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      What is Dominic Solanke’s TV-inspired goal celebration?

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      TOTTENHAM Hotspur’s latest signing Dominic Solanke is looking to bring a little culture to his goal celebrations this season.The 26-year-old professional footballer showcased his trademark stunt last season with his former team A.F.C Bournemouth. But what is the reason behind his quirky post-goal performance and why does he don a bright orange mask?Dominic Solanke is an English Premier League footballerCredit: GettyWho is Dominic Solanke?Dominic is an English Premier League footballer.Born on September 14, 1997, Dominic plays for Tottenham Hotspur.Dominic was born in Reading, Berkshire, to a Nigerian Yoruba father and an English mother.More on Dominic SolankeThe star began his football career in Chelsea’s youth academy, where he quickly stood out as a prolific goal scorer. He played a key role in helping Chelsea’s youth team win the UEFA Youth League and FA Youth Cup. After struggling to break into Chelsea’s first team, he joined Liverpool in 2017. In 2019, Dominic signed with Bournemouth, where he became a key player, helping them achieve promotion back to the Premier League.Most read in FootballIn August 2024, Tottenham Hotspur announced the signing of Dominic for £65 million on a six-year deal.What is Dominic Solanke’s goal celebration and what is the meaning behind it?Dominic’s mask celebration is a nod to the character Kakashi Hatake from the popular anime Naruto. He first performed this celebration on August 26, 2023, during Bournemouth’s 2-0 victory over Brentford. Awkward Dominic Solanke interview emerges as Tottenham close in on transfer for Bournemouth star After scoring, Dominic pulled out an orange mask, similar to the one worn in the Japanese manga series, and put it on briefly to celebrate. Unfortunately for him, the goal was later ruled out by VAR.Dominic has previously spoken about how much he loves anime.He told BBC’s Football Focus: “A lot of my friends watch it, so they were pressurising me to watch it, and at first, I wasn’t really into it.Dominic has said he’s inspired by the characters from the anime NarutoCredit: Getty”But then I watched Naruto first, and I just couldn’t stop watching it.”Dominic even acknowledged that anime has aided him in managing the mental aspects of the game.He said: “It’s so relentless. The characters just don’t give up, so it’s always nice to think back to those characters and what they’ve gone through and how hard they’ve worked.”READ MORE SUN STORIESHow many goals has Dominic Solanke scored for Tottenham?Dominic made his debut for Tottenham Hotspur on August 19, 2024Credit: GettyDominic made his debut for Tottenham Hotspur on August 19, 2024, in a Premier League match against Leicester City.He has not yet scored any goals for the North London team.The star joined Tottenham Hotspur Football Club in August 2024Credit: GettyChanges 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

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      Terminally-ill Sven-Goran Eriksson says ‘we are scared of the day we die – I had a good life’ in tragic goodbye message

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      TERMINALLY-ILL Sven-Goran Eriksson said he “had a good life” as he shared a tragic goodbye message in a new documentary.The former England and Manchester City manager bravely revealed in January that he’s been battling pancreatic cancer.Sven Goran Eriksson shared a poignant goodbye message in a new documentaryCredit: Amazon PrimeThe former England manager, pictured with Wayne Rooney, admitted he doesn’t know how much longer he has leftCredit: PASven-Goran Eriksson with his ex-lover Italian lawyer Nancy Dell’OllioCredit: Rex FeaturesDoctors initially gave the Swede – who managed the Three Lions for five years and three tournaments – “about a year” to live.The 76-year-old has now seen his life chronicled in a documentary for Amazon Prime Video which will be released on August 23.Sven gave a final message to former players, coaches and supporters after speaking openly about his affairs and life in the film. In a touching clip at the end of the documentary, Sven told viewers: “I had a good life. I think we are all scared of the day when we die, but life is about death as well. Read More in Football”You have to learn to accept it for what it is. Hopefully at the end people will say, yeah, he was a good man, but everyone will not say that.“I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do. Don’t be sorry, smile. “Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it.”The film then pans back to Sven in his home, with the former England manager concluding his message with “bye”.Most read in FootballKey images from his career were shown during his final message, along with a clip of him fulfilling his dream of managing Liverpool, taking charge of the Reds for a legends game against Ajax in March.Since falling ill, Sven has spent almost all his time at his Swedish home in Sunne, and has reconnected with his family.Speaking on a visit to Fryken lake, near Sunne, Sven admitted it could be his final resting place.Sven-Goran Eriksson close to tears as he’s given incredibly emotional tribute by former club amid cancer battlePointing at the lake, he said: “I always thought it’s a great place to sleep. “The ashes could be thrown into the water here. It feels like home.” The film shows simple, happy days spent reading, playing cards and enjoying meals with son Johan, daughter Lina and his partner of 15 years, Yaniseth Bravo.Sven bossed England from 2001 to 2006 but never took the Three Lions past the quarter-finals of a tournament.He was criticised for failing to get the best out of the “Golden Generation”, with England also exiting Euro 2004 at the last eight stage.In his first major tournament, the 2002 World Cup in Japan, Sven’s England lost 2-1 in the quarter-final to ten-man Brazil, the eventual winners.Then came the double exits to Portugal, and Sven left the role after the 2006 World Cup.As well as discussing how he feels facing death, England’s first foreign manager also talked candidly about the women in his life.The celebrated football coach had a conservative approach on the pitch but a series of steamy affairs with much younger women off it.Sven has spent most of his time back in his homeland SwedenCredit: Amazon PrimeHe was the first foreign manager to coach EnglandCredit: ReutersDavid Beckham featured in the documentaryCredit: Amazon PrimeEngland and Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney also spoke about SvenCredit: Amazon PrimeIn the Amazon Prime Show, he spoke about how he cheated on his long-time partner Nancy Dell’Ollio with Ulrika Jonsson and FA secretary Faria Alam.But Sven told the programme that he did not commit any crimes and that “sex is one of the good things in life for all of us”.In the documentary, Sven also admits that life could be interesting with fiery Nancy.He said: “She loved it. The tension. She was a lady from the upper classes in Rome. She liked to go out with important people.“In the beginning I didn’t react very much. But you don’t change people at a certain age. It was not peace in my house always.”And Faria, now 58, reveals how the then-England manager told her to cash in on their 2004 affair.She says: “The Noughties were just that, they were naughty.“You could do so many things. I’ll be honest, I was a beautiful girl and I attracted a lot of attention.“He said, ‘Tell your story, go and tell them everything. Make some money, why not?’.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the documentary, which streams this week, David Beckham and Wayne Rooney also pay tribute to their former boss. Becks says: “I loved him from day one. He made me captain. The confidence he had in me was so important.“The way he protected the players, the way he treated the players, it was a breath of fresh air.”Sven had a fling with Swede Ulrika Jonsson while he was with NancyCredit: gettyHe also cheated on long-time partner Nancy with FA secretary Faria Alam, aboveCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdUlrika JohnsonWHEN I look at Sven-Goran Eriksson now, I see a much diminished man. A man reduced by terminal illness, but also a man who, by his own admission, has had a good life.As The Sun told yesterday, he talks about his private life on his Amazon Prime film Sven, including his affair with me.We first met in 2002, when I asked him for his autograph at a party held by Alastair Campbell, Tony Blair’s spin doctor.He replied to me in our native language, Swedish, asking for my telephone number so he could call me. I was single at the time and 34. He was 54 and confided that he wanted to end his relationship with Nancy Dell’Olio because it was sapping him of energy.He then proceeded to call me every day when he went on holiday with Nancy, telling me I was beautiful and how much he wanted to see me.When he returned, the day after his 54th birthday, he visited me and we slept together.This was no great passionate affair. It was devoid of passion. He had all this power and money, yet he was the weakest man I have ever met.During our dalliance he was heading to his place in Portugal for the night between England games and asked me to join him.He said I should book myself on his flight and he would reimburse me. I said no way, I pay my own way — I’ve never taken money from a man.It was a point of principle.We met in the Club Lounge at Heathrow, pretending we had just met, and sat next to each other on the flight, almost giggling all the way.Then we spent the night at his place, where his housekeepers cooked us a meal.The following morning we left for the airport together and, in the car, he put a blank cheque from Coutts in my pocket when I wasn’t looking.I keep it for posterity. But it might have been nice to fill it out at some point for all the hassle he brought me!When news of our affair broke, he didn’t confirm what went on between us. This meant I was left high and dry, even to the point that people believed I had made it up to get Press attention.That really angered me.I was an independent, working woman who did not voluntarily need to create a drama around my life for attention.He says in his documentary that he didn’t commit a crime, and he’s right about that.But he did do wrong.And he simply didn’t really care about much of life.As far as I could tell, he cared only about three things: His two children, who he adored. And football.Even when we were in Portugal, I asked him about his ex, the mother of his children.He said he had moved the wedding day in fav- our of a football match and she wasn’t happy.And I wondered if he was romantic and asked him how he proposed.I was surprised when he confided that she had proposed to him, which confirmed to me that I don’t think he had a romantic bone in his body. I know people didn’t understand why we were seeing each other, as it was an odd connection.Initially it was the Swedish thing that united us — and football.We talked about football a lot. But he was chivalrous and, in his heart, he was a kind man.He brought a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne — without fail — every time he came to my house.For me, he showed me kindness and I’d just been going through the most horrendous time with being abandoned by my sick daughter’s biological father and worrying if she was going to get through her operations.When someone shows you kindness, it grabs your attention. In the film, he says he does have feelings, but he doesn’t show them. I think that’s honest and true. We never exchanged words of affection — it wasn’t that kind of set-up.I just saw him when he could get away from Nancy or was on the way to football games.Nancy admits in the film that she only stuck with him because she could get something out of it, which strongly suggests that she only really was with him because of the fame and the glory.She should be grateful for me raising her profile. She seemingly made a career out of “refusing to accept that she had been cheated on”.Before news of the affair between me and Sven broke, she was just the Italian girlfriend of the England manager. When it hit the headlines Nancy was suddenly famous. And she used that to her advantage. She’d have never been on Strictly Come Dancing if it wasn’t for me.Sven told me she was very fiery — it was a volatile relationship and I felt it was clear that he didn’t really, truly care about her.But he never promised me he would leave her, because I never asked him to.I sensed he feared her. And he confirms that in the film.He says he was afraid (of leaving her). He admitted to me that she “loved” the attention she was getting from the media, so it’s little wonder if she didn’t want to give that up.And obviously, apart from women attacking each other, there is the problem that misogyny is still verymuch alive and kicking in the world of football. Women continue to be viewed as pawns in a game of utmost importance, ruled over by men who show little but disdain for the opposite sex.I’ve never in my life fought over a man. I know Nancy was clinging to Sven, but she really needn’t have worried.She threw insults at me because she didn’t believe the brief affair was true. Surely her beef should have been with him?In the film, Sven’s son says how his dad doesn’t stress about things, and that was my experience, too.He never got concerned about things and said to me, “Why worry about something which might not happen?”.He’s bright and studied philosophy, which is probably what brought a new and different approach to being England boss.Many didn’t like that he wasn’t demonstrably expressive, but that was just the way he was.Nancy says in the film that Sven is a narcissist, but I think that might be unfair. I just think he’s a very simple-minded person. And by that I mean he only puts energy into the things that are important to him. He’s pragmatic. Not a practical man, however.He proudly showed me his hands and said “these have never done a day’s hard work”.Sven is certainly a thinker, perhaps more than a doer.I extracted myself from the situation when he clearly wasn’t going to ’fess up and carried on going out publicly with Nancy.I certainly didn’t become a Princess Di character, where there were “three of us” in that relationship.For a while he kept phoning me to speak to me or ask me to see him. He even got his agent to phone my agent to ask if I would wait for him after the World Cup. I declined.Sven is right, of course, about his outlook on life now.Life is short and I believe he has certainly made the most of it.He has led a life according to his own wills and desires.I’m sure he has regrets over some of his actions, but what good are regrets when the clock is ticking?We can but do our best.I bear him no ill will.I hope he squeezes the best out of whatever life he has left and that, on reflection, he realises that to err is to be human.He didn’t get it all right. But then, who does? More

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      How Jamie Vardy keeps scoring at 37, including pre-match meal of three Red Bulls, double espresso and an omelette

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      THERE’S still life left in the old dog.At the King Power Stadium on Monday Night Football, Jamie Vardy rescued a point for Leicester City in their 1-1 draw with Tottenham.Jamie Vardy celebrates scoring against Tottenham on Monday Night FootballLeicester legend Vardy follows a very different pre-match preparation routineVardy spotted drinking a can of Red Bull in the tunnel at half-timeThe Foxes forward, who turns 38 in January, then vowed to continue to make Premier League defender’s lives a nightmare.He revealed: “I literally see age as just a number.”As long as I keep looking after myself, and as long as my legs still feel great before training and games, then I’ll carry on for as long as physically as possible.”I wouldn’t say I’m doing anything differently. I’m still trying to make the same runs. But the main thing is I’m looking after myself recovery wise, to the maximum. I’ve got everything I need at home.Read more football news”So Tuesday will be a recovery session at the training ground, and then go home and manage to double up on that.”Vardy has spoken about his preparations before a match in the past.He once admitted he consumed Skittles, Vodka and had a penchant for drinking Port from a Lucozade bottle.Now, he’s swapped that for three cans of Red Bull, a double espresso, and a cheese and ham omelette.Most read in FootballWhen it comes to training, Vardy goes by his own schedule – often skipping training sessions to remain ready for match day.While in his £2.5million Lincolnshire mansion, which he shares with Wag Rebekah Vardy, he uses a cryotherapy chamber and oxygen tent to aid recovery.Jamie and Rebekah Vardy lead Leicester celebrations as thousands flood onto streets for Championship title paradeIt’s those tricks of the trade that make Vardy still lethal at 37.Food for thoughtThere might not be any science behind Vardy’s diet.After all, it’s not as religious as Cristiano Ronaldo chowing down on fish and veg daily.Back in 2016, he told SunSport: “With a traditional 3pm Saturday kick-off, I’ll have a can of Red Bull as soon as I wake up, which is gone in 30 seconds.”I don’t have breakfast and won’t eat anything until I have a cheese-and-ham omelette with baked beans at 11.30am.”I wash that down with another Red Bull, which I also neck quickly.”While we’re waiting and killing a bit of time, I have a double espresso, normally with centre-half Marcin Wasilewski (now retired).”We get into the dressing room an hour and a half before kick-off, and I’ll have a third can of Red Bull straight away.”But with this one I sip it all the way until we go out for the warm-up, leaving a bit to finish off when I come back in.”So three Red Bulls, a double espresso and a cheese-and-ham omelette is what makes me run around like a nutjob on a match day.”That diet has stuck ever since, and clearly it’s working.In 2016, on duty for England, Vardy was spotted with a can of Red BullFor his pre-match meal, Vardy swears by a ham and cheese omeletteFor a caffeine kick, Vardy necks a double espressoThe science bitVardy knows his body better than anyone else.He also understands what is needed to speed up his recovery time and stay match-fit.In recent years, the hotshot striker installed a £15,000 cryo chamber and oxygen tent at his Lincolnshire home.He also uses his swimming pool for hydrotherapy.Vardy explained of his post-match routine: “I’ll get the massages, do cryotherapy in the pool, stretch and then go home.”Then when I get home cryotherapy again, sauna and an hour in the oxygen tent, just to have a little hour to myself.”Ex-manager Brendan Rodgers was full of praise for Vardy’s dedication to his craft in the past.He said: “He (Vardy) clearly has the talent, he has the will, all we’ve tried to do is manage him to maximise what we can get out of him.“With his running, his intensity, that’s when he’s at his best. There’s no sign of it stopping because he is looking after himself. He has everything here to help in his recovery and recuperation after games, and he’s also invested a lot of money into items to have at home.Vardy has a £15k cryotherapy chamber installed in his £2.5m Lincolnshire homeJamie with Wag RebekahCredit: PAVardy also has an oxygen tent where he likes to spend some time unwinding inSwimming pool hydrotherapy is another Vardy’s tricks of the traderead more sport features“He has machines at home where he can be constantly recovering, the cryo-chambers, so he’s invested a lot of money into that.“He’s very focused on prolonging his career, and he knows that he needs to be as healthy as he can be, and a big part of that at his age is the recovery process.”Rodgers added: “He’s a brilliant professional and he’s trying to ensure his career goes on as long as it can.”Modified trainingAlongside his diet and recovery tools, Vardy has his own tailor-made training regime at Leicester.This has, without doubt, had an impact on his longevity in the game.He doesn’t train as rigorously as he once did when he lifted the Premier League trophy in 2016.Instead, his sessions are modified and, sometimes, infrequent.Vardy has been known to skip training when his body isn’t up to it and save himself for games.He also does his own conditioning work, although this doesn’t extend to lifting heavy weights.READ MORE SUN STORIESVardy has vowed to continue playing at the top level until he’s in his forties.Judging by the prep he puts in, you wouldn’t put it past him.Vardy prefers to do a lot of his conditioning work in his own timeWhen it comes to maintaining his fitness, Vardy doesn’t touch heavy weightsSuper fit Vardy has vowed to continue playing into his 40’s More

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      Five best pubs near Stamford Bridge including boozer where Chelsea were founded and bar owned by singer James Blunt

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      A TRIP to Stamford Bridge is a special one for any football fan.Some 40,000 fans packed into one of London’s oldest stadiums, with excellent views throughout, and a belting atmosphere in store for both home and away supporters.Cole Palmer in action during Chelsea’s opening fixture of the 2023/24 season against Man CitySitting in a prime location near the River Thames and just a short walk from Fulham Broadway tube station, fans are spoilt for choice with options for a pre-match pint or a quick bite to eat near Chelsea’s stadium.Yet, with so many options to choose from, it can almost be overwhelming – and that’s where SunSport can step in to help.We took a trip to west London to check out some of the best boozers on offer, guided by Thomas J Vosper, author of Historic Pub Crawls Through London and the man behind Instagram and YouTube pages Historic Pub Crawls.So, with no further ado, here are the five best pubs for supporters to head to for a pre-match tipple on their next visit to Stamford Bridge – including an iconic boozer where the Blues were founded.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL1. The Butcher’s HookSituated directly opposite Stamford Bridge, on the corner with Holmead Road, the Butcher’s Hook is about as close to Chelsea’s ground as physically possible.Previously named the Rising Sun, the Blues were founded inside this classic London boozer on March 10th 1905.Thomas tells SunSport that the other names considered for the club were Kensington FC, Stamford Bridge and London FC.Most read in FootballThe Butcher’s Hook is quite literally just a stone’s throw away from the Stamford Bridge turnstilesWith plenty of space inside, the Butcher’s Hook is often packed to the rafters on matchdays, with a host of nods to the club throughout – including the Chelsea Pilsner on tap.When SunSport visited, there was a wide range of beers on draught, including Guinness, Amstel, Peroni and a Level Head Session IPA.2. The Chelsea Gate Barely a minute away from the turnstiles lies this stripped back, quintessential British pub. The Chelsea Gate boasts a delightful ‘secret’ garden for punters to enjoyOnce named the Chelsea Pensioner as a nod to the residents of the Old Soldiers Retirement Home just around the corner, the Chelsea Gate is just a short walk away from Fulham Broadway, West Brompton and Imperial Wharf stations.With a wide array of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks on offer, Thomas picked a Madri while I picked a Peroni, desperately trying to fit in with the billionaires living on every street in this cosmopolitan part of West London.The best bit about the Chelsea Gate? The delightful ‘secret’ beer garden tucked away in the basement, and for anyone who feels like singing the Blues before taking their seat in the stands, there’s even a karaoke bar!3. The White HorseThis one’s for the away fans!The White Horse is a stunning pub both inside and out.Visiting supporters typically gather a bit further afield, usually opting for the Parson’s Green area where the majority of pubs will accommodate away fans.Still only a 10-15 minute walk away, or one stop on the District Line along to Fulham Broadway, the White Horse is a relaxed family friendly pub.The owners pride themselves on an ever-changing range of beers on tap, brewed across the UK and with a selection from further afield too. The food options aren’t to be sniffed at either, with the handmade scotch egg going down a treat on our visit, and a number of other mouth-watering options on the menu too.With a large outdoor terrace and plenty more space on the street to gather and chat, the White Horse absolutely needs to be considered for any visiting supporters making the trip to the capital.4. The Fox and PheasantThe Fox and Pheasant boasts its own glorious lager in an extensive list of drinks for punters to choose from.James Blunt saved this iconic pub from bankruptcy seven years ago.This discreetly tucked away 17th Century gem was bought by English singer-songwriter James Blunt in 2017.Located just off Fulham Road, it’s a three or four minute walk from the turnstiles, and just a short walk further to Fulham Broadway tube station.The ‘You’re Beautiful’ singer saved the pub from oblivion some seven years ago, and has been known to do the occasional shift behind the bar.Thomas describes the pub as “feeling like an English country pub in busy West London”, with much of the interior remaining largely untouched from renovations in 1930.Boasting their own Fox ‘n’ Fez Lager on tap, plus a host of other both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, there’s something for everyone in here.Despite being tucked away in a picturesque Chelsea mews, the Fox and Pheasant boasts an elegant beer garden and an impressive dining room too for those feeling a quick pre-match bite to eat.Inside The Fox and Pheasant, stunning pub near Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge that was saved by James Blunt 5. The King’s ArmsClaiming to be ‘Chelsea’s best sports pub’, this stylish boozer on Fulham Road is a favourite among locals, and the perfect place for a pre-match pint.Just a short walk from Gloucester Road station, the King’s Arms shows both Sky Sports and TNT Sports, and shows anything and everything.When SunSport visited in early August on a warm Friday night, punters were treated to showings of both Man Utd vs Fulham and Coventry City vs Oxford United – with the pub opening early the following morning to show Australia vs South Africa in the rugby too!READ MORE SUN STORIESWith a huge selection of draught beers and cocktails, plus some delightful-looking pub grub, this cosy spot is a traditional English boozer with a modern twist.Visiting supporters should be aware, however, that this is a home fans only pub – with security manning the door too. More

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      Paul Pogba puts mansion back on sale for £4m following four-year footie ban

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      PAUL Pogba has put his mansion back on the market for £4million to try to claw back earnings following his four-year footie ban.The ex-Man Utd ace, who failed a drugs test a year ago, bought the home, featuring an indoor football pitch, for £3million in 2016.Paul Pogba has put his mansion back on the market for £4millionCredit: GettyPogba’s Cheshire home was bought for almost £3millionCredit: MercuryHe tried to let out the home in Hale Barns, Cheshire, but had to drop the rent from £27,500 a month to £18,000 when he failed to find a tenant.The sprawling 7,400sq ft mansion is now back on the market.The property boasts an open plan living area, landscaped gardens, a games room, gym, and an indoor footie pitch dubbed the P.P Arena by Pogba.It also has a gated entrance after the midfielder was targeted by burglars in 2022, who broke in while his children were sleeping upstairs.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSPogba had been playing a Champions League game at Old Trafford against Atlético Madrid when he had to rush home, saying it was the family’s “worst nightmare”.The Juventus player was banned from football in February for four years after failing a drugs test.The substance found in his system last August was DHEA, which can naturally boost levels of testosterone.Juventus are terminating his contract, with the incident casting doubt over whether he’ll ever step foot onto a pitch again.Most read in FootballWhile awaiting the verdict over his footie ban, Pogba’s earnings were slashed to just £1,700-a-month – a far cry from the £6.8million-a-season he’d expected.He also faces losing his lucrative sponsorship deals, such as a £31million contract with Adidas.Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand tells Paul Pogba he ‘needs to speak’ after four-year ban for doping Pogba, who denies wrongdoing, is currently living with his wife Zulay in Italy in a mansion owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. More

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      Karren Brady: Lopetegui is already a breath of fresh air at West Ham… but under-appreciated Moyes deserves high praise

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      ON the first day of every season I am always full of optimism and hope  that West Ham can win the Premier League.You’ve signed new players, things are coming together, and you think, ‘This may be our year’.Ex-Wolves chief Julen Lopetegui has made an instant impression at West HamCredit: RexDavid Moyes was an ‘absolute pleasure’ to work withCredit: GettyEven if we don’t wrestle the trophy off Manchester City,  getting back into Europe is an absolute priority for us — and for our new manager.We made an exciting appointment in Julen Lopetegui, having said goodbye to David Moyes in May after a remarkable period of success.Julen has been a breath of fresh air.He’s an experienced individual we believe can build on David’s great work, get us back into Europe and deliver the wins the fans want. We are giving him every penny we can in the transfer market to do just that, with our eight signings so far.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut I must pay tribute to David again.I had an excellent working relationship with him. His work ethic, attention to detail, passion, drive and energy were all second to none and he was an absolute pleasure to work with.He left for several reasons. Firstly, a bit of inconsistency had crept into results.And without putting words into his mouth, I think he felt very unappreciated by the supporters.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe delivered a first major trophy since 1980, a consistent period of domestic success — including three consecutive European qualifications for the first time in the club’s history — and reached the semis and quarter-finals in Europe either side of the Conference League triumph.As a result, he found it quite difficult to be turned on so quickly last season when things dipped — especially after gaining the most Premier League points West Ham had ever had at the halfway point of a campaign.Jhon Duran ’causes chaos with s—housery’ as Aston Villa ace performs controversial gesture amid West Ham transfer linkNot that he was boo-hooing about it, that’s not his style. He  rolled up his sleeves and got on with it.But things can go a bit stale and both club and manager need a change, and that’s the conclusion we came to together.It’s very sad when a relationship comes to an end with someone you have worked with very closely and admire and like.But parting ways is the easier bit. Getting a better replacement is where the real work begins.It’s a very close relationship so you have to have a bit of chemistry and feel they are someone you can work with who isn’t emotionally draining or  demanding.But I cannot tell you how good it felt being in Europe and winning that trophy.Karren BradyAnd that’s exactly what David Sullivan, Tim Steidten and I felt when we met with Julen. We liked him straight away.We felt he was genuine, hard-working, passionate, enthusiastic, had clear ideas of what he wanted to do and understood the West Ham way.But I cannot tell you how good it felt being in Europe and winning that trophy.To be part of a West Ham that created that memory for hundreds of thousands of our supporters was very special.And we believe we can do that again with Julen.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.Overseas Prem not for meTHE prospect of playing  Premier League games abroad hasn’t been officially raised — YET — but it has been mooted among some owners.But it would be unforgivable to deny season-ticket holders a game and West Ham would definitely vote against any proposal that meant doing that.With foreign investment in the Premier League increasing, some say its global appeal means taking the show on the road is the right thing to do. I understand the logic. But I’m English, I live here and believe all games should be played in this country.We have pre-season tours to let overseas fans watch us play.We would not be the only club to vote against a proposal if every team had to play a match outside the UK every year.Karren BradyWest Ham have just come back from the US where some of the American Prem owners are pushing for a Stateside league game.The idea was floated years ago and shot down immediately.But there weren’t as many  foreign owners then. We would obviously look at the detail of any proposal and, handled right, it could be workable.Particularly if teams have the ability to opt out.And if two other clubs wanted to do it and the League felt it was in its best interest, I wouldn’t stop them.But we would not be the only club to vote against a proposal if every team had to play a match outside the UK every year.Full of hope for new NicHammers’ newcomer Niclas Fullkrug has shown a brilliant attitudeCredit: RexI was really impressed with Niclas Fullkrug — our new striker signed from Borussia Dortmund.As soon as he stepped off the plane from Germany he asked: “Where can I train? Because I don’t like to miss a single day.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThat’s the kind of attitude that you want. He’s a big personality, incredibly professional, a strong individual and a real grown up.He’s going to have a hugely positive impact. We’re all really excited. More

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      Charlton wonderkid Karoy Anderson only made his senior debut a year ago but is already an international football star

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      KAROY ANDERSON had a remarkable first year in senior football.The Charlton midfield wonderkid made his league debut, within two months was playing for Jamaica, racked up 24 league starts and played at the Copa America.Charlton wonderkid Karoy Anderson has had an incredible first year in senior footballCredit: JUSTIN ALLENAll this and he is still only 19.The academy-graduate though is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.He told SunSport: “If you look far ahead, you get lost in the future. If you look into the past you can get stuck there.“It was a great opportunity and experience to go to the Copa America, to participate in a tournament that size. I didn’t think about the magnitude of it until I got there.“The atmosphere was unbelievable. It was the nature of the games and what it meant, especially for my family and the people of Jamaica. It was humbling. read more football“It was exciting – the fans, stadiums and being able to travel to see difference places but also take business seriously.”Anderson came on as a late sub against Ecuador and played the last 22 minutes of the final group match with Venezuela.In the Jamaica squad he played and trained alongside the likes of West Ham star Michail Antonio, ex-Leicester, Everton and Birmingham ace Demari Gray and Brentford’s Ethan Pinnock.And, also in the group, was his Charlton team-mate Michael Hector.Most read in SportAnderson said: “I learned so much. I saw how they carried themselves and their application to training every day. They’re at a high level and been there for a while. You see what habits have ultimately kept them there, their mindset and preparation.“I got on with the majority of the team. I was room-mates with Dexter Lembikisa from Wolves. He’s been on loan at Hearts in Scotland.EFL goalkeeper sends fans into meltdown with utterly ridiculous ‘skill of the season’ in pre-season clash”It was a good experience to speak to someone like that and learn things from someone who is a similar age to me and who is at a Premier League club.”And in the Venezuela game, the Charlton kid faced former Newcastle, Everton and West Brom ace Salomon Rondon.But Anderson said while he was out there he was so zoned into the game he did not take notice who he was up against.And he said: “I didn’t think about other players in the moment. After the game you think, “Oh, I played against him” but in the moment I see it as football.”We’re all on the same pitch and on the same level. I don’t look at players and think, ‘wow.’ Of course, it was nice to share the pitch with big names.”Anderson’s mum is Jamaican while his dad also descends from there.And while he did once harbour ambition to play for England in recent years his heart was set on playing for the Caribbean island.The midfielder said: “Because I was born and raised in South London, when I was younger I was thinking about playing for England but as I got older I spent a lot of time going with my mum to different places and interacting with Jamaican people.”Also with my brother too. We spoke about what it would be like to play for Jamaica, what it means to everyone back home and how proud they would be. For that reason, it wasn’t a question who I’d play for.”And there was never a question that Anderson would not play for his local club.READ MORE SUN STORIESCharlton boss Nathan Jones can use the vast experience he gained at Luton to plot a way up to the ChampionshipKaroy Anderson is hoping to help Charlton win promotion this seasonCredit: JUSTIN ALLENThroughout his journey through the academy he often played a year, two years, even three years above his age-group as his coaches constantly challenged him to step up in class.Anderson may not have been star-struck while playing in the Copa America but certainly was when he used to be a ball-boy at The Valley.He said: “I was a scholar at Charlton and we’d be ballboys at the games. As a kid, that was so exciting and I loved watching players like Joe Gomez. Even though we don’t play in the same position, seeing his journey has been really inspiring.”One of the midfielder’s middle names is Zidane — due to his mum’s admiration for Zinedine — but his idol growing up was another French superstar, Paul Pogba.He said: “I loved him when he was at Juventus, how exciting he was. I look up to those sort of players.”Anderson is hoping to help the Addicks climb out of League One at the fifth attempt.And in Nathan Jones they have a manager who has been there and done it – as he was instrumental in Luton’s climb from League Two to the brink of the Premier League.The rookie midfield ace added: “Everyone trusts him and knows he knows what it takes to get out of his league and will do his best to bring this group to where the club can be. There is complete trust and we follow him.“Our aim is to get promoted – it’s as simple as that.” More

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      Premier League’s biggest opening weekend shocks including Man Utd’s horror defeat and Arsenal stunned by Aston Villa

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      THE day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here.Premier League football returns TONIGHT as Manchester United host Fulham at Old Trafford.There have been some huge opening day shocks over the years, including Brentford’s win over Arsenal in 2021Credit: Richard Pelham / The SunIpswich boss Kieran McKenna will be backing his side to cause an upset against LiverpoolCredit: PAUnited are favourites to win the opening fixture, but Marco Silva’s side should not be underestimated.The Cottagers won two of three pre-season games – against Benfica and Hoffenheim – and could cause quite an upset against the reigning FA Cup champions.Prem new boys Ipswich face Liverpool at home on Saturday in the hope of giving new manager Arne Slot a huge shock.And Championship winners Leicester City will be looking to spoil Tottenham’s start to the season when they kick off their campaign at the King Power on Monday night.Read More in FootballWe have seen several opening day upsets over the years, and SunSport have looked back at some of the most memorable.Brentford 2-0 Arsenal (2021/22)A day that all Arsenal fans wish they could permanently erase from their memory.The Gunners suffered a shock defeat to newly-promoted Brentford on the opening day of the 2021-22 season.It was a dismal defensive display from Arsenal as Sergi Canos and Christian Norgaard fired the hosts to a 2-0 win.Most read in FootballBrentford beat Arsenal 2-0 on the opening day of the 2021-22 season after earning promotionCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe result led Gary Neville to infamously question the North London side’s transfer strategy.Chelsea 2-3 Burnley (2017/18)Stamford Bridge was stunned into silence when Burnley earned a 3-2 win over reigning Premier League champions Chelsea.Goals from Sam Vokes and Stephen Ward fired the Clarets to a 3-0 lead before half-time.Chelsea managed to claw two goals back after the break but ultimately came away from the match with nothing.Sam Vokes scored twice as Burnley beat ChelseaCredit: PA:Empics SportPremier League sides deducted points and others at riskArsenal 1-3 Aston Villa (2013/14)Sorry, Arsenal fans.The Gunners suffered another unexpected opening day defeat in 2013, this time to Aston Villa.Olivier Giroud opened the scoring, but Christian Benteke turned the match on its head before Antonio Luna sealed the win for Villa at the Emirates.Arsene Wenger’s side still managed to sneak into the top four at the end of the campaign.The Gunners suffered a 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa in 2013Credit: Jamie McPhilimey – The SunArsenal 0-2 West Ham (2015-16)Once again, I’m really sorry, Arsenal fans!The Gunners suffered another shock opening day defeat two years after the Aston Villa disappointment.Slaven Bilic had just been appointed as West Ham manager and academy star Reece Oxford put on a stellar display to help the East London side to a 2-0 win.Cheikhou Kouyate and Mauro Zarate were on the scoresheet for the Hammers on a memorable day at the Emirates.Arsenal also lost to West Ham on the opening day in 2015Credit: Getty Images – GettyHull 2-1 Leicester (2016/17)Just months after Leicester City were crowned Premier League champions, they started the 2016/17 campaign with a shock 2-1 defeat to Hull.It was the first time in the Premier League era the reigning champions began their title defence with a defeat.Hull beat Leicester after the Foxes won the Premier LeagueCredit: AFP or licensorsMan Utd 1-2 Swansea (2014-15)United suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Swansea on the opening day of the 2014-15 season following goals from Ki Sung-yueng and Gylfi Sigurdsson.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was the club’s first opening day defeat at home since 1972.Wayne Rooney hoped to get his side back into the game after scoring in the second half, but the Red Devils walked away with nothing.Swansea beat Man Utd at Old Trafford in 2014/15Credit: PA:Press Association More