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      Spanish newspaper’s XI of best U18 starlets in 2016 goes viral with forgotten English prodigy and ‘9 of them top tier’

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      A 2016 best XI of wonderkids has gone viral on social media – and nine of them have hit the heights.But one English-born ace has fallen off the radar and now plies his trade with an unfashionable German outfit.Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard was among the most promising talents at the timeCredit: GettyArsenal’s Kieran Tierney was also part of the list during his success at CelticCredit: GettyMarca predicted Europe’s best Under-18 talents in 2016Spanish newspaper Marca put together the best XI of Under-18 talents in Europe back eight years ago.Among them was an unknown Monaco kid called Kylian Mbappe, who is now considered by many as the best in the world.In the 2016 version, the now-Real Madrid superstar was joined by Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal.Donnarumma had just taken football by storm with AC Milan before moving to PSG – where he played with Mbappe – in 2021.Read More on FootballRomanian Cristian Manea was at right-back with Arsenal ace Kieran Tierney on the other side, with Liverpool’s Joe Gomez and forgotten England prospect Reece Oxford at centre-back.Rapid Bucharest’s Manea was playing for Belgian outfit Mouscron, on loan from Apollon Limassol, but got lost in the shuffle as did Oxford, who was a revelation at West Ham before joining Augsburg.Gomez is a utility defender for the Reds, while Tierney’s success at Celtic has yet to be replicated at the Emirates due to a raft of injury set-backs.Renato Sanches, Youri Tielemans and Ruben Neves formed the midfield.Most read in FootballSanches was considered the next big thing during his successful stint at Benfica but failed to live up to expectations and even endured a painful loan stint at Swansea.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe midfielder is currently on PSG’s books but returned to Benfica on loan in his bid to rediscover his old form.Tielemans played for Anderlecht at the time and went on to enjoy success with Leicester – where he won the FA Cup – and current club Aston Villa, who are standing out in the Champions League.Meet Ayden Heaven: Arsenal’s next William SalibaNeves burst onto the scene with Porto and became a star at Wolves but has dropped from the spotlight after moving to Saudi Arabia for Al-Hilal.Mbappe was joined by Martin Odegaard and Dominic Solanke up-front.Odegaard was struggling for minutes at Real after his major move from Norwegian outfit Stromsgodset, where he emerged as one of the world’s most promising wonderkids.But the playmaker found his groove at Arsenal and quickly earned the captain’s armband.Solanke played for Vitesse at the time on loan from Chelsea, where he failed to earn a permanent spot and endured a disappointing stint at Liverpool.But the striker showed exactly why there was so much hype around his name with a stunning spell at Bournemouth, which led to a big move to Tottenham last summer.Mixed fan reactionMbappe dominated at Monaco and earned a big move to PSG where he quickly developed into one of the world’s biggest stars and ultimately completed a highly-anticipated move to Real.Fans were left in awe by that nostalgic post, which received some mixed reaction.One fan posted: “Pretty good tbf.”Another commented: “I miss Kieran Tierney.”A third wrote: “As a West Ham fan, Reece Oxford not fulfilling his potential was so sad.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThis fan wrote: “9 out of the 11 are top tier.”And that one stated: “Not a bad return to be fair.” More

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      Roy Keane’s daughter Leah pictured with England ace Taylor Harwood-Bellis for first time as cute throwback pic emerges

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      ENGLAND star Taylor Harwood-Bellis has been pictured with his fiancee Leah Keane for the first time.The 22-year-old recently got engaged to Leah, who is the daughter of Manchester United legend Roy Keane.An old photo of Leah Keane (C) and Taylor Harwood-Bellis (R) has resurfaced on social mediaCredit: X @beckybellisxLeah is the daughter of Man Utd legend Roy KeaneCredit: GettyHarwood-Bellis made his England debut at the weekendCredit: GettyThe couple have kept their relationship private over the years, but an old image resurfaced online this week in the wake of Harwood-Bellis’ Three Lions debut.It dates back to 2019 and was posted by the defender’s twin sister, who joked she was “third wheeling” while out for a meal.In the photo, Harwood-Bellis and Leah are seen enjoying some drinks at a restaurant.After earning his first senior England call-up, the Southampton ace revealed he was with Leah when he found out the news from interim boss Lee Carsley.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe said: “I couldn’t quite believe it at first. It was a feeling of pride. I was with my partner.”Then I phoned my dad and he was very proud, the fact I had played for England through the age groups and now I was in the seniors. All my family were delighted.”One of the first people to message was Aaron Ramsdale, he messaged straight away. He’s one of my mates at Southampton.”Harwood-Bellis was handed his England debut against Ireland on Sunday.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe capped off the experience with a goal just 17 minutes after being introduced as a substitute.It was a bitter-sweet moment for father-in-law Keane, who later told ITV Sport: “It’s nice for him, it’s good for him to make his debut.Taylor Harwood-Bellis discusses being called up for the England squad for the first time “He is a really kid good and his family have done a great job.”But asked by presenter Mark Pougatch about the defender joining his family, Keane joked: “It’s not done and dusted yet, things can change really quickly in the Keane household.” More

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      Sliding doors moment saw Antony join Man Utd instead of Liverpool after Klopp looked to sign him as Salah replacement

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      LIVERPOOL almost moved to sign Manchester United flop Antony as a replacement for Mo Salah.The pair both play in the same position at two of the country’s biggest teams.Liverpool almost signed Antony before he joined Man UtdCredit: GettyThe Brazilian was lined up by Jurgen Klopp as a replacement for Mo SalahCredit: RexBut while one cost an eye-watering amount of money, the other has bagged an incredible amount of goals.Salah was deemed pricey at £36million when he joined Liverpool from Roma in 2017.The Egyptian had previously struggled in England with Chelsea.But an amazing debut season saw Salah immediately silence the doubters with 44 goals in all competitions.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has since gone on to net 221 goals in 366 games for Liverpool.But The Times claims Salah nearly left Anfield two summers ago.The forward’s contract was nearing its end and Liverpool were struggling to meet his demands.It’s reckoned then-Reds boss Jurgen Klopp sounded out Ajax’s Brazilian winger Antony as Salah’s replacement.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSYet a move never occurred after Liverpool eventually stumped up the cash required to extend their star man’s deal.The decision, taken by Fenway Sports Group’s president Mike Gordon, proved to be an extremely astute one.Ruben Amorim takes charge of first Man Utd training sessionSalah has netted an incredible 65 goals since penning his new contract.While in the same time, Antony has managed a return of just 12.He entered the world of English football the same summer Salah signed on after Man United came calling.Erik ten Hag paid £88m to be reunited with his old Ajax star.But Antony’s time in the Premier League has been full of struggles.He has featured in just two of United’s 11 league games this season.And Antony’s future is likely to become even less clear under new manager Ruben Amorim, who does not play with natural wingers in his 3-4-3 system. More

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      Ex-Man Utd ace Cleverley reveals which manager was ‘best coach and best tactically’… and it WASN’T Sir Alex Ferguson

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      FORMER Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley revealed the one manager he thinks was better than the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson from a “tactical” and “coaching” perspective.Cleverley, 35, climbed through the ranks at United after an eight-year stint in the academy and received his first senior call-up under Ferguson in 2008.Tom Cleverley claims there is one manager that stood out more than Man Utd legend Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty Images – GettyCleverley claims Marco Silva was the ‘best tactically and the best coach’Credit: PACleverley played under Silva at Watford for about a yearCleverley is following in Silva’s footsteps as he is currently the Watford managerCredit: GettyThe ex-England international spent just over two years playing for Sir Alex and won the Premier League in 2013, just before the Scottish great rolled credits on his glittering 27-year stint at Old Trafford.After five goals and seven assists in 79 appearances, the midfielder left the Red Devils in 2015 for Everton, who loaned him out to Watford two years later where he swiftly made a permanent move.That was where Cleverley claims he met the “best coach” in his entire 15-year playing career.And that was none other than Marco Silva, even though he was in charge of the Hornets for just a year until his sudden departure in 2018.Read More on Man UtdThe ex-United ace claims Silva was capable of setting up a team so that “every decision made such sense to us as players”.Cleverley told The Telegraph when asked about Silva: “The best tactically and the best coach.“I went out every game knowing exactly what he wanted from me. He was clear and thorough with his message.” Cleverley, who retired in 2023, is now following in Silva’s footsteps as he took over as Watford manager in April after an impressive month serving as interim boss.Most read in FootballAnd the rookie head coach, who has gone 13 home games unbeaten, met the Portuguese tactician, who now manages Fulham, in a pre-season friendly at Motspur Park in July.The Cottagers picked up a comfortable 6-1 victory over the Hornets and Cleverley admits: “We got a good serving.”The Premier League’s Top 10 sexiest managers according to AIThe two managers could meet again next season as Watford are currently sixth in the Championship table thanks to their impressive young boss. More

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      Fans launched petition to BAN me from playing for England… it’s something I wouldn’t want to see my son go through

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      FORMER Manchester United star Tom Cleverley has revealed his heartbreak after fans started a petition to BAN him from playing for England.The 35-year-old is now manager of Watford after a glittering midfield career.Tom Cleverley has opened up over the pain he felt when fans started a petition to ban him playing for EnglandCredit: PAThe former midfielder made 13 appearances for England between 2012 and 2013Credit: PA:Empics SportThe petition went in ahead of the 2014 World CupCleverley played 79 matches for United, winning a Premier League title.And he also turned out for clubs including Watford, Leicester, Aston Villa and Everton.Cleverley’s time at United also saw him win 13 England caps between 2012 and 2013.But some supporters were not keen on seeing him represent the Three Lions.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne even created an online government petition, urging others to sign so that Cleverley would be banned from playing for England at the 2014 World Cup.The petition, which was rejected and is now archived, read: “Tom Cleverley, owner of 13 England caps, has been regularly selected by Roy Hodgson in his squads without possessing any genuine qualities whatsoever.“We believe for the reputation of this proud footballing nation that he should be prevented from attending this summer’s international showcase.“Whilst England are considered to disappoint at major tournaments, further embarrassment could be avoided by not having his inept performances undermine the rest team’s efforts.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCleverley was not selected for the tournament in Brazil, which saw England finish bottom of their group.And he has now revealed how much the petition hurt.England’s Stellar Performance: Player Ratings vs IrelandCleverley won a Premier League title during his time at Man UtdCredit: GettyHe is now manager of another of his former clubs, WatfordCredit: GettyCleverley claims it was a “difficult process” knowing that he was not a fan favourite.And he admits he would not want his son to ever go through a similar experience.The Hornets gaffer told The Telegraph: “It’s something as a parent I wouldn’t want to see my son go through… to fulfil his dreams and get knocked down quite hard.“I massively respect the players who have gone through that process (criticism) and still come out at the top: Raheem Sterling, Harry Maguire.“To play for United, the biggest club in the country, to play for England, and then for a petition to come out to get you out of the squad.“That’s a pretty difficult process for a 23-year-old to go through.”Tom Cleverley’s career statsClub careerMan Utd, 2008-2015: 79 games, 5 goalsLeicester (loan), 2008-2009: 15 games, 2 goalsWatford (loan), 2009-2010: 35 games, 11 goalsWigan (loan), 2010-2011: 25 games, 4 goalsAston Villa (loan), 2014-2015: 37 games, 3 goalsEverton, 2015-2017: 42 games, 2 goalsWatford, 2016-2023: 146 games, 8 goalsEngland, 2012-2013: 13 games, 0 goalsTrophies: Premier League, Community Shield x2 (Man Utd); League One (Leicester)Managerial careerWatford, March 2024-present: P27 W12 D6 L9 More

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      Man City wonderkid James McAtee ‘lined up for January transfer’ after playing ONE Premier League minute all season

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      MANCHESTER CITY ace James McAtee is being targeted by West Ham and Fulham ahead of the January transfer window.McAtee, 22, enjoyed an impressive loan stint with Sheffield United the last two years as he scored 14 goals and bagged eight assists in 75 appearances.Manchester City ace James McAtee is being targeted by Fulham and West HamCredit: GettyMan City could be open to selling McAtee in the January transfer windowCredit: GettyThe playmaker has found opportunities to be limited at the Etihad this season despite a string of injuries in the squad and has only played ONE MINUTE in the Premier League.According to The Guardian, that has led interest from both the Hammers and the Cottagers who are tracking the City academy product.He was reportedly targeted by Chelsea last summer.McAtee has played six times across all competitions, with his most impressive performance taking place last month in the Champions League at Slovan Bratislava where he scored a goal.Read More on FootballThe attacking midfielder could command a fee of at least £20million and the Cityzens would be open to a deal.The versatile midfielder is still highly regarded by the club, who could offer him a new contract with his current deal set to run out in 2026.However, the reigning Premier League champions have proven to be open to selling homegrown players as it helps their position with the English top flight’s profit and sustainability rules.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWest Ham have struggled in midfield this season with star player Lucas Paqueta being unable to replicate last term’s success.Most read in FootballPaqueta has also been charged with a breach of the Football Association’s betting regulations – the Brazil international denies the allegations.City wonderkid James McAtee scores impressive goal in trainingFulham are likely to rekindle their interest in McAtee after failing to land him in the summer.His former England Under-21 international team-mate Emile Smith Rowe has been rejuvenated under Marco Silva at Craven Cottage after he left Arsenal.Fellow Man City academy graduate Cole Palmer has also proven the grass can be greener away from Pep Guardiola’s side as he left the club last year and went on to become Chelsea’s biggest star. More

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      Joshua Zirkzee’s Man Utd career ‘could be over within six months’ as Red Devils explore shock swap transfer

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      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE’S Manchester United career could be over after just six months as Ruben Amorim reportedly explores a shock swap transfer.Zirkzee, 23, only joined the Red Devils from Bologna in July for £36million.Joshua Zirzkee could already be on his way out of Man Utd in a swap dealCredit: GettyBut the striker has just one goal in 16 outings.That effort came on his debut over three months ago.And reports claim United could look to get rid of Zirkzee when the January transfer window opens.However, Italian outlet Il Matino claims new boss Amorim hopes to replace Zirkzee with a world-class striker in a stunning swap deal.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt’s claimed that United will offer Zirzkee PLUS £25m for Napoli misfit Victor Osimhen.The Nigerian is currently on loan at Galatasaray after failing to secure a move to Chelsea over the summer.Osimhen has eight goals in nine games for his Turkish team, with the Blues still interested in signing him permanently.Napoli are able to recall him this winter and are also ready to do business.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut they are demanding teams meet Osimhen’s new £62m release clause in full.Antonio Conte’s Serie A leaders are not interested in bringing another striker to town after signing Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea.Meet the new Wags of the Premier League season, from a Belgian interior designer to a Portuguese modelUnited want to land Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, currently on loan at GalatasarayCredit: GettyWhile Osimhen is likely to demand a tasty annual salary of £10m to boot.He’s not the only striker United are interested in either.Amorim turned former Coventry star Viktor Gyokeres into one of Europe’s most fearsome hitmen.The Swede has 23 goals in 18 games for Sporting Lisbon this season.And United reportedly sent scouts to watch Gyokeres as he netted in his country’s 2-1 win over Slovakia on Saturday.United sent scouts to watch Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres play for SwedenCredit: Getty More

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      Erik ten Hag spotted back in Manchester weeks after Man Utd sacking as he and wife Bianca head out for dinner

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      ERIK TEN HAG is back in Manchester more than three weeks after being sacked by Manchester United.The Dutchman, 54, was dismissed by Red Devils chiefs at the end of October following their worst ever start to a Premier League campaign.Erik Ten Hag left Piccolino’s in Hale Village in ManchesterCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeHe exited the establishment with wife BiancaCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeFormer Man Utd boss Ten Hag smiled for the camerasCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeTen Hag and wife Bianca left in their Audi as they braved the cold weatherCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeIt brought to an end his mixed two-year spell at Old Trafford – which included Carabao Cup and FA Cup wins but also a disappointing eighth place finish in the Premier League last season.He jetted back to Holland immediately after losing his job as he was replaced by Ruben Amorim.Ten Hag was seen in his home country watching a game between Heracles Almelo and NAC Breda.But now, with Amorim set to take charge of his first game as Man Utd boss at Ipswich on Sunday, Ten Hag is back in the city.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe ex-Ajax head coach was spotted leaving Italian chain restaurant Piccolino in Manchester on Monday.He came out the front door alongside wife Bianca – with agent Kees Vos and other members of his management team also said to be in attendance.Ten Hag smiled for the cameras as he walked away.According to Manchester Evening News, he also took the time to clear out his possessions from his home.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMeanwhile, Ten Hag’s successor Amorim took charge of his first training session earlier on Monday.He spent time with a handful of first-team players, with the rest away on international duty.Man Utd divide fans with new ‘school playground’ free kick routine days after Ruben Amorim announcementTakeaways from the session included Amorim already shaping up in a 3-4-3 formation, Antony being utilised at wing-back, and Kobbie Mainoo being at the heart of everything.Ten Hag left Man Utd with the team languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table.Ruud van Nistelrooy was unbeaten in his four matches as interim boss prior to the international break.But a win over Ipswich would still be just their third Premier League victory in eight matches. More