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    England star Angel Gomes CONFIRMS Lille exit as Premier League sides circle for former Man Utd wonderkid

    FORMER Manchester United wonderkid Angel Gomes has announced he is leaving Lille.The 24-year-old joined the Ligue 1 side in 2020 and has played over 100 times for the club. Angel Gomes is set to leave Lille after almost five yearsCredit: GettyThe former Man Utd academy star has been linked with a move back to the PremCredit: GettyGomes, who has four England caps, has been touted for a potential return to the Premier League.And he has confirmed he will become a free agent when his contract expires next month. Writing on Instagram, Gomes said: “After four unforgettable years at LOSC Lille, it’s time for me to say goodbye. “This club has been more than just a team — it’s been a family, a home, and a place that has shaped me both on and off the pitch. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”Like any journey, there were ups and downs, highs and lows, but I’m truly grateful to my team-mates and the fans for sticking with me throughout.”I’m proud of what we achieved together and thankful for every moment. “To the fans — thank you for your amazing support and for believing in me. I will forever be grateful. “I always gave everything I had for the badge and for all of you.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Lille will always have a special place in my heart.”Gomes rose through the ranks at Carrington and was touted as the next United superstar.Inside Angel Gomes and Morgan Gibbs-White’s bromance as England new boys reveal ‘special’ bond that led to U21s gloryHe began training with United at the age of just six and debuted for the club’s U18 team when he was 14.The Londoner made his Red Devils senior bow in 2017 – the first player born in the 21st century to appear in the Premier League – but was only given sporadic chances to show his talents.Following a loan to Portuguese side Boavista in 2020, he joined Lille later that year in search of regular football. Gomes has featured for the Three Lions across six different age groups, making his senior debut in 2024.Across his successful spell in France, the 24-year-old has played 134 times, scoring ten goals.Gomes has been linked with a stunning move back to Old Trafford.West Ham and Tottenham are also said to be interested. More

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    Gary Neville reveals the SIX players Man Utd must sign this summer or risk Ruben Amorim being out of a job

    GARY NEVILLE has revealed the six targets Manchester United should be trying to sign this summer.The Red Devils are expected to undergo a major squad overhaul this summer under co-owners, Ineos, after the club suffered its worst-ever Premier League season.Gary Neville has told Man Utd to sign at least six players this summerCredit: GettyRuben Amorim’s squad is set to undergo a massive overhaul this weekendCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe has been warned Man Utd need a busy window to get their rebuild underwayCredit: PAWolves ace Matheus Cunha is expected to be the first signing they make this window following reports Man Utd will trigger his £62.5million release clause when the season ends.However, Old Trafford legend Neville has told the club they need to sign at least six players to properly kickstart the rebuild under Ruben Amorim.Speaking to The Athletic, the 50-year-old said: “What they need to do now is to create some stability. “There has been a lot of instability off the pitch in respect of the non-playing staff and there has been a lot of instability on the pitch with the changes of manager and changes to the squad. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”That has got to stop at some point and they’ve got to embed in Ruben’s team, let them develop. I think this time next year we’ll know a lot more, when we see whether Ruben can build a successful team. “Christmas next year we’ll know a lot more, because I think Ruben needs to get that second transfer window. He needs a proper pre-season with the team to embed this system and this style of play. “We’ll know a lot more in October, November, December when I’m sure they’ll be winning more matches than they are now. “It needs a big overhaul in the summer. Five or six players minimum to be able to change the direction of how he wants to play. Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford”There’s at least two forwards, a central midfield player, definitely two wing backs and another centre-back. They need six players minimum.“Ruben has been very good at identifying the players he wants out of the club; that’s really clear to everybody. The club’s job now is to get them out and get replacements in that he likes and wants in his team.”How Europa League final will be decided – four key Man Utd vs Tottenham tactical battlesMan Utd have won just six of the 26 league games Amorim has taken charge of, while they are yet to lose in ten matches playing in the Europa League.That run earned them a spot in Wednesday’s final in Bilbao.However, the game will be played against Tottenham, who have beaten Man Utd three times already this season – twice in the league and once in the Carabao Cup.Neville admits that game is not doing nice things to his stomach when thinking about its importance to both clubs, with Man Utd and Spurs sitting 16th and 17th in the Prem respectively.The eight-time PL winner added: “That game is making my stomach churn with its level of importance, to both clubs.“Not just from a silverware perspective, not just from a manager’s perspective, but also from a finance perspective; what it gives both clubs in terms of attracting players and the money that it will put into the clubs. “It’s making me a little bit sick.”Like Neville, fellow Class of ’92 graduate David Beckham believes Amorim needs backing, rather than sacking, during the summer window.He also told The Athletic: “Ruben needs to be backed as a manager to bring in his team and his philosophy; he’s trying that already but I think once he brings his team in and his players, then you’ll see something different.“I’d like to think you wouldn’t have to sell your captain (Bruno Fernandes). He has been exceptional. We’ve all been critical at times of some United players — but when we needed someone to step up, he has done it.“I also hate (the idea of) any young player who has grown up at United leaving the club. We shouldn’t be selling players purely for financial reasons.“It should be what they are doing on the field and if they’re not performing, there’s always a chance — we all knew that, I knew that. “If I wasn’t performing on the pitch, it didn’t matter what I’d done in the past or what I was going to do in the future; there was a good chance that I was either going to get left on the bench, or I was going to get sold.“I’d like to think that Manchester United don’t sell players that have grown up at the club, understand and love the club. I don’t want to see players leave Manchester United if they care about United like I do…”A lot of managers have come in and said that but I think you just have to look back at one of the greatest managers to ever lead Manchester United and one of the greatest managers in football.”The manager (Ferguson) always knew when to change and when to adapt. He always knew he had another option to change the system, to change the players, to bring in new talent. He was the best at it.Read More on The Sun“So if he can do it, then at some point I’m sure if Ruben sees there’s an opportunity to change the system or change the way he plays, maybe he will have to do it. “But I like the fact that he is like: ‘No, I’m going to stick with my system’. And that’s what I respect about him.”David Beckham has urged the club to back AmorimCredit: PAMan Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash More

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    Man Utd flops fitted for £1,000 Paul Smith suits for Europa League final after worst Premier League season ever

    MANCHESTER UNITED players prepared for the Europa League final by getting fitted with £1,000 Paul Smith suits.The Red Devils are looking to make amends for their worst-ever Premier League season by clinching continental glory in Bilbao on Wednesday.Man Utd prepared for the Europa League final by getting fitted with new suitsCredit: PAUL SMITHThe Red Devils linked up with bespoke tailor Paul SmithCredit: PAUL SMITHHarry Maguire looked the part in his outfitCredit: PAUL SMITHUnited’s partnership with Paul Smith dates back to 2008Credit: PAUL SMITHUnited take on fellow strugglers Tottenham in a battle not only for the Europa League trophy, but also for a place in next term’s Champions League.The winner will be able to write off their dreadful domestic season as a potential one-off blip.And United are desperately hoping they can be the ones to enjoy success in Spain under Ruben Amorim, having collected a record-low 10 wins and 39 Premier League points with one match remaining.But ahead of kick-off in the Europa League, players made sure they will be in the right mindset by getting fitted for suits.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUnited have a long tradition of wearing smart outfits before a final, dating back to the glory days under Sir Alex Ferguson.Last year they were suited and booted before winning the FA Cup against Manchester City.And the Red Devils have now had new ones forged by bespoke tailoring outfit Paul Smith.Their partnership dates back to 2008 and, according to the Paul Smith website, “is still going strong.”Most read in Europa LeagueBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAnd stars like Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount looked sharp as they were fitted for blue ‘Brierley’ suits which are flogged for a grand apiece.Elsewhere, Harry Maguire looked the part as he buttoned up his jacket, which is made of blue sharkskin wool.How Europa League final will be decided – four key Man Utd vs Tottenham tactical battlesLeny Yoro put on a sharp appearance in his suitCredit: PAUL SMITHVictor Lindelof could play some part against SpursCredit: PAUL SMITHToby Collyer dressed up ahead of Wednesday’s game with TottenhamCredit: PAUL SMITHAltay Bayindir also got involved ahead of United’s biggest game of the seasonCredit: PAUL SMITHWhile Christian Eriksen and Victor Lindelof ensured there was a Scandinavian feel to the occasion.Leny Yoro, Toby Collyer and Altay Bayindir were also present for the suit fitting.And United will now be hoping the well-fitting material can inspire them to glory later this week.Paul Smith’s site described the suits as: “The Brierley suit represents an evolution of the Soho block with a slightly elongated fit. “Our modern take on a traditional structured shoulder uses padding to create a clean, sharply defined shape. “Sitting between the slim Soho and more relaxed Bloomsbury, the waist is gently shaped for an elegant fit. “The jacket has a longer body and a subtle cutaway, visually elongating the torso.”Fans reacted with delight seeing their players suited up.One said: “Please win guys.”Another declared: “Looking good lads let’s win this.”Read More on The SunOne noted: “Let’s hope the quality of football matches that of the tailoring.”Another added: “Looking mint.”Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash More

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    Every Premier League star out of contract this summer including 15 former England stars – and Trent Alexander-Arnold

    THE Premier League season concludes this weekend – and for a host of players, the upcoming summer is filled with uncertainty. More than 60 players are out of contract in June across the Prem’s twenty clubs. Trent Alexander-Arnold and 15 other England stars are set to become free agents this summerCredit: PASome high-profile stars – including Trent Alexander-Arnold – already appear set for moves elsewhere.But others face a nervy wait to see if they will receive a new deal before their contracts expire.SunSport has taken a deep dive into every upcoming free agent, starting with the Gunners – with one team set to lose TEN players.ArsenalBoss Mikel Arteta has promised a “big summer” ahead.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Gunners look set to bring in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as they overhaul their midfield options.Jorginho appears ready to return to Brazil with Flamengo, while Thomas Partey hinted at a departure as he waved to Arsenal fans after the 1-0 win over Newcastle.BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAston VillaAfter six seasons, Kortney Hause looks set to leave after being dogged in recent years by knee injuries. Most read in FootballVeteran stopper Robin Olsen has been on the books at Villa Park since 2022. Mikel Arteta will be sacked by Christmas if Arsenal are not in top two, warns former Gunners starBut he will be looking for the 12th club of his career from June. Kortney HauseRobin OlsenBournemouthIt’s been a superb season on the South Coast, with the Cherries spending most of it battling for Europe. The vast majority of the squad are contracted for next year.But Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez, and Antoine Semenyo are all being targeted by Europe’s elite. Chris Mepham – currently on loan at Sunderland – is the only player out of contract and will leave after six years with the club. BrentfordTwo fan favourites appear ready to move on from Brentford this summer.Ben Mee has played a bit-part role this season and will go, while Josh Dasilva has been with the Bees since joining in the Championship seven years ago.The Bees are bracing for offers on their talented strikeforce, with Bryan Mbeumo reportedly being eyed by Manchester United.Josh DasilvaBen MeeBen Mee has racked up more than 300 career Prem appearancesCredit: GettyBrighton & Hove AlbionThe evergreen James Milner has yet to agree new terms on the South Coast following an injury-hit season.He is now 39 but reports suggest Brighton are keen to sign him up for another year.Tariq Lamptey has also struggled with injury issues over the past three years, restricting his game time.The former Chelsea wing-back was tipped for big things – and could be a bargain freebie for any club if he stays fit. ChelseaTodd Boehley recently opened up on Chelsea’s newfound obsession with long-term contracts.With stars such as Cole Palmer and Romeo Lavia signed up to multi-year deals into the 2030s, there’s just one expiration this summer.Finnish keeper Lucas Bergstrom has never played a game for the Blues since signing in 2022 and looks set to be out the door come June. Lucas BergstromLucas Bergstrom will leave Chelsea this summerCredit: GettyCrystal PalaceThe FA Cup winners have enjoyed a superb season under Oliver Glasner.Two veteran defenders are due to depart this summer, with Nathaniel Clyne and Joel Ward both on their way.Ward was named club captain in 2023/24 and has racked up a record number of Prem appearances for the club.EvertonIt’s a summer of change on Merseyside as Everton bid farewell to Goodison Park.David Moyes is also plotting a revolution among the playing staff. Stars including Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Michael Keane and Abdoulaye Doucoure have not yet been offered new deals.Veterans Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young leave following years of service.Dominic Calvert-Lewin has been with the Toffees since 2016Credit: GettyFulhamTom Cairney has been with the Cottagers since 2015 and is already attracting interest from Wrexham.Ex-Chelsea winger Willian returned to Fulham following a spell in Greece but now 36, he lost the turn of pace which made him such a threat. Carlos Vinicius was tipped for big things after arriving in West London in 2022, but has netted just eight times in 52 games.Ipswich TownThe Tractor Boys are heading back to the Championship in a strong state.Ipswich put up an impressive fight in a bid to stay in the league and invested heavily last summer, with the club expected to make a £10m profit on Liam Delap.Former Man Utd defender Axel Tuanzebe is among those set to leave Portman Road in June. Axel TuanzebeCameron BurgessMassimo LuongoMarcus HarnessElkan BaggottAxel Tuanzebe is a former Manchester United youth starCredit: GettyLeicester CityJamie Vardy signed off in some style following a remarkable 13-year stint with the Foxes.The ex-England striker netted his 200th goal for Leicester in his final ever game for the club.Vardy looks set to continue playing next season and is sure to be inundated with offers.Welsh keeper Danny Ward is still only 31 and could be a regular starter in the Championship.LiverpoolSafe to say that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s decision to leave Liverpool has split the Anfield fanbase.The England full-back looks destined for a switch to Real Madrid.He was met with a chorus of boos from home fans against Arsenal – with Liverpool already eyeing up Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez as potential replacements. Alexander-Arnold is set to join Real Madrid when his contract expires in JuneCredit: PAManchester CityIt’s been a final season to forget for Kevin De Bruyne.The Belgian has won 14 major trophies with City but was powerless to prevent a silverware drought this term. Veteran keeper Scott Carson – who last played for England in 2011 – will join him in exiting the Etihad. Manchester UnitedRuben Amorim has promised a summer revamp at the Theatre of Dreams.And four veterans have not been offered new deals as the Portuguese manager looks to change the culture in the North West. Christian Eriksen is reportedly a target for former club Ajax in midfield.Defenders Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans depart United with almost two decades of combined service.But Tom Heaton could yet be offered a new deal with United unsure of their goalkeeper situation. Christian Eriksen could be set for a reunion with a former teamCredit: GettyNewcastle UnitedEddie Howe may view the transfer window as a success if he can keep hold of Alexander Isak.Toon are willing to move on from Callum Wilson, who has been a superb servant since joining from Bournemouth in 2020. Leeds, newly promoted as Championship champions, are reportedly keen on the 33-year-old.Nottingham ForestFollowing an unexpected European push, Forest will likely be busy again in the transfer market.Willy Boly fell down the pecking order at the City Ground thanks to the outstanding performances of Murillo. Fellow defender Harry Toffolo – poached from Huddersfield after Forest’s promotion in 2022 – would be a canny signing for most Championship clubs.Harry Toffolo joined Forest after their promotion to the Premier League in 2022Credit: GettySouthamptonThe Saints are heading back to the Championship. And two former England internationals are set to depart the club this summer.Adam Lallana returned on a one-year deal last summer and was put in temporary charge as manager after manager failed at St Mary’s. Full-back Kyle Walker-Peters – still only 28 – could be set for another Premier League club.Tottenham HotspurSergio Reguilon was tipped for big things when he arrived in North London five years ago.But three loan moves later, the left-back looks certain to leave after mustering just 242 minutes across all competitions this season.Veteran keeper Fraser Forster could still fill a backup role in the Prem, while Ben Davies will be desperate for regular football ahead of next summer’s World Cup with Wales. Sergio Reguilon’s contract is up at Spurs after a disappointing five yearsCredit: AlamyWest Ham UnitedIt’s another season of change for the Hammers – and they’re set to wave goodbye to a club legend.Michail Antonio’s contract situation has been described as “complex” by boss Graham Potter earlier this month. The striker – West Ham’s record Prem scorer – hasn’t played since a horror car crash last December.Danny Ings, Aaron Cresswell and Kurt Zouma are also on their way out the door. WolvesWith Mathues Cunha set to join Manchester United, Wolves will likely invest heavily over the summer. Pablo Sarabia was a bargain buy for under £5million two years ago, but at 33 hasn’t produced the goods this term. Read More on The SunWolves will also have to replace Nelson Semedo, who has been superb on the right flank since 2020, while centre-half Craig Dawson is also out of contract. More

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    Aston Villa enter Caoimhin Kelleher transfer race with Emi Martinez set to bid emotional farewell to Villa Park

    ASTON VILLA have joined the hunt for Caoimhin Kelleher – as major rivals eye Emi Martinez.Liverpool’s £30million-rated back-up keeper Kelleher has also been linked with Chelsea and West Ham.Liverpool’s reliable second-choice stopper Caoimhin Kelleher is understood to be hungry for more regular first-team actionCredit: RexEmo Martinez was emotional after what could be his last Villa home gameCredit: Shutterstock EditorialVilla’s interest comes as Martinez appeared to bid a tearful farewell to home fans after Friday’s 2-0 win over Tottenham.Manchester United, Barcelona and Saudi Pro League are amongst clubs understood to be monitoring the Argentinian’s situation.It makes finding a new No1 a summer priority for Villa boss Unai Emery.Sources close to the Midlanders say Ireland ace Kelleher is being tracked.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 26-year-old is itching for regular first-team football after failing to dislodge Brazilian star Alisson at Anfield.Villa are reportedly also considering Espanyol’s Joan Garcia, who is also said to have been on Arsenal and Man Utd’s ‘s radar over the last year.The Spaniard, 24, is sure to be in demand.And Villa know that such fierce competition for Garcia would likely lead to a long fight for his signature.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKSo it’s claimed club chiefs are focusing their sights on Kelleher.He’s proved himself a capable deputy to Alisson, having kept eight clean sheets in 25 Premier League appearances for the newly-crowned champions.Kelleher is also believed to prefer staying in the Prem to moving overseas. And Villa look an attractive option, especially if they could once more qualify for the Champions League.Georgia stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili is arriving at Liverpool within weeks.So Kelleher might drop down to third-choice, should he stay with Arne Slot’s men.Slot is thought to have told club officials he expects Kelleher to depart. More

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    Millwall release eight stars including club legends Murray Wallace and Shaun Hutchinson after narrowly missing playoffs

    MILLWALL have released eight players after narrowly missing out on the Championship playoffs.The Londoners finished eighth in the table, just two points off sixth-place Bristol City.Millwall have released eight players including long-time captain Shaun HutchinsonCredit: PAMurray Wallace is also heading out of The Den after years of serviceCredit: GettyClub legend Neil Harris saw his second spell come to an end 11 days before Christmas.Alex Neil took the reins with Millwall in 11th place.And he has gone on to win 13 of his 26 games at the helm.But the Scot is now looking to shake up his squad in the summer market.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt means no less than eight players have been shown the door following the end of the season.And among those departing are two icons who have become synonymous with The Den.Captain Shaun Hutchinson, 34, is the biggest name to depart on a free transfer.He joined Millwall from Fulham in 2016 and went on to make 256 appearances.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSJoining Hutchinson in leaving the club is fellow defender Murray Wallace, who is also out of contract.The 32-year-old moved to South London from Scunthorpe in 2018 and clocked up 207 games in the process.Millwall fan is beaten up by gang of Crystal Palace supporters after confronting rivals in Selhurt Park standsDuncan Watmore is moving on just 18 months after arrivingCredit: AlamyAaron Connolly only joined Millwall in January but is departing this summerCredit: GettyTwo more stars are leaving Millwall when their deals expire at the end of the month.Forward Duncan Watmore, 31, joined Millwall 18 months ago from Middlesbrough and scored 12 goals in 59 outings.Meanwhile, 25-year-old striker Aaron Connolly also departs just five months after a move from Sunderland which saw him net once in 14 games.And four loan stars will also return to their parent clubs, with 22-year-old forward Josh Coburn heading back to Middlesbrough after four goals in 12 outings.Midfielder Ryan Wintle, 27, is returning to Cardiff City after 16 games.Defender Zak Sturge, 20, will rejoin Chelsea following five appearances.And full-back Calum Scanlon has gone back to Liverpool after four matches. More

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    Matheus Cunha set for Man Utd transfer from Wolves with Red Devils to trigger £62.5MILLION release clause

    MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly closing in on the first signing of their summer rebuild with the transfer of Matheus Cunha.The Red Devils are set for a squad overhaul under Ruben Amorim after their worst-ever Premier League season.Matheus Cunha is set to join Man Utd from Wolves in a £62.5m dealCredit: GettyCunha has scored more goals than every Man Utd star bar Bruno FernandesCredit: RexAnd that window is set to be kicked off with the signing of Wolves ace Matheus Cunha.According to Sky Sports, Man Utd transfer chiefs will trigger the £62.5million release clause of the 25-year-old when the season ends next week.The club are said to be aware of what conditions they need to meet to trigger that clause.Man Utd are yet to directly contact Wolves about the offer, but those formalities are anticipated to happen once the current Premier League campaign ends.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCunha has scored 17 goals and added six assists in 34 games across all competitions for the Molineux outfit this season.That impressive form has put him firmly in the sights of several top clubs.However, Cunha wants to play for Man Utd, with a deal over personal terms said to be almost agreed.His tally of goals places him behind only Man Utd club captain Bruno Fernandes – who has 19 goals and 19 assists respectively.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordMeanwhile, only three other players; Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund and Amad Diallo have reached double figures for the season, although Amad has played at least nine games fewer than his team-mates.Cunha was seen chatting to Amorim when their two clubs played at Old Trafford last month, with Wolves playing out a 1-0 win over Man Utd thanks to Pablo Sarabia’s free-kick.EXCLUSIVE: Man Utd, Spurs and ARSENAL fans take epic 32-hour ‘bucket list’ ferry trip to Bilbao for Europa League finalHe is the first name wanted by Man Utd chiefs as they look to desperately bolster their attacking options after a record-breaking season for how poor the club’s forwards have been.Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap is also said to be on the list of targets for attacking reinforcements, with the English forward said to be available for £30m after a relegation release clause became active.Man Utd have also been linked with deals for attackers including Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Bryan Mbeumo and Moise Kean.As well as strikers, the Old Trafford outfit shopping list reportedly includes new centre-backs, a goalkeeper and centre midfielders.The club will be playing a make or break Europa League final on Wednesday against Tottenham.SunSport’s very own Dave Courtnadge has joined Man Utd, Spurs and Arsenal fans on a 32-hour cruise to Bilbao ahead of the final.Man Utd vs Spurs – Europa League final: Kick-off time, TV channel and live stream info for Bilbao clash More

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    Abandoned iconic UK stadium left to rot with track ripped up 110 years after hosting FA Cup final

    AN ICONIC athletics stadium that formerly hosted the FA Cup final is being given a new lease of life. Crystal Palace National Sports Centre fell into disrepair after closing almost four years ago. Crystal Palace National Sports Centre has been closed for almost four yearsCredit: The TimesThe stadium has fallen into a state of disrepairCredit: The TimesThe athletics track is in dire need of repair and has been ripped up in partsCredit: The TimesThe diving and Olympic swimming pools lie emptyCredit: The TimesNature has begun to claim back certain areas of the facilityCredit: GettyThe South London complex was shut in November 2022 following unexpected safety concerns. Concrete pillars holding up the floodlights were discovered to have been unsafe. Prior to 2012, the 19,000-capacity ground hosted the London Grand Prix before the event was switched to the nearby London Stadium.The FA Cup final was also held on the same site between 1895 and 1914, with the current stadium opened at the same address in 1964.READ MORE ON SPORTFollowing its surprise closure, the site quickly grew into a state of disrepair.The running track was partially ripped up, with the scoreboard and stands littered with fox and rat poo. An Olympic-sized swimming and diving pool on the site has also been closed.The move has frustrated local coaches, who maintain the facilities must reopen to help train new talent. Most read in AthleticsBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKJohn Powell, chair of Crystal Palace Sports Partnership, told the Guardian: “At the moment you’ve got an indoor track with rats on it and pigeon excrement all over the place. “There are trees growing out of the West Stand and then there was the floodlight farce, which meant no one can train there after dark now.  Former top flight stadium left abandoned and overgrown just two years after club last played a game there”London is the only capital city in Europe that doesn’t have a dedicated athletics centre. “Crystal Palace is the most accessible athletics stadium in the country so it’s a total joke what has been allowed to happen.”Extra funding has now been provided to restore Crystal Palace to its former glory.Track repair at the site began in late 2023, with more work expected in the coming yearCredit: x/CPSP2020The facility is set for a phased reopening between 2027 and 2028Credit: The TimesThe track has now been relayed, while the reopening of the 50m and diving pools remains the key priority for the project. London Assembly Member for Bexley and Bromley, Thomas Turrell, said: “The phased target openings for facilities across the estate remain for 2027 and 2028. “The project is currently at the mid-point of the contractor procurement process, aiming to have a contractor on board by Spring 2025. “A planning submission will follow later in the year with works programmed to start on site in 2026.“I am pleased to this project developing. While there is still a lot to do, and I know local people are keen to see the pool in particular opened as soon as possible, it is good to see progress finally being made. Read More on The Sun”The Centre has been forgotten for too long and I am really excited by this plan. “It is time to bring UK athletics home to Crystal Palace!” More