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    in Soccer

    Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly moves closer to shock England debut after just EIGHT Premier League starts

    ARSENAL defender Myles Lewis-Skelly is moving closer to landing a shock England debut despite having made just eight Premier League starts.New England boss Thomas Tuchel, preparing for next month’s World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia, has been impressed by the form of the teenage sensation who has starred at left-back for Mikel Arteta this term.New England boss Thomas Tuchel is eyeing up Myles Lewis-Skelly for a surprise call-upCredit: PAThe Arsenal teenager has only made eight Premier League startsCredit: RexEngland are desperately short in that area with both Luke Shaw and Ben Chilwell having suffered numerous injury issues.Newcastle’s Lewis Hall featured twice for England under interim manager Lee Carsley in November.While Rico Lewis, Kyle Walker and Levi Colwill have also played at left-back for the Three Lions.Tottenham’s Djed Spence has also been in decent form for Tottenham at left-back even though he is right-sided.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLYet Tuchel will prefer players featuring in their natural positions and Lewis-Skelly, 18, already looks at home in that left-back spot.Incredibly, he has yet to feature for the under-21s and only made his under-19s debut in Croatia in September.Previously, Arsenal team-mate Declan Rice said: “This kid is just special, very special. He can go to the top.”For an 18-year-old to be that good, that comfortable, that strong, it was like he was built in a lab. I said that to him the other day.Most read in Football”It’s just ridiculous how good he is, but he has a long way to go. “He’s so level-headed, he’s got a great family around him.”Thomas Tuchel’s first day at St. George’s Park as he meets England staff and coaches In Arsenal’s 2-0 win at Leicester on Saturday, Lewis-Skelly delivered a goal-saving intervention with the score at 0-0.Tuchel meanwhile, is also likely to hand first call-ups to other players.Ipswich’s in-form striker Liam Delap is another player in the frame.Forgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel.The former Man City ace has netted 10 times since joining the Tractor Boys last summer. England face Albania at Wembley on March 21 and then entertain Latvia three days later. More

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    in Soccer

    Arsenal hero Olivier Giroud has £400k of jewellery stolen in home raid after stars including Travis Kelce were burgled

    THIEVES stole jewellery worth £400,000 in a raid on Premier League legend Olivier Giroud’s home.The former Arsenal and Chelsea striker is living in the US after joining Los Angeles FC last year.Giroud purchased his house with real estate agent Amandine Ferla in SeptemberCredit: INSTAGRAMHe is currently playing for LAFCCredit: RexGiroud spent six years at ArsenalCredit: AFP or LicensorsThe striker won the Champions League at ChelseaCredit: Ryan Browne-The TimesGiroud, 38, has become the latest target in a string of high-profile names who have been hit by burglars.He has followed the likes of Kansas City Chiefs stars Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes.News outlet TMZ Sports have reported that the break-in occurred earlier this month.The police have revealed that Giroud’s wife, Jennifer reported the break-in on February 5.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLShe made the call after discovering a broken window on the property.The police have noted that multiple high-value items have been stolen.Among the list of missing items are ten men’s watches.It is believed that the total value of stolen items is estimated to be £400k. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThere are yet to be any arrests made in connection to the incident.The Los Angeles Police Department are continuing to investigate the crime.Olivier Giroud gives new meaning to the term when fashion meets footballGiroud’s wife Jennifer made the discovery of the break-inCredit: Getty – ContributorGiroud and Jennifer purchased the house in September 2024.The FBI sent a warning out in December to American professional sports leagues over the threat of organised burglaries.Chiefs quarterback Mahomes was the victim of a break-in on October 6.Just two days later, the home of Kelce was also targeted.Meanwhile, since moving across the Atlantic, Giroud has tried his hand at baseball.He has made 19 appearances for LAFC since joining the club but has only scored twice.Giroud’s career by numbersHere is a look at Oliver Giroud’s career…Grenoble, 2005–2008Appearances – 26Goals – 2Istres, 2007–2008 loanAppearances – 34Goals – 14Tours, 2008–2010 and 2010 loanAppearances – 69Goals – 38Montpellier, 2010–2012Appearances – 85Goals – 39Arsenal, 2012–2018Appearances – 253Goals – 105Chelsea, 2018–2021Appearances – 119Goals – 39AC Milan – 2021–2024Appearances – 132Goals – 49Los Angeles FCAppearances – 19Goals – 2Honours:Ligue 1 x1, FA Cup x4, Champions League x1, Europa League x1, Serie A x1, US Open Cup x1, Fifa World Cup x1, More

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    Newcastle star Jacob Murphy, 29, approached over shock switch of international allegiance from England

    JACOB MURPHY has reportedly been approached about switching his international allegiance.The 29-year-old winger is enjoying an impressive season for Newcastle in the Premier League. Jacob Murphy has enjoyed a strong season at St James ParkCredit: GettyThe Toon winger has already registered 9 assists this seasonCredit: GettyMurphy has scored five times for the Toon so far in 2024/25.He also leads the club’s assists charts with nine, already a career-high tally with three months of the season to go. There have been suggestions England manager Thomas Tuchel should call up Murphy for his first Three Lions squad.Murphy played for England across four youth age groups, with his last involvement in the under-21 Euros in 2017. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut, according to reports in Nigeria, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has “made contact” in a bid to get Murphy to switch allegiance.The former Norwich star qualifies to play for Nigeria through his father. Nigeria have endured a tough start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles had been expected to cruise through a group that features South Africa, Rwanda, Benin, Lesotho and Zimbabwe.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut three draws and a defeat from their opening 4 games have made things tough for the African country, who have reached six of the last seven World Cups.As well as Nigeria, Murphy is eligible to represent Ireland through his mother.The Sun’s Charlie Wyett reacts to World Cup 2026 qualifying draw as Thomas Tuchel’s England are placed in group full of controversyMurphy has proved to be an unsung hero this season at St James Park.Newcastle are chasing the European places, with striker Alexander Isak stealing the plaudits thanks to a remarkable run of form.Boss Eddie Howe has come out to praise Murphy – and claims Isak’s heroics are in part down to the winger.Howe said: “He’s been very, very important and probably more than people realise.Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle reportedly wants to tempt Murphy to switch international allegianceCredit: AFP”We ask a lot of Jacob in lots of different ways, he plays an important role.”Of course, everyone plays an important role in our pressing with the ball.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He’s been brilliant and the assists and the goals that he’s got in the last few weeks.”Isak probably owes him the majority of his goals with his crossing ability which has always been very strong.” More

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    Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon’s son, 17, named in rival nation’s squad and could face England within days

    THE SON of Italy legend Gianluigi Buffon has received his first international call-up… for another country.Louis Buffon, 17, is a midfielder plying his trade in Italy for Pisa’s youth side.Louis Buffon has received his first international call-up… but it’s not for ItalyCredit: RexThe Pisa winger is the son of Italy and Juventus legend Gianluigi BuffonCredit: Getty – ContributorBut he is best known as the son of iconic former goalkeeper Gigi Buffon, who made over 1,000 professional appearances during his glittering career.The 47-year-old played for Parma, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain over the course of 28 years before retiring in 2023.And now his son Louis is hoping to continue his family legacy in Italian football with Serie B side Pisa.The winger is yet to make a senior appearance for the club but has impressed with four goals in 19 youth outings this term.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAs a reward, Louis has now been handed his first-ever U18 international call-up.But he has NOT been selected by Italy.Dad Buffon played 176 times for his country before retiring in 2018, helping them win the World Cup in 2006.However, Louis’ mother Alena Seredova hails from the Czech Republic.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSShe and Buffon Snr were together for nine years before they parted ways in 2014.And as a result of his mother’s nationality, Louis is a dual citizen of Italy and Czechia.Gianluigi Buffon makes world-class save aged 43 for Parma as Juventus legend proves he’s still got it Louis’ mother is Czech model Alena SeredovaCredit: AFPShe and Buffon were together for nine years before they split in 2014Credit: GettyNow, the latter have called him up to their U18s squad for the first time.Louis would still be available to eventually play for Italy, with only senior competitive caps cementing a national team position for a footballer’s entire career.But his decision to accept the nod indicates Louis plans on eventually representing his mother’s country over his father’s.The teen could now make his debut against England next month.The two sides meet on March 21 in a friendly, although the venue is yet to be confirmed.Yet Louis will have to have some career to match his father’s achievements, with Buffon Snr also playing 975 club games on top of his mega international record.Buffon started at Parma in 1995 and won an Italian Cup, Italian Super Cup and Uefa Cup before joining Juventus in 2001.He made 656 appearances for the Bianconeri, winning nine Serie A titles, a Serie B title, five Italian Cups and six Italian Super Cups.Buffon then made a surprise move to Paris Saint-Germain for the 2018/19 campaign, playing 25 times and winning the Ligue 1 title before returning to Juventus.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe made a further 29 appearances in Turin while winning a tenth Serie A title before rejoining Parma in 2021.And after 45 games in Serie B for his boyhood club, Buffon called it a day nearly two years ago. More

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    in Soccer

    ‘That’s where they went wrong’ – Ex-Man Utd coach says Harry Kane was their no1 target but chiefs insisted on Hojlund

    FORMER Manchester United coach Benni McCarthy has revealed why the club signed Rasmus Hojlund over Harry Kane.Back in the summer of 2023, then-United manager Erik ten Hag made it his priority to sign a new striker.Man Utd were set on signing Harry Kane before instead going for Rasmus HojlundCredit: GettyHoljund has managed 69 FEWER goal contributions than Kane in the same number of appearancesCredit: ReutersThe Red Devils quickly became heavily linked with Kane amid ongoing doubts surrounding his future at Tottenham.However, they could not reach an agreement with Spurs and instead chose to sign Hojlund in a £72million transfer from Atalanta.Just days later, Kane completed a stunning £104m move to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich.Since joining Bayern, the England captain has scored 73 goals and provided 22 assists in 75 appearances.Read More on Man UtdMeanwhile, Hojlund has amassed just 26 goal contributions in the same number of outings.Ex-coach McCarthy, who left United in June last year, admitted the club made the wrong decision by focusing on the Dane.Speaking at the launch of Ladrokes’ Gaffer of all Accas, McCarthy said: “In the summer of 2023, Harry Kane was our No1 target.”Kane was the prime target, but obviously the price tag was an issue. Because he would have been leaving Spurs for United, a few extra million pounds were added on to the price tag, which, you know, for a 30-year-old wasn’t seen to be wise. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBenni McCarthy has revealed why United chose to sign HojlundCredit: Getty”But for £100 million, if you look at it now, you’d say that it would have been well worth it because he’s gone to Bayern and he’s still producing, he’s still scoring.”We should have just bitten the bullet and got Harry Kane and then also tried to invest in Rasmus Hojlund. That would have been the best thing for Rasmus if he had someone like Harry Kane involved.Harry Kane scores from a distance in Bayern Munich training “So yeah, Harry Kane was Erik’s No1 target. Erik really wanted him. Randal Kolo Muani was also very high on that list. Victor Osimhen was also on that list.”But I felt that if you’re going to want to spend that kind of money – £100 million plus – then you want to complete package. And Harry Kane, for me, was the complete package.”Unfortunately, the club didn’t see it that way. They looked at it as Rasmus Hojlund, in the long run, would be a more prized asset than investing in both Rasmus and Harry Kane.”So we stopped pursuing Kane, and we ended up getting just Rasmus.”Man Utd currently sit 15th in the Premier League table with just 27 points from 25 games. More

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    Newest Premier League ground opens doors for first time as stunning images show venue lit up at night and fans flood in

    EVERTON’S new stadium opened its doors ahead of its scheduled grand unveiling for a few lucky fans.The Toffees are set to leave their historic Goodison Park ground – England’s first major football stadium – after 132 years.Everton’s new stadium opened its doors ahead of its scheduled grand unveilingCredit: GettyEverton invited 10,000 fans in a lucky ballot to attend an Under-18s friendlyCredit: EPABramley-Moore Dock lit up at night ahead of the scheduled openingEverton are officially moving to Bramley-Moore Dock in the summerCredit: GettyEager fans queue to get in for the first timeCredit: EPAAnd the Merseysiders are moving in to their brand new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium in the summer.But club chiefs decided to give a few supporters a sneak peek ahead of next season.About 10,000 fans were successful in a ballot for an Under-18s friendly against Wigan.The fortunate Everton faithful took a seat at the 52,888-capacity ground, which will be the seventh biggest stadium in the Premier League.Read More on FootballAnd they watched the incredible venue shine bright as it was fully lit up at night.But it was a Liverpool fan who stole Everton’s thunder with the first ever goal at their new stadium.Wigan U18 ace Harrison Rimmer took just 11 minutes to notch his historic strike before trolling the home crowd by raising six fingers.That was of course a reference to the combined total of European Cups and Champions League crowns lifted by his beloved Reds.Most read in FootballIt’s a time-honoured gesture made by brave players who support Liverpool after scoring at either of the club’s two fiercest rivals, Everton and Manchester United.The stadium’s four-year project came at an estimated cost of more than £750million.David Moyes says ‘boiling hot Goodison Park deserved drama’ in final Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton Bramley-Moore Dock has been selected to host matches at Euro 2028.It is hoped the project will contribute an estimated £1.3billion to the local economy.Everton’s last ever home game at Goodison Park takes place on May 18.The Toffees will host Southampton in what promises to be an emotional farewell.The final Merseyside derby will live long in the memory after James Tarkowski grabbed a stunning last-minute equaliser for the hosts and four people were sent off in wild scenes AFTER the final whistle. The Merseysiders appear to be securing their place in the Premier League ahead of next season after David Moyes’ return at the helm.Everton are 14th in the table with 13 points separating them from the relegation zone.Tarkowski fires home to spark wild scenes in the final derby at GoodisonCredit: Getty More

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    in Motorsport

    F1 stars’ dizzying 2025 salaries revealed with Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton earning nearly DOUBLE nearest rival

    MAX VERSTAPPEN and Lewis Hamilton top the list of Formula One’s highest earners – as they prepare for another Championship battle. Seven-time world champion Hamilton is preparing to make his Ferrari debut after a shock switch from Mercedes.Max Verstappen remains F1’s top dog – both on the track and earningsCredit: GettyLewis Hamilton has made the switch to Ferrari for the upcoming seasonCredit: SplashIt leaves George Russell as Mercedes’ top driver – and he has the salary to prove itCredit: GettyHamilton will be behind the wheel for the first time at the season opener in Melbourne on March 16.The 40-year-old has penned a two-year deal with the Italian giants.And it sees him earning a staggering £48million ($60m) as he targets an eighth world crown.Reigning champion Verstappen will pocket the most cash in 2025 – just as he did last year. READ MORE ON F1The Dutchman is given £52m-a-year ($65m) by Red Bull, with his current deal running for a further three seasons.In sharp contrast, Verstappen’s new teammate Liam Lawson, 23, will pocket just £800,000 ($1m)Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc bags £27m ($34m), over £20m less than new team-mate Hamilton.While George Russell, now the top dog at Mercedes, will earn a cool £12m ($15m).Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLando Norris had a season to remember in 2024 with four wins and a second-placed overall finish. His lucrative deal with McLaren runs until next year – and he currently bags £16m ($20m) in annual salary.Lewis Hamilton visits Ferrari HQ as he arrives at Maranello for his first official day with the Scuderia At the other end of the spectrum, both Jack Doohan of Alpine and Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar will take home £700,000 ($850k) this year.And Lance Stroll’s open contract with Aston Martin sees the 26-year-old earn £2.3m ($3m) each season.Verstappen’s dominance of the sport in recent years has seen him win four consecutive titles. He won nine races last year – the least of any of the last four seasons. Verstappen admitted: “Last year has been challenging at times.”Of course, we had a lot of good moments, of course, also some tough moments.”I hope that we can be, let’s say, a little bit more stable and a little bit more all-round throughout the season.”Ex-F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone recently gave his opinion on whether Hamilton could challenge Verstappen in his Ferrari.And the 94-year-old pulled no punches with his response.Ecclestone told The Telegraph: “Hamilton won’t last [two years].F1 2025 gridHere are the confirmed driver line ups for the F1 2025 season:Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Liam LawsonFerrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonMercedes: George Russell and Kimi AntonelliMcLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar PiastriAston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance StrollWilliams: Alex Albon and Carlos SainzSauber: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel BortoletoAlpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack DoohanRB: Yuki Tsunoda and Isack HadjarHaas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon”Piero Ferrari, who has taken him there, still thinks they’ve done the right thing.”I hope they have. I hope they haven’t just jumped in and end up wishing they hadn’t.”Verstappen and Hamilton will join the rest of the F1 drivers for a special event on February 18. For the first time in the sport’s history, all ten teams are coming together to unveil their new liveries.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe 2025 F1 1 season begins with a double-header, starting with the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne on March 16.Just a week later, Shanghai will host the Chinese Grand Prix on March 23. More

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    Wayne Rooney starts new job in Middle East as Man Utd legend touches down for first day after leaving Plymouth

    WAYNE ROONEY has started a new job in Dubai after leaving Plymouth Argyle in December.The Manchester United star has jetted off for the February half-term break and is soaking up the sun alongside fellow former pros.Wayne Rooney has landed a coaching role with Football EscapesCredit: Instagram / footballescapesHe has been tutoring young children in DubaiCredit: Football EscapesRooney is looking to get back into management after leaving Plymouth ArgyleCredit: Football EscapesHe has taken up a coaching role with Football Escapes tutoring young children at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai.Football Escapes offer a family holiday package at the hotel, with kids getting the chance to train under the tutelage of former players including Rooney, Michael Owen and Mark Noble.Rooney ran a group through their paces on day one wearing a Football Escapes shirt, as happy parents watched on and filmed videos.Packages cost between £7,500 to £8,650 to stay at the five-star hotel for five days.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe hotel features multiple pitches as well as a gym and five swimming pools, including one 25m pool.There is also a waterpark on site and a private beach attached, along with a spa that contains 10 luxurious treatment rooms.Rooney is taking part as a coach with Football Escapes for the first time after leaving Plymouth on New Year’s Day.He wants to return to management but revealed it would “have to be the right club”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWayne Rooney’s record-breaking careerWAYNE Rooney took the football world by storm when he made his debut for 2002 with Everton.He quickly became the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer aged 16 years and 342 days and was named the BBC’s Young Sports Personality of the Year.The striker joined Manchester United in 2004 and spent 13 years at Old Trafford. He went on to make 559 appearances for the Red Devils and scored 253 goals. To this day he is still the club’s all-time leading goalscorer.Following his spell with United, Rooney returned to Everton for a season. He also spent one-season stints with D.C. United and Derby County at the end of his career.As well as his impressive club career, Rooney is also England’s second-highest goalscorer with 53 goals in 120 appearances, behind only Harry Kane.After hanging up his boots, the England icon turned to a career in management.He took charge of Derby County in 2020 and managed to just about save the club from relegation from the Championship at the end of his first season.However, with Derby handed a 21-point deduction the following campaign, he was unable to keep them up again and subsequently left.Then came a 15-month spell in charge of MLS side D.C. United. He failed to impress during his time in Washington and parted ways with the club at the end of the 2023 regular season.Rooney was controversially handed the Birmingham job in October 2023, replacing John Eustace with the club doing well and sixth in the Championship table.However, in 15 games he suffered nine defeats and managed just two wins. He was sacked in January 2024 with Birmingham down in 20th. The club were relegated to League One at the end of the campaign.He returned to management in May with Plymouth Argyle but managed just five wins in 25 games. The United legend now finds himself out of work once again.While he is yet to secure a new full-time job, he returned to punditry work on TV last week with Prime Video.Rooney was part of the coverage for Manchester City’s Champions League defeat to Real Madrid as he made his debut appearance for the broadcaster.Inside Coleen and Wayne Rooney’s incredible £1k a night Disneyland trip with the kids – and a special birthday surpriseTraining sessions take place at the five-star Jumeirah Beach HotelCredit: https://footballescapes.com/courses/JBH170225/ More