For a club whose philosophy dictates a focus on their immediate surroundings, the seeds of knowledge sown at Real Sociedad are spreading to such an extent a quarter of Premier League managers can now claim to have experienced the charm of the Gipuzkoa province. Mikel Arteta, who was born in San Sebastian and dreamed of playing for La Real as a kid, had a short spell with the club and…
“I think Carlo thinks the tie is over, and I think it is as well in the moment, but in three weeks…” Liverpool have certainly mounted fairytale comebacks before, but while Jurgen Klopp believes his optimism in overturning a three-goal deficit against Real Madrid will return, he will know significant improvements will be needed from Tuesday’s 5-2 defeat at Anfield. The loss – Liverpool’s worst at home in Europe –…
“We want this Champions League again,” said Karim Benzema after masters of Europe Real Madrid produced another magic night to become “favourites” for a 15th crown. At 2-0 down to Liverpool within 14 minutes at a jubilant Anfield, many teams would have crumbled – but Vinicius Jr scored twice, Eder Militao powered in a header and then Benzema claimed two goals as Real won 5-2. No away team had ever…
When Australia co-host the World Cup in July, almost half of the Matildas squad are likely to come from the Women’s Super League. It is 11 years since Australians first featured in the WSL, and many of the nation’s current players have been moving to English clubs, including the likes of Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord to Arsenal, and Manchester City forward Hayley Raso. But what’s driving this influx, how…
Veteran Melbourne sports host Andy Maher believes Ange Postecoglou will leave Celtic at the end of the season and “most likely” take a Premier League job, with Leeds United the front-runner if they avoid relegation. (Fox Sports)external-link Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor, 41, has not ruled out continuing beyond the end of the season. (Sky Sports via Scotsmanexternal-link) Scotland and Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon, 40, has vowed he will keep going…
Former Celtic striker turned pundit Chris Sutton says being branded a comedy act and Chelsea’s worst-ever player by “touchy” Michael Beale had him Googling the Rangers manager’s own playing career, but he “couldn’t find anything about it”. (Daily Record)external-link Rangers boss Michael Beale insists he has put next week’s Viaplay Cup final out of his mind until after Saturday’s game at Livingston, where he is set to omit Ianis Hagi…
As a player, Spencer Prior was often the underdog – whether helping Cardiff City knock Premier League leaders Leeds out of the FA Cup in 2002, or being part of the Southend United side which stunned a Manchester United team featuring Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney. However the former defender – who played in the Premier League for Norwich, Leicester, Derby and Manchester City – is eyeing the biggest upset…
Manchester City defender Alex Greenwood says she is “really enjoying my football” after a strong performance in England’s opening Arnold Clark Cup victory on Thursday. Greenwood, 29, started at left-back and provided an assist for Alessia Russo’s goal in the 4-0 win over South Korea. She has been impressive in a centre-back role for City this season too. “It’s important when you’re happy off the pitch, it replicates on it,”…
Ian Holloway and Grant McCann are on the Motherwell shortlist to replace Steven Hammell as manager, with interim boss Stuart Kettlewell also keen on the role as Jack Ross drops out of the running. (Sky Sports)external-link Former Hibs and Dundee United boss Jack Ross was interested in the Motherwell position and held informal talks earlier this week only to have second thoughts on his next career move. (Scottish Sun)external-link Rangers…
What is the best way to sum up Lauren James’ influence for England? Captain Leah Williamson has borrowed a phrase from the gaming world. “I think she’s a cheat code,” Williamson said. “I enjoy being on the same team as her.” James has had to be patient for an England chance – she only made her full international debut last September – but is grabbing it now. The 21-year-old forward…