Philippa Kaur

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    in Soccer

    Newcastle’s open top bus parade will be MONUMENTAL – but let me tell you a secret… players don’t want to be there

    VICTORY parades are incredible, if not surreal, moments for those lucky enough to get to experience them.Those Newcastle players, Eddie Howe, the entire city, are in for one hell of a day.Watford gleefully celebrated promotion in 2014/15 but by the time the bus parade came around, feelings were a little differentCredit: PABrazilian heroes Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton enjoyed Newcastle’s Carabao Cup final glory against LiverpoolCredit: RexThe Wembley triumph made boss Eddie Howe an instant Toon legendCredit: RexAnd I can say that from experience, getting promoted to the Premier League with Watford in 2014/15.And, in our case, it started the week before. It was very true of my captaincy that we were on the p*** the second we got promoted.In the penultimate game of the season, we won at Brighton in the early kick-off, and on the bus back to the training ground we were all saying: “Come on, one more win and we are up.”But by the time we got back to the training ground and got off the team bus, all the scores had come in.A couple of results had to go our way to be promoted and they all happened.Our old team chef, he wasn’t on the bus with us, I think he lived on site.He must have seen the results and he just appeared, came flying out with bottles of champagne, the lot.You’d have thought he was a pirate, the amount of alcohol he pulled out of nowhere.We got p***ed and went into Watford town centre. It was a complete tear-up — f***ing brilliant.So, when we played that last game at home to Sheffield Wednesday on the following Saturday, we had probably been drinking for like four days.How Newcastle outsmarted Liverpool with Dan Burn and Alexander Isak’s genius tricksWe drew 1-1, conceding a 90th-minute equaliser, which meant we finished second behind Bournemouth, but it didn’t really matter.The job was done. There was another booze-up that night, and then a family and friends night out on the Sunday where everyone was staying at The Grove hotel in Watford, which the club paid for.I can’t really remember what  happened Sunday, but I know I somehow made it to the meeting point on the Monday at The Grove to get on the parade bus.Let me tell you a secret… after a few days of partying and drinking, no one wants to be on that bus.You get on and then the reality hits that you’re about to start ­moving. It is like being on a rollercoaster p***ed out of your head.It was like Glastonbury, but on a double-decker bus.Troy DeeneyYou suddenly get very nervous that you will spew up, and also, there were no toilets…We were on these old-fashioned red London buses, something to do with paying tribute to the Graham Taylor era when they got promoted in 1999. Really retro.There were two of them. The players were in one at the front and friends and family behind.As the saying goes, what’s the best way to get over a hangover? Carry on drinking, have a few more to level yourself out.That didn’t work out as well as we planned. There were a few people spewing at the back of the bus, there were a few peeing in empty bottles.Jack Grealish happily swigged drinks after Man City won the TrebleCredit: SplashIt was like Glastonbury, but on a double-decker bus.And then we got to the stage to lift the trophy. I was absolutely p***ed so I don’t remember most of it. Apparently it was a good day.After that, I went on a lads trip to Las Vegas. Five days. We had a good time.I flew first class for the first time ever. We did our wallets over, but we did it properly, you know?I then flew straight from there to Disneyland Florida for two weeks with the family.But, in all seriousness, to see the reception we got, around 20,000 fans coming out to celebrate with us, it was some day.And that was all for ‘little’ Watford. Just think what it will be like for Newcastle. The streets are going to be heaving for miles and miles. A massive event.You get on and then the reality hits that you’re about to start ­moving. It is like being on a rollercoaster p***ed out of your head. You suddenly get very nervous that you will spew up, and also, there were no toilets…Troy DeeneyI really hope for the likes of Dan Burn — winning the Carabao Cup and getting his first England call-up — that Eddie pulls him to one side and says: “Listen mate, you’ve had a monumental week. Enjoy it, have too many sherbets. Sweat it out on the Monday. We will look after you.”I remember Jack Grealish getting lambasted for his drinking antics and celebrations on the bus when Manchester City won the Treble.He has that iconic picture with his arms stretched out and his shirt off.Maybe it is because I have a soft spot for him because he is from Birmingham, but it is one of the coolest pictures out there.That is how parades like that should be done. They don’t come around too often,  especially the unexpected ones like Watford, or with Newcastle right now.And if Newcastle end up getting Champions League football come the end of the season . . . I know the Saudis don’t drink, but they could throw another  big party. More

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    in Soccer

    Former EFL team ban their OWN FANS from matches for criticising the club and chairman on social media

    YEOVIL Town have banned fans from attending matches who have criticised the club and the chairman on social media.The Glovers are 15th in the National League and appear to have consolidated following promotion last season.One fan received a letter outlining his two-year ban for social media commentsBut the club has looked to clamp down on criticism after falling out of the play-off hunt, having been one point off the top seven at Christmas.Fans have found themselves banned from the club, with Yeovil claiming “negative comments” from supporters on social media have “caused significant disruption”.One Yeovil fan revealed he has been banned from Huish Park for two years and shared a letter he received from the club.It read: “Following a thorough review of your recent conduct on social media platform X, we are writing to inform you that, as a result of your negative comments and remarks regarding the club and the chairman, the decision has been made to impose a banning order on you.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”This order prohibits you from attending any matches, events, or entering the premises associated with the club with immediate effect.”Your comments have caused significant disruption and created an environment that is not conducive to the values and reputation of the club.”As such, you are hereby prohibited from entering the club’s stadium, training facilities and any other properties associated with Yeovil Town.”This ban will remain in place for a period of two years from the date of this letter.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS”We ask that you consider this matter seriously. We trust you understand the severity of this issue and the necessity of maintaining a respectful environment at Yeovil Town.”The post publishing the letter on X sparked backlash towards the club from fans.One fan offered criticism, saying: “Embarrassing behaviour from the club is that. What a weak spineless bunch to send a letter like that. They didn’t even have the nerve to put a name on it!”Another added: “Absolutely shambles of a way to run a football club. Embarrassing themselves.”And a third wrote: “Absolute ridiculous from a football club to do that.”And as others have said, no name on it! What a cowardly thing to do.”Yeovil owner Martin Hellier claims fans have been abusive and he intends to sell up as a result, having invested £4million to get the club promoted last season.He said in a comment on social media: “I fully intend to sell the club and leave as soon as a suitable buyer is found. It’s simply not worth losing the money to be abused and my children abused and so on.”I would ask in the meantime that you stop the endless online harassment and abuse. You’ve done enough, it’s worked.READ MORE SUN STORIES”My investment provided the club with the funds needed to get through, and provided you with football and promotion to the NL, but has given me nothing but abuse and minus £4m personal deficit.”Yeovil Town declined to comment when contacted by SunSport. More

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    England U21 star targets double success but refuses to rule out switch to rival nation after first goal

    HAYDEN HACKNEY is desperate for double joy with Middlesbrough and England – but refuses to rule out a Scottish switch.The 22-year-old midfielder, set to face Oxford United today, has become one of the hottest commodities in the Championship due to his displays for his hometown club.Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney is hoping for a double celebration this summerCredit: GettyThe star, centre, appeared with teammate Tommy Conway and boss Michael Carrick at a recent Boro On The Road eventCredit: MFCHackney carried that form onto the international stage and scored his first goal for England U21s in this week’s 4-2 victory over Portugal.He looks certain to be part of Lee Carsley’s squad that will try to defend the U21 European Championship crown in June.The star previously won two caps for Scotland U21s, who he qualifies for through his mother, before switching his allegiance to the Three Lions in 2023.Scotland have not given up hope of persuading him to represent them at the senior level, and Hackney is not shutting that door, although for now he is concentrating on a promotion push and potential Euro joy.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhen quizzed on his international future, Hackney said: “I haven’t really thought about it, to be honest. I’m quite relaxed about it. Whatever happens, happens.“There will be a time where I’ll have to make a decision. “I’ve been focused on Middlesbrough really. So I haven’t really had much time to think about it.”Hackney is the latest youngster at Boro to start attracting attention from elsewhere following past successes such as Morgan Rogers and Djed Spence.Most read in ChampionshipBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSPortuguese giants Porto had a £9million deadline day offer rejected by the Championship club and a host of Premier League sides are monitoring his progress.Though he is shutting out all of that noise and focusing on achieving his dream of getting his boyhood club back into the Premier League after an eight-year absence.Here’s what has happened to England’s lost football groundsHackney, who recently took to the stage alongside teammate Tommy Conway and boss Michael Carrick at a local social club in the first of the club’s On The Road events, said: “That is the ultimate dream.“To take Boro to the Premier League, that would be everything that I wished for as a kid. And then to play with Boro in the Premier League would be unbelievable.”And former season ticket holder Hackney, who has surpassed 100 Boro appearances, has already shown he can cut it against the big boys.Hayden Hackney has represented Scotland at Under-21 level twiceCredit: Willie VassHe scored his first England U21 goal against Portugal in midweekCredit: GettyHackney looks set to be part of England’s Euro U21 squad in JuneCredit: PAThe midfielder scored in a 1-0 win over Chelsea in January 2024Credit: GettyLast January he captained the club for the first time in the FA Cup against Aston Villa before scoring the winner in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg win over Chelsea four days later.On those experiences, he added: “That Chelsea game was a special night. I think my family and all my friends came back to mine that night but once they’d left I couldn’t sleep. That was a great night.“That Villa game, I remember the armband was on my peg. But then the captain normally hands out the tickets before the game for the players but I didn’t get that job, so then I was like, ‘oh, is this in the wrong place or not?’.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He (Carrick) didn’t really say anything. After he’d done his team talk before we went out, he just pulled me and said, ‘don’t change anything, don’t be a different person, just be yourself and enjoy the moment’.”BORO ON THE ROADThe second Boro On The Road event has been confirmed as Middlesbrough continues to bring key faces from the club out to fans in the Teesside community.Michael Carrick will be joined by Dael Fry and Dan Barlaser for a night with supporters at the Lakes Club in Redcar this Tuesday.Doors for the event will open at 6pm for a 7pm start. Lifelong Boro fan Hackney hopes to help Boro win promotion this termCredit: MFCCan you name the famous fathers? More

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    in Motorsport

    ‘Through blood, sweat and tears’ – Lewis Hamilton’s brother makes surprise return to motorsport after two years

    LEWIS HAMILTON’s brother, Nicolas, has made a stunning return to motorsport after almost two years out.Hamilton has been announced as a driver in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) for Un-Limited Motorsport in a Cupra Leon as the team expands to a third car for the season.Lewis Hamilton’s younger half-brother, Nicolas, has returned to motorsport after a 20-month breakCredit: GettyThe offer to join Un-Limited Motorsport for the 2025 BTCC surprised Hamilton ahead of his 33rd birthdayCredit: InstagramHe celebrated by testing his new wheels and enjoying some red velvet cakeNicolas has cerebral palsy but wants to promote inclusivity for disabled people in motorsportCredit: AlamyThe younger half-brother of the seven-time Formula One champion had been without a seat for a season-and-a-half, a 20-month period.He previously raced for Team Hard from 2021 to 2023 before the team collapsed in July 2023.However, in an unexpected twist, he will now join fellow BTCC returnee Dexter Patterson and 2024 Mini Challenge runner-up Max Hall behind the wheel this season under team principal Bob Sharpless.Hamilton, who has cerebral palsy, told Autosport: “To be brutally honest, I wasn’t planning to race this year.READ MORE IN MOTORSPORT”We didn’t even know that I’d ever get back on the BTCC grid, but Bob and his team got in touch at the end of December, which is very late to be able to go and get sponsors and everything that you need.“He gave me a real good deal that I thought would be possible to get in terms of the funding, and I said to him, ‘Yeah, why not? I’ll give it a go.’“I get all my funding and budget myself, so it was just one of those situations of ‘let’s see how I get on over the next couple of weeks, and if I get the budget together then I’d love to join.’“Fortunately through blood, sweat, tears and some late nights, and thanks to my partners that believe in me, I got the budget together and I’m back on the grid!”Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHamilton made his debut in the sport in 2015 with AmD Tuning but did not start actively racing in the series until 2019.His best result was a sixth-placed finish at Donnington Park with Team HARD.’I’m about to cry’ – Fans praise Lewis Hamilton’s dad for classy gesture as he consoles F1 rookie after debut crashHamilton, who turned 33 today, revealed he celebrated the occasion by testing his new BTCC car at Brands Hatch circuit and by tucking into some of his favourite cake, red velvet.The season does not start until April 26-27 at Donnington, with official testing starting at Croft next week.Like his older brother Lewis, Hamilton is socially conscious, with the pair sharing a close bond.But while the F1 star is driven towards empowering young people under his Mission44 foundation, Nicolas wants to ensure there is a place in motorsport for disabled people.He added: “I want to make the world realise that motorsport is inclusive, that disabled people should be proud, and that motorsport can accept them.”You don’t necessarily have to be a racing driver to be a part of the industry. A lot of people just take pictures next to their car and say that they’re back racing. “This year I really wanted to use my platform to help inspire the industry to bring more disabled people into the sport.”On the move, Sharpless said: “He [Hamilton] is hugely determined to get back on the BTCC grid, and I’m proud that we could make it happen.“Nic is not just an incredibly well-known driver – he’s an inspiration worldwide. The fact that he’s put his trust in our team speaks volumes about how far we’ve come in such a short time.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We’re excited to support him on this journey and can’t wait to see what we achieve together.”It has not been an easy ride for Hamilton over the years, having previously opened up on his gambling addiction and mental health struggles. More

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    New football regulator could see teams thrown out of the league and stadiums closed down – the game doesn’t need it

    FOOTBALL has flourished for a century and a half.It is the world’s biggest sport and certainly one of its greater preoccupations.Stars like Man City hitman Erling Haaland have made the Prem special around the world and we must be careful about any changes we makeCredit: APIt is loved by players, ­spectators, TV viewers and children from an early age.It gives £8billion to the Treasury every year.And it provides livelihoods, dreams and dramas, excitement and disappointments.To some it is a life in itself.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo, what does it need?It is easier to tell you what it does not need — a regulator as judge and jury of professional clubs.Problems are plentiful — they always have been — and our first occupant is due to take their bow fairly soon.There is no question a revolution is on its way and a heck of a lot of money to go with it.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIt will become law towards the end of the year.The bill passed through the House of Lords this week and they sent it to the Commons.Man City launched probe into Erling Haaland after he ‘left club’s mascot with whiplash’ after hit to back of headI sit in the Lords and the debate convinced me that the introduction of a regulator for professional leagues will bring little reward and a lot of work and expense.Our game has been settling wrangles forever.A regulator hasn’t been required before and isn’t now.He or she will have considerable power in granting each of the 116 clubs a licence to operate — each with separate conditions governed by the law of the land.Breaches of licence conditions could result in teams being thrown out the league, stadiums being closed down or even a stint in jail — although a few nights in the Scrubs do not seem likely.However, a serious offence could result in a named director being fined as much as £75,000 a day.The regulator also has a duty to ensure that each club is sustainable.If it is not, the club may look to sell assets, probably stars players.That’s when the riots could start.Regulators have a patchy record. One of them, Ofwat (the water services regulation authority), has been paddling round the question of dumping waste into many rivers, lakes and the sea.Swimming filthy rivers such as the Wye has become a risk to health. And the post under Ofcom has become slow and indecently expensive.Regulators are seen by many politicians as a cure-all.But, frankly, they would, wouldn’t they?Many fans may also feel this way although I suspect there will be considerable mind-changing when they realise what interference might do to their club.The Premier League’s riches and status have caused envy elsewhere — most obviously within the EFL.Many EFL clubs I speak to hate the idea of being answerable to a regulator with untold powers to tell them what to do and how to run their clubsThis is partly understandable — even if Championship clubs are reasonably well off.That  is, after all, the sixth richest league in the world,  having just signed a new £1billion TV rights deal.But while nine clubs in that division are owned by billionaires, quite a few in the lower divisions are hard up.Accrington Stanley, one of the founding members of the Football League, have not had a home crowd anywhere near 3,000 this season.And for one League Two night game in September their gate was just 791.Of course such poor relations should be propped up — and most Premier League clubs appreciate the fact.That is why we send £1.6BILLION down the pyramid while the PL Stadium Fund has contributed more than £207m towards projects including 577 clubhouses and changing rooms, 832 stands, 682 floodlights and 480 pitch improvements.Further talks on an alternative to politicians’ pet scheme should be held between the FA, the Premier League and the EFL.Many EFL clubs I speak to hate the idea of being answerable to a regulator with untold powers to tell them what to do and how to run their clubs.The initial plan for the new regulator is that a report will be published on the state of the game.This will take 18 months but there is such a lack of detail and clarity in the bill that the bundles of legal challenges will be a nightmare!Neither are the outcomes at all promising.And who would pay for the grandiose schemes?Well, it will be the Premier League of course.READ MORE SUN STORIESEvery penny spent on the regulator is a penny taken away from all the good causes, and all the pyramid funding.And, that’s the real tragedy. More

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    Scott McTominay could be greatest EVER Brit in Serie A… Man Utd got it badly wrong letting him go, says former star

    AC MILAN legend Joe Jordan reckons Scott McTominay is on course to become one of the best British exports to Italy.And he accused his former club Manchester United of blundering by flogging him to Napoli for a bargain £25million last summer.Scott McTominay has moved up a gear from his Man Utd daysCredit: RexBilly Gilmour now starts in Napoli’s midfield next to McTominayCredit: RexDavid Beckham had loan spells at AC Milan in 2009 and 2010Credit: AFPThe late Denis Law was a famous success in Serie ACredit: Hulton Archive – GettyEngland icon Paul Gascoigne was a fans’ favourite at LazioCredit: GettyWhile the Red Devils have tumbled down the table without McTominay, the Scotland midfielder is on a title charge in Italy, where his inspirational form has lifted Napoli to within three points of leaders Inter Milan.Tomorrow it is an Auld Enemy clash in Serie A, with McTominay and fellow Scotland star Billy Gilmour taking on AC Milan’s quartet of Englishmen — Kyle Walker, Tammy Abraham, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Fikayo Tomori.Jordan, now 73, was affectionately dubbed Lo Squalo (The Shark) by Milan fans, after finishing top scorer in both of his seasons at the San Siro and is still worshipped in Italy, for his exploits with AC Milan and Verona.However Napoli’s fanatical fans have given McTominay the ultimate accolade, dubbing him McTomadona  — after their idol Diego Maradona.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLNow Jordan claims McTominay is on course to eclipse himself and previous greats such as Denis Law, John Charles, Graeme Souness, Trevor Francis, Ray Wilkins, David Platt and Paul Gascoigne, to become Serie A’s greatest ever Britalian.He told SunSport: “I would say Scott McTominay has made much more of an impact in Italy than I did in my first season.“He’s already much more popular than I ever was.“I got on well with the Milan fans but it took me a bit of time to settle down to the Italian game. Since his introduction the Napoli supporters have taken to Scott right away.Most read in FootballPaul Ince was an all-round midfield star for Inter MilanCredit: AP:Associated PressDavid Platt played for Juventus, as well as Bari and SampdoriaCredit: GettyRay Wilkins was a pass master for AC Milan from 1984-87Credit: Getty – ContributorBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK“He has done exceptionally well, in a team that is consistently winning.“They love him in Naples and I know what the Napolitani, are like, they’re incredible fans, absolutely fanatical about their club and their heroes. In Naples, they only support one team and that’s Napoli.”Napoli fans try and fail to prounce ‘Scott McTominay’Jimmy Greaves left Chelsea for a year at MilanCredit: GettyAnother England ace, Mark Hateley, also played for MilanCredit: AP:Associated PressMcTominay made 178 Prem appearances for the Old Trafford outfit after coming through their youth academy, scoring 19 times and Jordan added: “I was really surprised United let Scott go during the summer.“I don’t know all the circumstances but I thought he was doing OK at United. But, at Napoli, he’s lifted his game to another level.“His form is consistent, his front play is good, he’s scoring goals and providing assists.”McTominay, 28, has started in Napoli’s last 27 Serie A games, and is their second top scorer behind Romelu Lukaku — another United old boy — with seven goals and four assists.Jordan said: “He’s hit the ground running. He’s a player who is playing with confidence and he is working under a good coach in Antonio Conte.“Napoli did very well to sign him — but  Manchester United did very badly letting him go. United’s loss is Napoli’s gain.“He has been helped by having Gilmour alongside him. Whenever I’ve seen Billy play for Napoli he’s done well and he has forced himself into the starting team now.“That’s no surprise to me because he’s a good player, and crucially for an Italian coach, he keeps the ball well.”Rarely can a battle of the Brits have meant so much to Italian supporters as both clubs desperately need three points to keep their Serie A season on track. McTominay has started Napoli’s last 27 top-flight matchesCredit: RexKyle Walker is in the opposition camp with AC MilanCredit: GettyMilan are currently ninth — five places and six points off a Champions League qualifying place — and must win to keep their slim hopes alive.But they also know by beating Napoli they will virtually hand the Serie A title to their deadly rivals Inter Milan, who could push six points clear of the Neapolitans with eight games remaining.Meanwhile, Napoli know they must keep up the pressure on Inter by beating their Milanese rivals.Jordan’s heart is with his old club Milan but his head tells him that Napoli’s home advantage gives their Scots the edge.He said: “By chance, I actually saw the reverse game at the San Siro in October.“My daughter lives in Milan with my two grandkids and when I visit I go to watch my old club and occasionally Verona too.“Unfortunately Napoli were the better team on the day and deserved to win 2-0.“They will be favourites to win at home to keep the pressure up on Inter as the two clubs fight it out for the Scudetto.Ruben Loftus-Cheek has impressed for Milan after injuryCredit: GettyStriker Tammy Abraham is on loan at Milan from RomaCredit: Getty“Napoli haven’t won it too often but, with Scott and Billy in the team, they have a great chance provided they can handle the pressure of the run-in.“The heat is on them to win at home. But when you have got a team as talented as Conte’s and a passionate home support, Napoli should win.”For once, Jordan will be hoping England come out on top of Scotland — thanks to his Rossoneri roots.He added: “I know Kyle Walker because I coached him at Tottenham, when Harry Redknapp was the manager and we sold him to Manchester City.“He may be in his 30s now but he is a fantastic athlete — some players have pace, some have stamina, but Kyle’s blessed with both.“Kyle’s an experienced operator so, as much as he will learn from the Italians, he’ll be passing on a wealth of knowledge to Milan’s younger players too.“Tammy Abraham is another of Milan’s Brits who I used to watch in his Bristol City days, because I’ve lived in the city for years now.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He’s likely to be on the bench alongside Fikayo Tomori who has lost his starting place since he was red carded against Empoli.“But Ruben Loftus-Cheek did well on his return from injury against Como recently when he came off the bench and helped turn the game around. Forza Milan!”Milan fans dubbed Joe Jordan ‘the Shark’Credit: AP:Associated Press More

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    I’m the TENTH member of my family to play for my country – I’ve already beaten England, now I want to cause FA Cup shock

    STEFAN THORDARSON has a remarkable football heritage.The Preston midfielder is one of TEN internationals in his family tree.Stefan Thordarson is one of Preston North End’s star menCredit: PAThe midfielder comes from Icelandic footballing royaltyCredit: PAHis great-grandfather played in Iceland’s first-ever competitive gameCredit: SUPPLIEDThordur Thordarson with son Stefan pictured in 2020Credit: SUPPLIEDAnd as the Iceland star prepares to take on Premier League giants Aston Villa at Deepdale on Sunday, he said: “As soon as you’re born in my family, a ball is put in front of your feet!“It feels like almost everyone I’m related to has played for Iceland!”Thordarson, 26, has been capped 28 times — including playing in the 1-0 Wembley win over England last June.And his dad Thordur, uncle Stefan who played for Stoke, great-uncles Olafur and Teitur and great-grandad Thordur have also represented their homeland.READ MORE SPORTS NEWSBut it does not stop there.Branching off from his great-great-grandmother, he is related to former Iceland star Petur Petursson, who played for Feyenoord, Anderlecht and Royal Antwerp.And through his great-grandma he is also related to Arni Sveinsson, Sveinn Teitsson and Sigursteinn Gislason — who were all capped by their country too.Finally, although not picked by Iceland, his older brother Thordur Thorsteinn Thordarson has been a professional footballer playing in the top flight back home, while cousin Oliver Stefansson is currently with Swedish team IFK Norrkoping.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSPreston’s secret weaponBy Justin AllenASTON VILLA had better beware — Preston’s secret weapon is gunning for them.Iceland midfielder Stefan Thordarson was brought up learning the art of slaying giants and is bidding to stun the Prem side in the FA Cup.Villa, who travel to the Championship outfit tomorrow in the quarter-finals, only need to ask defender Ezri Konsa how you write off the 26-year-old at your peril. When the England star faced Thordarson last June, the Three Lions lost 1-0 at Wembley in their final warm-up for Euro 2024.And the North End midfielder said: “That was a perfect day to play and win against such a talented England team at the iconic Wembley in front of 81,000 fans.“I’d love to go there again for the semi-finals. We want to take this club to Wembley.“Villa have international players in every position, but we’re going to try to do what we do best — dominate the game in the way we want to.”If North End, who sit 14th in the second tier, pull off a shock, it will be the third consecutive year a Championship side have made a Wembley FA Cup semi-final.Coventry were controversially beaten by eventual winners Manchester United on penalties under the arch last season after VAR ruled out what would have been a 120th-minute Haji Wright winner.While Preston boss Paul Heckingbottom took Sheffield United there in 2023 where they lost to Manchester City, who again went on to lift the famous old trophy.Thordarson was in the side that beat Fulham in the Carabao Cup earlier this season after a thrilling 16-15 shootout win.And he has always believed no team is unbeatable since watching his homeland famously knock England out in the last 16 of Euro 2016 — arguably the Three Lions’ most humiliating defeat at a major finals.Thordarson added: “It was the biggest day in Iceland’s sporting history, so we know all about upsets.“It was a huge moment because we all look up to the Premier League and England.“That Iceland side inspired an entire generation of footballers that anything is possible.“We know Villa are a top European side and you can see that in the Champions League.“But as we’ve seen from FA Cup history — and our Iceland team — nothing is impossible.”Altogether, his family have amassed 299 caps and 42 goals for Iceland – of which Thordarson has scored one.Thordarson said: “I’m fortunate to have a family who know what I’m going through as a footballer and they’ve been a major help.Unai Emery proud as Aston Villa compete victory against Club Brugge “The main one is my dad, who played as a goalkeeper back home but had two years in Sweden too at IFK Norrkoping.“And then there’s my uncle Stefan — who I’m named after. He was a striker with Stoke between 2000-02.“My middle name is Teitur, which I get from my great-uncle. He played for Lens and Cannes in France.“He was a great goalscorer and in the 1981-82 season he got 19 for Lens, which was only three behind Les Bleus legend Michel Platini, who was playing for Saint-Etienne that year.“Teitur was the Estonia national team coach and managed a lot of teams in Norway and Iceland as well as Vancouver Whitecaps in Canada. I look up to him a lot.“Then going further back there’s my great-grandfather Thordur, who was in the Iceland team for their first-ever competitive match, against France, when we were allowed to enter the qualifying stages for the 1958 World Cup.”Thordur also scored against an amateur England side in 1956 — classed as a B international as Iceland were not professionals at the time.Stefan Thordarson’s, great uncle, Teitur, also played football before going into managementCredit: SUPPLIEDThordarson added: “I’m lucky to have all these role models. I’m always talking to dad and my uncle who played for Stoke.“Once or twice a year I meet my great-uncles too. Everyone has always been a huge help in my career.”Thordarson is the THIRD player in Preston history to not only come from Iceland but herald from Akranes on the west coast.The town is a 30-minute drive from the capital Reykjavik and has also produced North End midfielder Bjarki Gunnlaugsson (1999-2002) and striker Thordur Gudjonsson (2002).Akranes, with an official population of 8,452, has also produced the likes of ex-Aston Villa, Wolves, Leicester, Burnley and Huddersfield midfielder Joey Gudjonsson and former Wolves striker Bjorn Bergmann Sigurdarson.And current Iceland head coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson, who played for Bolton, Leicester and Stoke, is also from the town.Thordarson said: “There cannot be many places in the world that have produced so many pro footballers from such a small population.“When you’re brought up, it’s all about football. Our hometown team won everything in the 1980s and early 1990s.”Not surprisingly, his role model growing up was Iceland’s most famous player — former Barcelona, Chelsea and Bolton star Eidur Gudjohnsen.And Thordarson was almost starry-eyed when the great man was his Under-21s coach.He said: “Eidur was a huge inspiration. To come from Iceland and get into that Barcelona team alongside the likes of Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, Xavi and Deco was amazing.“It was such a great honour to play for him.”Thordarson is driven to follow in Gudjohnsen’s footsteps by reaching the Premier League and said: “That’s why I moved to England. That has always been my dream.”Stefan Thordarson was inspired by former Chelsea and Iceland star Eidur GudjohnsenCredit: GETTYAs a kid, he grew up watching English football and his favourite team were Arsenal — idolising Thierry Henry, Robert Pires and, in particular, Cesc Fabregas.The Preston star revealed: “I had an English coach back home called Dean Martin.“He still lives in Iceland but is from London and is a big Arsenal fan. He got some of us to be Gooners too.“It was at the time of the Invincibles. The way that team played under Arsene Wenger — and Cesc? Wow.“The way he was and how he moved on the field with his upbringing from Barcelona. It was a joy to watch.”After playing for his local club, Thordarson moved to Denmark and played four seasons for Silkeborg.And in the 2022-23 season, he played against West Ham in the Conference League group stage.Thordarson joined Preston last July and he has quickly established himself as a fans’ favourite.He said: “It’s been an eventful first season. We lost manager Ryan Lowe, who signed me, after just one game.“We had a good Carabao Cup run by beating Fulham 16-15 on penalties and I got the chance to play Arsenal.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Despite the 3-0 loss, that was a great experience.“And now we’re in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. Beating Burnley 3-0 in the last round was one of the best atmospheres I’ve ever played in.”Stefan Thordarson helped Iceland get the better of England last summerCredit: AFP More

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    ‘Weirdest club in the league’ – Arsenal launch DATING SHOW to match up single fans at Gunners games

    LOVE is in the air at the Emirates after Arsenal announced they are launching a BLIND DATE SHOW.The Gunners revealed the extraordinary move to find matches for their single fans on Emirates matchdays.Arsenal have launched a blind date show for supportersCredit: ReutersDubbed “The Big Match”, the statement on the stunning production was discreetly published on the club’s website on Friday.The article currently does not appear when searching for it on the site’s search engine and is not visible on the “News” section page, nor was it published on the club’s Twitter or Instagram pages.However, pages on Arsenal.com about the production do appear on Google, with one page linking to the sign-up sheet for the show and another linking to the terms and conditions.It reads: “Matchdays at Emirates Stadium are a time to connect with the beautiful game – and each other. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s for this reason that we’re launching a new dating show that celebrates how a shared love of football can prove a catalyst for an even deeper romance. “We are calling on our single supporters in the UK to apply to be part of the production, which will involve attending a blind date with a fellow Gooner centred around an Arsenal game.”If you’d like to be a participant and are up for the opportunity of meeting your perfect match, please complete the form below. Fans hoping to land a date through the show need to be UK residents over the age of 18 and must apply by 11.59pm on April 11, while of course, the main criteria for eligibility is that they are single.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIt is not clear when the date and show would take place.Fans may have spotted April Fools is just around the corner, although Arsenal appear to have fired the cannon a little early if this is what it turns out to be.’Captain on and off the pitch’ – Fans love Arsenal star Martin Odegaard’s classy gesture on international dutyReacting on social media, one fan said: “This club CANNOT be serious.”A second said: “Weirdest club in the league.”A third joked: “They need something to make up for the lack of trophies.”Another said: “[Mikel] Arteta wants everyone married.”Questions on the formSelect questions on the form:NameDate of birthContact informationSexual identity and sexual orientationHeightEthnicityDo you smoke/vape/drink?What is it that made you fall in love with The Arsenal?What you’re looking for in a partner?PhotographSocial media handlesA fifth added: “‘How did you both meet?’ ‘We met on the Gooner dating program, son’.”A sixth said: “They’ll do everything except win a trophy.”A seventh admitted: “Might have to sign up you know.”An eighth said: “Arteta wants all his players AND fans to be married. Fair enough.”The move comes after Championship side Millwall became the first club in the UK to start its own mobile network, though fans also wondered whether that could turn out to be an elaborate prank.While single Gooners sign up for the unique blind date show, Arsenal men are back in action on Tuesday as they host Fulham after the international break.They then travel to Everton before the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid.Bukayo Saka’s return to training will doubtless be a huge boost for the team as the season enters the run-in.Meanwhile, Arsenal women showed the boys how to beat Madrid after coming from 2-0 down on aggregate to beat the Spanish side 3-0 at the Emirates in the Uefa Women’s Champions League on Wednesday.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe win, held up by a brace by Alessia Russo, booked them a spot in the semi-final where they will face Lyon.They travel to South London to play Crystal Palace on Sunday.Arsenal ratings vs ChelseaARSENAL collected three points at the Emirates with a comfortable display as they fight to keep their fading title hopes alive. More