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      in Soccer

      Meet Arsenal talent Salah-Eddine Oulad M’Hand, who is Dutch youth international and battled back from broken ankle

      by

      BACK in March, former Hale End academy product Jack Wilshere was coy about who the future of Arsenal could be.He name-dropped Charlie Patino, who Gunners fans will be very aware of after he scored on his debut against Sunderland in the EFL Cup earlier in the campaign.
      Salah-Eddine Oulad M’hand of Arsenal could be the next off the conveyor belt at Hale End to star at the EmiratesCredit: Getty
      Ex-Arsenal star Jack Wilshere recently raved about Salah-Eddine Oulad M’handCredit: Getty
      But the former darling of the Emirates was adamant another top talent should get a mention.
      “I don’t want to tell you about a player who I think is really good then put pressure on him and it doesn’t work out,” Wilshere told the Evening Standard.
      “But there’s a few in the academy. The fans will watch the under-23’s and know about Charlie Patino, who got his chance.
      “But then there are other players out there, there’s a boy called Salah who is really good coming through. There’s a lot of players in that group who are technically very, very good.”
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      The Salah Wilshere referred to wasn’t the one that’s made his name at Anfield.
      He was talking about the brilliant box-to-box midfielder Salah-Eddine Oulad M’Hand, who has been lighting up Arsenal’s U23 side this season and is beginning to show the promise needed to follow the likes of Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka into the first team.
      Shaking off injury
      The Dutch youth international, 18, moved to North London in 2020, after he was released by Feyenoord
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      But his first year at the club was blighted by injury.
      A fracture near his ankle ruled him out from September 2020, all the way through to late August 2021.
      When he returned to the fold, there were doubts whether he would be at the same level. Arguably, though, he’s been better.
      Salah has played 21 games in all competitions, including the Premier League 2 and the EFL Trophy, and scored six times.
      There have been some memorable goals too.
      The teenager scored an absolute screamer against Man City, assisted a goal against Man Utd, and forced a Chelsea player into an own goal. Salah has made up for lost time.
      Since returning from injury, Salah-Eddine Oulad M’hand has grown for Arsenal U23sCredit: Getty

      A box-to-box midfielder, Salah-Eddine Oulad M’hand has six goals this campaignCredit: Getty
      First team introduction
      It’s common practice now at London Colney to see Arsenal’s stars of tomorrow training with the first team and Mikel Arteta, a manager who is keen to promote from within.
      Salah has been mixing it up with the current stars and has impressed the Spaniard.
      Back in November, to encourage and reward the kid, Arteta included him in the squad for a last-16 EFL Cup clash with Leeds Utd.
      Although he didn’t get a game, the boss explained his reasons for naming him in the 20.
      Salah-Eddine Oulad M’hand has regularly joined Arsenal first team stars in trainingCredit: Getty
      Granit Xhaka tussles with Salah-Eddine Oulad M’handCredit: Getty
      Arsenal were “rewarding him – for what he does every day in training and the games that he’s playing, for his attitude and the quality he has – he totally deserves to be with us”.
      In the years to come, that steely determination, hard-working nature, and ability might be enough to see him prosper in the first team as a regular starter. More

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal target Victor Osimhen’s tragic story, from losing mum as a child to selling water in the street before stardom

      by

      IN-DEMAND striker Victor Osimhen has rocketed to the top – thanks to his supreme ability in front of goal and determination to succeed.The Nigerian, 23, is enjoying a brilliant campaign at Napoli, where he has scored 16 goals in 28 games in all competitions alerting Premier League giants Arsenal, who have been linked with a £70million move.
      Victor Osimhen’a path to football stardom has been hardCredit: Reuters
      As a kid, Osimhen endured a tough upbringing in Lagos, NigeriaCredit: INSTAGRAM
      But his path to football stardom hasn’t been an easy one.
      Growing up in Lagos, he was left reeling by the death of his beloved mother when he was a small child.
      When his father lost his job, Victor and his five siblings were forced onto the streets to help the family make ends meet.
      The aspiring footballer, who worshipped Didier Drogba and lived in a Chelsea shirt as a teen, would stand in busy traffic selling bottles of water to drivers.

      Osimhen was so young when his mum died, he can only remember the month, not the year.
      Back in 2019, he told France Football: “I lost my mom in October, I do not even remember the year. I was small. Three months later, my father lost his job. It was very hard for our family.
      “My brother sold sports newspapers, my sister (sold) oranges in the street and me, bottled water in Lagos in the middle of the traffic.
      “We had to survive so we stuck together. In the evening, we were all together and we gathered the money on the table. We gave everything to our big sister and she made food and organised everything.
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nightmare as son battled leukaemia, says Lineker
      “Part of my life has been a struggle to survive. But that’s all I am today in the end. It’s hard to classify all that but each event has created my personality.”
      Early struggles
      Osimhen’s upbringing couldn’t have been more different to many of his contemporaries.
      He hustled in Olusosun to find ways of living and paying for his education.
      To save money on clothing, he would regularly pay a trip to Africa’s largest waste dump in search of Nike trainers.
      “Where I grew up, people live on the other side of an open dump,” he revealed.
      “With my friends, we went there every Friday or Sunday to find shoes. We stayed there a long time. It was funny! We saw it as a game but when you think about it … It was always a fight.
      “Sometimes you see, you found yourself with a Nike on the right foot and then you start looking for the other foot … And finally, you find the left foot and it’s a Reebok! My sister patched everything up and it was good. It was survival.”
      For Osimhen, family means everything including sister BlessingCredit: INSTAGRAM
      As a youngster, Osimhen would visit this dump and look for footwearCredit: Reuters

      Watching Premier League football, especially Chelsea, gave Osimhen an escape and a dream.
      Often wearing a Blues shirt, his older brother Andrew would take him to a viewing centre where the local community would gather round a TV set to watch all the action.
      Osimhen would soon find himself training with the Lagos-based side Ultimate Strikers Academy, aptly named in this case for producing one of Africa’s current finest.
      It would set him up for a remarkable explosion at youth level that alerted Europe’s top clubs.
      In 2015, aged just 15, he was invited by former Barcelona winger Emmanuel Amunike to train with Nigeria’s U17s.
      Already offering bags of pace and a strong physique, Amunike wasn’t afraid to throw Osimhen into the deep end.
      After helping his country quality for the U17 World, he led Nigeria’s forward line – with some style too – in Chile.
      The Super Eagles would win the competition, and Osimhen would finish as top scorer with 10 goals.
      He would also win the Silver Ball for the best player of the tournament.
      Golden Boot and Silver Ball winner Victor Osimhen, right, poses with his trophies after the FIFA U-17 World Cup Chile 2015 FinalCredit: Getty
      Osimhen’s goalscoring exploits alerted Europe’s top clubsCredit: Getty
      Bundesliga awaits
      After witnessing a star being born, Europe’s top clubs showed an interest in Osimhen.
      Arsenal, Man City and Spurs all wanted him. But the talent chose a move to Germany, after Wolfsburg struck up a partnership with Ultimate Strikers Academy.
      He admitted money played a big part, as he chose the highest offer on the table.
      But it wasn’t because of greed. Osimhen was desperate to provide, once again, for his family and help set them up.
      “When I signed in Wolfsburg, I didn’t buy anything for myself with my bonus. I immediately bought a house in Lagos for my father,” he said.
      “I gave money to my brothers and sisters, and today, everyone is okay in their businesses. It makes me happy to know that they have enough to eat.
      “They always help me and it is normal I want to change their lives.”
      Osimhen returns to his roots to give back to the community he grew up inCredit: INSTAGRAM
      Making his name in France
      Osimhen struggled for game time in Germany, with injuries and a bout of malaria affecting his form.
      He was subsequently loaned out to Belgium side Charleroi, with an option for a permanent transfer included in the deal in 2018.
      The move would ignite his career at club level – as he blasted 20 goals in 36 games in his only season with the club.
      They did exercise their right to sign Osimhen at the end of the campaign for just £3m.
      But smelling a quick profit, a month later he was sold to Lille for £20m as a replacement for Nicolas Pepe, who joined Arsenal.
      Osimhen just got better and better. He scored twice on his debut in a 2-1 win over Nantes, netted his first Champions League goal against his beloved Chelsea, and was Lille’s top scorer with 18 goals in all competitions.
      Osimhen became an instant hit at Lille and in FranceCredit: Getty
      In his first and only season, Osimhen scored 18 goals to finish top scorerCredit: AFP or licensors
      Serie A star
      Within one season, Napoli didn’t need much convincing that Osimhen was the man who could bring the glory days back to the club.
      They splashed a record £70million on the forward, making him the most-expensive African footballer of all-time in 2020.
      The move, though, was tinged with some sadness for Osimhen, who couldn’t forget his roots.
      A few months prior to completing the deal, he lost his beloved father Patrick, who had managed the early stages of his son’s career.
      For Osimhen, it was sad his parents weren’t around to witness his amazing achievement.
      But, he shared a poignant message to his followers on Twitter after the move was completed.
      “Mom and dad are proud for sure,” he wrote. You can bet they are with the role model Osimhen has become.
      Napoli parted with £70m for Osimhen – making him Africa’s most expensive footballerCredit: Getty
      Mom and dad are proud for sure❤️ 🕊— victor osimhen (@victorosimhen9) July 31, 2020

      Osimhen’s success story is tinged with sadness – with his mum and dad failing to see his proudest momentCredit: INSTAGRAM More

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      in Boxing

      Inside mansion rented by Tyson Fury for £1,200 a night for Whyte fight with giant TV screen over the indoor pool

      by

      TYSON FURY and his family celebrated in style after the Gypsy King defeated Dillian Whyte in a stunning rental home that costs £1,200-per-night.The boxer, 33, and his entourage made a leafy village in Hertfordshire their base as the heavyweight champion dismantled the Body Snatcher in seven rounds with a vicious uppercut at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.
      Tyson Fury rented a stunning home ahead of his fight with Dillian Whyte that boasted an indoor pool with a cinema quality projection screenCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      Heavyweight star Fury paid £1,200-per-night to stay at the luxury abodeCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      Fury celebrates defeating Dillian Whyte at Wembley StadiumCredit: Getty
      And they chose a stunning mansion in a charming rural hamlet that can house 10 guests and features six bedrooms and six en-suite bedrooms.
      If it is a place where Fury toasts his retirement, they couldn’t have found anywhere better.
      Amazing facilities
      The 6,200 square-foot property, which is available to rent on Airbnb, is a private gated residence.
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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-xpuujo{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-tqcu81{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(149,199,208,1);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-bq4915{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,97,108,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The 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      It’s centrepiece is an incredible leisure complex complete with a indoor pool, gym, and sauna.
      Draped from a high-beam high above the swimming pool is a large cinema quality projection screen.
      Perhaps ideal for Fury to watch back the highlights of his demolition job on Whyte.
      The fully-equipped gym would have allowed Fury to continue some strength and conditioning work, if he didn’t fancy a day off.
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      And the sauna must have offered perfect relaxation after hard night’s work in the ring.
      Luxury inside
      While Fury’s kids would have enjoyed the pool, Paris and Tyson will have certainly appreciated the home’s grand entrance.
      On walking into the abode, a beautiful sweeping staircase dominates the hall.
      Beamed ceilings feature throughout, as well as various period designs fit for the king of the ring.
      Four versatile reception rooms can be used for dining, or as a drawing room and breakfast room and bar.
      The property has six large bedroomsCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      Each bedroom has its own en-suiteCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      The dining room was perfect for the Fury clan to useCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      A pool table would have entertained the guestsCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      The grand entrance features a beautiful sweeping staircase in the hallCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      The large kitchen boasts a double-height vaulted ceiling, and plenty of space to prepare a family meal.
      While a pool table in a games room allows Fury and his clan to enjoy yet another activity.
      Should Tyson and Paris venture outside, they will also find a charming wrap-around garden and a pretty pond.
      Making themselves at home
      On Sunday morning, Fury headed to the nearby The Three Horseshoes Pub in the village of Letchmore Heath, Herts, after he was spotted going for a run in the morning.
      Wearing matching Versace outfits with his kids, Fury posed with locals — even cuddling a baby — before nipping inside for a “breakfast of champions” ­ — tucking into pancakes, bacon and fruit.
      Fury’s boxing brother Tommy, 22, and his Love Island girlfriend Molly-Mae Hague, 22, were also in attendance, with Tyson’s trainer SugarHill Steward, who was carrying a whiskey bottle.
      A local said: “It looks like his team were renting a house round here because after his run he reappeared in a jazzy suit sipping a low-calorie beer.
      The large kitchen has a double-height vaulted ceiling,Credit: Godfrey & Barr
      Another lounge area is tastefully decoratedCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      Beams appear throughout the lavish mansionCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      The lavish gardens offer tranquilityCredit: Godfrey & Barr
      Fury and his children pose for a snap in matching Versace clothes on SundayCredit: Instagram @parisfury1
      “Then he even had fruit for breakfast. It all looks to me like this is a man who hasn’t yet completely made up his mind to retire. He seems to be committed to staying in shape.”
      The manager at the Three Horseshoes said: “We don’t actually serve breakfast — but obviously the chef was happy to sort it out for Tyson and his family.
      “We’ve just been refurbished, so it was brilliant having him in here.” More

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      in Soccer

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

      by

      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

      by

      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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      in Soccer

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

      by

      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.
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      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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      in Soccer

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

      by

      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

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

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

      by

      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