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    Casemiro ‘thrown Man Utd escape route’ with Red Devils ready to cash in on £350,000-a-week flop

    CASEMIRO has reportedly been offered a way out of Manchester United this summer.The midfield veteran, 32, joined them nearly two years ago in a £60million deal from Real Madrid.Man Utd dud Casemiro has been thrown a transfer lifeline this summerCredit: EPACasemiro enjoyed a strong debut season as he made 51 appearances while lifting the Carabao Cup.But his form has taken a strong decline this term, with injuries limiting him to 30 games for United.The Brazilian has particularly looked completely off the pace deputising at centre-back.And despite being a five-time Champions League winner with Real, Casemiro no longer appears able to keep up with the Prem’s frantic pace.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe still has two years to run on a contract worth an eye-watering £350,000-a-week.But Fabrizio Romano claims both Casemiro and United could be saved in the summer transfer window.He reckons numerous clubs in Saudi Arabia are preparing offers to land the ace from Old Trafford.Many have had Casemiro on their shortlist since October.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd proposals are expected to arrive once the league’s budget has been decided by Saudi chiefs.Casemiro could jump at the chance to escape to the Middle East, on possibly an even bigger salary.BREAKING: Raphael Varane will LEAVE Man Utd in summer on free transfer as Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans club overhaulWhile United will not stand in his way as Sir Jim Ratcliffe looks to clear the decks and trim the fat.Should Casemiro leave, it will mark the end of United’s mini ‘Galactico’ era.That’s because fellow ex-Real Madrid teammate Raphael Varane has confirmed his exit.The defender arrived a year earlier than Casemiro but has been beset by injuries ever since.Varane, also being lined up by Saudi sides, declared today: “To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt.“The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man Utd player it was insane, the atmosphere was amazing.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man Utd to understand what that represents.“For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me for life.”SunSport’s verdict on Man Utd flopsSir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos have a busy summer ahead to get Man Utd’s squad in order for next season. Below SunSport gives it verdict on how they should deal with the Red Devils flops this summer.
    Andre Onana – STAY: After a dodgy start at Old Trafford Onana has proven to be one of the more reliable members of the squad this season despite being peppered with shots constantly.
    Altay Bayindir – GO: Reports in February suggested Bayindir was unhappy with his bit part role at Man Utd amid interest from Turkish giants Galatasaray. If profit can be made on a sale then it should be done.
    Tom Heaton – STAY: Veteran goalkeeper Heaton, 38, is a reliable back-up and is on a relatively small wage at the club. So long as he is happy it makes sense to keep him.
    Aaron Wan-Bissaka – GO: Wan-Bissaka, 26, has never managed to make the right-back position his own. With his contract up in 2025 it makes sense to cash in now.
    Diogo Dalot – STAY: Dalot, 26, has been one of Man Utd’s most consistent performers this season.
    Raphael Varane – GO: If it wasn’t for his injury record there would be a strong shout to keep Varane, but costs need to be cut to allow the squad to be freshened up.
    Harry Maguire – GO: Maguire has showed he has the right character to be at Man Utd but overall ability and desired profile are another matter, with Maguire too slow to play in a high line defence.
    Lisandro Martinez – STAY: Martinez, 26, is second to none in terms of build up play. He needs a long-term defensive partner on the right side and to cut out the injuries which have plagued him this season.
    Jonny Evans – GO: Veteran campaigner Evans could easily be on the stay list if he was only going to be a bit part player. But he has shown his advanced years at times this season.
    Victor Lindelof – GO:  Lindelof, 29, has been reliable if not unremarkable in his Man Utd career. He has one year left on his contract so should be moved on if a decent transfer fee can be got for him.
    Willy Kambwala – STAY: He should be given the opportunity to mature for a few years behind a senior CB pairing before stepping into the first team as a starter or being moved on.
    Luke Shaw – GO: One of the Premier League’s best left-backs when fit, Shaw has been a good servant when available. But alas that has been his Achilles heel once again this season.
    Tyrell Malacia – STAY: Malacia, 24, was decent enough to earn some merit in his first season at Man Utd before injury ended his season and inadvertently led to his second season being a write off.
    Sofyan Amrabat – GO: Amrabat, 27, looked like a world beater at the Qatar World Cup with Morocco. But he’s had an underwhelming season in England and his loan spell will almost certainly not be made permanent.
    Casemiro – GO: An alarming physical decline has seen him turn from key star to burden. If a club is willing to buy the 32-year-old – who has two more years on his contract – then United should snatch their hand off.
    Christian Eriksen – GO: Eriksen proved a useful asset and Ineos should look to bring in another player with similar traits, but frankly his legs have looked gone towards the end of this season.
    Kobbie Mainoo – STAY: The first of the so-called untouchables, Mainoo has been a rare glimmer of hope in the Red Devils midfield this season.
    Mason Mount – STAY: Mount can be given the benefit of the doubt until summer 2025 at least after a debut season riddled with injury.
    Scott McTominay – STAY: McTominay, 27, has proven himself to be a brilliant plan B off the bench this season, and that is exactly why Ineos should look to keep him.
    Bruno Fernandes – STAY: Man Utd’s best player since his arrival just over four years ago, Fernandes, 29, remains second-to-none when it comes to creating chances while his tenacity boosts those around him.
    Antony – GO: There’s a case to argue that Antony may be the worst pound-for-pound signing in Premier League history. Despite some memorable moments he simply isn’t Man Utd quality.
    Anthony Martial – GO: Ultimately Martial needs to be let go when his deal runs out this summer after an appalling injury record of late.
    Marcus Rashford – STAY: As easy as it would be to say Rashford should leave the club this summer, it is difficult to look at the market and find many available players capable of scoring 30 goals a season.
    Alejandro Garnacho – STAY: Another third of the untouchables trio, Garnacho has made the right-wing his own since coming into it. He’s a raw talent but has shown he has the quality to improve.
    Rasmus Hojlund – STAY: A slow burner in his first Man Utd season, the 21-year-old has often been starved of supply which has led to him being unable to get the goals his movement and unselfish play often merits.
    Amad Diallo – STAY: In the fleeting moments he has been on the pitch for Man Utd this season, Diallo has looked dangerous and exciting. He should be given a chance to flourish with some proper chances in the first team across a whole season. More

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    Forgotten Aston Villa flop Philippe Coutinho ‘set for £5m transfer’ just six years after Barcelona paid £140MILLION

    PHILIPPE COUTINHO could seal a £5million move away from Aston Villa this summer.The midfielder, 31, has played just 24 minutes for the club since February 2023.Philippe Coutinho could secure a loan move with an obligation to buy this summerCredit: RexHowever, he still has two years remaining on his contract at Villa Park after his loan from Barcelona was made permanent in 2022.Coutinho is attracting interest from his native Brazil, though, according to reports.TNT Sports Brazil report that Vasco da Gama are ready to make a loan move for the playmaker.Their approach would also include an obligation to buy, with Villa asking for between £4m and £6m.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCoutinho began his career at Vasco before he was sold to Inter aged 16, but did return for a two-year loan spell between 2008 and 2010.He has also been linked with a move to MLS side Inter Miami, where Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez currently play.His potential cut-price return to Brazil comes just six years after Barcelona signed him for £140m from Liverpool.The 2018 transfer remains the third-highest transfer fee of all-time.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMeanwhile, Villa spent £17m on Coutinho two years ago after he scored five goals and laid on three assists in 19 appearances on loan from Barca.He went on to score just once in 20 league matches last season, though, as he fell out of favour under Unai Emery.Footballers you didn’t know were related from Premier League icons to Lionel MessiCoutinho was even made available for transfer last summer before sealing a loan move to Qatari side Al-Duhail.The Brazilian has gone on to score six goals in 20 appearances during his loan stay.Injuries have continued to hamper his career since his move to Barcelona in 2018.Multiple hamstring issues and a serious knee injury have seen Coutinho miss 84 matches for Barca, Bayern Munich, Brazil, Villa and Al-Duhail across the last six years.Coutinho is currently on loan at Qatari side Al-Duhail from Aston VillaCredit: Rex More

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    Raphael Varane will LEAVE Man Utd in summer on free transfer as Sir Jim Ratcliffe begins club overhaul

    RAPHAEL VARANE will leave Manchester United when his contract expires this summer, the club have confirmed.The Frenchman, who currently earns £350,000-a-week, has made 93 appearances for United since joining from Real Madrid almost three years ago.Raphael Varane will leave Man Utd this summerCredit: PAThe defender announced his departure with a video on social mediaCredit: X formerly Twitter / @raphaelvaraneVarane announced his departure with a heartfelt message on social media.In a video, he said: “To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt.”The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man Utd player it was insane, the atmosphere was amazing.”I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man Utd to understand what that represents.Read More on Football”For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me for life.”Varane played his final match for Man Utd at the beginning of April, when the Red Devils suffered a dramatic 4-3 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.The defender has since been sidelined with a muscle injury.He is one of several players set to leave Old Trafford this summer, with new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe determined to overhaul the first team squad.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Red Devils are expected to entertain talks for almost everyone except Kobbie Mainoo, Rasmus Hojlund and Alejandro Garnacho.Ahead of his imminent exit, Varane insists Man Utd are in great shape under the guidance of Ratcliffe and his INEOS group.Man Utd’s top targets for the transfer windowThe 31-year-old added: “Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future.”The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.”Varane’s Man Utd careerBy Neil Custis
    RAPHAEL VARANE arrived at Old Trafford to a huge ovation.
    Walking out to the centre circle ahead of the opening game of the 2021-22 season he took out his own mobile phone to capture the moment.
    This seemed to be another step under Ole Solskjaer towards getting Manchester United back to the glory days – wrong.
    It is unlikely the four time Champions League winner is going to get anything like the farewell he might have hoped for.
    The French World Cup winner has announced he will definitely be leaving in the summer.
    He posted a heartfelt thanks to the club and fans a day before their final home game of the season.
    No doubt he has done it in the hope of an emotional send off – who advises these people?
    Varane has played an average of just over 20 league games a season since his big money switch from Real Madrid while raking in around £350,000 a week.
    At no time did we see the player who had served Real Madrid so well.
    Once again the club has been used as a convenient pay day by a player who can no longer hit the heights.
    Thank you and goodbye.

    Varane concluded his farewell video by saying: “I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last game at home this season. And it’s going to be a very emotional day for me, for sure.”The World Cup winner walks away from Old Trafford having earned just under £55million in wages.During his time with United, Varane won the Carabao Cup at Wembley in 2023.He is yet to announce his next club, although he is understood to be interested in moving to Italy or Saudi Arabia.Varane’s statement in full
    “To you guys, supporters of Manchester United, it’s been an amazing few years to play for this special club and wearing that shirt.
    “The first time I went to Old Trafford as a Man Utd player it was insane, the atmosphere was amazing.
    “I fell in love with the club, with the fans. You have to play for Man Utd to understand what that represents.
    “For my kids, it’s home here. It’s going to be a special place for me for life.
    “When the fans go to Wembley it’s something they remember for life. To share that moment with them was absolutely amazing.
    “Despite the fact we had a difficult season, I’m very positive for the future.
    “The new owners are coming with a clear plan and a great strategy.
    “I’ll see you at Old Trafford to say goodbye for the last game at home this season. And it’s going to be a very emotional day for me, for sure.” More

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    Sergio Ramos, 38, set for free transfer to team that doesn’t exist yet after emotional season at boyhood club Sevilla

    SERGIO RAMOS is in “advanced negotiations” for a move to the MLS this summer, according to reports.The Real Madrid legend, 38, returned to boyhood club Sevilla last summer after two years with Paris Saint-Germain.Sergio Ramos’ Sevilla contract is set to expire in the summerCredit: GettyHe has played 34 times this season – scoring seven goals – but the team have struggled and are languishing in 12th in the LaLiga table.Ramos only signed a deal until the end of the season and his contract is not expected to be renewed.Now, according to The Athletic, he is in talks to join San Diego FC.The report states no deal has been agreed or finalised, but that talks are at an “advanced” stage with the team set for their debut season next year.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRamos is one of the most decorated defenders in the history of the game.He won five LaLiga titles, two Copa del Reys and four Champions Leagues at Real Madrid.He also claimed two Ligue 1 titles with Paris Saint-Germain.And at international level he lifted back-to-back European Championships, as well as the World Cup in 2010.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut his return to Sevilla after 18 years away has not been the fairytale many would have envisaged.In January, following a 2-0 loss to Athletic Bilbao, he became embroiled in a row with a disgruntled fan during a post-match interview.Sergio Ramos booed entire match by Atletico fans for breaking football etiquette… but fans are all sick of traditionOne month earlier, he enraged Atletico Madrid fans after stepping over their badge when coming out to warm-up at the Wanda Metropolitano.He was then booed throughout the match as Atletico claimed a 1-0 win over Sevilla.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Bruno Fernandes ready to make FA Cup final his Man Utd swansong after stunning Old Trafford chiefs with huge quit hint

    BRUNO FERNANDES is ready for the FA Cup final to be his Manchester United swansong.SunSport understands the Red Devils captain is considering a summer move after four-and-a-half seasons at Old Trafford.The FA Cup final could be Bruno Fernandes’ final appearance in a Man Utd shirtCredit: GettyFernandes stunned United earlier this month by hinting he could quit after the Euros for a fresh challenge.At 29 the Portugal playmaker could extend his career outside the rigours of the Premier League in a less demanding league and in sunnier weather.There will be no shortage of potential suitors with clubs from Saudi Arabia expected to declare their interest.Fernandes missed the 4-0 humiliation at Crystal Palace as well as Sunday’s 1-0 home defeat to Arsenal through injury.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe midfield star is battling to be fit for Wednesday’s visit of Newcastle as Erik ten Hag’s eighth-placed side battle for a European spot.United are three points behind the Toon Army and Chelsea with two Prem matches left to play.The Red Devils travel to Brighton on the final day and then face a daunting trip to Wembley for the cup final against neighbours City on May 25.Fernandes is widely regarded as United’s best signing in the post Sir Alex Ferguson era.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe is in his fifth season at the club since joining from Sporting Lisbon in January 2020 in a deal worth £55million, and has scored 79 goals and provided 62 assists in 230 games.Fernandes signed a new contract in April 2022, which could run until 2027.Five reasons why Man Utd must sign Cole Palmer from Chelsea – it would be the transfer of the summerUnited legend Rio Ferdinand says Fernandes is one of the few players who will challenge under-performing Old Trafford stars after their 14th league defeat of the season.Ferdinand told talkSPORT: “I know that Bruno points out things and pulls young players in. Whether you think he does it in the right way when he is on the pitch and might be too animated for some people.“But I look at the last two games that United have played and they haven’t been good enough, he is a big miss to that team.“He creates chances and makes other players look good. But he would be the one that would be pulling people and talking to people.”Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
    Michael Owen – He has to go
    “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
    Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
    “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
    Jamie Carragher – Sacked
    “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
    Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
    “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
    Louis Saha – On the fence
    “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
    Alan Shearer – Sacked
    “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.” More

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    Premier League cult icon lands new job as manager of fifth tier non-league side after four months unemployed

    MATT TAYLOR has been announced as the new manager of non-league club Wealdstone.The former Portsmouth, Bolton and West Ham midfielder, 42, was sacked by League Two side Shrewsbury in January after a run of seven defeats in eight games.Matt Taylor has previously managed Walsall and ShrewsburyCredit: GettyTaylor played more than 300 times in the Premier League for Portsmouth, Bolton and West HamCredit: PA:Press AssociationBut now Taylor, who also spent nine months as Walsall head coach, has returned to management with National League outfit Wealdstone.He said: “I am excited to join Wealdstone.”We have a great opportunity to build something special here, and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”While Wealdstone chairman Rory Fitzgerald added: “We are thrilled to welcome Matt to Wealdstone.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”His experience at the top levels of football, both as a player and a coach, will be invaluable as we strive to develop our club to achieve our long-term ambitions.”Matt’s vision for the team, his clear principles for how he wants us to play and his track record of developing young talent are exactly what we need.”As a player, Taylor accumulated more than 300 appearances in the Premier League.He also won the second tier with Portsmouth and Burnley, but narrowly missed out on Pompey’s 2008 FA Cup victory after leaving Fratton Park midway through the season.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe begun his coaching career as caretaker boss at Swindon, losing his only match in charge.His first full-time position was at Tottenham’s U21s between 2019 and 2021.Football’s weirdest contract clauses revealed including non-Arsenal agreement and a private jet promiseWalsall brought him in after the conclusion of the 2020/21 campaign, but he won just nine of 26 games at the helm before being dismissed in February 2022.He was appointed Shrewsbury manager last summer, but lasted just six months and was axed following a torrid run of form with the club 19th in League One, seven points above the relegation zone.They finished the campaign in 19th, avoiding the drop by just four points.Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
    Michael Owen – He has to go
    “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
    Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
    “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
    Jamie Carragher – Sacked
    “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
    Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
    “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
    Louis Saha – On the fence
    “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
    Alan Shearer – Sacked
    “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.” More

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    Arsenal legend confirms he will QUIT AC Milan in summer and join Hollywood star Will Ferrell’s club

    OLIVIER GIROUD has announced he will leave AC Milan in the summer as he prepares for life in the MLS.The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker, 37, has spent three seasons with the Italian giants, winning the Serie A title in 2022.Olivier Giroud has confirmed he will leave AC Milan in the summerCredit: Milan TVGiroud got emotional during his exit speech to AC Milan fansCredit: X @acmilanHe has scored 48 goals in 130 games since arriving from Stamford Bridge for £3.5million.But he has now confirmed in an emotional interview that his time at AC Milan will come to an end after their final two games of the campaign.His contract is already due to expire in June.And it has been revealed he will join American side LAFC until December 2025 – a club part-owned by Hollywood actor Will Ferrell.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSpeaking on Milan TV, Giroud said: “I’m here to tell you that the next two games will be my last for Milan. My career will continue in the MLS.”I’m very proud of everything I’ve done here at Milan across three seasons.”It’s the right time to announce it. Excuse me, I’m a bit emotional.”So, yeah, my story with Milan ends this year but Milan will forever remain in my heart.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSGiroud has scored 14 goals for AC Milan this seasonHis final game for the club is set to come at the San Siro against Salernitana on May 26.After leaving Milan, Giroud will join former Tottenham captain Hugo Lloris at LAFC.Football stars’ weird phobiasGareth Bale also signed for the club back in 2022, scoring three goals in 13 appearances prior to his retirement.The MLS side sit fifth out of 14 teams in the Western Conference after 12 games of the 2024 season.And the addition of Giroud will be a major coup for the club.Giroud scored 105 goals in 253 appearances for Arsenal, winning three FA Cups in four seasons.He left to join Chelsea in January 2017 and went on to bag 39 times in 119 games in West London, lifting the FA Cup, Europa League and Champions League during his three-and-a-half seasons there.Giroud is also France’s all-time top scorer with 57 goals in 131 caps.He won the World Cup in 2018 and reached the final in 2022, before France were beaten on penalties by Argentina.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, A-lister actor Ferrell is reportedly eyeing up a stake in Leeds.He will reportedly travel to Wembley Stadium to watch them in the play-off final if they make it past Norwich.Will Ferrell is a part-owner of Giroud’s new club LAFCCredit: GettyGiroud won the Serie A title with AC Milan two years agoCredit: Getty More

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    Premier League legend Adam Lallana set to wake up unemployed as Brighton announce his release

    ADAM LALLANA will leave Brighton and Hove Albion at the end of the season.The midfielder will become a free agent once his contract at the Amex expires.Adam Lallana will leave Brighton at the end of the seasonCredit: RexHe won the Champions League while at LiverpoolCredit: AFPLallana, 36, has been at the Seagulls for four years following his switch from Liverpool in 2020.The former England star admitted that it is the “right time” and revealed that manager Roberto De Zerbi wanted to keep him.He said: “It was a tough decision, but it just feels like the right time, not just for myself but for the club as well.”I’ve been in talks with Roberto for the past couple of months and he expressed his wish for me to stay and keep playing.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“However, after taking a little time to think about where the football club is at, and having been away from my family for the last four years, I just feel it’s the right time.”I’ve been speaking with my family throughout the year and the biggest influence on my decision was my kids, who need me around a bit more at the age they’re at.”I feel it’s time in my life and in my career to put them first.”Last week I told Roberto, the club and my teammates, who are extremely important to me.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Now I just want to enjoy my last week, get a couple of really positive results, and finish the season on a high.”Lallana is aiming for a positive end to the season as Brighton face Chelsea and Manchester United.Eight of the greatest players to never win the Ballon d’Or despite their incredible careersLallana started his career at Southampton and helped the club reach the Premier League with back-to-back promotions from League One.He went on to join Liverpool and was a part of the squad that won the Champions League and Premier League titles.Since moving to Brighton, he has made 105 appearances for the club, scoring three goals.De Zerbi has insisted that Lallana’s exit will be a “big loss” for the club.He added: “We are losing a great man and great player. It has been his decision and we have to respect that.”He has been a key player for me in my time here. At the beginning, Adam Lallana, Adam Webster, Pascal Gross, they followed me from the first day, and he will be a big loss for us.”He is very smart, he loves football, he loves playing football.”He understands the game as a player and as a coach, but I think he could play another season in the Premier League for sure.”READ MORE SUN STORIESLallana had become a key member in the Brighton squad during his time at the club.He was given a temporary coaching role after former manager Graham Potter was hired by Chelsea.West Ham have worst stadium in Premier LeagueBy Andy Dillon
    All that has been achieved under David Moyes has made West Ham forget that they have by far the worst home ground in the entire Prem.
    A stadium totally unfit for staging regular football matches.
    One that can work on big European nights when the fans have electrified their voices in the nearby Carpenters Arms before kick-off.
    But one which drains your soul during routine home games against the likes of Burnley or Everton.
    A home ground where giant trampolines separate fans from the action.
    With temporary seating and scaffolding trying to bring the players and crowd closer.
    When West Ham are playing badly but winning, issues with the rented stadium are pushed aside.
    If they are playing badly and losing, the whole festering sore surfaces and the frustration will be aimed once more at chairman David Sullivan and vice-chair Karren Brady.
    It wasn’t long ago that fans were invading the pitch, that 8,000 protested against the owners, that Sullivan was hit in the eye by a coin thrown from the crowd. Moyes has been an effective human shield with his consistent, if not entirely pretty, brand of success.
    This is what incoming boss Lopetegui has to contend with.
    Read Andy Dillon’s full column here. More