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      Lee Carsley was FA’s first choice to be England manager – Thomas Tuchel didn’t win the job, he lost it

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      IF we’ve learnt anything from Lee Carsley’s time as interim boss, it is this — he’s not cut out to be an England manager.A great coach, yes — his record with the Under-21s is proof of that. Not scared of making bold decisions, either, as he showed by leaving Harry Kane on the bench in Greece on Thursday.Lee Carsley was FA’s first choice to become England manager, claims Harry RedknappCredit: PARedknapp claims England hired Thomas Tuchel after Carsley lost to GreeceCredit: PARedknapp suggested Tuchel will have to win the 2026 World Cup with EnglandCredit: GettyI wasn’t the only one surprised to see Ollie Watkins in the side instead. But after a win like that, you can’t argue with him.It was a fantastic result, for sure. But, with all due respect, it doesn’t mean he should have got the job on a full-time basis. There’s no doubt he could have done at one stage.However much the FA insist Thomas Tuchel was always their first choice to replace Gareth Southgate, it’s obvious he wasn’t.It was Lee’s to lose and he did exactly that with the first result against Greece — and his interview afterwards did even more damage.Read More on FootballYes, Thursday’s 3-0 win was superb but it doesn’t alter the fact that if Carsley wasn’t the answer now, he won’t be next time around either. And the next time might not be that long away.Tuchel has an 18-month deal — it’s all about winning the World Cup. Not about building for the future, about unearthing young talent, the next generation.It’s about a trophy and then, after that, quite probably looking for another boss again. So if that’s the case, where does that leave us?As Under-21 chief, Carsley should be a shoo-in. Only he’s plainly not. The pathway system, the coaching conveyor belt supposed to produce managers as well as players, will grind to a halt.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNow it may be Newcastle’s Eddie Howe is the obvious choice anyway.He’s certainly the only one on the horizon right now, if they want an Englishman at least.Yet that doesn’t mean there shouldn’t be alternatives. Others in the set-up passing on their knowledge, their expertise, while all the while putting themselves in the frame.Lee Carsley insists focus is on players available for England after eight drop-outsAnd there are some obvious candidates, too. Men who never let their country down as members of England’s Golden Generation as players but now kicking their heels.I know one of them, Ashley Cole is part of the FA’s coaching team and bringing him in on a full-time basis was a great call.But there should be others alongside, like John Terry, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, if he fancies coming back from Saudi Arabia.A trio with close to 300 caps between them, who would offer so much to the national set-up. Why someone hasn’t given Terry a job is beyond me.My God, what a winner, what a leader! A brilliant organiser, a great talker, but kicking his heels out of the game.And although the other two haven’t had the greatest time as managers, there are reasons for that.Alternative managers for the futureYes, Stevie struggled at Aston Villa after huge success with Rangers but he certainly shouldn’t be written off for one failure. Every manager has at least one on the CV.Don’t forget that Gareth Southgate wasn’t a roaring success at Middlesbrough but look at the job he did with England.It’s the same with Frank. He’s taken over basket-case clubs where he never really had a chance, so the same applies with him as well.All three have such great knowledge, you only have to listen to them talk. So bring them into the system.Have them working alongside Carsley. Maybe even have one on Tuchel’s backroom team although I realise that’s unlikely.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut for Heaven’s sake, make some use of them. If not, we won’t be back at square one when the hunt begins for the next England manager, we’ll be a mile behind it.It may be, as I say, that appointing Howe is a no-brainer by then and, if so, then fine. But the FA have got to make sure he’s not the only cab on the rank. More

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      Wayne Rooney agrees to star in new Wrexham-style documentary about time as Plymouth manager

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      WAYNE ROONEY is to star in a new ‘fly-on-the-wall’ documentary series about his time as Plymouth boss.The England legend, 39, agreed to the deal after being approached by TV chiefs and filming has already started as he enjoys life in Devon.Wayne Rooney is set for TV stardom with a new fly-on-the-wall documentaryRob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have scored much success with Welcome To Wrexham on DisneyThe move comes as his wife Coleen, 38, enters the jungle in Australia to be in the new series of ITV’s I’m a Celebrity . . . Get Me Out of Here!Ex-Manchester United ace Wazza moved to the south west for the Argyle job after spells at Derby, Birmingham and DC United in the MLS.The Pilgrims’  fight for survival in the second tier is the kind of story that appeals to TV companies around the world.Rooney did a documentary in 2015 about his life story and other clubs like Wrexham and Sunderland have brought in good audiences with similar shows to the one planned for Plymouth.Read more football newsThe ex-striker has fitted in well in the West Country and lives in a plush development on the River Tamar that is  only ten minutes from Home Park.The charismatic chief is also mixing with locals in some of the famous bars on the historic Barbican, so there should be plenty of lively material for the show.The news comes after Coleen revealed that she only sees her husband once a week.She told the Mirror: “Wayne comes back once a week, sometimes twice, depending on the fixtures.Most read in Football“On the Sunday before I flew off, we all went to Klay’s football tournament, we came home and had dinner together so it was a nice family day.”Coleen Rooney makes frank admission about her marriage to husband Wayne before entering I’m A Celeb jungle With Wayne living in Devon, Coleen has had to organise friends and relatives to help with Kai, 15, Klay, 11, Kit, eight, and Cass, six.She said: “I am really anxious about leaving the kids. That’s my biggest thing, and for weeks and months that’s been on my mind.“But I’ve come to terms with it. I’ve planned, I’ve prepped, I’ve got an army of people — family, friends, school friends — all helping out with the kids.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“They are going to be fine, they’ll probably have a great time. I have prepped, as you can see behind me.”That is, like, literally front and back, four weeks of timetables, football runs, parties, just everything.“Before, I just wrote them all a little card each to open when they come home from school tomorrow, and a little teddy to keep so that they know I am constantly thinking of them.” More

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      Peter Crouch stars in ad for major laundry detergent firm after signing huge six-figure deal

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      FORMER football star Peter Crouch shows he’s still got a clean first touch – as he controls a muddy football in a new ad for Ariel.The retired England striker has netted a six figure deal to front the washing brand’s latest stain-busting TV campaign.Peter Crouch was pictured muddying a clean white shirt as he controlled a muddy footballCredit: Click News & MediaCrouch was filming an advert for washing brand Arial, after signing a six-figure dealCredit: Click News & MediaCrouchy, 43, gets his white shirt dirty by bringing down a ball on his chest in scenes filmed at Fulmer Place Farm in Slough, Berks, on Friday.Other clips show him rolling around in a pig sty with rare breed hogs and also feature the music lover partying at a muddy festival.It comes after the ex-Liverpool, Spurs and Pompey striker joked he was the “star of the show” after featuring in his model wife’s lingerie ad.Abbey Clancy, 38, stunned in red stockings as she straddled Pete on a snooker table in the X-rated campaign for Agent Provocateur.READ MORE PETER CROUCHHe is seen laid back on a snooker table as his wife crawled seductively between his legs.The couple were recently criticised by fans for ‘flaunting’ their enviable £3 million mansion while hosting a lavish Asian-inspired banquet.The feast was made up of ‘customised menus’ and treated to ‘impeccable service for any occasion’ boasting Japanese with Peruvian influences.Model Abbey, 38, told followers: “Thank you to Nobu catering team for the most incredible night.”Most read in FootballThe presenter and WAG told chefs in the video: “We’re not going to let you leave. You’re staying forever.”The scenes were filmed in Berkshire on Friday with the advert soon to hit our screensCredit: Click News & Media6ft 7 Crouch found a door high enough for his height not to be an issue – despite the Mind your Head signCredit: Click News & MediaWatch as Abbey Clancy strips off to red stockings and suspenders for pub romp with Peter Crouch More

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      Mikel Arteta warned Arsenal stars need spirit of Invincibles in hearts and minds to keep Prem title dream alive

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      ARSENAL Invincible Gilberto Silva has warned Mikel Arteta’s stuttering title-chasers: “Every game is a final now.”The Gunners are already NINE points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool after suffering from injuries and three controversial red cards in their first 11 league games.Mikel Arteta’s side must treat every game like a ‘final’ nowArsenal Invincible Gilberto Silva believes his former side can get back on trackSilva believes Arsenal will need Invincible spirit to win trophies this seasonBrazilian World Cup winner Gilberto believes his former club can still overhaul Arne Slot’s Reds and Manchester City — but only if they show the right mentality.Gilberto was a key member of Arsenal’s last title-winning team 20 years ago, when Arsene Wenger’s Invincibles went the entire Prem season unbeaten.And he insists it is what players have in their hearts and minds that will determine who ends up as champions.The 89-cap Selecao star said: “Arsenal have great players, they are a great team.READ MORE ON ARSENAL“But great teams do not always win titles. We have seen this before. Sometimes giving 100 per cent is not enough.“You need to have something extra to put on the table — an extra ten per cent. And that extra comes from your heart and mind.“You have to have a strong heart. You have to leave everything on the field.“Mikel’s players have shown great spirit, but if they want to win they need to give a bit more than they have because they are up against very big competitors.Most read in FootballArsenal have suffered three red cards in 11 games this seasonFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“They have to be better than them on the field,  in their minds and in their hearts — in every game.“So every game is a final now. Every day is one to battle and not let your opponents be better than you.”’He bottled it,’ squeals Neville as Carragher gives updated title predictionArsenal have dropped SEVEN points in the three games they have been reduced to ten men.They drew 1-1 against Brighton after Declan Rice was sent off by Chris Kavanagh after being adjudged to have delayed the restart and 2-2 at Manchester City when Leandro Trossard was dismissed by Michael Oliver for the same offence.A 2-0 defeat at Bournemouth followed after VAR Jarred Gillett’s intervention led to William Saliba’s yellow card being upgraded to red for denying Evanilson a goal- scoring opportunity.The Gunners have also badly missed skipper Martin Odegaard after he injured ankle ligaments playing for Norway in the Nations League  in September.He returned to the Gunners’ starting line-up in Sunday’s 1-1 draw at Chelsea, laying on Gabriel Martinelli’s opener.But Arsenal have now been hit by injuries to winger Bukayo Saka, £105million midfielder Declan Rice. Bukayo Saka has been in and out of the medical room this seasonWinger Saka picked up a leg injury against the Blues and Rice has been playing with a broken toe, so both pulled out of Lee Carsley’s England squad.Ben White has had surgery on a knee problem and fellow defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also sidelined.The Gunners next play on Saturday against high-flying Nottingham Forest.Gilberto, who also won the FA Cup twice at Arsenal, added: “Red cards and injuries always affect you. “They cause disruption. You have to change the squad, change the system if players are not available.“Odegaard has been an important miss because he is the playmaker and captain.“Now he has returned I am hoping he can contribute as he did before. It is important not to drop silly points because they can impact your whole season, especially if you aspire to be champions.“But Arsenal must forget about the points they have already lost because they are gone, you cannot get them back.“You have to go game by game, point by point.”Martin Odegaard returned to start against Chelsea in the Prem last time outAsked what extra ingredient Wenger’s incredible 2003-04 side had, Gilberto replied: “We did not accept losing. That was key to that season.“But our squad had some world champions, myself, Patrick Vieira, Thierry Henry, Robert Pires, plus other guys who had done great jobs for their national teams.”In that Invincible season, Arsenal also reached the FA Cup and Carling Cup semi- finals and Champions League quarter-finals, before being beaten by Manchester United, Middlesbrough and Chelsea respectively.Gilberto added: “I don’t want to compare our squad to Mikel’s. “His players have real quality, but it’s what they can bring extra to their game that could make a difference to beat any team they face.“Mikel is doing a great job. It’s his team now, his players. And they believe in him. But it’s about their mindset. “They have to think: ‘The opposition cannot beat us in the mind and  in the heart. We are going to give everything’.”Gilberto went undefeated in the league with Arsenal in 2003-04Gilberto also believes it is vital Arsenal win a trophy this season — even if it’s only the Carabao Cup.They host Crystal Palace in next month’s quarter-final with City, winners six times in the last ten, already knocked out.And he added: “I would love Arsenal to win the Premier League, it’s been too long. But, yes, it is important to get some silverware.”  Gilberto made 244 appearances during his six years at the club, but is set to pull on his boots again tomorrow, alongside fellow Brazilian World Cup winner Roberto Carlos.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey will play in a ‘united against suicide’ charity match at Lewes FC to raise money for the Campaign Against Living Miserably.A fan will be plucked from the crowd  to coach for ten minutes. And Gilberto said: “It is a very important project.”Arsenal and Edu resignation statement in fullEdu Gaspar has today resigned from his position as our Sporting Director.Edu, our former player and Invincible, re-joined us in the role of Technical Director in July 2019. He progressed through the club and was promoted to Sporting Director in November 2022, where he oversaw men’s, women’s and academy football.   We thank Edu for the part he has played in our renewed football strategy and driving the club forward with the values of Arsenal in his heart. Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make.”Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.  “I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend. “Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”Our Co-Chair, Josh Kroenke, added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.  “Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.  “Change and evolution is a part of our club.  We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.” More

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      West Ham decide on Lucas Paqueta replacement with ‘next David Silva’ targeted in £20m transfer

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      WEST HAM fancy nabbing Manchester City forgotten man James McAtee as they fear losing Lucas Paqueta.The attacking midfielder will be their top target for the role that could be available in January.West Ham are interested in Man City starlet James McAteeCredit: AlamyLucas Paqueta could leave West HamCredit: RexBrazilian star Paqueta is wanted back home by Botafogo and may be sold if the right deal comes in.And West Ham see McAtee as his successor — with the City squad man dubbed the ‘Salford Silva’ because he is similar in style and imagination to Etihad legend David Silva.McAtee, 22, had two successful campaigns on loan with Sheffield United but is going nowhere, stuck on the bench at City.The time may be right for a permanent move and Hammers should not have a problem affording a fee of £20million or more.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSCity were linked with Paqueta last season — backing away when a gambling probe came to light.They may be interested again but a straight deal for McAtee is more likely than any kind of swap.McAtee has made five first team appearances for City this season.He started both of their Carabao Cup matches, including the 2-1 defeat at Tottenham.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe midfielder also netted his first City goal during the 4-0 Champions League win over Slovan Bratislava.McAtee has been an unused substitute in 10 of City’s 11 Prem matches this term, however, only making a very brief cameo against Ipswich in August.Man City’s James McAtee reflects on his Premier League debut More

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      Netherlands vs Hungary Nations League clash suspended after medical emergency with Szoboszlai in tears

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      HUNGARY’s match against the Netherlands was halted following a medical emergency that left their captain in tears.Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai was seen getting emotional on the pitch following the incident on the Hungarian touchline.A medical emergency on the Hungarian bench halted their game against NetherlandsDominik Szoboszlai was seen distraught as the game was haltedFormer Hungary captain Adam Szalai (centre) is stable in hospital after requiring medical treatment during the matchCredit: EPAMedics rushed to the aid of coach and former striker Adam Szalai, who Szoboszlai replaced as the national team captain when he retired from playing two years ago.The Liverpool ace appeared to be in tears, rubbing his eyes with his shirt.The distressing scenes caused a hushed silence in the crowd as Hungarian staff locked arms to protect the person’s privacy.A Hungary statement read: “Adam Szalai fell ill in the first minutes of the Netherlands-Hungary match, but his condition is stable and he is conscious.Read more football news”Minutes ago, he was transported by ambulance to an Amsterdam hospital for examination.”The match continued some 10 minutes later, with Holland soon rubbing salt into the wounds by scoring from the penalty spot following a VAR decision.Former Man Utd striker Wout Weghorst netted from 12-yards to give the hosts the lead.The Netherlands would score another penalty through Cody Gakpo in the 12th minute of first half injury time to go into the break with a commanding lead.Most read in FootballDenzel Dumfries and Teun Koopmeiners then added goals in the second half to wrap up a 4-0 win for the Dutch.However, it would have been understandable if the Hungary team were not fully focused on the football given the circumstances.After the match, Hungary manager Marco Rossi gave a further update on Szalai.He said: “Adam is no longer in danger, we wish him the best. “The players decided to continue. After the penalty our situation became more difficult.”Meanwhile Szoboszlai commented: “We started well, but I don’t wish anyone to go through what we had to. “We continued to play for Adam, and what happened naturally affected our performance, which was not enough today.”Netherlands ran out 4-0 winners in a match where football became an afterthoughtCredit: AFP More

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      How Ruud van Nistelrooy’s Man Utd exit has left Premier League manager looking over his shoulder after stuttering start

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      STEVE COOPER may be looking over his shoulder at Leicester — as managerial options come on the horizon.Chief Cooper has struggled for results since taking over when Enzo Maresca moved to Chelsea.Steve Cooper has won two of his first 11 Prem games in charge of LeicesterCredit: GettyRuud van Nistelrooy performed admirably as Man Utd’s caretaker bossCredit: AlamyThe ex-Nottingham Forest manager, 44, was picked ahead of Graham Potter and Ruud van Nistelrooy as Foxes gaffer.But Potter is itching for a return now he has missed out on the  Manchester United and England hotseats.Dutch giants Ajax and West Ham are also possibles and he would be open to a Prem job if he had time to influence their season.And Dutchman Van Nistelrooy enhanced his reputation as caretaker-boss at Man Utd.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSFoxes experts claim Cooper has until the end of the year to impress before a call is made.Leicester went into the November international break 15th in the Premier League table.They have won just two of their 11 games thus far, drawing four and losing five.Last time out they were beaten 3-0 by Man Utd, managed by Van Nistelrooy, at Old Trafford.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAfter the game, Cooper told the BBC: “The result will paint the picture but in the end we didn’t show enough desire in either penalty area.”We let two unopposed shots from outside the area for the goals.Man Utd ace Roy Keane declares WAR on noisy neighbours who use their leaf blowers before 8am”Two of the goals have come from our corners as well which is frustrating. It wasn’t a dangerous position but we made it dangerous.”At the other end we got into good areas but didn’t show that same desire.”Our general play was fine but in the end we didn’t have the purpose. We had good spells, we were in the game, it didn’t feel like they were going to score the next goal.”We can’t just say we missed Jamie Vardy, we can’t be reliant on that.”Cooper went up against Van Nistelrooy last SundayCredit: AP More

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      Rob Edwards’ Luton future in doubt whether under-fire manager, 42, is sacked or not

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      ROB EDWARDS’ Luton future is in doubt with rivals Coventry watching developments.Boss Edwards has seen the Hatters struggle back in the Championship and insiders claim the 41-year-old has considered quitting.Luton Town boss Rob Edwards’ future has plunged into doubt after a rough start in the ChampionshipCredit: AlamyLuton manager Edwards is being monitored by CoventryCredit: PACoventry sacked Mark Robins two weeks ago and are admirers of Edwards — whose Luton side beat them to promotion in the 2023 play-off final.But Sky Blues would be even more interested if he was a free agent instead of having to pay out compensation.Edwards took over at Kenilworth Road two years ago and quickly turned things around.The Luton boss won promotion to the Premier League by winning the play-offs only a year later.Read More on FootballHowever, the Hatters had a short stint in the English top flight as they finished in 18th place with six points separating them from safety last term.Luton immediately returned to the Championship where they have struggled this season.Edwards’ side is currently in 21st in the English second division and that has plunged their manager’s future in doubt.He would face immense competition for the top job at Coventry as owner Doug King has claimed the EFL side has received plenty of CVs from “high-quality” managers.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAmong them are reportedly ex-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard and former Manchester United interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.Lampard has been a free agent since leaving Stamford Bridge last year where he worked as interim manager in his second stint in the Blues’ dugout.Luton’s injury crisis so bad assistant manager Rob Edwards had to play in training but then he got crocked too Van Nistelrooy was axed by United despite a four-match undefeated streak, which saw him winning three games, as there was no room in new manager Ruben Amorim’s coaching team. More