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    I’m Championship star who played with Harry Kane and Steven Gerrard before being sacked for paying fine in PENNIES

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    LAWRENCE VIGOUROUX has spoken for the first time about being sacked by Swindon for paying a £50 fine in PENNIES.The Swansea goalkeeper built such a notorious reputation regarding his attitude that no club on these shores would touch him.Lawrence Vigouroux is a changed man at SwanseaCredit: GettyThe attitude and ‘extras’ of Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane when he was a Tottenham youngster inspired VigourouxCredit: GettyThe keeper is looking forward to a huge derby clash with CardiffCredit: RexBut Vigouroux has since learned the error of his ways and hopes to continue producing top performances to help the Welsh side return to the Premier League.The 31-year-old is relishing playing in Saturday lunchtime’s South Wales derby at Cardiff.The London-born former Chile Under-20 international used to be Harry Kane’s shooting training partner at Tottenham and rubbed shoulders with the likes of Steven Gerrard while a youngster at Liverpool. But    he caused a stink in Swindon when the Anfield giants loaned them the then 21-year-old stopper in 2015.READ MORE SWANSEA NEWSVigouroux explained: “I was late to training after being delayed by a visit to the dentist. “I had bad toothache and felt I shouldn’t have been fined because you cannot train when your teeth are hurting. But they insisted I pay.“Because I felt hard done by, I decided to make it ­difficult for them so I visited the bank and asked for £50 in one pennies.“The woman behind the counter thought I was a shopkeeper who needed change — but she only had £20 in one pennies. So in the end I settled for them plus another £20 of 2ps and a tenner of 5ps.Most read in ChampionshipVigouroux has reunited with ex-Swindon chief Luke Williams at SwanseaCredit: RexThe stopper has been called up for Chile’s senior squadCredit: AlamyJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS“I dropped them off to the fines collector — captain Nathan Thompson, who now plays for Stevenage — who wasn’t happy.“Our manager Mark Cooper told me to leave and never come back.Lincoln’s Ethan Erhahon reveals players STOLE the physio’s car and he was offered a ‘scrap’ with a fan – What the EFL“I felt bad and took the pennies back and paid it in notes.“But when I returned to Liverpool, they weren’t happy.“I had a frosty couple of days training from 8am to 6pm.“Eventually Cooper invited me to Doncaster where Swindon were playing. I swallowed my pride, apologised and he took me back.”Vigouroux concedes it was situations like that and often being late for training that made his name mud across the EFL.And his advice to any youngster is: Be professional every day because nothing happens by luck. You can be in the right place at the right time to get an opportunity but if your attitude is not right you will not maintain it.He said: “The easiest thing is making your debut, staying in the team is the hardest. You see lots of players from top clubs who drop down the leagues and find it hard to come back.”One player he uses as a model pro is ex-Spurs team-mate Kane — now at Bayern Munich. Vigouroux, who initially came through the youth ranks at Brentford, spent two seasons in North London. He said: “Tottenham needed a training keeper for the Under-18s so I went there and they ended up signing me.“The one thing I learned was how important the extras were. After training Harry would be on his own or I’d be with him in goal for an hour doing finishing.Jurgen Klopp wanted to take a look at Vigouroux after becoming Liverpool bossCredit: APVigouroux will always remember Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard congratulating him on winning a new contract at AnfieldCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The Times“It was good for me because I was working with someone who was unbelievable at finishing and seeing how his brain worked with angles and where he was more likely to score from. That helped me and him.“That’s the main reason he is where he is now.“It’s that attitude of it’s never enough and do those extras to hone your skills.”Vigouroux was snapped up by Liverpool after a successful trial, following his Spurs coach and now Anfield academy director Alex Inglethorpe to Merseyside.He said: “It’s a mental city. Everyone is football crazy, they support the team like it’s everything.“Even though I was only playing in the Under-21s, I’d got spotted in the streets and stopped by fans.“I didn’t even know how they knew me — but they did, perhaps from watching the Under-21s on Liverpool TV.”And the keeper will never forget how,  after agreeing a new contract at Anfield, Kop legend Gerrard came over at the training ground to congratulate him.He said: “It’s something that has stuck with me my whole career.“It doesn’t matter how big you are in the game, you should always be there to help and inspire youngsters.”The penny-gate saga was not the only time Vigouroux was recalled to Liverpool from Swindon.When Jurgen Klopp took over from Brendan Rodgers in 2015, the German wanted to take a look at the keeper in training.Vigouroux recalled: “It didn’t matter who you were or where you were, he got everyone in for a week to take a look. He wanted to know what he had.”Swansea was once a Premier League club. We’re working as hard as we can and see where it takes us.Lawrene VigourouxVigouroux went on to sign for Swindon permanently where he spent three years — including playing for current Swans boss Luke Williams — before spending six months in his dad’s home nation Chile playing for Everton de Vina del Mar.He soon missed England but found it difficult to find a club before eventually Leyton Orient gave him a chance.He said: “No one here would take me because of my reputation for attitude and being late for training.“I got offered a contract, which was nowhere near the money I’d been earning before, but it was my last chance.”Vigouroux took it with both hands and spent 3½ years there, winning the League Two title under boss Richie Wellens, who had earlier released him from Swindon.He spent last season as a back-up keeper at Burnley during their doomed Premier League campaign before joining Swansea in the summer.And his form has seen him called up for the last few Chile squads as they bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.Vigouroux is happy to be reunited with Williams and said: “I knew he was a great coach at Swindon but he’s in a different stratosphere now.“He’s a huge key to our success so far. Swansea was once a Premier League club. We’re working as hard as we can and see where it takes us.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Cardiff is going to be a hostile ­atmosphere but we mustn’t let the occasion get to us.”Vigouroux must be dreaming of going to the 2026 World CupCredit: Getty More

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      Real Madrid ABANDON transfer pursuit of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold after star’s slump in form

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      REAL MADRID are abandoning their pursuit of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, reports suggest.Alexander-Arnold, 26, has been intensely linked with a move to Real during the January transfer window.Real Madrid are abandoning their pursuit of Liverpool star Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: GettyReal don’t believe Liverpool will let Alexander-Anrold leave mid-seasonCredit: AlamyIn fact, Los Blancos have been so keen that they reportedly offered a £20million fee despite the fact the full-back’s contract runs out in June.According to Relevo, however, the reigning Spanish and European champions are beginning to pull back in their pursuit of the England international.That is because Real see no chance of Liverpool releasing TAA during the winter market.The high-flying Reds are favourites to win the Premier League as they are six points ahead of second place with a game in hand.Read More on FootballAnd the Merseysiders’ title push could be affected if manager Arne Slot lost one of his key players mid-season.That is despite Alexander-Arnold’s recent slump in form, which led to intense criticism from fans.A section of the Anfield faithful fear that Real’s interest got into the defender’s head.The right-back was met by groans and moans during his disasterclass in the 2-2 draw against struggling rivals Manchester United two weeks ago.Most read in FootballBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusivesTrent’s defensive frailties have long been documented, despite noticeable improvements in recent months.Liverpool are also facing the risk of losing two more stars for free in the summer transfer window.How Man United destroyed Trent in spectacular Liverpool draw amid £100m Real Madrid transfer talksAnd those are defensive rock Virgil van Dijk as well as megastar Mohamed Salah. More

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      Former Liverpool star, 34, moves away from football for luxury property business worth millions

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      A FORMER Liverpool captain has opened up a luxury property business in Dubai as he continues his transition away from football.Mamadou Sakho, 34, has launched his career as an entrepreneur after leaving French club Montpellier under a cloud.Former Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho has launched his career as an entreprenuerCredit: Instagram @sakhoandcoThe main venture of Sakho & Co. is ‘Sakho properties’Credit: Instagram @sakhoandcoSakho played for Liverpool for three seasons but left early into Jurgen Klopp’s reignCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe former Premier League defender, who was a leader at Anfield from 2013 to 2017, set up Sakho & Co in Dubai in November.His property and interior design business runs with the motto of ‘Elevate Your Game’.The company also deals in consulting and video production. Sakho joined Crystal Palace in 2017 and spent three seasons at Selhurst Park before moving to Montpellier as a free agent in 2021.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut he reportedly quit the Ligue 1 side two years later over a “lack of respect” – a week after an incredible bust-up with their manager.At the time, Sakho said he will “leave like a man” – amid claims he grabbed and pushed boss Michel Der Zakarian in a training ground row.Sakho joined little-known Georgian club Torpedo Kutaisi in June 2024, playing for them 13 times. But the 29-capped France international’s social media output has been focused on his lifestyle and business in the United Arab Emirates.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis new venture has seen him rub shoulders with the likes of Max Verstappen, Bacary Sagna, Florent Malouda, and ex-Liverpool team-mate Christian Benteke. The dominant strand of his business, Sakho properties, works across Dubai, Paris, Marrakech, and Senegal.Crystal Palace player Mamadou Sakho shows off his £250k Rolls Royce birthday present to himselfSakho has hired multiple professionals to aid himCredit: TikTok – @sakhoandcoOne property advertised is a 75th-floor penthouse with panoramic views in DubaiCredit: TikTok – @sakhoandcoThe ex-Liverpool star lives a life of luxury in DubaiA quick browse of his website shows luxury properties worth millions.One five-bed waterfront villa is selling for £9.6million in the exclusive Dubai neighbourhood of Palm Jumeirah, according to The Mail.Sakho regularly features in the business’ videos, walking prospective buyers around properties, decked out in his sunglasses. Alongside his launch party in November, Sakho posted: “It is finally time to share a project that unites my passion for football with my entrepreneurial spirit.”A spirit that has been forged and enriched in recent years and to which every minute of my free time has been dedicated.”I can’t wait to introduce you to Sakho & Co, an ecosystem that offers a complete range of interconnected services designed to support entrepreneurs, investors and individuals looking for tailor-made solutions!”Team Sakho and Co. are based in DubaiSakho regularly updates his 1.6million Instagram followersCredit: Instagram @sakhoandcoHis new life in the United Arab Emirates has seen him become a guest of Red Bull at the F1Liverpool signed Sakho from Paris Saint-Germain for £18million in September 2013.He arrived with a big reputation, having been PSG’s youngest-ever captain at the age of 17 years and eight months. He helped the Reds finish second in the Prem under Brendan Rodgers in the 2013-14 season.But Sakho, who captained Liverpool several times in the absence of Steven Gerrard and Jordan Henderson, fell out with Jurgen Klopp in 2016.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was sent home from Liverpool’s pre-season tour in the United States after missing a team meeting and turning up late to a recovery session. The Frenchman spent that season on loan at Palace before joining the London side permanently for £26m in September 2017. Sakho linked up with former Liverpool team-mate Christian Benteke (right)Credit: Instagram @sakhoandcoEx-Arsenal full-back Bacary Sagna also attended Sakho’s launchJurgen Klopp banished Sakho from pre-season training in 2016/17Credit: PA:Press AssociationHe later spent three seasons with Crystal PalaceCredit: Reuters More

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      Nottingham Forest 1 Liverpool 1: Slot’s super-subs combine 22 SECONDS after coming on to equalise but Arsenal get boost

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      ARNE SLOT will never make a better substitution in his career.Nottingham Forest were rolling with the punches and hanging on comfortably to their slender lead, following Chris Wood’s early opener.Diogo Jota levelled for LiverpoolCredit: ReutersFor the first time this season, Liverpool’s title charge looked on the verge of being derailed as Forest appeared to be on course to dish out a second defeat to the Dutchman.But it’s when the chips are down the great bosses earn their lolly – and some go on to become legends.That’s when Slot turned to his bench and sent on Kostas Tsimikas and Diogo Jota for Ibrahima Konate and Andy Robertson.But even he couldn’t have imagined the instant impact his changes would make.READ MORE IN football Because 22 SECONDS later Liverpool were celebrating one of great turnarounds of the Dutchman’s career as Tsimikas delivered a corner from the right with his first touch.And Jota stole between Murillo and Chris Wood to head past Matz Sels to score a sensational leveller with his first touch to maintain Liverpool’s stranglehold at the top of the table.Seconds earlier Jota had hugged with his old boss Nuno Espirito Santo on the sideline – yet Nuno must have known better than anyone what the little striker was capable of.Jota has now scored seven goals in his last seen games against Forest and he could have had a hat-trick if he wasn’t denied by two stunning Sels stops.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSSuddenly Liverpool looked like champions and Mo Salah cursed his luck twice as Sels defied him with a stunning save before Ola Aina cleared another netbound effort off the line.In the end a share of the points will please both sides after Chris Wood picked the ideal time to score his first ever career goal against Liverpool after eight minutes.Celtic fans set off huge pyro display as teams walk out against DundeeFor a while it looked as if the 33-year-old hitman had blown the title race wide open – until Slot played his jokers!The City Ground seemed to have turned the clock back to the heady days of the 70’s and 80’s when this pair regularly battled it out for all the major prizes.Forest were in their traditional red, white and red Adidas kit – Liverpool, as they used to be in yesteryear, white-shirted with black shorts.Then, just before kick-off, the hairs on the back of your neck rose as Forest fans belted out their anthem Mull of Kintyre as the City Ground cranked the volume up to 11!Yet it was Liverpool who found their feet first as they pinned the home side back from the first whistle.Cody Gakpo was first to let fly with an ambitious attempt which sailed high and wide.Then Ryan Gravenberch sliced a similarly ambitious effort high into the Trent End.When the Dutch midfielder worked a one-two with Mo Salah to carve Forest open, only to fire over again, Arne Slot couldn’t hide his frustration and spun round in his technical area.Chris Wood opened the scoringCredit: GettyHis fine form continuedCredit: RexYet things were about to get a lot more complicated for the Dutchman when Forest did what they’ve been doing all season.Soak up pressure – then ruthlessly spring out of defence like a coil – to score on the break!Ironically, it was Liverpool’s best player this season, Salah, who was the sinner on this occasion.He cheaply surrendered possession near the halfway line, but what happened next was pure Forest 2025-style!Callum Hudso-Odoi pounced on the ball and pinged a pass through the lines to Anthony Elanga.The former Manchester United winger took two touches, one to set himself up, the next a sublime diagonal ball into Chris Wood’s path.The big Kiwi had expertly pulled off Virgil van Dijk’s shoulder to create a few yards of space for himself and he put it to good use, expertly clipping the ball left-footed beyond Alisson to find the far corner. One attack …. 1-0 to Forest. Where have we heard that before under Nuno?Jota got Liverpool back on level termsCredit: RexHe had only just come off the benchCredit: PAThe City Ground exploded in a frenzy of red and white as Forest fans danced in delight.It was Wood’s third goal on the spin for Forest as he took his goal tally up to 13 for the season.Significantly, it was his first ever career goal against Liverpool …. at the ripe old age of 33.But judging by his celebration he appeared to think it was worth the wait!Forest were soon back on the front foot when they lost possession cheaply again and Murillo drove forward before letting fly with a long range rocket which flew just wide.Liverpool were rocking and so was the City Ground as the home crowd lapped up the action. Wood’s goal was enough for Forest to temporarily leapfrog Arsenal, into second place in the Prem – a mere three points behind leaders Liverpool.The burning question was could they stay there?Liverpool’s composure had gone and even Van Dijk seemed affected as he clattered an attempted clearance off Elliott Anderson.The ball ricocheted across the face of his own goal past Alisson but fortunately Andy Robertson was on hand to shepherd the ball out for a throw-in as Elanga threatened to pounce.Forest were like a big lad teasing his little brother – holding Liverpool at arm’s length – watching them take swings without making contact as a string of long-range shots flew by.Luis Diaz was the latest to take a pot shot which failed to trouble Matz Sels, then Dominik Szoboszlai headed a Gakpo cross off Neco Williams as Forest continued to defend deep and in numbers.Liverpool’s growing angst was summed up when Trent Alexander-Arnold sent Diaz sprinting forward with Gakpo to his right to create a 2v1 situation.But it was Forest’s lone defender Murillo who read Diaz’s intent perfectly to intercept the striker’s pass and come away with the ball to roars of appreciation.By half-time Liverpool had enjoyed 70% of possession and managed nine shots – but not one of them was on target.Forest picked up a pair of bookings either side of the break. Morgan Gibbs-White for urging ref Chris Kavanagh to book Szoboszlai for fouling him – then Ryan Yates joined him for grabbing Diaz.Slot must have feared his side were on course to suffer their second defeat of the season at Forest’s hands.READ MORE SUN STORIESEspecially as Murillo was at his magnificent best – attracting the ball like a human magnet – rampaging up the park to win tackles and generally rattle the Reds.But then Slot turned to his bench and hit the jackpot.Arne Slot performed a masterclass with his subsCredit: Reuters More

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      Arsenal ‘will sign Martin Zubimendi at end of season’ after pipping Liverpool in transfer for Real Sociedad star

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      ARSENAL have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi at the end of the season.The midfielder has been targeted by several top Premier League clubs in recent months.Arsenal have won the race to sign Martin ZubimendiCredit: GettyBut the Gunners have won the race for his signature and will trigger his £51million release clause, report the Daily Mail.Arsenal wanted to sign the Spaniard immediately but Real Sociedad refused to let him go before the end of the season.Zubimendi was courted by the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City in the summer but did not want to leave.Arsenal were understood to not be in contention then, although Mikel Arteta has been sounding out a move for his compatriot for the last 12 months.READ MORE ON ARSENALArteta signed Mikel Merino in the summer to add to his midfield options, with Jorginho and Thomas Partey out of contract in the summer.Zubimendi played a role in Spain’s Euro 2024 success in the summer and came on in the final against England.He has won 15 caps for his country and also helped Real Sociedad qualify for the Champions League last season.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSArsenal have been tipped to sign a forward this month given injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, but Arteta said the club will not rush into transfers.Most read in FootballHe said: “We are actively looking in the market to improve the squad. That’s been like that since day one.”How Spurs can destroy Arsenal’s title hopes with Ange Postecoglou ‘wheels of chaos’ tactic More

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      My dad will look down with pride when Forest host Liverpool and rekindle 70s rivalry, says Brian Clough’s son Nigel

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      BRIAN CLOUGH will be looking down with pride when Nottingham Forest host Liverpool in an amazing rekindling of their 70s rivalry.That is the message from his son Nigel — who played for both sides — ahead of tonight’s unlikely Premier League title crunch at the City Ground.Liverpool and Nottingham Forest collide in an unlikely top-of-the-table clash tonightCredit: GETTYThe match is a throwback to the ’70’s when the clubs were the best in the landCredit: REXBrian Clough was in charge of Forest when they went toe-to-toe with the Reds for major honoursCredit: PASon Nigel believes his late father will be looking down proudly this eveningCredit: REXForest are the story of the Prem season after six consecutive top-flight wins that has them battling with the big boys at the top.If Nuno Espirito Santo’s side make it seven on the bounce, they will cut Liverpool’s lead to just three points.Clough Sr took Forest from the old Second Division in 1977 to break the dominance of Liverpool and land the First Division title and two European Cups within just three years.Mansfield boss Nigel, 58, whose League One side play Wigan in the FA Cup tonight, declared: “Dad would have been very proud to see Forest back up there.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“So many older supporters have said they wish their children were around to see that time.“Now, they are getting a little taste. Not of what it was — but a little taste of them being up there.“It’s just brilliant for those fans. It was always special playing Liverpool and I couldn’t believe the recent stat that Forest had not won at Liverpool since 1969.“For how much Forest did challenge them, they could not win at Anfield — despite some good nil-nils there.Most read in Football“It will be another sell-out at the City Ground. People can’t get tickets there these days, although they are welcome to come to the One Call Stadium if they want to see some live football.”Back in the late 1970s, Forest versus Liverpool was the country’s biggest rivalry.Elon Musk wants to buy Liverpool in stunning takeover says dad who fears club will ‘raise price’ for world’s richest manOld Big ’Ead, who died in 2004, masterminded Forest’s rise from the second tier in 1976-1977 and they won the First Division the next year.What followed was even more remarkable — European Cup triumphs in 1979 and 1980, following on from Liverpool’s consecutive wins before that.Forest also beat Liverpool in the 1978 League Cup final at Wembley as Clough and his Anfield rival, Bob Paisley, created an enduring rivalry.Clough Jr, who was 12 when Forest won the title in 1978, said: “I never thought I would see the sides up there together in the top three or four again.“It brings back memories of the late 70s when they were English football’s dominant forces.“Every time they have played in recent history, it’s always Liverpool who have been strong favourites.“But this does take you back all those years, when Forest were the only side responsible for preventing Liverpool’s dominance continuing.Dad would have been very proud to see Forest back up there.Nigel Clough“They were established European champions, had dominated in the mid-70s and looked as though they would continue to do that until Forest came along and upset the apple cart.”For a few years, Forest were then equal to them at least.”It will bring back a lot of memories for the older Forest supporters, who can tell their children that 40-odd years ago they were toe-to-toe with Liverpool.“This is the closest it’s been since that time at the moment.“I remember watching the rivalry build and Liverpool players from that time acknowledge the role Forest played in giving them that challenge they were not getting anywhere else in Europe.“It was not a geographical rivalry. It was just a rivalry on the pitch after becoming Liverpool’s closest challengers.“It wasn’t like a Liverpool v Manchester United situation.“But we just had so many battles around that time — including the League Cup final, as well as pipping them for the title and beating them in the European Cup first round.Matches between Forest and Liverpool were the pinnacle of English football in the 1970sCredit: GETTYNigel Clough played for both Nottingham Forest and LiverpoolCredit: GETTY“It all just evolved. The one uniting factor, if anything, was the Hillsborough disaster a few years later.“You would never get the tragedy chanting like with Liverpool v Manchester United — it’s not that sort of rivalry.”It is just purely the rivalry on the pitch of two very, very good football teams at their peak.”After two seasons finding their feet back in the top flight, Forest have suddenly hit form.They are the only team to win at Anfield this season, thanks to Callum Hudson-Odoi’s goal in September.And Clough — who played over 300 times for Forest before signing for Liverpool in 1993 — reckons they have to be taken seriously as title contenders.He added: “You can’t ignore Forest now because of the run they have had, similar to when Leicester won it.“It breeds confidence, which is a commodity in football you can’t buy.“You can’t instil it, either. The only way to get it is by winning games.“I saw some of the game at Wolves the other night and, after Forest scored early, the home side failed to take one of two or three chances.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Forest won it 3-0 when it could have maybe been 1-1.“When games like that are going for them, you can’t rule them out.” More

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      If Liverpool beat Forest the Prem title race is over but a win for visitors will resurrect shades of Leicester 2016

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      SIX points clear with a game in hand.Surely only complacency can prevent Liverpool running away with the Prem crown?Chris Wood and Nottingham Forest could dent Liverpool’s Premier League title hopesIf Liverpool beat Nottingham Forest on Tuesday that could practically seal the titleNuno Espirito Santo’s Forest tactics beat Liverpool earlier in the seasonLiverpool boss Arne Slot will be looking for revenge against Forest after the early-season defeat at AnfieldAnother win on Tuesday night and Prem bosses can start planning the title ceremony on May 25.Yet Arne Slot and his men head to the City Ground with questions suddenly being asked.And if Nuno Espirito Santo’s side can repeat their shock September Anfield triumph, then the alarm bells might just start ringing.Liverpool were imperious over the Christmas fixtures, building on the impressive early foundations of the club’s new era.Read More on FootballHitting Spurs for six was a let-off for Ange Postecoglou’s side, even if Slot will not have been impressed with the three goals his team conceded.Then an ultimately comfortable home win over Leicester was followed by another capital day in the capital as West Ham were crushed by five – a margin that might easily have been doubled.Those wins ensured that Arsenal’s return to winning ways in their own crop of fixtures kept Liverpool’s cushion at the top of the pile.And when the Gunners dropped two points at Brighton on Saturday evening – courtesy of the Joao Pedro penalty decision that split opinion – Liverpool had the chance to really make them pay when they hosted a Manchester United side who travelled to Anfield seemingly already plucked and ready for the oven.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOnly it didn’t work out that way.Liverpool delivered arguably their worst display of the campaign and were fortunate that Harry Maguire did not take all three points for United deep in stoppage time.‘The ref made a mistake’ – Virgil van Dijk furious at Bergvall’s winner moments after Spurs star should have seen redFan unhappiness at the apparent contract game being played by Trent Alexander-Arnold saw some home supporters vent at the England right-back, while doubts over the long-term futures of Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk will persist until they put pen to paper on new deals.Further grumblings – and not just at referee Stuart Atwell – came in the wake of another sub-par performance when they returned to N17 against Spurs in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg last week.And while Liverpool would remain favourites even if they slip up at Nottingham Forest, the mood music might start to change – with the possibility that we really are in for a title race, rather than a procession.Slot, long enough in the game to know that a couple of ragged performances are only to be expected given the sheer intensity of the fixture list, has done everything not to show concern.After all, Liverpool did not exactly lose anything last week. They remain in charge of their own Prem destiny and will back themselves to overturn the first-leg deficit when Tottenham arrive on Merseyside next month.But Forest do not have to be told a gameplan by Nuno – they already know it inside out.Unlike many of the sides who have been stripped bare by Liverpool’s attacking insurgencies, Forest will rely on their own approach to catch the visitors on the counter.The defensive solidity that has seen Forest concede just 19 goals – the same as Liverpool and only one more than Arsenal – is a major reason Nuno’s men go into the match in an unexpected third place.Win it and shades of Leicester’s 2016 triumph will be resurrected. After all, Forest will be within three points of the summit.A second Prem defeat of the season for Liverpool would raise Arsenal’s hopes as well, especially as the Reds have to travel to Brentford and Bournemouth either side of hosting Ipswich in their next three top-flight matches.Yet a Liverpool win, ending any talk of a “blip” before it has a chance to gain traction, could be a genuine hammer blow – especially as it would put added pressure on Mikel Arteta’s Gunners ahead of the North London derby on Wednesday.Slot’s team for the FA Cup win over Accrington on Saturday signalled his awareness of the importance of Tuesday’s game in the greater picture.Potential Arsenal title boostLiverpool cannot win, or lose, the league title at the City Ground. There is nearly half a season to go.But three more points in their quest to raise the trophy in front of their own fans for the first time since 1990 – Jurgen Klopp’s 2020 triumph saw muted celebrations in front of an empty Kop because of the pandemic – and it will be hard to see what could stop them.Conversely, anything that opens the door, even by a chink, will bring additional scrutiny of Liverpool’s depth and determination.Arsenal – and Forest – will sense there is a vulnerability. The fans of all three sides will intensify those elements.READ MORE SUN STORIESRemember, too, it was in the corresponding early January midweek fixtures in 2016 that Leicester survived an inquisition by Spurs to squeeze a 1-0 win that was to make a huge difference in the run-in.Who would have thought Forest against Liverpool, two weeks after Christmas, might be the biggest game of the season so far? But it feels like it is. More

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      Who is Liverpool wonderkid Rio Ngumoha, 16, who becomes Reds’ youngest EVER player after debut in FA Cup

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      RIO NGUMOHA has been handed a shock first start for Liverpool in the FA Cup third round against Accrington Stanley.He will become Liverpool’s youngest EVER player when he makes his debut against the League Two side.England Under-17 international Rio Ngumoha will start against Accrington Stanley in the FA CupCredit: REXThe 16-year-old has been training with the Reds’ first-team squad this seasonCredit: AFPThe 16-year-old wonderkid “truly believes” he can win the Ballon d’Or one day and is the talk of the Anfield faithful?SunSport is on hand to shed some light on the starlet, who has the brightest of futures ahead of him.How long has Rio Ngumoha been at Liverpool?The teenager joined the Merseysiders in September from Chelsea in a deal that proved to be the last of Arne Slot’s first transfer window.Liverpool made their move to sign the starlet in April after seeing his goalscoring exploits in Chelsea’s Under-17 Premier League Cup final win over Wolves.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut the west Londoners’ fury at the Reds’ snapping up of Ngumoha meant he wouldn’t be able to play for the Kop club’s Under-18s until September.The forward has impressed Slot during his brief stint at the club, so much so that he was called up to train with the first team in November.Ngumoha recently travelled with the Reds for their Champions League clash with Girona.But he was ineligible to play in the match as he didn’t meet the List B criteria for Europe’s elite club competition. Most read in FootballThe only way he could’ve played in the match would have been if he’d taken a place in the 25-man List A squad.He was then an unused substitute for the Reds during the Carabao Cup match against Southampton on December 19.Liverpool snapped up Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea in the summerCredit: GETTYWhat position does Rio Ngumoha play?The right-footed starlet can play across the front line but predominantly features on the left wing.Has Rio Ngumoha represented England?Ngumoha has been capped at Under-15 and Under-17 level for the Three Lions, finding the back of the net twice for the former side.Arne Slot says its ‘Not only Trent’ who played poorly against Man Utd What has Rio Ngumoha said?Ngumoha isn’t short of confidence and has already set his sights on winning the Ballon d’Or – despite not having a single first-team appearance to his name.During an appearance on Inside the Academy, he said: “I truly believe I can win the Ballon d’Or one day.”I want to be regarded as one of the best players to ever play football and be a legend of the game.”The love for football started when I was four or five. Rio Ngumoha has represented England at Under-15 and Under-17 levelsCredit: REXThe starlet has ambitions of one day winning the Ballon d’OrCredit: AFP”I was watching my brother and I wanted to be like him.”I was going to academies from a young age and it was a big thing when so many clubs wanted to sign me.”I have learned you have to be resilient and believe in yourself. “You can have a few bad games but you have to have that belief that you are the best.”For me, if I am in bad form I just put it behind me and work hard.”What has Arne Slot said about Rio Ngumoha?Before Ngumoha’s debut, Slot said: “It’s always special if young players make their debut, there’s a smile on my face, he’s a young kid.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Everytime he trains with us, he’s not afraid to do what he’s good at.”What shirt number will Rio Ngumoha wear?He has been handed the No 73 shirt. More

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      I’m a Man Utd star following the footsteps of my dad and aiming to shock Liverpool in biggest game of my career so far

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      A MANCHESTER UNITED loanee is looking to end rivals Liverpool’s stunning momentum when Accrington Stanley visit Anfield.The Premier League high-flyers and Accrington face off on Saturday in the third round of the FA Cup.Manchester United loanee Sonny Aljofree plays for Accington Stanley this seasonCredit: RexSonny is the son of ex-Man Utd academy graduate HasneyCredit: GettySonny is determined to beat Liverpool in the FA Cup and was contacted by Man UtdCredit: GettySonny used to watch his dad Hasney take on Liverpool with PlymouthCredit: Sonny AljofreeAnd Sonny Aljofree – the son of United academy graduate Hasney – is expected to line up against the Reds from the start after joining Stanley on loan in August.Sonny, 20, had a feeling he would be locking horns with Man Utd’s biggest rivals before the draw and is relishing the incredible opportunity.The centre-back, who trained with the first team last season despite never making a senior appearance, is set for a full circle moment.Following the FA Cup draw, Hasney, 46, sent his son an old photo of him watching his dad’s former team Plymouth take on Liverpool from the Kop stands in the FA Cup third round back in 2017.Read More on Man UtdSonny told Manchester Evening News: “I was sat in the kitchen, having my tea with my family and I saw Liverpool come up and I had just a funny feeling. “I was like, ‘I can’t play against United at Old Trafford, so the next best thing will probably be Liverpool here’.”I said to my mum, ‘This is gonna be us here’. Obviously, it came up and all of us have just gone off and started cheering.”It’s another chance to learn and gain valuable experience. I think everyone’s up for it, and I definitely am because as a United fan, you want to beat them, so that’s what we’re going there to do, hopefully.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUnited contacted Sonny after the draw and sent him a powerful message.However, the Manchester giants also urged him to “take it in” and enjoy this incredible opportunity.Man Utd fans say ‘call the game off’ as Ruben Amorim confirms major line-up decision for Arsenal FA Cup clash Sonny added: “[Man Utd told me] Just win. “They’ve told me to [make] sure that I take it in and not just let it go by, so just as much as it is a massive experience and there’ll be nerves around it, just trying to take it in and appreciating the kind of magnitude of the game that I’m hopefully going to be involved in.”Hasney will be one of 50 to 55 friends and family supporting Sonny on the biggest day of his career, which has seen him registering 16 appearances with Accrington across all competitions.The former defender began his career at United before leaving the club without making an appearance. The ex-England youth international went on to play for Bolton, Dundee United, Plymouth, Sheffield Wednesday, Oldham and Swindon Town.He returned to the Red Devils as a youth coach before taking up a role as head of coach education and development in Singapore.Sonny added: “My dad’s always been the one who’s been giving me advice throughout and his thoughts and you take that and do it because he’s been through it. He knows what I’m going through.”I think there’s not that much advice you can give me against Liverpool, except making sure I’m doing all the right things leading up to the game, so I have no excuses when it comes to it. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think that’s what he’s always said to me no matter how you play, you just can’t have any regrets leading up to any game that you’re playing, so you’re leaving it all out there and making sure in your head you’re prepared and ready, doing all the right things leading up to it.”Sonny joined United’s academy at a very young age but has yet to make a senior appearance with the club instead loaning him out to Altrincham before moving him to Accrington.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first year at Man UtdSIR JIM RATCLIFFE’S minority takeover at Manchester United was announced on Christmas Eve in 2023 – and a lot has happened at Old Trafford since…December 2023 – Man Utd confirm Ratcliffe’s takeover on Christmas Eve, vowing to invest £245m into Old TraffordJanuary 2024 – Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford photographed meeting Erik ten Hag during tour of Carrington January 2024 – Omar Berrada poached from Man City as new CEO February 2024 – Ratcliffe’s £1billion, 27.7 per cent takeover officially completed February 2024 – Former CEO Richard Arnold quits board as Ineos pair John Rees and Rob Nevin addedMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe bans words “awesome” and “lukewarm cappuccino” in bizarre moveMarch 2024 – Matt Johnson appointed head of women’s footballMarch 2024 – Ratcliffe announces plans to build “Wembley of the North” to replace Old TraffordMarch 2024 – Man Utd NYSE share price drops to $13.73 on March 21 – down from $20.52 immediately after Ratcliffe takeover in DecemberApril 2024 – Senior staff club credit cards and private cars cancelled April 2024 – John Murtough quits as football director April 2024 – Jason Wilcox appointed technical director after compensation package agreed with Southampton May 2024 – Ratcliffe turns Carrington “toxic” after sending email to employees slamming “disgraceful” lack of cleanlinessMay 2024 – Work finally starts on leaking Old Trafford roofMay 2024 – Man Utd finish eighth in Premier League, worst-ever finish May 2024 – Ratcliffe gives employees just one week to decide if they want to accept redundancy May 2024 – Staff forced to pay for own transport to FA Cup final and only given one ticketMay 2024 – Pre-match party and hotel for senior staff before FA Cup final axedMay 2024 – Man Utd shock rivals Man City to win FA Cup despite suggestions Erik ten Hag will be sacked regardless of resultJune 2024 – Man Utd announce £50m plans to upgrade Carrington training ground June 2024 – Ratcliffe introduces strict “back to work” policy forcing staff to come into officeJune 2024 – Ratcliffe scores own goal with comments about women’s teamJuly 2024 – Man Utd finally agree deal to bring in Dan Ashworth as sporting director after four months of gardening leave at Newcastle, who received £3m in compensationJuly 2024 – Erik ten Hag signs shock new contract extension until 2026July 2024 – Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake appointed assistant managers, Andreas Georgson first-team coach and Jelle ten Rouwelaar goalkeeper coach. Darren Fletcher’s role changes from technical director to first-team coach. Steve McClaren, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart.July 2024 – Ex-Chelsea technical director Christopher Vivell joins on short-term basis as interim director of recruitment July 2024 – Jean-Claude Blanc added to Man Utd board  July 2024 – Man Utd cut down number of staff on US pre-season tour to 125July 2024 – Ratcliffe makes 250 redundancies including popular media man John Allen, historian Cliff Butler and kitman Alex WylieAugust 2024 – Man Utd splash out £199m in the summer transfer window August 2024 – Matchday staff lunchboxes scrapped and some forced to eat beside toiletOctober 2024 – Man Utd stop paying £2m-a-year ambassador salary to Sir Alex FergusonOctober 2024 – Staff Christmas party cancelled October 2024 – “Back to work” policy costing Utd fortune to convert hospitality suites into temporary offices between home matchesOctober 2024 – Erik ten Hag sacked with club 14th in Premier League table, costing club £15mNovember 2024 – Ruben Amorim appointed new Man Utd manager on deal until 2027 after stumping up £10m release clause November 2024 – Coach Ruud van Nistelrooy axed by new manager Ruben Amorim November 2024 – Man Utd chiefs locked in blame game over summer shambles including Erik ten Hag situation and transfer signings November 2024 – Ratcliffe reportedly set to half £40,000 budget paid to Manchester United Disabled Supporters AssociationDecember 2024 – Ratcliffe admits “mediocre” Man Utd “still in last century” December 2024 – Fans protest after OAP and children concessions tickets ditched and minimum home ticket cost up to £66December 2024 – Dan Ashworth sacked after five months as sporting directorDecember 2024 – £100 staff Christmas bonus ditched for £40 M&S voucherDecember 2024 – Ceiling starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference after 3-0 defeat to BournemouthDecember 2024 – Reports of a mice infestation at Old Trafford as rodent droppings found in food kiosks and plush suites as food hygiene ratings drops to just two starsDecember 2024 – SunSport reveals Ratcliffe cuts £40,000 funding donation to Association of Former Manchester United Players charity More