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      ‘Very high risk’ to England fans as 500-strong army of Serbian Headhunters & Gravediggers ultras to swarm Euros clash

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      ENGLAND fans have been warned that a 500-strong army of “violence-seeking ­Serbian ­hooligans” are set to swarm Sunday’s huge Euros clash.The opening game for both sides has already been labelled as a “very high risk” match by German cops with 1,300 extra officers being deployed on matchday as well as heavily increased surveillance.England fans have been warned over Serbian hooligans swarming Sunday’s huge Euros clashCredit: ReutersGerman cops have said that a 500-strong army of ‘violence-seeking ­Serbian ­hooligans’ could descend on the gameCredit: AlamySerbian ultras have been known to cause chaos on the international stage by causing fires in the stands, brawls with rival fans and even pitch invasionsCredit: GettyThe police presence has been increased in Germany after fan violence at previous tournaments involving England fansCredit: AFP or licensorsSerbian ultra groups such as Headhunters and Gravediggers are among some of the most feared football fans in Europe.They have regularly caused riots on the streets and fierce fights up in the stands at international matches – even by pitch invading and attacking rival players.With England fans also being known for causing havoc at football matches through distasteful chants, alcohol-fuelled ventures and their undying arrogance over the team’s ability on the pitch. Rowdy Three Lions fans and ruthless Serbian ultras are flocking to Germany over the weekend to take part in what could be one of the most volatile games of the tournament.read more in fan clashesPeter Both, the chief of police in Gelsenkirchen where the game will be played, has claimed “up to 400 or 500 ­violence-seeking ­Serbian ­hooligans will travel to ­Germany” ahead of the game.The biggest challenge for us will be to identify violent, disruptive groups at an early stage, to separate them from peaceful and law-abiding fansPeter BothChief of police in GelsenkirchenDespite Both saying they don’t “have concrete information” on the number of travelling thugs he vowed his team will prepare for any eventuality.He told The Guardian: “I guess the biggest challenge for us will be to identify violent, disruptive groups at an early stage, to separate them from peaceful and law-abiding fans, that will be our biggest challenge.”Roughly 500,000 Serbs live in Germany and there are fears some may travel to Gelsenkirchen specifically to cause trouble.Most read in Euro 2024With one East European media platform already vowing daily updates from the Euros “where we will cover the matches and, above all, events outside the stadium”.A special focus will be at the Trabrennbahn racecourse where there is a 40,000 fan zone set to host Three Lions fans for the Serbia game.Inside Euro 2024 security HQ where crack cops work around the clock to protect tournament from terrorists and hooligansIt is understood British police “spotters” and plain-clothed officers will also be on hand to watch England fans at every match.The cheap price of strong beer in Germany has also led to the Foreign Office issuing an official warning to fans telling them to “drink responsibly”.However, Germany’s experience with hosting major widescale sporting events before means they are well prepared for issues.A UK law enforcement source told the i: “If you were going to hold this tournament at this time anywhere apart from the UK, then you would choose Germany.”They have a lot of experience at this kind of thing and they are putting in place a comprehensive system.“But it’s a complex picture and unfortunately England fans are still regarded as fair game, or even desirable targets, by opposing hooligan groupings.”There is particular concern about the Serbia game.”Around 22,000 federal police officers will be on duty every day of the tournament across Germany.With officers from across the continent being on high alert for any potential suspects at borders and train stations.ENGLAND’S TOURNAMENT CHAOSTravelling Three Lions supporters have forged a poor reputation for their behaviour overseas through the years.England have been the target of several international assaults in the past both at club level and for national fans.The 2016 Euros in France was viewed as a major failure for England both on the pitch and off it due to fan violence.Before the tournament had even begun, fighting broke out between England fans and rival supporters in Marseille with cops being forced to tear gas local youths.Are the Serbs the most notorious football fans? FROM pitch raids to mass brawls and death threats, Serbian hooligans are known wreak havoc and create carnage during football games.
      Die-hard groups of hooligans are intertwined with football in Serbia – and they are known for ruthlessly attacking players on the pitch and storming opposition stalls when the match turns against them.
      Hooligan firms in the Balkan state have chilling names such as The Gravediggers, Head Hunters, Zulu Warriors, and the Red Devils.
      And one of their most vicious leaders is known as “Ivan the Terrible”.
      In 2012, Ivan – who has been linked to Serbian far-right paramilitaries – forced a Euros qualifying match between Serbia and Italy in Genoa to be abandoned after trying to attack rival fans and police.
      He rallied supporters to lob live flares and bangers onto the pitch as players warmed up and ordered them to break down barriers separating them from Italian fans while taunting police.
      Tracing their lineage back to the Balkan war of the 1990s, Serb football hooligans are renowned for their tough-as-nails attitude and love of violence.
      They are known for throwing live bangers at players who have switched sides and invading the pitches when games don’t go their way.
      In the past, the Ultras have killed rival fans – including a Toulouse supporter in 2009 who was beaten to death with iron bars and bicycle chains.

      England fans run from tear gas thrown by cops after they were ambushed by Russian supporters at the 2016 EurosCredit: Getty Images – GettyA crazed Serbian fan once threw a punch at an Albanian player during a matchEngland fans clashed with Russian fans in Marseille before and after they played a group stage matchCredit: Getty Images – GettyAfter England drew with Russia on June 11, clashes broke out on the streets of Marseille between the two countries.Russia, the clear aggressor in the brutal beatings, were given a suspended disqualification as a team and fined €150,000 (£126,000).More violence erupted between English and Russian fans in Lille a few days later.At least 40 fans were reportedly arrested, 50 Russians deported and dozens left injured after the clashes.One was even left in a critical condition in the hospital following a Russian ambush. SERBIA’S CHILLING PASTSerbian brutes are seen as some of the most malicious in football.Ivan Bagdanov – a firebrand hooligan leader with links to Serbian far-right paramilitaries – was responsible for forcing a Euros qualifying match between Serbia and Italy to be abandoned In 2012.He tried to attack rival fans before turning on police and sparking the grisly carnage that led to an all out war on the pitch.Nicknamed “Ivan the Terrible” Bagdanov rallied his fellow mob to set off live flares onto the pitch as players warmed up.They also tried to break down the barriers separating the two sets of fans.With several other fan fights breaking out at games across the past decade including a mass brawl with Brazilian supporters at the 2018 Russian World Cup.As four years earlier at a Euro 2016 qualifier between Serbia and Albania another battle kicked off in the stands.Serb supporters were recorded chanting “Kill the Albanians” and wore T-shirts of Serbian war crimes general Ratko Mladic in a heated snub to two ethnic Albanians in the Swiss squad.These horror incidents have resulted in several fines and bans being imposed on the Serbian national side with the latest coming one-year-ago.UEFA ordered them to play a 2024 European Championship qualifier in front of an empty stadium last year due to racist chants at their previous game against Montenegro.READ MORE SUN STORIESFans of both sides were said to have traded ethnic-based slurs resulting in fines for each with Serbia being slapped with a £50,000 fine.Another issue in Euro 2020 qualifying saw them face a complete stadium closure for a game.Serbian cops battling against ultra members in the standsCredit: EPAFears have also increased due to the strength of beer in Germany potentially affecting fansCredit: GettyIn 2017, Wales fans were seen fighting with Serbs through the gated barriers More

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      Three football fans sentenced to jail for racial abuse of Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr in legal first in Spain

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      THREE Valencia fans have been sentenced to jail in a Spanish legal first for racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr.Racist chants were aimed at Vinicius during a LaLiga match at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium on May 21, 2023.Three Valencia fans have been sentenced to jail for racially abusing Vinicius JrCredit: PAThe fans were found guilty of a “crime against moral integrity” with “aggravating circumstance of discrimination based on racist motives”.An initial 12-month sentence was reduced to eight months after an agreement reached at the preliminary investigation stage.The guilty fans have also banned from entering any football stadium in which La Liga and/or Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) matches are played for two years. Brazil star Vinicius joined LaLiga, Real Madrid and RFEF in bringing the case to court. READ MORE IN football La Liga president Javier Tebas said:, external “This ruling is great news for the fight against racism in Spain, as it goes some way to redressing the disgraceful wrong suffered by Vinicius Jr and sends a clear message to those individuals who go to a football stadium to hurl abuse.”La Liga will identify them, report them, and there will be criminal consequences.“I understand that there may be some frustration at the length of time it takes for these sentences to be handed down, but this shows that Spain is a country that guarantees judicial integrity.”We at La Liga can only respect the pace of justice, but once again we demand that Spanish legislation evolve to give La Liga sanctioning powers that can speed up the fight against racism.”Most read in FootballReal Madrid said in a statement: “The three accused have accepted their criminal responsibility and have made public a letter of apology addressed to Vinícius Júnior, Real Madrid C.F. and other people who felt denigrated and offended by their behavior.”This is the first conviction for acts of this nature handed down by criminal courts and tribunals.”Real Madrid, which participated in this prosecution together with Vinícius Júnior, will continue working to protect the values of our club and eradicate any racist behavior in the world of football and sport.” More

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      ISIS terror suspect caught after applying to work as SECURITY GUARD at Euro 2024 in Germany

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      GERMAN cops have arrested a suspected ISIS terrorist while he was trying to sneak his way into the Euros. Anti-terror investigators caught Soufian T, 23, who is said to have applied to get a pass as a security guard for “side events” outside the football stadium.Fans cheering for their home teams during a football matchWhen authorities checked his application to become a member of staff, they found that the German state security had deemed Soufian an Islamist. Cops from the Cologne police department, along with investigators from the Bonn State Security Service and federal police, arrested the German-Moroccan-Polish citizen with his mother and sister at Cologne-Bonn Airport.A number of mobile phones and €2,500 were seized.The championship kicks off in Germany on June 14 and the build-up has already started.Read More on Euro 2024The England team is set to play against Slovenia in a stadium in Cologne. State security officials also discovered that he had applied for two accreditations in Rhineland-Palatinate for the big events Rock am Ring and the 24 Hour Nürburgring.Further investigations by the Federal police found that the suspected terrorist had booked a one-way ticket for a trip from Germany to Istanbul in May, fuelling their suspicions.After the arrest, Soufian T’s apartment was searched and other mobile phones, data storage devices and computers were confiscated.Most read in FootballThe Federal Criminal Police Office was also called in and further investigations were made on his bank account and online activities.Investigators also seized what are said to have been suspicious recordings.The suspect was taken to Karlsruhe under heavy guard and brought before the investigating judge at the Federal Court of Justice.His mother stated that they were supposedly planning to make a pilgrimage to Mecca.She was able to show tickets that showed that they were planning to continue their journey to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.She also had return tickets with her.The investigation is ongoing.It comes as the threat of terrorism in Europe by radical jihadists is at an all-time high.England fans were previously warned of a new terror threat for Euro 2024.Previously, ISIS-K – an Afghanistan-based offshoot of ISIS – issued threats against cities including Paris and London.The Al Azaim Foundation, a media channel responsible for disseminating messages from ISIS-K shared a post threatening an attack on four stadiums, also including the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.Games targeted included Arsenal versus Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium, and PSG vs Barcelona at the Parc des Princes.It comes after French security services foiled a plot for an “Islamist-inspired” attack which was planned for during this summer’s Olympic Games.The country’s domestic intelligence agency arrested 18-year-old Rokhman B. who is suspected of organising an attack on a football game in Lyon.The Chechen immigrant to France is said to have wanted to disrupt games planned in Saint-Étienne, a city in the east of the country, and “die a martyr” by killing spectators or police officers.France’s interior ministry said he had been detained for “actively preparing an attack against the Geoffroy Guichard stadium [in Saint-Etienne] during the football games that will take place there.”Meanwhile, the Paris Olympics chief promised a ring of steel at the opening ceremony amid fears it may have to be moved due to terror threats.Tony Estanguet insisted that “security is the priority” to ensure the safety of 15million fans and more than 10,000 athletes.Western intelligence revealed how cops stopped at least 12 terror attacks in the past 12 months across Europe.Ten jihadist attacks have been bravely intercepted and prevented in Europe last year, says Dutch intelligence agency AIVD.READ MORE SUN STORIESWho are ISIS-K?
      ISIS-K are a splinter faction is a warped army of barbaric fanatics that even terrify the Taliban.
      It’s members are believed to have led the massacre at a Russian rock concert that killed at least 133.
      Some 6,000 people are believed to have been inside the venue watching Russian rock band Picnic when the bloodshed began.
      The gunmen began shooting civilians at point-blank range – through glass doors, turnstiles and then the concert hall itself, traumatised witnesses said.
      At least 133 were killed – including three children – and over 121 wounded – but the death toll continues to rise as bodies are pulled from the smouldering rubble.
      The US says it has intelligence that confirms the Islamic State’s claim of responsibility for the bloody massacre – and argued it was led by an Afghanistan-based splinter cell, ISIS-K.
      Originally formed in 2015, the group have been a consistent threat to security in Afghanistan, carrying out brutal suicide bombings and vile ceremonial executions.
      The “K” refers to the historical region of Greater Khorasan, which included parts of Iran, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.
      Despite efforts from the West, the former Afghan government and the Taliban to fight them back – they seized on the chaos sown by the country’s collapse and quickly established a reputation for extreme brutality.
      One of the most active regional affiliates of the Islamic State militant group, ISIS-K’s membership peaked in 2018 before declining.
      It suffered heavy losses inflicted by American air strikes and Taliban forces, reportedly cutting its ranks in half.
      However, it got a dramatic second wind after the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and the country’s fall to the Taliban.
      The group was responsible for an attack on Kabul’s international airport in 2021 that killed 13 US troops and scores of civilians during the chaotic US evacuation from the country.
      The attack raised the international profile of the group and help position it as a major threat to the Taliban’s rule.
      On May 8, 2021, ISIS-K were blamed for the bombing of the Sayed al-Shuhada girls’ school which saw two improvised explosive devices and a car bomb explode outside the school.
      Other vicious attacks include the storming of Kabul University by gunman which left 22 dead and 22 wounded in November 2020, and a suicide bomber who blew himself up at a wedding killing 92 in August 2019.
      In September 2022, ISIS-K militants claimed responsibility for a deadly suicide bombing at the Russian embassy in Kabul.

      Among the attacks foiled include stabbing rampages at global events, and barbaric assaults on specific venues and groups being targeted, the annual report revealed.AIVD didn’t elaborate further on where the 10 attacks were set to take place.Euro 2024 kicks off on June 14Credit: Getty More

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      Footie yob seen with bruised face in mugshot after headbutting Roy Keane during brawl at Emirates

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      A SCOWLING yob shows off his bruised face in a mugshot after headbutting Roy Keane during a brawl at the Emirates.Scott Law, 43, knocked the ex-Utd player through a set of doors after violence erupted.Scott Law was seen with bruises on his face after attacking Roy KeaneCredit: PAHe was today convicted of common assaultCredit: Chris EadesThe football fan saw red when Keane celebrated a goal from his former sideKeane allegedly elbowed Law in the aftermathCredit: PAThe drama came after the married dad saw red when Keane, 52, celebrated a goal from his former side against Arsenal.Law tried to worm his way out of the attack by claiming the Sky Sports pundit ambushed him and called him a “fat c***”.He also attempted to shift the blame by making out Keane simply ran into the top of his head.But the Gunners fan was today found guilty of common assault following an explosive trial.Read more on the caseHe was handed a three-year Football Banning Order, told to complete 80 hours of unpaid work and ordered to pay £764 in costs.Law declined to comment outside court but his lawyer confirmed he is planning to appeal against the conviction.District Judge Angus Hamilton dismissed the Arsenal fan’s claims he was acting in self defence as he returned the verdict today.He also said the fan had been “untruthful” in his account and found the assault was “deliberate”.Most read in FootballHighbury Corner Magistrates’ Court heard the mayhem unfolded as Keane and fellow pundit Micah Richards sat in the Sky Sports box.Law was sat in front of the glass studio when he noticed Keane celebrating a Utd goal, which was later chalked off by VAR.Roy Keane’s death stare to Wayne Rooney has fans ‘howling’ after Man Utd legend reveals he sleeps with hairdryer onProsecutor Simon Jones told the court this was a “catalyst” for the “shocking and unlawful” attack.As the pundits made their way through the stadium for their pitch-side analysis, Law delivered a “forceful headbutt” to Keane’s chest – knocking him backwards.Footage later showed the former footballer allegedly throwing an elbow at the supporter’s face in the aftermath of the fight.Richards then did “what any friend would” as he stepped in to restrain Law before the attacker fled the scene.During his evidence, Keane was forced to defend his reputation after being accused of taking “glory” in his “a hard man” image.Defence lawyer Charles Sherrard KC grilled the star for holding the record for the most red cards in English football.He also brought up Keane’s 2001 horror tackle on Alf-Inge Haaland – including how the ex-footballer later revealed he “wanted to hurt him”.Mr Sherrard then suggested Keane had used “gratuitous violence” by smashing Law in the face.But the Republic of Ireland star said: “I was assaulted in the workplace as a pundit and I was trying to stop him getting away.”That was my only intention.”Micah Richards stepped in to help his ‘friend’ RoyCredit: PAHe was seen restraining Law in the aftermath of the ‘headbutt’ incidentCredit: PAKeane claimed he and Richards were heading down for the final match analysis when contact was made with his face that sent him backwards through a set of doors.The pundit continued: “The only way I can describe it is that I was in shock. I didn’t expect it to happen, not when I was in my workplace.”Keane told the court he saw the attacker being restrained by Richards, who was trying to make sure he didn’t “run off”.The footie hardman then started yelling for someone to “call the police” as his fellow pundit loosened his grip on Law.Keane, who suffered bruising on his chest and arms, added: “We missed the final two goals but that was the least of my worries.”His story was backed by Richards – leading Mr Sherrard to brand the pundit a “stooge”.Richards was also forced to deny he was Keane’s “puppy” as he was quizzed on the stand.The ex-Man City star explained how his colleague was “physically massively shaken up” after Law “arched his head back” during the brawl.Richards added: “I felt a bit sorry for Roy. I was shocked and so was Roy, we were in disbelief. I think he handled it quite well.“I intervened, I felt sorry for Roy, he came to work to do his job and he was assaulted.“I did what any friend would do, I stopped him and diffused the situation.”Inside Roy Keane and Micah Richards’ unlikely bromance
      Roy Keane and Micah Richards may have been separated by the Manchester divide as players.
      But they have been thick as thieves since forming an unlikely friendship as pundits.
      The duo initially appeared to be chalk and cheese while appearing on Sky Sports.
      But despite their differing personalities, they have an underlying respect.
      Fun-loving ex-City star Richards, 35, once said of his notoriously grump United pal: “Never did I think we’d have a relationship like that. Working with him is an absolute pleasure.
      “I’m in awe of him.”
      Ahead of Euro 2020, the pair starred in their own show together, with their on-screen chemistry and friendship clear for all to see.
      The five-episode series, titled “Micah and Roy’s Road to Wembley”, followed the pair during that summer’s European Championships.

      The evidence flew in the face of Law’s defence after the fan tried to paint Keane as some kind of animal pacing inside the glass Sky studio.He told the court Keane was “puffing his cheeks out” and banging on the window.Law said he had “never really seen that behaviour from someone who was working in the Sky box”.He added: “Mr Keane picked me out and started telling me to see him outside. He was pointing to doors in the box.”The thug claimed he went inside the stadium to go to the toilet and encountered the ex-footballer, who then “collided into him”.Prosecutor Simon Jones KC asked: “Are you seriously saying that Roy Keane ran into the top of your head?”Law, who cried while being questioned, said: “I put my head down in a defensive manner to protect my face.”But the civil engineer was accused of “dramatically” changing his “ridiculous” defence from a prepared statement he gave police the next day.Law also told how he had been an Arsenal fan “from birth” as he described his season ticket as his most “prized possession”.Speaking after today’s verdict, Kevin Christie, Crown Prosecution Service London North Football Lead Prosecutor, said: “This gratuitous and senseless act of violence was completely unacceptable.READ MORE SUN STORIES“When anyone attends a football match, either to work or to support a team, they should be able to feel safe and secure in that environment.“The Crown Prosecution Service works in close partnership with the police to ensure that all perpetrators of violence at football grounds are brought to justice.”Keane was forced to deny he glorified in his hardman image while giving evidenceCredit: Paul EdwardsMicah Richards meanwhile was accused of being the ex-footballer’s ‘puppy’Credit: PA More

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      Cops link tear gas mugging of Spurs star Bissouma with attack on tennis ace Sebastian Korda after chilling clues emerge

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      FRENCH police are linking the robbery of Spurs player Yves Bissouma with a near-identical attack on American tennis ace Sebastian Korda.Both stars had their £260,000 Richard Mille luxury watches snatched from their wrists by two men who disguised themselves with masks and motorbike helmets.Yves Bissouma of Tottenham Hotspur had his £260,000 watch stolen from himCredit: RexAmerican tennis ace Sebastian Korda also had his luxury Richard Mille watch snatched from his wristCredit: ReutersRobbers allegedly sprayed tear gas in Yves Bissouma’s face before taking his watchCredit: instagramThe Richard Mille RM 11-03 watch can be purchased online for £260,000It is feared that Bissouma, 27, and Korda, 23, were both tailed by an “expert gang” who worked out their movements before pouncing.An investigating source on the French Riviera said: “There are major similarities between the two attacks, which suggests they are linked.”Extreme violence was used in both cases, and the two men had their escapes perfectly planned in stolen cars.”Gangs are frequently after a specific type of luxury watch, and in this case very distinctive Richard Mille ones were the target.”More on Yves Bissouma theftBissouma lost his prestige timepiece early on Sunday morning after being tear-gassed outside the five-star Majestic Barriere hotel in the seaside resort of Cannes.His girlfriend also had three diamond rings ripped off her fingers by the two men, who originally asked the couple if they could pose for selfies alongside them.Korda, meanwhile, had his Richard Mille taken in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, close to Monaco two months ago.He was taking part in the Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament, which is sponsored by Swiss luxury watch company, Rolex. Most read in FootballHe was “thrown to the ground, before one man held him down, and the other snatched the watch,” a local police spokesman said.Both robberies are being investigated by prosecutors supported by judicial police, but nobody has yet been caught in either case.Yves Bissouma performs unbelievable tricks in Brighton training The second hand market for luxury watches is huge, with brands such as Richard Mille often selling for far more than their list price.This is because there is frequently a waiting list for new ones, and buyers do not want to wait.Watches are also very easy to smuggle around the world, meaning a watch that is stolen in the south of France can easily be dispatched to countries such as Russia or China.Gangs are known to study videos and pictures of celebrities wearing such watches before planning ruthless attacks.Bissouma, the Spurs midfielder, returned to England soon after Sunday’s attack, while Korda, currently ranked 27th best tennis player in the world, is also back in his home country of America.Footballers targetedLUXURY watch-owning Premier League stars have long been the target of home raids, with street gangs eyeing off expensive timepieces to buy drugs and pay off debts.
      Spurs star Yves Bissouma is pictured wearing a luxury watchCredit: instagramBissouma was attacked as he arrived at a luxury hotel in Cannes at the weekendCredit: instagramThe Tottenham star was outside Majestic Barriere hotel when he was muggedCredit: GettyTennis ace Sebastian Korda is pictured with his girlfriend Ivana NedvedCredit: Instagram/ivananedvedKorda had his Richard Mille taken in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, close to MonacoCredit: Alamy More

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      Bitter 50-year feud between two football clubs 200 miles apart with ‘lockdown’ youths fuelling new wave of hooliganism

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      TWO Football League clubs have formed an unlikely bitter feud stretching back 50 years – despite being 200 miles apart.Geography is the usually the predominant cause of a rivalry, with hatred instilled within fans from a young age.Cops broke up a brawl between youths ahead of the Coventry and Sunderland gameCredit: Channel 4A pitch invader is tackled by stewards after running onto the field with a flareCredit: Channel 4Sunderland fans clashing with police following their match with CoventryCredit: Channel 4Cops patrolling the Coventry and Sunderland gameBased hundreds of miles apart, Sunderland and Coventry City had an indifferent opinion of each other for much of their respective existences.But the two Football League clubs have maintained a deep hatred for each other since the final day of the 1976/77 season.The teams were not playing against each other, but were vying for safety in the top-flight of English football.As is customary on the final day, the games had been scheduled to kick off at the same time.Read more footballBut owing to traffic congestion outside Coventry’s Highfield Stadium, then director Jimmy Hill delayed the start of his club’s game by 15 minutes to allow fans of the home side time to make into the ground.Sunderland ultimately lost to Everton 2-0 on the day, with the result being broadcast mid-game for all to hear at Coventry.Coventry’s encounter with Bristol City subsequently petered out into a 2-2 draw with both sides knowing a point was enough to keep them up – and so little effort was made to score.It meant Sunderland were relegated out of the top-flight and would remain in the second division for three years.Most read in FootballFifty years later, the rivalry between the clubs remains just as intense.New Channel 4 documentary Football Cops follows police as they work to prevent outbreaks of violence at matches across England.Watch footballer punch rival in furious fit of rage as fans demand lifetime ban for moment of madnessThe series opener on Monday night showed Dedicated Football Officers (DFOs) fighting an uphill battle while patrolling Coventry and Sunderland fans during the 2022/23 season.But many leading the chaos weren’t born when the infamous incident occurred.Instead, police found themselves breaking up a group of youths brawling in a car park in close proximity to the ground.It comes as an expert warned a “lockdown generation” of youngsters are fuelling a return of hooliganism across Britain.Geoff Pearson, professor of law at the University of Manchester, has suggested older family members would usually set boundaries for acceptable behaviour when attending games.But he said boys stuck in lockdown had missed out on this step and are now rushing to stadiums together.He told MailOnline: “If you think of how fan communities work when you don’t have lockdowns, young fans go with family members, who at points will make interventions and draw the line about what is acceptable. “During lockdown these young fans were set at home. So you had a sudden rush of young, new fans rushing into stadiums at the same time.”Ahead of the fixture, DFOs had positioned themselves around local pubs to prevent away fans from entering.One officer told the show that away fans outnumbering home supporters in a pub is seen as “a big thing”.Cops also followed a group of 70 youths as they chanted expletive-filled songs before the match.Once inside the stadium, DFOs spotted a fan with a blue flare, who then sprinted onto the pitch waving it around.The man was subsequently arrested and handed a four-year football banning order.But the violence continued after the game as Sunderland fans became enraged and knocked down a barrier as they were taunted by Coventry supporters.It comes as football-related arrests have reached their highest level for nine years.The latest data shows there were 2,264 football-related arrests across the 2022/23 season.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere was also the highest number of new football banning orders for a decade, with 682 issued.The majority of banning orders were handed to men aged between 18 and 34, figures show.Then Coventry City manager Jimmy Hill signing autographs for young fans in August 1967Credit: GettyAmad Diallo of Sunderland scores the only goal during the match between Coventry and Sunderland at the Coventry Building Society Arena on February 25, 2023Credit: GettyPolice officers on the pitch during the disorder at West Brom vs Wolves in the FA Cup in JanuaryCredit: PAJonny Sunley (DFO Carlisle United), Stu Spencer “Cardio” (DFO Coventry City), Wayne Mitchell (National DFO UK Football Policing Unit), Jessy Sorrell (Operational Football Officer or “Spotter” Ipswich Town) and Rickie Wallbank (DFO Brrow AFC)Credit: Patch Dolan / Channel 4 More

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      ‘Gang posed as FANS wanting a selfie to lure Spurs star Yves Bissouma’ before stealing £260k watch in tear gas mugging

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      TOTTENHAM star Yves Bissouma was lured by a gang posing as fans wanting a selfie before he was tear gassed and mugged, police have revealed.The Spurs midfielder, 27, was robbed of his £260,000 Richard Mille luxury watch as he arrived at a French hotel with his girlfriend in the early hours of Sunday morning.Spurs midfielder Yves Bissouma had his £26,000 Richard Mille watch stolen after being tear gassed and mugged by masked men posing as fansCredit: RexThe Mali international seen seen wearing one of the luxury watchesCredit: instagramBissouma is known to show off his impressive clothing and jewellery collectionCredit: InstagramThe Premier League midfielder pictured standing in front of his car wearing another of his luxury watchesCredit: InstagramTwo masked men also ripped three diamond rings off his unidentified partner fingers as they tried to check into the five-star Majestic Barriere hotel in Cannes at around 4am.Officers in the French Riviera resort described how the pair were confronted by the criminals, with Bissouma telling police he tried to take refuge inside the five-star property – but its doors were locked.”They were clearly part of a very well organised gang,” a local judicial police source said.”Both were waiting outside the hotel, and struck when the couple were dropped off by a chauffer-driven limousine at about 4am.Read more in Football”At first the men acted as is they want to pose for photographs with the star, but then it became clear they were wearing masks.”The couple tried to get into the hotel, but were confronted with a locked door, and then gas was sprayed in their faces.”A Richard Mille watch was taken, along with three diamond rings, before the men escaped in a Renault Megane.”Bissouma and his girlfriend were so shocked and dismayed by the attack that they returned to London within a few hours. Most read in FootballThey had been due to spend several days’ holiday at the French resort.A spokesperson for Tottenham told The Sun: “We are aware of the incident that took place and we will continue to check on the welfare of Yves and his family.”Newcastle’s £100m striker Alexander Isak’s mansion hit by gang of robbers in latest raid on Prem aces’ homesProsecutors in Cannes have opened a criminal enquiry into the robbery, while police and gendarmes try to find those responsible.They are hoping that some of the attack may have been captured on CCTV, along with the car’s number plate. The source said such attacks were increasingly common across France, and especially in upmarket towns such as Cannes in recent years, with over 30 incidents reported since January 2023.Two watches worth around £200,000 each were stolen during the annual Film Festival last month, which attracts celebrities from all over the world, and especially Hollywood. Brands such as Richard Mille, Patek Philippe and Rolex are targeted because they can easily be sold off for more than cost price on the secondary watch market.Bissouma was born in French-speaking Ivory Coast, but now represents Mali as an international. The shocking incident comes as a second major blow to the midfielder this year, having contracted malaria while on international duty in January during the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. READ MORE SUN STORIESBissouma spent four seasons with Brighton & Hove Albion, scoring six goals in 124 games, before Spurs paid £30million for him in 2022.The defensive midfielder also spent two seasons with French club Lille before moving to the UK.Recent footballers targeted by thieves
      By Tom Malley
      Alexander Isak – April 2024
      Newcastle forward Alexander Isak is one of the most recent footballers to be targeted by thieves after his luxury home was raided in April.
      Professional robbers struck the Swede’s luxury home just 48 hours before he played in the Toon’s 1-0 win at Fulham on April 5.
      It was not known whether Isak, 24, or any family were at home at the time but cops confirmed a car was stolen and later found abandoned three miles away from the property.
      Kevin Volland – February 2024
      Germany and Union Berlin striker Volland had his £150,000 watch stolen by a street performer whilst on a night out in Berlin in February.
      Volland had been celebrating Union Berlin’s 1-0 win over Hoffenheim alongside team-mate Jerome Roussillon when his watch was nabbed while he was distracted.
      Roussillon subsequently ran after the perpetrator and caught him before retrieving the watch.
      Joelinton – January 2024
      Like his Newcastle team-mate Isak, midfielder Joelinton was also the subject of a sickening home break-in when three burglars entered his mansion.
      The injured Brazilian had been watching his team take on Man City from the sidelines when he got an alert that thugs had entered his house.
      While at St James’ Park he immediately contacted the police who raced to the address in Northumberland, only to find the attackers had already fled.
      Jack Grealish – December 2023
      In December, Man City star Jack Grealish’s £5.6million Cheshire pad was raided by thieves while he was playing.
      His loved ones, including partner Sasha Attwood, were forced to take cover as cops rushed to the £5.6million home to avoid a potential hostage situation.
      The robbers made off with £1million worth of jewellery and watches, while Grealish’s family were left “really shaken” in the horror.

      Bissouma and his girlfriend were robbed outside the 5-star Majestic Barriere hotel in Cannes at around 4am on SundayCredit: GettyBissouma has since returned to England following Sunday’s attackCredit: RexThe former Brighton ace has already suffered one major setback this year when he caught malaria representing Mali at AFCON in the Ivory Coast in JanuaryCredit: Getty More

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      Spurs star Yves Bissouma sprayed with tear gas outside 5* French hotel before muggers make off with £260,000 watch

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      TOTTENHAM star Yves Bissouma has had his £260,000 watch stolen after brazen muggers sprayed tear gas in his face outside a five star hotel in France.The £30million midfielder and his wife were attacked as they arrived at a luxury hotel in Cannes at the weekend.Spurs midfielder Yves Bissouma was the subject of a vicious attack in France on SundayCredit: RexThe incident happened outside the 5-star Majestic Barriere hotel in Cannes at around 4amCredit: GettyThe Premier League midfielder previously wearing one of his luxury watchesCredit: InstagramBissouma is known to show off his impressive clothing and jewellery collectionCredit: InstagramTwo hooded men reportedly pounced on Bissouma, 27, as he got out of his car outside the Majestic Barriere hotel at around 4am on Sunday.The former Brighton star told police he tried to take refuge inside the five-star property, but its doors were locked.The robbers then allegedly sprayed tear gas in his face before ripping a £260,000 watch from his wrist.They made off in a car, leaving the player and his WAG shocked and dismayed.Read more in FootballFrench national police have opened an inquiry.The incident took place on the Promenade de la Croisette, up-market Cannes’ swankiest street.Bissouma and his partner returned to England later on Sunday.They had been due to spend several days’ holiday at the French resort.Most read in FootballA spokesperson for Tottenham told The Sun: “We are aware of the incident that took place and we will continue to check on the welfare of Yves and his family.”Joelinton’s mansion targeted by thieves as Newcastle winger calls cops after getting alert burglars were lurking in homeThe shocking incident is the second blow this year for the Mali international, who contracted malaria while on international duty in January.He caught the potentially fatal infection at the Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast, ironically the country of his birth.Bissouma spent four seasons with Brighton, scoring six goals in 124 games, before Spurs paid £30m for him in 2022.He has since made 56 appearances for the north Londoners.The midfielder spent two seasons with French club Lille before landing his move to Brighton.Watch thefts have plagued Cannes in recent years, with over 30 incidents reported since January 2023.Bissouma is just the latest footballer to be targeted by robbers following a spate of terrifying raids on star’s homes across England.Newcastle players Alexander Isak and Joelinton, England stars Jack Grealish and Raheem Sterling, and West Ham defender Kurt Zouma have all been victims of theft in the past 12 months.In 2023, there were five burglaries alone on the homes of footballers.Bissouma has since returned to England following Sunday’s attackCredit: RexThe midfielder has made 56 appearances for Spurs since joining for £30m from Brighton in 2022Credit: RexBissouma has already suffered one major setback this year when he caught malaria representing Mali at AFCON in the Ivory Coast in JanuaryCredit: GettyThis prompted the former boss of a national intelligence unit focused on series organised crime to issue a chilling warning.Supt Carl Williams suggested the gangs are scouring social media feeds to learn players’ timetables.He added: “In today’s world where many wealthy individuals are active on social media their significant public profile can help make them targets.“Their high-value possessions are often on display as well as information about their plans.”But the true reason behind the spate of high-end robberies could be even more sinister.It is feared the thieves, many of whom reside in Albania, are flying into the UK specifically to burgle Prem stars.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey will then flee the country – often wearing the stolen goods while going through airport security.Many of the stars have been targeted by “away day” looters who will strike when teams travel for their games.Recent footballers targeted by thieves
      By Tom Malley
      Alexander Isak – April 2024
      Newcastle forward Alexander Isak is one of the most recent footballers to be targeted by thieves after his luxury home was raided in April.
      Professional robbers struck the Swede’s luxury home just 48 hours before he played in the Toon’s 1-0 win at Fulham on April 5.
      It was not known whether Isak, 24, or any family were at home at the time but cops confirmed a car was stolen and later found abandoned three miles away from the property.
      Kevin Volland – February 2024
      Germany and Union Berlin striker Volland had his £150,000 watch stolen by a street performer whilst on a night out in Berlin in February.
      Volland had been celebrating Union Berlin’s 1-0 win over Hoffenheim alongside team-mate Jerome Roussillon when his watch was nabbed while he was distracted.
      Roussillon subsequently ran after the perpetrator and caught him before retrieving the watch.
      Joelinton – January 2024
      Like his Newcastle team-mate Isak, midfielder Joelinton was also the subject of a sickening home break-in when three burglars entered his mansion.
      The injured Brazilian had been watching his team take on Man City from the sidelines when he got an alert that thugs had entered his house.
      While at St James’ Park he immediately contacted the police who raced to the address in Northumberland, only to find the attackers had already fled.
      Jack Grealish – December 2023
      In December, Man City star Jack Grealish’s £5.6million Cheshire pad was raided by thieves while he was playing.
      His loved ones, including partner Sasha Attwood, were forced to take cover as cops rushed to the £5.6million home to avoid a potential hostage situation.
      The robbers made off with £1million worth of jewellery and watches, while Grealish’s family were left “really shaken” in the horror. More