes after England’s heartbreaking Euro 2024 final lossOllie Watkins was the hero as England booked their spot in the final by beating Holland 2-1.Newcastle and the Dutch both find themselves in seventh.And finally, it was a 2-1 defeat to Euros winners Spain in what could be Southgate’s last game in charge.La Roja are set to rise up the rankings after clinching glory – but coming into the tournament they were in eighth place.Manchester United were eighth in the Prem last season as Erik ten Hag just about clung onto his job. Fifa world rankings – top tenRankings correct of June 20.ArgentinaFrance BelgiumBrazilEnglandPortugal HollandSpainCroatia Italy More

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Sheff Utd facing disciplinary probe after rivals complain that investors trying to buy club have already broken rules

      by

      SHEFFIELD UNITED are facing a disciplinary probe after rivals complained to the EFL over their proposed takeover.A group of US investors are trying to buy the Blades and have been accused of breaking rules by conducting transfer business before completing their takeover.Manager Chris Wilder is unable to make signings until the takeover is completeCredit: ReutersSunSport has learned the EFL have received reports that representatives of Sheffield United’s incoming owners, a mystery group based in California, have become involved in transfer negotiations.The EFL are believed to be looking into the matter which could result in disciplinary action.Birmingham are also being investigated over alleged breaches of EFL regulation 86, as a group seeking to buy the club last year are accused of running operations despite not receiving formal approval or passing the owners and directors test. The proposed £35m takeover by Maxco subsequently collapsed, but the EFL still charged the individuals involved, with former Charlton chief executive Matt Southall, former Barcelona striker Maxi Lopez and local businessman Paul Richardson all given bans from acting as directors.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe EFL have subsequently reminded all their members that incoming owners cannot act on behalf of the club they are seeking to buy, which has led to several querying Sheffield United’s recent transfer activity.With the Blades in limbo while the takeover drags on the club are in a difficult position, with the Championship season starting in less than a month. Chris Wilder’s squad is in desperate need of reinforcements after 10 players were released following relegation from the Premier League last season, with four loan players also leaving Bramall Lane.Sheffiled United have been on the market for some time, with owner Prince Abdullah last year agreeing a £100milllion-plus deal to sell to Dozy Mmobuosi.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut the Nigerian businessman failed to satisfy the EFL’s owners and directors test and was later charged with fraud in the United States. The club remain hopeful that the two unnamed Americans fronting the consortium will complete a deal before the start of the season.Fans ask ‘did the Year 8s have the gym booked out’ as EFL star forced to do fitness induction in CANTEENThe bidders have not been named, but are understood to be the founders of a capital investment fund based in California. Although the pair are eager to maintain a low profile they are believed to have attended Blades games last season.Sheffield United and the EFL declined to comment. More

    • 200 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      League One announce never-before-seen opening day fixtures but supporters say ‘already not a fan of this’

      by

      THE EFL have announced that League One games will start at 5:30pm on the opening weekend in a broadcasting first – and fans are not happy.All EFL fixtures are set for live broadcast on Sky Sports during the first weekend – including matches scheduled for 3pm on Saturday.The Sky fixtures for the Championship, League One and League Two were all announced on WednesdayCredit: GettyBut League One fans have been left reeling with the late kick-offs on the opening weekendCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe 2024/2025 season will see the launch of a brand new five-year broadcast deal between the EFL and Sky Sports – with talkSPORT holding national radio rights for the next four years.This will replace the current iFollow service for UK based supporters.The new deal will allow League One fans to watch their teams on the telly over 20 times a season for the first time.In most cases, 3pm kick-offs on Saturday are not allowed to be shown by domestic broadcasters under Article 48 of Uefa’s statutes.read more football newsBut the new-look opening weekend will NOT be subjected to the 3pm blackout for the first time ever.Yet all League One first day fixtures will start at 5:30pm on August 10, with League Two being offered all 3pm slots.However blackout restrictions will remain in place for the rest of the season, meaning more games will be played outside the traditional time slot.Footie fans have a deep love for Saturday 3pm kick offs – there is a notion that something about football is lost if a game doesn’t kick off at that time.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe blackout idea came about to ensure football matches still attract large attendances despite some games beginning to be televised.And League One fans – particularly those with long away trips – are not impressed with the change to more evening kick-offs.Fans ask ‘did the Year 8s have the gym booked out’ as EFL star forced to do fitness induction in CANTEENOne fuming Leyton Orient fan wrote: “5:30 kick off on the first day? already not a massive fan of this new broadcast deal.”Another wrote: “Opening day kicks off at 5:30pm. Which is annoying!”A third commented: “Pardon? Oh no I don’t like this.”While another said: “Wow only League 2 have been given Saturday 3pm games – Sky Sports are well and truly ruining football!”A fourth chimed in: “Those EFL kick-off times across on the opening day are hideous, 11 games kicking off at 5.30 in the third division.”Another user wrote: “RIP traditional 3pm kick-offs on a Saturday.”The regular EFL season will begin on the weekend of 10-11 August and run until 3 May 2025.Who are these famous footballers?BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS More

    • 200 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Bizarre EFL Trophy draw sees two clubs from same city separated into Northern and Southern regions

      by

      THE EFL Trophy draw bizarrely saw two clubs from same city separated into Northern and Southern regions. Clubs from League One and League Two and some Under-21 sides from the Premier League join the 64-team tournament.EFL Trophy was won by Peterborough last yearCredit: GettyAll enter from round one and are split into 16 regional groups of four teams, half in the Northern and the remaining in the Southern. The 16 invited U21 teams are placed into their respective Northern and Southern regional groups. And the 48 EFL Clubs are also placed into pre-determined groups.But eyebrows were raised when Nottingham Forest’s U21s were put in the Northern group. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThat is because Notts County were sectioned in the Southern side – despite the teams being just half a mile away from each other. One fan said: “EFL Trophy Group stage draw has #Notts County in the Southern draw It has Forest in the Northern draw. “The stadiums are 300 yards apart.”Another added: “And Notts are the more northernly club.” Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOne agreed: “And Notts County is the Northern of the two.”Another joked: “Just to make it even more ridiculous, Notts County are further north.” The EFL Trophy was won by Peterborough United, who beat Wycombe Wanderers 2-1 to scoop the £100,000 prize. Tartan Army begins mass exodus from Germany as thousands of Scotland fans head home after Euro 2024 heartbreak More

    • 213 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Kevin Campbell death updates — Tributes pour in as beloved Arsenal and Everton star dies aged 54

      by

      TRIBUTES have poured in following the death of former Arsenal and Everton star Kevin Campbell.Confirming the star’s tragic passing, Arsenal wrote: “We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness.”Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Kevin.”Meanwhile, Everton said: “Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.“Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know. RIP, Super Kev.”Follow our live blog below for the latest news and updates…Kevin Campbell’s trailblazing career
      Kevin Campbell began his long career in football at Arsenal.
      He made 213 appearances for the North London club between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.
      In 199, he would move to Everton, where he became the club’s first black skipper.
      Campbell played for the Toffees between 1999 and 2005 before finishing off his career with a year at West Brom and then Cardiff City.
      He called time on his career in May 2007 after the Baggies released him following their relegation from the Premier League.
      In a two-decade career, Campbell scored 149 goals and made 521 professional appearances.
      He holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.
      Copy linkCopiedWho did Kevin Campbell play for?
      Kevin Campbell played for several clubs during his career, such as Arsenal, Everton, Nottingham Forest as well as representing the English national team.
      Throughout his career, Kevin also had loan spells at other clubs, including a brief period at Leicester City.
      After retiring from professional football, Kevin remained involved in the sport as a pundit and commentator.
      Copy linkCopiedWho is Kevin Campbell’s son Tyrese?
      Tyrese Campbell is a professional footballer who plays as a forward.
      He was born on December 28, 1999, in Cheadle Hulme, England and is the son of former footballer Kevin Campbell.
      Just like his father, Tyrese has carved out his own path in professional football and is regarded as a promising talent on the field.
      Copy linkCopiedEngland’s touching tribute
      The official England national team has honoured Kevin Campbell following his passing aged 54.
      Sharing a snap of the late striker, they wrote: “We are devastated to learn that Kevin Campbell has passed away aged 54.
      “Kevin won four caps for our under-21s and represented our B team in the early 1990s.
      “Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family, friends and loved ones.”
      We are devastated to learn that Kevin Campbell has passed away aged 54.Kevin won four caps for our under-21s and represented our B team in the early 1990s.Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family, friends and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/KyGsRgcXii— England (@England) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedMore tributes pour in
      Tributes have continued to pour in for Arsenal and Everton star Kevin Campbell.
      Campbell’s Nottingham Forest teammate Mark Crossley said: “Life can be so cruel at times.
      “Absolutely devastated with news of my ex forest team mate Kevin Campbell’s passing.
      “A true gentleman, a great player, a shining light of a dressing room, fun loving guy.
      “Thoughts are with all his family and friends. RIP mate.”
      Paying tribute, Piers Morgan said: “What incredibly sad news. Top player, and a great guy. RIP.”
      Copy linkCopiedTony Adams remembers ‘goal machine’ Kevin Campbell
      Arsenal icon Tony Adams has shared a heartwrenching tribute to Highbury legend Kevin Campbell.
      Sharing snaps of their time playing together, he wrote: “Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart.
      “An intensely private and a truly wonderful human being. I’m devastated for his loved ones, and all of us.
      “Love you Super Kev, Skipper.”
      Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart. An intensely private and a truly wonderful human being. I’m devastated for his loved ones, and all of us. Love you Super Kev, Skipper 💔🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/ZJ6f57yK2b— Tony Adams (@TonyAdams) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedHeartbroken fans pay tribute to Everton and Arsenal star
      Football fans from across the globe have come together today to pay tribute to Kevin Campbell.
      The Arsenal and Everton icon passed away aged 54 after a short battle with illness.
      Taking to Twitter/X, one heartbroken Toffies’ fan wrote: “A true Everton hero and Gentlemen.
      “Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Super Kevin Campbell after the sad news of his passing. Rest in peace, Super Kev.”
      While another supporter said: “Really sad to hear about Kevin Campbell. He started the first game I went to at Highbury and was a real feature of my early Arsenal supporting life.
      “He always came across as an absolute gentleman too. RIP Super Kev.”
      Copy linkCopiedDid Kevin Campbell play for England?
      Kevin Campbell never played for the senior England national team.
      In fact, he holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.
      He did, however, make four appearances for England U21s and one appearance for the England B squad.
      Copy linkCopiedKevin Campbell’s career in pictures
      Here are some iconic pictures from Kevin Campbell’s long and successful footballing career…
      Credit: Mark Leech
      Credit: Getty Images
      Credit: PA Wire
      Credit: Allsport
      Copy linkCopiedNottingham Forest ‘deeply saddened’
      Paying tribute to Kevin Campbell, Nottingham Forest wrote: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell.
      “Kevin spent three seasons at #NFFC and was part of the side which earned promotion from the First Division as champions in 1998.
      “Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this difficult time.”
      Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell.Kevin spent three seasons at #NFFC and was part of the side which earned promotion from the First Division as champions in 1998.Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this… pic.twitter.com/mpHl1AyeTZ— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedTony Cottee ‘devastated’ as Kevin Campbell passes away
      Former West Ham and Everton star Tony Cottee has expressed his heartbreak at the death of Kevin Campbell.
      Writing on X, he said: “I am so devastated to hear the news of the passing of Kevin Campbell The nicest man you could wish to meet and a fantastic player.
      “Thoughts to his friends and family…. RIP Kev.”
      I am so devastated to hear the news of the passing of Kevin Campbell The nicest man you could wish to meet and a fantastic player. Thoughts to his friends and family…. RIP Kev pic.twitter.com/5BR7RVpRi9— Tony Cottee (@TonyCottee9) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedDarren Fletcher pays tribute
      Pundit and former player Darren Fletcher has shared a heartfelt tribute to his friend and teammate Kevin Campbell.
      Taking to X, he wrote: “Absolutely devastated that Kevin Campbell has passed away.
      “He’s been my mate since he joined Forest in 1995 and my colleague on the radio in more recent times.
      “They called him ‘Super Kev’ – cos he was a beloved player. But he was Super Kev because he was a super bloke RIP mate.”
      Absolutely devastated that Kevin Campbell has passed away.He’s been my mate since he joined Forest in 1995 and my colleague on the radio in more recent times.They called him ‘Super Kev’ – cos he was a beloved player. But he was Super Kev because he was a super blokeRIP mate💔— Darren Fletcher (@DFletcherSport) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopied’A true Goodison Park hero’
      Everton have hailed Kevin Campbell as a “true Goodison Park hero” as they pay tribute to the star.
      Taking to X, the Toffies wrote: “Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.
      “Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know.
      “RIP, Super Kev.”
      Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know. RIP, Super Kev. 💙— Everton (@Everton) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedPremier League honours beloved star
      The Premier League has paid tribute to Kevin Campbell following his passing.
      Taking to X, the league wrote: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell, the former Arsenal, Nott’m Forest, Everton and West Brom striker.
      “Our thoughts and condolences are with Kevin’s family, friends and those associated with the clubs he played for.”
      We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell, the former Arsenal, Nott’m Forest, Everton and West Brom strikerOur thoughts and condolences are with Kevin’s family, friends and those associated with the clubs he played for pic.twitter.com/JkMlgwe8fC— Premier League (@premierleague) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopiedKevin Campbell’s trailblazing career
      Kevin Campbell began his long career in football at Arsenal.
      He made 213 appearances for the North London club between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.
      In 199, he would move to Everton, where he became the club’s first black skipper.
      Campbell played for the Toffees between 1999 and 2005 before finishing off his career with a year at West Brom and then Cardiff City.
      He called time on his career in May 2007 after the Baggies released him following their relegation from the Premier League.
      In a two-decade career, Campbell scored 149 goals and made 521 professional appearances.
      He holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.
      Copy linkCopiedIan Wright pays tribute to late star
      Ian Wright has shared a series of snaps paying tribute to the late Kevin Campbell.
      The pair played for Arsenal together during the early years of Campbell’s career.

      Copy linkCopiedArsenal confirm star’s tragic passing
      Arsenal has now confirmed the death of Kevin Campbell, aged 54.
      Taking to X, the team wrote: “We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness.
      “Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Kevin.”
      We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness.Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time.Rest in peace, Kevin ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Kiywyo7nTr— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 15, 2024

      Copy linkCopied More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Major change to be introduced to EFL from next season… and fans will not be pleased with it

      by

      FANS of lower-division clubs can stand by for Thursday night football next term.Sky Sports’ new £895million EFL contract includes 248 matches from Leagues One and Two.EFL fixture broadcasting is set to undergo a major changeCredit: REXSome League One and League Two matches will be broadcast on a Thusday nightCredit: REXAnd the broadcasters agreed on a stand-alone Thursday night slot, bringing weekend games forward when no midweek action is scheduled.Championship matches will be mainly screened on Friday evenings and Saturday lunchtimes.The proposed Thursday night fixtures won’t be received well by some fans.Fans wanting to see their team in action on the road now face daunting and late midweek trips.READ MORE EFL NEWSSome may even be forced to take time off work in order to attend the matches.Those who do travel to the evening fixtures may likely also be forced to get hotels for the night due to train schedules.It’s unclear when EFL chiefs will officially announce the implementation of Thursday night fixtures.They have, however, already announced that all three leagues will kick-off over the same weekend.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEFL clubs will learn their fixtures for the 2024/25 season on June 26Credit: RexThe weekend of August 10/11 will play host to the return of the Championship, League One and League Two.The season will end on May 5, 2025, for teams not involved in the play-offs.EFL club supported by sporting legend set to be saved by mystery US group as buyers scramble to reach agreement in timeThe 46 Championship matches are currently slated to take place over 33 weekends, nine midweeks and four Bank Holidays.Leagues One and Two, meanwhile, will be played over 36 weekends, six midweeks and four Bank Holidays.The play-offs are tentatively slated to take place over the 2025 May Bank Holiday, which will fall on May 24-26.Fans of EFL clubs are patiently awaiting the release of their fixtures for the 2024/25 season.They’ll learn how their seasons will pan out at 9 am on June 26. More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Major broadcasting change for Carabao Cup AND EFL games with Sky Sports and ITV set to show games for FREE

      by

      FANS have been given a huge boost with Carabao Cup and EFL games to be shown for FREE.Sky Sports and ITV have reached an agreement that will allow fans to watch free-to-air coverage of the competitions.Fans will be able to watch some of the EFL and Carabao Cup for freeCredit: GettyMore matches will be shown on ITVThe deal will come into place in January 2025 and will commence with the Carabao Cup semi-finals.It will run until the end of the 2026/27 season and ITV will be able to jointly broadcast a select number of games on Sky Sports.The new agreement has been approved by EFL clubs.ITV will be able to screen at least nine Carabao Cup fixtures in total.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis includes one match from each of the first four rounds and one additional fixture from either the third or fourth round.ITV will also be able to show two of the quarter-finals, one semi-final and the final itself.Sky Sports managing director Jonathan Licht said: “This momentous upcoming season of over 1,000 matches from the EFL on Sky Sports+ shows our huge ambition and increased dedication to the EFL and its supporters.”Working with a free-to-air broadcaster isn’t new for us and many of our partners, as we endeavour to help grow and broaden audiences for sports.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”With ITV set to simulcast a select number of matches from the EFL from 2025 alongside Sky Sports full coverage, it means that millions of football fans in the UK will be able to enjoy plenty of action from the Cup and League, boosting the exposure for clubs which is great news for all.”ITV director of sport Niall Sloane added: “This deal brings viewers free-to-air coverage of top-level knockout football over the coming years, as well as standout matches from the EFL, adding regular livematches to our highlights shows.Football icons’ strange hobbies”We’re looking forward to bringing fans some superb action andinsight from this new, fuller EFL package across the next few seasons.”ITV will also be able to show ten matches from the Championship each full season of the deal.The next campaign will only be five as the deal is activated in January.The broadcaster will also have the option to flex the selected matches to League One and League Two. More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      EFL cult hero makes shock career change as he lands new role at US Open golf in ‘most random thing ever’

      by

      AN EFL cult hero has made a shock career change after landing a new role at the US Open.Portsmouth icon Carl Baker was once a big name in the EFL.Former footballer Carl Baker has now entered the world of golfCredit: ReutersHe will be a caddie for Robert Rock at the US OpenCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe 41-year-old starred for clubs like Coventry and MK Dons.But it was at Fratton Park where he really made his name.Baker scored nine goals in 50 games for Pompey.And he even helped them seal the League Two title in 2017.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, after retiring in 2022, Baker has now entered the world of golf.And he is now set for a surprise appearance at the US Open next month.That’s because Baker will be caddying for two-time DP Tour winner Robert Rock.The pair appeared together for Monday’s qualifying event, with Rock sealing his spot at the tournament for the first time in 12 years.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd Baker can’t wait for his time on the green after a whirlwind adventure.He said: “It’s the most random thing ever. I am mates with Rocky and have played with him most weeks over the last year and coached his son. “He played on the European tour for the last 20 years and retired two years ago, but still goes into the qualifiers for the major events.Golfer and girlfriend of Geordie Shore star dubbed ‘John Daly’s long-lost sister’ as she smokes while signing autographs“He’s played at Walton Heath in Surrey for the last 10 or 11 years and never qualified. “I think 95 percent of the 150 to 160 in the field are all tour pros, all massive names and millionaires who do it as a full-time job. “Obviously Rocky doesn’t play much anymore, just once a week socially, so he hasn’t got a caddy.“So I said to him that if he’s thinking of playing in the US Open qualifier to let me know because I’d caddy for him. “He said that would be great so we went down on Monday and played two 18 holes on the same day.“We went there with zero expectations and I was just buzzing to be on a top golf course in this country and inside the ropes with all these players I am used to watching on the telly, so it felt a bit surreal being in the clubhouse with all these top golfers everywhere.“Rocky turned up and didn’t even have a practice round, every player had yardage books so they know how far the flag is and where the bunkers are etc. “They are something like £70 each for these books so we were just winging it.“The player we were playing with – a full-time pro on the European Tour – was laughing and joking about Rocky qualifying, and then he chipped in off the bunker on the 16th and went to nine under, which is where he finished.“We were walking back and there were Sky Sports cameras and hundreds of people following us. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I was 20 yards behind him carrying his bag and people were coming up to me and congratulating us and telling us to enjoy America.”I hadn’t got a clue what was going on. It was the first time I have ever done it and hadn’t got a clue what I was doing.” More