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      Alvaro Morata reveals depression battle and says ‘I couldn’t lace up my boots, and when I did my throat would close up’

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      FORMER Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata has opened up about his battle with depression.The 31-year-old captained Spain to Euro 2024 glory this summer, but recently admitted he almost didn’t make it to Germany.Alvaro Morata has opened up about his battle with depressionCredit: RexThe striker also revealed he has suffered from panic attacksCredit: GettyMorata admitted he almost couldn’t play at Euro 2024Credit: GettyMorata had received heavy criticism from both fans and journalists in the build-up to the tournament – so much so that it made him want to leave the country.The AC Milan striker experienced some mental health troubles as a result which made him question if he would ever be able to step onto a football pitch again.Speaking to El Partidazo, Morata revealed: “When you have really tough times, depression, panic attacks, it doesn’t matter what job you do, what situation you have in life, you have another person inside that you have to fight against every day and every night.”The Spaniard began doubting his future during the latter stages of his time with Atletico Madrid – just months before Euro 2024. Read More in FootballHe continued: “For me, leaving Spain was the best option; I couldn’t stand it.”I had a really bad time. I thought I wouldn’t be able to put my boots on and go out on the pitch again.”But hey, thanks to a lot of people, from Simeone, Koke, Miguel Ángel Gil last year, my psychiatrist, my coach… we are what you see on TV and on social media but often it’s not real.”You have to give an image because it’s your job. I had a really bad time, I exploded and there came a time when I couldn’t lace up my boots, and when I did I would run home because my throat would close up and my vision would start to blur.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Three months before the Euros I was wondering if I would be able to play another match. I didn’t know what was happening to me but it’s very complicated and delicate.”At that moment you realise that what you like most in the world is what you hate the most, it’s complicated.”Every time I went out with them I always had some episode, sometimes without malice, with people about something that had happened in previous games. “And, in the end, they didn’t want to go shopping either, things that a normal father does with his children. “There came a time when they said so many things to me in front of them that I was embarrassed to be with them. I was an easy joke, a joke to make the person next to you laugh.”Earlier this year, Morata announced that he had split from wife Alice Campello.The couple had been together for seven years and share four children.Morata left Atletico to join AC Milan in a £10.9million transfer in July.The striker has since scored two goals in five Serie A appearances.If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123. More

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      Croatia vs Scotland prediction: Back our 4/1 Bet Builder and get £50 in free bets with Betfred

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      SCOTLAND are in Croatia this Saturday, looking to bring their six-game winless run to an end.Our team of betting experts have selected a Bet Builder for the top-flight encounter, which Betfred have priced up at 4/1.Not just that! New Betfred customers who register an account and stake a tenner on football will receive £50 in sports free bets!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereHow to claim..Betfred welcome offerVisit the Betfred website HERE*Register an account using the Promo Code: BETFRED50Deposit £10 using a Debit CardPlace your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets, at odds of Evens or greaterOnce that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free BetsBetfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*Croatia vs Scotland tipsOur Bet Builder selections: Both teams to score, over 2.5 goals and Che Adams to score anytime.Back our 4/1 Bet BuilderHere’s why we’ve made those selections:Both teams to score: Both teams have scored in five of Scotland’s last six games. Three of Croatia’s last four have also had both teams scoring – and also when the sides met in Euro 2020.Over 2.5 goals: Eight goals scored in Scotland’s last two games and similar to above, there’s a winner in this and both teams will score.Che Adams to score: Has scored in three of last four games for Torino before the break – only failing to score when coming off the bench in final half hour at San Siro. Back to lead the line and needs to nail place.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*New customers only. Register with BETFRED50. Deposit £10+ via Debit Card and place first bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. T&Cs apply. More

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      Croatia vs Scotland odds: Price boosts and specials offers for Saturday’s Nations League clash

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      THE Nations League returns again this week and Scotland are in League A1 action at Croatia on Saturday.It’s a big week for Steve Clarke’s side, who have struggled in recent months following a dismal Euros in the summer and need a positive result here.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereCroatia have just ended their own winless run last time out and will see this as a big opportunity to make it back-to-back wins in the group ahead of a trip to Poland in midweek.At SunSport, we’ve carefully selected some of the best price boosts and special offers for existing customers from our betting partners for tonight.Price boosts and specials offers for Croatia vs ScotlandWilliam HillOur partners over at William Hill have some top price boosts. We’ve selected our favourites which you can back below!Scott McTominay to score anytime – was 4/1, NOW 5/1 – CLAIM HERECroatia to win both halves – was 11/4, NOW 10/3 – CLAIM HEREtalkSPORT BETtalkSPORT BET also have a selection of price boosts for the game and here’s some of those on offer:Scotland to win 1-0 – was 13/1, NOW 16/1 – CLAIM HEREOver 9.5 Corners – was 11/8, NOW 29/20 – CLAIM HERERemember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

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      Dwight McNeil and Cole Palmer start for our England XI determined by Dream Team points

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      THERE would be widespread outroar if Lee Carsley selected his latest England team based on Dream Team points.But it’s a fun hypothetical to wile away the international break hours.Justice for Dwight McNeil!Credit: Dream TeamBefore we get to the XI, a quick note to acknowledge a crucial limitation of our methodology.Since Dream Team only covers Premier League players, we’re forced to omit English players who ply their trade abroad, such as Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham – it’s only a bit of fun anyway.GOALKEEPERNewcastle’s custodian edges out Dean Henderson by nine points with a total of 42 to the Crystal Palace man’s 33.Pope ranks seventh overall among assets in his position but he’s fourth for saves with 32, just one behind joint-leaders Mark Flekken, Mads Hermansen and Robert Sanchez.His clean sheet away at Everton in Gameweek 7 was just his second of the campaign.England’s No1… for the purposes of this exerciseCredit: GettyDEFENDERSMost read in FootballTrent Alexander-ArnoldRico LewisTyrick MitchellNot only is Liverpool’s creative right-back the highest-scoring defender among his compatriots, he’s the outright top performer in his position overall with 72 points.Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk are the only players to have contributed to six clean sheets (as per Dream Team’s definition) and the former leads the way in his position with six big chances created.It’s no surprise to see Manchester City’s teenage talent make the cut having plundered 64 points across the first seven Gameweeks via four assists.Carsley may well select Alexander-Arnold and Lewis as starting full-backs against Greece this evening – it’s an exciting prospect.Dream Team’s reigning king among defendersCredit: GettyWhile the aforementioned inclusions are first and third respectively among Dream Team defenders right now, Crystal Palace’s diligent left-back is down in joint-13th with 44 points to his name.Only three defenders have made more tackles than Mitchell this term.The 25-year-old is the first player mentioned who doesn’t feature in the Three Lions’ actual squad this break – he was capped twice back in 2022.Given the lack of specialist left-backs available to Carsley at present, Mitchell could count himself a tad unlucky.No need to spend not too much time wondering how a back three comprised exclusively of fairly attack-minded full-backs/faux midfielders would work in reality.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWMIDFIELDERSBukayo SakaCole PalmerEberechi EzeDwight McNeilJames MaddisonAgain, forget about balance and just enjoy the sheer fun of this combination.Arsenal’s ‘Star Boy’ and Chelsea’s blooming superstar have a whopping 22 goal involvements between them already this season.Saka is Dream Team’s top midfielder on 102 points with Palmer not far behind on 87.The latter was recently voted England’s Player of the Year for the 2023/24 season despite his relatively limited involvement.With every week that goes by, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the 22-year-old will be a pivotal figure for the Three Lions in the years to come.England’s Player of the YearCredit: GettyRemarkably, Eze completes an all-English podium of Dream Team midfielders.Crystal Palace’s talisman has squandered a few chances in the league this season but he fully capitalised against Championship opposition in the Carabao Cup, taking Norwich and QPR for a combined 31 points – he’s amassed 75 overall.McNeil has never played senior international football but the Dream Team Stats Centre suggests he should be starting at Wembley later today!Everton’s No7 has been the brightest source of optimism for the Goodison Park faithful having scored four goals and provided two assists for a return of 73 points in nine outings this season.The ex-Burnley midfielder has also earned 11 bonus points, mostly because he’s delivered 26 accurate crosses – only one other player (Andreas Pereira) has registered more than 16 at this stage.Should Maddison have played more for England in recent years?Credit: ReutersTottenham’s playmaker-in-chief completes our midfield quintet with 68 points.A few eyebrows were raised when Maddison was omitted from Carsley’s squad as he’s rediscovered something close to his best form at the start of this season – as evidenced by the fact he leads the way with 16 bonus points.Given the 27-year-old’s undeniable talent, it’s notable that he’s played just 374 minutes for England at senior level.FORWARDSJarrod BowenMarcus RashfordWith Kane out of the picture, the door is open for two players desperate to regain their place in real life – Dream Team have got your backs, lads!Bowen has been a consistent performer for a few years nowCredit: PAThe reliable Bowen (65 points) has quietly notched three goals and three assists despite West Ham’s largely underwhelming results.A 16-point haul against Ipswich last weekend helped him leapfrog several forwards to jump up to fourth in the rankings, including Ollie Watkins who consequently misses out.As for Manchester United’s long-serving No10, he’s still a way off his blistering form of 2022/23 but he looks much more threatening than he did last season when he lost his place in the England squad.READ MORE SUN STORIESRashford has mustered a respectable 64 points via four goals and two assists – although he was rather fortunate not to suffer some minus points last time out when he narrowly avoided a second yellow card against Aston Villa.A bonkers XI in reality but we’d happily have a look at it – over to you, Lee!BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      George Baldock cops probing if ANOTHER person was involved in ex-Premier League star’s death after finding pool clues

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      GREEK police are probing if another person could have been present when ex-Premier League star George Baldock died in Athens.Baldock, 31, was found dead in his swimming pool at his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night, local reports claimed. George Baldock playing for Sheffield United in 2023Credit: GettyBaldock’s body was pulled from the bottom of the poolCredit: LNPBaldock was reportedly found after his wife failed to contact himCredit: GettyEmergency services tried to revive the defenderCredit: ReutersA half-empty bottle of vodka was also found next to the swimming pool along with two glasses.After finding the glasses police are now investigating whether there was more than just Baldock present.Local media have reported it was his daughter’s birthday when British-born Baldock tragically died.The full-back, who joined Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer, was found at the bottom of the pool by his landlord who jumped over the fence to get into the home.Read more on footballAccording to Greek media, Baldock’s wife – who lives in England – was trying to contact the former Sheffield United star and had began to worry.After failing to track Baldock down, she then told the owner of the house in Glyfada to check the property.The Greece international, who was born in Buckingham but qualifies for the team via his grandmother, was found wearing swimming trunks and was pulled out of the water by emergency services.They tried to resuscitate him but sadly could not revive him.Most read in FootballThe emergency service (EKAV) doctor deemed that Baldock’s death had occurred at least an hour before he was found by the landlord.Authorities will check camera footage, although early findings show there is no indication of foul play.Ex-Prem star George Baldock found dead in pool months after Greece moveThe autopsy is expected to come out on Friday or Saturday while the toxicology results will take a longer time.Tributes flowed to Baldock following the news of his death. Baldock’s family later released a statement saying: “as a family we are in shock at this terrible loss.”The football clubs he played for also released touching tributes.George Baldock, playing for Greece, defending against Kylian MbappeCredit: GettyPanathinaikos said: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.”The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”Former side Sheffield United also paid tribute.They said: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.”The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to.Baldock was playing for Panathinaikos FC this yearCredit: Rex More

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      Will Greece and England players wear black armbands during the Nations League game?

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      GREECE and England players will be wearing black armbands tonight in tribute after the tragic death of George Baldock.The former Sheffield United star, 31, was found dead in a swimming pool in Athens on Wednesday night with his family left “in shock at this terrible loss”.Greece and England players will wear black armbands in tribute to George Baldock, who sadly died on WednesdayCredit: RexAlthough born in Buckingham, Baldock was a Greece international who won 12 caps having qualified through his maternal grandmother.The Three Lions are hosting Greece at Wembley Stadium in a Nations League match.Wembley Stadium will hold a minute’s silence for Baldock, who only joined Panathinaikos in the summer.A statement from the Football Association read: “At the request of Greece, there will be a period of silence and both teams will wear black armbands at Wembley Stadium this evening to mark the sudden passing of George Baldock.”The FA will also hold a tribute for Kick It Out founder Lord Herman Ouseley, which had been planned following his death on October 2.Baldock was not in this international squad having only just recently returned from injury, but SunSport understands that he was a very well liked member of the national team.Baldock won 12 caps for GreeceCredit: GettyHis wife, who lives in England, raised the alarm having grown worried at being unable to contact him.She is said to have informed the owner of the house in Glyfada, Athens, to go there and check on him.Most read in FootballSadly, Baldock was pronounced dead by a response unit who are reported to believe he had been in the water for a number of hours.Police are now investigating his death and were pictured outside his home later in the evening.A statement from his family read: “We can confirm that George has sadly passed away. As a family we are in shock at this terrible loss. “We ask please that the media respect our privacy at this time.”While club Panathinaikos added: “We are shocked, we are shocked by the loss of our George.”The family of Panathinaikos mourns his untimely death. We stand with the family and loved ones of George Baldock.”George Baldock career statsGeorge Baldock has tragically died aged 312009-2017 – MK Dons 125 games (2 goals)2011 – Tamworth (loan) 3 (0)2012 – IBV (loan) 18 (1)2012 – Tamworth (loan) 15 (1)2015-16 – Oxford United (loan) 47 (3)2017-2024 – Sheffield United 219 (6)2024 – Panathinaikos 4 (0)He had started the last two Panathinaikos games after missing six matches in August and September because of an injury.Baldock won the last of his 12 international caps in March in the 4-2 penalty defeat to Georgia that saw the side fail to qualify for Euro 2024.Baldock played 219 games for Sheffield United between 2017 and 2024, twice helping the Blades win promotion and playing in three Premier League campaigns.Former side Sheffield United also paid tribute to Baldock in a statement that read: “Sheffield United Football Club is shocked and extremely saddened to learn of the passing of former player, George Baldock.”The defender left the club in the summer after seven years at Bramall Lane and was extremely popular with supporters, staff and team-mates who pulled on a red and white shirt alongside him.”The sincere condolences of everyone associated with Sheffield United are extended to George’s family and friends.”He came through the MK Dons academy, playing 125 senior matches, and also had loan spells at Northampton Town and Oxford United.Baldock’s older brother Sam, 35, was also a professional footballer who played for West Ham and Brighton, among others.Manchester United star Harry Maguire paid tribute by posting a picture of Baldock on his Instagram page with a broken heart emoji.Why did George Baldock play for Greece?George Baldock qualified for Greece through his maternal grandmother and was first mooted for a call-up in 2019.He didn’t make his debut until 2022 – with Covid-19 and Brexit reportedly slowing the move.After making his first squad, he said: “It is a real honour to represent Greece.”This is a proud moment, not just for me, but for my entire family.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It has been a possibility for a while, so I’m happy now to be in a position where I am available to play. “It is an exciting time ahead.” More

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      Red Bull ‘invest in sleeping European giant’ just hours after Jurgen Klopp hired as they target France domination

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      RED BULL are reportedly set to invest in another European football club.The energy drinks company already own clubs in Austria, Germany, Brazil and the US.Jurgen Klopp is the new Global Head of Football at Red BullCredit: PARed Bull are reportedly interested in Paris FCCredit: GettyThe club plays at the 20,000 seater Stade CharletyCredit: AlamyRed Bull appointed former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp to the company this week.The German will start his role as the new Global Head of Football on January 1.He will oversee the operations at RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, New York Red Bull, Red Bull Bragantino and Red Bull Brasil.Klopp could have an additional club to manage according to reports after it emerged Red Bull is interested in taking over Paris FC.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe French outfit currently competes in Ligue 2 and are battling for promotion to the top division.L’Equipe has reported that the club is on the “verge” of being sold to Red Bull and the Arnault family.The current club president and majority shareholder, Pierre Ferracci, is preparing the club to move on from his control.The report suggests that he would keep hold of 30 per cent of his shares until 2027.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIt would be in this year that he would make his permanent exit from the club.It is thought that Red Bull would take control of 15 per cent of the club while the Arnault family would become the majority shareholder with 55 per cent.Jurgen Klopp set for shock return to dugout just months after quitting as Liverpool bossRed Bull also own RB Leipzig in GermanyCredit: AFPThe company also controls New York Red Bull and two clubs in BrazilCredit: ReutersIt is also a minority shareholder in LeedsCredit: AlamyThe report claims that Paris FC’s perspective owners are aiming to make the club a staple in the Champions League.They last competed in the French top flight in the 1978-79 season.Ambitions of taking them into Europe would mean pumping the club with money.Its main rivals are current French champions Paris Saint-Germain, who have yet to win the Champions League despite their best efforts.Red Bull is also a minority investor in Championship side Leeds after completing their purchase in May earlier this year.All about Paris FC Where: Paris, FranceStadium: Stade Charlety (20,000 capacity)League: Ligue 2Rivals: Paris Saint-GermainEstablished: 1969Current manager: Stephane GilliNotable former players: Jean-Francois Beltramini, Lamri Laachi, Omar da FonsecaNicknames: “The Blues” and “The Parisians” More

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      My cousin is one of the greatest goalscorers in Premier League history.. but I’m making my own way at his arch rivals

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      GOALSCORING is an instinct and one family seems to have it coursing through their veins.Melanie Reay is the cousin of one of the Premier League’s greatest ever players and after emulating his goalscoring on the pitch, she’s now the manager at his biggest rivals.Melanie Reay is the cousin of one of the Premier League’s greatest ever playersCredit: GettyReay, 42, played up front just like her much-loved cousin and made a name bagging goals just like him.The now retired striker is a three-time Golden Boot winner having mastered her craft in the FA Women’s Premier League Northern Division.While her cousin is a three-time Premier League Golden Boot winner too.Hard work is certainly the main reason for her success, but sharing some DNA with all-time Prem top scorer Alan Shearer will certainly have helped her find the back of the net.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAlthough, Reay may not be welcome at the next family gathering having taken the first steps of her career in management at Shearer’s rival club Sunderland.Shearer, who is a legend in the northeast for his time at Newcastle United, has been vocal of his dislike for the Magpies’ arch enemies and even had to hide from Sunderland fans on a train recently.But Reay has found a new home with the club, having started her playing career with the Tyne and Wear side in the early 2000’s.Reay soon switched to Newcastle during her playing days and won the Golden Boot with the club in 2008.Most read in FootballReay is the cousin of Newcastle United and Premier League legend Alan ShearerCredit: GettyShearer and Reay both had an eye for goal during their careersCredit: Keith PerryFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSTelling the Chronicle back then: “Alan holds the record for the most goals for Newcastle United and I have the most goals this season for the women’s team. We can both be pleased with that.”Reay certainly had a Shearer-esque record, netting 58 goals in 82 Sunderland games and a stunning 65 in 64 matches for Newcastle.Alan Shearer gives blunt response after Erik ten Hag slams BBC pundit for ‘stupid’ Man Utd analysis After hanging up her boots in 2008 the prolific striker turned to coaching and held a role as assistant at Newcastle United women’s side.But Reay soon returned to rivals Sunderland where, after two years as an assistant, she was made the permanent boss of the Women’s Championship side.Reay has been in charge of The Lasses as they’ve earned their spot in England’s second division.She achieved a third placed finish with the side last term and currently sits eighth in the league this season.And this weekend will be a huge moment for the manager – and cousin Shearer – as Reay prepares to face Newcastle Women in a Wear-Tyne derby that is expected to break records.The match is being played at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light, rather than the ladies’ usual home of Eppleton Colliery Football Ground, and is anticipated to set an attendance record for a Women’s Championship fixture.The current record stands at 11,137 fans, but that is expected to be comfortably beaten with over 12,000 tickets already sold for the derby.Reay led Sunderland to a third placed finish last seasonCredit: GettyCan you name the famous fathers? More