ERIK TEN HAG had planned for a ten-year reign as manager at Manchester United prior to his sacking last October.

That’s according to former Man Utd first-team coach Benni McCarthy, who has claimed Ten Hag had a vision for the future at Old Trafford.

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Erik ten Hag was planning on staying at Man Utd for 10 years[/caption]

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Former coach Benni McCarthy had revealed the Dutchman’s plans[/caption]

McCarthy, 47, worked under Erik ten Hag for two years at Old Trafford before leaving the club during a coaching shakeup last summer.

But shortly after his departure, Ten Hag was sacked himself following a shocking run of form that had the Red Devils in languishing in 14th place

McCarthy, who has just been named as Kenya manager, spoke to BBC Africa about what it was like to work at United alongside the Dutchman, revealing his plans for a lengthy stay.

He said: “I was given an incredible opportunity to work with one of the biggest and best clubs in the world under the guidance of Erik ten Hag.

“I learned utmost professionalism because the manager I worked under was not just a disciplinarian, but he was the best and one of the most unbelievable professionals I’ve ever seen in the game.

“Extremely hard-working, very dedicated, very passionate, he planned on being the Manchester United coach for the next 10 years. That was his vision.”

Fans online reacted to the news that Ten Hag was planning on a long-term stint with the club.

One wrote: “He sure didn’t plan right”.

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While another joked that Ten Hag was hoping to follow in the footsteps of Sir Alex Ferguson‘s 26-year spell in charge, writing: “Bro thought he was Fergie”.

United have failed to move the needle since new manager Ruben Amroim has come into the frame, now sitting in 15th place ahead of their clash against Arsenal.

However, even McCarthy can’t put his finger on what’s going wrong at the Theatre of Dreams.

He added: “Everyone is talking about how bad, how terrible Manchester United is.

“We still managed to win the FA Cup, we still managed to win the Carabao Cup. I was proud that I was part of that regime.”

Adding: “Honest to god, I don’t know what the issue is,’ the former Ajax striker admitted.

“It is just such a huge football club and the problems just seem to go on and on – and I don’t know how they’re going to resolve it.”

And even new boss Amorim has hinted that he is going to need years to turn things around, citing “deep scars” at Man Utd.

He told Sky Sports: “To tell you the truth, I feel sometimes there are scars in our team, in our players.

“They are good players, but they (scars) are so deep, they are so long here that it is hard to change things in one moment.

“Some players had one coach and then comes a new coach, new hope, new momentum and then we go to the same place.

“Imagine this for any person, in any job. Imagine this as a player, with all the media and social media. So it’s really hard to turn things around just like that.”

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Ruben Amorim has claimed that United have ‘deep scars’[/caption]

FAST, cheap, and reliable – it’s the holy trinity that many petrolheads spend years and thousands of pounds chasing.

Ticking one or two off the list when it comes to second-hand cars is simple enough – but all three? That’s a rare combination.

However, a recent Reddit thread set out to uncover a motor that satisfies all three crucial criteria.

Here are six of the best.

Skoda Octavia vRS

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Skoda Octavia vRS[/caption]

Offering perhaps the ultimate blend in performance and practicality, the Skoda Octavia vRS – the Czech brand’s high-performance variant of the popular saloon – can be picked up at a bargain price in 2025. 

Available as both a saloon and as an estate, the vRS is renowned for its sharp handling, powerful performance, and understated design. 

It typically features a range of turbocharged engines, including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options – although the most reliable option is undoubtedly the petrol iteration. 

It looks the business too, sporting alloy wheels, aggressive bumpers, and the iconic vRS badging. 

Its interior offers premium materials too, while newer models feature advanced tech, including a digital cockpit and a large touchscreen infotainment system.

And it goes without saying that the Octavia has a spacious cabin and generous boot, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts with a family. 

Honda Civic FN2

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Honda Civic FN2[/caption]

The FN2 iteration of the Honda Civic has long been a favourite among boy racers, thanks to its sharp styling and high-revving VTEC engine.

And in recent years, second-hand examples have become surprisingly affordable, making them an attractive option for enthusiasts on a budget.

The main challenge lies in availability, as these cars are becoming increasingly hard to find, but examples with fewer than 100,000 miles on the clock for under £6,000 can be picked up. 

Even higher-mileage models are worth considering, given Honda’s renowned reliability.  

With proper care, these cars can deliver years of trouble-free fun.

BMW e90 330i

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BMW e90 330i[/caption]

Any BMW fitted with the brand’s M57 engine is worth considering, particularly for its reputation for reliability – though this heavily depends on a solid maintenance history. 

As always, proper care is key to avoiding common pitfalls.

Issues such as water pump failures and gasket leaks are well-documented and can be expensive to address. 

Additionally, while second-hand prices for these are relatively affordable, running costs – like fuel, insurance, and repairs – can quickly mount up, making ownership less budget-friendly.

But the E90 330i, in particular, stands out for its performance. 

Powered by a smooth, naturally aspirated 3.0-litre straight-six engine, it delivers impressive speed, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.1 seconds.

VW Golf GTI (MK5)

Fast, cheap, and reliable is very much hot hatchback territory, which is where the Golf GTI – perhaps the ultimate hot hatch – comes in.

Renowned for blending everyday practicality with thrilling performance, the Golf GTI – with the now slightly older MK5 in mind – boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that’s certainly punchy.

Second-hand examples have become widely available in recent years, with plenty of options coming in at reasonable prices. 

However, finding a well-maintained car is key, as neglected models can suffer from costly issues like timing chain tensioner failures, DSG gearbox problems, and carbon build-up on the intake valves.

Despite these potential pitfalls, the Mk5 GTI is generally reliable if cared for properly. 

Saab 9-3 Viggen

www.carandclassic.com

Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible[/caption]

The Saab 9-3 Viggen is a rare gem in the world of second-hand cars. 

While Saab as a brand may be long gone, its legacy lives on – with the 9-3 still a familiar sight on UK roads.

Produced from 1998 until Saab’s demise in 2014, the 9-3 came in various guises, but it’s the seldom-seen Viggen iteration that truly excites petrolheads. 

With only 4,600 examples ever built, the Viggen is a rare beast, distinguished by its aggressive styling and impressive performance. 

Under the bonnet lies a 2.3-litre turbocharged engine, delivering enough power to rival contemporaries like the Mercedes C43, Audi S4, and BMW M3 of its era.

Despite their scarcity, Viggens do occasionally surface on platforms like Autotrader or Cars & Classic, often at surprisingly reasonable prices. 

For instance, we recently spotted one listed for just £4,950. 

However, prospective buyers should be aware that sourcing parts for Saab models can be challenging, given the brand’s discontinuation.

For those seeking a fast, characterful, and rare alternative to the mainstream, the Saab 9-3 Viggen remains an intriguing choice – if you can find one.

Mazda 3 MPS

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Mazda 3 MPS[/caption]

Another wonderful, all-rounded hot hatch is the Mazda3 MPS (Mazda Performance Series) – essentially, the high-performance version of the Mazda3.

First introduced in 2009, it was one of the most powerful hot hatchbacks on the market at the time, boasting an impressive 256 bhp from its turbocharged 2.3-litre engine.

While modern hot hatches have since surpassed it in terms of outright pace and technology, the Mazda3 MPS still holds its own as a capable and exciting car to drive.

For the money, there are few on the market that can match it, with a first-generation Mazda3 MPS available for as little as £3,500 – with a newer model coming in at under £5,000.

What’s more, with proper care, the Mazda3 MPS is a reliable hot hatch, although like any performance car, it’s worth keeping an eye out for a well-maintained example with a full service history.

KERRY Katona has shared a surprise U-turn over breast reduction surgery.

The former Atomic Kitten singer, 44, recently said that she was going to undergo a breast reduction procedure because of her “saggy” boobs after shedding an astounding amount of weight.

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Kerry Katona is keen to ‘get her old boobs back’[/caption]

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The stunning star has recently undergone a weight loss transformation[/caption]

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Kerry got a boob consultation last week[/caption]

BackGrid

The stunning star has now made a U-turn on her breast reduction plans[/caption]

But despite boasting about her decision to get a breast reduction just last week, Kerry has now shared her plans for a fourth boob job to get breast implants.

“I just want my own boobs back. I don’t want massive boobs or anything really fake, just my boobs again,” she has now told The Mirror.

She went on: “I’ve noticed this happens when I’m single – I seem to lose weight every time and then I put it back on when I’m with someone.

“I’d like them a bit bigger and an uplift, something that looks natural.”

But during the last week, Kerry told her followers how she was getting a reduction.

Last week, Kerry took to her social media to update her followers.

“Good morning everybody. The muscles are building up, I’m getting there,” she said.

“But I’m dead excited because today I’m off to Pall Mall [Cosmetics] for a consultation for my boobs.

“Seriously, I lie down and I look like a nine-year-old boy. Take my bra off, I trip over my nipples,” she added.

Kerry quipped: “It’s health and safety.

“I walk around my house in a hard hat and a visibility jacket. 

“So I decided it’s got to be done just for my own health and safety, people. Pall Mall, I’ll see you later today guys.”

This comes after Kerry announced that she and her pal Katie Price would be working on a new business venture together this autumn.

The reality stars will be heading on the road this coming September for a “tell-all tour”.

The duo will start their tour in Ellesmere Port on September 11 and conclude on October 22 in Hull.

Katie and Kerry will be “sharing stories of their friendship, marriage and divorce, bankruptcy, ‘I’m A Celebrity’, the importance of family, their constant press attention and turning their lives around”.

The new social media post promoting the tour encourages: “Join them for an evening that promises to be warm, inspirational, motivational and lots of fun!”

On one of the sites that tickets can be purchased from, the description of the night continues: “There will also be some song and dance and an opportunity for audience questions.”

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Kerry shot to fame in the band Atomic Kitten[/caption]

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Kerry is due to go out on tour with pal Katie Price this coming autumn[/caption]

RESIDENTS have labelled the sudden closure of an iconic adventure park as “the tip of the iceberg” for Welsh tourism.

Oakwood Theme Park in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, shut its doors for the final time on Tuesday this week.

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Oakwood Theme Park in Pembrokeshire, west Wales, closed for the final time on Tuesday[/caption]

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Local bar and restaurant owners Kevin and Debbie Hart have blamed a new tourist tax for being behind the theme park’s decision to close[/caption]

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The site first opened to the public in 1987[/caption]

Its owners have blamed the government’s national insurance and minimum wage hikes, as well as steep energy cost rises.

But locals have pointed to another imminent challenge for the tourism and hospitality industry – the Welsh government’s proposed “tourist tax”.

The new levy, which could be introduced in Wales from 2027, would see visitors to the country paying a £1.25p per night tourism tax when they stay at hotels, B&Bs and self-catered accommodation.

A lower rate of 75p would be charged for hostels and campsites.

The Welsh government insists the money raised would help fund services in tourism hotspots, but critics say it will deter visitors.

And in the towns and villages around the now-closed Oakwood Theme Park this week, locals are convinced the imminent introduction of the new tax will also have been in the attractions’s thoughts when they made their decision.

Kevin Hart, who has been running a bar restaurant and caravan and camping site within walking distance of Oakwood for the past 18 years, is “dreading” the new tax.

Mr Hart, 66, runs the business – The Snooty Fox – with his wife, Debbie, and had been hoping to sell up and retire in a few years. Now he believes that dream is in tatters.

He said: “How am I going to be able to sell up and retire now when the Welsh and national governments are doing their level best to destroy what we’ve spent 18 years building up?

“I employ 10 people here and I’m already having to find extra money to pay for the rises in national insurance and minimum wage, not to mention inflation and energy costs going through the roof.

“And now the Welsh government expects people coming here to pay a tourism tax.

“It will tourism throughout the country.

“I’m certain the pending tourism tax was a factor in Oakwood’s decision to shut.

“The closure is going to hit my business very hard because most of the people staying here spend a day or two there.

“They specifically come to the Snooty Fox because it’s within walking distance of Oakwood.

“They can have an adventure there, then grab a decent meal here, have a drink and get a good night’s sleep.

“But I’m really worried we’ll lose a lot of custom now the place has closed for good.

“There’s plenty of other things to see and do around here, but there’s no denying Oakwood was a massive attraction for people stying with us.”

Mr Hart his “heart goes out” to all the Oakwood staff who now look set to lose their jobs.

“They’re all local people so that too will effect the economy round here,” he said.

“It’s all going to have an effect on us. Oakwood is such a loss to Pembrokeshire. I still can’t believe it’s gone.

“All we can do now is just keep plodding on and hope the Welsh government drops its ridiculous tourism tax idea.”

A ‘REAL BLOW TO THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND OUR ECONOMY’

Another local, Jenny, 45, said the closure of Oakwood Theme Park was “the tip of the iceberg” for the Welsh tourism and hospitality sector.

She said: “Once this dreaded tourist tax comes in, I don’t think anyone in their right mind will want to come to Wales.

“It’s yet another tax, and at a time when everyone’s already feeling the squeeze caused by every other tax we pay, on top of inflation, soaring energy costs and, if you’re an employer, extra national insurance and another rise in the minimum wage.

“Oakwood going is the tip of the iceberg, I fear. In the years ahead, there’ll be nothing left here.”

And at a pub in nearby Narberth we find Keith, 67, who said: “Oakwood’s closure is real blow to the local community and our economy.

“But when this stupid tourist tax comes in too, there’ll be no need for any tourist attractions because no one will want to come here. It’s absolute madness – economic suicide, even.”

The proposed tourist levy will be charged per person, per night, and will also apply to children.

Welsh Conservatives criticised the proposals, saying ministers should be nurturing the tourism sector, “not hammering it with new taxes”.

The plans require a piece of legislation – which was published on Monday – to be passed by the Welsh Parliament.

If that happens, officials think April 2027 is the earliest date the tax could start.

Also, councils could charge more in future if they go through a consultation process and give 12 months’ notice.

Not all councils are expected to introduce the visitor levy, but if they did, it would raise an estimated £33m a year.

Stays of more than 31 nights will not be taxed.

Neither will people forced into temporary accommodation or people in homeless hostels have to pay.

The policy was part of the co-operation deal signed between Labour and Plaid Cymru in 2021.

Conservatives have said it will risk jobs in the tourism industry, which employs 159,000 people – nearly 12% of Wales’ workforce.

The Wales Tourism Alliance said Oakwood’s Spain-based owners Aspro’s decision to shut the complex was “disappointing news for Wales tourism and jobs”.

The organisation added that a combination of Welsh Government and UK Government decisions “risk seriously damaging the Welsh tourism and hospitality industry which contributes £3.8bn to the Welsh economy annually”.

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Locals have mourned the loss of the establishment and fear it is the ‘tip of the iceberg’ for tourism in Wales collapsing[/caption]

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The Conservatives have said that the tourist tax will pose a risk to the 159,000 Welsh jobs in tourism[/caption]

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The Megafobia ride at Oakwood[/caption]

The decisions include increasing national insurance, council tax premiums, a 182-day minimum occupancy for holiday lets and proposals for the Welsh tourist tax.

This was echoed by Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MS Samuel Kurtz, who said that these decisions added up to a “very nervous time”.

He added: “I’ve submitted a Topical Question in the Senedd to ask what support is being made available to staff, and I’ve already spoken to local businesses who are keen to employ those losing their jobs.”

Mr Kurtz added: “This is deeply sad news. Oakwood has held a special place in the hearts of many in Pembrokeshire and from further afield and many happy memories have been made there over the years.

Mid and South Pembrokeshire MP Henry Tufnell described the closure as ‘incredibly disappointing news for Pembrokeshire”.

He added: “My first thoughts are with the staff who have lost their jobs. This will be an extremely difficult time for them, and I urge Aspro Parks to provide as much support as possible.

“Oakwood has been an iconic part of Pembrokeshire’s visitor economy, drawing tourists, creating employment, and contributing to local businesses that have relied on its success.

“Its closure will undoubtedly be felt across the community, and we must now focus on what comes next for the site and the people affected.

“The last thing Pembrokeshire needs is a derelict site that is sat empty for years.”

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The theme park previously had 30 attractions, including the 100ft-tall Hydro ride[/caption]

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Hydro was later renamed Drenched after the death of a teenager from the top of the ride in April 2004[/caption]

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An aerial view of the park[/caption]

THE WARM spring season has finally arrived which means only one thing – it’s time to spruce up our gardens.

If you, like many cash-strapped households, don’t want to fork out a fortune but still want to make the outdoor space look fabulous, there’s a deal that’s just for you.

FACEBOOK/EXTREME COUPONING AND BARGAINS

Home Bargains fans have been sent into a frenzy after spotting these adorable solar lights[/caption]

FACEBOOK/EXTREME COUPONING AND BARGAINS

Perfect for flowerbeds or stone paving, the lights will revamp any outdoor space on the cheap[/caption]

FACEBOOK/EXTREME COUPONING AND BARGAINS

Thrifty shoppers can snap them up for less than a fiver[/caption]

According to money-smart shoppers, Home Bargains is now selling adorable solar lights for less than a fiver – perfect for those wanting to slash the costs.

One happy customer, Julie Bark, took to Facebook where she informed others about the bargain deal and proudly shared her budget-friendly garden makeover.

The outdoor space buy – Butterfly Stepping Stone Solar Lights – is currently going for just £4.99 and comes in a pack of four.

Each of the adorable butterflies is in a different colour and the affordable product is said to automatically turns on at dusk – so you don’t need to worry about anything.

Home Bargains customers can choose between flashing and static modes, and the lights come with batteries.

Whether you want to place these cute little lights into your flower bed or stone paving, the £4.99 product is the ultimate way to light up your garden on the cheap.

The lights are already sold out online, so you may have to visit your local Home Bargains  to shop the offer.

With that in mind, it may be worth ringing up your local branch ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

You can still find similar products on the Home Bargains website, such as the Firefly Decorative Metal Ring Solar Light for £3.99.

If you choose home delivery, however, you need to factor in a £3.95 delivery cost.

All chuffed with the gorgeous garden addition, Julie said in her post: ”Home bargains £3,99 butterfly solar lights packs of 4.”

The epic offer, posted on the popular Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group, has already become a major hit, with the post racking up a whopping 90 likes in just four hours.

Dozens of the 2.6million members flocked to comments to tag their friends and family – and many were keen to get their hands on the lights.

”I neeeeed these,” one wrote.

”These look nice,” someone else chimed in.

How to bag the best deal

Whatever you’re buying, it’s always a good idea to shop around to find the best deal.

You can compare prices on websites like Google shopping, which is a tool that lets users search for and compare prices for products across the web.

Idealo is another website that lets you compare prices between retailers.

All shoppers need to do is search for the item they need and the website will rank them from the cheapest to the most expensive one.

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Not your average backpacking hostel.

England host Italy on Sunday.

Our daughter said ‘But what would be the point of life without you?’ 

'It will give the public an insight into her life and for them to see the real Rebekah.'