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    Manchester City sack head coach Gareth Taylor FIVE days before Women’s League Cup final clash with Chelsea

    MANCHESTER CITY have brought the curtain down on Gareth Taylor’s reign as manager of their Women’s Super League side. Today the club announced their decision to part ways with the head coach, 52, just under a week before their League Cup decider duel with Chelsea. Manchester City have parted ways with Gareth Taylor with their WSL team currently fourth and 12 points behind leaders ChelseaCredit: GettyThe club’s decision to part ways with Taylor, 52, comes a day after the team reached this year’s FA Cup semi-finalsCredit: ReutersFormer City Women’s boss Nick Cushing will take charge of the WSL side on an interim basis for rest of this seasonCredit: GettyFormer City Women’s boss Nick Cushing will return to take charge of the side on a temporary basis. The Chester-born head coach managed City for seven years from 2013 guiding the team to their first and only WSL title triumph to date in 2016. Taylor’s departure comes with the Cityzens currently sitting fourth in the top tier after winning 10 of the 16 league games they have played so far this term. The team are fourth and one point and one place outside of the WSL’s top three spots for Champions League qualification. Read More Football StoriesThis follows them losing four and drawing two of their league games this season. In a statement, Man City’s women’s managing director Charlotte O’Neill said: “Manchester City prides itself on competing at the top of the WSL and on its outstanding record of qualifying for European competition. “Unfortunately, results this season have so far not reached this high standard.”With six games of the WSL campaign remaining, we believe that a change of management will breathe fresh life into our bid to ensure qualification for the 2025/26 UEFA Women’s Champions League.Most read in Football”We would like to place on record our thanks to Gareth for all of his efforts during his many years at City. “Our FA Cup and League Cup triumphs will remain special moments in the history of this football club.”“We wish him all the best for the future.”City’s decision to end Taylor’s reign comes just over 12 months after he signed a three-year deal with the club to remain in charge of their women’s side. During his tenure of almost five years at City’s helm, Taylor guided the team to an FA Cup win after a 3-1 defeat of Everton in May 2020. This was followed by a League Cup triumph in March 2022 when his side beat Emma Hayes’ Chelsea 3-1 at Plough Lane. This season Man City have lost ground in the race for the WSL title with leaders Chelsea 12 points ahead at the summit.  Recent results include a 1-1 draw with ninth-placed West Ham on March 5 with Manuela Pavi netting a stoppage-time equaliser following Khadija Shaw’s 80th-minute goal. Away from the pitch City were at the centre of a dramatic transfer saga this January with Chloe Kelly sealing a loan move to Arsenal. The departure of the forward, who netted England’s tournament-winning goal at the 2022 Euros, followed her struggle for minutes this term. After making six WSL appearances for the team this season, Kelly issued a bombshell exit plea before making her January 30 Arsenal switch. Her current contract with City, whom she joined in July 2020, is set to expire in June. Man City are due to play Chelsea in the Women’s League Cup final at Pride Park on March 15Credit: PASince joining the Gunners the forward netted her first league goal of the season in their 4-3 defeat of West Ham last weekend.  READ MORE SUN STORIESOn Sunday Man City reached the semis of this year’s FA Cup after beating Aston Villa 2-0 in the quarter-final. They will face neighbours Man United in the contest’s semi-finals next month. More

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    Sir Jim Ratcliffe launches scathing attack on struggling Man Utd squad saying some ‘not good enough’ and ‘overpaid’

    SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has admitted some of Manchester United’s players are “NOT GOOD ENOUGH” to be at the club in an astonishing interview.United are currently a shell of the club they were when legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson was at the Old Trafford helm.Sir Jim Ratcliffe has launched an astonishing attack on the Manchester United squadCredit: PASeveral of United’s high-profile signings in recent years have failed to deliverCredit: THE TIMESINEOS chief Ratcliffe has claimed several players in the squad are “overpaid”Credit: GETTYOver the years, the Red Devils have signed several high-profile players to extraordinarily lucrative contracts.Several of those expensive signings have been a financial disaster, which Ratcliffe signalled includes some who remain at the club.The INEOS chief told The BBC: “Some are not good enough and some probably are overpaid.”But for us to mould the squad that we are fully responsible for, and accountable for, will take time.”We’ve got this period of transformation where we move from the past to the future.”There are some great players in the squad as we know, the captain is a fabulous footballer. “We definitely need Bruno Fernandes, he’s a fantastic footballer.”Ratcliffe officially acquired a 25 per cent stake in Manchester United last February, having agreed a deal with the Glazer family the previous December. Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsAnd he was soon confronted by the fact the club still have outstanding payments on players they signed before he arrived at Old Trafford.He said: “If you look at the players we are buying this summer, that we didn’t buy, we’re buying Antony.Ruben Amorim blames results on the pitch for Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s brutal Man Utd cuts “We’re buying Casemiro, we’re buying [Andre] Onana, we’re buying Hojlund, we’re buying Sancho. “These are all things from the past, whether we like it or not, we’ve inherited those things and have to sort that out.”For [Jadon] Sancho, who now plays for Chelsea and we pay half his wages, we’re paying £17m to buy him in the summer.”Erik ten Hag was at the helm when Ratcliffe became a major shareholder in the club.United, however, have continued to flounder following the November appointment of new gaffer Ruben Amorim.The Red Devils have lost nine of their 26 games under the Portuguese and are an incredible 36 points behind Premier League table-toppers Liverpool.But the former Sporting Lisbon chief Amorim currently has the full support of Ratcliffe and the rest of the United brass.Manchester United have lost nine of their 26 matches under Ruben AmorimCredit: PAAmorim has Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s full support – for the time beingCredit: GETTYHe said: “If I actually look at the squad which is available to Ruben, I think he is doing a really good job to be honest.”I think Ruben is an outstanding young manager. I really do. He’s an excellent manager and I think he will be there for a long time.”You are beginning to see a glimpse of what Ruben can produce. I think you saw a glimpse of it against Arsenal. “How many players against Arsenal on the bench did you recognise? “How many have ever worn a Manchester United shirt for [the first team]… as there’s no squad left. “We are down to the last 10 or 11 men in the squad really, of proper first-team players. Ruben is doing a super job.”In an interview with Sky Sports, Ratcliffe expanded on his point about Amorim dealing with a depleted squad.He said: “So if you modify our salary bill for the players that are not available to Ruben, then our salary bill ranks us about, you know, middling, second half of the table. “We’re sort of level with the likes of a Nottingham Forest or Everton, not a Manchester City one.READ MORE SUN STORIES”That salary bill, if you look at that salary bill, is probably about £130m, and we’re talking about Liverpool who’s got a salary bill of £200m, Manchester City have got a salary bill of £300m, so that’s the squad that Ruben’s playing with.”United will be back in action on Thursday evening, welcoming Real Sociedad to Old Trafford for the second leg of their Europa League last 16 tie. More

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    UFC boss Dana White reveals details on new boxing league including change of weight classes and world title belts

    DANA WHITE has shed some light on the structure of TKO’s boxing league.The UFC and WWE’s parent company officially announced the launch of its Saudi and Ring Magazine-backed promotion earlier this month.The TKO Group announced the launch of its Saudi-backed boxing league this monthCredit: INSTAGRAM@DANAWHITETurki Alalshikh has enlisted the services of UFC boss Dana White to run the leagueCredit: INSTAGRAM@TURKIALALSHIKHWhite has shed some light on the format of TKO BoxingCredit: APSaudi boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh has enlisted the services of White to implement the UFC model, which he hopes in time will “crush” rival promotions.The league’s format quickly became a talking point following the official announcement, which sparked questions over boxing’s established sanctioning bodies.And White has revealed the promotion won’t be playing ball with the likes of the IBF and WBC, aiming to have “one belt” per weight class.The 55-year-old recently told ESPN: “It’s all going to go away. There’s going to be one belt.READ MORE IN BOXING”It’ll be like the UFC. The model is the model that we have [in UFC]. [The] WBC, IBF, WBA, etc., etc.”They will deal with those traditional promoters that are out there that exist right now. We’re not going to do that.”It will likely take several years for TKO Boxing to start signing the big hitters in the sport, many of whom are tied up in promotional deals with the likes of Matchroom and Queensberry Promotions.Additionally, the esteem in which the IBF, WBA, WBC and WBO titles are held in by fighters could also slow down TKO’s bid to get the top talent in the sport.Most read in SportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSTKO Boxing won’t have anything to do with boxing’s traditional sanctioning bodiesCredit: AFPBut White believes the sanctioning bodies will eventually become obsolete given the allure of the Ring Magazine title.He continued: “We’re going to have the basic weight classes that started everything. We will have one champion.Dana White gives brutal response to working with rivals Bob Arum and Oscar de la Hoya after UFC boss enters boxing”And you know how you’re going to know who the champion is because they’re going to fight their way up through the gauntlet.”And once you get into the top five, you know who the five baddest dudes in the heavyweight division are.”And then you’ll find out who the champion is. They will defend their titles and that’s how it’ll work.”The launch date for TKO Boxing is currently unknown, although Alalshikh – the Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority – has hinted that the September showdown between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford could be the promotion’s inaugural show.During an appearance on ESPN, he said: “Ask [Dana] when the first event will be held in September. Ask him to answer… Maybe it’ll be September 12th.” More

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    Sir Jim Ratcliffe: Wasteful Man Utd would have run out of cash THIS YEAR without cuts.. I want trophies not free lunches

    SIR JIM RATCLIFFE has defended his controversial cost-cutting at Old Trafford – and claims the club was on track to run out of money THIS YEAR. The United co-owner broke his silence following recent fan protests at Old Trafford. Sir Jim Ratcliffe watched Man Utd’s draw with Arsenal on Sunday from the Old Trafford standsCredit: PAThe Ineos chief has presided over unpopular cost-cutting at the clubCredit: GettyThousands of United fans protested ahead of the 1-1 draw with the GunnersCredit: GettyRatcliffe, 72, told the BBC: “Manchester United would have run out of cash by the end of 2025.”Where do you want to spend the money?”Do you want to spend it on operating the club or do you want to spend it on the squad?”Because if you spend it on the squad, you get better results.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”At the end of the day, what is Manchester United here for if not to win trophies?”What we want to do is invest in the best players in the world, if we can. “Rather than spend it on, I’m afraid, free lunches.”Ratcliffe completed a minority takeover in 2023 and has since gained control over sporting operations at United, which in turn led to some severe downsizing.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsHe has pursued unpopular cost-cutting over the past year. Last week, SunSport revealed how United are staring at a £100million black hole after a horror season. Amorim ‘pleased’ with Man Utd performance despite missed chances against Arsenal Last summer saw 250 staff members made redundant, with another 200 estimated to follow.Ratcliffe has slashed costs across the club, including ditching the annual Christmas party and removing Sir Alex Ferguson from his paid role as an ambassador. He continued: “The losses are because the club’s just been spending money needlessly.”We’ve got a body language consultant. There’s all sorts of stuff we’re spending money on that we don’t need to be.”On the field, the Red Devils are languishing in the lower reaches of the Premier League.And they may be forced into selling their star assets in the summer to counter PSR rules. The players were not immune from Ratcliffe’s criticism in the scathing interview.He added: “Some [players] are not good enough and some probably are overpaid.Man Utd ratings vs Arsenal as De Ligt shows exactly why Man Utd signed him but Zirkzee is as frustrating as everIT was a performance that would have pleased Ruben Amorim but a 1-1 draw with Arsenal does little to paper over the cracks at Manchester United.On a day when the Old Trafford crowd protested the owners, the players stood up to show their remains life in a club that fans say is experiencing a “slow death”.There was a lack of clear-cut chances in the opening 45 minutes as both sides goalscoring troubles continued.A moment of magic was needed and Fernandes stepped up as he so often does.Arsenal’s wall was full of man mountains, but Fernandes found the power, dip and accuracy to beat David Raya with his free-kick – even if the wall was marched 11.2 yards back instead of the regulated ten.Mikel Arteta’s side came out swinging in the second-half with their makeshift No9 up top, and it took a brilliant effort from Declan Rice to level the scores.United were able to frustrate them and remain a threat on the counter but eventually had to settle for a point in a much-improved performance.Here is how SunSport’s Martin Blackburn rated the United performances.”But for us to mould the squad that we are fully responsible for, and accountable for, will take time.”We’ve got this period of transformation where we move from the past to the future.”There are some great players in the squad as we know, the captain is a fabulous footballer. We definitely need Bruno [Fernandes], he’s a fantastic footballer.”Prior to Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal, thousands of United fans took to the streets outside Old Trafford to protest.Organised by the 1958 fan group, spokesperson Steve Crompton claimed the club is “dying” and “facing financial Armageddon”.Crompton said: “The club is slowly dying before our eyes, on and off the pitch, and the blame lies squarely at the current ownership model.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The club is facing financial Armageddon. Debt is the road to ruin.”Sir Matt Busby would be turning in his grave at the current plight of one of the world’s greatest football institutions which is being brought to its knees and in many ways becoming a laughing stock.” More

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    ‘That’s a concern’ – Arsenal legend Martin Keown reveals his big Ethan Nwaneri ‘worry’ with youngster ‘not a man yet’

    MARTIN KEOWN is desperate for Ethan Nwaneri NOT to get an England call-up this month over fears of fatigue.The 17-year-old academy star has been a revelation for Arsenal in the absence of crocked Bukayo Saka so far this term, scoring eight goals in 28 games across all competitions.The Arsenal teenager has enjoyed a meteoric rise this seasonCredit: GettyWith Thomas Tuchel announcing his first England squad on Friday, Gunners midfielder Nwaneri has an outside chance of being included in his first senior Three Lions camp – having already represented the U16s, U17s and U19s.However, Arsenal legend Keown is concerned for Nwaneri’s welfare – especially given his slight drop-off in recent Prem clashes against West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United.TNT pundit Keown explained: “There’s a chance [Nwaneri] may make the international team. That’s a concern, that’s a worry.”You take it if it comes but if it doesn’t, then he gets a nice bit of time with the manager, resting up between games so there’s a balance.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”It does one thing for confidence but another for the body. When you’re 17, you’re not even fully developed in terms of your cardiovascular system. You’re not really a man yet.”There’s still some growing to do, and recently he has looked tired, like he was blowing, and this is normal for a 17-year-old kid.”So it might be a time where he needs resting. And if he doesn’t make the full squad, does he need to be involved in the U21s?”This has got to be sensibly managed between now and the end of the season.”Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsTuchel’s England have two home World Cup qualifiers coming up – against Albania on March 21 and Latvia on March 24.Another Arsenal youngster that has a chance of being in the mix is left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly after also breaking into the first team under Mikel Arteta this campaign.Mikel Arteta walks out of Sky Sports interview moments after Arsenal lose further ground in Premier League title raceGiven England’s left-back situation – with consistent fitness issues for Luke Shaw, Ben Chilwell and Lewis Hall – 18-year-old Lewis-Skelly has been earmarked for his international debut following a recent spell as U19s captain.And Keown believes he deserves it – even with a disciplinary record that Arteta has warned could make the teenager a liability.Keown said: “He’s had some issues, but in terms of physicality, he’s ready to go. “He looks like he could play and there’s a problem at left-back for England.”He’s different [to Nwaneri], more developed. I wouldn’t say he’s a freak of nature, but when you see the strength in him, he is all about power.”So he is not going to want to be denied the opportunity to play for England.”Arsenal ratings vs Man Utd as Rice runs Gunners midfield but wonderkid Nwaneri falls below high standardsDECLAN RICE rescued a point for Arsenal after David Raya failed to stop a Bruno Fernandes freekick.Fernandes’ set piece was followed by a brilliant Rice strike in the second half, leaving the sides with a point apiece.After a quiet first half, both sides woke up and provided more going forward after the break but lacked quality in the final third.Raya’s display in the second half more than made up for his earlier error and, alongside Rice, kept his side in the game.Coming off the back of a riotous 7-1 victory over PSV, Arsenal reverted to their goal scoring woes and proved once again that they desperately need a striker.But, who was on the mark for the Gunners?Can Mikel Arteta push for the title without an out-and-out striker?And did anyone shine off the bench for Arteta’s side?Here, SunSport’s Conor Jones delivers his Arsenal player ratings against Manchester United…Lewis-Skelly has been shown two straight reds already in his senior Arsenal career, first at Molineux in January – which was later rescinded – and in February at the Emirates against the Hammers.And he was lucky not to pick up a first-half second yellow in the 7-1 Champions League last 16 first leg victory over PSV last week.Keown – who was shown 6 red cards in 310 Prem appearances for Arsenal – added: “I remember at that age being impetuous, going off your feet. But you just learn.”I had to do that myself, you have to learn the hard way. You think you can win every tackle, and then suddenly you’re playing against a quicker, stronger player, a little nudge here and there, and you’re committed to it.”People now will probably be diving in and around him a little bit, because they know he might go off his feet. READ MORE SUN STORIES”So just pick and choose, but you get better at that.”Arsenal legend Martin Keown doesn’t believe Ethan Nwaneri should link up with EnglandCredit: RexWatch Arsenal in the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League, live on TNT Sports and discovery+ More

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    Inside Newcastle’s ‘once in a generation’ stadium dilemma of building £3bn new mega-venue or boosting St James’ Park

    NEWCASTLE have always been a huge club in English football, but now they’re on a mission to become one of the biggest sides in Europe.A massive nation state takeover, splashing cash on superstar players, returning to the Champions League, building fan parks and now reaching domestic cup finals in two of the last three seasons – they’re following the blueprint to a tee.Newcastle are setting out plans for a revamp St James’ Park or build a new stadiumNewcastle are facing a dilemma on whether to expand their iconic ground or find a new homeCredit: GettyThe iconic stadium currently boasts a capacity of 52,304Credit: AlamyOther than a first major trophy in 70 years, there’s just one thing missing for the Toon Army – a stadium fit for European elite.St James’ Park is a historic ground in the heart of a true one-club city, but despite its rich history, electric atmosphere and iconic reputation, it has sat in place since the 1800s.With that comes problems, not just with its capacity, but also with the stadium’s condition as a whole.Newcastle’s owners know that things need to change and they are ready to take the necessary steps to do so.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, they face a huge dilemma in deciding whether those steps mean a tricky renovation project or leaving their iconic stadium altogether.ICONIC ST JAMES’ PARKSt James’ Park is actually one of the oldest football grounds in the country, holding its first recorded fixture in 1880 – 12 years prior to the formation of Newcastle United as a club.The Magpies moved into the ground in 1892, calling it home for the last 133 YEARS.The first major development of the stadium in 1899 saw its capacity taken to 30,000.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut it was their first league title in 1905 that sparked the next major expansion, taking the stadium’s capacity up to some 60,000.St James’ Park has effectively been built on year by year, seeing the addition of new stands, floodlights and extensions periodically as the ground grew with the club.Inside Chelsea’s new £1.6BILLION stadium plans with Stamford Bridge project set to rival Tottenham’sHowever, changes to laws around standing and seating meant their 60,000 capacity stadium suddenly held a comparatively measly 36,610 fans by the end of 1995.That capacity wasn’t enough for a flying Newcastle side capturing the imagination of fans with Alan Shearer scoring goals for fun.And a proposal was put forward by Chairman Sir John Hall to move the club into a new multi-million pound arena in the adjacent Leazes Park.But after the plans were shut down by local objections and political pushback, the club were forced to look elsewhere to expand their capacity.That led to a stunning £43MILLION expansion that saw the club build upwards on the Milburn Stand, Leazes End and the adjoining corner to take the capacity to the 52,304 it sits at today.Completed in 2000, the expansion means that Newcastle have the eighth largest football stadium in England, and the seventh largest in the Premier League.But seasons of frustration and underachieving saw so many of those seats left empty during the years under controversial owner Mike Ashley between 2007 and 2021.That torrid spell saw Newcastle relegated to the Championship TWICE before Ashley was finally able to sell the club to the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund in 2021.Now the stadium, which famously hangs over the city, is packed to the rafters every week as the Magpies excel under the management of Eddie Howe, reaching two Carabao Cup finals and returning to the Champions League for the first time since 2003 last season.St James’ Park has been home to Newcastle for 133 yearsCredit: GettyThe stadium used to hold 60,000 fansCredit: PAIconic stars like Kevin Keegan have graced the pitchCredit: RexSt James’ has been changed over the years and saw its capacity fall after more seats were addedCredit: PAThe stadium looked different in 1995Credit: AlamyEven more expansions have seen the ground given its iconic look these daysCredit: PASO, WHY NOW?Newcastle’s upturn in form under their new management and ownership is certainly one reason that things are ready for a change at St James’ Park.Most fans will tell you that you can’t get your hands on a matchday ticket for love nor money at the moment, with everyone in the city wanting a glimpse of Howe’s high-flying Mags.So an expansion or move to a larger ground simply makes sense. Both the demand and the funds are there to make it happen.And crucially, a smaller, less-appealing ground means less matchday revenue, which in the age of PSR and FFP means cold hard cash that most modern owners don’t want to miss out on.Although Newcastle currently have the Premier League’s seventh largest capacity, they will fall down to eighth next season following the opening of Everton’s new Bramley-Moore Docks stadium.While they are going to lose even more ground on their rivals after Man City complete their ambitious expansion in 2026.Not to mention the proposed plans for expansions at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium and the potential of Man Utd and Chelsea ditching Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge for new, even bigger, homes.While for the owners, it’s not just about getting more bums on seats and making more matchday revenue.Newcastle’s bigwigs are also looking to help the club’s reputation grow in European football, essentially opting for an “act the part, look the part” strategy.That’s already been evidenced by their lucrative kit manufacturing deal with Adidas, and the way they have thrown their weight around in the transfer market by signing the likes of Alexander Isak, Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.A world-class stadium would help Newcastle fit in with the teams they’re trying to compete with – in a similar fashion to Tottenham’s £1BILLION move to their state-of-the-art ground from White Hart Lane.Newcastle have made memories at St James’ over the yearsCredit: AFP – GettyClub legends have made history on the pitchCredit: GettyNow they are in a new era and looking to improve on what they haveCredit: GettyWHAT ARE THE CLUB PLANNING?Well, there are two options for Newcastle when it comes to their stadium. It’s quite simple really – stay or go.Staying would mean a huge redevelopment of the Gallowgate End, while leaving would mean building a brand new home elsewhere.Both projects have different positives and negatives that need to be weighed up before a decision is made.Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan flew in for crucial talks in recent weeks and the club provided a statement to update fans on their upcoming decision at the beginning of March.Chief Commercial Officer Peter Silverstone confirmed an announcement is coming “soon” – and possibly hinting which way they have opted to go if the finances get the final say. Silverstone said: “We’re at that point where we’re deciding is it best to renovate and re-invigorate St James’ Park or build a new stadium as these projects have shown and other clubs in the Premier League have done.“That is a decision which will be made relatively soon. What’s clear is we need to satisfy that demand.”Every week we have a very intense fanbase which is determined to come and watch Newcastle but can’t.”A new venue could generate significantly higher revenue both on matchdays and beyond.”Newcastle’s chief operating officer Brad Miller had previously insisted that the club’s first choice is to stay at St James’ Park.That way they can retain their electric atmosphere, unusually sloped pitch and the fact they get to stick the away fans up in the Gods.The ownership have only recently invested in a huge 3,000-capacity fan park next to the ground called St James’ STACK. The fan zone is made up of shipping containers and offers fans a place to eat, drink, watch the game and listen to live music.And a third, more unlikely, option was proposed to give the stadium a lick of paint and a makeover instead of moving permanently or increasing capacity.Newcastle already opened up St James’ STACKCredit: GettyThe 3,000-person capacity fan park offers food, drink and live entertainment for fansCredit: GettyOPTION 1Club execs favour an expansion to the current ground over a move to a new permanent home, but adding even more seats to St James’ is a tricky task that won’t come cheap.COO Miller has promised a “once-in-a-generation” investment into the redevelopment and that kind of cash will be needed to carry out what would be ambitious plans.The idea would be to raise the capacity of the ground to around 60-65,000 – making it the Premier League’s second largest stadium behind Old Trafford.That would be achieved by making the Gallowgate End into one of the largest single-tiered stands in Europe.The stand, which currently holds 11,000 supporters, would be increased to rival Borussia Dortmund’s famous Yellow Wall – similarly to Tottenham’s South Stand.Of course, not all of the additional 12,700 seats would be thrown into the Gallowgate, but the iconic stand would take the majority of the changes.There’s still some issues that could make it difficult for Newcastle to pull this off, mainly a row of listed Georgian buildings behind the East Stand and a so-called “ransom strip” of land bought by a local businessman in spring 2024 that make any expansion on that side of the ground extremely tricky.While surrounding roads that could be impacted offer essential access to one of the city’s main hospitals, the Royal Victoria Infirmary.Some reports suggest the expansion could focus more on the Gallowgate alone and increase the stadium capacity to just 60,300 instead of 65,000 – leaving the stadium looking almost exactly the same as it does now.The Gallowgate End would be given thousands of new seats in an expansionCredit: RexNewcastle would be hoping to recreate Borussia Dormund’s iconic Yellow WallCredit: GettyTottenham aimed for a similar effect when they designed their South StandCredit: GettyOPTION 2The second option for the Magpies is to build themselves a new home for a new era. It’s more expensive, but perhaps a more exciting option.The idea of a new ground would mean that Newcastle could host around 70,000 fans, effectively increasing their capacity by almost 18,000 seats – that’s more than both Brentford and Bournemouth can fit in their entire stadiums at the moment.As with their initial plans back in the 90s, the most likely place to move would be into the adjacent Leazes Park.However, Newcastle are set to face legal hurdles and heavy resistance from members of the public who want to protect the Grade II listed park.As a result their plans would see them use just a small section of the park with the rest of the new ground overlapping with St James’ current footprint – plus a new parkland would be created where the current pitch is situated. That would mean Newcastle would be forced into finding a temporary home for the duration of the demolition and construction. The club are thought to be against the idea of ground-sharing with rivals Sunderland, with a potential option to play some 120 MILES away at Murrayfield in Edinburgh suggested instead.That would obviously cause issues for fans with the round trip for a “home” game likely to take over FIVE HOURS by car.Other options would include playing at the nearby Riverside stadium, home of Middlesbrough.It’s thought that there is another possible option to move into a new stadium five miles north of the current site Gosforth Park on land owned by the club’s minority shareholders, Reuben Brothers.But St James’ Park’s iconic position looming over the centre of Newcastle is thought to make that idea a last resort.Newcastle have already enlisted architects and design firms to look at the feasibility of building a new ground.However, both club execs and the fan base are concerned over losing the rich history of St James’ Park in the process.COO Miller said: “The brilliant thing about St James’ is it is in an iconic location, the atmosphere and competitive edge it gives the team on the pitch, and it has 52,000 seats already.“But a new stadium doesn’t have that and we’d have to pay for all those seats again.”As for the look of a new ground, reports suggest there is consideration over a “bubble wrap” design that would give St James’ a similar visual to Ligue 1 outfit Le Havre’s Stade Oceane.While it could also have some incredible features as football club owners continue to push the boundaries of what is expected in a stadium these days. Spurs added a Formula One Go Kart track under their ground, and even stuck a microbrewery making craft Beavertown Beer in their South East corner. While Fulham have stuck a swimming pool in their new Riverside Stand and Real Madrid added a huge 360-degree screen around the Santiago Bernabeu.It’s not beyond the realms of possibility that Newcastle would follow in those footsteps and add some unbelievable features to their proposed ground.At the very least, expect cutting edge technology, staggering design and high-end hospitality areas to host the elite.As for what they leave behind, it’s been suggested that the site of the demolished St James’ would be replaced with new parkland.Newcastle could move into the Leazes Park directly behind the groundCredit: GettyNewcastle’s new ground could look similar to Le Havre’s Stade OceaneCredit: AlamyHOW MUCH WILL IT ALL COST?Good things don’t come for free these days, and Newcastle will have to fork out a fortune no mater what option they choose.A redevelopment of the Gallowgate has been mooted to cost anywhere up to £1BILLION, which is a crazy number in comparison to other expansion projects in recent times.Liverpool spent just £80m on their Anfield Road Stand expansion in 2024, and Fulham spent £120m on their Riverside Stand.But that kind of money may seem worth it when you learn that an entirely new stadium has been estimated at a cost of between £2BILLION and £3BILLION.That would blow Tottenham’s £1bn 2019 project out of the water and make Newcastle the owners of the second most expensive stadium in the world, only lagging behind the LA Rams’ £4.8bn SoFi Stadium.The LA Chargers’ SoFi Stadium is the most expensive stadium in the worldCredit: GettyTIMESCALESo we know it’ll cost a fortune and we know it’s going to be complicated, but when will it be done?Reports have suggested that the club would be targeting the 2031/32 season for a brand new stadium, but would likely see an expansion completed in five years instead of seven.By comparison, Spurs took three years to build their new home and the FA spent four years constructing Wembley in the early 2000s.Expansions are often much speedier, but it still took Liverpool over two-and-a-half years to complete their Anfield Road renovation.A lengthy project could spoil Newcastle’s plans to be one of the host stadiums for the 2028 Euros, but it’s thought that the Magpies see the long-term financial benefits as enough to give up on that.WILL IT BE WORTH IT?Well that’s the multi-billion pound question, isn’t it?Newcastle’s most recent reports show that the club made £40m in matchday revenue last season, figures that are way behind the likes of Arsenal (£128m), Man Utd (£127m), Liverpool (£111m) and Spurs (£103m).An expansion to 65,000 seats at St James’ would be an increase in capacity of around 25 per cent, meaning a similar increase in Newcastle’s matchday revenue would take them up to a more impressive number of £50m. The club reckon the figure could be as much as double at a new ground where Newcastle can add in more bars, food stalls and hospitality areas to increase their income.But even the man in charge, COO Miller, explained that moving to a new stadium “has the potential to earn a lot more, both on matchdays and non-matchdays”.READ MORE SUN STORIESNot only would more seats mean more revenue, but a world-class facility could mean Newcastle would be a more attractive prospect to host music concerts and performers to make money all year round.Put simply, the outlay would be huge, but in the long term it could definitely be worth it for Newcastle.More fans means more moneyCredit: Rex More

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    ‘I’m shaking’ – Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend Ashlyn Castro releases emotional statement on relationship history

    JUDE BELLINGHAM’s girlfriend has released an emotional statement on her relationship history.The Real Madrid star was revealed to be dating Ashlyn Castro in January following a string of dates.Ashlyn Castro has released an emotional statement on her relationship historyCredit: TIKTOK @ ashlyncastro17She is dating Real Madrid star Jude BellinghamCredit: La LigaShe is a model and influencerCredit: InstagramAshlyn, 27, from Los Angeles, has made her name as an influencer and model.She has a huge social media following with over 500,000 fans on TikTok and Instagram.The stunning brunette has previously been romantically linked to US basketball star Terance Mann, actor Michael B. Jordan and LaMelo Ball.However, she has now released a ten-minute video statement on her relationship history.READ MORE ON SPORTIn the statement she claims that she has only had three boyfriends and that people have “made up” a lot of things about her.Ashlyn also debunked false claims that she was in another country with a potential partner and one that suggested she was on a boat when it was not even her.Taking to TikTok, Bellingham’s beau said: “I don’t even know where to begin, but I’m going to try my best to just get into it.”It makes me super uncomfortable talking on camera about my personal life.Most read in Football”I’ve never even really spoken on camera too many times, so bear with me.”Every angle you can think of, people have attacked me, harassed me, been so disrespectful. It’s just been too much.Inside Jude Bellingham’s new romance with stunning Instagram modelAshlyn looked glamorous in this one-pieceCredit: instagramShe has tried to debunk speculation over her past relationshipsCredit: instagramEx-partner Terannce Mann has defended Ashlyn in publicCredit: Getty”Let’s talk about this dating history. I’ve had three boyfriends over the last eight years.”In 2017, I was in my very first relationship and he’s a public figure, so because of that, I’ve dealt with people talking about me, making up things about me.”There was nothing on the internet about me prior, so people kind of just made up a bunch of things to justify hating me because of who I was dating at the time.”And then over the last six years after that, I’ve dated two people.”So three relationships in total.”Ashlyn’s ex Mann has even come out publicly and defended her.He has shot down cheating allegation claims and insisted most stuff about her on the internet is “false”.Ashlyn also refuted claims that she has created fake social media accounts in the past.She said: “I’ve never made a fake page or a fake account to say anything.”If I’m going to say something it’s going to come from my real page.”I think people should be held accountable for what they do and say.”The same people claiming that I’ve retweeted offensive things when the only Twitter account I’ve ever had I made in 2013 and I tweeted one time.”I have no retweets, no favourites, no nothing.”Ashlyn insisted that the video was not easy for her to make as the information is “extremely personal”.She added: “I’m like shaking because I’m not ready to talk about this on the internet.”This is extremely personal. This is my real life. I shouldn’t have to talk about this.”But moving forward I will talk about things that are important such as mental health.”This is something that I wanted to use my platform for but I just wasn’t ready.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAshlyn met Bellingham’s mum Denise and dad Mark in the Spanish capital last month.The couple were snapped watching Real Madrid together from the stands as Bellingham was suspended.Ashlyn has a huge online followingCredit: instagramShe has 485k followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe also boasts 142k followers on TikTokCredit: Instagram More

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    Dick McTaggart dead aged 89: Tributes pour in after Britain’s best-ever amateur boxer and Olympic gold medallist dies

    BRITAIN’s greatest amateur boxer Dick McTaggart has sadly died away aged 89. The Scottish slugger’s passing was announced by his family in an emotional social media statement. Dick McTaggart has sadly passed away aged 89Credit: RexMcTaggart is the only Scottish boxer to have ever won a gold medal at the OlympicsCredit: PAMcTaggart had a whopping 610 of his 634 amateur fightsCredit: GETTYIt read: “In loving memory of Dick McTaggart, a cherished husband, father, grandfather and friend. “A true gentleman and legend in the boxing world. “His kindness, determination, humour and spirit will never be forgotten. “He will be deeply missed but forever in our hearts. Rest peacefully.”READ MORE BOXING NEWSTributes poured in for the late McTaggart – who turned his efforts to training the next generation of fighters following his retirement – from around the boxing world after the announcement of his death.A Commonwealth Games Scotland statement read: “Everyone at Commonwealth Games Scotland was saddened to learn of the passing of boxing legend Dick McTaggart MBE.”Widely regarded as Dundee’s greatest ever sportsman, McTaggart won Commonwealth Games gold and silver medals as part of a remarkable amateur career, winning 610 of 634 bouts.”Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”Most read in BoxingDick Mctaggart won gold at the 1956 Olympics in AustraliaCredit: GETTYFormer WBO super-featherweight champion Alex Arthur said: “Never mind Scotland… Dick Mctaggart is Great Britain’s greatest ever amateur boxer. “Remember a chat with Dick and him saying was nice winning the Olympic gold but imagine doing it in a Scottish vest! Eddie Hearn reveals latest on Anthony Joshua’s boxing return”Scotland might not see an Olympic boxer for years.”Boxing commentator Andy Clarke said of McTaggart at the BBBOC Awards in London: “He was a phenomenon.”One boxing fan wrote on X: “Rest in Peace, Dick McTaggart, and thank you.”Dick ran our Boxing Club at Crookston Castle School, until the bigwigs decided you needed to be a professional to teach.”Another said: “Rest in peace, champ.”McTaggart retired from boxing at 30 but closed the book on his career with accolades galore.The Dundonian’s finest achievement came at the 1956 Olympics in Melbourne, where he became the first Scottish boxer to win a gold medal.McTaggart made Scot’s Olympic history at the tender age of 21.Tributes poured in for the late Dick McTaggart from around the boxing worldCredit: PAMcTaggart was held in incredible esteem by his peersCredit: RexRecalling his triumph in a 2021 interview with The Courier, he said: “I had collected my gold medal and wanted to go away and celebrate with Terry Spinks, who had also won gold.”But I was told by the officials, ‘Do not leave the hall, there might be a wee surprise for you.’“Then, later on, they announced that I had won the Val Barker Trophy (which is awarded to the most outstanding boxer at the Games).”And that meant more to the British delegation that any of the other medals and prizes.”Because no British competitor had ever won it before. “And I reckon that I must have filled the trophy up with champagne about 150 times that night as everybody celebrated.”He’d competed at the Rome Olympics four years later but left the Eternal City with a bronze.READ MORE SUN STORIESMcTaggart would also win multiple Armed Forces titles during his time in the RAF.He’d also win gold at the 1960 British Empire and Commonwealth Games and an amateur European title. More