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      Sir Alex Ferguson’s touching letter to Cathy during health fight after Man Utd hero retired to spend more time with her

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      SIR ALEX Ferguson finally decided to retire from his glittering football career so he could spend more time with his beloved wife Cathy.The legendary Man Utd and Aberdeen boss paid a glowing tribute to his live-long love – who has died at the age of 84 – when he stepped away from the Old Trafford hotseat in December 2012.
      Lady Cathy Ferguson and Sir Alex FergusonCredit: Getty
      The then 71-year-old wanted to be by his wife’s side as she struggled to come to terms with the death of her sister Bridget earlier that year.
      Explaining his decision at the time he said: “Things changed when Cathy’s sister died. She’s isolated a lot now and I think I owe her a lot of my own time.
      “For 47 years she’s been the leader of the family, looked after three sons and sacrificed for me.
      “I think she’s lost her best friend, her sister Bridget, so I think I owe her time, that was important.”

      But years later Sir Alex feared he would be the one to pass away next when he was struck down by a near-fatal brain haemorrhage.
      He later told of writing heartbreaking “goodbye letters” for Cathy, their 11 grandchildren and grown-up kids Jason, Darren and Mark.
      He wrote the messages in the early stages of his health battle following a life-threatening brain bleed in 2018.
      He said: “The speech therapist came in every day and was phenomenal. She had me writing down all the names of my family and my players.
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      “Then she started on animals, fish and birds to see if I could remember the names. And gradually my voice came back.
      “But the more important thing was that my memory was okay. She got me writing letters. I wrote a letter to Cathy which, at that point, was a scribble.”
      In the film ‘Never Give In’ about his health battle that left with a 20 percent chance of survival he told how at the age of 76 he came round from an operation and felt the fear and despair that life may be nearing its end.
      He said: “I wondered how many sunny days I would see again. I found that difficult.
      “I was crying, felt helpless.
      “I would have hated to lose my memory. I would have been a terrible burden on my family.”
      He reads one of many letters he wrote including one to Cathy which summed up the deep admiration he had for his one true love.
      He wrote: “I am proud of you Cathy and your determination, all your years you have shown great strength but my heart should pray for life, you do not give up.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I was weak and lonely, I miss your light.”
      Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Cathy Ferguson death updates — Tributes pour in as beloved wife of Man Utd legend Sir Alex Ferguson dies

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      TRIBUTES are pouring in following the death of Sir Alex Ferguson’s beloved wife Cathy.Cathy, 84, married Manchester United great Alex in 1966 and the pair had been together ever since.
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
      “The family asks for privacy at this time.”
      Read our live blog below for the latest news and updates…
      All about Sir Alex and Lady Cathy’s son Jason
      Darren’s twin brother Jason runs an events management company.
      He also directed the 2021 documentary Sir Alex Ferguson: Never Give in.
      The film looks at how a boy from Glasgow became one of the greatest football managers of all time.
      Who is Cathy and Alex’s eldest son Mark?
      Sir Alex and Lady Cathy’s eldest son Mark, 50, is an investment banker.
      Mark Tagliaferri, Chairman Active Asset Investment Management, told the Guardian that Mark likes to look after his father’s finances.
      He said: “His son gets involved in all of his financial affairs.”
      All you need to know about Sir Alex’s son Darren Ferguson
      Darren Ferguson is one of Sir Alex’s three sons as he as followed his father into the world of football management.
      He is one of Fergie and Cathy‘s three sons – the other two being Mark and Darren’s twin Jason.
      Ferguson was born on February 9, 1972, in Glasgow, and by 1990 he was playing for Manchester United when it was under his father’s management.
      His mum Cathy passed away on Thursday, October 6, 2023.

      How old was Cathy Ferguson?
      Cathy Ferguson was 84 when she passed away.
      Cathy first met former Manchester United manager Sir Alex, 81, in 1964 when he was just 23 years old and they married shortly after in 1966.
      The pair have three sons together – Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys football manager Darren and Jason, born in 1972 – and 12 grandchildren.
      Manchester United fans pay tribute
      Manchester United fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to the late Cathy Ferguson.
      One X user said: “Lady Cathy Ferguson, wife of Sir Alex Ferguson has passed away.
      “My thoughts and prayers go out to Sir Alex and all of their family.”
      While another added: “The backbone of the Greatest manager in sports history. RIP Cathy Ferguson.”
      Manchester United honours Cathy Ferguson
      Manchester United have shared a heartfelt tribute to the late Cathy Ferguson.
      Taking to X, the club said: “Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy.
      “Lady Cathy was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.”
      Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy.Lady Cathy was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.— Manchester United (@ManUtd) October 6, 2023

      How many children did Cathy have with Sir Alex Ferguson?
      During their marriage, Cathy and Alex welcomed three children together, and 12 grandchildren.
      Their son Mark was born in 1968, followed by twin boys, Darren and Jason, born 1972.
      Darren followed his father into football and is the manager of League One team, Peterborough United.
      He also played at Manchester United under his dad, before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1994.
      Cathy convinced Sir Alex to stay at Manchester United
      When Sir Alex initially wanted to retire in 2002, Cathy famously convinced him to remain in charge of the Red Devils.
      “One, your health is good,” Sir Alex claimed Cathy said.
      “Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.”
      But she was unable to persuade her husband to recommit to Old Trafford in 2011.
      Ferguson family statement following Cathy’s passing
      Cathy Ferguson’s family shared a statement confirming her death today.
      The statement said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the death yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, who leaves behind her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
      “The family requests that we respect their privacy during this period.”
      What has Sir Alex Ferguson said about his wife?
      Sir Alex always had great praise for his wife and the matriarch of the Ferguson family.
      Speaking in his 2013 autobiography he said: “Cathy is fantastic with the kids. It’s a military operation with her. 
      “If any of them misbehave, they’re in the doghouse.”
      In his 2021 documentary, Sir Alex talked about how he was encouraged to ask Cathy out by a friend.
      He revealed: “I was 22. I had this friend and she said to me ‘There’s a really nice girl that’s just started’.
      “I had suffered an injury at football and I had a plaster on my face. She thought I was either a gangster or a boxer.
      “We got really close and I really loved her.”
      Meanwhile, when Sir Alex wanted to retire his family convinced him to remain in charge of Manchester United, with Cathy listing her reasoning as, “One, your health is good. Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.”
      Ferguson went on to retire a few years later, at the time saying his wife “needed him” after her sister died.
      When did Cathy Ferguson die?
      Cathy sadly passed away on the morning of October 5, 2023.
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
      “The family asks for privacy at this time.”
      Who are Cathy and Sir Alex’s children?
      Cathy is survived by her three children.
      Alex and Cathy have three sons, Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys Darren and Jason, born 1972.
      Darren followed his father into football and is currently the manager of League One outfit Doncaster Rovers.
      He played at Manchester United under his father, before moving to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1994.
      He also played for Sparta Rotterdam, Wrexham and Peterborough United, who he also managed.
      Who is Alex Ferguson’s wife Cathy?
      Cathy is the wife of former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson.
      The pair tied the knot in 1966, and her former name was Cathy Holding.
      The pair first met in 1964, and she has been there throughout his playing career and journey to management.
      They have three sons together and have been married for over 50 years.
      In total, the couple have three children and 11 grandchildren, with Alex saying that his wife is the real force to be reckoned with.
      When did Sir Alex meet Cathy?
      Cathy first met the former Manchester United manager, 81, in 1964 when he was just 23 years old and they married shortly after in 1966.
      The pair have three sons together – Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys football manager Darren and Jason, born in 1972 – and 12 grandchildren.
      Wife of Man Utd legend Alex Ferguson passes away aged 84
      Sir Alex Ferguson’s wife Cathy has passed away aged 84.
      Cathy is believed to have died yesterday morning in Cheshire.
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The family asks for privacy at this time.” More

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      Cathy Ferguson dead – Wife of Man Utd legend Alex Ferguson passes away aged 84

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      SIR Alex Ferguson’s beloved wife Cathy has passed away aged 84.The wife of the former Manchester United manager died yesterday morning in Cheshire.
      Sir Alex Ferguson’s wife has passed away aged 84Credit: Getty
      Cathy and the former Man United manager have been married since 1966Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Cathy stood by Sir Alex throughout his playing career and journey to managementCredit: Rex
      Lady Cathy is believed to have died yesterday morning in CheshireCredit: Getty
      A statement on behalf of the Ferguson family said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing yesterday of Lady Cathy Ferguson, survived by her husband, three sons, two sisters, 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. The family asks for privacy at this time.”
      The pair were married for nearly 60 years before she sadly passed away.
      Flags have been lowered to half-mast at Old Trafford in tribute to Lady Cathy.
      United will wear black armbands against Brentford tomorrow, with the women’s team expected to have them on tonight against Arsenal.
      Read more Sports News
      A statement from Manchester United read: “Everyone at Manchester United sends our heartfelt condolences to Sir Alex Ferguson and his family on the passing of Lady Cathy, a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and great-grandmother, and a tower of strength for Sir Alex throughout his career.”
      Cathy first met Sir Alex, 81, in 1964 when he was just 23 years old and they married shortly after in 1966.
      In his autobiography, Sir Alex wrote: “I had the good fortune to meet a wonderful girl who has been my rock for almost 50 years.”
      The pair have three sons together – Mark, born in 1968, and twin boys football manager Darren and Jason, born in 1972 – and 12 grandchildren.
      Most read in Football
      Commenting on their home life, Alex once said: “Cathy is fantastic with the kids.
      “It’s a military operation with her. If any of them misbehave, they’re in the doghouse.”
      Cathy stood by Sir Alex throughout his playing career and journey to management.
      There were claims that Ferguson suffered discrimination at Rangers between 1967 to 1969 due to his wife’s Catholicism.
      However he made it clear in his autobiography that the club knew of her religion.
      She was by Sir Alex’s side as he rose to become one of the world’s best managers, starting at St Mirren in the 1970s, then to Aberdeen in the 1980s, where he won the Cup Winners’ Cup, and then to his legendary reign as manager of Manchester united from 1986 to 2013.
      When Sir Alex initially wanted to retire in 2002, Cathy famously convinced him to remain in charge of the Red Devils.
      “One, your health is good,” Sir Alex claimed Cathy said.
      “Two, I’m not having you in the house. And three, you’re too young anyway.”
      But she was unable persuade her husband to recommit to Old Trafford in 2011, before he finally retired in 2013.
      “I won’t be managing here any more than three years at the very, very most. Without question. I can assure you of that,” Ferguson said at the time.
      “You have to think about time for yourself. I think my wife deserves a bit of my time, too. The older you get, the more you feel guilty about it.
      “My wife, Cathy, was the one who talked me out of retiring last time but she wouldn’t do that now.”
      Read More on The Sun
      Ferguson went on to retire two years later saying his wife needed his support after her sister died.
      During his tenure, he won 38 major trophies, including 13 league titles and the Champions League twice.
      Sir Alex and Cathy pictured in 1968 with their first son MarkCredit: Rex
      Cathy famously convinced him to remain in charge of the Red Devils in 2002Credit: AFP
      Sir Alex and Cathy pictured with their twin sons Jason and DarrenCredit: Getty
      Sir Alex poses with Cathy after receiving a CBE at Buckingham PalaceCredit: Rex More

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      How Man City and England star went from playing in the World Cup to becoming a millionaire selling toilet paper

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      A LEGENDARY footballer and England star went from playing in the World Cup to becoming a millionaire toilet paper tycoon.Iconic former Manchester City striker, Francis Lee, scored 148 goals in 330 appearances for the club.
      The iconic footballer went from playing in the World Cup to a millionaire selling toilet paperCredit: Getty
      Tragic news of the England legend’s death at the age of 79 after a long battle with cancer was announced yesterday.
      The iconic player was a legend in his native Lancashire and had become a household name across a successful 17-year career.
      He won the First Division title, FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup during his seven years at Maine Road between 1967 and 1974.
      The player stared his career at Bolton in 1959, and went on to earn 27 caps for England between 1968 and 1972, scoring 10 goals.

      “Franny” Lee was awarded with Man City’s Player of the Year award in 1970 as well as the First Division Golden Boot in 1972.
      Lee won the second First Division title of his career when he joined Derby in 1974.
      Two years later year he hung up his boots. However, he returned to Man City in 1994 where he held the job of chairman for four years.
      After his retirement from playing, Francis went on to continue his successful career as a businessman.
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      The entrepreneur had set up a company manufacturing toilet and kitchen roll made from recycled paper when he was still a footballer.
      Based in his hometown of Westhoughton, Bolton, F.H Lee eventually expanded to selling handkerchiefs, kitchen foil, and cling film.
      It went on to become a major UK supplier to several huge firms.
      Comedy legend Peter Kay even worked for the company as a young man.
      Speaking to The Bolton News, Francis once said: “I was in business all the time I was playing football.
      “It was part of the condition set by my father that if I wanted to try and become a footballer I had to plan for when the game had finished.”
      He also added racehorse training to his list of profitable ventures after his final match.
      In 1984, the toilet roll company sold for a whopping £8.35million.
      Following his death, Man City released a statement yesterday  saying: “It is with the deepest sadness and heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of former Manchester City player and Chairman Francis Lee, aged 79.
      “A Club legend in every sense, Francis made 330 appearances for City, scoring 148 goals.”
      It continued: “Everyone at Manchester City would like to send their condolences to the friends and family of Francis at this very difficult time.
      “As a mark of respect, flags around the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy are flying at half-mast.
      “More tributes from the club will follow in the coming days.”
      The England star is survived by his wife, Gill, and their three children, Charlotte, Jonny and Nik.
      Read More on The Sun
      Francis Lee scored 148 goals in 330 appearances for Manchester CityCredit: PA
      He won the First Division title, FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners’ CupCredit: PA More

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      Bradley Lowery’s mum speaks out as football yob Dale Houghton admits mocking her son’s death at Sunderland game

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      BRADLEY Lowery’s mum has spoken out after a shameless footie yob admitted to mocking her son’s tragic death.Heartbroken mother Gemma said the sickening behaviour of Dale Houghton was like a “dagger to the heart”.
      Bradley Lowery’s mum Gemma hit out at a sick troll who mocked her son’s deathCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Dale Houghton sparked fury over the vile act
      Houghton will be sentenced next monthCredit: Facebook
      Houghton, 31, was snapped using a picture of the youngster to mock Sunderland fans during Friday’s game against Sheffield Wednesday.
      The thug today admitted causing harassment, alarm and distress.
      And Gemma slammed him for showing no “remorse” after his shameful act.
      Speaking to The Mirror the 40-year-old said: “To be honest when I first saw it I was upset and a little bit angry, using my child in a negative light.
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      “However as the day went on and I saw the impact and the backlash the men got.
      “I’m the sort of person who tries to see the good in people, so I started trying to justify their actions, they’ve just been beaten 3-0.
      “But then I got sent some messages from a group chat they’d been in which you can clearly see there was no remorse.
      She continued: “They said that Bradley shouldn’t have got special treatment and that’s when it really, really hit us.
      Most read in Football
      “It was like a dagger to my heart and I got really really upset about that. What they did was intentional and they had no remorse for doing it.
      “That’s when I thought ‘actually you are not very nice people and you deserve to be punished’.”
      Houghton now faces a maximum of six months in prison for the Public Order offence when he sentenced on November 17.
      And he will be made to attend a drug intervention programme after testing positive for cocaine, the court heard.
      Football fans were left horrified after the pictures from the game were circulated on X, formerly Twitter, on Friday.
      Prosecutor Jade Short said Houghton’s antics caused a “huge public revulsion”.
      She also told the court the shamed football fan found it “enjoyable banter” as he was smiling throughout.
      Sunderland fan Bradley captured the nation’s heart during his battle with neuroblastoma, but succumbed to the illness in 2017. 
      He was a mascot for his beloved club and, in the months before his death, led England out at Wembley alongside former Black Cats striker Jermain Defoe.
      Ex-prem star Defoe also blasted the heartless fan for his disgraceful act on Friday.
      The former Sunderland striker struck up a close friendship with Bradley, six, before his death from cancer in 2017.
      He told MailOnline: “My thoughts at this time go out to Gemma and Carl [Bradley’s parents], who shouldn’t have to deal with incidents like this, but rather be praised for the amazing work they are doing with the Bradley Lowery Foundation in their son’s memory.
      “I urge the public to stand behind the family and continue support the Foundation and its projects.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Bradley was one of the most inspirational children this world has ever seen, and he will never stop inspiring us.
      “We love and miss you Brad. Love, your best friend forever.”
      Ex-prem star Defoe blasted the heartless fan for his disgraceful act on FridayCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      Man City and England legend Francis Lee dies aged 79 after battle with cancer as club pay tribute to former chairman

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      MANCHESTER CITY and England legend Francis Lee has passed away at the age of 79 after a long battle with cancer.The former striker scored 148 goals in 330 appearances for Man City.
      Francis Lee is a Manchester City and England legendCredit: Getty
      Lee played more than 300 games for Man CityCredit: Alamy
      Lee received 27 caps for EnglandCredit: Getty
      He won the First Division title, FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup during his seven years at Maine Road between 1967 and 1974.
      Affectionately known as “Frannie”, Lee, who started his career at Bolton in 1959, also earned 27 caps for England between 1968 and 1972, scoring 10 goals.
      He returned to Man City in 1994 where he held the job of chairman for four years.
      The club released a statement saying: “It is with the deepest sadness and heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of former Manchester City player and Chairman Francis Lee, aged 79.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “A Club legend in every sense, Francis made 330 appearances for City, scoring 148 goals.”
      It continued: “Everyone at Manchester City would like to send their condolences to the friends and family of Francis at this very difficult time.
      “As a mark of respect, flags around the Etihad Stadium and City Football Academy are flying at half-mast.
      “More tributes from the club will follow in the coming days.”
      Most read in Football
      Lee took over as Man City chairman in 1994Credit: Getty
      He goes down as an icon of Man CityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Lee received a host of individual awards during his career including Man City’s Player of the Year award in 1970 and the First Division Golden Boot in 1972.
      After leaving City, Lee went on to win a second First Division title of his career with Derby in 1975.
      He hung up his boots in 1976 when his two-year spell at Derby came to an end.
      Bolton also posted a tribute saying: “All at Bolton Wanderers are saddened to learn of the passing of former forward, Francis Lee.
      “The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Francis’ family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.”
      Former City star Paul Dickov joined in the tributes, writing: “Such sad news to hear of the passing Francis Lee.
      “A gentleman, proper football man with a great sense of humourThe main reason I signed for @ManCity with his sheer love for the club & will be forever grateful. Love & condolences to all his family & friends. RIP Mr Chairman.”
      And fans also paid their respects to a legend of the game, including Man City supporter Liam Gallagher.
      He wrote: “Frannie Lee, RIP LG x.”
      Another said: “RIP Francis Lee. England international! Title winner with @dcfcofficial and Man City. Talented footballer.
      “Scored a few belters when Rams won the title! Thanks for the memories! ⚽️”
      Read More on The Sun
      Another added: “Sad to hear Francis Lee has passed away. Superb striker with Manchester City and Derby County. Condolences to his family.”
      While a third replied: “RIP Francis Lee. An old school legend of the game 😔.”
      Lee was a prolific striker throughout his 17-year playing careerCredit: Getty More

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      Yobs who taunted Sunderland fans with pic of Bradley Lowery are brothers – as mum slams ‘low lifes’ and cops open probe

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      THE vile football yobs who taunted Sunderland fans with a picture of Bradley Lowery are brothers, it has been revealed.Little Bradley captured the nation’s heart during his battle with cancer, but tragically died aged just six in 2017.
      Vile fans held up a photo of late Sunderland fan Bradley Lowery last nightCredit: Twitter/@sheffield wednesday
      His mum has now shared her heartbreak on FacebookCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Dale’s (pictured) former employer JRI Orthopaedics condemned his actionsCredit: Facebook
      The two yobs were brothers Dale and Drew Houghton (pictured)Credit: Facebook
      He was a mascot for his beloved Sunderland and, in the months before his death, led England out at Wembley alongside his hero – former Black Cats striker Jermain Defoe.
      Pictures circulated on X, formerly Twitter, showing two men laughing at the Sheffield Wednesday v Sunderland match at Hillsborough on Friday, with one of them holding up a picture of Bradley to the camera.
      It has now emerged the two yobs were brothers Dale and Drew Houghton.
      Dale’s former employer JRI Orthopaedics condemned his actions and claimed he “has not been employed” there for “some time”.
      Read more Sport News
      A full statement read: “JRI want to make clear that we do not condone the posts and images that has caused so much upset to so many people.
      “We wish to confirm that Dale Houghton is an ex-employee of JRI Orthopaedics and has not been employed by the business for some time.”
      In a post on Facebook, the Bradley Lowery Foundation, a charity set up by the boy’s mother Gemma, said: “This is so sad for me to see – whatever happened to ‘cancer has no colours’, let alone respect for a family that lost their baby to cancer?”
      A statement from the family read: “Today has not been the Saturday I was expecting, after receiving multiple calls and messages regarding a photo circulating on social media.
      Most read in Football
      “I have received a visit from the Durham Police to check that I am ok, and they have notified myself and Carl that Yorkshire police are now dealing with the situation and taking it very serious.
      “Understandably people are angry, if I wasn’t so upset I’d be angry to.
      “Bradley was and still is well loved in the football community, which I’m enternaly [sic] grateful for, but i must ask that everyone lets the police do their job, and deal with the low lives.
      “I want to thank Sheffield Wednesday, for their quick condemnation, and the support their fans have shown.
      “Like we always say, CANCER HAS NO COLOURS, and as we all know it can affect anyone at any time.
      “Thank you all for your kind words, it has really helped and let’s do what we do best at the Bradley Lowery Foundation and turn this negative into a positive. Let’s share this beautiful iconic photo.”
      A spokesperson for Sheffield Wednesday described their actions as “outrageous and deplorable” on X, while South Yorkshire Police said it was working with the club to identify the men.
      A spokesman for the force said: “We are working to investigate public order offences following the Sheffield Wednesday V Sunderland fixture yesterday.
      “We will be working with the club to identity those responsible.
      “Anyone with information is asked to get in touch online or by calling 101.”
      Sheffield Wednesday said in a statement: “We are aware of the images circulating and have launched an immediate investigation together with South Yorkshire Police.
      “We roundly condemn this outrageous and utterly deplorable behaviour.
      “We can only apologise for the undoubted distress caused to Bradley’s family and friends.”
      Young Bradley was a regular Sunderland mascot, holding the hand of his idol Defoe.
      In June 2017, he penned an emotional tribute to his “best pal” Bradley – saying his favourite part of playing for Sunderland was walking onto the pitch with the brave youngster.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Defoe said he was heartbroken when he discovered the brave child could only have weeks to live.
      In the wake of Bradley’s death social media became flooded with messages filled with blue heart emojis in a show of support for him.
      Bradley struck up a friendship with Jermain Defoe when he played for the clubCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      JRI claimed he ‘has not been employed’ there for ‘some time’Credit: Facebook/JRI Orthopaedics
      Fans have now called for the vile pair to be banned
      The football-mad six-year-old captured the hearts of BritsCredit: Twiter / @Sheffield wednesday More

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      Inside Sheffield United star Maddy Cusack’s career rise which saw her juggle full-time job & football before death at 27

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      SHEFFIELD United star Maddy Cusack has been honoured for her impressive career with The Blades before her tragic death.The 27-year-old had risen to football fame, all while juggling a full time marketing executive role for the club.
      Maddy was the first team member to mark 100 appearances on the pitchCredit: Getty
      The young player tragically passed away on Wednesday, September 20Credit: Rex
      The talented Midfielder was one of the longest serving players for the club, and the first Women’s team member to mark 100 appearances on the pitch.
      She had also just signed a new one-year contract with The Blades in July earlier this year.
      “It feels amazing,” Maddy said in an interview. “I think everyone knows how much I love this club.
      “This club is my home, so to extend my contract for another year, yeah, I’m really excited and really pleased.”

      Maddy’s final post on social media was a photo of herself with a pen and her Sheffield United renewal contract for the season, which she captioned: “6 years & counting…
      “Really happy to have signed another deal with Sheffield United. Exited for the season!”
      The rising star started her football career at Nottingham Forest academy which saw her transfer to Aston Villa in 2012.
      She was also a student at the University of Derby, where she earned herself an impressive first-class honours degree.
      Most read in Football
      Maddy achieved the grade in marketing, public relations and advertising – which would later be put to good use working as a marketing executive at Sheffield United.
      The inspiring footballer was selected for England during the 2014 UEFA Championship where she played on the field in all group stages.
      After her stint with Aston Villa, the midfielder moved to Birmingham City in 2017.
      Her successful career with The Blades started in January 2019, and then head coach Carla Ward renewed her contract after 18 months.
      After playing for the club for over four years, Maddy was elected as vice-captain, as well as juggling her role as marketing exec.
      DEVASTATING LOSS
      Maddy tragically died on Wednesday, September 20, at a home in Horsley.
      Derbyshire Police have released a statement saying the death is not being treated as suspicious.
      The force added: “We were called to a property in Lady Lea Road, Horsley, just after 6.35pm on Wednesday 20 September.
      “A woman, in her 20s, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her family are aware and are being supported by specialist officers.”
      The Blades announced Maddy’s death last Thursday.
      A statement read: “Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.
      “Maddy, a women’s team player since 2019 and marketing executive for the Football Club, passed away on Wednesday.
      “A respected player, Maddy, 27, last season reached the milestone of 100 appearances for Sheffield United Women.
      “Additionally, she was a valued colleague in the offices at Bramall Lane, moving over from the Sheffield United Community Foundation to the Club in 2021 to help market all areas of the Blades.”
      And, tributes were paid at the Premier League home match against Newcastle United on Sunday.
      A picture of Maddy was put on the front of the matchday programme and the flag at Bramall Lane flew at half-mast.
      The team also played a video tribute while an emotional eulogy was read aloud.
      Maddy’s heartbroken mum and sister laid a wreath out, alongside Tony Currie and captain Sophie Barker.
      The talented midfielder’s teammates came onto the pitch wearing Maddy’s name on their shirts, with her number eight on their backs.
      They also donned black armbands in her memory, while other staff members wore black.
      A minute’s silence was held before kick-off to honour their late player, and in the eighth minute a minute’s applause roared through the stadium as fans rose to share their support and sadness following the tragedy.
      ‘WE WILL MISS YOU SO MUCH’
      Maddy’s teammates have also taken to social media to pay heartbroken tributes.
      Defender Molly Graham posted: “Absolutely devastating news.
      “Such a great person and team-mate.
      “You will be missed hugely! Rest in peace Mads.”
      Fellow defender Charlotte Newsham also wrote: “Beyond broken and shocked to have lost a team-mate and good friend.
      “We will miss you so much Mads.”
      Stephen Bettis, United’s chief executive officer, commented: “This is heartbreaking news for everyone at Bramall Lane.
      “Maddy had a unique position of being part of a number of teams at Sheffield United and was popular with everyone that she came into contact with.
      “Her personality and professionalism made her a credit to her family – she will be sadly missed.
      “Whilst taking in the news and moving forward, the Club will offer as much support as possible to Maddy’s family, friends and colleagues.”
      The Blades added: “Discussions over suitable tributes and celebrating Maddy’s life will continue privately.
      “The Club and Maddy’s family would appreciate a period of privacy and will not comment further at this sad time.”
      Meanwhile, tributes poured in from across the football world for the beloved player.
      Absolutely devastating news. Such a great person and team-mate. You will be missed hugely! Rest in peace Mads.”Molly Graham
      Leeds United wrote: “The thoughts and condolences of everyone at Leeds are with Maddy’s friends and family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Maddy.”
      Luton Town noted: “Rest in peace, Maddy. We’re sending our love and wishes to your family and friends and your colleagues at Bramall Lane.”
      Shrewsbury Town said: “We’re so sorry to read this. All our thoughts and wishes are with Maddy’s friends and family, and everyone at Sheffield United.”
      Halifax Town added: “We’re all so sorry to hear this devastating news, we send our thoughts to all of Maddy’s family and friends and everyone associated with Sheffield United.”
      A number of Lionesses have also paid their respects.
      Aston Villa and England midfielder Jordan Nobbs wrote: “Sending all our love to Maddy’s family and friends.”
      Beyond broken and shocked to have lost a team-mate and good friend.”Charlotte Newsham
      Tottenham and Lioness forward Beth England posted: “This is devastating news.
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      “My thoughts and love go out to her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield United. Rest in peace, Maddy.”
      Manchester City and England forward Lauren Hemp penned: “Awful awful news, my love and thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield.”
      Former Sheffield United player Tony Currie, Sheffield United women’s Sophie Barker and Maddy Cusack’s mum and sister lay a wreath in memory of MaddyCredit: PA
      Floral tributes were placed outside the stadium in memory of Sheffield United women’s starCredit: Reuters
      Players of England observe a minute of silence in tribute at the Women’s International match between England U19 v Germany U19 at St Georges Park on TuesdayCredit: Getty
      Players of England and Germany observe a minute of silence in tributeCredit: Getty
      Her successful career with The Blades started in January 2019Credit: Getty
      Derbyshire Police have released a statement saying the death is not being treated as suspiciousCredit: Getty More