Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 200 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Adama Traore reveals what Pep Guardiola said to him after Man City’s rollercoaster win over Fulham

      by

      ADAMA TRAORE has revealed what Pep Guardiola said to him after Manchester City’s rollercoaster win over Fulham.The two sides played out a thrilling Premier League clash at the Etihad last weekend.Adama Traore has lifted the lid on his conversation with Pep GuardiolaCredit: GettyThe pair linked up after Man City narrowly beat Fulham 3-2Credit: ReutersAndreas Pereira fired the visitors ahead before a double from Mateo Kovacic saw City take a 2-1 lead.The champs then looked to have sealed all three points with Jeremy Doku’s 81st minute effort.But Fulham left City sweating over their win as a late hit from Rodrigo Muniz saw the final score end 3-2 to the hosts.One man who had a whale of a time on the pitch was ex-Wolves winger Traore.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe lined up on the left instead of his usual right side, allowing him to get at Kyle Walker and leave the England star trailing in the wake of his even faster pace.But Traore was unable to bury any of his chances, which included a simple one-on-one against Ederson.At the final whistle, City boss Guardiola made a beeline for Traore before embracing the winger in a hug.They could be seen talking with great joy before parting ways.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTraore and Guardiola know each other from their time together at Barcelona, with the midfielder working his way through the youth ranks while Pep managed the senior side.And Traore admitted Guardiola gave him finishing advice while also hailing his performance.Man City director of football Txiki Begiristain discusses transfer strategy Traore said: “I’ve known him for a few years but it’s always appreciated.“I met him at Barcelona. When I arrived at Aston Villa I also had a call with him and he has always been friendly.”Meanwhile, Guardiola also talked about Traore, adding: “Adama, he was unstoppable in that game.“We couldn’t control when he had the ball. You have to defend in your 18-yard box.” More

    • 313 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      I was earning £10,000 a week at Newcastle before I went to jail – I’d still be in the Premier League now if I’d behaved

      by

      NILE RANGER has been in prison twice and gone from a £10,000-a-week Premier League star to non-league – but insists he still “could play in any team”.And the 33-year-old is adamant he still has “one big move left in me” as he aims to use the FA Cup to fire himself back into the limelight.Nile Ranger is playing for Kettering Town these daysCredit: Instagram / @nilepowerrangerThe former Newcastle United striker played under both Kevin Keegan and Chris Hughton during his time at St. James’ Park as well as England’s youth sides.These days he is banging them in for Kettering Town and hoping to add to his impressive tally of five goals in five appearances when they travel to Farsley Celtic on Saturday to battle for a place in the FA Cup first round proper.Ranger signed a five-year contract worth £10,000-a-week with Newcastle but both Keegan and Chris Hughton could not get him away from his off-field issues.He had already served time for his role in an armed robbery as a teenager, and he revealed how extreme the latter manager’s warnings were.READ MORE IN football Discussing Hughton, Ranger explained: “He said: ‘Listen, if you’re late again I’ll make you pull out your gold tooth and sell it’. He still named me on the bench. It was a different world.“I’d not been long out of the young offenders’ institute – now I was getting changed next to Michael Owen. People would cut their leg off for the opportunity I had.“I would bring all my friends up to Newcastle [from London] for parties. “I had more money than sense. There was no discipline from me. I was living life in the fast lane.Most read in Football“Chris Hughton would say to me ‘you need to focus, you need to tell all your friends to go back to London’ because we used to cause havoc in Newcastle.Ranger runs his own football academy these days but wants others to learn from his own mistakes after serving time in a young offenders’ institute for his part in a robbery, although he denies using weapons. Former Premier League bad boy Nile Ranger returns to football with non-league club after two years unemployedHe ended up back in jail in 2017 for fraud following a spell at Southend.Ranger admitted: “Looking back I’ve realised the many silly decisions that led to the situations I found myself in. I messed up.”However, he still believes that his chance to reach the top has not passed him by as he prepares for FA Cup action.He added: “I could play in any team at my age if I’m fit – any team.“It has to be a fit me, not a rusty me. But the rust is coming off.“I still feel there is one big move left in me. I’m going to roll the dice one more time.”Ranger used to play for NewcastleCredit: Getty More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      ‘My heart is broken for you and your beautiful family’ – George Baldock’s team-mate in emotional post after his death

      by

      OLI McBURNIE paid an emotional tribute to George Baldock after his former Sheffield United teammate’s tragic death.Baldock, 31, was found dead in a swimming pool in Greece yesterday after his wife raised the alarm.Oli McBurnie has paid tribute to pal George Baldock, who was found dead in a swimming poolCredit: instagram @oli_mcburnieMcBurnie and Baldock spent five years together at Sheffield UnitedCredit: instagram @oli_mcburnieThe incident occurred at his new home following a summer move from the Blades to Panathinaikos.Tributes have poured in from across the world of football.But Baldock’s passing has been felt particularly hard by Sheffield United.The right-back spent seven seasons playing for them between 2017 and 2024.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe helped them win Premier League promotion on two occasions.And former teammate McBurnie has now posted an emotional message dedicated to Baldock.The pair played together at Bramall Lane for five years.And McBurnie, who left United for Las Palmas over the summer, bis farewell to Baldock in a touching tribute.Most read in FootballHe wrote on Instagram, along with several snaps of the pair together: “I genuinely can’t believe you have gone brother.“I feel sick. One of the best people I’ve ever met. You were loved by everyone you came across.George Baldock’s heartbreaking summer farewell message to Sheffield Utd fans re-emerges after star found dead aged 31“My heart is broken for your beautiful little family. Sleep well GB I love you mate.”Sheffield United also paid tribute to Baldock, saying: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player George Baldock.“The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and teammates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.“The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”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)United’s owner Prince Abdullah added: “Devastating news, speechless — my condolences to his family and to all of us who loved him.”Meanwhile, Baldock’s final message to Blades fans ahead of his summer exit has re-emerged.In a short clip, he said:  “To all you Sheffield United fans, it’s a huge thank-you from me.“You’ve been absolutely amazing. Your support has been so much more than I ever expected. Like I said, you’re the best around.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Keep supporting the team and the staff and hopefully the club can get back to where we all want it to be.“I leave here as a massive fan of the club. Good luck and thank you.”Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s 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 Greece through his 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.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with 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 slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally 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.Perhaps 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.Poyet 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.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was 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 at any level, 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.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.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic 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. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Gareth Southgate breaks silence on Man Utd manager job links as he gives update on future after England exit

      by

      GARETH SOUTHGATE has ruled himself OUT of taking over at Manchester United for at least 12 months.Former England boss Southgate has been a front runner to be the next United choice if the Old Trafford side sack under-pressure Erik ten Hag.Gareth Southgate ruled himself OUT of taking over at Manchester United for at least 12 monthsCredit: AFPBut speaking publicly about his future for the first time since leaving the England job after Euro 2024, Southgate said he has NO intention of taking another coaching job until the back end of 2025 at the earliest.In an appearance at the European Club Association general assembly in Athens, when he was asked about his next potential job, Southgate said: “Firstly I’m enjoying my life…so there’s no rush.“I was 11 years committing myself fully to the FA and I’ve got lots of different experiences.“But I won’t coach in the next year, for sure. I’m certain of that.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I need to give myself time to make good decisions. When you come out of a really big role you need to give your body time, you need to give your mind time.”Southgate made clear he is unlikely to consider another international job – and even that he may look for a role in football OUTSIDE of management.He added: “I’m fortunate that there are lots of different opportunities that are presenting themselves. The business side of football is really interesting.“In my role I’ve dealt with Uefa and Fifa, had to deal with lots of different stakeholders.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“So I’m not just set on being a coach moving forward.Of course I’ve had amazing experiences but to have a project that was from the heart, which it was from the national team, is going to be difficult to find.” Gary Neville tells Gareth Southgate ‘it’s illegal’ again as he repeats fierce criticism of ex-England manager’s tacticsSouthgate went on: “I’m at an age where I want to work with good people.“When you’re younger you probably strive and are a bit more compliant. When you are older you realise the importance of collaboration.“Clubs can only be successful if everything is aligned, right the way through the club.“I also know that maybe the smarter people sit in the boardrooms and the coaches are a little bit more dispensable then you think when you are there.“As a coach you think you’re the most important person. I sat in every boardroom in our country for eight years and realised you’re only a small piece in this whole thing.”Coming just a day after Jurgen Klopp announced his new role at the Red Bull sporting group, Southgate hinted that he might be persuaded by a similar offer.He said: “If you are asking about club football, that’s depending on what that is, what role that is, what that might be.“I’ve been fortunate to work with fantastic players and some of the biggest nights in world football.“You’ve got to have excitement, passion to go to work every day.“That’s unlikely, for me, to be another national federation. Because, again, England was for the heart. I went there originally to help English football, not to become the first team coach.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But, the business of football, the experiences I’ve had working right across the board.“I’m 54 and want to enjoy and be really motivated for the next 10-15 years of my life and the most important thing is to give myself time to make good decisions.” More

    • 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