More stories

  • in

    Scottish Premiership club’s ‘astoundingly good-looking’ matchday food divides fans – ‘It’s not a kids’ tea party’

    GONE are the days of spearmint chewing gum and macaroon bars served from trays around the terraces.Instead there’s scalding hot Bovril and a steak or scoth pie that’s stuck to the foil – food at the football can get a bad rap sometimes.Bovril is the traditional drink for Scottish football fansKillie Pies are also highly regarded in the football snack worldCredit: Willie VassThe 25th world pie championships were launched at Hampden earlier this year with Sunsport’s Killie legend Kris BoydCredit: John Kirkby – Commissioned by The SunNot the famous Killie pie though.The Ayrshire delight is renowned as one of the best in the SPFL – and is held in such high regard it’s sold in shops far away from Rugby Park.But the Killie Pie appears to have a rival as clubs come up with alternative culinary delights to replace the staple diet of Saturday afternoons at Scottish football.An internal rival no less. And one that has been hailed a sweet success.Well, with some fans at least.To others, what’s being served up in Kilmarnock’s family stand simply isn’t to their taste.The dish has been profiled by popular social media account ‘Footy Scran’.Most read in FootballIt highlights the best – and worst – of stadium snacks.And 70 percent – more than 1500 X.com users – dubbed the dish of donuts, marshmallows and cream topped with Nutella ‘Scran’.PIzza boss dedicated pie to famous Tartan Army duo in ItalyIt featured on the site hours after Derek McInnes’ side faced Rangers on Wednesday night and costs £5.50.It’s certainly different from a pie and bovril and one fan admitted: “I’m tempted to sit in the Killie end just for this.”Another said: “Astoundingly good looking; scran and pass the insulin pen.”A third joked: “Needs to be paired with the doner kebab pie.”Kilmarnock’s dish of donuts and sweet treats was popular with online fansCredit: X.COM/FOOTYSCRANBut it was maybe not one for the football purists who seemed to prefer a more traditional snack.One replied: “It’s supposed to be a football match, not a kids tea party!”Another cried: “Get in the bin. What is this – a hen night in Benidorm?”And one Killie fan was on hand to explain: “Should be noted for context that this dish is only available in the Family stand – which is home fans only. “None of the other three stands have anything just as sweet as this. It’s served from a food truck which is sited within the kids fun zone below the rake of the Moffat stand.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football pageREAD MORE SUN STORIES More

  • in

    Rangers announce Barry Ferguson as new head coach and name his four-man coaching team including THREE club legends

    RANGERS have appointed club legend Barry Ferguson as head coach until the end of the season.And he will be assisted by a trio of Ibrox heroes.Barry Ferguson has been revealed as the new head coach at RangersCredit: Scottish News and SportFerguson’s previous experience includes stints at Clyde, Kelty Hearts and AlloaCredit: The SunFerguson will be assisted by three of his former team mates at IbroxCredit: PA:Press AssociationSunSport broke the news as Gers made the move to sack Philippe Clement last night after a tumultuous 16 months in charge.As the board search for a long-term replacement, an interim manager was needed for the meantime.Ferguson, 47, is a Rangers icon having formerly been club captain and winning loads of major trophies.But this is his first coaching gig since 2022.The former Clyde, Kelty Hearts and Alloa boss will be joined in the dugout by current Gers No2 Issame Charai plus ex-players Neil McCann, Billy Dodds and Allan McGregor.The statement read: “Rangers Football Club can today announce Hall of Fame member and former club captain, Barry Ferguson, is to become Head Coach of our men’s first team until the end of the season.”Ferguson, who won five league titles, five Scottish Cups and five League Cups across two spells at Ibrox, will be joined by coaches Issame Charai, Neil McCann, Billy Dodds and Allan McGregor.”As confirmed yesterday, Philippe Clement is leaving the club. In addition, Alex Rae, Colin Stewart and Stephan van der Heyden are also departing. Rangers FC would like to thank Philippe, Alex, Colin and Stephan for their contribution and commitment. They will always be welcome at the club.Most read in Football”Brian Gilmour will remain with Rangers to continue to bridge the gap between the academy and the first-team.”The ongoing football review will continue, and a new, permanent manager will be appointed in the coming months.”San Francisco 49ers supremo leads on Rangers takeoverRangers CEO, Patrick Stewart, commented: “Philippe and his team have worked tirelessly during their time in at the club and have played an important role in developing the first team’s young players.“I want to reiterate, the issues we are facing run deeper than the manager. The ongoing football review seeks to address those issues, and we will continue to implement its findings in the coming weeks and months ahead of appointing a new, permanent manager.“When I spoke to RangersTV last week, I was clear that everyone is judged on results, and nobody will get unlimited time in any role at the club. Ultimately, the team’s response following their early exit from the Scottish Cup was a cause for deep concern, leading the board to conclude that action had to be taken now.“I want to wish Philippe every success in the future. He is a fine man whom I have enjoyed working with in my short time here so far.“I also want to welcome Barry back to the club. We appreciate him and his team stepping into the role at this difficult time. Myself, the board and the executive team will give them our full support for the rest of the campaign.”Issame Charai will keep his place in the dugout despite Philippe Clement’s departureCredit: AlamyMcCann and Dodds have both been managers in their own right since hanging up their boots.McGregor has been living a quiet life (mostly playing golf) since his retirement.All four were in the Rangers squad during the season club won its 50th league title in 2002-03, though Dodds left midway through the season.READ MORE SUN STORIESCharai only joined the club last month as a replacement for Andries Ulderink as Clement’s assistant.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

  • in

    Russell Martin in frame for Rangers job with ex-Ibrox star viewed as serious contender by influential boardroom figures

    RANGERS have confirmed Philippe Clement has been sacked after 16 months in the job.Now we can reveal a former Gers defender is one of the names in the frame to take over.Russell Martin is in the frame for the Rangers jobCredit: ReutersHe had a spell at Rangers as a playerCredit: PA:Press AssociationPhilippe Clement has been sackedCredit: GettySunSport were first to break the news on Sunday afternoon that the Belgian was on his way out of Ibrox.Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to St Mirren was the final straw for directors with Clement finally told his time was up by chief executive Patrick Stewart.We can now reveal former defender Russell Martin is one of the names in the frame to take over.The ex-Southampton boss is currently out of work and it’s understood he’s regarded as a serious contender by influential boardroom figures who are involved in the ongoing takeover talks with US investors.READ MORE RANGERS STORIESThe bookies have installed Steven Gerrard as the favourite to make a sensational return.But it’s believed the Liverpool legend – who guided Gers to the Premiership title in 2021 – may not believe the time is right.The likelihood is that Ibrox chiefs will name a caretaker boss for Wednesday’s league clash with Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.Under-18s coach Kevin Thomson and Clement’s No2 Issame Charai are distinct possibilities. The Daily Record have also named former Ger Barry Ferguson as another potential short-term candidate.Most read in FootballClement was informed of the club’s decision following behind-the-scenes talks throughout Saturday night and yesterday.A statement released by the club last night confirmed: “Rangers Football club can confirm it has tonight parted company with men’s first-team manager, Philippe Clement. The FIVE big questions around Rangers’ stunning takeover talks answered by SunSport“The club would like to put on record their sincere thanks to Philippe for his hard work and dedication during his spell in charge. “A further update from the club will follow in due course.”Gers will now be obliged to pay out a hefty severance deal to the 50 year-old Belgian and his backroom staff.The club handed Clement a bumper new deal last August which meant he was due a big money pay-off if he was sacked.The current board were hoping to avoid wielding the axe. But a decision was made yesterday to part ways with Clement with fans demanding he was shown the door.He survived after Gers crashed out of the Scottish Cup to Queen’s Park.But Clement himself admitted the performance in the weekend defeat to St Mirren was an even worse display.Asked about his future following that latest defeat – which has Gers 13 points behind rivals Celtic – he said: “Those are things the board needs to decide. “In the end, I believe these players want to do the right things.“I believe I can get results with these players. “But I am also very disappointed with what we showed today – and I am responsible for that.“Today was by far not the performance that we have seen in the past. “It was by far the worst performance from my time here.“It’s terribly disappointing, because we were so nervous on the ball and in the duels, in everything.“I don’t know where it’s coming from. “That’s my frustration and it’s also my responsibility to put a team on the pitch with the right mindset.“I didn’t see this one coming, this nervousness, everyone below par, almost all game.“There were a few better spells, but by far we were not what Rangers should be.“I saw the team drifting apart in islands. “That’s not been the case in the past, when we’ve had difficult moments and gone behind we have reacted as a team.“Today, it was reacting one on one and not as a team. “Then we don’t play the football we need to play and it’s a bad performance “Leadership is an important one, but leadership is also a collective one.READ MORE SUN STORIES“In the first place it’s my responsibility.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

  • in

    Philippe Clement SACKED by Rangers as Ibrox chiefs finally end boss’ turbulent reign after only 16 months

    PHILIPPE CLEMENT has been SACKED as manager of Rangers.Ibrox chiefs have finally decided enough is enough with Clement dismissed just 16 months after taking charge.Clement has been dismissed by RangersCredit: PARangers CEO Patrick Stewart (left) and chairman Fraser Thornton (right) watching on in MotherwellCredit: Willie VassAlex Rae was Clement’s first-team coach with previous No2 Andries Ulderink (centre) drafted in as assistant manager in the summerCredit: Willie VassSunSport exclusively revealed late on Sunday afternoon that Clement was set for the Ibrox sack.Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to St Mirren proved the final straw and the club have now confirmed the manager’s exit.Clement replaced Michael Beale as Rangers manager in October 2023 and won the League Cup less than two months into his tenure.The former Monaco boss also led Rangers into an unexpected title challenge, but it was a challenge that ultimately fell apart towards the end of the season.The Gers would eventually finish eight points behind champions Celtic.There has barely been a hint of a title challenge this season, with Rangers’ campaign all but over by February.The Light Blues trail rivals Celtic by THIRTEEN points and also lost the League Cup Final to the Hoops back in December.Dire form either side of a 3-0 league win over Celtic in early January led to major fan protests, with supporters WALKING OUT during the match with St Johnstone.Most read in FootballDespite fans demanding change, new Rangers CEO Patrick Stewart publicly BLACKED Clement last month.An upturn in form bought Clement some much-needed credit.The FIVE big questions around Rangers’ stunning takeover talks answered by SunSportRangers were on a run of five domestic games unbeaten when Queen’s Park visited Ibrox on February 9.However, Clement’s side would lose 1-0 to their Championship opponents in a result viewed as one of the worst in the club’s history.A video surfaced online showing Clement walking a gauntlet of some furious abuse as he left Ibrox following the humiliating loss.He would, however, keep his job.Speaking last week, Gers CEO Stewart branded that result ‘a source of shame’ but still insisted it was still wasn’t the right decision NOT so sack Clement.Those comments came before the dramatic developments regarding the financial muscle of NFL giants San Francisco 49ers closing in on a stunning takeover of Rangers came to light.The weekend would prove another horror show with Rangers, one that Clement branded the WORST performance since he took charge.The Gers fell to a 2-0 home defeat against St Mirren, the first time the Buddies had won at Ibrox since 1991.It was also the Saints’ first time recording back-to-back wins over the Light Blues for more than FORTY years.And despite the words of the chief executive last week, Gers chiefs have decided they can no longer back Clement as boss.The 50-year old has been axed just six months after signing a contract extension until 2028.Rangers’ form in Europe has been good, with a last 16 Europa League tie with Fenerbahce on the horizon.CEO Stewart had claimed the Light Blues’ excellent showing on the continent meant it was too much of a RISK to dismiss Clement.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut even that European performance hasn’t ultimately been enough to save him.PHILIPPE CLEMENT: THE NUMBERSGAMES: 86WINS: 55DRAWS: 16LOSSES: 15WIN PERCENTAGE: 65%TROPHIES: 1 (2023 League Cup)Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

  • in

    Philippe Clement set to be SACKED by Rangers with Ibrox chiefs on verge of dismissing under-fire Belgian boss

    PHILIPPE CLEMENT is on the brink of being sacked by Rangers.SunSport understands Ibrox chiefs are on the verge of axing the Belgian following the 2-0 home defeat to St Mirren.Philippe Clement is on the brink of being sacked by RangersCredit: GettyRangers CEO Patrick Stewart watched on at Ibrox on SaturdayCredit: PAClement, 50, has been in charge of the since October 2023, when he was named Michael Beale’s successor.But the Belgian looks set to be relieved of his duties having won just one League Cup during his tenure – with a caretaker boss named for this midweek’s league clash with Kilmarnock at Rugby Park.The shock Scottish Cup exit to Championship Queen’s Park pushed Clement towards the exit door.But the club’s hierarchy refused to fire him while they were engaged in take-over discussions with potential US investors and a Europa League clash ahead.Yesterday’s defeat to Stephen Robinson’s Buddies, however, looks certain to prove the final straw after angry fans vented their fury after the final whistle.Clement was eager to battle on in the job.But asked about his future following the latest defeat – which has Gers 13 points behind rivals Celtic – he said: “Those are things the board needs to decide. “In the end, I believe these players want to do the right things.Most read in Football“I believe I can get results with these players. “But I am also very disappointed with what we showed today – and I am responsible for that.Rangers star Cyriel Dessers responds to questions on Philippe Clement’s future as he empathises with raging fans“Today was by far not the performance that we have seen in the past. “It was by far the worst performance from my time here.“It’s terribly disappointing, because we were so nervous on the ball and in the duels, in everything.“I don’t know where it’s coming from. “That’s my frustration and it’s also my responsibility to put a team on the pitch with the right mindset.“I didn’t see this one coming, this nervousness, everyone below par, almost all game.“Those are things the board needs to decide. I believe I can get results with these players.“But I am also very disappointed with what we showed today — and I am responsible for that.”Philippe Clementspeaking after 2-0 defeat to St Mirren“There were a few better spells, but by far we were not what Rangers should be.“I saw the team drifting apart in islands. “That’s not been the case in the past, when we’ve had difficult moments and gone behind we have reacted as a team.“Today, it was reacting one on one and not as a team. “Then we don’t play the football we need to play and it’s a bad performance “Leadership is an important one, but leadership is also a collective one.READ MORE SUN STORIES“In the first place it’s my responsibility.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

  • in

    Tributes flood in as Celtic European Cup final hero dies

    TRIBUTES are being paid to former Celtic goalkeeper Evan Williams, who has sadly died at the age of 81.Williams, born in Dumbarton, played for the Hoops between 1969 and 1974 and was the goalie for their second European Cup final appearance.Evan Williams (right) at the funeral of fellow Celtic hero Tommy GemmellCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowWilliams in action for Celtic in the 1972 Drybrough Cup final against AberdeenCredit: Scottish News and SportWhen Celtic took on Feyenoord in 1970, Williams won man of the match on a night when the Glasgow side lost 2-0 but it could have been a lot worse if not for the man between the sticks pulling off a string of impressive saves.Williams was the first choice ‘keeper in three league title-winning seasons from 1970 through to 1972 and had the unenviable task of taking over from Lisbon Lion hero Ronnie Simpson.He held onto the No.1 jersey after signing from Wolves despite the attentions of John Fallon and Denis Connaghan.Williams made 148 appearances for Celtic before leaving to join Kilmarnock, taking with him four league winners’ medals and two Scottish Cup winners’ medals.Hugh Jordan, a journalist who was a friend of Williams, posted on Facebook: “It’s with great sadness I report the death of my friend Evan Williams, the former Celtic goalkeeper. “He passed away in Helensburgh earlier today, aged 81. “As schoolboys, Evan and I both played football for St.Patrick’s, Dumbarton, although he was a few years older. Not a lot of people know this, but Evan was capped as a schoolboy international playing outfield, which he did at every opportunity. “He would have been well suited to the modern game. Evan signed for Celtic after a stint with Wolverhampton Wanderers and he soon became Jock Stein’s most trusted keeper. Most read in Football”He gave a great performance in the 1972 European Cup final when Celtic lost 2-1 to Feyenoord and afterwards, Dutch superstar Wim Van Hannigan handed Evan his jersey, which he treasured. “40 years ago in July, I accidentally broke my arm, but hadn’t realised until I woke up in agony at 3.00am. Unable to move, I rang Evan who was working as a taxi driver. He came straight over, helped me get dressed and took me to hospital. Barry Robson Part 2 The Tommy Burns quip which brought him crashing to earth on day one at Celtic and the attitude problems which hit him at Rangers”Evan’s dad was Welsh and although I didn’t know him, I knew his mum Nellie very well. She was very proud of Evan and so was I. “I fondly remember great European nights at Celtic Park when he provided a safe pair of hands between the posts.”Upon hearing the news, one fan said: “Sad to hear the news that former Celtic goalkeeper Evan Williams has passed away.”Another said: “So sad to hear my old school friend and Celtic goalkeeper Evan Williams has passed away rest in peace God bless, hail hail.”Maryhill Bertie Auld CSC commented: “Rest in peace Evan Williams. A lovely man and a great Celt.”While this supporter said: “Farewell to Evan Williams who has passed away. The first goalie I ever saw play for Celtic in 1972. A Celt to the core. rest in peace, Evan.”David Currie, who was coached by Williams, recalled: “Sad to hear of the passing of former Celtic goalkeeper Evan Williams. He was my goalie coach at Dumbarton Harp under 21s and I remember he would regularly tell me that Pelé ‘took two touches but scored three goals’ against him! Lovely guy and great coach. RIP the ‘Golden Throw’.”Legendary Celts boss Jock Stein once said of Williams: “I didn’t realise how important you were to Celtic until you weren’t there anymore, and I didn’t realise that goalkeeper is the hardest position of all.”Williams also played for East Fife, Third Lanark, Aston Villa, Clyde and Stranraer before retiring in 1976.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe managed Vale of Leven and then Ardeer Thistle in the junior ranks.Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

  • in

    Arsenal complete first transfer of 2025 as they move for 15-year-old wonderkid defender from St Johnstone

    ARSENAL have reportedly completed their first transfer for 2025.The Gunners have agreed a deal to sign Scottish wonderkid Callan Hamill.Callan Hamill will join Arsenal in JulyCredit: GettyHe impressed Jack Wilshere before the former Gunner left for Norwich CityCredit: GettyHamill, 15, will officially join the club on July 1 as he will leave St Johnstone.The Athletic claim that Arsenal have agreed to a six-figure package plus add-ons to sign the defender.The Scottish club are entitled to at least £100,000 in cross-border compensation.Hamill has already trained with Arsenal’s under-18 group more than once.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe Scottish Sun claimed that he caught the eye of former Gunner Jack Wilshere before he then left for Norwich City in October.He also took part in an international tournament in July 2024.Last summer he had the chance to move to Rangers and Celtic but rejected the Old Firm pair.Hamill opted to extend his stay at St Johnstone and committed himself to a one-year contract.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut on March 1, he will be eligible to travel south and across the border to move to England as he will be 16.Callan is mostly viewed as a defender by can also feature in midfield.’It’s like Messi… there I said it’ – Pundits rave about Arsenal ace Nwaneri as Shearer dubs him ‘potential superstar’This season, he has been used in St Johnstone’s under-18s squad.Callan even starred for Scotland’s Under-16s on Wednesday as he netted his first international goal in the win over Cyprus.He spoke about the achievement after the game.He said: “It was a very proud moment for me and my family to score my first international goal for my country.”A corner came in and I ran across the front post and attacked it and blasted it into the back of the next.”It was an amazing feeling.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Arsenal will continue their title challenge with Liverpool, as they face West Ham on Saturday.The Gunners then travel to the East Midlands to face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. More

  • in

    Rangers at centre of advanced talks over stunning San Francisco 49ers takeover

    SAN FRANCISCO 49ers chief Paraag Marathe is part of a US-led Rangers takeover bid.The NFL supremo is involved in a consortium hoping to take control of the Ibrox club.Paraag Marathe, President of 49ers EnterprisesCredit: GettyMarathe speaks out at Levis StadiumCredit: GettyLeeds United chairman Marathe and fellow US business figures have held detailed talks with the Gers hierarchy in recent months.SunSport understands current board member, the American John Halsted, has been a prominent figure in bringing potential investors to the table.And this could lead to the 49ers being part of a major multi-million pound investment – should a deal be struck.Ibrox sources insist there are still plenty of hurdles to overcome as high-level discussions continue.But there is hope that an agreement can be reached with the US investors to kick off a new era at Gers.The consortium see huge potential in the Ibrox club, with possible access to the Champions League a reward for domestic success.They also view Scottish football as a prime environment to bring in young talent and adopt a successful player-trading model.Marathe heads up the 49ers Enterprises arm – which seeks to ‘oversee outside business ventures, advisory efforts, and major investment opportunities for the club’.Most read in FootballHe is also Executive VP of Football Operations for the NFL giants.Marathe orchestrated the 49ers’ takeover of Leeds in 2023 after years of investment and is driving their bid for Premier League promotion.Under the SFA’s dual ownership stance, this could limit the 49ers’ ability to snap up a Gers shareholding of over 29.9 per cent – the amount Bournemouth supremo Bill Foley was allowed to control in Hibs.Deebo Samuel facing major San Francisco 49ers punishment after taking a swing at his own teammates in shocking scenes However, there are other US investors keen to plunge money into Gers as part of a wider consortium.These figures believe Marathe’s experience of British football can be of huge significance as part of a potential deal to revive Rangers.And the 49ers – bankrolled by the York family – could extend their portfolio by investing in the Ibrox giants.Speaking at the club’s AGM last year, interim chairman John Gilligan made it clear that Rangers were open to a cash injection.The Ibrox club are currently strapped for cash after posting a £17.2million loss last year.Boss Philippe Clement was limited to just one loan signing in January, with runaway league leaders Celtic favourites to complete another Treble.The Lowdown: The San Francisco 49ersEverything you need to know about the San Francisco 49ersFounded: Established in 1946 as part of the AAFC; joined the NFL in 1949.Team Name Origin: Named after the prospectors of the 1849 California Gold Rush.Location: Based in the San Francisco Bay Area; home games played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.Team Colours: Red, gold, and white, representing the Gold Rush heritage.Super Bowl Success: Five-time Super Bowl champions (1981, 1984, 1988, 1989, 1994 seasons).Key Players in History: Legends include Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Steve Young, and Ronnie Lott.Hall of Fame: Many inductees, including Bill Walsh, Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and Steve Young.The West Coast Offence: Known for popularising Bill Walsh’s innovative passing strategy in the 1980s.Rivalries: Major rivalries with the Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, Seattle Seahawks, and Los Angeles Rams.Community Impact: Active in charity and youth programmes through the 49ers Foundation.But back in December, Gilligan promised fans that change was coming.He told shareholders: “There is fresh investment coming into the club.“The current investors have invested considerably over the years and are willing to do so again.“We are open to anyone who approaches us on investment.“We get approaches from all over the world from various sources.“But it has to be the right people and the right conditions and for the right amount of shares.San Francisco quarter back Brock Purdy“We don’t want one person owning the club.”Rangers’ current shareholding group is varied – with former chairman Dave King still owning around 13 per cent.Douglas Park, George Taylor, Stuart Gibson and John Bennett also have a significant amount of shares.It’s believed several of them would be willing to cut a deal for the right price, if they felt it was in the best interests of the club. The Rangers board already has strong American ties, with non-executive director Alastair Johnston vice chairman of US-based IMG – a leading sports and entertainment group.Wyoming-based Halsted became a Gers investor in 2021 through Perron Investments, LLC.There’s been a spate of tie-ins between the US sport and British football with Tom Brady is the co-owner of a Birmingham City side which has many ex-Gers stars on the payroll in the form of Scott Wright, Ben Davies and Kieran Dowell.READ MORE SUN STORIESJJ Watt is a minority investor in a Burnley side which currently sits third in the EFL Championship table. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More