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      Man Utd outcast Sancho can level the field for Dortmund’s underdogs but boy wonder Bellingham makes Real big favourites

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      TWO English aces are set to play pivotal roles for their teams at Wembley as Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund contest the Champions League final.Those players, Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho, have had very different routes to get to this stage of the season.Jude Bellingham is poised to be a key player for Real Madrid once again at WembleyCredit: AlamyJadon Sancho will be equally as crucial for Borussia Dortmund’s hopesCredit: RexBellingham signed for Real Madrid at the start of this season from Borussia Dortmund and plays as the most advanced and attacking midfielder and as one of the leaders of this new look side. At age 20, Bellingham has already established himself as a key player for club and country and he has enjoyed an incredible debut season in Spain with 23 goals and 12 assists in 41 games in all competitons.Meanwhile, Sancho has endured a bizarre season that has ultimately ended in him flourishing at Borussia Dortmund.The 24-year-old moved away from Dortmund in 2021 as he joined Manchester United for £73m, but fell out with the manager EriK ten Hag. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDortmund struck a loan deal to bring Sancho back to Germany in January and while that loan spell will end after this match, he has scored three goals and added three assists in 20 games.Here, we take a look at how each of them can make their impact felt in the final and see which of these lions will come out on top.Jude BellinghamIt is a mark of the quality of Bellingham and his self belief that he has been able to become a key player at the Spanish giants.They tend to play in a loose 4-2-3-1 system with a lot of movement and rotations from their attack minded players. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBellingham typically starts as the most advanced midfielder or the 10 just behind the striker, in the same role we can expect to see from him this summer for England at the Euros.He is a threat driving at the opposition in transition and his ability to move in possession and play with his head sees him create chances for team-mates who break the last line of the opposition defence. Jadon Sancho belts out Adele as he leads Dortmund’s Champions League dressing room celebrations Here Bellingham drives forward with Vinicius Junior just ahead of him, with the winger suddenly cutting inside with Bellingham shifting the angle to find the runBellingham has the ability to operate all over the attackDortmund’s problem will be whether they defend deep and compact or look to press up and defend in a higher block, though we are likely to see Bellingham breaking through and carrying the ball in dangerous areas.Bellingham has a very high technical level and his ability to play with his head up and to bring others into the game as he moves in possession will create real threat in this game.Here Bellingham’s position between the lines sees him receive the ball and drive at the box once he receives itEven in games where he does not have may touches he can make effective playsPlaying as the attacking midfielder or 10 with the mobility and dynamism of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo may see the positioning and intelligence of Bellingham really hurt Dortmund in this match. Smart movement and an ability to find pockets of space in the opposition half and final third will enable him to find areas where he can receive the ball.This time we see Bellingham taking possession of the ball in a tight space against BarcelonaPlaying in pockets of space between the lines of the midfield and the defence will see Bellingham helping his team to move the ball forward into dangerous areas as they are in the attacking phase.His high technical ability and ability to find space to receive the ball make him effective when having to play in tight spaces in either half of the pitch. The former Birmingham star will be the key player for his side this coming weekend. As he receives the ball in the positions he likes he does not panic and he can turn under pressure before finding longer through passes to release runners in and behind the opposition defensive line.READ MORE sport FEATURESJadon SanchoSancho has hit form at the perfect time for DortmundSancho is likely line up on the right-side of Dortmund’s 4-3-3 system. Crucially, however, we are still likely to see Sancho swap sides or even come inside to play in the channels or the central areas as Dortmund are in the attacking phase.Sancho is another player with a high technical level.And he has the ability to get on the ball in the wide areas of channels and to show composure and clinical passes to break through the last line.Here, we see Sancho on the ball as he keeps his head up and identifies the run being made from the wide areaWhen receiving the ball in the final third Sancho is also a threat to carry the ball dynamically.  Sancho is not a player blessed with top pace.Sancho is effective both attacking the outside and inside of the defensive lineHowever, he is quick with the ball at his feet and keeps the ball close, manipulating and shifting the ball through channels as he drives towards the opposition goal. In this match, Real Madrid will have to find a way to double up against Sancho to prevent him from breaking through their defence with the ball.Here Sancho takes possession of the ball wide on the left and immediately looks to attack the opposition on the outsideHe is comfortable collecting the ball from deepAs he attracts and beats one defensive player another is coming around to cover but Sancho also can outplay that player.Sancho is an attacking player who provides a threat whether he is driving in possession of the ball or linking the attack through clever passes. There is little doubt in this upcoming match that Sancho will be a key attacking player for Dortmund.And consequently Real Madrid will have to come up with a plan to stop him from driving at them in possession.Here, Sancho gets the ball and then lifts the ball into the path of his team-mate who is making a run to break into the penalty areaSancho can also act as a key creator for Dortmund, while only four players with significant minutes this season have more fouls drawn per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga.Dortmund come into this match as clear underdogs but a player with the technical level of Sancho could help them to even the field.READ MORE SUN STORIESConclusionWith this game being played in England at the national stadium there is a nice sense of symmetry to the fact both sides have English players in key attacking roles. While Sancho has started to find some form as the season has drawn to an end in Germany, it is Bellingham who comes into the final as the player to watch. More

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      Marco Reus wanted career as a PILOT and was inspired by Arsenal cult hero as Borussia Dortmund legend eyes fairytale end

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      MARCO REUS is getting ready to play the final big game of his career when he steps out at Wembley on Saturday.The Borussia Dortmund legend will bid farewell to his boyhood club in what promises to be an emotional night.Marco Reus is bidding farewell to Borussia DortmundCredit: APHis final game is the Champions League final at Wembley – 11 years on from heartache in the same matchCredit: GettyReus lifted two DFB-Pokals but never the BundesligaCredit: GettyAnd very few outside the Real Madrid fanbase could begrudge him bowing out in style.Even former team-mate Jude Bellingham, one of the men trying to stop him, would deep down be delighted for Reus. For a win in the Champions League final the day after his 35th birthday would be the crowning moment for Dortmund’s local-boy-done-good – and one who has endured his fair share of heartache over the years.Make no mistake about it, Reus is a living legend in the German city. READ MORE ON MARCO REUSHe secured that status a long time ago – thanks to a mutual love, connection and loyalty between the player, the club, the fans and the city. But the adoration has been clear to see in recent weeks during Reus’ goodbye.He announced earlier this month that his expiring contract would not be renewed so after 12 years back at Signal Iduna Park, the popular star is leaving at the end of the season.Reus received a resounding reception as he was subbed off late on in Dortmund’s final home game of the season – a 4-0 thrashing of Darmstadt.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe club legend marked his departure with his 170th goal for the club – second on the all-time club list – after treating all 81,000 fans to a free beer, accompanied with hand-written notes in the concourse reading: “Thanks for everything! The farewell beer is on me. Yours, Marco.”After blowing kisses to the partizan crowd, including the iconic Yellow Wall, he was given a guard of honour by his team-mates who sent him off in style. Watch emotional moment Marco Reus says goodbye to Dortmund as stadium and players all give him incredible send-offJadon Sancho, back on loan at Dortmund from Manchester United, said: “He’s the GOAT, the legend, he is him… love you Marco.” And that leaves one final game in the famous yellow and black… the biggest one of all against the 14-time European champions. And it presents Reus with the chance to secure the most significant trophy of his career. BAYERN’S BRILLIANCERemarkably, he has been limited to just two DFB-Pokals and three German Supercups – with no Bundesliga title or Champions League crown… yet.Borussia Dortmund finished second to Bayern Munich in seven of Reus’ 12 seasons – with both the 2018-19 and 2022-23 seasons going down to the final day.In 2023, Edin Terzic’s side came within a whisker of ending their long wait to be national champions.Reus scored in his final home game for DortmundCredit: GettyFormer team-mate Jude Bellingham will try and deny Reus the dream finaleCredit: GettyKnowing a win at home to Mainz would be enough to secure the title, they could only manage a 2-2 draw allowing Bayern to pip them thanks to Jamal Musiala’s 89th-minute winner.Then there was the 2013 Champions League final as Dortmund lost to their bitter rivals at Wembley.Oh how sweet it would be for Reus to bury those demons for good against Los Blancos on the very same pitch 11 years later.INTERNATIONAL HEARTACHEBut while his Dortmund career has been a series of near misses, for superstitious Reus – who always puts his right sock, shin pad and boot on first but steps on to the pitch with his left – his international one is more about sheer bad luck.His superb 2011-12 form not only earned him Bundesliga Player of the Season and his move back to Borussia Dortmund from Borussia Monchengladbach – six years after he was released by Dortmund aged 16 for being too small.But it also earned him a spot in Joachim Low’s Euro 2012 squad, scoring in the 4-2 quarter-final win over Greece.Two years later, he looked on course to be a key man at the 2014 World Cup.However, heartbreakingly, Reus injured his ankle in a 6-1 warm-up friendly win over Armenia on June 6, just seven days before Germany’s opening game in Brazil. It forced him to withdraw from the squad and he watched on from home as best-mate Mario Gotze scored the dramatic extra-time winner in the final – before holding up a ‘Reus 21’ Germany shirt on the pitch amid the trophy celebrations.Reus injured his ankle against Armenia a week before the 2014 World CupCredit: AFPMario Gotze paid tribute to his close friend after his heroics in BrazilCredit: X @woodyinhoThe forward got his one and only World Cup goal in 2018 against SwedenCredit: GettyThen to make matters worse, Reus suffered a groin problem just before Euro 2016 so missed that tournament, too.He was fit to play at the 2018 World Cup – grabbing a goal and an assist in the 2-1 win over Sweden – but it was a nightmare tournament for the defending champions who were booted out in the group stages.Reus needed time for his body to recover from another injury-hit campaign and that saw him left out of the delayed Euro 2020 then an ankle problem ruled him out of the 2022 World Cup in further devastation. WOODY YOU BELIEVE ITIronically, that solo World Cup goal means Reus has one more than the man he was named after: Marco van Basten.Born in May 1989, Thomas and Manuela Reus were planning to call their baby son Dennis – but Dutchman Van Basten’s sensational volley in the Euro 1988 final convinced them otherwise. But Marco is not his only name with a story behind it. Plenty of his friends dub him Woody – after Woody Woodpecker thanks to his spikey hair – while Prince of Dortmund is another of his nicknames. DORT-MAN OF THE PEOPLEBorn in the city in western Germany and a stalwart for their football club, Reus is a hero in Dortmund.He has only added to his glowing reputation by regularly visiting children in the city’s hospitals, donating the profits of his own MRXI clothing brand to charity and donating a staggering €500,000 to local small businesses during Covid to help keep them afloat. Reus is cheered on by his doting wife Scarlett GartmannCredit: Getty – ContributorMarco and Scarlett married in 2019Credit: GettyScarlett is a glamorous supermodelCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannShe has racked up more than 273,000 followersCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannGartmann was in Russia in 2018 with the Germany Wags to cheer on her then-boyfriendCredit: Getty – ContributorHe did that alongside his stunning supermodel wife and YouTuber Scarlett Gartmann.The couple got together in 2015 and married in 2019 – the same year they welcomed their first child before No2 came along in January 2024. Glamorous Scarlett has modelled for various big-name brands including car manufacturers Hyundai and Volkswagen.But away from her work, she adores horses and regularly posts on Instagram to her 273,000 followers videos of her riding or tending to the animals – as well as workout videos, photoshoots, holiday snaps and dog content. Reus remains close to his parents and siblings – literally.TATT’S AMAZINGThat is because he has each of their initials tattooed on his arm – just four of the various inkings across his body.Just in case he forgets, Reus has “Marco 31.05.1989” as well as various illustrations including a lion, a flower and half a clock.Scarlett loves horse riding and is often in the saddleCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannShe posts plenty of content with their dogCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannThe couple keep their children’s faces private on social mediaCredit: Instagram @marcinho11They gave €500,000 to local small businesses in Dortmund during CovidCredit: Instagram @marcinho11He also has Opray Winfrey’s quote “the biggest adventure you can take is to live out your dreams” permanently etched on his skin.Asked about the artwork, Reus said: “I just love tattoos and I have a good tattoo artist. There’ll probably be some more in the future. It might even become an obsession.”A DIFFERENT FLIGHT PATH?However, Reus’ life could all have turned out very differently indeed had he pursued his first passion.Because before he wanted to become a footballer, young Marco dreamed of being a pilot.He told Bild in 2012: “I’ve been fascinated by flying since my early childhood.“Back then I always wanted to become a pilot. I loved flying as a child and still do today.”CZECH HIM OUTInstead, though, the flying forward soared in the Dortmund academy – taking flight through the age groups, inspired by a certain Czech midfielder who went on to star for Arsenal.Reus explained: “My idol was always Tomas Rosicky. “He used to be phenomenal. He had such a good eye for an opening and knew where his teammates were, and he was so quick.Reus has a load of tattoos including his name and date of birth on his left armCredit: GettyReus shone at Rot Weiss Ahlen and Borussia Monchengladbach before his Dortmund returnCredit: AP:Associated PressReus partially tore his cruciate ligament in 2017Credit: Instagram @marcinho11A young Reus idolised Tomas Rosicky and was desperate to emulate the Czech aceCredit: EPA“Rosicky had great technique and was so intelligent and mature even though he was still young at Dortmund. I copied everything about him, right down to his sweatbands.”Both Rosicky and Reus left Dortmund in 2006 in very different circumstances – Arsene Wenger snapped up the former while the latter headed to Rot Weiss Ahlen’s second team.BORUSSIA GLAD-TO-BE-BACHBut his strong performances quickly saw him promoted to the first team and then in 2009, Reus signed for Monchengladbach and three years later made his homecoming.The past 12 years have seen plenty of accolades including two further Bundesliga Player of the Year awards, two German Footballer of the Year gongs and a place in the Champions League Team of the Season. He was the third player to reach 100 goals and 100 assists in Germany’s top flight and captained Dortmund for five years, forging a special bond with plenty of team-mates over the years marked by his famous custom handshakes.Reus even beat the likes of Eden Hazard, James Rodriguez and Anthony Martial to be the face of EA Sports’ FIFA 17 cover.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut would the self-confessed Justin Bieber superfan trade that all in for the chance to lead Borussia Dortmund, his beloved Borussia Dortmund, to Champions League glory in his 429th and final appearance?What do you mean? Of course he would. He has been named Bundesliga Player of the Season three timesCredit: AFPInjuries have plagued the star’s careerCredit: REUTERS/Michael DalderReus played with the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Erling Haaland and Robert LewandowskiCredit: Getty – PoolJadon Sancho declared his love for Reus and labelled his team-mate as the ‘GOAT’Credit: EPAReus was the cover star for FIFA 17The Dortmund fans showed their appreciation for a true club legendCredit: GettyReus was given a wonderful send off with a guard of honour in his final home gameCredit: Getty More

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      I won Champions League with Dortmund, Sancho can become a legend like me but I hope Bellingham has a nightmare final

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      PAUL LAMBERT has never had to buy a beer in Dortmund since the night he marked Zinedine Zidane out of a Champions League final.Elevated to legendary status in the city following a shock 3-1 triumph over Juventus in 1997, the former Scottish midfielder knows Jadon Sancho will also become an immortal there if he guides the club to a Wembley win on Saturday.Paul Lambert is a Borussia Dortmund legendCredit: GettyHe’s still loved for his role in the club winning the 1997 finalCredit: PA:Empics SportSancho, 24, is back with the German outfit on loan from Manchester United.Now the winger must see off Real Madrid and his former Dortmund team-mate, Jude Bellingham. Lambert said: “It is one of those s**t or bust occasions when you have to go for it.“For Jadon, this is a really great opportunity — he could become a legend forever at Dortmund.“After what we did against Juventus, they still call me a “legend” in Dortmund and actually, Jude used to call me that and I had to politely ask him to stop doing it!READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“Jude moved from Dortmund and it has gone so well but that has not been the case for Jadon. He has had a nightmare at United and it would have been tough to go through that.“Now, he is not getting criticised by fans, media, pundits or his manager.“Everyone loves him at Dortmund, where he was before.“He has been excellent and you have to give him some credit. Against Real, Jadon has to try and make a difference. He has got that wee bit of arrogance I like. He sort of says, ‘Give me the ball and I will take it’. Most read in FootballJadon Sancho has rediscovered his form in GermanyCredit: GettyLambert enjoyed a close relationship with Bellingham when the England star played for DortmundCredit: APCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd if Dortmund can win this game, it would be sensational.“They need to defend well, be careful of Real on the counter-attack and make some tactical fouls against Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo and Jude, who also arrives late in the box and is now such a threat.”Inside the Real Madrid and Jude Bellingham love affairLambert, who lifted the European Cup in Munich 27 years ago, still plays for Dortmund’s Legends XI, and is a coach at the club. He will be at various supporter events tomorrow.The former Norwich and Aston Villa manager, 54, is a huge fan of Bellingham — despite wanting the former Dortmund man, 20, to have a “nightmare” tomorrow.He added: “I am not surprised at how well Jude is doing. He has always been unbelievable and what I love about him is that he has always been so humble. “I once went to watch one of his games against Wolfsburg and he texted me afterwards and said, ‘Paul, I don’t know if you are a collector of shirts but I want to give you one of my jerseys’.“When he gave it to me afterwards, it was soaking wet with sweat. I joked, ‘Jude, great players don’t sweat’. He’s a lovely kid but obviously, I hope he has a nightmare on Saturday!”There could, however, be a third Englishman playing a part tomorrow.Bellingham is hoping to lift the Champions League with Real MadridCredit: GettyLambert played a key role marking Zidane in the 1997 finalCredit: GettyJamie-Bynoe Gittens, 19, has featured 57 times in three years for Dortmund since leaving Manchester City.Lambert added: “He has been excellent when needed. He runs at people and makes things happen.”Meanwhile, Lambert enjoys his strong ties with Dortmund even though he spent just one full season in Germany before joining Celtic. He said: “It is great to still be involved with Dortmund and I have played in legends games for them.“On Sunday, I was manager of Celtic Legends against them but Dortmund were short of players.“At half-time, I put on a Dortmund jersey and played for them in the second half. There were 33,000 fans at Parkhead, which was decent.“I also coached for Dortmund at some clinics in Indonesia and Australia this year and will be going back to Australia next month.READ MORE SUN STORIES“On Saturday, I will be at some events talking to the fans along with Karl-Heinz Riedle.“I’ve also been invited to Dortmund’s post-match party and I hope they have the Champions League ­trophy with them.” More

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      Laura Woods’ TV comeback confirmed after suffering horror injury in bizarre accident and ex-Man Utd boss will join her

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      LAURA WOODS’ TV comeback has been confirmed after suffering horror injuries in a bizarre accident.The fan favourite was left with severe cuts to her face and arm after accidentally smashing a glass lampshade this month.Laura Woods will make her TV comeback at the Champions League final on SaturdayCredit: instagram @laurawoodsyThe fan favourite has been missing after suffering a horror injuryCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyWoods was forced into emergency surgery as she missed out on TNT Sports’ coverage of Tyson Fury’s boxing defeat to Oleksandr Usyk.But the glamorous host will be back in action this weekend for the Champions League final.Real Madrid are looking for a record-extending 15th title as they take on German giants Borussia Dortmund.The event will mark Woods’ first appearance on telly since her accident.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the glamorous host will be joined by none other than legendary manager Jose Mourinho.The Portuguese star won the Champions League with Porto and Inter Milan.He is currently out of work after being sacked by Roma this year.But Mourinho is sure to have a story or two for viewers after managing in the Premier League with Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSJoining Woods and the Special One are Rio Ferdinand, Owen Hargreaves and Steve McManaman.Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist will also be on commentary duty.Laura Woods can’t keep her hands off boyfriend Adam Collard as loved-up couple snog on the beach in MexicoJose Mourinho will also be present for TNT SportsCredit: PAAnd fans will be delighted to see Woods back on their screen.Explaining her accident at the time, she said: “Just wanted to explain my absence from the telly for a little while, to be totally transparent and avoid any speculation.”I had an accident last weekend at a holiday cottage. I swung a pillow and hit a large, glass lampshade hanging from the ceiling above me, which shattered and cut my face and arms, but luckily missed my eye.”I wanted to say a couple of thank yous, firstly to Adam, for being my hero that day, acting so quickly and not leaving my side since and to his family for taking care of me in a time when I was petrified.BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:
      BBC presenters:
      Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman
      ITV presenters:
      Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods 
      BBC pundits:
      Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFadden
      ITV pundits:
      Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina Unkel
      BBC commentators:
      Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan Pearce
      ITV commentators:
      Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe Speight
      BBC co-commentators:
      Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFadden
      ITV co-commentators:
      Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros Townsend

      “To my agents Alex Maguire and Matthew Odonohue at CAA who searched for the best help immediately.”To Dr Yannis Alexandrides and his wonderful medical assistant Zuzanna at 111 who opened their emergency surgery and came in on their days off, they were so gentle and have already worked magic that I didn’t think was possible to reduce the damage.”I’ve added in the photos from then to now to show that even though it may look rough, it’s such a wonderful improvement already and I’m so grateful.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It was a hell of a shock and I’ve been a bit sad, but I’m feeling very lucky it wasn’t worse. So a big thanks to my eyebrow too, for taking the brunt of it.”I’m gutted I can’t cover the fight in Riyadh tomorrow anymore, but wishing the brilliant TNT boxing team all the best. Be back soon xx.”Inside Laura Woods’ glamorous life as football, boxing and NFL presenter…Laura is the new face of TNT Sports’ Champions League coverageLaura regularly hosts DAZN’s boxing coverage as wellCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyShe has gathered a huge social media following in recent yearsCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyLaura presented coverage of Anthony Joshua’s bout with Jermaine FranklinCredit: RexShe has become TNT Sports’ main Champions League anchor this seasonCredit: GettyLaura also likes to let her hair down when not workingCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyLaura went Instagram official with her romance with Adam CollardCredit: InstagramLaura is dating former Love Island star Adam CollardCredit: InstagramThe presenter is ITV’s host for Lionesses coverageCredit: GettyShe also works for ITV on their coverage of the NFLCredit: InstagramWoods previously hosted the talkSPORT Breakfast alongside great pal Ally McCoistCredit: InstagramShe loves a day at the races during the summerCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyLaura has an enviable lifestyle and fans regularly go wild for her outfitsCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy More

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      Who are the Champions League final presenters and commentators?

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      THE Champions League final will take place at Wembley on Saturday night!Real Madrid will go head-to-head with Borussia Dortmund for the biggest prize in European club football.Wembley will host the 2024 Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia DortmundCredit: GETTYLos Blancos are the Champions League kings, with a record 14 wins in the competition ahead of their 18th final appearance on Saturday night.Dortmund’s last European final came against Bayern Munich, which was coincidently the last time Wembley hosted the Champions League final.BVB’s German foes ran out the better in 2013, beating Jugen Klopp’s side 2-1 on the night.TNT Sports have the rights to broadcast the 2024 Champions League final in the UK – and SunSport has the broadcasters’ star-studded line-up for this year’s huge clash…READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWho are the Champions League final presenters and commentators?Nations favourite Laura Woods will return to screens for the Champions League final after time away from TV following a freak accident whilst on holiday.Woodsy will be on lead presenting duties for TNT Sports with Reshmin Chowdhury assisting and Jules Breach reporting.The broadcasters’ star-studded team will include two-time Champions League-winning manager Jose Mourinho.TNT Sports regulars, Rio Ferdinand, Owen Hargreaves and Steve McManaman will also be on the panel at Wembley.Most read in Champions LeagueCommentary on the Champions League final will come from Darren Fletcher and Ally McCoist.How to live stream the Champions League final for FREE
      Since 2016, BT Sport have live streamed the match on YouTube, but that will change this year under the new TNT Sports brand.
      Now, you can live stream the Champions League final for FREE via the discovery+ app/website.
      Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all the action by following SunSport’s live blog. More

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      Chelsea plunged into further financial woe as Man Utd’s FA Cup win costs Blues £7MILLION and dents future earnings

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      MANCHESTER UNITED’S FA Cup final triumph cost Chelsea £7million – and added to the Blues’ Profitability and Sustainability issues.The Stamford Bridge side’s sixth place Prem finish would normally have been enough to earn them a Europa League spot alongside Spurs.Man Utd’s FA Cup win has put Chelsea into deeper financial woe due to being bumped into the Europa Conference LeagueCredit: RexChelsea have lost £7m as a resultCredit: PABut United’s Wembley win earned the Old Trafford club a place in Europe’s second competition – and sent Chelsea spinning into the Conference.And that will have a significant knock-on financial impact on BOTH clubs next term – with the biggest impact on the London club as they seek to balance their books after their £1bn transfer splurge over the past two years.Uefa have redrafted the cash distribution for the three competitions with the expansion to a 36-team initial league phase.The vast bulk of that cash pot – totalling £2.82bn – will go to the Champions League, with the Europa League prize fund £481m and the third competition worth just £243m.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd it means a huge £36m difference in the guaranteed money Manchester City will get without kicking a ball and the MAXIMUM Chelsea can earn if they win the Conference League.No matter what happens, City will earn a minimum £53.7m from the qualification bonus and the new merged TV and coefficient pool.Liverpool will bag £52.1m, Arsenal £46.3 and Aston Villa, back in Europe’s senior competition for the first time since they were defending European Cup holders in 1982-3, £31.1m.Depending on their progress, all four Prem sides could add a maximum £68.2m in prize money.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPremier League sides deducted points and others at risk
      Nottingham Forest
      Deducted four points during the 2023-24 season for breaching Premier League spending limit by £34.563m. Failed in their appeal with decision upheld.
      Everton
      Initial 10-point deduction for 2021-22 Premier League breaches reduced to six points on appeal. Were deducted a further two points later in the 2023-24 season. Appealed, but since withdrawn following Prem survival.
      Sheffield United
      Hit with a two-point deduction for their finances during the 2022-23 EFL season. Will begin the 2024-25 Championship season on -2 points following their relegation from the Prem.
      OTHERS WHO COULD FACE PUNISHMENT…
      Manchester City
      Etihad club emphatically denies the 115 allegations laid against them in February 2023. The lengthy Commission case has been scheduled to start in October or November but a final decision is not expected until March or April 2025.
      Chelsea
      Blues chiefs flagged up illicit payments made to agents and others during the Roman Abramovich era. Fined £8.6m by Uefa but still to be formally charged by the Prem despite an ongoing investigation.
      Leicester
      Foxes breached Prem PSR loss limits last season but did not have to report their 2022-23 accounts until this month because of their relegation. That puts the timetable back and means that they will probably face a Prem points deduction for the 2024-25 season following their return to the top flight.
      Everton (again)
      The Toffees are again at risk of breaking PSR rules and are in a race against time to raise funds and balance the books. Not only could that lead to another charge but also administration. That would lead to an automatic nine-point deduction for the 2024/25 season.

      United, who would not have qualified for Europe at all without their Wembley success, will bank an initial £12.8m, compared to Spurs’ £12.4m.Further prize money could add an extra £21.3m to their coffers if they win every game in the initial phase and go all the way.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo MarescaBut that means Villa would have to lose almost EVERY match to gross less than the absolute maximum either United or Spurs could earn in the Europa League.And Chelsea, who would have started with United’s £12.8m boost if City had won the Cup Final, will start with just £5.3m guaranteed and with a MAXIMUM total prize money of £17.3m, less than a third of the amount City are certain to take.United’s win also cost Newcastle a fraction under £5m and up to £17m after the Toon were evicted from the Conference League and any European football.Meet Pep Guardiola disciple Enzo Maresca
      ENZO MARESCA is considered among the most exciting young coaches on the planet.
      Born in Italy in 1980, he managed to guide Leicester to the Championship title in his first season as Foxes boss.
      His management career started at Italian minnows Ascoli before he was snapped up by Man City in 2020 to manage their Elite Development Squad.
      He guided the youth team to the Premier League 2 title in his one season working for the Citizens – with Cole Palmer in the side.
      His first senior job was with Parma but he was sacked after just a few months after failing to impress.
      Despite the team playing in Serie B and Maresca having an impressive squad he was unable to get them on course for promotion.
      He returned to Man City and worked as one of Pep Guardiola’s assistants for the 2022/23 season as they won the Treble.
      He took over relegated Leicester last summer and made an immediate impact, with the Foxes winning the Championship title.
      Maresca showed his dedication to the job by living at the training ground for the first two months after his appointment.
      He’s considered something of a Pep disciple and has said: “For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player.”
      During his playing career he played under Carlo Ancelotti and Marcello Lippi – and alongside ex-Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi. More

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      in Soccer

      I faced Jude Bellingham on his debut, we were warned about him but after 5 minutes I’d seen enough – he was exceptional

      by

      FORMER Portsmouth player GARETH EVANS had the perfect view of Jude Bellingham’s pro debut as a 16-year-old kid for Birmingham.Here, Evans, now 36, exclusively tells SunSport what he witnessed on that August day in 2019…Jude Bellingham has impressed his opponents since day oneCredit: GettyThe Real Madrid star has enjoyed a meteoric rise to reach the Champions League finalCredit: GettyI had never known there to be such a fuss about a player who had not played a minute of professional football before.We were preparing for a Carabao Cup first-round game and there was a deafening buzz surrounding some 16-year-old lad that was making his first appearance for Birmingham City that night.“He’s quick, agile, has lightning-fast feet and he can pick a pass”, I remember was the memo in our team talk from boss Kenny Jackett.I thought it was all a bit over the top but given that I was on the bench I had the perfect view of what this kid was all about.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAfter five minutes I’d seen enough.His name? Jude Bellingham.You could just tell that he was going to be exceptional, albeit nobody could have predicted what he would go on to achieve.I remember being amazed at his ability to turn with the ball and cruise past players like they weren’t there.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThis was a lad that hadn’t played a minute of pro football before and in a few instances, he made established EFL players look like the teenagers.He was on the receiving end of a 3-0 defeat that night at Portsmouth but all our lads talked about after the game was the No 22 in midfield.Roberto Carlos says Jude Belingham is as good as Zinedine ZidaneNobody could quite believe how young he was, his confidence on the ball was that of a player in his prime.Everybody was raving about him and rightly so. Ben Close played against Bellingham in midfield that night and scored a 25-yard volley that the Jude of today would be very proud of.Close recalled: “We’d heard that he was highly-rated but I was happy to be playing against a 16-year-old. I thought he would be nervous as the game was on TV as well.”Midfielder Close, now 27, was impressed with his ability to carry the ball as well — but it was his attitude that shone through most of all.He added: “I didn’t expect him to be so quick and sharp.“It was his belief and confidence though that stood out for me. He showed no signs of nerves or fear which is very rare.”His shirt number was retired by Birmingham at the end of that debut season as Borussia Dortmund paid £30m for him.That’s how good he is. Nothing seems to faze him.Could he cut it in the Bundesliga at the age of just 17? No problem.He was a mainstay in midfield for three years and was voted Bundesliga player of the year.His performances were nothing short of astounding and that led to Real Madrid paying £85.5m for him last summer, rising to a possible £115m.Questions were asked on whether he could cut it at the Spanish giants as the pressure mounted.But he has just won LaLiga by TEN POINTS in his first season and after scoring 19 times was yesterday voted player of the season in the Spanish top-flight.He is also playing the Champions League final on Saturday against his old team Dortmund. Just remarkable. His maturity on the pitch is there for all to see.His trademark celebration has been copied by his peers and kids alike all around the world.To go to Real Madrid and have Zinedine Zidane’s famous No 5 on his back takes a huge amount of confidence and courage.But it is not just his character on the pitch that has impressed the football world so much but his personality off it as well.He comes across so level-headed and down-to-earth. It’s hard to imagine the pressure that he is under playing for the biggest club in the world and on the biggest stage but no one would ever know. Rio Ferdinand recently interviewed Jude and said that he’s the kind of lad that you want your daughter to bring home. Compliment indeed.I played against Dele Alli when he broke through at MK Dons and I remember thinking that he would go on to big things which he did for a time.But Bellingham is something else.He has gone on to take over the world of football and I feel privileged to have witnessed Jude play his first game of professional football.I’m disappointed now that I didn’t get on to share the pitch with him that night at Fratton Park.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut the flair, the charisma and the confidence will be there for everyone to see at Wembley.Don’t be surprised if you see his celebration as well. More

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      in Soccer

      Borussia Dortmund vs Real Madrid odds and tips: Get £20 in free bets for the Champions League final with talkSPORT BET

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      IMMORTALITY awaits as Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid clash in the Champions League final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.And brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim a massive £20 in free bets when they sign-up and stake a tenner on the all-important encounter.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereBorussia Dortmund vs Real Madrid odds and tips: Get £20 in free bets for the Champions League final with talkSPORT BETCredit: talksport betHow to claim..talkSPORT BET offer

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      If you don’t already have a talkSPORT BET account, then this excellent free bet offer is for you!Simply register an account, deposit and stake £10 on any football market at odds of Evens or greater. Once that’s settled – your account will be credited with £20 in free bets!You could decide to use your free bets on Saturday’s Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, and below are some of our expert picks and top prices with talkSPORT BET.Vinicius Junior first goalscorer at 7/2 with talkSPORT BET – CLAIM HEREThe Champions League final is an occasion for the a big-match player, and they don’t get much bigger than Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior.The 23-year-old Brazilian has enjoyed a profitable campaign at the Bernabeu, scoring 23 goals and providing 11 assists in 38 appearances in all competitions.A whopping 10 of those goal involvements have arrived in the Champions League with five of those arriving in the knockout stages.Only six players have registered more efforts on target in the competition this season, and those include the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and Erling Haaland.When it matters, he delivers.Eduardo Camavinga to be carded at 23/10 with talkSPORT BET – CLAIM HEREEduardo Camavinga looks good enough value at 23/10 to be cautioned this weekend.The all-action French international, 21, is averaging a booking every 3.4 matches this season having collected 13 yellows in 45 appearances in all competitions.The Real Madrid defensive midfielder has committed 20 fouls in the Champions League this season, a figure bettered by only two players (Kai Havertz and Konrad Laimer).He’s been cautioned four times in his last 12 UCL knockout ties and Saturday’s referee Artur Dias Soares is averaging 5.2 cards per match this season (104 total in 20 games). He also booked Camavinga in last year’s semi-final against Manchester City.*18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile, bet £10+ at odds 2.00+, in 7 days. No cash out. Get 4x £5 Free Bets on selected markets. 7 day bonuses expiry. Card payments & Apple Pay only . T&Cs apply. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:
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      Never chase their losses
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      For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk to be excluded from all UK-regulated gambling websites. More