More stories

  • in

    Andrea Capone dead at 43: Former Serie A star who played in Zola’s retired shirt number dies as body found in hotel

    FORMER Serie A star Andrea Capone has passed away aged 43.His body was found in the 5-star Palazzo Tirso Hotel in Cagliari this morning.Andrea Capone has passed awayCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowCapone had a trial at Celtic in 2007Credit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowReports in Italy state that he died from head injuries after an apparent accidental fall. A statement from Cagliari called him: “A boy who has always been known for his professionalism, dedication and passion.”Tributes also flooded in from fans, with one saying: “Rest in peace Andrea and thank you for all you have given to us Cagliaritans.”Another added: “Thanks for everything Andrea.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA third commented: “Rest in peace, Andrea Capone. Your dedication and passion on the field were truly inspiring. You will always be remembered.”Capone wore legend Gianfranco Zola’s iconic No10 shirt at Italian side Cagliari.Before the Chelsea icon hung up his boots, he had a spell at the Sardinians from 2003 to 2005, with his kit number subsequently retired.But two years later, Capone had the honour of wearing the No10 shirt for the club.Most read in FootballThe midfielder was given the iconic kit, having been tipped for big things after coming through the club’s academy.He went on to play 113 times for them, scoring 12 goals.The Italian departed in 2007 and went on to play for Vicenza, Grosseto and Salernitana.Capone was loaned to Treviso, where he won promotion from Serie B, before making his Cagliari debut.He also once had a trial at Celtic in 2007 and scored in a friendly against QPR. More

  • in

    Barry Lloyd dead at 75: Former Chelsea and Fulham star passes away as former clubs lead tributes

    FORMER Chelsea and Fulham star Barry Lloyd has died at the age of 75.The English midfielder made more than 289 appearances for Fulham and 10 for Chelsea.Chelsea and Fulham star Barry Lloyd has passed away aged 75Lloyd captained Fulham in the 1960 and 70sLloyd also managed Brighton between 1987 and 1993.He took the Seagulls to promotion from the third tier and a shock appearance in the second tier play-off final during his tenure.He is also credited with planting the seeds of a youth policy which would begin to bear fruit during his reign.Lloyd was chief scout for Brighton several seasons from 2007.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBrighton’s statement on X read: “We extend our sincere condolences to Barry’s family and friends at this saddest of times. “The players will wear black armbands today against Chelsea and there will be a tribute next weekend against Spurs.”Lloyd played for Chelsea first between 1966 and 1968, before switching across West London to Fulham.He enjoyed far more success for the Cottagers, scoring 29 goals in eight years, with three of them as captain.Most read in FootballLloyd later managed Brighton after stints with Yeovil and WorthingFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLloyd skippered the Cottagers to promotion from Division Three in 1971, scoring in the win at Bradford City that confirmed the club were going up.Fulham wrote on X: “RIP Barry Lloyd. Our former captain and member of the squad that reached the 1975 FA Cup Final has sadly passed away.”Enzo Maresca opens door for £200,000-a-week Chelsea outcast to return to fold and says ‘we all make mistakes’ He then joined Hereford United in October 1976.The following year he returned to the capital, helping Brentford to promotion from the Fourth Division, before a move into management with Southern League outfit Yeovil Town in August 1978.The club’s statement read: “Everyone at Yeovil Town Football Club are saddened to learn about the passing of former Manager, Barry Lloyd.”In his first season, he guided the club to a respectable mid-table finish and secured the Somerset Premier Cup, a notable achievement for the club.”His contribution to lower-league football, particularly at Yeovil, is remembered fondly by supporters and colleagues alike.”After Yeovil, Lloyd then managed Isthmian League Second Division side Worthing in the summer of 1981 – winning back-to-back titles before landing the Brighton job.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Hillingdon-born star returned to Worthing in 2001 before retiring in 2003.He also spent a part of his youth career at Arsenal.Lloyd returned to Craven Cottage in 2011 More

  • in

    Who is Fabian Caballero’s wife Tahiana? What we know about the late Arsenal and Dundee striker’s widow

    FABIAN Caballero, a talented striker who made his mark at clubs like Arsenal and Dundee, captured hearts both on and off the pitch. Tragically, after his recent passing, many are left wondering about his life and legacy, particularly the role of his wife, Tahiana Alvarado, in his journey.Fabian Caballero died at the age of 46Credit: RexTahiana Alvarado was married to Fabian CaballeroCredit: FacebookFabian Caballero, a retired Argentine footballer, was married to Tahiana Alvarado, a Paraguayan woman who is largely known through her relationship with him. Their marriage has been a key aspect of his life, with Tahiana’s support playing a significant role during his career and personal journey. Fabian’s football journey began in Argentina, where his talent was recognised early on.Fabian’s time with ArsenalOn October 29, 1998, Fabian Caballero was loaned to Arsenal from Cerro Porteño for the remainder of the 1998–99 Premier League season, with the option for a permanent transfer. Although he primarily featured for Arsenal’s reserve team, where he scored 8 goals in 16 matches, he made three appearances for the first team, including his Premier League debut against Middlesbrough and an assist in an FA Cup win over Preston North End.However, his time with the London club was cut short by injuries that hampered his ability to make a lasting impact on the team.Move to Dundee F.C.Despite the setback, his career continued, and in 2000 he made a move to Dundee F.C. in Scotland.His time in Dundee was notable, as it marked a period where he contributed significantly to the team’s success, winning the Scottish League Cup and becoming a fan favourite.During his time in Dundee, he and Tahiana welcomed their daughter, Tahira.The couple have a daughter togetherCredit: FacebookIn a 2018 interview with The Scotsman, Caballero expressed his pride in his daughter’s Scottish identity: “My daughter is Scottish.”She is Dundonian! She is 14 now. “She was very happy in Dundee. “When anyone asks her ‘Are you Paraguayan?’ she says: ‘No I am not, I am Scottish.’ “Maybe she will come back in the future, to university or something.”Fabian Caballero’s career may have seen him move across continents, but his family has strong connections to both Paraguay and Scotland.Changing his nationalityAt one point, Fabian seriously considered changing his nationality to play for Paraguay, the home country of his wife. He realised that his chances of being called up for the Argentina national team were slim due to the fierce competition and high level of talent within the Argentine squad.This possibility of representing Paraguay seemed like a logical step, given his personal connection to the country through his wife. Reflecting on the situation, he said: “It didn’t happen in the end – my representative did not do anything about it.” More

  • in

    Fabian Caballero dead at 46: Former Arsenal and Dundee striker suddenly dies as tributes pour in

    FORMER Arsenal star Fabian Caballero has died at the age of 46.The Paraguayan striker made three appearances for the club in the 1998/99 season, with just one coming in the Premier League. Fabian Caballero has passed away aged 46Credit: RexFabian Caballero (left) has cult hero status at DundeeHe joined on loan Cerro Porteno at the age of 21 and featured heavily for the Gunners’ reserve side that year, scoring eight times in 16 appearances.The man nicknamed Tyson had a 19-year career, playing for sides in Argentina, Paraguay, South Korea, Cyprus, Greece and Chile.Caballero also had a five-year spell at Scottish side Dundee. He has cult hero status north of the border and was the club’s player of the year in 2003/04. READ MORE ON ARSENALReports in Paraguay say Caballero’s death comes after he collapsed playing futsal with friends in the country’s capital Asuncion.Arsenal confirmed the sad news this morning, tweeting: “Everyone at the club is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of our former player, Fabian Caballero. “Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”And the Paraguayan FA said in a statement: “The Paraguayan Football Association deeply regrets the passing of former footballer, Fabián Caballero, who had an outstanding career both in Paraguayan football and abroad. Most read in Football”We accompany the family and friends in this difficult time.”Tributes from fans have also poured in, with one saying: “Rest in peace legend.”Ethan Nwaneri’s rise at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta’s guiseAnother wrote: “What a player. Tragic news.”A Dundee supporter added: “Absolutely struggling for words. Total shock. What a player. My favourite ever Dundee player and was lucky enough to meet him a few times. What a guy. Proper heartbroken by this one. Rest easy Fabian.”More commented: “Absolutely gutted to hear this news – Fabian will forever be remembered as a legend of this club. I loved watching him play and he lit up the park whenever he pulled on the dark blue shirt.”Former Dundee team mate Steve Lovell said: “I am devastated to hear the news of Fabian’s passing. He was a fan favourite and it’s easy to see why. He was such a gifted player and I never had the privilege of playing with someone quite like him again. RIP Fab.”After hanging up his boots, Caballero went into coaching and managed Sportivo Ameliano in his homeland.He also ran as an Asuncion city councillor in 2015. More

  • in

    Tony Bellew snubs Floyd Mayweather and Mike Tyson as former world champion names boxing Mount Rushmore

    TONY BELLEW snubbed Floyd Mayweather and Mike Tyson in his Mount Rushmore of boxing. The American National Memorial sculpture features the carved heads of ex-presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.Tony Bellew is the former cruiserweight world championCredit: Getty Images – GettyThere has been a trend of picking four names who best represent a sport – and Bellew listed Roy Jones Jr, Ricardo Lopez, Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Robinson.It means no room for unbeaten Mayweather and KO king Tyson but SunSport break down what makes Bellew’s picks so special. Roy Jones Jr The American is considered of of the best talents to ever grace the ring, blessed with speed, power and sensational reactions. He was four-weight champion, winning belts from middleweight all the way up to HEAVYWEIGHT. READ MORE IN BOXINGBut Jones has continued fighting well into his prime, as recently as 2023 aged 54. Roy Jones Jr won the heavyweight titleCredit: EPARicardo LopezThe Mexican also had an undefeated 52-bout career but a 1998 draw with Rosendo Alvarez denied Lopez an unblemished record. He held two world titles and boxed as low as seven-and-a-half STONE. Lopez had 38 KOs and retired in 2001 and remains one of the most celebrated fighters in Mexican boxing history.Most read in BoxingRicardo Lopez remains one of the most celebrated fighters in Mexican boxing historyCredit: WBC Muhammad AliKnown as ‘The Greatest’ due to his iconic career in the ring and for the work he did outside of it. Ali reigned as three-time champ and fought George Foreman and Joe Frazier in two of the most famous fights of all time. The sporting great sadly passed away in 2016 aged 74 as the most beloved boxer of all time. Muhammad Ali is nicknamed ‘The Greatest’Sugar Ray RobinsonThe American goes down as one of the best of all time, campaigning from lightweight all the way to light-heavyweight. Robinson – who passed away in 1989 aged 67 – had 201 recorded fights with 174 wins, 19 losses, two draws and one no-contest. The boxing held the world titles at welterweight and middleweight. Boxing great Sugar Ray RobinsonCredit: Archive Photos – Getty More

  • in

    Alan Vera dead at 33: American wrestling star dies after suffering cardiac arrest while playing football

    WRESTLING star Alan Vera died after suffering a cardiac arrest at a football match earlier this year.The 33-year-old passed away on Monday evening, having been hospitalised after the incident in Jersey City, New Jersey.Alan Vera (L) died earlier this weekCredit: GettyVera was playing a football match with his club, Wolves FC, when he suffered a cardiac arrest in July.It was confirmed in an Instagram post by the club, which revealed he was “fighting for his health”.After several weeks, he succumbed to an “unexpected infection that took hold over the weekend”, according to his family.Vera narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics to compete in the Greco-Roman wrestling event.READ MORE ON SPORTHe is survived by his wife, Elena Pirozhkova, and their infant daughter, Alina, who was born in the summer.Elena also has experience in the wrestling world, having competed at two Olympics.USA Wrestling executive director Rich Bender released a statement following his death.It read: “Our hearts have been broken.Most read in Athletics”Our sincere thoughts and prayers go out to Elena, Alina and all of Alan’s family, as well as those who have known Alan.”The wrestling community mourns the loss of a great champion, whose incredible life impacted so many within USA Wrestling and around the world.”Cuba-born Vera won four national championships in his career as well as the Pan American title in 2016.It was after that success that he emigrated to the US and became eligible to represent Team USA.A GoFundMe page has been set up to provide support for Vera’s family and has so far reached £32,000. More

  • in

    Man Utd legend Gordon McQueen left huge sum to his family including Sky Sports presenter daughter after tragic death

    MANCHESTER UNITED legend Gordon McQueen left £320,000 to his family —  with a chunk going to Sky Sports presenter daughter Hayley, documents show.The 1970s Man Utd and Leeds defender died last year aged 70 following dementia thought to have been caused by heading the ball.Gordon McQueen died in June 2023Credit: PAHe won the league with Leeds during his careerCredit: PAHe also played for Manchester United during his careerCredit: AlamyHe made more than 300 appearances for the two clubs and played 30 times for Scotland.Probate documents reveal his estate was worth £326,272.He and widow Yvonne lived in a £400,000 house in Hutton Rudby, Yorks.He named her and their three children — Hayley, 44, Anna Forbes and Edward McQueen as executors of his will.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAll four will share his estate and the proceeds of any house sale.The family is selling some mementos including cup medals.They donated his brain to aid sports injury research.McQueen started his career at St Mirren before moving to Leeds.Most read in FootballDuring his time in Yorkshire, he played alongside club greats, including Billy Bremner, Johnny Giles and Norman Hunter.He was also featured under legendary manager Don Revie on the famous Leeds side, which won the league in 1974.His daughter is Hayley McQueenThe Scot later joined United in 1978 and went on to make 184 appearances for the club, winning the FA Cup in 1983.McQueen also finished as a runner-up in the cup in 1975 and again in 1979, and twice was selected in the PFA Team of the Year.He won 30 caps for Scotland and was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2012.His daughter Hayley has also enjoyed a successful career in sport and is a regular broadcaster on Sky Sports.She is a presenter on Sky SportsCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Sven-Goran Eriksson’s mansion ‘going up for sale for £4.8million’ after former England manager’s tragic death

    SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON’S mansion has been put up for sale following his death, according to reports.The former England manager tragically lost his battle with pancreatic cancer at the end of August, seeing him pass away at the age of 76.The home of Sven-Goran Eriksson is set to be put up for saleCredit: RexEriksson’s mansion is based in Sunne, where hewas bornCredit: AlamyHe bought the property in 2002Credit: AlamyIt is estimated to be worth £4.8millionCredit: AlamyThe property features a number of amenitiesCredit: AlamyOne of them in a large pool houseCredit: AlamyThe pool house has a saltwater pool in itCredit: AlamyThe property sits on 2.5 hectares of landCredit: AlamyHis funeral took place earlier this month in his hometown of Torsby in Sweden.Mourners turned out in their hundreds to say a final goodbye to the well-loved coach, including David Beckham and Roy Hodgson.However, according to Swedish media outlet Expressen, Eriksson’s home is now up for sale.Family lawyer Andres Runebjer is reportedly putting together the finishing touches on the estate registration for Eriksson before putting it up for sale.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 900 square metre mansion based in Sunne – where Eriksson was born – was his home from 2002.Named the Bjorkefors manor, it features grounds of approximately 2.5 hectares with another building on the land including a lake villa, tennis court and pool house with a large saltwater pool.It is estimated to be worth around £4.8million.It is said Runebjer expects the property to sell relatively easily and hopes the buyer will have some kind of connection to his friend and client.Most read in FootballEriksson reportedly borrowed large sums of money to renovate the property after moving into it during his tenure as England boss.But the mortgage deed for the largest loan ended up on the channel island of Guernsey, while it is unknown whether the other loans have been resolved.Emotional David Beckham looks close to tears at Sven-Goran Eriksson’s coffin is led out of church following funeral service in SwedenThe property was placed up for sale for £3m in 2010.However, the property was never sold and was taken off the market in 2017 after the Swede was fired by Chinese club Shenzhen, with him choosing to live out his final days there.The land also features a second buildingCredit: AlamyIt overlooks a stunning lakeCredit: AlamyEriksson put it up for sale in 2010 for £3mCredit: AlamyBut after failing to sell it he chose to spend his final days there and took it down in 2017Credit: AlamyEriksson renovated the property when he moved inCredit: AlamyHe is said to have borrowed a large sum of money to make the renovationsCredit: AlamyFamily lawyer Andres Runebjer expects the property to sell relatively easilyCredit: AlamyThe finishing touches to the property are being put on the estate registration before it goes to marketCredit: Alamy”Sven was a good coach… better than he seems, says SunSport experts”SunSport’s Shaun Custis and Martin Lipton discussed Sven-Goran Eriksson’s England legacy following his death aged 76.Custis: “He was the most polite, civil manager I’ve ever dealt with in my life.”Lipton: “There are many managers who are prone to paroxysms of aggravation and screaming matches.”You can’t imagine Sven ever raising his voice, let alone having a row with someone. He was a gentle man and a gentleman throughout his dealings with us certainly. And I think that always came across from the very outset.”He was clearly a quite calm, unflappable character and he wasn’t going to let anything perturb him no matter what it was. No matter what questions were thrown at him, no matter what stick he got. He had this veneer of utter tranquillity.”Custis: “There was a lot of mystery to him. You weren’t reading things about him every two minutes online as you would do now but he came in and he got off to a great start with that 3-0 win over Spain.”Lipton: “He just loved being around football, didn’t he that was the thing.”He didn’t want to give it up… He actually, genuinely loved being around football players, being a manager and all the trappings of that and just being important. Because he enjoyed being Sven-Goran Eriksson – football manager.”Lipton: “He brought back a belief in the England team in that period, he gave us a night we’ll never forget and oversaw the real change in the culture of English football in that it became more celebrity in many ways.”The players became bigger than they’d ever been and he managed to keep that under a degree of wraps… He was a better manager than I thought he was at the time.” More