More stories

  • in

    Premier League legend takes over as Northampton Town boss as he returns to management after six years out

    KEVIN NOLAN has been named the new manager of Northampton Town – six years after his last managerial role.The Premier League legend has been out of work since leaving West Ham at the end of last season.Kevin Nolan has made his return to the dugoutCredit: PAHe will be the new manager of Northampton Town in League OneCredit: GettyNorthampton are currently 20th in the tableCredit: GoogleNolan, 42, was working as a coach at the Hammers under David Moyes but was surplus to requirements following the arrival of Julen Lopetegui.During his time at West Ham, where he also played, he helped the side win the European Conference League in 2023.He will now return to the dugout as the manager of Northampton Town – who are 20th in the table – having replaced Jon Brady.He has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the League One strugglers.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe said: “I am delighted to be appointed the new manager of Northampton Town and I cannot wait to get going.”We have a busy schedule over the Christmas and New Year period so the challenge is to hit the ground running as best we can.”The club has a fine reputation in the game as being a well run club and it is clear it has moved forward on and off the pitch over the last few seasons.”I am proud and honoured to be given the chance to try and continue and develop that work.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I believe the squad can make progress up the table and I am determined to repay the faith that the board of directors have shown in me.”We don’t have any time to lose, it might be Christmas but we have a lot of work to do in a short space of time and I hope the supporters will come with us as we start our journey.Kevin Nolan remembers the lost talent of Ravel Morrison Chairman’s view on Nolan appointmentNorthampton chairman Kelvin Thomas shared his views on Nolan’s appointment… He said: “Kevin was very impressive through the process and showed a real desire for the job.”He has done well in difficult circumstances in both of his previous managerial jobs and he impressed us with his knowledge, his energy, his experience and his passion. He showed a real desire and enthusiasm for the role, he couldn’t wait to get started and he has already taken charge of training for the first time.”He has been a leader throughout his career. Whether that be as a player where he was a Premier League captain of some distinction, to his managerial career where he enjoyed success at both of his previous clubs in difficult circumstances, to being a successful coach back in the Premier League, he has a hugely impressive CV. “He is also very well connected and respected throughout the game. He has a fine record of working with players at all levels and of all ages and we are excited to welcome Kevin to the club.”Kevin has been held in high esteem by both players and supporters of his previous clubs and we are delighted to have been able to secure his services for Northampton Town.”Our immediate target is to try and move up the table and while we understand we have challenges to overcome, we believe Kevin is well placed to lead us forward on that.”He played for West Ham between 2011 and 2015Credit: GettyHe also featured for Bolton and Newcastle during his careerCredit: AFP“We will need their backing and I can promise them we will be doing all we can to turn the results around.”Nolan does bring managerial experience with him to the Sixfields Stadium.He started his managerial career with Leyton Orient as a player-manager, in which he won seven of 15 matches.He was named the manager of Notts County in January 2017.The former midfielder lifted the club away from the threat of relegation in his first season before a play-off finish in his second.During his playing days, he turned out for the likes of Bolton Wanderers, Newcastle, West Ham and Leyton Orient.He made 401 appearances in the Premier League and scored 69 goals. Nolan’s playing career Here is a look at Kevion Nolan’s playign career…Bolton Wanderers – 1999-2009Appearances: 342Newcastle United – 2006-2011Appearances: 91West Ham United – 2011-2015Appearances: 157Leyton Orient – 2016Appearances: 14 More

  • in

    Premier League cult hero Charlie Adam SACKED by Fleetwood after disastrous run of results

    FLEETWOOD TOWN have sacked Charlie Adam following a disastrous run of form.The Premier League cult hero leaves the club 18th in League Two, having not won a game since November 9.Charlie Adam has been sacked by Fleetwood TownCredit: RexAdam, 39, was appointed as Fleetwood boss in December 2023 in what was his first job in management.He was unable to keep the club in League One as they suffered relegation.He has now been hit with the axe following a poor start to the season.A statement read: “Fleetwood Town can confirm Charlie Adam has left the club with immediate effect. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”All at Fleetwood Town would like to thank Charlie for his hard work and commitment.”The club will issue a further update on the first team staff in due course.”Owner Jamie Pilley thanked the former Liverpool and Stoke City star for his work.He said: “I’d like to personally thank Charlie for his commitment and professionalism over the last 12 months.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“He’s been a pleasure to work with but recent results meant we felt a change was necessary.“I wish him well for the future.”Non-league clash suspended with players taken off pitch as advertising board sparks safety fearsCharlie Adam helped Blackpool reach the Premier LeagueCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The TimesHe won the League Cup with LiverpoolCredit: Keith Campbell – The Sun GlasgowHe spent seven seasons at Stoke CityCredit: GettyAdam’s last game in charge saw Fleetwood beaten 2-0 at Barrow AFC.The result means that the club sit just eight points above the relegation zone.Adam will be best remembered for his playing career as he was a part of the side that helped Blackpool reach the Premier League in 2010.He left the Seasiders after they were relegated in a transfer to Liverpool.During his time at Anfield, he would win the League Cup in 2012 before leaving for Stoke City later that year.He would go on to have spells at Reading and Dundee before hanging up his boots in September 2022.Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Wrexham clash descends into huge brawl at full-time as tempers flare after fiery League One clash

    WREXHAM and Bristol Rovers players got into a heated brawl after their League One clash came to an end.The Red Dragons and Rovers played out a 1-1 draw after Promise Omochere cancelled out Elliot Lee’s opener at the Memorial Stadium.Wrexham and Bristol Rovers players got into a heated brawlCredit: RexWrexham and Bristol Rovers played out a 1-1 drawCredit: RexAn intense altercation between Steven Fletcher and James Wilson led to a fiery rowCredit: RexThankfully the fracas between the two sides didn’t last longCredit: RexWrexham ace Lee opened the scoring after just 18 minutes but the hosts managed to find an answer four minutes before full-time.However, an intense altercation between the visitors’ Steven Fletcher and Bristol Rovers’ James Wilson led to a fiery row between both teams.Both sides tried to separate the two players and for a moment tensions flared up.But thankfully the fracas didn’t last long and the two opponents made their way down the tunnel.Read More on FootballWrexham are now third in the League One table after their draw in Bristol.Phil Parkinson’s men are tied in points with second-placed Birmingham and trail leaders Wycombe by two.Bristol Rovers, on the other hand, are 19th with five points off the bottom three.This is Wrexham’s second consecutive draw after playing out a 2-2 tie with Cambridge United last week.Most read in EFLThe game with Cambridge brought an end to a winning streak of five games across all competitions.Wrexham are looking for an immediate Championship promotion under Hollywood superstar owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Wrexham stars including ex-Premier League ace party with Hollywood hunk Channing Tatum after Cambridge drawThe Welsh outfit made it to League One just a year after their return to the EFL. More

  • in

    Phil Foden gave me a footballing lesson I’ll never forget – now I’m making my own way under Man Utd legend

    FINN AZAZ was shown the way to the top by Phil Foden.And the Middlesbrough midfielder hopes to join Manchester City’s England superstar in the Premier League next year by completing an EFL hat-trick of promotions.Phil Foden and his Man City team-mates taught Finn Azaz a footballing lessonCredit: AlamyBut Azaz is now aiming to get revenge but first needs to earn a promotion with Michael Carrick’s MiddlesbroughCredit: GettyAzaz, 24, went up from League Two with Cheltenham in 2021 and then League One in 2023 at Plymouth — who Boro visit today.And he can keep his biennial promotion streak going by helping Middlesbrough into the Prem. During his stint at Cheltenham he played against Foden in the 2020-21 FA Cup — and the Robins gave Pep Guardiola’s stars a fright, leading through an Alfie May goal until the 81st minute.But late strikes from Foden, Gabriel Jesus and Ferran Torres spared City’s blushes.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAzaz admits that match taught him a lesson. He said: “I’ve always wanted to play in the Premier League but that day showed me the gap I had to bridge if I was ever going to make it.“I did well and realised that although these are guys you’re watching every week on TV, they’re just normal people when playing them.“But it was an eye-opener. Foden was wearing moulds and the pitch was terrible that day. Yet he showed incredible balance.“I never get cramps — but that day I did! All that taught me I must do a lot better if I want to reach that level. That was my first season playing men’s football and to win League Two was special.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“I grew so much as a person and the manager Michael Duff showed so much trust to play me.”Azaz — who did not play a competitive game for Aston Villa in three years there — was on loan at Argyle 12 months ago, where he scored 15 goals and made 15 assists in 67 games.Manchester City’s Phil Foden shuns posh holiday for £100 tent at a £14-a-day fishing lake in the CotswoldsAnd he has had a fantastic 2024 since deciding to join Michael Carrick’s Boro in January for £2million.Not only has he been a key cog for the  Teessiders — reflected by him winning the Sky Bet Championship player of the month for November — but he has broken into the Republic of Ireland team too.He said: “I find it hard to reflect on a year while you’re still in the moment. “I came here to help get this team promoted but we weren’t able to do that last season — so that’s the target come May. That’s all I’m thinking about.“And with the Republic of Ireland, the goal is to reach the 2026 World Cup. So everything is a work in progress.”He says his game has kicked on since moving to the Riverside, with 14 goal contributions this season (six goals, eight assists) — only  Norwich’s Borja Sainz has more (15 goals, two assists) in the Championship.Plus he is one of only two players with five goals and five assists in the division, along with Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer. His assist tally is the most in the division.And he credits Carrick as a huge influence.The former Manchester United, West Ham, Tottenham and England ace has slowly got Boro moving in the right direction since taking over two years ago — and holds an impressive 50 per cent win record.Azaz explained: “The manager is detailed and the tempo of the sessions is unreal. You must be on it all the time.“He has made sure everyone knows their job and what is expected of them in training. There is a lot of trust from players to management.“The boss demands high standards but he’s also calm in his approach. The way he explains things I really like.“Every manager I’ve worked with has been different but from an experience point of view from playing, he’s far and away the best.”Azaz believes the team spirit at the Riverside has been particularly impressive, with a strong bond among his team-mates.He added: “We’re always doing stuff together. We have a pool table, two table tennis tables and darts at the training ground.“You will still see some of the players shooting pool at 4pm. Most changing rooms I’ve been involved in want to get off but here people stay.“Dan Barlaser is a good pool player — but I’ve got his number. I’m decent, I take my time and it frustrates the opponent.”Azaz has an interesting family background — son of an Israeli mother and an Irish father.He enjoys visiting Israel and said: “I love doing all the cultural stuff. I’ve been to  Jerusalem and gone to the desert.“But Tel Aviv is my favourite. It’s such a vibrant city. The beaches are unreal.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAzaz has already made a New Year’s resolution: “To be present in 2025.”He could well be so — in the Premier League. More

  • in

    Premier League cult hero Lee Cattermole promoted to interim manager just one WEEK after joining club

    LEE CATTERMOLE has been promoted to interim manager at Bristol Rovers following the sacking of Matt Taylor.The manager and assistant Wayne Carlisle were axed from their roles, with the club slumped in 20th in League One.Lee Cattermole has been made interim manager at Bristol RoversCredit: BRISTOL ROVERSCattermole played over 200 times for SunderlandCredit: PA:Empics SportAs a result, Cattermole, along with David Horseman, have been handed the responsibility of being interim managers.Their promotion was announced as part of the sacking of Taylor.They will stay in the role while Rovers undertakes a “thorough recruitment process” for a new manager.A statement read: “Bristol Rovers FC can confirm that Manager Matt Taylor and assistant manager Wayne Carlisle have been relieved of their first team duties.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”The club would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Matt and Wayne for all their hard work during their time with Bristol Rovers, and we wish them both every success in their respective future careers.”David Horseman and Lee Cattermole will take interim responsibility for first-team football duties while the club undertakes a thorough recruitment process for a new first-team manager.”Cattermole, 36, only joined the club last week in what was his first permanent coaching role since hanging up his boots.The Premier League cult hero was hired to focus on the development and implementation of set pieces.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe will now be taking charge of all the training along with the help of Horseman.During his playing days, he spent a decade with Sunderland and made 262 appearances.Football teams that controversially changed their badgeHe also featured for the likes of Middlesbrough and Wigan Athletic.He hung up his boots for the last time four years ago after a short spell with Dutch side VVV-Venlo.Cattermole’s first game in the hotseat will be the home clash against Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham on December 21.This will be followed by away trips to Exeter City and Stevenage before the end of the year.Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Title-winning memorabilia of Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham being sold for staggering £100,000 on eBay

    WREXHAM promotion-winning memorabilia was reportedly being sold on eBay for £100,000.The Red Dragons have enjoyed back-to-back promotions from the National League to League One under the Hollywood ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.Memorabilia from Wrexham’s last two promotions was reportedly put on eBayCredit: PAThe listing seemingly featured three match-worn shirts and two medalsCredit: EBayThe price increased from £40,000 to virtually £100,000Credit: eBayTheir return to League Two in 2023 ended their 15-year absence from the EFL. The fairytale story has attracted a wave of interest on both sides of the Atlantic due to the American links – thanks in no small part to the popular Disney+ doc Welcome To Wrexham.And, according to the Daily Mail, one unnamed Wrexham player was offering a superfan the chance to get their hands on the ultimate signed goodies.It is claimed a private seller, called “2013goods” had placed three Macron match-worn red home Wrexham shirts up for sale on eBay. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTwo of those were seemingly from last season – with one signed by the squad – while the third was from the previous campaign.Alongside the shirts were two medals – one with the Vanarama ribbon from the National League title success and the other with the SkyBet branding from their League Two promotion when they finished as runners-up. The private seller, who allegedly has sold 81 items with a 100 per cent positive rating, described the listing: “This is an amazing opportunity for football fans to own a piece of history. “The owners Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney Wrexham AFC Official Promotion Medals 22/23 23/24, along with the match jerseys and signed top, make this a must-have for any collector of sports memorabilia.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”This unique item is perfect for fans original piece signed by the players themselves. “The memorabilia includes signed shirt, making it a valuable addition to any collection. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of football history.”I’ve tried for the last three years to join Wrexham but I think my surname will stop me, admits ex-Premier League star James Chester The Mail report adds that the items were initially put up for sale for £40,000.However, it was then said to have been bumped up to 1p shy of £100,000 with a delivery charge of £13.35 on top of the six-figure sum.It is claimed 54 eBay users were watching the listing that was only available as a “buy now” option and no bidding auction. However, the post is unable to be found by the public and the Mail claim it has ended.But the report does not state whether the unavailability is because the items were purchased for the £99,999.99 price or if the listing was removed and deleted by the seller. Wrexham could be on course for a hat-trick of successive promotions this season.They currently sit third in League One, just two points behind leaders Wycombe and one off Birmingham. Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds oversaw the return to the EFL after 15 yearsCredit: GettyIt is unclear who was selling the items and whether they were bought or the listing was deletedCredit: AlamyWrexham are looking to make it three promotions on the bounceCredit: PA More

  • in

    English manager SACKED by EFL club in shock move with fans left in disbelief as 84-word statement released

    DES BUCKINGHAM has been SACKED from role as Oxford United manager.The Championship strugglers confirmed his exit on social media.Des Buckingham has been sacked by Oxford UnitedCredit: GettyBuckingham, 39, helped the club get promoted from League One after being appointed last season.However, his time in charge of the club came to an end following the 3-1 defeat to Sheffield on Wednesday at the Kassam Stadium on Saturday.A statement read: “Oxford United can confirm that Des Buckingham has left his role as men’s first team head coach.”Des was appointed in November 2023 and led the club to promotion to the EFL Sky Bet Championship at the end of the 2023/24 season.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”The club would like to place on record its thanks to Des for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”The appointment of a new head coach will be confirmed in due course.”Fans have been left in disbelief over Buckingham’s departure from the club.One posted: “You’ve lost your minds.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA second wrote: “Not impressed with that.”A third commented: “Completely unexpected but got to see who the next guy in is and support them.”Football teams that controversially changed their badgeA fourth said: “Well, that’s ruined my enthusiasm for this season. We must have an incredible name lined up as a replacement. Otherwise, we’re going to look silly.”Another added: “Well that’s a decision I can’t get my head around.”Oxford’s last win under Buckingham came in the 1-0 victory over Hull City on November 5.Since then, the club has lost five of six matches, including a 6-2 drubbing by Middlesborough.In October he was forced to have medical attention after the draw with Derby County.Who are these famous footballers? More

  • in

    Tom Brady’s Birmingham lining up another big name signing with former England star set for January loan transfer

    BURNLEY star Nathan Redmond is a surprise target for ambitious Birmingham.Redmond, 30, started his career at St Andrew’s and could return on a loan deal.Tom Brady is ready to ensure Birmingham get promotedCredit: ReutersNathan Redmond could move back to BirminghamCredit: ReutersThe winger has been hit by injuries and although available shortly, he will struggle to make Scott Parker’s side as they boast so many wingers.Redmond, who earned one cap for England in 2017. has not made an appearance for Burnley this term.Blues have money to help them win promotion and a wages-only move could work for all the parties.Birmingham-born Redmond made 82 appearances for the club before he moved to Norwich.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has since had a six-year stay at Southampton and a brief stint at Turkish giants Besiktas.Blues are able to splash the cash thanks to their American owners, with NFL legend Tom Brady involved in the consortium.They showed their spending power in the summer by breaking the League One record transfer fee by signing Jay Stansfield from Fulham for £15million.The owners are also looking to invest off the pitch by building a stunning new stadium.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBirmingham have already acquired 60 acres of land in the east of the city.And they have unveiled plans to construct an incredible Sports Quarter, containing a state-of-the-art ground, new training facilities and more. Tom Brady in hilarious reaction after getting X-rated welcome from Wrexham fans for Birmingham clash More