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      Former Premier League title winner and England star, 57, handed new job as manager of non-league side

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      FORMER England star Tim Flowers has been announced as the new manager of Redditch United.Flowers, 57, has coached numerous non-league clubs since hanging up his gloves.Tim Flowers has taken over at Redditch UnitedCredit: X @RedditchUtdThe former goalkeeper was most recently in charge of Bromsgrove Sporting, who play in the Southern League Premier Division Central in England’s seventh tier.Having taken over in February, Flowers was relieved of his duties by Bromsgrove last month.After agreeing a deal to take over at Redditch, in the same league as Bromsgrove, Flowers said: “I’m delighted to be here, I really am.”I’m proud to be here and I’m looking forward to a challenge, it’s a tough league where anyone can beat anyone.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”The football club has come off the back of a tremendous season last year with some fantastic footballers, and people will be expecting the same so we’ve got to shape and mould a squad so we’re ready for next season.”I’m looking forward to meeting the fans, I came to the Needham game (the last game of the season), and there was a fantastic atmosphere, all sides of the ground were in good voice and the place was rocking.”Hopefully, the fans will turn up like that again to watch us early doors to help us get the results and try to match what we did last year.”The plan is to have a right good go.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFlowers will be joined by Redditch’s existing coaching staff, consisting of Ryan Conneely and Dan Price.Chairman David Faulkner added: “There are a number of essential criteria that we were looking for in our next appointment.Marcus Rashford and Henderson OUT of Gareth Southgate’s England Squad for Euro 2024″Most notably was to have a manager who could provide for us what our supporters have constantly asked for – stability.”Tim’s experiences as a player at an elite level, and his success as a manager of the top tier of non-league, will provide a long-term plan for us to continue to build on the performances of the team, alongside the growth of the club.”Tim had a very successful time at Solihull Moors, narrowly missing out on taking them into the Football League.”In his most recent years, he has spent time at teams in our League which now provides our club with access to a local network of players which is integral at our level of football.”At interview, we were very impressed with his knowledge of our squad and the players and teams around us.”One of the things that came across very strongly when we met was his desire and passion for being at Redditch United.”Tim shares our belief that stability is key in non-league and he has been very keen to be part of our progress moving forward.”The goalkeeper poses with England and Blackburn team-mate Alan ShearerCredit: PA:Press AssociationFlowers won the Premier League with BlackburnCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdDuring his distinguished playing career, Flowers won the Premier League with Blackburn in 1995.He also earned 11 England caps, and would likely have received more had it not been for David Seaman.Flowers finished his playing career with Leicester in 2003.The former stopper subsequently worked in a variety of coaching roles with the likes of Manchester City, Coventry, QPR and the Foxes.He landed his first managerial gig in 2010, taking charge of Stafford Rangers.READ MORE SUN STORIESFlowers has subsequently managed Solihull Moors, Macclesfield Town, Barnet, Stratford Town, Gloucester City and Bromsgrove Sporting.He enjoyed his most successful stint with Solihull, coming second in the National League behind Leyton Orient. More

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      Which footballers are playing at Soccer Aid 2024?

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      SOCCER AID will bring some of football’s greatest legends back to the pitch one more time for a good cause.The massive charity match takes place on Sunday, June 9 at Stamford Bridge and will be raising money for Unicef.Chelsea legend Frank Lampard returns to Stamford Bridge for Soccer Aid but will not be playingChelsea hero Eden Hazard will be leading the charge for World XISome of England’s greatest ever players will roll back the years against some of the world’s all-time best.And together they will play to help underprivileged children from around the world escape conflict, malnutrition and disease.Adult fans can buy a ticket for only £20 while children can gain entry at Chelsea’s famous ground for just £10.But who’s playing for England and World XI? Check out the full list below:Read More on FootballEnglandFrank Lampard (Co-Manager)Chelsea legend Frank Lampard returns to the Stamford Bridge dugout after his second stint as the Blues’ interim boss came to an end last year in May.The West Londoners’ record goalscorer will be in charge of England after cutting his teeth as manager of his beloved club as well as Derby County and Everton. Harry Redknapp (Co-Manager)Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHarry Redknapp will be joining Frank Lampard after a stunning 34-year managerial career.Redknapp knows everything there is about coaching having served for the likes of West Ham, Tottenham, Southampton and Portsmouth.Jill Scott (Captain)England legend Jill Scott will be donning the armband after a successful career at Everton, Manchester City, Sunderland and Aston Villa.Scott is now building a TV career as a pundit appearing on Sky Sports’ show Stick to Football with fellow greats Gary Neville, Jamie Carragher, Ian Wright and Roy Keane.Jill Scott will be England’s captain at Soccer AidDavid Seaman (Goalkeeping Coach) Arsenal legend David Seaman is one of the greatest keepers of all time.That is why it’s quite fitting Seaman, who won three league titles and four FA Cup trophies with the Gunners, will be brought in as a goalkeeping coach.David James David James will be England’s No1 after a stunning career playing for Liverpool, Manchester City, West Ham and Aston Villa.James also picked up a total of 53 caps with the Three Lions before switching over to career as a pundit.Jermain DefoeJermain Defoe is one of the greatest strikers in Premier League history.Defoe played for the likes of Tottenham, West Ham as well as Sunderland and is the ninth all-time top scorer in the history of the Prem with 162 goals.Jack WilshereArsenal legend Jack Wilshere returns to the pitch for the first time since his early retirement at the age of 30 two years ago.Wilshere is now in charge of Arsenal’s prestigious Under-18 side as he bids to become a manager.Karen CarneyKaren Carney is well known for her work at Sky Sports, ITV, Amazon Prime, BBC and The Guardian.But Carney also became famous thanks to her football career that saw her play for Birmingham, Arsenal and Chelsea.Gary CahillGary Cahill returns to Stamford Bridge after a glittering seven-year spell at Chelsea.Cahill amassed 25 goals and six assists in 290 appearances that also saw him winning two Premier League titles, two FA Cup trophies and the 2012 Champions League.Ellen WhiteEllen White rose to prominence thanks to some fantastic spells at Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City.White also registered a stunning 113 caps for England and won Euro 2022.Theo WalcottArsenal legend Theo Walcott used to visit Stamford Bridge with destruction in mind against London rivals Chelsea.However, this time around Walcott will be looking to bring everyone together while entertaining the crowd with his talent that made him a Gunners hero.Joe ColeJoe Cole also returns to his former Chelsea home that saw him amassing 39 goals and 46 assists in 282 appearances.Cole also went on to play for Liverpool and West Ham before switching to a pundit role at TNT Sports.World XIMauricio Pochettino (Manager)Mauricio Pochettino will be back in at Stamford Bridge just two weeks after he surprisingly left his post as Chelsea manager.The Argentine will be putting all of that drama aside as he looks to raise money for a good cause.I played with Lampard and Mata at Chelsea but flop who made just six appearances was most talented, says Eden HazardJesus Perez (Coach)Jesus Perez also left Chelsea in May as Mauricio Pochettino’s top assistant but the two will continue their work together at Soccer Aid.Perez and Pochettino go back a long way as they also worked together at Southampton, Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain.Eden HazardWhen thinking about some of the greatest Stamford Bridge legends, Eden Hazard is one of the first names that come to mind.Hazard is Chelsea’s sixth all-time goalscorer with 110 goals and won six major trophies with the Blues – two Premier League titles, two Europa Leagues, the FA Cup and League Cup.Kaylyn KyleKyle, 35, is one of the most experienced players in either squad and was a star in last year’s game.She earned 101 caps for Canada and has since become a pundit on Canadian TV.Roberto CarlosBrazil legend Roberto Carlos is considered by many as the best left-back of all time thanks to his freakishly powerful left foot.Carlos built his legacy with Real Madrid where he won every title available, including three Champions League honours, and Brazil where he lifted the 2002 World Cup.Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos will also be returning for one more matchJohn Obi MikelThe Nigerian ex-Blues star played a game for Chelsea legends in September and looked good enough to still be playing.He joked that he spent all day ‘drinking beer’ but has since launched a successful podcast that has featured the likes of John Terry and Jose Mourinho.Petr CechOne of the greatest goalkeepers in the Premier League era, Cech hung up his gloves in 2019 before going on to work as a technical and performance advisor for the Blues.He left that role in July 2022 after Toddy Boehly and Clearlake Capital came to the club.Michael EssienAnother legend of the Chelsea midfielder, Essien played 256 games for the Blues and won eight trophies – including the Champions League.He has been a coach of Danish club Nordsjaelland since 2020.Patrice EvraREAD MORE SUN STORIESThe Manchester United legend has continued to be a presence in UK football and frequently appears in various media forms.He is also a regular player in Soccer Aid and has been one of the stars for the World XI during their recent winning streak. More

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      Inside Jack Grealish’s ‘write-off’ season after terrifying break-in as England star holds showdown talks with Guardiola

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      JACK GREALISH accepted the 2023-24 season was a “write off”.The Manchester City star, 28, won a third Premier League title in three seasons at the Etihad since his £100million transfer from Aston Villa.Jack Grealish confessed the 2023-24 season was a ‘write off’Credit: GettyGrealish was rocked by the break-in at his home when Sasha Attwood was inside with his familyCredit: InstagramBut throughout the campaign, he faced plenty of struggles both professionally and personally and a source told The Athletic he had wiped the campaign away to start afresh next term.Off the pitch, Grealish was understandably rocked by the shocking ordeal his family went through in late December.The footballer was playing against Everton when a gang of burglars stormed into his home when his family were inside, hearing the intruders upstairs. Fiancee Sasha Attwood, his parents, gran, two sisters and brother took cover as the thieves stole £1million worth of jewellery and watches.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey pressed the panic button and Grealish said: “I can’t begin to explain how devastated I am over the burglary.”This has been a traumatic experience for all of us, I am just so grateful that nobody was hurt.”Grealish had only recently moved into the £5.6m mansion at the time of the incident and was deeply distracted by the impact it had. On the pitch, Grealish simply did not play as much as he wanted.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPart of that was due to injuries.Grealish suffered a nasty leg injury in September that limited his ability to play many minutes.Inside Man City’s wild title celebrations as Jack Grealish gets back on the beer and loses fight with confetti cannonHe said: “Our doctor said it’s the worst dead leg he’s ever seen, by a mile”If you get a dead leg and you have the haematoma (a bruise due to bleeding outside the blood vessels), a bad one, it’s around six centimetres. Mine was like 20 centimetres.”Then to make matters worse, later on in the season, he rushed back too quickly to try and force himself back into contention – only to limp off early with recurring problems. However, it was not just physical issues holding Grealish back – but psychological ones too.To say Grealish revelled in the Treble celebrations would be an understatement and The Athletic suggest his motivation dropped off when he came back after the summer to his the same levels again. That came to a head at the beginning of May as City battled Arsenal down to the wire of the Premier League season.Pep Guardiola gave the players a few days off after thrashing Wolves 5-1 before facing Fulham a week later.But he was unhappy with Grealish’s efforts in training upon his return and did not give the ex-Villa skipper another minute of action before the end of the season. Jack Grealish’s Euro 2024 place in jeopardyBy Martin Blackburn and Charlie Wyett
      JACK GREALISH is sweating on a Euro 2024 place after a nightmare end to the season.
      The £100million star celebrated Manchester City’s four-in-a-row title success on a bus parade yesterday.
      But now he is battling with Tottenham’s James Maddison to secure a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
      Cole Palmer, Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Gordon all look certain to go after excellent seasons with their clubs — while Bukayo Saka is guaranteed a spot.
      But Grealish, 28, has struggled  and his lack of match action for his club will be a big concern for the Three Lions boss.
      The former Aston Villa captain has featured in only one of City’s final five matches.
      That was a ten-minute run out in the 5-1 win over Wolves  this month.
      He was not thrown on at Wembley as the below-par champs desperately searched for a way back in to Saturday’s 2-1 FA Cup Final defeat to rivals Manchester United.
      City boss Pep Guardiola explained his decision afterwards by admitting the attacker has “struggled” this season.
      He has challenged him to recapture the form from the back end of the 2022-23 season when he helped the club secure an historic Treble.
      Guardiola said: “He will be back. He’s struggled this season — Jeremy Doku has made an incredible step forward as everyone has seen in the last games.
      “But Jack will be back at the level of last season — I’m pretty sure.”
      READ THE FULL STORY HERE

      It means he ended the season with just three goals in 36 appearances – all coming in a hot streak in December – and a total of ten Premier League starts. That has, naturally, led to speculation of a transfer exit away from Manchester this summer.SunSport revealed Bayern Munich are weighing up a shock approach for the winger in the hope of luring him to Germany – although Guardiola is keen to keep hold of him. They sat down for showdown talks ahead of the FA Cup final – in which Grealish was an unused sub – with the manager challenging and pushing him to rediscover his best form once again next season. But speaking of Germany, Grealish’s poor form could see him left off the plane to the Euros. He was named in Gareth Southgate’s initial 33-man training squad.But with the likes of Phil Foden, James Maddison, Cole Palmer, Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Gordon all battling it out for the left-winger spot – Bukayo Saka is almost guaranteed to start on the right – Grealish faces an uphill battle to make the final England squad, let alone the starting XI. He admitted in April: “It’s been a difficult season for me personally, after the highs of last year.’JACK WILL BE BACK’“I spoke to the manager a lot and he’s been so good with me. I owe him a little bit and want to repay him now with my performances and the team as well.”Grealish then added after winning the Premier League: “I don’t feel like I’ve performed well this season at all. “Pep’s an unbelievable guy. “I’ve had times where I’ve struggled off the pitch, you know, I’ll openly say that and he’s been there for me so much, I can only thank him. “He’s a brilliant manager on the pitch but when I’ve been in his office he’s helped me.”Guardiola, meanwhile, is confident he can get the best out Grealish once again.He said: “Jack will be back. READ MORE SUN STORIES”He’s struggled this season and Jeremy Doku has made an incredible step forward as everyone has seen in the last games. “But Jack will be back at the level of last season, I’m pretty sure.”Grealish sat down with Pep Guardiola for showdown talks before the FA Cup finalCredit: ReutersGrealish is at risk of being left out of Gareth Southgate’s England Euro 2024 squadCredit: ReutersHe enjoyed himself in the title celebrationsCredit: SplashGrealish started ten games in the Premier League-winning campaignCredit: Getty More

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      Kyle Walker launches new career at 34 as Man City and England legend prepares for life after football

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      KYLE WALKER has launched a podcast with Love Island star Chris Hughes to mark a new step in his career.The BBC show is called You’ll Never Beat Kyle Walker and will be available every Wednesday. Kyle Walker has launched a podcastCredit: Instagram / @5livesportWalker will co-host with Love Island star Chris HughesCredit: Instagram / @5livesportSunderland supporter Hughes said: “Each week Kyle and I are going to kick back and talk football. “We’ll tell stories of the beautiful game, dig through Kyle’s footballing journey and find out what it takes to win.” Walker, 34, becomes the latest football star to launch a podcast. Ex-England international Peter Crouch has an award-winning show which he co-hosts with radio presenter Chris Stark and Steve Sidwell. READ MORE IN football Troy Deeney and Jermain Defoe also share a BBC podcast revealing all about life as a Premier League player. Walker – who has just welcomed his newborn son Rezon into the world – launched the pod ahead of England’s Euro 2024 campaign.The full-back has been a regular in Gareth Southgate’s squad in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups as well as the delayed Euros in 2021. But he will not be joined by long-time international team-mate Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson, who were omitted by Southgate. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWalker reveals all Kyle Walker opened up on his time spent at Spurs and City in episode one with some hilarious tales.
      Walker named Gareth Bale, Luka Modric, David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne among the best he played with.
      Neymar and Eden Hazard also stood out as the greatest he came up against.
      The defender tipped Chelsea’s Reece James as the best right-back in the world when probed.
      And Walker also revealed how former Spurs team-mate Son Heung-min was so popular in South Korea they had to trick fans during a pre-season tour.
      He said: “We would do an appearance, me, Sonny, Ben Davies, Kevin Wimmer and we’d have to send a dummy vehicle pretending that Sonny has gone.
      “All these people would start running, they’d corner the vehicle, see Sons not in there and we’d be away.
      “Then they’d come back to the hotel we were staying in and all night they’d be there. Never seen anything like it.”

      Walker told Sky Sports: “If the gaffer thinks it’s the right squad to pick, I believe and I fully trust in what he does.”He’s been fantastic since the minute he has walked through the door.Joe Cole and Rio Ferdinand pick their England starting 11 for opening game of Euros“Obviously when you have shared such great moments with the likes of Marcus and Hendo and been on a journey together you do feel a little bit sad they are not going to be there.“But the manager thinks that’s the best thing for the country and I am fully behind him and fully back him in that.”Kyle Walker, Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson at the 2022 World CupCredit: Getty More

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      Fourth Man Utd star added to ‘untouchables’ list… but Bruno Fernandes still available for transfer with rest of squad

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will not entertain bids for Andre Onana this summer, according to reports.It sees the goalkeeper join a select group of “untouchables” who the club will not consider selling.Andre Onana will not be made available for transfer this summerCredit: AlamyOnana, 28, will not be made available for transfer this summerCredit: GettyThe Cameroonian, 28, arrived at Old Trafford in a £47.1million deal from Inter Milan last year.Onana endured a difficult start to life in the Premier League, making a number of high-profile errors during the first half of the season.According to the Manchester Evening News, however, United are set to stick with their No1 – whether boss Erik ten Hag stays or not.The Red Devils’ Ineos chiefs want to reshape their squad this summer.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSDue to PSR rules to do so, they will have to raise money through player sales.United were previously claimed to have made all but three players potentially available, for the right price – with Onana now a fourth.The Red Devils will not consider bids for homegrown duo Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.Mainoo and Garnacho both had stellar seasons, culminating in both netting during the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRasmus Hojlund, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo are all untouchableCredit: EPARasmus Hojlund is also considered to be untouchable.The Dane, 21, struggled at times following his £72million switch from Atalanta last summer.Man Utd boss Ten Hag fires defiant response over future after FA Cup win amid rumours Sir Jim Ratcliffe will SACK himBut he has shown enough promise – including finishing the season as the club’s top scorer – to convince club bosses to make him unattainable to potential suitors.Aside from Mainoo, Garnacho, Hojlund and Onana, it’s claimed that all other first-team stars will be up for grabs at the right price.This could potentially include captain Bruno Fernandes, despite the Portuguese star claiming that he is happy at Old Trafford.The 29-year-old wrote in a column for The Players’ Tribune last week: “I love to step out at Old Trafford more than anything in the world. I don’t want to leave. This has always been my ultimate dream.”I just want my expectations to fit with the expectations of the club. If you go talk to any fan, they will tell you the same thing. We want to compete for the league.”We want to be playing Champions League football. We want to be in cup finals. That is the standard. That is what I want. That is what you all deserve.”I just want to keep fighting. I want to be here. My family wants to be here.”Also potentially available is Marcus Rashford.While selling the homegrown forward is not thought to be a priority, United could look to cash in if they receive a sizeable enough offer – and if Rashford himself decides that he’d like to move.READ MORE SUN STORIESAntony, Mason Greenwood, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Christian Eriksen, Casemiro and Donny van de Beek may all depart.While French duo Anthony Martial and Raphael Varane will leave upon the end of their respective contracts next month. More

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      Jurgen Klopp ‘banned’ from talking about five topics as he takes swipe at Man Utd, City and Chelsea in Liverpool goodbye

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      JURGEN KLOPP joked that he was banned from discussing five topics as he made a farewell appearance in Liverpool on Tuesday.The German coach waved goodbye to Anfield after the 2-0 win over Wolves on the final day of the Premier League season.Jurgen Klopp made a final farewell with a Q&A at the M&S Bank Arena in LiverpoolCredit: PAThe departing German joined Peter McDowall and John Bishop on stageCredit: PAKlopp joked that there were four topics that he was banned from discussingCredit: PAThe 56-year-old then took a final few shots at the Reds’ Premier League rivalsCredit: PAThe 56-year-old achieved legendary status in his nine years at the club.Klopp ended Liverpool’s three-decade wait for a title, lifted the Champions League, the Club World Cup, Uefa Super Cup, FA Cup and two League Cups.Dutchman Arne Slot has been announced as his replacement but last night there was time for one final farewell appearance for the departing boss.He attended a Q&A at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool that had famous faces such as Will Arnett and Daniel Craig send tributes to the icon before he and his family head for Majorca.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLKlopp discussed a wide-range of topics while he was also serenaded numerous times by the jam-packed crowd in attendance.He revealed that marrying his wife Ulla was the only decision that was better than his one to join Liverpool.And he also admitted that he had held talks with his replacement Slot after handing over the reins.But Klopp also said that he had been given an unofficial list of banned topics to avoid talking about.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe said: “TNT – no 12:30 discussion; referees; we don’t talk about Man City – don’t know why; we don’t talk about financial things – don’t know why; VAR.’”Manchester City are currently being investigated over 115 alleged charges of breaching Premier League financial rules – something the current champions have repeatedly denied.Trent Alexander Arnold, Virgil Van Dijk and Jurgen Klopps wife tearful as Klopp leaves LiverpoolComedian John Bishop was the compere, and he asked Klopp what would happen should the investigation strip the Cityzens of their past crowns and lead to the Reds receiving two more titles.Klopp said: “If you organise a bus parade I’m in. How long it takes, I don’t care how long.”He could also not resist poking fun at some of Liverpool’s rivals, firstly referencing Mauricio Pochettino’s shock departure from Chelsea last week.He said: “We should be really happy we have them (Fenway Sports Group) and not guys who bought London clubs. I wouldn’t have survived a year at Liverpool (with them).“Finally they (Chelsea) play football which everyone thinks ‘Oh, they might be back’ and then they sack the manager anyway.Slot snubbed Spurs, hates defending and has a PASS named after himBy Dan King
      LIVERPOOL’S new manager Arne Slot was a good enough player to have a type of pass named after him.
      But it is as a manager that the Feyenoord head coach is really making his mark.
      Like another bald Dutchman, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, Slot earned his stripes bossing smaller sides before being given a chance at one of the Netherlands’ big three.
      But the question Liverpool are pondering is whether Slot would make a better fist of running one of the biggest clubs in the world than Ten Hag so far has at Old Trafford.
      Slot, 45, was certainly easier on the eye as a player than centre back Ten Hag.
      “The Arne Slot Ball” was something he perfected as a silky No 10 – a back-to-goal, first-time, 180-degree spin and flick behind the defensive line for a winger to run on to deep in the opposition half.
      Click here to read all about the incoming Liverpool boss.

      “The owners feel responsible for the club. Are they the best in the world? I don’t know, I can’t say. But they worked really hard. I felt supported.”Then it was Manchester United who received some stick as Klopp took aim at their handling of the Jadon Sancho situation.The England winger publicly fell-out with boss Erik ten Hag and has been shipped out to Dortmund on loan.READ MORE SUN STORIESKlopp said: “If the whole world loses trust and faith in the player, the manager has to be the one behind the player.“I cannot just buy into that ‘he’s useless’, like other clubs did by the way – buying a player for £80million and then sending him out on loan!”Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      NOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.
      But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?
      In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.
      Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.
      But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.
      These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.
      Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.
      But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.
      Klopp got it wrong.
      Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.
      Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      Mikel Arteta’s wife Lorena steals the show at Globe Soccer Awards as Arsenal boss wins ‘Best Premier League Coach’

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      MIKEL ARTETA’S wife Lorena stole the show at the Globe Soccer Awards as the Arsenal boss won “Best Premier League Coach”.The event in Sardinia saw the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and Xabi Alonso celebrated. Mikel Arteta won the Globe Soccer Awards’ ‘Best Premier League Coach’His wife Lorena stole the show in the crowdCredit: X formerly Twitter /@Globe_SoccerArteta with his wife Lorena in MayCredit: GettyAlonso won Best Coach of the Year for leading Bayer Leverkusen to an undefeated domestic double in Germany. But Arteta was crowned best Premier League boss despite Pep Guardiola’s City pipping Arsenal to the title. The Spaniard was joined in Italy by wife Lorena, who beamed in a blue dress as her husband collected his award.Arteta met his wife – who won Miss Spain at the age of 17 – in 2002 before dating a few months later. READ MORE ON ARSENALLorena – who did not know Arteta was a footballer when they got together – has forged an acting and presenting career. She got married to Arteta in 2010 and share three sons Daniel, Gabriel and Oliver.Arteta this season guided the Gunners to a second consecutive second-placed Prem finish.And after old mentor Guardiola again got his hands on the title, the Emirates boss issued a rallying call to his club. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMikel Arteta’s striker shopping listBy Jordan Davies
      ARSENAL are stepping up plans to sign a world-class striker in the summer after their Champions League heartbreak.
      Mikel Arteta splashed out £204.5m last summer on Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.
      But the Spanish manager accepts he needs a proven goalscorer to take the club to the next level.
      And here are the players he is looking at to get the Gunners firing:
      BENJAMIN SESKO (RB Leipzig, value £40m-£45m)
      One for the future at 20 years old. Scored 16 goals for RB Salzburg in the Austrian Bundesliga last season and the Slovenian has carried on that good form in Germany with Leipzig this campaign.
      VIKTOR GYOKERES (Sporting Lisbon, value £60m-£80m)
      Been scouted several times this season. The Swedish striker, 25, is more of a traditional No 9 so may not suit Arsenal’s demand for flexibility but would bring a physicality that boss Mikel Arteta craves.
      ALEXANDER ISAK (Newcastle, value £75m-£85m)
      Impressed in his first two seasons in English football. The Swede, 24, has the pace and finesse to match his finishing ability, and Eddie Howe’s Toon may need to sell to balance the books this summer.
      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE (Bologna, value £45m-£50m)
      Dutch wonder  is attracting the attentions of clubs across Europe. At 6ft 4in the 22-year-old forward would have no trouble adapting to the Premier League and already has an eye for goal.
      XAVI SIMONS (RB Leipzig, value £70m-£80m)
      An incredible talent in the Bukayo Saka mould, currently on loan from Paris Saint-Germain. The future of the Dutch attacker, 20, depends on how much money his parent club want to make from him.

      Asked abut what is next for Arsenal, Arteta responded: “Win. Win, win and win. That’s what we want.”We’ve been through a few years right now, we have a team that is full of enthusiasm and so hungry to win trophies.”We know the competition, but we believe we can do it. So we are going to give it a real go.”Guardiola’s City did win the award for Best Men’s Club of the Year with Barcelona winning the women’s version.Mbappe walked away with Best European Player as he prepares to leave PSG as a free agent this summer. ‘I’m in charge round here’ – F1 reporter Martin Brundle brushes off security to get to Mbappe for live TV interview More

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      Man Utd LIVE: Sir Jim Ratcliffe Erik Ten Hag U-TURN as Ineos review continues, Pochettino admired – latest updates

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      SIR JIM RATCLIFFE could be forced to make a dramatic U-turn on sacking Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag. Supporters of the club have made it clear they want the Dutchman – who is subject to an ongoing review – to stay after he led the side to a second trophy in two years, beating Man City to the FA Cup on Saturday.Meanwhile, United have reportedly held talks with Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Frank – although it is unclear if this took place before or after the cup victory at Wembley.And Anthony Martial has confirmed that he will be leaving United once his contract expires.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow all the latest news, moves and completed deals belowHojlund on Prem debut
      Rasmus Hojlund has spoken about his debut season in the Premier League.
      The Manchester United star came under a lot of scrutiny in the first half of the campaign, but managed to finish the season with 10 goals and two assists in the league.
      Speaking to Danish outlet Tipsbladet, he said: “It took me some time to get started in the Premier League, but I think I have come on really well since then. I feel I have found my rhythm.
      “It was frustrating leading up to my first goal in the Premier League because I felt there was a lot of focus on it and more energy could have been spent on the fact that I was top scorer in the Champions League [at the time].
      “But, of course, I agree it is not very impressive to go 14 Premier League games without scoring your first goal, but I felt I had some bad luck in the league games. Fortunately, it got better.
      “When I scored against Aston Villa, I felt like the curse had been lifted a bit. It was a good day because I scored my first goal and we beat a really good team.”
      Copy linkCopiedSutton slams Antony
      Chris Sutton has taken aim at Manchester United flop Antony, labelling the £86m winger as a “show pony”.
      Antony managed just one goal and one assist in the Premier League this season.
      For the outlay on him, in terms of goals and assists they just simply haven’t been there.
      He is a show pony.
      That’s what he is and I think he’s let Erik ten Hag down.Chris SuttonMail Sport’s It’s All Kicking Off! podcast
      Copy linkCopiedPalace ‘resigned’ to Guehi sale
      Crystal Palace are reportedly “resigned” to selling Marc Guehi this summer.
      The England centre-back has long been on the transfer list for a number of top clubs and could finally get his move in the coming months.
      The Mirror have reported that Palace are ready to let the defender leave with clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal linked.
      It’s also claimed that the Eagles value their star at “around £50m”.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedAtletico eye Greenwood swap
      Atletico Madrid are reportedly considering a shock swap deal to sign Mason Greenwood from Manchester United.
      According to the Daily Star, Atletico are willing to swap Joao Felix for Greenwood.
      Felix has spent the season on loan at Barcelona.
      Atletico have struggled to get the best out of the attacking midfielder since splashing over £110m on him in 2019.
      Greenwood has be on loan with Getafe this season, where he won the club’s Player of the Season award this week.
      Copy linkCopiedNeville on Ten Hag future
      Gary Neville has backed Erik ten Hag to stay on as Manchester United manager after winning the FA Cup.
      Despite much speculation around the Dutch gaffer’s future, Neville thinks he has bought himself some more time after securing glory under the Wembley arch.
      I think he’s earned the right to go on. It’s not exactly a ringing endorsement but the first consideration when removing a manager is you have the right and better replacement.
      Simply there is no outstanding candidate to replace him that would make an immediate and massive upgrade.
      If you have the opportunity to appoint someone like Jurgen Klopp, as Liverpool did in 2015, or Pep Guardiola, as City did in 2016, then it makes sense to change.
      But there’s no-one out there who will suddenly take this United squad on to another level.
      They might do somewhat better but even with Guardiola in charge, this United team wouldn’t win the Premier League.Gary NevilleThe Overlap
      Copy linkCopiedAdarabioyo battle
      Manchester United continue to face competition for the signing of free agent Tosin Adarabioyo.
      The defender, who is out of contract after a spell with Fulham, has been linked with both Newcastle and Man Utd.
      And according to Sky Sports, Chelsea have now made an offer to the defender’s camp.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedLis miss
      Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta turned down the opportunity to sign Lisandro Martinez from Ajax for a fraction of the price Man Utd paid for the centre-back.
      Martinez arrived at Old Trafford in 2022 in a £48.5m deal, and Arteta had been offered the star for tiny fee just 12 months earlier.
      Arsenal’s loss has been the gain of the Red Devils as Martinez finally looks to have settled into the demands of the Premier League.
      Although Gunners haven’t been missing the Argentine with Arteta’s side boasting the best defence in the Premier League last season.

      Copy linkCopiedUnited confident of double swoop
      TalkSPORT have reported that Manchester United are “confident” they can sign both Michael Olise and Jarrad Branthwaite this summer.
      They claim that the pair would cost a combined fee of around £100m.
      Crystal Palace are said to be holding out for at least £60m for Olise, while Everton are reportedly willing to sell Branthwaite for £40m.
      Other reports have suggested that the Toffees value Branthwaite higher, but it’s claimed that Everton’s financial situation could force them into sanctioning a cut-price deal.
      Copy linkCopiedSeven stars U25
      With Manchester United shifting their transfer policy and aiming to sign stars under the age off 25, SunSport have taken a look at seven stars that the Red Devils could sign this summer.

      Michael Olise
      Jarrad Branthwaite
      Marc Guehi
      Jeremie Frimpong
      Joao Neves
      Benjamin Sesko
      Joshua Zirkzee

      Copy linkCopiedRatcliffe’s plans
      Manchester United are shaking up their transfer approach this summer under the ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
      The Ineos chief has implemented five new rules when it comes to signings.

      Copy linkCopiedSell to buy
      Manchester United will need to bolster their transfer budget with player sales this summer, according to Sky Sports.
      It’s claimed that the Red Devils are keen on signing Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite – who is valued between £60m and £70m.
      PSR may help United sign the England defender with suggestion that Everton need to sell one of their main assets before the end of June to stay in line with the financial regulations.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedRooney’s dream job
      Wayne Rooney has said it is his dream to manage Manchester United in the future.
      The Red Devils legend has just landed the Plymouth Argyle job after a short break following his terrible 15-game spell as Birmingham City boss.
      And the 38-year-old is hoping he can re-track his managerial career as he aims to one day be in the dugout at Old Trafford.
      When asked about his dream job by Gary Neville on The Overlap, brought to you by Sky Bet, he said: “My dream is clear. I’ve always said I’d love to manage Everton or Manchester United one day. I’d probably say United.”

      Copy linkCopiedKlopp’s Sancho dig
      Jurgen Klopp seemed to take aim at Manchester United’s treatment of Jadon Sancho during his farewell Q&A in Liverpool last night.
      The outgoing Reds boss seemed to take a dig at United for sending Sancho out on loan after splashing nearly £80m on the player back in 2021.
      He said: “If the whole world loses trust and faith in the player, the manager has to be the one behind the player.
      “I cannot just buy into that ‘he’s useless’, like other clubs did by the way – buying a player for £80million and then sending him out on loan!”.

      Copy linkCopiedOnana ‘untouchable’
      Andre Onana is reportedly considered ‘untouchable’ this summer.
      The goalkeeper, who arrived at Man Utd for £47m last year, had an up and down first season at Old Trafford.
      But the club are keen to keep hold of him going forward and, according to the Manchester Evening News, have decided they will not entertain any bids for the 28-year-old.
      PSR rules mean a lot of United’s players are available for transfer this summer.
      But Onana joins an exclusive club of ‘untouchables’ including Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo and Rasmus Hojlund.

      Copy linkCopiedUnited staff offered exit incentive
      Manchester United employees have been offered an early bonus if they resign by next week, according to the Athletic.
      The offer is said to be part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans to get all employees into the club’s offices and trim down the workforce.
      Since Ineos’ takeover the club have announced it will be compulsory for all staff to work in the London or Manchester office by June 1.
      And staff were reportedly informed that those who do not wish to return to the office can QUIT and claim their usual annual bonus early for this season instead.

      Copy linkCopiedUnited confident of European spot
      Manchester United are reportedly confident that Uefa will not expel them from the Europa League.
      There has been concern that the Red Devils will be thrown from the European competition as Uefa regulations prevent a prevent an organisation or person from wielding “decisive influence” over more than one club in the same competition.
      The issue is caused by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos’ crucial ownership roles in both OGC Nice and Man Utd.
      However, the Guardian have claimed that Ratcliffe and the bigwigs at Old Trafford are confident that they will maintain their place in the Europa League.
      Uefa has set a deadline for clubs to satisfy their rules by next Monday.
      Copy linkCopiedUnited face Europa axe
      In case you missed it, Manchester United face being axed from the Europa League due to Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s stake in French side Nice.
      Both teams have qualified for next season’s competition after United beat Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
      But Uefa’s ownership rules prevents clubs with the same “decisive influence” from competing together in the same competition.
      Ratcliffe and Ineos now have until Monday June 3 to satisfy Uefa that Nice and United can both compete in next season’s Europa League.
      Copy linkCopiedInter in for AWB
      Inter Milan have a strong interest in signing Aaron Wan-Bissaka, according to Italian outlet Tutto Mercato.
      It’s claimed that the Italian giants see the full-back as a potential replacement for Denzel Dumfries.
      However, the report suggests that Wan-Bissaka would cost just £10.2million.
      Credit: Alamy
      Copy linkCopiedDortmund eye Greenwood
      The Daily Mail have claimed that Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund are in the hunt to sign Mason Greenwood.
      The 22-year-old, who was today names Getafe’s Player of the Season, is expected to leave Old Trafford permanently this summer – but the club are willing to arrange a loan if needs be.
      Dortmund’s sporting director Sebastian Kehl refused to rule out a move for Greenwood in an interview ahead of the Champions League final this weekend.
      He said: “I don’t want to talk about any rumours at the moment because it doesn’t make sense. Let’s play the final on Saturday first.
      “Of course, we have plans for next season and we have discussed many scenarios but let’s focus on Saturday and then we’ll see how we move on.
      Copy linkCopiedMaguire stays home
      Harry Maguire has opted against going on holiday in a bid to be fit for Euro 2024.
      The Manchester United defender has been named in England’s 33-man provisional squad despite missing United’s last five matches including the FA Cup final.
      According to the Daily Mail, Maguire has reported early for international duty ahead of Monday’s friendly against Bosnia & Herzegovina.
      He was joined by team-mate Luke Shaw and Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon in arriving early in Middlesbrough as they recover from injury.
      Copy linkCopiedShaw speaks out
      Luke Shaw has hit out at critics on social media who have questioned his commitment to Manchester United.
      The left-back has been sidelined since February with a muscle injury and missed Saturday’s FA Cup final victory.
      In a post on social media, Shaw wrote: “There’s nothing I want to do more than play and win with Manchester United. I don’t normally react to things I see on social media but there’s a lot of people questioning my loyalty to this club and asking how I am fit for England but not United.
      “The reality is I am not 100% fit for either right now but I am doing everything I can and constantly working to be. I have been at this club for 10 years through highs and lows and for anyone to question my loyalty is obviously frustrating. I appreciate I haven’t updated you all with my injuries and where I’m at with my recovery but equally the most important thing to me is that we’re supporting the team playing.
      “My biggest focus right now is being fit and then whatever happens this summer I will be ready. Thank you for your patience.”
      Copy linkCopiedTen Hag update
      There is currently no imminent decision expected on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future, according to reports.
      Ten Hag has been linked with an Old Trafford exit despite winning the FA Cup on Sunday.
      United are currently conducting a review into his two-year tenure as manager.
      However, a final decision on his future is not expected soon, reports Rich Fay.
      Credit: Alamy
      Copy linkCopiedRatcliffe wields axe
      Manchester United have reportedly given all their non-playing staff just one week to decide if they want to resign from their jobs.
      Sir Jim Ratcliffe is looking to cut costs after completing his minority takeover of the club.
      According to The Athletic, a mass email has been fired out to all staff members, bar coaches and scouts, insisting they make a decision on their futures within the next week.
      United have described it as “voluntary resignation”, but those affected see it more as voluntary redundancy.
      Copy linkCopiedSouthgate committed
      Gareth Southgate remains committed to England amid links with Manchester United.
      The Three Lions boss’ current contract expires in December and he is a reported candidate to replace Erik ten Hag if he is sacked.
      However, Sky Sports report that Southgate is fully focused on England ahead of this summer’s Euros.
      The Red Devils are currently conducting a season review, with Ten Hag’s future remaining unclear.
      Copy linkCopiedUnited transfer blow
      Manchester United risk missing out on Atalanta midfielder Teun Koopmeiners.
      The Red Devils have been strongly linked with a move for the Dutchman this summer.
      However, Daniele Longo reports that Juventus have already submitted an opening offer for Koopmeiners.
      The Old Lady have tabled a £34million bid with £4million in add-ons, despite Atalanta setting a £43million price tag.
      Credit: Alamy
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