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Hannah Dingley’s historic appointment at Forest Green has “smashed the glass ceiling”, anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out has said. The League Two club announced Dingley as their caretaker head coach late on Tuesday night, making her the first woman to manage a professional men’s team in England. Dingley has been the head of the Gloucestershire club’s academy and succeeds Duncan Ferguson on an interim basis after his departure from the club was confirmed earlier the same day. Kick It Out welcomed the news in a tweet on Wednesday morning which read: “That’s the sound of a glass ceiling being smashed! “Congratulations Hannah on becoming the first woman to manage a men’s professional football team in England.” Dingley’s first match in charge will be the pre-season friendly away to Melksham on Wednesday evening. She said: “I’m really excited for this next step of my career. Pre-season has just begun, and the full season kicks off very soon. It’s an exciting time in football. “I am grateful for the opportunity to step up and lead such a progressive and forward-thinking club.” Rovers chairman Dale Vince has spoken previously about the club’s openness to breaking new ground, and said a female coach working in the Women’s Super League was the standout candidate to succeed Mark Cooper in 2021, but that her CV had been submitted without her knowledge. On Dingley’s appointment, Vince said: “Hannah was the natural choice for us to be first team interim coach – she’s done a fantastic job leading our academy and is well aligned with the values of the club. “It’s perhaps telling for the men’s game that in making this appointment on merit, we’ll break new ground – and Hannah will be the first female head coach in English (men’s) football.” This represents another step forward as we strive to make our game representative of the communities we serve EFL’s head of equality, diversity and inclusion Dave McArdle Women In Football chair Ebru Koksal tweeted in response to the news, describing Dingley as “a very qualified, capable, well-equipped coach” who had broken “norms and barriers, hopefully not only as a caretaker, but as a permanent appointment”. The EFL’s head of equality, diversity and inclusion Dave McArdle described Dingley’s appointment as a “welcome moment for English football” and added: “With many highly skilled and experienced coaches across the game, it was only a matter of time before the ongoing positive development of female coaches led to an opportunity in the first team at an EFL club. “It has always been a key priority for the EFL to create an environment in which clubs consider qualified candidates from an ever-widening pool of coaching talent and select the best possible person for a role. “This represents another step forward as we strive to make our game representative of the communities we serve.”

Declan Rice is to undergo a medical at Arsenal following agreement on a fee with West Ham, the PA news agency understands. The signing of the Hammers captain for £100million plus £5million in add-ons will not only break Arsenal’s own transfer record but also see Rice become the most expensive Englishman in Premier League history. Arsenal launched their third and final bid last week with an offer which saw champions Manchester City pull out of the race to sign the 24-year-old. West Ham were not happy with the payment structure of the Arsenal deal but, after further negotiations, it is understood an agreement is in place and Rice is free to discuss personal terms and have his medical ahead of a move to the Emirates Stadium. Rice, who lifted the Europa Conference League title in what now looks set to be his final West Ham appearance, has been Arsenal’s top target this summer. He would become the second summer signing for Mikel Arteta’s side, following the addition of Germany forward Kai Havertz from Chelsea, as the Gunners look to go one better than their second-placed finish last season. Ajax defender Jurrien Timber also remains a priority for the Gunners, who head to Germany for a pre-season training camp later this month. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live

Two done, how many more to go? Ask Liverpool supporters at the end of last season how many new signings they needed to bring in across the summer and not too many would have suggested fewer than four. An upturn in form and fortunes between March and May probably reduced that from a higher number, too. But even with individuals showing better levels and the team looking capable of beating most they came up against, the new shape and certain aging faces - as well as expiring contracts in the squad - meant a renewal, if not an outright overhaul, was required. That was especially the case in midfield and with almost £100 million now spent this summer on two new components, in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, the Reds will definitely have a refreshed feel about them, regardless of what else happens. Both are expected to be first-team regulars, and no wonder: one has won the World Cup, the other cost upwards of £60m. But, thus far, no starters from last term have departed, so places will have to be earned if the regular line-up is to indeed alter. Or, given the form of too many in the squad across much of 2022/23 - particularly the middle third - perhaps those jerseys had already been lost. Jurgen Klopp refuted, last year and before, the idea that he keeps too many around for too long, that he has favourites who have a place in the team as long as they are available. James Milner and Roberto Firmino have now exited, two who were go-to lieutenants for so many seasons of the German’s tenure, while fringe pair Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita are likewise out. Three midfielders, one forward; the trio from the centre of the park only contributed 2,261 minutes though across all competitions; throw in departed loanee Arthur Melo too, why not, for an additional 13 on the pitch. Their new No.10, Mac Allister, played far more than that by himself, over 3,300 minutes not including his mid-season international exploits, while his fellow new arrival, who will hope to wear the No.8 with more distinction than Keita managed, tallied over 3,700 for Leipzig. While gametime doesn’t translate to immediacy in the team, the expectation is that they will sooner or later combine as the new more offensive pair in a traditional three or, in the Reds’ more recent shape, the forward-thinking pair ahead of the roving Trent Alexander-Arnold and a holding midfielder. The latter is, at present, still Fabinho. But it is the third area of the centre of the park where Liverpool must surely continue to seek out reinforcements and improvements, with summer rumours suggesting Manu Kone and Romeo Lavia are of significant interest. The additions already made to the squad will help the Reds from the perspective of creativity, build-up play and - over time - with off-the-ball, first lines of defence too. When transitions move behind the midfield line, though, is where the biggest problems arose last season and where improvements must continue to be seen. Fabinho has been a massive pillar of a successful team, but agility and recovery speed deserted him entirely for much of 22/23. Eluding him, attacking midfielders and ball-carriers opened up vast spaces to race toward Liverpool’s back line and threaten Alisson’s goal with. It’s not something the team will be able to offer up with such regularity in 23/24 - at least, not if they want regular success - and especially considering the alteration in Alexander-Arnold’s role still means work to be done in terms of overall cohesion when teams attack that side. A deep midfielder more able to make up that extra ground has to remain priority No.1 now, considering it appears a more defensive option for the right-sided role is not on the agenda. If it does end up being Lavia or a similarly future-proofing signing, the biggest decisions for Klopp may come in games against the best transition teams: does he want the greater experience or the greater athleticism in the side? But this is a Liverpool team being built once more to dominate play, first and foremost, and beat teams by out-playing them, not just by shutting them out. The new recruits will add more guile, more on the ball quality and more speed across the ground than those who played most of the season in midfield last year, up until Curtis Jones forced his way into the team. The big work in pre-season will be getting them to gel with Cody Gakpo, Mo Salah and Luis Diaz on a regular basis - and to find out how to get the best use out of Darwin Nunez, of course. Szoboszlai’s delivery from the channels, his driving runs and set-piece prowess are all expected to be enormous factors there. Liverpool’s squad suddenly looks rather more capable of competing among the top four once more, having looked stale and badly in need of a redesign. Which final touches are put on it across the next eight weeks will determine whether they push even higher across the following ten months.

Millwall’s owner and chairman Berylson has died at the age of 70 in “a tragic accident”, the club announced. The Lions confirmed the news in a statement posted on Twitter on Tuesday night. The statement read that Berylson, 70, who first became involved with the club in 2006, had died in an accident on Tuesday morning. “It is with a collective broken heart and the deepest of regret that we announce the passing of our beloved owner and chairman, John Berylson,” Millwall posted. “John, who turned 70 last month, lost his life in a tragic accident on Tuesday morning, and the thoughts of everyone at the club are with his wife, Amy, his three children, Jennifer, James, and Elizabeth, and the rest of the Berylson family. “John’s sudden and tragic passing will unquestionably impact all those who were fortunate to have known him. He was a truly great man, incredibly devoted to his family, and a person of such remarkable generosity, warmth, and kindness. “He lived a storied life, one full of colour and joy, and was infinitely thoughtful of others with an endless desire to share his immense knowledge and experiences to help people. “Under John’s passionate leadership and guidance, Millwall has enjoyed tremendous success and stability. “Since first becoming involved in the club in 2006, he has presided over some of the greatest moments in Millwall’s history, and his influence in providing the platform for those was immeasurable. “John continued to speak eagerly about the new season and his vision for the future, and any success moving forward will be in his memory and honour. It will be his legacy. “John revelled in the club’s underdog status and mentality. He related strongly to such values and identity and adored Millwall supporters. He was fiercely loyal to all his staff, and both they and the fan base will miss him beyond measure.” Millwall have not released any further details around Berylson’s death but the club will allow fans to pay their respects in a book of condolence. Supporters can write in the book, which will then be shared with Berylson’s family, at The Den on Wednesday from 11am, or online. The English Football League tweeted: “The EFL is shocked and saddened by the news and sends its deepest condolences to John’s family and everyone connected with Millwall.” Former Millwall defender Alan Dunne, who made almost 350 appearances for the club, was also among those to post a tribute. “My deepest condolences to not only my Chairman for many years but also friend,” Dunne said on Twitter. “John was a gentleman who put Millwall back on the map. What he has done for the club will always be remembered and can only thank him for everything he done for me and MILLWALL. Rip JB.” Millwall’s fierce rivals West Ham also sent their condolences, writing: “Everyone at West Ham United sends their deepest condolences to John’s family, friends and all at Millwall FC during this tragic time.” Additional reporting by PA Read More Steven Reid returns to Nottingham Forest as first-team coach Mason Mount announces Chelsea exit Football rumours: Saudi clubs join growing interest in Thiago Alcantara Mason Mount announces Chelsea exit Football rumours: Saudi clubs join growing interest in Thiago Alcantara Hannah Dingley makes history after being named Forest Green caretaker head coach

Forest Green have appointed Hannah Dingley as caretaker head coach, making her the first woman to take charge of an English Football League club. The Gloucestershire club appointed Dingley following the departure of Duncan Ferguson. The 51-year-old Scot was appointed in January but he was unable to keep them in League One, with Rovers winning just six of their 46 games. Rovers have now moved to install Dingley in interim charge, making her the first woman to lead a men’s professional senior team in England. Forest Green chairman Dale Vince said on the club website: “Hannah was the natural choice for us to be first team interim head coach. “She’s done a fantastic job leading our academy and is well aligned with the values of the club. “It’s perhaps telling for the men’s game that in making this appointment on merit, we’ll break new ground – and Hannah will be the first female head coach in English (men’s) football.” Dingley will continue preparations for the club’s opening pre-season fixture against non-league Melksham Town on Wednesday night. “I’m really excited for this next step of my career,” she said. “Pre-season has just begun, and the full season kicks off very soon. It’s an exciting time in football. “I am grateful for the opportunity to step up and lead such a progressive and forward-thinking club.” Forest Green have previously demonstrated a desire to steer away from the conventional in their recruitment of head coaches. In May 2021, Vince told the PA news agency that a female coach working in the Women’s Super League had been a standout candidate to become the club’s new boss until it emerged her CV had been put forward without her knowledge. Commenting about Ferguson’s departure earlier on Tuesday, Vince said: “It had been a privilege to work with Dunc these last few months and this was a very difficult decision to make. “I’m grateful to Dunc for joining us in such difficult circumstances and for all of his hard work at the club. “But I feel this is overall the right decision for everyone and I wish Dunc well in his next coaching role. We are parting as friends. You can’t ask for much more than that.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Football rumours: Saudi clubs join growing interest in Thiago Alcantara Jodie Burrage takes centre stage as Wimbledon plays catch-up on day three Dan Evans targets short break from tennis after latest Wimbledon disappointment

Mason Mount has confirmed that he will be leaving Chelsea after 18 years at the club. The 24-year-old came through the ranks at Stamford Bridge and since making his first-team debut in 2019 has gone on to score 27 goals and provide 22 assists in 129 Premier League appearances. The PA news agency understands that Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign the midfielder for an initial £55million. Mount, who won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021 and has earned 36 caps for England, posted a farewell message to Blues fans on Instagram. He said on Instagram: “Hi Chelsea fans, given the speculation over the last six months this may not come as a surprise to you, but it doesn’t make it any easier to tell you that I’ve made the decision to leave Chelsea. “I feel you deserve more than just a written statement, so I wanted to tell you directly how grateful I’ve been for all of your support over the last 18 years. “I know some of you won’t be happy with my decision, but it’s what’s right for me at this moment in my career. “I joined Chelsea when I was six years old and we’ve been through a lot together. “Winning the Youth Cup, my Player of the Year awards, the Super Cup, the Club World Cup and of course that unforgettable night when we won the Champions League. “I want to say thank you to the academy, Jim and Neil for being so influential to me from such a young age. “The managers I’ve worked under, Frank (Lampard), Thomas (Tuchel) and Graham (Potter), the backroom staff, the unsung heroes of Cobham, all of my teammates over the years that have become my brothers. “My family for the continuous love and support and most importantly you guys for sticking with me throughout. Wish you all the best.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Football rumours: Saudi clubs join growing interest in Thiago Alcantara Jodie Burrage takes centre stage as Wimbledon plays catch-up on day three Hannah Dingley makes history after being named Forest Green caretaker head coach

These protein-packed, flourless pancakes can be made without the collagen, but the extra hit of amino acids in the morning is ideal for muscle-building and hunger control,” says functional nutritionist Pauline Cox. “When bananas are green, they have less sugar content… you decide how green you want to go. Delicious hot or cold!” Green banana pancakes Makes: 12 Ingredients: 1 greenish banana 2 eggs 1 tbsp collagen peptides (optional) ½ tsp ground cinnamon Coconut oil or ghee, for frying Natural yoghurt, fresh berries, chopped nuts and seeds, to serve Method: 1. Add the banana to a blender with the eggs, collagen (if using) and cinnamon, then combine to create a smooth batter. 2. Heat a small amount of coconut oil or ghee in a frying pan, and when the pan is hot, add 3-4 spoons of batter to create 3-4 mini pancakes. Cook for 2-4 minutes until golden in colour before flipping over to cook on the other side. 3. Serve with natural yoghurt, fresh berries, chopped nuts and seeds for extra goodness. ‘Hungry Woman’ by Pauline Cox (Ebury Press, £27). Read More Ditch Deliveroo – make these healthy, 30-minute pizzas instead Three quick and easy vegan fakeaway recipes The dish that defines me: Eddie Huang’s Taiwanese beef noodle soup Nutritionist explains how women can eat to help balance hormones The only three recipes you need to seize the summer How to shop at Borough Market in the summer

Mason Mount has confirmed on Instagram that he will be leaving Chelsea after 18 years at the club. The 24-year-old came through the ranks at Stamford Bridge and since making his first-team debut in 2019 has gone on to score 27 goals and provide 22 assists in 129 Premier League appearances. The PA news agency understands that Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign the midfielder for an initial £55million. Mount, who won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021 and has earned 36 caps for England, posted a farewell message to Blues fans on Instagram. He said: “Hi Chelsea fans, given the speculation over the last six months this may not come as a surprise to you, but it doesn’t make it any easier to tell you that I’ve made the decision to leave Chelsea. “I feel you deserve more than just a written statement, so I wanted to tell you directly how grateful I’ve been for all of your support over the last 18 years. “I know some of you won’t be happy with my decision, but it’s what’s right for me at this moment in my career. “I joined Chelsea when I was six years old and we’ve been through a lot together. “Winning the Youth Cup, my Player of the Year awards, the Super Cup, the Club World Cup and of course that unforgettable night when we won the Champions League. “I want to say thank you to the academy, Jim and Neil for being so influential to me from such a young age. “The managers I’ve worked under, Frank (Lampard), Thomas (Tuchel) and Graham (Potter), the backroom staff, the unsung heroes of Cobham, all of my teammates over the years that have become my brothers. “My family for the continuous love and support and most importantly you guys for sticking with me throughout. Wish you all the best.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live Aryna Sabalenka makes up for lost time with ruthless Wimbledon win Wimbledon day two: Andy Murray puts on a show as rain decimates schedule Cameron Norrie overcomes tricky first-round opponent at Wimbledon

England forward Alessia Russo is targeting silverware after joining Arsenal on a free transfer. As her contract with Women’s Super League rivals Manchester United expired, the Gunners swooped to land the 24-year-old striker. Russo hit 10 goals in the WSL last season as United finished runners-up to champions Chelsea. She emerged as a January transfer target for Arsenal, but a world-record bid was shunned by the Red Devils as they pushed to claim the title. Russo did not sign a new deal and was instead free to leave Manchester for north London - where she is keen to add domestic medals to the Women’s Euro success she enjoyed with the Lionesses last summer. “I’m really excited to be here and I can’t wait to get going,” Russo said after joining Arsenal. “I want to win trophies - as does everyone in this club. I can’t wait to get stuck in and grow as a player - it’s a new challenge and a new environment.” “I think the growth of the women’s game has been incredible, but particularly at a club like Arsenal. “The sell-out against Wolfsburg at Emirates Stadium last season was fantastic and I’m just really excited to be part of this club.” Russo, who is part of the England squad heading to the World Cup later this summer, has hit 11 goals in 21 senior appearances for her country. “Alessia is one of the best forwards in the world and has significant potential to continue growing and improving,” said Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall. “She has a proven track record of scoring goals in the WSL and at international level and we believe she will be a quality addition to our forward line, so we’re all delighted to have brought her to the club.” Russo becomes Arsenal’s third signing of the summer following the acquisitions of defender Amanda Ilestedt and forward Cloe Lacasse from Paris Saint-Germain and Benfica respectively. Read More Sarina Wiegman insists England in ‘very good place’ despite draw with Portugal Sarina Wiegman has no concerns with England display despite Portugal stalemate England held to goalless draw by Portugal in Women’s World Cup warm-up Sheffield Wednesday appoint former Watford boss Xisco Munoz as their new manager Business as usual for Fleetwood as former chairman is jailed Manchester City fans group urges FA to change Community Shield kick-off to 3pm

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Sheffield Wednesday have appointed former Watford boss Xisco Munoz as their new manager. The 42-year-old Spaniard replaces Darren Moore, who surprisingly departed the Owls having guided the club to promotion via the League One play-offs. Munoz steered Watford back into the Premier League having taken charge midway through the 2020-21 campaign, but was sacked during November 2021 after just 36 games in charge. Former winger Munoz won both the LaLiga title and the UEFA Cup while at Valencia, before moving into management with Georgian club Dinamo Tbilisi and moved to Watford in December 2020. A short statement on the Owls’ club website read: “Sheffield Wednesday are delighted to announce the appointment of Xisco Munoz as our first team manager. “The Spaniard, who gained promotion to the Premier League with Watford in 2020/21, takes charge of the Owls with immediate effect.” Munoz will give his first press conference as the club’s new manager at Hillsborough on Wednesday afternoon.

Fleetwood will continue to go about the club’s normal business following the sentencing of former chairman Andy Pilley. Pilley, who stepped down as chairman and director of the League One club during May after being convicted on four counts of fraud, appeared at Preston Crown Court for sentencing on Tuesday. He was found guilty of two counts of fraudulent trading, fraud by false representation and being involved in the acquisition, retention, use or control of the proceeds of fraudulently mis-sold energy contracts. Also chairman of BES Utilities, Pilley had been involved in High Court litigation with Cheshire West and Chester Council, but lost a civil court fight over investigating allegations of mis-selling. At the Crown Court sentencing, the 53-year-old, who had been was remanded in custody, was jailed for a total of 13 years and was also disqualified from being a director for 13 years. Pilley had been the chairman and owner of Fleetwood for 20 years and overseen the club’s rise from non-league status to the English Football League. Fleetwood, who finished 13th last season, had already announced the club were in discussions surrounding a change of ownership and control which remain ongoing. A statement on Tuesday afternoon read: “Fleetwood Town Football Club acknowledges the sentencing in the court case involving former club chairman, Andy Pilley. “The club would like to reiterate convictions are against individuals and not Fleetwood Town FC, or any of the businesses associated with them, and will continue to operate as normal. “Fleetwood Town remain in communication with the EFL and will be making no further comment at this time.” Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live