Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd fans boast they’re ‘1-0 up already’ as footage re-emerges of last time Ruben Amorim met Nottingham Forest boss

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED fans have claimed they already have an advantage over Nottingham Forest due to the shock history between managers Ruben Amorim and Nuno Espirito Santo.The Red Devils will aim to bounce back from Wednesday’s 2-0 defeat to Arsenal when they host Forest at Old Trafford on Saturday evening.Man Utd fans have claimed they already have an advantage over Nottingham Forest thanks to Ruben AmorimCredit: ReutersAmorim scored a long-range strike against Nuno Espirito Santo in 2010The Nottingham Forest box experienced a howler in goalAnd some fans are convinced they already have a big advantage.United head coach Amorim and Forest boss Espirito Santo last went head-to-head back in 2010 – when they were both players.Amorim scored against his rival in the 2010 Taca de Liga Final as Benfica cruised to a 3-0 win against Porto.His low-driven strike looked as though it would be saved by goalkeeper Espirito Santo in the ninth minute, but the Porto man instead tipped it into his own net.Read More on Man UtdA clip of the goal re-emerged on social media ahead of Saturday’s match – and United fans were quick to poke fun at Nottingham Forest for it.One person wrote: “1-0 up and the game hasn’t even started!”Ruben Amorim scored the first in Benfica’s 3-0 win over Porto in the 2010 Taça de Liga Final, with none other than Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo having a howler in goal!”Another claimed: “The mind games have started 😂.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhile a third simply commented: “My gaffer.”Amorim admitted he is still having to “manage expectations” after suffering his first defeat with United this week.Ruben Amorim pays touching tribute to Man Utd receptionist Kath Phipps after first meeting seven years ago He said: “We have to manage expectations. So, after a bad result, be calm and continue doing the job that we are doing.”It’s hard, because it’s very competitive, this league, and it changes all the time with just one result. Sometimes with progress, you’re doing so much and then you cab get this kind of result.”We have to pass this phase, because before this Arsenal game, you were asking about the top four and now we return to this position [13th in the Premier League].”If you see nowadays, in one week you have three games, that can change the image and the perception of the team – and in the table.”One week can change a lot and we need to have consistency in the job. The result you don’t control, but you need to win three matches to see a big gap in the table.”Man Utd ratings vs ArsenalRUBEN AMORIM lost his first game since taking charge of Man Utd after a 2-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates.See how the players rated…ANDRE ONANA – 5He was let off early in the game after a stray pass saw Gabriel Martinelli put the ball in the net before the linesman raised his flag.Failed to command his area as 5″10 Jurrien Timber leapt highest to rattle the back of his net, before the ball floated to the back post for Arsenal to score their second set piece.DIOGO DALOT – 6Flashed a shot just wide at the end of the first half when he did eventually get forward.Not bad defensively but more dangerous going forwards.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Formed a good partnership with Maguire in the first half, and fans will be hoping he is okay after suffering a slight knock.Needed to be a more commanding figure in the box to stop being dominated by The Gunners at set pieces.HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was actually very impressive in the first half, with a solid showing.Not at fault for Timber’s header hitting the back of the net, before he was replaced by Leny Yoro.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Playing as a left-sided centre-back he looked fairly comfortable, which is a credit to the Moroccan’s versatility.That said, he still looked better off in the role that Malacia, then Dalot occupied tonight as a left-wingback.TYRELL MALACIA – 3Noticeably looked extremely physically weak up against Bukayo Saka on the left-hand side, before being booked for a kick out at Kai Havertz.Offered nothing going forward and his link-up with Garnacho was practically non-existent. Hooked at half-time for the far more threatening Amad.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Another one who was booked in the first half, he failed to establish any kind of presence in the game and on the ball, looked pretty woeful.Cleared a Joshua Zirkzee header off of his own line to stop Arsenal from doubling their lead early in the second half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 4This game was crying out for Bruno Fernandes to stamp his authority on it, and it seemed he just couldn’t quite get his foot on the ball to do so.Played a deeper role today, next to Ugarte, which meant we didn’t see any of his attacking spark.MASON MOUNT – 3Mason Mount at right wing was an experiment tried and failed at Chelsea, which Amorim tried again tonight.He was often lost in the half-space, meaning he was essentially useless going forwards. Hooked in the second half after a fairly abysmal showing.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5A very quiet first half, only brightened by one half-decent cross, was met by a second half where he was quickly subbed for Marcus Rashford.Quiet.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6Battled well with the physical presence of William Saliba early on, but his side failed to create him any kind of chances.Cut a frustrated figure for most of the match, and rightly so. There will be no point signing Gyokeres if they can’t create anything for him to score.SUBSAMAD (TYRELL MALACIA, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.MARCUS RASHFORD (MASON MOUNT, 72) – 5Having been electric on the whole under Amorim, he wasn’t able to provide any kind of spark against an opponent which has been one of his favourites in recent years.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (ALEJANDRO GARNACHO, 72) – 4After an impressive display last time out, he failed to offer anything to his side going forward today.The closest he came to scoring was a dangerous header which almost saw him get an own goal on the scoresheet.LENY YORO (HARRY MAGUIRE, 72) – 6Looks like a pretty good defender on the whole, a tough game for a young centre-back, but he didn’t look out of place whatsoever.ANTONY (RASMUS HOJLUND, 79) – 5Played his part in a clever free-kick routine at the end of the game, before fluffing his lines and finding the gloves of David Raya. More

    • 263 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Postecoglou’s Tottenham were clapped off the pitch after 4-1 loss to Chelsea – if it happens again he’ll be in crisis

      by

      REWIND the clock just over a year and Ange Postecoglou’s Spurs were being applauded off the pitch by supporters, despite losing 4-1 at home to Chelsea.This Sunday, Tottenham host the Blues again and if it goes badly for the North Londoners, you fear for the Aussie boss and the reception he might get from the terraces.Ange Postecoglou must be as frustrated as any Tottenham fanCredit: GettySon Heung-min and Co were outplayed in losing 1-0 at BournemouthCredit: ReutersIt has been a marked turnaround in 13 months.From fans serenading Postecoglou with their twist on Robbie Williams’ classic ‘Angels’ of “I’m loving Big Ange instead”.To many of them falling out of love with the 59-year-old due to the wild inconsistency of his approach and some even wanting him gone.The fact that Spurs pulled off one of their greatest Premier League results ever with the 4-0 win at Manchester City just 13 days ago but now we are in this situation is remarkable.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut in a way that landmark victory at the Etihad only heightened the frustration felt by fans because it showed just what this team is capable of… yet are regularly failing to reproduce against so-called smaller teams like Crystal Palace, Ipswich and last night, Bournemouth.Andoni Iraola’s Cherries completely outclassed Spurs and were it not for some horrendously wasteful finishing from their forwards, it would have been 3-0 or 4-0 rather than 1-0.So what has sparked this reversal in fortunes for Postecoglou’s Spurs?There is an argument to say it all began with that Chelsea game in November last year.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSpurs had made an electric start to his tenure, going unbeaten in their first ten league games and flying high at the top of the league.Things were going so well that Postecoglou had won a hat-trick of manager-of-the-month awards for the first three months of the campaign.Ange Postecoglou ‘determined to get it right’ after Tottenham lose at Bournemouth But then disaster struck against the Blues.Spurs went down to nine men due after Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie were sent off, but more significantly they lost James Maddison and Micky van de Ven to long-term injuries.Amazingly, Postecoglou persevered with a high line and an attacking approach which led to Son Heung-min coming very close to a 90th-minute leveller for 2-2.He missed, and after that Nicolas Jackson went on to complete a hat-trick.The scenes afterwards were unforgettable though as fans belted out songs of praise for their brave team and their fearless manager for continuing to take the fight to the opposition despite their two-man disadvantage.But since then, that passion has dwindled due to how enormously patchy Postecoglou’s side have been.Their league record since Chelsea has read 17 wins, six draws and 18 defeats.The collapse towards the end of last season cost them a Champions League spot.While this term the dismal nature of displays at Selhurst Park, the second half at Brighton and the Vitality on Thursday night has irked supporters no end.Swedish attacker Dejan Kulusevski played the whole game at the Vitality Stadium but couldn’t inspire an equaliser from misfiring TottenhamCredit: RexSon shows his anguish after the sub had a goal ruled out at BournemouthCredit: GettyAt Bournemouth, Postecoglou even exchanged words with angry supporters seemingly calling him names and shouting expletives from the stands at full-time.Just over 12 hours on at Friday morning’s press conference back in Enfield, Postecoglou said he had no issue with the fans’ venting their fury.That what matters is that they are behind the team – not him.He said: “They’re not behind me, they’re behind the club. I’ve got no interest in who’s behind me.“You got to figure the ones who travel to Bournemouth are pretty hardcore supporters.“They weren’t happy with what they saw, they felt like they needed to give me some feedback, I took the feedback on board and we move on.”Injuries have been killing Postecoglou’s side over the last year.Maddison and Van de Ven getting crocked in the 4-1 against Chelsea last term derailed their progress completely.While right now he is without his first-choice centre-back pairing of Romero and Van de Ven, his No1 goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario and is light up top with Richarlison and Wilson Odobert out injured. Ben Davies also injured his hamstring against Bournemouth.Barring the £65million purchase of Dominic Solanke – the most a Premier League club spent on a player this summer – Spurs opted for youth in the last window.The decisions we made around signing young players are the right decisions for where we are at right now and will bear fruitAnge PostecoglouArchie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, both 18, 19-year-old Odobert and Yang Min-Hyeok, also 18 and who will join next month, were all brought in.While experienced pros like Pierre Emile-Hojbjerg and Giovani Lo Celso were let go.The injury to Odobert in particular has hit hard because Spurs looked in desperate need for more strength in the attacking areas.But the teenage kicks approach has left some fans thinking the club were too focused on building for the future, rather than the here and now.Yet Postecoglou defended the transfer policy today, commenting: “It is still the right decision and I own them [transfers] because I believe they are the right decisions for this club.“I have said numerous times, I make these decisions with the kind of background that I’m going to be here for a while to see this through.“To be honest, if I was worried about my own existence I would have fought tooth and nail to block Harry Kane leaving but it wasn’t the right decision for the club because he was in the last year of his contract. That is not what drives me.“The decisions we made around signing young players are the right decisions for this club for where we are at right now and they will bear fruit.”That may be the case further down the line, but whether Postecoglou will still be at the club in time to see it seems in jeopardy right now.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis Spurs are capable of beating the best, as they have proven in the past, so seeing off Enzo Maresca’s in-form Chelsea is doable.Lose, though, and the ex-Celtic boss could have a crisis on his hands – with a hostile trip Rangers in Glasgow coming just days after. More

    • 238 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Martin Odegaard becomes a dad as wife Helene gives birth to baby boy after Arsenal’s win over West Ham

      by

      MARTIN ODEGAARD has welcomed a baby boy with wife Helene Spilling.The Arsenal midfielder announced in August he was expecting his first child with the professional ballroom dancer.Odegaard’s wife Helene shared this touching imageCredit: https://www.instagram.com/helenespilling/It’s thought the couple secretly wed last monthCredit: https://www.instagram.com/helenespilling/The pair shared a pregnancy pic in the summerCredit: Instagram @odegaard.98And Helene shared a picture of the couple holding the tot’s’s hand on social media.The 28-year-old added the words: “We love you so much, our little baby boy.” It’s understood the birth was last Sunday, following Arsenal’s 5-2 win over West Ham.A source said: “Martin and Helene have welcomed a baby boy.READ MORE ON ARSENAL“They are both absolutely delighted and Martin could not be prouder.” Odegaard, 25, and Helene, 27, only went public with their relationship in the summer of 2023.She was seen on the pitch hugging Odegaard following the end of the 2022-23 season.Last month the pair were reported to have secretly wed.Most read in FootballGunners’ skipper Odegaard is on a high on and off the fieldCredit: GettyAccording to Norwegian outlet Verdens Gang, the Arsenal star has changed his status to married in the national register.Helene also updated her name to include Odegaard’s surname.Inside Leandro Trossard’s 30th birthday bash after Man Utd win as Arsenal star parties with huge cutouts of his faceShe previously starred on Skal vi Danse, Norway’s version of Strictly Come Dancing.She won the competition in 2021 and as a professional ballroom dancer has won 17 gold medals in the Norwegian national championships.Odegaard was in the squad for the Gunners’ 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the Emirates on Wednesday night.Arsenal are now seven points from the top of the table, with Liverpool dropping points following their 3-3 draw against Newcastle.Odegaard is expected to start for Arsenal when they take on Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday at 2pm.He was out of action for two months with an ankle injury but is now back on form.Odegaard said: “I feel good, I think every game it’s getting better.“Being out for eight or nine weeks, it takes a little bit of time to get that rhythm back and to get full match fitness, but I felt pretty good. I think I’ve done a good job being out and working hard, so I feel good now.“It was the longest I’ve been out. I can’t remember anything else that I’ve had that’s been so long, so it was something new to me.“I’m not used to watching the games from the stand and not training with the team, so it was hard but the only thing you can do is work hard every day to make sure you come back as soon as possible stronger and better.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It was a chance to work on some other things, be a bit more in the gym and work on other parts of the body.“Also to watch the team from the stands is a bit different but I think you can learn a lot from that and that’s what I did.” More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Tyler Dibling quit Southampton academy for Chelsea but left after two games… Saints nearly refused to welcome him back

      by

      TYLER DIBLING left Southampton for Chelsea and was almost refused a return to the South Coast.The Saints winger, 18, has broken through into Russell Martin’s first-team this season and been a bright spark for the struggling Premier League side.Tyler Dibling is starting to make a name for himself at SouthamptonCredit: GettyHe spent a few months at Chelsea in 2022 but played just twice for their academyCredit: Instagram @TylerdiblingHe has started eight of their 14 matches, scoring in their 1-1 draw with Ipswich back in September.Dibling also assisted twice in a 5-3 win over Cardiff in the Carabao Cup.He has spent the last decade of his life as a Southampton academy prospect – but for a few months in 2022.Dibling, who was suspended for Saints’ 5-1 defeat to Chelsea on Wednesday, joined the Blues shortly after going viral for scoring a hat-trick against Newcastle in a Premier League 2 match.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe was offered around £3,000 a week to stay at St Mary’s but Chelsea offered more to snatch him away.However, the Exeter-born attacker struggled to fit in at the West London club as he suffered a lack of confidence in the more ruthless environment.And following just TWO appearances for Chelsea’s youth side, talks got underway to bring him back to Southampton.According to The Athletic, some Saints chiefs were concerned about the “message it would send to other academy players who leave Southampton and then decide they prefer their old surroundings” if they were to take him back.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut Matt Hale, Southampton’s academy director at the time, wanted the best players at the club and could see Dibling was one of them.So they offered him a contract on much reduced wages from the offer they submitted prior to joining Chelsea – and he signed it.Southampton manager bust upAnd Dave Horseman, an academy coach at the club at the time of Dibling’s return, praised the teenager’s attitude.He said: “When I knew he was coming back, I sat all the U21s and U18s down and explained what was happening.”When he came back from Chelsea, he went to the U18s. He had to earn the right to come back.”He never moaned, at least not to us, and looking back, when you put the pieces together, he showed he is a strong character.”He had to suck it up and go again, and I am sure Tyler felt awkward as anything when he came back.”Dibling penned a new deal in February 2023 to keep him at the club until 2027.But SunSport has revealed Manchester United and Aston Villa have already sent scouts to watch his last three games.Clubs in Germany and Italy are also understood to be interested.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd he will almost certainly leave if Southampton are relegated this season.Martin’s men sit bottom of the Premier League, seven points adrift of safety after winning just one of their opening 14 matches. More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Premier League ace Tommy Widdrington, 53, suffers two strokes as Strictly star son Kai thanks fans for support

      by

      FORMER Prem star-turned-manager Tommy Widdrington is recovering well after suffering two strokes last week.The 53-year-old has been supported by his loving family, including his Strictly star son Kai, after being rushed to hospital with a sudden illness on November 27.Tommy Widdrington was rushed to hospital after suffering from two stokesWiddrington has been undergoing scans and tests since as part of treatment for an ischaemic stroke at Southend General hospital.He is now manager of National League side Aldershot Town, having overseen 82 matches since joining them in April last year.His eldest son Kai is a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, while the youngest, Theo, plays for Aldershot.Kai took to Instagram to send a touching message, writing: “Thank you to everyone who has sent their messages of love and support.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA club statement, on behalf of his family, read: “Being of good health prior to Wednesday, and historically in general, his response to this episode and the initial treatment has been very encouraging.”He has made very good progress and is feeling and looking a lot better already.”He returned home late Tuesday afternoon to begin further rehabilitation.”He is very appreciative of all the messages of encouragement he’s received from all corners of the football world.”Most read in FootballIt is not yet known when Widdrington will be well enough to return to the dugout.Kai thanked fans on his Instagram storyTommy Widdrington spent four years playing in the Premier League with SouthamptonHis family added: “He also wants The Shots fans to know he has total faith in the staff and the players in his absence and looks forward to being back in the dugout when he’s deemed fit enough to do so.”The statement continued: “Tommy’s wife, Sharon, and immediate family have of course rallied and will continue to support his recovery and hope and have made this statement in the hope that it will quash any possibility of misinformation being circulated.”Widdrington’s illness came just four days after his side’s 2-2 draw with Dagenham & Redbridge.Aldershot host Wealdstone in the third round of the FA Trophy on Saturday.And in his place, the club will be led by assistants Hugo Langton and Richard Dryden.What is an ischemic stroke? An ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, cutting off blood flow and damaging brain cells. Common symptoms of a transient ischaemic attack include your face dropping on one side, not being able to lift your arms, and speech problems.It can also change how you think, feel and communicate. It’s the most common type of stroke.It accounts for about 87 per cent of all strokes.Newcastle-born Widdrington made his name as a midfielder with Southampton, who he joined as a kid in 1987.After making his First Division debut in 1991, Widdrington become a big player for the Saints following their promotion to the Premier League a year later.In total, he netted three goals in 90 games at St Mary’s.Widdrington went on to star at other clubs including Grimsby, Port Vale, Hartlepool and Macclesfield.He retired from playing in 2005 after a second spell at Port Vale.But four years later, Widdrington returned to the beautiful as a manager with Salisbury City.He has since taken charge of Hemel Hempstead, Eastbourne Borough and King’s Lynn – as well as two interim stints at Bristol Rovers.Widdrington has been at current club Aldershot for 21 months, winning 32 of his 82 matches at the helm.The Hampshire-based outfit currently sit 17th in the National League, with just one win in their last five games.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd they’ve conceded the second most goals in the league this season (33), three less than Boston United (36).Son Theo, 25, currently plays for Aldershot, scoring one goal and providing one assist this term.Widdrington scored three goals in his 90 Saints appearances More

    • 225 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Premier League ace and dad of Strictly star Kai Widdrington suffers two strokes as shocked family rallies round

      by

      FORMER Prem star-turned-manager Tommy Widdrington is recovering well after suffering two strokes last week.The 53-year-old has been supported by his loving family, including his Strictly Come Dancing star son Kai, after being rushed to hospital with a sudden illness on November 27.Tommy Widdrington was rushed to hospital after having two stokesWiddrington’s son Kai is a pro dancer on Strictly Come DancingHelen Skelton and Kai Widdrington pose during Strictly Come DancingCredit: GettyHis wife Sharon has been at his bedside as she spoke via a club statementWiddrington has been undergoing scans and tests since as part of treatment for two ischaemic strokes at Southend General hospital.He is now manager of National League side Aldershot Town, having overseen 82 matches since joining them in April last year.His eldest son Kai is a professional dancer on Strictly, while the youngest, Theo, plays for Aldershot.Kai took to Instagram to send a touching message, writing: “Thank you to everyone who has sent their messages of love and support.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSDespite his dad’s ongoing health battle, Kai was strong enough to bag himself a Guinness World Records certificate following an intense showdown in the annual Pro Challenge this week.He beat Neil Jones to the most Cha Cha Cha Time Steps executed in half a minute.Meanwhile, Widdrington’s family have promised to “rally around” the patriarch. An Aldershot club statement, on behalf of the family, read: “Being of good health prior to Wednesday, and historically in general, his response to this episode and the initial treatment has been very encouraging.Most read in FootballKai thanked fans on his Instagram storyTommy Widdrington spent four years playing in the Premier League with Southampton”He has made very good progress and is feeling and looking a lot better already.”He returned home late Tuesday afternoon to begin further rehabilitation.”He is very appreciative of all the messages of encouragement he’s received from all corners of the football world.”It is not yet known when Widdrington will be well enough to return to the dugout.His family added: “He also wants The Shots fans to know he has total faith in the staff and the players in his absence and looks forward to being back in the dugout when he’s deemed fit enough to do so.”The statement continued: “Tommy’s wife, Sharon, and immediate family have of course rallied and will continue to support his recovery and hope and have made this statement in the hope that it will quash any possibility of misinformation being circulated.”Kai finished eighth in Strictly last yearMeanwhile, son Kai was not paired with a celebrity contestant for the current 2024 series of Strictly and has only appeared in group performances. Speaking to the Daily Star, Kai shared: “Everyone wants to get a celebrity. Unfortunately it wasn’t my time this series.“Two boys couldn’t have one this series and sadly I am one of them. Some of us don’t get partners and that’s the way it is.”He added: “Let’s see what happens next year. Hopefully I’ll get one then.”He was partnered up with Angela Rippon in 2023The Strictly curse struck again when Kai and ex-girlfriend and fellow show dancer Nadiya Bychkova called time on their relationship in July.The ex-couple are being plagued by rumours that things are frosty after reportedly refusing to stand next to each other on screen.A source told The Sun: ‘It’s painfully obvious Nadiya and Kai are in the awkward post-break up phase and struggling to be near one another.”When the pair are in the Clauditorium, they’re always on opposite sides. Although they may have big smiles on their faces when the cameras are running, it’s been very tense between them.”Following Nadiya and Kai’s split it was reported bosses at Strictly were considering banning workplace romances due the tension backstage between the exes.Strictly dancers Nadiya and Kai called it quits in JulyMeanwhile, dad Widdrington’s illness came just four days after his side’s 2-2 draw with Dagenham & Redbridge.Aldershot host Wealdstone in the third round of the FA Trophy on Saturday.And in his place, the club will be led by assistants Hugo Langton and Richard Dryden.Newcastle-born Widdrington made his name as a midfielder with Southampton, who he joined as a kid in 1987.After making his First Division debut in 1991, Widdrington become a big player for the Saints following their promotion to the Premier League a year later.What is an ischemic stroke? An ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, cutting off blood flow and damaging brain cells. Common symptoms of a transient ischaemic attack include your face dropping on one side, not being able to lift your arms, and speech problems.It can also change how you think, feel and communicate. It’s the most common type of stroke.It accounts for about 87 per cent of all strokes.In total, he netted three goals in 90 games at St Mary’s.Widdrington went on to star at other clubs including Grimsby, Port Vale, Hartlepool and Macclesfield.He retired from playing in 2005 after a second spell at Port Vale.But four years later, Widdrington returned to the beautiful game as a manager with Salisbury City.He has since taken charge of Hemel Hempstead, Eastbourne Borough and King’s Lynn – as well as two interim stints at Bristol Rovers.Widdrington has been at current club Aldershot for 21 months, winning 32 of his 82 matches at the helm.The Hampshire-based outfit currently sit 17th in the National League, with just one win in their last five games.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd they’ve conceded the second most goals in the league this season (33), three less than Boston United (36).Son Theo, 25, currently plays for Aldershot, scoring one goal and providing one assist this term.Widdrington scored three goals in his 90 Saints appearances More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd forced to make change to ticket sales that is ‘unheard of’ as hated price hike ‘backfires massively’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED have prompted further backlash after tickets for Saturday’s clash with Nottingham Forest were spotted on OPEN SALE.The move comes amid growing resentment among fans after the Red Devils raised the price of tickets for members to £66.Tickets for United’s match against Forest at Old Trafford were put up on open saleIt followed fans protests against the decision to increase ticket prices to £66Supporters held up banners with the phrase: ‘Stop Exploiting Loyalty’But perhaps United’s plan to scrap concessions for children and pensioners has been hit with the most controversy.Tickets returned by season-ticket holders are typically sold to members via the club’s website.But the site had availability for the general public on all four sides of Old Trafford on Wednesday.United have since confirmed that the Forest match has been sold out.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut the fact that they had to resort to an open sale is seen as significant.A spokesman for the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust told The Mail: “Tickets for league home games have been gold dust for decades.”But fans have a limit and the fact Forest tickets are on open sale should make the club see that £66 tickets are a step too far. “It’s time to reverse the decision and make sure Old Trafford remains as full as ever.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFans vented their anger at the Glazer family and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe during Sunday’s 4-0 win against Everton.There are now fears among United’s 55,000 season-ticket holders that a hefty price hike is likely for them next season too.Ruben Amorim reveals four Man Utd stars who have a ‘time limit’ as he discusses squad issues There were even protests before the Everton game, with a banner raised reading “Stop Exploiting Loyalty”.And a survey of 4,000 supporters by MUST revealed that 68 per cent will attend fewer games.A spokesman for protest group The 1958 said: “It’s unheard of for a Premier League game to go on open sale through the club.”It just doesn’t happen – this has backfired massively.”SunSport have contact United for comment.Despite the backlash, United chiefs have defended their decision in a statement, despite already saving fortunes by making a host of staff redundant. It read: “As a club, we have been focused on cost saving to put us on a stronger financial footing.What we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.There had been plans to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a scaled down second venue.However, it’s looking increasing likely that it will in fact be entirely demolished.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.The club have appointed the architects Foster + Partners to come up with a “masterplan”. The company were behind Wembley Stadium.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. “This means having to make very hard decisions, including a significant reduction in our staff numbers. “It also means looking for opportunities to increase our revenues so we can continue to invest in football and infrastructure. “We have now sold over 97 per cent of tickets this season, many of which were at a discounted rate. “We are implementing some policy changes for matches that have already sold out, where only small numbers of tickets will be released.”READ MORE SUN STORIESFans affected have been emailed by club chiefs, with several expressing their dissatisfaction on social media.One post read: “Absolute waffle from United in that email about the ticket price rises, they can butter it up anyway they want, but there is and never will be any excuse for charging children £66 to watch a football game at Old Trafford.”Man Utd ratings vs ArsenalRUBEN AMORIM lost his first game since taking charge of Man Utd after a 2-0 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates.See how the players rated…ANDRE ONANA – 5He was let off early in the game after a stray pass saw Gabriel Martinelli put the ball in the net before the linesman raised his flag.Failed to command his area as 5″10 Jurrien Timber leapt highest to rattle the back of his net, before the ball floated to the back post for Arsenal to score their second set piece.DIOGO DALOT – 6Flashed a shot just wide at the end of the first half when he did eventually get forward.Not bad defensively but more dangerous going forwards.MATTHIJS DE LIGT – 6Formed a good partnership with Maguire in the first half, and fans will be hoping he is okay after suffering a slight knock.Needed to be a more commanding figure in the box to stop being dominated by The Gunners at set pieces.HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was actually very impressive in the first half, with a solid showing.Not at fault for Timber’s header hitting the back of the net, before he was replaced by Leny Yoro.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Playing as a left-sided centre-back he looked fairly comfortable, which is a credit to the Moroccan’s versatility.That said, he still looked better off in the role that Malacia, then Dalot occupied tonight as a left-wingback.TYRELL MALACIA – 3Noticeably looked extremely physically weak up against Bukayo Saka on the left-hand side, before being booked for a kick out at Kai Havertz.Offered nothing going forward and his link-up with Garnacho was practically non-existent. Hooked at half-time for the far more threatening Amad.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Another one who was booked in the first half, he failed to establish any kind of presence in the game and on the ball, looked pretty woeful.Cleared a Joshua Zirkzee header off of his own line to stop Arsenal from doubling their lead early in the second half.BRUNO FERNANDES – 4This game was crying out for Bruno Fernandes to stamp his authority on it, and it seemed he just couldn’t quite get his foot on the ball to do so.Played a deeper role today, next to Ugarte, which meant we didn’t see any of his attacking spark.MASON MOUNT – 3Mason Mount at right wing was an experiment tried and failed at Chelsea, which Amorim tried again tonight.He was often lost in the half-space, meaning he was essentially useless going forwards. Hooked in the second half after a fairly abysmal showing.ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 5A very quiet first half, only brightened by one half-decent cross, was met by a second half where he was quickly subbed for Marcus Rashford.Quiet.RASMUS HOJLUND – 6Battled well with the physical presence of William Saliba early on, but his side failed to create him any kind of chances.Cut a frustrated figure for most of the match, and rightly so. There will be no point signing Gyokeres if they can’t create anything for him to score.SUBSAMAD (TYRELL MALACIA, HT) – 5Was more direct and definitely an improvement on Malacia, albeit on the opposite flank.However, still wasn’t able to be the difference which Ruben Amorim would’ve been looking for in this one.MARCUS RASHFORD (MASON MOUNT, 72) – 5Having been electric on the whole under Amorim, he wasn’t able to provide any kind of spark against an opponent which has been one of his favourites in recent years.JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (ALEJANDRO GARNACHO, 72) – 4After an impressive display last time out, he failed to offer anything to his side going forward today.The closest he came to scoring was a dangerous header which almost saw him get an own goal on the scoresheet.LENY YORO (HARRY MAGUIRE, 72) – 6Looks like a pretty good defender on the whole, a tough game for a young centre-back, but he didn’t look out of place whatsoever.ANTONY (RASMUS HOJLUND, 79) – 5Played his part in a clever free-kick routine at the end of the game, before fluffing his lines and finding the gloves of David Raya. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd send scouts to watch Tyler Dibling as two Premier League giants consider transfer swoop for Southampton star

      by

      SOUTHAMPTON’S Tyler Dibling is being watched by TWO Premier League giants, SunSport can reveal.The midfielder has been one of the only bright sparks in a season which has seen the Saints left rooted to the bottom of the table.Tyler Dibling has impressed since breaking into the Southampton teamCredit: GettyManager Russell Martin has given Dibling a huge amount of game time and he’s responded by putting in a string of eye-catching performances.He particularly impressed during the Saints’ fiery 1-1 draw with Brighton, a performance which drew praise from a number of pundits.DIbling, 18, has now caught the eye of two Prem giants.Manchester United and Aston Villa have both sent scouts to watch his last three games and he’s believed to be on the radar of clubs in Germany and Italy as well.READ MORE ON MAN UTDIt’s likely any deal for the player would be in the summer as Southampton are not ready to sell with relegation a looming threat.But if the Saints do finish in the bottom three they could struggle to keep hold of the player.Dibling has scored one goal this season and has won praise from Danny Murphy, who labelled him “instrumental” to Southampton.He said on Match of the Day: “It is the quality he has got – the belief in himself and the physical power. He just goes past people with ease. He has got a lovely left foot. He is very brave on the ball and his decision-making is good.Most read in Football”It is difficult to get too over the top with these young players, because he has just come on to the scene, but he is going to be something special.”It is great for him getting all these minutes at Southampton. They are giving him the freedom to play and giving him time to learn the game.Ruben Amorim reveals four Man Utd stars who have a ‘time limit’ as he discusses squad issues “He is just enjoying himself and he is playing with a real belief in himself. He is just instrumental in this team.” More