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☆ Luton ready to crank up volume in first top-flight home game for 31 years
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-31 | by ( Martyn Herman | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +4 min

But anticipation is building for the visit of West Ham, who will become the first top-flight team to play a league match at Kenilworth Road since Aston Villa 31 years ago. The volume created by the Hatters fans crammed in on Friday will shake the 118-year-old stadium to its foundations. Forward Cauley Woodrow, who scored in the League Cup win at Kenilworth Road against Gillingham this week, said Luton needed to turn their home into an intimidating 'fortress'. Arsenal's priority will be avoiding any repeat of the early goals they have conceded on a regular basis at home of late. Andreas Pereira's strike for Fulham after 57 seconds last weekend meant the Gunners became the first Premier League team to concede a first-minute goal three times in a calendar year.

Persons: Matthew Childs, hemming, Rob Edwards, We've, Woodrow, Luton, Bramall, Mikel Arteta's, Andreas Pereira's, Martyn Herman, Ken Ferris Organizations: Soccer, Luton Town, Gillingham, Kenilworth, Luton, West Ham United, Burnley, Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Premier League, Coventry City, Aston Villa, Hatters, League, West Ham, Hammers, Manchester City, Fulham, London, Tottenham Hotspur, Sheffield United, Everton, Newcastle United, Arsenal, Manchester United, Gunners, Thomson Locations: Luton, Britain, Kenilworth, West Ham, West, Bramall Lane, Liverpool, Brighton, Saturday's

☆ Wrexham keeper Foster announces retirement again at 40
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-21 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +1 min

Aug 21 (Reuters) - Former England goalkeeper Ben Foster has retired again, the 40-year-old said on Monday just two months after signing a one-year contract extension with League Two (fourth-tier) side Wrexham. Foster played a key role in helping the Welsh team bet back in the English Football League, making 12 appearances during his time at the club, which is owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. He came out of retirement to sign a short-term deal with Wrexham in March before saving a stoppage-time penalty against Notts County the following month to put Wrexham within touching distance of automatic promotion from the National League. "Wrexham will always have a special place in my heart." Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru;Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Persons: Ben Foster, Foster, Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, haven't, Pearl Josephine Nazare Organizations: League, Wrexham, English Football League, Hollywood, Notts, National League, Thomson Locations: England, Bengaluru

☆ Sarina Wiegman: How the Dutchwoman turned England into a winning ‘machine’
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-19 | by ( Thomas Schlachter | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +8 min

Turning cubs into LionessesIn the last major tournament before Wiegman took over, England crashed out in heartbreaking circumstances. England crashed out of the 2019 Women's World Cup in the semifinals. While the England players’ abilities speak for themselves, Wiegman has helped to instill a formidable team mindset in the group through some “non-negotiable” philosophies. “I think in a team you always have to do your best,” she told CNN before the start of the Women’s World Cup. Before the World Cup, England had won 26 of the 32 games under Wiegman and had only lost once – a friendly against Australia in April.

Persons: Phil Neville, Sarina Wiegman, Wiegman, –, Steph Houghton, Franck Fife, ”, Mark Bullingham, “, what’s, Lynne Cameron, Leah Williamson, Beth Mead –, ” Wiegman, Arjan Veurink, Arjan, Veurink, ‘, ’, ‘ You’re, Naomi Baker, Lauren, Keira Walsh, Lauren James, James, we’re, Chloe Kelly, Emma Hayes, CNN’s Amanda Davies, – she’s, Hayes, we're, “ They’ve, we’ve, ” Hayes, “ We’re, “ I’m Organizations: CNN, US, European, England, Getty, Football, Wembley, Germany, Independent, Australia, Nigeria, BBC, Chelsea Locations: England, Netherlands, Lionesses, AFP, Germany, “, Australia, New Zealand

☆ Man Utd's Varane says players ignored by football authorities over added time rules
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-07 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

As part of the new regulations, referees will add the exact time lost in goal celebrations, substitutions or injuries to the stoppage time. "Despite our previous feedbacks, they have now recommended for next season: longer games, more intensity, and less emotions to be shown by players. "We just want to be in good condition on the pitch to give 100% to our club and fans. Now the games will be 100 minutes, that's for sure," Guardiola told reporters on Sunday. "I just said 'listen, I cannot change my behaviour in three days'," Arteta told reporters of his yellow card.

Persons: Manchester United's Raphael Varane, Andrew Boyers, Raphael Varane, Varane, Pep Guardiola, Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, Arteta, Aadi Nair, Christian Radnedge Organizations: Soccer Football, Premier League, Manchester United, Fulham, Manchester United's, Manchester City, Arsenal, Thomson Locations: Old Trafford, Manchester, Britain, Bengaluru

☆ Why US sporting stars like Tom Brady, LeBron James, and JJ Watt are piling into English soccer
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-05 | by ( Joseph Wilkins | ) www.businessinsider.com time to read: +6 min

Brady joins the likes of Jordan Spieth, JJ Watt, and LeBron James by buying into English football. Former NFL star Watt bought a minority stake in Burnley FC, in May. Now, legendary quarterback Brady has unveiled a minority stake in Birmingham City. The rise of across-the-pond partnerships raises a question: what is it about British clubs that has suddenly captured celebrities' imagination? The rewards for success in the English Premier League can be astronomical.

Persons: Tom Brady, Brady, Jordan Spieth, JJ Watt, LeBron James, Watt, Spieth, Michael B Jordan, Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney's, Simon Chadwick, Reynolds, Ralph Lauren –, Christina Philippou, we've, Philippou, it's, Chadwick, That's, We've, they're, there's Organizations: Service, NFL, Burnley FC, Leeds United, Liverpool FC, Fenway Sports Group, AFC Bournemouth, Disney, Birmingham, Knighthead Capital Management, Wrexham, L'Oreal, English Premier League, Sky, BT, Amazon Prime, Premier League, Manchester City, Portsmouth University, Wrexham AFC, Premier League –, European Locations: Birmingham City, Wall, Silicon, British, Wrexham, Birmingham, United States

☆ Aaron Ramsdale: Arsenal goalkeeper vows to speak out against homophobia so his brother and other don’t ‘fear abuse’
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-04 | by ( George Ramsay | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +4 min

CNN —Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has said that he can no longer remain silent over homophobic abuse in football out of love and respect for his brother. Writing in The Players’ Tribune, Ramsdale explained how he wanted football to be “a safe and welcoming place for everyone,” including his brother Oliver, who is gay. “And I think maybe my brother has done the same, thinking it would make my life easier. “There’s really no way that I can describe the pain of that six-hour flight back to London, even now,” Ramsdale wrote. Arsenal and Tottenham players react to the incident between Ramsdale and a supporter at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Persons: Aaron Ramsdale, Ramsdale, Oliver, I’ve, ” Ramsdale, Ollie –, –, Paul Ellis, he’s, “, “ Oliver, I’m, ”, “ There’s, they’re, Mikel, Arteta, Nick Potts, we’d Organizations: CNN — Arsenal, Players ’ Tribune, League, Arsenal, Everton, Getty, Gunners, Tribune, Sheffield United, Tottenham, North London Derby, Tottenham Hotspur, ESPN, England, Arsenal’s Premier League, Manchester City, Premier League, Nottingham Forest, Emirates Locations: AFP, London, Ramsdale

☆ Relentless Man City seek record four titles in a row
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-04 | by ( Martyn Herman | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +4 min

However, such is the nature of the Premier League that City will certainly not have everything their own way. Juergen Klopp's side's failure to qualify for the Champions League would have stung, especially with Manchester United finishing eight points above them. Newcastle United, who finished fourth last term, will be determined to prove it was no flash in the pan, although they will need to juggle the demands of battling for a top-four finish with the Champions League this time. The additions of winger Harvey Barnes from Leicester City and Sandro Tonali from Milan will certainly help. Postecoglou is the first Australian to manage in the Premier League and faces a big challenge at the north London club who endured a toxic 2022-23 campaign under Antonio Conte.

Persons: Phil Foden, Aymeric Laporte, Ruben Dias, Pep Guardiola, Guardiola, pacesetters, Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez, Chelsea's Mateo Kovacic, Declan Rice, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Juergen, Erik ten Hag, Harvey Barnes, Sandro Tonali, Ange Postecoglou, Antonio Conte, Harry Kane, Martyn Herman, Ken Ferris Organizations: Soccer Football, Manchester, Victory, Champions League, FA, Premier League, Manchester United's, League, Inter Milan, pacesetters Arsenal, City, Arsenal, Etihad, LIVERPOOL Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle United, Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Bayern Munich, Luton Town's, Luton, Bournemouth, Nottingham Forest, Thomson Locations: Manchester, Britain, Manchester City, Abu Dhabi, Spanish, Istanbul, Barcelona, Al, Ahli, Saudi Arabia, City, Milan, Postecoglou, London, Fulham

☆ Tom Brady becomes minority owner of second-tier British soccer team Birmingham City
▼ + stars: | 2023-08-03 | by ( Ben Morse | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +3 min

CNN —NFL great Tom Brady has joined a partnership to become a minority owner in second-tier British soccer team Birmingham City, it was announced on Thursday. Birmingham City finished 17th in the second-tier of English football’s pyramid, the Championship, last season. Birmingham City finished 17th in the second-tier of English football’s pyramid, the Championship, last season. “Tom Brady joining the Birmingham City team is a statement of intent. With Garry Cook as CEO, Hope Powell as Women’s Technical Director and now Tom Brady we are off to a fast start.

Persons: Tom Brady, Brady, ” Brady, Tony Marshall, I’ve, “ Tom Brady, ” Tom Wagner, “ Tom, Tom, Garry Cook, Hope Powell Organizations: CNN, NFL, British, Birmingham City, Knighthead Capital Management, Board, League Pickleball, Le, Club, Academy, Blues, Women’s, Birmingham City’s, Swansea, Saturday Locations: Birmingham

☆ English football authorities launch measures to tackle behaviour, tragedy abuse
▼ + stars: | 2023-07-31 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +3 min

A Tottenham Hotspur fan was also banned from games for three years after making gestures mocking the Hillsborough tragedy at the Premier League match between Liverpool and Spurs in April. Liverpool called for an end to "vile chants" about the Hillsborough disaster after they were heard during April's Premier League draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. 'INCREDIBLE POWER'Signatories of the new disciplinary charter include the FA, Premier League, English Football League (EFL) and Women's Super League (WSL). During the match only one person can stand at the front of the technical area and while a second person can stand they "must remain very close to the technical area seating". Nobody from the technical area can "enter the pitch to confront any match official at halftime or full-time".

Persons: Douglas Mackay, Richard Masters, Pearl Josephine Nazare, Ken Ferris Organizations: Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Premier League, Liverpool, Spurs, April's Premier League, Chelsea, Stamford, Sports National, FA, English Football League, Super League, Academy, Thomson Locations: Hillsborough, Liverpool, Bengaluru

CNN —Soccer players at the 2023 Women’s World Cup will on average earn just 25 cents for every dollar earned by men at their World Cup last year, a new CNN analysis found. In addition to prize money, FIFA committed to paying $42 million to the federations and players’ clubs for Women’s World Cup preparations. Havana Solaun (R) and Jamaica are appearing at their second ever Women's World Cup. But for the players, equal pay encompasses more than simply closing this gap to the salaries enjoyed by male footballers. June 2023 A record $110 million prize pot negotiated for the Women’s World Cup, at least $30,000 guaranteed for every player.

Persons: Gianni Infantino, Sam Kerr, Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, Bob Marley’s, Cedella, Havana Solaun, Brendon Thorne, hadn’t, Jamaica’s Chinyelu Asher, ”, ” Asher, Asher, Saeed Khan, Morgan, Rapinoe, Cristiano Ronaldo, Brad Smith, ” Jonas Baer, Hoffmann, FIFPRO’s, It’s, that’s, –, Infantino, Baer, “, ringfenced, Ali Riley, CNN’s Amanda Davies, Riley, “ It’s, ” Ali Riley, Catherine Ivill, Women’s Soccer Australia Heather Reid, ” Riley, England’s Lionesses, ” FIFPRO’s Baer, – Carli Lloyd, Hope, Becky Sauerbrunn –, ” Lloyd, — Jan, USWNT, Lloyd, ” Reid, ’ Organizations: CNN — Soccer, CNN, FIFA, New Zealand, Women’s, US, National, Australia, Havana, Getty, Jamaica Football Federation, ’, CNN Sport, Forbes, USSF, CONCACAF, Africa, of Nations, Olympic, –, Canada Soccer, teams, Women’s Soccer Australia, English Football Association, French Football Federation, Royal Belgium Football Association, FIFA’s, US Soccer, States Women’s National, Football Federation, USWNT, Soccer, Court, Central, Central District of, The New York Times, LA Times, Guardian, Reuters, “ Locations: Australia, New, New Zealand, Jamaica, Canada, South Africa, Spain, Havana, AFP, France, Infantino, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Norway, United States, Qatar, country’s, Sweden, Spanish, England, Central District, Central District of California, Canadian, El, China

☆ Messi has come to Inter Miami to ‘win and inspire the next generation of soccer players’ in the US, says David Beckham
▼ + stars: | 2023-07-20 | by ( Jill Martin | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +3 min

CNN —Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham talked to CNN about his latest star signing and revealed that he’s been working to get Lionel Messi on his Major League Soccer (MLS) team since 2019. Messi is presented with an Inter Miami jersey alongside club owners Jorge Mas, Jose R. Mas and David Beckham. You know, surprise, surprise, Leo goes (out) for dinner. Surprise, surprise, Leo does his own grocery shopping. He’s at the stage of his career where he has made a decision to come to the MLS, to come to America, to come to Miami, to come to Inter Miami to win.

Persons: David Beckham, he’s, Lionel Messi, Leo, ” Beckham, Jorge Mas, Ballon d’Or, Messi, Jose R, Mas, Marco Bello, Beckham, it’s, we’re, We’re, –, ”, we’ve, He’s, Cruz Azul Organizations: CNN — Inter Miami, CNN, Major League Soccer, TV, Inter Miami, Reuters, Former Real Madrid, Manchester United, MLS, LIGA MX, Cruz, Leagues Locations: Miami, Florida, America

☆ Fact Check-Video shows English football fans singing player chant in 2016
▼ + stars: | 2023-07-19 | by ( Reuters Fact Check | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +1 min

Footage of English football fans singing a player chant in 2016 is being shared online alongside the false claim that it shows Ukrainians celebrating a July 2023 attack on the bridge linking Russia to Crimea. One version of the clip was uploaded to YouTube on May 20, 2016 (here), where it is titled: “Will Grigg's on Fire - Best Football Chant Ever”. Other videos show Wigan supporters singing the song in numerous locations (here and here), while the striker himself was recorded singing along to it in 2018 (here). The alternative lyrics were reported on locally (here and here), while Twitter users also posted about them in March 2016 (here, here and here). The video shows people singing an English football chant in 2016, not Ukrainians celebrating an attack on a bridge in 2023.

Persons: ”, –, “ Freed, “ Will Grigg’s, Grigg's, Read Organizations: Facebook, Twitter, Wigan Athletic, YouTube, Wigan, Reuters Locations: Russia, Crimea, Italian, Kerch

There have been 195 ACL injuries across women soccer’s top leagues, according to the ACL Women Football Club. “It’s not a coincidence I think that you get Leah and Beth injured after the Euros last summer,” said Arsenal star Miedema. Miedema believes this was an issue that world soccer’s governing body FIFA must address. A British Journal of Sports Medicine study found women to be three to six times more likely to experience an ACL injury than men. European soccer’s governing body, UEFA, referenced to CNN the Women’s Health Expert Panel it established, which has a “high priority” researching ACL injuries.

Persons: Vivianne, –, Miedema, we’ve, It’s, ” Miedema, CNN’s Christina Macfarlane, – Leah Williamson, Beth Mead, Laura Wienroither, Canada’s Janine Beckie, Catarina Macario, France’s Delphine Cascarino, Ryan Pierse, ”, Pep, “, “ You’ll, Williamson –, “ It’s, Leah, Beth, “ They’ve, they’re, Leah Williamson, Clive Rose, Jonas Eidevall, Miedema’s Organizations: CNN, Arsenal, Women Football Club, United States Women’s National, League, English Premier League, FA, Champions League, England, ”, FIFA, of Sports Medicine, UEFA, Women’s, English Football Association, Super League, Barclays Women’s, Nottingham Trent University Locations: Netherlands, Man, Switzerland

☆ Dele Alli: Soccer star says he was molested during chaotic childhood. Two decades later he entered rehab.
▼ + stars: | 2023-07-13 | by ( Thomas Schlachter | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +6 min

“If God created people, it was them,” Alli told Neville of his adopted family. I decided to go to a modern day rehab facility for addiction, mental health and trauma” said Alli. It’s something people don’t want to do, going into rehab, it definitely sounds scary. The former Spurs star added that he had only checked out of rehab three weeks prior to appearing on Neville’s podcast. If you are outside of the US, please check CALM’s list of international services offering mental health support.

Persons: Dele Alli, ” Alli, Gary Neville, “, ”, Alli, we’ve, Neville, they’ve, Dan Istitene, can’t, Everton, ” Everton, “ It’s Organizations: CNN, England, Manchester United, Daily Mail, Turkish Süper Lig, Beşiktaş, Everton, English Premier League, Premier League, Turkish, Seskim, Tottenham Hotspur, Spurs, Tottenham, English Football Association, PFA, ’ Association, Chance, The FA Locations: Africa, Turkey

☆ Hannah Dingley becomes first female head coach in English men’s professional football
▼ + stars: | 2023-07-05 | by ( Kevin Dotson | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +2 min

CNN —English football club Forest Green Rovers named Hannah Dingley as its interim head coach Tuesday, making her the first female head coach in English professional football. Dingley replaces outgoing coach Duncan Ferguson, who was appointed Forest Green manager in January, but was unable to stop the team from being relegated to League 2, the lowest tier of professional English football. Dingley’s Her position as head coach is a temporary one as the club looks to find a fulltime solution. Under Vince’s ownership, Forest Green has become well known for attempting to make a difference off the pitch. In 2017, Forest Green became the world’s first vegan club, according to the Vegan Society.

Persons: Hannah Dingley, Dingley, Duncan Ferguson, I’m, ” Dingley, “, “ Hannah, – she’s, Dale Vince, “ It’s, Hannah, Green Organizations: CNN, English, Forest Green Rovers, Forest Green, League, English Football League Academy, Academy, Melksham, Vegan Society, FIFA Locations: Melksham Town

☆ Rossi sees Reynolds' winning touch boosting Alpine
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-27 | by ( Alan Baldwin | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +3 min

ENSTONE, England, June 27 (Reuters) - Renault-owned Alpine believe Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds has the Midas Touch to help get the team back to the top in Formula One. "Most of you were probably expecting Ryan Reynolds," Otro Capital founder and partner Alec Scheiner jokingly told analysts at Alpine's Enstone factory for a strategy presentation. Alpine chief executive Laurent Rossi pointed to Reynolds' track record in business. Rossi said the investors, who have paid 200 million euros ($218.88 million), would develop revenues through merchandising, licensing and hospitality. The deal values Alpine Racing at around $900 million and Rossi said the numbers were only going up.

Persons: Ryan Reynolds, Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, Alec Scheiner, Laurent Rossi, Rossi, Otro, Goldman Sachs, Gerry Cardinale, RedBird, Scheiner, Luca de Meo, Alan Baldwin, Christian Radnedge Organizations: Renault, Formula, Wrexham soccer, Otro Capital, RedBird Capital Partners, Aviation, Mobile US, Ka'ena Corp, Mint Mobile, Diageo, Gin, Wrexham, English Football League, RedBird, Fenway Sports Group, Premier League, Liverpool, Boston Red Sox baseball, Toulouse, Milan, Liberty Media, Thomson Locations: ENSTONE, England, Wrexham, RedBird, Americas, Las Vegas, U.S

☆ Manchester United raises annual forecast amid Champions League return
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-27 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

[1/4] Soccer Football - Carabao Cup - Final - Manchester United v Newcastle United - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - February 26, 2023 Manchester United's Antony and Bruno Fernandes celebrate with the trophy after winning the Carabao Cup REUTERS/Hannah Mckay/File PhotoJune 27 (Reuters) - Manchester United (MANU.N) on Tuesday raised its forecasts for annual revenue and adjusted profit, betting on strong commercial and matchday income as the English football club returns to the UEFA Champions League. Manchester United, which is currently in talks to sell itself, said it was expecting revenue of between 630 million pounds ($801.6 million) and 640 million pounds, compared with its previous forecast of between 590 million pounds and 610 million pounds. There were no updates on the deal from Manchester United on Tuesday and its U.S.-listed shares fell 1.4% in premarket trading. Manchester United also raised its adjusted profit forecast to between 140 million pounds and 150 million pounds for the year, compared with its previous forecast of between 125 million pounds and 140 million pounds. For the third quarter ended March 31, net loss stood at 5.6 million pounds, compared with 27.7 million pounds in the same period last year.

Persons: Manchester United's Antony, Bruno Fernandes, Hannah Mckay, Glazer, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad, Jim Ratcliffe, Thomas Zilliacus, Eva Mathews, Anil D'Silva Organizations: Soccer, Manchester United, Newcastle United, Wembley, Carabao, REUTERS, English, UEFA Champions League . Manchester United, Reuters, Thomson Locations: London, Britain, Manchester, U.S, Sheikh, Thani, Qatar, British, Qatari, Bengaluru

☆ Wrexham's Hollywood owners join group buying into Alpine F1
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-26 | by ( Alan Baldwin | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +3 min

LONDON, June 26 (Reuters) - Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are joining Otro Capital and RedBird Capital Partners in an investor group taking a 24% equity stake in Alpine Racing, the Formula One team's parent company Renault announced on Monday. The 200 million euro ($218.10 million) deal values British-based Alpine Racing at around $900 million following the investment. Alec Scheiner, the co-founder and partner of Otro Capital, will join Alpine Racing's board of directors. Renault said Alpine Racing SAS, the French entity that makes the team's power units in Viry-Châtillon, will remain entirely owned by the carmaker. "Otro Capital, RedBird Capital Partners and Maximum Effort Investments, as international players with strong track record in the sports industry, will bring their recognised expertise to boost our media and marketing strategy, essential to support our sporting performance over the long term.

Persons: Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, Alec Scheiner, Reynolds, Michael B, Jordan, McElhenney, Renault, Huntsman, Goldman Sachs, Gerry Cardinale, RedBird, Laurent Rossi, Alan Baldwin, Peter Rutherford Organizations: Otro Capital, RedBird Capital Partners, Alpine Racing, Renault, Otro, Alpine, McElhenney, Wrexham, Welsh soccer, English Football League, Main Street Advisors, Fenway Sports Group, Premier League, Liverpool, Boston Red Sox baseball, Toulouse, AC Milan, New York Yankees, Formula, Benetton, Alpine Racing SAS, Thomson Locations: Alpine, Philadelphia, Wrexham, North America, Enstone, England, Viry

☆ Wrexham's Tozer slams EFL towel ban for throw-ins
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-24 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

June 24 (Reuters) - Wrexham defender Ben Tozer has criticised the English Football League (EFL) ban on towels to dry the ball before long throw-ins, claiming the tactics are not "anti-football". The new rule on the towel ban approved earlier this month will also prevent players from using items of clothing offered up by fans to dry the ball for better grip. Instead, the EFL will follow the Premier League's example of a multi-ball system to speed up play in its competitions from the 2023-24 season. "I might have upset someone in the EFL because they're trying to ruin my career. But they will first entertain their new-found fans in the United States when they face Chelsea and Manchester United in next month's pre-season tour.

Persons: Ben Tozer, Tozer, I've, Tony Pulis's, Rory Delap, Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, Rohith Nair, Ken Ferris Organizations: Wrexham, English Football League, BBC, Premier League, Tony Pulis's Stoke City, Hollywood, MK Dons, Chelsea, Manchester United, Thomson Locations: Wrexham, United States, Bengaluru

☆ Wrexham host MK Dons in fourth-tier opener, Saints at Wednesday in Championship
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-22 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +1 min

[1/2] Soccer Football - National League - Wrexham v Boreham Wood - Racecourse Ground, Wrexham, Britain - April 22, 2023 Wrexham co-owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds celebrate with the trophy on the pitch after Wrexham win the National League and promotion to League Two Action Images via... Read moreJune 22 (Reuters) - National League champions Wrexham will begin their League Two campaign at home to MK Dons when the new season starts on Aug. 5 after the English Football League (EFL) released its fixtures for the 2023-24 season. Wrexham, owned by Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, scripted a fairytale return to the EFL when they won the National League with a record 111 points last season. Southampton, relegated from the Premier League, begin their Championship campaign under new manager Russell Martin against promoted Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough. Wednesday, who overturned a 4-0 deficit against Peterborough in the League One playoff semi-finals, won promotion when Josh Windass got the winner against 10-man Barnsley in stoppage time of extra time to snatch a 1-0 victory in the Wembley final. Reporting by Rohith Nair in Bengaluru; Editing by Ken FerrisOur Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

Persons: Boreham, Rob McElhenney, Ryan Reynolds, Read, Paul Mullin, Russell Martin, Josh Windass, Barnsley, Rohith Nair, Ken Ferris Organizations: Soccer Football, National League, Wrexham, League, MK Dons, English Football League, Hollywood, Cambridge United, Welsh, Southampton, Premier League, Sheffield Wednesday, Hillsborough, Peterborough, Wembley, Thomson Locations: Wrexham, Britain, Bengaluru

☆ Folarin Balogun: What to expect from the 21-year-old who outscored Lionel Messi last season ahead of his USMNT debut
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-15 | by ( Thomas Schlachter | ) edition.cnn.com time to read: +9 min

Folarin Balogun recently committed to representing the United States men’s national team (USMNT), ending years of speculation about whether the 21-year-old would choose to play for the US or England on the international stage. Here’s all you need to know about the prodigious striker ahead of his potential USMNT debut against Mexico. Stu Forster/Getty ImagesOn the pitch, Balogun has refined his game over the past two seasons. After the Arsenal man’s haul last season, Barker also believes this could be just the beginning for the striker. “I’m not sure he will be an elite, world class player,” Barker said, “but you certainly wouldn’t bet against him.”

Persons: Lionel Messi, Ballon d’Or, Folarin Balogun, Gregg Berhalter’s, Jesus Ferreira, Josh Sargent, Haji Wright, “, James Williamson, Flo, unforthcoming, Balogun, Art de, Charles McQuillan, ” de Roché, it’s, Roché, de Roché, he’s, Stu Forster, “ He’s, ”, Alex Barker, ” Barker, Oliver Giroud, Roberto Firmino, Messi, Germain, Francois Nascimbeni, Balogun’s, Barker, John Dorton, who’s, that’ll, De Roché, Xavier Laine, “ I’m Organizations: CNN, Inter Miami, France’s Ligue, United, United States men’s national, Mexico, Arsenal, Premier League club’s, Middlesbrough, Ligue, Reims, CNN Sport, Millwall, Stade Vélodrome, Marseille, West Brom, EFL Championship, Twitter, ”, Paris Saint, “, Getty, USSF, US, USSF ‘ Locations: USA, Argentine, Brooklyn, United States, England, Qatar, Netherlands, New York, Millwall’s, Reims, Ligue, AFP, Canada, Mexico, France

☆ Exclusive: Manchester Utd negotiating exclusivity with Qatar's Sheikh Jassim in $6 billion-plus sale talks
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-15 | by ( Anirban Sen | Thomson Reuters | Anirban Sen Is The Editor In Charge For U.S. M A At Reuters In New York | ) www.reuters.com time to read: +2 min

Manchester United is widely seen as one of the most prized assets in all of sport. Shares of Manchester United jumped nearly 15% on the news, before paring some gains. Manchester United would not be allowed to negotiate with any bidder other than Sheikh Jassim for the exclusivity period. The sources cautioned that the situation remained fluid and a new bid from Ratcliffe could prevent Sheikh Jassim from securing exclusivity. Representatives for Manchester United and Sheikh Jassim did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Persons: Qatar's Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad, Glazer, Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS, Sheikh Jassim, Anirban Sen, Amy, Jo Crowley, Greg Roumeliotis Organizations: Manchester United, Qatari, Manchester United . Manchester United, National Football League's Washington, Representatives, Deloitte, Thomson Locations: Thani, Ratcliffe, New York, London

☆ Fowler, Spieth and Thomas looking to invest in Leeds
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-15 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +1 min

June 15 (Reuters) - Rickie Fowler said he and fellow American golfers Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas are looking to invest in Leeds United after 49ers Enterprises agreed on a takeover of the English soccer club. Leeds owner Andrea Radrizzani agreed to sell his stake to the investment arm of the San Francisco 49ers NFL franchise after they were relegated from the Premier League. "There is the group that's moving forward with being involved with Leeds. Myself, JT and Jordan potentially will be a part of it," Fowler told Sky Sports. The trio are looking to follow former NFL player J.J. Watt and his wife, former U.S. soccer international Kealia Watt, who have invested in Burnley.

Persons: Rickie Fowler, Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Andrea Radrizzani, JT, Jordan, Fowler, I've, J.J, Watt, Kealia Watt, Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, Pearl Josephine Nazare, Peter Rutherford Organizations: Leeds United, 49ers Enterprises, Leeds, San Francisco 49ers NFL, Premier League, Sky Sports, Burnley, Wrexham, English Football League, Thomson Locations: States, U.S, Bengaluru

☆ Manchester United negotiating exclusivity with Qatar's Sheikh Jassim in $6 billion-plus sale talks — sources
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-15 | by ( ) www.cnbc.com time to read: +1 min

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 03: A Manchester United flag is waved from the stands during the Emirates FA Cup Final between Manchester City and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on June 03, 2023 in London, England. Ratcliffe's offer envisions that the Glazers would keep some interest in Manchester United. Manchester United would not be allowed to negotiate with any bidder other than Sheikh Jassim for the exclusivity period. The sources cautioned that the situation remained fluid and a new bid from Ratcliffe could prevent Sheikh Jassim from securing exclusivity. Representatives for Manchester United and Sheikh Jassim did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Persons: Michael Regan, Qatar's Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad, Glazer, Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS, Sheikh Jassim Organizations: Manchester, Emirates, Manchester City, Manchester United, Wembley, Getty, Qatari, Manchester United . Manchester United, Representatives Locations: ENGLAND, London, England, Thani, Ratcliffe

☆ Manchester United shares hit two-month high on speculations over takeover bid
▼ + stars: | 2023-06-13 | by ( ) www.reuters.com time to read: +1 min

June 13 (Reuters) - Shares of Manchester United (MANU.N) jumped 13% to hit a two-month high on Tuesday after a report hinted that Qatar's Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani was likely to succeed with his takeover bid for the English football club. Qatar's Al-Watan newspaper reported on Tuesday that Sheikh Jassim, son of a former prime minister of the country, was poised to be announced as the preferred bidder of the Premier League soccer club, CNBC said. Manchester United declined a Reuters request for comment. New York-listed shares of Manchester United were trading at $23.07, after rising as much as 30% before the opening bell. The Glazer family is reportedly seeking 6 billion pounds ($7.5 billion), which would be a world record for any sports club or franchise, but neither bid is that high.

Persons: Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad, Thani, Qatar's, Sheikh Jassim, Molly Darlington, Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS, Sheikh Jassim's, Glazer, Medha Singh, Aditya Soni, Shinjini Organizations: Manchester United, English, Watan, Premier League soccer, CNBC, Reuters, Soccer Football, Manchester City, FA, REUTERS, Mail, Thomson Locations: Qatar's Al, Old Trafford, Manchester, Britain, New York, Bengaluru

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