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    Strangest football injuries, from Lampard breaking hand celebrating Everton goal to a broken jaw from eating a carrot

    FOOTBALLERS and managers always find unique ways to injure themselves.Everton boss Frank Lampard is the latest star to suffer a freak accident, breaking his hand while celebrating Alex Iwobi’s late goal to clinch a vital victory against Newcastle.
    Frank Lampard jumps for joy after Alex Iwobi scores a last-gasp winnerCredit: Getty

    Lampard told Prime Video he broke his hand in the Everton celebrations afterwards

    Amid the chaos, Lamps took a whack to the left hand – it was shaking as he checked his watch in the final seconds.
    And as he came on air to discuss the all-important three points, the ex-England midfielder was sporting a nasty bruise and lump.
    He told Prime Video: “I’ve broken my hand in the celebrations. My bones must be going soft, I don’t remember the moment.
    “I didn’t realise at the time but as the game carried on I was a bit sore and shaky.
    “But I don’t care – I’ll take it for three points.”
    Super Frank isn’t the first to suffer a nasty scrape. Here are some more of football’s most bizarre injuries…
    Rami Kaib
    Last year, Swedish footballer Rami Kaib was ruled out of action for weeks after breaking his jaw eating a carrot.
    Kaib had already taken a knock during a league match for Dutch side Heerenveen.
    But then he sustained the shock blow when getting his veggies in. Omrop Fryslan reporter Roelof de Vries told RTV Noord: “Kaib got a big knock on his jaw during a game a while ago.
    “He just continued training, and of course eating. “Well, he ate a carrot and that carrot was quite hard.” And then, crack – broken jaw. A carrot!”
    Rami Kaib was out of action for a few weeks after his bizarre injury
    Frenkie De Jong
    Last year, Frenkie De Jong suffered a bizarre injury that looked painful and threatened to leave him sidelined.
    The Barcelona midfielder showed off a swollen hand in his side’s 3-1 win over Napoli in a Champions League tie.
    According to reports, the ailment was the result of a nasty bee sting that caused the severe reaction.
    Frenkie De Jong shows off horrific bee stingCredit: Instagram / @mikkykiemeney
    De Jong wore a bandage during Barcelona’s Champions League tie with NapoliCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    The swelling can be seen clearly on De Jong’s hand in trainingCredit: FC Barcelona
    CHRIS SMALLING
    Ex-Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was on holiday in Bali, when disaster struck.
    After local reports claimed he was stung by a jellyfish while out surfing – the truth eventually came out, and it wasn’t as exciting.
    He fainted in the hot heat and banged his head, hence the bandages.
    Chris Smalling pictured in hospital in Bali
    DAVE BEASANT
    The Wimbledon FA Cup hero was at Chelsea when he suffered a hilarious foot injury.
    The keeper dropped a bottle of salad cream in his kitchen and tried to control it with his bare foot.
    The bottle ended up breaking and tearing a tendon in his big toe, causing Beasant to miss two months of football.
    Clearly, he should’ve used his hands.
    Dave Beasant attempted to control a bottle of salad
    RIO FERDINAND
    The former Manchester United and England captain managed to strain his knee while at Leeds.
    Ferdinand rested his leg for too long while playing a game of Pro Evolution Soccer on his PlayStation.
    We’ve all done it.
    Rio Ferdinand suffered a leg injury while playing a video game
    DAVID BATTY
    The ex-Leeds United enforcer had been out injured with a knee problem.
    Then, his two-year-old daughter ran over him while on her tricycle – causing a setback to his ankle.
    The hardman was crocked by a two-year-old, which must’ve taken some explaining to his team-mates.
    David Batty’s daughter ran into him on her tricycle
    BRYAN ROBSON
    Captain Dynamo was given the task of trying to wake mercurial star Paul Gascoigne from his slumber ahead of the 1990 World Cup.
    Robson tried but couldn’t wake the midfielder, instead tipping the bed to push Gascoigne out.
    Robson then dropped the bed onto his toe, breaking it.
    Bryan Robson broke a toe trying to wake up Paul Gascoigne
    ENNER VALENCIA
    The former West Ham forward didn’t impress Sam Allardyce with this injury.
    Somehow, Enner Valencia managed to badly cut his toe after stepping on a broken cup.
    The incident left ‘Big Sam’ striker-less for his next match.
    Enner Valencia seriously cut his toe stepping on a broken cup
    SANTIAGO CANIZARES
    The former Valencia No1 had waited an age to take over in the sticks of the Spanish national team.
    He was given an opportunity in 2002, but just before the World Cup was about to start he dropped a bottle of aftershave on his foot.
    Like Beasant, he severed a tendon and missed the tournament.
    Butter fingers, perhaps?
    Santiago Canizares missed out on the 2002 World Cup because of a bottle of aftershave
    ALAN WRIGHT
    The former Aston Villa left-back was a cult hero in the Midlands.
    But the 5ft 4in Wright once had a spell out the game after injuring his knee in the strangest way.
    He did it trying to reach the pedals on his Ferrari. True story.
    Former Aston Villa defender Alan Wright got injured driving his Ferrari
    KEVIN KYLE
    While at Sunderland, the former Scotland international was once seen ‘walking a bit like John Wayne’.
    It was all because his eight-month-old son knocked a bowl of boiling water onto his crotch.
    Ouch.
    Kevin Kyle’s son dropped hot water on his crotch
    LEROY LITA
    At Reading, the striker managed to hurt his back by stretching too vigorously.
    But this wasn’t done on the training pitch, no. It happened while laying in bed.
    Steve Coppell said at the time: “It’s not an injury that should be ridiculed or made light of.”
    Leroy Lita injured himself by stretching too far in bed
    DARIUS VASSELL
    We’d definitely avoid recreating this one.
    The ex-Aston Villa and England striker tried to get rid of a blood blister on his toe by using an electric drill.
    It didn’t go well.
    Darius Vassell tried to pop a blister with an electric drill
    ADAM CHAPMAN
    Former Oxford midfielder Chapman was heating some milk for his baby, a normally harmless job.
    But as he went to shake it the lid flew off, burning his chest and nipple.
    He had to go to hospital but was passed fit to play the next day.
    Adam Chapman burnt his nipple trying to heat baby milk
    DAVID JAMES
    The former England shot-stopper has two entries.
    He once pulled a muscle in his back while trying to reach for a remote control.
    Another time, James hurt his shoulder while fishing for carp.
    David James should stay away from remote controls… and carp

    CHARLIE GEORGE
    Arsenal legend George didn’t let this injury stop him.
    The 1971 FA Cup hero once cut off a finger with his lawnmower.
    Thankfully, it wasn’t a leg.
    Charlie George managed to cut off a finger while mowing the lawn
    KIERON DYER
    When at Newcastle the England man damaged his left eye – because he ran into a stationary training pole.
    It wasn’t an eye-for-an-eye in this case, leaving Dyer with a nasty shiner.
    Kieron Dyer ran into a training pole
    Gareth Bale urged to quit Real Madrid as Rio Ferdinand bemoans ‘generational talent’ being wasted on sidelines More

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    Inside Forest Green Rovers’ eco-friendly £420,000 team coach that boasts 4G Wi-Fi and produces ZERO tailpipe emissions

    ON Saturday, pioneering football club Forest Green Rovers will be the first team in the world to transport its players to a game in an electric-powered coach.The League Two leaders can seal promotion this weekend when they travel to Bristol Rovers.
    Forest Green Rovers will be travelling in style in an electric powered coach on SaturdayCredit: Courtesy of Westway
    The coach, worth a staggering £420k, boasts a luxury interiorCredit: Courtesy of Westway
    Completely battery-powered, the coach has a range of around 200milesCredit: Courtesy of Westway
    Forest Green Rovers chairman Dale Vince promised the club would go electric for their team busCredit: Alamy
    And they will be making the short journey to the Memorial Ground in an incredible £420,000 state-of-the-art vehicle.
    Made by Chinese firm Yutong, the coach has been leased from London company Westway especially for the game – fulfilling green energy champion and Forest Green owner Dale Vince’s pledge that the club would use an electric coach this season.
    Chairman Vince has also confirmed that the club will look to buy an electric coach in the future, as the club continues to run as a sustainable model.
    But for the moment, they will be happy with the amazing Yutong TCE12 coach that has amenities including 4G Wi-Fi, USB charge points at each seat, LED lighting, and private double-glazed glass windows.
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    Powered by a 281Kwh battery capacity, that produces 470hp and an incredible 2360 lb/ft of torque, the 18.5 tonne vehicle has a range of 200miles plus on a full charge, which takes just two hours from 0-100 per cent.
    However, taken in normal driving conditions with traffic, road conditions such as hills, and ancillaries running such as air-conditioning, heating & Wi-Fi, it’s more likely to manage 185 miles.
    Player comfort in the 48-seater vehicle isn’t skimped on and neither is style – with the Yutong boasting half-leather reclining seats and fold-down tables – if players fancy a game of cards on their trip.
    Most importantly though, because it is powered solely by batteries it produces ZERO tailpipe emissions.
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    Leasing an electric vehicle is the latest steps Forest Green Rovers have taken as they push for sustainability.
    Their New Lawn ground is completely powered by renewable energy, while players play on an organic pitch that’s not treated with weedkiller. And in terms of a sprinkler system, they rely on reusing rain water instead of mains water.
    Head coach Rob Edwards drives an electric car, along with chief executive Henry Staelens, while the team has worn kits made from coffee waste.
    Fans are treated to a vegan menu on match days, and plans are afoot for the club to move to Eco Park – a ground that will be made entirely of wood.
    “Our work focuses on three big things – energy, transport and food,” Vince said.
    “Since I began with the club in 2010 I’ve wanted an electric team bus because it’s one of the things within our control on the transport front that we haven’t managed to crack yet. We’ve been waiting for electric buses to come into the world and they’re here now.
    “We’re hoping to get one ourselves for the coming season and we’ll see how many games we can squeeze in with it, but it’s super-important that we electrify transport to reduce emissions and consumption of fossil fuels.”
    Since coming into the Football League in 2017, Forest Green Rovers have made steady progress in becoming an established league side.
    Vince said: “We’ve made steady progress since then which is what we aim to do, rather than boom and bust. And hopefully we do the same now.”
    Forest Green’s new Eco Park stadium is projected to be double the size of New Lawn with a capacity for 12,000 supporters.
    Seats are made half leather and LED lights feature in the walkwayCredit: Courtesy of Westway
    Private double-glazed glass windows give players anonymityCredit: Courtesy of Westway
    Forest Green Rovers are the first club in the world to travel on an electric coachCredit: Courtesy of Westway
    The coach produces zero emissionsCredit: Courtesy of Westway
    Forest Green Rovers are planning to build a new sustainable stadiumCredit: Forest Green Rovers
    The plan for Vince is to have the stadium ready in three or four seasons, when they will need it most.
    “Really the plan is to have it ready before we need it,” he added.
    “We can stay where we are and survive in League One OK, it’ll be a stretch but we can manage it. But before we get to the Championship, we really need the new stadium.” More

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    New Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag is ninth Dutch manager in Premier League, we rate the eight from Gullit to van Gaal

    ERIK TEN HAG has finally been announced as Manchester United manager, after months of speculation.The Ajax boss has signed a three-year deal with the club, and will start his role in the summer when Ralf Rangnick will step down.
    Erik ten Hag has been confirmed as new Man Utd bossCredit: https://www.instagram.com/manchesterunited/
    The club will reportedly hand the Dutchman, 52, a £200million war chest to rebuild the side.
    However, Holland legend Marco Van Basten has questioned whether ten Hag should take on the Old Trafford hotseat, which appears to be a poisoned chalice for managers, including fellow countryman Louis Van Gaal.
    Before ten Hag, eight Dutch managers have tried their hands to coaching on our shores with varied success.
    Here’s how they have fared – and who’s been a hit or miss.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}MAN UTD NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Erik ten Hag ANNOUNCED as Man Utd manager, Dutchman signs three-year deal
    Ruud Gullit
    Chelsea (player-manager) 1996-98, Newcastle 1998-99
    Played 104: Won 41, Drew 26, Lost 37. Win rate: 39 per cent
    Gullit was the Premier League’s first Dutch manager, and the first black coach to win a major trophy when he lifted the 1997 FA Cup.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    A season later, with the club in second place, he was sacked controversially by chairman Ken who called him “arrogant”.
    However, at Newcastle his reign was a disaster. He fell out with his best players, including Alan Shearer and was forced to resign after a home defeat to rivals Sunderland.
    Verdict: Miss
    Ruud Gullit was decent at Chelsea, but flopped as Newcastle boss after rows with starsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Martin Jol
    Tottenham 2004-07, Fulham 2011-13
    P202: W75, D51, L76. Win rate: 37 per cent
    At Spurs, Jol looked like a bright choice when he won manager of the month in only his second month in charge.
    Two fifth-placed finishes later, including the famous lasagne-gate when they lost a Champions League place to Arsenal on the final day of the season followed.
    Jol was given his marching orders during the 2007-08 season, after a poor start.
    He surfaced at Fulham four years later, and led them to a top-half finish and then 12th the following season.
    Verdict: Miss
    Martin Jol had spells at Tottenham and Fulham our shores with mixed resultsCredit: Action Images – Reuters
    Guus Hiddink
    Chelsea (interim) 2009 and 2015-16
    P34: W18, D12, L4. Win rate: 53 per cent
    Not many get two bites at the cherry.
    But Roman Abramovich would turn to Gus Hiddink twice after sacking Luiz Felipe Scolari in 2009 and then Jose Mourinho in 2015.
    In his first season, he finished third, was unlucky to exit the Champions League to Barcelona, but lifted the FA Cup – losing just once all season.
    In his second, he alerted the slump under the Special One and rescued a dismal season by helping the club finish mid-table – six places above where they were when he took over.
    Verdict: Hit
    Guus Hiddink had two spells at Chelsea, both a success
    Rene Meulensteen
    Fulham 2013-14
    P13: W3, D1, L9. Win rate: 23 per cent
    After starring as a first team assistant coach at Man Utd, Meulensteen wanted a job of his own.
    When he was assistant at Fulham, he replaced his fellow countryman Jol in the job in 2013.
    However, he didn’t even last the season – as they fell to the bottom of the league.
    The Cottagers would eventually get relegated with Felix Magath, their third boss of the campaign, in charge.
    Verdict: Miss
    Rene Meulensteen proved to be a disaster at FulhamCredit: AFP – Getty
    Ronald Koeman
    Southampton 2014-16, Everton 2016-17
    P123: W55, D27, L41. Win rate: 45 per cent
    The Barcelona legend appeared to be perfect for our shores, when he bossed the Saints from 2014-16.
    Despite a player exodus, they finished seventh and sixth during his reign.
    It would earn Koeman the Everton job, where he spent a fortune on flops including Davy Klaassen for £24million.
    His first season at the Toffees secured Europa League qualification, but he was sacked the following season with the team in the relegation zone.
    For his next trick, he will take over the reigns of the Netherlands job from Louis van Gaal after the World Cup in Qatar.
    Verdict: Miss
    Ronald Koeman looked promising at Southampton, but was sacked by Everton following a dismal job at Goodison ParkCredit: PA:Empics Sport
    Louis van Gaal
    Manchester United 2014-16
    P76: W39, D19, L18. Win rate: 51 per cent
    Van Gaal was United’s first ever Dutch manager, and he brought with him some hilarious moments – from forgetting defender Chris Smalling’s name in a press conference to singing “Louis van Gaal’s army”.
    He achieved fourth and fifth placed finishes, as well as winning the FA Cup.
    However, his brand of football never really won over the United fans.
    Interestingly, van Gaal urged ten Hag to snub the United job, saying, “choose a football club and not a commercial club.”
    Verdict: Miss
    Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal failed to win over the fans at Old TraffordCredit: PA:Empics Sport
    Dick Advocaat
    Sunderland, 2015
    P17: W3, D6, L8. Win rate: 18 per cent
    In fairness to Advocaat and his 18 per cent win rate, he did manage to keep Sunderland up in 2015.
    Appointed as interim boss, in his first game in charge he earned a point against Newcastle.
    Then, he orchestrated wins over Everton and Chelsea and held Arsenal to a point.
    But he blotted his copybook the following season, going back on his retirement plans to lead the Black Cats once more.
    He resigned after a poor start, probably wishing he never bothered.
    Verdict: Miss
    Dick Advocaat managed to avoid the drop with Sunderland but resigned the following season after a bad runCredit: Action Images – Reuters
    Frank de Boer
    Crystal Palace 2017
    P4: W0, D0, L4. Win rate: 0 per cent
    Brilliant footballer, no question. But, as Premier League managers go, de Boer’s reign at Crystal Palace was the shortest and worst ever.
    He had signed a contract to be at Selhurst Park for three years, but lasted just 10 weeks and four league games.
    In that time, the Eagles failed to score or earn any points.
    He did win a League Cup tie against Ipswich, but that wasn’t enough.
    Verdict: Miss
    With a 0 per cent win rate, Frank de Boer is the worst Dutch manager in Premier League historyCredit: Reuters More

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    Man Utd incoming manager Erik ten Hag lived above supermarket, studies Guardiola’s teams and loves Van Gaal and Cruyff

    ERIK TEN HAG famously lived above a supermarket in Amsterdam, but the only shelf he stacked was his club’s trophy cabinet.The Ajax boss, 52, has been confirmed as Manchester United’s next manager – signing a three-year deal with the club.
    Erik ten Hag is Man Utd’s next managerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
    From next season, the Dutch tactician will be in the Old Trafford hot-seat – and is expected to be handed a £200million war chest to improve the fortunes of the Red Devils.
    The quiet thinker had a 13-year playing career in Holland, before he revived the glory days at Ajax with a vibrant young team.
    In 2019, with a side that featured homegrown talents like Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, Donny van de Beek and Hakim Ziyech, he reached a Champions League semi-final.
    Ten Hag, a keen golfer with a high-pitched voice, worked wonders given Ajax had not even competed in the knockout stages since 2005-06.
    Having already surpassed par, Ten Hag is becoming a Master. That’s why he was United’s hierarchy’s first choice.
    AJAX ICONS
    On the wall of his modest office at the club’s De Toekomst training ground hang photos of Johan Cruyff, Rinus Michels and Louis van Gaal.
    In an era when Ajax are surrounded by financially beefed up opponents, he has ensured the club have stayed competitive. This season, they were narrowly beaten by Benfica over two legs to exit the Champions League in the Round of 16 stage.
    So how has the former centre-back from a rural town in Twente transformed their fortunes?
    Ten Hag’s education in coaching goes some way to explain.
    In 2013, having spent his entire career in Holland, he moved abroad to work with the master of management.
    At Bayern Munich, Ten Hag cut his coaching teeth with the reserves while watching closely as Pep Guardiola revolutionised the German giants’ style.
    “Every day I get to work with him, I look forward to it. He inspires me,” he gushed.
    Ten Hag worked closely with Pep Guardiola for two years as Bayern Munich II’s managerCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola with his focus on attacking and attractive footballCredit: AFP or licensors
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    And his approach to training shows Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola, such is the obsession with detail.
    He has a particular focus on the character of a player.
    Ten Hag will note down how each individual responds to minor errors, losing the ball or committing a foul, and works out the mentality of his team to suit their opponent.
    Before being appointed at Ajax in 2017, these skills helped him guide Utrecht into the Europa League.DEVELOPING YOUTH
    Ten Hag suited Ajax due to his ability to nurture young talent into stars.
    Frenkie de Jong joined Barcelona in a deal worth £65million in 2019. Matthijs de Ligt joined Juventus for the same fee – boosting the club’s coffers.
    Ten Hag played a key role in the development of players like Memphis Depay, at PSV, and Marko Arnautovic, at FC Twente.
    He transformed Depay from a central midfielder to a wide position, with the coach’s focus constantly on attacking and attractive football.
    Yet, Ten Hag is also able to identify what his team needs.
    Among his youthful stars, are seasoned veterans including former Manchester United man Daley Blind and ex-Southampton midfielder Dusan Tadic.
    Both were brought in 2018 by Ten Hag to redress the team’s inexperience.
    Ten Hag’s first managerial job was with Dutch side Go Ahead EaglesCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Ten Hag rose to prominence in Holland by taking Utrecht to the Europa LeagueCredit: Rex Features
    Former defender ten Hag focuses on developing youth by gaining their trustCredit: Getty – Contributor
    The Dutchman has spoken of his lofty ambitions to manage a bigger club.
    And with Ajax now firmly established back as one of Europe’s big guns under Ten Hag, felt his work at the club was done.
    Now, the challenge of the Premier League awaits. Can he succeed where other Dutch coaches have failed? Time will tell. More

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    Man Utd’s incoming manager Erik ten Hag lives above supermarket, studies Guardiola’s teams and loves Van Gaal and Cruyff

    ERIK TEN HAG famously lives above a supermarket in Amsterdam, but the only shelf he stacked was his club’s trophy cabinet.The Ajax boss, 52, has been confirmed as Manchester United’s next manager – signing a three-year deal with the club.
    Erik ten Hag is Man Utd’s next managerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
    From next season, the Dutch tactician will be in the Old Trafford hot-seat – and is expected to be handed a £200million war chest to improve the fortunes of the Red Devils.
    The quiet thinker had a 13-year playing career in Holland, before he revived the glory days at Ajax with a vibrant young team.
    In 2019, with a side that featured homegrown talents like Frenkie de Jong, Matthijs de Ligt, Donny van de Beek and Hakim Ziyech, he reached a Champions League semi-final.
    Ten Hag, a keen golfer with a high-pitched voice, worked wonders given Ajax had not even competed in the knockout stages since 2005-06.
    Having already surpassed par, Ten Hag is becoming a Master. That’s why he was United’s hierarchy’s first choice.
    AJAX ICONS
    On the wall of his modest office at the club’s De Toekomst training ground hang photos of Johan Cruyff, Rinus Michels and Louis van Gaal.
    In an era when Ajax are surrounded by financially beefed up opponents, he has ensured the club have stayed competitive. This season, they were narrowly beaten by Benfica over two legs to exit the Champions League in the Round of 16 stage.
    So how has the former centre-back from a rural town in Twente transformed their fortunes?
    Ten Hag’s education in coaching goes some way to explain.
    In 2013, having spent his entire career in Holland, he moved abroad to work with the master of management.
    At Bayern Munich, Ten Hag cut his coaching teeth with the reserves while watching closely as Pep Guardiola revolutionised the German giants’ style.
    “Every day I get to work with him, I look forward to it. He inspires me,” he gushed.
    Ten Hag worked closely with Pep Guardiola for two years as Bayern Munich II’s managerCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola with his focus on attacking and attractive footballCredit: AFP or licensors
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most Read In Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}

    And his approach to training shows Ten Hag is a disciple of Guardiola, such is the obsession with detail.
    He has a particular focus on the character of a player.
    Ten Hag will note down how each individual responds to minor errors, losing the ball or committing a foul, and works out the mentality of his team to suit their opponent.
    Before being appointed at Ajax in 2017, these skills helped him guide Utrecht into the Europa League.DEVELOPING YOUTH
    Ten Hag suited Ajax due to his ability to nurture young talent into stars.
    Frenkie de Jong joined Barcelona in a deal worth £65million in 2019. Matthijs de Ligt joined Juventus for the same fee – boosting the club’s coffers.
    Ten Hag played a key role in the development of players like Memphis Depay, at PSV, and Marko Arnautovic, at FC Twente.
    He transformed Depay from a central midfielder to a wide position, with the coach’s focus constantly on attacking and attractive football.
    Yet, Ten Hag is also able to identify what his team needs.
    Among his youthful stars, are seasoned veterans including former Manchester United man Daley Blind and ex-Southampton midfielder Dusan Tadic.
    Both were brought in 2018 by Ten Hag to redress the team’s inexperience.
    Ten Hag’s first managerial job was with Dutch side Go Ahead EaglesCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Ten Hag rose to prominence in Holland by taking Utrecht to the Europa LeagueCredit: Rex Features
    Former defender Ten Hag focuses on developing youth by gaining their trustCredit: Getty – Contributor
    The Dutchman has spoken of his lofty ambitions to manage a bigger club.
    And with Ajax now firmly established back as one of Europe’s big guns under Ten Hag, felt his work at the club was done.
    Now, the challenge of the Premier League awaits. Can he succeed where other Dutch coaches have failed? Time will tell. More

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    Nine footballers who clashed with their own fans, after Cesar Azpilicueta rows with a Chelsea supporter

    CESAR AZPILICUETA couldn’t hide his anger when one Chelsea fan voiced their disappointment after Wednesday’s 4-2 loss to Arsenal.The Blues were on the receiving end of their third home defeat in a row, thanks to an Eddie Nketiah double.
    Cesar Azpilicueta rows with Chelsea fans after Blues lose to ArsenalCredit: Twitter

    After the game, the Spanish defender was seen having a row with a supporter in the stands after the final whistle.
    But Azpilicueta isn’t the first footballer to lose their cool with their own fans.
    Here’s nine more who couldn’t hide their anger when they were criticised.
    Bruno Fernandes
    Earlier this campaign, the Portuguese midfielder was seemingly miffed after his side capitulated 4-1 at Watford.
    Portuguese star Bruno Fernandes tells Man Utd fans to blame the players not ex-boss Ole Gunnar SolskjaerCredit: Getty
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Man Utd news .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Erik ten Hag ANNOUNCED as Man Utd manager, Dutchman signs three-year deal
    Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was given his marching orders after the defeat, but Bruno Fernandes was adamant he shouldn’t shoulder the blame for United’s slump.
    The playmaker gestured to the fans not to blame their gaffer, but instead look at the players, before he was escorted off the pitch by the Norwegian.
    Granit Xhaka
    Somehow, Granit Xhaka and his Arsenal career survived this rant. But, as he said, his relationship with the Gooners is definitely fractured.
    Granit Xhaka fell out with Arsenal fans who booed him off the pitchCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
    Things came to a head for the Swiss midfielder when he had an absolute stinker against Crystal Palace in 2019.
    The then Arsenal captain was taken off at the Emirates Stadium to a chorus of boos from the home fans.
    He waved his arms in the air in fury at the reaction, told the crowd to “f*** off” and threw his shirt to the ground before heading down the tunnel.
    As a result, he was stripped of the captaincy by Unai Emery.
    David Beckham
    It wasn’t David Beckham’s finest moment in a LA Galaxy shirt. But it showed he’s only human too.
    David Beckham calls out an LA Galaxy fan at the home Depot CenterCredit: PA:Press Association
    A section of home fans at the Home Depot Center jeered the England legend, after they felt he betrayed the club by joining AC Milan on loan back in 2009.
    Some were also peeved that in an interview he stated that Italian football had a better standard than the MLS.
    Beckham took his frustration out on one drunk fan, and had to be held back by security staff after jumping over the barriers.
    Later, he would defend his decision to go out on loan to enhance the possibility of playing for England.
    Micah Richards
    It’s hard to imagine anything would upset laugh-a-minute pundit Micah Richards.
    Micah Richards confronts angry Aston Villa fans after a winless runCredit: Offside Sports Photography
    But in 2016, after his side Aston Villa drew 2-2 at Wycombe in an FA Cup tie – extending a winless run to 10 – the away faithful voiced their displeasure with their team.
    As captain, Richards came over to irate supporters – with one having to be held back as he barked at the defender.
    But the ex-Man City star calmly told them where to go.
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    Francesco Totti & Daniele De Rossi
    In Roma’s history, very few players have given as much as Francesco Totti and Daniele De Rossi, who between them played 1,402 times for the club.
    Roma legend Daniele De Rossi hears his fans’ complaintsCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Following a home humbling to Fiorentina in 2015 that kicked them out of the Europa League, fans were fuming with their side.
    As leaders of the team, Totti and De Rossi approached the fences at the Stadio Olimpico that were being climbed on by the local tifosi remonstrating with their heroes.
    The pair just stood there as supporters unleashed their fury.
    Eric Dier
    Eric Dier was involved in a stunning altercation after an FA Cup tie between Tottenham and Norwich in 2020.
    Dier clambered into the standsCredit: PA
    The defender clambered into the West Stand to make his way up to a section of supporters before security intervened.
    Dier had spotted a Spurs supporter rowing with his brother and moved to intervene.
    Then manager Jose Mourinho said at the time: “I think Eric Dier did something that we professionals cannot do but in these circumstances every one of us would do.”
    Dier was charged with misconduct by the FA and given a four-match ban.
    Mats Hummels
    You wouldn’t pick a fight with German defender Mats Hummels, who stands at 6ft3in.
    Mats Hummels attempts to calm down Borussia Dortmund fans following a dismal runCredit: Getty
    So when Borussia Dortmund were on a horrific run in Jurgen Klopp’s last season in charge, Hummels and goalie Roman Weidenfeller attempted to relieve the tension in the air following a home defeat to 10-man Augsburg in 2015 by chatting with supporters.
    Weidenfeller climbed up the fence, and Hummels talked through it.
    Like at Roma, the angry scenes were headline news.
    Marcus Rashford
    Back in March, Rashford was vilified by Man Utd fans after they were dumped out of the Champions League.
    Marcus Rashford was filmed having an argument with Man Utd fans after their clash with Atletico MadridCredit: Twitter
    He was filmed confronting fans who took their anger out on him outside the ground after the game.
    Rashford appeared to make a gesture with his hand, but he denied that he raised his middle finger.
    Afterwards, he apologised on Twitter if he caused any offence. More

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    How Jack Grealish is becoming the next Beckham, signing with fashion brands like Gucci and becoming a pop culture icon

    LAST summer, the sight of Jack Grealish being welcomed onto the stage by Stormzy at the Leeds festival drew cheers from the young crowd at the sight of two of their heroes.Hours earlier, Man City’s faithful following had roared him on in a 5-0 rout of Arsenal at the Etihad.
    Jack Grealish has transcended the world of football and become a pop culture iconCredit: Getty
    Fashionable Grealish has inked a seven-figure deal with Gucci, according to reportsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/jackgrealish/
    But this was a different audience. One that knew Grealish as a pop culture figure and fashion icon, not a classy midfielder who can pick apart a defence with a pass.
    Dressed in a Balenciaga t-shirt, Gucci shorts, and bucket hat, he looked dashing and every inch the desirable footballer that’s the admiration of female fans.
    In that moment, it was clear the £100million signing had transcended the world of football – perhaps helped by universal praise received from starring with England in the Euros.
    The current poster boy of the game, Grealish is on his way to becoming the next David Beckham, who embraced bold choices and became a model for fashion houses like Armani.
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    Jack, himself, has reportedly landed a major sponsorship deal with Gucci – less than a year after boohooMAN gave him a six-figure sum for a clothing collaboration.
    There’s even an Instagram fan page that’s dedicated to identify what outfits he wears.
    Style council
    Hector Bellerin said it best when he described the current crop of footballers who dress to impress.
    He told Esquire: “This new generation have grown up fully in social media where aesthetic is important, so for them dressing cool and expressing themselves in that way is important.
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    “I feel they’re realising that they are allowed to do that, and just because they’re doing that doesn’t mean that they’re less of a footballer or more of something. it’s just the way they are.”
    Of course, footballers of the 1970s like George Best, Pele and the late Frank Worthington were in touch with modern trends.
    But today’s stars, on the whole, are conscious of what happens next, when a football career is over.
    David Beckham secured his future when he hung up his boots by embracing his good looks and combining that with modelling for the likes of Armani, H&M, Kent & Curwen and others.
    Through his savvy business choices and mega profile he still makes around £15million annually.
    And that’s the way Grealish is thinking. Like Beckham, he has shown he is not afraid to experiment with his clobber.
    Remember, Beckham famously brought sarongs back when he was off duty at France 98.
    Last year, on a night out with Love Island star Ellie Brown, Grealish was spotted in a pair of peach-hued trousers as they headed to Chinawhite nightclub in Manchester, drawing ridicule from some on social media.
    However, it was that openness that encouraged Gucci to make him their next ambassador – the first footballer to receive such an honour – following in the footsteps of Harry Styles and Hollywood star Jared Leto.
    He is said to being paid a seven-figure sum for the privilege.
    Grealish models some of his former boohooMAN rangeCredit: Tim Stewart
    Beckham modelled for Emporio ArmaniCredit: Handout
    A love of Gucci has seen the fashion brand approach Grealish to front the Italian brandCredit: Cavendish
    Grealish seen out and about in ManchesterCredit: Splash
    Before that, it was boohooMAN who threw a reported £250,000 at the former Aston Villa man to collaborate on designs for hoodies, t-shirts, oversized jumpers and more Grealish-like garments.
    Certainly, Grealish is the most talked about footballer when it comes to fashion since Beckham.
    Who he associates with
    Music plays a big part in the transformation of football god to pop culture phenomenon.
    Beckham dated and then married Spice Girl Victoria Adams, and was a big fan of the Manchester music scene – admitting his love for the Stone Roses dominated his youth days at Manchester United.
    He was even said to have helped the band reunite for live shows and was a regular at Oasis gigs through the 1990s.
    Whereas indie was the dominant music force in that era, today it’s British rappers that rule the airwaves.
    Grealish has fans in the genre and is name-checked by UK rap stars, including Stormzy who once sang the line, “Slide in the middle like Grealish” for the remix of his hit Sore.
    Grealish was spotted at the Leeds festival last summer with friendsCredit: SWNS
    Stormzy and Grealish pose backstage in the VIP areaCredit: Instagram.jackgrealish
    So it was fitting that the Brit Award winner would welcome Grealish on stage fleetingly during his headlining set at the Leeds festival, and the pair would embrace.
    Back in 2020, he also revealed his game day playlist, featuring tunes from Akon, Justin Bieber, Stormzy and fellow Birmingham boy Mist in an interview on Match of the Day.
    ‘Beautiful hair’
    Ever-changing haircuts made Beckham front-page news, from growing his mane long long to getting highlights, then shaving it off and even trying out a mohawk.
    There was a point in time where he donned an Alice band to hold it all in place.
    Grealish, too, adopted an Alice band for his hairdo, that’s now copied by kids in school playgrounds across the land.
    Back in February, he did try out a new haircut – visiting footballers’ favourite A Star Barbers for a trim, which went viral.
    After lockdown in 2020, he even wore his locks in plaits in training. Again, that made the news.
    Beckham wore an Alice band once upon a timeCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Grealish’s hairstyles have become the envy of men around the countryCredit: Getty
    When Grealish cut his hair back in February, images went viral onlineCredit: Instagram @astarbarbers
    During the Euros, Grealish was interviewed by Josh Denzel in the ‘Lions’ Den’ for the England team’s social media channels about his extensive hair routine.
    Shampoo and conditioner, check, apply Moroccan oil, check, wax, and then hold with hairspray.
    Like Beckham, Grealish wears No7 for the Three Lions.
    Don’t be surprised if the boy from Solihull, outshines his number-sake in years to come as football’s leading fashion star. More

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    Making of Erling Haaland, born to football star dad and heptathlon champion mum who became world’s hottest striker

    THIS summer, the scramble for Erling Haaland will reach fever pitch.The Norwegian hotshot, 21, is being chased by European giants Man City, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, as his £63million release clause kicks in this summer.
    Erling Haaland has reportedly agreed a deal with Man City worth £500,000Credit: Getty
    Haaland, centre, grew up in a sporting family with dad a footballer and mum a heptathleteCredit: Instagram@gabriellehaaland
    Recent reports suggest City have stolen the march on their rivals by agreeing a deal worth £500,000 for the towering centre-forward.
    Haaland was born in Leeds to a sport-mad family.
    His father, Alf-Inge famously played for Nottingham Forest, Leeds United and Manchester City, while his mum was a heptathlon champion in her homeland.
    Erling was raised in the town of Bryne from the age of three, where he discovered his own sporting prowess.
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    This is the making of Erling Haaland.
    Family ties
    The Haaland we recognise today is the powerhouse Borussia Dortmund goal-getter with an incredible scoring record.
    But before his 6ft4in frame was towering over defenders in the Bundesliga, he was just a football obsessed kid playing for fun with kids in the park.
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    His family, that includes elder siblings Astor and Gabrielle, moved to Bryne as dad Alf-Inge’s football career began to peter out.
    A hard-tackling midfielder, Haaland Sr spent 10 years on our shores – playing for Nottingham Forest, Leeds and finally Manchester City.
    He also earned 34 caps for his country, but he is best remembered for clashing with Roy Keane on the pitch.
    Keane famously committed a horror tackle on his adversary during a Manchester derby in 2001, which he admitted was done purposefully, after he felt Haaland had injured him on purpose in a previous encounter.
    Not much is known about mother, Gry Marita Braut’s achievements in the sports world.
    But in Norway she was recognised as a national champion heptathlete in the 1990s.
    Amusingly, Graeme Souness – who didn’t know that fact at the time – alluded to him taking after his mum, when it came to his football ability.
    “He’s always on the half turn, he’s not squared up looking at his own goal. He’s really pacey. He’s got that sixth sense that all the top strikers have,” Souness told Virgin Media, when purring about the talent.
    “He’s in the right place at the right time. He looks like he’s quicker than anyone, he’s bigger than anyone. He’s got a great chance of being a top man, hasn’t he?
    “His mother must have been a good player because his dad was a plodder.”
    Erling Haaland was the youngest of his siblings growing up
    Haaland, to the left of brother Astor, wore Man City kits because his dad played for them
    Dad Alf-Inge Haaland played on our shores for 10 years
    Sporting genes
    With athletes as parents, Erling had a very good chance of being sporty.
    Although he enjoyed playing football, he competed in a variety of sports up to the age of five.
    And incredibly, he still holds a world record for the longest standing jump ever recorded by a five-year-old, according to International Age Records.
    On January 22, 2006, he produced an astonishing leap of 1.63m and became the highest-jumping five-year-old in the world.
    Alf-Inge revealed he made sure his son would “test” himself in a whole host of sports before choosing football.
    Confirming the record, he told Norwegian newspaper Dagbladet: “It was before [Erling] started playing football.
    “We used to take him to athletics so he could test himself. Erling played handball, athletics and cross-country skiing till he turned 14. Norway’s handball manager wanted him to play handball.”
    He added: “I thought it was nice to play tennis and handball next door.
    “Versatility is important. You get to develop completely different sides of the body, and that can be positive no matter what you do.”
    A natural athlete, Haaland excelled at a variety of sports growing upCredit: Instagram
    Father Alf-Inge stressed to his son the importance of playing different sportsCredit: Instagram

    However, that same year Erling chose football and signed up with Bryne FK, where his father’s dreams started.
    Slowly, the natural sportsman would climb through the ranks, playing a year ahead of his age.
    “He always scored a lot,” Alf Ingve Berntsen, his coach at the time, told AFP.
    “When he was 12, he started playing with the 13-year-olds and kept scoring. When he was selected for the regional team, he scored again.
    “Then, when he was 15, he was called up to the (youth) national team and… he scored.
    “We saw quite quickly that he could become a very big name. But we didn’t think it would happen so quickly, that he would be a top scorer in the Champions League at the age of 19-20.”
    First team debut
    Growing up, Erling was light.
    However, a sudden growth spurt at 14 gave an indication he would become the hulk he is today.
    “He was very skinny but we knew his genetics were very good,” Berntsen told Sky Sports.
    “We had to be patient and give him time to grow. Imagine what this guy will do when he has muscles.”
    Bernsten added: “That is the good thing about growing late.
    FK Bryne were the first club to give Haaland a deal
    A slight teenager, Haaland filled out when he got older
    “He had a longer period to develop those technical skills. It is why you should not always look at what a player is doing on the pitch but what they are trying to do.
    “Sometimes, you see a player trying to do something good but their body is growing and does not respond.”
    Already a phenomenon, and streets ahead of everyone around him, Haaland was physically ready for his first-team debut.
    So, it came no surprise that three months before he turned 16 he made his debut for Bryne in Norway’s top division.
    He would play a further 16 times in his debut campaign. And although he failed to find the net, he left an impression on a Norwegian goalscoring legend.
    Molde-d into a prolific striker
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer fell in love with Haaland the moment he saw him play.
    In 2017, the Man Utd legend, who was coaching Molde in Norway, added the wonderkid to his squad.
    “It was just natural that a great talent like Erling would move to Molde,” former Norway hitman Jan Age Fjortoft said.
    “As many Norwegian talents had done before him. I think it was very inspiring for all talents to work closely with Ole Gunnar, because of what he had achieved as a player, but also because that success was based on hard work and great attitude.
    “It was also no disadvantage that Ole Gunnar was one of the best finishers around and strikers like Erling could learn from his experience every day.”
    In his first 20 games, he scored an unspectacular four goals.
    His mentor, Solskjaer worked with him. Then, Haaland went viral.
    Ole Gunnar Solskjaer mentored Haaland at MoldeCredit: Instagram @erling.haaland
    Romelu Lukaku-like striker Haaland was too good for Molde to keepCredit: Getty
    A stunning display against Brann in 2018 announced him to the world – where he scored four goals in the first 21 minutes, in front of Manchester United scout Norwegian scout Tommy Moller Nielsen.
    It was a moment that had Solskjaer purring he was similar one of the most feared strikers in world football.
    “He reminds me of the type of striker Lukaku is,” Solskjaer remarked. “There is a lot of interest in him.”
    Getting his wings
    Solskjaer understood he couldn’t keep Haaland at Molde.
    The club had rejected an offer from a Champions League-winning – reportedly Juventus.
    However, Red Bull Salzburg would pay £7million – beating Leeds United to the punch with the deal.
    He thrived under now-Leeds boss Jesse Marsch in Austria, especially on the biggest stage in the Champions League where he would make history.
    Haaland scored three goals on his debut against Genk, then followed that with a double against Liverpool at Anfield and two more against Napoli. The world knew who he was now.
    Further demonstration of his ruthless nature in front of goal was evident in a stunning 12-0 humiliation of Honduras in the U20 World Cup.
    He scored a world record nine goals in that demolition. It was no wonder by now that he was nicknamed ‘The Terminator’.
    Haaland receives congratulations from Jesse Marsch while playing for Red Bull SalzburgCredit: Reuters
    At the U20 World Cup, Haaland scored a world record nine timesCredit: Getty – Contributor
    After moving to Borussia Dortmund in 2019, Haaland’s goal record is second to noneCredit: AFP
    Dortmund to the unknown
    Haaland would only play 27 games for Salzburg in all competitions, netting an incredible 29 goals – including eight in the Champions League.
    German giants Borussia Dortmund just had to have him upfront, after seeing such luminaries as Robert Lewandowski and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang lead their line.
    They paid a meagre £18million for his services in 2019. Immediately, it appeared money well spent when he made a Roy of the Rovers style debut.
    Coming off the bench in the second half against FC Augsburg, he scored a hat-trick in just 23 minutes.
    And the goals have just flown in over the past three seasons.
    Across all competitions, he has scored 82 goals in just 85 games.
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