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    Bullish Lee Carsley happy to take the flak for England meltdown so players don’t suffer

    DEFIANT and selfless, Lee Carsley finally went on the front foot yesterday.The England interim boss saw his team, without a recognised striker, crash to Greece at Wembley — before delivering his own muddled performance in front of the media after the embarrassing 2-1 defeat.Lee Carsley is prepared to make changes so he doesn’t have ‘regrets’Credit: EPAEngland stars like Cole Palmer, centre, failed to gel against GreeceCredit: SplashYet here in Finland, Carsley spoke positively and insisted he was happy for the s**t to be flying in his direction rather than at the players.It is clear he will put the team before himself and that’s why nobody should rule him out of replacing Gareth Southgate on a permanent basis.Carsley was upset by the shock result and a dreadful defensive show against the  Greeks.But the Brummie  is able to put it  in perspective.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSThe 50-year-old’s son Connor has Down’s syndrome and, while he is happy to take criticism on board, he is not going to let it  turn him off.Carsley, who takes charge of England for the fourth time in ­Helsinki on Sunday, said: “I definitely have to accept the criticism.“I am glad it was directed towards me, not the players, and we move on.“The last thing that is  important to me in this whole process is me.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“The reason I believe I have done so well in coaching is because people know that it’s not about me.“It’s about the players, it’s about the environment, it’s about the culture.Lee Carsley’s slip of the tongue after Greece nightmare hints he wants England U21s job back and not replace Southgate“It is something that I’m totally accepting of in terms of the changes I made the other night and trying something different. I’m not put off by that.“I understand the interest and the criticism, which is fine.“I wouldn’t describe it as a setback . . . Connor made a big difference to our lives in terms of having a child born with Down’s Syndrome, so that puts things into perspective.“After the other night, I felt bad for a couple of days — of course I did.“But it’s a game of football, I’m realistic about the understanding that it is a game. I have tried my best, it didn’t come off, I am here to fight again.“Having watched the game back two or three times, as you can imagine, it’s never as bad or as good as you think.“I would change the result. But it’s not put me off. “I don’t want to sit back in a month’s time with regrets that I was safe. This is a great opportunity, not only for myself . . . for the rest of the staff and the players to try something different.”Dominic Solanke and Ollie Watkins only came on as subs vs GreeceCredit: RexCarsley did not help himself after the defeat by claiming he would “hopefully” be back with the Under-21s.What he meant, as he said when being unveiled as interim manager, was he would look to get his old job back if he did not get this one permanently.When pressed on his comment again, he said last night: “Hopefully is a word and a phrase I use quite a bit. There are no guarantees in life.“It’s a job, the Under-21s, that I’m really proud of and massively invested in.“The plan is to give this job for three camps the best I can do along with the rest of the staff and, hopefully, we can be in a good position.”He must make sure he does not get flustered quite so quickly in future. Equally, we should not forget that even in the caretaker days of Southgate, not everything went to plan.In his second game, England scraped a 0-0 with Slovenia — Joe Hart making a brilliant late save to prevent a defeat.Southgate suffered fierce criticism afterwards and was always prepared to take the flak.Carsley left Ollie Watkins and Dominic Solanke out of his starting line-up even though star striker Harry Kane was injured and fielded a glut of attacking midfielders with Jude Bellingham as a false nine.I have tried to remove myself from the emotion of, ‘It’s my job to lose or get’.Lee CarsleyCarsley added: “I spoke with Ollie after I had named the team. I didn’t speak to Dom but I have spoken to Dom. I have got a good relationship with Dom. He can understand we were trying something different.“They all could see that. With the personalities they have got, they are very much team orientated, as opposed to selfish.“If I try something different, they can see I’m trying to get the best out of the team or the individual rather than myself.”On whether he feared defeats to average opposition could impact his chances of the job, Carsley replied: “I wouldn’t say that. That would be reckless.“There’s probably a reason why I have not got into senior football, managing at club level, because I enjoy the player development and the journey they go on.“I have tried to remove myself from the emotion of, ‘It’s my job to lose or get’. It was totally clear when I came in, the remit.READ MORE SUN STORIES“That’s what I have tried to do to the best of my ability, with the understanding I want to try something different at times.“It is good I have the trust of the staff we have got.”England player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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    Man Utd consider ex-Dortmund boss Edin Terzic to replace Ten Hag – with Tuchel and Van Nistelrooy also in contention

    EDIN TERZIC is the shock name on Manchester United’s shortlist to replace Erik ten Hag.German Terzic took Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season before surprisingly quitting.Edin Terzic is the latest name in contention if Erik ten Hag departsCredit: GettyTen Hag is still under pressure, days after the club’s seven-hour summitCredit: RexOld Trafford assistant boss Ruud van Nistelrooy could be promotedCredit: GettyHe has many admirers at Old Trafford and it would he a smart but unexpected move to go for him if they sack under-fire Ten Hag.Terzic, 41, did his coaching badges in England, where he was friends with fellow United target Graham Potter, and then worked as Slaven Bilic’s No 2 at West Ham.He rose to the top in Germany during two spells at Dortmund before he walked away in June.United are currently reviewing Ten Hag’s position and have looked at the likes of Potter and Gareth Southgate, while former Chelsea and ex-Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel has been on their radar.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe option of promoting club legend and current coach Ruud van Nistelrooy is also a possibility.Terzic graduated from the FA’s  coaching course alongside former United players Nicky Butt and Nemanja Vidic in 2018.United are 14th in the Prem and Ten Hag  is clinging on to his job after club chiefs held a SEVEN-HOUR summit in London last Tuesday to  discuss his future.The Dutchman, 54, is having a short holiday and confident he will still be in charge for Saturday’s visit of Brentford.Most read in FootballThomas Tuchel holds an interest in both the United and England jobsCredit: AFPFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut there has been no confirmation from the club yet on whether that will be the case.Two current Prem bosses are also tipped to be in contention should the Red Devils call time on Ten Hag.Thomas Tuchel Eyes England Manager Role Amid Man Utd SpeculationIpswich’s Kieran McKenna, who was an Old Trafford coach under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and Bees’ manager Thomas Frank have caught the eye of Old Trafford chiefs.Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi and Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim have been mentioned too. More

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    Harry Kane fit to face Finland after Jude Bellingham false nine plan leads to England horror show against Greece

    HARRY KANE is fit to face the Finns as England try to get back on track.The Three Lions captain, 31, missed the 2-1 defeat to Greece with groin and ankle issues.Harry Kane is fit to return for England against Finland on SundayCredit: ReutersInterim boss Lee Carsley is hoping to bounce back from Thursday’s defeat to GreeceCredit: ReutersBut the Bayern Munich striker looks set to earn his 101st cap, while Jack Grealish, 29, is also available after suffering a knock.Interim boss Lee Carsley said: “It was important to give Harry and Jack plenty of time to recover.“They trained, so in terms of their fitness, everything’s fine.”Kane has a record 68 goals for England and Carsley added: “He leads by example, is a really good captain and is a great positive person to have around.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS“When we’ve got something really good in front of us, we’re always looking for the next big thing.“We should appreciate what we’ve got in front of us with Harry.“He’s still got a lot of games and goals in him, hopefully.”Carsley admitted it is vital Jude Bellingham, 21, gets plenty of love.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “Jude’s totally different in the way he plays to everyone else.“We have to embrace that and make sure we support him.”Lee Carsley’s slip of the tongue after Greece nightmare hints he wants England U21s job back and not replace SouthgateWinger Bukayo Saka has stayed at Arsenal for treatment on the right leg injury he picked up against Greece.Fellow 23-year-old, Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, has withdrawn due to  a personal commitment.Jack Grealish has also recovered from a knock in time for the match in HelsinkiCredit: PAEngland player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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    Lee Carsley confirms that he did NOT apply for England manager’s job following bombshell ‘hopefully’ comments

    LEE CARSLEY has confirmed that he did not apply for the England job.The interim coach has overseen three games for the Three Lions since Gareth Southgate stepped down after Euro 2024.Lee Carsley did not apply for the England jobCredit: EPACarsley has taken charge of England since Gareth Southgate stepped downCredit: AlamyThe FA closed applications for the role on August 2 as they searched for Southgate’s successor.Carsley, 50, was appointed as the interim coach seven days later.However, he had revealed that he did not send a formal application for the role.He said: “I didn’t apply for it.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS”Because hopefully… I have been doing the Under-21s and I am really happy with my job.”I am an employee of the FA and I was asked to take the senior team which is a privilege, it was the proudest moment of my career.”I am really honoured with the chance to manage the senior team.”I am in a really fortunate position in that I am on the inside and I can see how much potential this team’s got.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”It is one of the best jobs in world football. There aren’t many jobs where you’ve got a chance of winning.”I believe the coach that comes in has got a really good chance of winning and we deserve the best one that’s out there.”Lee Carsley appears to admit staggeringly short amount of time England practised bold new tactic before Greece shockerHe will lead the team against FinlandCredit: GettyEngland’s shocking stats against GreeceHere are the shocking stats that were set in England’s defeat to Greece…- Lowest ranked side to beat England in a competitive match in 19 years.- The lowest-ranked side ever beat England on home soil.- Greece had never beaten England in their history.- Greece had never scored a goal at Wembley before.- Pavlidis’ strikes were his first since June 2022 vs Cyprus.- Bellingham’s 87th-minute equaliser was England’s first shot on target since the third minute (also Bellingham)Carsley also claimed that he is not treating his interim job as an audition with a view to taking the job full time.He added: “Definitely not. I don’t see this as an audition at all.”I see it as simple as I was asked to take the team for three camps, it wasn’t with a view to anything, it was literally do your best try as hard as you can and look after the players and that is what I am doing.”When asked if he would take the job if it was offered to him, Carsley insisted he is just trying to do his best for the team.He said: “It’s hypothetical. I think it’s important that we are in a position where, hopefully, we have had a brilliant campaign.”That will be in a good position going into World Cup qualifying and I would see that as a success.”The revelation follows his comments in which he suggested he was “hopefully” returning to his role with the Under 21s.Carsley has since clarified his statement and suggested that he and his team are aiming to be in a “good position” after their three camps with the senior team.He will be in charge of the team for the Nations League clash against Finland on Sunday.So far, he has won two of his three games, with the only defeat coming against Greece on Thursday.READ MORE SUN STORIESFormer Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel has reportedly held talks with the FA over the job.If the German was to land the job with the Three Lions, then he could hand a shock return to the team to at least one player.Thomas Tuchel is believed to have had negotiations over the England jobCredit: GettyEngland player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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    Well done, Annie Kilner for taking control over cheat Kyle Walker – now it’s time to hit him where it hurts

    ANNIE KILNER has consulted divorce lawyers over wayward husband Kyle Walker.And I couldn’t be happier for her.Annie Kilner has consulted divorce lawyers over her husband Kyle WalkerCredit: GettySince he first got together with wife Annie, Walker has been unfaithful many timesCredit: Refer to CaptionIf you are not au fait with Kyle Walker, let me explain.On the pitch for England and Manchester City, he is an amazing, talented footballer.Off it, his life is an absolute car crash, which could be turned into a Carry On film.Since he first got together with Annie, he has romped in a car with Ex On The Beach’s Laura Brown and fathered two children with reality TV star Lauryn Goodman.READ MORE FROM JANE ATKINSONHe exposed himself in a bar and snogged another woman.During Covid he had a party with two sex workers.And he has been caught twice urinating in the street after a session in the pub — most recently just two weeks ago.He has run rough­shod over his relationship with Annie. And I don’t know how she has held it together.Most read in FootballShe always appears to look steely, strong and determined when she is out with their four children — the youngest of whom was born in April — or watching him on the pitch.But her confidence must have been absolutely crushed over the years. Imagine the anguish and pain she has gone through.Drama at Kyle Walker’s Home: Annie Kilner vs Lauryn GoodmanThis is a woman who was a normal working-class girl from Sheffield when she fell for local lad Kyle at the age of 16.He was playing football but he wasn’t the megastar he is now.She fell in love with him, knowing he could one day play for England or get injured and end up on benefits.He hit the jackpot in his career — with the salary to go with it — but Annie has been the one to pay the price.Terrible behaviourShe has tried to deal with it and chucked him out of the house — and taken him back. Multiple times.She has slated Lauryn, had public spats with her, apologised to her and told friends she wishes Lauryn was dead.Annie bravely admitted that his terrible behaviour even became “acceptable”.And some have said that his wealth has cushioned his behaviour while others have slammed her for not leaving before now.But leaving any man — rich or poor — isn’t easy when you’ve spent half your life with him and have four kids together.Any woman who has been cheated on knows that it takes a long while to regain your strength afterwards and come out fighting. Now Annie has. She is finally, thankfully, taking control.She recently sought advice to make sure she could get half of his £150,000-a-week salary and this week she has gone a step further and met with lawyers to discuss legal proceedings to end her marriage.Strength and courageI bet those who love her are proud of her.Annie has shown strength and courage.She has also given an important message to all those kids who idolise her husband — that there must be consequences for your actions.This summer, a survey of 1,306 children aged six to 17 across the UK revealed that almost a fifth wanted to be a footballer.They rank second only to parents as the people that youngsters admire the most.You could argue that Kyle is only a role model on the pitch but thanks to sponsorship deals and five million followers on social media, he is a role model, and influencer, off it too.Children across the country this summer stuck his picture into Euro 2024 albums.They stayed up late to watch him play and, week in week out, they idolise him at Manchester City.Nobody wants to see a marriage end.But nobody wants to see a woman cheated on and humiliated either.Now Annie can have the greatest revenge of all by hitting him where it truly hurts — his wallet.The England defender also secretly fathered TWO kids with reality TV star Lauryn GoodmanCredit: AlamyRihanna at the reddyLESS is more – unless you’re Rihanna.In a new promotional photoshoot, she sports amazing scarlet hair, blue fur coat and a red snakeskin outfit that involves a skirt attached loosely to a bustier to show off her bum.Rihanna posed with amazing scarlet hair, a blue fur coat and a red snakeskin outfitCredit: savagex.comThe singer and businesswoman completes the style with a smouldering pout and terrifying long talons.Most of us would look like we had walked out of the local brothel but she somehow manages to pull it off.BORIS JOHNSON has insisted refurbishing his Downing Street flat was necessary because it looked like a “crack den” once he had pulled the carpets out.You have to wonder how he knows what a crack house looks like.50 still niftyI COULDN’T be happier for the newly married Miranda Hart.But I do wish everyone would stop being so shocked that she tied the knot at the age of 51.I do wish everyone would stop being so shocked that Miranda Hart tied the knot at the age of 51Credit: GettyThe actress was 49 when surveyor Richard Fairs came to her £2million home to deal with mould.It was during the pandemic and she was struggling with chronic fatigue syndrome after being diagnosed with Lyme disease.In her new book, she says she was so ill that she never thought she would find love and was “fading away”.I get that.But now a million relationship experts have taken to social media to discuss how to find love over 50 as if she is some dinosaur.We are no longer living in the dark ages and no woman should be written off in their 50s – or think that they are either.Rights bill so wrongREMEMBER a time when we were all desperate to get out of the house, mingle and live a normal life when Covid struck.Now, thanks to the Government’s new Employment Rights Bill, we can all return to that because flexible working, including working from home, will be made the “default for all” where possible.So no mingling in the office, no chatting by the coffee machine when you are feeling down, no making lifelong friends.And forget office flirting because Zoom and Teams really don’t cut it for the fun things in life.I’ve worked from home for more than a decade because I live hundreds of miles from head office.If I could go in every day, I would.I’ve grown sick of the amount of times people have said: “Oh, but you work from home,” as though I spend my life on the sofa watching This Morning or baking banana bread.In fact, unless you are a grade A skiver you end up working more because your home is your office and you can’t get away from it.Plus there is no free coffee and the heating bills are a fortune.We should be careful what we wish for.Tash leaves KittenWHEN Natasha Hamilton announced on Friday that she had quit Atomic Kitten, I was in utter shock.Natasha Hamilton announced on Friday that she had quit Atomic KittenCredit: RexI didn’t even know the band was still going.Ticket farce unfareI HAVE sympathy for train passenger Sam Williamson, who mistakenly underpaid for his ticket by £1.90 and now fears a criminal record and huge fine.He used the Northern Trains app to buy an Anytime ticket to central Manchester last month and used his 16-25 railcard for a discount without realising it can only be used under certain conditions.Sam Williamson mistakenly underpaid for his ticket by £1.90 and now fears a criminal record and huge fineCredit: SWNSWhen an inspector grilled him and told him the mistake, he immediately offered to buy a new ticket or pay a penalty.Instead, the jobsworth reported him and now Sam faces prosecution.Sam says it isn’t even clear on the app how you can use the railcard.I had the misfortune of using Northern last month and had a similar experience.I wanted to buy a cheaper ticket from the app but was told I had to buy one from an employee who, when I explained that the app ticket was cheaper, told me: “Northern don’t care what the customers pay.”Super. Maybe if the train firms did care and explained their baffling price structures, we wouldn’t hate travelling with them so muchSpice boy hitMY new motto is: Don’t buy things after drinking wine.My latest credit card purchase is Brooklyn Beckham’s chilli sauce.My latest credit card purchase is Brooklyn Beckham’s chilli sauceCredit: GettyI saw his mum Victoria plugging Cloud23 on Instagram (obviously) and forked out £30 on two bottles of it as I love spicy food.He’s been slated for his choice of careers but I can confirm Brooklyn, below, is actually pretty good at this one.READ MORE SUN STORIESThink Tabasco but not as harsh, with a lovely smoky hit.I just hope that he ditches the fancy box it comes in and gets it on a super­market shelf to avoid the big price tag. More

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    Former Wales boss Rob Page lined up for shock Conference League job – but faces competition from Gary Rowett

    ROBERT PAGE and Gary Rowett are shock contenders for the vacancy at Hearts.Former Wales coach Page is interested while Rowett, who has worked widely in England, could be tempted north of the border.Rob Page was sacked by Wales earlier this yearCredit: ReutersGary Rowett was caretaker boss at Birmingham last yearCredit: GettyThe Edinburgh club are about to bring in Brighton owner Tony Bloom as an investor.Page, 50, has been out of work since being sacked by Wales back in June.He had been in the job for three-and-a-half years, having led Wales to Qatar 2022, their first World Cup in 64 years.Subsequent failure to qualify for Euro 2024 put Page under pressure, however.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd he was axed following a June international break that saw Wales draw 0-0 with Gibraltar and lose 4-0 to Slovakia.Prior to managing his country, Page took charge of Port Vale and Northampton in the English lower leagues.Rowett, meanwhile, last managed Birmingham City.The 50-year-old came in as interim boss for the final eight games of last season after Tony Mowbray stepped aside due to health reasons.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRowett won three of his eight games at the helm, but this proved not to be enough to save Blues from relegation to League One.Prior to his return to Birmingham, Rowett had spent four years in charge of Millwall.Dinamo Minsk 1 Hearts 2 – SunSport’s Robert Martin reacts as Yan Dhanda’s stoppage time winner in Azerbaijan finally ends Jambos’ losing streakHe left The Den in October last year, being replaced by Joe Edwards.Hearts sacked Steven Naismith last month following a dismal start to the season.Naismith, who had been in charge at Tynecastle for 17 months, oversaw a shocking run of eight consecutive defeats following a Premiership opening day stalemate with Rangers.Steven Naismith was sacked by Hearts following a dismal run of formCredit: SNS More

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    Chelsea set to stay at Stamford Bridge and expand stadium to 55,000 – but only if Todd Boehly LOSES boardroom struggle

    CHELSEA will remain at Stamford Bridge and expand the stadium capacity to 55,000 — if Behdad Eghbali wins the boardroom battle with Todd Boehly.Blues’ co-controlling owners are at loggerheads and want to buy each other out — and the outcome will have a huge effect on the stadium plans.Todd Boehly sees Chelsea’s future away from Stamford BridgeCredit: AlamyBehdad Eghbali has a different vision to BoehlyCredit: AlamyChelsea could look to upgrade their current Stamford Bridge homeCredit: GettyEghbali favours a £1.5billion renovation to stay at the Bridge, while Boehly wants a new 60,000 ground in nearby Earl’s Court.A source said: “There is a growing realisation that Earl’s Court can’t be done, while Boehly could be out of the club soon.“If Todd Boehly leaves, then the club are expected to push forward on plans to remain at Stamford Bridge and work towards a solution for a 55,000-capacity stadium.”An expansion would see Blues move away from the ground for just two years while work takes place.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSPlans include modernising the West Stand, building concrete decks over a neighbouring railway line and using land that the club purchased from veterans’ charity Stoll.Eghbali’s preferred option does not involve a complete demolition of the club’s 42,000-capacity home.Construction of a completely new stadium on the Stamford Bridge site is expected to take at least FIVE YEARS — meaning the club would have to find a new home for that time.But it is understood that Eghbali is not in favour of being away from the Bridge for such a long period.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSChelsea currently sit fourth in the Premier League under new boss Enzo Maresca.Last time out, the Blues’ drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest at Stamford Bridge.Inside The Butcher’s Hook, the stunning pub just a stone’s throw away from Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge Chris Wood fired the visitors into the lead on 49 minutes, with Noni Madueke equalising just shy of the hour mark.Chelsea will return to action next Sunday when they face Liverpool at Anfield. More

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    Fishing-mad Man City ace Phil Foden moves to sprawling five-bedroom country manor with its own lake

    ANGLING-mad England ace Phil Foden has moved to a sprawling country estate with its own fishing lake.The Man City midfielder, 24, his girlfriend Rebecca Cooke and their three children ­settled into the five-bed, five-bathroom house last month.Fishing mad England ace Phil Foden has moved to a sprawling country estate with its own fishing lake, pictured with son RonnieCredit: instagram/officialronniefodenPhil plans to take up fishing full-time when he retires from footballIt is set in 2.5 acres and Phil has already posted pictures of him and eldest son Ronnie, known as El Wey or The Dude by South American fans, fishing together.He captioned one: “Late summer nights by the lake.”A source said: “Everyone knows Phil loves his fishing so it has always been a dream of his to have a home with its own lake so he can fish in peace and quiet and also teach Ronnie the skills he needs to be a successful angler.“They can set their kit up and leave it while they pop back into the house to get some food, or go to bed and leave it all there for the morning. Phil is loving it.”READ MORE ON PHIL FODENPhil and Rebecca also have a daughter True, three, and baby boy Phil Jnr.The Cheshire property has a one-bedroom cottage next door for his extended family.Last week The Sun told how Phil plans to take up fishing full-time when he retires from football.In the summer the England ace showed he was a reel man of the people — on a £14-a-day angling holiday on the edge of the Cotswolds.Most read in FootballThe £200,000-a-week Man City star snubbed exotic destinations popular with his Three Lions team-mates to spend five days with his dad fishing for carp, catfish, tench, pike and perch.Inside Phil Foden’s surprise love for fishingAn onlooker at Linear Fisheries in Witney, Oxfordshire, said: “Phil was happy as Larry camping out in a cheap tent.”Foden with a mega carp More