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    Bolton SACK Ian Evatt after four years in charge after losing at home again and season at risk of petering out

    BOLTON have sacked manager Ian Evatt.The League One club sit ninth in the table despite expectations of challenging for promotion this season.Bolton have sacked Ian Evatt as manager following a 2-1 defeat to CharltonCredit: GettyThe Wanderers crashed to another home defeat by Charlton last night.And club bosses decided at an emergency board meeting called after the defeat that enough was enough and pulled the plug.A club statement said: “Bolton Wanderers Football Club today announces that First Team Manager Ian Evatt has left the Club by mutual consent. “We would like to express our gratitude to Ian for his professionalism, commitment and creating a legacy during his time at the Club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEvatt, 43, joined Bolton in July 2020 after leaving Barrow and guided the team to promotion from League Two with a third-place finish in his first season.He was then awarded a three-year contract in 2021 and went on to win the EFL Trophy in 2023 and lead the club to the play-offs in the same season, seeing him earn renewed terms up to 2026.Bolton suffered heartbreak under Evatt at the end of the 2023/24 season as they lost in the play-off finals.But this season the wheels have come off for the Trotters, with a run of one win in six games to start their season proving difficult to recover from.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSFollowing a 2-1 defeat at home to Charlton last night, they have now lost five games at the Toughsheet Community Stadium this season.Speaking after the game, Evatt told reporters: “I can’t pick faults with the way we played. ‘Classless’ – Fans fume as EFL star’s ‘disgusting’ behaviour sparks row that sees manager sent off days after dad died-Locat”We were back to our best for large parts. But we found a way to lose which has happened too often. It can’t obviously continue.”The performance was better than most of the season, if not all of it. But we came out on the wrong side of the result. That is bitterly disappointing.”I am immensely proud when we play like that of who we are as a team.“We look at them (Charlton). They got the win but they were very direct, very simplistic. I am not sure I would want to watch that every week.”This season Bolton have won 11 of their 26 games, drawn five and lost ten.Overall, Evatt managed 261 games for the club, winning 132, drawing 52 and losing 77.My view: Phil Gradwell – SunSport’s Bolton fanIT’S a real shame Ian Evatt’s time at Bolton ended as it did – but he had outstayed his welcome.He was lucky there were no fans in stadiums in his first season as he’d have probably lasted just six months.But in the second half of that League Two campaign his Wanderers went on a fantastic run to sneak automatic promotion.But ultimately, we have spent too much time in the third tier.There have been plenty of good times – that promotion, a 6-0 gubbing of Sunderland and the Papa John’s Trophy win in 2023.That day summed up his reign – great when it didn’t really matter. Opponents Plymouth were beaten 4-0 but finished top of League One. We lost in the play-off semis, so who were the real winners?He should have gone in the summer, after one of the most abject displays of all time in the play-off final against Oxford. It shouldn’t have even come to that – we blew automatic promotion.And with us now languishing in mid-table, his departure was IanEvattable. More

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    EFL match delayed in opening minutes following medical emergency in crowd at Bolton v Charlton

    BOLTON’S League One clash against Charlton suspended due to a medical emergency with a fan taken to hospital.Play was halted in the early stages of the game between two teams chasing promotion to the Championship.Bolton players gathered before kick-off in a crucial clash against CharltonCredit: RexOnly 1min 43secs had been played before the whistle was blown.Bolton posted on X: “There has been a stoppage in play due to a medical emergency in the crowd. “We will update as and when we know more.”Supporters rushed to post their well-wishes to the fan on social media.Read More FootballMeanwhile inside the Toughsheet Community Stadium, the person was given a round of applause by both sets of fans as they were moved by medics.The Bolton News reports that the “person [was] now being moved on a backboard to the stretcher at the side of the stand. They are being moved to the tunnel area.”The match restarted after a delay of around eight minutes, with the club then posting: “The game has now resumed. “Our thoughts are with the supporter who has fell ill and we will update when we hear more on the situation.”Most read in FootballCharlton also posted on X, writing: “We send our best wishes to the supporter impacted.”At half-time, Wanderers gave a further update, posting: “Following a medical incident in the crowd during the opening minutes of tonight’s game, Wanderers can confirm that a supporter has been taken to Bolton Hospital for further treatment.”Our thoughts and prayers remain with the supporter.”Bolton are currently sitting two places outside the play-off spots in League One.Manager Ian Evatt has come in for some criticism from fans for his side’s inconsistent form this season.They have lost three, won two and drawn one of their last six league games.Charlton, meanwhile, are also chasing the play-offs, currently in 11th spot with 35 points from their 25 games played.Bolton are chasing a League One play-off spotCredit: Getty More

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    EFL clash delayed after medical emergency in crowd during match aired live on Sky Sports

    AN EFL clash aired on Sky Sports was delayed after an emergency in the crowd.Blackpool’s League One match against Huddersfield Town was halted in the 16th minute after a signal from the stands.Blackpool’s clash with Huddersfield was halted due to a crowd emergencyCredit: GettyBlackpool’s official social media account released a statement following the stoppage.It read: “Stoppage in play as a fan in the stadium is being treated for a medical emergency.”We send them our best wishes.”Play was resumed after seven minutes.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBlackpool’s social media account added: “Play has restarted and we wish everyone involved the very best.”Fans reacted to the news on social media with many sending well wishes.One posted: “I hope the fan is ok.”A second wrote: “I hope they are alright.”Most read in FootballA third commented: “Thoughts are with those affected.”Erling Haaland’s salary is only ninth biggest in football with Chelsea flop Koulibaly earning more than Man City starA fourth said: “Hoping it is nothing serious!”Another added: “Praying everyone is fine.”At the time of the stoppage Blackpool were leading the match 1-0 thanks to a goal from Rob Apter.The Tangerines doubled their advantage deep into added time in the first half through Albie Morgan.However, the Terriers fought back with goals from Joe Taylor and Brodie Spencer to level the match and earn a point. More

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    Tom Brady’s Birmingham rocked as CEO suddenly steps down for personal reasons as club release statement

    BIRMINGHAM CEO Garry Cook has stepped down for personal reasons.Cook, 67, played a key role in Knighthead’s takeover of the club in 2023.Garry Cook has stepped down as Birmingham CEOCredit: PAIn a statement posted to their website, the Blues confirmed Cook’s decision to step down.Club chairman Tom Wagner said: “We thank Garry for everything that he has done during his time as Chief Executive Officer.”His passionate leadership and commitment to the Club that he has supported from boyhood has been unwavering and his contributions are extensive.”The instrumental role he played in Knighthead becoming involved in Birmingham City FC should also never be forgotten.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We are delighted that he will remain connected to us via the Advisory Committee and Foundation and that both will benefit from his vision and expertise.”When Knighthead completed their takeover in August 2023, NFL icon Tom Brady bought a 3.3 per cent stake in the club.In Cook’s absence, the Blues have appointed boyhood supporter Jeremy Dale as interim CEO.Wagner added: “Jeremy has a deep understanding of our vision and culture, and we are confident in his ability to guide Birmingham City during this transition.Most read in EFLSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYTom Brady is part of Blues’ ownership groupCredit: Getty”Our commitment to excellence and progress remains steadfast as we continue to build on the solid foundation we’ve already established.”Birmingham have confirmed that they have begun their search for Cook’s permanent successor.EFL club owner gives update on new £2bn ‘spaceship’ stadium included in mega plans for state-of-the-art complex Last April, the League One leaders unveiled plans for a new stadium, with the overall project set to cost between £2-3billion.On the pitch they were relegated from the Championship last term, having sacked John Eustace to appoint Wayne Rooney, before the Manchester United legend’s eventual replacement Tony Mowbray was forced to step aside for health reasons.Despite falling into the third tier, Blues forked out a fee rising to £15million for Jay Stansfield last summer.Chris Davies’ side currently sit top of League One, two points above Wycombe and Wrexham with two games in hand.Jay Stansfield and Co are top of League OneCredit: Getty More

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    Leyton Orient vs Derby POSTPONED after London hit with icy blast overnight with FA Cup third round hit by weather chaos

    LEYTON ORIENT’s FA Cup third-round clash with Derby County has been postponed just hours before kick-off. The League One side announced the pitch at Brisbane Road was unplayable ahead of this evening’s tie. Leyton Orient’s FA Cup game with Derby County has been called offCredit: RexA frozen pitch at Brisbane Road was deemed in unplayableCredit: GettyOrient updated fans throughout the morning as ground staff worked hard to make the pitch playable. Freezing temperatures overnight in the capital plunged to around -7c.The third-round tie had been due to kick-off in East London at 6pm. But a pitch inspection just after midday confirmed the playing surface was frozen. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLA statement from the club read: “Today’s Emirates FA Cup third-round tie against Derby County at Gaughan Group Stadium has been postponed, following a pitch inspection.”The match will now be contested in E10 on Tuesday 14thJanuary – KO 7.45pm. “The O’s Vertu Trophy match against Stevenage has been moved.”The game is the third FA Cup fixture of the weekend to fall foul of the weather.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPreston’s meeting with Charlton and Mansfield vs Wigan have both been called off due to a frozen pitch.Seven League One matches have already been canned, with only Rotherham’s home game with Bolton left standing. Accrington defender Connor O’Brien can’t wait to face boyhood club Liverpool in FA Cup In League Two, Tranmere’s visit to Walsall, Wimbledon vs Cheltenham, and Swindon vs Crewe are the only matches to survive the big freeze.Orient are currently enjoying a superb season in League One.Richie Wellens has guided his team to the cusp of a playoff spot, with the team enjoying five straight wins over the festive period.The O’s are hoping to progress past the third round of the FA Cup for the first time since 2011.Derby meanwhile are currently sitting 18th in the Championship.The Rams – winners of the FA Cup in 1946 – have battled past the third round in three of the last six seasons. More

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    Football postponed LIVE: Latest with many FA Cup third round ties under threat as multiple EFL clashes are called OFF

    IT’S FA Cup weekend – but fixtures are under threat as the big freeze continues across the UK.Preston’s third round clash with Charlton has been postponed after the pitch was deemed unplayable.Multiple matches across the EFL and non-league have been called off because of frozen pitches all around the UK.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFind out about all of the latest postponements through our live blog below…More non-league OFFAn FA Vase game between Walsham Le Willows and Whitstable Town is the latest to be called off.Copy linkCopiedSnow watchHeavy snow in West Yorkshire has led to the cancellation of Frickley Athletic’s game against Bottesford Town.Copy linkCopiedScottish game offAnnan Athletic have confirmed their fixture with Inverness Caledonian Thistle has been postponed due to a frozen pitch.Copy linkCopiedDropping like fliesNon-league games in the north are also being heavily affected with several clubs announcing postponements.The following are now off:Darlington vs ChorleyHereford vs WarringtonCurzon Ashton vs Scarborough AthleticBury vs Isle of ManStockbridge Park Steels vs Grimsby BoroughCopy linkCopiedEFL’s bottom side forced to postponeCarlisle were set to host MK Dons tomorrow but a frozen pitch means the match has been called off.Copy linkCopiedNon-league mayhemFour National League fixtures have been called off early.Southend vs HalifaxBarnet vs HartlepoolSutton vs FyldeMaidenhead vs YorkCopy linkCopiedEFL clash offBarrow have confirmed their match against Port Vale has been postponed.A frozen pitch again the cause.Copy linkCopiedPreston vs Charlton offA pitch inspection at Deepdale has deemed the pitch unplayable.The tie has also been re-scheduled for Tuesday, kick-off time 7:45pm.Copy linkCopiedCup clash bites the dustMansfield have called off their third-round clash with Wigan due to a frozen pitch.The match has been re-scheduled for Tuesday, which means the Stags’ League One clash with Exeter has also been moved.Copy linkCopiedHello and welcomeWelcome to SunSport’s football weather tracker, keeping you up to date with all the fixture cancellations ahead of the FA Cup third round.Two EFL games have already been called off due to the frosty conditions, with many more under threat.Northampton vs Barnsley and Shrewsbury vs Huddersfield in League One have been postponed.Copy linkCopied More

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    Several EFL clashes CALLED OFF just hours before kick-offs as freezing weather wreaks havoc on English football

    SEVERAL EFL clashes have been called off this Saturday with freezing conditions wreaking havoc upon English football.Earlier today, Shrewsbury Town’s League One clash against Huddersfield Town was postponed due to a frozen pitch.Shrewsbury’s clash against Huddersfield has been postponedVale Park is surrounded by snowCredit: GettyThe decision was made despite the game being scheduled for 3pm on Saturday.The pitch was judged to be “unplayable” due to the cold weather throughout the UK.A statement read: “Shrewsbury Town can confirm our League One clash against Huddersfield has been postponed due to a frozen pitch.”Scheduled to take place at the Croud Meadow tomorrow, the surface has been deemed unplayable due to the freezing temperatures across the country.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Our ground staff have been working throughout the week to try and get the game on, with covers placed over the pitch earlier in the week.”But following a pitch inspection this morning, the decision has been made with officials from the EFL to postpone the fixture.”Updates regarding a rescheduled date will be shared with supporters in due course.”All tickets for the postponed fixture will be valid for the re-arranged date.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSPlenty of other games soon followed in being KO’d.Tonight’s Premier League 2 clash between Leeds and Manchester United has also been postponed.Watch bizarre moment non-league chairman KAYAKS on his club’s pitch as flooding wreaks havoc againWhile several postponements have struck the EFL.Saturday’s FA Cup clashes between Mansfield Town and Bolton has fallen foul of the freezing weather, as well as Preston vs Charlton.In League One, Northampton vs Barnsley has also been called off.The fourth tier has also been affected; with Carlisle vs MK Dons and Port Vale vs Barrow having been postponed.Meanwhile, three National League games have so far had to be called off.Saturday football postponementsFA CupMansfield P-P BoltonPreston P-P CharltonLeague OneShrewsbury P-P HuddersfieldNorthampton P-P BarnsleyLeague TwoCarlisle P-P MK DonsPort Vale P-P BarrowNational LeagueAltrincham P-P WealdstoneBarnet P-P HartlepoolAFC Fylde P-P SuttonGatehead P-P BraintreeMaidenhead P-P York CityOldham P-P Eastleigh More

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    FA Cup third round clashes postponed with two-time winners given new date for tie after freezing weather wreaks havoc

    TWO FA Cup clashes have already been postponed due to freezing weather sweeping across the nation.Former two-time winners Preston were due to host Charlton at Deepdale but the game has been called off due to a frozen pitch.The Deepdale pitch was frozen on Friday afternoonCredit: Preston North End FCPreston’s FA Cup tie has been postponedCredit: Preston North End FCThe game will now be played on Tuesday night, kicking off at 7:45pm.A Preston statement read: “A pitch inspection took place at Deepdale on Friday by match referee Ruebyn Ricardo and the surface was deemed unplayable.”Despite the tireless work of the club’s grounds staff to prepare the pitch for this fixture, the sub-zero temperatures throughout the week and overnight on Thursday mean the surface remains frozen.”With similar conditions expected again on Friday evening into Saturday morning, a decision has been made early in consideration of travel plans for supporters, and the players and staff of Charlton Athletic.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPreston vs Charlton isn’t the only FA Cup game to have been affected.Mansfield’s all-League One tie with Wigan has also been called off.The clash will too take place on Tuesday, kicking off at 7:45pm.In addition to the FA Cup, EFL fixtures across Leagues 1 and 2 have also been called off.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSSaturday football postponementsFA CupMansfield P-P WiganPreston P-P CharltonLeague OneShrewsbury P-P HuddersfieldNorthampton P-P BarnsleyLeague TwoCarlisle P-P MK DonsPort Vale P-P BarrowNational LeagueAltrincham P-P WealdstoneBarnet P-P HartlepoolAFC Fylde P-P SuttonGatehead P-P BraintreeMaidenhead P-P York CityOldham P-P EastleighIn the third tier, Northampton vs Barnsley and Shrewsbury vs Huddersfield have been called off.While League Two has also been affected; with Carlisle vs MK Dons and Port Vale vs Barrow having been postponed.Watch bizarre moment non-league chairman KAYAKS on his club’s pitch as flooding wreaks havoc againMeanwhile, six National League games have so far had to be called off.And tonight’s Premier League 2 clash between Leeds and Manchester United has also been postponed.Shrewsbury’s clash against Huddersfield has been postponedVale Park is surrounded by snowCredit: Getty More