Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Wolves tracking manager dubbed ‘modern day Sir Alex Ferguson’ as pressure mounts on Gary O’Neil

      by

      WOLVES are tracking a man who is being dubbed “a modern day Sir Alex Ferguson”.The Premier League club are considering making a move for Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin, who has stunned Scottish football with the start he’s made at PittodrieAberdeen manager Jimmy ThelinCredit: SNSThe Swedish manager has won ALL 13 of his matches at Aberdeen – prompting comparisons with Sir Alex who rose to fame as Aberdeen manager before moving to Manchester United.Wolves’ interest in Thelin comes as the future of manager Gary O’Neil remains increasingly uncertain.After their defeat to Brentford at the weekend, O’Neil admitted he wasn’t sure what would happen to his job.SunSport understands that O’Neil will be given time to see how he performs during a more favourable run of fixtures.READ MORE IN football But they could be forced to make a change if the club’s fortunes don’t turn around.David Moyes has also been suggested as a potential replacement. His Premier League experience may tip the balance in his favour, but it’s unclear if Moyes would be willing to sign-up to a relegation scrap.Aberdeen fans would be devastated to see Thelin go. Despite his loyalties, even Ally McCoist has lavished praise on the Aberdeen manager for his impressive start in Scottish football.Most read in FootballWho is Jimmy Thelin? By Jack Figg Jimmy Thelin is making waves in Scottish football for his stunning unbeaten start with Aberdeen – but who is he? The Swede had an eight-year professional playing career – all with IF Haga which ended in 2003. After two years he moved straight into coaching with FC Ljungarum. Thelin then joined Jonkopings Sodra IF to manage their youth side before being promoted to the first-team. He then rose to prominence in European football after taking over at Elfsborg in 2018. After six years, Thelin then moved to Aberdeen on a three-year deal and started his tenure with 13 unbeaten matches. His start to life in Scotland has seen him draw comparisons to legendary Man Utd boss Sir Alex Ferguson – who also got his start at Aberdeen. Now Premier League sides like Wolves are starting to take notice of Thelin. CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Dons kept up with Celtic at the top of the Scottish Premiership after a thrilling 3-2 victory over struggling Hearts, thanks to Ante Palaversa’s late goal against managerless Jambos.This result sees Aberdeen and Celtic neck-and-neck at the top of the Premiership, both with maximum points.Boy Wonders: Meet Wes Okoduwa, the Wolves teenager already linked to Man Utd and ChelseaWith Thelin’s streak of 13 wins from 13 in all competitions, McCoist’s beloved Rangers are trailing by five points in the title race.The Swedish manager will face the ultimate test of their title credentials when he leads Aberdeen to Celtic Park to challenge Brendan Rodgers’ defending champions on their home ground after the international break.McCoist last week admitted he has been impressed with the rising Reds, acknowledging that Thelin has done a “great job” since taking over at Pittodrie last summer. More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Erling Haaland fires blunt six-word response when asked if he regrets throwing ball at Arsenal star Gabriel

      by

      ERLING HAALAND does not regret throwing the ball at Gabriel Magalhaes’ head last month.The Manchester City striker, 24, was branded a “s***house” and a “coward” by fans and pundits following his antics after the late equaliser against Arsenal.Erling Haaland has no regrets over his row with Gabriel MagalhaesCredit: GettyThe Man City striker threw a ball at the back of the Arsenal defender’s head last monthCredit: Sky SportsJohn Stones scored with just seconds left on the clock.But then Haaland picked up the ball and threw it against the back of defender Gabriel’s head.Haaland also rowed with Gabriel Jesus and debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly, 17, following the explosive 2-2 draw.And he then told Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to “stay humble”. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe hotshot will now captain Norway for the first time in today’s Nations League home game with Slovenia and Sunday’s trip to Austria.Having had nearly three weeks to reflect on his unsavoury actions against the Gunners — and escaping retrospective action for the ball-throwing — Haaland is adamant he sees nothing wrong with it and refused to apologise.And he vowed to be exactly the same while leading his country in the absence of injured Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard.Haaland said: “I don’t regret much in life. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“In the heat of the moment things happened in that game. “What happens on the pitch, stays on the pitch.”Top 10 highest-paid Premier League starsOn whether wearing the armband will impact his behaviour, he said: “I’ll be myself, same as when I’m not captain. “I’m not going to change anything.”Haaland will be looking to do what he does best — scoring goals. He has 11 in ten City games this term and needs one more at international level to tie the 33 of Norway’s record scorer Jorgen Juve.And Haaland admitted: “It will be nice to beat it one day.” More

    • 225 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal star William Saliba ‘in transfer talks with Real Madrid’ as Spanish giants make Gunners star ‘top priority’

      by

      REAL MADRID have reportedly made contact with William Saliba after making him their top priority for a shock transfer. The Arsenal star, 23, is widely considered one of the best centre-backs in world football.William Saliba is a transfer target for Real MadridCredit: GettyHis form for the Gunners has seen him cement himself as a regular in the starting XI for France.And now Los Blancos want to take him to the Bernabeu.According to Le10Sport, Real Madrid are hoping to follow up the signing of Kylian Mbappe this year by adding his compatriot Saliba next summer.Saliba joined Arsenal from Saint-Etienne for £27million in 2019 but had to wait until the 2022-23 season to force his way into the side at the Emirates.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSince then, though, he has created a formidable partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes and he started all 38 Premier League games last season, recording a league-high 18 clean sheets.The 6ft 4ins defender has made his name for being notoriously difficult to beat in one-v-one situations and has managed to keep plenty of the world’s top strikers quiet. Saliba signed a new £190,000-a-week contract at Arsenal in July 2023 which runs until the end of the 2026-27 season.But Real Madrid hope to test the player and the North London club’s resolve by making an approach next year.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe reports in France suggest initial conversations have already taken place to register the LaLiga giants’ interest. According to Transfermarkt, Saliba is the most valuable defender in the world at £67million – the same as Manchester City’s Ruben Dias.Arsenal player ratings vs SouthamptonBut Real will know they would need to stump up significantly more than that to convince Arsenal to sell.In fact, it could take a world-record bid – surpassing the £85m Manchester United paid Leicester for Harry Maguire in 2019 – to sign Saliba.Should Saliba make the shock switch to Spain, he would not only link up with Mbappe but also fellow Frenchmen Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni and Ferland Mendy. Carlo Ancelotti’s preferred centre-back pairing at the moment is Eder Mlitao and Antonio Rudiger.Rudiger turns 32 this season and therefore the Real Madrid hierarchy could view Saliba as his long-term successor. Ironically, the former Chelsea man won over plenty of Arsenal fans last week when he heaped praise on Saliba and Gabriel.Asked about the top centre-backs in the world, Rudiger said: “Saliba and I like Gabriel from Arsenal as well. If you see Arsenal and the two centre-backs playing together.”For two years now they are doing an amazing job. The transformation from Arsenal before and now.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Those two are the pillars of it. You have Gabriel as the more aggressive leader and Saliba, this brother plays clean.”You have to give it to him he looks like a silent leader.”Saliba is one of the best defenders in world footballCredit: GettyHe would link up with France team-mate Kylian Mbappe at the BernabeuCredit: AFP More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Roy Keane blasts ‘don’t bloody say it you FOOL’ in furious rant at Eriksen after Man Utd star’s controversial comment

      by

      ROY KEANE raged at “fool” Christian Eriksen following his comments about FC Twente’s players “wanting it more” than Manchester United.Manager Erik ten Hag is under huge pressure following The Red Devils’ worst ever start to a Premier League campaign.Roy Keane was furious at Christian Eriksen for his recent commentsCredit: YouTube/The OverlapEriksen raised eyebrows with his post-match comments last monthThey are languishing down in 14th place and without a win in five matches in all competitions.Last month, after a disappointing 1-1 draw at home to Dutch side Twente in the Europa League, Eriksen stunned Man Utd fans with his words.He told TNT Sports: “I think we are mostly disappointed as a team.”I think, obviously we wanted more but in the end it was far from good enough.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Being said also in the changing room they looked like they wanted it more than us and that can’t be right.”Now club icon Keane, 53, has spoke of his fury at Eriksen’s comments as he urged the Dane to keep those thoughts to himself.Speaking on Stick to Football, sponsored by Sky Bet, he said: “Eriksen’s an experienced internationally player, vastly experienced. He’s back in the United team the last few weeks because the manager says he’s doing really well in training.”Eriksen’s not going to close the gap on Liverpool, Arsenal and Man City – absolutely not.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMan Utd have endured a dismal start to the new seasonCredit: Getty”So he’s coming out after the game a couple of weeks ago and he actually said [they wanted it more].”Even if you feel that and it hasn’t happened where you felt they wanted it more than you, you don’t bloody say it do you, you fool.Man Utd board’s EIGHT-HOUR London crunch talks and what it means for Erik ten Hag”Someone should get a grip of him and say ‘Why are you sending messages about us for?'”He also added: “I would be disgusted if I came in after a game and I felt another team wanted it more than us.”You try to make sure that doesn’t even cross anyone’s mind.”The pressure, the expectation, enjoy all of that stuff. We didn’t win every week, there was times when we won nothing, obviously. But you’d embrace that Man Utd badge, the history.”Man Utd chiefs met for hours on Tuesday but co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe made no comment about Ten Hag’s future as he left the London talks.Ex-Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel has been mooted as a potential replacement for Ten Hag should The Red Devils opt for a change.But for now it appears the Dutchman will still be at the helm when Man Utd face Brentford in their first match after the international break on October 19. More

    • 225 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to Sheff Utd and Greece great George Baldock

      by

      IT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis retired from international duty after 101 caps and a scintillating service after Giourkas Seitaridis helped us do the unthinkable and win Euro 2004.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up but unfortunately none of them could fill those big boots.George Baldock leaves a legacy behind after stunning displays for Sheffield United and GreeceCredit: APBaldock became Greece’s starting right-back upon his arrival in 2022Credit: GettyBaldock put together an amazing performance against France star Kylian Mbappe despite being injuredCredit: GettyBaldock’s last ever match was an impressive display with Panathinaikos before his tragic deathCredit: RexBut soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage that plays as a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Ethniki through his Greek grandmother.And what a season he was having, the right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.And Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played, which was the joint highest return along a select few – only seven of which were outfield players, such as Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.Read More on FootballThe defender was fully keen to make the big step to the international stage with the country of his grandmother’s homeland and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork hell stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming COVID-19 and Brexit slowed things down.But finally, Greece got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Most read in FootballPerhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Greece boss Poyet reveals Sheff Utd ace Baldock played through ‘unimaginable’ injury when he silenced France’s MbappeThe Tottenham hero reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”A loyal soldierIt’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock has been to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.And he served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tagic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to.George Baldock career statsGeorge Baldock has tragically died aged 312009-2017 – MK Dons 125 games (2 goals)2011 – Tamworth (loan) 3 (0)2012 – IBV (loan) 18 (1)2012 – Tamworth (loan) 15 (1)2015-16 – Oxford United (loan) 47 (3)2017-2024 – Sheffield United 219 (6)2024 – Panathinaikos 4 (0) More

    • 238 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Ecstatic Arsenal fans say ‘my captain is BACK’ as Martin Odegaard shares workout video in huge boost following injury

      by

      MARTIN ODEGAARD has got Arsenal fans dreaming after sharing footage of himself working out as he steps up his injury recovery.The Gunners captain, 25, has been out since suffering an ankle injury on international duty last month.Martin Odegaard has been working out on a treadmillCredit: Instagram @odegaard.98The Arsenal skipper has also been doing strengthening exercisesCredit: Instagram @odegaard.98Odegaard, 25, has been out injured since last month’s international breakCredit: Instagram @odegaard.98He has since missed games against Tottenham, Manchester City, Leicester and Southampton – as well as Champions League clashes with Atalanta and Paris Saint-Germain.With several of his team-mates away playing for their countries, Odegaard has been in the gym working out.In his latest Instagram post, the Norwegian shared a video of himself running on a treadmill.His upload also includes further images of him working on strengthening exercises in the gym.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe captioned his post with three emojis; a graph, an egg-timer and “soon”.Odegaard’s post quickly received thousands of likes.And several fans rushed to leave a comment.One wrote: “We need you captain!”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOdegaard is eager to get back out on to the pitchCredit: Instagram @odegaard.98While a second gushed: “My captain is back.”A third swooned: “Premier League ain’t ready for Martin Odegaard regen.”Arsenal fans raging as ‘smug’ Norway boss ‘cracks joke’ about Martin Odegaard’s devastating injury on live TVAnd another added: “Can’t wait to see you back on the pitch.”A fortnight ago, Odegaard lifted the lid on the exact nature of his injury.He told Arsenal media: “It was a bad twist to my ankle, and I damaged some ligaments there, but it’s part of football and now I’m just trying to recover as quickly as I can.”I’m moving forward, making progress and I’m feeling more positive every day.”I’m working hard and my only thought is to get back as soon as possible.”I’m at the Sobha Realty Training Centre basically every day now, working hard and doing everything I can do to get better.’UNFORTUNATE'”I have to be careful not to push it too much, but at the same time do what I can to make sure I come back as strongly and quickly as possible.”I’m trying to support the team in a different way now, if I can’t be on the pitch. That’s my situation, and I have to make the best out of it.”It’s something I’m not used to. I’ve been quite fortunate, if that’s the word, or have done well to avoid injuries in the past, but this is football and I have to get on with it.”I think it was unfortunate to get the injury in the way that I did, but also it could have been worse.”It was not a nice twist, and when it happened I felt it could be serious.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve injured my ankle before and the pain felt a bit different this time.”Arsenal will return to action after the international break with a trip to Bournemouth.The Norwegian watched his team-mates against Southampton at the Emirates on SaturdayCredit: Getty More

    • 213 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea legend reveals boozy Christmas party tactic that stopped him ‘being in a coma for seven days’

      by

      CHELSEA legend Gus Poyet has recalled the sneaky Christmas party tractic he used to avoid drinking too much booze.The former Blues star jokingly explained how he cleverly avoided “being placed in a coma for seven days” during Chelsea nights out.Gus Poyet recalled his brilliant party trick to avoid getting too drunk at ChelseaPoyet reckons he mastered the practice of safe drinking during his five years in West London between 1997 and 2001.In fact, the Uruguayan finally held his hands up to admit that he would turn up hours late to avoid a deadly hangover.Poyet told The Times:”For Christmas nights out in London the players would get together at two o’clock, so I would get there at seven. “If I start at two — I’m not going to name names but the way some could drink was unbelievable. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”And the next day, they train — no problem. Me, I would be in a coma for seven days.”When asked about his social life at Chelsea, he said: “Top. But the drinking culture — I was shocked. I remember being injured, my first night out.”They gave me a beer and I’m holding it, I don’t know if I’m going to drink. And then they bring me another one and put it in my other hand.”I adapted. I knew you have to give something of yourself and even if I wasn’t a big drinker I needed to be present. Part of the team.Most read in FootballPoyet won the FA Cup and the Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup during his stint at Chelsea – with Dennis Wise and Roberto Di MatteoFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”So I never missed a night out, but did it my way.” When asked about the football, Poyet said: “It was physical. I liked it. Away from home, north, it was always tough. Leeds!Tottenham legend Gus Poyet explains why Ange Postecoglou can end trophy hoodoo and win Carabao Cup despite Coventry horror show”A typical question they ask me everywhere in the world is: ‘who was the toughest player you play against?’ “Well, every time you were facing Roy Keane you needed to be prepared. Because you knew he was coming.”Poyet scored 49 goals in 145 Chelsea midfield appearances after joining as a free agent.He joined Tottenham in May 2021 for around £2.2m and scored 14 goals in his debut season, helping Spurs reach the League Cup final where they lost 2-1 to Blackburn.His time at Spurs was blighted by injuries after he sustained cruciate ligament damage for the second time in his career in August 2002.After hanging up his boots in 2004, Poyet began his coaching career as assistant coach of Swindon Town.He later managed Brighton, Sunderland, AEK Athens and the Greece national team until his contract ended in March this year. More

    • 250 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Premier League icon names surprise EFL star who could be key to shutting down Jude Bellingham in England vs Greece

      by

      NEWCASTLE cult hero Nikos Dabizas has named a surprise Championship star as the best man to keep England superstar Jude Bellingham quiet when Greece visit Wembley.The Three Lions return to international duty on Thursday to welcome their Nations League group leaders after both sides kicked their campaign off with victories over Republic of Ireland and Finland.Jude Bellingham may start for the first time under England interim boss Lee Carsley against GreeceCredit: ReutersGreece legend Nikos Dabizas believes Cardiff star Manolis Siopis could keep Jude Bellingham quietCredit: GettyDabizas, though, insists Siopis will need help from all of his Greece team-mates to stop BellinghamCredit: SportsfileBellingham, 21, is set to play under interim manager Lee Carsley for the first time since Gareth Southgate’s dismissal as he missed last month’s international break due to a foot injury.The superstar midfielder is expected to start under Carsley, which means Greece manager Ivan Jovanovic will have his hands full in his first big match in charge since taking over in August.However, Dabizas, 51, believes Cardiff ace Manolis Siopis could be the one to stop the Real Madrid star for the Greeks, who have never beaten England in all of their nine matches – losing seven.The Euro 2004 legend claims Siopis, 30, who helped Trabzonspor win their first title in 28 years two seasons ago, could thrive in this unenviable task thanks to his speed, power and stamina.Read More on FootballHowever, the former defender insists Jovanovic shouldn’t rely only on the defensive midfielder to neutralise Bellingham, who registered a staggering 23 goals and 13 assists in 42 games last season with Real.Dabizas exclusively told SunSport: “In terms of direct marking, Manolis Siopis is a footballer who has the necessary combo of speed and power as well as stamina so that for a long period of time in the game to be pressing in his marking [against Bellingham]. “But under no circumstance should we opt for a game of individual marking. That [marking] should be based on teamwork that could create a situation of “delivery-receipt” when a player arrives in your area so that you can face him in your individual marking. “From then on when the opponent moves in a different area then the player who is responsible for that area can take him on. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I believe the three central midfielders will be able to give us that necessary cohesion and with the characteristics that they will have be able to create that concrete midfield both inside and outside our area where most of the game will be played. “But I believe Manolis Siopis can serve very well that part of direct marking in midfield. And it depends of course on what kind of formation Bellingham will be placed on by Carsley because, as we said, he didn’t have him in the previous games. Jude Bellingham follows Cristiano Ronaldo in launching YouTube channel with behind-the-scenes footage of England star”Maybe he will use him in a role on the wings. There’s also Cole Palmer who is doing great things with Chelsea and I believe he will start. He’s taken [Phil] Foden’s place. I believe he will start with Palmer. “The only thing left is to see how he handles [Kobbie] Mainoo’s absence. It’s a puzzle you need to turn around and fill up with the characteristics of the players he has at his disposal. “And what kind of strategy he will choose. But I believe it is very important to have a concrete midfield in the game with England.”Dabizas insists this is going to be a very tough game for Greece, who haven’t qualified for a major tournament in ten years.However, the ex-Leicester ace suggested his country could upset England with the right level of ball possession and adequate transition.Dabizas added: “I believe, first of all, the level of our ball possession will be a very basic criterion in regards to how the game will develop. The higher level of possession we have the better we will be able to absorb pressure from England. “That is the key point. To be able to have high possession percentages so that we can create the necessary conditions in transition as well, because I think it will be difficult to go to game management in a possession-based match with high percentages from our side, and certainly a lot will depend on transition. READ MORE SUN STORIES”That is why I say again, the players’ characteristics are very important so that they can maximise the specific conditions we will have to face in that match.”Ball possession and adequate transition so that we can create conditions to threaten England’s national team.” More