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    EFL forced to release statement over failed Derby takeover by Chris Kirchner with league ‘increasingly concerned’

    THE English Football League has released a damning statement after Chris Kirchner missed the deadline to buy Derby.EFL chiefs admit they are becoming “increasingly concerned” about the Rams’ immediate future.
    The EFL has released a statement after Chris Kirchner’s failed takeover of DerbyCredit: PA
    And they are ready to become more involved in the club’s dealings with possible buyers ahead of the new League One season.
    American businessman Kirchner did not make Friday’s deadline to buy Derby, despite having loaned £1.6million to help cover running costs and wages.
    The proof of funds for the takeover was meant to be submitted by 5pm.
    And administrators have now asked for clarification on how the club will move forward, with other suitors including Mike Ashley interested.
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    Derby players and boss Wayne Rooney are said to be “extremely concerned” going forward.
    But the EFL insists it will up its involvement in any talks between administrators Quantuma and possible buyers to move things forward quickly.
    A statement read: “The EFL has today informed the Administrators at Derby County that following the failure of Mr Chris Kirchner to conclude a sale of the Club, it is changing the terms of the suspended Notice of Withdrawal issued when the Club entered into administration in September 2021.
    “The League is increasingly concerned that the ongoing delays in the sale process now present a real risk to the integrity of next season’s competition, with the 2022/23 fixture list due to be released in less than two weeks, and need to act now in the best interests of the EFL.
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    “The suspension of the Notice of Withdrawal of the Club’s share in the EFL is subject to conditions that, in accordance with the League’s insolvency policy, the EFL Board determine and given the lack of progress by the Administrators to finalise a transaction, it now considers it appropriate to revise the conditions of suspension. 
    “As a result, the EFL has informed the Administrators that there will be a revision to the conditions attached to the suspension and the EFL is now to be made a party to all correspondence and discussions between the Administrators, and any and all potential bidders, with an acknowledgment that the League will be able to negotiate directly in relation to matters concerning the transfer of the share in the EFL.”
    Chief executive Trevor BIrch added: “Following this latest setback for the Club and its fans, it is vitally important that a sale of the Club is concluded at the earliest opportunity and we want to ensure that this objective is achieved.  
    “Up until now we have provided the Administrators with the time and opportunity to manage the sale process.
    “But with the long stop date on the asset purchase agreement and the membership agreement now passed, further urgent proactive action is required in order to do whatever is possible to secure the Club’s future as a continuing member of the EFL.” More

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    American millionaire Chris Kirchner faces losing £1.6M MILLION if Derby takeover fails as Mike Ashley shows interest

    AMERICAN businessman Chris Kirchner faces the loss of a £1.6 million payment if he misses out on the chase for Derby County.Kirchner is currently trying to clear a £21.4 million payment to secure ownership of Wayne Rooney’s club but can be beaten to the deal by rivals after losing his exclusivity.
    Chris Kirchner faces losing out on £1.6million if someone else takes over DerbyCredit: Getty
    But in the meantime Kirchner has paid in the funds that sorted out the club’s wages last month when they risked losing three points NEXT season.
    Kirchner originally attempted to transfer his funds on May 27, in time to pay administrators Quantuma and cover the payroll.
    When the initial anti money-laundering check problems arose it meant the money would be too late to pay those bills and mean a suspended EFL penalty kicked in.
    Derby have a three point punishment hanging over them after they failed to pay on time a couple of years ago.
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    Kirchner entered a quick loan pledge that allowed the administrators to instantly pay the funds.
    As a result Kirchner cannot get that money back if he is beaten to the purchase of the club.
    Kirchner is waiting on his latest transfer being cleared.
    It was sent from his personal bank on Monday evening American East Coast time and its arrival date is still unknown.
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    The frustrated bidder is trying to send the same sum by another route as the race is on in earnest..
    Mike Ashley is interested in buying Derby but may be reluctant to match the money needed.
    Former Wolves owner Steve Morgan is also in the race but yet to show his cash.
    Two other parties have been in touch with the admins and also the incoming buyers of Pride Park to establish the costs of leasing the ground.
    Derby’s next crunch date is at the end of month when Rooney and his players bare due to be paid.
    American financiers MSD Holdings may have to pay them but this adds to the overall bill and they will need to be sure that there is a buyer. More

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    Mansfield 0 Port Vale 3: Valiants promoted to League One after hammering ten-man rivals in Wembley thumping

    THE last time Port Vale won at Wembley Oh Carolina by Shaggy was topping the charts.But today they ended a THIRTY-YEAR wait to win on the hallowed turf and clinch promotion to League One to the joy of their celebrity fan Robbie Williams.
    Darrell Clarke and Co lift the trophyCredit: Getty
    Mal Benning celebrates Port Vale’s clincherCredit: Rex
    The pop star singer will be performing for the first time in his home town in front of 20,000 packed into Vale Park next Saturday — and what a party that is going to be after their glorious afternoon under the arch.
    The Valiants ran riot and were two goals up after 24 minutes with goals from Kian Harratt and James Wilson.
    And Mal Benning brilliantly volleyed home the third with five minutes left.
    Oli Hawkins ruined any chance of a Mansfield comeback after his 35th-minute sending off for two bookings.
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}LIVERPOOL 0 Real Madrid 0 .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Champions League final underway after 36-minute delay
    The defender has been a walking yellow card all season and at Wembley he took his tally to the season to a staggering 16 — both of which were needless.
    Quite what he was doing when he decided to push Nathan Smith in the box after tugging his shirt for the first and then he took Wilson out with a late challenge which he did not even need to make.
    Vale have now returned to the third tier after five seasons out.
    Boss Darrell Clarke — who was given compassionate leave in February after a close member of his family died in February — only returned to work earlier this month after his 18-year-old daughter Ellie passed away.
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    FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
    And both sets of fans organised a minute’s applause in the eighth minute in solidarity of the Vale boss.
    Mansfield almost went in front in the ninth minute after a piece of shocking defending from James Gibbons
    As the ball was swung across, he looked set to make a regulation clearance but somehow left it after a miscommunication between him and his keeper.
    And the ball bounced into the path of Jamie Murphy, whose header was superbly kept out by Aidan Stone.
    It was a sitter for the Mansfield attacker. He should have put it away from six yards.
    Port Vale were looking so shaky and a poor header back towards Stone saw the keeper having to race out to beat the on-rushing Rhys Oates.
    But the Valiants went closest to opening the scoring when Ben Garrity set up Harratt and from just outside the box smacked an effort against the inside of the right post.
    Yet he made no mistake in the 20th minute by firing them in front.
    Mal Benning rampaged on the right and Harratt stooped to head home his cross from just six yards.
    Vale suddenly had the Stags shaking and Gibbons crashed an effort just over.
    However, the lead was doubled.
    David Worrall’s crossed was met by another Garrity header which this time bounced back off the bar — only for James Wilson to nod home the rebound for his 15th goal of the season.
    Port Vale were on the rampage and were denied a third when Jake Taylor played a glorious ball to send Benning on his way — but his fierce effort was beaten away by Nathan Bishop.
    And the Stags chances of getting back into the game were pretty much ended in the 35th minute when Hawkins was sent off.
    But incredibly Mansfield almost pulled one back when Stone fluffed a cross and Oates looked to have scored but Conor Hall was there to clear off the line.
    Goaline technology showed that only one eighth of the ball did not cross the line.
    Wilson then saw a free kick in first-half stoppage time kept out by Nathan Bishop.
    Harratt thought he had netted a third after the break when he slotted in after Bishop had spilled a Wilson shot — but he had strayed offside.
    Then Harry Charsley has one ruled out after he also ran offside before collecting Benning’s pass and firing home.
    Stone made a top save to stop Mansfield clawing themselves back into the game.
    George Harris laid a lovely ball into Oates, whose deflected shot was turned around the post by the keeper.
    And Oates then saw another effort flash wide.
    But it was game, set and match when Benning volleyed home from a wonderful cross from David Worrall.
    It was a wonderful finish — especially when you consider he raced 20 yards to connect with the cross.
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    As ref Jarred Gillett blew it sparked wild celebrations among the 17,000 Vale fans.
    The Valiants are going up and under Clarke as manager you would not bet against them doing better than simply just staying up. More

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    Lee Grant joins Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich Town coaching staff just hours after confirming Man Utd exit and retiring

    LEE GRANT has joined Ipswich Town’s coaching staff just hours after announcing his retirement.The goalkeeper ended four years at Manchester United by calling time on his playing career aged 39.
    Lee Grant hung up his boots earlier todayCredit: Getty
    Grant, 39, will join up with former Man Utd first team coach Kieran McKennaCredit: Getty
    He will now join up with former Red Devils first team coach Kieran McKenna at Portman Road, with the Northern Irishman having left United to take charge of Ipswich last year.
    Grant has accepted a role as first team coach, with Rene Gilmartin staying in place as head of goalkeeping.
    Upon joining Town, Grant told the club’s media channels: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me, and I am really looking forward to it.
    “I know Kieran and Martyn (Pert) having worked with them at Manchester United and I loved the work we were being given from a playing perspective. Now I am excited about working with them again, albeit in a different role.
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    “I feel really blessed that I have been able to make the decision to retire and go straight into an exciting role with Ipswich Town.
    “Over the last few years, I have been preparing for this moment by obtaining my coaching licences, expanding my network and working on a business degree.
    “It has all been with the intention of being in a good place for a smooth transition at this point in my career.
    “I could not be joining a club with a more exciting footing than Ipswich either. There is new ownership, new direction, a driven manager and a squad that is also hungry to go and achieve things.
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    “As I say, I am excited to get to work and I will be ready for when the squad returns ahead of the new season.”
    On having his pal Grant come onboard ahead of next season McKenna, 36, added: “We are so happy to have Lee on board with the coaching staff.
    “I have worked closely with Lee, and he has been transitioning ready to make the move into a coaching role as soon as he called time on his playing career.
    “He has been a fantastic professional and he is someone that has great knowledge of the game. He has always been a respected member of every dressing room he has been in.
    “He will bring a wealth of quality to his role, and, given he had a number of opportunities for his next step in the game, it’s a great sign for the Club that he has made that commitment to us.
    .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}BRUSHING UP .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I’m a dentist – it’s a waste of time brushing your teeth before you come in
    “Lee will add value right across the board and he will fit in really well with the coaching staff.
    “He will work with players on an individual basis but will also help the team as a collective, as well as working closely with the forwards in the squad.” More

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    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe LIVE – League One play-off final: Stewart adds second as Black Cats seal Championship return

    SUNDERLAND are BACK in the Championship after beating Wycombe 2-0 in the League One play-off final.Ross Stewart and Elliot Embleton scored for the Black Cats as they triumphed at Wembley Stadium.

    Result: Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    TV/ live stream: Sky Sports Main Event

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    Emotions running high
    Sunderland fans are over the moon after the victory over Wycombe Wanderers.
    Die-hard supporters broke down in tears after full-time as they finally get some good news after five soul-crushing years.
    The Black Cats’ misery started in 2017 when they were relegated from the Premier League following a number of turbulent seasons.
    They then dropped to the third division a year later but Alex Neil’s arrival has drastically improved the situation for the English giants, who are hoping to be restored to the top tier in another 12 months
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES

    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    Stats
    Sunderland dominated most of the League One play-off final at Wembley.
    But Wycombe Wanderers had 52 per cent of possession after improving in the second half.
    The Black Cats registered a total of 13 shots, five of which were on target.
    The Chairboys, on the other hand, produced six shots, half of which were on target
    FT: Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    Wembley has experienced one of its biggest roars as Sunderland are finally out of League One and back into the Championship.
    Alex Neil’s men, who haven’t lost since February, kept it together and dominated Wycombe Wanderers throughout the entire match.
    The Black Cats opened the scoring after just 12 minutes thanks to Elliot Embleton’s long-range shot and David Stockdale’s blunder as the ball went through his left hand.
    Sunderland sealed promotion when Alex Pritchard set the team’s top scorer Ross Stewart up on the edge of the box and the striker sent the ball to Stockdale’s bottom right corner
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES

    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    FT: Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    PEEP!
    That’s it at Wembley, Sunderland are back in the Championship!
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    90+3 Sunderland ace Pritchard has been announced as Man oof the Match at Wembley.
    Wycombe have surrendered as the Black Cats are finally returning to the Championship
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    90 WHAT A CHANCE!
    Sunderland ace Clarke breaks inside the area and has only Stockdale to beat but the Wycombe keeper denies him.
    Five more minutes of stoppage time to go
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    90 CHANCE
    Akinfenwa got his retirement match and is looking for his retirement goal.
    A cross comes from the left and he catches a difficult shot in the far post that causes him to lose his balance.
    But it is too soft and Patterson picks it up
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    88 SUBSTITUTION
    Sunderland ace Broadhead comes on to replace the team’s best player this season Stewart.
    Both of the Black Cats’ scorers are off
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    87 Chance
    Wycombe push for a late goal to get back in the game.
    But Patterson clears a corner and saves Stewart’s shot from a tight angle on the right
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    87 They’re going up, as it stands!
    Stewart has given Sunderland a comfortable lead and they are pushing hard for a third!
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    85 Chance!
    Sunderland are still pushing for a third!
    Roberts runs down the right wing and fires a rather weak low shot that just misses Stockdale’s bottom right corner
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    82 CHANCE
    Sunderland star Stewart looks to end this once and for all with a shot from the right but just misses Stockdale’s bottom right corner
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    80 SUBSTITUTION
    Sunderland boss Neil makes another switch to protect his lead.
    Dyle comes on for Pritchard
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    79 And surely this is it! Surely, Sunderland’s League One misery ends after this!
    Pritchard and Stewart have a nice one-two and the club’s top scorer this season gets two touches on the edge of the area before firing a shot to Stockdale’s bottom right corner!
    Sunderland 2-0 Wycombe
    GOAL!
    And Sunderland have scored what could be the winner with Stewart!
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    78 Wycombe star Akinfenwa is going to retire after this match.
    The 40-year-old has come on as a sub in the final
    Credit: GETTY IMAGES
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    78 It looks like Wycombe boss Ainsworth is now playing with two strikers.
    Akinfenwa and Vokes are leading the line
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    76 YELLOW CARD
    Sunderland ace Pritchard gets booked as he gets rough with Scowen there
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    75 Substitution
    And here he is!
    Akinfenwa comes on for his final ever match as he replaces the injured Gape.
    The Beast would love to end his remarkable career with a goal at Wembley
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    74 It looks like Gape’s day at Wembley is over.
    But is now time for AKINFENWA TIME!!!!
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    73 Wycombe ace Gape goes down with what could be a cramp.
    Play has been halted as he may need some medical attention.
    Meanwhile, a note is being passed around the Wycombe players from the bench.
    Looks very important, but what does it say?
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    70 Sunderland ace Roberts was sandwiched between Jacobson and Stewart.
    Close call that, there will be a lot of discussion about whether it was a penalty
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    68 PENALTY APPEAL!
    Sunderland are calling for another penalty as Roberts is caught between two Wycombe players!
    However, referee and VAR give a corner
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    65 Substitution
    Wycombe boss Ainsworth makes another switch as Hanlan replaces Obita
    Sunderland 1-0 Wycombe
    63 Wycombe are picking up the pace and manager Ainsworth is preparing more changes.
    Sunderland ace Pritchard hasn’t been much in the game, which is great news for the Chairboys
    Load more entries… More

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    Sunderland striker Ross Stewart is dubbed the Loch Ness Drogba and hopes to be seen firing Black Cats to play-off glory

    ROSS STEWART is known as the Loch Ness Drogba.And the Scottish striker hopes the League One monster that is Sunderland finally show their teeth in tomorrow’s play-off final against Wycombe at Wembley.
    Sunderland ace Ross Stewart relaxes ahead of the big play-off final
    The striker has had a superb season up front for the Black Cats
    The Black Cats have been stuck in English football’s third tier for FOUR seasons now following their back-to-back relegations from the Premier League.
    But they stand potentially 90 minutes away from promotion back to the Championship at the third play-off attempt.
    And Stewart has provided them with some much-needed bite this season — scoring 25 goals.
    Stewart, 25, told SunSport: “When I signed here in January 2021, I knew Sunderland were massive but didn’t realise how much so until I got here and saw the stadium and everything which goes with the club.
    .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}WEST END SHOW .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Crazy stat reveals why Sunderland may finally end Wembley hoodoo in play-offs
    “The fans are so passionate and that has been seen this season with the numbers that have been coming to our games up and down the country.
    “It’s a club that’s probably way too big for this division — and we know how important this game is because it could take them halfway to where they should be, which is the Premier League.”
    It is difficult to argue with that when you consider Sunderland boast the biggest average home attendances outside the top flight (31,426) and are even the 13th best-supported team in the country.
    Stewart missed out on playing under the arch when the Black Cats got there last season in the Papa John’s Trophy as they beat Tranmere because he was an unused sub following his return from a hamstring injury.
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    But that game was played behind closed doors due to the pandemic.
    The striker is no stranger to playing in front of large crowds in big stadiums, having played against both Old Firm clubs in Scotland during his time at Ross County and for Sunderland at the Emirates in the League Cup earlier this season.
    Yet, although Stewart scored against Celtic, tomorrow will be beyond doubt the biggest game he has ever played in 
    This has been the best campaign of Stewart’s career.
    And he said: “This is a season I’ve really enjoyed. I’m so happy to have stayed fit for all of it as well.
    “I’m buzzing with my goals return. My first target was to get double digits, then to add five on to that and then another five. To have got to 25, I’m really happy with that.
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    “But I’d love to add to that at Wembley — but getting promotion would be the big icing on the cake for me.”
    Stewart’s rise from Scottish youth football to today is quite a story.
    Having heartbreakingly been released by Celtic as a kid, his dad paid £500 on top of a whip-round from Albion Rovers fans six years ago to allow the club to sign him from Kilwinning Rangers for £1,500 because they were skint.
    The striker said: “I’ve sorted him a free ticket for Wembley — but would like to think I’ve paid him back now.
    “That was probably the best £500 he has ever spent. I’m glad he did it.” 
    Stewart had so desperately wanted to make it a Celtic but was released when he was 16 because he had not beefed out enough to their liking.
    I’m lucky to be here with the pathway I took but I want to play at the highest level I can and that’s the biggest motivation.ROSS STEWART
    He said: “Like any youngster at Celtic, I had always wanted to play in the Old Firm game but unfortunately I was released. I was a late developer and had not grown physically strong enough at the time.
    “When I joined as a kid, it was probably the best feeling I had ever had — to be at one of the biggest two clubs in Scotland.
    “But, in the end because I hadn’t grown enough physically, I didn’t really play much in my final year.”
    But rather than become disillusioned, Stewart stuck at it and joined Partick Thistle before playing senior football with Ardeer, Kilwinning, Albion Rovers, St Mirren, Alloa on loan before making his real breakthrough with Ross County — winning promotion with the club to the SPL.
    He said: “I always knew I could play football. When you drop out of the system some people can think it’s not for me but I clawed my way back.
    “I’m lucky to be here with the pathway I took but I want to play at the highest level I can and that’s the biggest motivation more than anything.”
    Sunderland play-off miseryTHE Black Cats have never won a play-off campaign. Here is their tale of woe in the end-of-season shootout lottery.
    1987 v Gillingham (Aggregate: 6-6, lost on away goals)
    Back then the club that finished 20th in the second tier went into a promotion-relegation play-off with the teams that finished third, fourth and fifth in the old third division. Sunderland, 20th, faced Gillingham over two legs and drew 6-6 on aggregate but were relegated on away goals.
    1990 Swindon 1 Sunderland 0 
    Great pub quiz question: which team lost a play-off final but still WON promotion? Sunderland.Despite this defeat, the Black Cats went up to the top flight because Swindon were stripped of their victory after being found guilty of 36 breaches of EFL rules and the Robins were relegated to the third division for good measure.
    1998 Charlton 4 Sunderland 4 (Charlton win 7-6 on pens)
    An incredible eight-goal thriller had to be decided by penalties which also proved to be an epic. Fourteen spot kicks were taken with Michael Gray seeing his one saved by keeper Sasa Ilic and the Addicks went into the Premier League.
    2004 Crystal Palace (Aggregate 4-4, Palace won 5-4 on pens)
    Having lost 3-2 at Selhurst Park, the Black Cats thought they were heading to the final 2-0 up at home through Kevin Kyle and Marcus Stewart strikers but Chris Powell netted in the last minute to force extra-time. Jeff Whitley missed the decisive spot-kick.
    2019  Charlton 2 Sunderland 1
    Nabby Sarr’s bizarre own goal put Sunderland in front before Ben Purrington levelled things up. Charlton snatched promotion four minutes into added time through Patrick Bauer.
    2021 Lincoln (lost 3-2 on aggregate)
    Having lost 2-0 at Sincil Bank, Sunderland roared back to level the tie 2-2 by netting two early goals at the Stadium of Light through Ross Stewart and Charlie Wyke but Tom Hopper scored to break their hearts in the second half.

    Stewart was signed by Lee Johnson — who he enjoyed playing for before the ex-Sunderland boss was sacked — but is loving life playing for fellow Scot Alex Neil since he took over in February.
    Since the former Norwich and Preston boss took over, the Black Cats have only lost one of his 17 games in charge, winning nine.
    And Stewart said: “The manager has been excellent. You have to give him big credit.
    “The one thing he has done since he came in is to shore up the defensive part of the team.
    “We have been getting results and not getting beat. We have only lost one game since he has been here.
    “He has really turned the club round in a sense and got us fired up. The players are really enjoying working and playing for him.
    He rose through the ranks in Scottish footballCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun Glasgow
    In action for Ross County against boyhood club CelticCredit: The Sun
    Stewart has earned himself the nickname of Loch Ness Drogba – and loves itCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    “His training is really good, the recovery, the tempo and high intensity. Everything we do has been great.
    “He has been a breath of fresh air for a few boys and you can see that with the performances.”
    Stewart has no idea who coined his nickname “The Loch Ness Drogba” — which he loves — but revealed that his favourite player growing up was Thierry Henry.
    He said: “Arsenal was my team as a kid because I loved watching Henry.”
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    Maybe now he is currently living in Newcastle, they should call him: “The Tyneside Thierry.”But I think those Wearside Mackems might have something to say about that! More

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    Sunderland vs Wycombe: TV channel, live stream, kick-off time, team news for League One play-off FINAL

    SUNDERLAND will be hoping to climb higher up the footballing ladder when they take on Wycombe Wanderers in the League One play-off final THIS SATURDAY.The Black Cats were almost taken the full distance by Sheffield Wednesday in the previous round.
    Patrick Roberts’ late strike fired Sunderland into the play-off final at WembleyCredit: Rex
    Wycombe held off a determined MK Dons to book their spot in the finalCredit: Getty
    But Patrick Roberts’ well-placed stoppage time finish fired Sunderland to a dramatic semi-final victory.
    Meanwhile Wycombe’s ride to Wembley was a little smoother as they led MK Dons for the entire tie.
    However, the Chairboys needed to show their resilience as Dons striker Troy Parrotts’ goal in the second leg, made it a nervy ending to the contest.
    What time does Sunderland vs Wycombe kick off?

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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read More on Play Offs.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FINAL SHOW .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Latest TV info and dates for HUGE League Two play-off final at Wembley
    What TV channel is Sunderland vs Wycombe on and can I live stream it?

    Sunderland vs Wycombe will be broadcasted live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.
    Coverage commences from 2pm UK time on both channels – one hour before kick-off.
    Subscription members will have the option to stream the game live via the Sky Sports website and Sky Go app.

    Can I buy tickets for Sunderland vs Wycombe?
    Tickets are currently on sale for the League One play-off final for Sunderland vs Wycombe.
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    The Wembley Stadium official website have stated that tickets for this years final will be sold via the relevant competing clubs.
    Sunderland have been granted their request for an increase in ticket allocation of 6,000 – from 43,960 to 49,960.
    For further details on tickets, head to the Wembley Stadium ticket portal.
    Team news
    Sunderland duo Aiden McGeady and Nathan Broadhead could both feature in the League One play-off final despite the latter battling through the Sheffield Wednesday whilst not being at 100 percent.
    However, the Black Cats head coach Alex Neil has mentioned that Carl Winchester’s groin issues makes him a doubt and Leon Dajaku may miss the trip through illness.
    Wycombe Wanderers head coach Gary Ainsworth was delighted to name Garath McClearly in his side which held on to defeat MK Dons in the second leg of their semi-final.
    And Ainsworth will be thankful that McClearly came through the game unscathed, along with the rest of the squad.
    Team news to be updated closer to the match
    Latest odds
    90 minutes only

    Sunderland to win 21/20
    Draw 23/10
    Wycombe to win 13/5

    Promotion

    Sunderland to get promoted 4/7
    Wycombe to get promoted 5/4

    *Odds courtesy of Betfair are correct at time of publication More

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    Scott Brown ‘to be appointed Fleetwood boss in Celtic legend’s first managerial role following retirement from playing’

    SCOTT BROWN is set to become Fleetwood Town manager next week, according to reports.The 36-year-old announced his retirement from playing football last week.
    Brown is set to become Fleetwood managerCredit: The Sun
    He also revealed that he is set to move into management.
    Brown took to Instagram to say: “So after 20 years, almost 800 appearances at club level, 55 caps for my country, 10 league titles, 6 Scottish Cup and 7 League Cup wins, it is with a heavy heart that I hang up my boots.
    “When I first started playing, I never dreamt that I would achieve everything that I have. 23 honours and captaining club and country.
    “For this, I would like to thank every team-mate, coach, backroom staff and everyone behind the scenes that I have worked with over the years.
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Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou a:not(.nk-card-link){z-index:2;position:relative;}.css-1uyse24{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border:none;}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,114,238,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-kicker{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24 .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(34,37,38,1);}.css-1uyse24:hover:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,86,180,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:active:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(0,62,129,1);-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-1uyse24:visited:not(:disabled) .nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I’M DONE .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Celtic icon Scott Brown RETIRES as a player as he now aims to become manager
    “You believed in me which gave me the confidence to push myself to accomplish everything I have.
    “I have made some incredible memories – leading the team out to the unbelievable atmosphere at Celtic Park on Champions League nights, captaining Celtic through the Invincibles treble season, going on becoming quadruple treble, 9 in a row champions and wearing the armband for my country will be amongst my proudest moments.
    “To every fan who has supported me from the terraces, thank you.
    “As someone once said, football without fans is nothing and I have been proud to represent you on the pitch. I hope that I will be able to say a proper farewell to all those who have supported me through the years.
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    “To my family, thank you for supporting my dream and for putting up with me from those early days at Hibs which I loved and who gave me the chance of my dream.
    “I am excited for the next stage of my career, fully focusing on becoming a manager as I make the switch from pitch to the dugout.
    “Thank you and until we meet again.”
    And it looks like he has already found his first club.
    According to the Daily Mail, the former Celtic skipper is set to become manager of League One side Fleetwood Town.
    He will take over from Stephen Crainey, who was appointed interim manager until the end of the 2021/22 season.
    Crainey was offered the interim role in December following Simon Grayson’s departure.
    Fleetwood narrowly escaped relegation this season after finishing above Gillingham on goal difference alone. More