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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

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    Kevin Campbell death updates — Tributes pour in as beloved Arsenal and Everton star dies aged 54

    TRIBUTES have poured in following the death of former Arsenal and Everton star Kevin Campbell.Confirming the star’s tragic passing, Arsenal wrote: “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.”Meanwhile, 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.”Follow our live blog below for the latest news and updates…Kevin Campbell’s trailblazing career
    Kevin Campbell began his long career in football at Arsenal.
    He made 213 appearances for the North London club between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.
    In 199, he would move to Everton, where he became the club’s first black skipper.
    Campbell played for the Toffees between 1999 and 2005 before finishing off his career with a year at West Brom and then Cardiff City.
    He 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.
    He holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.
    Copy linkCopiedWho did Kevin Campbell play for?
    Kevin Campbell played for several clubs during his career, such as Arsenal, Everton, Nottingham Forest as well as representing the English national team.
    Throughout his career, Kevin also had loan spells at other clubs, including a brief period at Leicester City.
    After retiring from professional football, Kevin remained involved in the sport as a pundit and commentator.
    Copy linkCopiedWho is Kevin Campbell’s son Tyrese?
    Tyrese Campbell is a professional footballer who plays as a forward.
    He was born on December 28, 1999, in Cheadle Hulme, England and is the son of former footballer Kevin Campbell.
    Just like his father, Tyrese has carved out his own path in professional football and is regarded as a promising talent on the field.
    Copy linkCopiedEngland’s touching tribute
    The official England national team has honoured Kevin Campbell following his passing aged 54.
    Sharing a snap of the late striker, they wrote: “We are devastated to learn that Kevin Campbell has passed away aged 54.
    “Kevin won four caps for our under-21s and represented our B team in the early 1990s.
    “Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family, friends and loved ones.”
    We are devastated to learn that Kevin Campbell has passed away aged 54.Kevin won four caps for our under-21s and represented our B team in the early 1990s.Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family, friends and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/KyGsRgcXii— England (@England) June 15, 2024

    Copy linkCopiedMore tributes pour in
    Tributes have continued to pour in for Arsenal and Everton star Kevin Campbell.
    Campbell’s Nottingham Forest teammate Mark Crossley said: “Life can be so cruel at times.
    “Absolutely devastated with news of my ex forest team mate Kevin Campbell’s passing.
    “A true gentleman, a great player, a shining light of a dressing room, fun loving guy.
    “Thoughts are with all his family and friends. RIP mate.”
    Paying tribute, Piers Morgan said: “What incredibly sad news. Top player, and a great guy. RIP.”
    Copy linkCopiedTony Adams remembers ‘goal machine’ Kevin Campbell
    Arsenal icon Tony Adams has shared a heartwrenching tribute to Highbury legend Kevin Campbell.
    Sharing snaps of their time playing together, he wrote: “Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart.
    “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.”
    Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart. 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 💔🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/ZJ6f57yK2b— Tony Adams (@TonyAdams) June 15, 2024

    Copy linkCopiedHeartbroken fans pay tribute to Everton and Arsenal star
    Football fans from across the globe have come together today to pay tribute to Kevin Campbell.
    The Arsenal and Everton icon passed away aged 54 after a short battle with illness.
    Taking to Twitter/X, one heartbroken Toffies’ fan wrote: “A true Everton hero and Gentlemen.
    “Our thoughts go out to the family and friends of Super Kevin Campbell after the sad news of his passing. Rest in peace, Super Kev.”
    While another supporter said: “Really sad to hear about Kevin Campbell. He started the first game I went to at Highbury and was a real feature of my early Arsenal supporting life.
    “He always came across as an absolute gentleman too. RIP Super Kev.”
    Copy linkCopiedDid Kevin Campbell play for England?
    Kevin Campbell never played for the senior England national team.
    In fact, he holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.
    He did, however, make four appearances for England U21s and one appearance for the England B squad.
    Copy linkCopiedKevin Campbell’s career in pictures
    Here are some iconic pictures from Kevin Campbell’s long and successful footballing career…
    Credit: Mark Leech
    Credit: Getty Images
    Credit: PA Wire
    Credit: Allsport
    Copy linkCopiedNottingham Forest ‘deeply saddened’
    Paying tribute to Kevin Campbell, Nottingham Forest wrote: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell.
    “Kevin spent three seasons at #NFFC and was part of the side which earned promotion from the First Division as champions in 1998.
    “Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this difficult time.”
    Everyone at Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell.Kevin spent three seasons at #NFFC and was part of the side which earned promotion from the First Division as champions in 1998.Our thoughts are with his friends and family during this… pic.twitter.com/mpHl1AyeTZ— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) June 15, 2024

    Copy linkCopiedTony Cottee ‘devastated’ as Kevin Campbell passes away
    Former West Ham and Everton star Tony Cottee has expressed his heartbreak at the death of Kevin Campbell.
    Writing on X, he said: “I am so devastated to hear the news of the passing of Kevin Campbell The nicest man you could wish to meet and a fantastic player.
    “Thoughts to his friends and family…. RIP Kev.”
    I am so devastated to hear the news of the passing of Kevin Campbell The nicest man you could wish to meet and a fantastic player. Thoughts to his friends and family…. RIP Kev pic.twitter.com/5BR7RVpRi9— Tony Cottee (@TonyCottee9) June 15, 2024

    Copy linkCopiedDarren Fletcher pays tribute
    Pundit and former player Darren Fletcher has shared a heartfelt tribute to his friend and teammate Kevin Campbell.
    Taking to X, he wrote: “Absolutely devastated that Kevin Campbell has passed away.
    “He’s been my mate since he joined Forest in 1995 and my colleague on the radio in more recent times.
    “They called him ‘Super Kev’ – cos he was a beloved player. But he was Super Kev because he was a super bloke RIP mate.”
    Absolutely devastated that Kevin Campbell has passed away.He’s been my mate since he joined Forest in 1995 and my colleague on the radio in more recent times.They called him ‘Super Kev’ – cos he was a beloved player. But he was Super Kev because he was a super blokeRIP mate💔— Darren Fletcher (@DFletcherSport) June 15, 2024

    Copy linkCopied’A true Goodison Park hero’
    Everton have hailed Kevin Campbell as a “true Goodison Park hero” as they pay tribute to the star.
    Taking to X, the Toffies wrote: “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.”
    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. 💙— Everton (@Everton) June 15, 2024

    Copy linkCopiedPremier League honours beloved star
    The Premier League has paid tribute to Kevin Campbell following his passing.
    Taking to X, the league wrote: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell, the former Arsenal, Nott’m Forest, Everton and West Brom striker.
    “Our thoughts and condolences are with Kevin’s family, friends and those associated with the clubs he played for.”
    We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kevin Campbell, the former Arsenal, Nott’m Forest, Everton and West Brom strikerOur thoughts and condolences are with Kevin’s family, friends and those associated with the clubs he played for pic.twitter.com/JkMlgwe8fC— Premier League (@premierleague) June 15, 2024

    Copy linkCopiedKevin Campbell’s trailblazing career
    Kevin Campbell began his long career in football at Arsenal.
    He made 213 appearances for the North London club between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.
    In 199, he would move to Everton, where he became the club’s first black skipper.
    Campbell played for the Toffees between 1999 and 2005 before finishing off his career with a year at West Brom and then Cardiff City.
    He 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.
    He holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.
    Copy linkCopiedIan Wright pays tribute to late star
    Ian Wright has shared a series of snaps paying tribute to the late Kevin Campbell.
    The pair played for Arsenal together during the early years of Campbell’s career.

    Copy linkCopiedArsenal confirm star’s tragic passing
    Arsenal has now confirmed the death of Kevin Campbell, aged 54.
    Taking to X, the team wrote: “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.”
    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 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Kiywyo7nTr— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 15, 2024

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    Ian Wright and Wayne Rooney pay touching tributes to tragic team-mate Kevin Campbell as football mourns death at 54

    TRIBUTES poured in following the tragic news of Kevin Campbell’s death. The Arsenal and Everton legend passed away aged 54 after being raced to hospital a week prior when he fell unwell. Tributes poured in following the tragic news of Kevin Campbell’s deathCredit: GettyIan Wright was quick to pay tributeCredit: GettyThe two were a formidable front twoCredit: AlamyIt sent the football world into shock as tributes from clubs and players flooded in. Arsenal posted: “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.”Everton added: “Everyone at Everton is deeply saddened by the death of our former striker Kevin Campbell at the age of just 54. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”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.”Former Arsenal team-mate David Seaman posted: “Devestating news that Kevin Campbell has been taken way too early. “Such great memories of playing with Rambo during our time together @Arsenal – sending all my love to his family and friends.” Tony Adams said: “Super Kev: a goal machine, a giant of a man, with an even bigger heart. Most read in FootballKevin Campbell’s career stats

    Arsenal: 1998-95, 163 appearances, 46 goals
    Leyton Orient (loan): 1989, 16 appearances, 9 goals
    Leicester City (loan): 1989, 11 appearances, 5 goals
    Nottingham Forest: 1995-98, 77 appearances, 31 goals
    Trabsonzpor: 1998-99, 18 appearances, 5 goals
    Everton: 1998-05, 151 appearances, 39 goals
    West Brom: 2004-06, 49 appearances, 6 goals
    Total: 521 appearances, 149 goals
    Honours: Arsenal – Division One (1991), FA Cup (1993), League Cup (1993), Community Shield (1991), European Cup Winners’ Cup (1994)
    Nottingham Forest – Football League First Division (1998)

    “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.”Arsenal and Everton legend Kevin Campbell dead aged 54Strike parter Ian Wright had no words following the devastating news – instead he shared a series of photos alongside his friend.Together, they won the FA Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup as a formidable front two. Also paying tribute, Arsenal fan Piers Morgan said: “What incredibly sad news. Top player, and a great guy. RIP.”England’s official X account also wrote: “We are devastated to learn that Kevin Campbell has passed away aged 54. “Kevin won four caps for our under-21s and represented our B team in the early 1990s. “Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family, friends and loved ones.” Campbell made 213 appearances for Arsenal between 1988 and 1995, scoring 59 goals in all competitions.During his time at the Gunners he won the old First Division, the FA Cup, the League Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.After stints in Nottingham and Turkey he made 137 appearances for Everton where he scored another 39 goals.In Merseyside, he became the club’s first black skipper and played with a young Wayne Rooney.Rooney posted: “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 played for the Toffees between 1999 and 2005 before finishing off his career with a year at West Brom and then Cardiff City.He 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.He holds the record for the most Premier League goals without representing England.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe did, however, make four appearances for England U21s and one appearance for the England B squad.In retirement, he became a beloved pundit for the likes of Sky Sports and will be a true loss to the footballing world. Campbell played with Wayne Rooney at EvertonCredit: NEWS GROUP NEWSPAPERS LTDCampbell became a beloved pundit in retirementCredit: Getty More

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    Matija Sarkic’s heartbroken twin brother posts emotional photo after Millwall star dies tragically aged just 26

    MATIJA SARKIC’s twin brother Oliver posted a heartbreaking photo after the former Millwall star’s death.Matija, 26, passed away in Montenegro this morning in a tragedy that rocked the football world.Oliver Sarkic paid tribute to his twin brother MatijaCredit: INSTAGRAM: OLIVERSARKIC10The brothers both played in Anderlecht’s academy and Montenegro’s Under-21sOliver and Matija Sarkic were born in GrimsbyThe Grimsby-born brothers both attended the British School of Brussels after following their diplomat father Bojan to Belgium.They both came through Anderlecht’s academy but while Matija joined Aston Villa in 2015, attacking midfielder Oliver went to Benfica.After playing 44 times for the Portuguese giants’ B team, he joined Leeds on a permanent deal in 2018 after a brief loan stint.From there Oliver headed to League One Burton Albion, where he scored five goals in 37 outings.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe playmaker also featured for Blackpool and Mansfield before heading to Uzbekistani outfit Pakhtakor Tashkent in 2022.After a successful spell, he moved to Montenegrin team Decic last year and has 13 goals in 51 league games.Matija had nine caps for Montenegro, including a man-of-the-match performance against Euro 2024 contenders Belgium last week.Oliver, meanwhile, played ten times for their Under-21s but has not made the step up to senior international level.Most read in FootballMillwall issued a heartbreaking statement to confirm the death of their goalkeeper this morning.The eight-cap Montenegro star reportedly fell ill while on international duty in the town of Budva.Matija Sarkic career stats
    Millwall: 33 games, 12 clean sheets
    Shrewsbury: 29 games, 11 clean sheets
    Birmingham: 23 games, 10 clean sheets
    Livingston: 18 games, nine clean sheets
    Stoke: Eight games, three clean sheets
    Wigan: Three games
    Havant & Waterlooville: One game

    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.He is believed to have told friends he felt ill after waking up at around 6am this morning and they called an ambulance but it was too late.Tributes have flooded in for Sarkic from the football world, including former clubs Aston Villa and Birmingham.Villa posted on X: “Everyone at Aston Villa is deeply saddened by news of the passing of our former goalkeeper Matija Sarkic.”Matija joined our academy in 2015 and spent five years with the club, during which time he made his full international debut for Montenegro, before departing in the summer of 2020.”The thoughts and condolences of all at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.” More