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      Former Liverpool striker now runs ice cream shop selling award-winning Sicilian granita

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      FORMER Liverpool star Krisztian Adorjan has this week announced his retirement from football aged 31.Having hung up his boots, the Hungarian will now be able to spend more time running his Budapest ice cream shop.Krisztian Adorjan excelled in Liverpool’s academyCredit: Sportsfile – SubscriptionHe has since opened an ice cream shop in BudapestCredit: Instagram @ilbrunogelatoAdorjan joined the Reds aged 16 in 2009 and was on their books for five years.The forward impressed for Liverpool’s academy sides, and was even their Under-21s’ top scorer during the 2012-13 season.He trained with the Reds’ first team and also featured in pre-season under Brendan Rodgers, but never managed to earn a senior competitive appearance, despite coming close.Following a loan spell in the Netherlands with Groningen, Adorjan left Anfield permanently for Italian side Novara in 2014.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe went on to play for clubs in Albania and Ireland, before returning to Hungary in 2021.That year, he launched a separate business venture.In an article published by We Love Budapest, it was confirmed that Adorjan had opened an ice cream shop in the Obuda region of the city alongside business partner Fabio Marconi.Having played in the country during his football career, Adorjan brought authentic Italian ice cream to his home city.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSVisitors are spoiled for choice at Adorjan’s ice cream shopCredit: Instagram @ilbrunogelatoThe ice cream shop received favourable reviews in 2021Credit: Instagram @ilbrunogelatoMarconi has plenty of pedigree in the field.Having made ice cream for VIPs at the Sanremo Music Festival, he also won the 2017 world championship with his Sicilian granita.How Liverpool outsmarted Chelsea with Slot’s genius ‘traffic jam’ trick and Curtis Jones masterclassWith plenty of flavours available to customers of Adorjan and Marconi’s Bruno Dolce & Caffe, granita is something of a delicacy.It is described as being like a combination of ice cream, ice slush and sorbet.Adorjan most recently played for second tier side Budapest Honved.Earlier this week, alongside several photographs, including some from his Liverpool days, Adorjan announced his retirement.’THANK YOU FOOTBALL’He wrote: “How could I forget you when my first love was you?! I am who I am because of you.”I will be grateful for everything you taught me and gave me for the rest of my life.”Thank you Football.”His post received comments from several of his former Liverpool academy team-mates.Northern Ireland international Ryan McLaughlin wrote: “What a player. Born on the half turn. Pleasure to play with you mate.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile Stephen Sama said: “Was a pleasure to play with you all the best in your future.”Joao Teixeira added: “What a player ! And even better person ! Pleasure my friend.”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Real Madrid 0 Barcelona 4: Mbappe suffers NIGHTMARE in his first Clasico as Lewandowski double sees Barca run riot

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      ROBERT LEWANDOWSKI scored twice as Barcelona shattered Real Madrid’s 42-game unbeaten run in LaLiga.But it was a night of frustration for Kylian Mbappe in his first Clasico as the Frenchman saw TWO goals ruled out for offside.Robert Lewandowski outshone Kylian Mbappe as his double downed Real MadridCredit: GettyLewandowski scored twice after the break as Barcelona won 4-0 at the BernabeuCredit: GettyInstead it was Lewandowski who was the star of the show as he netted his 16th and 17th goals of the season to send Barca six points clear at the top.Lewandowski’s first, in the 54th minute, followed a superb pass by Barca’s latest youth talent Marc Casado.And he followed it up with a header almost immediately after the restart to silence the Santiago Bernabeu.In fact, it should have been a historic hat-trick as Lewandowski somehow hit the post with an open goal after Raphinha’s cross cut out Los Blancos keeper Andriy Lunin.read more football newsLamine Yamal made it a rout in the 77th when the teenage phenom somehow rifled a shot from an angle over Lunin.Raphinha got involved in the burgundy-and-blue party when he broke free with Madrid pressing forward and chipped the keeper in the 84th.Mbappe had a frustrating first game against Barcelona in a white shirt.The France star was repeatedly caught offside by Barcelona’s synchronized back four and failed to beat second-choice goalkeeper Inaki Pena one-on-one with his team down two goals.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMbappe has two goals ruled out for offside on a frustrating nightCredit: ReutersJude Bellingham was off the boil for MadridCredit: ReutersHansi Flick, meanwhile, had a night to remember in the first Clasico for the German coach.Barcelona still have financial troubles that cast doubt over their future but they have made huge steps forward since Flick replaced Barcelona great Xavi Hernandez in the summer.Inside Real Madrid’s incredible hi-tech free-kick training as stars use robots to hone technique Casado, an unknown reserve team player until Flick picked him to be his holding midfielder, was one of five home-grown players that Flick put in his starting line-up, the same 11 that beat Bayern Munich 4-1 in the Champions League three days before.A total of six players under 22 years old started for Barcelona, led by 17-year-olds Yamal and Pau Cubarsi, and showed no signs of being intimidated by the scenario.Yamal upstaged Mbappe this summer when Spain beat France en route to winning the European Championship.And he did it again when he displayed the finishing touch that Mbappe was lacking.Mbappe himself was ruled offside no less than five times in the first half hour, as Barcelona pressed high up the field.While Jude Bellingham was largely anonymous as the game slipped away from the increasingly desperate hosts.Vinicius Junior, who is set to win the Ballon d’Or on Monday, didn’t fare much better as he missed a golden chance to give Madrid the lead in the first half. More

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      Ipswich star drops ‘worst performance in Prem history’ with red card, own goal and giving penalty away on first start

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      HARRY CLARKE suffered a nightmare first Premier League start with the most unwanted hat-trick. The Ipswich defender, 23, got the nod from Kieran McKenna for the trip to Brentford.Harry Clarke endured the worst first Premier League start possibleCredit: GettyHe was sent off for two yellow cards in the second halfCredit: ReutersBut the right-back could not have had a worse afternoon at the Gtech Community Stadium. It had all started well for Clarke and his Tractor Boys team-mates as they took a 2-0 lead, looking on course for their first win of the season – as fellow Premier League full debutant George Hirst scored.However, ex-Arsenal academy ace and England Under-17 international Clarke inadvertently ensured they would not secure all three points.Yoane Wissa pulled the first Brentford goal back on 44 minutes.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThen in the first minute of injury time, Wissa looked for goal again – as the defender slid in to try and clear.Instead, unlucky Clarke only managed to knock the ball over the line with his arm as the Bees equalised.They then took the lead six minutes into the second half from the penalty spot – after Clarke was penalised for pulling Keane Lewis-Potter down.Initially, a free-kick was awarded and a yellow card brandished – before VAR took a look and overruled for a spot-kick, which Bryan Mbeumo duly dispatched. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd Clarke’s horror game culminated in a second yellow card and subsequent red for diving in on Lewis-Potter on 69 minutes. As a result, he became just the second player in Premier League history to achieve the triple whammy of scoring an own goal, giving a penalty away and being sent off. ‘I wouldn’t want to be the VAR’ gasps Mike Dean as Aston Villa goal overturned in controversial circumstancesThe first was Jan Bednarek against Manchester United in Southampton’s thumping 9-0 defeat in February 2021. And fans were quick to take to social media to react to Clarke’s dreaded debut. One said: “Harry Clarke has got to hold the record for the worst game ever by a PL player. You gotta feel for him.”Another wrote: “Harry Clarke has had an absolute nightmare today.”A third added: “Harry Clarke will never forget this day.”And a final user joked: “Harry Clarke’s first ever Premier League start going well then.”To make matters worse, after Liam Delap looked to have rescued a point for Ipswich, Clarke could only watch on helplessly as Mbeumo’s cross ended up in the back of the net for a 96th-minute winner.The own goal bounced in off the right-back in unfortunate scenesCredit: GettyThe referee initially gave a free-kick but it was changed to a penaltyCredit: ReutersThe performance matched Jan Bednarek’s against Manchester United in 2021Credit: GettyTV fixtures in DecemberHere are all the games that will be televised in December…Tuesday 3 December19:30 Ipswich v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Leicester v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)Wednesday 4 December19:30 Everton v Wolves (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Man City v Nott’m Forest (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Newcastle v Liverpool (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Southampton v Chelsea (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Aston Villa v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)Thursday 5 December19:30 Fulham v Brighton (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 AFC Bournemouth v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)Saturday 7 December12:30 Everton v Liverpool (TNT Sports)17:30 Man Utd v Nott’m Forest (Sky Sports)Sunday 8 December14:00 Fulham v Arsenal (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Chelsea (Sky Sports)Monday 9 December20:00 West Ham v Wolves (Sky Sports)Saturday 14 December17:30 Nott’m Forest v Aston Villa (Sky Sports)Sunday 15 December14:00 AFC Bournemouth v West Ham (Sky Sports)16:30 Man City v Man Utd (Sky Sports)19:00 Southampton v Spurs (TNT Sports)Monday 16 December20:00 Brighton v Crystal Palace (Sky Sports)Saturday 21 December12:30 Aston Villa v Man City (TNT Sports)17:30 Crystal Palace v Arsenal (Sky Sports)Sunday 22 December14:00 Fulham v Southampton (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Thursday 26 December12:30 Man City v Everton (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 AFC Bournemouth v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Chelsea v Fulham (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Newcastle v Aston Villa (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Nott’m Forest v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Southampton v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)17:30 Wolves v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:00 Liverpool v Leicester (Amazon Prime Video)Friday 27 December19:30 Brighton v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Ipswich (Amazon Prime Video)Sunday 29 December14:30 Leicester v Man City (Sky Sports)17:15 West Ham v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Monday 30 December20:00 Man Utd v Newcastle (Sky Sports) More

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      Arsenal’s title hopes are OVER if they lose to Liverpool, warns Gunners legend Tony Adams

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      TONY ADAMS has warned Arsenal ahead of today’s Prem showdown with Liverpool: Lose and you can forget the title.Gunners legend Adams believes they will have more chance of lifting the Champions League if they slip SEVEN  points  behind  Arne Slot’s Reds and SIX behind Manchester City.Arsenal’s legendary captain Tony Adams says the Gunners’ title hopes will be OVER if they lose to LiverpoolCredit: GettyMikel Arteta has an injury headache for the crunch title clashCredit: GettyThe ex-Arsenal captain, four times a champion with the club, said: “This is not quite a must-win game but it is a must-not-lose.“We can’t lose, because then we would not be far off having more chance of winning the Champions League than the title, even this early.“At the back end of the season, you will also have a City squad that has been rotated and is full of beans. Usually they don’t lose a game.“You have to stay in touch with your rivals. If you get to April within three points of the title, you still have a chance.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAdams is the only player to win the title in three different decades — skippering the Gunners to glory in 1989, 1991, 1998 and 2002.But Adams, 58, feels his injury-hit former club have it all to do at the Emirates this afternoon.Defender William Saliba is banned after a red card against Bournemouth.Boss Mikel Arteta fears Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber will not be fit while skipper Martin Odegaard is a long-term absentee.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTony Adams: Red cards are sign of a winning mentality… Arsenal need to be MORE aggressiveBACK in the day at Arsenal, red cards were regarded as signs of a winning mentality — not a failing that could cost them titles.The Gunners go into Sunday’s clash with Liverpool without defender William Saliba after he became the THIRD player in Mikel Arteta’s squad to be sent off this season.When fellow Frenchman Patrick Vieira was dismissed in a home game with the Reds in August 2000, there was indeed talk of crisis in Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal team.But for Arsenal’s captain that day, Tony Adams, Vieira’s disciplinary record and reaction to his latest misdemeanour were water off a duck’s back.Adams told SunSport’s Dan King, chuckling: “It was par for the course, Patrick getting sent off — everyday occurrence. “If I thought Patrick was being out of order, I would have had a quiet word. But I wasn’t going to go up to Patrick and say, ‘Calm yourself down, for God’s sake!’“Because that was half of his game. I needed that from him.“And if sometimes we got red cards — and Arsene said, ‘Oh, I didn’t see it’ — then that’s the way it was.”“When they were closing down people, putting in tackles and getting involved, putting pressure on teams and maybe mistiming a tackle to get a yellow or a red, I didn’t have a problem with that.“I would rather have had that than have no-one getting sent off and accepting losing every week.”I’d like Arsenal to be MORE aggressive in making tackles and closing down.”Read Tony Adams’ full thoughts on Arsenal’s red card woes…Adams added: “With Saliba out and the injuries, everything is pointing to an away win.“As soon as Saliba went off against Bournemouth, you saw it fall apart. We lost our balance.’If Arsenal lose to Liverpool, they are out of the Premier League title race… the gulf is massive’“It’s the first time in about three years that we’ve had a few injuries and it is highlighting weaknesses in the squad.“City have got an array of talent. That level of quality throughout your squad makes a difference over the season.”Adams is also not sure if Arteta has a centre-back good enough to make up for the absence of Saliba.The ex-England captain said: “When we won the league in ’89, we had me and Steve Bould, with Dave O’Leary as back-up.We can’t lose, because then we would not be far off having more chance of winning the Champions League than the title, even this early.Tony Adams“If one of us was out, we were OK. When you have that level of quality in your squad, you are winning titles.”But Adams reckons they CAN get a result.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “Liverpool are confident and Mo Salah is on fire but I have a funny feeling Arsenal will get a point.“I would love it if we got all three — and if that means getting another red card in the process, so be it.”Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor GunnersARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…DAVID RAYA – 7Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stagesPushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.BEN WHITE – 6Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.Marked improvement in the second half.RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.THOMAS PARTEY – 6Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.DECLAN RICE – 6Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.GABRIEL JESUS – 8Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. KAI HAVERTZ – 7Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.SUBSMikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A More

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      Holden Trent dead aged 25: Tributes pour in for Philadelphia Union goalkeeper after sudden death of MLS star

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      AN MLS footballer has tragically died aged just 25.Philadelphia Union announced the passing of goalkeeper Holden Trent on Saturday afternoon.Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Holden Trent died aged 25Credit: Instagram @holdentrent93The club released a statement on Saturday afternoonCredit: X @PhilaUnionNo cause of death has been released at this stage although Trent was admitted to intensive care on Thursday, according to reports from Yahoo.The club are in mourning following the awfully sad news.They said: “The Philadelphia Union is devastated by the heartbreaking passing of Holden Trent. “While he was a wonderful player and fierce competitor, he was more importantly a devoted son, brother, fiance, and team-mate who made those around him better. READ MORE ON MLS”He embodied the true meaning of determination, dedication and perseverance, and he will be deeply missed. “We extend our greatest sympathies to his family, his fiance and his friends.”Union’s fellow MLS clubs including Portland Timbers, FC Cincinnati, San Jose Earthquakes, Sporting Kansas City, New England Revolution and New York Red Bulls all replied with their condolences. Trent was selected by Philadelphia in the 2023 MLS Draft from High Point University – playing for the club for two seasons and making six appearances for the second team.Most read in FootballHe was also an unused sub eight times for the club in the 2024 season. Trent’s grieving family also posted a statement of their own on the goalkeeper’s Instagram page. They wrote: “We want to thank everyone for your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. “Holden passed away this afternoon surrounded by his family and friends.”Details on services and celebration of life are forthcoming.”Our family is deeply touched to see and experience the love you all have for Holden.”Love, Holden’s Family.”Devastated fans and followers flooded the comments with emotional messages of support and love.’WILL CHERISH ALL OUR MEMORIES’One said: “I love you brother, one of the most genuine people I know. I’ll never forget what you have done for me since day one brother, I love you and I’m always going to keep your name alive bro please watch over us bro.”Another wrote: “So sorry Holden – you will be missed.”A third added: “Love you forever Holden.”A fourth replied: “We love you Holden and will keep your love alive.”And a final team-mate typed: “I love you brother. Will cherish all of our memories on and off the field.”Trent and fiancee Brie Losito got engaged at the end of 2023, with the football proposing in Florence on a romantic pre-Christmas trip to Italy. MLS Commissioner Don Garber said: “Major League Soccer joins the Philadelphia Union and our entire soccer community in mourning the tragic passing of Union goalkeeper Holden Trent.
”A young goalkeeper with a bright future, Trent showcased determination and professionalism every day as he contributed to the close-knit goalkeeping unit at Philadelphia.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We extend our deepest condolences to his fiancee, his family and friends, his team-mates and the entire Philadelphia Union community. “MLS is coordinating with the club to provide players and family members with the resources and support they need during this tragic time.”Friends, family and the football community paid tribute to the shot-stopperCredit: Alamy More

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      Georgia Stanway wants England to take their game ‘to the next level’ following tough loss to Germany

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      GEORGIA STANWAY insists England need to step up their game following their heaviest loss under Sarina Wiegman.While the midfielder netted twice the Lionesses succumbed to a 4-3  friendly defeat to Germany on Friday, nine months before the 2025 Women’s Euros. Georgia Stanway believes tweaks may be needed for England following ahead of their upcoming friendly game against South AfricaCredit: PAThe Lioness midfielder netted two first-half goals during England’s 4-3 loss to Germany at WembleyCredit: AlamyThree of the goals conceded at Wembley during a tough opening 29 minutes were scored by two of Stanway’s Bayern team-mates – Guilia Gwinn and Klara Buhl.The clash ended with the reigning Euros champs, who face South Africa next, shipping four for the first time under Wiegman. It was also the first time England conceded four times at home since falling to a 6-4 defeat by Germany in Preston in 1997.Stanway, who scored a first-half brace, said: “My initial reaction was we just need to fix this and it doesn’t matter who was to score or what was going to happen.Read More Football Stories”Two Bayern girls had scored so I thought I needed to do something. “I need to fix something. I can’t have them bragging as soon as we get back to campus. “As soon as we got the penalty, we got the ball rolling and we were able to get some more chances. “It was a hectic game. Even coming in at half time with the score, it could have been 4-4.Most read in Football”Every nation is going to get better and better and having won the Euros, we’ve got a massive target on our backs.”England’s next friendly will be a duel with South Africa at Coventry’s CBS Arena on Tuesday evening. Their upcoming opponents suffered a hefty friendly loss on Friday, getting hammered 5-0 by Denmark. Stanway insists England have got things to learn ahead of the game against the 2022 Women’s Afcon champions. And Wiegman’s side will face far sterner tests when take on the USA and Switzerland on November 30 and December 3. The midfielder, who sealed a May 2022 Bayern switch from Man City, added: “We need to take our game to the next level and we can’t rest. “This international camp so far has been intense and the game itself (on Friday) was intense. “It showcases we’re not there yet and we’ve still got nine months (before the next Euros). England’s clash with South Africa on October will be followed by a friendly game against Emma Hayes’s USA stars on November 30Credit: Alamy”The main thing is that we’re trying to do the right things, but it’s not necessarily working.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Maybe it’s the little tweaks that are necessary, but we’ll review it. “We’ll have a few days to prepare for South Africa.” More

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      Gareth Southgate set for knighthood for his England heroics after he is CLEARED over controversial tax scheme

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      GARETH Southgate has been cleared over a controversial tax scheme — paving the way for a knighthood in the New Year Honours List.The former England boss, who got the men’s side to two Euro finals, was under Whitehall scrutiny over film investment deals.Former England boss Gareth Southgate is set for a knighthood after being cleared over a controversial tax schemeCredit: GettySouthgate with Prince William ahead of the 2024 Euro finalCredit: AFPA spokesman for Southgate said he was a ‘proud Englishman’ who had ‘always paid his taxes’Credit: GettyHe still needs official approval but a source said: “Now he’s cleared the checks, people are talking about him becoming ‘Sir Gareth’.”It would see him follow in the footsteps of Three Lions greats Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson.Tax bosses have cleared the way by ruling he did not break rules by investing in a controversial film investment scheme.The decision came after intensive talks between HM Revenue & Customs executives and Whitehall mandarins in recent weeks.READ MORE ON GARETH SOUTHGATESouthgate, 54, stepped down as manager in July after steering the Three Lions to two Euro finals and a World Cup semi-final in eight years.A source said: “Gareth deserves the knighthood and people in high places want to honour him.“He was a tremendous servant to England and came close to leading the team to their first silverware since 1966.“Gareth has also been a great role model and is a hugely respected public figure.”Most read in FootballGareth Southgate drops biggest hint yet over next job amid Man Utd links after stepping down as England managerPlans to knight him if England had won the 2020 Euro final against Italy were reportedly shelved as he had been placed at “amber” on a “tax risk list”.Ministers are traditionally extremely cautious when putting together honours lists.Ex-England captain David Beckham’s tax issues are said to have been a factor in him not receiving a knighthood.A source said: “Now it seems he has cleared all the checks, and people at Westminster are talking about him becoming ‘Sir Gareth’.”Southgate — in charge of England for 102 matches, and pictured with FA patron Prince William before this year’s final against Spain — was among stars to plough cash into Ingenious Media, which invested in fledgling films.But the deals were probed by the taxman over fears that the scheme was simply an artificial way of reducing tax bills.Last year, a spokesman for Southgate said he was a “proud Englishman” who had “always paid his taxes and complied with HMRC throughout his career”.The dad of two is also understood to have put aside the disputed funds “on account” as soon as HMRC challenged the scheme.READ MORE SUN STORIESLast night we approached an agent for Southgate. A Cabinet Office spokesman said: “It would be inappropriate to comment on potential honours recipients.”Stars stumped upGARETH Southgate was among hundreds of high-profile clients to plough cash into Ingenious MediaDavid Beckham, Gary Lineker and Wayne Rooney were other sports stars to have invested with the firm between 2002 and 2010.Film-maker Guy Ritchie, actor Sacha Baron Cohen and Ant and Dec also did so.All were advised that their millions would be boosting Britain’s film industry in a tax-efficient way.Ingenious did fund 60 movies, including Avatar and Life of Pi , but was also found by HMRC to have run tax-avoidance schemes.More than 400 investors ultimately found themselves embroiled in a £434million tax avoidance dispute.And following a tax tribunal ruling, HMRC demanded that investors with Ingenious repaid them.None of those involved was guilty of any wrongdoing.Many of the stars ultimately settled financially with HMRC, while others took legal action against advisers.Southgate’s highs and lows as England bossGARETH Southgate took charge of 102 games for England before quitting in the aftermath of the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.But what were the best – and worst matches – from the popular gaffer’s eight-year reign before that devastating Sunday night in Berlin? Here we take a look.THE HIGHS:Colombia 1-1 England (3-4 on pens,) 2018 World CupThis was the night that long-suffering supporters finally started to believe that it was coming home.Despite conceding a late equaliser, England held their nerve to advance to the quarter final of the World Cup 2018 on penalties.It was our first shootout victory for 22 years.Spain 2-3 England, 2018 Nations LeagueFollowing on from the World Cup, England won in Spain for the first time in 31 years with a brilliant Uefa Nations League victory.Southgate’s boys stunned the Seville crowd into silence with a thrilling performance that saw them lead 3-0 at the break thanks to a Raheem Sterling brace and Marcus Rashford.Although the hosts scored two after the break, the way the Three Lions tore La Roja apart excited every fan.England 2-1 Denmark, Euro 2020 semi-finalSouthgate led England to their first major final in 55 years as they beat Denmark after extra-time in the Euro 2020 semi-final.Having fallen behind after half an hour, the Three Lions battled back to send it to extra-time courtesy of an own goal.Then it was captain Kane who converted a rebound after Kasper Schmeichel originally saved his penalty in extra-time to win it.England 3-0 Sengal, 2022 World Cup last 16England had already blown Iran and Wales, 6-2 and 3-0 respectively, away in the World Cup 2022 group stages before they breezed past Senegal.The free-scoring Three Lions recorded another big win to set-up a mouthwatering quarter-final against France – what could go wrong?Italy 1-2 England, Euro qualifiers, 2023On a night when Harry Kane became England’s all-time top scorer, the Three Lions recorded a first away win over Italy since 1961.It was the first game since their 2022 World Cup exit, and it ensured a perfect start to their Euro 2022 qualifying campaign.England 2-1 Holland, Euro 2024 sem-finalThe nation doubted Southgate’s men in the semis of Euro 2024, but they responded with a barnstorming display.Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Dutch but Harry Kane’s penalty drew us level.And Ollie Watkins slotted in a brilliant winner in injury time to see the Three Lions into their second successive Euros final.AND THE LOWS….Croatia 2-1 England, World Cup semi-final, 2018Having led England to a first World Cup semi-final since 1990, Southgate men made a dream start as Kieran Trippier put them ahead in the early exchanges.But Ivan Perisic equalised as the Croats began to take control.Some of Southgate’s substitutions were then questioned after his team were beaten in extra-time, although many gave him the benefit of the doubt as he returned a hero.Italy 1-1 England (3-2 pens) Euro 2020 finalWill probably never get a better chance to have secured a trophy for the Three Lions than this final of the last European Championship.Luke Shaw gave us the lead after just seconds, but just like against Croatia three years earlier, we sat back and let our rivals back into it.Leonardo Bonucci duly equalised in the second half and the game eventually went to penalties.The unfortunate Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka were all brought on to take a spot-kick, but the brave trio all missed as the Azzurri broke our hearts to take the prize.England 0-4 Hungary, Nations League 2023A year on from the Euros and it was utter embarrassment for Southgate in this Nations League game at Molineux.It was our biggest home defeat since 1928 and the result led to England being relegated from the top group of the Nations League and back to one that contained the Republic of Ireland, Finland and Greece.England 1-2 France, World Cup 2022 quarter-finalsAnother case of what could have been.Having been free-scoring throughout Qatar 2022, many fancied us to go all the way at the World Cup despite taking on the holders in the quarters.We fought back from going behind to level through Kane and many believe that France were then there for the taking had Southgate deployed a more attacking approach.Instead, they seemed content with what they had until Olivier Giroud pounced 12 minutes from time to win it.But there was still one more twist of the knife for England as the usually-reliable Kane skied a late penalty over the bar uncharacteristically as we crashed out. 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      I’m a baker who tricked Manuel Ugarte into joining my club… I knew he was destined to go for big dough

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      AS a boy wonder discovered by a baker, maybe Manuel Ugarte was always destined to cost big dough.Erik ten Hag felt £42.3million was a price worth paying to make the Uruguayan hard man the icing on Manchester United’s midfield cake.Manuel Ugarte was spotted by a scout who is also a bakerCredit: GettyAnd his starring role in Thursday’s Europa League scrap in Turkey, suggested Ugarte may indeed be just what United boss Ten Hag kneads.The ball-winner made anything but a flying start in Manchester.But Ugarte, 23, was United’s best performer in their 1-1 draw with Fenerbahce, making a superb goal-saving block.He also played a key role in starting the move which led to Christian Eriksen’s opener.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt has been anything but plain sailing for Ugarte or United this season.But the scout who spotted him 7,500 miles away never had any doubts.Ugarte was 13 and playing for local side City Park — in Montevideo — when Marcelo Sasso convinced him to join second-tier Fenix.Part-time talent spotter Sasso, who earns his crust in the family bakery, beat off the bigger sides by convincing Ugarte’s dad Miguel that Fenix offered a quicker route to the top.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTwo years later he made the first team and he went on to play for Sporting Lisbon and Paris Saint-Germain before landing his move to Old Trafford in August.Sasso revealed: “Fenix is only a small club.Manchester United vs Fenerbahce: Player Ratings (1)“So when I see a player, I find his best friends and sign them to attract him.“Manuel was coming from a baby club called City Park.“Penarol, Nacional and Defensor were after him, but I told his father he should sign for us.“All I got was silence from his dad, and I really thought I’d lost him.“Just before the end of the transfer window I got a surprise when Miguel brought Manuel to training.“His father was still uncertain, but said Manu decided to sign for us because his five best friends were also going to play for the club.“He said ‘I am not sure it’s the best option — but he wants to play with his friends.’”It looks a wise call now — with Ugarte fast winning over the United fans.And he aims to take the next step in Sunday’s Premier League trip to West Ham.And while United are still far from back on an even keel, Sasso has every faith their new midfield star can steer the ship.He added: “I am aware things haven’t been going well for them.“But all the great teams — Real Madrid, Barcelona, Boca Juniors, everyone — have stormy days.“I hope and believe Manu will also be there in the times of calm.READ MORE SUN STORIES “He will be the new leader of the United team.“Trust me on that — I know I’m right.”Manuel Ugarte the next Roy KeaneBy PHIL THOMASNEARLY two decades have passed since Roy Keane led Manchester United into battle for the final time.It left a gap in the engine room that the Red Devils have never really come close to filling in the 19 years that have followed.Many tried and some managed it in flashes and, although the trophies still rolled in for a time, there was no snarling, bring-it-on warrior prowling the midfield.Until now… until the imminent capture of a man who views a 50-50 challenge like a starving Labrador staring at a side of ham.For three months, United have licked their own lips at the prospect of a midfield marshalled by Uruguayan tough guy Manuel Ugarte.Finally, they have their man.Ugarte is pretty much a ball-winner pure and simple.Rarely will you see him pinging 40-yard passes to split a defence.But ending his days with half the reputation of Keane and a fraction of his silverware would still mean a hell of a career. More