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      Rangers legend Jim Forrest dies aged 79 as Ibrox club leads tributes to star with better goal ratio than Ally McCoist

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      JIM FORREST, the most prolific goalscorer in Rangers’ post-war history, has died.The Ibrox side wrote on social media: “The Rangers family is today saddened by the loss of former striker, Jim Forrest, at the age of 79.
      Rangers hero Jim ForrestCredit: SNS
      RANGERS 1960-61 (l to r) Davie Wilson, Bobby Shearer, Billy Ritchie, Davie Provan, Jim Forrest, Ian McMillan, John Greig, Ron McKinnon, Jim Baxter, Ralph Brand and Willie Henderson.Credit: SNS
      “The thoughts of everyone at Rangers are with Jim’s family and friends.”
      Aberdeen, for whom he played 186 times, scoring 62 goals, wrote: “Aberdeen Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jim Forrest.
      “Jim played 186 times for the club, scoring 62 goals and was part of the side that won the Scottish Cup in 1970.
      “The thoughts of everyone at Pittodrie are with Jim’s family and friends at this sad time.”

      Born in Springburn, the striker joined his boyhood heroes in 1962.
      A year later, in August 1963, he made his Old Firm debut – scoring twice in a 3-0 win for Gers at Parkhead.
      He was just 18-years-old.
      After bagging his first goals for the Ibrox club, Forrest went on to score an astonishing 145 times in 163 appearances.
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      He had a better goals ratio than the likes of Ally McCoist, Ralph Brand and Jimmy Millar.
      Yet, along with George McLean, he was inexplicably made the scapegoat in the aftermath of Rangers’ shock Scottish Cup defeat to Berwick Rangers in 1967.
      Manager Scot Symon described it as “the worst result in the history of the club”, and Forrest never played for Rangers again.
      Forrest – who died at the age of 78 – was only 22 and his stats in the three previous seasons were truly remarkable.
      He scored 39 goals in his first full season. During the treble winning campaign of 1963-64 he bagged an incredible 57 – a British post war record that still stands to this day.
      The following season he hit 35 and had already netted 14 times before Symon’s show of spite.
      It was a decision which arguably cost Rangers the Cup Winners’ Cup as they were forced to turn to centre-half Roger Hynd for the final against Bayern Munich in Nuremberg.
      To his credit, Forrest never spoke out against Symon or the call that ended his Ibrox career.
      Speaking in “Rangers, The 100 Greatest”, Forrest reflected: “I didn’t say anything against the club then and even now I prefer not to go into that.
      “Yes, what happened hurt, but I am a Rangers man and you don’t start hitting out at them. 
      “It’s not my style.
      Following his exit from Rangers, Forrest played for Preston and had five years at Aberdeen, where he won the Scottish Cup in 1970.
      He also had spells in South Africa and Hong Kong.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Forrest should be given his rightful place in the Ibrox Hall of Fame.
      Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

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      Maddy Cusack death updates — Sheffield United star dies at 27 after signing new deal as cause not yet revealed

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      SHEFFIELD United women’s star Maddy Cusack has died aged 27, the club confirmed in a heartbreaking statement Thursday afternoon.Rising Sheffield United star Cusack tragically passed away last week, with tributes pouring in from across the football world.
      Maddy had just entered her sixth season with the club after signing a new deal in July.
      Clubs across the women’s game held a minute’s silence before matches this weekend, including Sheffield’s meeting with Newcastle United.
      In a club statement, The Blades said: “Ahead of the Newcastle game, we will celebrate & honour the life of Maddy Cusack, a loved & respected figure of the Sheffield United family. There will forever be a void in the hearts of everyone connected to the club & a number of activities have been planned to remember her. We would politely ask supporters to be in their seats for 4.15pm to partake.”
      The cause of death has not yet been revealed but police have confirmed they are not treating it as suspicious.
      Read our live blog for the latest news and updates…
      Maddy Cusack was more than just a Sheffield United player
      Maddy Cusack joined Sheffield United in 2019, taking on not only the role of one of the most prominent midfielders in the women’s squad, but also acting as a marketing executive for the club.
      Last season, she made her 100th appearance for the team, becoming the first player to do so.
      She was also a “valued colleague” at the offices in Bramall Lane.
      Maddy started off by working with the Sheffield United Community Foundation before moving to the Club in 2021 to help in marketing operations for the Blades.
      Credit: Getty
      Lionesses pay respects to Maddy Cusack
      A number of England’s Lionesses have taken to social media to pay their respects to Maddy following her tragic death.
      England and Aston Villa midfielder Jordan Nobbs wrote: “Sending all our love to Maddy’s family and friends.”
      Tottenham and England forward Beth England posted: “This is devastating news.
      “My thoughts and love go out to her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield United. Rest in peace, Maddy.”
      Manchester City and Lioness Lauren Hemp, who plays as a forward, said: “Awful awful news, my love and thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone at Sheffield.”
      Well-wishers take to social media to praise Sheffield United tributes
      Following the moving tributes paid by players and fans as Sheffield United faced Newcastle at Bramall Lane this afternoon, people have taken to X — formerly Twitter — to react.
      One wrote: “This is terribly sad a young bright star, too soon… Rest in peace, Maddy C. I do hope that stadium and or Sheffield will find ways to forever Maddy’s memory be kept alive.”
      Another penned: “A beautiful tribute. Rest in peace Maddy”
      While a third said: “U should rest that Number 8 in her Honour”
      School honours ‘inspirational’ Maddy Cusack
      In a heartbreaking tribute to the late Maddy Cusack, a primary school she visited has described the inspirational impact she had on its children.
      Ecclesall Primary School shared a photo of Cusack and said: “We are really saddened to hear that footballer Maddy Cusack died earlier this week aged just 27. 
      “Maddy was one of 3 players from Sheffield United who came to inspire girls to play football at a joint event with Sheffield Girls’ in March 2023 (in the falling snow)! Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the wider Sheffield United, Sheffield United Women community. A really inspirational woman!”
      What clubs did Maddy Cusack play for?
      Maddy Cusack ability allowed her to play for a number of teams in the country.
      The midfielder represented Birmingham and Aston Villa before signing a contract with Sheffield United in 2019.

      Who was Maddy Cusack?
      Cusack was a talented midfielder who hit the 100-appearance milestone for Sheffield United.
      And not only was she good on the pitch, Cusack also worked as a marketing executive for the football club.
      The Blades’ chief executive officer mentioned that the midfielder was very popular and that she will be “sadly missed.”
      In pictures: Maddy’s family pay tribute ahead of Sunday’s game
      Tony Currie, Sheffield United Women player Sophie Barker and Maddy Cusack‘s mum and sister took to the field to lay a wreath before the 4:30pm kick-off between The Blades and Newcastle on Sunday.
      The stadium honoured Maddy with a minute’s silence after the United star died aged 27.
      Credit: PA
      Real Madrid pays tribute
      Global football giants Real Madrid have paid tribute to Maddy Cusack following her tragic death at just 27.
      Taking to X, the Spanish side said: “Real Madrid, its president and its Board of Directors deeply regret the death of Maddy Cusack, a Sheffield United player, and would like to express their condolences and love to her family, her teammates, her club and her loved ones.
      “Rest in peace.”
      Maddy Cusack’s death ‘not suspicious’, say police
      Derbyshire Police have confirmed they are not treating Maddy Cusack’s death as suspicious following her passing aged 27.
      A statement read: “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.”

      Leah Williamson honours Maddy
      Arsenal and England legend Leah Williamson has paid tribute to Maddy Cusack following her tragic death.
      She wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: “Sending all my love and condolences to Maddy’s family at this awful time!”
      Maddy made her Sheffield United debut in 2019 and went on to become the first-ever player to earn 100 caps for the club’s women’s team.
      Blades fans hail Newcastle supporters following heartfelt tribute
      Sheffield United fans have hailed Newcastle supporters after away attendees paid tribute to Maddy Cusack at yesterday’s match.
      One Blades fan took to X and said: “Must say I found it quite emotional that Newcastle United fans, without prompting, started off the prolonged applause for Maddy Cusack at the end of #SUFC’s eulogy to her. That was such a fantastic & appreciated gesture.”
      While another added: “It was outstanding and made it even more emotional! An honour to be there for the tribute to a truly wonderful person.”
      What was Maddy Cusack’s cause of death?
      No cause of death has been given for Maddy Cusack’s passing, aged just 27.
      Following her death, Stephen Bettis, Chief executive officer for United, said: “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.”
      Maddy’s teammates speak of ‘heartbreak’ following stars death
      Maddy Cusack‘s Sheffield United Women teammates have taken to social media to pay touching 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.’ 
      Sheffield United’s prime
      United’s heyday was undoubtedly the 30-year era from 1895 to 1925, when they were English champions in 1897-98, runners-up in 1896-97 and 1899-1900, and FA Cup winners in 1899, 1902, 1915, and 1925.
      United have not won a trophy since 1925, with the exception of those related to promotion from lower levels, with their greatest cup achievements being multiple semi-final appearances in the FA Cup and League Cup.
      School honours ‘inspirational’ Maddy Cusack
      In a heartbreaking tribute to the late Maddy Cusack, a primary school she visited has described the inspirational impact she had on its children.
      Ecclesall Primary School shared a photo of Cusack and said: “We are really saddened to hear that footballer Maddy Cusack died earlier this week aged just 27. 
      “Maddy was one of 3 players from Sheffield United who came to inspire girls to play football at a joint event with Sheffield Girls’ in March 2023 (in the falling snow)! Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the wider Sheffield United, Sheffield United Women community. A really inspirational woman!”
      Fans slam ‘disappointing’ Sky Sports
      Some football fans have taken to social media to criticise Sky Sports for its coverage of yesterday’s tributes to Maddy Cusack.
      One X user said: “Disappointing that Sky Sports have given literally 10 seconds to Sheffield United’s tributes to Maddy Cusack, and given a longer package to the Solheim Cup.”
      While another added: “Don’t think I’ve ever seen anything that sums up the modern state of sports media/broadcasting more than Sky Sports going for an ad-break…during the memorial ceremony for Maddy Cusack.”
      What happened in yesterday’s Sheffield United game?
      Newcastle have been searching for their A-game so far this season — and they certainly found it yesterday, as they smashed Sheffield United 8-0.
      Paul Heckingbottom‘s job was on the line already before Sunday afternoon’s thrashing, and it now looks certain that he will be the first manager sacked this season.

      Inside Maddy’s footballing career
      Midfielder Maddy Cusack joined the Blades back in 2019 and also worked for the club as a marketing executive.
      She signed a new deal back in July after making her 100th appearance last term.
      Prior to signing for Sheffield United, Cusack also had spells with both Birmingham and Aston Villa.
      Newcastle chief honours Maddy Cusack
      Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley laid a wreath in memorial outside Bramall Lane ahead of yesterday’s game.
      This came as part of a day of tributes to the late star, including a minute’s silence held before the match.
      The Sheffield United players also wore shirts with Cusack’s name and number on the back prior to kick-off.
      Who was Maddy Cusack?
      Cusack was a talented midfielder who hit the 100-appearance milestone for Sheffield United.
      Not only was she good on the pitch, Cusack also worked as a marketing executive for the football club.
      The Blades’ chief executive officer mentioned that the midfielder was very popular and that she would be “sadly missed.”

      In Pictures: Sheffield United players wear shirts in memory of Maddy and observe minute’s silence
      Sheffield United players wore shirts in honour of Maddy Cusack ahead of yesterday’s clash vs. Newcastle.
      The two sets of players players and fans in the stadium observed a minute’s silence before the 4:30pm kick-off got underway.
      Maddy on match-day programme cover
      Maddy Cusack is on the match-day programme cover as Sheffield United took on Newcastle in the 4:30pm kick-off at Bramall Lane yesterday.
      In pictures: Mangers pay respects to Maddy Cusack
      Paul Heckingbottom and Eddie Howe observing the minute’s silence for Maddy Cusack before  Sheffield United were thrashed 8-0 by Newcastle.

      ‘Disrespectful’ Sky Sports cut to ad break during coverage of Maddy Cusack tribute
      Incensed football fans have taken to X — formerly Twitter — to bemoan Sky Sport’s coverage of the tribute to Maddy Cusack before the Sheffield United v Newcastle game this afternoon.
      One said: “So Sheff United do a tribute for Maddy Cusack, and what do sky sports do? Interrupt it with a ad break. The disrespect from the [clown emoji] is unbelievable.”
      Another wrote: “SkySports cutting the tribute to Maddy Cusack in order to put an advert in for Ladbrokes. Absolutely disgusting”
      While a third penned: “don’t think i’ve ever seen anything that sums up the modern state of sports media/broadcasting more than sky sports going for an ad-break (ladbrokes, of course) during the memorial ceremony for maddy cusack”
      Sheffield United’s statement before Maddy Cusack’s match-day tributes
      Sheffield United released a statement confirming: “Ahead of the Newcastle game, we will celebrate & honour the life of Maddy Cusack, a loved & respected figure of the Sheffield United family.
      “There will forever be a void in the hearts of everyone connected to the club & a number of activities have been planned to remember her.
      “We would politely ask supporters to be in their seats for 4.15pm to partake.”
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      Maddy Cusack’s death not suspicious, police say as they release update into cause of death of Sheffield United star

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      SHEFFIELD United football star Maddy Cusack’s death is not being treated as suspicious, police have revealed.Cops have provided an update on their investigations after the 27-year-old player died last Wednesday.
      Tributes have been paid to tragic footballer Maddy CusackCredit: Getty
      Derbyshire Police today released a statement saying the death was not being seen 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 and tributes were paid at yesterday’s Premier League home match against Newcastle United.
      Read More On Maddy Cusack
      A minute’s silence was held before kick-off and the club’s matchday programme featured on the cover a black and white picture of Cusack in a Sheffield United shirt.
      And fans gave a minute’s applause in the eighth minute, since she wore the number eight shirt for Sheffield United.
      The club said in a statement last week: “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.
      Most read in Football
      “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.”
      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.”
      Maddy had just entered her sixth season with the Blades having signed a new contract in July.
      She made her Sheffield United debut in 2019 and became the first player to make 100 appearances for the club’s women’s team.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      She previously played for Birmingham City and Aston Villa.
      Arsenal and England Lionesses legend Leah Williamson today posted on X, formerly Twitter: “Sending all my love and condolences to Maddy’s family at this awful time.”
      Maddy had only recently signed a new contract at Sheffield UnitedCredit: Rex More

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      Who was Maddy Cusack and which clubs did she play for?

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      THE world has been shocked by the devastating news that Sheffield United star Maddy Cusack has passed away at age 27.Cusack had just entered her sixth season with the Blades after signing a new deal in July.
      Maddy Cusack has tragically died age 27Credit: Getty
      But Sheffield United confirmed the tragedy on the afternoon of Thursday, September 21.
      Who was Maddy Cusack?
      Cusack was a talented midfielder who hit the 100-appearance milestone for Sheffield United.
      And not only was she good on the pitch, Cusack also worked as a marketing executive for the football club.
      The Blades’ chief executive officer mentioned that the midfielder was very popular and that she will be “sadly missed.”
      What clubs did Maddy Cusack play for?
      Maddy Cusack ability allowed her to play for a number of teams in the country.
      The midfielder represented Birmingham and Aston Villa before signing a contract with Sheffield United in 2019.
      Maddy Cusack signed for the Blades in JulyCredit: Getty
      What has been said?
      Sheffield United wrote a heartwarming statement sadly confirming the death of Maddy Cusack.
      The statement read:  “Sheffield United Football Club is devastated to report the sad news of the passing of Maddy Cusack.
      Most read in Football
      “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.” More

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      Maddy Cusack dead aged 27: Sheffield United women’s star passes away as football world pays tribute

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      SHEFFIELD UNITED women’s star Maddy Cusack has died aged 27.The Blades confirmed the sad news in a statement on Thursday.
      Sheffield Utd women’s star Maddy Cusack has died at the age of 27Credit: Getty
      Midfielder Cusack had just entered her sixth season with the club after signing a new deal in July, having reached her 100th appearance last term.
      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.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “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.”
      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.
      Most read in Football
      “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.”
      Tributes poured in from across the football world for Cusack.
      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.”
      One Blades fan tweeted: “Awful news, so sad, rest in peace.”
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Another noted: “Such a young age, tragic, so devastating for her family.”
      One supporter added: “Awful news to hear, a Blade through and through.” More

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      Marinho Peres dead aged 76: Family lead tributes to former Barcelona and Brazil captain after World Cup hero dies

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      FORMER Barcelona player Marinho Peres has died aged 76.The former defender played for Brazil in the 1974 World Cup and earned admiration from the legendary Johan Cruyff with his performances.
      Marinho Peres, left, captained Brazil at the 1974 World CupCredit: Getty
      The former defender managed 13 clubs
      Peres signed for Barcelona after the tournament and spent two years at the Nou Camp.
      He spent the majority of his 16-year playing career in Brazil and won 15 caps for the national team.
      Peres played alongside Brazil legend Pele at Santos between 1972-74, where he won the Campeonato Paulista – the top flight division in the state of Sao Paulo.
      The former centre-back also had spells at Internacional, Portuguesa and Sao Bento, where he started his career.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      After his playing career ended Peres moved into coaching and managed 13 different clubs, including Santos twice.
      He also had four stints in charge of Belenenses, winning the Portuguese domestic cup during his first spell in 1989.
      Peres also won silverware as manager of Botafogo in 1997 – the Taca Guanabara, a Rio de Janeiro regional tournament.
      Tributes have poured in for Peres from members of his family, fans and former clubs.
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      Internacional shared a statement which reads: “Clube do Povo receives with deep regret the news of Marinho Peres’ passing. An Inter athlete in 1976 and 1977, the defender was an absolute starter in winning the second Brasileirão in Colorado’s history.
      “We wish strength to friends and family. 🖤”
      Sporting Lisbon, who Peres managed between 1990-92, wrote: “Sporting Clube de Portugal expresses its regret at the death of Marinho Peres, who passed away on Monday at the age of 76.
      “A former successful player, having represented the Brazilian national team, he arrived in Portugal in the 1980s as a coach. He coached several teams, including Sporting CP in 1990/1991 and 1991/1992.
      “To family and friends, Sporting CP extends its deepest condolences, whilst praising and thanking them for their years of dedication and devotion to the Club.”
      A fan said: “Few coaches or players from my club, or perhaps none, will have marked my childhood and my journey as a fan as much as Marinho Peres, may he rest in peace.” More

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      Why is Robert Lewandowski’s grandfather trending?

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      ROBERT Lewandowski’s grandfather has been the subject of online claims about a supposed family link with dictator Adolf Hitler.There is no evidence to support this — but here’s everything we know about this trending question.
      Robert Lewandowski celebrates after scoring for FC BarcelonaCredit: Getty
      Why is Robert Lewandowski’s grandfather trending?
      The rumours of a family link between Lewandowski and Hitler began, as these things often do, on the internet — with the supposed connection initially claimed to be on his grandmother’s side.
      To be clear, no evidence to suggest Robert Lewandowski or either of his grandparents are related to Adolf Hitler has been published.
      However, the rumour appears to have originated from a Quora post in 2017 asking: “Is Robert Lewandowski related to Adolf Hitler?”
      In the post, an image of Robert Lewandowski and Adolf Hitler alongside each other was shared with the caption: “Did you know??!! Robert Lewandowski was the grandson of Hitler’s youngest sister who was called Pawla Hitler who died in who died in 1960”
      READ MORE ON LEWANDOWSKI
      This person went on to say Pawla Hitler had an affair with a Polish man named Jan Lewandowski, who they alleged was the footballer’s grandfather.
      In reality his granddad was named Bogdan Lewandowski and, although he was Polish, he didn’t have a fling with the fascist leader’s sister.
      In fact he fought against the Nazis in World War II and passed away in 1989.
      A number of people responded with posts on the social media site to rubbish the claims.
      Most read in Football
      Which team does Robert Lewandowski play for?
      Robert Lewandowski is a striker from Poland who currently plays for Barcelona in La Liga — the top league in Spain — as well as being the captain for the Poland national team.
      In 1997 he joined MKS Varsovia Warsaw, before moving to Delta Warsaw the following year, where he progressed to the fourth tier side’s first team.
      In the 2006-07 season Robert was the top scorer in the Polish third division, helping Znicz Pruszków secure promotion, before going on to again score the most goals in the second division for the same team the following year, with a tally of 21.
      In June 2008 he joined Lech Poznań for a signing fee of around £300,000, where he finished the season with 18 goals in 42 matches.
      The following season Lewandowski was top scorer once again, helping Lech win the Ekstraklasa — Poland’s top league.
      In 2010 the ace striker joined Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund for a fee reportedly around €4.5million, winning the title the same season.
      He was named Footballer of the Year in Poland in the 2011-12 campaign, with Dortmund winning the German top division title again under manager Jurgen Klopp.
      In 2014 Robert joined Bayern Munich, winning the Bundesliga with the German giants EVERY year until the 2021-22 season, winning the Champion’s League in 2020 and picking up a Ballon d’Or and two European Golden Shoes along the way.
      Lewandowski joined FC Barcelona in 2022, where the serial winner sealed both the La Liga title and Pichichi Trophy in his first season, becoming the first player in history to get the top scorer award in Europe’s top five leagues in six consecutive seasons. More

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      I was abused by Barry Bennell when I was on a youth team – Gary Speed was among four he coached who took their lives

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      ONE of Barry Bennell’s young victims told how ex-Premier League star Gary Speed was among four men who later took their own lives having been coached by the serial paedophile.Former Wales international midfielder and manager Speed played for one of the junior football teams run by sex offender Bennell, who has died in prison aged 70.
      Premier League star Gary Speed was coached as a kid by Barry BennellCredit: PA:Press Association
      Serial paedophile Bennell has died in jail aged 70Credit: PA
      One of Bennell’s victims told a Liverpool Crown Court trial in 2018 how he tried to contact Speed’s parents after their son hanged himself at the age of 42 in November 2011.
      Speed was Wales manager at the time of his death, having played in the Premier League for Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United and Bolton Wanderers.
      Bennell’s death was confirmed this afternoon by the Prison Service.
      The Sun understands that the paedophile, who had cancer, died on Saturday morning at HMP Littlehey in Cambridgeshire.
      Read More On Barry Bennell
      Bennell had worked in the 1980s and 1990s as a youth coach at Crewe Alexandra, Manchester City and Stoke City.
      He also had links to youth teams across Cheshire, Derbyshire, Greater Manchester and Staffordshire, exploiting his position to sexually abuse young boys.
      Bennell was first put behind bars for four years in the United States in 1994 after abusing a 13-year-old British boy at a football camp in Florida.
      He later returned to Britain, where his lengthy record as a predator was exposed in 1997 by Channel 4’s Dispatches film Soccer’s Foul Play.
      Most read in Football
      Bennell was imprisoned for nine years at Chester Crown Court after admitting 23 charges dating back to the 1970s.
      He confessed in 2015 to enticing a boy under the age of 14 to commit an act of gross indecency in the early 1980s, receiving a further two years in jail.
      More courageous victims then came forward after ex-footballer Andy Woodward went public with how he had been groomed and abused by Bennell for four years, starting when he was aged only 11.
      Bennell was found guilty of more than 50 sexual offences against 22 boys at Liverpool Crown Court in 2018 and sentenced to 34 years.
      That trial heard from a victim who brought up Speed’s name, as he told the court: “Four people from teams I have played with, with Bennell, have taken their own lives.
      “Whether they have taken their lives due to Barry solely, I don’t know, but all I know is how it’s had an impact on me and how it could impact on other people.”
      Speed’s mum Carol has said her son was interviewed twice by police over Bennell and insisted he was never assaulted.
      And his dad Gary said: “I don’t think so – Gary wouldn’t have it. Honestly, no way.
      “He was old enough in the head even at that age he knew what he wanted. He was a clever lad.”
      But an alleged witness claimed Bennell assaulted him while Gary was in the same bed — and said he was “99.9 per cent certain” the future star suffered the same sickening treatment.
      Bennell’s death on Saturday came at HMP Littlehey, a prison for sex offenders.
      Eight men abused by Bennell are reportedly appealing after having their damages claim against Manchester City dismissed by the High Court.
      An inquest into Speed’s death recorded a narrative verdict, saying he died from “self-suspension” but with the coroner unable to say whether he intended to kill himself.
      Hours before his death Speed had appeared as a guest on BBC1 show Football Focus.
      He then watched Newcastle play at Old Trafford against Manchester United alongside former team-mate Alan Shearer, before driving home to Huntington in Cheshire.
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      His widow Louise, who discovered his body, later revealed a poignant letter he wrote about his mental health struggles when aged just 17.
      Louise suffered more heartbreak earlier this year when her new husband Quinton Bird died from brain cancer aged 53.
      If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123.
      Midfielder Speed’s last club was Sheffield United before he became Wales managerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Bennell was given a 34-year prison term at Liverpool Crown Court in 2018Credit: PA:Press Association More