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      Newcastle make Mauricio Pochettino No1 target with Eddie Howe now under pressure to make quick decision on England job

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      NEWCASTLE are reportedly ready to swoop for Mauricio Pochettino if Eddie Howe takes the England job.Toon chief Howe, 46, is torn between remaining with the Magpies or taking a dream post with his country.Eddie Howe is facing a tough decision on his futureCredit: GettyMauricio Pochettino left Chelsea in MayCredit: GettyNewcastle are planning for next seasonCredit: GettyThe Mirror claim that Newcastle execs would like a swift decision, with Pochettino their No1 target if they need a new manager.Their Premier League opener against Southampton is under a month away on August 17.Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi, who have both left Newcastle, were big fans of Howe.But new sporting director Paul Mitchell was the man who brought Poch to Southampton and may see this as the perfect opportunity for a reunion.READ MORE ENGLANDMitchell and former Chelsea boss Pochettino, 52, also worked together at Tottenham.Howe admitted he has always had an ambition to be England manager in a book due to be released next month.SunSport exclusively revealed that he spoke about his Three Lions dream in an interview given before Gareth Southgate quit.Asked if he would like to manage England, Howe said: “Would that be something I would like to do at some stage of my career? Yes!Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“But I’m quite laid-back about it because I’m a believer that what will be, will be. If it’s meant to happen for me it will — if not, it won’t.“I’m a huge fan of Gareth’s, he’s done brilliant things for England.”Watch Graham Potter’s reaction as he is asked about England manager job moments after earning uni degreeIn the book, Cheers to 50 Years . . . On the Sporting Frontline, Howe added: “As a kid I loved England.“I loved pretending to be playing for England in the garden and I was Gary Lineker.“I loved Gary Lineker — he was one of my idols. I know I didn’t score goals but I tried and ended up being a defender.“I was very passionate and still am about my country and England doing well.”England chiefs see Howe as a leading candidate for the job.Pochettino himself is another option, while Graham Potter and Lee Carsley have been strongly backed.Howe broke his silence and addressed his future as he spoke to reporters at the Toon’s pre-season training camp in Germany on Friday.England’s job advert for new bossThe FA’s seven requirements to succeed Gareth Southgate:Will hold a Uefa Pro License.Will have significant experience of English football, with a strong track record delivering results in the Premier League and/or leading international competitions.Will be an exceptional leader who understands and will enjoy the international football environment.Will be experienced in successfully identifying, managing and developing English qualified players.Will be highly resilient and comfortable in a very high-profile role with intense public scrutiny.Will have a track record of creating a high performing, positive team culture and environment.Will have strong personal values and integrity and understand and embrace the role that the England Men’s Senior Team Head Coach has inspiring the nation.Howe said: “For me, being very proud to be Newcastle manager, this is all about Newcastle.“It’s not about England so as long as I’m happy, feel supported, feel free to work in a way that I want to work, I’ve not thought of anything else other than Newcastle.“I absolutely love the club. I love the supporters. I love where I am at in my career. There’s no better place for me to be. That’s how I feel.“I hope that from the answer that I’ve just given that there’s everything you need to know in there.“For me, it’s not about England. England is absolutely someone else’s conversation. It’s not mine. Mine is Newcastle.“To speak about something else while manager of Newcastle is wrong. I don’t think I have to say the answer again. The answer is clear.”READ MORE SUN STORIESNewcastle failed to reach Europe last campaign after suffering a serious number of injuries when his hands were tied in the transfer market because of Financial Fair Play limitations.But with the new PSR window now open, whoever is in the dugout will be backed by Toon’s Saudi owners.Harry Redknapp: Lampard or Gerrard should be next England managerI’VE a message for all those who reckon the search for England’s next manager is a two-horse race — you’re bang on!And while we’re at it, here’s another… I bet very few of you have narrowed it down to the same couple of candidates as me.If the odds are spot-on, finding Gareth Southgate’s replacement is a toss-up between Eddie Howe and Graham Potter.Well in my book it’s a straight head-to-head, too. But I’m even more convinced that the men I see as obvious front-runners will be lucky to even get an interview.I doubt there are many who’d agree with me either, when I say the FA should look no further than Steven Gerrard or Frank Lampard for the next Three Lions boss.Either of them could do the job standing on their head, yet probably neither will get so much as a phone call.Mind you, plenty of people will insist there’s no reason why they should because they’ve already written off both as failures.Forgetting that Frank reached an FA Cup final and finished fourth in his first spell at Chelsea.Or the fact that Everton were in such a mess, he never had a prayer when he went there.There’s every chance they’ll gloss over Stevie’s time at Rangers, despite their first title win in a decade — unbeaten as well — and say he was a flop at Aston Villa.But you show me a manager who’s not had a tough time of it somewhere down the line. Potter certainly did at Chelsea — he only lasted 31 games and lost 11 of them.So did Unai Emery, the man who replaced Stevie as boss at Villa, when he was Arsenal manager. It happens to everyone out there.So what’s the difference between Potter and Frank?Why is one an obvious candidate for England, yet the other not even worthy of a mention?Nothing against Eddie or Graham, by the way. Eddie’s doing well enough at Newcastle without absolutely tearing it up.And Potter did a good job at Brighton before Chelsea but he had good recruitment and was working with good players.Look at some of the names he had and where they ended up.Alexis Mac Allister won the World Cup and went to Liverpool. Leandro Trossard is at Arsenal, Marc Cucurella and Moises Caicedo joined Chelsea, Yves Bissouma is with Tottenham.There’s no doubt Potter or Howe would be a safe pair of hands. A steady Eddie. Just like Gareth was eight years ago — which is why they will probably get a chance.But if the FA want someone steeped in football knowledge — at international level too — and who knows the game inside out at that level, both Frank and Stevie leave them standing.The players would love it as well. They’d be desperate to play for them.They would have nothing but respect whether it was Lampard or Gerrard as boss.So, are they both on the scrapheap for good because they’ve had a failure somewhere down the line? There won’t be any managers left before long if that’s all it takes.And here’s another thing as well. While you need a thick skin to be a club manager, it’s not a patch on the one demanded at international level.That goes for players — certainly the senior ones — as well. And Stevie and Frank could tell you all about that better than most.Some of the stuff Frank had to put up with back in the day was horrendous, horrible stuff.It was the same for Gerro, especially when he was captain.But the pair of them stood up and came through it. And that’s the sort of character you want and need as England manager.It’s not about being a fantastic coach. When do you really get the chance to prove that with England? You don’t.You’re not out there every day doing shape, shadow play and the like. For one thing you tend to pick the team at the last minute because you don’t want it leaking out!It’s about managing, not coaching and there is a difference. It’s about picking the best players in the right positions.It’s about attacking and being positive — and in my book, nothing would be more positive than giving Stevie or Frank a call.But I’d be very surprised if anyone at the FA even picks up the phone and dials their numbers. More

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      Former Match of the Day presenter and ITV host reveals he believes in WITCHES and says they’re a ‘force only for good’

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      EX-MATCH of the Day presenter Adrian Chiles has gone from fearing fictional witches to believing in real ones.The Beeb star claims wand-wielding women are “only a force for good”.Adrian Chiles likes Wimbledon tennis, West Brom and witchesCredit: GettyThe Brummie covered sport for the BBC and ITVCredit: PA:Press Association‘The Wicked Witch of the West’ in The Wizard of Oz, as played by Margaret Hamilton, terrified many kids, including the young ChilesCredit: AlamyChiles, 57, was traumatised as a kid by 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz – featuring the sharp-fingered, hook-nosed Wicked Witch of the West.But the West Brom fan was transformed after popping into a shop selling witch goods.Now he wants to buy some crystals and explore the magical world further – perhaps hoping to help the Baggies conjure some pointy hat-tricks.The Brummie broadcaster was on MOT2 from 2004-2010 then worked for ITV Sport for six years.READ MORE TOP STORIESHe also presented The One Show with Christine Lampard and currently works on BBC Radio 5 live.The father of two revealed in a column for The Guardian how he has become enchanted by witches.Chiles did a “double take” when he spotted “The Wicklow Witch. Candles, Crystals, Witchy Supplies” in the Black Country village of Cradley.Friends were incredulous when he asked if they knew it – so he even “wondered if I’d dreamed it” and went back to check.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOnce there, he explained he met someone who changed his beliefs.Chiles wrote: “Behind the counter, was the witch herself. I asked her if there were many witches, here in the Halesowen area.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers”‘You’d be surprised,’ she said. Actually, I wouldn’t. I don’t think anything is ever going to surprise me again. “I’ve been decidedly anti-witch ever since I was scared half to death 50 years ago by that nasty piece of work in The Wizard of Oz'”I’m thankful to this witch, the delightful Juliet O’Brien, for putting me right on a few things, not least that proper witches don’t do bad things because they know such behaviour will only come back and haunt them.”Chiles stressed: “Witches are a force only for good. “I’ve been reading up on them in a book I bought from Juliet called ‘Basic Witches’ and I’m liking what I’m finding. I’m going back soon to pick up some crystals, seriously.”All in all, it seems he wouldn’t be scared if he suddenly discovered there was a Wicked Witch of the West Brom.But it might be a bit much to expect him to transfer his allegiance to Crystals Palace!Chiles presented The One Show with Christine Lampard, nee Bleakley More

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      Former Chelsea star demands Blues SELL Enzo Fernandez as he will ‘never be forgiven’ over racism storm

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      FORMER Chelsea star Tony Cascarino reckons his old side should SELL Enzo Fernandez.The Argentina star is in hot water after filming himself and international teammates singing a vile racist song about the French national team.Tony Cascarino believes Chelsea will have to sell Enzo Fernandez after his racism stormCredit: PAThe Argentina ace filmed himself singing a vile chant about the French national teamCredit: Instagram @enzojfernandezFernandez received a major backlash to the clip, with several Chelsea stars unfollowing him on social mediaWesley Fofana even went online to lash out at the “uninhibited racism.”And SunSport understands the Blues face a major dressing room divide ahead of the new Premier League campaign.Fernandez has since apologised for his part in the offensive chants.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it remains to be seen whether he can make amends with Chelsea pals, including the club’s large contingent of France stars.And former Stamford Bridge ace Cascarino reckons Fernandez has left the Blues with little choice but to sell him.He feels Fernandez’s comments will forever keep him divided from the rest of the dressing room.And despite paying a then-record £105million to sign the World Cup winner 18 months ago, Chelsea should cut their losses for the sake of team unity.Most read in FootballCascarino told talkSPORT: “It’s going to be tricky. I look back at when I was at Chelsea in the 90s and I’m not sure that dressing room would be OK with what Enzo Fernandez did.“That’s a tricky one to handle. I think Chelsea have got a major decision on whether they actually keep Enzo Fernandez.Chelsea fans can’t wait for new season as video of training session emerges – but some fear ‘we’re revealing too much’Cascarino reckons there is one way Fernandez can redeem himselfCredit: The Sun“Having players not happy with a guy in the dressing room, I’m not sure there will be many that comfortable with some of the things that have gone on.“There’s no excuse for that to go out. It’s not going to sit well with the other players is it?“I don’t know how you can handle it because there will be players who can’t forgive. There might be some who can move on despite not liking what happened.“You don’t need everyone to like each other at a club but this is a really, really tricky one. Some players won’t want to move on or make it work.”But Cascarino reckons there may be one final way Fernandez can get back in Chelsea’s good books.He added: “He’s going to have to apologise to the squad face-to-face as well and maybe then there will be a bit more forgiveness.” More

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      Man Utd player ratings: Amad Diallo gives Ten Hag selection headache with menacing performance as Mason Mount struggles

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      MANCHESTER UNITED got back to winning ways in pre-season with a 2-0 victory over Rangers.Erik ten Hag’s men suffered a shock defeat to Rosenborg after a flying visit to Norway this week.Erik ten Hag handed Leny Yoro his first Man Utd start in Saturday’s friendly against RangersCredit: GettyAmad Diallo scored a cracker as Man Utd won 2-0Credit: PAAnd the Red Devils travelled north over the border to play Scottish giants Rangers at Murrayfield in Edinburgh.Kick-off was delayed by 15 minutes after fans struggled to get through the turnstiles.But it was all worth it in the end for United fans as they saw their side secure victory.A screamer from Amad Diallo and a Joe Hugill striker was enough to secure victory.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the match also saw players pick up some much-needed minutes.Ten Hag went for a blend of youth and experience in the Scottish capital.There were plenty of familiar faces about, with some new kids on the block too.But who was United’s top dog as Ten Hag subbed off EVERY outfield player at half-time?Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd did anyone have a game to forget?Here, SunSport’s Anthony Chapman delivers his Man Utd player ratings…Rio Ferdinand sends Leny Yoro surprise message after Man Utd transferANDRE ONANA – 6Showed tidy feet to make sure United could play out quickly from the back.Did not face many Rangers chances and kept ice-cool when the Scots rarely got forward.AARON WAN-BISSAKA – 6Linked with a move to Galatasaray but appeared fully focused on the task at hand.Stayed strong in one-on-ones and also demonstrated technical side with quick passes to Diallo.LENY YORO – 7A composed first appearance for United’s new boy, who only finalised a £60m transfer from Lille on Thursday.Got a round of applause when his first tackle prevented a Gers goal and grew into the game as it went on.Leny Yoro enjoyed a good first outing for UnitedCredit: Willie VassJONNY EVANS – 6Old head brought composure to the defence but was left relying on Yoro to provide the crucial bursts of speed.Showed wily skills with some clever blocks to win free-kicks and alleviate pressure.SAM MURRAY – 6Had a quiet outing as he ceded control to his more experienced teammates.Attempts to get forward were admirable but was not in right areas at the right times.Toby Collyer was impressive in midfieldCredit: Willie VassTOBY COLLYER – 7Looked aggressive in the tackle and made sure to give Murray some extra support.Was not afraid to shout at teammates as he displayed decent leadership for a youngster.CASEMIRO – 7Stepped up as the midfielder commander as he looks to rebuild his reputation after a dud season.Tried making sharp forward passes and moved around with a lot more ease than previously.Casemiro also played well as he celebrated Diallo’s openerCredit: GettyAMAD DIALLO – 8Darting and jinxing runs gave his former loan club a headache down the right.Opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a fantastic strike and was a general menace throughout the game.MASON MOUNT – 5Played in an advanced role but looked confused with his positioning at times.Attempts to drop deep were often thwarted and Erik ten Hag will have to seriously consider where is best to deploy him.Mason Mount struggled to impress against the GersCredit: Willie VassJADON SANCHO – 7A little fast and loose at the start but managed to influence things through the middle after becoming more comfortable with his role.Embraced creative role and was often closer to Wheatley in the box than anyone else.ETHAN WHEATLEY – 6Happy to lead United’s high press after making the step up from United’s youth side.Showed off his link-up play with good movement and aerial power but wasted one clear effort in front of goal.HALF-TIME SUBSHabeeb Ogunneye – 6Demonstrated speed nicely with some timely bursts up the flank.Will Fish – 7Didn’t really put a foot wrong as Rangers turned up the heat and put good block in early on.Rhys Bennett – 6Refused to shy away from task at hand despite the Gers’ new-found high press.Harry Amass – 6Got caught several times by pacey Rangers attack but recovered well.Jack Fletcher – 7Son of United legend Darren Fletcher, now a first-team coach, did not disgrace his family name with a composed showing.Joe Hugill scored United’s second of the gameCredit: PAMaxi Oyedele – 6Kept ball ticking over well and allowed team to build from deep.Ethan Ennis – 6Nice and tidy as he helped United keep control in the final third.Hannibal Mejbri – 7Back from his Sevilla loan and looked hungry to put things right with some good passes.Sam Mather – 6Took up wide role on left but made sure to drop deep to help build up attacks.READ MORE SUN STORIESJoe Hugill – 8Tried to get in the right positions constantly and was eventually rewarded with a great strike in the 69th minute. More

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      Erik ten Hag ‘could be sacked within two weeks’ by Man Utd warns Teddy Sheringham who outlines how it could go wrong

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      ERIK TEN HAG could be sacked within two weeks, according to Teddy Sheringham.The Manchester United manager is currently preparing for his third season in charge at Old Trafford.Erik ten Hag could be sacked by Manchester United within two weeks according to Teddy SheringhamCredit: GettyFormer United striker Sheringham has warned Ten Hag’s job is far from secureCredit: AFPHowever, Ten Hag’s future was in doubt for much of the previous campaign, with the club only deciding to stick with him after the FA Cup final triumph in May.He later threatened to quit during showdown talks with the United hierarchy in Ibiza.Ten Hag has since had his contract extended, with the Red Devils triggering the option of a further year earlier this month.Although he is now contracted through to the summer of 2026, Sheringham has warned Ten Hag could still be dismissed – and it could happen very quickly.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe former United striker told OLBG: “Even though he has signed a new contract, there are no guarantees over Erik ten Hag’s job.”Anything can happen in football, he could be sacked within two weeks if they had three bad results.”Then again if he has three good results he could be as strong as ever, that’s football these days.”Sheringham spent four years at Old Trafford as a player, scoring 46 goals in 153 appearances.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe also won seven trophies during that time, including three Premier League titles and the Champions League.United are set to begin their campaign with the Community Shield against Manchester City on August 10.Man Utd chiefs fume at Erik ten Hag as manager left in hot water over bombshell Dutch TV interview Nine managers Man Utd considered before keeping Erik ten HagERIK TEN HAG appears to be safe as Man Utd manager, but the Dutchman edged dangerously close to the sack.Here are nine managers Red Devils chiefs are reported to have considered for the job and what allegedly happened with each.Gareth SouthgateEnjoys plenty of support among Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos chiefs but made clear he wouldn’t talk to any clubs until after Euro 2024. There is yet to be any suggestion that contact was made with the England boss.Kieran McKennaTalks were opened with McKenna’s representatives before the FA Cup final, but the former Man Utd coach opted to sign a new deal with Ipswich after Ten Hag’s Wembley win.Roberto De ZerbiAllegedly sounded out before the FA Cup final with salary expectations discussed. But Ineos chiefs concluded ex-Brighton boss was not the right fit for the project.Thomas FrankBrentford boss met Man Utd representatives the day before the FA Cup final. The Dane also dined with Ratcliffe, Roy Hodgson and Frank Lampard at the launch of a new Ineos car in February.Marco SilvaFulham boss reportedly met Man Utd representatives face-to-face two days before the FA Cup final, around the same time as Ten Hag was conducting his press conference.Mauricio PochettinoFell out of Man Utd’s thinking in the first week of June, despite being a favourite of Sir Alex Ferguson.Thomas TuchelMade a very strong impression and came across well during a Monaco meeting. Personal terms were discussed before the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss decided to step back from the process.Ruben AmorimSporting boss was discussed by the Man Utd hierarchy but did not make the final reckoning.Roberto MartinezPortugal manager was considered in the early stages.Ten Hag’s side then face Fulham at home on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.Matches against Liverpool and Tottenham both follow in the first six weeks of the season.He will be hoping for an improvement on last season’s eighth place finish, the club’s lowest since 1981.Meanwhile, United were also dumped out of the Champions League in the group stage. More

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      Man Utd star Scott McTominay’s girlfriend shows off toned figure in gym gear as Scotland star set for summer transfer

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      SCOTT MCTOMINAY’S girlfriend has stunned fans by showing off her figure in gym gear.Cam Reading flaunted her toned physique as she left a workout session in Wilmslow, Cheshire.Cam Reading showed off her toned figure after a gym session in CheshireCredit: mancpicss66/SplashThe model, who is Scott McTominay’s girlfriend, was all smiles following her workoutCredit: mancpicss66/SplashCam recently returned from a romantic trip to Turkey with McTominayCredit: mancpicss66/SplashShe wore £100,000 worth of jewellery as she left the gym sessionCredit: mancpicss66/SplashThe model was spotted wearing black shorts and a white top with matching white trainers.She smiled as she got into a £200,000 Range Rover outside the gym.Cam was also seen wearing jewellery in her casual outfit and clutching a black bag and a phone.Her workout came after the couple returned from a romantic trip to Turkey.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans were wowed by Cam’s social media updates during the holiday as she put on a busty display during a night out together.She often shares bikini snaps and behind the scenes looks from her modelling shoots with her 32,400 Instagram followers.Meanwhile, McTominay could be on the move away from Manchester United this summer.The midfielder has been strongly linked with several Premier League clubs after entering the final year of his contract.Most read in FootballCam was seen getting into McTominay’s Range Rover as she left the sessionCredit: mancpicss66/SplashShe wore a white top and black gym shorts for the workoutCredit: mancpicss66/SplashFulham have reportedly had a bid rejected, with United valuing McTominay at £40million.The Cottagers also face competition from Tottenham, who SunSport previously revealed are tracking the 27-year-old.Man Utd Wag Cam Reading struck by golf ball before it nestles in ‘awkward’ place as McTominay says ‘we have to get out’McTominay made 43 appearances for United last season, scoring 10 goals and adding three assists.He also played every minute of Scotland’s three matches at Euro 2024 and scored in their 1-1 draw with Switzerland.The couple regularly share updates on social mediaCredit: Instagram @scottmctominayThe pair aren’t afraid of PDACredit: https://www.instagram.com/stories/scottmctominay/3375970994307149527/Cam has thousands of followers on social mediaCredit: Instagram @camreading More

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      Fans stunned as they realise Premier League legend and World Cup winner is quarter Japanese as old family pic emerges

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      DAVID SILVA is one of the most gifted footballers the Premier League has ever seen.Defenders could never guess what he was going to do next, helping the maestro enshrine himself as a Manchester City legend.David Silva poses with his parents and siblingsSilva made 309 Premier League appearances for Man CityCredit: AFPAnd he is still throwing up surprises four years after leaving the Citizens.An old photo of Silva’s family has been doing the rounds on social media.The playmaker, 38, looks incredibly youthful in a dark shirt and white chinos.Brother Nando and sister Natalia are also in the shot along with their parents Fernando and Eva, who is half Japanese.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMany fans were stunned to find out Silva had Japanese roots.One posted: “That’s crazy.”Another added: “David Silva being half Japanese is the highlight of the day.”A third wrote: “Wait David Silva’s mum is Japanese, bro crazy.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSilva earned 125 caps for Spain after enjoying a trophy-laden 20-year career as a pro.The midfielder, who retired last year at the age of 37, was born in a small fishing village in Gran Canaria.Man City unveil statues of Vincent Kompany and David Silva at Etihad for key roles in club’s meteoric rise to the topGrandmother Antonia Montesdeoca revealed he learned to play football with whatever they could get their hands on.She told the Daily Mail: “They would play football out in the street with potatoes or oranges.”When I didn’t have the luxury of an orange or a potato I would say, ‘Right, come on, the two of you outside’ and roll up some newspaper into a ball for them so they would play with that. “David would have been four or five years old at the time.”He was always very noble as a child. I have 10 grandchildren who all grew up here. “When I told David to do something he behaved himself and did it so I didn’t need to smack him on the backside – unlike [Silva’s cousin and friend] Ransel who was more of a rebel.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Even now, away from the pitch, he is like a little bird. Very shy. “I see other football players who are not as good as David talking too much and I wish he spoke up for himself more.”Pep Guardiola set for final Man City seasonBy Martin BlackburnAFTER eight glorious years of stability, Manchester City now head into an uncertain 12 months.And Saturday’s FA Cup final defeat to neighbours United was a reminder that this glittering and unforgettable era will not go on for ever.Around this time in 2025, City will be preparing for the highly-lucrative Fifa Club World Cup in the US.Yet in all likelihood they will also be getting ready to say their goodbyes to manager Pep Guardiola, who has brought so much success to the east side of Manchester.Meanwhile, there could be a verdict on 115 charges of financial irregularity which have been levelled at the club by Premier League chiefs.The suggestion is the hearing could start later this year but is likely to take several months to reach a conclusion.City continue to deny any wrongdoing and are confident they will be cleared by the independent commission.Read Martin Blackburn’s full column here. More

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      Arsenal fans left speechless after spotting Ben White in the weight room in pre-season conditioning session

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      BEN WHITE looks like he has been busy this summer.The Arsenal defender did not travel to Germany for England’s Euro 2024 challenge.Ben White is getting in shape for the new seasonCredit: GettyFans were impressed with the weight he was liftingCredit: GettyWhite was also snapped hitting the punching bagCredit: GettyThe right-back hit the rowing machine hard tooCredit: GettyAnd judging by what he was lifting in the gym, he spent most of his summer break pumping iron.Fans were stunned to see White, 26, chest-pressing two 40kg dumbbells as the Gunners did some pre-season gym work.One commented on Arsenal’s Instagram post: “Throwing 80kg up, my guy.”Another added: “Ben White pressing 40kgs, my kinda guy.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA third wrote: “Benny with the 40s.”For comparison, Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus had a pair of 22.5kg weights.Martin Odegaard was also looking ripped before joining Thomas Partey and Ethan Nwaneri on the exercise bikes.White would almost certainly have made England’s squad on merit.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal fans were less impressed by Gabriel Jesus’ strength as he lifted 22.5kg weightsCredit: GettyFabio Vieira pumps some ironCredit: GettyThomas Partey, Martin Odegaard and Ethan Nwaneri hit the bikesCredit: GettyOdegaard is looking in fine shapeCredit: GettyJesus holds the bag for Karl HeinCredit: GettyBut he has not played for the Three Lions since leaving the Qatar World Cup for “personal reasons”.Speaking after picking his squad, Gareth Southgate said: “Clearly on form, I can’t sit here and say he doesn’t deserve to be here.Three Lions’ aces dance away Euros disappointment at wild Ibiza knees-upSunSport’s verdict on Arsenal starsMikel Arteta is looking to get Arsenal ready to beat Man City to the title after another near miss, but he may need to be brutal with his squad in order to do so. Here’s SunSport’s verdict on who should stay and who should go.David Raya – STAY: Initial doubts arose when he replaced Aaron Ramsdale, but he has since proven himself to be a world-class keeper with all the attributes needed for Arteta’s way of playing.Aaron Ramsdale – GO: Unfortunate to be cast aside for Raya, but is now looking for a move to become a regular No.1 elsewhere, especially with his aspirations of one day starting in goal for England.Karl Hein – STAY: Unlikely to take Ramsdale’s spot as No.2 should the Englishman depart – but the club cannot afford to lose two keepers in one window.William Saliba – STAY: Saliba is of the best young defenders in the world right now, Arteta should be building his team around him. A vital part of the side’s spine that conceded just 29 Prem goals this term.Ben White – STAY: Another solid member of Arteta’s impressive back four. Has the flexibility to play on the right or as a central defender, but has made right-back his own this term.Gabriel – STAY: Was on the outskirts at the start of the campaign but forced his way back in and has forged an almighty partnership with Saliba in the middle of the defence. One of Arteta’s most important signings.Jurrien Timber – STAY: Yet to see the best of the Dutchman after an injury-hit season, but Arteta views him as a game-changing full-back.Jakub Kiwior – STAY: The Polish international has struggled to break up the duo of Saliba and Gabriel but has impressed when called upon, especially in a stint at left-back.Cedric – GO: Leaving the club with his contract expiring. Never really convinced Arteta he could be relied upon and spent most of the season warming the bench.Takehiro Tomiyasu – STAY: Another flexible and reliable figure that Arteta adores. Can play centre-back or right-back and is a real presence at set-pieces.Oleksandr Zinchenko – GO: With Timber in line to be Arteta’s first choice at left-back, it is hard to see the Ukrainian starting many games for Arsenal next season. A good signing at £35m but has shown himself to be limited defensively.Thomas Partey – GO: Injury prone and has looked leggy when finally back from his thigh issues that kept him out from October until March. Contract is up next summer.Martin Odegaard – STAY: Captain fantastic. A real leader amongst men at such a young age. The 25-year-old is on course to lift the Prem at Arsenal sooner rather than later.Emile Smith Rowe – STAY: Sidelined for most of the term and struggled to make an impact when called upon, but Arteta still sees something in him. A decent squad option but you get the feeling he is running out of time to prove to the club he is a player worth sticking with.Jorginho – STAY: Arteta’s experienced general who, more often than not, has Arsenal playing better with him in the team.Fabio Vieira – GO: Perhaps harsh to judge him based on just 16 appearances in all competitions this season but still looks out of place in English football. A loan move could help.Mohamed Elneny – GO: Another player departing with his contract expiring. The right call by both parties. A good servant from the Arsene Wenger days.Kai Havertz – STAY: Seems a bargain now at £65m from Chelsea following his barnstorming end to the season. Arteta bought him as a midfielder, yet now leads the line as a first-choice No.9.Declan Rice – STAY: Arsenal’s most important and influential signing in years. Enough said.Bukayo Saka – STAY: An undroppable superstar for club and country right now. Will undoubtedly get even better in seasons to come.Gabriel Jesus – STAY: Fighting for a starting spot but right now but would be foolish to let him go given how much he can impact games and his winning mentality inside the group.Gabriel Martinelli – STAY: A dip in form this term but Arteta has huge faith in him. The added competition with Leandro Trossard will only make him better.Eddie Nketiah – GO: Career is at a crossroads right now and he needs to leave to turn that around. His six-figure wages could put Premier League suitors off.Leandro Trossard – STAY: Can bring his qualities as a starter or from the bench – a brilliant option to have when you are going for a title.Reiss Nelson – GO: Arteta has often spoken of Nelson’s potential and likes having him around the squad, but his impact has withered over the past 12 months.“[FA technical director] John McDermott had a call from [Arsenal sporting director] Edu last night saying Ben didn’t want to be considered for England squads.“It’s a great shame, he’s a player I really like, a player we took to the Euros, a player I took to the World Cup.“I spoke to him post-Qatar because I was keen to pick him, there was clearly reticence on his side. I don’t know fully why that is, but I have to respect that.“I want to leave the door open to him, he’s a good player, a player who can make a difference for England, but he’s not available to us.”Arsenal have a tricky start to the season More