Football

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares185 Views

      in Soccer

      Scott McTominay handed new nickname at Napoli as video emerges of him tearing AC Milan to shreds

      by

      SCOTT MCTOMINAY has been handed a new nickname after his impressive performance against AC Milan.The Scotland international left Manchester United in the summer transfer window to join Serie A giants Napoli.Scott McTominay starred for Napoli against AC MilanCredit: X @SerieAHe has been handed a new nickname by Napoli fansCredit: RexMcTominay, 27, has gone on to become a crucial cog in Antonio Conte’s side who are now at the top of the Italian top division.In Napoli’s latest match they were able to dispatch AC Milan 2-0 at the San Siro.The visitor’s goals came from Romelu Lukaku and Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.But it was McTominay’s performance in the midfield that got people talking on social media.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe former Red Devils star played the full 90 minutes and impressed against the likes of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Youssouf Fofana and Yunus Musah.A video of him driving the ball forward was viewed by thousands of fans, with McTominay being heralded with a new nickname.Napoli fans have fallen for the combative midfielder and have nicknamed him “McTotally”.It differs from his previous nickname that he had at Old Trafford when he was known as “McSauce”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSince his arrival in Naples, McTominay has scored one and assisted one goal in Serie A.He has also netted in the 5-0 Coppa Italia victory over Palermo back in September.Inside Scott McTominay and Cam Reading’s glam life in NaplesFormer Manchester United star Brian McClair has been left disappointed by McTominay’s success.The retired midfielder believes that the Old Trafford outfit should never have cashed in on the Scot.He told the BBC: “For me, it’s a big disappointment that he’s not still at Manchester United.”I can’t fathom why on his performances when he played and when has played he’s been very good for Napoli.”For Scotland he’s been a revelation.”Ten Hag’s Man Utd signingsThe Dutchman has brought in 21 players since moving to Old Trafford in 20222022-23:Antony, (Ajax) £86mCasemiro, (Real Madrid) £70mLisandro Martinez, (Ajax) £46mTyrell Malacia, (Feyenoord) £13mChristian Eriksen, (Brentford) freeMartin Dubravka, (Newcastle) loanWout Weghorst, (Burnley) loanJack Butland, (Crystal Palace) loanMarcel Sabitzer, (Bayern Munich) loan2023-24:Rasmus Hojlund, (Atalanta) £72mMason Mount, (Chelsea) £60mAndre Onana, (Inter Milan) £47mSofyan Amrabat, (Fiorentina) loanAltay Bayindir, (Fenerbahce) £4.3mJonny Evans, (Leicester) freeSergio Reguilon, (Tottenham) loan2024-25:Leny Yoro, (Lille) £52mManuel Ugarte, (Paris Saint-Germain) £50mMatthijs de Ligt, (Bayern Munich) £45mJoshua Zirkee, (Bologna) £36.5mNoussair Mazraoui, (Bayern Munich) £12.8m More

    • 213 Shares195 Views

      in Soccer

      Goalkeeper ‘blames’ Harry Kane for leaving him bloodied with studs to the face during Bayern Munich clash

      by

      MAINZ goalkeeper Robin Zentner has called out Harry Kane after a sickening on-field collision. The 30-year-old needed treatment on the field after a challenge from the England striker on Wednesday night. Harry Kane has been called out for leaving his boot in on Mainz goalkeeper Robin ZentnerCredit: GettyThe 30-year-old required lengthy treatment during Mainz’s 4-0 loss to Bayern on WednesdayCredit: GettyZentner was able to continue following the collisionCredit: ReutersKane drew a rare blank as Bayern Munich romped to a 4-0 DFB-Pokal win at the MEWA Arena. The former Tottenham forward came close on several occasions, twice turning provider for Jamal Musiala as the youngster struck a brilliant hat-trick. But it was an incident in the 15th minute that had Mainz fans – and Zentner – incensed. Kane burst into the box with one of his trademark late runs, looking to find the opening goal.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe slid in to try and beat Zentner to the loose ball, with the goal gaping.But the goalkeeper got there first, resulting in Kane’s studs raking down the side of Zentner’s face.The game was halted for several minutes while the former Kiel keeper was attended by medical staff.He was eventually given the green light to continue with a bandage above his right eye.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollowing the loss, Zentner hit out at Kane and accused the England star of going for a ball he was never likely to make.He told Bild: “I think you can blame him. Rodri and Harry Kane lead footy stars and Wags arriving for lavish Ballon d’Or ceremony despite Real Madrid ‘boycott'”He sees relatively early on that he can’t get to the ball. “He might as well just stay away.’ Kane joined Munich in the summer of 2023 for a deal worth £104million. The veteran keeper saw out the game with a mark above his right eyeCredit: GettyHarry Kane reveals his favourite England goalsHARRY KANE is already England’s all-time record goalscorer.But the Three Lions skipper will NOT be stopping there.To mark his 100th cap for his country, Kane spoke to SunSport’s CHARLIE WYETT about some of his special England goals….FIRST ENGLAND GOAL“My debut v Lithuania. March 2015.”There was a lot of talk in the build-up to that camp because I was playing well for Spurs.“I got a great reception and within a couple of minutes I scored a goal.“I don’t think I could have dreamed it any better.“My friends and family were there. That was a really special night.”FAVOURITE ENGLAND GOAL“It’s between two, for me.“Against Germany, the one at Wembley in Euro 2020.“Also, the header against Tunisia at the World Cup in 2018.“That moment of scoring a last-minute winner at my first World Cup was special.”BEST ENGLAND GOAL“The one I scored in Poland away in a World Cup qualifier in 2021. It was from 25 yards.”(Kane picked up the ball from Kyle Walker, advanced towards goal and put his foot through it.)“It kind of drifted away and it was a good strike, probably my furthest-out goal for England.”He has since scored a remarkable 45 goals in 40 games across all competitions. So far this season, the former Spurs star has bagged nine goals in eight, as well as five assists. Bayern are setting the early pace in the Bundesliga, top of the table with 20 points from 6 games. More

    • 238 Shares175 Views

      in Soccer

      When football and Halloween collide, from Napoli’s seasonal kit to Barcelona’s scary masks and a sexy Wag as Catwoman

      by

      HALLOWEEN is here, and even football gets into the festivities.The American tradition has seeped into European culture, with footballers and clubs getting into the spooky spirit.Napoli have got into the spirit of Halloween with creepy limited edition kitsNapoli’s ex-star Dries Mertens promotes their spider web shirt from 2022And it’s not just the players and teams, it’s their Wags too who enjoy dressing up.SunSport looks at when football and Halloween collide. Be prepared to be spooked!Napoli’s seasonal shirtIn 2022, Emporio Armani embraced Halloween with a seasonal footy shirt for the Italian giants.Read more football newsThat kickstarted a trend for the club, who at that point wore an all-black shirt with spiders on it.Last season, their traditional blue shirt featured a load of bats flying up on the bottom of the jersey.As modelled above by Victor Osimhen, it gives you quite the fright. Barcelona’s creepy masksIn 2015, the Catalans got into hot water when they took their Halloween celebrations too far.Most read in FootballSeveral donned creepy masks, including of Shrek and Frankenstein, before gatecrashing a Getafe player’s post-match interview wearing them.Football teams that controversially changed their badgeGetafe captain Pedro Leon was miffed and told Marca that they saw the trick as disrespectful.However, Andres Iniesta reportedly called to apologise on behalf of the club, and all was forgiven.Barcelona’s stars gave Getafe players quite the fright post-matchJack Grealish and Sasha Atwood do GreaseJack and his very own ‘Sandy’ dressed up as characters from Grease in Halloween, back in 2022.Grealish perfected the look which included a slicked-back black quiff and a leather jacket slung over his shoulder.The winger even shaved off his beard to get as close to Danny Zucko as he could.Girlfriend Sasha pulled out all the stops too as she dressed up as Sandy, who was played by the late Olivia Newton-John.The model wore her blonde hair in curls and paired her black outfit and leather jacket with red heels.Jack Grealish and Sasha Attwood enjoyed dressing up for Halloween as Danny and Sandy from GreashGrealish and Attwood’s costumes were on point for the occasionChantelle Heskey is CatwomanIn 2014, footballer’s Wag Chantelle – wife of England legend Emile Heskey – hosted her own Halloween Ball at Alderley Edge’s Festival Hall in Cheshire.The do was done in order to raise money for charity, and was attended by dozens of footballers and their Wags.Tanya Bardsley dressed as slasher villain Freddy Krueger, but it was the host who stole the show.She looked incredibly glam as Catwoman, paying homage to Halle Berry.Glam Chantelle Heskey dressed up as a Catwoman for a Charity Halloween Ball at The Festival hall in Alderley EdgeChantelle loves playing dress up for Halloweenread more sport featuresScary TigresMexican football is mad, and their players and fans are passionate people.So when it comes to Halloween, of course they’re going to get into the spirit.Tigres were playing a game against Toluca on Halloween night, which prompted the players to take action.Before posing for a pre-match photo, they put on masks ranging from Batman to a frightening clown, and a werewolf.Amusingly, not all the players were on board with the idea – with some appearing quite bemused by the whole situation.Not every Tigres player was on board with the player’s scary mask ideaWitching hourBenevento Calcio are a Serie C club with a badge befitting of Halloween.On the club’s crest, front and centre, is a witch riding a broom.It references the legend of the witches of Benevento, a city it has been said witches met at during the 13th century.Thus the club is also nicknamed ‘Stregoni’ and ‘Streghe’ – which translates to sorcerers and witches.Benevento Calcio’s crest features a witch on a broomstickAccording to folklore, witches used to meet in the city of Benevento in the 13th centuryValencia’s batLike Benevento Calcio, LaLiga giants Valencia have also embraced Halloween culture within their badge.A huge bat features on top of the club’s crest, which incidentally also appears on the city’s coat of arms.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis is because bats occupied Valencia well before people did, according to historians.Valence was also built upon a swamp, where mosquitos are prevalent. What do bats feast upon? You guessed it. How gruesome.Valencia have embraced bats because they inhabited the city before humans More

    • 275 Shares156 Views

      in Soccer

      Erik ten Hag ‘jets home without wife and kids to be consoled by his parents’ after Man Utd sacking left him ‘ruined’

      by

      ERIK TEN HAG has travelled back to his hometown after being left “ruined” by his Manchester United sacking.The Dutchman, 54, was sacked on Monday after two-and-a-half years in the job, winning the League Cup and FA Cup with the Red Devils.Erik ten Hag has been left ‘ruined’ by his sudden Man Utd sackingCredit: GettyHe was seen getting on a private jet at Manchester airport hours after the news was announcedCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHowever, results this season fell below standard with the team sitting in 14th in the Premier League, and following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday club bosses decided to remove Ten Hag from his position.After having his contract extended for a year in the summer, Ten Hag has been handed a £15million pay-off for his termination.SunSport exclusively revealed he had left the UK on a private jet just hours after the news was announced.The jet, a Cessna light aircraft, flew him from Manchester to Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the ultimate destination of his 500-mile trip has now been revealed as his tranquil hometown of Oldenzaal.The small town is home to 31,000 residents, including Ten Hag’s extended family and parents. According to Mail Sport the former Ajax boss has been consoled by parents, Hennie and Joke, as they visited his modern three-storey five-bedroom home worth £1m.The report adds Ten Hag and his wife, Bianca, would often return to the town where everyone cycles to escape the pressures of life as a Premier League manager.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIt is understood Bianca and their three children remained behind in Cheshire while she sorts out admin matters before they head over to the Netherlands. According to friends and neighbours, Oldenzaal is where Ten Hag feels most comfortable, and somewhere he can walk around in relative anonymity.Ruben Amorim responds to questions about Man Utd job after Sporting match Fellow Dutchman Hans Kraay Jr. has rubbished claims that Ten Hag would be happy with his payout, instead revealing he is “devastated” by the turn of events. Kraay Jr, a former Dutch footballer turned coach and TV presenter, told Dutch outlet SoccerNews: “I understand that he is getting €17m, and then people say, ‘he will go somersaulting through Manchester’.”No, he is completely, completely devastated, he is completely ruined.”He added: “At the moment, you don’t think about money. That will come later.”I also don’t have the impression that I have to call him tomorrow to ask – can you still make ends meet, can you still get the groceries? Not that, but now he’s in trouble.”Insiders at Old Trafford have said Ten Hag was “taken aback” by the sudden decision, given he had survived Ineos reviews in both the summer and during the international break.Ten Hag’s time at United had some extraordinary lows, such as the 7-0 thrashing by Liverpool, 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace or 4-0 loss to Brentford.However, it also came with some extreme highs, such as the League Cup final victory over Newcastle, the 4-3 win over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals, and the FA Cup final win over Manchester City.Man Utd chiefs named Ruud van Nistelrooy as the Interim manager while they look for a permanent successor, with the United legend overseeing a 5-2 win over Leicester in the League Cup on Wednesday.But the Red Devils already appear to have their next manager lined up in the form of Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim.Amorim, 39, has won the league twice with Sporting after ending their 19-year title drought.Sporting confirmed United had agreed to trigger the £8.3m release clause in his contract, and Amorim has now all-but confirmed he will be moving to Manchester from Lisbon in the near future.Speaking to reporters before tomorrow’s clash with Estrela Amadora, he said: “I know it’s difficult for everyone, but at the end of the game we’ll address it.”I don’t think the president forced me to leave immediately. He’s defending the club’s rights and I’m not getting involved in that, I would never do that.”I think that at the end of the game everyone will be very clear. “The fans may like it or not, but everything will be settled. We’re adults and things happen sometimes.”We really want to win this game, we really need to win. And at the end of the game we’ll address that issue. “It’s difficult to focus on the games, but I’m managing to do so more.”The soap opera is coming to an end, let’s say. The fact that I can’t be so clear creates a lot of difficulty for me.”Amorim then revealed he decided not to watch Van Nistelrooy’s United beat Leicester 5-2 in the Carabao Cup.Instead, he watched tomorrow’s opponents plus United’s rivals Manchester City as they were dumped out of the cup competition by Tottenham.That is because should he remain at Sporting – possibly until the international break due to a 30-day notice period – he would lead his current team against City in the Champions League on Tuesday night.Amorim, who was mentored by Jose Mourinho, added: “I knew the result, but yesterday I watched Amadora. “I also watched Man City, although there were a lot of changes and it’s not possible to make an assessment for the Champions League game.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThough no confirmation has come, United and Ineos chief Sir Dave Brailsford implied all the negotiations to bring Amorim in are completed.He told fans outside Old Trafford: “It’s done,” when quizzed by supporters.Man Utd ratings vs LeicesterMAN UNITED started life after Erik ten Hag with a comfortable win over Leicester in the Carabao Cup.But who shone in the 5-2 victory, and who will be hoping incoming boss Ruben Amorim wasn’t watching?SunSport’s Katherine Walsh gives her ratings…Altay Bayindir – 6Although United dominated, Bayindir looked shaky when Leicester’s chances came.He flapped with a dodgy punch which led to the away side’s 33rd minute goal. And he looked to repeat it with McAteer’s shot just before half-time.But one excellent second half save, pushed on to the crossbar, when Steve Cooper’s side were pressing, boosts his mark up a bit.Victor Lindelof – 6Hasn’t got the partnership with De Ligt established yet as they both failed to deal with crosses too often from centre-back.But wasn’t really troubled consistently in the absence of Jamie Vardy in what was his second start of the season.Matthijs De Ligt – 7A more physical presence at the back than in previous performances but a more potent attack could have caused much more trouble.Kasey McAteer got the better of him a few times and he was subbed in the 71st minute for Jonny Evans.Lisandro Martinez – 6Looked vulnerable at left-back in moments, with Lindelof filling in at centre-back.James Justin often had acres of space in the second half before United made it 5-2.Diogo DalotBack in his beloved right-hand side and told to push into midfield but often left his defensive channel wide open.Passed back all too often and kept Justin onside in the first half. He assisted Garnacho’s opener though after collecting Casemiro’s stunning lofted pass.Played a part in Leicester’s second after the ball bounced off him to drop for Coady in another silly goal to concede for the home side.Casemiro – 9The star of the show. A stunning first-half showing saw Casemiro score a brace after bagging a 30-yard screamer for United’s opening goal inside 15 minutes.He was involved in Garnacho’s goal too. Came up with a number of key defensive headers in the second-half to show class is permanent, although form might be temporary at 32 years old.Manuel Ugarte – 6Conceded early fouls but worked hard. Slowly but surely starting to get to grips with his United team-mates after a shaky start.Bruno Fernandes – 8Restored United’s 3-1 lead with his first finish of the season. Played with a smile on his face, which we often haven’t seen this season.Dummied the ball for Casemiro’s worldie and scored his second of the evening in the 57th minute after rolling it under Danny Ward before tapping it into an empty net.Will be leaned on heavily by Van Nistelrooy to produce the goods following Ten Hag’s departure.Marcus Rashford – 6A quiet evening for Rashford, who needs to kick on after Ten Hag’s exit.The winger lost the ball a lot in the first 30 minutes. Flicks didn’t come off and hauled off again in the 60th minute.Rashford’s only played a full 90 minutes THREE times this season.Alejandro Garnacho – 7A goal and assist for Garnacho, who attended the Ballon d’Or on Monday.The 20-year-old doubled United’s lead inside 27 minutes after a well worked team move and set up Casemiro’s brilliant opener.Looked a constant threat throughout and was taken off 20 minutes from time to be saved for Sunday’s clash against Chelsea.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Worked hard but never looked confident on the ball and struggled to get involved in the seven-goal thriller. Never seemed to be on his toes either.But the only consolation is that he was involved in Casemiro’s second (United’s fourth).Trudged off after 85 minutes looking disgruntled with his tail between his legs.SubsAmad (60′ for Rashford) – 7Instant impact from the bench. The youngster almost scored an overhead kick with his first touch of the evening.Mazraoui (60′ for Martinez) – 6Hojlund (71′ for Garnacho) – 6Jonny Evans (71′ for De Ligt) – 6Ethan Wheatley (85′ for Zirkzee) – N/ARuben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

    • 213 Shares97 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Tottenham star Archie Gray’s incredible family with dad, uncle, grandad, brother and cousins all Leeds royalty

      by

      ARCHIE GRAY may have made the painful decision to leave Leeds in the summer.But he is well aware his family will forever be intertwined with Elland Road.Archie Gray may have left Leeds but is part of a family dynasty at Elland RoadCredit: RexFour relatives across three generations have pulled on the famous white shirt, including Archie’s great-uncle Eddie GrayCredit: RexAnd Whites fans may not have to wait too much longer for the next member of the Gray dynasty in the first team – and even more set to follow suit. That is because while Archie, 18, completed a £30million transfer to Tottenham, he still has a brother and two cousins making their way in the Leeds academy.Last season, the midfielder-turned-right-back instantly won fans over when he broke into the senior side and was crowned Championship Young Player of the Year before heartache in the play-off final. But there was never any doubt the Elland Road faithful would take to him given his surname.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBecause Archie was the fourth Gray across three generations to pull on the famous white jersey.His dad Andy came through the academy and made 28 first-team appearances – including 22 in the Premier League – between 1995 and 1997.But when it became clear he was not going to dislodge Tony Yeboah, Rod Wallace, Brian Deane and then Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in attack, he left the club in 1998 to join Nottingham Forest. The two-cap Scotland international’s career was largely spent in the EFL – including a return to Leeds for the 2012-13 campaign where he scored his only goal and ten games to his tally.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut that was a fraction of the totals his dad and Archie’s grandad Frank achieved.Left-back Frank broke into the first team in 1972 and totalled 35 goals in 396 games in two spells either side of two years at Forest.Archie Gray is determined to prove him self at new club Tottenham He helped Leeds win the First Division in 1973-74 alongside his brother Eddie and was a runner-up in the FA Cup, Charity Shield, European Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup.Ironically, he won the European Cup when reunited with Brian Clough at Forest before actually playing under manager and brother Eddie following his return to Yorkshire. But it was Eddie – Archie’s great-uncle – who is the biggest Leeds legend of the family. The one-club man racked up a staggering 577 appearances and 68 goals for his beloved team between 1965 and 1984. A two-time First Division winner, he also won the FA Cup in 1972 as well as the League Cup and Charity Shield – plus two Fairs Cups. The Scottish winger, who earned 12 caps, was voted as the club’s third-greatest player of all time in a 2000 vote, behind only Billy Bremner and John Charles.Gray family’s Leeds dynastyEDDIE GRAY One of the club’s greatest-ever players – voted third in 2000 vote. Spent entire career from 1965 to 1984 with Leeds, scoring 68 times in 577 appearances and winning two league titles. A true Elland Road legend.FRANK GRAYPlayed both with and under his brother Eddie at Leeds. Came through at Leeds to win 1973-74 First Division, headed to Forest where he won European Cup then returned to Elland Road. 35 goals in 396 games across two spells. ANDY GRAYLike his dad Frank, had two stints with Leeds and also played for Forest. Far less distinguished Leeds career with one goal in 38 matches at either end of his career largely spent in the EFL. NICK GRAYEddie’s son starred in the Leeds academy before a career elsewhere, struggling to make it into the first team. Enjoyed stint at Halifax. STUART GRAYBrother of Nick, son of Eddie. Didn’t play for Leeds but starred for Celtic before spells with Reading, Rushden & Diamonds and Oxford United. ARCHIE GRAYBurst through as a teenager and immediately adored as the son of Andy and grandson of Frank. Only had the 2023-24 season in the first team and missed out on promotion, racking up 52 appearances. Joined Tottenham for £30million in 2024. HARRY GRAYArchie’s younger brother is impressing in the Leeds academy. Aged just 14, he was already in the Under-18s, scoring a host of wondergoals and even featuring for England at youth level. CHARLIE & JACOB GRAYCousins of Archie and Harry and grandsons of Eddie, Charlie and Jacob are also shining in the Leeds academy. Charlie was born in 2012 with Jacob arriving the following year. Not only that but the second of his two famous strikes against Burnley in 1970 is widely regarded as the best goal in Leeds’ history. The Hall of Famer and MBE even had two stints as manager at Elland Road, too.While his nephew Andy played for Leeds, Eddie’s own sons did not as Nick starred in the academy before a career elsewhere while Stuart appeared for Celtic. However, there are more Gray kids who are marching on together through the Leeds academy right now.Archie’s younger brother Harry, born in 2008, is an exciting, highly-rated forward who has been hailed for his heaps of potential.By 14, he had already broken into the Leeds Under-18s side and is part of the England youth set-up, too.Video footage from earlier this year showed the teenager’s montage of wondergoals, sparking plenty of excitement among fans.Obviously he is a guy with lots of talent… he is full of potentialDaniel Farke on Harry GrayAnd the supporters got a glimpse of Harry when Daniel Farke gave him a run-out with the seniors in a pre-season friendly – but the manager quickly cooled excitement of an imminent breakthrough. Farke said: “Obviously he is a guy with lots of talent but I don’t like to praise the young lads too much and to put them too much into the spotlight. “We can’t expect to see him pretty, pretty soon right now at Elland Road.”He is full of potential. Here and there he will get a chance to smell a bit how it is with the first team and to adapt to senior football but we will stay patient.”We won’t put too much load on his small shoulders.”Before leaving Leeds, Archie even revealed his desire to play alongside his brother – meaning the final chapters on his own Leeds story may not be written just yet.Gray endeared himself to the Leeds crowd instantlyCredit: GettyHe was left gutted as his boyhood club lost the play-off finalCredit: GettyGray is settling into life at TottenhamCredit: AlamyHis brother Harry Gray is also in the Leeds academy and starring for EnglandCredit: GettyHe told the Guardian:  “I wouldn’t tell him this myself, but it’s my dream to play with Harry one day.“I just don’t know how we’d get along in training as we’re so competitive in everything we do and always have been. We’d have to be on the same team but as brothers we’re really close.”Harry is not the only Gray left at the Thorp Arch training ground, though. Because Archie and Harry’s cousins Charlie, born in 2012, and Jacob, born the following year, are also involved in the Leeds academy and desperate to try and emulate their own grandfather Eddie.Unlike the previous generations, Archie and Harry have opted to play for England at international level – rather than Scotland. Three Lions U21 ace Archie told the Daily Mail in April: “Ever since I was young I used to watch my dad [Andy] play and I heard about my uncle playing and my grandad Frank, I’ve always had to live up to it.”My dad’s been really good with me for advice, but I’ve been very lucky that everything has come together for me.”Ever since I was 15, things have come at me so quickly, but I’ve just got to be grateful for what I’ve got and keep improving.”He added: “Hopefully I can [get England recognition], but I’ve just got to take it step by step and keep focusing on my club football, which can hopefully attract the attention of whoever it is, whether it’s the [England] U21s or it’s the first team.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’d be really happy just to play for my country. My hopes are to play for England, definitely. It’s where I’m from and where I’ve grown up. “I’m three-quarters English, so that’s where I’m at. My dad is totally happy for whatever makes me happy, even though Eddie supports Scotland. But I’m the same as him, I’m happy as long as he’s happy.”Archie and Harry’s dad Andy had two stints with LeedsCredit: AlamyAndy’s dad Frank was also a first-team star at Elland RoadCredit: PAFrank Gray, front row second from right, played in the European Cup for the clubCredit: GettyEddie had two spells as Leeds manager as wellCredit: GettyHe is considered one of the greatest players in Leeds’ rich historyCredit: ReutersWho are these famous footballers? More

    • 188 Shares126 Views

      in Soccer

      Football chiefs target second trophy triumph for Lionesses as part of new women’s game strategy

      by

      THE FA says a second major trophy win for the Lionesses is one of the top targets of its new women’s and girls’ game strategy. The four-year plan, announced today, comes just over two years on from England’s historic Euros triumph. The FA says helping England win a second major trophy as one of four strategic priorities in its new plans for the women’s gameCredit: ReutersFootball chiefs also hope help Lionesses youth teams succeed in international competition finalsCredit: GettyNext summer Sarina Wiegman’s players, who became the first England side to reach a Women’s World Cup final last year, will begin their quest to be crowned Euros champions once again. The Lionesses are one of nine sides who have automatically qualified for next year’s contest in Switzerland which starts on July 2. As part of its ‘Reaching Higher strategy’ the FA outlined achieving another major tournament triumph as one of four strategic priorities. Football chiefs also hope England can achieve World Cup glory in Brazil in 2027 after falling to a narrow 1-0 final loss to Spain in the last tournament in Australia last summer. Read More Football Stories And senior officials in the governing body insist meticulous preparations are being made to support the endeavours of Wiegman’s side. Kay Cossington, FA Women’s technical director said: “We talk about the top end of this. “We talk about how to look at the next four years for our senior team.”For 2025 with the Euros and for 2027 in preparation for the World Cup, our planning is absolutely meticulous.Most read in Football“It’s about understanding and recognising, for us in tournament football when we’re preparing for European Championships and World Cups, what’s really important. “What are the bits that we’re going to go after, and how do we effectively prepare putting 23 players in a squad in a tournament to perform.”That’s our job as a collective system. “How can we help players and staff to perform under the greatest amounts of pressure?”We have to be really, really clear and super explicit about what we do and what we don’t do, what’s going to make the boat go fast and what’s going to sink the boat, “Also the bits in between are what often cause the most amount of noise, the most amount of stress and sleepless nights.”The release of the FA’s new strategy comes hours ahead of the young Lionesses battling Spain for a place in semi-finals Women’s Under-17 World Cup in the Dominican Republic.The match is due to be streamed live on BBC iPlayer and Fifa+ from 10:45pm this evening. The winners of the clash, which commences at 11:00pm UK time, at the Felix Sanchez Stadium in Santo Domingo, will face North Korea this Sunday. And Cossington says the FA’s aim is to continue developing its “playing, coaching and operating curriculum” to support young players rising through the ranks to be able to perform on the biggest internationals stages. She adds: “Our blueprint for success is what we call a playing, coaching and operating curriculum on how we want to do things across all of our age groups. The FA says it wants to help prepare Lionesses coming through the ranks to be able to perform under pressure in a senior gameCredit: Getty”This is so that systematically, we are developing players’ readiness to be able to cope under the greatest amount of pressure in a senior team game.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Many of the senior Lionesses talk about the importance of tournament finals. “For the next four years for us, it’s important that we regularly get our teams to tournament finals.” More

    • 263 Shares166 Views

      in Soccer

      Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd salary ‘revealed with new manager to earn LESS than Erik ten Hag but more than Arne Slot’

      by

      RUBEN AMORIM is set for a bumper Manchester United payday – but won’t earn as much as Erik ten Hag.Man Utd activated the Sporting Lisbon coach’s £8.3million release clause earlier this week.Ruben Amorim is reportedly set to pen a two-and-a-half-year deal at Old TraffordCredit: PABut the Portuguese boss won’t be earning as much as Erik ten HagCredit: GettyAmorim is expected to take charge at Old Trafford during the upcoming international break.The 39-year-old will reportedly pen a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Red Devils after they sacked Ten Hag on Monday. According to the Daily Mail, Amorim’s contract will see him take home £6.5m-a-year.That is slightly less than than Ten Hag, who was set to earn £6.75m this season after penning a one-year extension over the summer.READ MORE ON MAN UTDTen Hag lasted just over two years in Manchester and will bag £15m in compensation after getting the boot.United’s failure to qualify for the Champions League reportedly triggered a 25 per cent pay cut for the Dutchman. It saw his salary this season fall from the dizzy heights of £9m down to £6.75m. Amorim’s rumoured wage is still higher than Liverpool’s Arne Slot, who has led the Reds to second-place in the early Premier League table. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSlot is the league’s fifth-highest earner thanks to his £6.2m salary at Anfield.Pep Guardiola leads the league in manager earnings, raking in £20m-a-year at Man City.Watch Sporting Lisbon fan reveal how you’ve been pronouncing incoming Man Utd manger Ruben Amorim’s name all wrongAnd back in second is Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta, who SunSport understands is on £10m plus bonuses. Amorim faced the press on Thursday as speculation grew he would soon be officially unveiled by United.The Portuguese manager has claimed that the “soap opera” around his future is almost over.He said: “It’s difficult to focus on the games, but I’m managing to do so more.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.”The soap opera is coming to an end, let’s say.”The fact that I can’t be so clear creates a lot of difficulty for me.”I know it’s difficult for everyone, but at the end of the game [vs Estrela Amadora tomorrow] we’ll address it.Man Utd ratings vs LeicesterMAN UNITED started life after Erik ten Hag with a comfortable win over Leicester in the Carabao Cup.But who shone in the 5-2 victory, and who will be hoping incoming boss Ruben Amorim wasn’t watching?SunSport’s Katherine Walsh gives her ratings…Altay Bayindir – 6Although United dominated, Bayindir looked shaky when Leicester’s chances came.He flapped with a dodgy punch which led to the away side’s 33rd minute goal. And he looked to repeat it with McAteer’s shot just before half-time.But one excellent second half save, pushed on to the crossbar, when Steve Cooper’s side were pressing, boosts his mark up a bit.Victor Lindelof – 6Hasn’t got the partnership with De Ligt established yet as they both failed to deal with crosses too often from centre-back.But wasn’t really troubled consistently in the absence of Jamie Vardy in what was his second start of the season.Matthijs De Ligt – 7A more physical presence at the back than in previous performances but a more potent attack could have caused much more trouble.Kasey McAteer got the better of him a few times and he was subbed in the 71st minute for Jonny Evans.Lisandro Martinez – 6Looked vulnerable at left-back in moments, with Lindelof filling in at centre-back.James Justin often had acres of space in the second half before United made it 5-2.Diogo DalotBack in his beloved right-hand side and told to push into midfield but often left his defensive channel wide open.Passed back all too often and kept Justin onside in the first half. He assisted Garnacho’s opener though after collecting Casemiro’s stunning lofted pass.Played a part in Leicester’s second after the ball bounced off him to drop for Coady in another silly goal to concede for the home side.Casemiro – 9The star of the show. A stunning first-half showing saw Casemiro score a brace after bagging a 30-yard screamer for United’s opening goal inside 15 minutes.He was involved in Garnacho’s goal too. Came up with a number of key defensive headers in the second-half to show class is permanent, although form might be temporary at 32 years old.Manuel Ugarte – 6Conceded early fouls but worked hard. Slowly but surely starting to get to grips with his United team-mates after a shaky start.Bruno Fernandes – 8Restored United’s 3-1 lead with his first finish of the season. Played with a smile on his face, which we often haven’t seen this season.Dummied the ball for Casemiro’s worldie and scored his second of the evening in the 57th minute after rolling it under Danny Ward before tapping it into an empty net.Will be leaned on heavily by Van Nistelrooy to produce the goods following Ten Hag’s departure.Marcus Rashford – 6A quiet evening for Rashford, who needs to kick on after Ten Hag’s exit.The winger lost the ball a lot in the first 30 minutes. Flicks didn’t come off and hauled off again in the 60th minute.Rashford’s only played a full 90 minutes THREE times this season.Alejandro Garnacho – 7A goal and assist for Garnacho, who attended the Ballon d’Or on Monday.The 20-year-old doubled United’s lead inside 27 minutes after a well worked team move and set up Casemiro’s brilliant opener.Looked a constant threat throughout and was taken off 20 minutes from time to be saved for Sunday’s clash against Chelsea.Joshua Zirkzee – 4Worked hard but never looked confident on the ball and struggled to get involved in the seven-goal thriller. Never seemed to be on his toes either.But the only consolation is that he was involved in Casemiro’s second (United’s fourth).Trudged off after 85 minutes looking disgruntled with his tail between his legs.SubsAmad (60′ for Rashford) – 7Instant impact from the bench. The youngster almost scored an overhead kick with his first touch of the evening.Mazraoui (60′ for Martinez) – 6Hojlund (71′ for Garnacho) – 6Jonny Evans (71′ for De Ligt) – 6Ethan Wheatley (85′ for Zirkzee) – N/A”I don’t think the president forced me to leave immediately.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He’s defending the club’s rights and I’m not getting involved in that, I would never do that.”I think that at the end of the game everyone will be very clear. The fans may like it or not, but everything will be settled.” More

    • 163 Shares146 Views

      in Soccer

      Football club’s former stadium now multi-million-pound housing estate seven years on from demolition

      by

      ROCKINGHAM ROAD is bringing a whole new meaning to the term ‘home ground’.That’s because Kettering Town’s former stadium has been demolished and turned into 49 houses since they moved out.Rockingham Road no longer stands as the iconic stadium it once wasCredit: GettyThe historic ground was the home of Kettering Town for 114 yearsCredit: GettyThe stadium was the home of The Poppies for some 114 YEARS, stretching from 1987 until 2011.At its peak it offered up space for 6,264 fans with fans of historic non-league outfit Kettering regularly packing the stands to the rafters.The stadium, affectionately nicknamed “Rocky Road” hosted FA Cup ties against footballing giants such as Leeds United and Fulham over the years.While it was also the first stadium of iconic manager Ron Atkinson, who began his coaching career at Kettering in 1971.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPaul Gascoigne also spent some time as gaffer of Kettering at the historic ground, albeit lasting just 39 days during his stint at the club in 2005.But those memories came to an end in 2011 when Kettering moved to a new ground over 10 miles away.After a period of financial uncertainty, Kettering found their newest home in 2013, Latimer Park – which they still share with Burton Park Wanderers to this day.But there had been hopes to move back into their beloved Rockingham Road, hopes that were dashed by demolition trucks and a new housing estate.Most read in FootballPaul Gascoigne had a short stint as manager at Rockingham RoadCredit: Action ImagesThe stadium was left empty for years on endCredit: GettyKettering had hoped to move back into the derelict groundCredit: GettySigns pointed to the ground that was no longer in useCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIn 2015 the club failed in an attempt to buy the stadium back in a closed bidding process, before twice trying to have it listed as an “asset of community value”.The ground lay dormant for years before being acquired by a developer for a housing project. Inside National League club’s abandoned ‘hotel-stadium’ with 17,000-seater project sold off for housingAt the time, Kettering explained they couldn’t match the price being paid by the developers.A statement read: “Attempting to match or beat the unrealistic price tag put on Rockingham Road would have done nothing to secure the club’s future.”Their resignation to the sale meant that the ground was knocked down in 2017, leaving dirt and rubble in its place.Now the turnstiles and floodlights are slowly being replaced by new-build houses as work continues to build a multi-million pound estate.Houses are already on the market for the unfinished estate for in excess of £250,000.And there are expected to be 49 houses where the ground once stood upon the completion of the project.The stadium was lovingly nicknamed ‘Rocky Road’Credit: GettyThe ground is being turned into a housing estate since its demolitionThere are plans for some 49 houses on the estateProperties have already been sold for £250,000 More