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The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
‘Celtic were the same' – Adam Matthews compares Shamrock Rovers expectations to Scottish Premiership giants
ADAM MATTHEWS reckons his four years at Celtic were the perfect prep for life at Shamrock Rovers. And 2 Adam Matthews believes Celtic helped prepare him for Shamrock Rovers Credit: Sportsfile - Subscription 2 Adam Matthews spent four years in Glasgow Credit: PA:Press Association In After subsequently playing for And ahead of tonight's game with Matthews said: 'Celtic's a massive, massive team, but you get the same feeling with the fans. You are expected to win every game. Read More on Shamrock Rovers 'Obviously, you can't, even 'We go into every game hoping to, well, thinking we can win. Celtic were the same.' The Hoops have made good on their belief lately, winning their last five games to go six points clear at the top of the table. Matthews — who played with Rovers director of football Stephen McPhail at Most read in Sport A knee gash suffered on his debut against Bohemians was not the only reason he had been used more sparingly. Boss Bradley said: 'We had to be careful and had to be slow with him because he'd come in late and he had been inactive for a few months. It was never going to be that he was ready from the start. Shamrock Rovers snap up Northern Ireland Under-21s goal-getter as Stephen Bradley gives exciting verdict 'I spoke to a few of his managers previously and they all raved about him on and off the pitch. I had a good conversation with Neil Lennon about him, he had him in Celtic and in Cyprus and couldn't speak highly enough of him. We'd done our homework with Stephen but then when you hear that from someone like Neil, it was a no-brainer. 'You can see his versatility, what he's brought to us in terms of he started left wing-back up in 'He's played recently like a right wing-back. His quality was never in doubt, obviously with the level he's played at, but he's been brilliant around the group too.' After parting company with Omonia, who he helped win the Cypriot Cup in 2023, Matthews was back in Wales and training with Carmarthen Town before Rovers offered him a route back into full-time football. He said: 'It does happen in football. The older you get, the more you expect that to happen. It was tough but I just needed to keep myself fit and wait for the opportunity, and thankfully Stephen gave me a ring. 'I was training with a team in Bar speaking to former Celtic team-mate Paddy McCourt and ex-Sunderland colleague work . And he is reasonably impressed with Rovers and the League itself. He said: 'You've got a good manager, good tactically, so it's very similar to a lot of the clubs that I've been at to be honest. Obviously the facilities in some of the clubs are a bit better, but at the bigger clubs, you're going to get that. 'Training-wise, I think it's very similar. It's a very competitive league. I think you can see by the league table that anyone can beat anyone. 'But we're on a good run at the minute, created a bit of a gap. Our aim is to try and keep winning games and make the gap bigger.'
Wales Online
16-05-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
How Wrexham squad could look next season as Ryan Reynolds targets Premier League star
How Wrexham squad could look next season as Ryan Reynolds targets Premier League star Hollywood-owned Wrexham secured automatic promotion to the Championship at the end of the 2024/25 campaign and have already started to make moves in the transfer market Wrexham's co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have a busy summer ahead of them (Image: Getty Images ) Wrexham are gearing up for a pivotal summer transfer window, with the club preparing for life in the Championship next season. The North Wales outfit, owned by Hollywood A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have already started reshaping their squad, offloading players they consider non-essential. Among those leaving is seasoned forward Steven Fletcher, who has been important in securing Wrexham's last two promotions, contributing eight goals in League One this season. The ex-Sunderland and Wolves player said on Instagram that his exit was "not by choice", hinting at the ruthless nature of some decisions being taken. The club has also signalled its high aspirations by reportedly tabling an offer for a current Premier League captain, as manager Phil Parkinson aims to bolster his team. Despite these ambitious targets, Parkinson insists on maintaining a strict "no-egos" approach to recruitment. "I think that a lot of tough decisions will be made this summer, in terms of who we bring in and how we add to this fantastic squad of lads we've got, but let's see if we can build a squad to compete at that level," he commented following the team's clinching of automatic promotion last month. "That is a challenge, but what we've always tried to do is make sure the culture in the club is right and I think that's key - no superstars, no egos in the dressing room, and we've got to try and get that balance right again. You always need extra quality when you go up a level to make sure the right people come into the building." Parkinson has yet to reveal his top priorities for squad enhancement, but it's clear that new additions are needed across the board if they are to achieve the co-owners' ambition of reaching the Premier League. Article continues below So, what might Wrexham's line-up look like next season if their summer plans unfold successfully? Here, WalesOnline delves into some of the potential recruits linked with the Welsh outfit. Goalkeeper and defence Jonny Evans has been suggested as a possible summer signing for Wrexham. (Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images ) Arthur Okonkwo, the former Arsenal prospect, notched up 18 clean sheets for Wrexham this term despite a wrist injury sidelining him for part of the season. With Callum Burton, formerly of Plymouth, as a solid alternative between the sticks, the Red Dragons may only be in the market for a third-choice goalkeeper due to Mark Howard's exit. Defence seems to be the area crying out for reinforcements, as several defenders have been with the team since their National League days. Rumours suggest Wrexham are eyeing Ukrainian defender Maksym Talovierov following his relegation from the Championship with Plymouth Argyle. Trabzonspor from Turkey and Championship contenders Derby County are also reportedly showing interest. Wrexham is said to be eyeing a daring move for Manchester United's Jonny Evans, as well as Swansea's Harry Darling. Evans made an unexpected comeback to Old Trafford in 2023 after leaving the club in 2014, and has featured in 12 matches across all competitions this season. The 37 year old's contract is set to run out in June, and it's unlikely he'll be offered another extension. This could pave the way for Wrexham to secure another high-profile signing. Local talent Mark Cleworth, who is highly regarded, is expected to keep his starting position. Midfield Fulham star Tom Cairney is being targeted by Wrexham (Image:) Wrexham strengthened their midfield last summer with the signings of former Charlton player George Dobson and Ollie Rathbone from Rotherham. Manager Phil Parkinson brought in ex-Leicester midfielder Matty James on a free transfer in October to inject some Premier League experience, something that James McClean also brings to the table. Despite these additions and the creativity provided by Ryan Longman, fans believe the team needs more new recruits to enhance their attacking prowess. Current Fulham captain Tom Cairney is believed to be at the top of their wish list, following rumours of an approach being made. Talks for the midfielder are understood to be in the early stages, as his contract with the Cottagers is nearing its end. Cairney has featured in 23 Premier League matches for Fulham this season, and his acquisition would be a significant show of ambition. Watch Welcome to Wrexham season 4 on Disney+ This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more from £4.99 Disney+ Get Disney+ here Product Description Welcome to Wrexham is back on Disney+ for a fourth season. Fans can watch the series with a £4.99 monthly plan, or get 12 months for the price of 10 by paying for a year upfront. Attack How Wrexham might line up in 2025-26 At first glance, Wrexham appear to have an abundance of attacking talent. The January acquisitions of Sam Smith from Reading and Jay Rodriguez from Burnley were instrumental in securing promotion. However, there are questions over whether crowd favourites Ollie Palmer and Paul Mullin can rise to the challenge of the Championship. Both were sidelined during the latter half of the season, demonstrating that Parkinson isn't hesitant to make tough calls. Article continues below It's perhaps indicative that many of the high-profile names linked with Wrexham are forwards, including Leicester's Jamie Vardy, Patrick Bamford from Leeds and Cardiff's Callum Robinson. The former two might prove too costly, even for a club with Hollywood backing, but Robinson boasts ample experience in the second tier. The 30-year-old could be a suitable choice following the Bluebirds' demotion, especially after netting 12 goals this season, with Plymouth's Ryan Hardie also mentioned as a possible target.
Daily Mirror
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Ryan Reynolds responds after released Wrexham star aims dig at club chiefs
Wrexham owner Ryan Reynolds has issue a response on social media after Steven Fletcher announced his departure - despite the 38-year-old confessing he was keen to stay Ryan Reynolds has issued a response after after Wrexham frontman Steven Fletcher revealed he would be leaving the club "and not by choice". The veteran striker scored eight goals for the Red Dragons this season as they secured automatic promotion from League One at the first time of asking. However, the former Scotland international has been deemed surplus to requirements as Wrexham prepare for life in the Championship. Fletcher, who has often been used by manager Phil Parkinson as a super sub, said in a post on Instagram that he was departing "with a heavy heart". He said: "I unfortunately have to announce my departure from what I can only describe as the most magical club I have ever played at! In my 22 years of stepping onto a pitch, I have never experienced anything like this club. "I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to come here and fall back in love with the game! To have had the experiences and the opportunities that this club has given me has been just incredible. And this group of lads are the best that I have ever shared a changing room with." Deadpool star and Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds has now paid his own tribute to Fletcher. Posting on social media, he said he would miss the ex-Sunderland and Wolves man's "leadership and wit". Addressing Fletcher directly, Reynolds said: "Words aren't agile enough to capture what you've brought to Wrexham, the sport, and the lives of myself and this whole town. You aren't a PART of greatness. You ARE greatness. "I don't really know what a co-chairmen is supposed to do or say in these moments and I don't much care. I'm gonna miss you. I'll miss your your leadership and wit and the way you remind everyone - including me - that this is also FUN. Like the first day we met, I'm here for you any time and any place. Always." Reynolds also expressed his thanks to goalkeeper Mark Howard, who announced yesterday that he had been let go. Howard was part of the squad for all three of Wrexham's recent promotions. The Canadian actor said: "Mark Howard - how on earth do we put into words the clutch work you do as a keeper. You have the hardest job in football. And you can't have that ability without being a clutch person in life. "You have a beautiful family and you have a second family in Wrexham now and always. You're the big beating heart of this team and the reason we have the best locker room in sports." He added: "Fletch and Chomp [Howard], you've authored some of the greatest moments of my life. And so many others. All I can do is thank you." Fellow Wrexham owner Rob McElhenney said: "This is truly the worst part. I cannot say enough about these two men. @markhoward.1 and @stevenfletcher9official are not just players on the team. They are my friends and people I admire. "They are men of ability and principle and commitment and compassion. They are men of character and fortune who have achieved something beyond anyone's imagination." Meanwhile, Wrexham are already reported to have started making moves to sign the players necessary to compete in the second tier. Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney is said to be top of their target list as they look to make a statement of intent for next season. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Sign up to our newsletter! Wrexham is the Game is great new way to get top-class coverage Wrexham AFC is the arguably the fastest-growing club in the world at the moment thanks to a certain Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The Dragons have achieved two consecutive promotions and are cheered on by crowds from not only North Wales but also from all over the globe, thanks to the success of the Disney+ documentary 'Welcome to Wrexham'. But does it have a dedicated, quality source of information piped through to your inbox each week, free of ads but packed with informed opinion, analysis and even a little bit of fun each week? That's where Wrexham is the Game steps in... Available every Wednesday, it provides all the insights you need to be a top red. And for a limited time, a subscription to 'Wrexham is the Game' will cost fans just £15 for the first year.
Wales Online
14-05-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Wrexham offered Jamie Vardy hope as Phil Parkinson drops fresh transfer hint
Wrexham offered Jamie Vardy hope as Phil Parkinson drops fresh transfer hint Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson will already be planning for next season's Championship campaign following promotion from League One, with Jamie Vardy one potential transfer going through the rumour mill Jamie Vardy has been strongly linked with a move to Wrexham (Image: Ben) Wrexham have been offered fresh hope over their chances of signing Jamie Vardy this summer. The Welsh side, owned by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have been strongly linked with a move for the Leicester City striker following their promotion to the Championship. The 38-year-old confirmed in April that he will leave the Foxes at the end of the season following their relegation from the Premier League but will continue playing. Vardy has spent 13 years at Leicester since joining them from Fleetwood Town in 2012, scoring 199 goals in 499 appearances, helping them win the Premier League title in 2015/16 and the FA Cup in 2021. He has been linked with a number of clubs since his departure was announced, including Wrexham and boyhood team Sheffield Wednesday. The chances of either side securing his signature were played down after reports emerged suggesting he had no interest in playing in the second tier. However, the prospect of Vardy arriving in North Wales has reared its head again after Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson shared an insight into his planned approach when the summer transfer window opens in June. The ex-Sunderland and Bolton boss told The Leader the club would continue to keep an eye on potential free transfers, with Vardy's contract at Leicester set to expire next month. Parkinson said: "We have always got our eye on players who are free transfers and going to be available, and we'll continue to do that. Recruitment is about getting a lot of tight decisions right and I felt we did that in January. To hold our nerve and get the right players in made a difference and I was very pleased with that." Meanwhile, former Leicester striker Paul Dickov has claimed Vardy would fit in well at Wrexham. The ex-Scotland international offered his views after praising the seasoned forward's work ethic. Article continues below Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson is preparing for the summer transfer window (Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images ) Speaking to 10bet, Dickov said: "You still see him even now as a 38-year-old veteran. He's still playing off the shoulders of centre-halves in the Premier League. He's still buzzing around, closing people down, scoring goals. "I still think he's got a lot to offer, whether that be in the Premier League or top-level Championship, or Wrexham who are promoted to the Championship now and have been linked. You look at him, he looks fit as a fiddle. He probably could go on and play for another two seasons at the top level as well. "I'm sure whatever he does, it's a big blow for him to leave Leicester. He's up there, not just as a Leicester legend, but a Premier League legend from what he's done, where he came from, the goals he scored. I'm pretty sure there'll be a lot of top clubs in for Jamie Vardy because he's still got a hell of a lot to offer on the pitch and off the pitch." Sign up to our newsletter! Wrexham is the Game is great new way to get top-class coverage Wrexham AFC is the arguably the fastest-growing club in the world at the moment thanks to a certain Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The Dragons have achieved two consecutive promotions and are cheered on by crowds from not only North Wales but also from all over the globe, thanks to the success of the Disney+ documentary 'Welcome to Wrexham'. But does it have a dedicated, quality source of information piped through to your inbox each week, free of ads but packed with informed opinion, analysis and even a little bit of fun each week? That's where Wrexham is the Game steps in... Available every Wednesday, it provides all the insights you need to be a top red. And for a limited time, a subscription to 'Wrexham is the Game' will cost fans just £15 for the first year. Sign up for Wrexham is the Game here Wrexham have been connected with a number of big name signings after confirming their spot in the Championship with a 3-0 win over Charlton last month. But Parkinson has stressed there is a strict "no superstars, no egos" policy at the club. Article continues below Speaking shortly after securing promotion, he said: "I think that a lot of tough decisions will be made this summer, in terms of who we bring in and how we add to this fantastic squad of lads we've got, but let's see if we can build a squad to compete at that level. "I think it's interesting because the jump in salaries is incredible, mind-blowing. Even coming up to this level [League One], the jump to get players of Championship quality is expensive but obviously with the next level, I don't think people outside football quite realise. "They think players in League One must be multi-millionaires, but the drop-off from what people read about Premier League players when they come down, is huge. That is a challenge, but what we've always tried to do is make sure the culture in the club is right and I think that's key - no superstars, no egos in the dressing room and we've got to try and get that balance right again."
Daily Mirror
30-04-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Man Utd get three injury boosts ahead of Europa League semi-final as 'shining light' returns
Ruben Amorim has welcomed Manchester United star Amad back to team training after fears the winger would be out for the rest of the season. Before his injury, the 22-year-old had blossomed since the Portuguese coach's arrival at Old Trafford and Amorim will hope he can soon return. Amad was joined by Matthijs de Ligt and Toby Collyer in offering a boost as the Red Devils prepared to make the trip to face Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-final first leg. United's Ivory Coast international has been ruled out since February with an ankle ligament injury, while De Ligt has been absent since the start of April. The young star was seen pumping his fist in his return to training with the rest of the group as they made their final preparations before heading to Spain. De Ligt was also present in the session but Collyer was conducting an individual programme as he bids to reach full fitness. Speaking earlier this month Amorim revealed Amad could overcome initial fears he would not play until next season. The ex-Sunderland loanee has been present training individually outdoors, though United's boss was still cautious in his assessment. "He's doing quite well," Amorim said. "We hope to have him before the season is finished. We'll see, but he's anxious to play, so we are waiting for him." And Amad could now find himself back in contention as United's focus centres on Europea success. The club sit 14th in the division but still have aspirations of earning Champions League football by winning the Europa League. Amad remains among United's top goals scorers and most impactful players. The winger has scored nine goals and provided seven assists, with only Bruno Fernandes offering more goal contributions. The star has previously been lauded as a 'shining light' in the club's season. After netting a 90th-minute winner against Manchester City, ex-United star Gary Neville lavished praise on Amad. "It is bedlam in that far corner and on the Manchester United bench," Neville said. 'Amad, what have you just done? An absolute shining light. "What must Pep Guardiola be thinking? Amad has been sensational – the only Manchester United player to look like a Manchester United player. "The pass from Martinez is good, and the run between Nunes and Gvardiol is. The touch is perfect, and the finish – Gvardiol maybe could have cleared it but take nothing away from this boy. "The first touch is beautiful. He gets enough on it, and he has turned the game on its head." Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
