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    Ahmed Refaat dead at 31: Mo Salah leads tributes as Egypt star dies months after he collapsed in match

    MO SALAH has led tributes after team-mate Ahmed Refaat tragically died today.Refaat, 31, died in the early hours of Saturday morning after suffering a heart attack according to local reports.Refaat made seven appearances for Egypt’s national teamCredit: GettyMo Salah has led tributes to his former team-mateCredit: ReutersRefaat played seven times for the Egypt national team between 2013 and 2022, scoring two goals during that time.The player had previously sparked concern after collapsing during a game against Al-Ittihad Alexandria in a game in the Egyptian Premier League in March.The player was rushed to hospital and placed in intensive care after his heart reportedly stopped beating for more than an hour.He was subsequently fitted with a pace maker and released.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRefaat was a winger who played for Egyptian side Modern Future FC.Liverpool star and Egypt captain Mohamed Salah has led tributes to his former team-mate.He posted on X saying: “Survival is for God, and may God give patience to his family and all his loved ones.”Refaat’s club Modern Future FC released a statement confirming the player’s death on their website.Most read in FootballThe club wrote: “O you who are confident, return to your Lord satisfied and ill, and enter into My servants and enter My Paradise.”With great patience, sadness and more faith in Allah’s will and destiny, Modern Sport Club announces the death of Ahmed Refaat, the first team player of the Egyptian national team, following a severe deterioration in his health condition.”He was transferred to the hospital, then to Allah, after a difficult journey of struggle following the health crisis that happened to him on March 11, 2024.”The Egyptian FA paid tribute as they said their players and staff “mourn Ahmed Refaat, the player of the national team and Modern Sport Club, praying to God Almighty to have mercy on him and inspire his family and relatives with patience and solace. To God we belong and to Him we shall return.”Refaat previously played for ENPPI SC, Al Ittihad Alexandria, Zamalek and Al Masry in Egypt, as well as for Al Wahda in the UAE.He was a member of the Egypt side that won the African U-20 Championship in 2013, before lifting the Egyptian Super Cup with Zamalek in 2017 and the Egyptian League Cup with Modern Future in 2022. More

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    Arsenal legend Kevin Campbell died from organ failure in hospital as concerns raised over his care, inquest told

    ARSENAL and Everton legend Kevin Campbell died from multi-organ failure due to a heart infection, an inquest heard today.The striker passed away in hospital last month aged just 54 – sparking an outpouring of grief from his ex-teammates.Kevin Campbell died after being admitted to hospitalCredit: GettyThe former Arsenal star suffered multi-organ failureCredit: GettyAn inquest into Campbell’s death today heard how the star’s provisional cause of death was given as multi-organ failure due to a heart infection.The hearing was told he had been admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary (MRI) in May but concerns have been raised over his care.Coroner Zac Golombek said Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, which manages the hospital, had declared a Level 5 patient safety incident – the most serious category – about aspects of his care.He added: “In terms of the circumstances of his death he had been admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary on May 15 2024.Read more news“He had been reported to have been fit and well until around January 2024 when he had a number of admissions to hospital before this final admission.“I have been notified that Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust which manages Manchester Royal Infirmary has declared a Level 5 incident related to aspects of Mr Campbell’s care in which there is reference to both a delay in aspects of his care and diagnosis, and also concerns raised over decision-making processes with regards to the institutions of palliative care.”Those matters are now subject to internal investigations by the hospital trust.”A full inquest was adjourned to a date to be set while the investigation is ongoing.Most read in FootballCampbell made 213 appearances for Arsenal between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.During his time at the club, he won the old First Division, the FA Cup, the League Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.Unearthed footage shows Kevin Campbell tell incredible story about first time he played with 14-year-old Wayne RooneyArsenal led tributes for the star, who became a pundit after hanging up his boots.The team said: “We are devastated to learn that our former striker Kevin Campbell has died after a short illness.”Kevin was adored by everyone at the club. All of us are thinking of his friends and family at this difficult time.”Rest in peace, Kevin.”Campbell’s former club Everton, where he spent six years after joining in 1999 – making 137 appearances for the club.The Toffees said: “Everton said: “Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54.”Not just a true Goodison Park hero and icon of the English game, but an incredible person as well – as anyone who ever met him will know.”RIP, Super Kev.”In a two-decade career, Campbell scored 149 goals and made 521 professional appearances.As well as Arsenal and Everton, he had stints at Nottingham Forest, West Brom and Cardiff City.Campbell holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.But he did make four appearances for England U21s and one appearance for the England B squad.Wayne Rooney, who played at Everton with the footballer, said: “Absolutely devastated to hear the news about Kev – thinking of all his family and friends.”Kev was a great team mate but more importantly a brilliant person who helped me a lot in my earlier years.”While Arsenal star Tony Adams added: “Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart.READ MORE SUN STORIES”An intensely private and a truly wonderful human being. I’m devastated for his loved ones, and all of us.”Love you Super Kev, Skipper.”The star had successful stints at both Everton and ArsenalCredit: GettyFormer teammate Wayne Rooney was among those who paid tributeCredit: PA More

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    Ex-Celtic star Landry Nguemo dead at 38 as tributes paid to former Cameroon midfielder

    TRIBUTES have been paid to former Celtic midfielder Landry Nguemo, who has died at the age of 38.The diminutive all-action midfielder made more than 40 appearances for the Hoops after being brought to the club by Tony Mowbray on a loan deal from Nancy.Landry Nguemo in action for CelticCredit: Scottish News and SportCeltic manager Tony Mowbray with new on loan signing Landry N’GuemoCredit: Michael Schofield – The Sun GlasgowLandry Nguemo (left) celebrates with Cameroon superstar Samuel Eto’oCredit: PA:Empics SportBut news broke in Cameroon today that he was victim of a traffic accident in his home country, with the Cameroon football federation and former clubs Celtic, Bordeaux and St Etienne all sending heartfelt tributes to the star.The Cameroon Football Federation said in a statement: “The Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT) has just learned the tragic news of the passing of former Indomitable Lion Landry Nguemo in a traffic accident.”Nguemo, who was a key player for the Cameroonian national team from 2006 to 2014 and a former member of Girondins de Bordeaux, will be remembered for his contributions to football. “FECAFOOT extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire football community.”Celtic said in a statement: “Everyone at Celtic Football Club is shocked and saddened at the news of Landry Nguemo’s passing at the young age of 38.”The Cameroonian midfielder joined Celtic on loan from French side Nancy in the summer of 2009. “He made over 43 appearances for the Celts before returning to his parent club in 2010. “He was also capped over 40 times for Cameroon throughout the course of his career.Most read in Football”The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Celtic Football Club are with Landry’s family and friends at this sad time.” Bordeaux wrote on X, formerly Twitter: “The Club was saddened to learn of the death of Landry Nguemo. Celtic legend Henrik Larssson reacts after almost tearing up live on”Victim of a traffic accident in Cameroon, the former Bordeaux native died at the age of 38. “FC Girondins de Bordeaux sends its most sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.”St Etienne wrote: “Landry Nguemo has left us. Far too soon, far too abruptly. “ASSE mourns one of its own. To all his loved ones, we send our most sincere condolences.”Nguemo was one of a number of fatalities from a road accident near Obala – with local authorities launching an investigation into the exact circumstances of the accident.He played 42 times for the Cameroon national team, scoring three goals.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe bulk of his professional career was spent in France, where he played for AS Nancy-Lorraine, Bordeaux and St Etienne before winding down his playing days in Turkish football.Nguemo in action against St MirrenCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowTony Mowbray with Nguemo and Georgios SamarasCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowKeep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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    Pele’s £1.1m mansion abandoned & stripped by fanatic looters after house ‘left to rot by son’ following legend’s death

    PELÉ’S £1.1million beachside mansion has been abandoned and stripped by fanatic looters following the legend’s death.The late star’s once-luxurious home in Brazil’s coastline is now a graveyard of memories of lovers, football, and a debt of thousands of pounds after his family took over the mansion.Pele passed away in December 2022 aged 82 after a long battle with cancerCredit: AFPThe once-luxury backyard now has a dirty pool and overgrown grassCredit: G1 SantosThe home had a room full of Pele memorabilia, but now lies fully destroyedCredit: G1 SantosFor over 40 years, Pelé’s haven was his mansion situated in an exclusive condominium in Guarujá, in the São Paulo state.In the property valued at approximately £1.1million (R$8 million), the King of Football experienced the greatest memories between his many trips around the world.Just 500 metres from the ocean, the house is located on Pernambuco beach, one of the most prestigious beaches in Brazil.Built on land that occupies an entire block, Pelé’s home is surrounded by a stone wall, which looks more like a fortress.Read more about footballBehind it, there are stories that begin around 1981, when Pelé stopped living in New York to resume life close to his family in Brazil.THE KING’S HAVENWith dozens of suites and rooms, there was plenty of space for his countless trophies, a cinema and even a professional studio where Pelé ventured to record his own songs. When friends came over, a huge dance club on the top floor would turn any gathering into a wild party.The King didn’t need to leave his home to have fun as his backyard featured tennis and footvolley courts, a mini football field, a sauna and a large swimming pool.Most read in FootballPelé also built a chapel on the site, so that his mother, Celeste, could pray, as the Arantes do Nascimento family had always been very Catholic.Brazil football legend Pele dies aged 82The house used to have a beautiful pool area before the star’s deathCredit: G1 SantosPele’s living room used to look like this before it was left to rotCredit: instagram/@leodiasWhat was once a stunning living room is now left to crumbleCredit: instagram/@leodiasThe mansion was the King’s penultimate home. It was where Pelé experienced great love, including his relationship with presenter Xuxa and other famous models and actresses of the time.Part of his marriages also took place in the house – he moved after the end of the first with Rosemeri Cholbi, but lived there with Assíria Nascimento, his second wife, and also with Márcia Aoki, his last partner.Famous global artists, musicians, athletes and even journalists who were old friends were frequent guests at Pelé home, who would be welcomed by the football star in shorts and shirtless.At Pernambuco Beach, Pelé could leave the Santos star at the door and enjoy some family time as Edson.LEFT TO ROTThe once lavish mansion has now fallen into disrepair after Pelé’s death in December 2022.An example of the financial crisis that plagued the King’s business in his final years, the home raked up a property tax debt with the Guarujá City Hall of approximately £70,000.It has been on the market for sale since 2017 but chances of it getting sold are slim as the home was robbed by looters ever since.Shocking pictures show the giant pool completely green next to a crumbling jacuzzi and waterslide.There is no water in the bathrooms and no furniture apart from some broken objects and equipment.READ MORE SUN STORIESOutside, overgrown grass and bushes are starting to swallow the home, also marked with traces of dirt, dust and cobwebs.Pelé’s family has denied that the home is in abandonment state, Brazilian outlet Istoe reports.An aerial view of the home, which had tennis courts and a football pitchCredit: Google MapsHow the home used to look like in 2011Credit: Google MapsPelé’s life and careerPelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil, is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.He started his professional career at the young age of 15 with Santos FC and quickly rose to fame due to his exceptional talent and goal-scoring ability.Pelé joined Santos FC in 1956, making an immediate impact by scoring on his debut.His remarkable skills and agility caught the attention of the football world, and he soon became a key player for the team. By the age of 16, he was the top scorer in the Brazilian league.Pelé’s international debut came in 1957 when he played for the Brazilian national team. He gained worldwide recognition during the 1958 FIFA World Cup in Sweden, where he scored six goals, including two in the final, helping Brazil win their first World Cup. At just 17, he became the youngest player to play in a World Cup final.Pelé went on to win two more World Cups with Brazil in 1962 and 1970.The 1970 World Cup in Mexico is particularly notable, as Brazil’s team, featuring Pelé, is often considered one of the greatest football teams in history. The star’s performance in this tournament solidified his legacy, as he scored crucial goals and provided assists, showcasing his all-around brilliance.Pelé’s impact on football is immeasurable. He was named FIFA’s Player of the Century and received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the International Peace Award and the Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award. The Brazilian legend sadly passed away in December 2022 aged 82, after a long battle with cancer. More

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    Boxer slapped with four-year drugs ban… three months after his death at the age of 34

    UK ANTI-DOPING chiefs banned a boxer for four years despite him dying three months earlier.Mexican Moises Calleros sadly passed away, aged 34, of a suspected cardiac arrest in February.Boxer Moises Calleros sadly passed away aged 34Credit: GettyMoises Calleros was beaten by Galal Yafai in April 2023Credit: GettyCalleros had been beaten by Brit Galal Yafai in four rounds in April of 2023.The flyweight had one bout after losing to Yafai when he beat Gerardo Verde on December 16, 2023 in Mexico. And he was believed to have been preparing for another fight when he was sadly found dead in his home.Ten months after the loss to Yafai, it emerged Calleros had failed a United Kingdom Anti-Doping test from that fight.READ MORE IN BOXINGAnd, with UKAD seemingly unaware of his death, Calleros tested positive for cocaine and was slapped with a four-year suspension.In a statement, they wrote on X: “Anti-Doping Rule Violation!”Mexican Professional Boxer Moises Calleros has been banned for four years, following Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) for the presence and Use of Prohibited substance, cocaine and its metabolite.”Fans were quick to point out Calleros’ sad passing, with UKAD quickly deleting their post.Most read in BoxingAnd in a new statement the organisation said: “UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) has today received information regarding the death of Mexican professional boxer Moises Calleros.”UKAD received this information shortly after publishing details of the outcome from a case concerning Mr Calleros in accordance with the UK Anti-Doping Rules.”Unfortunately, UKAD had no information regarding Mr Calleros’ sad passing at the time of publication and has now removed all details of this case from its channels.” I have 9-5 job by day but earn £15k a night in brutal bare-knuckle battlesCalleros boxed the majority of his career in Mexico baring two fights in Japan and the loss to Yafai in London.On March 2, the boxer’s Facebook account posted a tribute to his life as tributes poured in. He had a record of 37 wins, 11 losses and one draw, once challenging for the WBO interim minimum-weight title. More

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    Emotional moment Millwall manager Neil Harris chokes back tears as he reveals heartbreak over death of Matija Sarkic

    MILLWALL boss Neil Harris has paid an emotional tribute to keeper Matija Sarkic following his tragic death.Sarkic passed away at the age of 26 on Saturday after reportedly falling ill while on international duty.Matija Sarkic passed away on Saturday at the age of just 26Credit: RexMillwall boss Neil Harris held back tears while opening up about Sarkic’s passingNow Millwall manager Harris, 46, has opened up about how he found out the devastating news, while he also spoke glowingly about the brilliant young shot-stopper.In an interview with the club, he said: “First thoughts have to go with Matija’s parents and his brothers.”He was a wonderful son and a wonderful brother who was a very caring, good man.”Getting the call at 7am first thing on the weekend, you know it’s not going to be positive news.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”But you could never imagine the devastation in the moment that you find out that such a good man at such a tender age has lost his life.“Words find it hard to explain how you feel. It makes it very emotional for me because I have a 22-year-old son myself. Matija is only a few years older, so anybody in life can relate to something like that.”Devastating news for the family and our football club.”Clearly choked up while talking about the loss, Harris continued: “There is no surprise that when you read obituaries on social media and that people so close to him talk so fondly of him, they talk about his radiant smile, human nature and goodwill.Most read in Football”I only worked with Matija for a three-month period. I was with him last Thursday at the training ground and he had a huge smile on his face about going to see the family in Montenegro that evening.”He had a great summer. He performed so well for his nation against Belgium and had been to his brother’s wedding.MATIJA SARKICAll you need to know about his career:
    Clubs:
    Aston Villa (2015-2020)
    Wigan (Loan 2017/2018)
    Stratford Town (Loan 2018/2019)
    Havant & Waterlooville (Loan 2019)
    Livingston (Loan 2019/2020)
    Wolves (2020-2023)
    Shrewsbury (Loan 2020/21)
    Birmingham (Loan 2021/22)
    Stoke (Loan 2023)
    Millwall (2023/24)
    Honours:
    Birmingham City Player of the Season 2022
    International:Montenegro (9 caps)

    “As a character in the training ground, every day, win, lose or draw, he came in with a smile on his face.”He wanted to be better. That was his thought process. People shouldn’t think of him as a laidback goalkeeper who was quite calm on the football pitch, he was very driven.”He had high aspirations for himself to keep moving forward. He wanted to build his caps up for his country but also drag us forward. “I can’t praise him highly enough as a human being in the time I knew him, but also as a professional as well.”It doesn’t always feel right to talk work in moments like this, but in Matija’s case, it does. He loved the game and loved his job.”Sarkic began his career in Anderlecht’s academy before being snapped up by Aston Villa in 2015.The Grimsby-born stopper joined Wolves in 2020 and found form in loan spells with Shrewsbury, Birmingham – where he was named Player of the Season in 2022 – and Stoke.That convinced Millwall to make a permanent move last summer and Sarkic made 33 appearances for the Lions, who won five games in a row to end the season 13th in the Championship.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was named player of the match in his last outing for Montenegro as he made nine saves in a 2-0 defeat to Euro 2024 hopefuls Belgium – his ninth international cap.The talented No1 also received the player of the match award in Millwall’s final game of the season – a 1-0 win over Swansea. More

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    Premier League ref tells funny story of how Matija Sarkic ‘did him like a kipper’ in tribute to tragic Millwall ace, 26

    PREMIER LEAGUE referee Bobby Madley has shared a heartwarming tribute for the late Millwall goalkeeper Matija Sarkic.The Championship club announced tragic news yesterday morning that the 26-year-old had died after falling ill in the coastal town of Budva, Montenegro.It was announced Matija Sarkic passed away at the age of 26 yesterdayCredit: GettyReferee Bobby Madley revealed a heartwarming story between the twoCredit: GettySarkic had been on international duty with Montenegro, and put in a man of the match performance in his last display with nine saves in a 2-0 defeat to Belgium.Montenegrin state-owned TV station RTCG report that Sarkic went for a walk with pals, had dinner in a restaurant and returned to his apartment early on Friday evening.He is believed to have told friends he felt ill after waking up at around 6am morning and they called an ambulance but it was too late.Tributes poured in from across the football world following the terrible news.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne tribute came from referee Madley, who shared an interaction the pair had as he prepared to take charge of a Montenegro Under 19s game in 2016.Taking to social media, Madley said: “I met Matija in 2016 when refereeing my first U19 Euros qualifying game between Montenegro and France.”Matija was the captain which, as a goalkeeper, isn’t always the easiest for a referee. “Standing in the tunnel before the game Matija came down and shook hands. Most read in Football”Given that my grasp of the Montenegrin language wasn’t the best, in a shocking broken English accent I tried to explain to Matija with many hand gestures and ridiculous facial expressions that as a captain and goalkeeper it would be hard to work with him. “My question of ‘Is there player in team, speak English, maybe can speak with me if problem today?’ was met with a blank look from Matija. “I tried again with even worse broken English and the stone look remained on his face. “I was defeated. I looked at Matija and said clearly I’m wasting my time and getting nowhere.”Matija half smiled before replying in a strong Balkan accent: ‘Nine. Speak English him’.”Delighted and very proud of myself I replied ‘Ah you understand English little. This is good. He speak good English?’ “Matija smiled and replied… ‘Yeah, it’s not bad, it’s my brother Oliver, we’re from Grimsby… I just wanted to see how long you’d carry that nonsense on.'”He’d done me like a kipper.”Madley added: “Sincerest condolences to his family and his friends. Rest in peace Matija.”He has whistled over 90 top flight matches in his career. Grimsby-born Sarkic was the son of Montenegro ambassador Bojan Sarkic.Sarkic had only moved to the Den last season, where he helped the club to a midtable finish and penned a long-term contract.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe had also starred for Wolves, Shrewsbury, Birmingham, Stoke, Aston Villa and Anderlecht in his career.Matija Sarkic careerAll you need to know about his career:
    Clubs:
    Aston Villa (2015-2020)
    Wigan (Loan 2017/2018)
    Stratford Town (Loan 2018/2019)
    Havant & Waterlooville (Loan 2019)
    Livingston (Loan 2019/2020)
    Wolves (2020-2023)
    Shrewsbury (Loan 2020/21)
    Birmingham (Loan 2021/22)
    Stoke (Loan 2023)
    Millwall (2023/24)
    Honours:
    Birmingham City Player of the Season 2022
    International:Montenegro (9 caps) More

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    Frank D’Arcy dead at 77: Ex-Everton footballer dies as club pays tribute to title-winning defender

    FORMER Everton footballer Frank D’Arcy has passed away aged 77.The Premier League club paid tribute to their tough-tackling defender, who was a boyhood supporter, on social media.Frank D’Arcy passed away yesterday aged 77Credit: ANL/ShutterstockFrank with teammates after a match vs West Bromwich AlbionCredit: AlamyHe was a title-winner at EvertonCredit: RexThe post read: “Everyone at Everton Football Club is deeply saddened at the passing of our title-winning defender Frank D’Arcy, who passed away on Saturday, aged 77.”His cause of death is currently unknown.Frank made 18 appearances during a five-year career with the Blues.He most notably appearing five times in the famous Championship-winning season of 1969/70, never once finishing on the losing side.However, it was only when Football League rules were altered recently that Frank qualified for a medal. He was thrilled to receive it from 1986/87 title-winner and Club Ambassador Ian Snodin at home last year.D’Arcy was also a member of the team that famously won the Club’s first FA Youth Cup in 1964/65 alongside the likes of John Hurst and Jimmy Husband.Everton beat Arsenal in the two-legged final, 29,908 packing into Goodison Park for the second leg.Most read in FootballA tough-tackling left-back, Frank made his Senior Team debut at Elland Road against Leeds United the following season when Harry Catterick played a much-changed team a week prior to an FA Cup semi-final.Frank made two further starts in the 1970/71 season. His last appearance came as a substitute at Wolves in April 1971 before enjoying a brief spell with Tranmere Rovers, then moving into non-league football with Kirkby Town.Frank remained a passionate Everton fan throughout his life and could often be seen in the crowd at Goodison until recent years.It comes after another former Everton legend Kevin Campbell died aged 54 after a short illness.Emotional tributes are pouring in for the ex-striker, who spent a memorable two decades on the pitch and later became a pundit.Wayne Rooney said: “Absolutely devastated to hear the news about Kev – thinking of all his family and friends.”Kev was a great team mate but more importantly a brilliant person who helped me a lot in my earlier years.”Campbell began his career at Arsenal and broke into the first team in 1988.Campbell made 213 appearances for Arsenal between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.After stints in Nottingham and Turkey he made 137 appearances for Everton where he scored another 39 goals and played with a young Wayne Rooney.Campbell played for the Toffees between 1999 and 2005 before finishing off his career with a year at West Brom and then Cardiff City.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe called time on his career in May 2007 after the Baggies released him following their relegation from the Premier League.In a two-decade career, Campbell scored 149 goals and made 521 professional appearances. More