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    Brains behind Chelsea’s famous academy for 20 years QUITS in ‘insane blow’ with Blues fans ‘worried’

    CHELSEA fans are devastated amid news academy director Neil Bath has left the club.Bath, 58, has been manager of the Blues’ academy set-up since 2004.Neil Bath, centre, is leaving Chelsea after 20 years as academy managerCredit: GettyMason Mount and Reece James are among the players brought through by Bath at ChelseaCredit: GettyHe played an integral part in bringing through the club’s young stars – a host of whom broke through into the first team.They included Reece James, Conor Gallagher, Trevoh Chalobah, Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham and Ruben Loftus-Cheek.This helped at a critical time for Chelsea as they had a transfer ban imposed on them, increasing the importance of academy talent.Jim Fraser, who joined Chelsea’s academy as a director shortly after Bath, is also set to leave.READ MORE ON ENGLANDAn official announcement is expected in the coming days.And fans are beside themselves after learning of club legend Bath’s departure.One passionate supporter said: “Neil Bath leaving Chelsea is an insane blow.”Look around the whole of Europe for the last decade, at the sheer amount of top level professional footballers that have come through his ranks.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”I thought his promotion a year ago was a positive thing, now I am worried.”People can argue about their differing views on ‘the project’ moving forwards, and everyone is entitled to their position. But this is just categorically a loss.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall posts goodbye video to Leicester fans and says ‘it’s time for me to go’ ahead of Chelsea transfer “The consistent evidence of success in Bath’s work is there for all to see. We don’t know the story yet, but damn.”While another added: “Nothing surprises me anymore. These clowns are tearing the club apart.”A third said: “A massive, massive loss. Possibly marks the end of Chelsea being a destination for elite scholar development.”Yet I fully expect the people who have been brainwashed by BlueCo’s empty promises to try and rationalise it as a good thing.”And a fourth responded: “Systematically removing all the components that made us worth £3bn is quite something.”Chelsea’s academy trophies over the last decade include five FA Youth Cups, two Under-18s Premier League titles, an U21 Premier League title and two UEFA Youth Leagues.Speaking about the Blues’ youth success, Bath previously said: “I will always say it is a wider effort from everybody involved.”There is a particular focus around scouting and coaching, and the coaches won’t succeed if the talent is not of the right level.”That is why the likes of Jim Fraser, Darren Grace and their recruitment team deserve credit for bringing in such talented players from a very young age.”That is a huge part of our development programme. On the other hand, you need the right coaches.””Fundamentally, it is about having good staff in all areas who work as a team.”READ MORE SUN STORIESEx-Chelsea boss Frank Lampard credited Bath for his impact when Mount and Abraham scored in the Premier League.Lampard said: “We had a couple of pints with Neil Bath!” More

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    Archie Gray’s Brentford transfer breaks down AFTER medical as Leeds reject offer at last minute

    BRENTFORD have seen a £40m bid for Archie Gray rejected by Leeds United.Leeds have knocked back the Bees’ big money offer, despite allowing Gray to complete a medical with the Premier League outfit.Leeds United have rejected a £35m bid from Brentford for Archie GrayCredit: RexIt was yesterday revealed that Gray was heading to London to complete a medical with Brentford after Thomas Frank’s side had submitted a £40m bid.And Leeds had even granted the 18-year-old permission to carry out the tests.But less than 24 hours after the news broke and Leeds have now turned down the offer for their academy graduate over payment structure.Gray is highly thought of at Elland Road, not least because of his family ties.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe teenager is the great nephew of club legend Eddie Gray, who made over 450 appearances for the club and was twice the manager after hanging up his boots.And his efforts in the Championship last term earned him the award for Young Player of the Year.The star may not be too disheartened by the late decision as it looks like another Premier League club are lurking in the background to hijack the deal.Tottenham are working on a move to sign Gray and are in early discussions over a deal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSConversations are said to be ongoing with an expectation on all sides that a deal can be struck.It’s claimed by The Athletic that Gray had a change of heart himself and is leaning towards a switch to Spurs over their London rivals.Footballers you didn’t know were related from Premier League icons to Lionel MessiSpurs are amongst a number of Premier League clubs who are circling the rising star and are believed to have been exploring the deal for months.Gray penned a new contract at Leeds in January, tying him down until 2028. More

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    My dad’s a former Chelsea star and Premier League cult hero, I’m making my own way after signing first professional deal

    HARRY SIDWELL is following in his father’s footsteps as a professional footballer.The 18-year-old is the son of Premier League cult hero Steve Sidwell, 41.Harry Sidwell has penned his first pro deal at WimbledonCredit: AFC Wimbledon via Instagram / @harry.sidwell7He is a midfielder like his dadCredit: AFC Wimbledon via Instagram / @harry.sidwell7Harry was joined by dad Steve and mum KrysyCredit: AFC Wimbledon via Instagram / @harry.sidwell7Harry, who is a midfielder like his dad, has impressed playing for AFC Wimbledon’s Under-18s and he has now be rewarded with his first pro contract.His dad and mum Krysy were at Plough Lane as their eldest son put pen to paper on his new deal.On signing his first contract at the League Two side, Harry said: “To sign my first professional contract is a dream come true. “It’s what I’ve worked for, from an early age as a kid. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”All the sacrifices and all the hard work that have gone into it, has led to this, and now it’s here – I’m really happy.”His dad was also delighted as he posted on Instagram: “Really proud of you.”And there was messages of congratulations to Harry from the likes of Declan Rice, John Terry, Bobby Zamora and Jody Morris.Sidwell Snr came through the ranks at Arsenal before playing for clubs like Reading, Aston Villa, Fulham, Stoke and Brighton.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe also had a brief spell at Chelsea, playing 15 times in the 2007/08 season under Jose Mourinho.Sidwell even wore the No9 shirt at Stamford Bridge after surprisingly being offered it by the Special One. Former Chelsea ace Steve Sidwell reveals clause in Premier League stars’ contract that ‘nobody has ever exercised’ More

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    Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ‘among NINE players put up for sale by Besiktas’ as former Premier League star makes brutal cull

    FORMER Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has reportedly been put up for sale by Besiktas.Oxlade-Chamberlain, 30, joined the Turkish side in a free transfer last August and has since made 30 appearances.Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been put up for saleCredit: Getty However, the midfielder could already be on his way out.Reports in Turkey claim he is one of several players set to be put up for sale.Former Premier League stars Arthur Masuaku and Daniel Amartey could also be sold as well as Cameroon legend Vincent Aboubakar and ex-AC Milan forward Ante Rebic.Jean Onana, Valentin Rosier, Omar Colley, Javi Montero and Ersin Destanoglu are the remaining players on the list.Read More on FootballFormer Rangers boss Giovanni van Bronckhorst was appointed as the new Besiktas manager two weeks ago.He signed a two-year deal upon his arrival at Tupras Stadium and has already made several changes behind the scenes, with a number of players set to make way for new additions.Before joining the Super Lig giants, ex-England star Oxlade-Chamberlain spent six years at Liverpool.He joined the Reds in a £35million transfer from Arsenal but struggled to get regular game time due to various injury issues.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe midfielder could now be tipped for a Premier League return.Brentford were understood to be interested in a deal last summer, with Sheffield United also linked.Premier League Fixtures released for 2024/25 seasonOxlade-Chamberlain could appeal to clubs that are battling to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules such as Leicester, Everton and Newcastle. More

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    West Ham star Ben Johnson ready to swap Premier League clubs in summer transfer despite lucrative contract offer

    IPSWICH are in talks with West Ham star Ben Johnson.The right-back is out of contract at the London Stadium this summer and talks are progressing well over a free transfer to Portman Road.Ben Johnson is nearing a move to IpswichCredit: AlamyJohnson has been offered a lucrative new deal to stay at the Hammers.But the defender is keen to increase his playing time and is leaning towards leaving.There has also been interest in the 24-year-old from Crystal Palace.Johnson joined West Ham’s academy at the age of seven and has made 109 appearances for his boyhood club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut he struggled for minutes last season under David Moyes, starting just seven games in all competitions.New boss Julen Lopetegui is ready to enter the transfer market to bolster his squad ahead of the new season.He is keen on a reunion with Wolves star Max Kilman, with West Ham seeing an opening bid worth £25million rejected.The club are also supposedly nearing the signing of goalkeeper Wes Foderingham on a free transfer from Sheffield United. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWest Ham have already signed Brazilian wonderkid Luis Guilherme for £25million.Meanwhile, Ipswich are in the market for a centre-back and have been linked with Liverpool’s Nat Phillips and Hull’s Jacob Greaves.Who is Julen Lopetegui?Julen Lopetegui enjoyed a 17-year career as a goalkeeper for the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona.He won the LaLiga title with Real Madrid in 1990 and two Spanish Super Cups with Barcelona, before stepping into management in 2003.He began coaching as an assistant for Spain’s U17s side, before stints with Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid’s B team.Lopetegui then returned to the Spain set-up to manage their various age group teams, leaving in 2014 for the Porto job.He landed Spain’s top job in 2016 and spent two years at the helm of the national team, but was dismissed before the 2018 World Cup after it was announced he would become Real Madrid boss after the tournament.The Spaniard was sacked after just two months at the Bernabeu following a dismal spell.He joined Sevilla in 2019 and won the Europa League with them the following year.Lopetegui departed Sevilla in 2022 and joined Wolves in the November, guiding them to a 13th place finish.He left in August of last year, shortly before the start of the season, before Gary O’Neil replaced him.Best ten new Premier League kits for next season More

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    Arsenal fans fume at ‘underwhelming Xhaka downgrade’ as Gunners battle Barcelona for ex-Newcastle star transfer

    ARSENAL fans have been left fuming at an “underwhelming Granit Xhaka downgrade” as they battle Barcelona for Spain ace Mikel Merino.The former Newcastle star has spent the past six years with Real Sociedad, helping them become one of LaLiga’s top sides.Arsenal are targeting a move for Spain and Real Sociedad star Mikel MerinoCredit: GettySome fans believe the Barcelona target is a downgrade on Granit XhakaCredit: GettyBut Merino’s contract expires at the end of next season.And clubs are preparing to go to war over his signature.Barcelona are thought to be leading the chase for Merino, who operates as a deep-lying playmaker.But Catalan chiefs fear Arsenal could hijack the move as Mundo Deportivo claims Mikel Arteta sees him as a Xhaka replacement.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSThe Swiss star left for Bayer Leverkusen last summer, helping them win their first ever title.Arsenal used both Thomas Partey and Jorginho in Xhaka’s place despite signing Declan Rice for £100million.But Arteta wants a new No6 to take control of midfield and allow Rice to push forward in attack.Merino’s profile fits the bill, while his experience means he will be expected to hit the ground running.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHowever, some Arsenal fans are not keen on the proposed move.One said: “An underwhelming Xhaka downgrade.”Meet the Arsenal Wags behind Gunners’ successAnother declared: “Merino in the Xhaka role? I really want Ebe Eze.”One noted: “I really don’t think this is good enough for a team that wants to win the league and challenge for Europe.”But one fan believes Merino would be a good fit.They added: “Merino is a tall Xhaka and a bit faster. Hope we sign him, he is a very good player for midfield.”Arsenal have a tricky start to the season More

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    Chelsea to sign Barcelona’s Marc Guiu, 18, as Blues trigger transfer release clause for star who has played just 7 times

    CHELSEA are reportedly set to sign Barcelona prodigy Marc Guiu after triggering his release clause.The striker, 18, burst on to the scene for his Spanish club this season, scoring twice in seven senior appearances – including after 33 seconds on his debut.Marc Guiu is close to joining Chelsea after they triggered his £5million Barcelona release clauseCredit: GettyHowever, chances under new boss Hansi Flick may be limited as Barcelona look to add at least one new superstar forward.And AS claims Chelsea have now made their move for Guiu by triggering his £5million release clause.The Blues will discuss terms with the teen on a long-term contract.While a potential loan move to French sister club Strasbourg may also be in the works.READ MORE ON CHELSEAGuiu looks set to become Chelsea’s third signing of the summer after Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo and Palmeiras’ Estevao Willian, although the latter will not join until 2025.The Blues are also close to a £19m deal for Aston Villa striker Omari Kellyman.And they are also considering a £30m bid for Lille forward Jonathan David, who has 52 club goals in the past two seasons.New boss Enzo Maresca starts his role next week after leading Leicester to the Championship title.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe Italian had been hoping to bolster his ranks with the £55m capture of Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise.But Chelsea pulled out of a move as Bayern Munich struck terms with the Frenchman.Poch in England frame The Londoners are still thought to be keen on landing a wide-man, although they will target a right-footer and not a left-footer.Lille man David can play on the flanks if needed.While a move for Athletic Bilbao and Spain star Nico Williams has already been deemed too expensive.As for outgoings, Ian Maatsen is on the cusp of a £37m move to Aston Villa.And Armando Broja is being chased by several European clubs following his dud loan spell at Fulham. More

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    ‘I’ll have to talk to my agent’ says Harry Kane as England star offered transfer from Bayern during press conference

    HARRY KANE joked he will speak to his agent after being offered unlimited SAUSAGE and free drinks if he signs for a seventh-tier German team.The England skipper, 30, was quizzed by the media ahead of the Three Lions’ final Euro 2024 Group C game against Slovenia on Tuesday.Harry Kane was jokingly offered a shock transfer away from Bayern MunichCredit: GettyThe England skipper signed the shirt of seventh-tier SG Lauscha/NeuhausCredit: APHe opted against putting pen to paper on a deal at the German minnowsKane had to respond to questions about his own role in the team, England’s abject performances so far – and even hit back at Gary Lineker’s “s***” comment. But he let out a big smile when he was asked about leaving Bayern Munich – to join minnows SG Lauscha/Neuhaus, based near England’s plush Weimarer Land spa and golf resort in Blankenhain.Local comedian Jonas Greiner, representing broadcaster MDR Jump, asked the striker about his views on the area, before changing gears and offering him the chance to extend his stay in the region.And he even had SG Lauscha/Neuhaus’ fluorescent yellow shirt ready in case Kane accepted the plucky offer. READ MORE ON EURO 2024Greiner said: “Could you imagine living here one day? Do you want to stay? We have a seventh-division team you may have heard of, SG Lauscha/Neuhaus.”They have a contract offer for you. You get free Thuringia rostbratwurst all you can eat, free drinks in every bar, and mindestlohn (minimum wage).”You will have much more time for the national team. If you want, I have your jersey here.”Kane joined in the laughter in the press room – before playing along with the joke. Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe ex-Tottenham striker replied: “It’s very well prepared. I’ll have to talk to my agent and see what we can do!”But you have good golf courses. I mean the golf course we’re staying on is fantastic so it’s not a bad plus.SunSport’s Euro 2024 headlines EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYTalk of dropping Harry Kane is absurd, says Jurgen Klinsmann
    NO manager in the world will really care about how many touches their centre-forward has, writes Jurgen Klinsmann.
    It’s being widely flagged up that Harry Kane has not seen much of the ball in England’s first two matches but this is not, in itself, going to be a concern for Gareth Southgate.
    It’s a nice thing for the stats fanatics to go on about — and there are obviously more and more of them in and around football.
    But not all statistics are helpful and this one doesn’t mean a great deal.
    Harry has scored one goal, and so nearly two, in two games. It’s not as if he hasn’t been involved at all.
    Everybody in England needs to calm down a little about the captain.
    Some are even suggesting that he should be dropped or rested for tomorrow’s final group game against Slovenia — but that is totally absurd.
    Please stop worrying. He will come good. He always does.
    Read Jurgen Klinsmann thoughts on Harry Kane’s struggles in full.
    Or check out all of Jurgen’s Euro 2024 columns.

    “It’s been great. You know the reception I’ve had not just here but in the whole of Germany has been incredible. I think since I moved to Bayern Munich I’ve added a lot of supporters to me.”Every hotel we’ve been to so far and just around the stadium and everything, the support has been amazing, so I just want to say thank you for that.”I don’t know if it’s on my mind to move here one day, but we appreciate you guys hosting us.”And although he refused to sign the contract, Kane did autograph the Lauscha/Neuhaus shirt at the end of the press conference.But Greiner joked his local side had enjoyed a more successful season than Bundesliga giants Bayern last term. Greiner told the PA news agency: “He could be good in the team. We don’t have a Jude Bellingham but we have many players who can drink on one day and on the next day they play.Jack Wilshere: Southgate must be brave with RiceBy Jack Wilshere
    GARETH SOUTHGATE should be brave and play Declan Rice as our sole holding midfielder.
    But if England manager Southgate doesn’t want to do that — and he probably doesn’t ­— then he needs to give Rice the chance to play more like he does for Arsenal.
    Let’s be absolutely clear here. Rice was so important for us again during that first half against Denmark.
    The fact that he had a difficult second 45 minutes showed how much England were struggling.
    Rice himself would hold his hands up and say he gave away the ball too often.
    But what I took overall from his performance is that he needs more help in the engine room.
    Read here how Jack Wilshere would resolve the Declan Rice dilemma.

    “They hit the ball even if they drank like 15 beers the day before and I guess that’s high-level pressure they can deal with.”It would be a great match with a professional player who can score the goals so that the other players can drink like 17 beers the day before.”They were promoted this year so it’s another benefit for Harry Kane – more titles than Bayern Munich this year!”Away from the fun and games, Kane had some strong words to hit back at the pundits criticising England so far at the tournament. Lineker and Alan Shearer were among the strongest in voicing their concerns – with the current No9 coming in for particular negative press.But the captain was quick to point out that no England men’s team have lifted a major trophy since 1966 – and the support would be much appreciated.’We’re struggling with and without the ball’, admits Harry Kane
    HARRY KANE admits England “haven’t been good enough” at the Euros.
    Here’s what skipper Kane said after the disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark:
    “We’re struggling with and without the ball.
    “The pressing in both games hasn’t been quite right. We haven’t been good enough, from top to bottom, from me to Picks (Jordan Pickford).
    “Everyone is dropping below their level a bit, in terms of retaining the ball, playing under pressure.
    “We know there’ll be a bit of noise and disappointment back home.
    “But it’s a time to stay calm and we’ll get there step by step.
    “It wasn’t our greatest game but we got away with draw.
    “We are starting games well. But when the teams are dropping a few players deeper we are not quite sure how to get the pressure on, and who is the one who is supposed to be going.”
    “In the second half, we changed it with me and Jude (Bellingham)  playing in front of their two midfielders. But it was difficult.”

    Kane said: “I’d never want to be disrespectful to any player, especially a player that’s worn the shirt and knows what it’s like to play for England.”What maybe ex-players who are pundits now have got to realise, it’s very hard not to listen to it now, especially for young players who are not used to it or some players are new to the environment.”I know they’ve got to be honest and have their opinion but they have a responsibility as an ex-England player that a lot of players looked up to, people do care about what they say and do listen to them.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Everyone has got their opinion, but the bottom line is we haven’t won nothing as a nation for a long, long time and a lot of these players were part of that, and they know how tough it is.”It’s not digging anyone out, but it’s just the reality that they do know it’s tough to play in these major tournaments and tough to play for England.”Comedian Jonas Greiner is on a bid to sign a big-name player for SG Lauscha/NeuhausCredit: PAWho is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?
    EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.
    Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.
    But who is the sexiest?
    Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.
    And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.
    In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.
    While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.
    But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story. More