Longtail

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Abandoned ‘ghost stadium’ of EFL club gets new lease of life with fans given once-in-a-lifetime chance to play on pitch

      by

      SUPPORTERS longing for yesteryear can step back into the past on Friday as a “Ghost ground” re-opens its doors.Millmoor was the home of League One Rotherham United for 83 years until 2008.Rotherham United played their football at Milmoor for 83 yearsCredit: MARK ROBINSONBut they abandoned the ground in 2008 to move to a new stadiumCredit: MARK ROBINSONBut the ‘Ghost Ground’ is set to re-open its doorsCredit: MARK ROBINSON THE SUNFollowing a row over rent, the Millers moved out as their famous old ground was left desolate and decrepit.Rotherham now play in the 12,000-seater New York Stadium, which opened in 2012, and is situated just yards away.However, it is impossible to miss their former home on any visit to Rotherham and now you can take a look inside it from 2pm.After years of being known as the “Ghost ground”, long-standing landlords, the Booth family, have overseen the refurbishment to restore it to its former glory and bring it back to life.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAnd now the doors will be opened for visitors to see the old stands, take a walk on the pitch – which is now being put into use for hire by local teams – and reminisce about the glory days.A host of the club’s heroes will also be in attendance to add to the nostalgic event.It is in conjunction with Millers legend John Breckin, 71, as part of his dementia awareness work.A spokesman said: “This is a chance for older Millers supporters to re-visit a place where they spent so many happy times and for the younger generation who have no doubt heard all about Millmoor, to get a better idea of what it is actually like.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMilmoor is to re-open its doorsCredit: MARK ROBINSONThe ground is is now being put into use by being hired by local teamsCredit: MARK ROBINSON”Hopefully, there will be a good turnout.”Millmoor was first used in the 1890s when it was used by the Rotherham Church Institute in the Sheffield Association League, before then being used by Rotherham County before United. Shock moment stadium bigger than Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium demolished after falling into disrepairIt was home to seven promotion campaigns, eight relegations and also staged the first League Cup final in 1961 when Rotherham beat Aston Villa 2-0 in the first leg. More

    • 263 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      How David Beckham turned Inter Miami into a success story, with A-list pals like Leo DiCaprio wanting to see Leo Messi

      by

      INTER MIAMI are well on their way now.The MLS team, owned by David Beckham, won the MLS Supporters’ Shield for the first time with a 3-2 win over Columbus Crew.David Beckham has made Inter Miami the hottest ticket in the States and a success thanks to Lionel MessiLeo DiCaprio has been spotted watching Inter Miami this seasonLionel Messi and his teammates celebrate winning the Leagues Cup in 2023Messi scores against Columbus Crew on Wednesday to seal the MLS Supporters’ ShieldIt’s a massive turnaround in the fortunes of Inter Miami, who won the Leagues Cup last season and are most certainly on an upwards trajectory.The star power of Lionel Messi – who scored twice in Wednesday evening’s historic win – and Beckham is bringing in the crowds at the DRV PNK Stadium, as well as the trophies.Pitchside at the Fort Lauderdale arena has become the MLS equivalent of courtside at the Crypto.com ArenaThose two have made Inter Miami the must-see sports team in the States.Read more Inter Miami newsSo it’s no wonder A-listers including Leo DiCaprio, Selena Gomez and more are flocking to watch the team.And they were only get bigger when they move into the new £750million Miami Freedom Park in 2026, that’ll boast a 25,000 capacity.SunSport looks at the phenomenon Becks created, starting from scratch.Beforehand…The excitement around Beckham, 49, owning a sports team was enough to attract his celeb pals who offered their support.Most read in FootballHis product might have been lacking in pizzazz, with early recruits Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi not exactly setting the world on fire.Tom Brady joins David Beckham and Lionel Messi at MLS game & gets gift from soccer icon after celebrating his team’s winBut, Becks is an extremely well-connected man.Curious as to see what all the fuss was about, the rich and famous took in an Inter Miami game.Perhaps, they were passing through Florida, or on holiday, but they can say they were there.This goes for Jay-Z, Jennifer Lopez, Will Smith and Olympic legend Usain Bolt.Maybe the latter was seeking a contract.Pitchside at the DRV PNK Stadium is a huge a celebrity affairThe fanfare was set.A star-studded debutWhile his lightning-delayed unveiling in 2023 was a damp squib, Messi’s debut against Cruz Azul was the equivalent of an Oscars red carpet that ended with a dramatic Hollywood movie plot twist.The star attraction entered the fray in the second half, admittedly very short of match-fitness.That didn’t matter. Not for a man of Messi’s class who had to entertain his new fans, with some paying over £1,000 for a ticket.Inter Miami owners Jorge Mas, Jose Mas, and David Beckham pose alongside Lionel Messi at his unveilingCredit: GettyThe Kardashians dropped in to offer the Beckhams their support,Credit: InstagramFor Kim Kardashian and tennis legend Serena Williams, they had to be there to see Messi’s debutSports pals LeBron James and David Beckham pose for a snap in Fort LauderdaleCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresDeep into stoppage time, he stood over a free-kick some 30-yards from goal.A trademark free-kick followed, driving the fans into ecstasy, Messi’s team-mates wild and securing a win for his new club.Right before he made his appearance, Kim Kardashian, LeBron James, Serena Williams, DJ Khaled, Camila Cabello, Rick Ross, Derek Jeter, Diddy, Becky G, and Marc Anthony all watched in expectation of the spectacular.Even they were in awe of the Barcelona legend, with some of those whipping their camera phones out to film the moment.And it wasn’t a fadWhile his debut was something of make-believe, that enticed the A-listers furthermore.You could be fooled into thinking a match against Atlanta United isn’t exactly a glamour tie.Tell that to Diddy (again), DJ Khaled (again), Camila Cabello (again), and Puerto Rican singer Rauw Alejandro.DJ Khaled and rapper Diddy were seen enjoying Messi’s second gameDJ Khaled’s son Asahd was overcome with emotion stood next to Lionel MessiCamila Cabello snatches a chat with Lionel MessiBefore the action kicked off, Messi led out his team alongside Khaled’s son, Asahd.It was an occasion that was even too much for the boy, who weeped tears of joy to be stood next to his hero.Still, those tears would have been wiped as Messi’s second coming inspired a 4-0 demolition of an MLS rival.Messi was the architect again, scoring twice inside the opening 22 minutes.And he seemingly appeared to be enjoying his new-found status, sharing a chat with singer Cabello during proceedings.READ MORE SUN STORIESBecks’ close pal NFL legend and Birmingham City investor, Tom Brady and producer/rapper Pharrell Williams have also shown their love for Inter Miami.While Hollywood movie star Leo DiCaprio was spotted in a posh box enjoying an ice lolly, and Prince Harry dropped in to see Inter face off against Los Angeles FC.NFL legend Tom Brady and Pharrell Williams are more A-listers who have have joined the Inter Miami celebrity fan clubCredit: GettyLionel Messi has transformed Inter Miami’s fortunesCredit: GettyPrince Harry reacts during a match between Inter Miami and LA FC More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Boxing

      Boxing world champion breaks silence to CONFIRM talks to fight Conor McGregor in never-before-seen two-bout deal

      by

      TERENCE CRAWFORD has CONFIRMED talks to fight Conor McGregor – but admitted no amount of money could tempt him into the MMA cage.McGregor revealed an offer was on the table for a never-before-seen two-fight deal in boxing and MMA with Crawford. Terence Crawford confirmed talks to fight Conor McGregorCredit: GettyMcGregor revealed Crawford turned the deal downCredit: GettyBut the former undisputed world boxing champion is not getting kicked or elbowed for any number. Crawford said to Bernie the Boxer: “I told Conor, ‘Hell no’. “They called me and they offered me the fight and me and Conor got on the phone and started trying to figure something out.”And I told him, ‘Man I ain’t getting into no octagon with you so you can be kicking me and elbow me and s***’.READ MORE IN UFC”He started laughing and s*** and he said ‘Man, I respect it. You respect my sport just like I respect your sport and you understand that if you get in an octagon you’re going to be at a disadvantage.”‘Just like if I get into the boxing ring with you, I’m going to be at a disadvantage’.”But he was like, ‘We will make a s*** ton of money’. I said, ‘Yeah, sometimes it ain’t about the money, I can make money but you ain’t about to be kicking me, dude’.”Kicks and elbows man that s*** ain’t no joke.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMcGregor put his UFC career on hold in 2017 to face ring great Floyd Mayweather in a crossover clash worth huge sums.Crawford meanwhile wrestled in his youth but went on to become one of the greatest boxers of his era. McGregor said during a Duelbits livestream: “Crawford is very slick, he also has a wrestling background pedigree.”You know they’re always talking to me about bouts. I’ve already boxed a boxer, and the best boxer in MMA is me.”You know what I mean? I generate the most. We were talking back and forth about a two-fight deal.”In Crawford’s last fight he beat Israil Madrimov to win the WBA super-welterweight world title.It was also his first with Saudi boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh’s Riyadh Season – who recently partnered with the UFC.And McGregor, 36, was the first to reveal that Crawford, 37, was approached for the two-fight double header before declining. He said: “I get on the phone and say ‘Crawford, they’re here talking about you and me. Two-fight deal, MMA first, boxing second.”I know you have an extensive wrestling background, and balls the size of a Bengal tiger.”They’re asking for a fight, it’ll be hundreds of millions on the line. ‘What’s up?’, I said.”And then he goes, ‘I don’t fancy taking a kick off Conor McGregor’, that’s what he said. You have to respect that.”Crawford is a four-division champion and considered one of the best boxers on the planet.He is currently eyeing a super-fight against Mexican icon Canelo Alvarez, 34, despite rumours of pondering retirement.McGregor meanwhile has been out of action since July 2021 when he broke his leg before being ruled out of his return bout in June.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Irishman was forced to pull out of facing Michael Chandler due to a toe injury.Chandler, 38, has since signed to rematch Charles Oliveira, 34, on November 16 to leave McGregor’s next fight in doubt. More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson insider reveals strategy for Jake Paul fight after fresh health concerns arise for boxing legend

      by

      MIKE TYSON’s strategy for his showdown with Jake Paul has sensationally been revealed by a camp insider.The former undisputed heavyweight champion will throw down with the YouTube sensation in a controversial crossover clash on Netflix next month.Mike Tyson is set to throw down with Jake Paul in a shock showdown next monthCredit: REXBoxing legend Tyson is a huge underdog going into the Texas tussleCredit: GETTYIron Mike plans to go hell for leather in the controversial crossover clashCredit: INSTAGRAM@MIKETYSONTyson is a huge underdog going into the Texas tussle due to the staggering 31-YEAR age difference between himself and The Problem Child.Iron Mike struck fear into the hearts of heavyweights around the world in the late ’80s and early ’90s with his ferocious style, which he plans to utilise against Paul.A member of Tyson’s team said in a recently released promo video: “We’re not looking to throw just one bomb. We want to throw missile after missile.”Tyson, who hasn’t fought since his Covid clash with Roy Jones Jr in 2020, has been hard at work in the gym trying to get his near-pensioner-aged body into fighting shape.READ MORE IN BOXINGAnd one of the boxing legend’s trainers has claimed Paul would be in a world of trouble if he were to step into the ring right now.He said: “If the fight were today, Jake Paul would be done.”He throws missiles, not just one bomb. The bombs, they come one after another.”Tyson, however, is feeling every bit his 58 years ahead of his ring return, recently admitting: “It’s hard to walk right now.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”But two months from now I’m going to be perfect. The fight is won in the gym.”Listen, I’ll do anything that will help me.Mike Tyson sends chilling warning that Jake Paul ‘has to go’ as he claims ‘I started his career, now I’ll finish him’ “I’m going to enjoy my time here tonight with all my childhood friends, and the hell with Jake Paul.”Tyson will be handsomely rewarded for his Dallas dust-up with Paul but insists his decision to return to the ring isn’t financially motivated.The New Yorker recently admitted: “I’m a glory junkie. I love people thinking about me all day.”I’d rather live a short life of glory than a long life of obscurity. It’s just who I am.“This is all I started fighting for – to get all this f***ing status.”I’m going to be chasing it for the rest of my life. I know that.”I’m never going to get what I want, because I’m one of those gluttons for pain. I can never get enough.” More

    • 275 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘Go on YouTube’ – Cole Palmer reveals he would choose ex-Premier League bad boy to take a penalty to save his life

      by

      CHELSEA star Cole Palmer picked a shock Premier League cult hero when asked who he would choose to take a penalty to save his life.Palmer, 22, is a spot-kick expert having scored every one of the 15 he has taken during his stellar four-year career so far.Chelsea star Cole Palmer picked a controversial penalty taker to save his lifeCredit: AlamyPalmer picked Mario Balotelli, who scored 48 out of 53 penalties in his careerCredit: GettyThe forward has netted ten of them with the Blues, where he already counts six goals in as many Premier League matches this season.However, if his life depended on it, the winger would choose someone else to step up to the plate and take a penalty for him – and it is no ordinary pick.The ex-Manchester City star would go with none other than Mario Balotelli as he remembers how dominant he was when it was just him and the opposing goalkeeper.Palmer told BBC Sports: “One penalty taker to save my life…?Read More on Football”If I can’t say me – I would but I’ll say one just for the content.”The one that comes to my head is Balotelli.”The interviewer seemed a bit surprised by that answer but Palmer stood by his pick.And the England international is not wrong as Balotelli, 34, has scored a whopping 48 out of all the 53 penalties he has taken during his controversial 18-year career.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPalmer responded: “Have you seen his pens?”The Chelsea star was then asked if he would have any worries about Balotelli doing something unpredictable: “Nah, I trust him. Go on YouTube and search his penalties.”Chelsea star Cole Palmer casually reveals he has been ‘messing about’ on free-kicks before incredible set-piece goalBalotelli fell from grace despite playing for the likes of Inter Milan, AC Milan, Man City, Liverpool and of course Italy.That was mainly due to the current free agent’s unpredictable character.That is why Palmer continued to be egged on by the interviewer regarding his pick.The forward seemed to concede that point as he changed his taker and opted for a star England team-mate before adding that there are actually quite a few favourites he would go for.Palmer said: “Actually, maybe Ivan [Toney]. I don’t know, there’s a few.” More

    • 263 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside the whirlwind career of Ravel Morrison as ‘too good’ former Man Utd ace with ‘Messi like skills’ joins 14th club

      by

      FROM Manchester to Middlesbrough, D.C. to Derby, Ravel Morrison has enjoyed quite the career.The 31-year-old, once likened to eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, recently joined the 14th club of his career – UAE second division side Precision FC.Ravel Morrison has joined Precision FC in DubaiThe midfielder came through Man Utd’s academy, where he was highly ratedCredit: GettyIt marked the end of his 18-month spell as a free agent, which began after he was cut from Wayne Rooney’s D.C. United squad at the start of 2023.Around 14 years ago, nobody would have guessed that Morrison’s career path could take such a turn.Fresh out of Manchester United’s academy – alongside Paul Pogba and Jesse Lingard – the midfielder was quick to make a name for himself.Many predicted that he would go on to become the next big thing, with former star Quinton Fortune even suggesting he was “the most naturally talented” player at Carrington.Read More in FootballIn 2021, the ex-midfielder told FourFourTwo: “At a club like Manchester United, it’s very difficult to say who the best youngster was.”Ronaldo was obviously incredible but Wayne Rooney was unbelievable when he arrived too.”But then you had another special talent who hasn’t progressed as he should have done: Ravel Morrison. He was definitely the most naturally talented player I’ve ever seen, but he didn’t make that next step like Ronaldo and Rooney did. In terms of talent, he was up there with them.”Former Man Utd acadamy coach Paul McGuinness also had high hopes for Morrison when he was a youngster.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPrecision is Morrison’s 14th clubEarlier this year, he revealed: “He was an amazing player. And the best way to coach him was not to coach him.”The best way was to create a game where his stuff would come out. If you start telling him what to do, he wasn’t go to be having it, you know? So he was an amazing player and I’ve had some really top players so it means that, as a coach, you learn from your players as well.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers”So, in the sense that [fellow coach] Jim Ryan had a phrase. He said it’s the ‘arrogance of timing’ and so some coaches in the position thought he was being arrogant. But it was just the way he played.”It was like Messi. He’d wait for you, wait for you to go closer and closer. Close to the fire, without getting burnt and get close, then he’d just play it. And you’d be like ‘oh, you’d better pass it now’ and he wouldn’t.”McGuinness went on to add: “He was like, somebody do something because he was too good! And he could do those things with the first team and a lot of people say: ‘Oh yeah but he’s thrown it all away, he’s wasting it’ and so on.”But, actually, if you know the full story from being younger, his background and different things, he may actually be one of the best performing. You know, he might actually have done well despite all the sort of disadvantages he had.”Morrison was limited to just three first team appearances for Man Utd after making his senior debut against Wolves in October 2010.Deemed surplus to requirements, he was sold to West Ham just over one year later for an undisclosed fee.He made 24 appearances for the Hammers but was loaned out on three separate occasions – to Birmingham, QPR and Cardiff – during his three-year spell.The midfielder went on to play for Lazio, Atlas, Ostersund, Sheffield United, Middlesbrough, ADO Den Haag, Derby County and D.C. United.The midfielder played for D.C. United before becoming a free agentCredit: GettyHe was axed by then-manager Wayne RooneyCredit: AlamyBut his career hit a low when he was axed from the MLS side by his former United team-mate, Rooney.The ex-D.C. United boss said at the time: “I felt with players we were bringing in and different things you need to look at in terms of the budget, international slots, etc, it was more important I got different players in for different positions, which we felt were more important to me.”Morrison was left without a club for over 18 months as a result.He spent this summer training with the Professional Footballers’ Association in a bid to regain fitness.The PFA held an exclusive pre-season camp for eligible free agents to help them find a club.Scouts were invited to training sessions and some exhibition matches, with the likes of Dwight Gayle and Carl Jenkinson securing moves.Although Morrison didn’t secure an EFL move, he will now get to show off his experience in Dubai.A statement from Precision FC read: “We are beyond excited to welcome the incredible Ravel Morrison to Precision FC! “This is more than a signing – it’s a statement, a game-changer for both our club and football in the UAE.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Known for his electrifying talent and skill, Ravel brings world-class experience and flair that will help our team to achieve it’s goals.”This is the start of something extraordinary. Welcome to the family, Ravel!”Morrison has 18 caps for the Jamaica national teamCredit: Getty More

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Andy Carroll and Billi Mucklow’s turbulent two-year marriage, from stag do scandal to footballer’s France move

      by

      ANDY Carroll and his reality TV star Wag Billi Mucklow have revealed they are divorcing, after a turbulent two year marriage.In a statement, the ex-England, Newcastle and Liverpool striker said: “Billi and I have privately separated earlier this year and we are under way with our divorce proceedings.Andy Carroll and Billi Mucklow revealed they are going through divorce proceedingsCredit: InstagramCarroll and Billi have only been married for two yearsCredit: InstagramHowever, the nuptials nearly never happened after Carroll’s boozy stag doCredit: instagram”It has been a hard few months for our family and we continue to move forward amicably for our children.”The pair share three kids, having been together for 11 years.A source told us: “Andy and Billi care about each other a lot and have made some great memories together, but decided it was best for the family if they went their separate ways having grown apart.”They’re still focusing on the kids and being the best parents they can be and being respectful of each other.Read more Carroll news”They want the process to be straightforward for everyone involved. Andy has been throwing himself into his football.”Their relationship has been fraught with issues. SunSport looks at where it all went wrong.The stag do scandalIn 2014, Andy and Billi were seemingly headed for eternal happiness.They were very much in love, having got engaged just a year after meeting each other in a whirlwind romance.Most read in FootballEight years later, the two finally walked down the aisle at luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Hampshire.Billi Mucklow and Andy Carroll Divorce After Two Years of MarriageBut, it was a wedding that nearly never happened.Prior to their special occasion, Carroll went on his now infamous stag do with pals.Pictures surfaced of the towering forward passed out in bed with two women in Dubai.One of the girls, Taylor Jane Wilkey was also seen posing in a bathroom wearing the footballer’s personalised dressing gownWhen the photos circulated on social media, Billi reacted as you would imagine.She took off her £200,000 engagement ring and left their Essex home. It seemed like they would never exchange nuptials.Bar manager Taylor even shared an image on social media wearing Carrol’s bath robeTaylor Jane Wilkey shared images of her in bed with Carroll on the stag doA reprieveHowever, bar manager Taylor expressed her regret at the situation.She also insisted that nothing sexual happened.Taylor told The Sun: “It was all just a bit of entirely innocent fun. “It was an afterparty. We all went back to his hotel. There was me, Andy and my female friend.”I didn’t sleep with him, it wasn’t like that, there was three of us in the room.”It was a full day and night of drinking, we’d been at Cove Beach since 12, it was a really boozy day. Andy was steaming, we were all drunk.”She added: “We went back to Andy’s hotel suite and we played some music and he got into bed and passed out.”I was there with my friend until the early hours and took the photo as a joke.”My mates back home were goading me for the lowdown so I took that picture for a laugh and sent it to them.Carrol was forgiven by Billi after Taylor revealed nothing sexual happenedCredit: InstagramCarroll and Billi wed at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in HampshireCredit: INSTAGRAMCarroll left England and began a career at Amiens in FranceCredit: Instagramread more sport features”Nothing sexual happened. It was just a bit of banter.”After Billi requested Carroll show her all the pictures from the boozy stag do in clear-the-air talks, the wedding was back on.However, it was clearly a moment that broke trust between the pair.A fresh startIn August, 2023, Carroll left Reading after triggering a release clause in his contract.He joined French second division club Amiens – with his career in its twilight years.A year later, he would continue his adventure across the channel and sign for Bordeaux, where he currently plays.For Carroll, it encouraged a quieter life, away from the hustle and bustle of cities like Newcastle and London, where the nightlife may have proved a temptation.However, rather tellingly, he was alone.Billi made the decision to stay in their Essex home, as Carroll continued his career in France – one that hasn’t been profitable given Bordeaux’s financial struggle and fall from grace.Andy, who is said to be on £750-per-week, revealed to RMC Sport: “To be honest, it’s even costing me money to come and play for Bordeaux but I’m playing football and I am simply happy to be playing football.Carroll left his family behind to pursue his career in FranceCredit: InstagramBilli continued to live in their Essex home while Carroll played in FranceCarroll reportedly earns around £750-per-week playing for BordeauxCarroll has been linked to Harry Styles’ hairstylist Lou Teasdale”I want to be a part of this club’s history and to be frank, it wasn’t a question of money. In my career, it’s never been a question of money.”READ MORE SUN STORIESCarroll has since reportedly moved on from Billi – and is dating Harry Styles’ hairstylist Lou Teasdale.With divorce costing a pretty penny, expect Carroll to have dig deep into his savings to fund his divorce. More

    • 263 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Erik ten Hag has got to be WAY better… we know Angeball but Man Utd boss’ system is still a mystery

      by

      I NEVER know from one week to the next what Manchester United are trying to do, what their system is or how they play.That was the case a few weeks after Erik ten Hag had taken over — I’m really none the wiser now and we’re 18 months on.Erik ten Hag is under more pressure than Ange Postecoglou for SundayCredit: GettyMan Utd face a striker in Dominic Solanke who is adjusting well for SpursCredit: RexAnd that’s one of the reasons why there is far more riding on today’s game for Ten Hag than for Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou.Ten Hag seems to be under pressure all the time. They get one good result, then a bad one. There’s no consistency at all.This week it was the Europa League and a draw against little FC Twente.At the start of the month it was getting smashed up at home by Liverpool.READ MORE TOP STORIESIt is difficult when you are not winning.If you are winning, you can keep a consistent team. In Sir Alex Ferguson’s time, the team pretty much picked itself every week.When you’re losing, it’s very different. You are looking for that formula, so you are chopping and changing players or even altering systems of play.Of course, Man United and Spurs both have  traditions of playing attacking football. But in the end, it’s all about winning.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLet’s not kid ourselves that everyone is so educated and just wants to see this incredible style of football.Winning games and being up near the top of the league is the only thing that will keep  people happy. Tottenham legend Gus Poyet explains why Ange Postecoglou can end trophy hoodoo and win Carabao Cup despite Coventry horror showIt’s no good playing good football and getting beat 3-0 on a Saturday.If you’re not playing good football AND you’re not winning, you’re bang in trouble, of course.Which is where Ten Hag and United are still.We know all about Angeball and when Spurs are playing  well, they are great to watch. It’s a very open, attacking style.They have some excellent forward players. Dominic Solanke seems to be settling in now that he’s got a couple of goals.Postecoglou can’t really play any other way with the players he has. They don’t have a lot of workhorses. The two full-backs can’t defend. You couldn’t turn that squad into something else.If Spurs are winning games and playing like that, the fans will love it.Having said that, a draw at Old Trafford today would be a decent result for Tottenham.But not for United. They have to be winning their home games.Ten Hag keeps making a point about winning a trophy in both his seasons at the club so far.But at United, you expect more. If you’re a Man United fan, you’ve been spoilt. You’re used to winning league titles and European Cups.Incredibly the way Ten Hag wants to play is still unclearHe needs to do more, he needs to be back up there challenging.The cup wins, well done — but still not good enough. They need to improve, big-time.Both sides will be looking to get back into the Champions League as a minimum.You’d put your shirt on the top three being Man City, Liverpool and Arsenal in whatever order. But it’s going to be a real dogfight for that fourth spot.Villa are in the Champions League this year and that could be a distraction.Spurs and United are in Europe but their  fixtures aren’t anything like the same level.Chelsea are starting to come together and they could be a threat.I still think Spurs have the players to just about take that last spot.And Ten Hag has it all to do at United.A lot of people were surprised he survived the summer, really.It was very strange. All the talk was that he would be going. I still think Gareth Southgate could be lurking on the radar.I can see the former England boss being of interest to the people who run the club if United’s form does not improve.Ten Hag needs results — and quickly.Gareth Southgate could still be on United’s radarCredit: RexHold-up even left our Ron in a rageTHE travel nightmare that Qarabag had on the way to their game at Tottenham reminded me of the worst journey I ever had.As a player at West Ham, we had a League Cup semi-final replay against Stoke at  Hillsborough in 1972.We were stuck in  horrendous traffic and going to be really late.I’d never seen Ron Greenwood lose his  temper but he was going crazy at the driver.He was in such a state that he was trying to  get through gaps that weren’t big enough and ended up hitting six cars on the way.They all followed us to the stadium and then the drivers got out and started having a row.It was like the  Keystone Cops.Was it worth it? No. The game ended 0-0 and then we got beat in the second replay.Sam was a write oneEVERYONE’S banging on  about dark arts — or  whatever people want to call them — after Manchester City and Arsenal’s 2-2 draw last weekend.It’s nothing new, all that verbal and physical stuff. But Wimbledon chairman Sam Hammam once found an amazing way to stir up some trouble.Sam Hammam had a cheeky way of inspiring Vinnie Jones and CoCredit: GettyBefore one game against them with West Ham, I got to Upton Park about 12 o’clock and my groundsman said: “Harry, their chairman has been in their dressing room for an hour and he’s got a big bag of pens.”READ MORE SUN STORIESI opened the door and all over the walls he had  written “Fashanu, you t***er”, “Vinnie, you . . . ”, all that kind of thing, in big writing.It was as though we’d done it, so that when  Wimbledon came in, they would get the raving needle and want to kill us.Changes to the Premier League for 2024/25NOTHING stays the same forever.And that includes the Premier League, which is making a number of tweaks this season.Team news will now be released 75 MINUTES before kick-off, 15 minutes earlier than had been the case before.Things could get crowded on the touchline, with the number of substitutes permitted to warm-up boosted from three players per team to FIVE.There’s also a change to how added time is calculated when a team scores a goal, an update to the ‘multiball’ system and the introduction of semi-automated offsides – but not straight away.Go here to read about all the changes to the Premier League for 2024/25. More