Longtail

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd chief admits club risk FIVE-YEAR trophy drought as they commit £2BILLION to 100,000-seat ‘New Trafford’ stadium

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED admit they “risk” a five-year trophy drought by committing £2BILLION to “New Trafford”.United yesterday unveiled their vision for a state-of-the-art, 100,000-seater home next to the Theatre of Dreams.Man Utd have unveiled ambitious plans for a new £2bn stadiumCredit: PACo-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe revealed the club would have gone bust without his interventionCredit: GettyUnited chief executive Omar Berrada admits the £2bn outlat is a ‘risk’Credit: PABut it came less than 24 hours after co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe claimed the club could have gone bust by Christmas without his savage cost-cutting measures.The “brave” stadium plans were backed by legendary former boss Sir Alex Ferguson.While chief executive Omar Berrada hopes current under-fire boss Ruben Amorim will still be in charge when the stadium is completed in 2030. However, asked if the build could affect their competitiveness on the pitch, Berrada admitted: “That is a risk.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Clearly it’s something we want to avoid.”We don’t want to inhibit our ability to invest in the team, for us to continue being competitive while we are building a new stadium.”There are various ways around that. One of the things we are looking at is to shorten the construction timelines so we can have a new stadium within five years, that’s our ambition.”In the meantime, by getting our finances back in order and becoming profitable, we believe we can be very competitive.”Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsPrem rivals Arsenal and Tottenham have also moved homes in recent memory — and suffered on the field as a result. But Berrada added: “The big benefit that this club has is that it has the biggest fanbase in the world and therefore the ability to be the No 1 in terms of revenues it generates.”Sir Jim Ratcliffe launches scathing attack on struggling Man Utd squad saying some ‘not good enough’ and ‘overpaid’United hope to start construction this year, but the aim is to be in their new home by the start of the 2030-31 season.The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) said the images looked “stunning and exciting” but the project raises more questions than answers.Amorim’s men are currently 14th in the table and many regulars believe the squad needs a major rebuild.The MUST statement said: “Whilst investment is much needed and welcome, fans remain anxious about what it means and what the consequences will be.”Will it drive up ticket prices and force out local fans? Will it add to the debt burden which has held back the club for the last two decades?”Will it lead to reduced investment in the playing side at a time when it is so badly needed?”Man Utd ratings vs Arsenal as De Ligt shows exactly why Red Devils signed him but Zirkzee is as frustrating as everIT was a performance that would have pleased Ruben Amorim but a 1-1 draw with Arsenal does little to paper over the cracks at Manchester United.On a day when the Old Trafford crowd protested the owners, the players stood up to show their remains life in a club that fans say is experiencing a “slow death”.There was a lack of clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes as both sides goalscoring troubles continued.A moment of magic was needed and Fernandes stepped up as he so often does.Arsenal’s wall was full of man mountains, but Fernandes found the power, dip and accuracy to beat David Raya with his free-kick – even if the wall was marched 11.2 yards back instead of the regulated ten.Mikel Arteta’s side came out swinging in the second-half with their makeshift No9 up top, and it took a brilliant effort from Declan Rice to level the scores.United were able to frustrate them and remain a threat on the counter but eventually had to settle for a point in a much-improved performance.Here is how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the United performances.The stadium plans were backed by Fergie, who said: “Manchester United should always strive for the best in everything it does.”Old Trafford holds so many special memories for me but we must be brave and seize this opportunity to build a new home fit for the future, where history can be made.”United believe they can continue to play in the 74,000-capacity Old Trafford, which has been their home since 1910, right up until their new stadium is ready.The cost of the project left some fans scratching their heads — as it came just a few hours after Ratcliffe issued his chilling warning about the club’s finances.Berrada confirmed the stadium, along with club areas like fan zones and a megastore, will not be paid for by the general public.He added: “We won’t be asking for taxpayer money.”But, at the same time, the stadium, the new build in isolation does not make sense if there’s not an investment in the wider generation project.”United will also explore the possibility of raising some cash by selling the new stadium’s naming rights.Berrada admitted the hope in the boardroom is that Amorim will still be in charge come 2030.The Frenchman said: “We’d love it if he was still coach when we move.”United’s hopes of playing Champions League football next term are hanging on them winning the Europa League.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey host Real Sociedad in a last-16 second-leg clash on Thursday night with the score 1-1.Berrada said: “If we qualify to the Champions League, we will have more revenues and we’ll have more capacity to invest in the team.” More

    • 188 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Where Man Utd’s incredible 100,000 stadium will rank among world’s biggest as ambitious plans revealed

      by

      MAN UTD have confirmed plans to build a stunning 100,000 seater stadium near Old Trafford.The vision, billed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the ‘Wembley of the North’, will cost a staggering £2billion to create.Man Utd have confirmed plans for a new 100,000 seater stadiumCredit: APThe cost of the project is said to be estimated at £2bnPlans are in place for the stadium to be ready to open in five yearsCredit: PAUnited have ambitiously proposed that it will be completed within five years.While, the struggling club will fund the ground itself, while the UK government will help support the regeneration of the Trafford Park area around the stadium.United’s planned stadium would become the largest in the UK – overtaking Wembley, which has a capacity of 90,000.However, how does it compare to football stadia around the world? SunSport does the number crunching to tell you the biggest around the globe.Read more Man Utd news10. Estadio Azteca, 90,000Found in Mexico City, the Azteca is the home of Club America and the Mexico national team.It is the largest stadium in Latin America and sits at an altitude of 7,200 feet above sea level.Steeped in history, it has hosted two World Cup finals – one won by Pele, another by Diego Maradona.It also hosted the infamous England vs Argentina 1986 World Cup match, where Maradona scored the ‘Hand of Goal’, as well as the ‘Goal of the Century.’Most read in FootballIt is currently under renovation to expand its seating from 87,523 ahead of the 2026 World Cup.Sir Jim Ratcliffe explains his plans for the new Man Utd Stadium 9. Wembley Stadium, 90,652The home of football, Wembley is English football’s mecca.The national team plays there, the cup finals and playoffs feature, while Oasis will be playing seven sold-out concerts from the summer.It is currently the largest stadium in the UK, and second biggest in Europe.The stadium was built by Australian firm Multiplex at a cost of £798 million – opening its gates in 2007.Fun fact; it has the largest roof-covered seating capacity in the world.Wembley Stadium is currently the largest stadium in the UKCredit: AFPWembley re-opened in 2007 at a cost of £798mCredit: PA8. King Salman International Stadium, 92,000In its infant stages, the King Salman International Stadium is proposed to be the biggest stadium in Saudi Arabia.It will play host to the 2034 World Cup final, set to take place inside the amazing Riyadh venue.Designed by architecture studio Populous, it will have a capacity for 92,000 spectators.Populous revealed: “The stadium will blend into its surrounding topography, with terrain and natural habitat forming part of the stadium’s roof.”Aside from its aesthetic appeal, this design will provide effective shading and ventilation tailored to the desert climate.”The proposed King Salman International Stadium will host the 2034 World Cup finalCredit: AFP7. Lusail Stadium, 92,349Construction began on Qatar’s Lusail Stadium in 2017, and it hosted only three friendlies before it opened for matches at the 2022 World Cup.It is cooled using solar power and is claimed to have zero carbon footprint.However, there are plans for the stadium to be reconfigured into a 40,000-seat stadium.Excess seating will be removed and other parts of the building repurposed as a community space with shops, cafés, athletic and education facilities, and a health clinic.Qatar’s Lusail Stadium in Doha has future plans to shrink its capacityCredit: Getty6. FNB Stadium, 94,736Nicknamed the Calabash, it is the home of football and rugby union.The South Africa nationals teams of both sports use it, while the South African first division team Kaizer Chiefs also play there.Incredibly, the Chiefs hold the record attendance, which is over the current capacity, of 94,807 for a match against the Orlando Pirates. Again, it’s a venue that’s steeped in history.It was the site of Nelson Mandela’s first speech in Johannesburg after his release from prison in 1990, and served as the venue for a memorial service to him on 10 December 2013.The stunning FNB Stadium is the sporting showpiece of Johannesburg, South AfricaCredit: GettyFamously, Nelson Mandela memorial service was held at the stadiumCredit: Gettyread more sport features5. Misr Stadium, 96,940The Misr Stadium is Egypt’s entry into proceedings.It is part of the Egypt International Olympic City, a large sports complex that has been under construction since 2015.It will have a training ground, two indoor halls (one of them a 15,000-capacity arena), an Olympic-size swimming pool, and other buildings.That’s being built with an eye toward the country’s possible bids for the Olympic Games or the World Cup.Egypt’s Misr Stadium holds close to 97,000 fansCredit: Getty4. Man Utd’s new stadium, 100,000Set to be created by architects at Foster and Partners, the stadium would feature an umbrella design and a new public plaza that is “twice the size of Trafalgar Square”.Three giant towers, inspired by the Red Devils’ trident, will dominate the skyline and hold up the “umbrella” – a sweeping glass and steel canopy above that will keep fans dry inside and outside what would be Britain’s biggest stadium.Their own, tree-lined version of Wembley Way would stretch from beyond the current Holy Trinity statue, to well inside the existing Old Trafford with land currently used for a car park and freight terminal behind the Stretford End coming in to play.Architects Foster and Partners have devised what United’s new ground will look likeThe stadium will boast a public plaza twice the size of Trafalgar SquareThe vision for the stadium has been called the ‘Wembley of the North’3. Camp Nou, 105,000Barcelona are currently reconstructing the Camp Nou to make it the biggest stadium in Europe.They have invested a staggering £1.25billion into the project which will see the capacity rise to 105,000.It was due to be completed in time for the club’s 125th anniversary last November.There has been a fresh delay, though, according to Spanish sports news site Relevo, who report the earliest return is now slated to be October 2025.While the report adds the stadium’s roof will not be installed until summer of 2026.Barcelona’s Camp Nou will have the largest roof in Europe with their stadium rebuildCredit: FC BarcelonaThe redeveloped Camp Nou won’t be finished until 2026Credit: FC Barcelona2. Hassan II Stadium, 115,000Projected to be completed in 2028, Morocco’s Hassan II Stadium will be the biggest stadium in Africa.It is named after the late King Hassan II, who ruled from 1961 to 1999.The proposed Hassan II Stadium was used as a bargaining chip, when Morocco had aspirations of hosting the 2010 World Cup, then 2026 World Cup.They lost both bids, but will now share the tournament with Spain and Portugal in 2030.Estimated costs are around £400million, which seems pretty cheap for now, but will surely rise.The Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco will house a capacity of 115,000Credit: PopulousCosts are estimated at around £400mCredit: Populous1. The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium, 150,000The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in North Korea is the biggest in the world.Officially, it can hold up to maximum of 113,281 spectators.After a 2014 remodel which included the replacement of some bench seating with individual seats, observers estimated the capacity to be lower than its original build.Still, in 2022 it was confirmed, if they so wish, The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium is still expandable to housing 150,000 fans.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt first opened in 1989, currently used for football matches, a few athletics events, and most often for the mass games of the Arirang Festival.North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un held a 2022 New Year’s Eve party on the grounds there, while he has also delivered political speeches there too.The Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in North Korea is officially the biggest stadium in the worldCredit: AlamyAstonishingly, it can expand its capacity to a whopping 150,000 spectatorsCredit: Getty More

    • 200 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Football ‘legend’ wins row with crypto millionaire ex-husband in bitter divorce fight over their £7m mansion

      by

      A FOOTBALL “legend” has won a row with her crypto millionaire ex-husband during their bitter divorce fight over a £7million mansion.Women’s football icon Diane Culligan, 63, has been battling with her financier ex Anthony, 62 since their divorce in 2022.Diane Culligan, 63, has won a legal battle to keep her £7million mansionCredit: StartraksDiane and her former husband Anthony Culligan, 62, argued the house should be sold and the money dividedCredit: Supplied by Champion NewsThe London mansion boasts nine-bedrooms and a cinema roomCredit: Supplied by Champion NewsThe power couple had been together for 40 years but when they decided to give the place a £2.1million revamp, things turned sour.As they separated, the Primrose Hill property in north London, which boasted nine bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a home cinema, became a point of contention.The pair filed for divorce and it soon became difficult to navigate how they would split their assets.Mrs Culligan blamed him for the split, claiming he had “walked out of the marriage without explanation,” which she claimed left her needing counselling.Read more SportMr Culligam said his wife for “overbearing” and “irrational” and claimed his wife had twice physically restrained him from leaving when he had tried to walk out.They agreed that their £27.3m fortune should be split equally, but went to the High Court in a fight over how to do that, with Mrs Culligan desperate to stay in their former home.In a now published judgement, the judge declared that Diane Culligan could keep the million-pound mansion.Despite acknowledging that a single person might not need a nine-bedroom property, the judge accepted that she an “emotional connection” to the London property.Most read in FootballMr Justice MacDonald said: “The wife contends that she needs to remain in the former matrimonial home.”Whilst the standard of living enjoyed by the parties during the marriage was a good one, on the face of it, it is difficult to see how the wife’s current needs as a single person extend to a nine bedroom, seven bathroom property.”Kyle Walker party girls revealed as globe-trotting models – and lift lid on how star is enjoying his new life in MilanHe said even though one of the adult children currently lives at the property, and another plans to move in, the house doesn’t necessarily fit Mrs Culligan’s “current needs.”The Judge added: “Against this, I accept that the wife has an emotional connection to the former matrimonial home to a degree that was not apparent in the evidence of the husband.”Within that latter context, I am satisfied that a fair distribution of the assets can be achieved without the need to sell the former matrimonial home.”The couple met in 1982 before marrying while living in Japan ten years on and having three children together.Both are highly successful with Mr Culligan making a fortune out of digital currencies and Mrs Culligan being a self-proclaimed football “pioneer.”In 2019, the couple set up a company, with Mrs Culligan as the sole shareholder, which was used to purchase the Lionesses, with her husband becoming a director.The 63-year-old founded the Women’s Championship football side which she ran as chairman until 2023.They lived a luxury lifestyle after Anthony’s crypto skills turned £10,000 into a whopping £20million sum.With the rest of Anthony’s crypto cash, the couple made investments into property and built up an impressive portfolio.Mr Justice MacDonald said the former couple agreed that neither of them should get more than a half share of their fortune, but disagreed on how it should be split.Mr Justice Macdonald continued: “Theirs was a long marriage of some forty years.”There must be some sharing of the illiquid…asset, although the wife’s share should be kept to the minimum amount required to ensure fidelity to the principle of fairness.”He finally made an order under which she keeps the couple’s former home, but Mr Culligan gets their rental properties and will be paid £750,000 by his ex.The judge noted that Mrs Culligan had played a key role in removing the Millwall women’s side from the umbrella of the men’s and rebranding them.However, he criticised both parties in his judgment, describing Mr Culligan as a “less than impressive witness” and Mrs Culligan as “not an impressive witness.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen the London City Lionesses was sold in 2023, Mrs Culligan continued on as a £750,000-a-year consultant for four years.The judge described her decision to take £3m as annual £750,000 payments over four years as an attempt to “disguise assets as future income.The Judge ruled that Diane Culligan could keep the propertyCredit: Supplied by Champion NewsDiane founded Women’s Championship football side, the London City LionessesCredit: Startraks More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is YouTube star TBJZL? Everything we know about the internet personality starring in the Baller League?

      by

      TBJZL – aka Tobijizzle – is a streamer, rapper, businessman, and influencer but is probably best known as a member and co-founder of the Sidemen, the hugely popular YouTube group, which includes internet personality KSI.His profile is expected to skyrocket later this month when he manages a team – VZN FC –  in the forthcoming Baller League, which begins on March 24, and features a star-studded managerial line-up, including Gary Lineker and John Terry.TBJZL, second left, with his fellow SidemenEarly life, influence and business interestsBorn Tobit John Brown in Hackney, London, on April 8, 1993, the 31-year-old’s business interests are as wide-ranging as his influence across YouTube, and include co-owning XIX Vodka, Sidemen Clothing, the restaurant chain Sides, and the cereal brand Best Breakfasts.In September 2019, he was listed as the 38th most influential online creator in the United Kingdom by The Sunday Times. As of March 2025, his main YouTube channel had more than 5 million subscribers and 567 million views.TBJZL – who is of Nigerian heritage – joined YouTube in 2011 while studying at university after seeing his friends’ success; after completing his degree he became a full-time YouTuber, before joining the Sidemen in 2013, having met future fellow Sidemen member Josh Bradley a few years earlier at Bexley Grammar School.TBJZL, far left, with his fellow Sidemen before their charity match at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, March 8Music careerIn December 2019, he released The Gift with the rest of the Sidemen, which reached number 77 on the UK singles chart, while in early 2020 he released his debut single, Destined for Greatness, with his brother Manny and featuring his sister Janellé.The song charted at number 31 on the UK Singles Chart, making it his first UK top 40 single; it also debuted at number 18 in New Zealand; that year he also featured in a remix of his fellow Sidemen member KSI’s song Wake Up Call.What is his involvement in the Baller League?He will manage a team – VZN FC – in the league.The Baller League began in Germany, created by entrepreneur Felix Starck and aided by Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski. It is a six-a-side indoor football competition, with the first UK season taking place at the Copper Box Arena in London.The influencer-led league – headlined by KSI for the UK version – sees former Premier League players, futsal players and celebrities face one another in 12 teams to win the Baller League.Most read in FootballTBJZL’s squad includes Henri Lansbury, Kurtice Herbert, Jerome Sinclair and Remy Mitchell. More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Newcastle’s ‘once in a generation’ stadium dilemma of building £3bn new mega-venue or boosting St James’ Park

      by

      NEWCASTLE have always been a huge club in English football, but now they’re on a mission to become one of the biggest sides in Europe.A massive nation state takeover, splashing cash on superstar players, returning to the Champions League, building fan parks and now reaching domestic cup finals in two of the last three seasons – they’re following the blueprint to a tee.Newcastle are setting out plans for a revamp St James’ Park or build a new stadiumNewcastle are facing a dilemma on whether to expand their iconic ground or find a new homeCredit: GettyThe iconic stadium currently boasts a capacity of 52,304Credit: AlamyOther than a first major trophy in 70 years, there’s just one thing missing for the Toon Army – a stadium fit for European elite.St James’ Park is a historic ground in the heart of a true one-club city, but despite its rich history, electric atmosphere and iconic reputation, it has sat in place since the 1800s.With that comes problems, not just with its capacity, but also with the stadium’s condition as a whole.Newcastle’s owners know that things need to change and they are ready to take the necessary steps to do so.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, they face a huge dilemma in deciding whether those steps mean a tricky renovation project or leaving their iconic stadium altogether.ICONIC ST JAMES’ PARKSt James’ Park is actually one of the oldest football grounds in the country, holding its first recorded fixture in 1880 – 12 years prior to the formation of Newcastle United as a club.The Magpies moved into the ground in 1892, calling it home for the last 133 YEARS.The first major development of the stadium in 1899 saw its capacity taken to 30,000.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut it was their first league title in 1905 that sparked the next major expansion, taking the stadium’s capacity up to some 60,000.St James’ Park has effectively been built on year by year, seeing the addition of new stands, floodlights and extensions periodically as the ground grew with the club.Inside Chelsea’s new £1.6BILLION stadium plans with Stamford Bridge project set to rival Tottenham’sHowever, changes to laws around standing and seating meant their 60,000 capacity stadium suddenly held a comparatively measly 36,610 fans by the end of 1995.That capacity wasn’t enough for a flying Newcastle side capturing the imagination of fans with Alan Shearer scoring goals for fun.And a proposal was put forward by Chairman Sir John Hall to move the club into a new multi-million pound arena in the adjacent Leazes Park.But after the plans were shut down by local objections and political pushback, the club were forced to look elsewhere to expand their capacity.That led to a stunning £43MILLION expansion that saw the club build upwards on the Milburn Stand, Leazes End and the adjoining corner to take the capacity to the 52,304 it sits at today.Completed in 2000, the expansion means that Newcastle have the eighth largest football stadium in England, and the seventh largest in the Premier League.But seasons of frustration and underachieving saw so many of those seats left empty during the years under controversial owner Mike Ashley between 2007 and 2021.That torrid spell saw Newcastle relegated to the Championship TWICE before Ashley was finally able to sell the club to the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund in 2021.Now the stadium, which famously hangs over the city, is packed to the rafters every week as the Magpies excel under the management of Eddie Howe, reaching two Carabao Cup finals and returning to the Champions League for the first time since 2003 last season.St James’ Park has been home to Newcastle for 133 yearsCredit: GettyThe stadium used to hold 60,000 fansCredit: PAIconic stars like Kevin Keegan have graced the pitchCredit: RexSt James’ has been changed over the years and saw its capacity fall after more seats were addedCredit: PAThe stadium looked different in 1995Credit: AlamyEven more expansions have seen the ground given its iconic look these daysCredit: PASO, WHY NOW?Newcastle’s upturn in form under their new management and ownership is certainly one reason that things are ready for a change at St James’ Park.Most fans will tell you that you can’t get your hands on a matchday ticket for love nor money at the moment, with everyone in the city wanting a glimpse of Howe’s high-flying Mags.So an expansion or move to a larger ground simply makes sense. Both the demand and the funds are there to make it happen.And crucially, a smaller, less-appealing ground means less matchday revenue, which in the age of PSR and FFP means cold hard cash that most modern owners don’t want to miss out on.Although Newcastle currently have the Premier League’s seventh largest capacity, they will fall down to eighth next season following the opening of Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Docks stadium.While they are going to lose even more ground on their rivals after Man City complete their ambitious expansion in 2026.Not to mention the proposed plans for expansions at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium and the potential of Man Utd and Chelsea ditching Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge for new, even bigger, homes.While for the owners, it’s not just about getting more bums on seats and making more matchday revenue.Newcastle’s bigwigs are also looking to help the club’s reputation grow in European football, essentially opting for an “act the part, look the part” strategy.That’s already been evidenced by their lucrative kit manufacturing deal with Adidas, and the way they have thrown their weight around in the transfer market by signing the likes of Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.A world-class stadium would help Newcastle fit in with the teams they’re trying to compete with – in a similar fashion to Tottenham’s £1BILLION move to their state-of-the-art ground from White Hart Lane.Newcastle have made memories at St James’ over the yearsCredit: AFP – GettyClub legends have made history on the pitchCredit: GettyNow they are in a new era and looking to improve on what they haveCredit: GettyWHAT ARE THE CLUB PLANNING?Well, there are two options for Newcastle when it comes to their stadium. It’s quite simple really – stay or go.Staying would mean a huge redevelopment of the Gallowgate End, while leaving would mean building a brand new home elsewhere.Both projects have different positives and negatives that need to be weighed up before a decision is made.Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan flew in for crucial talks in recent weeks and the club provided a statement to update fans on their upcoming decision at the beginning of March.Chief Commercial Officer Peter Silverstone confirmed an announcement is coming “soon” – and possibly hinting which way they have opted to go if the finances get the final say. Silverstone said: “We’re at that point where we’re deciding is it best to renovate and re-invigorate St James’ Park or build a new stadium as these projects have shown and other clubs in the Premier League have done.“That is a decision which will be made relatively soon. What’s clear is we need to satisfy that demand.”Every week we have a very intense fanbase which is determined to come and watch Newcastle but can’t.”A new venue could generate significantly higher revenue both on matchdays and beyond.”Newcastle’s chief operating officer Brad Miller had previously insisted that the club’s first choice is to stay at St James’ Park.That way they can retain their electric atmosphere, unusually sloped pitch and the fact they get to stick the away fans up in the Gods.The ownership have only recently invested in a huge 3,000-capacity fan park next to the ground called St James’ STACK. The fan zone is made up of shipping containers and offers fans a place to eat, drink, watch the game and listen to live music.And a third, more unlikely, option was proposed to give the stadium a lick of paint and a makeover instead of moving permanently or increasing capacity.Newcastle already opened up St James’ STACKCredit: GettyThe 3,000-person capacity fan park offers food, drink and live entertainment for fansCredit: GettyOPTION 1Club execs favour an expansion to the current ground over a move to a new permanent home, but adding even more seats to St James’ is a tricky task that won’t come cheap.COO Miller has promised a “once-in-a-generation” investment into the redevelopment and that kind of cash will be needed to carry out what would be ambitious plans.The idea would be to raise the capacity of the ground to around 60-65,000 – making it the Premier League’s second largest stadium behind Old Trafford.That would be achieved by making the Gallowgate End into one of the largest single-tiered stands in Europe.The stand, which currently holds 11,000 supporters, would be increased to rival Borussia Dortmund’s famous Yellow Wall – similarly to Tottenham’s South Stand.Of course, not all of the additional 12,700 seats would be thrown into the Gallowgate, but the iconic stand would take the majority of the changes.There’s still some issues that could make it difficult for Newcastle to pull this off, mainly a row of listed Georgian buildings behind the East Stand and a so-called “ransom strip” of land bought by a local businessman in spring 2024 that make any expansion on that side of the ground extremely tricky.While surrounding roads that could be impacted offer essential access to one of the city’s main hospitals, the Royal Victoria Infirmary.Some reports suggest the expansion could focus more on the Gallowgate alone and increase the stadium capacity to just 60,300 instead of 65,000 – leaving the stadium looking almost exactly the same as it does now.The Gallowgate End would be given thousands of new seats in an expansionCredit: RexNewcastle would be hoping to recreate Borussia Dormund’s iconic Yellow WallCredit: GettyTottenham aimed for a similar effect when they designed their South StandCredit: GettyOPTION 2The second option for the Magpies is to build themselves a new home for a new era. It’s more expensive, but perhaps a more exciting option.The idea of a new ground would mean that Newcastle could host around 70,000 fans, effectively increasing their capacity by almost 18,000 seats – that’s more than both Brentford and Bournemouth can fit in their entire stadiums at the moment.As with their initial plans back in the 90s, the most likely place to move would be into the adjacent Leazes Park.However, Newcastle are set to face legal hurdles and heavy resistance from members of the public who want to protect the Grade II listed park.As a result their plans would see them use just a small section of the park with the rest of the new ground overlapping with St James’ current footprint – plus a new parkland would be created where the current pitch is situated. That would mean Newcastle would be forced into finding a temporary home for the duration of the demolition and construction. The club are thought to be against the idea of ground-sharing with rivals Sunderland, with a potential option to play some 120 MILES away at Murrayfield in Edinburgh suggested instead.That would obviously cause issues for fans with the round trip for a “home” game likely to take over FIVE HOURS by car.Other options would include playing at the nearby Riverside stadium, home of Middlesbrough.It’s thought that there is another possible option to move into a new stadium five miles north of the current site Gosforth Park on land owned by the club’s minority shareholders, Reuben Brothers.But St James’ Park’s iconic position looming over the centre of Newcastle is thought to make that idea a last resort.Newcastle have already enlisted architects and design firms to look at the feasibility of building a new ground.However, both club execs and the fan base are concerned over losing the rich history of St James’ Park in the process.COO Miller said: “The brilliant thing about St James’ is it is in an iconic location, the atmosphere and competitive edge it gives the team on the pitch, and it has 52,000 seats already.“But a new stadium doesn’t have that and we’d have to pay for all those seats again.”As for the look of a new ground, reports suggest there is consideration over a “bubble wrap” design that would give St James’ a similar visual to Ligue 1 outfit Le Havre’s Stade Oceane.While it could also have some incredible features as football club owners continue to push the boundaries of what is expected in a stadium these days. Spurs added a Formula One Go Kart track under their ground, and even stuck a microbrewery making craft Beavertown Beer in their South East corner. While Fulham have stuck a swimming pool in their new Riverside Stand and Real Madrid added a huge 360-degree screen around the Santiago Bernabeu.It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that Newcastle would follow in those footsteps and add some unbelievable features to their proposed ground.At the very least, expect cutting edge technology, staggering design and high-end hospitality areas to host the elite.As for what they leave behind, it’s been suggested that the site of the demolished St James’ would be replaced with new parkland.Newcastle could move into the Leazes Park directly behind the groundCredit: GettyNewcastle’s new ground could look similar to Le Havre’s Stade OceaneCredit: AlamyHOW MUCH WILL IT ALL COST?Good things don’t come for free these days, and Newcastle will have to fork out a fortune no mater what option they choose.A redevelopment of the Gallowgate has been mooted to cost anywhere up to £1BILLION, which is a crazy number in comparison to other expansion projects in recent times.Liverpool spent just £80m on their Anfield Road Stand expansion in 2024, and Fulham spent £120m on their Riverside Stand.But that kind of money may seem worth it when you learn that an entirely new stadium has been estimated at a cost of between £2BILLION and £3BILLION.That would blow Tottenham’s £1bn 2019 project out of the water and make Newcastle the owners of the second most expensive stadium in the world, only lagging behind the LA Rams’ £4.8bn SoFi Stadium.The LA Chargers’ SoFi Stadium is the most expensive stadium in the worldCredit: GettyTIMESCALESo we know it’ll cost a fortune and we know it’s going to be complicated, but when will it be done?Reports have suggested that the club would be targeting the 2031/32 season for a brand new stadium, but would likely see an expansion completed in five years instead of seven.By comparison, Spurs took three years to build their new home and the FA spent four years constructing Wembley in the early 2000s.Expansions are often much speedier, but it still took Liverpool over two-and-a-half years to complete their Anfield Road renovation.A lengthy project could spoil Newcastle’s plans to be one of the host stadiums for the 2028 Euros, but it’s thought that the Magpies see the long-term financial benefits as enough to give up on that.WILL IT BE WORTH IT?Well that’s the multi-billion pound question, isn’t it?Newcastle’s most recent reports show that the club made £40m in matchday revenue last season, figures that are way behind the likes of Arsenal (£128m), Man Utd (£127m), Liverpool (£111m) and Spurs (£103m).An expansion to 65,000 seats at St James’ would be an increase in capacity of around 25 per cent, meaning a similar increase in Newcastle’s matchday revenue would take them up to a more impressive number of £50m. The club reckon the figure could be as much as double at a new ground where Newcastle can add in more bars, food stalls and hospitality areas to increase their income.But even the man in charge, COO Miller, explained that moving to a new stadium “has the potential to earn a lot more, both on matchdays and non-matchdays”.READ MORE SUN STORIESNot only would more seats mean more revenue, but a world-class facility could mean Newcastle would be a more attractive prospect to host music concerts and performers to make money all year round.Put simply, the outlay would be huge, but in the long term it could definitely be worth it for Newcastle.More fans means more moneyCredit: Rex More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Motorsport

      Former F1 world champion boots toilet door down and has CEILING fall on him after getting stuck in cubicle

      by

      A FORMER F1 world champion has booted a toilet door down after getting locked inside.Jacques Villeneuve was hit on the head by failing CEILING as he made his daring escape.Jacques Villeneuve found himself stuck in an airport toiletCredit: Instagram @jacques_villeneuve_officialHe had to boot his way out after being locked inCredit: Instagram @jacques_villeneuve_officialVilleneuve, 53, won the world title in 1997 while racing for Williams Racing.However, he was caught in a tricky position while on his travels to Australia.Taking to Instagram, the Canadian former driver revealed that he had got himself stuck in a toilet at the Milano Malpensa Airport.He wrote: “Been stuck in the toilets for the last 20 minutes and security incapable of getting me out.READ MORE ON SPORT”Toilet flushing every 30 seconds. Having a blast. Very impressive.”Good start to the trip to Australia.”The post was accompanied by a selfie picture of himself in the cubicle.Villeneuve updated his followers as he was able to get out of the cubicle after half an hour.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut in doing so he accidentally caused a ceiling block to fall on his head after booting the door open.He added: “Managed to get out after 30 minutes.Everyone can see the F1 car but you have the skills of a top racing driver if you can spot the petrol cans in 12 seconds”Had to kick the door down, and a block from the ceiling fell on my head.”Ready to get down under. Travelling is 😀.”The picture showed the damage the retired driver caused to the cubicle as the door had been kicked off its hinges.Villeneuve’s 73.1k followers found the ordeal hilarious as they flooded the comment section.One joked: “S*** happens….”A second posted: “Have you got a newspaper?”A third commented: “It’s door out and away we go!”A fourth wrote: “Still a better place to be stuck in than the 1999 BAR.”A fifth said: “This is the best story of the week, hands down.”Another added: “Longest pit stop ever.”Villeneuve was the first driver from Canada ever to win the World Championship.The driver left Williams in 1999 as he switched teams to British American Racing for the next four years.He finished his F1 career with a two-year stint at Renault and Sauber between 2004 and 2006.After leaving F1, the Canadian entered NASCAR in the US, winning two races from 23 starts.Throughout his career, he has also written lyrics for songs, and in 2005 he rented a professional recording studio in Paris to hear his music better.The same year he released the song Accepterais-tu, and in 2007 he released the acoustic rock album, Private Paradise.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, the 2025 F1 season start is right around the corner.The first race in Melbourne will be on March 16 for the Australian GP. More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Athletics

      I’ll never forget coach’s reaction to my pregnancy… getting back to top was such a proud moment says Jessica Ennis-Hill

      by

      OLYMPIC golden girl Jessica Ennis-Hill dealt with many a challenge in her career, but one of the toughest was her coach’s chilling reaction when she told him she was pregnant.It was two years after she had won the heptathlon at the London 2012 Games when she broke the news to Toni Minichiello.Jessica Ennis-Hill at the BBC Sports Personality Of The Year Awards last yearCredit: GettyJessica shows off her baby bump in 2014 while pregnant with the first of her two childrenCredit: Getty Images – GettyTrainer Toni Minichiello with Jessica at 2012 GamesCredit: GettyInstead of congratulating her, he instantly began scrolling through competition dates on his laptop to work out the bombshell implications.Jessica, who was made a dame in 2017 on the back of her Team GB Olympic glory, says of her pregnancy by childhood sweetheart Andy: “It was a bit of a surprise, it all happened sooner than we expected. “It was definitely a shock to all of my team.“My coach had this plan, ‘You’re going to do the Commonwealth Games in 2014, and then Worlds, then Olympics’.READ MORE IN SPORTS“I remember going to his house and being like, ‘I’ve got something to tell you — sit down’. “I was so nervous.“I said, ‘So I’m pregnant . . .’ “He was just so shocked. Most read in Athletics“He didn’t know what to say — he just kind of sat there“And then he got his laptop out and started looking at dates. Jessica Ennis-Hill stuns in bold outfit live on BBC for Paris Olympics as fans say ‘how I have missed you’ “He didn’t even say, ‘congratulations’, he was in such a fluster. “He said, ‘When’s he or she going to be born?’“I was sat there like, ‘Congratulations, you know, anything like that would be nice’. “Eventually he said, ‘Congratulations’.”Defining momentMinichiello was later banned from UK Athletics due to allegations of inappropriate behaviour, which he denied.Following the 2022 ruling, Jessica said she was never on the receiving end of any such misbehaviour.But she will never forget his cold response to being told back in 2014 that she was to become a mum at age 28.She adds: “It was quite a challenging time because everyone at that stage thought you don’t start your family during your career.“You do all your career stuff then start your family.“I think that’s since changed. I think a lot of women feel they have the support and policies in place to come back.”Jessica was forced to withdraw from the 2014 Commonwealth Games as a result.She was then determined to get back to her best, but acknowledged her body had changed, so her coach encouraged her not to ­compare how she was before — and just focus on the comeback.She says: “There’s a mental impact when you’re at the back of the group in training — and you’re the Olympic champion.“I would compare myself to me at my best. “When I looked at those times, I was nowhere near.“Eventually I did get stronger and those times came back, but I was never the same version I was before — but that was OK because of being a mum.”Her Olympic heroics at age 26 in front of an expectant home nation had capped an already stellar rise in the heptathlon — comprising the 200 and 800 metres, 100-metre hurdles, high and long jumps, shot put and javelin throw.She says: “My coach would say, ‘These are your post- pregnancy PBs’ [personal bests].”Jessica returned to training just ten weeks after baby Reggie arrived in her life, and initially struggled to rebuild her fitness.’Challenging time’She adds: “It was quite a tricky, challenging time because everyone at that stage thought you don’t start your family during your career, you kind of do all your career stuff and then start your family.“I think that’s since changed. I think a lot of women feel they have the support and policies in place to come back.” But she was forced to withdraw from the 2014 Commonwealth Games — and after she had son Reggie, who is now ten, Minichiello would compare her performances as “before” and “post” pregnancy.She says: “My coach would say ‘These are your post-pregnancy PBs [personal bests].”Jessica returned to training just ten weeks after Reggie arrived, and struggled to rebuild her fitness. She says: “There’s mental impact when you’re at the back of the group when you’re training — and you’re Olympic champion.Jessica beams after winning gold in the heptathlon at London 2012Credit: Times Newspapers LtdJessica competing in the long jump event during the heptathlon at London 2012Credit: Getty“I would compare myself to me at my best. When I looked at those times, I was nowhere near. “Eventually I did get stronger and those times came back, but I was never the same version I was before — but that was OK because of being a mum.”There’s mental impact when you’re at the back of the group when you’re training — and you’re Olympic championJessica Ennis-HillIt was more than OK, in fact, as just 13 weeks into motherhood she stormed back to win the 2015 World Championships in Beijing — then Olympic silver a year later in Rio de Janeiro.Jessica, who would retire the following year, now admits it was crazy trying to achieve again what she had done before her pregnancy.She says: “I thought, ‘What am I doing? What am I training for? This is hard’.“Your body changes so much. “It’s the hormones that go through your body for months after, the relaxing, that makes all your ligaments relax.“So my Achilles were loose and that’s not great when you’re trying to be this coil that needs to jump as high and far as you can.“I couldn’t train like I did before 2012.”But she made it her mission to return to the top of her sport — and soon revelled in the challenge.She says: “That journey was the hardest and the best — that feeling of beating the rest of the world, and those who doubted me, was the best.Greatest achievers“Your body is never going to be the same after having a child, whether it’s coming back to exercising or doing the Olympics.”While Jessica didn’t get a second Olympic gold, she wouldn’t change a thing.She says: “I was incredibly proud of what my body was able to achieve post-natally. “And having my son was the best thing ever. “But I might just get my silver one sprayed gold!”Jessica and Andy went on to have their second child Olivia in 2017 and she is now retired.When she married construction site manager Andy 12 years ago, she was already a national treasure.Her Olympic heroics at age 26 in front of an expectant home nation had capped an already stellar rise in the heptathlon — comprising the 200 and 800 metres, 100-metre hurdles, high and long jumps, shot put and javelin.In 2009, the Sheffield-born star won gold at the World Championships in Berlin and, in 2010, gold in the World Indoor Championships in Qatari ­capital Doha, plus the European Championships in Barcelona.In 2011, she claimed silver at the World Championships in South Korea and, five years later, that was upgraded to gold after Russian star Tatyana Chernova was found to have been doping.After silver at the 2012 World Indoor Championships in Istanbul, there then followed her defining moment atop the podium in London.Today, Jessica says she still gets competitive when she laces up her running shoes. Now aged 39, she adds: “I have done parkruns a few times — my husband was doing it quite a bit at one stage.“I still don’t want to get beaten, especially by someone with a buggy!”After retiring and being ennobled in the 2017 New Year Honours, Jessica won the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award that year. She has also launched her own post-natal exercise advice app, become a patron of Sheffield Children’s Hospital and is a TV sports pundit. Oh, and she is launching her own podcast, Gold Minds, where she will chat to some of the world’s greatest achievers about how they overcame real-life challengesYour body is never going to be the same after having a child, whether it’s coming back to exercising or doing the OlympicsJessica Ennis-HillIt means she can finally use the psychology degree from Sheffield University that she gained after leaving school.She says of her podcast: “I get to speak to people about their golden moment that’s changed their life.“They also bring in three items that take us on their journey to reach that moment and the aftermath. “They’ve all been fascinating. “It’s delving into the psychology and mindset.”One of her guests will be British rowing cox Erin Kennedy — a two-time Paralympic champion. Erin, 32, was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago, but has continued to win medals at the highest level, including gold at the 2024 Paris ­Paralympics.One of her guests will be British rowing cox Erin Kennedy — a two-time Paralympic champion.Erin, 32, was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago but has continued to win medals at the highest level, including gold at the 2024 Paris Paralympics,.Jessica says of their chat: “Erin was incredible. “I was sat with my mouth wide open, blown away by what she has been through.“She brought in a wig because that was a huge part of her journey to getting back to ­­winning gold in Paris.”READ MORE SUN STORIESShe adds of podcast work: “As an athlete, you’re wanting to push your-self — and this was something out of my comfort zone I wanted to try.” Jessica’s Gold Minds podcast chats with former Olympic boxer Nicola Adams and former Ireland rugby captain Johnny Sexton are on all major platforms. New episodes land on Wednesdays, the next features sports presenter Gabby LoganJessica wearing the Union Flag after her Olympic triumph in front of her home nationCredit: The Times More

    • 250 Shares129 Views

      in Boxing

      ‘That will live with me forever – Boxing champ reveals crazy party with Chelsea stars after 2012 Champions League final

      by

      BOXER Darren Barker spent his 30th birthday watching Chelsea win the Champions League – and celebrated with the players afterwards. Barker flew over to Germany in 2012 on his big day as the Blues faced Bayern Munich looking to make history. Chelsea’s 2012 Champions League winning squadCredit: Times Newspapers LtdBoxer Darren Barker partied with the players afterBarker pictured parading his IBF middleweight title in 2013Credit: GettyAnd the former world middleweight world champion beams as he recalls Chelsea’s dramatic penalty shootout victory. The West Londoners became the first side from the capital to win the Champions League – and Barker spent the night with the players. He told SunSport: “We won the Champions League on the 19th of May in Munich. I was there.”I witnessed us winning the Champions League, the only London club to do so, and I partied with the players after because I’m Billy big b*****s! READ MORE IN BOXING”That will live with me forever.”Asked if it was the best party he has been to, Barker replied with a grin: “Yeah, it was yeah it was up there.”A year after Chelsea’s Munich heroics, Barker had his own Cinderella moment coming from behind to beat Daniel Geale to win the IBF title. And he admitted only that victory in New Jersey and the birth of his four children can top Chelsea’s first Champions League trophy. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBarker, now 42, said: “No, winning the world title for sure but that’s up there. “I’ve got four children, so it’d have to be in the top six moments of my life.Chelsea legend John Terry goes on 5k run in preparation for London Marathon “I probably better keep most of those stories to myself or watered down versions of it anyway.”Barker – a friend of former Chelsea player Jody Morris – backs current Blues boss Enzo Maresca despite a recent dip in form and results. He said: “Too much chopping and changing has gone on in the past. I think stick with him, I’m not impressed with the football. “I was so impressed with PSG the other day, I text my brother saying, ‘How good are PSG?’ “The way they quickly move the ball, the touch, the flare, the individual skill and the way it all came together. “Then you watch Chelsea and it’s like, ‘Come on lads! Flipping heck.’ “But, however, I don’t think chopping and changing is going to change anything right now – so stick with him.” Barker backs Chelsea manager Enzo MarescaCredit: Getty More