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      Panathinaikos to hold emotional George Baldock tribute before Chelsea clash with players still rocked by tragic death

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      PANATHINAIKOS want to land a winners’ medal for George Baldock as they prepare for their first home game since his shock death.Manager Diego Alonso admitted the club and squad will play Chelsea on Thursday, still in a state of mourning, but teammate Facundo Pellistri says they are determined to win silverware as he watches “from the skies”.Panathinaikos will pay tribute to George Baldock before the match against ChelseaCredit: RexThe Greek national team paid tribute before beating EnglandCredit: AFPDiego Alonso has said that the squad is still ‘mourning’ the loss of the defenderCredit: AFPThe Greek club, currently sixth in the Super League, will pay tribute to Baldock as their “starman” ahead of their Europa Conference League meeting with Chelsea.Posters at the Athens Olympic Stadium read “There’s a starman waiting in the sky” with Baldock’s shirt number of 32 included.The defender, who represented Greece through his grandmother, was found dead in the pool of his Athens home on October 9.A tribute will be held around 20 minutes before kick-off as well as a minute’s silence, while players will wear black armbands.READ MORE ON SPORTPellistri, who joined Panathinaikos from Manchester United in the summer, said: “This is a really hard situation, for us what happened with George Baldock was really sad.”It has not affected only us as teammates or the club but the whole country.”We are going to continue our struggle for the championship because George, who is not with us, is looking at us from the skies and he would like to have seen the team gain the championship.”We are going to do everything for him as his teammates and his team. Winning the championship to dedicate to him.”Most read in FootballPellistri and his teammates have made it clear they want to travel to England for Baldock’s funeral on October 30, with owner Giannis Alafouzos considering putting on a private plane for the squad.Panathinaikos are also discussing whether to honour the remainder of the former Sheffield United man’s three-year contract to support his family.Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer George Baldock caught on live TV after shock win over England George Baldock career statsGeorge Baldock has tragically died aged 312009-2017 – MK Dons 125 games (2 goals)2011 – Tamworth (loan) 3 (0)2012 – IBV (loan) 18 (1)2012 – Tamworth (loan) 15 (1)2015-16 – Oxford United (loan) 47 (3)2017-2024 – Sheffield United 219 (6)2024 – Panathinaikos 4 (0)Boss Alonso added: “It is very painful and we are very sad about the passing of George.”We are living 15 very hard days, we are still mourning this loss.”I wouldn’t like to enter into details because this is not correct at this time, but I can tell you two things.”The first is respect. The second thing is that our team, all of us, dedicate the whole season to the blessed memory of George Baldock.”Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Inside Pep Guardiola’s amazing lifestyle, living in a luxury £2.7million apartment to his stunning Richard Mille watches

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      PEP Guardiola is recognised as the game’s best manager, and probably the most stylish.The fiercely proud Catalonian, 53, has led Manchester City to the Premier League title six times.Pep Guardiola has led Man City to multiple Premier league trophiesCredit: AFPFamily man Guardiola has made Manchester his homeCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe has also won the Champions League three times – twice with Barcelona and once with the Premier League giants.Pep’s contract runs out in the summer at the Etihad, but there is a belief that he will sign an extension in the summer.That could mean an increase on his reported £20million-per-year salary.That astronomical amount allows Guardiola, who is believed to be worth around £100million, live a lavish lifestyle.Read more football news Here’s what the football manager loves to splash his cash on.Luxury apartmentBack in 2017, as Pep began his assault on English football he needed to find a base to settle down in.After spending most of his life in Barcelona as a player and coach, bustling city life was important to him.That’s why he chose to buy a stylish apartment in Manchester’s City Suites for £2.7million, instead of going for a leafy mansion somewhere in Cheshire.Most read in FootballFound in Salford, it’s the city’s most desired abode, and sits next to a wealth of designer shops, high-end restaurants and wine bars.Pep Guardiola says part of him will leave Man City when Txiki Begiristain goes Amenities include an 18-metre indoor spa pool, an exquisite spa and sauna facilities as well as a 24-hour gym.The building also boasts a round-the-clock concierge, two private parking spaces, dry-cleaning services and access to a private executive lounge.It is believed Pep’s digs are in a private part of the building and occupy two floors.Pep’s property portfolio expands to a 8,000-square-foot mansion in Pedarlbes, one of Barcelona’s most desired in areas, that cost him £8.5m back in 2021.While when he went on a sabbatical in 2012, he rented a stunning New York apartment that overlooked Central Park and cost a whopping £19,500 to rent a month.X Files actor David Duchovny and legendary singer and actress Barbara Streisand reportedly lived in the same building.City Suites boasts a swimming pool and luxury apartmentsGuardiola reportedly bought a large penthouse for £2.7mWhen Guardiola was on his sabbatical he rented a penthouse in a building overlooking Central ParkIncredible watchesIn recent months, Pep has really upped his watch game.We know he has a penchant for Richard Mille timepieces – the most costly on the market.One of those he was spotted on the golf course wearing –  a RM 27-01 Tourbillon Rafael Nadal worth a cool £600,000.Other watches in his collection include a £455,000 RM 022 Tourbillon Aerodyne, a £75,000 RM 010 ‘Manchester City’, the RM 004 All Gray, which cost over £150,000, and a RM67-02 with a £230,000 price tag.Pep Guardiola has sported a variety of Richard Mille watchesGuardiola’s watch collection is believed to be worth over £1mFamily lifeFamily life is very important to Pep, especially when it comes to shutting down after a hectic football season.In the summer, he often takes his wife, Cristina and their children Maria, Marius, and Valentina on glam holidays.Back in 2023, after winning the treble, he enjoyed an amazing experience in Egypt – touring Cairo and Luxor and visiting the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Giza.Pep met his missus when he was 18 at her family’s fashion store.Then a Barcelona youth star, he was trying on some clothes when the caught the eye of each other.They finally walked down the aisle in 2014 at a town hall on the outskirts of Barcelona.Family is everything for Guardiola who celebrates his success with themAfter winning the treble, Guardiola took his family to EgyptThe Guardiolas visited the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Gizaread more sport featuresCarsIt’s no surprise that with all the money Guardiola has made in the world he has an impressive car collection.But, with the high octane football he plays, you’d be surprised to hear he’s not the best driver.Last year, we reported that he has damaged cars collectively worth £460,000 since joining Man City in February 2016. They included a £200,000 silver Bentley, GTX700, a £150,000 Range Rover, an £80,000 black Mercedes GLE and a £30,000 Mini Cooper.A source said: “Pep is brilliant at many things but driving doesn’t appear to be one of them, he has struggled with the roads in Manchester and had a couple of bumps.”Most recently, he’s been seen in a Nissan Leaf worth a modest £30,000.A £200k Bentley GTX 700 was part of Guardiola’s car collectionIn recent years, Guardiola has been spotted driving a modest Nissan LeafFashion kingManagers on the touchline are getting trendier.If they’re not in pristine suits (think Simone Inzaghi), then they’re going down the cargo pant and hoodie or sweatshirt look.Pep has the latter sussed – with a grey hoodigan his favourite from Italian luxury designer Herno.The manager was seen wearing the oversized item – considered “lucky” by fans a number of times from 2019 until today.Pep has also been pictured in ‘MDCR’ – referring to ‘Madchester’ – jumpers and an array of items with the letter ‘P’ on them, as well a CP Company jumper costing £250.Earlier in the year, he revealed his wife is his fashion guru.READ MORE SUN STORIESFans believe Guardiola’s £1200 hoodigan from Italian designer Herno is luckyGuardiola is also a fan of the CP CompanyGuardiola also enjoyed wearing the club’s Madchester range of sweatshirtsGuardiola admitted fashionable wife Cristina is his stylistHe said: “My wife is the best in the world at many things, but especially in fashion. So she says normally to me, don’t wear this or wear that, so I follow her.”I am smart enough to know that when people are much much better than me, follow their advice and hers is really good.” More

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      Paul Pogba tipped to join ARSENAL by ex-Gunners star when former Man Utd ace returns from drugs ban

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      FORMER Arsenal full-back Bacary Sagna has revealed he would love to see Paul Pogba join the club at the end of his doping ban.Pogba is currently serving an 18-month suspension having tested positive for prohibited substance DHEA last August.Paul Pogba has been tipped to join Arsenal by a former GunnerCredit: GettyFormer Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna believes Pogba would be a great addition to Mikel Arteta’s sideCredit: GettyHe was first handed a four-year ban but that was recently shortened to 18 months.The Frenchman is now set to make a return in March 2025.Pogba is still under contract with Juventus and hopes to compete for his place in the squad on his return.However, ex-France international Sagna believes he would be a great fit for Arsenal.Read More in FootballSpeaking to Paddy Power, the former Gunners right-back said: “The Premier League suits Paul Pogba – I would love to see him joining Arsenal.”It would be great – he has experience; he loves to play with young players around him – that is when he is most efficient.  “At the 2018 World Cup, that was when he was most efficient – he had friends around him.  “Arsenal have a young, fresh team, and I see him performing in an Arsenal shirt. He will get love from their fans.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A”Now, he can start from scratch again – he’s had time away from football, and he’ll be back with a desire to get back into a good space and play football again.”Pogba discussed his doping ban for the first time last week and insisted: “I am not a cheater.”Paul Pogba ban reducedHe told Sky Sports: “I accept responsibility of taking the supplement but I didn’t triple check it – even if it came from a professional.”If I have to be punished, then I’m fine with it. But it should never have been four years. I will accept 12 months.”When you see me, you know me. People know me.”So even when everything happened people said: ‘we know Paul, he would never take that. If he did, he wouldn’t have known and it won’t have been on purpose’.”And this it totally the truth. I’m an honest person, I would say it.”He added: “I am not a cheater, I am someone that loves my sport. I love the game and I would never, ever. I like to win fairly and people know that.READ MORE SUN STORIES”You see me. I’m a bad loser, but I am not a cheater – that’s for sure.”Before returning to Juventus in 2022, Pogba spent six years at Manchester United. More

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      Stunning Real Madrid Wag hints her footballer boyfriend ‘doesn’t shower’ in revealing video

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      BRUNA ROTTA has landed her famous footballer boyfriend in hot water – by suggesting he dodges the shower.The stunning social media star, 26, is currently dating Real Madrid sensation Rodrygo. Bruna Rotta has been dating Brazilian ace Rodrygo since last yearCredit: instagram @brunarottaThe fitness fanatic boasts more than 2 million followers on TikTok aloneCredit: instagram @brunarottaBrazilian ace Rodrygo joined Los Blancos in 2019Credit: GettyRotta and the two-time Champions League winner have been an item since last September. The 26-year-old influencer boasts over 2 million followers on TikTok alone.A fitness fanatic, Bruna has been a regular at the Bernabeu to support her man over the past year. And Rodrygo has even joined in her with her internet stunts, recently posing to get his eyebrows plucked in a bizarre viral clip. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLRotta recently uploaded another cheeky video, taking part in a Brazilian social media trend.The trend asked users to talk about how “destiny” can “play with people.”Rotta uploaded a TikTok, referring to how she’d once joked on her Instagram stories: “I will never date a guy who doesn’t shower.”She followed it with a picture of Rodrygo, joking: “I paid with my tongue.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBruna added in the captions: “I made this song to say some things. Be careful with fate, it plays with people.”A tricky winger, Rodrygo joined Real Madrid in the summer of 2019. Watch mortified Real Madrid legend Marcelo cover his face in embarrassment as son, 9, nutmegs him with outrageous skillThe forward rose to fame in Brazil with Santos, joining the club’s youth setup at the age of 11. Since arriving in Spain, he has carved out a regular place in the first team. Rodrygo has already won three La Liga titles and two Champions League winners medals in his short career. So far this term, he’s appeared ten times for Los Blancos, scoring three goals. The Brazilian was recently forced to backtrack on his own controversial social media post.READ MORE SUN STORIESRodrygo claimed he deserves as much hype as teammates Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.He wrote in a since-deleted WhatsApp post: “Last week they talked about the trio of Bellingham, Mbappe and Vini, but they are going to have to add the R of Rodrygo to that acronym.” More

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      Everton legend Duncan Ferguson AXED as Inverness manager just hours after crisis club plunged into administration

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      DUNCAN FERGUSON has been axed as Inverness manager.Administrator James Stephen pulled the trigger on the Everton legend, number two Gary Bollan and goalie coach Stuart Garden this afternoon.Duncan Ferguson has been sacked as Inverness bossCredit: Willie VassThe Everton legend only took charge last seasonCredit: Andrew BarrFerguson had been working without wages in a bid to help the club during their cash crisis – but the BDO accountancy team still shunted him out the door.Reacting to his dismissal, the Everton icon told BBC Scotland: “Myself and my staff now we’ve left the club.”Of course we were expecting it over the last couple of weeks. This is the cost of administration isn’t it? So, myself and my two coaches have left as we speak.”I’ve done the very best I can for the club and for my players. I’ve always tried to support my players behind the scenes and they all know that and that’s the most important thing for me, that I’ve supported my players.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAsked what he learned from the experience, Ferguson continued: “It’s brutal isn’t it? It’s really tough to get a 15-point deduction.”It all depends on how deeply they cut the playing squad, if they can manage to stay in the division, I think it’s possible.”I think I brought a lot of good players to the club, they’ll be big assets to the club in future. So yeah, I think the club can stay in the division if they can hold onto their players.”If not, it’s going to be a tough ask.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSStephen was drafted in as Caley crashed under the weight of a £3 million debt, with £1.6 million estimated to be what they need to get through to the end of the season.Ferguson took over last season but it became immediately clear the job wasn’t what he’d been sold on his return to Scottish football.Duncan Ferguson advertises vegan croissants and fans are absolutely baffled The 52-year-old inherited a mess at the Caley Stadium and last season paid out of his own pocket for the players to have overnight stays during their battle against relegation from the Championship.Ferguson and Bollan stayed despite dropping into League One, but things got progressively worse as the full horrors of Caley’s financial woes mounted up.They spent weeks without a physio so couldn’t train the team at set times, with the gaffer also stepping in to pay for players’ breakfasts in a bid to retain some professionalism.Caley adviser Alan Savage took over in August and immediately axed controversial chief executive Scot Gardiner, while admitting that administration was a real possibility.Despite talks with interested parties last week, including local businessman David Anderson, Caley were officially put under the control of administrators BDO on Tuesday.Stephen, who was part of the team which wound up Rangers in 2012, has wasted no time in dismissing the coaching team.And he will now turn his attention to other club staff and players in a bid to balance the books.Caley legend Charlie Christie is understood to have addressed the team this morning.He has made it clear he is willing to stay on and oversee the football side if Stephen asks him to.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt appears likely he will play a role in team matters as they bid to overcome the 15-point deduction which has left them adrift at the bottom of the league.The administrator will continue his cost-cutting over the next 24 hours before hosting a press conference on Thursday where he’ll spell out his view on the club’s long-term survival hopes. More

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      Gareth Southgate tipped for Premier League job if club sack manager despite saying he’d take year off after England exit

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE could be set for a Premier League return, according to reports.The former England manager, 54, appeared to pour cold water on an imminent move back into coaching earlier this month when he claimed he will take at least one year out.Gareth Southgate could return to Premier League football this seasonCredit: RexHe said: “Firstly I’m enjoying my life…so there’s no rush. I was 11 years committing myself fully to the FA and I’ve got lots of different experiences.“But I won’t coach in the next year, for sure. I’m certain of that.”I need to give myself time to make good decisions. When you come out of a really big role you need to give your body time, you need to give your mind time.”This effectively meant he ruled himself out of replacing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United should Red Devils chiefs opt to sack their manager.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, The Guardian understands that, despite Southgate’s recent comments, he is now in the frame for the Crystal Palace job.Oliver Glasner’s side have had a dismal start to the season, failing to win any of their opening eight Premier League games, picking up just three points and languishing in the relegation zone.If the German is dismissed, reports suggest three names are in the frame to succeed him at Selhurst Park.One of those is Southgate – who last coached in the Premier League with Middlesbrough 15 years ago.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOliver Glasner has endured a torrid start to the seasonCredit: GettyEx-Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter is also thought to be under consideration.And former West Ham head coach David Moyes is another name being linked with the post.Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner had expected a better start to the season Southgate spent three years as Middlesbrough boss, winning 45 of his 151 games in charge.He helped them avoid the drop on two occasions, before they were relegated in 2009 and the English coach departed.He became England U21 boss and then took the role as senior team manager in 2016 – where he went on to reach a World Cup semi-final and two Euros finals. More

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      Three ways Man Utd could line up under Xavi as he finally brings Barcelona star Ten Hag was desperate to sign

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      MANCHESTER UNITED could finally land a star Erik ten Hag has been desperate to sign for three seasons if they appoint Xavi.Despite the club backing under-pressure manager Ten Hag, reports have emerged suggesting the Red Devils have lined up Xavi as a potential replacement.Xavi has reportedly been tipped as a target by Man Utd chiefsCredit: GettyThey could move for the former Barcelona boss if they sack Erik ten HagCredit: GettyAnd it may result in Man Utd finally landing Frenkie de Jong, three years after Ten Hag originally wanted himCredit: GettyThe legendary Spaniard is out of work after leaving Barcelona at the end of last season.And according to reports, United chiefs have identified the 44-year-old as a possible option if the Dutchman is sacked.It’s claim that contact has twice been made between United and Xavi via intermediaries in recent months, with CEO Omar Berrada in Barcelona last Thursday as part of a four-person delegation.In the event Xavi is hired, it begs the question; how might United line up?READ MORE IN FOOTBALLXavi’s team typically lines up in a 4-3-3 formation, with the La Masia graduate championing the “Four P’s” – positioning, possession, pressure and perception.In terms of line-ups, Xavi would not be likely to go searching for a new goalkeeper, given how well Andre Onana suits his style of wanting to play out from the back.Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are both extremely capable right-backs who could feature in a Xavi team due to their technical prowess, though the former’s ability to tuck into midfield could make the difference on who is given the nod.Lisandro Martinez is another star who suits Xavi’s system, though there could be a toss up on who starts as the right centre-back.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMatthijs de Ligt has looked lightweight at times for United, which could prompt Xavi to ask the club to sign a new defender in the form of Ronald Araujo.This being said, like Martinez, the Uruguayan is an aggressor centre-back, while the Argentine has played his best stuff alongside a covering partner in Raphael Varane.Sir Alex Ferguson steps away from ambassador duties at Manchester UnitedThat may instead mean Xavi turns to teen prodigy Leny Yoro, who is back in training after suffering an injury in pre-season.United have left-back options who are good when fit, however, both Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw have been absent for some time, leaving Dalot as the main defender to fill in there.If either Malacia or Shaw cannot be relied on to play, Xavi may try a raid on his old club by signing 21-year-old Alejandro Balde.Moving into midfield, Xavi may finally be able to land the midfielder who was Ten Hag’s No1 target in his first summer at the club, Frenkie de Jong.However, while the manager of Barcelona, Xavi had a number of midfield targets which he may switch over to his Old Trafford moving in shopping list. He is said to “love” Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, who is a transfer target for Arsenal, while Arthur Vermeeren was also linked to Barcelona during Xavi’s tenure.Xavi Simons was targeted by Xavi while at BarcelonaCredit: ReutersXavi reportedly ‘loves’ defensive midfielder Martin ZubimendiCredit: RexAlternatively, and echoing reports suggesting the Red Devils want to bring him back, Angel Gomes could also be a welcome addition in midfield.United academy star Kobbie Mainoo is likely to remain in the team – given not just his importance and quality but also because Xavi is more than happy to give a large volume of minutes to youngsters.Further forward, Xavi may see fit to try and ease out club captain Bruno Fernandes by bringing in Xavi Simons – targeted by him in Spain and by United transfer chiefs.Xavi is known to be a big fan of Marcus Rashford, meaning his spot in the team is likely secure. Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo are other exciting prospects.But should Xavi tell transfer bosses he is desperate for some new additions, he may ask them to sign Barca target Nico Williams. The Euro 2024 winner refused to move to the Blaugrana from Athletic Bilbao last summer as he wanted to stay for another season.READ MORE SUN STORIESXavi may even look to some of his old favourites at Barcelona, with former Leeds star Raphinha and ex-Man City star Ferran Torres among his most used stars at the Camp Nou with 113 and 100 appearances respectively.Napoli forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia may also be a consideration, but he would likely be less available than the other options mentioned.Xavi could look to pip his former club to the signing of Nico WilliamsCredit: GettyWhile signing a technical star like Angel Gomes could align with both Xavi’s style and Man Utd’s transfer needsCredit: RexNine managers Man Utd considered before keeping Erik ten HagERIK TEN HAG appears to be safe as Man Utd manager, but the Dutchman edged dangerously close to the sack.Here are nine managers Red Devils chiefs are reported to have considered for the job and what allegedly happened with each.Gareth SouthgateEnjoys plenty of support among Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos chiefs but made clear he wouldn’t talk to any clubs until after Euro 2024. There is yet to be any suggestion that contact was made with the England boss.Kieran McKennaTalks were opened with McKenna’s representatives before the FA Cup final, but the former Man Utd coach opted to sign a new deal with Ipswich after Ten Hag’s Wembley win.Roberto De ZerbiAllegedly sounded out before the FA Cup final with salary expectations discussed. But Ineos chiefs concluded ex-Brighton boss was not the right fit for the project.Thomas FrankBrentford boss met Man Utd representatives the day before the FA Cup final. The Dane also dined with Ratcliffe, Roy Hodgson and Frank Lampard at the launch of a new Ineos car in February.Marco SilvaFulham boss reportedly met Man Utd representatives face-to-face two days before the FA Cup final, around the same time as Ten Hag was conducting his press conference.Mauricio PochettinoFell out of Man Utd’s thinking in the first week of June, despite being a favourite of Sir Alex Ferguson.Thomas TuchelMade a very strong impression and came across well during a Monaco meeting. Personal terms were discussed before the ex-Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss decided to step back from the process.Ruben AmorimSporting boss was discussed by the Man Utd hierarchy but did not make the final reckoning.Roberto MartinezPortugal manager was considered in the early stages. More

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      ‘You had one job lads’, joke fans after Arsenal supporters’ hilarious Champions League banner blunder

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      ARSENAL fans made a huge blunder with a banner displayed before the Gunners’ Champions League clash with Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday.Arsenal wound up 1-0 victors over the Ukrainian club, extending their unbeaten run in Europe this season.Arsenal fans made a huge blunder with their banner for their Champions League clash with Shakhtar DonetskFans inside the Emirates Stadium for the league phase fixture were building up the atmosphere by displaying a massive banner in the crowd before kick-off.However, in an unbelievable blunder, the Arsenal supporters displayed the banner the wrong way round.It was supposed to read “VAMOS” – the Spanish word for “Let’s Go” – alongside a picture of manager Mikel Arteta.However, the fan confusion meant the banner actually displayed the message: “SOMAV”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans online found the whole ordeal hilarious and took to social media to react to the embarrassing blunder.One wrote: “You had one job lads!”While another added: “Nothing is going right for Arsenal at the moment.”A third joked: “All that preparation and poor finishing. Such are the Arsenal.”Most read in FootballThe banner usually reads ‘VAMOS’Credit: ReutersFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd a fourth teased: “Sums up our season so far I feel…. still time to turn it around, literally.”The banner is used at most Arsenal games and is usually used without any hitches.Mystery as Kai Havertz denied chance to make Arsenal history but Mikel Arteta has no idea why it happenedThe fan mistake wasn’t the only issue inside the Emirates on Tuesday night either.The Gunners’ pre-match light show was hit by a technical error as the speakers around the stadium didn’t appear to be properly playing the music to accompany the lights.But Arsenal fans were quick to step in, chanting in place of the music and drumming up a better atmosphere for their players.What followed on the pitch wasn’t exactly enthralling as Arsenal plodded their way to a 1-0 victory over Shakhtar thanks to an own goal by opposition goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Arsenal managed a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk despite an unconvincing performanceCredit: Getty More