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    Appeal launched for former Chelsea star’s daughter who has had leg amputated while pregnant after cancer diagnosis

    AN APPEAL has been launched for the daughter of former Chelsea star Dave Mitchell after she lost her leg to cancer.Glasgow-born Mitchell, 62, played for the Blues between 1988 and 1990, making seven appearances.An appeal has been launched to help the daughter of former Chelsea star Dave MitchellCredit: GettyJess Cook was 25 weeks pregnant when she lost her leg to cancerCredit: gofundmeThe public have shown their support for Mitchell’s daughterCredit: GettyThe 27-time Australia international also enjoyed spells in England with Newcastle, Swindon Town and Millwall.And after retiring in 1999, Mitchell entered the world of management with several sides Down Under.But the former striker was hit by tragedy when his daughter was recently diagnosed with cancer.Jess Cook was 25 weeks pregnant when doctors confirmed she had a rare soft tissue cancer.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLMitchell’s daughter then required urgent surgery to amputate her left leg.And now, a GoFundMe appeal has been launched by Jess’ sister Kristy to raise money and support her recovery.Looking to raise over £76,000, the funds will be used to assist Jess through her extremely difficult moment.And as of Tuesday morning, an incredible £75k has already been raised by kind-hearted donors.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe swift acts of generosity are sure to delight Mitchell in the hour of his daughter’s need.A former striker, he enjoyed a varied career that took him to numerous countries.Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca comments on Cole Palmer injury after draw with Arsenal Mitchell is a former Australia star who also played for Newcastle and MillwallCredit: GettyHe enjoyed some managerial spells Down Under after retiringCredit: GettyMitchell started in Australia with Adelaide City before securing a move to Scotland with Rangers.He then followed that with a spell in Hong Kong with Seiko before joining German side Eintracht Frankfurt.Mitchell’s next move saw him play in Holland for Feyenoord.And it was then that Chelsea came calling.But Mitchell struggled for minutes and returned to Holland with NEC before giving English football another crack with Newcastle and Swindon.Mitchell next went to Turkey with Altay Izmir and was soon back in the UK with Millwall.Mitchell’s later playing days saw him go to Malaysia with Selangor.But he then closed out his career by returning to Australia, first with Sydney Olympic and then with Sydney United.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis managerial career started while he was still starring at Olympic, becoming player-gaffer there while also taking the same role with United.He also managed Parramatta Power and Perth Glory in his homeland, while also enjoying spells at Malaysian duo Sarawak and Kedah FA.Chelsea ratings vs ArsenalRobert Sanchez – 6Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.Malo Gusto – 6Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.Wesley Fofana – 7Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.Levi Colwill – 6Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.Marc Cucurella – 7Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.Moises Caicedo – 6Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.Romeo Lavia – 6A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.Noni Madueke – 6Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.Cole Palmer – 6Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.Pedro Neto – 7Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy. Nicolas Jackson – 6Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though. More

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    ‘I blacked out and found myself on the kitchen floor’: Tony Mowbray plotting return to football after cancer battle

    TONY MOWBRAY has opened up about his brave battle with cancer.The 60-year-old boss was in charge of Birmingham last season before health issues forced him into resigning.Tony Mowbray has lifted the lid on his battle with bowel cancerCredit: ReutersHe replaced Wayne Rooney at St Andrews after he was sacked in January but managed just eight games due to his bowel cancer diagnosis coming a month later.Mowbray revealed his family were left fearing the worst during his worst spell in hospital.The ex-West Brom, Celtic, Middlesbrough, Blackburn and Sunderland gaffer told BBC Radio Teesside: “It’s been the toughest year of my life. “Out of the blue, my illness was diagnosed and my world came crashing down.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”When you get an illness like what I got, it’s about the family, really. “I remember sitting in a hospital bed, my kids had tears in their eyes not sure whether I was going to get through it or not.”I was very, very ill. Some days, you were feeling great and other days, I would collapse and black out and find myself on the kitchen floor.”Mowbray underwent a ten-hour operation to save his life, which proved successful.Most read in FootballAnd the EFL legend has not given up hope on one day returning to the dugout.He said: “I do want to go back to work because football is in my blood, it’s what I do.”I still have issues, at the moment not 100 per cent ready for work.”I haven’t got the energy that is required to be a football manager. But I will, I’m pretty sure.”I’m fine in myself but it’s very difficult with the condition I’m living with at the moment. “The doctors tell me it will resolve itself in time and I look forward to that day.”I’m going to take my amazing wife away on holiday in the next couple of weeks and in the new year. “I’ll see what is out there, what opportunities come and hopefully my body is tells me I’m ready to go.” More

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    Three-time boxing world champion Israel Vazquez fighting for his life after heartbreaking cancer diagnosis

    FORMER boxing champion Israel Vazquez is fighting a heartbreaking cancer diagnosis. Vazquez was a three-time super-bantamweight champ and had an iconic four-fight series with Mexican rival Rafael Marquez. Israel Vazquez is fighting a heartbreaking cancer diagnosis.Credit: GettyHe lost the opening bout, before twice beating Marquez but losing their fourth and final fight in 2010. Vazquez retired afterwards but has been confronted with a cancer battle. The WBC, whose belt he twice won, launched a GoFundMe page for the boxer.A statement read: “Our beloved champion has received a devastating cancer diagnosis. READ MORE IN BOXING”The WBC is at his side, attempting to bring in his family from Mexico and making sure he gets the care he deserves. “But he needs your love and support, too. Show this humble and courageous warrior what he means to you. “With a dollar, a prayer and a note to his family. One of the most compelling and compassionate boxers of all times needs your help. “There’s no time to waste. Stand in his corner, now!” Most read in BoxingWBC president Mauricio Sulaiman posted online: “We are extremely grateful for those who have given a donation to support Israel Vazquez. “His wife and kids are in tears to see the incredible reaction from the boxing community Thank you!”Legendary boxing writer Colin Hart remembers the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ on the 50th anniversary More

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    Adilson ‘Maguila’ Rodrigues dead at 66: Boxing world title contender who fought Evander Holyfield and Foreman dies

    BRAZILIAN boxing legend Adilson “Maguila” Rodrigues has died aged 66.The former heavyweight contender passed away in Sao Paulo after suffering from multiple health complications. Adilson Rodrigues, left, during his fight with George ForemanCredit: GettyRodrigues passed away aged 66Credit: TwitterIn 85 fights, Rodrigues won 77, lost seven, drew once and scored 61 career knockouts. He held various Brazilian and South American titles, facing some of boxing’s best during his time. In 1989, he was beaten by American great Evander Holyfield and George Foreman a year later, losing both in round two. But Rodrigues also beat former cruiserweight world champion and now Sky Sports pundit Johnny Nelson in 1995. READ MORE IN BOXINGHis last fight came in 2000, losing to countryman Daniel Frank. After retiring – 13 years later – Rodrigues was diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a neurodegenerative disease that affects many former fighters after years of head trauma. Symptoms include memory loss and confusion, which intensifies over time. Most read in BoxingWhat is CTE?By Jennifer Roback and Penelope MinCTE refers to a brain degeneration caused by frequent head traumas.Other elements may play a role, including genetics, but exact factors are yet to be discovered, as reported by the Boston University CTE Center.CTE is only diagnosed through an autopsy of the brain and is known to be a rather rare disease.It is most commonly found in athletes, including football players and boxers.Some symptoms of CTE include memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and progressive dementia.These signs can begin to appear after years or even decades after the last brain trauma.In 2018, with his family’s consent, Rodrigues decided to donate his brain to scientific research after his death. It will allow researchers at the University of Sao Paulo to study the impact of repeated trauma on the brain.Rodrigues spent his last days at the Anjos de Deus Therapeutic Center in Itu receiving specialised care. Netflix unveil official promotional trailer for Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 2 More

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    She lived with us for 9 wonderful years – Luis Enrique opens up on death of his daughter in heartbreaking interview

    LUIS ENRIQUE has opened up about the heartbreaking death of his daughter Xana.The Paris Saint-Germain manager’s beloved daughter tragically passed away at the age of nine in 2019.Luis Enrique has spoken beautifully about keeping daughter Xana’s ‘memory alive’Less than a year after taking over as Spain manager, Enrique would step away from the role in June 2019 for personal reasons.Two months later, Enrique shared the news of Xana’s death after her five-month battle with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer.The former Barcelona and Real Madrid midfielder has again paid a heartfelt tribute to his youngest daughter.Enrique opened up about her passing in a profoundly moving segment in the third episode of his documentary You Haven’t Got a Clue.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe said: “Can I consider myself fortunate or unfortunate? I consider myself fortunate, very fortunate.”My daughter Xana came to live with us for nine wonderful years. We have a thousand memories of her, videos, incredible things.”My mother couldn’t keep photos of Xana. “Until I came home and asked, ‘Why are there no photos of Xana, Mom?’ ‘I can’t, I can’t, she used to say. Most read in Football”‘Mom, you have to put up photos of Xana, Xana is alive,’ I replied.”Enrique added: “Physically, she may not be here, but spiritually she is. Barcelona legend, 32, breaks down in tears as he leaves after 18 years and 25 trophies with Spanish giants”Because every day we talk about her, we laugh, and we remember because I think Xana still sees us.”The images of Xana that accompanied his words reflect the happiness she radiated, which Enrique vowed to keep alive in his memory.The Champions League winning manager with Barca returned to his Spain job to replace interim coach Robert Moreno ahead of Euro 2020.He lost on penalties to eventual champs Italy in the semi-finals and stepped down after Spain lost another shootout to Morocco in the Round of 16 in the Qatar World Cup. Back in November 2022, after his Spain side drew 1-1 with Germany in the group stage in Qatar, Enrique paid tribute to Xana ahead of what would have been her 13th birthday.He said: “It was a special day for me and my family.”Obviously we don’t have our daughter with us physically anymore, but she is still present every day.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We remember her a lot, we laugh and think about how she would act in each situation that we experience.”Enrique also thanked the medical team who treated his daughter “for their dedication and treatment”.Xana Enrique passed away following a battle with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer in 2019 More

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    Newcastle chief Darren Eales, 52, stepping down after being diagnosed with chronic form of blood cancer

    NEWCASTLE CEO Darren Eales is set to step down from his role after being diagnosed with cancer.Eales, 52, will continue to lead the club’s executive team until a successor is appointed.Newcastle CEO Darren Eales has been diagnosed with cancerCredit: GettyNewcastle shared the update on X and said their thoughts are with Eales after he was diagnosed with a chronic form of blood cancer.Eales also released a statement which reads: “Being CEO of Newcastle United is an extraordinary privilege and I am incredibly proud to be part of the club’s exciting journey.”However, it has become apparent to me that now is the right time to make this decision so that I can prioritise my health and my family.”In the short term, it will be business as usual in terms of running the club’s day-to-day operations, and I will give my full support to a transitionary period that will enable the board to carefully assess and appoint my successor.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I want to extend my sincere thanks to the club’s supporters, ownership, players and staff. I’m proud of what we have collectively achieved and I’m excited to see what’s ahead for everyone as the club builds towards a future of sustained success.”Eales joined the Magpies in August 2022 – ten months after the Saudi owners took over.Newcastle qualified for the Champions League during his first year at the club and reached the Carabao Cup final, losing to Manchester United.He has been playing a huge role in plans for the stadium redevelopment as well as the on-field success under Eddie Howe.Most read in FootballNewcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan shared his sadness at the news and provided an update on when a new CEO could be appointed.He said: “All of us who are connected with Newcastle United are very saddened by this news. Our thoughts are with Darren and his family and we send him every good wish for a full recovery.Yasir Al-Rumayyan has sent his thought to his colleagueCredit: Getty”On a personal level, Darren has been a great partner to me and to our fans, players, ownership and staff.”On behalf of the club and its owners, I want to thank Darren for his service and dedication to Newcastle United. He has made a significant contribution to the club’s progress during his time as CEO, helping to build a strong foundation for Newcastle United’s success. We fully understand the difficult decision he has made.”We will work closely with Darren to hand over the CEO role at the appropriate moment following a carefully considered search process, and he will continue to have the full support of the board and the Newcastle United family now and in the future.”League Two side AFC Wimbledon, who received a £15,000 donation from Newcastle for their destroyed pitch, offered their well wishes.They wrote: “Everyone at the Club sends our best wishes to Darren and our friends at @NUFC 🖤🤍” More

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    Sven-Goran Eriksson’s mansion ‘going up for sale for £4.8million’ after former England manager’s tragic death

    SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON’S mansion has been put up for sale following his death, according to reports.The former England manager tragically lost his battle with pancreatic cancer at the end of August, seeing him pass away at the age of 76.The home of Sven-Goran Eriksson is set to be put up for saleCredit: RexEriksson’s mansion is based in Sunne, where hewas bornCredit: AlamyHe bought the property in 2002Credit: AlamyIt is estimated to be worth £4.8millionCredit: AlamyThe property features a number of amenitiesCredit: AlamyOne of them in a large pool houseCredit: AlamyThe pool house has a saltwater pool in itCredit: AlamyThe property sits on 2.5 hectares of landCredit: AlamyHis funeral took place earlier this month in his hometown of Torsby in Sweden.Mourners turned out in their hundreds to say a final goodbye to the well-loved coach, including David Beckham and Roy Hodgson.However, according to Swedish media outlet Expressen, Eriksson’s home is now up for sale.Family lawyer Andres Runebjer is reportedly putting together the finishing touches on the estate registration for Eriksson before putting it up for sale.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 900 square metre mansion based in Sunne – where Eriksson was born – was his home from 2002.Named the Bjorkefors manor, it features grounds of approximately 2.5 hectares with another building on the land including a lake villa, tennis court and pool house with a large saltwater pool.It is estimated to be worth around £4.8million.It is said Runebjer expects the property to sell relatively easily and hopes the buyer will have some kind of connection to his friend and client.Most read in FootballEriksson reportedly borrowed large sums of money to renovate the property after moving into it during his tenure as England boss.But the mortgage deed for the largest loan ended up on the channel island of Guernsey, while it is unknown whether the other loans have been resolved.Emotional David Beckham looks close to tears at Sven-Goran Eriksson’s coffin is led out of church following funeral service in SwedenThe property was placed up for sale for £3m in 2010.However, the property was never sold and was taken off the market in 2017 after the Swede was fired by Chinese club Shenzhen, with him choosing to live out his final days there.The land also features a second buildingCredit: AlamyIt overlooks a stunning lakeCredit: AlamyEriksson put it up for sale in 2010 for £3mCredit: AlamyBut after failing to sell it he chose to spend his final days there and took it down in 2017Credit: AlamyEriksson renovated the property when he moved inCredit: AlamyHe is said to have borrowed a large sum of money to make the renovationsCredit: AlamyFamily lawyer Andres Runebjer expects the property to sell relatively easilyCredit: AlamyThe finishing touches to the property are being put on the estate registration before it goes to marketCredit: Alamy”Sven was a good coach… better than he seems, says SunSport experts”SunSport’s Shaun Custis and Martin Lipton discussed Sven-Goran Eriksson’s England legacy following his death aged 76.Custis: “He was the most polite, civil manager I’ve ever dealt with in my life.”Lipton: “There are many managers who are prone to paroxysms of aggravation and screaming matches.”You can’t imagine Sven ever raising his voice, let alone having a row with someone. He was a gentle man and a gentleman throughout his dealings with us certainly. And I think that always came across from the very outset.”He was clearly a quite calm, unflappable character and he wasn’t going to let anything perturb him no matter what it was. No matter what questions were thrown at him, no matter what stick he got. He had this veneer of utter tranquillity.”Custis: “There was a lot of mystery to him. You weren’t reading things about him every two minutes online as you would do now but he came in and he got off to a great start with that 3-0 win over Spain.”Lipton: “He just loved being around football, didn’t he that was the thing.”He didn’t want to give it up… He actually, genuinely loved being around football players, being a manager and all the trappings of that and just being important. Because he enjoyed being Sven-Goran Eriksson – football manager.”Lipton: “He brought back a belief in the England team in that period, he gave us a night we’ll never forget and oversaw the real change in the culture of English football in that it became more celebrity in many ways.”The players became bigger than they’d ever been and he managed to keep that under a degree of wraps… He was a better manager than I thought he was at the time.” More

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    Gary Speed’s widow finds love again with millionaire property tycoon 2 years after second husband died from brain cancer

    GARY Speed’s widow has found love again with a millionaire property tycoon – two years after her second husband died from brain cancer.Louise, 53, has moved in with Welsh businessman Andrew Dickens – opening a property firm together.Louise, 53, with her new partner Andrew DickensLouise’s childhood sweetheart Gary Speed took his own life in 2011Credit: PA:Press AssociationLouise’s second husband Quinton Bird died just six months after they marriedCredit: FacebookThe happy news comes after Louise’s second husband Quinton Bird died from a brain tumour just six months after they married in 2021.Quinton had helped Louise end years of loneliness after her childhood sweetheart Gary Speed took his own life in 2011.Louise and football star Gary first went out as teenagers in Flintshire, north Wales.Gary played for Leeds, Everton and Newcastle before he was appointed Wales manager in 2011.Read More UK NewsBut later that year Gary, 42, was found dead at the couple’s Cheshire home.Their sons Eddie and Tommy were just 14 and 13 when they lost their father.Louise and Andrew have set up home at his farmhouse near Wrexham in north Wales.The couple have jetted off for a romantic holiday together in the south of France.Most read in FootballAndrew, 45, told the Mail: “Funnily enough we are from the same small village in north Wales.”We only lived a few hundred yards from each other. It was only in recent years that we became good friends.”A relative said: “Louise and Andrew have been together a while now – they make a lovely couple.”Louise has moved in with Andrew two years after losing her second husband Quinton Bird to brain cancer.Quentin died from the aggressive disease only six months after tying the knot with Louise at a Cheshire castle in November 2021.Guests at the wedding in November 2021 included Gary’s former Newcastle teammate Alan Shearer. More