English football manager and former player, currently Newport County manager
Lincoln City’s return to the Championship ends in stoppage-time heartbreak as Lankshear strikes a late winner for his new club after Adam Reach had given Lincoln the lead. Bolton, QPR, Charlton and Swansea collect early points in the weekend’s opening fixtures; Derby and Preston share the spoils in a 2-1 encounter, while Millwall, Bristol City, Norwich and others suffer mixed starts.
England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina features enforcement of a new rule allowing red cards for players who cover their mouths during verbal confrontations. Paredes questioned Kane’s actions; Hincapié and Almirón were punished earlier in the tournament for similar moves. The IFAB and FIFA have supported the measure, signaling stricter enforcement going forward.
Northern Ireland midfielder Shea Charles has joined Fulham for £30m, becoming the country’s most expensive player. Former international Stuart Dallas backs Charles and teammate Ethan Galbraith for Premier League success, while NI boss Michael O’Neill has built the side around him.