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    ‘Like boyfriend and girlfriend’: Paul Pogba opens up on Jose Mourinho fallouts but says he wants to HUG ex-Man Utd boss

    PAUL POGBA has opened up on his relationship relationship with Jose Mourinho.The midfielder played under the Portuguese manager at Manchester United between 2016 and 2018.Paul Pogba has spoken about his relationship with Jose MourinhoCredit: Sky SportsThe pair worked together at Manchester UnitedCredit: GettySpeaking to the Daily Mail, Pogba has claimed that the pair would often fall out but would be quick to make up with each other. He said: “Our relationship was like boyfriend and girlfriend, we were breaking up and making up all the time.”It started great, he was one of the reasons I went back to Manchester because I spoke to him and he convinced me to come back.”I don’t know why it turned into a nightmare and us fighting. Because I wasn’t fighting. I didn’t start the fight.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”We disagreed like managers and players do sometimes. But there’s a lot of respect from me to him.”f I see him tomorrow it’s a big hug! But one day we will have to sit down together and discuss it.”Mourinho was the manager who brought Pogba back to Manchester United in 2016.While they were at the club, they clashed multiple times, including in 2018 when Mourinho was unhappy that Pogba was posting on social media during a match that he missed.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMourinho claimed that the World Cup win in 2018 saw Pogba change and return to Man United “different”.The midfielder had left Old Trafford four years earlier on a free transfer to Juventus.Paul Pogba ban reducedWhat is DHEA?PAUL POGBA tested positive for elevated levels of DHEA, a hormone that naturally occurs in the adrenal gland, in August 2023.DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, can be used to naturally boost testosterone production. It does not produce testosterone itself.It is on the world anti-doping banned substances list and carries a maximum of four years if the athlete took it deliberately to enhance their performance.DHEA can legally be sold over-the-counter in the US as a dietary product, known as prasterone.It is also taken as an anti-ageing therapy, and to treat depression and the symptoms of menopause, although there is little evidence to suggest it is effective, and it can cause serious side effects.In 2022, UFC fighter Bobby Green received a six-month ban after testing positive for a DHEA.Green said he had not realised that DHEA was banned after seeing a video on YouTube, and took the supplement after his wife bought it from a supermarket.It was at the Italian side that he established himself as one of the best in Europe.This prompted the Red Devils to splash £90million to bring him back to the club.During his time at the club he won the Europa League and EFL Cup as well as making a total of 233 appearances.Pogba, 31, left the club on a free transfer in 2022 at the expiration of his contract and rejoined Juventus.His first season back in Italy was hampered by injuries before he was then banned for FOUR YEARS for doping.However, his suspension reduced to 18-months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport earlier this month after an appeal.He has insisted that he is not a cheater and that he took responsibility for taking the supplement but did not “triple check it”.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe former France international also revealed which club he would like to play for when he makes his return.Pogba insisted that he would be keen to rejoin Juventus and even admitted that he would take a pay cut.They won the Europa League together in 2017Credit: GettyThe midfielder wants to return to JuventusCredit: ReutersPogba’s career by numbersHere is a look at Paul Pogba’s career so far…Man United, 2009–2012 & 2016-2022Appearances: 266Goals: 39Assists: 48Trophies: Europa League, EFL CUPJuventus, 2012–2016 & 2022-2024Appearances 190Goals: 34Assists: 41Trophies: Serie A x4, Coppa Italia x2, Suppercoppa Italiana x2France, 2013-2022Caps: 91Goals: 11Assists: 9Trophies: World Cup, Nations League More

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    Thomas Tuchel is ruthless, demanding and humourless but he’s a WINNER – and just what England need for next manager

    ENGLAND’S new manager has a ruthless streak that has seen him fall foul of players and club bosses — but it might be just the job for the Three Lions.Those who know him best admit Thomas Tuchel has not been out to win any popularity contests while fighting his way to the top.England’s new manager Thomas Tuchel has the ruthless streak the Three Lions needCredit: PATuchel played for German club Augsburg before a series of injuries ended his careerCredit: PATuchel is said to put ‘tactics and results over all’Credit: PAFootball writer Carsten Germann told The Sun: “He’s absolutely unhumorous. “He’s not a coach for the people.“He’s a football scientist, he puts tactics and results over all. “But that winning mentality is what England could need.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTuchel, the 51-year-old former chief coach at Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint Germain, was caught on video bawling out a young striker — and French superstar Kylian Mbappe said the only German word he learned from him was “scheisse” (s***).Tuchel, who has followed rival Jurgen Klopp into posts at various club sides, has also been known to bristle if compared to the former Liverpool boss.Experiences that have shaped him include one seven years ago, while manager of Borussia Dortmund, when he survived a bomb attack on the team bus, with shrapnel striking seats close to him.And the father of two ended his 13-year marriage to an ex-journalist after allegedly beginning an affair with a Brazilian businesswoman 14 years younger than him.Most read in FootballBut there are also accounts of him offering warm words of encouragement to stars in one-to-one chats — and paying for his cleaner’s son to receive life-saving medical care.Tuchel was born in the small town of Krumbach in Bavaria, and was coached by dad Rudolf with the local side. Thomas Tuchel gives his first message to fans as England manager At 15 he was spotted by top-flight German club Augsburg, and he played three times for the national Under-18s.Yet teammate Heiner Schuh recalled: “He had few friends as he was exacting and demanding.”Defender Tuchel turned professional at lower league Stuttgart Kickers. He never drank with the other players and is still almost teetotal, often opting for drinking warm water.A series of knee injuries ended his playing career when he was at FC Ulm, aged just 24.The cartilage damage was considered wear and tear by the insurers, so he did not get a payout. He said: “I was insured for everything apart from this one lousy condition.”Tuchel waited tables at the Radio Bar in Stuttgart in 1999. It helped him become more gregarious and fund his business administration course at university.A year later he was hired as a youth coach at top side Stuttgart, before moving on to Augsburg’s second team and then Mainz 05.In a shock move he was promoted from under-19 coach to first team manager in 2009.IS TUCHEL RIGHT MAN FOR THE THREE LIONS JOB?YES: says Shaun SHAUN Custis, Head of SportYES, it would’ve been ideal if we could have had an Englishman.But football is not an ideal world and nobody who listened to Thomas Tuchel yesterday could doubt his passion for the job. He loves our football history and he loves the country.He is our third foreign coach but the first to convince us this is made for him. Sven-Goran Eriksson would have left in a year for Man United had Alex Ferguson not stayed. Tuchel rejected United this summer still hoping he’d get the England gig. Fabio Capello gave the impression he was doing us a favour.Tuchel is a top coach and a proven winner whose dream is to deliver us the World Cup. What more could we ask for?NO: says Harry Redknapp, Ex-Prem managerI WANTED an Englishman. I’m very patriotic.All the clubs are owned by foreign owners and they bring a foreign manager in.With the FA and the money we spend on coaching courses and everything else it’s sad.Thomas Tuchel lost his job quite quickly at a couple of clubs. It’s not like he’s been a massive success. People say you’ve got to be a great coach for England, (but) you just have to have a bit of common sense. Pick the best players, make them feel great about themselves, make them feel good about playing for England, let them know we can go and win a trophy, that the team is fantastic.Harry spoke to Sky SportsAll of Tuchel’s trophies as a managerTuchel pictured with rival Jurgen KloppCredit: AFPBut Tuchel’s thin skin could be a problem as England coachCredit: GettyANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobTuchel admitted at the time that the Bundesliga club had been willing to take the risk because it had worked with Klopp in the past.In the same year he married Sissi, a journalist at the highly respected national newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung.She reportedly gave up her career to bring up their two daughters, Emma and Kim.Sissi, who is very private, was seen by his side celebrating successes on the pitch as unfashionable Mainz twice qualified for the Europa League.But an amateur cameraman caught Thomas screaming at young striker Shawn Parker for almost a minute in the dressing room after one game — before telling him: “So go join the under 17s.”Club executive Christian Heidel wanted his manager to engage with the fans and media more — like the popular Klopp did. But he regretted starting a conversation saying, “with Kloppo we used to . . .”In an unauthorised biography titled Rulebreaker, Heidel said: “That’s when Thomas started yelling at me, ‘How dare I?’ “The conversation was over. “I thought to myself, ‘Whoops, I hit a nerve’.”He’s very sensitive to criticismFootball writer Carsten GermannEngland’s Liverpool players, such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, may do well to remember that anecdote.Indeed, Tuchel’s thin skin could be a problem as England coach — where flak comes with the job.Carsten, who has interviewed Tuchel, said: “He’s very sensitive to criticism.”Who has Tuchel coached?Here is a list of the England stars that have already worked with Thomas Tuchel…Harry Kane – Bayern MunichEric Dier – Bayern MunichMason Mount – ChelseaReece James – ChelseaBen Chilwell – ChelseaCallum Hudson-Odoi – ChelseaRuben Loftus-Cheek – ChelseaRaheem Sterling – ChelseaRoss Barkley – ChelseaTammy Abraham – ChelseaConor Gallagher – ChelseaHowever his undoubted talents led Dortmund to hire him as Klopp’s replacement in 2015.Two years later he won Germany’s equivalent of the FA Cup and reached the quarter final of the Champions league.In April that year a controversial 3-2 defeat against Monaco showed how hard it can be to know the truth about Tuchel’s character.It came after he survived the team bus attack, which left him being viewed by some as a heroic defender of his squad, and by others as a callous villain.Sports journalist Pit Gottschalk’s book Locker Room Whispers reported he responded to seeing tearful players by saying: “I’m supposed to beat Bayern with these wimps?”The manager gave a totally different account. He had been angry that his side had been ordered to play the game against Monaco just 24 hours after the bombing.He said: “We had the feeling we were being treated as if our bus had been hit by a can of beer.”Bizarrely, it turned out that perpetrator Sergei Wenergold hid homemade devices filled with hydrogen peroxide and a dozen bolts close to the bus in order to make money on the stock exchange.Shortly before the attack he “bet” that the club’s shares would drop.In November 2018 Wenergold, 35, was jailed for 14 years. The fallout from the incident caused a rift with Dortmund’s chief executive and Tuchel was dismissed.He joined PSG, taking the French side to their first Champions League final. He’s a football scientist, he puts tactics and results over allFootball writer Carsten GermannHowever it was reported that he fell out with star player Mbappe as well as Brazilian sporting director Leonardo, and he lost his job.Before leaving the French capital, Tuchel heard his cleaner’s son was going to hospital and paid for his care.In January 2021 he arrived in London, replacing Frank Lampard as Chelsea manager.Tuchel took them from ninth in the Premier League to fourth, qualifying for the Champions League, but lost in the FA Cup final to Leicester.Off the field, there were problems with Tuchel’s marriage. He started a relationship with Brazilian Natalie Guerriero Max, 37, and in 2022 he split from Sissi.Natalie, who still lives in London, could be one of the reasons he was keen to take the England job.An insider said: “Thomas is obsessed with Natalie, but he is still close to his children and is a good father who sees them often.”Tuchel led Chelsea to Champions League glory in 2021, masterminding victory against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.Yet he was dismissed by the club’s new American owners in September 2022. An email included in Sissi’s divorce papers suggested that he had been fired for “’off-field reasons” with the players “losing respect for him.”But the manager remained in demand. Hired by Munich, he won the league title in his first season before a poor set of results the following year led to yet another departure.Three Lions fans will be hoping Germany’s loss is England’s gain.Cops at the team bus after the bomb attackCredit: Getty Images – GettyForgotten 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.German laughter at rivals’ boss bidBy Rob PattinsonTHE Sun’s front page announcing Thomas Tuchel as the new England boss was the talk of Germany yesterday — even being retweeted by its ambassador in Britain.Diplomat Miguel Berger cheekily added a laughing emoji as he sent out yesterday’s splash with the headline “Football’s coming home” translated into German. He wrote: “A German manager for England! Congrats to Thomas Tuchel. A brave decision.”Reaction across Germany was mixed, with many gleefully mocking Tuchel’s deal to manage their arch rival.Bild, the country’s biggest-selling newspaper, used a picture of The Sun’s splash and claimed England must be desperate if we were turning to a German. It said the ideal outcome would be England losing the World Cup final to Germany on penalties.An online vote had 80 per cent of Germans gloating England would not win the World Cup with Tuchel.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd one journalist wrote: “The desperation on the island must be enormous if they admit that only a German can help now.”Upmarket magazine Der Spiegel promised Tuchel “can be trusted” but warned he would inevitably “face anger” for crossing the North Sea.Diplomat Miguel Berger retweeted The Sun’s front page with the headline ‘Football’s coming home’ translated into German More

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    ‘These could be my last games’, says Lionel Messi as he drops biggest retirement hint yet

    LIONEL MESSI has hinted that his international career could be coming to an end.The Argentina superstar, 37, rolled back the years with a sensational performance for his nation during a 6-0 win over Bolivia in their latest World Cup qualifier.Lionel Messi has given an insight into when he might retireCredit: AFPThe superstar guided Argentina to a 6-0 win over Bolivia on TuesdayCredit: ReutersMessi bagged a hat-trick and set up goals for Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez to have a hand in all but one of the Albiceleste’s six goals.Fans gave the icon a standing ovation for his efforts as he notched his TENTH international hat-trick – matching rival Cristiano Ronaldo’s record.But the Inter Miami star put a dampener on the feel-good mood when he hinted that his international career could be nearing an end.He said: “The truth is that I haven’t set a date or deadline [to retire], I just want to enjoy all of this.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I’m excited to be here and feel the affection of the people because I know that these could be the last games.”This is what drives me, enjoying this, being happy where I am, being with my teammates.”However, the former Barcelona and PSG star went on to explain that he is still feeling good on the pitch.Adding: “Despite my age, when I’m here it seems like I’m a kid because of the stupid things I do because I feel comfortable.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”As long as I see that I feel good and can continue helping the team as I intend, I will continue enjoying it.”One man that is desperate for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner to stick around is Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni. Flooded pitch causes chaos in Argentina’s draw with Venezuela as Lionel Messi rants about ‘ugly’ matchHe told reporters that he was pleaded with the MLS figurehead to play until his legs give out, admitting watching Messi play stills leaves him in awe.”At one point [during the Bolivia game] I sat down next to [assistant coach] Pablo Aimar and I told him, ‘This is wonderful’,” Scaloni said.“I’m enjoying this, being able to sit on this substitutes’ bench and see the things he does and his team supporting him.”He [Messi] never ceases to surprise us. Let him play until he can’t go on any longer, that’s the only thing I ask of him because it’s a pleasure to see him and have him on a football pitch.”Messi’s remarkable cameo against Bolivia was his first game for the national team since July after missing the last international break with a ligament issue.Despite struggling with injury this season, Messi has still managed a jaw-dropping 31 goal contributions in just 21 appearances for Inter Miami this term.Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni has pleaded with Messi to continue playingCredit: ReutersMessi has been scoring for fun at Inter Miami this seasonCredit: Getty More

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    Paul Pogba reveals which club he wants to play for when he returns as ex-Man Utd ace’s doping ban is reduced

    PAUL POGBA has revealed the club he wants to play for after he finishes serving a doping ban.Pogba’s career looked all-but over when he was hit with a FOUR-YEAR SUSPENSION after testing positive for elevated testosterone levels as a result of ingesting banned substance DHEA.Paul Pogba was slapped with a four-year anti-doping ban earlier this yearCredit: GETTYThe Juventus midfielder appealed the verdict and had it reduced to 18 monthsCredit: GETTYThe 31-year-old still has ambitions of playing for The Old Lady againCredit: AFPBut the former Manchester United midfielder and current Juventus star had his ban reduced to 18 months following a successful appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.The 31-year-old’s ban was backdated to September 2023, meaning he’ll be eligible to play in March 2025.And the France international is looking forward to playing for The Old Lady again, telling ESPN: “I want to play for Juventus again.”The World Cup winner is even willing to take a wage cut to stay with the Serie A giants, although the Juve brass have held talks with his team about his lucrative contract.READ MORE ON POGBAHe said: “I’m ready to cut and to reduce my salary to stay at Juve.”I will talk with Thiago Motta. I want to demonstrate to be a great player again.”He later added: “Right now I’m with Juventus, so we don’t know really what’s going on.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPaul Pogba will be eligible to play again in March 2025Credit: REX”All the parties are talking, lawyers, etc. So I want to know what will happen next.Most read in Football”But my main focus right now is just to get myself ready. Paul Pogba ban reduced”I keep training and everything. Get ready for being able to join a team in January.”Pogba admits he likely would have hung up his boots had his appeal to CAS been unsuccessful.”I had many thoughts in my head,” he admitted. “I had so many thoughts to even stop playing.”I’m like: ‘What am I going to do?’ If it’s four years, you start making the maths in your head.”Four years not playing, training — which club is going to want me? “Would I be fit and stuff like that, you make a lot of pictures in your head.”But on the other side, I had faith obviously, and I was positive.”I knew I didn’t do anything wrong on purpose, so then thankfully that happened and they reduced it.”Pogba has also revealed the pain and hurt he has suffered as a result of the ban and insists he is not a “cheater”.What is DHEA?PAUL POGBA tested positive for elevated levels of DHEA, a hormone that naturally occurs in the adrenal gland, in August 2023DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, can be used to naturally boost testosterone production.It does not produce testosterone itself.It is on the world anti-doping banned substances list and carries a maximum of four years if the athlete took it deliberately to enhance their performance.DHEA can legally be sold over-the-counter in the US as a dietary product, known as prasterone.It is also taken as an anti-ageing therapy, and to treat depression and the symptoms of menopause, although there is little evidence to suggest it is effective, and it can cause serious side effects.In 2022, UFC fighter Bobby Green received a six-month ban after testing positive for a DHEA.Green said he had not realised that DHEA was banned after seeing a video on YouTube, and took the supplement after his wife bought it from a supermarket.He told Sky Sports News: “I accept responsibility of taking the supplement but I didn’t triple check it – even if it came from a professional.”If I have to be punished, then I’m fine with it. But it should never have been four years. I will accept 12 months.”Asked to reassure his fans that he has always played clean and not taken performance enhancing drugs, Pogba replied: “When you see me, you know me. People know me.”So even when everything happened people said: ‘we know Paul, he would never take that. If he did, he wouldn’t have known and it won’t have been on purpose’.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And this it totally the truth. I’m an honest person, I would say it.””I am not a cheater, I am someone that loves my sport. I love the game and I would never, ever. I like to win fairly and people know that.” More

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    Man Utd set to submit plans for stunning 100,000-seater new stadium this year with ground on course to open by 2028

    MANCHESTER UNITED are set to submit plans for a stunning new 100,000-seater stadium.It is understood this will have taken place by the end of the year.Manchester United are reportedly set to submit plans for a new stadiumCredit: https://www.manutd.com/enThe new ground would have a capacity of 100,000 fansCredit: https://www.manutd.com/enSir Jim Ratcliffe has been determined to improve the club’s stadium situation since his arrival in February.A task force along with Ratcliffe reportedly agree that a new ground is the most “logical proposal” in order to regenerate the area.Manchester Evening News claim that the earliest work would start would be in the summer of 2025.This would be just over a year since Ratcliffe became a co-owner of the club.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSThe report claims that the potential Old Trafford replacement could cost up to £2billion.It is thought that the work could take up to three years to complete.This would mean that the earliest the Red Devils would be playing in their new ground would be 2028.Computer-generated images have been released as to what the new ground could look like.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”New Trafford” circular in shape with a huge roof seen from a bird’s eye view.Another snap shows a massive Man Utd badge on the side of the ground as red lights brighten a path full of fans walking to the turnstiles.MMA star Ibragim Ibragimov is the eldest brother to three Man Utd players including one England internationalWhat we know about the ‘new’ Old TraffordMANCHESTER UNITED plan to build a new stadium rather than redevelop Old Trafford.The decision was made after a number of fact-finding missions to other stadiums including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.The cost of the project is expected to be a staggering £2billion.A capacity of 100,000 is expected.It is felt that a club of United’s standing should have a new state-of-the-art facility.The new stadium will be built on land adjacent to the Red Devils’ current home.United are looking to not only build a stadium but regenerate the area of Trafford where the ground will stand.There had been plans to KEEP Old Trafford rather than demolish it, and use it as a scaled down second venue.However, it’s looking increasing likely that it will in fact be entirely demolished.The club consulted with 30,000 fans about what to do and believe there is roughly a 50-50 split on staying or moving.The club have appointed the architects Foster + Partners to come up with a “masterplan”. The company were behind Wembley Stadium.Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910.The target is for completion by 2030. A closer look from a building next to the arena features a gallery and huge windows that look out to a park and statues of United legends.Foster+Partners, who designed Wembley Stadium, are the architects that have made the latest drawings.They have also put together a map of what the area could look like, with the “urban regeneration” spreading across the whole of the Trafford Park region.New houses, commercial areas and improved transport links have all been proposed.Mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham said: “This could be the biggest regeneration scheme ever seen in this country.”The plans would regenerate the area around the groundCredit: https://www.manutd.com/enThe cost is expected to be £2billionCredit: Getty More

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    ‘I’m a bad loser, not a cheater’ – Paul Pogba breaks silence as ex-Man Utd star gives first interview since doping ban

    PAUL POGBA has insisted he is “not a cheater” after the former Manchester United star broke his silence on his doping ban.Pogba had his FOUR-YEAR suspension reduced to 18-months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport earlier this month after an appeal.Paul Pogba opened up on his ban for dopingCredit: Sky SportsPogba had a four-year ban for using banned substance DHEA reduced to 18-months earlier this monthCredit: GettyThe France international opened up on his experiences in an interview with Sky Sports News.Pogba insisted that he isn’t a cheater as he sat down to explain what happened with his ban.He said: “I accept responsibility of taking the supplement but I didn’t triple check it – even if it came from a professional.”If I have to be punished, then I’m fine with it. But it should never have been four years. I will accept 12 months.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAsked to reassure his fans that he has always played clean and not taken performance enhancing drugs, Pogba replied: “When you see me, you know me. People know me.”So even when everything happened people said: ‘we know Paul, he would never take that. If he did, he wouldn’t have known and it won’t have been on purpose’.”And this it totally the truth. I’m an honest person, I would say it.”He added: “I am not a cheater, I am someone that loves my sport. I love the game and I would never, ever. I like to win fairly and people know that.Most read in FootballThe former Man Utd star has insisted he is not a cheaterCredit: Times Newspapers LtdFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”You see me. I’m a bad loser, but I am not a cheater – that’s for sure.”Pogba was slapped with a four-year ban in February after testing positive for the banned substance DHEA.Paul Pogba ban reducedBut CAS’ decision to reduce his ban to 18-months means he will now be able to return to training with Juventus in January and will be eligible to play from March onwards.Pogba opened up on his plans for when he returns to football, pressing that his main goal is to get back on the pitch – wherever that may be.He said: “I would just love to be [back] on the pitch, on any pitch.”First it’s for sure Juventus and I want to start training with my teammates.”It’s tough to be alone doing passes for yourself on the wall. My main focus right now is to get back training, get fit, be on the pitch and be doing what I love.”But the 31-year-old is convinced that he can still play at the highest level when he makes his return, with hopes to return to the French national team.He added: “That’s what I hope [to play for France]. It’s in my mind for sure but I have to be ready for that.”There’s players there that deserve to be playing and deserve to be in the national team.”I have to win my place back in the team again.”In a separate interview with ESPN, Pogba explained that a return to Juventus is his main goal – admitting he’s even willing to take a salary-cut to make it happen.He said: “I’m ready to cut and to reduce my salary to stay at Juve.”I will talk with Thiago Motta. I want to demonstrate to be a great player again.”Pogba has not played since appearing off the bench against Empoli back in September 2023.He made just two appearances for the Old Lady before his ban came into effect.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe initial suspension had seen him banned from playing until late 2027, by which time he would be 34-years-old.But his new reduced punishment could allow him another shot at playing top level football once more.What is DHEA?PAUL POGBA tested positive for elevated levels of DHEA, a hormone that naturally occurs in the adrenal gland, in August 2023.DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, can be used to naturally boost testosterone production. It does not produce testosterone itself.It is on the world anti-doping banned substances list and carries a maximum of four years if the athlete took it deliberately to enhance their performance.DHEA can legally be sold over-the-counter in the US as a dietary product, known as prasterone.It is also taken as an anti-ageing therapy, and to treat depression and the symptoms of menopause, although there is little evidence to suggest it is effective, and it can cause serious side effects.In 2022, UFC fighter Bobby Green received a six-month ban after testing positive for a DHEA.Green said he had not realised that DHEA was banned after seeing a video on YouTube, and took the supplement after his wife bought it from a supermarket. More

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    Laura Woods ‘absolutely buzzing’ at Thomas Tuchel appointment as TNT Sports host hails ‘charming’ new England manager

    LAURA WOODS is buzzing with England’s appointment of Thomas Tuchel.The former Chelsea boss has been named Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor on an 18-month contract.Laura Woods is ‘buzzing’ with Thomas Tuchel’s appointmentCredit: RexShe labelled Tuchel a ‘winner’ and praised his charmCredit: GettyHe will take charge from January and will oversee England’s 2026 World Cup qualification campaign and then the finals if the Three Lions qualify.Woods is delighted by Tuchel’s appointment as she believes he is a winner who will bring passion and charm to the role.She told BetMGM: “I am absolutely buzzing that Tuchel has taken the England job; he is a winner through and through.”I was a massive fan of his when he was at Chelsea and really liked him at Bayern Munich despite it being a bit rocky for him there.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He gets the fans onside and he works the media pretty well too. In the past when I’ve interviewed him I’ve always thought he was quite charming. He brings a bit of humour to stale environments. He is exciting, slightly unpredictable and eccentric.”I really enjoy big characters as managers and I think he’ll garner respect from that group immediately. “More importantly he knows those players, a few of them personally, and he knows English football. He has international respect. It’s a great appointment.”Tuchel’s arrival has not been universally accepted however with some criticising the appointment of a German – the first to manage England.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSInside FA’s thrilling chase for TuchelTHE FA’s path to securing Thomas Tuchel’s signature was not a straightforward one.They tried to lure Pep Guardiola from Manchester City over the summer.They even made contact with Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti after deciding to target trophy-laden foreign gaffers.The FA’s determination to go international was summed up by their decision NOT to interview Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.Initial talks with Tuchel saw him express a slight interest in replacing Gareth Southgate.But he was waiting to see what would happen at Manchester United, with Erik ten Hag’s future under the spotlight.Man Utd owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe eventually decided to stick with Ten Hag – and that opened the door to the FA getting their man.Read the full story on England’s thrilling pursuit of Thomas Tuchel.He was asked about becoming the third foreign boss to be hired England manager after Sven Goran-Eriksson and Fabio Capello.Tuchel said: “I am sorry I have a German passport!Inside Adam Collard and Laura Woods’ romantic engagement as Love Island star gets down on one knee at five star hotel in Cornwall”But I can tell the supporters I have felt my passion for the Premier League and my passion for the country and how I love to live here and work here.”Hopefully I can convince them and show them and prove to them I am proud to be the English manager.”ANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England job More

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    England rugby coach Steve Borthwick issues foreign manager warning as he reacts to Thomas Tuchel appointment

    ENGLAND rugby manager Steve Borthwick welcomed Thomas Tuchel into the international club – but warned that foreign managers do not tend to produce winning sides.Borthwick suggested that the testimonials of Tuchel’s former club players represent the biggest reasons to believe he can be a Three Lions success.England rugby head coach Steve Borthwick has welcomed Thomas Tuchel into the international clubCredit: PATuchel has been unveiled as the new England football managerCredit: GettyBut the Red Rose chief, who worked under Eddie Jones with Japan and England and then succeeded the Aussie, pointed to the history of top level sport to suggest Tuchel will have to break the mould of history.Borthwick said: “I’ve not met Thomas, although I’ve read a lot about him – and probably in the last 12 hours read even more about him.“I would look forward to hopefully having the opportunity at some stage to learn more from him.“The players speak really well of him and they are the best judges.READ MORE ON ENGLAND“You hear them and read what they say. Good players say good things about him.”Hopefully I will have an opportunity to meet him in the future.”Asked whether a coach’s nationality matters, Borthwick added: “First and foremost it is about having the best coach for the team that you have.“Different coaches are needed for different teams and what a team needs at any one point in time is going to be really, really clear.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“But what we have also seen is that not too many major trophies have been won by teams coached by a coach from another nation.“That is just fact. The key point is, get the right coach. That is the most important thing.” Watch Thomas Tuchel’s awkward reaction when asked why he chose England over Man UtdANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England job More