Tag: athletic

The Athletic Reporter Shares Worrying Oliver Glasner Verdict at Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner hasn’t endured a strong start to the Premier League season with no wins in seven to start to the campaign – and Athletic journalist Carl Anka has aired his fears for the club by stating that the Austrian ‘introduced him to a vibe that he can’t maintain’ after their strong end to last season.

The Eagles tasted defeat against Liverpool in a 1-0 loss on home soil to continue their winless start to the top-flight campaign, and although defeat would perhaps have been expected against the Reds, it has done little to alleviate the fears of fans who have yet to see them victorious in the Premier League this season. Losses to expected bottom-half sides in Everton and Brentford alongside a draw with Leicester City means that the club are struggling in the relegation zone – and The Athletic journalist Anka has shared his worries for Glasner’s men after their strong run of form last season.

Oliver Glasner ‘Can’t Maintain’ Last Season’s Form

The Palace boss was on fire over Easter but their form has dropped

Liverpool manager Arne Slot and Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner

Following their loss to Arne Slot‘s Reds, Palace are now firmly in the relegation zone with just five goals scored – with only Manchester United having garnered the same and with Southampton as the only worst-scoring side in the division – and their lack of impetus going forward means that the Eagles need to up their game if they are to steer clear of any drop zone woes by the end of May.

Crystal Palace’s Premier League statistics – Divisional ranking, 2024/25
Stats	Output	Squad rank
Wins	0	=20th
Goals scored	5	=19th
Shots taken per game	13.1	10th
Shots conceded per game	12.6	8th
xG	9.44	15th

And posting on X (formerly Twitter), Anka aired his fears for Palace after their superb end to the previous campaign – stating that the Eagles ‘cannot maintain’ the form shown in Spring after some poor outings this time around. He said:

“There’s a lot of mitigating factors, but I fear that Oliver Glasner introduced me to a vibe last season that he can no longer maintain…”

Palace Have Enough Quality to Survive

It could be a case of their new stars beginning to click

Glasner took over in February when Palace were 15th in the table and had slight relegation woes, and although he won his opening game, the south London outfit went five games without a win to continue their poor form.

However, a late run to the season end saw them win six of their last seven games to finish in the top-half, with stars such as Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze, Adam Wharton and Jean-Philippe Mateta especially impressing to give fans hope over the summer.

Olise moved to Bayern Munich in a £50million deal, but the majority of their young squad has been kept together – barring the sale of star defence Joachim Andersen to Fulham.

Palace bought well with the likes of Eddie Nketiah, Trevoh Chalobah and Maxence Lacroix joining the club late on in the window, but it could take time for their new stars to blossom at Selhurst Park. However, once they do click, there is more than enough Premier League quality for them to survive and kick on into the season and potentially record a top-half finish as they did last season with a revival into the second half of the campaign – especially if stars such as Eze and Mateta can get firing in the final third.

Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 06-10-24.

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October 6, 2024

Birmingham City urged to make big Alfons Sampsted call v Charlton Athletic

This article is part of Football League World’s ‘Terrace Talk’ series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Birmingham City’s pursuit of a return back to the Championship has had a stunning start.

The Blues have won all but one of their opening eight league games so far this season, and they are already five points clear of Wrexham in second.

Chris Davies’ side have 22 points from a possible 24, and will be targeting an eighth league win in a row when they face Charlton Athletic this weekend.

The Midlands outfit will travel to the Valley to take on Nathan Jones’ team in a 3pm kick-off on Saturday.

The Addicks will be going into the game in poor form, having lost their previous three league fixtures in the build up to this meeting.

Alfons Sampsted change claim

When asked what changes he’d like to see in the side this weekend, if any, FLW’s Birmingham fan pundit suggested brining Alfons Sampsted into the starting lineup.

While he believes Taylor Gardner-Hickman has performed well while out of position at right-back, he would like to see the 26-year-old come into the side after his impressive display in the second half against Huddersfield Town midweek.

“I think the one change for me would be Sampsted coming in at right-back for Gardner-Hickman,” Gibbs told Football League World.

“I think the main reason why is that Gardner-Hickman has been great, obviously it’s not his natural position, he played there for West Brom in the past but we signed him as a central midfielder.

“He got the shirt when [Ethan] Laird got injured and Sampsted wasn’t available due to illness, and has done a really solid job with it.

“I think the reason for changing him would be Sampsted came in at half-time with Gardner-Hickman on a yellow card, and I think he was arguably our best player in the second half.

“Really good defensively, really good going forward, obviously didn’t set up the goal but was a key contributor to that goal, and his all-around performance was excellent.

“So that’s the one change I would make Saturday.”

League One standings 2024-25 (As of October 3rd)
	Team	P	GD	Pts
1	Birmingham City	8	+9	22
2	Wrexham	9	+7	17
3	Mansfield Town	8	+4	17
4	Lincoln City	8	+6	15
5	Stockport County	8	+6	15
6	Blackpool	9	+3	15

Birmingham have earned wins over the likes of Huddersfield, Peterborough United, Rotherham United and Wrexham during this run of eight victories in a row.

Davies was appointed as manager in the summer after the club’s relegation to League One, and he is proving quite the success so far.

The gap at the top of the table is already five points after only eight games, while having played one fewer than second place Wrexham.

A win over Charlton could even see their lead stretch to eight points, if results elsewhere go in their favour.

Sampsted earned chance to start against Charlton

Gardner-Hickman performed well out of position for Birmingham but Sampsted earned a place in the starting lineup.

He likely would’ve been in that position anyway with Laird out but for his own absence due to illness.

That Gardner-Hickman is a solid option in that area, as well as midfield, is something Davies now knows firsthand, which will be very useful information to have for the new manager.

Otherwise, there’s no real need to make any unforced changes given how well the team has been performing so far this season.

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October 5, 2024

The 3 Charlton Athletic players we can see leaving in January

Charlton Athletic lost a few of their key players from last season, and there may be more departures during the January transfer window, especially if a new contract cannot be agreed for one of their most promising youngsters.

Charlton Athletic‘s three most influential players last season were arguably Golden Boot winning striker Alfie May, captain George Dobson, and rapid winger Corey Blackett-Taylor.

Now, less than a year since all three were playing for the Addicks, May is scoring goals for fun in League One with Birmingham City, Dobson is impressing for Wrexham as they make their mark in the third tier, and Blackett-Taylor has scored his first goal in the Championship for Derby County.

Meanwhile, Charlton have been in a difficult run of form which has seen them drop into the bottom half of the League One table, following an excellent start to the season that had seen them among the promotion contenders.

Manager Nathan Jones is likely to want to strengthen his squad during the next transfer window, and that could mean that a couple of players are allowed to depart, although there may also be interest in someone that the Addicks would much rather keep hold of.

Let’s take a look at three players who could leave SE7 in January as things stand.

3 Terry Taylor

Midfielder Terry Taylor signed for Charlton from Burton Albion last summer, before an injury limited him to just five league appearances during his debut season.

The 23-year-old was linked with a move away during the summer transfer window, with fellow League One sides Rotherham United and Barnsley reportedly interested in taking the former Wales youth international on loan, as per Football Insider.

Despite Taylor returning to fitness, it seems as though he is surplus to requirements under Jones, a suggestion which is backed up by the fact that he has yet to make an appearance in the league so far this term.

Therefore, it would be no surprise to see him leave the club during the January transfer window.

2 Tayo Edun

Tayo Edun featured 26 times for Charlton in the third tier last season, although he is another player who has yet to make a league appearance so far during this campaign.

The left-back did score during the Addicks’ EFL Trophy victory over Cambridge United last month, but that was seemingly not enough to force himself back into Jones’ immediate plans.

With Josh Edwards and Thierry Small ahead of Edun in the pecking order at left wing-back, there is every chance that the 26-year-old will depart during the January transfer window.

1 Miles Leaburn

Charlton supporters will not want to think about the possibility of Miles Leaburn leaving so soon after he has returned to first team action, especially amid the Addicks’ lack of threat in the final third, but there is a chance that the striker will move on at the start of next year.

Miles Leaburn’s stats for Charlton (Transfermarkt)

Appearances

Goals

Assists

59

20

5

The 20-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, which is likely to alert a number of clubs, as there has previously been interest from the likes of Chelsea and Brentford in his services.

Charlton will hope that they can convince Leaburn to continue his development at a club where he will be a key player, although if he does not sign a new contract, they may well decide to cash in on the forward in January to avoid losing him when his contract comes to an end in 2025.

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October 4, 2024
University of Scranton Athletic Department Announces Wall of Fame Class of 2025

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The University of Scranton Athletics Department will induct six new members into its Wall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 23.

The Class of 2025 is comprised of Julia Crilly ’15 (women’s volleyball), Ross Danzig ’15 (men’s basketball/baseball), Jennifer (Bostwick) Guglielmi ’06 (field hockey/women’s lacrosse), Meredith Mesaris ’15 (women’s basketball), Ryan Millard ’15 (men’s lacrosse) and Alyssa (Fania) Panayi ’15 (field hockey).

An induction ceremony will take place between games of a men’s and women’s basketball doubleheader against Juniata in the John Long Center. The women’s game will tip-off at 1 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 3:30 p.m.

The Wall of Fame was founded in 1970 to honor student-athletes, administrators and those in the community who have been instrumental in the overall development of the University’s athletics program. This year’s class brings the Wall’s membership to 292.

Julia Crilly – Women’s Volleyball, 2011-14

A four-year member of the women’s volleyball team, Crilly became the first All-American in program history when she was named Honorable Mention All-America by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA). She was a first-team All-Region selection by the AVCA that same year.

A four-time All-Landmark Conference honoree, Crilly earned first-team accolades in 2013 and 2014 after being named to the second team in 2011 and 2012. She was also the conference Rookie of the Year in 2011. Crilly ranks third in Landmark Conference history in career kills (1,648), fourth in kills per set (3.55) and fifth in service aces (195).

A dominant outside hitter, Crilly is one of only two players in Scranton women’s volleyball history to lead the program in kills in four different seasons. She ranks third in program history in career kills, third in career digs (1,572), and fifth in service aces. She was also a force defensively, ranking 22^nd in Scranton history in solo blocks (41), 23^rd in total blocks (154) and 24^th in block assists (141).

A standout in the classroom as well, Crilly was named the Landmark Conference Senior Scholar Athlete in 2014 and was a three-time member of the conference’s Academic Honor Roll.

Crilly helped the Royals to Landmark Conference playoff appearances in all four of her seasons, and the Royals amassed 72 victories over those four years. She was a co-recipient of the University’s O’Hara Award in 2015, presented annually to the top male and female athletes in the senior class.

Ross Danzig – Men’s Basketball & Baseball, 2011-15

A standout all-around athlete, Danzig etched his name all over the men’s basketball record book during his four years at Scranton. He ranks fourth in career points (1,793), seventh in 3-pointers made (184), 10^th in field goals made (621), 11^th in assists (386), 13^th in free throws made (367), 15^th in steals (127), tied for 15^th in blocks (89) and 16^th in rebounds (727).

Danzig earned five different all-region honors during his time on the hardwood. D3hoops.com named him to the All-Mid-Atlantic Region Third Team in 2012-13, Second Team in 2014-15, and First Team in 2013-14. He also earned first-team honors in 2013-14 and 2014-15 from the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC).

The Landmark Conference Player of the Year in 2013-14, Danzig earned all-conference first-team honors in his final three seasons after being named the conference Rookie of the Year in 2011-12. He ranks sixth in Landmark history in points and field goals made, eighth in assists and free throws made, and tied for ninth in rebounds.

The Royals were a force nationally during Danzig’s time in purple and white. They won three Landmark Conference championships (2011-12, 2013-14 and 2014-15), and made three NCAA Tournament appearances, advancing to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament in 2011-12 and the second round in 2014-15.

On the baseball diamond, Danzig earned All-Landmark Conference second-team honors in 2014. He helped the Royals reach the Landmark Conference playoffs in 2013 and 2015, advancing to the championship series in 2013. The Royals won 76 games in his four seasons, including 39 in conference play.

In 114 career games, Danzig hit .341 with 134 hits, including 22 doubles and seven home runs with 86 runs batted in and 80 runs scored. In seven career playoff games, he went 17-for-33 (.515) with four doubles, six RBIs, four runs and two stolen bases.

Danzig was the 2015 recipient of the O’Hara Award, presented annually to the top male and female student-athletes in the senior class. He was also a three-time Landmark Conference Academic Honor Roll selection of his work in the classroom.

Jennifer (Bostwick) Guglielmi – Field Hockey (2002-05), Women’s Lacrosse (2003)

As a midfielder in field hockey, Bostwick made an impact on both ends of the field. Her all-around play earned her Freedom Conference First Team honors in 2003, 2004 and 2005 after being named Rookie of the Year in 2002.

Bostwick had a knack for making the big play, scoring five game-winners among her 14 career goals. She also added five assists while making an impact on a defensive unit that posted 23 shutouts during her career.

The Royals qualified for the playoffs three times during Bostwick’s career (2002, 2004, 2005), including a championship game appearance in 2004.

On the lacrosse field, Bostwick helped Scranton go 13-4 and win the Middle Atlantic Conference championship in 2003. She finished the season with four goals, two assists and 18 ground balls.

Meredith Mesaris – Women’s Basketball, 2011-15

One of the most decorated athletes in Scranton history, Mesaris was named All-American by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) in 2014-15 and honorable mention All-American in 2013-14. She also received third-team All-American honors from D3hoops.com in 2014-15. D3hoops.com also named her first-team all-Mid-Atlantic Region in 2013-14 and 2014-15.

At the conference level, Mesaris was the Landmark Conference Player of the Year in 2014-15, and she earned first-team honors in 2013-14 and 2014-15, as well as second-team in 2012-13. She led the Lady Royals to the conference title in 2013-14 while earning tournament MVP honors. Mesaris is also the conference’s all-time leading scorer with 1,758 points. She also holds the conference record for field goals made (642) and ranks fifth in free-throw percentage (83.0).

Mesaris is the Lady Royals’ all-time leader in free-throws made (400) and ranks third in points per game (17.9), fourth in scoring and field goals made, fifth in free-throw percentage and 16^th in field goal percentage (48.3). She holds the program’s single-season record for free-throws made with 145 in 2013-14.

The Lady Royals advanced to the NCAA Tournament three times during her career, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2013-14. Mesaris led the team to 85 victories, including 14 in conference play. She was the co-recipient of the O’Hara Award in 2015, presented annually to the top male and female athletes in the senior class.

Not to be outdone, Mesaris was a standout in the classroom, earning CoSIDA Second Team Academic All-America honors in 2014-15, as well as being named to the District IV All-Academic Team in 2013-14 and 2014-15. She was also a three-time Landmark Conference Academic Honor Roll selection.

Ryan Millard – Men’s Lacrosse (2012-15)

A standout defenseman, Millard became just the second men’s lacrosse player in Scranton history to receive All-American honors when he was named Honorable Mention All-American by the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (USILA) in 2015.

Millard also earned first-team All-Landmark Conference honors in 2014 and 2015 while anchoring a defense that posted the lowest goals-against average in the conference both seasons. He was second on the team in ground balls in both seasons, scooping up 59 in 2014 and 67 in 2015.

For his career, Millard ranks 12^th in program history in ground balls with 159. He also finished with 33 caused turnovers and added three assists from the defensive back line.

Millard helped the Royals advance to the Landmark playoffs in each of his four seasons, including a championship appearance in 2015. The Royals won 37 games during his career, including 17 in conference play.

An academic standout as well, Millard was named USILA Scholar All-American in 2015 and was a three-time member of the Landmark Conference Academic Honor Roll.

Alyssa (Fania) Panayi – Field Hockey (2011-14)

A dominant offensive force from the midfield, Fania earned All-South Atlantic Region First Team honors in 2014 from the National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA). She was also the Landmark Conference Offensive Player of the Year and a first-team selection that year and added second-team all-conference honors in her other three seasons.

In that standout senior season in 2014, Fania finished with 18 goals, eight assists and 44 points, marking the second straight season she led the team in all three categories. For her career, she ranks tied for third in program history in assists (22), fifth in points (104) and tied for fifth in goals (41). She is also sixth all-time in Landmark Conference history in points and tied for sixth in goals.

Fania helped the Royals advance to the conference playoffs in each of her four seasons, including a championship game appearance in 2013. The Royals won 50 games during her career, including 14 in conference play.

An excellent student, Fania was a three-time selection to the Landmark Conference Academic Honor Roll.

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October 4, 2024
Undefeated Army, Navy Are Vying For American Athletic Conference Title

Navy Midshipmen quarterback Blake Horvath (11) throws before an NCAA football game against the Tulsa … [+] Golden Hurricane on Saturday, Oct. 8 2022, in Annapolis, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)

Copyright {2022} The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Since 1930, the Army and Navy football teams have played each other every year. Even as the programs have struggled at times in recent decades, their annual December games routinely draw sell-out crowds and large television audiences. It’s one of the biggest rivalries in college sports and attracts even casual fans.

This year, the teams will play on Dec. 14 at FedEx Field, the Washington Commanders home stadium in suburban Washington, D.C. But for the first time, Army and Navy are part of the same league, with Army joining the American Athletic Conference (AAC) this year and Navy having been in the conference since 2015. By then, one of them could be champions of the AAC, which is holding its title game on Dec. 6.

Army and Navy are both 4-0, the first time they have each won their first four games since 1945. They are two of only 19 Football Bowl Subdivision teams (and the only AAC programs) that remain undefeated. And they are each favored by more than a touchdown on the road this Saturday, with Army traveling to Tulsa (2-3) and Navy heading to the Air Force Academy (1-3).

In fact, it would not be shocking if they play each other in the AAC championship game. Navy is No. 68 and Army is No. 70 among 134 FBS teams, according to ESPN analyst Bill Connelly’s SP+ ranking, which is a respected predictive measure. Memphis (No. 64) is the only AAC program ranked ahead of Army and Navy even though Navy defeated Memphis, 56-44, on Sept. 21. Army and Memphis do not play each other during the regular season.

Army and Navy have potentially bigger stakes, too, as the winner of the AAC championship game could qualify for the College Football Playoff. The top-five ranked conference champions receive an automatic berth in the CFP. The winners of the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12 and ACC are almost certain to get four of those spots, leaving one berth available for another league champion. As of now, James Madison (No. 33 in the SP+), Boise State (No. 37), UNLV (No. 54), Liberty (No. 57), Louisiana (No. 62) and Memphis are the only programs outside of the four power conferences ranked above Army and Navy.

As usual, Army and Navy are primarily running the ball on offense. Army is first among FBS teams with 371.2 rushing yards per game, while Navy is fifth with 287.2 rushing yards per game. Army is 132nd among FBS teams with 73.2 passing yards per game, while Navy is 108th with 178.8 yards per game even though the Midshipmen have attempted only 53 passes, which is the second-fewest in the country behind Army’s 32 attempts.

Navy quarterback Blake Horvath has completed 30 of his 44 pass attempts for seven touchdowns and one interception and gained a team-high 450 rushing yards (9.6 yards per attempt) and eight touchdowns. The Midshipmen are ninth in FBS in scoring (46 points per game) and have outscored their opponents by 22.5 points per game.

Army quarterback Bryson Daily has completed 12 of 25 passes for 240 yards and three touchdowns and run for a team-high 492 yards (6 yards per carry) and eight touchdowns. The Black Knights are tied with Penn State for 30th in FBS in scoring (36.2 points per game) and sixth in FBS in scoring defense, allowing just 10.5 points per game and not allowing more than 14 points in any game this season.

Since Jeff Monken arrived as Army’s coach in 2014, the Black Knights have had some success, including qualifying for five bowl games and finishing the 2018 season ranked 19th in the AP poll. Navy, meanwhile, finished in the AP top 25 in 2015, 2016 and 2019 under former coach Ken Niumatalolo. But Niumatalolo went just 11-23 in his final three seasons at Navy before Brian Newberry took over as coach last season and led the Midshipmen to a 5-7 record.

Army and Navy each have eight games remaining, including neutral site games against Notre Dame (No. 10 in the SP+ and No. 14 in the Associated Press polls): Navy plays the Fighting Irish on Oct. 26 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, while Army plays Notre Dame on Nov. 23 at Yankee Stadium.

Besides the ND games, Army and Navy could each be favored in their other seven games. Of course, plenty can happen between now and December, but both programs are on solid footing and in position to accomplish much more as the season progresses.

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October 3, 2024

Miles Leaburn’s stats for Charlton (Transfermarkt)
59	20	5

Charlton Athletic will hope Cardiff City look away from Nathan Jones

Charlton Athletic will be hoping that Cardiff City conclude their managerial search as soon as possible, with a concerning trend emerging following Nathan Jones’ admission on the vacant hot-seat.

The Bluebirds are on the hunt for their 12th permanent manager in the last 14 years after the dismissal of Erol Bulut, who had failed to win any of his first six matches of the new season and was handed his marching orders over a week ago.

Indeed, Cardiff have finally claimed their first victory of the new season by edging out Millwall at home on Tuesday evening but they still remain rooted to the foot of the division with just four points to their name, and they are seemingly no closer to appointing a new permanent manager.

According to a report from WalesOnline, the Bluebirds have called upon the support of two former unnamed managers alongside one of the largest footballing agencies in Europe to assist their search for a new manager, an appointment which they are not expected to make until the international break with interim boss Omer Riza standing in until then.

However, Charlton will surely hope that they fill the vacancy sooner rather than later. Popular manager Jones, who hails from the Rhondda Valley, is invariably linked with the job whenever it becomes available and has made little secret of his desire to manage his boyhood club one day.

Nathan Jones’ Cardiff City admission

Jones admitted in 2022 that he would “never turn down” the opportunity to manage Cardiff while with Luton Town. The Welshman took over Charlton in February, a year after a brief and ill-fated stint in the Premier League with Southampton, and admitted that he is enjoying the club’s trajectory although there is every chance that he could be swayed by an offer.

According to reports, the Addicks would require significant compensation to allow the former Stoke City and Luton boss to move elsewhere and are yet to receive contact from Cardiff regarding Jones.

Just days after Cardiff elected to part ways with Bulut, Jones was quizzed on the vacant managerial job back in Wales by the South London Press.

He said: “When this kind of stuff comes up I’m very flattered to be linked with that. One day – I’ve made no secret and been totally open – I would like to manage Cardiff. It is my hometown club. My dad lives close.

“But, right now, I have got a fantastic job and I’m at a wonderful club where I’m really, really looking to build something.

“So that is where we are. I won’t be disrespectful to anyone in any way. So for me it is nothing, I get on with my job day to day and I love my job here and the people I work with. I’ve asked a lot of people to buy-in to that. There is nothing to say really.

When asked if he had received direct contact, Jones added: “If I had I’m not going to suddenly turn around and say it here, am I! There is nothing really to worry about.

“I’ve got a wonderful job here and I took this job for a certain reason – because I believe we can build something special.

“I make no secret about the Cardiff job, because it is my hometown club and all the affiliations I have there. One day I really, really would love to manage the football club.

“Right now I’m Charlton manager and I’m thoroughly enjoying the project we are building.”

Charlton Athletic’s form has tailed off following Nathan Jones, Cardiff City talk

Jones, who steadied the ship after coming in late last season, had taken Charlton up to fifth place after five games of the new campaign. However, Charlton’s run of form following the sacking of Bulut may just invite the inevitable questions.

Bulut’s situation at Cardiff was precarious long before he was eventually sacked, and Charlton lost 2-1 at home to Blackpool on the same day which proved to be the Turk’s last in the dugout.

After Jones spoke about his desire to manage the Bluebirds one day, Charlton have gone on to lose their last two games against Stevenage and most recently, Bristol Rovers.

Charlton Athletic’s last three games in League One
Opposition	Scoreline	*Result*	Date	Venue
Blackpool	1-2	Defeat	21/9/24	The Valley, London
Stevenage	1-0	Defeat	28/9/24	Lamex Stadium, Stevenage
Bristol Rovers	3-2	Defeat	1/10/24	Memorial Stadium, Bristol

With that in mind, you do have to wonder whether the strong links to Cardiff have had an impact. Cardiff is widely viewed as a big job and it would represent the fulfillment of a long-term dream for Jones, so it would come as no real surprise if it has indeed turned his head somewhat.

It may be too early to rush to such conclusions just yet, but Charlton will hope that Cardiff bring a new face into the dugout as soon as they can to hand them some much-needed security and breathing room on Jones’ future.

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October 2, 2024

Charlton Athletic, Arsenal may be shocked by Carl Jenkinson’s Bromley move

After two-and-a-half years away from English football, one-time England international Carl Jenkinson completed a recent shock move to League Two newcomers Bromley after finding himself without a club over the summer.

The 32-year-old was once a Premier League player at the Emirates Stadium under Arsene Wegner, so the move to Hayes Lane may come as a shock to some people, particularly Arsenal supporters where Jenkinson spent eight years in total.

However, the last couple of years have been a little bit more difficult for the defender, and he’s spent time in Australia playing for both Melbourne City and Newcastle Jets after leaving Nottingham Forest.

With an England cap and 70 appearances for Arsenal under his belt, his signing looks to be a serious coup for Andy Woodman’s Bromley side in their first League Two season, and Jenkinson will be relishing the chance to play in England again after a couple of seasons away.

Charlton Athletic, Arsenal supporters will be shocked by Carl Jenkinson’s move

Jenkinson started his career at Charlton Athletic, and he impressed at The Valley, coming through the academy ranks before earning a first-team call-up during the 2010/11 campaign, doing enough in his first season in professional football to earn a move across London to Arsenal.

It speaks volumes of how impressive he was at Charlton that Arsenal signed him, and while he wasn’t always a first-team regular at the Emirates Stadium, making 70 appearances across nine years, also spending time on loan at both West Ham United and Birmingham City, he was an important member of Wegner’s squad, and someone that could also be relied on.

He did enough in his early days as an Arsenal player to win an England cap back in 2012, and he also helped the Gunners to FA Cup success in both 2014 and 2017.

With this in mind, supporters of both Charlton and Arsenal may be somewhat surprised to see him playing for Bromley at the age of 32, not a particularly old age at all.

Carl Jenkinson’s senior career
Club	Seasons
Charlton Athletic	2008-11
Welling United (Loan)	2010
Eastbourne Borough (Loan)	2010
Arsenal	2011-19
West Ham (Loan)	2014-15
West Ham (Loan)	2015-16
Birmingham City (Loan)	2017-18
Nottingham Forest	2019-22
Melbourne City (Loan)	2022
Newcastle Jets	2022-24
Bromley	2024-

When Jenkinson left Arsenal in 2019 it would have been hard to envisage him playing for League Two newcomers in Bromley just five years’ time, but after a spell as a free agent, the one-cap England international will be relishing the chance to play football again.

His move to Bromley certainly raised eyebrows, but Jenkinson should be commended for making the brave decision to drop to League Two, and it shows that he feels like he’s still got plenty to give in professional football.

Signing Carl Jenkinson is a serious coup for Bromley

For a newly-promoted League Two side to sign a player with Jenkinson’s experience is a real coup for Bromley as they look to consolidate their positions as an EFL club.

Woodman’s side have made a solid start to life in League Two and sit 18th, and while their main priority will be staying in the division this season, Jenkinson’s signing shows they’re an ambitious outfit who have big plans.

With an England cap, 93 Premier League games and Championship experience under his belt, Jenkinson will bring a wealth of experience to Hayes Lane which will come in handy over the course of the 46-game season.

The 32-year-old was an unused substitute for Saturday’s 1-1 draw with MK Dons, perhaps understandable as he’s only just joined the club and isn’t quite up to speed, but there’s no doubt he’ll play a key role later this season.

Supporters may be shocked to see Jenkinson turning out in the fourth tier this season, but it’s a statement of intent from Bromley, and Andy Woodman will be hoping it’s a move that pays off as they look to become a force in the EFL.

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September 30, 2024

Coco Gauff’s Mom Candi Showers Love on Her Athletic Sons Days After Celebrating Tennis Star Daughter on a Special Day

Coco Gauff‘s mother is a perfect example of how a supportive family can fuel one’s passion for success. A former athlete, Candi Gauff not only passed her incredible genes to her children but also instilled in them a drive for excellence in their respective fields. Now that her kids are shining like stars, Candi Gauff acknowledges their efforts with a special mention. Her love for her children is evident in her adorable gestures, which show why she is cherished by all three of her kids.

Gauff’s mother recently shared an adorable Instagram post celebrating the presence of her two talented sons in her life. Currently in China to support her daughter’s run at the 2024 China Open, Candi Gauff posted a snippet from her recent trip to the Great Wall of China with her daughter, winning hearts with the sweet photos. While supporting her daughter’s professional journey, Candi didn’t forget to honor her sons, Codey and Cameron Gauff.

This former athlete posted a picture with her boys on her official Instagram and added a heartfelt message. “Happy National Sons’ Day! My favorite oldest and youngest sonshines,” she wrote, her choice of words reflecting her deep love for them. Although she wasn’t with them on this special day, Gauff’s mother made sure to celebrate her sons while also being there for her daughter.

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Isn’t Coco Gauff’s family the epitome of athletic excellence? React!

Candi Gauff also had a special shout-out for Codey, who was selected to participate in the Minority Baseball Prospects Futures All-American game. Sharing the lineup on her IG story, Candi tagged her elder son and added two red hearts to express her pride and excitement.

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In addition to supporting Codey, Candi has also shown unwavering support for Cameron, the youngest of the Gauff family, who has already impressed the family with his athletic talent. When Cameron completed his elementary school journey, Candi shared a picture of him with his grandmother and cheered him on with the caption, “CONGRATS CAMERON.” She had a similarly enthusiastic reaction when Cameron won an MVP tournament, writing, “Congratulations Cameron on winning the tennis tournament today. Thank you family for the support!!!”

As much as she loves her sons, Coco Gauff’s mother is equally proud of her daughter. Traveling to China with her, Candi has made it clear just how much she loves all three of her children.

Coco Gauff’s mother celebrated her daughter on a special occasion

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Candi Gauff accompanied her daughter during her 2024 China Open run. Before the tournament, the mother-daughter duo enjoyed some fun times visiting iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City. While Gauff jokingly revealed her mother’s poor photography skills, Candi shared an adorable selfie with her daughter wishing her on National Daughter’s Day. “@cocogauff National Daughters Day ❤️ ❤️,” she wrote on her IG story. Gauff was touched by her mother’s adorable gesture and reshared it on her IG story with a special message for her mother. “Love my mom,” wrote the WTA star highlighting their love.

Coco Gauff’s mother, Candi, has been a pivotal figure in the family, whose encouragement and guidance inspired her children to excel in sports. As she supports her daughter during the China Open, many believe her presence will help Coco refresh her mind and focus more effectively on her victories.

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September 29, 2024
The Story of St. John’s Athletic Facilities

Guild Hall or Rat Hall as it’s also known, was built in 1901 and served as the main gymnasium on the St. John’s University campus for many years until 1972. To help tell the story of St. John’s buildings I was joined by St. John’s/St. Ben’s Archivist Peggy Roske. St. John’s University archives says the gym became the site for handball, basketball, indoor baseball, tennis and other games. There were two bowling alleys in the basement and the second floor contained a billiard room. In 1937, the gymnasium was moved from its original location (between the Science Hall and the Quadrangle Building) to 150 feet west. Guild Hall is named after the Saint John’s Workers Guild. It is currently houses the offices of the student newspaper, The Record,the Collegeville U.S. Post Office, and the Military Science Department (Army ROTC.) St. John’s Prep also plays basketball in the facility.

Warner Palestra (photo courtesy of SJU Archives)
Warner Palestra (photo courtesy of SJU Archives)

The Warner Palestra opened in 1973 and become the primary home for athletics on the St. John’s University campus. Roske says the building was named in honor of doners Lee and Rose Warner. He was President of the McGill Warner Company and also served for a time as the President of the Minnesota State Fair. Jim Smith court inside the Warner Palestra is named after longtime St. John’s basketball coach, Jim Smith.

Sexton Commons (photo courtesy of SJU Archives)
Sexton Commons (photo courtesy of SJU Archives)

Sexton Commons was built as a Student Center in 1992. It was named in honor of donor and St. John’s 1955 graduate Bill Sexton. Roske says Sexton was a standout athlete at St. John’s especially in Basketball.

McNeely Spectrum (photo courtesy of SJU Archives)
McNeely Spectrum (photo courtesy of SJU Archives)

The McNeely Spectrum is the field house attached to the Warner Palestra on the St. John’s campus. It was built in 1997. It is named in honor of donor Donald McNeely, who was a longtime benefactor and former Regent from St. John’s.

The iconic St. John’s football stadium, Clemens Stadium is named in honor of donors Bill and Virginia Clemens. Bill was the President of Banker Systems. Gagliardi Field and Seasonal Dome is named for legendary St. John’s football coach John Gagliardi. It opened in 2016. Haws Field was named for longtime St. John’s soccer coach Pat Haws. It was completed in 2013.

If you’d like to listen to my conversation with Peggy Roske, it is available below.

Come Visit Fairhaven, Minnesota in Pictures

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September 28, 2024
Nathan Jones makes new Cardiff City job revelation amid Charlton Athletic stint

Charlton Athletic boss Nathan Jones has admitted he wants to manage boyhood club Cardiff City at some point in his career, although he reiterated he is happy in his current role.

The Bluebirds are on the lookout for a new manager after sacking Erol Bulut following a dismal start to the campaign that has left them bottom of the league.

Championship Table

Team

P

GD

Pts

22

Sheffield Wednesday

6

-6

4

23

Portsmouth

6

-6

3

24

Cardiff City

6

-12

1

And, the bookmakers have made Jones one of the favourites to take over, with the 51-year-old impressing with Charlton since his appointment earlier this year.

Nathan Jones discusses Cardiff City job

So far, there’s no indication whether Jones would be a candidate for the job, but he was quizzed on whether he would be interested in moving by the South London Press.

To his credit, Jones gave an honest response, as he explained his love for Cardiff having grown up watching the Welsh side, and he revealed it would be an ambition to take charge one day – but he was keen to stress he is enjoying his time at The Valley.

“When this kind of stuff comes up I’m very flattered to be linked with that. One day – I’ve made no secret and been totally open – I would like to manage Cardiff. It is my home town club – my dad lives close.

“But, right now, I have got a fantastic job and I’m at a wonderful club where I’m really, really looking to build something. So that is where we are. I won’t be disrespectful to anyone in any way. So for me it is nothing – I get on with my job day to day and I love my job here and the people I work with. I’ve asked a lot of people to buy-in to that. There is nothing to say really.

“If I had (been in contact) I’m not going to suddenly turn around and say it here, am I! There is nothing really to worry about. I’ve got a wonderful job here and I took this job for a certain reason – because I believe we can build something special.

“I make no secret about the Cardiff job, because it is my hometown club and all the affiliations I have there. One day I really, really would love to manage the football club. Right now I’m Charlton manager and I’m thoroughly enjoying the project we are building.”

Nathan Jones could be a good fit for Cardiff City

This is not what Charlton fans want to hear, but the reality is that the Cardiff hierarchy surely must be considering Jones, as he ticks a lot of boxes.

The fact he is a fan is an added bonus, but this is a manager who worked wonders taking Luton Town up the Football League, and he has created a strong unit at Charlton, who are likely to be in the mix for promotion this season if he remains in charge.

Some will point to his failures at Stoke and Southampton, but Cardiff seem a club that is more suited to what he’s about, in that he can build a team spirit, a connection with the supporters, and bring a winning mentality that they lack.

Cardiff City would have to pay to get Nathan Jones

However, prising him away from Charlton won’t be easy, and it should be said that the update also reveals that ‘significant compensation’ would be needed to get Jones out of his current contract.

So, this is one to potentially monitor over the next few days, but Jones’ only focus right now will be on Charlton, and trying to get three points at Stevenage this weekend.

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September 26, 2024