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      Ex-Arsenal ace & Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson banned from driving after being caught speeding three times in one month

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      EX-ENGLAND and Arsenal ace Paul Merson has been banned from driving after being convicted of speeding THREE times within a month.The Sky Sports pundit did 47mph in a 40mph limit on the A316 Great Chertsey Road in Feltham, south west London, on September 9.Paul Merson has been banned from drivingCredit: Ian WhittakerMerson, 56, was caught again doing the same speed on the same road just two days later in his silver Volkswagen Touareg.The retired midfielder was later caught speeding at 57mph in a 50mph stretch of the A316 Country Way in Sunbury on October 1.The trio of offences within a month came after he was caught driving 60mph in a 50mph limit on the M3 at Thorpe, Surrey, on February 27 last year.Merse, who also played for Aston Villa, Portsmouth and Middlesbrough, appeared at Guildford Magistrates’ Court today for a disqualification hearing.Read more newsHe pleaded guilty to all four charges and was banned from driving for six months after receiving 12 penalty points.The footy playmaker was also fined £2,640, must pay a victim surcharge of £1,056 and prosecution costs of £110 within 28 days.Chief Magistrate Joan Lindsay admitted his previous driving record was “not great” and warned: “You mustn’t drive on any UK road once you leave court.”The court heard he already had nine points on his driving licence for speeding twice in 2021 and once in 2022.Most read in FootballNicholas Maggs, defending, claimed the four new convictions were for “relatively modest” speeds in variable limits.He claimed disqualification will have a “substantial effect” on his wife, who doesn’t drive, and his family – as Merse does the school run.Where the Soccer Saturday stars are nowThe oldest of their three kids, aged three, six and nine, has to travel 45 minutes around four times a week for training and matches at Chelsea’s academy.He said: “On his behalf, I wish to put forward his remorse for these offences. He accepts it’s not acceptable.“Through me he apologises to the court for finding himself before the court and finding himself disqualified for driving. It’s going to make things substantially more difficult.“I’m sure the court will appreciate Mr Merson experienced a number of difficulties in his younger life and has now chosen to use these positively through unpaid speaking events to help younger people from suffering mental health problems.”The FA Cup winner, of Teddington, south west London, was driven to court in the passenger seat of his four-year-old VW.Asked if he wanted to comment after the conclusion of the case, Merson, wearing a maroon long-sleeved polo shirt and grey suit trousers, told The Sun: “Absolutely not.”It comes after the dad-of-eight received a 14-month ban for falling asleep behind the wheel and crashing his Mercedes into a lorry while drink driving on the M40 near Warwick in October 2011.READ MORE SUN STORIESMerson, praised for going public over his battle with alcohol, drugs and gambling addictions, earned 21 Three Lions caps and went to Euro ‘92 and World Cup ‘98.He won the old First Division title with the Gooners in 1989 and 1991, before securing an FA Cup and League Cup double in 1993.Merson appeared at Guildford Magistrates’ Court todayCredit: Ian WhittakerEx-Arsenal star Merson was fined £2,640Credit: RexThe Sky Sports pundit admitted the driving offencesCredit: Getty More

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      Premier League club boss’ identity to remain hidden in historical child sex abuse case

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      THE identity of a Premier League club boss will remain hidden after he was accused of sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl.A civil case has been launched against him by the alleged victim for aggravated damages.The leading figure in the Premier League has been accused of raping two girlsThe judge in the case granted the football figure anonymity – meaning his name will stay out of legal documents.Master Stevens, who sits as a judge in the King’s Bench Division of the High Court, said this was necessary for the “administration of justice”.She said she had considered human rights to private and family life, as well as freedom of expression, when making the decision.Although privacy rules in the UK apply to identifying suspects in the early stages of a police probe, the media is usually allowed to report cases in court – including civil cases.The ruling came after the football boss’ lawyers argued he should remain anonymous because of the potential harm naming him would have.The alleged victim came forward in 2021 claiming she was raped at his home when she was 15.But the man was not arrested and the case was left on file by the Crown Prosecution Service.This was due to a legal irregularity that meant the woman had waited too long to report the claims.Most read in FootballLegislation at the time stated if the alleged offence took place between 1956 and 2004, and the complainant was a girl aged between 13 and 15, she had to make a report within a year.Although this was scrapped when the 2003 Sexual Offences Act came into place, it still applied if the alleged incident took place in the previous 48 years.Court papers seen by The Athletic state he “committed trespass to the claimant’s person (assault and battery) and intentionally inflicted injury”.This is said to have caused the woman psychological harm, the documents say.The case is separate to another historical rape allegation made by a different woman.Police previously confirmed the well-known football figure was  quizzed under caution last June regarding that claim.The BBC previously revealed how the boss was still in his post despite being under criminal investigation.The Met Police said previously: “On Thursday, September 23, 2021, the Met received a crime report regarding an historic rape allegation.READ MORE SUN STORIES”On Monday, June 12, a man was interviewed under caution at a police station.’’Further enquiries are being carried out in that case before a decision is made whether to charge him or take no further action. More

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      Nicky Butt breaks cover on red carpet after being told he faces possible jail time for smashing bikers leg in car smash

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      MAN Utd legend Nicky Butt was tonight spotted for the first time since being told he could face possible jail time for smashing a motorcyclist’s leg.The ex-England ace, 49, rammed into Andrew Fielden while driving carelessly in his Range Rover through Burnley, Lancashire.Nicky Butt attending the “99” World Premiere at Printworks todayCredit: RexThe footballer was seen with his children Ruben Butt (L) and Jersey Butt (R)Credit: EPAOur pictures show the Man Utd legend looking concerned moments after the crash involving his £100,000 Land Rover DefenderCredit: The SunAndrew spent two weeks in hospital and needed an operation to insert a metal rod into his mangled left legCredit: The SunButt pleaded guilty to causing serious injury to the riderThe biker suffered a broken left leg, which needed metal rods inserted following an operation, and severe bruising.Today the ex-midfielder was seen walking down the red carpet of an exclusive event – just days after admitting he caused injury by careless driving in front of the Blackburn Magistrates’ Court.Donning a classic suit paired with a satin-blue tie, the former England star beamed as he appeared at the premiere of Amazon Prime’s docu-series about the famous 1999 Treble winners. The three-part series features members of the Red Devils team that lifted a historic trio of Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League trophies.more on the ex-midfielder The trailer teases interviews with both players and staff, including Sir Alex Ferguson and assistant Steve McClaren.David Beckham, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Peter Schmeichel, Dwight Yorke, Teddy Sheringham, Nicky Butt, Andy Cole and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer all feature.One episode will be dedicated to the stories behind each trophy.After the horror crash, Andrew needed an operation to insert a metal rod into the mangled limb and spent ten months on crutches.Most read in FootballHe developed a blood clot and requires medication for the rest of his life. The devastating injury also meant he had to give up his job as a Screwfix store manager.Wild scenes as Olympiacos celebrate reaching the Conference League final -Butt was handed an interim driving ban following the October 2022 crash.He could face up to two years in jail or an unlimited fine when he is sentenced on a date to be set.Butt, who was picking up his son at the time, suffered a “momentary lapse of concentration”, the court heardProsecutor Graeme Tindall said: “What appears to have happened is a number of vehicles pass what appears to look like a HGV.“Mr Butt having let the HGV come past, pulls out and this is when Mr Fielden is coming past on the motorcycle.”The court was told Andrew was left with no memory of the crash other than waking up in hospital “in immense pain”.Butt remained at the scene and has since written a letter of apology. Butt’s solicitor told Blackburn magistrates his client had “clearly shown remorse” in the letter.Inside the career of the former midfielderBUTT was an instrumental part of Alex Ferguson’s youth team – rising through the ranks with David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and the Nevilles.
      The midfielder began his professional career stepping in for Roy Keane as a sub before he landed a full-time spot when Paul Ince left in 1995.
      Along with the rest of the Class of ’92, Butt helped Utd win countless trophies as the club became a dominant force.
      This included the Champions League Final in 1999, where the Red Devils made history by winning the treble.
      By the time he left in 2004, the footballer had helped Utd win six Premier League titles, three FA Cups and a Champions League trophy.
      Butt later had spells at Newcastle and Birmingham City before moving into management in 2016 for Utd’s U23 team.
      In 2014, he bought Salford City along with Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, and Gary and Phil Neville.

      However, it is not clear whether this was an apology to the court or the victim.Despite claims in court that Butt had shown remorse, the Honda rider said that he never apologised to him for the incident.He told The Sun: “I have not heard anything from Nicky Butt.”He has never spoken to me or written me a letter.”Or if he has, I haven’t seen it. If I had put somebody through all this, I’d be doing everything possible to help. He has done some serious damage to me, and I have not fully recovered from my injuries.“His solicitors may have advised him not to make direct contact.”“If I had knocked someone from their bike, I would be making sure that person was looked after from the moment they got home.“I’d be doing their shopping and making sure they are OK but I have not heard a word from him.”READ MORE SUN STORIESJust days ago, Butt was seen for the first time after his court appearance.He looked glum as he sat on a park bench wearing jeans, a white t-shirt and white trainers.Nicky Butt seen for the first time since being banned from driving for careless drivingButt was part of the Class of 92 squadHe played 270 games for Utd during his 12 years on the senior team More

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      Norwich defender Shane Duffy arrested and charged with drink-driving after two-vehicle smash

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      NORWICH star Shane Duffy has been charged with drink driving.The former Premier League star is due to appear before magistrates in Norwich in July.Shane Duffy is due to appear in court charged with drink drivingCredit: AlamyDuffy, 32, was arrested in Hethersett, near Norwich, late on Monday after a collision involving two vehicles.A spokesperson for Norfolk Police said: “Police were called to Queen’s Road, Hethersett, 21:05, on Monday May 6, following reports of a two-vehicle collision.”Emergency services attended the scene and a man, aged in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of drink driving. He was taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning.”No one was injured.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDuffy has responded through a spokesperson who said: “[Duffy has been] charged with driving whilst unfit through drink, having provided an evidential breath sample of 102mcg.”A Norwich City spokesman said: “Norwich City Football Club is aware of an incident involving one of its first-team players.”The club is in the process of considering the matter internally in accordance with its own disciplinary procedure.”Duffy is due to play for Norwich against Leeds United in the Championship play-offs, with the first leg on Sunday.Most read in EFLThe Republic of Ireland star has featured in 36 league games for the Canaries this season.He signed for the club last season after a short-lived spell at Fulham where he made just seven appearances. More

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      Man City star Jack Grealish handed five penalty points on his driving licence after admitting speeding

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      FOOTIE ace Jack Grealish has been handed five points on his licence after he admitted speeding.The Man City winger, 28, was clocked at 44mph in a 30 zone in Wythall, near Birmingham, last July in his Range Rover.Manchester City’s Jack Grealish has been given points on his licence for speedingCredit: AFPA charge of failing to give information to police on the driver’s identity was withdrawn.Grealish did not appear before JPs in Worcester.He was fined £666 and told to pay £376 in costs.His lawyer said: “He can afford to pay that figure.”READ MORE ON JACK GREALISHThe Prem ace has a chequered driving history.He was caught on camera staggering away from his Range Rover in March 2020 in Dickens Heath, Birmingham, wearing odd slippers and a blue hoodie.The former Aston Villa midfielder had earlier attended a lockdown party before he mounted a kerb and collided with a Mercedes and a Citroen.He was hit with a nine-month ban and fined £82,000.Most read in FootballMagistrates in Birmingham were also shown dashcam footage of a second incident in October that year when an unmarked police car followed Grealish’s Range Rover on the M43 as it travelled at speeds of up to 98mph.The court was told Grealish was late for training and was worried he was setting a bad example to his teammates.Jack Grealish’s dog did ‘the biggest s***’ on Man City’s training pitch as England star reveals unusual habitsHe later pleaded guilty to two charges of careless driving and was only allowed back on the road in September 2022.At the time of those offences, Grealish already had six points on his licence from a previous motorway offence in 2018 when he was caught speeding on the M42. More

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      Woman and man accused of ‘blackmailing’ top F1 racing team boss have charges dropped

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      TWO people charged with blackmailing a top F1 executive have had all charges against them discontinued.Ryan Hilton, 42, and Sarah Surita, 31, were accused of demanding cash from a former high-ranking team chief.The alleged blackmail relates to an ‘unwarranted demand of money’ in November 2014 (stock image)Credit: GettyThe alleged blackmail related to an “unwarranted demand of money” in November 2014, according to court papers.The pair had not entered pleas and yesterday the charges against them were formally discontinued in a two-minute hearing at Reading Crown Court, which neither defendant attended.Defence barrister Nadia Shabat said: “This case should not have been on the listings as the matter was discontinued.”As such, the prosecution was told they would not be required to attend.”Read More on F1Judge Amjad Nawaz confirmed: “This is a discontinuation hearing.”The matter will not be called on. The case is discontinued.”The judge did not explain why the case was called off but said he believed the decision to end proceedings was taken too late for it to be pulled from court listings.Hilton, from Maidenhead, Berkshire, had faced two counts of fraud by false representation.Most read in MotorsportHe was also charged with stalking without fear, alarm or distress relating to “repeated social media posts of a derogatory nature”.Surita, 31, who also uses the surname Westbury and lives in Slough, faced one charge of fraud by false representation.Cost of an F1 carIt is understood they were set to deny the charges.The Crown Prosecution Service was invited to comment on why the charges were dropped.At a hearing earlier this year held at East Berkshire magistrates’ court in Slough, the pair, understood to have been charged in January, were released on bail — but ordered not to contact their alleged victim.The court heard they denied making threats or that their actions amounted to blackmail.They also claim the alleged victim’s complaint to the police was inaccurate, it was said. More

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      Nicky Butt never said sorry after he smashed my leg in road accident – I’ve lost my job & struggle to walk, says biker

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      THE biker who had his leg broken by ex-Manchester United’s Nicky Butt in a car smash says it cost him his job and claims the star has never said sorry.Ex-England ace Butt, 49, was last week told he faced possible jail for causing serious injury by careless driving.Nicky Butt puts his hand to his mouth as biker Adam Fielding lies injured in roadCredit: The SunOur pictures show the Man Utd legend looking concerned moments after the crash involving his £100,000 Land Rover DefenderCredit: The SunAdam spent two weeks in hospital and needed an operation to insert a metal rod into his mangled left legCredit: The SunOur pictures show him looking concerned moments after the crash involving his £100,000 Land Rover Defender, as Adam Fielding lies in the road with a shattered left leg.But despite claims in court that he had shown remorse, Honda rider Adam, 30, said: “I have not heard anything from Nicky Butt.“If I had knocked someone from their bike, I would be making sure that person was looked after from the moment they got home.“I’d be doing their shopping and making sure they are OK but I have not heard a word from him.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe court heard Butt had a lapse of concentration as he pulled out of a junction after collecting his son from Burnley FC’s training ground at 8.10pm on October 17, 2022.The shaken midfielder, now chief executive at League Two Salford City, covered his mouth with his hand as bystanders comforted Adam until an ambulance arrived.He needed an operation to insert a metal rod into the mangled limb and spent ten months on crutches.Adam developed a blood clot and requires medication for the rest of his life. The devastating injury also meant he had to give up his job as a Screwfix store manager.Most read in FootballLast week Butt’s solicitor told Blackburn magistrates his client had “clearly shown remorse” in a letter. However, it is not clear whether this was an apology to the court or to Adam.Nicky Butt admits breaking man’s leg in crashAdam told The Sun: “He has never spoken to me or written me a letter. “Or if he has, I haven’t seen it. If I had put somebody through all this, I’d be doing everything possible to help. He has done some serious damage to me, and I have not fully recovered from my injuries.“His solicitors may have advised him not to make direct contact.” ‘Didn’t hear from him’Adam, of Burnley, spent two weeks in hospital.He added: “While I was there Nicky Butt did ask the police if he could contact me and I agreed, but I didn’t hear from him.”About his work, Adam said: “Screwfix were very good to me but, after 13 months, it was clear I wouldn’t be able to do the job.I have been through a range of emotions about himAdam “It is quite physically demanding and I could no longer do it.“My life has changed drastically very quickly.”Adam says he does not remember anything about the crash or the immediate aftermath. He has not ridden a motorbike since.He added: “Apparently, at the scene, Butt was very concerned and held his hands up and accepted it was his fault and said he didn’t see me. I just don’t know how he hasn’t seen me.“I don’t hold any ill will against him because I know he didn’t knock me off my bike deliberately.“I have been through a range of emotions about him.“When I am in pain with my leg, I get angry at him and at what has happened. I am OK walking short distances but long walks can cause me pain. I take painkillers and need to elevate my foot because it swells up.”Butt, who lives in a £1.7million mansion in Bowdon, Cheshire, initially attended a voluntary police interview on December 1, 2023.Last week he admitted causing serious injury by careless driving.He was told he faces up to two years in jail or an unlimited fine when sentenced on June 21.Butt was also handed an interim driving ban.I don’t hold any ill will against him because I know he didn’t knock me off my bike deliberatelyAdam Prosecutor Graeme Tindall said: “What appears to have happened is a number of vehicles pass what appears to look like a HGV. “Mr Butt having let the HGV come past, pulls out and this is when Mr Fielding is coming past on the motorcycle.”John Dye, defending the footballer, said: “Mr Butt tried to assist and clearly has shown remorse in the letter that he sent.”Adam did not give a victim impact statement at the hearing.Lancashire Police last night said he was in the process of writing one.Butt, who has two children from his marriage to ex Shelley Barlow, was a key member of United’s celebrated Class of 92 — rising through the ranks with pals David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Gary and Phil Neville.Butt helped the Old Trafford club win countless trophies, including the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup treble in 1999.By the time he left in 2004, he had helped United win six Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the Champions League win.READ MORE SUN STORIESButt later had spells at Newcastle and Birmingham City. In 2014, he bought Salford City along with Giggs, the Nevilles and Paul Scholes.He was also head of first-team development at Manchester United from 2019-2021.Butt was told he faces possible jail for causing serious injury by careless drivingCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe devastating injury meant Adam had to give up his job as a Screwfix store managerCredit: The SunAdam says: ‘He has never spoken to me or written me a letter. Or if he has, I haven’t seen it’Credit: Matthew Pover More

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      Man Utd legend Nicky Butt looks glum as he’s seen for first time since driving ban for breaking motorcyclist’s leg

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      MAN Utd legend Nicky Butt has been seen for the first time since admitted breaking a motorcyclist’s leg.The football legend smashed into Andrew Fielden while driving carelessly in his Range Rover through Burnley, Lancashire.Nicky Butt seen for the first time since being banned from driving for careless drivingCredit: SplashButt was part of the Class of 92 squadHe looked glum as he sat on a park benchCredit: SplashButt pleaded guilty to causing serious injury to a riderHe suffered a broken left leg, which needed metal rods inserted following an operation, and severe bruising.Butt appeared at Blackburn Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday where he admitted causing serious injury by careless driving.Today Butt was seen for the first time since his court appearance. The 49-year-old looked glum as he sat on a park bench wearing jeans, a white tshirt and white trainers.MORE ON FOOTBALLHe donned sunglasses as he took phonecalls and sipped on a bottle of lemonade. The former England star was handed am interim driving ban following the October 2022 crash.He could face up to two years in jail or an unlimited fine when he is sentenced on a date to be set.The court heard Butt, who was picking up at his son at the time, suffered a “momentary lapse of concentration”.Most read in FootballHe’s not happy’ – Jamie Carragher SHOVES Gary Neville live on TV in revenge for showing off man-marking styleProsecutor Graeme Tindall said: “What appears to have happened is a number of vehicles pass what appears to look like a HGV.“Mr Butt having let the HGV come past, pulls out and this is when Mr Fielden is coming past on the motorcycle.”The court was told Mr Fielden was left with no memory of the crash other than waking up in hospital “in immense pain”.Butt remained at the scene and has since written an apology to the rider.Mr Fielden chose not to share a victim impact statement and said previously he does not “any ill feeling to the other party”.John Dye, defending the ex-footballer, said: “The loss of his licence is going to be extremely inconvenient to him and his family but that is the inevitable consequence of this case.”Butt was a instrumental part of Alex Ferguson’s youth team – rising through the ranks with David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and the Nevilles.The midfielder began his professional career stepping in for Roy Keane as a sub before he landing a full-time spot when Paul Ince left in 1995.Along with the rest of the Class of ’92, Butt helped Utd win countless trophies as the club became a dominant force.This included the Champions League Final in 1999, where the Red Devils made history by winning the treble.By the time he left in 2004, the footballer had helped Utd win six Premier League titles, three FA Cups and a Champions League trophy.READ MORE SUN STORIESButt later had spells at Newcastle and Birmingham City before moving into management in 2016 for Utd’s U23 team.In 2014, he bought Salford City along with Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, and Gary and Phil Neville.He played 270 games for Utd during his 12 years on the senior team More