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      Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris provides Jordan Henderson transfer update 13 years after £20m departure to Liverpool

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      REGIS LE BRIS refused to rule out Jordan Henderson making a romantic return to Sunderland in January – but says no transfer talks are underway.The Wearsider, 34, came through the ranks at his boyhood club before signing for Liverpool in a £20m deal in 2011.Speculation has been mounting that Jordan Henderson wants a return to SunderlandCredit: GettyThe star came the the academy on Wearside but was sold to Liverpool in 2011Credit: AFPHe went on to enjoy great success at Anfield, captaining them to the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, European Super Cup and the Club World Cup.The England midfielder’s 12-year stay with the Reds came to a controversial end in the summer of 2023 as he headed to Saudi Arabia side Al Ettifaq for mega wages.The move turned into a disaster as he played just 19 games for the team managed by Steven Gerrard due to his family being unable to settle in the Middle East.Henderson headed back to Europe in January with Ajax but he has started just twice in the Dutch top-flight this term.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThat has led to his representatives allegedly trying to engineer a move back to the Stadium of Light to help Le Bris’ young squad in their promotion charge.Ahead of Sunday’s trip to Hull City, the Black Cats boss bluntly replied “no” when asked directly whether Henderson’s name had been discussed as a potential target.However, when asked if he was the type of player that he would like to bring in, he did not rule out a potential swoop.The Frenchman said: “He’s obviously a strong and famous player.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“At the minute the transfer window is not open, so we can speak about many players but we don’t have the choice at the moment.”Sunderland legend Julio Arca certainly believes that it would be a no-brainer to snap him up if the opportunity arises.Jordan Henderson’s prickly interview goes viral after seven-word reply to reporter’s blunt question and fans love itThe 43-year-old Argentinean, who spent six years at Sunderland and helped them to the 2005 Championship title, told SunSport: “I haven’t seen Jordan play a lot recently or what standard he is at but he is someone local that has gone on to do really well.“He did great for the club while he was here and he can bring a lot of experience to Sunderland’s young players.“It’s good to have experienced players like that as, even if they don’t play all the time, they can help in the changing-room and in certain games. “Some people will think that Jordan cannot play in every game, but he can bring a lot more than just the football playing side.”Sunderland have history when it comes to reunions with ex-stars and they have produced mixed results.Strikers Jermain Defoe and Danny Graham both endured miserable second stints with the Black Cats while the likes of Grant Leadbitter and Paul Bracewell both enjoyed further success.Regis Le Bris says ‘no’ talks have taken place so far regarding HendersonCredit: AlamySunderland legend Julio Arca would love to see Henderson returnCredit: GettyAnd another ex-Sunderland fan favourite Martin Gray, who came through the ranks at Roker Park to help the club win promotion in the 1990s, issued a warning to Henderson.The 53-year-old said: “You look at his achievements since leaving Sunderland and you just think, ‘Wow, where has that come from?’“Not many thought that he would go on to become the person he has and achieve the success he has with Liverpool and England.“You need experience but you need energy as well. “He could come and take some of the pressure off of the younger lads but if it doesn’t go well for you then it can leave a bit of a sour taste due to what you have achieved since you left.Martin Gray did issue a warning to the veteran midfielderCredit: Getty“I think it’s a big decision to make and if your legs are starting to go or you start picking up little niggles then the punters can turn on you very quickly.”Meanwhile, Ajax manager Francesco Farioli, who took over in the summer, sung the praises of Henderson when asked about the Sunderland links but refused to confirm the veteran was staying in Amsterdam.He said: “He is an exceptional player who possesses great quality and leadership.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Having captained his team to a Champions League victory, I believe he can effectively communicate the essence of a winning mentality and a strong work ethic.“There are many valuable ways in which he can make a significant contribution to a young team like ours.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      ‘John Terry tipped me to replace him at Chelsea but I only played 16 minutes in the Premier League’

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      JAKE CLARKE-SALTER was  tipped by Chelsea legend John Terry to replace him at Stamford Bridge.And he even went on to win a World Cup for the England Under-20s back in 2017 alongside the likes of Fikayo Tomori, Dominic Solanke and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.John Terry thought he found his replacement at Chelsea after his departureCredit: ReutersJake Clarke-Salter trained with Terry but played just 16 minutes in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyClarke-Salter underwent a series of loans before settling at Queens Park RangersCredit: GettyBut while his centre-back partner in that tournament, and ex-Blues team-mate, Tomori has gone on to play Champions League football for AC Milan, Clarke-Salter is battling at the bottom of the Championship with Queens Park Rangers.The defender recently signed a new four-year deal at Loftus Road and hopes his team can win only their second game of the season  when fellow early strugglers Portsmouth comes visiting on Saturday.Clarke-Salter, 27, only had 16 minutes of Premier League action in six years as a pro at Chelsea — coming on as a sub for Pedro in 2016 against Aston Villa.Terry was so impressed, he said at the time: “Jake reminds me of myself.Read More on Football“He’s doing great and I hope he goes on to take my position in the team.”Clearly that did not work out. Clarke-Salter did the hard yards in the EFL on loan with Bristol Rovers, Sunderland, Vitesse in the Netherlands, Notts County, Birmingham and then Coventry.But he ended up leaving two years ago to sign for the Rs.The centre-half said: “You can say I didn’t live up to what people thought.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“That’s something I’ve had to reflect on over the years.“I’m happy now at QPR because I’ve found my home again. I enjoy my football, which is the main thing.”’My pro football team-mate thought he was Spiderman after being spiked on night out’ | What the EFL?!Clarke-Salter believes going out on too many loans was what ultimately hindered his progress.And asked what advice he would give to any youngster in a similar  position at a top Premier League side, he said: “In all honesty, be patient.“I had an opportunity to stay around the Chelsea first team and train every day and learn a bit more — but I just wanted to play games.“So I went out at a young age, at 18 to 19, and then ended up breaking and dislocating my elbow while at Bristol Rovers.“At Chelsea, I was  training with some of the world’s best players, people like Eden Hazard, JT and Cesc Fabregas.“So I should’ve shown more patience rather than try to rush off.Looking back at Chelsea stint“Everyone has a different path. I should’ve stuck around, rather than play somewhere else as quickly as possible.“It was never like I thought I deserved to start. I had JT, Gary Cahill, David Luiz and Antonio Rudiger all ahead of me.“You should be spending time learning from them and not taking that kind of experience for granted.”Yet Clarke-Salter did have the privilege  of playing with a then 16-year-old Jude Bellingham at Birmingham.And he admitted: “Everyone knew from day one that he was going to be a world beater because of  his mentality.“We could see all the talent he had  but his willingness to work, as a 16-year-old, I’ve never seen anyone  that age do that.QPR hopes“Every day in training, he’d put his foot in and tell people who weren’t doing it right to  get on it. It’s no surprise he’s one of the best players in the world.”Boss Marti Cifuentes performed a near miracle keeping QPR in the Championship last season after inheriting a side that looked dead certs to go down.And there were high hopes in West London that the team would progress this season and push up the table.But, so far, they have only  beaten Luton Town and are yet to win at home.Yet despite this, Clarke-Salter firmly believes the Spanish coach is the  right man to take QPR to the next level — which is why he committed to a new long-term contract.The defender explained: “The new  manager has been massive for the club and myself.Happy at QPR“I suit the style he wants to play. Hopefully there’s  a good future here.“We’ve got a lot of new players and  a new way of playing — so it’s just about gelling now.“Everyone is trying to implement the gaffer’s ideas. It’s a long season.“What I like about the gaffer is his ideas and the way he sees football — his philosphy, his calming presence, the way he speaks to the players.“He has a good understanding and is a great man-manager.”Newly-promoted Pompey are one spot and two points behind 22nd-placed QPR in the table —  and are the only side in the Championship yet to win a game.But Clarke-Salter said: “The table is so tight right now. One win can just shoot you up the table.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We’ve got  great players in this squad and now it’s just about getting that  consistency.”  CopyBet is  official betting partner of Queens Park Rangers. Visit CopyBet.comWho are these famous footballers? More

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      ‘I wasn’t contacted about the England job,’ admits Eddie Howe as he gives verdict on Thomas Tuchel appointment

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      EDDIE HOWE is not angry about being overlooked by the FA for the England job and believes Thomas Tuchel was the “best” foreign candidate available.SunSport revealed there was no contact with Howe, 46, as the FA spoke to 10 different managers.Newcastle boss Eddie Howe confirmed he was never contacted by the FA for the England jobCredit: GettyThomas Tuchel became the new England manager as he replaced Gareth SouthgateCredit: SplashHowe believes ex-Chelsea boss Tuchel is a great England appointmentCredit: AlamyThe Newcastle boss was touted as one of the favourites to take charge of the Three Lions until the FA named the German as their new boss.The decision has been met with mixed reaction, but when asked on what his thoughts are about Tuchel, Howe revealed: “Firstly, speaking about Thomas himself, I’ve got a relationship with him and was lucky and fortunate enough to go and see him work at Chelsea when I was out of work.“What a brilliant guy, great person, great coach. I had two days with him and thought that he was fascinating and I really enjoyed his company.“I really wish him well and think that he’s a great appointment. I hope that he leads England to many trophies.Read More on Football“I have always said, and I’ve been very clear on this going back years and years, my preference would have been for an English coach but if you are going to go foreign then go for the best and I certainly think Thomas is that.”The FA claimed to have interviewed ten candidates, but the Toon chief says he was not one of them and there had been “no contact” from the FA.Howe was the choice of many to lead the Three Lions into the World Cup, and when asked if he was angry that he had not even been approached for talks, Howe replied: “Absolutely not. “The FA have to do what is right for them and only they know the processes and decisions that they have made.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“I’m not the type of person to analyse that and my focus is on Newcastle and trying to win games.“That’s hard enough to do being 100 per cent focused and I’ll always remain that way to my work but know if you drop your levels then your job becomes impossible. I’ve never allowed myself to do that.”Thomas Tuchel England Press ConferenceHowe is perceived by many to be a future England manager, but does he feel that too?“I don’t visualise that,” he insisted. “I just think about Newcastle and trying to lift a trophy here would be my goal and I’m immersing myself in what I’m in currently. So no other thoughts have entered my head.“So I don’t take on that feeling and just try to do the best I can.”Howe has faced constant questions about the England job, despite stating from the off that he wanted to stay at St James’, and admits there is some relief that the chase for Gareth Southgate’s replacement is over.He said: “There was no-one more pleased than me to see Thomas get the job, really, and take it because it’s just a distraction – not that it distracts me, but you can see it’s unsettling at times when certain things are said and written about.“The more that everyone can focus on Newcastle – which has always been my only concern – the better.”Howe focused on NewcastleEven though it appears FA chiefs overlooked him this time, is it a job that interests him in the future?“Who knows,” responded Howe. “I’ve always said that you can never predict what’s going to happen in management, you can never plan too far ahead. I certainly don’t.“I’m a day-to-day planner, while certainly acknowledging that Newcastle – I’ve always said this – has a future and we have to make sure we make the right decisions long-term. “But the job takes so many twists and turns, you can’t look too far ahead. I think that’s negative, actually, if you do that, so in terms of my own career and what’s five, 10 years ahead, I don’t know, I’ve got no idea.“But I’d never say that managing England isn’t something I’d like to do maybe one day if given the opportunity, but my focus is Newcastle, Newcastle, Newcastle.”Howe was then asked directly if he would have spoken to the FA if they had knocked on his door, to which he replied: ‘Hypothetical questions are very dangerous to answer. England still the pinnacle “Listen, I will talk to anyone who knocks on my front door… but not in the respect of entering conversations about leaving Newcastle.”Everton boss Sean Dyche has stated that the England job is perhaps no longer the pinnacle for English coaches.But Howe feels differently, saying: “I think if you are looking to get into international football and you have got that passion for international football then absolutely yes.“It just depends on your viewpoint. If you look domestically and you love the day-to-day aspect of the job then obviously you’ll have a different answer.“For me, as a kid I loved World Cups, European Championships, I was obsessed with England trying to win something and I really do hope that Thomas can do that for the country.”And Howe, whose side face Brighton on Saturday in the Premier League, refused to be drawn on the credentials of other English coaches that were overlooked, saying: “Yes, of course there were candidates. But I’m not going to critique the FA’s decision. The decision is down to them.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They know a lot more than I do. They will have all the information. I don’t think it’s for me to judge that decision.“But there are people out there who I think are very, very good who are English and they’re available. I’m sure the FA did their work on that and they’ve come to their decision.”Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel.Inside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel. 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      Arsenal tipped to sign former Man Utd star, 24, they could get on a free transfer next summer

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      ARSENAL legend Lee Dixon tipped his former club to sign ex-Manchester United ace Angel Gomes, whom they could get for free in the summer.Gomes, 24, has been turning heads ever since rolling credits on his 11-year stint at United where he started out at the age of 6 in the academy.Arsenal legend Lee Dixon tipped his former club to sign Lille star Angel GomesCredit: GettyDixon predicted Arsenal could get ex-Manchester United ace Gomes for free in JuneCredit: AFP or licensorsDixon insists England star Gomes would be a ‘superb’ fit for Arsenal boss Mikel ArtetaCredit: GettyThe versatile midfielder moved to France in 2020 and has since amassed a staggering 123 appearances, despite spending a season on loan at Boavista.That earned the defensive midfielder an England call-up by interim boss Lee Carsley and he proved he can play an integral part in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.Gomes has been so good he left United fans scratching their heads and wondering why he was let go.Dixon, 60, urged his former club to capitalise on the Red Devils’ inability to hold on to the England international, whom he described as a “superb” fit and the perfect partner for Declan Rice in midfield.Read More on ArsenalThe former full-back predicted the North Londoners could indeed sign the United academy graduate for next season as his contract with Lille runs out in June.Dixon told plejmo.com: “I think Angel Gomes would fit in at Arsenal superbly.”His qualities are clear to see, he’s a very good link-up player and we’ve seen that he can play alongside Declan Rice.”He’s got a lot of potential and although there will be plenty of clubs looking at him, I could see him at Arsenal next season.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal keep strengthening in their bid to win their first Premier League title since the Invincibles’ campaign in 2004.Dixon believes it is important to end that duck and urged his former club to also work on finally winning their first ever Champions League title.Mikel Arteta lauds Arsenal’s win over PSG The England international is adamant that titles need to be won and even claimed that manager Mikel Arteta would be deemed a “failure” if he failed to win any major trophies at the Emirates.Dixon added: “If Mikel Arteta leaves Arsenal without winning the Premier League or Champions League at Arsenal you’d have to say it’s been a failure because that’s what he is there to do, to win the biggest trophies.”He would be the first to say that and of course we don’t know how long he will be in the job, but not winning one of those would be a massive disappointment.”It’s a tough competition to win of course, but Arsenal’s defence could be the key to winning the Champions League for the first time.”It’s so tough to win, as Arsenal have proved over the years since they got to the final, they haven’t come anywhere close since.”It’s tough with all the big teams and you do need a bit of luck, but you have to have a firm base and they have got that with their defence now.”They’ve got that solidarity to build on and they need to get through the winter months with few injuries, that is the challenge for all the clubs in Europe.”Arsenal legend Dixon believes Gomes would be a stunning partner for Declan Rice in midfieldCredit: Getty More

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      Non-league club boast entire ex-Premier League front three after signing former Champions League star

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      NON-LEAGUE club Kettering Town are looking to relive the glory days of the Premier League.That’s after signing former Champions League star Gary Hooper to complete an ex-top flight front three.Kettering Town have signed ex-Norwich and Premier League striker Gary HooperCredit: Press Association ImagesThe forward also netted in the Champions League for CelticCredit: GettyKettering Town player in the seventh tier of English football.The Northampton-based club are hoping to improve on last season’s 15th-place finish in the Southern League Premier Division Central.And they first bolstered their ranks with the surprise signing of former Newcastle striker Nile Ranger, 33, last month.Later in September, ex-Bolton and Burnley forward Marvin Sordell, 33, came out of retirement to join Kettering.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut now, the minnows have added a third top striker to their squad.On Thursday, Kettering delighted fans by announcing the arrival of Hooper.The 36-year-old left National League side Barnet at the end of last season.But it’s his prowess as a former Premier League and Champions League striker that is sure to excite supporters.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHooper clocked up two top-flight appearances for Norwich after firing them out of the Championship in 2015.Before his Canaries stint, the hitman bagged 63 goals in 95 games for Celtic – winning two titles in the process.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballersKettering now have an ex-Prem front three after also landing Nile RangerCredit: Kettering Town FCHe played for Newcastle in his primeCredit: GettyHooper also featured in 19 European games for the Scots, including two Champions League campaigns, scoring a further seven times.And fans responded with glee to Kettering’s latest arrival.One said: “What is going on with this club lately?!”Another declared: “What a signing.”One noted: “Dreamland!”Another added: “Sign all the strikers.”Kettering have also snapped up Marvin SordellCredit: Kettering Town FCHe starred for Burnley and BoltonCredit: PA:Empics Sport More

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      Former Champions League star who ‘changed club’s world image’ with goal vs Barcelona now playing in non-league at 33

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      A CHAMPIONS LEAGUE hero has left elite football to return to his roots for a non-league club in Greece.The famous defender stood out in Serie A playing for Roma and Napoli as well as Salernitana most recently.Kostas Manolas has left elite football for non-league club PannaxiakosCredit: Getty – ContributorManolas is remembered for his legendary goal for Roma that eliminated BarcelonaCredit: Getty The ex-Greece international’s performances in Italy attracted the interest of Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea in 2018 and 2019.Reports at the time suggested the Premier League trio was willing to splash over £30million before the centre-back joined Napoli in 2019 and embarked on a three-year stint in Naples.That is none other than Kostas Manolas, who made headlines around the world in the Champions League six years ago when his late header led Roma to a famous 3-0 win over Barcelona at the Olimpico.It was thanks to the Greek star that the Giallorossi qualified for the semi-finals where they faced Liverpool, who moved on to the final.Read More on FootballManolas is now 33 years old and it looks like top-level football is over for him as he surprised the world with his decision to play for his local club Pannaxiakos in the Cyclades’ First Division until June.The Olympiacos legend returns to his place of birth in the isle of Naxos where he and his family have now settled to play in the fourth division, with his new team now hoping for promotion to the third division.The ex-AEK Athens star decided to help the team after a few training sessions with Giorgos Mostratos’ side.Pannaxiakos announced: “The President, the members of the Board of Directors and Pannaxiakos FC’s great family announce the arrival of Kostas Manolas to the men’s team with great joy, emotion and pride.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”The player who wore the shirt of AEK, Olympiacos, Roma, Napoli, the player who honored the shirt of Greece’s Youth and Men’s National Team, the Greek central defender who has been admired by Europe, the Naxos native who has chosen his place of birth to reside with his family, will strengthen Pannaxiakos’ effort in this year’s championship. Welcome Kostas!”Manolas joined Roma in 2014 following two stunning years at Olympiacos in the Champions League and went on to amass a total of eight goals in 206 appearances before joining Napoli.Kostas Manolas shows off his football skills playing for Salernitana 1919 However, none of his goals are more famous than the one against Lionel Messi and co, which he claimed “changed Roma’s image in the world”.The ex-Greece star, who stood out in the 2014 World Cup and helped his country make it to the knockouts for the first time ever, claimed the Italian giants could have even made it to the Champions League final if VAR was available.Manolas said two years ago: “It changed Roma’s image in the world.“Yes, it was important. Not only because it was a 3-0 scoreline to qualify for a Champions League semi-final. “But because the whole world understood that Roma are a great team. Before, Roma had another image in Europe, another story.“But we too could have reached the final of that Champions League, if there had been VAR. READ MORE SUN STORIES”They didn’t give us a penalty on [Edin] Dzeko for an offside that wasn’t there. “They didn’t see a handball by [Trent] Alexander-Arnold which would have been a penalty and red card. A goal would have been enough to beat Liverpool.” More

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      Jurgen Klopp ‘set to raid Barcelona as ex-Liverpool boss plots first two transfer deals for Red Bull’

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      JURGEN KLOPP is reportedly plotting to kick-start his Red Bull reign with a double swoop on Barcelona’s famed academy.The former Liverpool manager, 57, said he was taking a year out of football after leaving Anfield in May.Red Bull chief Jurgen Klopp is set to pounce for two Barcelona youngstersCredit: PABut Klopp stunned supporters when earlier this month he announced he was becoming Red Bull’s new Head of Global Football.The Premier League and Champions League winner is now in charge of business dealings for clubs including RB Leipzig and RB Salzburg.And he will pocket up to £10million each year in his new role.Red Bull have already been making moves under the German after investing in French side Paris FC.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd reports in Spain claim Klopp now wants to boost Red Bull’s incredible stable of young talents by poaching two of the best from Barcelona.According to Sport, Klopp would first like to sign Spain U19 midfielder Aleix Garrido.The talented playmaker, who turns 21 in February, has just one senior appearance for Barca and is out of contract next summer.He is ready for a change of scenery and would be tempted by a move to Red Bull, with Austrian giants Salzburg the most likely destination.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKlopp also hopes to pull off a deal for Germany U19 winger Noah Darvich.The 18-year-old is highly regarded at Barcelona following a £4million move from Freiburg’s academy last year.Ex-Liverpool boss and heavy metal fan Jurgen Klopp soundproofs £6m mansion in Germany’s ‘Beverly Hills’Midfielder Aleix Garrido could be on his way to RB SalzburgCredit: GettyWinger Noah Darvich could return to Germany with RB LeipzigCredit: GettyHe too is yet to make a senior appearance but has been tipped as a future first-team star.And due to Darvich’s German roots, he would likely end up at Leipzig.However, the ace is tied down to Barcelona until 2026.He is also said to have a mind-blowing £1BILLION release clause.But with Barca’s financial troubles well-documented, a fair bid from Red Bull and Klopp could be enough to twist their arm.Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave KiddNOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.Klopp got it wrong.Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      Barcelona line up shock moves for Darwin Nunez and Alexander Isak if they fail to complete Erling Haaland transfer

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      BARCELONA will move for TWO of the Premier League’s biggest stars if they fail in their bid to land Erling Haaland.It was recently reported that the Spanish giants are planning a mega transfer move for Haaland to crown the grand re-opening of the Nou Camp.Barcelona want to sign Erling HaalandCredit: GettyDarwin Nunez would be targetted if they fail to sign the Man City starCredit: PANewcastle’s Alexander Isak is also a targetCredit: GettyManchester City’s star man is in his third season at the Etihad.But after scoring copious amounts of goals and winning everything there is to win, Haaland’s future in the North West remains unclear.And that’s put Barcelona on red-alert.In February, his agent held a meeting with Barcelona in what could be a hint at the forward’s future.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSFootage captured from Spanish media showed Barca sporting director Deco meeting with superagent Rafaela Pimenta.Reports at the time alleged that Haaland’s future was discussed at the meeting.The 23-year-old has previously been linked with Spanish giants Real Madrid.He  has a contract at Man City running until 2027 which sees him earn £375,000 a week before bonuses.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut Barcelona already have plans in place about alternative players to swoop for if they miss out on Haaland.SunSport can reveal Newcastle hitman Alexander Isak is high on their list as is Darwin Nunez.Man United dressing room was BUGGED during match against Aston Villa in a shocking security breachBoth are seen by Barcelona chiefs as potential marquee signings who would excite the fans.And the players are likely to be more open-minded to a move to Spain than Haaland.Swedish sensation Isak almost switched to Barcelona over the summer, after being pursued by the Catalan giants.Nunez is believed to be growing increasingly frustrated by his lack of first-team action at Anfield.Although new-manager Arne Slot is a fan, Diogo Jota has started more games than him this season.The Catalans top LaLiga with eight wins from nine under Hansi Flick.And despite their well-documented financial troubles, Barcelona continue to attract some of football’s biggest names.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpain’s Euro winner Dani Olmo was the latest superstar to join this summer.They also managed to coax Wojciech Szczesny out of retirement following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s major injury blow. More