A new next-generation football centre has launched in the TraffordCity retail and leisure complex over in (you guessed it) Trafford and, believe us, this is much more than another five-a-side venue.
Fives Soccer Centre‘s new Manchester site is a revolutionary small-sided football venue offering locals the chance to play the beautiful game like they never have before.
Complete with state-of-the-art technology, the world-class facilities at the brand new Fives Trafford span across eight pitches, each measuring larger than the standard-sized pitches — the first in the UK to be approved by the FA, in fact.
Located just next door to Chill Factore, iFly indoor skydiving and, of course, the Trafford Centre, the industry-leading football centre is about connecting players to the game and turning a kick-about into a more immersive experience. There were even some famous faces down to celebrate the launch.
Each Fives pitch offers individual player tracking, allowing everyone to analyse their performance in minute detail and log their stats into a user-friendly app after a game.
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Providing everything from analytics and leaderboards to video match replays and highlights in the dedicated Fives mobile app, this place brings you closer to understanding your own game than any other five-a-side pitch ever has.
The new app and QR code system also allows players to check availability, control floodlights, access pitches even after they’re done to watch and share their game footage, check digital scoreboards and, most importantly, confirm and split payments for bookings. No more chasing your mates for the money.
CEO Scott Penman says that the hope is that “Fives can change the shape of 5-a-side football over the coming years and encourage a more diverse and inclusive customer base into the sport we all love.”
Moreover, Fives Soccer Centres (founded in 2018) isn’t just about bringing that added level of professionalism and digitalisation, it’s also crucially about providing an open and modern space to play for people of all ages and from all walks of life.
Manchester United and England stars Katie Zelem and Nikita Parris were both present for the launch event and spoke about how envious they are that the next generation of young players can now hone their abilities at such an impressive facility.
Speaking on launch day on 1 November, United Women’s captain Zelem said Fives is “leading the way in offering a professional experience to all players”, adding, “I really feel like the future of football is safe hands.”
The facility is open to the public and individual pitches and leagues can be booked via the Football Fives mobile app, available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
For more information on how to get involved, as well as event bookings, visit www.football5s.com/
Addressing the supporters on social media, Forrester wrote: “Thank you to all involved at Bolton Wanderers FC for my time at the club.
“A special club with unbelievable people that work within. Also, a massive thank you to the fans for all of the support throughout.”
His sign-off has been met with plenty of love and well-wishers, as plenty have cited his numerous injury problems – including a ‘freak fall’ which required surgery – as having unfortunately hampered his progress with the Wanderers.
One fan commented, “When fit, he was definitely a first-team starter. But had such bad luck with injuries, he missed more than he played for us.
“Best of luck to Will; it’s probably the right decision for both parties. Such a shame.”
Forrester – originally from Alsager (a town located near Stoke-on-Trent and Crewe) – has become Leyton Orient FC’s first signing of the January transfer window.
Will Forrester has penned a two-and-a-half-year deal and becomes the O’s first January signing of 2026 🙌
While he joins the club on a two-year deal, his transfer fee remains undisclosed.
Having said that, his wages are expected to be towards the higher end of player salaries at Brisbane Road, with the third-tier side still sitting dangerously close to the drop zone in 20th place.
Touching on his arrival via an official club statement, Forrester said: “I’m very happy to have signed here. The mindset and the goals the club want to accomplish in the coming years makes this move very exciting, and I can’t wait to get started.
“Speaking to the gaffer, he has outlined his expectations of me, and I want to help push us forward. I know the challenges of reaching the play-offs the year before and want to help the lads get back on track as quickly as possible.”
You can see his first full interview as a member of The O’s down below.
Featured Images — Bolton Wanderers FC (screenshot via YouTube)/Leyton Orient FC (via X)
Sport
Oldham Athletic’s next game postponed amid red weather warnings
Danny Jones
Oldham Athletic FC’s next game has been postponed amid red weather warnings, with a frozen pitch having already set in.
We suspect they won’t be the only ones either…
Oldham Athletic were set to take on Notts County FC at home this weekend, with the upcoming fixture set for a 3pm kick-off on Saturday, 10 January, but the state of the Boundary Park stadium’s playing surface has already been declared unfit for use.
Informing the fans of the unfortunate decision, the rescheduled date and time for the match remain yet to be confirmed.
Saturday's home fixture against Notts County has been postponed due to a frozen pitch. #oafc
Addressing supporters online, OAFC wrote: “An inspection took place on Thursday afternoon with the pitch frozen following persistent freezing temperatures since our last home game on New Year’s Day and further adverse weather forecast.
“The inspection was called due to persistent freezing temperatures and in anticipation of further adverse weather between now and kick-off. Tickets will remain valid for the rearranged date, and refunds can be claimed after the new date is confirmed.”
As for Notts County, they have also updated their fans on social media.
They have assured that “tickets purchased for this fixture will [also] be valid for the rearranged date” and that “supporters who require a refund will be able to do so after the date for the rearranged fixture is announced.”
Postponement comes amid parts of Oldham, Greater Manchester and other areas across the country being hit with severe weather warnings, which have now been upgraded from an initial yellow rating.
2026’s first named storm, the weather event dubbed by Goretti by the French meteorological service, is set to bring further frosty conditions and blustery winds to us Brits.
The UK received its first snowfall of the year earlier this month, but this next pattern of cold air is set to see even more arrive, with the forecast potentially running into next week.
As for the Latics, the 15th-placed League Two team will have to wait until their ground thaws out to try and make up ground between them and the play-off spots.
Worth keeping an eye on the Met Office if you were planning a trip to the footy over the next few days.
Danny Jones -
25th November 2022 
