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      Julen Lopetegui’s dad Jose dies aged 94 as West Ham confirm manager has returned to Spain for funeral

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      JULEN LOPETEGUI will take charge of West Ham on Saturday despite having to return to Spain following the death of his father this week.The Hammers manager, whose side face Brighton this weekend, is back in his home country after his dad, Jose, passed away on Tuesday aged 94.West Ham have confirmed Julen Lopetegui has returned to Spain to attend his dad’s funeralCredit: GettyJose Antonio Lopetegui passed away at the age of 94Lopetegui’s coaching staff are taking training during his absence, though the ex-Wolves manager will be back on Friday to hold a pre-match press conference.The 58-year-old travelled to Spain for three days during the November international break to spend time with his dad.Jose Antonio Lopetegui died after suffering from health problems this year, according to Spanish outlet AS.A West Ham spokesperson: “West Ham United can confirm head coach Julen Lopetegui has returned to Spain to attend the funeral of his father, Jose, who sadly passed away on Tuesday at the age of 94.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at the club are with Julen, his family and friends, and we kindly ask that their privacy is respected at this time.“Lopetegui’s coaching team will oversee training during this period.“The club will be making no further comment at this time.”Dad Jose, who was one of 11 siblings, was a renowned stone lifter and somewhat famous in Basque sport.Most read in FootballStone lifting is a traditional sport that involves lifting heavy stones onto the shoulder to test strength and endurance.It is known as “Harri-jasotze” in the Basque County and all eight Lopetegui brothers regularly competed.Tomas Soucek reveals heartwarming video call with Michail Antonio as he dedicates celebration to stricken West Ham starAt the Circo Price in Madrid, Jose was able to lift 182 kilos to the astonishment of the crowd.The eight brothers attempted to set a record of each lifting 188 kg at the same time, but were persuaded not to by their wives, who considered stone-lifting to be a rural pastime not befitting of their new statuses as urban businessmen.Jose was also a seasoned boxer in his youth.Lopetegui’s former club Sevilla, with whom he won the Europa League, also said: “Sevilla FC expresses its condolences to Julen Lopetegui and his family on the death of his father.”The West Ham manager has been under intense pressure due to a poor start of the season.But he has also had to deal with striker Michail Antonio suffering a horror car crash and also the passing of his father.Meanwhile, Lopetegui’s side drew 1-1 at Bournemouth on Monday night.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Hammers are 14th in the Premier League with 19 points from their opening 16 games this season.The Spaniard took over from David Moyes at the London Stadium in the summer. More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson’s chauffeur adopts dog of Man Utd receptionist Kath Phipps after she passes away at 85

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON’S chauffeur has adopted the dog of legendary Manchester United receptionist Kath Phipps.Kath, a hugely popular figure at the club, passed away aged 85 last week.Sir Alex Ferguson’s chauffeur has adopted the dog of Kath PhippsCredit: GettySir Alex would regularly visit Kath before she passed away last weekUnited paid a touching tribute to the much-loved receptionist ahead of their Premier League match against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford.Club icons also shared fond memories of her, with David Beckham particularly emotional.The United legend was one of several people to visit Kath before she passed.Ferguson also saw her on a number of occasions.Read More on Man UtdHis chauffeur, Steve Webb, would visit alongside Sir Alex with her dog, Maisie.And Webb has since adopted Maisie following Kath’s death, the Daily Mail reports.A member of staff said: “Even in her last days she kept the United family together.”Kath’s nearest and dearest also set up a WhatsApp group to monitor the flow of visitors, with staff members and ex-players all desperate to see her.Most read in FootballFerguson would phone on the days he couldn’t visit.While Juan Mata made video calls from Sydney and Mary Earps from Paris.David Beckham’s Heartfelt Farewell to Kath PhippsKath had worked at the club since the 1960s in a variety of roles including a receptionist and telephone switchboard operator.United expressed their “sadness” and “heartbreak” at Kath’s passing, and tributes poured in from fans. More

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      John Fury’s former opponent Neil Malpass, who beat Tyson’s dad, dies aged 69 as the boxing world pays tribute

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      FORMER Brit boxer Neil Malpass has sadly passed away aged 69.The passing of the former Central Area heavyweight champion and ex-opponent of John Fury was announced on social media late on Thursday.Former Brit heavyweight champion boxer Neil Malpass has died aged 69Credit: GETTYThe death of the beloved Malpass was announced on ThursdayCredit: FACEBOOK@NEILMALPASSA spokesperson for Doncaster Martial Arts Centre, where Malpass worked as a coach, said: “It’s such sad news that Neil Malpass, a close friend and trainer at the gym passed away last night.“He has coached so many over the years and was a true legend of the sport.”“He has been with DMAC since the beginning and coached hundreds over the years on these mats. “He has been an amazing coach and mentor for the younger generation and will be truly missed.READ MORE BOXING NEWS“Sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP, Neil.”Malpass fought 48 times over the course of his career, which spanned from 1977 to 1990, racking up 28 wins and 18 knockouts.Malpass beat Fury in a 10-rounder back in 1989 to win the Central Area title.The win made him one of only four fighters to defeat Tyson’s dad and the only man to face the now 59-year-old in a title bout.Most read in BoxingThe late Neil Malpass fought John Fury for the Central Area heavyweight title in 1989Credit: FACEBOOK@NEILMALAPASSAfter hanging up his gloves in 1990, Malpass turned his attention to coaching the next generation of fighters.And he’d go on to become an even more beloved figure in the local community thanks to his work with aspiring fighters.Tributes flooded in after news of his passing became public knowledge.One person wrote on X: “RIP the most amazing bloke. “Learnt me everything I know and made me the person I am today. “You will be missed so much.”One of Malpass’ friends wrote: “What a legend he was. He had the best jab I’ve ever felt. “And even though he was light for a heavweight, he could knock people out for fun.”Caged Steel promoter Dominic Gibbs also paid tribute, writing: “Such sad news to learn of the passing of a Donny legend, warrior and top bloke. Neil Malpass turned his hand to coaching the next generation of fighters after his career came to an endCredit: FACEBOOK@NEILMALPASS”Neil will be sadly missed. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace big man.”Fury has yet to comment on the passing of his former opponent, who is in the Guinness Book of Records for being the only boxer to ever knock their opponent “clean over” the ropes. More

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      Champions League star’s four-year-old son suddenly dies with footballer ‘on floor destroyed’ by tragic news

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      CHAMPIONS LEAGUE star Meschack Elia had to pull out of a key game after the tragic death of his four-year-old son.The DR Congo striker has won four league titles with Swiss club Young Boys.Meschack Elia has suffered a tragic lossCredit: AlamyLukasz Lakomy holds up Elia’s shirt in tribute last nightCredit: GettyElia played in their 3-0 loss to Aston Villa in September, and scored a stunning goal against Manchester City last season.The 27-year-old was due to figure in the Berne club’s Champions League clash with Stuttgart on Wednesday.But he instead flew back to the Congo after learning one of his twin boys had passed away after a short illness.Elia’s partner Sarah was in the central African country with their sons and one-year-old daughter.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLYoung Boys striker Lukasz Lakomy held Elia’s shirt aloft after scoring in the 5-1 loss at Stuttgart.The club announced: “Meschack Elia and Young Boys received incredibly sad news on Tuesday.”To everyone’s surprise, one of Meschack’s sons has died after a brief illness.”Elia’s partner had travelled to the Democratic Republic of Congo, with their sons, where the tragic event took place.”Most read in FootballClub spokesman Albert Staudenmann said: “Meschack was on the floor when he heard the news – he was destroyed.”He went to his team-mates, who tried to support him with words and embraces.”We spoke to the players before the Stuttgart game, and nobody said they didn’t want to take part.”They all wanted to be in it together, and to give their all.”Young Boys are bottom of the 36-team Champions League table after losing all six of their games so far.They are due to visit Celtic on January 22.Both teams observed a moment of silence ahead of last night’s gameCredit: Getty More

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      Ex-Leicester manager who played key role in club’s Prem title win left staggering amount in his will after death aged 60

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      FORMER Leicester City manager Craig Shakespeare left an estate worth £350,000, probate documents reveal.The football legend, who died in August aged 60, bequeathed the huge sum to his wife Karen.The Leicester legend died following a battle with cancerCredit: ReutersShakespeare, left, was assistant manager of the Leicester side that won the Premier League in 2016Credit: GETTYEx-Foxes Craig played a pivotal role in Leicester’s miraculous title-winning campaign in 2016 as Claudio Ranieri’s assistant.Documents seen by The Sun show Shakespeare signed his will in 2018, passing everything to his longtime wife Karen.The will was signed off by a court last month.Former England coach Craig died after a battle with cancer, with heartbroken pal Jamie Vardy leading tributes to his old pal.Read more about LeicesterHe wrote: “I don’t have the words right now. Just gutted. RIP Shakey.”Man City winger Jack Grealish added: “One of the greatest people I’ve ever met not only in football but in life.“Last month was texting me when I didn’t make the Euros squad while he was ill. It shows the type of man he was! An absolute heart of gold! Everyone really will miss you Shakey.”Ex-Leicester defender Harry Maguire wrote: “The man who signed me for Leicester, the man who gave me so much belief, the man I learnt so much from.Most read in Football“I will be forever grateful. Football will miss you, life will miss you. An incredible man.”Shakespeare’s coaching career spanned 24 years with jobs at top-flight clubs like Leicester, Norwich, Aston Villa and Everton.The father-of-two made more than 500 appearances as a player for Walsall, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom and Grimsby.He was also an England coach under Sam Allardyce but left when Big Sam quit in disgrace after just one game.The respected tactician was most notably assistant manager at Leicester City from 2011 until 2017 – helping the club pull off the impossible when they won the Premier League in 2015/16.He took the reigns in 2017 but left after only 24 games, having guided Leicester to the Champions League quarter-final.After spells with Watford, Villa and Norwich, he returned to the King Power Stadium in 2023 as an assistant – staying for just eight games as Dean Smith’s right-hand man before his illness forced him to retire.Shakespeare was also Sam Allardyce’s assistant at EvertonCredit: Reuters More

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      Man Utd pay emotional tribute to much-loved receptionist Kath Phipps after tragic passing aged 85

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      MANCHESTER UNITED paid an emotional tribute to their much-loved receptionist Kath Phipps following her passing. Kath had worked at the club since the 1960s in a variety of roles from receptionist to telephone switchboard operator.Manchester United paid an emotional tribute to their much-loved receptionist Kath PhippsCredit: GettyPlayers and staff of take part in a minute’s silenceCredit: GettyBruno Fernandes leads the tributesCredit: PAKath with BeckhamShe was a hugely popular figure with the likes of David Beckham paying tribute to her. Now United have done the same as they brought flowers on to the pitch before their match at Old Trafford against Nottingham Forest.They also had a banner which read, “Thank you, Kath. United legend”, while there was a minute’s silence before kick off.United had expressed their “sadness” and “heartbreak” at Kath’s passing, and tributes have poured in from fans.READ MORE IN footballA statement read: “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved colleague Kath Phipps at the age of 85.”An omnipresent figure at Manchester United since the late 1960s, Kath worked for the club for over 55 years in a variety of roles, but her contribution went beyond any particular job title.”Having become a key member of the club’s office staff in the ensuing years, Kath later became a matchday fixture at Old Trafford’s directors’ entrance and took on the role of training ground receptionist, ensuring that any visitor to Carrington was greeted by the cheeriest of welcomes.”For regulars, that greeting would extend to warm hugs and friendly chats as Kath came to embody the familial atmosphere underpinning the club’s culture.Most read in Football”If Kath ever had a bad day, she never brought it to work; her positive attitude helped set the mood for everyone entering the training ground, always ready to lend an ear and offer words of encouragement to anyone who needed them – be they megastar footballers, casual staff or occasional visitors.”Kath was a one-woman institution, whose memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her. Ruben Amorim pays touching tribute to Man Utd receptionist Kath Phipps after first meeting seven years ago “She said last year: “I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Well, we can’t imagine the place without her. Rest in peace, Kath.”Kath’s first role at the club was as a telephone switchboard operator, in 1968 when Sir Matt Busby was in charge.Fast forward 18 years and she was one of the first members of staff to welcome Sir Alex Ferguson to the club, and he later moved her over from Old Trafford to Carrington.Kath also built a bond with the players and even appeared in Netflix’s David Beckham documentary.In May 2022 Kath was honoured with a Service to Football Award – Beckham paid tribute to her afterwards saying the “amazing” receptionist “really deserved” the accolade “for her services to football, but more importantly for services to the club I love and you love”.He said she used to be “the first person I would see when I walked into the training ground reception” and he would be “forever grateful to her” for dealing with letters from his fans.SunSport also revealed how Beckham secretly visited Kath at her home before her passing. Sir Alex said she was “and continues to be a great servant to the club” and the award was “thoroughly deserved”.READ MORE SUN STORIESWayne Rooney lead the tributes to Kath, saying: “The heart and soul of Man Utd. Everything what the club is about.”A legend who will be greatly missed. Thanks for the memories Kathy. Thoughts with family and friends.”Kath worked for United for 55 years, first serving under Sir Matt Busby in 1968Credit: Reuters More

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      David Beckham secretly visited beloved Man Utd receptionist in ‘incredibly emotional moment’ before she died

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      DAVID Beckham paid a secret visit to Man United’s beloved receptionist Kath Phipps before she died.He was among a host of club legends to pay heartfelt tribute to Kath, 85 — an Old Trafford employee for 56 years.David Beckham made a personal visit to see beloved Manchester United receptionist Kath PhippsCredit: Beckham/NetflixAfter her death was announced, Beckham shared a picture holding Kath Phipps’ hand as a tributeCredit: InstagramKath worked for United for 55 years and joined when Sir Matt Busby was managerCredit: ReutersAlongside a photo of them holding hands, Becks, 49, wrote: “I moved up to Manchester at 15 and Kath made a promise to my mum and dad, ‘I’ll look after your boy for you, don’t you worry’.“And from that first day till the last day I spent with her, that’s exactly what she did.”Becks added on Instagram: “Old Trafford will never be the same without your smile as we walk through those doors. We love you.”Becks travelled to her home two weeks before she passed away. READ MORE DAVID BECKHAMA source told The Sun: “David made it his mission to go to see Kath at home.“It was an incredibly emotional moment.”In Netflix series Beckham, she said she found bullets in letters sent to him after his 1998 World Cup red card.After Kath’s death was announced on Thursday, ex-Old Trafford star Wayne Rooney called her the club’s “heart and soul” while his team-mate Rio Ferdinand said she was “incredibly selfless”.Most read in FootballUnited fan Kath started out as a switchboard operator for the club in the 1960s. Latterly, she was receptionist at the Carrington training complex.Man Utd’s much-loved receptionist Kath Phipps dies aged 85 as tributes paid to ‘heartbeat of United’She said last year: “I don’t think I’ve had one cross word with anybody in all the years I’ve been here. “I look forward to coming in and having a smile on my face every day.”David Beckham posted an emotional farewell to Kath on social mediaCredit: InstagramKath was pictured welcoming billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe to Manchester United earlier this year More

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      Ruben Amorim pays touching tribute to Man Utd receptionist Kath Phipps after first meeting seven years ago

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      RUBEN AMORIM has added his own tribute to long-term employee Kath Phipps who passed away this week.Messages flooded in from Manchester United greats following the news of Kath’s death on Thursday at the age of 85 after 56 years working for the club in a variety of roles.Ruben Amorim has paid tribute to former Manchester United receptionist Kath PhippsKath worked for United for 55 years and joined when Sir Matt Busby was managerNew United boss Amorim had met the former receptionist when he came to Carrington seven years ago on a coaching internship under Jose Mourinho.Amorim said: “Yeah, you feel it today, it’s a sad day.“Everybody talks about lady Kathy. I met her seven years ago during the internship, she was the lady behind the reception.“And you feel it, the love. The way Darren Fletcher speaks about her.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“She was a really important person here that represents everything about this club, friendly, professional, taking care of everybody, it’s a sad day.”David Beckham added his own heartfelt message late last night for the lady who looked after him after he arrived as a 15-year-old lad from London.Beckham posted a message on Instagram saying: “The first and last face I would always see was Kath sat at reception at Old Trafford waiting to give me my tickets for the game, she was the heartbeat of Manchester United, everyone knew who Kath was and everyone adored her.”I moved up to Manchester at 15 and Kath made a promise to my mum and dad ‘I’ll look after your boy for you don’t you worry.’ Most read in Football”And from that first day till the last day I spent with her that’s exactly what she did ❤.”Old Trafford will never be the same without your smile as we walk through those doors. We love you ❤.”Man Utd receptionist Kath Phipps kisses David Beckham at premiere of ’99’ documentary United’s club statement partially read: “Kath was a one-woman institution, whose memory will be cherished by everyone at the club who had the privilege of knowing her. “She said last year: “I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Well, we can’t imagine the place without her.”Rest in peace, Kath.”The Red Devils paid tribute to Kath in 2023 with a feature about her life and career, in which they described her as the “heartbeat of United”.Kath’s first role at the club was as a telephone switchboard operator, in 1968 when Sir Matt Busby was in charge.She featured throughout last year’s Netflix documentary on Beckham.In it she discusses his rise to fame – and all the letters he received from adoring supporters.Asked if she remembered when Becks got his first fanmail, Kathy revealed: “I can’t honestly remember. It just built up and built up. All these young ladies writing to him.”Asked what they said, as Beckham revealed he was sent underwear, she added, with a slight smile: “It’s not nice is it, sending underwear to a boy. I put them to one side and didn’t reply.”When she was then asked “did it get to his head”, she firmly replied: “No.”Kath also spoke about how it felt when the nation turned on Beckham after he was sent off in England’s last-16 defeat to Argentina at the 1998 World Cup.Kath said: “I didn’t like it at all but I had no say in the matter. I’d loved to have said something but you just can’t. You just keep your (mouth shut) like I’ve always done.”The treasured employee later opened up about watching the historic 1999 2-1 Champions League final victory against Bayern Munich from home.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe said on watching the stunning climax to the Treble-winning season, when United equalised in the dying seconds with a goal following a Beckham corner: “I said to my husband at the time, before he passed away, ‘Oh dear, I’m going to make a cup of coffee’.”They scored, and he said, ‘They’re going to do extra time’. Then I said, ‘Oh, I’m going then’. I went out again.”David Beckham has paid tribute to Phipps on Instagram More