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      Denis Law dead: Ballon d’Or-winning Manchester United star who won European Cup during glittering career dies aged 84

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      MANCHESTER United legend Denis Law has tragically died aged 84, his family have announced.The last surviving member of the Red Devils’ holy trinity passed away after a battle with dementia.Manchester United legend Denis Law has tragically died aged 84Credit: Mark Robinson – The SunLaw was simply known as ‘The King’ at UnitedCredit: RexHe was the last surviving member of the Red Devils’ holy trinityCredit: GettySir Bobby Charlton, George Best and Law are idolised with a statue at Old TraffordCredit: GettyThe ex-striker began his legendary career at Huddersfield in 1955Credit: GettyManchester United paid tribute to their former star in a post on XCredit: X/ManUtdHis heartbroken family confirmed on Friday that Law had died.A statement from them read: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.”We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently. “We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”Read more Sports NewsLaw started his career at Huddersfield Town, had two spells at Manchester City and played for Torino in Italy.But it was at Old Trafford from 1962-73 where he made his name scoring 237 goals in 404 games.He won two titles with United and the FA Cup and helped them to the 1968 European Cup Final where they beat Benfica although missed out on the game due to injury.Sir Bobby Charlton, Law and George Best were integral as the Red Devils become the first English side to win the European Cup.Most read in FootballMan U said in a statement: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84. “With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players. Man Utd legend Denis Law reveals he is suffering from dementia aged 81 “The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation. “Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”Best, Law and Charlton together scored 665 goals in 1,636 games for the club.And each won the Ballon d’Or between 1964-68 — with Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 the only United player to do it since.TRIBUTES TO ‘THE KING’Huddersfield Town, where Denis began his career, paid tribute, saying: “All at Huddersfield Town are profoundly saddened to learn of the passing of Denis Law.”A legend of not only our great Club, but an immortal of the sport as a whole, he will be deeply missed and his memory cherished by us all.”Our collective thoughts are with Denis’ family and loved ones at this time. “Once a Terrier, always a Terrier”.The footballing legend scored 30 goals in 55 games for Scotland, with the team paying tribute in a post on X that read: “A true great.”We will not see his likes again.”The United trio of David Beckham, Gary Neville and Wayne Rooney were among figures from around the world of football to pay their respects to the Scot.Becks wrote on his Instagram page: “Tonight we lost a true gentleman of the game. Our heart goes out to Denis’s family.”Our hearts are heavy tonight. A legend on the field but the perfect gentleman off.”United’s top all-time goalscorer Wayne Rooney called the star a “legend” in his tribute.Gary Neville, who spent his entire career at Man U, said: “Rest in peace Denis. A great footballer and a great man.”It’s a privilege and an honour to have spent time in your company – The King of the Stretford End.”Denis’ ex-United teammate Brian Kidd added: “He was slight, with the heart of a lion.”An unbelievable finisher, he scored every type of goal.”He said to me: ‘If you’re ever wide, don’t look up, put the cross in early. If I’m not there it’s my fault’. He was usually there.”Sir Matt [Busby] loved him. We all did. He was the King of the Stretford End.”Former Man Utd captain Bryan Robson penned his own tribute, saying: “We have lost one of football’s giants both as a player and a gentleman.”It’s incredibly sad, he was more than just a fantastic footballer, he was a fantastic man.”His great friend George Best, who died in 2005, had once described the forward as: “Up there with the all-time greats. Electric.”As a bloke and as a pal he’s different class.”Bruno Fernandes, the United captain, simply wrote “Legend” on his Instagram story.United legend, and now Leicester City manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy said on Instagram: “R.I.P Denis.”Aberdeen, the team Denis supported, said: “One of Scotland’s greatest ever players, his legacy will live on in the north east.”Manchester City, where Law spent two separate stints in his glittering playing career, posted: “The whole of Manchester, including everyone at City, is mourning with you.“Rest in peace, Denis. Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends at this difficult time.”Other clubs and fans have also paid tributes on social media to the star following his death.Leeds United posted on X, saying: “The thoughts of everyone at Leeds United are with Denis’ family and friends at this time. “Rest in peace, Denis”.Liverpool paid tribute, saying: “Sending condolences from all of us at LFC.”Denis was a rival player but so highly thought of. “As Bill Shankly once said, ‘Denis Law could dance on eggshells.’ “Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends at this very sad time.”Broadcaster Piers Morgan also paid his tribute to the footballer, saying: “RIP Denis Law, 84.”Last surviving member of Manchester United’s genius holy footballing trinity of Best, Law, Charlton. “Brilliant player, wonderful character.”Countless people also expressed sadness at the news of the star’s death, with many praising him as one of the greatest players to ever grace the pitch at Old Trafford.One user posted on X: “Very upsetting to hear about Denis Law & condolences to his family & friends. “He was a superb & stylish footballer & lovely, happy man. “The King was, in Denis’s case, a deserved nickname.”Another said: “RIP to the original King of Old Trafford – Denis Law.”A lethal goal scorer who helped put Manchester United back on the map following the Munich Air Disaster.”Set records that lasted decades and some that remain today.”We all love King Denis x”.ALZHEIMER’S STRUGGLESIn 2021, the goalscorer revealed he was suffering from Alzheimer’s in an emotional statement.He said he experienced anger, frustration, confusion and distress due to the condition.There has been much research and debate into how much heading the ball has led to Alzheimer’s for a number of ex players.Law said: “I am at the point where I feel I want to be open about my condition.”I have been diagnosed with ‘mixed dementia’, which is more than one type of dementia, in my case this being Alzheimer’s and Vascular dementia.”It is an incredibly challenging and problematic disease and I have witnessed many friends go through this.”You hope that it won’t happen to you, even make jokes about it whilst ignoring the early signs because you don’t want it to be true.”You get angry, frustrated, confused and then worried, worried for your family, as they will be the ones dealing with it.”However the time has come to tackle this head on, excuse the pun.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I recognise how my brain is deteriorating and how my memory evades me when I don’t want it to and how this causes me distress in situations that are beyond my control.”I do understand what is happening and that is why I want to address my situation now whilst I am able, because I know there will be days when I don’t understand and I hate the thought of that right now.”He achieved icon status during his playing days for the Red DevilsCredit: AlamyBest, Charlton and Law helped United win the 1968 European CupCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdLaw poses with his daughter Di, who went on to work for United as the Chief Press OfficerCredit: Paul CousansLaw scored 30 goals in 55 games for ScotlandCredit: SNS More

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      Tragic Sven-Goran Erikkson faced string of disasters that saw him lose MILLIONS & conned by fake football billionaire

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      HE was one of the highest-paid football managers of all time, raking in a cool £25million during his five-year reign as England boss. But Sven-Goran Eriksson’s glittering career was scarred by a string of financial disasters that left him penniless.Sven Goran-Eriksson died £8.6million in debtCredit: AP:Associated PressHe was led to believe he was helming a Man City-style transformation at Notts CountyCredit: The TimesSven and the club were led on by convicted fraudster Russell KingCredit: Action ImagesThe Swede, who tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer last August, lost millions over the years before a desperate bid to save his fortune. Despite his footballing success, Swedish documents revealed Eriksson died £8.6 million (88 million kronor) in debt.His lawyer and close friend Anders Runebjer blamed his tax debts on poor investment decisions – including a failed film scheme in 2006.The 76-year-old was best known for managing England from 2001 to 2006 and made history as the first foreign manager to lead the team at two World Cups.Read More on SvenDuring his 36-year career, Eriksson had a number of lucrative roles and received around £7million in pay-offs alone from England, Manchester City – where he spent a season in charge – and Mexico.He also coached IFK Goteborg, Benfica, Roma, Fiorentina, Sampdoria, Lazio and Leicester City, winning 17 major trophies.But away from the pitch, Sven fell victim to several embarrassing scams and financial disasters.From fake billionaires to an unscrupulous adviser, we take a look at scams which fleeced the late manager…Most read in FootballFootball club scamThe most bizarre chapter of Eriksson’s football career began in June 2009 when he was first contacted by convicted fraudster Russell King, a former financier from Jersey.He claimed to represent a wealthy group of investors from the Middle East and Europe, reaching out through a third party.Emotional David Beckham looks close to tears at Sven-Goran Eriksson’s coffin is led out of church following funeral service in SwedenHe and an associate wined and dined Eriksson at the Dorchester Hotel and gave a “very clever, very convincing” pitch about taking over Notts County, billing it as a Manchester City-style transformation.”I met these two guys, and they were very enthusiastic about what they had to say,” Eriksson recalled. “They told me they had already bought the club and had big plans to take it to the Premier League. “They promised improvements to the players, the training ground, the academy, and even said they would fix the stadium and buy feeder clubs.”Unbeknown to Sven, King had served a two-year sentence for fraud in the early 1990s for trying to claim £600,000 in insurance by falsely reporting his Aston Martin stolen.King managed to seize control of nearly 50 per cent of a London investment bank by falsely claiming he was overseeing the sovereign wealth of the Bahraini royal family.He then used a bank guarantee from the same institution to take control of Notts County, only for it to later be revealed as worthless.The conman lured Eriksson in with promises of £10million in shares and Eriksson became director.They promised improvements to the players, the training ground, the academy, and even said they would fix the stadium and buy feeder clubsSven Goran ErikssonKing wanted Eriksson’s star power to legitimise his schemes, even dragging him to North Korea to seal a deal with the rogue state’s officials. King claimed one of his companies was worth a jaw-dropping $2trillion (£1.27 trillion) after supposedly securing rights to mine the country’s gold, oil, and iron ore in exchange for £1billion from Bahrain.But the promised billions never materialised. King fled to Bahrain, leaving millions in debts and Notts County unable to pay basic bills.Extradited years later, he was jailed in 2019 for 25 counts of fraud and larceny but released from Jersey prison in 2021.England football manager Sven Goran Eriksson and his ex-partner Nancy Dell’OlioCredit: PAEriksson later admitted his embarrassment, recalling how he was taken in by King’s outlandish promises. “They used my name, of course they did,” he said. “At the time, we couldn’t even pay the milk bill at Notts County. It was a big, big mistake.”’Hated’ financial advisorAfter the embarrassing Notts County saga, the football icon later claimed he had lost £10 million thanks to the actions of his trusted financial adviser, Samir Khan.In a bombshell interview with the Telegraph in 2013, Sven said he had been forced to put his £4 million Swedish “dream house” on the market. “I never hate anyone in my life,” he said. “I don’t think I have many enemies but I hate Samir Khan because you can’t treat people like he has done.He’s probably the only person on earth I hate. I feel let down, angry and disappointed because I trusted this man for many, many yearsSven Goran Eriksson “He’s probably the only person on earth I hate. I feel let down, angry and disappointed because I trusted this man for many, many years.”The pair met in 2004, and by 2007, Khan had control of Sven’s affairs. Two years later, the Swede grew concerned and asked Deloitte to run checks on Khan.In 2010, Eriksson’s lawyers obtained a worldwide freezing order in the High Court against Khan and launched legal proceedings, claiming that Khan made negligent investments and pocketed “secret profits”.Khan denied the claims before being declared bankrupt. Eriksson said: “I gave him too much freedom. I gave him all the authority he needed to take care of my economy.”Film scheme backfiredSven admits he made some bad financial decisionsCredit: AP:Associated PressAs Sven scrambled to recover cash, he also fell victim to the failed Eclipse Film investment scheme.The series of film financing schemes, conceived by HSBC, claimed they would make money by buying the rights to blockbuster Disney movies and leasing them back to studios.Investors were told they could defer their tax bills and spread the payments out over a number of years.But HMRC became concerned the £2.2 billion scheme was being used to avoid tax, leading them to take Eclipse to the Supreme Court in 2016.Investors were handed accelerated payment notices the following year – reversing the tax benefits they had previously enjoyed and demanding they pay interest on the multi-million pound sums.The Supreme Court crushed any hopes for the scheme in 2012 by refusing to challenge HMRC’s ruling.Investors, including Sven, were told they wouldn’t receive the £117m in tax relief promised, leaving them liable for massive bills.Home sold at ‘bargain’ priceSven’s mansion near Sunne, SwedenCredit: AlamySven is seen in the swimming pool of his his mansionCredit: AlamyWhile managing the Three Lions, Sven bought a grand 19th-century lakeside manor in Sunne, Sweden, for £420,000. The sprawling 835-square-metre home features numerous reception rooms, a library, and an expansive poolhouse, which includes a saltwater pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, and relaxation space. Outside, the property boasts a tennis court, a jetty, a sandy cove, and waterside gazebos. Sotheby’s agents noted Sven had added his personal touch to both the interior and exterior. READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, when it came to selling the estate after Sven’s death last year, the financial gods were unkind once again.Despite its value peaking at £3 million, by last year its value had plummeted by nearly half, selling for a “bargain” price of £1.8 million.Nancy paid tribute to her ex after his death, saying ‘you will be missed’Credit: Instagram @nancydellolioThe late football manager with his partner Yaniseth Alcides during the Sports Gala 2024Credit: RexSven’s partner and David Beckham at his funeral last yearCredit: RexEriksson with Roberto ManciniCredit: GettySVEN’S AMAZING CAREER1977 – Having played football professionally in Sweden, Sven-Goran Eriksson kicked off his managerial career with Swedish side Degerfors.2000 – He guided Lazio to the Serie A title to become one of the hottest coaches in the world.2001 – Following the resignation of Kevin Keegan, he was appointed England’s next permanent manager in February 2001. He oversaw 66 games with the Three Lions, winning 39 and losing just 12.2002 – Eriksson led England to the 2002 World Cup with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes and David Beckham in his squad. The Three Lions were knocked out in the quarter-finals.2004 – The legendary manager also led the Three Lions to Euro 2004, but they were knocked out of the quarter-finals to Portugal.2006 – Eriksson led England to another World Cup, his final tournament in charge, before resigning.2007 – The Swede took charge of Manchester City a year after leaving the England job and oversaw 45 games.2010 – Having coached Mexico, Ivory Coast and Notts County after parting ways with Man City, Erikson took charge of Leicester and saved them from relegation. Following his time with the Foxes he went on to manage China and Philippines.2024 – In January 2024, Eriksson announced he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Three months later, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of managing Liverpool in a legends match at Anfield, before passing away in August. More

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      Tony Book dead at 90: Legendary former Man City captain and manager dies as club lead emotional tributes

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      FORMER Manchester City captain and manager Tony Book has died aged 90.The ex-full-back played 315 times for City between 1966 and 1974.Tony Book won the FA Cup in 1969Credit: PA:Press AssociationBook, left, cemented himself as a Man City legendCredit: GettyHe won four major trophies as the club’s skipper, before later going on to have three stints as manager.City have posted an emotional tribute to their club icon.Their statement read: “It is with huge sadness and the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of former Manchester City captain and manager Tony Book, aged 90.”A true Club legend in every sense of the word, Tony made 315 appearances for City in total between 1966 and 1974, scoring five goals.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOn their website, they added that Book was “Mr Manchester City”.Book’s career was largely influenced by fellow City icon Malcolm Allison.He was managed by Allison at hometown team Bath City, before following him to Toronto in 1964.When Allison landed the Plymouth Argyle job, he made Book his first signing at Home Park.Most read in FootballAmazingly at the age of 30, this was Book’s first taste of League football.Two years later he joined City in a £17,000 deal, after Allison had taken a job as Joe Mercer’s assistant.Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transferWith City, Book won the First Division, FA Cup, League Cup and Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup.He was also named Football Writers’ Footballer of the Year in 1969, sharing the award with Tottenham icon Dave Mackay.And George Best once named Book as his most difficult-ever opponent.In 1973, Book took temporary charge of City while still a player.Book played as a full-back for CityCredit: RexHe retired the following year aged 39 to work as Ron Saunders’ assistant, before landing the manager gig six months later when Saunders was sacked.One of his first games in charge saw City beat Manchester United 1-0, in a game that effectively relegated their rivals.Book won the League Cup as boss in 1976, before being replaced by Allison in 1979.He soon returned in the 1980s, and worked in a variety of roles across the club.The City icon worked as a youth coach, before stepping in as caretaker boss in 1989 and 1993 – while he also made up part of Peter Reid’s coaching staff.READ MORE SUN STORIESFollowing his coaching career, Book was named Honorary President of the club.He is survived by wife Sylvia, and kids Tracey and Anthony. More

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      Ex-England & Man City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson died £8million in debt – as his house goes up for sale

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      SVEN-Goran Eriksson died £8million in debt with his house now up for sale, it is reported.Football went into mourning last August when the ex-England boss died from pancreatic cancer aged 76.Sven-Goran Eriksson died £8million in debt according to reports in SwedenCredit: GettyTributes flowed in after the death of Eriksson last AugustCredit: RexEriksson lived in the mansion for 22 years which is now up for saleCredit: AlamySven died after battling pancreatic cancerThe legendary coach’s estate was published today – showing he owed £8.6million when he passed away.The document reveals he owned £4.8million in assets, according to respected Swedish newspaper Gotesborg-Posten.However, the estate inventory is also said to show that he had debts totalling £8.6million.This means that the estate had a deficit of around £3.8million, reports the Mirror.Read More in FootballIt comes as Sven’s lakeside property on a secluded estate in Sunne, Sweden, has been made available for around £1.8million.Preparations to sell his seven-bedroom mansion, which has its own private beach, began in September.Eriksson paid £420,000 for the late-19th Century home in 2002 when he was Three Lions chief and his partner was Italian lawyer Nancy Dell’Olio.Agent Sotheby’s say he has since “left his personal mark on both the interior and exterior”.Most read in FootballThe property’s value soared to £3million in the last decade, but it has now fallen to almost half of that figure.The home, covering 835 square metres, has multiple reception rooms and a library. Sven-Goran Eriksson’s former mistress Faria Alam has bid him an emotional final farewellAnd it’s also as sporty as you might expect.A 250-square metre poolhouse sits outside, along with a saltwater pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym and relaxation area.There’s also a tennis court, jetty, a motorised floating platform, a sandy cove and waterside gazebos.Lawyer Anders Runebjer, who was a close friend of Eriksson’s, reportedly expects the home to sell quite easily.Runebjer believes the reduced valuation of £1.8m is more realistic for buyers, Swedish outlet Expressen reports.He also pointed to the freedom and natural setting offered by the property. Sven died on August 26 last year after suffering from pancreatic cancer.During a five-year spell in charge, Sven led England to quarter-final appearances at the World Cup in 2002 and 2006 as well as Euro 2004.Sven landed the Three Lions job after Kevin Keegan quit the post following England’s 1-0 loss to Germany in October 2000.He previously won a first Serie A title in 26 years with Lazio, and after stepping down with England went on to manage Manchester City and the Mexico national team.Due to his health issues, Eriksson was sadly forced to step down as sporting director at Swedish club Karlstad in February 2023.After bravely announcing his cancer diagnosis, he was granted his lifelong wish when he led out Liverpool Legends, as they played in a charity match against Ajax at Anfield in March.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Swede’s death sparked an outpouring of grief for the ex-Manchester City and Leicester boss.David Beckham and Roy Hodgson were among the mourners at Eriksson’s funeral in his home-town of Torsby, near Sunne.SVEN’S AMAZING CAREER1977 – Having played football professionally in Sweden, Sven-Goran Eriksson kicked off his managerial career with Swedish side Degerfors.2000 – He guided Lazio to the Serie A title to become one of the hottest coaches in the world.2001 – Following the resignation of Kevin Keegan, he was appointed England’s next permanent manager in February 2001. He oversaw 66 games with the Three Lions, winning 39 and losing just 12.2002 – Eriksson led England to the 2002 World Cup with the likes of Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes and David Beckham in his squad. The Three Lions were knocked out in the quarter-finals.2004 – The legendary manager also led the Three Lions to Euro 2004, but they were knocked out of the quarter-finals to Portugal.2006 – Eriksson led England to another World Cup, his final tournament in charge, before resigning.2007 – The Swede took charge of Manchester City a year after leaving the England job and oversaw 45 games.2010 – Having coached Mexico, Ivory Coast and Notts County after parting ways with Man City, Erikson took charge of Leicester and saved them from relegation. Following his time with the Foxes he went on to manage China and Philippines.2024 – In January 2024, Eriksson announced he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer. Three months later, he fulfilled a lifelong dream of managing Liverpool in a legends match at Anfield, before passing away in August.Sven-Goran Eriksson coaching Philippines in 2019Credit: GettyDavid Beckham was one of many stars who paid tribute to Sven-Goran Eriksson following his passingCredit: gettyEriksson bought his home for £420k and ‘left his personal mark’ on itCredit: Alamy More

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      Sven-Goran Eriksson’s former partner moves out of their home as mansion and farm are put up for sale for £1.8million

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      SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON’S mansion is up for sale at a “bargain” price – and his former partner has moved out.Football went into mourning last August when the ex-England boss died from pancreatic cancer aged 76.Sven-Goran Eriksson lived in the mansion for 22 yearsCredit: AlamyEriksson bought it for £420k and ‘left his personal mark’ on itCredit: AlamyHis ex-partner Yaniseth Alcides has moved out and returned to PanamaCredit: RexNow his lakeside property on a secluded estate in Sunne, Sweden, has been made available for around £1.8million.  Meanwhile, Eriksson’s long-time girlfriend Yaniseth Alcides has returned to her native Panama.A wave of affectionate memories of the ex-Manchester City and Leicester boss swept across sport following the Swede’s death.David Beckham and Roy Hodgson were then among the mourners at Eriksson’s funeral in his home-town of Torsby, near Sunne.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPreparations to sell his seven-bedroom home, which has a private beach, began in September.Eriksson paid £420,000 for the late-19th century home in 2002 when he was Three Lions chief and his partner was Italian lawyer Nancy Dell’Olio.Agent Sotheby’s say he has since “left his personal mark on both the interior and exterior”.The property’s value soared to £3m in the last decade, but it’s now fallen to almost half of that figure.Most read in FootballAgents believe the reduced valuation will help it sell quicklyCredit: AlamyThe home could be a great escape as it’s so secludedCredit: AlamyA sizeable poolhouse is one of the special featuresCredit: AlamyThe home, covering 835 square metres, has multiple reception rooms and a library.And it’s also as sporty as you might expect.Sven-Goran Eriksson filmed his heartbreaking final goodbye alone – and his emotional message left film crew in tearsA 250-square metre poolhouse sits outside, along with a saltwater pool, spa, sauna, jacuzzi, gym and relaxation area.There’s also a tennis court, jetty, a motorized floating platform, a sandy cove and waterside gazebos.Lawyer Anders Runebjer, who was a close friend of Eriksson’s, reportedly expects the home to sell quite easily.Swedish outlet Expressen say Runebjer believes the reduced valuation of £1.8m is more realistic for buyers.He also pointed to the freedom and natural setting offered by the property. This outbuilding is part of the land for saleCredit: AlamyTributes flowed in after the death of Eriksson last AugustCredit: Rex More

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      Who was Callum Simpson’s late sister Lily-Rae?

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      CALLUM SIMPSON’S sister Lily-Rae tragically died in a horror quad bike accident in Greece last year.The boxer, 28, defends his British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles against Steed Woodall on Saturday, January 10, where he will honour his beloved sibling’s memory.Callum Simpson with his sister Lily-RaeCredit: InstagramWho was Lily-Rae Simpson?Lily-Rae Simpson was the 19-year-old sister of boxer Callum Simpson.On August 3, 2024, the fighter from Barnsley took home the Lonsdale belt with victory over Zak Chelli.In social media posts that were shared by Sky Sports, Lily-Rae was captured on video enjoying her big bro’s triumph and singing his name.Just two weeks later, on the first night of a holiday in Greece, she was in a tragic road accident, which eventually took her life following a 10-day coma.read more on callum simpsonBeauty studiesLily-Rae had recently completed a course in beauty studies at Barnsley College — she was on holiday celebrating the achievement when the horrific accident occurred.On September 3, 2024, a heartbroken Callum shared the news of her passing on social media.Posting a picture of his little sister, the boxer wrote: “Absolutely heartbroken to say that my beautiful little sister, Lily-Rae, was in a road accident while on holiday in Zante.”She was flown to Athens and spent 10 days in ICU, but despite the best efforts of the medical teams, Lily sadly passed away.”Most read in BoxingHe added: “Even though she used to ring me to complain about being referred to as ‘Callum Simpson’s sister’, I know she loved the hype.” I will continue to make her proud. Love you always.”Ahead of his title defence on Saturday, January 11, 2025, Callum opened up about his little sister and the tribute he plans to pay her in the ring.He said: “People only die when you stop talking about them and forget about them.“I will never stop talking about her.I love to speak about her and I have a tribute to her on my kit for this next fightCallum Simpson“I will always say her name.“Although it makes me upset, whenever anyone says her name or speaks about her, I smile and I laugh.“Because I am just proud that she was my sister.“I love to speak about her and I have a tribute to her on my kit for this next fight.“Barnsley football club did a minute’s applause for her just after she passed away.Callum Simpson has a tribute to his sister Lily-Rae on his kit for the Steed Woodall fightCredit: Instagram“I am glad everyone gets to see her beautiful face and see how beautiful she was.”Sadly, the the six months since Lily-Rae’s passing have left the fighter mourning the many milestones they will no longer get to enjoy together.He explained: “It was the first night of her girl’s holiday in Zante, she was on the back of a quad bike and it went around a corner too fast and she went over a verge and came off.“She was airlifted form Zante to Athens and was then in a coma there for 10 days.“And there were difficulties with an operation they were trying to do at the end of that and she sadly passed away.“Other than her not being here, it’s seeing what it’s done to the family, my dad and step-mum and brothers and sisters.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Knowing that she won’t be a bridesmaid at my wedding.“Or be an aunty to my kids and they won’t get to meet her.” More

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

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

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

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