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      Moment Cardiff and Leeds fans unite for incredible Sol Bamba tribute after ex-Prem star’s death aged 39

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      THIS is the moment Cardiff and Leeds fans united for a moving tribute to Sol Bamba after the ex-Prem star’s death aged 39.Bamba died aged just 39 last month while working for Turkish side Adanaspor.A banner hailing Sol BambaCredit: Huw EvansThe march started with a minute’s applause for BambaCredit: Huw EvansLeeds also honoured their former playerCredit: Huw EvansThis afternoon Cardiff and Leeds fans chanted “There’s one Sol Bamba” in unison at the Cardiff City Stadium.There was a minute’s applause for Bamba ahead of kick-off in this afternoon’s Championship clash.It comes after Bamba’s heartbroken wife Chloe praised his “astounding mental and physical strength and stoicism” during his health battle.She said: “Unfortunately, it was never a fair fight and just when things were looking up he took a downturn and finally succumbed on 31st August.”Read More FootballThen added: “Sol accepted his fate as God’s will and left this earth knowing, without a shadow of a doubt, that he was loved wholeheartedly. I made sure of that.”Bamba and Chloe shared three children – Roonea, Lily and Amy.Bamba was known as one of the good guys of football and made 51 appearances for Leeds United and 24 for Middlesbrough.He played in the Premier League with Cardiff City in the 2018-2019 season after being promoted in second place in the Championship the previous year.Most read in FootballCardiff City said Bamba was a “club legend” and his death brought them the “deepest sadness”.”As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable. He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman.”Our thoughts are with his friends, family and everyone lucky enough to know and love Sol.”Leeds United said in a post on X: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away.”Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”Middlesbrough FC said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39.”Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.”Former club Trabzonspor paid a heartbreaking tribute to their former player who made 27 appearances.They said in a statement: “We have learned with deep sorrow the passing of Adanaspor Coach Sol Bamba, who wore our jersey between 2012-2014.”May God have mercy on him and we offer our condolences to his family and all his loved ones.”He was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Christmas Eve 2020 but had beaten it after undergoing four months of chemotherapy and was declared cancer-free.Bamba was born in France but made 46 appearances for the country of his parents’ birth – Ivory Coast.After playing he stayed with football and moved into management as an assistant manager with Cardiff City in 2023.He was technical director of Turkish side Adanaspor this year.That club shared a tribute to the manager saying he “fell ill” before a match yesterday and “was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there.”Our condolences to his family and our community.”Just days before his death Bamba posted a heartbreaking tribute to ex-England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson following his passing from terminal cancer.Bamba’s tribute read: “Deeply devastated by the news of Sven’s passing today.”He was not just an exquisite person, but he was also the best coach I’ve ever had, inspiring my journey as a player but also as a manager.”My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Sven.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe pair had first worked together from 2011, when Bamba joined Leicester City where Eriksson was manager.They later reunited in the Ivory Coast national team setup. More

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      Football club announces ‘sudden’ death of beloved chairman & calls off game as tributes pour in to ‘remarkable man’

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      A FOOTBALL club has announced the “sudden” death of its beloved chairman.Radcliffe FC’s National League North home game against Buxton today has been called off as a mark of respect for Paul Hilton.’Beloved’ Radcliffe FC chairman Paul Hilton has diedCredit: MEN MediaThe Greater Manchester club said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Chairman, Paul Hilton. “Paul was not just the driving force behind Radcliffe Football Club; he was the very heart and soul of our community.”His unwavering dedication, vision, and tireless efforts transformed our club, leading us to the highest level in our history.”Paul’s passion for the game and his commitment to the players, staff, and supporters will be sorely missed. Read More Sport”He had an extraordinary ability to bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that made our club truly special.”At this difficult time, we kindly ask everyone to respect the privacy of Paul’s family. “Please allow his loved ones the space they need to grieve and remember the remarkable man that Paul was.”We encourage all members of our community to come together in memory of Paul.Most read in Football”Celebrating not only his contributions to our club but also the legacy of kindness and camaraderie he leaves behind.”More information about memorial services and ways to pay tribute will be shared in due course. “Thank you for your understanding and support during this sad period.”Radcliffe FC were promoted into the National League North as champions last season after 37 years in the Northern Premier League. 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

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      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

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      Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillachi’s daughter reveals Italy legend apologised on his deathbed before tragic passing at 59

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      ITALY legend Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillachi’s daughter revealed he apologised to her on his deathbed.The Italia ’90 World Cup hero passed away aged 59 on Wednesday following a battle with colon cancer.Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillachi apologised to his daughter on his deathbedCredit: EPAThe Italy legend passed away on WednesdayCredit: AFPThousands of fans gathered for his funeralHis funeral was held hin his home town of Palermo, SicilySchillachi’s coffin was draped in scarves and shirtsThousands of fans gathered in Palermo for his funeral and his coffin was draped in scarves and football shirts.Schillachi’s daughter Jessica described him as a “hero” and recalled the last few months they spent together, with the former striker diagnosed in 2022.Jessica also revealed her father apologised to her and her brother Mattia on his deathbed.She told Tuttosport: “Three days ago, as my brother Mattia and I were at his bedside, we told him that TV operators were already outside of the hospital..READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“He told us: ‘I only care about you’. And he said he was sorry for not being present all the times he would’ve wished, and we would’ve wished.”Jessica also discussed the best memories she shared with her father and a trip she took with him in the summer.She continued: “We talked, we also joked until it was possible. We recalled the best moments in our lives, the ones you’ll never forget, that even death won’t be able to take away from me.“He was a hero in his own way, but he was just a father to me.Most read in Football“I took some days off in July to stay with my dad. We went to Isola delle Femmine; he would’ve wanted to take me on a boat trip, but he was already very tired.“We settled for a bath in the sea and a fish lunch; it was wonderful. You could see he was struggling when he took me back to the airport.“The situation got worse in the last days: my dad started to play a game he knew he would lose.“But he played it until the end, not thinking about him but about all the people he loved, and he’ll keep loving wherever he is now.”Italy legendSchillaci represented Italian giants Juventus and Inter Milan throughout his career, but saw his most memorable moments happen in the famous blue of the Italian national team.The Palermo-born striker was the World Cup Golden Boot winner during the Italia 90 tournament.His six goals saw him beat footballing legend Diego Maradona to the trophy as Italy finished third in their home tournament.Schillaci, who was virtually unknown outside of Italy prior to the tournament, soon became a household name after netting against Austria, Czechoslovakia, Uruguay, the Republic of Ireland and Argentina.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile he also denied England a third-place finish after helping Italy beat the Three Lions in the tournament’s third-place playoff match in Bari.Schillaci retired in 1997, hanging up his boots at Japanese club Jubilo Iwata. More

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      Tragedy as footballer Jack Badger, 24, dies with Oxford United leading heartbreaking tributes

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      NON-LEAGUE footballer Jack Badger has tragically passed away aged just 24.A statement from his club, Abingdon United, read: “Abingdon United are devastated to learn of the sudden passing of our first team Player and dear friend Jack Badger.Footballer Jack Badger has tragically diedCredit: X @Abutdfc”Our thoughts at this hardest of times are with all of Jack’s loved ones, his family, his friends & his team mates.””A character on and off the pitch, Jack will be missed by all of us at Abingdon United.”You are so loved Jack, Rest In Peace Our Badge.”Badger’s former club, Wantage Town, also released a statement on social media.Read More in FootballIt read: “Everyone at Wantage Town is devastated to learn of the passing of former player, Jack Badger.”On the pitch he wore his heart on his sleeve and off of it never had anything but a cheeky smile on his face.”Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Rest easy Badge.”A spokesperson from Shrivenham FC said: “With the heartbreaking news of an ex Shrivenham player has sadly passed away. Jack Badger, played with Shrivenham FC in 21-22 season and played 15 games.Most read in Football”We send our condolences to his loved ones and all those that were luckily enough to know him.”The Hellenic League also released a statement which read: “We are heartbroken by the passing of Jack Badger (2000-2024), a talented footballer and cherished member of Abingdon United.”His passion, dedication, and kindness will never be forgotten. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates. Rest in peace Jack.”And Championship side Oxford United shared condolences with a heartfelt tribute.A social media post from the U’s read: “Everyone at Oxford United is devastated to learn of the passing of U’s fan Jack Badger.”We send our sincere condolences to Jack’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123. More

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      Who is Salvatore Toto Schillaci’s wife Barbara?

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      ITALIAN football legend Salvatore Schillaci has died at the age of 59.The Palermo-born striker leaves behind his wife Barbara and three children Jessica, Mattia and Nicole after losing a two-year battle to colon cancer, which he was diagnosed in 2022.Totò Schillaci and Barbara Lombardi attend the photocall for “Pechino Express – La via delle Indie” on March 06, 2023 in Milan, ItalyCredit: gettyItalian forward Salvatore Schillaci was a much loved football legendCredit: gettyWho is Salvatore Toto Schillaci’s wife Barbara?Barbara Lombardi is an Italian dentist, and widow to the former Italian football legend, Salvatore Schillaci, who died at the age of 59.Salvatore Schillaci, who is affectionately known as “Toto” was a famous striker who played for Messina, Juventus, Inter Milan over the course of his career.He scored 37 goals across 120 appearances in Serie A, while he also won the UEFA Cup twice.One of her husband’s most memorable moments was winning the World Cup Golden Boot during the Italia 90 tournament, as the leading goalscorer.READ MORE FROM FOOTBALLSchillaci retired in 1999, and returned to his native home of Palermo with his wife where they owned a youth football academy. Her husband had previously been diagnosed with colon cancer in 2022 and had undergone two operations. Fears about his health mounted in early September after Schillaci was admitted to the Civico hospital in Palermo after reportedly suffering from pneumonia.His death was announced on September 18, 2024. Most read in SportBarbara married the World Cup legend in 2012, and he is survived by his three children who he shared with ex-wife, Rita Bonaccorso; Jessica Schillaci, Mattia Schillaci and Nicole Schillaci. Not much is reported on Barbara because she lived a life outside of the public eye as a devoted wife to her late husband.Salvatore Schillaci of the Azzurri Stars looks on during the training session at Acqua Acetosa sports center on August 31, 2015 in Rome, ItalyCredit: getty More

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      Salvatore ‘Toto’ Schillaci dead at 59: Italy legend who beat Maradona to World Cup Golden Boot dies after cancer battle

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      ITALIAN football legend Salvatore Schillaci has passed away at the age of 59.The World Cup Golden Boot winner, affectionately known as “Toto”, had been battling colon cancer since 2022.Salvatore Schillaci has passed away at the age of 59Credit: GettySchillaci had been battling with colon cancerCredit: GettyThe Italian star previously played for JuventusCredit: GettySchillaci had undergone two operations for his cancer since his diagnosis two years ago.The 16-cap Italy international recently sparked concern for his health after he was taken to the Civico hospital in his home city Palermo after reportedly suffering from pneumonia.Schillaci represented Italian giants Juventus and Inter Milan throughout his career, but saw his most memorable moments happen in the famous blue of the Italian national team.The Palermo-born striker was the World Cup Golden Boot winner during the Italia 90 tournament.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis six goals saw him beat footballing legend Diego Maradona to the trophy as Italy finished third in their home tournament.Schillaci, who was virtually unknown outside of Italy prior to the tournament, soon became a household name after netting against Austria, Czechoslovakia, Uruguay, the Republic of Ireland and Argentina.While he also denied England a third-place finish after helping Italy beat the Three Lions in the tournament’s third-place playoff match in Bari.Schillaci retired in 1997, hanging up his boots at Japanese club Jubilo Iwata.Most read in FootballSchillaci’s superb careerA brief look at the career of an Italian hero…Club Career1982-1989 – Messina (219 apps, 61 goals)1989-1992 – Juventus (90 apps, 26 goals)1992-1994 – Inter Milan (30 apps, 11 goals)1994-1997 – Jubilo Iwata (86 apps, 58 goals)International CareerCaps: 16Goals: 7Assists: 1Honours 1 x World Cup Golden Boot2 x Uefa Cup winner1 x Italian Cup winner1 x J-League top scorer1 x Serie B top scorerThe Azzuir icon spent the bulk of his career at Sicilian side ACR Messina, where he made 219 appearances and scored 61 goals.Across all four of his clubs, Schillaci made a total of 417 appearances and found the back of the net an impressive 154 times.While he won the UEFA Cup twice, once with Juventus in 1990 and once with Inter in 1994.Schillaci also won the the Italian Cup with Juve in 1990, a year that saw him lift two trophies and win the World Cup Golden Boot.His incredible campaign saw him earn a second place finish in that year’s Ballon d’Or standings.Tributes have poured in for Schillaci given the incredible impact he had on Italian football.Former club Juve wrote: “We immediately fell in love with Totò.”His desire, his story, his being so wonderfully passionate, and it showed in every game he played.”We at Juve were lucky enough to get excited about him before, in that incredible summer of 1990, the whole of Italy did, captivated by those wonderfully energetic celebrations of his.”While Inter Milan posted on social media: “He made an entire nation dream during the Magic Nights of Italia ’90.READ MORE SUN STORIES”FC Internazionale Milano gathers around the Schillaci family for the passing of Totò.”And the Italian national team simply posted: “Ciao Toto. Hero of the Magic Nights.”Schillaci won the World Cup Golden Boot in 1990Credit: Getty – ContributorHe beat Diego Maradona to the prestigious awardCredit: Getty – Contributor More

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      ‘Going to put flowers on his seat’ – First picture of Irish Liverpool fan killed in Milan amid tributes for ‘top lad’

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      THIS is the first picture of an avid Liverpool fan who tragically died in a road accident in Milan, Italy, on Tuesday.Philip Dooley, who lived in Liverpool but was originally from Ireland, was visiting the Italian city when he was struck by an oncoming car while crossing the A4 highway near the airport in Bergamo.Philip was a lifelong Liverpool supporterCredit: SOCIAL MEDIALiverpool players wore a black armband during the match in tribute to the fanCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe 51-year-old fan was trying to cross the highway to reach the NH Hotel, where he was staying around 1am local time.Local media have reported that he had tickets to a Liverpool match in his pocket when he was discovered, after reportedly landing at Orio al Serio airport at 11.53pm on the flight from Manchester.Ahead of their opening Champions League clash vs AC Milan on Tuesday night, the club paid tribute to the Irishman by wearing black armbands.A social media post read: “We will wear black armbands this evening in tribute to supporter Philip Dooley, who tragically lost his life following a road traffic accident in Bergamo in the early hours of the morning.”Tributes have been pouring in for tragic Phillip following his untimely death, with the Merseyside club leading the way.Liverpool FC said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of our supporter Philip Dooley, following a road traffic accident in Bergamo in the early hours of this morning.”Philip was a lifelong Liverpool fan who had travelled to Italy to be at tonight’s Champions League game against AC Milan.”Our staff in Milan are working with the local police and consulate, and continue to provide support to other fans impacted by this devastating incident.Most read in Football”The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to the club are with Philip’s family, friends and fellow supporters at this extremely difficult time.Liverpool icon Ron Yeats passes away”Rest in peace, Philip.”Friends and fellow fans who knew Phillip have also taken to social media to share their condolences, with one telling how they plan to “put some flowers on his seat” at the stadium in tribute. One said: “Top man and massive support to my family. You will be sorely missed. YNWA.”Another said: “Absolutely devastated tragic loss Philip Dooley. Thoughts are with all his family & friends. From Robbie, Paula & everyone at the 12th man YNWA.”Liverpool FC player Jamie Carragher responded to this post by sharing a red heart emoji.Another friend shared: “Phil was a friend of mine, from the row in front of me on the Kop, would see him at aways too and always get a hug off him. “Top lad. Going to put some flowers on his seat on Saturday. RIP Phil.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Irish Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and stands ready to provide consular assistance.A spokesperson added: “As with all consular cases, the department does not comment on the detail of individual cases.” More