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      Who is Douglas Luiz’s girlfriend Alisha Lehmann?

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      FOOTBALL star Alisha Lehmann is no stranger to the spotlight after her high-profile relationship with team-mate Ramona Bachmann.The former West Ham and Aston Villa Women’s star is now dating Douglas Luiz, having met at Villa Park. Here’s what we know about Alisha.Alisha Lehmann joined Juventus alongside her current partnerCredit: Juventus / GettyAlisha has been open about her dating historyCredit: Getty ImagesWho is Douglas Luiz’s girlfriend Alisha Lehmann?Alisha Debora Lehmann is a Swiss footballer who plays as a forward for Juventus in Serie A and also represents the Switzerland national team.Born on January 21, 1999, she began her football journey at the age of nine with FC Konolfingen, where she played from 2008 to 2011.Before making the move to Italy, Alisha spent two years with West Ham and three years with Aston Villa in the Women’s Super League. The forward made the move to the Women’s Super League in August 2018 when she was signed by West Ham United.Read about Alisha LehmannShe caught the eye of then-West Ham Women’s manager, Matt Beard, with how she played during the 2018 UEFA Women’s Under-19 Championship, which was held in her home country.In January 2021, Alisha made a loan move to Merseyside, joining Everton for the remainder of the season.Following that stint, she secured a permanent move to Aston Villa, where she went on to score four goals in 23 appearances during her debut season with the club.On the international stage, Alisha earned her first cap for Switzerland in October 2017, and just a few months later, in March 2018, she bagged her first international goal.Most read in SportThat goal came against Finland during the 2018 Cyprus Women’s Cup.She joined Juventus in 2024 and has scored 2 goals in 15 appearances so far for the Italian side.Alisha Lehmann leaves Aston Villa as she makes history with first boyfriend and girlfriend transferOff the pitch, she’s also a model and is considered Switzerland’s top sporting influencer, making waves both on and off the field.At Aston Villa, it’s believed that Alisha was earning around £160,000 a year, with sponsorship deals from the likes of Adidas and EA Sports giving her income an extra boost. On top of that, she reportedly landed a major deal with sports drink brand Prime, said to be worth over £928,000.As for her current contract with Juventus, the details have been kept under wraps, but it was reported early last year that her net worth was estimated to be around £1.9million.Dubbed the ‘World’s sexiest footballer’, she boasts almost 17 million Instagram followers as of April 2025.Alisha’s off-pitch promotions have got her raking in more than a million poundsCredit: Ben Montgomery / Getty ImagesIn March 2025, she risked a ban on the photo-sharing platform after rocking a daring see-through top with matching black underwear.She captioned the sultry snaps: “Second skin.”One fan responded: “Killing it as always.”Another swooned: “Alisha you look wonderful!”Is Alisha Lehmann in a relationship?The player revealed she is in a relationship with Brazilian international and fellow Juventus star Douglas Luiz.The two actually dated back in 2021 before going their separate ways for a while. Alisha has been open about her past relationships too. She has dated both men and women, including her Switzerland team-mate Ramona Bachmann.Ramona BachmannThe Juventus star dated team-mate Ramona Bachmann for a yearCredit: Instagram / Alisha LehmannTheir relationship was featured on the BBC Three show Britain’s Youngest Football Boss. Ramona and Alisha first met in 2018 when Alisha was playing for West Ham and Bachmann was at Chelsea, and they officially started dating in 2021.Reflecting on that time, Alisha told Marca: “It’s 2025. I think everyone can date whoever they want and be with whoever they want.”It’s important to open your mind and stop seeing this as a problem and instead see it as progress.”Be who you are and who you want to be. Love is love. It’s simple.”That relationship lasted about a year, and after they split, Alisha began dating Douglas again.Douglas Luiz Alisha is now in a relationship with Douglas LuizWhen they first dated in 2021, Douglas was said to be smitten with her.At the time, a source said: “He quickly asked her out and they became a footballing power couple. They were so loved up.”But, sadly, as Alisha became more in demand off the pitch, the cracks started to appear in their relationship.”When asked to do a calendar, she jumped at the chance to show off her sexy side but he was not happy.”He didn’t think it was something she should be doing. They rowed a lot and in the end, Alisha simply had enough.”However, the couple are back together, having spent several years together at Aston Villa.We do the same job, but he gets paid a hundred times more than me.Alisha LehmannThe pair then made the move to Juventus last summer, a switch that reportedly cost the Italian club £60million for both players.Alisha said the move was a mutual decision between her and Douglas, explaining: “I don’t know who convinced whom, it just happened.”So in the summer, she joined her boyfriend in swapping the Midlands for the Old Lady.However, she has been vocal about the gender pay gap in football, especially when comparing her salary to Douglas’s £100,000-a-week contract. Alisha has raised awareness about the gender pay gap in sportCredit: Getty ImagesIn an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, she shared: “Everyone would like to have the same salary.”I often speak to Douglas at home about this and tell him it’s not fair.”We do the same job, but he gets paid a hundred times more than me.”It’s something that affects me because I’m a woman.Read More on The Sun”Obviously, there’s still a long way to go on the path we’re on because there may never be equal pay.”There will have to be a very strong will to make a change in this direction.” More

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      ‘Had to let him go’ – Ruben Amorim gives Victor Lindelof and Noussair Mazraoui update after stars leave Lyon game early

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      RUBEN AMORIM has said he “had to” let his players go after Victor Lindelof and Noussair Mazraoui were forced to leave Old Trafford early last night.The Manchester United defenders both left the ground at half-time as the Red Devils pulled off a miracle comeback to beat Lyon 5-4 and advance to the Europa League semi-finals.Ruben Amorim has given an update on Noussair Mazraoui and Victor Lindelof’s early exits from Old Trafford last nightCredit: GettyNoussair Mazraoui left the stadium at half-time having played the first halfCredit: RexVictor Lindelof was supposed to replace Mazraoui but also had to leave the groundCredit: GettyRuben Amorim’s side were without the pair as they scored THREE extra-time goals to come from 4-2 down and win the game.After the match Amorim revealed that the pair were both forced to exit the Theatre of Dreams due to personal matters.Now the United boss has given another update on the duo, explaining that they will be able to return to action for this weekend’s Premier League clash with Wolves.Asked about Lindelof’s absence, he said: “He’s available. He has personal issues like Nous [Mazraoui] so we had to let him go but everything is OK now.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”I know that football is really important but there are things that are more important and then they will be ready to face the next game.”Amorim didn’t divulge exactly what issues the pair had encountered, but reassured fans that they are both fine.”Both [issues came to light] during the game and sometimes you don’t control these things”, he added.”Everything happened this season, but everything is OK now.”Most read in FootballMan Utd ratings vs LyonMANCHESTER UNITED scored three goals in seven unbelievable minutes to beat Lyon in one of the all-time great nights at Old Trafford.The Red Devils looked to be putting in one of their best displays since Ruben Amorim took over as they raced into a 2-0 lead.But after conceding one goal, they let the ground slip from under them, quickly giving away another to allow Lyon to take the game to extra time.Not even a red card for Corentin Tolisso could get United out of their slump as the French side completely dominated most of the additional 30 minutes.Rayan Cherki and an Alexandre Lacazette penalty meant the visitors looked home and hosed before Casemiro was fouled and Bruno Fernandes hit home from the spot.Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire then both netted in stoppage time of extra time to secure a scarcely believable win.Here’s how SunSport’s Phil Thomas rated the United stars on a night that went from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordSunSport understands that both issues were independent of each other.Lindelof, 30, had been warming up at half-time and was due to replace Mazraoui.Man Utd fans celebrate outside Old Trafford after leaving Lyon game early However, the Swedish international’s emergency meant Luke Shaw had to come on instead.United did just fine in the absence of Lindelof and Mazraoui as they pulled off one of the greatest European nights in Old Trafford history.Amorim’s side had blown their own 2-0 advantage to fall 4-2 behind to their French opponents with just over 10 minutes to play in extra-time.But a 114th minute Bruno Fernandes penalty was followed by goals at the death by Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire to keep Man Utd’s season alive and send Old Trafford into a frenzy of celebration.Amorim had thrown 6ft 4in Maguire up front in the late stages to push for a winning goal.And the gamble paid off when the England centre-back nodded the ball past Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri in the 121st minute to cause utter bedlam in the stands.Read More on The SunExplaining the decision after the game, he said: “We tried to put Harry Maguire up front because he is the only one who can score a goal with a header.”The sounds of the stadium was the best ever. Some people collect shirts, scarves, but I want to keep that sound, it’s the best sound in the world.”Harry Maguire scored a late winner to complete the comebackCredit: Getty More

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      Who is Joe Thompson’s wife Chantelle Perry and how many children did she share with the late Man Utd footballer?

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      MANCHESTER United have paid tribute to former footballer Joe Thompson, who has sadly passed away from cancer at the age of 36.  The club offered their heartfelt support to his family, stating that their thoughts are very much with them during this incredibly difficult time. Here’s what we know about his wife, Chantelle Perry, and their children.Chantelle Perry and Joe Thompson have been married since 2016Credit: Instagram / Chantelle PerryWho is Joe Thompson’s wife, Chantelle Perry?Chantelle Perry is the wife of former English professional footballer, Joe Thompson.The pair married in 2016 after dating for a long time.Sadly, the ex-Rochdale player, who retired at the age of 29 in 2019, faced an uphill battle with his health.He was diagnosed with cancer for a third time in 2024.Read more about Joe ThompsonIn a tribute to her husband, who died on April 17, 2025, Chantelle wrote on Instagram: “Our brave and courageous Joey passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning, he was at home where he wanted to be in a beautiful peaceful setting surrounding by his family when he transitioned. “Joe has made such an impact on so many people and we are all forever grateful for him blessing us with his presence and for being so strong and staying with us as long as he did against all the odds.“He was the most Incredible husband,son,brother,friend & father to our beautiful daughters who will now carry his light and legacy on and I will continue to keep filling them up with Joes love every single day.”Chantelle added: “It’s been a long battle, and one that he fought with all his might and he did things HIS way!! Most read in Football“He choose his path and walked every step with courage and pride growing closer and closer to god each day whilst still being there for so many others. “He held on to his plans for the future to continue that legacy but It’s now time for him to rest up and watch over us from heaven.Ex-Man Utd trainee Joe Thompson diagnosed with cancer for 3rd time and says ‘aggressive’ lymphoma has spread to his lungs “I know he will be deeply missed by everyone and the world will not be the same without his contagious energy. Long may his legacy and impact live on!!”Chantelle herself is a beauty entrepreneur and set up the Perriee Spa back in 2015 in Prestwich. By then, she’d already been styling hair for 13 years and had spent the last decade perfecting her own techniques for fitting hair extensions.According to Company House, she still holds a number of senior roles in her beauty businesses, however, she generally keeps a low profile.She was just 27 when Joe was first diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013, while he was playing for Tranmere. He was given the all-clear a year later, but sadly had to face the disease again in 2017.Chantelle has stood by him since he was diagnosedCredit: Instagram / Chantelle PerrySpeaking in 2019, Joe said he owed so much to Chantelle and their family for standing by him through it all.He told the Liverpool Echo: “I owe it to my body and also to my family who have all seen me go through hell on more than one occasion. “You have all been my light in my darkest days.”Joe said: “It’s definitely going to be a challenge and of course I get really down some days but what I need is people around me to take my mind off it because if I’m on my own for too long I just think about everything too much.She’s been my motivation through some really dark and hard times.Joe Thomspson“I have my loved ones to keep me strong and I’m so lucky to have such a fantastic family.“As a family we’re all really close. On the day I was told I had cancer my daughter just instinctively knew there was something up and she wouldn’t stop crying. It was so strange because the moment the doctor told us she knew something was wrong.“I guess she just knew there was a twinkle in daddy’s eye which wasn’t there anymore. We all slept crammed on the sofa together that night because Lula wouldn’t settle and she usually goes to sleep like clockwork.’How many children did Joe Thompson have with Chantelle Perry?The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Thailula-Lily, in September 2014.The couple share two daughtersCredit: Instagram / Chantelle PErryWhile saying his statement about his cancer returning, he described his wife and daughter, saying: “I would like to thank my wife, Chantelle, who was my rock in my first encounter and will once again be by my side with the same encouragement, discipline and strength. “Not to mention the love shown to me by both my wife and beautiful daughter Thailula-Lily who are both my motivations daily.”A year later, Thompson said about them: “She means the world to me – and my wife. “She’s been my motivation through some really dark and hard times.”She always makes me smile and hopefully she’ll remember that. She sees Daddy as Superman.”Read More on The SunThey had their second daughter, Athena Rae, in 2022.Tragically, in 2024, Chantelle and Joe shared that they had lost their baby son, whom they named Dre Phoenix Thompson. More

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      ‘Build him a statue’ – Man Utd fans stunned as they realise £70m ‘flop’ single-handedly saved the day in Lyon clash

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      IN all the chaos of Manchester United’s thrilling 7-6 aggregate victory over Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals, one star was initially overlooked for his huge role in the comeback.Bruno Fernandes spearheaded the fightback with a perfect penalty before Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire scored injury-time goals in extra time to seal a 5-4 win on the night and send Old Trafford into meltdown.Casemiro was the unsung hero of Man Utd’s win over LyonCredit: GettyThe Brazilian midfielder was labelled ‘the godfather’ for his displayCredit: GettyHowever, one star played an overlooked part in all three goals, Casemiro.After a strong start to his Man Utd career, the £70million Brazilian midfielder has rightly been criticised for many of his displays over the past two seasons, often looking leggy and making some high-profile errors to give away goals.But against Lyon, the 33-year-old showed off his class and guts by having a hand in all three of the Red Devils’ extra-time goals.Casemiro was firstly involved with the score at 4-2 to Lyon when he found his way into the box and was all set to score before he was fouled for the penalty, which Fernandes then duly converted.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former Real Madrid midfielder was then involved again as the ball was played into him on the edge of the box before he laid off a pass to Mainoo.The academy graduate, who turns 20 this weekend, then produced a deft touch to move inside his marker before curling a shot into the bottom-right corner and past goalkeeper Lucas Perri.And mere seconds after the restart, Casemiro picked up the ball in the left half-space, turned and started dribbling towards goal.He then lifted a perfectly weighted cross to the far post where Maguire had peeled away from his marker, which saw the centre-half nod home the winner.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAs well as his assists for the three late goals, Casemiro also had an excellent game in his less glamorous duties.He won the most duels (nine) and created the most chances out of any Man Utd player against Lyon, as well as racking up three tackles, winning possession seven times and making eight clearances.Ruben Amorim will go all out to secure Europa League glory for Man Utd Following the thrilling clash, fans highlighted Casemiro’s efforts during the emotionally draining 120 minutes of action.Taking to social media, one fan said: “Build Casemiro a statue, I didn’t even realise he assisted all three late goals.”A second said: “Two assists and a penalty won all in extra time. Casemiro, ladies and gentlemen.”A third added: “Never doubt the goat.”Another said: “Man United really did what we wanted to see from Real Madrid yesterday. Casemiro two assists in the Remontada, he still got the Real Madrid clutch DNA.”Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordA fifth said: “Uncle saw Rice against Real Madrid & wanted to remind everyone that the Godfather is still around.”A sixth said: “Genuinely thought I was watching 2017 Casemiro in the UCL tonight. That was a monumental performance from him, 120 mins of just excellence and then ends it with two assists and a penalty won in seven minutes?! Genuinely, wow.”Casemiro’s heroics to get Man Utd to the semi-finals will see him return to Spain to face a familiar foe in Athletic Bilbao, who defeated Rangers 2-0 on aggregate in their own quarter-final.However, he and his team-mates will be fighting against history, with Man Utd having not beaten the Spanish outfit since the Busby Babes graced the Old Trafford turf in 1957.Man Utd have played the Basque outfit four times overall, losing their most recent two encounters in 2012 under Sir Alex Ferguson.Read More on The SunIn general, they have a poor record against Spanish opposition, with only 23 wins from a total of 76 games – a win rate of just 30.26 per cent.The semi-final clashes will take place on May 1 and May 8, with the latter fixture once again coming at Old Trafford.Man Utd ratings vs LyonMANCHESTER UNITED scored three goals in seven unbelievable minutes to beat Lyon in one of the all-time great nights at Old Trafford.The Red Devils looked to be putting in one of their best displays since Ruben Amorim took over as they raced into a 2-0 lead.But after conceding one goal, they let the ground slip from under them, quickly giving away another to allow Lyon to take the game to extra time.Not even a red card for Corentin Tolisso could get United out of their slump as the French side completely dominated most of the additional 30 minutes.Rayan Cherki and an Alexandre Lacazette penalty meant the visitors looked home and hosed before Casemiro was fouled and Bruno Fernandes hit home from the spot.Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire then both netted in stoppage time of extra time to secure a scarcely believable win.Here’s how SunSport’s Phil Thomas rated the United stars on a night that went from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again. 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      Amad Diallo brutally trolls Man Utd team-mates after Lyon heroics with X-rated Garnacho pop and dig at Onana ‘injury’

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      AMAD DIALLO brutally trolled his Manchester United team-mates after their Lyon heroics at Old Trafford.Man Utd clawed victory from the jaws of defeat against Lyon with three late goals in extra time, including an injury-time stunner from Kobbie Mainoo and a headed winner from Harry Maguire.Amad Diallo trolled his team-mates after their chaotic Europa League clash with LyonCredit: AFPAmad firstly took aim at Andre Onana for his ‘injury’ after Harry Maguire’s winnerCredit: TNT SportsOnana had sprinted over to Ruben Amorim and the bench to celebrate the goalCredit: GettyAmad then trolled Manuel Ugarte and Alejandro Garnacho in an X-rated social media postCredit: X @Amaddiallo_19Injured Red Devils winger Amad was at the stadium watching the game as the stunning match played out.Man Utd stars rushed to celebrate with Maguire following his last-gasp winner to send the Red Devils into the Europa League semi-finals.But goalkeeper Andre Onana headed over to the subs’ bench to hug manager Ruben Amorim and back-up goalkeeper Altay Bayindir.However, with a few moments of football still to play after the winner went in, Onana fell to the floor with his leg lifted in the air and arms sprawled out either side of him.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 29-year-old, who was reinstated in the starting XI after being dropped for the 4-1 defeat to Newcastle, appeared to be suffering with cramp when Maguire came over to help him stretch.Of course, it could just have easily been a time-wasting tactic, copying the actions of Lyon goalkeeper Lucas Perri when the French outfit were winning the game.Regardless, Amad managed to find a screenshot of the moment and shared it on his Snapchat account.The 22-year-old accompanied the photo with a quartet of emojis; two crying faces and two crying with laughter faces.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKAmad then also took to X and blasted his team-mates for putting him and all United fans through the emotional wringer.He shared a dressing room selfie alongside Manuel Ugarte and Alejandro Garnacho and accompanied it with an explicit and typo-riddled caption, doubtless a symptom of the excitement from the game.Man Utd fans celebrate outside Old Trafford after leaving Lyon game early It said: “UNITER WILL NEVER DIED, congrat manu for your’re s*** goal, f*** Garna for that miss, you gaves us pain heart.”Ugarte had scored the opening goal on the night following a stunning move which saw Bruno Fernandes spin in behind before passing the ball inside to Garnacho.The Argentine then took an exquisite touch to dribble round two defenders before squaring it back to the unmarked Ugarte for a tap-in.But after the interval of regulation time, Garnacho had the chance to kill the tie completely as he raced through on goal.He managed to successfully cut the ball back behind the scrambling defender, leaving him one-on-one with Perri with the entire goal to aim at.But he was somehow unable to finish the golden chance as he struck the ball directly at the goalkeeper instead of tucking it into the corner.A goal there to make it 3-0 on the night would have all but killed the tie as a contest, meaning the Lyon comeback would have been far more unlikely to ever come about.The explicit post has now been viewed 4.4 million times and liked 141,000 times, though the off-the-cuff nature of it left some fans wondering whether it was his real account.Amad has teased his comeback from injury on social media, with Amorim saying before the Lyon thriller that he hopes to have him available again next month.Like Amad taking aim at his team-mates, fellow crocked ace Joshua Zirkzee aimed a dig towards Man Utd fans who left Old Trafford early.Taking to Instagram, he shared a video of the deafening noise inside Old Trafford as the remaining United faithful cheered on the team.Join SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordUgarte scored a ‘s***’ opening goal for UnitedCredit: GettyGarnacho missed a glorious chance at 2-0 to effectively kill the game, which Amad said ‘gave us pain heart’Credit: GettyAnd in a swipe at the fans who left early, he captioned the video: “To all the fans who left when we were down. Have a listen to this.”Amorim told TNT Sports after the game he had watched some of the 99 documentary for inspiration before labelling the unbelievable match a “great night”.He said: “I was watching again the 1999 documentary to have some inspiration for these moments. “It was a great night – 4-2 with one more player you think it’s over, but here it is never over. I felt here everything is possible.”However, the 40-year-old also had a harsh reality check for his squad after admitting they need to focus on Europa League.He said: “The reflection of the coach is the league. You can be good in European games but your reflection as a team is in the league and we are underperforming, but then we have to see the context.”We lack a lot of characteristics in our team – sometimes you want to push forward and you see that Garnacho is really tired but he’s the only one who can make transitions.”Physically is it a problem. When we play against European teams you can see we cope better with that – in the Premier League we suffer a lot.”He continued: “It is one type of moment that can change a lot of things. These kind of moments can change a lot in the players’ mind.”We have to be really focused on the Europa League and we have to take a risk with the kids in the Premier League.Read More on The Sun”We have to be tough on that and the fans have to understand our focus is on the Europa League.”Man Utd will face Athletic Bilbao in the semi-finals of the competition, with those matches on May 1 and May 8, with the latter once again being at home.Man Utd ratings vs LyonMANCHESTER UNITED scored three goals in seven unbelievable minutes to beat Lyon in one of the all-time great nights at Old Trafford.The Red Devils looked to be putting in one of their best displays since Ruben Amorim took over as they raced into a 2-0 lead.But after conceding one goal, they let the ground slip from under them, quickly giving away another to allow Lyon to take the game to extra time.Not even a red card for Corentin Tolisso could get United out of their slump as the French side completely dominated most of the additional 30 minutes.Rayan Cherki and an Alexandre Lacazette penalty meant the visitors looked home and hosed before Casemiro was fouled and Bruno Fernandes hit home from the spot.Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire then both netted in stoppage time of extra time to secure a scarcely believable win.Here’s how SunSport’s Phil Thomas rated the United stars on a night that went from the sublime to the ridiculous and back again. 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      Forgotten Arsenal star Nuno Tavares breaks down in tears and consoled by team-mate in Europa League clash

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      FORGOTTEN Arsenal loanee Nuno Tavares broke down in tears after he suffered even more injury woes on Thursday night.Tavares, who is on loan with Italian side Lazio, has battled with injuries all season and was forced off once again as Lazio lost to Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League quarter-finals.Nuno Tavares broke down in tears after he suffered another injury for Lazio on Thursday nightCredit: GettyMatteo Guendouzi comforted the Arsenal loaneeCredit: ReutersFans and players clapped the full-back off the pitchCredit: GettyThe left-back has already suffered six different injuries this season, missing almost 100 days of action as a result.And after picking up another knock the 25-year-old broke down in tears on the pitch.Covering his face with his shirt, Tavares was consoled by fellow Arsenal-turned-Lazio star Matteo Guendouzi.Lazio boss Marco Baroni said: “He was crying, I tried to console him, the stadium was chanting his name. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He is an important player for us, who clearly is going through a difficult situation with injuries.”He had trained well and felt ready, we brought on his energy down the left and he put lots of crosses in. But now we need to evaluate this fresh injury”.The injuries have been a frustrating stain on an otherwise superb season for Tavares, who joined the Serie A side on loan in the summer with an obligation to make the deal permanent if certain conditions are met.He was labelled “The Assist King” when he first arrived, having registered eight assists in his first eight league games for the club.Most read in FootballLazio boss Marco Baroni comforted Tavares as he left the pitchCredit: EPACASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWhile Lazio president Claudio Lotito claimed that he “wouldn’t sell him – even for €70m (£58.9m)” after his blistering start to the season.Lazio’s obligation to sign Tavares permanently from the Gunners is thought to be worth just £7.6m.Mikel Arteta targets Champions League glory after Arsenal knock out Real Madrid Arsenal, who signed Tavares in 2021 for £8m, will also receive a sell-on clause exceeding 25 per cent if Lazio are to sell the defender in the future.Lazio’s night was full of frustration as they saw their European journey come to an end in penalty heartbreak.The Italians won 3-1 on the night, overturning the two-goal deficit they had from their defeat in the first leg.But after forcing extra-time and penalties, only two Lazio players managed to find the back of the net from the spot and they were ultimately knocked out by their Norwegian opponents.They will face Spurs in the semi-finals next month, with Manchester United or Atletico Bilbao awaiting in the final. More

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      Ex-Man Utd starlet Joe Thompson dies aged 36 after being diagnosed with cancer three times – as club shares tribute

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      FORMER Manchester United starlet Joe Thompson has died at the age of 36.The Bath-born midfielder had been diagnosed with cancer for the third time in April last year, following his retirement from the game in 2019.Former Man Utd starlet Joe Thompson has died at the age of 36Credit: PA:Empics SportHe rose through the ranks at Manchester United’s academy before signing with Rochdale, where he spent most of his careerCredit: PA:Press AssociationThompson pictured in 2017, following him beating cancer for the second timeCredit: Matthew Pover – The SunHe was found to have stage four lymphoma, a type of blood cancer, which had spread to his lungs.Thompson had twice recovered from the disease during his playing career, which began and ended with Rochdale.He had come through Manchester United’s academy from the age of nine before going on to join the Dale, where he spent the vast majority of his 13-year career.The Red Devils paid an emotional tribute to their former academy star, saying: “A man who epitomised our club’s values – we are saddened to share that Joe Thompson has passed away.Read More on Football”A warm personality who had a deep connection with our club from a young age, our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this difficult time.”The star’s death had been confirmed by his beloved team Rochdale, which said he passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Thursday.In an touching tribute, the club also shared their “devastation” upon hearing the news.They wrote: “Joe, who had been bravely battling cancer for a third time, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, with his family by his side.Most read in Football”Known by those close to Rochdale as ‘Joey T’, he made over 200 appearances for his local team, representing the badge with pride.”We first knew Joe primarily as a talented footballer, but we would soon grow to adore his loving, infectious personality.”The club, which Thompson joined first in 2005, added: “He faced every battle head-on, both on and off the pitch. “His journey and indomitable spirit have been an inspiration for everyone who has been touched by his story.”Above all of that, Joe was a loving husband to Chantelle and an incredible father to Thailula and Athena Rae.”Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends at this incredibly sad time.”Thompson was first diagnosed with the cancerous disease Hodgkin lymphoma in 2013.After bravely battling to overcome it, he managed to return to professional football, playing for Bury the following year.Thompson went on to have spells at Wrexham, Southport, and Carlisle United before he returned to Rochdale in 2016.However, his disease came back for a second time just a few months later.What is Hodgkin lymphoma? HODGKIN lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that starts in white blood cells called lymphocytes.It is not common, with around 2,100 people diagnosed every year in the UK.Hodgkin lymphoma can develop at any age, but it mostly affects people between 20 and 40 years of age and those over 75. Slightly more men than women are affected.Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, on the other hand, is diagnosed in 13,000 new patients per year. It is more common as you get older, with over a third of cases diagnosed in people over the age of 75. In Hodgkin lymphoma, B-lymphocytes (a particular type of lymphocyte) start to multiply in an abnormal way and begin to collect in certain parts of the lymphatic system, such as the lymph nodes (glands). The affected lymphocytes lose their infection-fighting properties, making a person more vulnerable to infection.Like all cancers, symptoms vary and can be vague. However, patients usually notice swelling in one or more lymph nodes.This can be in any area of the body, but is often in the neck, armpit or groin.The swelling is usually painless, although some people find that it aches.Some people with Hodgkin lymphoma also have other more general symptoms. These can include:Night sweatsUnintentional weight lossA high temperature (fever)A persistent cough or feeling of breathlessnessPersistent itching of the skin all over the bodySource: Cancer Research UK and the NHS.Bravely facing the disease, Thompson summoned up the will to fight it off, managing to return to action just nine months after playing his previous match.He made his way further into the Rochdale history books after he scored a crucial goal after coming on as a substitute in the final game of the 2017/18 season.It was his finish that helped secure a 1-0 victory, ensuring Rochdale would be promoted to League One.The star made one more appearance for the club before his retirement in 2019.After leaving the beautiful game, Thompson moved into the world of public speaking.Speaking to BBC Radio Manchester after his third diagnosis last year, he explained how the “aggressive” lymphoma was already at stage four.It had also spread to his lungs, making it difficult to breathe and sleep.And although it “hurt” him to get another diagnosis, Thompson had vowed to battle against it and win again.He said: “It’s far from ideal and it’s come back quite aggressive, so stage four.”The only positive is it is the same cancer as what I’ve had previously, but the issue for me this time is its gone on to my lungs, so breathing is a problem, sleeping is difficult and even talking sometimes can be quite hard.”You’ve only got a certain amount of time on this earth. I always think you want to make the biggest impact you can possibly do on so many lives as possible.”That’s where I’m at so I’ve got to lead from the front. I’m going to need cavalry and I’m ready for them to rise up and we’ll just get through it again, and then we look at the future.”He had also created a GoFundMe at the time, to help with his treatment, which raised more than £108,000.Joe Thompson’s career statsThose numbers in full:Rochdale, 2005-2012: 157 games, 17 goalsTranmere Rovers, 2012-2014: 32 games, 4 goalsRochdale (loan), 2012-2013: 7 games, 0 goalsBury, 2014-2015: 4 games, 0 goalsWrexham (loan), 2014-2015: 1 game, 0 goalsSouthport (loan), 2014-2015: 4 games, 0 goalsCarlisle United, 2015-2016: 17 games, 1 goalRochdale, 2016-2019: 39 games, 4 goalsThompson was born in bath on March 5, 1989, before moving to Rochdale at a young age.At just nine-years-old, he joined the Manchester United academy, remaining there until he was 16.Then, in the summer of 2005, he joined Rochdale on a youth training scheme deal, making his debut for the first team against Carlisle United the following May.He went on to become a regular for the team, playing an integral part in the Dale’s promotion to League One in 2010.In 2012, his first spell at the club came to an end, with 157 appearances made and 17 goals scored.Despite moving to Tranmere Rovers, he made a return to Rochdale for a loan spell that season, totting up seven appearances.After spells at many other clubs, he always found himself coming back to the Dale.As a tribute, Rochdale’s first team will wear black armbands during today’s match at Altrincham.Read More on The SunThere are also plans to pay tribute to the star at the club’s next home game against AFC Flyde on Easter Monday.Rochdale adeded: “Joe’s legacy will live on forever – he’s one of our own.”Thompson retired in 2019 due to his cancer strugglesCredit: Getty More

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      How Enzo Maresca can transform Chelsea to challenge for Premier League title with Nicolas Jackson freeing Cole Palmer

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      CAST our minds back to the first-half of the Premier League season and Chelsea were being talked about as Liverpool’s closest competitors.After 16 matches, the Blues had just been on a five-match winning streak and they were sat just three points behind Arne Slot’s side.Enzo Maresca is facing tactical problems at ChelseaCredit: RexNicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer are key to the Blues’ successCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca was asked about challenging for the league and he played down Chelsea’s chances, saying: “We are not in a title race. “It’s not about the pressure for the players, club or me. For me it’s just the reality.”We’re ahead of our expectations in terms of the way we are playing and points, as our mission for this season is to develop players and just try to do our very best.”I would like to have that kind of pressure… hopefully soon we can have that kind of title race pressure.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSince those comments, Chelsea’s form has dipped and they have fallen to sixth in the table, 22 points behind Liverpool.Maresca can still transform the club into title contenders but a lot needs to change.The boss has missed Nicolas Jackson through injury in recent months and they have been unable to replace his running in behind, lay-offs and combinations with Cole Palmer.Maybe another striker is needed in Jackson’s mould to share the workload and stop a drop-off if he gets injured again.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSIn the 3-0 win over West Ham, Maresca-ball was a joy to watch.Jackson can drop deep to combine and then spin in behind to drag defenders with him.How Ruben Amorim can fix Man United’s Garnacho problemThere is a “box” midfield for the striker to work with as the full-backs invert to form the deepest points of a square as Enzo Fernandez pushes higher.This frees up Palmer for him to work his magic and he can pick up pockets of space that Jackson frees up by pulling defenders away with his movement.Chelsea have not been the same without JacksonThey have missed his movement and link-up play with the midfieldChelsea were up there at the start of the season due to the inverted full-backs working wonders.Marc Cucurella and Malo Gusto impressed in the roles and Fernandez and Moises Caicedo were excellent. But Chelsea have been worked out and their play has become too focused in the middle of the pitch and predictable. The wingers are not good enough in one vs one situations.There is not enough creation from the wide players and they need a left-footer on the left who can go on the outside and take defenders on.With the full-backs inverted and the wingers cutting in – it is all far too narrow and Palmer then has no space in congested areas and his game is restricted.Chelsea’s games are being played in the width of the penalty box when someone must offer a threat on the flanks. Chelsea’s play has been too narrow and their wingers have not been direct enoughRuben Amorim at Manchester United and Thomas Tuchel with England have spoken about the need for direct wingers.Jamie Gittens, 20, is a target for Chelsea and they should break the bank to get him.Meanwhile, the other thing that must change at Stamford Bridge is the man between the sticks – Robert Sanchez is not good enough.He makes too many mistakes and his underwhelming passing has been putting pressure on the centre-backs.Read More on The SunMaresca wants his keeper to join the back line and become like an extra outfield player in possession.Sanchez has been shaky with the ball at his feet. The No1 at Chelsea must be a good shot stopper and be comfortable playing out.Chelsea should make a move for Jamie Gittens this summerCredit: Alamy More