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      If Newcastle beat Liverpool it could be the catalyst for a new dynasty, the first trophy in a new golden era

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      JUNE 11, 1969, is not a date most football fans will remember.Unless, of course, you support Newcastle.A few weeks later, Neil Armstrong would take his giant leap for mankind on the moon but, for Newcastle, it marked the start of a big step backwards.Eddie Howe is desperate to end Newcastle’s decades of hurtCredit: GettyAlexander Isak is set to lead the Toon’s hopes in attackCredit: GettyThe Toon Army sank several battalions of Newcastle Brown Ale in 1969 as it was the last time their club — by common consent one of the best supported in the land — actually won a trophy.Winning the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, the forerunner of the Uefa Cup and Europa League, came so long ago that the match was only covered for TV in black and white.The Magpies beat Hungary’s Ujpesti Dozsa 6-2 over the two-legged final but have since had to endure heartbreak, false dawns and decades of near misses.That could all change this weekend, 56 years later.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLShould they win the League Cup at Wembley on Sunday, Toon boss Eddie Howe will achieve Tyneside immortality as the manager who finally brought home silverware.Many have tried, all have failed, but Howe could be the one to end 56 years of hurt for Newcastle.This match represents so much more than just a trophy.It’s about proving that Newcastle are a serious force again.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd that the investment under their new owners is translating into real success —  that this is just the beginning, not the end, of a new era for the club.Howe has done a remarkable job turning Newcastle from relegation candidates into genuine contenders for silverware in just a few seasons.Dan Burn’s gone from pushing trolleys at Asda to potential England glory – he fully deserves his call-upWinning this final would be a statement of intent, a sign that they are not just here to challenge but to dominate.Yet they have one major obstacle — and that’s the best team in the country at the moment, Liverpool.Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup — you name it, they’ve won it.Tuesday’s unexpected Champions League exit means there’s no doubt they will approach this game like wounded tigers — dangerous and determined.Quiz question? How many trophies have Liverpool won since 1969. I looked it up.The Reds have lifted 12 league titles and are almost certainly about to make it another.They have also racked up six European Cups, seven FA Cups, ten League Cups, three Uefa Cups and a Club World Cup.That’s 39 major trophies, to Newcastle’s none. Liverpool, quite simply, are a club that knows how to win.Arne Slot hopes Liverpool bounce back quickly from their PSG exitCredit: RexI suspect many neutrals will be wanting a Newcastle victory to end that tale of woe and the Toon Army hope and pray this weekend finally ends that astonishing streak.Newcastle’s last domestic success came even further back, when they won a third FA Cup in just five seasons in 1955.For a club which gets 52,000 into St James’ Park every home game, they are on a remarkably bad run — especially when you consider some of the managers who have been on Tyneside, including the late Sir Bobby Robson and Kevin Keegan.They both got very close to trophies but Howe could be the one who finally delivers.It will be fascinating to see how Arne Slot’s Liverpool react to their European exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain in midweek. It could galvanise the players to show their boss that PSG was just a blip on an otherwise memorable season that sees them poised to win a record-equalling 20th league title, level with their local rivals Manchester United.READ MORE SUN STORIESFor Newcastle, losing this final would be gut-wrenching. Another painful chapter in a long history of near-misses.But if they win? It could be the catalyst for a new dynasty, the first trophy in a new golden era for the club. More

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      Newcastle legend gives Eddie Howe blueprint on how to beat Liverpool and finally end 70-year trophy drought

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      CHRIS WADDLE has told Newcastle boss Eddie Howe to stick to “bold” Geordie traditions to break the club’s trophyless habit of a lifetime.The Tyneside legend insists all-out attack is the only way to end a painful silverware drought and beat Premier League leaders Liverpool in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final.Harvey Barnes, Leo Shahar and Co are gearing up for LiverpoolCredit: GettyEddie Howe has been told to focus on attack against Arne Slot’s menCredit: GettyChris Waddle reckons Toon fans have expectations of exciting footballCredit: RexEx-Toon and England winger star Waddle is urging Howe to order Alexander Isak and Co to get at Arne Slot’s side right from the off at Wembley.If fortune does favour the brave, it will secure Newcastle a first domestic trophy since the FA Cup 70 years ago and a first piece of silverware since the 1969 Fairs Cup triumph.“I’d love to see Newcastle end their hoodoo and I hope they do it with the fearless, exciting attacking style the club is famous for,” Waddle told SunSport.“For me, they need to be bold because Newcastle are always at their best on front foot and when they’ve tried alternative ways which are less exciting it’s not suited them.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“That’s been the case right down the years and when managers have tried to apply the brakes and exercise more caution, more often than not it’s backfired.“So, Newcastle will have to burst out of the blocks and press Liverpool from the off to try to catch them cold, get ahead early and work their socks off to stay there.“And that will get the fans plenty to shout about because that front-foot, high tempo approach is what they want to watch.“The last thing they like to see a Newcastle team park the bus at Wembley because they know the script.Most read in FootballAlexander Isak is rated as the man who could make the differenceCredit: PABEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS“They don’t want to see boring football – they’ve traditionally preferred to see a 4-3 and hope and pray for the best. That’s the Newcastle way, whether we like it or not.”Waddle, 64, believes red-hot striker Isak could be the hero who brings back the glory days to Tyneside.Dan Burn’s gone from pushing trolleys at Asda to potential England glory – he fully deserves his call-upHe said: “It will require a massive performance from Newcastle to win but I think Isak could make the difference.“I’ve always liked centre-forwards who can create and make the most of their own goal-scoring opportunities and so I love watching Isak.“He’s shown so many times that he’s capable of picking the ball up 40 yards from goal, going it alone and scoring.“That’s because he’s not only blessed with pace and dribbling ability but he’s got a really positive mindset as well which is why he suits Newcastle so much.“He will always cause opposing defenders problems and that’s why he’s vitally important to Newcastle.“The side is set up to bring the best out of him when it comes to build-up play with wingers with purpose and three adventurous midfielders who are creative and love to get in the box.”But if things do go according to plan and their team’s high-octane start pays off, Waddle reckons the Geordies could end up watching the game unfold through their fingers.He added: “Liverpool will have a bit of a hangover from the PSG game but they’ll know what they need to do.“And they showed how good they are at managing games when they beat Manchester City last month.Kieran Trippier and team-mates hope to stun the Prem leadersCredit: GettyNewcastle must try to launch relentless attacking, says WaddleCredit: Getty“They didn’t go chasing them and played a good tactical game which showed how savvy Arne Slot is.“Everyone expects Liverpool to be on the front foot, attacking everyone and pushing teams back especially at Anfield, but they’ve got other styles of play.“And they’ve got Mo Salah, who seems to be getting better with age because his sense of where to be at the right time and what strings to pull is stronger than ever.“Tino Livramento will have to have one of the best games of his life to make sure he doesn’t do the damage for Liverpool.“It will be a real game of cat-and-mouse because Salah has the licence to roam.“So the Newcastle defence will need to have eyes in their back of their heads and be alert to him as he’ll be a constant menace.”Waddle spent five years at St James’ Park, helping Newcastle win promotion to the old First Division in 1984 alongside future Toon boss Kevin Keegan who is synonymous with near-misses on Tyneside.His side was beaten to the Premier League title by Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United side.And since then they’ve reached the FA Cup final twice and the Carabao Cup Final two years ago and headed back up to the North East empty-handed on each occasion.“Sadly, there’s been decades of under-achievement at Newcastle,” Waddle added.“For the sake of the fans if nothing else I hope things change as they’ve had to have the patience of a saint.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They’ve been treated to exciting players, exhilarating seasons and but they’ve never got over the line despite investing in top individuals.“But that’s why if they beat Liverpool every single member of the team will instantly become Tyneside legends.” More

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      My pal said ‘sorry about your dad’s dementia’… that was news to me, reveals Dean Windass’ son Josh

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      JOSH WINDASS revealed he only found out about his dad’s dementia from a Sheffield Wednesday team-mate while they were in a coffee shop.The attacking midfielder, 31, was oblivious that Hull and Bradford legend Dean Windass had been diagnosed with the condition until Owls defender Max Lowe unwittingly broke the news.Josh Windass reckons his dad being ‘a bit of a nutter’ make him popularCredit: GettyDean Windass, a cult hero with fans, has been diagnosed with dementiaCredit: GettyAnd Windass told SunSport: “I found out in a coffee shop. Max said, ‘Sorry to hear about your dad’s dementia’ and I thought, ‘Oh! That’s news to me!’”His dad’s diagnosis at the age of 55 was publicly revealed by former Manchester United and Blackburn star David May during a TV interview, with Windass’ blessing.It sparked an outpouring of love and support for one of the biggest English football characters of the 1990s and 2000s, who has more recently been a Sky Sports pundit.Windass Jr said: “He’s well loved within the football community. He’s a bit of a nutter and people like that about people.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I don’t think he’s struggling too badly. I speak sometimes to my brother, who is keeping tabs on him. He’s sound.“When news like this comes out people always think the worst. But it’s not a severe grade at the minute and he’s not having too many problems.“The first thing I asked was if he still knew my name and he did, so I didn’t ask him too many questions.”Windass Jr is chasing a second promotion with Sheffield WednesdayCredit: GettyHis dad did a national TV interview this week where he raised concerns about the perils of heading a football, which has been proven to increase the risk of developing the disease, and fears for his own son’s safety.Most read in ChampionshipWindass Jr scored the winning goal at Wembley with his head to clinch Wednesday’s promotion from League One in the play-off final against Barnsley in May 2023.Former Premier League star Dean Windass suffering from dementia as ex-Man Utd ace reveals diagnosis live on BBC And the Owls ace himself is passionate about raising awareness on how to prevent suffering from such conditions in later life.Research shows adopting a healthy, balanced diet can reduce the risk of dementia.Windass has a strict diet plan and last season enlisted the help of Tyson Fury’s nutritionist, Sheffield-based Greg Marriott, to help his recovery from an injury.And he said: “You don’t want anyone getting dementia or any other illness.“You want everyone on the planet to be healthy in an ideal world so it’s important to raise awareness to help people prevent it.“Even things like eating healthily. It’s not just for making you look good at the beach, it’s great for your lifestyle and health.“It’s something me and my missus speak a lot about — curriculums in schools, people don’t get taught enough about diet or illness and stuff like that. There needs to be more focus.“A lot of the stuff that gets people excited are the things you probably shouldn’t do such as drinking alcohol and eating bad food.“There’s a time and a place for that but it’s important to raise your kids especially to drink water, eat fruit and vegetables.“When you’re 50, I’ve seen people who go on all these diets and things — but by that point it’s a bit late.“I’m on the side of the fence that you can have a good time but our bodies are more important. People don’t take care of themselves as much as they should.”Windass even believes that a good diet could help stem the increase of mental illness cases that have been highlighted in recent years. He said: “If you’re eating and drinking things that are going to damage your brain then you’re not going to be the happiest person in the world.“If you can do little things that can help make you feel a bit better, you’re going to be happier and healthier.”Windass certainly would have been feeling more jubilant after scoring his first goal since New Year’s Day by snatching the all-important equaliser at Norwich on Tuesday as Wednesday roared back from 2-0 down to win 3-2.It was a crucial three points, hauling Danny Rohl’s men back into the play-off picture — and moving them to within just five points of the top six.Windass is set to feature in Sunday’s Steel City derby when bitter rivals Sheffield United make the three-and-half-mile trek across town to Hillsborough.That Wembley goal was nice — but a League One promotion isn’t something I talk about too much as it’s not such a big achievement.”Josh WindassHe has always thought the Owls needed to still be in the mix by the final whistle of the derby clash to stand a chance.Windass has scored 11 goals this season with nine games left — and he said: “I felt at the start I needed to score 15 from midfield for the team to have a successful season.”One of those strikes was a 60-yard worldie against Derby — which will surely win the goal of the season gong at the EFL awards.It was so good that pundits Paul Merson and Clinton Morrison rated it better than the famous one David Beckham scored from the halfway line for Manchester United against Wimbledon in 1996.It sparked a January bid from Brazilian club Santos — which was rejected.But Windass said: “I scored a better one last year against Blackburn!”He has been at Hillsborough for five years and is firmly established as a cult hero for his play-off winner — but he would dearly love to see the Yorkshire club win promotion to the Premier League.READ MORE SUN STORIESWindass said: “I guess that Wembley goal was nice — but a League One promotion isn’t something I talk about too much because it’s not such a big achievement.”A play-off final winner this year certainly would be. More

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      Arsenal files: What really happened in Arteta’s Old Trafford interview as Gunners target £12.5m La Liga star transfer

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      FOLLOWING Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United last weekend, Mikel Arteta faced up to the world’s media, from the written press to international broadcasters.But it was his interview with Sky Sports in the Old Trafford tunnel that grabbed the attention of fans and pundits, appearing to show Arteta “storm out” of his one-on-one chat with reporter Patrick Davison.Mikel Arteta drew headlines after seemingly walking away from an interview with Sky SportsBut the real reason behind the mix-up has now been explainedCriticism followed. Some called it “petulant”, others claimed it showed that Arteta was cracking under the pressure of a Premier League title race.But what really happened, and why?To throw in some context, like most Prem managers, Arteta had a whole host of post-match media to get through before he could travel back to London with his squad.On this occasion, there were nine interviews to complete, including six international TV broadcasters, UK radio, Arsenal TV and a press conference.Arteta’s interview with Sky’s Davison was going as expected – questions about the match as well as Arsenal’s ongoing injury issues.The length of these full-time Sky interviews can vary. For example, United boss Ruben Amorim spoke for four-and-a-half minutes.But usually, they last between two minutes and two-and-a-half minutes before managers must move on to other post-match responsibilities.In this instance, after two minutes and 40 seconds, Arteta was asked whether he regretted not buying a striker in January, to which he replied: “No, it’s not about that” before moving to his right to leave the interview.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSSunSport understands that Arteta believed the interview had come to a natural conclusion, only for Davison to stop him and say: “Mikel, one more. “I have to ask you about the title race because it is 15 points now. Is it too much?”Arteta insists Arsenal are capable of reaching Champions League semi finals after PSV draw Arteta interrupted to say: “No, thank you” before walking off. As the screen flicked back to the Sky studio, pundit Gary Neville looked slightly alarmed at what had happened.Neville said: “Usually if you see a manager walk off from an interview when he’s been asked a question, you normally think there is something getting to them.“Is he sick of being asked that question? Does he think that’s too simple an answer that he doesn’t have a striker?”However, SunSport understands that Arteta had no issue with the line of questioning, nor did he have a problem with Davison’s approach, just keen to get on to his next media obligation.It is normal for reporters to try and squeeze as many questions in during the allotted time as possible, as Davison rightly attempted to do.You may argue that Arteta could have stood still for a couple more seconds to answer the final question, instead of his awkward-looking rushed getaway.But there was no malice in his hurried departure, nor was he attempting to avoid that particular question.Arsenal cruised into the Champions League quarters with an aggregate 9-3 win over PSVThe Gunners fielded SIX left-backs as they drew 2-2 on the nightIn fact, Arteta had already answered it in much more detail in several other post-match chats, including in the press conference, where he said: “I don’t want to say [the title race is over].“The frustration is that we haven’t won our game. We know the urgency and it’s about winning every single match if you want to have any chance of doing that.“I don’t think it’s the right moment to talk about that.”The Spaniard has not taken the reaction to the incident to heart either.Moments after Tuesday’s press conference previewing Arsenal’s Champions League last 16 clash with PSV, Arteta remarked to another Sky reporter with a smile that he thought he was going to be asked about it in order to clarify what happened.So, it may have looked tense, but it was far from it. Just clumsy.REAL (MADRID) CHANCEThe Bernabeu will soon play host to Arsenal in the quarter finals of the Champions League – a tie that brings back memories of Thierry Henry’s match-winning goal to down David Beckham and his fellow Galacticos in 2005/06.That season, Arsenal reached the final in Paris, eventually losing to Barcelona 2-1.Nineteen years on and it feels like it could be one step too far for this team – with no recognised striker – to knock out Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr on route to another final.But SunSport understands that there are those in the know in the Madrid press pack that feel the Gunners now have more of a chance to reach the semis after avoiding a two-legged tie against Atletico Madrid.Diego Simeone’s Atletico would have put up an ugly fight, like they always do, and shut up shop with a low block for 180 minutes or more – something Arsenal have struggled to break down this term.In comparison, Real will surely attack from the off. That may just make this a 50/50 tie if Arsenal can find their shooting boots and be brave with the ball when space opens up.Arsenal face 15-time European champions in the quarter-finalsCredit: APESPANYOL DECISIONSSunSport understands that Arsenal are keeping tabs on versatile Espanyol full-back Omar El Hilali, who is believed to have a release clause of around £12.5m.El Hilali can also play as a winger, something Arteta likes in his new recruits. The Moroccan is just 21 years old with a contract until June 2027, and is also being looked at by Barcelona.He leads LaLiga in terms of successful tackles resulting in ball recoveries (63) this term.But Arsenal are also keen on Espanyol’s keeper Joan Garcia, 23, for the summer, needing a No.2 to come in to compete with David Raya when Neto returns to parent club Bournemouth. Garcia could cost upwards of £25m.In the scenario that Espanyol do not want to sell both their stars in the same window, Arsenal and Arteta may have a tricky decision on their hands.Arsenal are keeping tabs on versatile Espanyol full-back Omar El HilaliCredit: GettyDRESSING DOWNNormally on a Champions League night at the Emirates, the Arsenal players cannot wait to shower, change and get home – speedily walking through the mixed zone where journalists often stand towards the car park.But on Tuesday night, after a 2-2 draw with PSV, they were nowhere to be seen.Instead, they were huddled around a TV in the dressing room watching the penalty shoot-out between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid to find out their quarter final opponents.It is believed that among them were Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz – both watching the game from the stands as they continue to recover from their respective injuries.Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori eventually came out to conduct interviews sometime after, the former revealing the reaction to the result amongst the squad.The Ukrainian said: “How can you cheer? It was a mixed feeling. No one said anything. It was just mixed emotions.”Real Madrid edged the most controversial shootout in recent European memoryCredit: ReutersFormer Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger just about sealed a 4-2 win over Atletico MadridCredit: Getty More

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      Prince William reveals superstitious match day rituals when watching Villa & how he lurks on fan forums with random name

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      PRINCE William has spoken of falling in love with Aston Villa after being taken to a match by friends as a boy.The heir, 42, said he was gripped by the “sense of belonging” and the passion of his fellow football fans.Prince William has revealed his ‘passion’ for Aston Villa and shares his superstitions, including moving the kids around during gamesCredit: Dan CharityGeorge, Charlotte and Louis better not get comfortable if their dad is watching Aston Villa losingCredit: GettyPrince William enjoys a matchday at Villa Park – where he enjoys mixing with the other fansCredit: GettyWills also revealed he visits fan forums anonymously online — and moves his kids around when watching at home to bring the team luck.We sat down with the heir to the throne for a chat at Villa’s training ground on the eve of their Champions League win over Club Brugge.They now have a glamour tie with PSG in the last eight to look forward to — and their fans can maybe dream of the glory days when they lifted the European Cup.Wills said: “Yep they won it, 1982, the year I was born. There’s a nice connection with them straight away.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut how did he become a Villa fan, seeing as he had no obvious connection with the Midlands?William, now 42, concedes it was relatively late when he got the bug but he was gripped by the camaraderie, and his interest intensified when Villa got relegated in 2016.He said: “There were a few moments that happened. I had some family friends who took me to my first Villa game when I was younger because they are big Villa fans.“It was against Bolton and I sat in the stands with my Villa beanie hat on and I remember Paul Merson was playing for Villa at the time. With the camaraderie among the fans and the chanting and the singing, I just felt like I belonged there.Most read in Football“I kept an eye on Villa from then on but didn’t get too involved initially. But Villa being relegated to the Championship in 2016 got me even more interested, strangely.“A few years earlier, we’d finished sixth under Martin O’Neill and now we weren’t even in the Premier League. Prince William on recreating Ronaldo’s goal celebration in his garden as he builds ‘Perfect Footballer'”I’m not certain why I became much more interested then but it might have been due to the rise of the smartphone.“I’d grown up looking at Ceefax on the television or the back pages of newspapers and if you didn’t have those to hand you were a bit out of the loop.“But now you can get so much data and follow how your team is doing all the time and there’s so much more discussion and debate. That’s how my passion really increased.“I’m incredibly proud of the club and the journey it’s been on. It’s hard to put into words and a lot of Villa fans are still pinching themselves a bit that we’re here and we’ve done this.”’The atmosphere was electric’William poured praise on manager Unai Emery, and said he can learn from his exceptional eye for detail and man-management skills. “He went on: “Last season was very tense and we were wondering if we’d get over the line to get in the Champions League and when we did it was a big deal.“When I came up here to see the team, the atmosphere was electric.“We are all so proud and pleased with what they’ve done and you can see the difference with a manager like Unai, who brings people together and works hard on the little details. “He’s a really good man-manager with a great support staff around him and the players enjoy playing for him.I’m kind of hoping they’ll all find their own teams in time. They don’t all have to be Villa fans. I’m trying not to be biased but obviously they see how passionate I am about it and they watch the matches with me.Prince William“There have been lots of good managers in Villa’s time but I’d say Unai is a step up on some of them in terms of his formations, and the length of detail he goes into with his videos. “He spends hours debriefing the previous match to get them ready for the next one.“He lives, eats, breathes and sleeps football and it gives you a bit of a lesson in life that if you really want to do something right, you’ve got to throw everything at it and give your time. “Unai is that dedicated, a completely obsessed man of football and that rubs off on the players.“If you’re doing what you love and speaking so well about how you love it then they’ll follow you. It’s quite a good leadership point.”William has often taken son George to games but is not forcing his eldest, or their siblings Charlotte or Louis, into supporting Villa.He said: “I’m kind of hoping they’ll all find their own teams in time. They don’t all have to be Villa fans. I’m trying not to be biased but obviously they see how passionate I am about it and they watch the matches with me. I’m trying to spread the love a little bit.“They do have Villa shirts, and ask to come to games with me, but they have other shirts as well. There’s been a bit of courting going on by other managers too.”William also revealed his irritation over the TV blackout, which bans Premier League games from being broadcast in England at 3pm on a Saturday.He said: “Getting up to Villa Park isn’t the easiest thing for me but I like to watch as many games as I possibly can either by being there or on TV. “I’ve tried to really make an effort to get there for all the Champions League games because it feels like that’s something you’ve got to make the most of when you’re in it. “The biggest thing at home is trying to find it on TV sometimes because obviously you’ve got the Saturday 3pm blackout which is irritating.”Illegal firestickHe puts the shutters up when it is suggested he could use an illegal firestick. He laughs: “Haha, no comment on that one. I’m a paid-up member of Villa TV though so I keep up to date through that. “But it’s really annoying that we still can’t watch our own team’s Premier League match in this country but you can go abroad and watch any game any time.”So when he watches Villa on TV, does he get into the matchday spirit as if he was in the ground?I like mixing with the fans. Anything Villa I love and they all love their Villa. It’s a family within a family and I do feel part of the Villa family.Prince WilliamHe replied: “If I’m home alone with the children, I probably don’t have the pre-match pint but I do have a bit of superstition about where I sit when I’m watching them. “If we’re not doing very well, I start moving round the house quite quickly and I put the children in different positions hoping that’s going to change our luck.” William recently popped into a Birmingham Wetherspoons to join Villa fans for a beer before a game at Everton.He said: “I like mixing with the fans. Anything Villa I love and they all love their Villa.“It’s a family within a family and I do feel part of the Villa family. This club does an awful lot — and I know lots of clubs do it too — but I particularly feel it with Villa in my life that I’m very included.“The morals and the vision and the general atmosphere and the culture of the club really matters.“For me, it’s always been very welcoming, very diverse, and all-encompassing.” He unhesitatingly names Irish stalwart defender of the 90s, Paul McGrath, as the greatest Villa player ever, while he also has a particular soft spot for Norwegian striker John Carew.He said: “Yeah it has to be McGrath, doesn’t it? I really liked Carew as well, he was a serious all-round player. There’s been quite a few good ones, but they are two who I would pick out.”He also loves to chip in with his opinions on fans’ internet forums, posting anonymously of course.He revealed: “I like going on the forums, I can be on there for ages. I listen to what other fans have to say and give them my opinions. I get quite into it, definitely. It’s important to have that debate.”However, he added: “Having said that, while I may be an armchair fan, I wouldn’t presume to tell Unai if he’s doing anything wrong.“I’m fascinated by what Unai is doing and how he tweaks his system and what he sees. “I’d love to know more about how he goes about managing the team better and how do you see those little details which no one else does.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.Wills chats with Villa fave Morgan RogersCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceThe prince is full of praise for Villa’s Spanish manager Unai EmeryCredit: ReutersWills sits down for an exclusive chat with The Sun’s head of sport, Shaun CustisCredit: Dan Charity More

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      Cole Palmer’s girlfriend Connie Grace opens up on their relationship for the first time in new documentary

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      CHELSEA star Cole Palmer’s girlfriend Connie Grace has lifted the lid on their relationship for the first time.Palmer, 22, and Connie, 22, met when they were 17 years old but only went public together in November at the GQ Men of the Year Awards.Chelsea star Cole Palmer’s girlfriend Connie Grace lifted the lid on their relationshipCredit: Amazon PrimePalmer and Connie took part in a special documentaryCredit: Amazon PrimeThe pair have known each other since they were 17 but went public with their relationship in NovemberCredit: SplashConnie met Palmer when they were both teenagersCredit: instagram @conniegrace_The couple are taking part in England’s Lions: A New Generation documentary, which will be out on Amazon Prime from Saturday, and were filmed dining in a swanky London restaurant.The Three Lions star’s partner, who is a nail technician and Instagram influencer with 34,000 followers, opened up about their special bond.Connie said: “We met when we were 17. I think he knew me through mutual friends so I think he probably had his eye on me.Read More on Chelsea”Oh, he’s warm and cuddly. Well, with me, hopefully with no one else.”When you know how much someone wants something and you know that’s someone’s dream, you just feel so proud.”Palmer is known for his ice-cold demeanour but he let his guard down while filming the documentary as he tried his luck with some new food.The Blues winger experimented by dunking some bread in oil and balsamic vinegar for the first time.Most read in FootballConnie warned her boyfriend he wouldn’t like the taste and she was proven right as he recoiled and cried “ew!”Cheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsAnd Connie couldn’t help but laugh as she explained how Palmer hasn’t changed at all since his humble beginnings at Wythenshawe.That is despite going on to play for Manchester City, where he won the treble, before his £42.5milion move to Chelsea in 2023 since when he has turned into one of the Premier League’s biggest stars.Cole Palmer branded ‘gift that keeps on giving’ after Chelsea star reveals his meal deal sandwich Connie added: “Cole now is still the same Cole that I met when I was 17. “Obviously, he’s changed, he’s grown up, and his life now is completely different, but he’s still the same boy, he’s still laid-back Cole.”Cole will adapt to whatever situation he’s in. He’s not bothered that he’s that far from home because all he wants to do is play football and if it means leaving home and being in a place which is completely different to where he’s from, he’ll do it.”He’s not bothered about the whole fame side of it and he’s not bothered what people think of him. “He is only just bothered about scoring goals and doing well for his team, doing well for his country, and you’ve got to love him for that.”Connie is a nail technician with thousands of followers on InstagramCredit: instagram @conniegrace_Connie spoke about her relationship with Palmer for the first timeCredit: InstagramConnie insists Palmer hasn’t changed at all despite his immense fameCredit: instagram @conniegrace_ More

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      What will happen to Old Trafford after Man Utd’s stadium move as it’s revealed iconic ground will take a year to destroy

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      OLD TRAFFORD will take about 12 months to dismantle once Manchester United move into their new £2billion stadium.Plans were revealed earlier this week for a new 100,000-seater home in the shadow of the Theatre of Dreams.Manchester United have confirmed their decision to build a brand new 100,000-seater stadiumOld Trafford will take about 12 months to dismantle once Manchester United move into their new stadiumCredit: ReutersThe hope is to move in for the start of the 2030/31 season — in just over five years — if there are no further obstacles.United believe they can continue to use Old Trafford — their home for the past 115 years — until the new place is ready.Nothing has been decided regarding their existing stadium but ideas about scaling it down and using it for youth and women’s games are now considered unlikely.Architects involved in the project believe it could be bulldozed within a year of the final game.Read More on Man UtdUnited chief executive Omar Berrada confirmed that a final decision regarding Old Trafford has yet to be taken but added it’s “unlikely” they will keep it in operation.Berrada said when asked if Old Trafford could be kept: “I’d say it’s unlikely.”We haven’t made a decision on it yet. It’s true that at some point there was some thinking either keeping it as it is or reducing the capacity to 25 or 30,000, as somewhere where the women’s team could play, the youth teams could play.”I think given our ambition to build what you saw today [Tuesday], maybe that needs to be re-visited.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free bets”Again, our ambition is for the women’s team to have a big enough fan base that they’re playing in the main stadium, not in a smaller capacity stadium.”It’s not off the table [to have a mini Old Trafford]. It’s feasible but we have to find the best ways to finance a new stadium and we’re thinking about this in the context of how can it benefit the wider regeneration project.Old Trafford will be demolished and new ground will be built on adjacent landUnited will attempt to complete it in an ambitious five-year timeframeThe stadium will be contained by a vast umbrella, harvesting energy and rainwaterInside Newcastle’s £3BILLION new stadium plans with St James’ Park project to rival Old Trafford”If we feel the space where Old Trafford currently is can be used in a different way whilst preserving the history of Old Trafford then we’ll explore it.”Meanwhile, United hope the £50million revamp of their Carrington training base will be complete by the time they return from their pre-season tour.United’s decision came after an extensive consultation process around whether to develop the existing stadium from a capacity of 74,000 to 87,000 or build a new one.Architects at Foster and Partners, who will design the project, said 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.However critics claimed the new design looks more like a circus tent.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne fan tweeted: “Fair play to Manchester United for having the self-awareness to put a giant circus tent around their new stadium.”Another commented: “Man Utd’s new stadium design looks like a circus. Coincidence? I think not.”The government will help fund a redevelopment area around the stadium More

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      ‘You can’t go to Bluewater’ – Ex-Premier League boss begs stars to ‘sacrifice everything’ in another classic interview

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      NATHAN JONES has revealed an epic list of “sacrifices” he expects from his Charlton players AND their families.Famous for his oddball quotes, Jones has produced one of his best with a selection of do’s and don’ts for the promotion hunters during their run-in.Nathan Jones says Charlton players face eight weeks of sacrificesAnd it’s far worse than more typical demands imposed by some clubs, like avoiding fast-food, being in bed early or forgoing nightclubs.Because the Addicks manager has told his players not to go… shopping or bowling!The ex-Luton chief even claimed it’s time to stop “walking around high-fiving and going to Costa Coffee”.Perhaps Jones’ most notorious comment came when he explained why he took the Southampton job in 2022.READ MORE IN SPORTThe Welshman said: “I could have stayed in a mining community, been a PE teacher and had a nice life, married a nice Welsh girl. “I don’t. I want to test myself on every level and that’s nothing against Welsh women. I want to test myself.”And last year he produced a different type of eye-catching interview.Ecstatic following a 2-1 League One victory over Derby, Jones launched an X-rated boast – then backtracked when realising he was live on the BBC.Most read in EFLJones didn’t pull any punches on how his Addicks must behaveCredit: RexCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsHe said: “We over-ran them, we f*****g… Sorry – we were aggressive in what we did and I’m really proud of the second half performance.”  This time Jones was explaining to Charlton’s media team the tough time in store – or rather, not in stores – for his players – amid the season’s finale.EFL star, 24, ‘REFUSES to show up for game’ over transfer speculation weeks after shocking Premier League sideFourth-placed Charlton want a top-two finish or at least to keep hold of a play-off spot.Jones, 51, said: “Going into eight weeks of your life now, where you sacrifice everything.”You’re not shopping tomorrow. Not bowling. Your diet’s good.”However, Jones also left himself open to accusations of stereotyping.He added: “If your wife or your girlfriend wants to go shopping, wants to do that, they have to make the sacrifices.”It’s a massive sacrifice for us – to achieve something – because you can’t now go to Bluewater, walking around high-fiving and going to Costa Coffee when you should be resting.” More