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      Sir Alex Ferguson can’t stop smiling as he remembers ‘special’ Man Utd receptionist Kath Phipps in emotional tribute

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON led tributes to “special” Manchester United receptionist Kath Phipps on the day of her funeral.Phipps, a much-loved figure behind the scenes at Old Trafford, passed away last month at the age of 85.Sir Alex Ferguson could not help but smile when reminiscing on his memories of Kath PhippsCredit: The SunSir Alex, pictured here with Kath, had a close bond with the much-loved United receptionistPhipps worked at United for 55 years dating back to the 1960sCredit: GettyThe receptionist worked for United for 55 years – dating back to the 1960s when Sir Matt Busby was manager.She had a lasting impact on some of the club’s biggest legends – including Sir Alex and David Beckham.And those icons were among the vast number of guests in attendance at her funeral on Monday.Club legends Paul Scholes, Peter Schmeichel, Bryan Robson and Roy Keane were also among the mourners at Manchester Cathedral, as well as Ruben Amorim and the entire current men’s first team.READ MORE ON MAN UTDIn addition, several academy stars attended, as did Marc Skinner, Maya Le Tissier and Ella Toone on behalf of the women’s team.Sir Alex was thrilled to see so many players past and present at the funeral as he paid tribute to Phipps.Reflecting on her time at the club, Ferguson said: “55 years! I did 26 and I thought that was unbelievable!”She was a fantastic person and I’m glad that all the players turned up. She would appreciate that.” Most read in FootballThe Man Utd first team squad attended her funeralCredit: SplashDavid Beckham was also in attendanceCredit: GettyFergie also admitted the beloved receptionist would be “happy” with United’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.He explained: “I was pleased the team got a result last night… Kath would be happy with that.Man Utd’s much-loved receptionist Kath Phipps dies aged 85 as tributes paid to ‘heartbeat of United'”When I went to see her at home towards the end, she was happy and content. I thought she had a Coke to drink.”She told me it was a Bacardi and Coke. I asked her what the doctor would think about that. She said, ‘I haven’t asked him.’”It is unusual to have someone who is so committed and who loved people so much.”The people you see here today are here to honour a very special person.”Ferguson could not contain a smile when reminiscing on the time he spent with the beloved Old Trafford icon because of how much she meant to both him and United.He also read a touching eulogy in her honour and said: “I wanted to do that but I was nervous because she deserved something really special.”Peter Schmeichel was among the mournersCredit: GettyPaul Scholes was also thereCredit: Getty More

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      Hassan Mgaya dead at 29: Boxer dies just days after suffering KO defeat as tributes pour in

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      TANZANIAN boxer Hassan Mgaya has tragically died aged 29, the WBC have confirmed.Mgaya passed away in hospital just days after his defeat to Paul Elias.Hassan Mgaya tragically died aged 29The Tanzanian super-lightweight fought Elias in his country’s capital Dar-Es-Salaam on December 27.Following his KO defeat he was taken straight to Palestine Hospital in Sinza, Tanzania.He was subsequently transferred to Mwananyamala Hospital, where he tragically died on December 30.A WBC statement read: “Tanzanian professional boxer Hassan Mgaya passed away on December 30, 2024, from injuries resulting from a knockout he received on December 27.READ MORE IN BOXING”Mgaya had been taken to Palestine Hospital in Sinza, Tanzania, before being transferred to Mwananyamala Hospital where he spent his final moments.”The entire WBC family and President Mauricio Sulaiman send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of our beloved champion.”The Tanzanian Boxing Commission’s acting secretary Nsajigwa Mwangamilo has also paid tribute to Mgaya.He said: “We extend our deepest condolences to to the family and boxing stakeholders in the country.”Most read in BoxingMgaya held a 3-3-2 professional record.His fight with Elias had been his fourth bout of 2024. More

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      Ex-Newcastle star Michael Newberry’s dad pays heartbreaking tribute after son tragically died on 27th birthday

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      THE father of ex-Newcastle star Michael Newberry has shared a heartbreaking message following the death of his son.Northern Irish side Cliftonville announced the sudden passing of Newberry, 27, on Monday.Former Newcastle academy star Michael Newberry passed away on MondayCredit: PacemakerA statement read: “Cliftonville FC are devastated to learn of the sudden death of Michael Newberry.”Our condolences are extended to Michael’s family and friends, as well as the many team-mates he played with during his career, and fans who will be shaken and saddened by this heartbreaking news.”The Reds postponed their match against Dungannon Swifts, originally scheduled for that evening, out of respect.Now, the defender’s dad – also named Michael – has penned his own message in the wake of the tragedy.Read More in FootballHe took to Facebook on Monday afternoon to write: “Devastated to learn that my beautiful son Michael Newberry has tragically passed away today on his 27th birthday.”RIP son you were my pride and joy and we will miss you dearly.”The Newcastle academy graduate signed for Cliftonville last summer and made 19 league appearances for the club.His last game was on Boxing Day, in Cliftonville’s defeat to Crusaders.Most read in FootballOn Monday, manager Jim Magilton expressed his well wishes to the Newberry family and said it was a “privilege” to know Michael.Magilton said: “Today, on what would have been his 27th birthday, we remember Michael Newberry with heavy hearts.”I first came to know Michael when he burst onto the scene as a talented young player at Newcastle United, his boyhood club and greatest love.”With his unmistakable red hair and boundless passion for the game, he quickly stood out not just for his skill, but also for his enthusiasm, determination and unwavering dedication.”Although his dream of playing for Newcastle didn’t materialise, it never deterred him from forging his own path in football.”I’ve followed Michael’s journey throughout his career, and when the opportunity arose to bring him to Cliftonville, I didn’t hesitate.”He brought the same passion and determination to every training session and match. Winning mattered deeply to him, but so did the love for the game and the bonds he formed with team-mates.”Michael was a remarkable young man, a credit to his family, his team-mates, and the entire football community.READ MORE SUN STORIES”His loss is felt not only in Northern Ireland but across every club he represented. He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.”Rest in peace, Michael. You’ll always be remembered.” More

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      Former Newcastle youth star, 27, dies suddenly as his heartbroken club pay tribute and postpone match out of respect

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      FORMER Newcastle academy player Michael Newberry has tragically passed away at the age of 27.Newberry, who left the Toon in 2018, signed for Northern Irish club Cliftonville FC last summer.Former Newcastle player Michael Newberry has tragically passed awayCredit: GettyNewberry’s current club Cliftonville FC have postponed their game to honour his deathCliftonville confirmed Newberry’s death on Monday in a heartbreaking tribute, with the club left “shaken” by the loss.The tribute read: “Cliftonville FC are devastated to learn of the sudden death of Michael Newberry. “Our condolences are extended to Michael’s family and friends, as well as the many team-mates he played with during his career, and fans who will be shaken and saddened by this heartbreaking news.”This evening’s scheduled fixture with Dungannon Swifts at Solitude has been postponed.”Monday’s scheduled fixture with Dungannon Swifts at Solitude has been postponed out of respect.Dungannon said: “Everyone at Dungannon Swifts FC are deeply saddened by the news of Michael Newberry’s passing.”We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Newberry’s family and everybody associated with Cliftonville FC and Linfield FC at this sad time.”Also postponed is the game between Linfield and Larne following a request from the former due to his time at the club.Most read in FootballNewberry’s last game for Cliftonville was on Boxing DayCredit: A Linfield statement read: “Linfield FC is devastated to learn of the sudden passing of our former player, Michael Newberry. West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui defends loss against Liverpool “Linfield has agreed with NIFL that tonight’s Premiership game against Larne should be postponed. “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michael’s family and friends at this very sad time.”Larne said: “Everyone at Larne Football Club are deeply saddened to hear of Michael Newberry’s passing. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Michael’s family and friends at this time and everyone associated with Cliftonville FC and Linfield FC.”Due to the tragic news, tonight’s game against Linfield has now been postponed.”A statement from the Northern Ireland Football League said: “The NI Football League are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of Cliftonville player Michael Newberry.”Everyone connected with the NI Football League pass on our heartfelt condolences to Michael’s family, friends and everyone connected with Cliftonville Football Club at this sad time.READ MORE SUN STORIES”As a mark of respect, Cliftonville’s match against Dungannon Swifts in the Sports Direct Premiership tonight (Monday) has been postponed.”In addition, following a request from Linfield, and due to Michael’s time at Windsor Park and his close association with the Linfield players and staff – their match against Larne this evening has also been postponed.” More

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      in Boxing

      Boxer Paul Bamba made devastating brain damage admission weeks before tragic death aged just 35

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      PAUL BAMBA made a heartbreaking health admission just weeks before his passing.The 35-year-old boxer tragically passed away last week just SIX DAYS after claiming the WBA Gold cruiserweight title.Boxer Paul Bamba tragically passed away last weekCredit: INSTAGRAM@BAMBAJUICEThe cause of the untimely passing of Bamba – who was managed by musician Ne-Yo – hasn’t been revealed.But just weeks before his death, Bamba revealed that his ventures into the ring had taken their toll on his body – particularly his brain.After a troll took aim at him on X, he revealed he’d suffered brain damage in his Misfits Boxing clash with former UFC star Chris Avila in April 2021.He wrote: “Nah fighting Avila with a concussion and losing 22lbs in 3 days gave me slight brain damage.READ MORE BOXING NEWS”Which was a bit scary and I had to take 8 months off so it’s not a joking matter.”After the final fight of his career, Bamba set his sights on a showdown with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.He said: “[Jake Paul] you can come get it, you can come fight for it or whatever, you can keep doing the gimmick fights.”At the end of the day, I’ve put in the work.Most read in BoxingPaul Bamba made a frank admission about his health just weeks before his passingCredit: INSTAGRAM@BAMBAJUICE”You can say you’ve taken boxing seriously and yeah you’ve made a lot of money but you haven’t earned anything in boxing.”If you think about how I started everything versus how everything is going now, I didn’t wait for an opportunity I created one.Paul Bamba breaks silence after Tommy Fury fight cancelation and vows to break rival’s jaw if they reschedule bout”And I went out and grabbed it by the horns so to speak and did my thing this year.”Look at the facts; 14 fights, 14 KOs in one year, how many belts have I got here?”Paul was left gobsmacked by Bamba’s passing and led the tributes on social media, posting on X: “RIP Paul Bamba.” More

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      Hugo Sotil dead at 75: Barcelona legend who formed legendary partnership with Johan Cruyff dies after ‘health problem’

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      BARCELONA hero Hugo Sotil has passed away 75. The Peruvian was hospitalised earlier this month after experiencing a “health issue”.Barcelona legend Hugo Sotil has passed away aged 75Credit: Barcelona FCThe Peru international was hospitalised earlier this month but never recovered from his health issueCredit: AFPDoctors placed Sotil in intensive care and did their best to improve his condition.But the former striker was sadly unable to recover and passed away on Monday.Barcelona announced his passing an emotional statement, an excerpt of which read: “On Monday 30 December Hugo Sotil passed away.”Born in Ica in Peru on 18 May 1949, ‘Cholo’ as he was known, was considered one of the best South American players of his generation, and was a from fan favourites at Baraa during his time at the club.READ MORE ON BARCELONA”The striker came to Barça for the 1973/74 season from Peruvian club Municipal de Lima.”Sotil was a vital part of a team that included legends such as Johan Cruyff, [Juan Manuel] Asensi, [Carlos] Rexach and Marcial [Pina].”He became a favourite of the Camp Nou crowd who would chant “Cholooo, Cholooo” in his honour.”A social media post from the club read: “FC Barcelona mourns the passing of Hugo Sotil, who played for Barca from 1973 to 1976, and offers its condolences to his family and friends. Most read in FootballHugo Sotil was part of Barcelona’s successful team of the early 1970sCredit: GETTYHe formed an incredible partnership with the late Johan CruyffCredit: AFP”Rest in peace, Cholo.”Scores of Barca fans responded to the X post to pay tribute to the late Sotil. Ronaldinho scores stunning free-kick aged 44 as Barcelona legend proves he’s still got it in El Clasico Legends game One wrote: “Rest in peace, legend.”Another said: “”He wasn’t just talented on the field with his amazing dribbling and assists, loved by so many. “Rest in peace, Cholo.”Sotil joined Barcelona in 1973 from Peruvian side Deportivo Municipal and won a slew of trophies with the Catalan club. He scored 29 goals in 96 appearances during his four years at the Nou Camp. He formed an incredible partnership with the late Johan Cruyff, which is still talked about to this day.Sotil had incredibly fond memories of his time with the club and the love he received from the Nou Camp faithful. He said: “The love of the people of Barca is unforgettable. READ MORE SUN STORIES”The day I die I hope they bury me in a Barca shirt.”Barcelona will likely pay tribute to the late Sotil when they welcome Valencia to the Nou Camp on January 26. More

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      in Boxing

      Paul Bamba dead at 35: World champion boxer who was linked with Jake Paul and Tommy Fury dies days after winning title

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      BOXING world champion Paul Bamba has passed away at the age of 35.He became cruiserweight champion this year and was linked with fights against Jake Paul and Tommy Fury.Paul Bamba has passed away suddenly aged 35Credit: https://www.instagram.com/bambajuice/Bamba became champion by beating Rogelio Medina only last weekend.In doing so he broke a record set by Mike Tyson for most wins in a calendar year via knockout, with 14.He was friends with pop star NE-YO, who paid tribute to Bamba following his untimely passing.NE-YO and Bamba’s family released a joint statement which read: “It is with profound sorrow that we announced the passing of beloved son, brother, friend and boxing champion Paul Bamba, whose light and love touched countless lives.READ MORE IN BOXING”He was a fierce yet confident competitor with an unrelenting ambition to achieve greatness.”But more than anything he was a tremendous individual that inspired many with his exceptional drive and determination.”We are heartbroken by his passing and kindly ask for privacy and understanding during this difficult time as we collectively navigate our grief.”Bamba fought a bout in every month this year with the exception of September, which meant he had more than one fight in some months.Most read in BoxingFans have shared their tributes and condolences for Bamba following his death.One wrote: “What??? Absolutely heartbreaking, so out of the blue. RIP Paul.”Oleksandr Usyk shows true colours with classy message to Tyson Fury after victory in heavyweight rematchAnother added: “Extremely upsetting news, may his soul R.I.P 🕊️”And a third wrote: “Really heartbreaking and shocking to hear. God rest his soul🙏❤️” More

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      Thierry Jacob dead at 59: Former boxing world champion dies after battle with lung cancer

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      FORMER world boxing champion Thierry Jacob has died aged 59 after a battle with lung cancer. Jacob held the WBC super-bantamweight world title and fought all of his career in France. Ex-boxing champion Thierry Jacob has died aged 59 after a battle with lung cancerJacob passed away at his home in Calais after losing his battle with cancerCredit: AFPJacob held the WBC super-bantamweight world titleCredit: GettyHe passed away at his home in Calais after losing his battle with cancer. Natacha Bouchart, mayor of the northern port city, announced on Facebook: “We begin this day with sad news. Thierry Jacob died overnight, so young.” Jacob turned professional in 1984 after a good amateur career and won his first 21 bouts. He was first defeated in 1987 by Kelvin Seabrooks when challenging for the IBF bantamweight title. READ MORE IN boxing Jacob also failed in attempts to win the EBU IBF super-bantamweight belts. But he did claim victory over British legend Duke McKenzie in 1990 for the EBU bantamweight strap. He lost three world title fights – against Tracy Harris Patterson and Wilfredo Vazquez (twice) – before his retirement bout. Jacob beat Edgar Orlando Ballen before hanging up the gloves with a 39-6 career. Most read in BoxingHis brothers Bruno and Herve were also boxers and won national and European titles with a fourth brother, Jacky, coaching. Jacob later trained his sons Romain and Joffrey – who both won titles. Romain was a former European super-feather champ while Joffrey won a French title. Meet the AI boxing official who’ll be ringside for Fury v Usyk with fans convinced it ‘will eliminate judges completely’ More