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    Clive Tyldesley announces new job at major broadcaster after leaving ITV

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    CLIVE TYLDESLEY has announced his next broadcaster move after leaving ITV. Tyldesley’s 28 years with the channel came to an end during the Euro 2024 last 16.Clive Tyldesley has signed for a new broadcaster after leaving ITVCredit: RexIn 2020 he was replaced by Sam Matterface as ITV’s main commentator and instead took the No2 role.But he was informed by ITV’s football editor that his contract would not be renewed past the Euros.Now, Tyldesley revealed on his podcast with ex-Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill that he has signed with US network CBS.He said: “All I can do is keeping reviewing my own standards, keep making myself available.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”If someone like CBS – who have given me a four-year contract to cover Champions League for the USA – show that sort of confidence in me then I can only assure you I will repay that faith by working bloody hard and trying to be as good as I can be.” Tyldesley revealed he offered himself up to Sky when Martin Tyler left his role as well as making contact with TNT Sports and Channel 4. He said: “I don’t have an agent, as such, I feel as if I’ve actually got better contacts than a lot of agents have.”When Martin was moved aside by Sky, they knew of my position, they decided to take on Peter Drury and I totally respect how popular he is, probably more popular than I am.Most read in FootballIf I never commentate on another football match, I’ve been a lucky boy.Clive TyldesleyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”But Peter then left Premier League Productions in order to take on that role and another one in the USA. “I made Premier League Productions aware of my availability for the last four or five years.TV Legend Clive Tyldesley in position for his last ever commentary game”They’ve got a dozen or so commentators contracted, they think they are all better than I am.”TNT, when they took over the BT Sport contract, I contacted them and said I was available, they took on Adam Summerton because they thought he was better than I was.”Channel 4 when they took over the England contract – which they’re now losing back to ITV – I contacted them and said I was available and they took on Steve Bower – who I think is a particularly good commentator.’Why have ITV done this?'”But what I’m saying is, they’re aware but if you’re shouting from the rooftops because you think I should be doing any of these jobs, believe me I have put myself up for them.”It’s fine, I’ve been a lucky boy in my career. If I never commentate on another football match, I’ve been a lucky boy. “It’s not a tragedy but in answer to the question I keep getting asked, ‘Why have ITV done this?'”I don’t know the answer, you’d have to ask the heads of sport.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      in Boxing

      I ran 100-mile hell marathon in step-daughter’s memory – boxing comeback after ban will be easy

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      LIAM CAMERON ran 100 miles of hell to help him get back from the darkest depths of losing his career and his step-daughter.In 2018 the Sheffield fighter was handed an incredibly harsh four-year British boxing ban when a metabolite of cocaine was found in his system.Liam Cameron and friend Hassan took on the 100-mile round trip to ManchesterAnd he suffered another devastating blow in 2020 when his step-daughter was killed in a traffic incident just two days before her 21st birthday.Struggling to cope, the former Commonwealth middleweight champ battled addiction and survived an attempt on his own life.But last year, as the sport welcomed him back and he started a four-fight win streak, he took on a Sheffield-Manchester round-trip marathon to raise money for a tribute to Tiegan and prove his fitness to return to the ring.Ahead of his Friday night fight with Lyndon Arthur, live on Channel 5, Cameron told SunSport: “It was a crazy idea really, me and my pal Hassan just wanted to see if we could do it. Read More Sport”We wanted to hit that ‘Welcome to Manchester’ sign and get back.“Then we decided to make it more than a challenge and used it to raise £1,300 for a bench for Tiegan.“It took the best part of 24hrs, with just a rucksack full of flapjacks and the last 10 miles were hell.“I’ve been through some dark times, tough tests, but those last few miles were something else.Most read in BoxingLiam Cameron run from Sheffield to Manchester and backCredit: Supplied“Me and Hassan were both crying, confused, in agony. It ended up like a therapy session.“But we did it, somehow, and being able to do that, physically and mentally, showed me a boxing comeback would be alright.”Cameron has always protested his innocence but wisely has no desire to rock the boat with the British Boxing Board of Control after regaining his licence.And the sport has welcomed him back to the light-heavyweight division with Eddie Hearn hosting him on a Matchroom show at Sheffield arena in March and now he headlines on terrestrial TV.He explained: “At the time I did feel very alone and I felt like some people could have helped me a bit more but I understand the sport and that it’s a business.“Since my comeback, I do feel like all the people that know about my story are willing me to win.“I am the underdog, the outsider, the away fighter, but – especially in boxing – people love that guy and they want him to win.“I first ever loved boxing because of the Rocky films and I think people always love a comeback fairytale story more than an undefeated success.“I feel a bit sorry for Lyndon Arthur, he’s the Manchester lad on a home show in Bolton but I feel like I’ve got all of the backing.” More

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      in Soccer

      Fans left baffled by England vs Iceland graphic as they ‘forget which country Three Lions are playing’

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      FANS were left baffled by the abbreviation used for Iceland in England’s final warm-up match before the Euros.Channel 4’s broadcast abbreviated the two names to ‘ENG’ and ‘ISL’.England fans were left confused by the abbreviation used during the gameCredit: XIt led to many England fans to take to X to ask why the name of the nation was abbreviated in the way that it was.One fan wrote: “Why is Iceland abbreviated as ‘ISL’?”Another said: “Why is Iceland abbreviated to ISL?”A third wrote: “Why is Iceland abbreviated to ISL, there isn’t an S in the spelling?”READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSA fourth wrote: “My main focus of the opening 20 minutes is trying to figure out why Iceland is abbreviated to ISL.”While a fifth said: “Why is the TV abbreviation for Iceland….ISL on the football? ⚽️”The explanation as to why the graphic was show that way was a simple one.Channel 4 use a global feed to show their games, which uses nations’ native spelling to abbreviate their names.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTo say Iceland in Icelandic, it is said and spelt as ‘Ísland’.That’s why the graphic shows Iceland abbreviated to ‘ISL’.The meteoric rise of England star Adam WhartonIt’s also why England is abbreviated to ‘ENG’.Gareth Southgate will take the handbrake off at Euro 2024… because he has no choiceBy Charlie Wyett
      GARETH SOUTHGATE will have no choice but to take the handbrake off his England team at Euro 2024.
      The defensive crisis gripping the Three Lions means the only option in Germany, within ­reason, will be outright attack.
      Southgate has often been lambasted for his safety-first approach — even if he points out you must go back to Walter Winterbottom’s sides in the 1950s to find an England manager with a better scoring record.
      But with the crocked Harry Maguire left out, Luke Shaw not fit enough to start the tournament and John Stones having made just 12 ­Premier League starts this season, this is not a defence you would stake your life on.
      The last time England went to a major tournament in Germany — the 2006 World Cup — the four centre-backs selected were Sol Campbell (68 caps), Rio Ferdinand (47), Jamie Carragher (25) and John Terry (24).
      This time, when England fly out on Monday, the quartet will be Lewis Dunk (six), Joe Gomez (14), Marc Guehi (ten) and Ezri Konsa (three).
      It makes Southgate’s decision not to recall the 49-cap Eric Dier for his ­provisional squad even stranger — especially considering his strong end to the season with Bayern Munich.
      The elder statesman in his defence — and the one who absolutely has to stay fit — is 71-cap Stones. More

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      in Soccer

      England stars serve up a dog’s dinner as Gordon, Rice and Gallagher are put through Crufts-style challenge

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      ENGLAND will be out to prove they can hold on to a lead — and that is BEFORE kick-off against Iceland.A hat-trick of Three Lions stars took part in a Crufts-style dog agility competition to be broadcast in the build-up to Channel 4’s coverage.Viewers won’t have to be beagle-eyed to spot England stars Declan Rice, Anthony Gordon and Conor Gallagher leading the challengesCredit: GettyRice and Co can’t avoid some ups and downsCredit: Channel 4 / Lee BrownConor Gallagher can’t be accused of paw form but now it’s the turn of his ‘not the most intelligent’ pup to face the spotlightCredit: Channel 4 / Lee BrownGareth Southgate will hope his players go through hoops for himCredit: AlamyAnthony Gordon, Conor Gallagher and Declan Rice put three pooches through their paces during some downtime ahead of their final warm-up before the Euros in Germany.In an event more paw-paw-two than 4-4-2, Gordon paired up with a mutt named Jack Growlish, Gallagher was with Harry Canine and Rice partnered Collie Watkins. Two of the players’ attempts ended up resembling a dog’s dinner, though.All three have hounds of their own, with Newcastle star Gordon, 23, revealing: “My dogs don’t listen to me. READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS”But they’re good, they’ve got good energy.”Chelsea ace Gallagher, 23, said of his pup: “He can jump up on his back two legs which is always quite cute but he’s not the most intelligent.”It was the latest in a series of fun films, with England stars also taking part in Bake Off and Countdown.But injuries in defence have been less amusing for boss Gareth Southgate.Most read in FootballEngland must overcome hurdles of their own at the EurosCredit: Channel 4 / Lee BrownENGLAND’S BONE FIDE XI OF BULLDOG SPIRITTHE Three Lions go into Euro 2024 hoping to collar only their second major trophy.
      And when they won the 1966 World Cup, it needed a border collie named Pickles to find the trophy when it went missing.
      So as England add a dog-style challenge to their build-up for Germany, here’s how they might line up if they want to match Euro icons of the past like Franz Barkenbauer, Johan Crufts and, erm, John Terrier.
      Dean HoundersonKyle WalkiesBark GuehiEbere-Chihuahua EzeJack GrowlishCollie Watkins Jarrod BoneConor Ga-waggerKobbie MainoofoundlandHarry CaninePhil Fido

      BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSCentre-back rock Harry Maguire has been left out of the 26-man squad entirely due to his calf problem.Manchester United team-mate Luke Shaw made the cut – but isn’t yet fully fit.England make their official Euros 2024 squad announcement And Brighton’s Lewis Dunk will sit out the Iceland clash as he recovers from a leg injury.This all means Liverpool’s breakthrough star Jarell Quansah has been put on standby.The 21-year-old was omitted from the final 26 but is in the squad for Friday’s final warm-up game.Con your marks, get set, go! – Gallagher hopes his pup is up for the cupCredit: Channel 4 / Lee BrownEngland are relying on Rice to be a good boy in midfieldCredit: Channel 4 / Lee BrownHow England will line up after big names axed from Euros More

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      in Boxing

      Tyson Fury building ‘Grand Designs’ luxury six-bedroom mansion with pool, hot tub, sauna and even a CINEMA

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      TYSON Fury is transforming a rundown car park into a luxury “Grand Designs” mansion with a swimming pool, hot tub and cinema.The heavyweight world champion, 35, has applied for planning permission to replace the site with a lavish modern home.Tyson Fury celebrating victory following his knockout of Dillian Whyte at Wembley Stadium in April 2022Credit: GettyFury plans to turn the site into a luxury homeCredit: Cheshire East CouncilPlans for the lavish property include a swimming pool and hot tubCredit: Cheshire East CouncilThe site has become a dumping ground for used carsCredit: Cheshire East CouncilCurrently, the property’s estate in Cheshire’s “Golden Triangle” – popular with celebs and footballers – is overgrown.It includes a grim-coloured pond and has become a dumping ground for used cars. Next door, land owned by the Fury family had been used as an airport car park.Now the boxer wants to demolish the main eight-bedroom dwelling to replace it with a six-bed house complete with a swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and cinema.Read more sportFury is asking to add a two-metre high security fence around the perimeter.But Cheshire East Council’s heritage and design team consider the proposal to be a potential blight on the landscape.The council is also unhappy that the Gypsy King wants to chop down so many trees.It voiced concerns in an email, saying: “The loss of trees and tree groups along the western boundary is of concern, particularly as more trees and tree groups appear to be marked for removal on the landscaping drawing than are stated in the arboricultural impact assessment.”Most read in BoxingThe email adds: “The proposed boundary treatments include two-metre high walling and fences to all boundaries. “If there is a particular need for security, the height and dominance of these features in the locality might be understandable but, to retain rural landscape character, these tall blank barriers should be softened.”Tyson Fury shows off his air guitar skills to AC/DC and sings Mr Brightside as son Prince holds up WBC belt at open media workout ahead of Usyk boutSolutions include changing the proposed site’s layout to save trees, or planting new ones, while the security fence could be hidden by an external hedge row.Previously, Fury’s plans had hit the skids after bats were found roosting in a loft and then he was told birds flocking to his pond or fruit trees maybe a hazard to nearby jets.Local councillor Chris Hilliard has approved of the plans and hope it improves the property and area, which has been blighted by the car parking issue.He says: “Styal has been affected by several issues over the years. One of those issues is exceptionally apparent on this property and Moss Lane as a whole.”What were family properties or small industrious businesses have become car parking for the airport. “Many of this type of establishment have a very dubious reputation, with damage to vehicles, proprietors taking vehicles into local towns and leaving them for weeks, and a disregard for the local community.”It is obvious that this site is badly in need of redevelopment, and the property as drawn would be a large improvement over the current property on this plot.Tyson Fury’s life outside of boxingA WORLD heavyweight champion inside the ring, Tyson Fury also has a colourful life away from his mega fights.
      The hit Netflix show At Home With The Furys gave an insight into his day-to-day activities away from boxing.
      The Gypsy King is believed to have punched his way to a career haul of nearly £200million.
      Fury and his seven kids currently reside in a plush house worth a whopping £1.7m.
      He swapped his £550,000 home that overlooked Morecambe Bay for the mansion located in the same area.
      Wife Paris, 34, often gives us a glimpse into her fab property by sharing snaps on Instagram.
      The home featured heavily in the Netflix show At Home with the Furys, which offered fans a glimpse inside the chaotic and full-on life of Britain’s top heavyweight boxer.
      Season one offered a glimpse into his fight preparations ahead of a showdown with Derek Chisora in December 2022.
      And Fury also has an absolute monster collection of motors he has been seen behind the wheel of.
      Most recently, he added a stunning customised Porsche GT3 RS worth over £200,000 to his car collection.
      He is also said to own several Rolex watches, flashing a £60,000 diamond-laden 18ct timepiece from the brand as he prepared for his fight with Whyte.

      “The plans would allow for the improvement of the landscape, a potential increase in biodiversity, and the removal of invasive species.”In December, Fury and his two brothers John Jr and Shane landed in hot water with the courts for renting out a car park on their land.Dad John was at Chester Magistrates’ Court to defend his sons.He said he had signed a lease agreement with a valet company and they had done nothing wrong by failing to cough up £82,166 to the council for a car park, which adjoins his house in Styal.The court also heard he handed ownership of the land to his sons – who are worth over £134 million – following a “fight with the wife 20 years ago”.John Sr said: “I didn’t even have to be here but I’ve come here today to tell you the boys have nothing to do with anything of it, especially Tyson.“It’s ridiculous when you’re paying millions of pounds in taxes. He hasn’t lived at that address for 18 years.“All I’ve done is rent a piece of land out. I have no understanding of any kind of business or what they do. READ MORE SUN STORIES”It was just an empty yard, that’s all I’ve ever done.”But District Judge Mr John McGarva ordered the three brothers to pay the business rates bill plus court costs of £17,206 – totalling nearly £100k.Fury and his family pose for a photo promoting their hit Netflix showCredit: Courtesy of NetflixThe site currently includes a grim-coloured pondCredit: Cheshire East CouncilFury’s current mansion in Morecambe, which featured in hit Netflix show At Home With the FurysCredit: Andy Kelvin / Kelvin MediaOvergrown land currently occupies the site in CheshireCredit: Cheshire East CouncilThe council has concerns about the potential loss of treesCredit: Cheshire East Council More

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      in Motorsport

      Geri Halliwell and Christian Horner ‘want to follow Beckhams’ and open up about sexting scandal in TV doc

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      GERI Halliwell and Christian Horner want to follow Victoria and David Beckham’s footsteps in a very personal TV documentary, a source claims.The couple may open up about Horner’s recent sexting scandal like David Beckham, who discussed the pressure on his marriage after allegations of an affair with Rebecca Loos.Victoria and David Beckham discussed his alleged affair during their Netflix docCredit: RexGeri and Christian are reportedly in talks for a possible TV documentary about their livesCredit: AFPVictoria and David dance together in their Netflix documentary ‘Beckham’David Beckham discussed his alleged affair during the docGeri and Christian were reportedly approached by a production company connected to Netflix.After appearing in the recent streaming giant’s Formula One show Drive to Survive they’re now considering the next step.And it appears former Spice Girl Geri could be considering taking a leaf out of her ex-bandmate’s book in an intimate Netflix tell-all.A source told The Mirror: “The idea that has been pitched is a really personal documentary, capturing Geri and Christian at home.read more on christian horner“Geri loved the Beckham documentary, and it was so positively received that it is easy to see why a similar show might appeal to Geri and Christian now.”They added: “Following the recent speculation about their relationship, there would be a huge amount of interest in seeing them together away from the race track and how they interact with their friends and family.”F1 boss Horner, 50, was cleared of misconduct towards a female colleague – allegations he had always denied – by an internal probe in February.Soon after sexually suggestive texts that appeared to have been written by him were leaked online.Most read in MotorsportHorner’s accuser was suspended by Red Bull and has appealed the decision.She is said to have been left “upset, scared and intimidated” over the scandal.Despite Geri and Christian’s attempts to put on a united front at F1 shows during the peak of the scandal – some said their displays of affection looked forced.The source said of the Beckham documentary: “The off-the-cuff scenes at home between David and Victoria have completely transformed how they are viewed by people, particularly Victoria, who had the chance to show off her funny side.”They went on: “Netflix would be an obvious home for their series, if they agree to film one. “But it is also possible it could spark a bidding war between firms, as there would be a massive amount of interest from viewers.”SCANDAL… LAP BY LAP
      FEBRUARY 5: A Dutch newspaper reports a female Red Bull employee has made serious allegations of “inappropriate, controlling behaviour” about Horner to parent company Red Bull GmbH.
      FEB 9: Horner is quizzed for nine hours by the lawyer hired by Red Bull to investigate.
      FEB 15: He denies the allegations and says they are a distraction for the team.
      FEB 15: F1 says it hopes the matter will be clarified at the earliest opportunity after a fair and thorough process.
      FEB 26: Red Bull’s engine partner Ford says it is increasingly frustrated by the team’s handling of the complaint.
      FEB 28: Horner is cleared of all wrongdoing. The employee is said to have the right of appeal.
      FEB 29: Horner says he is pleased the investigation is over.
      FEB 29: WhatsApp texts and pictures claimed to be between Horner and the employee are sent to journalists and F1.
      MARCH 1: Horner refuses to comment on what he calls “anonymous speculation from unknown sources”.
      MAR 2: Horner and wife Geri are pictured hand-in-hand, as Red Bull’s Max Verstappen wins the Bahrain Grand Prix. Horner says before the race: “It’s been very testing for my family but we are very strong and our focus is on this race.”
      MAR 3: Verstappen’s dad Jos, claims Red Bull is in “danger of being torn apart” if Horner stays in the job.
      But he denies being the source of the WhatsApp leak, saying: “It can’t go on the way it is. It will explode. He is playing the victim, when he is the one causing the problems.”
      MAR 6: Max Verstappen sides with his dad in the row.
      MAR 7: Horner says he wants to draw a line under the scandal and hails Geri’s support — as Red Bull suspends the employee.
      MAR 15: Horner’s accuser allegedly launches an appeal against the investigation that saw the Red Bull chief cleared & the sport’s governing body, the FIA
      MAR 17: Horner, Helmut Marko and Jos Verstappen agree to a ‘public ceasefire’.

      The possible series could focus on their home lifeCredit: Instagram @therealgerihalliwellGeri apparently liked fellow spice-girl Victoria’s documentaryCredit: EPAGeri and Victoria back when they were in the Spice Girls togetherCredit: Instagram More

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      in Soccer

      Fans can’t stop looking at Rob Green’s finger as former England star joins Channel 4 punditry team for Belgium clash

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      ROB GREEN’S finger had fans transfixed during Channel 4’s coverage of England vs Belgium.The former Three Lions goalkeeper joined the punditry team for Tuesday’s friendly at Wembley Stadium.Fans could not take their eyes off Rob Green’s wonky fingerCredit: Channel 4England welcomed Belgium for their final match before Gareth Southgate names his squad for Euro 2024.Ahead of kick-off Green appeared as a pundit before heading to the commentary booth.His disfigured finger was visible to viewers as he clutched a microphone on screen.Green’s little finger on his right hand was left permanently wonky after being dislocated and broken multiple times during his career.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans took to social media after spotting the finger, with one writing: “What the hell is going on with Rob Green’s finger?!”Another added: “Rob Green’s wonky finger is a thing of beauty.”A third supporter also commented: “Rob Green’s finger never fails to amaze me. What goalkeepers go through in professional football is mad.”The pundit has previously lifted the lid on his finger injury, which required a special glove.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSGreen explained in December how he played the last decade of his career with a “dead” finger after multiple injuries.As a player, the 44-year-old won 12 caps for England along with 267 Premier League appearances for West Ham, QPR and Norwich.Why are England wearing purple away kit against Belgium and why won’t they wear it at Euro 2024? He retired in 2019 aged 39 after winning the Europa League with Chelsea. More

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      in Soccer

      England legends send heartbreaking messages to Sven-Goran Eriksson as former Three Lions boss battles terminal cancer

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      A NUMBER of England players who starred under Sven-Goran Eriksson have sent heartfelt messages to him after he revealed his cancer battle.Eriksson, 76, revealed in January he had “at best a year” to live after being diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer.England legend sent heartfelt messages to former manager Sven-Goran ErikssonCredit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20Joe Cole was the first player to be shown in the Channel 4 interviewCredit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20Steven Gerrard sent his support before he sees Eriksson at Liverpool’s legends match with Ajax tomorrowCredit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20Ahead of England’s clash with Brazil tomorrow evening, he was shown a set of videos from some of the Three Lions stars who played under him in an interview with Channel 4 at his home in Sunne, Sweden.TNT Sports pundit Joe Cole, 42, was first in the tributes, recalling a heartwarming story from when he scored against Northern Ireland.The former Chelsea star said: “I just wanted to wish you all the very best and say thank you for all the memories and all the help in my career, making my dream come true playing for England at a World Cup twice.”I remember I scored against Northern Ireland and you came over after the game and said to me with a glass of wine or champagne in your hand, “finally, you’ve become a complete player.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I was buzzing, it’s always nice to hear that from the manager.”Eriksson, who managed England between 2001 and 2006, then heard from ex-Manchester United star Paul Scholes, who said: “I just wanted to say it was an absolute pleasure to play for England for you.”Obviously we should have won something and done a little bit better than I actually did for you but I just wanted to say: ‘Hello Sven, I hope you’re doing okay and all the best for the recovery.'”2001 Ballon d’Or winner Michael Owen said: “I hope this finds you in good spirits, I hope you’re keeping fine and I hope you’re enjoying the current England team who are doing so well and, of course, we’re all looking forward to the European Championship in the summer.”Most read in FootballPaul Scholes sent his support but admitted they should have won something togetherCredit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20Michael Owen sent his best wishesCredit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard, who will be managed by Eriksson as he fulfils a lifelong ambition of managing the Reds in their legends match with Ajax this weekend, said: “I just wanted to send you my best wishes, send you my love and support.”I’ve been thinking about you a lot lately and I’m really looking forward to seeing you next week as you’re the gaffer at Anfield. It will be really special.Biggest football kit fails after controversy over new England shirt”I’m just trying to get the body in good condition so I can last the 90 minutes!”Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville said: “I’m just sending you all my best wishes and thank you for all the support you gave me whilst with England. I’d love to be able to see you soon.”Owen Hargreaves added: “I just wanted to say ‘thank you’ for everything you did for me throughout my career, for believing in me when a lot of people didn’t.”You actually changed my career and changed my life in so many ways.”So I just wanted to say ‘thank you’, your support meant so much to me and I just wanted to wish you all the best. Lots of love, stay strong.”Eriksson appeared genuinely touched by the videos, calling them: “Fantastic”, before thanking commentator Steve Bower who was conducting the interview.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “Say thank you to all of them.”Gary Neville said he hoped to see Eriksson soonCredit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20Owen Hargreaves said Eriksson ‘changed his career’Credit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20The 76-year-old appeared genuinely touched by the all the messagesCredit: https://twitter.com/C4Sport/status/1771205197886562809?s=20Watch England v Brazil from 6pm live on Channel 4, tomorrow. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside the non-league club in the seventh tier with link to popular Channel 4 show watched in nearly 100 countries

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      CHESHAM UNITED are excelling on and off the pitch this season thanks to a sprinkling of stardust.Comedian Alex Horne joined his local club’s board in 2022, bringing extra publicity to the seventh-tier side.
      Alex Horne stars on popular show Taskmaster alongside Greg DaviesCredit: PA
      Chesham United are excelling on and off the pitchCredit: INSTAGRAM / @cheshamunitedfc
      The Taskmaster star was offered the opportunity to get involved by chairman Peter Brown, and jumped at the chance.
      And non-league defences have subsequently been taken to task, with Chesham sitting pretty at the top of Southern League Premier South.
      “I didn’t really know what it meant,” Channel 4 star Horne told The Athletic.
      “But I had to be declared a fit and proper person. I’ve never really had a job where you have to be serious, but I quite enjoy it.”
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      While The Generals have excelled on the pitch this season, Horne’s largest contributions have come in matters off it.
      Chesham sold just 30 replica shirts last season, but with their increased exposure have so far managed to flog 1,200 this time around.
      Horne, 45, explained: “We sell the shirts in the club shop and website but also on Taskmaster’s site.
      “The club takes all the profits. We don’t take anything from it. The production company Avalon have been great and understanding.
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      “It’s not a bad thing to be involved in a non-league side.”
      The Generals have averaged crowds of 557 for their home league games this season.
      Ryan Reynolds reveals ‘all kinds of weird and unexpected horrors’ after ‘incredibly stressful’ Wrexham takeover
      Boosting attendances have been Taskmaster fans from overseas, with the show watched in over 100 countries.
      On the extent of Horne’s commercial impact, chairman Brown revealed: “He’s publicised the club to a level that we’ve never seen before.
      “This is the States, Europe, Australia, New Zealand. Everyone’s buying Chesham United shirts because of Taskmaster, because it’s Alex Horne.
      “He’s such a likeable chap. He gets on and does things so quietly.”
      Chesham enjoyed a run to the FA Cup first round proper this term, attracting a near-3,000 sell-out for their match against Maidstone – pocketing £45,000 in the process.
      Horne has also raised funds by performing in the club’s Chess Suite, but is keen to stress that despite his involvement, Chesham are definitely not another Wrexham.
      On comparisons with the Welsh side, owned by Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Horne adds: “It comes up quite a lot.
      “It’s quite annoying, though. I’m a big fan of the programme and find what they’re doing really good — but they put in millions of pounds. This is not that. Also, they are a sleeping giant.”
      On how he does make a difference, Horne added: “Instead of just saying, ‘Here’s a million pounds’ — which I couldn’t afford to do — it’s more about contributing to things where all the money goes to the club, so that’s suddenly thousands of pounds.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      “The aim isn’t really to get into the Football League, it’s about making Chesham a more fun place, which it is at the moment.
      “It’s about being a fully functioning football club that’s part of the community. That’s the positive thing.”
      Taskmaster is shown in over 100 countriesCredit: Simon Webb / Channel 4 More