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      I was dubbed Man Utd’s ‘secret weapon’ under Solskjaer and Ten Hag… now I’m 4,000 miles away in crazy new job

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      IMAGINE being a history-making coach on the way up at Manchester United – then deciding the job wasn’t “crazy” enough for you.That was pretty much the dilemma facing a multi-lingual master tactician – labelled an Old Trafford “secret weapon” for his set-piece planning.Eric Ramsay rejected Championship sides then switched to MinnesotaCredit: GettyRamsay left Man Utd for the MLS in FebruaryCredit: ReutersHe explained the strain facing Erik ten Hag and ex-Man Utd bossesCredit: AlamyEric Ramsay now 33, was also the youngest ever Brit to get the Uefa Pro Licence – all of five years ago.He was as highly valued by Red Devils’ boss Erik ten Hag as he was by the Dutchman’s predecessors Ole Gunner Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.Ramsay, however, craved to be the main man himself.Such offers arrived from the Championship – reportedly Barnsley, Blackpool and Swansea.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut the former Wales assistant coach instead opted to take over Major League Soccer club Minnesota United in February this year.Ramsay has now explained why he believes it’s the perfect fit – despite some bizarre regulations – along with praising United’s recent procession of under-fire managers.He told The Times: “I don’t think you can really grasp that until you’re inside a club like that, the level of pressure that brings.”Turning to Solskjaer, Rangnick and Ten Hag, he added: “I’ve really learnt across all three of them.Most read in FootballHe spent three years coaching at Old TraffordCredit: PAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“The reason these guys get to this level is real conviction in their ideas, they are incredibly good communicators, very comfortable being guys at the front of organisations with millions of eyes turned their way all the time.”I think that takes real weight, real strength and an absolutely unwavering conviction.”Fans all spot Wright’s reaction to Hart screaming in his face after Man City goal against Arsenal But if the strain of Old Trafford is intense, Ramsay revealed “really crazy stuff” in the MLS.Teams play on through international breaks, even though academy players not on the “main roster” can only play TWICE for the senior side.Ramsay said: “In England, if you had an injury crisis over a prolonged period, you’d be able to draw upon your best under-23 players. “Here, that can only happen up to two games because the players’ union feels like it’s exploitative to not give the player a first-team contract but for him to be playing for next to no money.”That issue, however, is only the start.Ramsay added: “The travel is lengthy. Every away game is a chartered flight and you’re often going to somewhere like Colorado where you’ve got a unique climate issue to deal with — you’re playing at altitude. “We really suffered there. It was far more marked than I’d expect it to be in terms of how it influenced the performance.Ole Gunnar Solskjaer rated Ramsay highly“Everybody’s exact salary is well known… designated players can be paid beyond the salary cap and everybody else at a rate relative to their position in the squad.“It’s for all this that I wanted to come. I knew it would be a real challenge. “It would be something very different to going into the Championship in England as a head coach for your first role.”Minnesota are still challenging for a Western Conference play-off spot – after Ramsay’s instant success was followed by a poor run and then a revival.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut asked if he eventually expected to return to Britain, he replied: “Of course”.For now, though, he is “just taking it (the MLS) for what it is and enjoying it in its entirety”.Man Utd ratings vs Crystal Palace as Andre Onana saves the day for wasteful Red DevilsMANCHESTER UNITED were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at Crystal Palace as they missed a flurry of first-half chances.Erik ten Hag shocked fans this afternoon when he left Marcus Rashford out of his starting XI.And the Red Devils failed to make a breakthrough – dropping two more points.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies delivers his Man Utd player ratings…ANDRE ONANA – 8/10Had one save to make just before half time – a comfortable one from Eberechi Eze.And then, a worldie double save to keep out Eddie Nketiah and Ismaila Sarr, rivalling the one made by Arsenal’s David Raya in mid-week.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 7One of United’s most consistent performers who continues to impress week by week. Strong in the tackle and great positioning to stop Palace counters.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 7Lost an early duel with Jean-Philippe Mateta which put the Frenchman in but it was pulled back for a foul. Blamed his boots and changed them moments later.Unlucky with a brilliant header from a corner that was somehow kept out by Dean Henderson and made a superb last-ditch tackle to stop Eze in the second half.LISANDRO MARTINEZ – 6Another player who came close to scoring but for the brilliance of Henderson, swivelling and turning in the six-yard box with a stabbed effort.Lucky not to be sent off for a ridiculous two-footed lunge that narrowly avoided contact with Daichi Kamada.DIOGO DALOT – 7Played as a left winger for most of the first half, such was United’s dominance.Brilliant pick out only for Garnacho to hit the crossbar.KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Covered ground well and linked defence with attack. Drifted forward more in the second half without seriously threatening.An insane Cruyff piece of skill in the second half was worth the admission fee alone.CHRISTIAN ERIKSEN – 6Kept things ticking over and picked some nice passes at times but his lack of pace and physicality was evident.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Tenacious in ensuring Palace’s midfield could not get a foothold in the game and grazed the top of the bar with a volley into the ground just before the half hour mark.Was United’s most creative player on the ball and should have had one goal to his name at least.AMAD DIALLO – 6Showed glimpses with some darting runs but never possessing the intent and aggression to force anything meaningful from it.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 7Had a personal battle with Henderson, one that he ultimately lost.Early chance to show it was the right call to start ahead of Marcus Rashford squandered – put through by Zirkzee but 1v1 effort palmed away by Henderson.Smacked the bar in a similar position from Dalot’s through ball and came close to knocking one in from close range.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE – 6Linked up well with Garnacho, dropping deep and slipping the winger in that should have led to the opener. Headed wide from a Diallo corner just before the break.Rightly subbed off on the hour mark as his influence waned.SUBS:MARCUS RASHFORD (ZIRKZEE, 61) – 6Did very little to convince Erik Ten Hag to throw him back into the starting XI, but was barely given the service either.MANUEL UGARTE (ERIKSEN, 76) – 6United certainly appear calmer and more solid with him at the base of their midfield.RASMUS HOJLUND (DIALLO, 76) – 6Still getting minutes back into his legs after returning from injury, but this is one of his more forgettable cameos. More

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      Inside life of ‘special man’ Lee Carsley who raised son with Down’s Syndrome and continues second job alongside England

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      LEE CARSLEY does not intend to put his life on hold after becoming interim England manager.The Three Lions boss oversaw wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland in his first two games in charge, and has received growing support to take the job on full-time.Lee Carsley has received growing support to be the next permanent England managerCredit: AlamyBut he admitted how he turned from being a ‘selfish’ player after the birth of his second sonCredit: GettyCarsley takes his son, who has Down’s Syndrome, to Solihull Moors Foundation on FridaysCredit: Instagram @solihullmoorsfoundationBut Carsley, described as a “special man” by SunSport columnist Troy Deeney, is far more than just an international coach.He is a loving father who takes his son, Connor, to training for the Solihull Moors Foundation’s Down’s Syndrome team regularly on Friday evenings.In an interview with the Daily Mail last year, Carsley opened up on how the birth of his second son in 1999 saw him turn the leaf from being a “selfish” Premier League player.Carsley has three children with wife Louisa.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis second son, Connor, was born with Down’s Snydrome, a condition which increases the risk of health complications such as heart disorders, hearing problems, thyroid issues and recurrent infections.He said: “It affected the whole family. I was quite selfish as a player. I didn’t know anything about special needs because it didn’t affect me. “I was quite sheltered in terms of if you went to hospital (for an injury), you went to a specialist. A car took you in, waited, you went straight in, back in the car and away. “We went from that to, ‘No, this is the real world, if you want a speech therapist you have to get in the queue with everyone else’.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”That probably doesn’t sound right but it was different from what we’d always done. “It made me a lot more aware of the bigger picture, the bigger world, more aware of how much support families need. Money is obviously important but it didn’t help us.”‘Good on him’ – Lee Carsley wins the praise of Roy Keane after very frank admission following first two England gamesCarsley also revealed how Connor, now 25, would take up around 80 per cent of his and his wife’s time when growing up compared to siblings Callum and Lois.His own fundraising efforts for the foundation led to extra support being made available for other families.When moving to Everton in 2002 he became vice-president of the club’s Disabled Supporters’ Association, while his influence led to further donations to the Down’s Syndrome Association from team-mates.The late Sven-Goran Eriksson was said to be among those to contribute.Carsley, 50, also has the second job of coaching weekly sessions for young footballers aged between 16 and 21 at the Strachan Football Foundation in Warwick.It affected the whole family. I was quite selfish as a player. I didn’t know anything about special needs because it didn’t affect me.Lee CarsleyOn his role at the team, he said: “I still find a way to coach which gives me the chance to practise what I’m going to do with any teams I’m working with.”I could potentially be practising for two months on what I’m going to try, rather than a day when you’ve got two games in an international window.”It gives me a chance to experiment and then hopefully deliver it when the (England) players are live.”I was there in Warwick last Friday (Aug 23). I’ve been doing that for maybe three years. It’s like an education and coaching centre.”The biggest thing you notice when you first come and work internationally is that you stop coaching and I was adamant that wasn’t going to happen to me.”My biggest strength is coaching so that is one of the things I didn’t want to stop.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I have other priorities within the job as well. I have to be creative and make sure I have got a couple of hours every week on a Friday morning that I’m able to get out there and try things and get it wrong!”England’s next games will come in October against Greece and Finland.England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More

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      Troy Deeney: Lee Carsley is the go-to coaching guru for aspiring managers… he is the perfect man for the England job

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      WHEN I was doing my coaching badges as a player at Watford and Birmingham, I wanted to get the best possible advice.I asked friends and contacts up and down the country who I should speak to — and almost everyone pointed me in the direction of Lee Carsley.Lee Carsley has done everything right in his two games in chargeCredit: AlamyAshley Cole and Joleon Lescott gave Carsley glowing endorsementsGiven that Lee hadn’t been the full-time manager of any senior team, I didn’t really expect that but those people were right. He is a special coach and a special man.Two of those who gave me the most glowing references about Lee were Ashley Cole and Joleon Lescott, who are both now assisting him in his role as England’s interim manager.I spoke to Lee at length about how to put on coaching sessions, about how everything you do as a coach all week long should ultimately be directed towards the match on a Saturday afternoon.Lee is thorough, generous and decent. He gave me his number and insisted I called him if I ever needed anything.READ MORE TOP STORIESWe’re from the same neck of the woods and played for the same Sunday league club, Catholic Community Centre, at different times.And it feels as if Birmingham is the epicentre of English football right now with Lee in charge of the national team, Jude Bellingham the star player and Jack Grealish looking the part as a roaming No 10 in the victories over Ireland and Finland.When I was a Birmingham City player, Lee’s son Callum worked in the recruitment department and his other son, Connor — a great lad, who has Down’s syndrome — was also a frequent visitor to the training ground.If anyone is wondering whether Lee has the steeliness to do the England job, I think that dealing with the issues surrounding Connor’s condition will certainly have given him an edge and a resilience.Most read in FootballLee Carsley followed same path as De La Fuente and learned from Pep – why can’t he be England boss?By Tom BarclayBE honest. How many of you had heard of Luis de la Fuente before his glorious Euros?Don’t feel bad. Even Declan Rice admitted ahead of Sunday’s heartbreaking final that he was unaware of the smooth-headed 63-year-old a month or so ago.We all certainly know who De La Fuente is now after he masterminded La Roja’s perfect Euros campaign which ended with a deserved victory over England.That showpiece triumph in Berlin made it seven wins out of seven in the competition for his scintillating side.It rendered De La Fuente the first boss ever to win the Under-19 Euros, Under-21 Euros, the Nations League and the European Championship.And in so doing, it strengthened the case for another bold, bald tactician to take over as England boss now Gareth Southgate has stepped down.Lee Carsley has trodden a similar path as De La Fuente, successfully coaching his way up his national team’s youth ranks, culminating in last summer’s Under-21 Euro success.No doubt there would be questions about his suitability given his experience of coaching senior players is limited to brief caretaker spells at Coventry, Brentford and Birmingham.For sure, he would not bring the same star quality as a Frank Lampard. Most fans will just about remember Carsley as that ratter of a midfielder who played alongside Thomas Gravesen for Everton in the noughties.While there is also the thorny issue, at least for some, of the Brummie’s 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland, who ironically would be his first opponents if appointed.But park all that for a second, focus on his qualities and the argument to give him the big job can be a convincing one. First off, his team does not play like he used to. ‘Carsball’ is far sexier and heavily influenced by its creator watching Pep Guardiola’s free-flowing Barcelona train a decade ago, alongside 60 members of the public.That study trip to Catalonia changed his philosophy to be far more front-footed and it paved the way to some fabulous fare during last summer’s triumph in Georgia.Four of the five tournament goals boasting the most passes in the build-up belonged to his Young Lions. Fans bemoaning Southgate’s pragmatic style would be salivating if they watched back the build-up to Emile Smith Rowe’s strike against Israel in the group stage, or Cole Palmer’s in the semi against the same opposition.Carsley is a tactical innovator too.He was robbed of a centre-forward pretty much on the eve of the tournament last summer, thanks to Rhian Brewster’s injury and Flo Balogun switching to the USA.His response was to play Gordon through the middle. The Newcastle starlet won player of the tournament.Manchester United supporters likely remember Angel Gomes as a lightweight winger but Carsley played him as a shield in front of the back four to great effect.Gordon used the Under-21 Euros experience as his launchpad to make the senior squad this summer. But talking about Carsley 12 months ago, the Toon forward said: “He is the best man-manager I’ve had so far. “I feel like I can speak to him about anything on and off the pitch.“On the pitch, the way we’re playing football is a credit to him because we play the way he tells us to. “This might be the best footballing team I’ve played in, in terms of how we play and the combination play we play around the box, it’s really at an elite level. That’s down to Lee.”Those powers of motivation could be crucial to unleashing Jude Bellingham, who, like Solihull-born Carsley, is from the outskirts of Birmingham, specifically Stourbridge.Like Southgate, Carsley believes in the merits of giving them a comfortable environment to work in, particularly during tournaments.The 50-year-old is relatively quiet on the touchline, often seen on his haunches making notes in his dugout with his assistant Ashley Cole the more vocal.England’s greatest left-back Cole has learned a lot from Carsley despite having the far superior playing career. In the aftermath of the Under-21s success, which was won without conceding a goal, Cole reflected on the different attitudes players have to international duty now and in his day.The ex-Arsenal and Chelsea defender, 43, said: “We didn’t always want to go and the club manager would pull you out.“But I feel they truly, truly love coming here now. I think that is testament to what Lee has done here. He is kind, loving, someone that thinks about the players more than himself.”Other names will be in the frame but the FA will have seen how De La Fuente has taken Spain to new heights, despite his relative obscurity to the wider footballing world.The promotion of Carsley, who spent these Euros scouting England’s opponents, would take guts and faith in the much-feted ‘pathway’.He would have to brace himself for unprecedented levels of scrutiny – but he is ambitious.With his 50th birthday fast approaching, Carsley said in June last year: “Energy-wise, and I’m not saying the clock’s ticking, but if I don’t have a go at it then the boat is going to pass.”Few Spaniards were bowled over when De La Fuente was appointed in 2022 but he put them on course to sensational success.Who is to say putting Carsley at the helm could not have a similar effect?FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIt cannot fail to have given him a deeper understanding of real life than many in professional football possess.I can’t now envisage a scenario in which Lee won’t get the England job full-time. The victories over Ireland and Finland were jobs well done.England fans SLAM Lee Carsley for not singing the national anthem at Wembley England played particularly well in the first half in Dublin, players were operating with freedom, not least Grealish and Trent Alexander-Arnold.I don’t want to be too negative about Gareth Southgate as he made huge progress as England boss, reaching two Euros finals, but the football was more attacking and Lee has so far shown greater common sense, with players operating in their natural positions.English football can be arrogant. We think we must have a proven, world-class, trophy-winning manager in charge of the national team — but we’ve had that with Fabio Capello and the late Sven-Goran Eriksson, without winning anything.It’s not all about having a glittering CV, it’s about knowing the players and understanding the job.I asked friends and contacts up and down the country who I should speak to — and almost everyone pointed me in the direction of Lee Carsley.Troy DeeneyLee was a successful boss of the England Under-21s, winning the European Championship last year, so he knows the emerging talent.And he is already bringing it through with the likes of Angel Gomes, Noni Madueke and Morgan Gibbs-White getting their full international debuts.The FA know him and trust him but I don’t agree with the idea I keep hearing that Lee is “just an FA man”.He is anything but “just an FA man”. He is his own man who knows his own mind and he will never try to be anything he is not.Lee was offered the Republic of Ireland job last year and many people in his position would have jumped at the chance. But he had the courage of his convictions to stay put and wait for this opportunity.There will be no fake airs and graces with Lee. He is a hands-on coach, first and foremost.Noni Madueke and Angel Gomes took full advantage of their call-upsCredit: GettyTrent Alexander-Arnold is playing with more freedom, while Morgan Gibbs-White is one of the youngsters thriving after being called upCredit: GettyYou will have seen him on the pitch setting out cones in the warm-ups of his first two matches in charge of England — and the players will like that.There have been many coaches who are extremely highly rated and successful as a No 2 but far less adept at being the main man. In England terms, Steve McClaren fits into that category.But I believe Lee does have the man- management ability, as well as the tactical expertise, to be the No 1 on a permanent basis.These six Nations League matches, which feature Greece as well as the Irish and the Finns, will not tell us how Lee will fare managing England against elite opposition.That is the final step for England, having reached the latter stages of four consecutive tournaments under Gareth.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere will be huge issues to deal with going forward — not least that England have a whole host of No 10s but no obvious successor to Harry Kane as our No 9.But I don’t think the FA will go scouring the globe for a more illustrious name to be Southgate’s full-time successor when the best man for the job is probably right beneath their noses.England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More

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      Steve Bruce reveals text from Sir Alex Ferguson with cheeky eight-word command after getting Blackpool job

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      STEVE BRUCE is on Fergie time once more as he starts back as a boss – by order of the great man himself.The former Manchester United skipper takes charge of his first game tomorrow with Blackpool after almost two years out of the game.Steve Bruce’s Blackpool tenure kicks off on SaturdayCredit: PABruce exclusively revealed details of what former boss Fergie text him this weekCredit: Getty – ContributorSince his appointment 11 days ago, the 63-year-old has been deluged with messages – some, he laughs, asking : “Are you bonkers?”But the one that meant the most to him came from Sir Alex Ferguson.He reveals: “Thursday morning the phone rang at half past six.“I didn’t know who it was, didn’t have a clue, because the screen came up showing a no-caller ID, so I thought I’d leave it.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“Then all of a sudden a text message comes through from Sir Alex: ‘Congratulations, delighted for you’ etc, etc,etc.“’And by the way. You should be on the way to work’. And that’s at 6.40 am.“Typical him, some things never change. He is what he is.“At Old Trafford he was always in first for training, no matter how successful he was, just ready for another day and another challenge.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“He was incredible and still is. His work ethic was unbelievable and he’s always been such an inspiration.Sir Alex changed my life. He gave me an opportunity which I cherished.Steve BruceMan Utd’s best XI of academy graduates“He made me captain of Manchester United for five years. I’ll always be glad he had such a major influence on my life and career.”Yet Bruce admits that having been sacked by West Brom, the 11th club he had managed before those two years away, he was pining for to get that career going again.The fact that he has now picked up the reigns again, even in the EFL’s third tier at a club that hasn’t won any of its first four games has rejuvenated him.Bruce has never managed below the Championship and twice took Birmingham City as well as Hull City into the Premier League.Amongst other club he took charge of was boyhood club Newcastle United over two years which is why, he knows, some of his pals questioned his decision to step down the ladder.Fergie and Bruce share the same birthday in DecemberCredit: GettyBut he explains: “After West Brom I did a lot of travelling with my missus Janet.“We’ve been all around the world, everything that we wanted to do, seen what we wanted to see.“And yeah, I’ll miss that part. I’ll miss Barbados in January that’s for sure when the wind’s blowing hard around here.“And I’m just as sure Janet will too.“In the first year I just wanted to have a look at it from the outside although there were five or six opportunities then but I forced myself to stay away.“But the last six months the lack of that routine of managing a team, the buzz of Saturday match day, was getting to me.“Whatever it is – a bug or a drug – you need it. Retirement wasn’t for me just yet.“I need a purpose to get out of bed in the morning and all I’ve had in my life is this, really. Football.”What we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.They plan to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a second venue. They will scale it down to a 30,000-seater that can then be used for the women’s team and academy matches.That would mean the history remains with statues and the Munich clock and memorial plaque all most likely staying in their current positions.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. That text from Ferguson a couple of days ago certainly found him out of bed early – even if he wasn’t quite on his way to work – and a little long in the tooth or not that buzz is back.A home clash with Exeter City marks his return and he adds : “Most of the messages I got were positive, saying : ‘Good for you. Why not? “Yes, Blackpool are League One but after speaking to the owner it was like, ‘Why not?’ too.“I haven’t got any more ego left in me and so many of my close mates understood that in the last six months I really wanted this life again.“I didn’t know I would be working back at the coal face again but we’ve got a squad that I believe can compete with anybody in the division.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The plan is to get this club back in the Championship.“If I didn’t think we could do that – then what WOULD be the point?”Steve Bruce left Newcastle in November 2021Credit: Getty More

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      Arsenal star Jorginho, 32, reveals shock retirement plan and admits ‘I’m in trouble’ after getting taste for new job

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      ARSENAL ace Jorginho revealed he is planning to transition to coaching after his retirement.The 32-year-old has become a key figure in the Gunners’ dressing room ever since his arrival from rivals Chelsea in January 2023.Arsenal ace Jorginho is planning to pursue coaching after his retirementCredit: GettyJorginho was initially against becoming a manager but Arsenal changed his mindCredit: GettyAnd the new surroundings at the Emirates changed his mind on something he was adamantly against for many years.The midfielder insisted that he doesn’t want to become a manager once he rolls credits on his career.Arsenal chiefs asked him if he wanted to pursue coaching badges upon his arrival and he initially declined as he stayed true to his previous assertions. The Italy international, however, ultimately caved in and started gaining his credentials.Read More on ArsenalAnd the ex-Napoli star soon found himself “in trouble” as he ended up enjoying the experience and now looks set to follow in the footsteps of his current boss Mikel Arteta.Jorginho told the Seaman Says podcast: “Because of how I am and how much I love the game, my friends back home, my family, since I was 18 or 19, they were always like, ‘You’re going to be a coach’.”And I was like, ‘No way, I want to be involved in football, but no hope or chance I’ll be a coach’.”Then I came to Arsenal and they asked me if you wanted to do badges and I said, ‘No, I don’t want to be a coach’.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”After some encouragement I did them and in the first session I was saying, ‘Oh no why did I do this, now I’m in trouble’. And I think I I’ll go for it [a coaching career] now.”To be on the pitch, with the players, I fell in love with it. It was so satisfying, when you see things coming up and working out how you expected, it was so good.Former Chelsea team-mates Mason Mount and Jorginho embrace after Man Utd’s pre-season defeat to Arsenal “Being on the pitch, seeing the stuff there is different, but it’s really good.”Jorginho has amassed a total of one goal and three assists in 52 appearances at Arsenal.The Italian is likely to start on Sunday’s North London Derby at Tottenham as Declan Rice is suspended, Mikel Merino is injured and captain Martin Odegaard poses as a major doubt. More

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      in Soccer

      Former Premier League star names manager who could solve Man Utd’s problems but warns Zidane would reject club

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      MANCHESTER UNITED need to bring in Thomas Tuchel as their new manager as he is the “solution” to their problems.That is according to Premier League hero William Gallas, who suggested Tuchel, 51, could succeed at United just like he did at Chelsea.Zinedine Zidane won’t join Manchester United, insists William GallasCredit: GettyGallas claims Thomas Tuchel would be the ‘solution’ at Man UtdCredit: GettyMan Utd boss Erik ten Hag is already under fire after a poor startCredit: GettyGallas believes Tuchel would succeed at Man Utd like he did at ChelseaCredit: GettyThe Red Devils are off to a slow start, losing two of their three opening Premier League games and manager Erik ten Hag is already under fire.Ten Hag barely managed to hold on to the top job last season thanks to his FA Cup triumph over rivals Manchester City, but he revealed club chiefs informed him they looked for a replacement.The Dutchman even admitted that Tuchel was among his bosses’ top candidates.Gallas believes the German tactician would be able to turn things around at Old Trafford if he got at least two years in charge.Read More on Man UtdThe ex-Bayern Munich boss, who is now a free agent, won the Champions League in his first season with the Blues in 2021 as well as the Uefa Super Cup and Fifa Club World Cup.Gallas told Gambling Zone: “Thomas Tuchel could be the solution to Manchester United’s problems.”If he came into the club and was given time, given two years to create his team, the club would be in a completely different position to the one it is in now.”At Chelsea Tuchel was very organised, the players respected him and he won the Champions League as well as a couple of other trophies, you can see why he was a success and maybe he wasn’t given enough time to Chelsea to turn things around.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGallas, though, is adamant that United should completely forget Zinedine Zidane as a potential successor to Ten Hag.The ex-Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham ace insists Zidane won’t be keen on the job because he can’t speak English and has his eyes fixed on France’s national team.’Will you let me finish’ snaps Gary Neville live on Sky Sports as Man Utd legend refuses to answer Carragher’s questionGallas added: “Manchester United fans should forget about Zinedine Zidane, he won’t take the job and the main reason is that he doesn’t speak English.”He won’t want to put himself in that situation where he would need to learn the language and I think that’s fair. “He needs the players to understand what he expects from them and to have that relationship where he can have fun and joke around. “He won’t accept the job if an offer came in and I don’t think we will see him in the Premier League any time soon.”I think he is still waiting for the France national team job. He won everything there is to win with Real Madrid and he only has one job on his mind now.”Nine managers Man Utd considered before keeping Erik ten HagERIK TEN HAG appears to be safe as Man Utd manager, but the Dutchman edged dangerously close to the sack.Here are nine managers Red Devils chiefs are reported to have considered for the job and what allegedly happened with each.Gareth SouthgateEnjoys plenty of support among Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos chiefs but made clear he wouldn’t talk to any clubs until after Euro 2024. There is yet to be any suggestion that contact was made with the England boss.Kieran McKennaTalks were opened with McKenna’s representatives before the FA Cup final, but the former Man Utd coach opted to sign a new deal with Ipswich after Ten Hag’s Wembley win.Roberto De ZerbiAllegedly sounded out before the FA Cup final with salary expectations discussed. But Ineos chiefs concluded ex-Brighton boss was not the right fit for the project.Thomas FrankBrentford boss met Man Utd representatives the day before the FA Cup final. The Dane also dined with Ratcliffe, Roy Hodgson and Frank Lampard at the launch of a new Ineos car in February.Marco SilvaFulham boss reportedly met Man Utd representatives face-to-face two days before the FA Cup final, around the same time as Ten Hag was conducting his press conference.Mauricio PochettinoFell out of Man Utd’s thinking in the first week of June, despite being a favourite of Sir Alex Ferguson.Thomas TuchelMade a very strong impression and came across well during a Monaco meeting. Personal terms were discussed before the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss decided to step back from the process.Ruben AmorimSporting boss was discussed by the Man Utd hierarchy but did not make the final reckoning.Roberto MartinezPortugal manager was considered in the early stages. More

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      in Soccer

      Lee Carsley nailed on to land England manager job with bookies with Pep Guardiola second favourite at massive 10/1

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      LEE CARSLEY is the nailed-on favourite to land the England job on a full-time basis.The bookies are backing the interim head coach to be offered the role by the FA.Lee Carsley is the favourite to land the England jobCredit: GettyPep Guardiola is rated at 10/1 to be the next full=time England bossCredit: GettyCarsley, 50, has stepped in to lead the Three Lions after Gareth Southgate stepped down after Euro 2024.Bookmaker Coral has placed Carsley as the massive favourite for the job full-time.He is rated at 1-20 to get the role, which is ahead of the likes of Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola and Newcastle’s Eddie Howe.Coral’s John Hill said: “We now make Lee Carsley long odds-on to land the England job permanently following back-to-back victories in the Uefa Nations League.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”England are next in action in October against Greece and it looks very likely that Carsley will be charge of the Three Lions for that game at Wembley where he will be bidding to keep up his 100 per cent record.”Guardiola is the second favourite at 10/1 and 12/1 for Howe.While the likes of Graham Potter, Jurgen Klopp and Frank Lampard are seen as much less likely.Carsley has enjoyed a perfect start to his reign in charge of England.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHis Three Lions have won both Nations League fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.Both games finished 2-0, with the side joint top of League B Group 2 along with Greece.England’s player ratings against FinlandNext England manager oddsHere are the latest odds on who will be the next England manager…Lee Carsley – 1/20Pep Guardiola – 1/10Eddie Howe – 1/12Graham Potter – 1/16Jurgen Klopp – 1/25Frank Lampard – 1/33Kieran McKenna – 1/33*Odds from CoralDeclan Rice and Jack Grealish were the goalscorers against Ireland as they silenced the boo-boys in the crowd.While against Finland, Harry Kane stepped up to fire in a brace on his 100th appearance for the national side.Speaking after the win over Finland, Carsley admitted he does not yet feel comfortable in his position.He told ITV: “I definitely don’t feel comfortable still, I have been out of my comfort zone.”Enjoyable but we have to had make sure every single day we are producing high standards.”[We were] fortunate to get two good results and about building on that.”England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:READ MORE SUN STORIESEstablishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFor help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites.  More

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      in Boxing

      Elle Brooke reveals weird act men want her to do to them and says ‘it’s my dream job but it’s illegal’

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      ELLE BROOKE has discovered her dream job – but too bad it’s illegal. The adult film star is inundated with bizarre requests from her fans, followers and OnlyFans subscribers. Elle Brooke is inundated with weird requests from her fansCredit: @ellebrookeukSome even ask her to punch themCredit: Instagram / @thedumbledongBrooke is a star of Misfits BoxingCredit: GettyAnd some even offer to pay the Misfits Boxing champion huge sums to beat them up. It would mean Brooke getting to dish out the punches and not have to worry about getting any back. But her biggest opponent standing in the way of the perfect job is the law. Brooke, 26, told SunSport with a laugh: “I actually have people ask me to like punch them for so much money.READ MORE ON ELLE BROOKE”And I’m like, ‘Do you know what? I’m in the wrong job, that sounds like way easier money than me getting punched.'”I can just beat up men. I’d love to do that. I actually looked into it and it’s also against the law. “You can’t consent to, like, assault and battery, so I can’t, unfortunately. I would love to, that’s my dream job.”Brooke is one of the faces of Misfits Boxing, co-founded by YouTuber-turned-fighter KSI and his manager Mams Taylor. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSNames from the social media, TV, MMA and boxing world are welcomed in celebrity-style crossover bouts. Brooke has four wins, one loss and a draw in her six bouts after judges failed to split her and Paige VanZant, 30, in her last fight. Talks for a rematch broke down with Brooke now facing former bare-knuckle boxer Jenny “Savage” Clausius on Saturday in Newcastle. But it will mark her last bout till at least next year with a well-earned break on the horizon. Brooke said: “After this fight, I’m going to have a bit more time off because three fights in nine months, that is pretty active.”That is super active. So I’m not going to fight until next year now. After this fight, I’m gonna have a little bit of time off.”As much as I love the boxer lifestyle, I love having abs and being skinny and waking up feeling good, I’m not hungover, I do need a holiday and I need a break in terms of for the last three fights, I’ve always had an next opponent and a date.”I wanna have at least a couple of months where I’m not thinking about the next person.”Paige VanZant was dropped by Elle BrookeCredit: @thedumbledong More