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    ‘Somebody will go to sleep’ – Francis Ngannou calls out former heavyweight boxing king as he reveals next career move

    FRANCIS NGANNOU is ready to return to boxing and has his eyes on a lucrative bout with a former heavyweight champ.Ngannou, 38, dipped his toes into boxing for the first time in 2023, when he pushed Tyson Fury to his limits in a controversial split decision defeat.Francis Ngannou has revealed who he wants to fight nextCredit: ReutersNgannou had a stunning boxing debut as he pushed Tyson Fury to his limits in 2023Credit: GettyThe crossover fight left the boxing world stunned with many fans and experts feeling Ngannou had actually beaten the Gypsy King.That set up another sensational bout with Anthony Joshua, a fight that didn’t follow the same trend and instead saw Ngannou knocked around the ring by AJ in a second round KO.But after almost a year out of the sport and a brief return to MMA, Ngannou is ready to glove up and return to the boxing ring.And the Predator has found his next prey, setting his sights on a head-to-head with Deontay Wilder.READ MORE IN BOXINGSpeaking to Sportsbook Review, Ngannou teased the heavyweight fight that would see two of combat sports’ heaviest hitters come to blows.He said: “I will do boxing next, [I’m passionate about fighting Deontay Wilder] because there’s an 80 per cent chance that somebody will go to sleep. It will be one or the other.”Maybe not in his past two fights, but Deontay Wilder is known as a guy that knocks everybody out or tries to knock you out.”I’m going against that guy, and I myself can knock someone out. Deep inside me there is a little bit of ego, like I know I hit harder.Most read in BoxingNgannou wants to fight Deontay WilderCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I’m saying from my experience that we will have that ego that we both want to prove ‘no, it’s me [who hits harder].”Who is the biggest hitter between you and Deontay? Those sorts of conversations are popping around a little bit and even though you think you don’t care about it, it sticks somewhere in your mind.”Derek Chisora spotted with horror swollen eye after brutal Otto Wallin fight as he meets up with Nigel Farage The pair have already been rumoured to be in negotiations over a two-fight deal, in what would be an exciting bout.Wilder hasn’t fought since June when he was beaten by Zhilei Zhang in Riyadh.In fact the Bronze Bomber is down on confidence in the ring, winning just one of his last five fights since February 2020.Wilder, who held the WBC heavyweight title from 2015 until 2020, would bring huge commercial value to the fight that would likely line both fighter’s pockets with a pretty penny for their efforts. More

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    Man Utd name seven academy teenagers on bench for Spurs clash as injury crisis forces Ruben Amorim into shock line-up

    MANCHESTER UNITED have been forced to name seven academy teenagers on their bench for their clash with Tottenham today amid their horror injury crisis.The Red Devils currently have 11 first team stars out injured and Ruben Amorim has been forced into some uncomfortable decisions ahead of a huge visit to face Spurs.Ruben Amorim has taken seven teenagers to London as part of his travelling squad for Man Utd’s clash with SpursCredit: RexInjury to Amad Diallo has taken United’s injury crisis to another level, with 11 first team players now outCredit: GettyAmad Diallo became the latest big name to find himself sidelined after suffering an ankle ligament injury – with fears the winger could miss the remainder of the season.Kobbie Mainoo is also out of action with a muscle strain, while fellow holders Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer are both major doubts.Elsewhere Mason Mount, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof all remain out of action.As a result, Amorim will now have to turn to youth with the struggling boss taking seven teenagers in his travelling squad to North London.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSekou Kone, Harry Amass, Jack Moorhouse, Elyh Harrison, Jack Fletcher, 17 , who is the son of United legend Darren, defender Tyler Fredricson, 19, and Chido Obi have all travelled with the first team for the Premier League fixture.None of those youth stars have made their professional debut for United yet and would be thrown in at the deep end if they were given the nod by Amorim this afternoon.United fans have been calling for Chido Obi, 17, to get a chance in the first team given his stunning goalscoring form in the youth leagues.The Danish teenager, who signed for United from Arsenal this summer, has scored 37 goals in 24 U18 Premier League appearances over the last two seasons.Most read in FootballUnited fans have been calling for youth goalscoring machine Chido Obi to get a chanceCredit: GettyHarry Amass impressed during United’s pre-season tourCredit: GettyMan Utd injuries for Spurs clash11 stars set to miss out:Lisandro MartinezKobbie MainooAmad DialloManuel UgarteToby CollyerAltay BayindirJonny EvansVictor LindelofTom HeatonMason MountBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWhile left-back Harry Amass, 17, caught the eye of United fans for his performances in the club’s pre-season fixtures this summer.Amass, who represents England at U18 level, was thought to be highly rated by previous boss Erik ten Hag, who regularly asked him to train with the first team.‘He’s perfect for Man Utd’ – Neville begs Amorim to re-sign flop strikerMidfielder Jack Moorhouse, 19, is another highly rated star and even had Amorim personally watch his performance during a 5-1 win over Southampton in December alongside Darren Fletcher and Jason Wilcox.Fellow midfield talent Sekou Kone has a different story to the rest with United splashing £1million on the 19-year-old this summer in a deal with Guidars FC in his homeland of Mali.And goalkeeper Elyh Harrison, who spent the first half of the season on loan at Chester, will provide back-up should there be any more injuries to shot-stoppers, given the absences of Tom Heaton and Altay Bayindir already.It’s unlikely that any of the teenagers will start, but fans could see a few of them thrown on to the bench and potentially getting some minutes depending on the state of play.Amorim’s opposite number, Ange Postecoglou, has given more minutes to teenagers than any other Premier League boss this term due to Spurs’ own injury crisis.Kids Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall have emerged as regular first team starters as a result.For Amorim, it’s more likely that the youngsters will start on the bench with the Old Trafford head honcho expected to play Andre Onana in goal with a back five of Patrick Dorgu, Diogo Dalot, Leny Yoro, Mathijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui in front of him.That defensive line would be complimented by a midfield pairing of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen.While Joshua Zirkzee, Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes would make up the attack for Amorim.Should he want to squeeze one of the kids in, then fans would be most excited to see youth bagsman Obi given his opportunity to shine in the Premier League.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat decision would probably see Fernandes drop into a deeper role and Obi play as part of the front three instead.While both Rasmus Hojlund and Harry Maguire could be chosen to return to the line-up.Gaolkeeper Elyh Harrison will provide cover for Andre OnanaCredit: PAJack Moorhouse has been personally watched by Ruben Amorim at youth levelCredit: RexUnited spent £1m on Sekou Kone in the summerCredit: Alamy More

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    ‘Top pro’ – Watch Blackburn ace appear to troll Plymouth bench after scoring vs old side before bizarre excuse for cele

    ADAM FORSHAW appeared to brutally troll Plymouth Argyle after coming back to haunt his former club.The Blackburn Rovers midfielder netted the opening goal against the Pilgrims at Ewood Park on Saturday – having only left them last month.Adam Forshaw celebrated in front of the Plymouth bench after scoringCredit: RexHe was joined by his team-matesCredit: GettyThe midfielder ran off in celebration and stood in front of the away side’s bench with his arms pointing to the sky.Plymouth manager Miron Muslic appeared unimpressed with Forshaw’s antics as he stood with his hands in his pockets.Tyrhys Dolan netted Rovers’ second goal of the game in the 78th minute to wrap up the win.Forshaw was on Plymouth’s books as recently as January 11 when his contract was terminated.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFans loved the moment as they reacted on social media.One posted: “First goal after nine years, and this is how he celebrates.”A second commented: “Hahaha top pro.”A third wrote: “Like that was never written in the stars.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA fourth said: “Absolutely nailed on.”Another added: “Should’ve put money on that.”Former Championship star now a train driver in ‘new career to last the rest of my life’ He was released by Plymouth in JanuaryCredit: GettyForshaw took to social media after the game to explain his celebration.His bizarre excuse claimed that he was running towards his family.He wrote: “No bad intentions with the celebration and sorry for how it came across.”The family were sat behind the benches.”Muslic also spoke about Forshaw’s celebration after the game.He said: “I have nothing but respect for Forshaw because he explained that behind us was his family, his sons.”I respect that and if I had scored that beautiful goal, I would go to my family celebrating.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He is a top professional and there is nothing but respect.”He told me this and for me, the story was done in a millisecond. We hugged each other and moved on.” More

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    ‘Weirdest games ever’ – Troy Deeney in shock after Bournemouth ace Justin Kuivert’s half-time gesture to Southampton fan

    TROY DEENEY labelled Southampton’s defeat to Bournemouth as one of the “weirdest games ever”.The former Premier League star was covering the match and left baffled after seeing Justin Kluivert’s gesture to a Saints fan at half-time.Troy Deeney was left baffled during Southampton vs BournemouthCredit: RexJustin Kluivert apparently gave his shirt to a Southampton fan at half-timeCredit: RexA fan was spotted appearing to show off the shirtCredit: XAndoni Iraola’s side romped into a 2-0 lead with two goals in two first-half minutes from Dango Ouattara and Ryan Christie.The second goal was set up by Kluivert as he assisted Christie before the shot.But it was the Dutchman’s actions after the half-time whistle that caught Deeney’s attention.The Cherries star could be seen giving his shirt to a supporter in the home end as he walked down the tunnel at the break.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt left Deeney baffled as he reported on the match.He said on talkSPORT: “Bournemouth haven’t even got to a point yet where it feels like they’re about to take the handbrake off.”Any little ball around the corner and a one-two, they’re in. And Southampton cannot keep up making these last-ditch tackles.”I’ve counted five so far on my notes where it’s a last-ditch tackle. If they get that wrong either, they’re going through on goal 1v1 Bournemouth.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Otherwise, a player’s being sent off. And it just cannot happen the way that it is.”So to sum it up and put it all into a nice ribbon, we’ve just seen Kluivert, a Bournemouth player, go and give his shirt to a Southampton fan at half-time. And everyone was cheering.Cult hero Ian Holloway spent four years out of football enjoying his hobby as a painter “It’s one of the weirdest games of football I’ve ever been at in my life.”I think that’s what you would call a heads-gone.”Fans have reacted to the moment on social media with some home supporters claiming that the fan was a Cherry who had snuck into the Saints’ end.One posted: “Must be a Bournemouth supporter.”A second wrote: “Whoever asked for the Kluivert shirt at half time…. Absolute disgrace.”A third commented: “Grown man begging for an opposition shirt at halftime, in Saints end ughhhh.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSouthampton did get back into the game in the second half as Kamaldeen Sulemana netted his first Premier League goal of the season.However, hopes of a comeback were halted when Marcus Tavernier netted Bournemouth’s third of the match. More

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    Champions League winning Porto legend Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa dies aged 87 as Jose Mourinho leads tributes

    PORTO legend Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa has passed away aged 87.The former club president led the club to 69 titles during his tenure, including the Champions League in 2004.Porto’s former president Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa has passed awayCredit: AFPPorto won 69 titles under Da CostaCredit: AFPJose Mourinho has led tributes on social mediaCredit: GettyDa Costa left his role at Porto in May 2024 and was succeeded by former Chelsea manager Andre Villas Boas.But it was another former Blues boss who led tributes on social media.Jose Mourinho took to Instagram to post a touching statement about his old employer.He wrote: “‘Mourinho, you were the coach who brought me the greatest joys’.READ MORE ON SPORT”Those were your words, Mr. President.”My words are: ‘I feel a tremendous honor to be part of your history and I will always be grateful for your trust and the influence you had on my career.'”This is how we said our goodbyes last summer in your beloved city.”The smile from the first day and the joy of the last time we were together.”Most read in FootballFormer Porto manager Sergio Conceicao took the news very hard after AC Milan’s win over Hellas Verona.He was due to face the media after the victory at the San Siro but was to “shaken” to do so.Watch Jose Mourinho slap Fenerbahce translator after comical ‘toilet’ mistake during press conference Sergio Conceicao was too sad to speak to the mediaCredit: GettyHe worked with Da Costa during his time as Porto managerCredit: GettyThis was confirmed by club adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who spoke to the press instead.He said: “I am here because the coach is in the locker room.”He is very shaken at the death of the Porto president, who was like a father to him. So I am here.”Porto fans also paid tribute to the club legend by gathering outside the Estadio do Dragao Stadium.They could be heard chanting songs after the news of the former president’s death.A huge tifo with Da Costa’s picture was hung from a nearby bridge and surrounded by flairs.Former Newcastle defender Chancel Mbemba also shared a tribute for Da Costa on his X account.He joined the Portuguese giants back in 2018 after three years on Tyneside.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe wrote: “Rest in peace President Pinto Da Costa, I am grateful for the chance you gave me to join the great club of FC Porto.”My sincere condolences to the relatives and to the whole great family of the Portistas.”Porto statement on Jorge Nuno Pinto da CostaPorto released a statement after the death of former club president Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa…It read: “The departure of the President of Presidents leaves Futebol Clube do Porto orphaned of its greatest figure, the main organiser of great victories and the person most responsible for building an unmistakable identity and legacy.”Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa will live on forever in the memory and hearts of all Porto fans.”Between 23 April 1982 and 7 May 2024, the biggest club in the North became the best club in Portugal and grew from local and regional to European and world level.”Without ever forgetting its roots, FC Porto grew with the city and the city grew with FC Porto.”The club has more than 131 years of history, but there is a before and after Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa.”Since then everything has changed.”Jorge Nuno Pinto da Costa transformed FC Porto the Portuguese club with the most official titles by lifting 23 championships, 22 Super Cups, 15 Portuguese Cups, two Intercontinental Cups, a European Champion Clubs’ Cup, Champions League, a UEFA Cup and a Europa League, a European Super Cup and a League Cup.” More

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    ‘There is no easy game as every team is getting closer to each other’, says Tottenham’s Luana Buhler 

    LUANA BUHLER has no qualms about overcoming big obstacles in football – having battled back from two serious knee injuries in her teens. Today the versatile Switzerland defender, 28, wants Tottenham to pull off the big challenge of dispatching Arsenal in their WSL derby duel.Luana Buhler hopes Tottenham can defeat Arsenal for the first time at the Emirates in a WSL derbyBuhler and her team-mates hope to return to winning ways following a narrow 1-0 loss to Man United last time outCredit: GettyIt was at the age of 15 playing with Swiss boys team FC Schotz, and then at 19 in for women’s side FC Zurich, that Buhler suffered anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures. For Buhler, who began her senior playing career at FC Zürich in 2016, having the support of family and friends and the determination to come back stronger to fulfil her football dream was key. The 54-capped Switzerland, who spent five years at German side Hoffenheim before her 2023 Tottenham move said: “The first injury was (sustained whilst playing) with a boys’ team. “It was at an age where you grow a lot as a girl but maybe don’t have the support yet that was needed back then. Read More Football Stories “At that time, the support with athletic coaches, even strength training, wasn’t even a topic yet, so I think that was something that was also caused a little bit by the circumstances. “With my second one (ACL injury) I was quite lucky with the medical staff and everything around being developed much better. “I was in a women’s environment already (at FC Zurich) and there I had more professional help during my rehab“That also helped me to come back in a better state and quite strong. Most read in Football“When you have an injury that big, all you just want to do is come back and play again. “I was quite young when those injuries came. “It was probably one of the toughest times during my career. It challenged me emotionally and physically.“But these were also the times where I would learn the most about being patient and showing resilience.”Resilience is something that Buhler and her Tottenham team-mates have had to rely on at times this season since losing their last derby clash with Arsenal. Following that 3-0 home loss last November her side, who are sixth in the WSL, have won five and drawn one of their last nine games across all competitions. Buhler sees this term as one of ups and downs for Robert Vilhamn’s aces who are yet to beat the Gunners away in the top tier. But the defender is confident Tottenham can give Arsenal a run for their money at the Emirates this afternoon, having beaten them for the first time in a top-flight duel in December 2023. She adds: “We could see when we won our first (WSL) game against Arsenal, that the gap is, in my opinion, closing (in these games). “There’s no easy game anymore because every team is getting closer to each other. “We want to challenge them as much as we can.”Today’s 12:30pm clash could see Buhler, who was born in Lucerne, central Switzerland, battle her national team-mate Lia Walti. Like Buhler, the tenacious midfielder played in Germany’s top-flight for Turbine Potsdam before making a move to the WSL and joining Arsenal in 2018. Since then Walti has won three trophies with the Gunners, who are third in the league including a WSL title back in 2019. Buhler said: “Lia is a really great player and also a leader for us in the national team. “As a team we are really lucky to have her. On the other hand she’s a tough player to play against. “There are so many good individual players at Arsenal who will challenge us as a team. “I’m really looking forward to it because it’s the greatest thing to go against the best players in Europe.”Prior to joining Tottenham Buhler, who is studying for a masters degree in business, has experienced playing in the Champions League with her former clubs FC Zurich and Hoffenheim. And long with Walti the Tottenham ace is looking forward to making history with her national team, when Switzerland hosts the Women’s Euros for the first time this year. Her side, currently ranked as the 23rd best side in the world, will take on Norway in their group stage opener on July 2 in Basel. And Buhler hopes the tournament will lead to greater support for girls’ grassroots teams in her country and improving the infrastructure of the women’s game there. The Switzerland international said: “We’re still a little bit behind in the whole development of infrastructure and grassroots teams. “I hope this can give a real boost to women’s football and sports in general for girls and women in Switzerland. “There are not enough opportunities for girls in comparison to the boys. “There is, on basic levels, infrastructure missing and even teams are missing. Tottenham hope to produce a repeat of the performance that led to their 1-0 defeat of Arsenal in the top tier in December 2023Credit: Sunday Times“I know from girls in my hometown that they still struggle to find a (football) team with whom they can participate.READ MORE SUN STORIES“That’s one of the first things we need to change, to have those infrastructures for all the boys and girls at the same level.“I would like to see more visibility of women’s football in general.” More

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    Kyle Walker hauled off at HALF-TIME for AC Milan then watches replacement set up winner vs Verona

    KYLE WALKER was hauled off at HALF-TIME during AC Milan’s clash with Hellas Verona.The defender joined the Italian giants on loan during the January transfer window.Kyle Walker was subbed off after 45 minutes against VeronaCredit: GettyHe joined AC Milan on loan in JanuaryCredit: ReutersHis replacement Alex Jimenez (left) helped set up the winning goalCredit: GettyWalker, 34, would have been hoping that a switch to Italy would help him find his form after early season struggles in the Premier League.He has thus far made five appearances for AC Milan, with his latest coming in Serie A.Milan faced 15th-placed Verona at the San Siro on Saturday night, but Walker did not make it past the break.The Englishman was hauled off at half-time by manager Sergio Conceicao.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe former Porto boss replaced Walker with Alex Jimenez, who went on to help set up the winning goal for the hosts.The Spanish full-back played in a delicate chipped pass into the Verona box, which was cleverly flicked on by Rafael Leao and finished off by Santiago Gimenez.Conceicao did not explain his decision to replace Walker after the game, as he did not attend any media duties.The manager instead sent club advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic in his place.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThe reason behind this was due to the death of Porto president Pinto da Costa on Saturday.The Swede said: “I am here because the coach is in the locker room.Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner set to get £750k to star in Celeb Big Brother – but only if bosses agree to strict ruleSergio Conceicao has won eight of his 13 matches at MilanCredit: AP”He is very shaken at the death of the Porto president, who was like a father to him. So I am here.”Meanwhile, Walker’s substitution appeared to be more tactical as Milan were pressing for the win.The defender saw plenty of the ball and won all five of his duels, and even helped in the attack with four crosses.He did not concede a single foul and only misplaced two passes during the first half.Conceicao’s decision could have also come with an eye on the club’s Champions League clash against Feyenoord on Tuesday.The seven-time winners must come back from a first-leg 1-0 defeat to progress past the Dutch team.Walker was run ragged in the first game as he struggled to contain Brazilian winger Igor Paixao. More

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    Harry Redknapp: I would choose to boss this Spurs side over Man Utd EVERY time – and I’d make young starlet my captain

    WHEREVER that old saying about the darkest nights making the brightest stars comes from, it certainly isn’t Tottenham.But if you had to pin it to a Premier League club, it’d be Ange Postecoglou’s side every day of the week.I would much rather manage this Tottenham squad over Man UtdCredit: Darren FletcherAnge Postecoglou has so many stars in his squad but is being let down by injuriesCredit: GettyRuben Amorim is the right man to turn around Man Utd but it will take years to get the right playersCredit: GettyAnge would probably be glad of it, to be honest, as there’s been little else to light up the place this season.Last summer, the thought that today’s game against Manchester United would be a meeting of two mid-table teams was unbelievable. But that’s exactly what it is.I do think Ruben Amorim is the right man to turn United around but there is so much work that it will take years.If I had the choice of who I’d like to manage, it is Spurs every time as Postecoglou has so many stars in his squad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it doesn’t count for much when they’re in the treatment room rather than the dressing room — and loads are.At times Postecoglou has been without a whole team of injured players, which is where that stuff about dark nights and bright stars comes in.And with so many key men missing, Ange has had to rely on some of his kids at a time he needs players AND leaders.But in Archie Gray he has a young man who ticks both boxes despite only making his full Premier League debut in December. And if everyone was available he may still be waiting.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSGray’s dad Andy had a long playing career, his grandad Frank is a Leeds legend, and his uncle Eddie an all-time great.So although he’s only 18, Archie has had more experience of football life than many senior players before he joined Spurs from Leeds last year.Ruben Amorim admits he and Man Utd players ALL fighting for their jobs between now and the end of the seasonAnd while all the lads who’ve been thrown in have done well, Gray has been an absolute diamond — and I have to say it doesn’t surprise me.Everything I’ve seen about him has been positive from day one, wherever he’s played, which is three different defensive positions and midfield already.The way the teenager strolls around at the back reminds me of Franz Beckenbauer or Alan Hansen, which is some comparison.I’m not saying he will ever be that good, of course, as not many got within a mile of those two legends.Last summer, the thought that today’s game against Manchester United would be a meeting of two mid-table teams was unbelievable. But that’s exactly what it is.But there is a real style and elegance in everything he does.There was a moment at Aston Villa last week when Marcus Rashford tried to run at him one-on-one, but Archie got his body across, won the ball and shut down the danger. It was class.From what I hear, he is a good talker too, despite being so young. He’s confident, says the right things, and is not afraid to put his message across in the dressing room.So you can forget his age as he is already a natural leader — and Ange certainly needs one with his team in this position.I would make Archie Gray the club captainCredit: RexCloser to the bottom three than the top six in the Prem — like United — out of both domestic cups and just the Europa League left with just over three months of the campaign to go.Spurs may have a team with no inspiring voice on the pitch but at least Amorim has a couple in Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes.Even with a fully fit squad, Ange has no obvious choice for the armband. As much as I love Son, who has it now, he’s never struck me as a captain.In my book Ange should be brave and give Archie the armband now as he won’t be handing it back for a decade if he does.There’s more to it than just calling heads or tails, believe me. As a manager, the skipper is someone you can rely on.You will pick his brains, he will be the link with the rest of the team and almost your right arm in many ways. So it is a vital role.READ MORE SUN STORIESI have said for ages that Gray is a captain of the future — and maybe even an England one — but up to the job at Tottenham already.In my book Ange should be brave and give Archie the armband now as he won’t be handing it back for a decade if he does. More