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      Redditch United boss who took ‘immediate break from football’ facing cocaine and cannabis supply charges

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      A NON-league footie boss who took a surprise leave of absence from the touchline is facing cocaine and cannabis supply charges.Redditch United announced in February that Matt Clarke, 50, would be having an “immediate break from football for personal reasons”.Redditch United manager Matt Clarke is facing cocaine and cannabis supply charges after the club announced his ‘break from football’ in FebruaryCredit: Redditch UnitedBut it has emerged he appeared at Hereford magistrates’ court with two co-defendants over the drugs allegations on Valentine’s Day.He also faced a charge of possessing an offensive weapon in a public place when indicted at Worcester crown court last month.Clarke, of Bromsgrove, Worcs, will appear again on May 7 for a plea and trial preparation hearing. The Southern Football League Premier Division club’s statement on Clarke’s hiatus came two weeks after the offences are alleged to have taken place on February 13.READ MORE BEAUTIFUL GAMEIt said at the time it “anticipates it to be a short break”.Former right back Clarke played for West Bromwich Albion and Wolves as a youngster.He later joined Kidderminster, Hereford and Telford United.Clarke managed Halesowen and Evesham before joining Redditch in 2020.Most read in FootballRedditch chairman David Faulkner gave “no comment” when asked if Clarke had been sacked or would ever return as manager.Thousands gather for pro-cannabis event in Hyde Park More

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      Cops raid Germany’s biggest slum ‘Zombieland’ in frantic bid to clean up hellhole ahead of England’s Euros visit

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      GERMAN cops raided Frankfurt’s ‘Zombieland’ drugs slum in a frantic bid to clean up the hellhole area before England’s Euros visit.Scores of officers descended on the crime-ravaged Bahnhofsviertel district – two days after The Sun revealed how clueless UEFA recommended it as a base for thousands of travelling Three Lions fans.Cops descended on crime-ravaged Bahnhofsviertel district in FrankfurtCredit: BILD FotoserviceThe operation saw cops in bulletproof vests storm the area, arresting dozens of dealersCredit: BILD FotoserviceThe dangerous area in Frankfurt is plagued by ‘zombie’ drug addictsCredit: Dan CharityThe streets are packed with 5,000 shuffling junkies and 300 dealersCredit: Dan CharityFrankfurt’s railway station area is known as the “most dangerous slum in Germany” – with its streets packed with 5,000 junkies and 300 dealers.The no-go zone is so dangerous that kids are escorted to schools and even road sweepers receive police protection.Officials in the city are desperate to clear up the district before Euro 2024 kicks off in two months – with England playing Denmark on June 20.The major operation last Wednesday saw cops in bulletproof vests storm the station district, arresting dozens of dealers.more on Euro 2024 Pictures show suspects pinned to the ground while having their bags searched for drugs and weapons during the hours-long raid.Others were patted down against walls and were ordered to take off their shoes to check for concealed bags of crack cocaine.,Dozens were said to have been handcuffed and arrested – with local brothels also raided by cops.According to German newspaper Bild, more than 10,000 people have had their details checked by cops in the station area since February.Most read in Euro 2024Five Euros clashes will be played in Frankfurt – and most football fans will arrive at Frankfurt Central Station in the heart of the drugs slum.The Sun revealed last week how tournament organiser UEFA had used its official tournament app to suggest fans STAY in the dangerous district for the crucial group tie with Denmark.Adidas unveil Germany Euro 2024 kitHalf of all the crimes in million-strong Frankfurt are committed on just three streets in the station district – with four violent attacks taking place every day.The area is SO packed with dangerous drug addicts, US companies have banned their employees from walking along them.Politicians have described the violent area – riddled with traditional drugs like heroin and cocaine but also zombifying crystal meth – as “the open wound of Frankfurt”Cornelia Bensinger from the Pro Altstadt association said: “You almost have to be ashamed to be from Frankfurt  And now the gateway to the city looks like Harlem in the 1970s.”The crackdown by cops comes as authorities race to clean up the district, recommended by UEFA as a place for fans to stay.The footballing governing body was condemned by fans after official advice describing Behnhofsviertel as “an especially appealing choice if you’re considering trips to explore the city or its surroundings.”Addicts make no attempt to disguise their drug use on the streetCredit: Dan CharityHeroin and cocaine had been the traditional drugs of choice for addicts in the areaCredit: Dan CharityThe area has been branded ‘the most dangerous slum in Germany’Credit: Dan CharityHalf of all the crimes in Frankfurt are committed on just three streets in the areaCredit: Dan CharityIt is so bad that road sweepers are given police protectionCredit: Dan CharityThe area went downhill during the pandemic when businesses and bars closedCredit: Dan CharityUefa earmarked hotels for tens of thousands of Three Lions supporters attending games at the Deutsche Bank Park stadium, pictured, home of Eintracht Frankfurt More

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      I was a Premier League star who played more than 500 games – but now I’m a COP armed with gun & driving fast cars

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      A PREMIER League star who has more than 500 games under his belt is now an armed cop who enforces the law.The 54-year-old made a half-century of appearances for five different English clubs across his career from 1995 to 2008.A former Premier League star has left football behind for a life as a copCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe Dutch former star now spends his days solving crimes and catching crooksCredit: YouTubeThe defender competing for the ball against Thierry Henry back in 2004Credit: GettyBut the Dutch footballer has since returned back to his native country as a police officer specialising in forensics.The ex-Prem defender now spends his time catching crooks instead of chasing down strikers.Arjan de Zeeuw, who is best known in England for his spell at Wigan Athletic, has even claimed that his new job is filled with “fast cars and guns”.In a 2020 podcast hosted by his former Latics team-mate Emmerson Boyce, De Zeeuw revealed that he is now living a “boys’ dream”. Read More in FootballHe said: “I still work with the Dutch police force, believe it not as an inspector, or detective as you call it.”Having a medical degree, my first idea was to become a doctor, but at the time the Dutch police were looking for people with higher education to do a fast-track course into the police force.”It sounded a little bit like a boys’ dream – being in fast cars and having a gun and all that stuff and I realised it was still going to take me a long time to become a doctor, whereas it was a much quicker route into the police force.”He continued: “I realised that I loved playing football so much that I didn’t not want to play it and be on the side of the pitch all the time.Most read in Football”I realised I didn’t want to be on the football pitch not playing football, so I thought no, I’m not going to do all the badges and go into management.”I’m just going to get completely out of football altogether.”De Zeeuw hung up his boots in 2009 with ADO ’20 after making a mere 12 appearances. I’m a former Premier League striker but now I’m a COP – I spend my days solving crimes & catching crooksHis stint at Coventry City the year before didn’t quite pan out due to nagging injuries preventing him from securing a regular spot in the Championship side.De Zeeuw is also still into football and manages Vitesse 22 in the Dutch non-league.Back in 2005 he earned a stunning tribute from the then-British Prime Minister Tony Blair.Newcastle fan Blair went on the BBC’s Football Focus to pick out three Prem players – England striker Teddy Sheringham, Fulham stylist Steed Malbranque and De Zeeuw.Blair lasted another two years as PM while the Dutchman carried on playing until 2009, bowing out after a season with Dutch side ADO’20.And Blair said of him: “He’s really strong, never gives up. I could do with him at the whips’ office!”However, before starting his playing career, he completed a degree in medical science, which he is now putting to use in his investigative work.Police work is like football, it’s still very much a team effort.”Arjan De Zeuuw, 54In 2014, he told BBC Sport: “I was looking at something else other than football.”I’ve been in football that long and I thought I just need to look at the world a bit more.”So I tried to get back into my medical studies and I bumped into a friend of mine who was a detective in Alkmaar, where we are now.”Arjan continued: “It’s challenging. The good thing is it’s like football, it’s still very much a team effort.”You’ll hardly ever solve a crime on your own.”However, despite leaving the beautiful game behind as a career, he’s still joined up with the force’s team, who he generously described as “energetic”.He joked: “You have to be careful for your legs with these.”On top of that, he plays for the police’s national team, who qualified for the European final that year.Discussing how his footie skills have kept up, he chuckled: “I’m lacking a bit of speed and a little bit of touch, but the competitive edge is still there.”It’s possible he was just being modest though as he also recalled how his training came in handy when chasing down a suspect.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe ex-Prem defender outlasted him for stamina and made the arrest.He laughed: “I had enough pace to keep up.”Former football stars with interesting jobs
      Mathieu Flamini
      Arsenal’s combative midfielder Flamini, 40, went from pro footballer to environmental entrepreneur as co-founder of GF Biochemicals.
      The company is estimated to be worth £21billion thanks to its ability to mass-produce levulinic acid, which is a fuel made from plant waste that can be used in the creation of plastics.
      Asamoah Gyan
      Better known for his stunning 51-goal haul for Ghana than his two-year spell at Sunderland, the World Cup semi-finalist is on course for a very comfortable retirement.
      Gyan’s business ventures in airlines, real estate, bottled water, boxing promotion, petrol stations and rice and noodles means his net worth is about £17million.
      Robbie Fowler
      Liverpool’s goalscoring legend hung up his shooting boots seven years ago but had already been building a sustainable income away from football long before then.
      He is involved in horse-racing and has owned a sports promotion company since the 1990s.
      But real estate is where Fowler shines as he reportedly owns more than 100 properties and has a net worth of more than £30m.
      Thomas Gravesen
      The Danish hardman delighted Everton fans with his take-no-prisoners approach on the pitch but stopped playing at the age of 32.
      He went on to amass a tidy fortune through clever investments and then boosted his pot up to £100m through poker winnings in Las Vegas. 
      Gravesen, 48, now works back in Denmark as a TV pundit.

      De Zeuuw says he still enjoys playing football from time to timeCredit: BBCDe Zeuuw made over 500 appearances for five different English clubs between 1995 and 2008Credit: Getty More

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      ISIS issues chilling threat to Euro 2024 as German cops bust four teen terror suspects planning molotov & knife rampage

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      GERMAN police have arrested a warped cell of four teenage terror suspects planning an ISIS rampage with knives and molotov cocktails.It comes as security officials prepare for a possible ISIS attack on the Euro games in Germany this summer.Germany is on high alert ahead of ISIS threats to this summer’s EurosCredit: AlamyArmed cops outside a stadium in GermanyCredit: GettyA twisted ISIS poster shows an armed terrorist about to exit a German trainCredit: ISISA packed stadium in Dortmund, Germany this weekCredit: GettyFour young boys and girls were arrested near Dusseldorf by police after they discovered the group’s horrific plans, Bild reports.Investigators were appalled to find the teens, aged just 15-16, were in possession of a machete and dagger and were texting on a group chat about attacking German cities.Just days ago ISIS issued a disturbing threat to the Champions League matches held in London, Madrid and Paris.It’s warped PR arm sent out a poster which read “kill them all”, sparking major security operations at each stadium.A mammoth security operation was launched across Europe with armed cops, prowling bomb dogs and elite anti-terror units.While the games went ahead without a hitch, security officials in Germany have now been placed on high alert ahead of this summer’s major championship games.ISIS magazine Voice of Khorasan released a particularly disturbing issue filled with calls to action for extremists around the world.German officials believe they were directed at the upcoming UEFA tournament, Bild reports.Most read in FootballChilling graphics inside the publication included one of a terrorist holding a gun, kitted out in camouflage gear and poised to exit a German train.Next to him are signs that read: “Welcome to Europe” and “Last call before exit”.On the seat in front of him is a box of explosives.SITE Intelligence, which monitors global terrorist activity, also reported a pro-ISIS cell calling for drone strikes on the Champions League stadiums this week.An ISIS graphic showed a drone flying over the Madrid stadium with the caption: “If they constrict and oppress you on the ground, then strike them from the sky”.Text in the terrifying magazine reads: “Run over the kuffar (non-believers) with your vehicle, stab them with knives, fill their food with poison, blow out their brains with bullets, and set their houses on fire.”German officials believe ISIS-K, who carried out Europe’s deadliest Islamic extremist attack in Moscow just weeks ago, have a significant presence in Europe.They reportedly have a network of more than 100 agents in western Europe with 50 in Germany alone.One security official told Bild: “(This propaganda piece) shows that the ISPK absolutely wants to carry out sensational attacks, no matter how and by whom. “To this end, all potential attackers, including self-radicalised individual perpetrators, so-called lone wolves, are now being called upon to carry out attacks.”Some of the recent ISIS messaging has been aimed at young people in particular – like those in Germany this week.READ MORE SUN STORIESDortmund, Dusseldorf and Cologne were all floated as possible locations for the disturbing teen attack but no ironclad plan came of it before their arrest.The current terror threat level in Germany assumes an attack is “very likely”.Armed cops in London, Madrid and Paris were placed on high alert this week for the Championship League quarter-finals More

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      Neymar’s family gave Alves £130,000 to help get rape sentence SLASHED, lawyer reveals as disgraced star returns cash

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      DISGRACED footballer Dani Alves has returned £130,000 he borrowed from Neymar’s family to get his rape sentence slashed, his lawyer revealed.The former Barcelona full-back, 40, used the money to mitigate his sentence after he was convicted for raping a woman in a nightclub toilet.Dani Alves and his lawyer Ines Guardiola arriving at the Barcelona Courts this morningCredit: SplashGuardiola revealed that Alves returned thousands of Euros borrowed from Neymar’s familyCredit: SplashNeymar and Alves had been friends for years, pictured here during their time at PSGCredit: AP:Associated PressThe Al-Hilal star and his family helped Alves with a six-figure assistanceCredit: @neymarjr/CENAlves spent just four weeks of his sentence behind bars after his rape conviction – stumping up £850,000 to be released on bail.He has now returned €150,000 (£128,000) he had borrowed from Neymar to mitigate his sentence.The footballer’s lawyer, Inés Guardiola, told Brazilian paper Folha de S. Paulo he used the amount as a “mitigation to repair the damage caused”. The money was an attempt to get Alves’ prison time cut in half, but it is not known how much the compensation influenced the sentence.Read more on Dani AlvesGuardiola added that, as his assets in Brazil were blocked, Alves asked pals to help hand over the money to court. One of the helping hands was the Al-Hilal star.”Dani Alves returned the €150,000 to Neymar a week ago,” she said on Wednesday.A helping handNeymar’s dad had previously opened up about helping Alves with a six-figure assistance, saying it was “a burden he preferred to have”.Neymar Santos Sr told CNN: “The family asked us for help. Daniel didn’t have the money to defend himself, and the deadline for paying the defense was expiring.Most read in Football”Think about it, at no time could I deny help to a friend who is trying to defend himself against an accusation.”It is understood the amount provided was around $164,000 (£131,000), EssentiallySports reports.Moment rapist Dani Alves walks FREE from prison just weeks into his 4.5-year sentence after paying €1m bailNeymar da Silva Santos Sr released an 11-word statement after refusing to pay Dani Alves’ bailCredit: AFPDani Alves leaving jail in March after serving just four weeks of his sentenceThe disgraced footballer has been coming to court every weekCredit: SplashNeymar Sr added: “Daniel is in pre-trial detention and has not been tried.”To date, the presumption of innocence is valid throughout the world. I couldn’t turn my back… What if the court decides that Daniel is innocent?”I preferred having the burden of believing in a friend than turning my back on someone.”There is still no confirmation of who paid the player’s bail to be provisionally released.But Neymar’s dad was quick to shut down claims he was all but ready to assist Alves and pay for the hefty bail price.He issued a brutal 11-word statement confirming he refused to pay the convicted rapist’s £850,000 bail.Neymar Santos Sr said in a family statement: “For us, for my family, this matter is over. Full stop.”It continued: “With the Spanish court ruling for his conviction, there’s speculation and an attempt to associate my name and my son’s to a matter that is not within our reach any longer.”Before adding that Neymar Sr hopes Alves “can find all the answers he looks for in his own family”.Beast’s ‘comeback’After being spotted arriving in court trying to go incognito, Alves is now hoping for a shocking football comeback, it has been claimed.Looking to restore his public image, he wants to eventually make a shocking comeback to the sport, El Pais reports.Spanish journalist Jesus Garcia Bueno, who has covered the case extensively, claims that he doesn’t expect to return as a player on the field itself.He was freed from prison near Barcelona in March on bail after serving a few weeks of his four-and-a-half year sentence.Alves is reportedly spending most of his time hunkering down in his £4m Spanish home with estranged wife Joana Sanz.But the former footballer did recently visit a high-end Barcelona hotel, enjoying wagyu beef steak with a friend, El Periodico reports.The pair reportedly dined on a variety of expensive dishes from the steakhouse restaurant as Alves spoke to press about his parole terms.Alves told a reporter he has to “play a game” in court during weekly appearances while on bail.He said: “It’s what I have to do. Every Friday I go to court and that’s it. I don’t have much else to do either.”The game I have to play is in the courts.”The 40-year-old also boasted about his experience in prison, saying “Wherever I go I survive”.”I adapt to everything because for me it is not the place that makes the person, but the person that makes the place,” he went on.READ MORE SUN STORIESStruggling financially since losing his income and hefty sponsorship, the shamed footballer does not expect football clubs or companies to return even if he is acquitted, El Pais reports.It is not clear exactly in what role he plans to return to the world of professional football.Alves playing for Barcelona two years ago in SpainCredit: GettyDani Alves and his on-off wife Joana Sanz pictured in 2021Credit: Getty More

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      Top anti-terror unit packing shotguns & battering rams deployed to PSG v Barcelona Champions League QF after ISIS threat

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      FRANCE’S most elite anti-terrorist unit has been drafted in for tonight’s Champions League clash in Paris following ISIS’ threat to attack the game.The heavily-armed specialist officers from the Research and Intervention Brigade (BRI) are being deployed to guard the Paris Saint-Germain versus Barcelona quarter-final.France’s elite cops – the BRI – specialise in counter-terrorism in the capitalCredit: AFPParis has drafted in the shotgun-wielding unit in to protect footie fans in the wake of ISIS’ warped threat to attack the PSG versus Barcelona gameCredit: AFPISIS launched threats on Monday against the four stadiums that will host the first leg of the quarter-finals of the Champions LeagueA highly-placed Interior Ministry source in Paris said: “Officers from the BRI, under the jurisdiction of the Paris Police Prefecture, will support the police deployed inside the Parc des Princes perimeter.”But the deployment of the fearsome BRI – who usually arrive armed to the teeth with battering rams on standby – shows how seriously France is taking ISIS’ threats on their stadium.It follows threats made by an Afghanistan-based splinter cell of the Islamic State, the so-called ISIS-K, against four stadiums in London, Madrid and Paris who are hosting the quarter-final matches this week.ISIS-K claimed responsibility for the barbaric Moscow terror attack at Crocus City Hall on March 22 that left 144 dead – which sparked France to raise its threat level to the highest.read more on isisWhile the Arsenal versus Bayern Munich match at the Emirates Stadium passed off peacefully last night, the French will be significantly “reinforcing” its existing security operation at the Parc des Princes.The BRI was originally created to deal with violent gangs in the 1960s, but began to focus on terrorist groups in 2015, following the murderous ISIS attacks on Paris.Suicide bombers claimed 130 lives, and wounded hundreds of others, in a lethal night of violence that started at the Stade de France, where the France football team were playing Germany.Referring to today’s game, a Paris police source said: “Beyond anti-terrorism units, there will be up to 500 officers in and around the Parc des Princes.Most read in Football”They will be supported by a range of security devices, including drones, as well as intelligence agencies.”The decision to step up security was made during crunch talks last night as Paris authorities discussed the threats made by ISIS and how to adjust their security proportionally.Spanish cops activate ‘all alert systems’ after ISIS threat to Real Madrid vs Man City Champions League quarter finalOn Monday night, ISIS posted sinister messages on social media saying it will target the quarter-final involving PSG and Barcelona.One graphic poster depicted an ISIS fighter standing by the Parc des Princes over the message “kill them”.PSG has also reported cyber attacks on its ticketing system over the past two days.This raises the fear that terrorists are attempting to gain access to the stadium, which holds 48,000 people, the police source said.The Parc des Princes stadium can seat 50,000 football fansCredit: GettyThe BRI could also deploy their squad of camera robots to bolster their security effortsCredit: AFPA police source said that Paris would be using dogs, drones and other specialist equipment to police tonight’s match as well as an extra 500 officersCredit: AFPINSIDE THE SECURITY OPYesterday, police in Madrid and Paris were busy ramping up their security ahead of the quarter-final matches.France’s interior minister, Gérald Darmanin, warned the security around today’s match between PSG and Barcelona was being “considerably reinforced”.Chris Phillips, a security expert and former police officer, told The Sun that the security op will stretch beyond stadiums to city centres and busy transport hubs.After ISIS singled out the game locations, he said armed cops will be on the lookout for trouble at “train stations, bus stations, even airports” which he says will be “an easier target”.He added that at-risk areas in London, Paris and Madrid will likely be crawling with “firearms officers” as well as sniffer bomb dogs to deter any terror threat.Spain also deployed 2,000 extra police officers to guard the Real Madrid versus Man City last night at the Santiago Bernabeu, despite maintaining its terror alert remained at four out of five.Meanwhile, the Met Police said on Tuesday they had a “robust policing plan” for the Emirates on Tuesday but the “substantial” threat level remains unchanged.Ahead of the first leg of the Gunners’ last-eight tie against Bayern Munich, security specialist Will Geddes said a “multi-layered” plan would have been formed.Geddes, who has previously worked with a number of Premier League clubs on their security, told The Sun extra canine teams, spotters and counter-terrorism cops would likely be brought in to bolster the security op.The ISIS threats were posted by the Al Azaim Foundation, a media channel responsible for disseminating messages from ISIS-K group.The resurgent faction ISIS-K – a warped army of barbaric fanatics that even terrify the Taliban.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe “K” refers to the historical region of Greater Khorasan, which included parts of Iran, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.One of the most active regional affiliates of the Islamic State militant group, ISIS-K’s membership peaked in 2018 before declining – but now appears to be resurging.Real Madrid fans show their support as their team faced off Manchester City at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu last nightCredit: GettySpain said it would be deploying an extra 2,000 officers to guard the Santiago Bernabeu stadiumCredit: GettyFrance’s BRI at workCredit: AFP More

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      Europe on alert over ISIS threat to Champions League including Arsenal match as Madrid & Paris stadiums under guard

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      EUROPE is on guard following ISIS’s threat towards the four stadiums hosting Champions League quarter-final matches this week – including the Emirates Stadium in London.The Islamic State revealed a sinister poster on Monday night that included the names of the four high-capacity venues and a message that read: “Kill them all”.ISIS launched a threat against the four stadiums that will host the first leg of the quarter-finals of the Champions LeagueCredit: TwitterSpanish authorities have already taken drastic measures in the event of a fresh attack by doubling down on their security presenceCredit: GettyMore than 2,000 agents from the National Police and the Civil Guard will be present at the Santiago Bernabeu for Real Madrid vs Man City tonightCredit: GettyArsenal host Bayern Munich tonight as Manchester City travel to face Real Madrid, while Wednesday sees Atletico Madrid play Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain welcome Barcelona.Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, Real’s Santiago Bernabeu, Atletico’s Metropolitano Stadium and PSG’s Parc de Princes are all on high alert.The Met Police said today they have a “robust policing plan” for Arsenal’s match against Bayern Munich. They said the UK terrorism threat level remains at ‘substantial’ meaning an attack is likely. Read more on ISISArsenal have also released a statement, saying tonight’s fixture will be “no different” from normal.The club said: “We work closely with the Metropolitan Police regarding the safety and security of all supporters and staff at Emirates Stadium for all our matches.”It comes amid fears of a resurgent ISIS after the group killed more than 140 people in a terrorist attack in Moscow last month.The death cult appears to be rising again as chaos spills out from the Middle East.Most read in Champions LeagueBut despite the threats, UEFA have confirmed that this week’s Champions League matches will take place as planned.A statement issued on Tuesday read: “Uefa is aware of alleged terrorist threats made towards this week’s Uefa Champions League matches and is closely liaising with the authorities at the respective venues.“All matches are planned to go ahead as scheduled with appropriate security arrangements in place.”Spain has already activated “all alert systems” ahead of Real Madrid vs Manchester City and Atletico Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund in the capital on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively.The Santiago Bernabeu holds more than 80,000 spectators, while Atletico’s Metropolitano has a capacity of 70,460.More than 1,270 security guards are set to be deployed in Madrid as part of heightened security responses to the ISIS threat, La Vanguardia report.Spanish police will stretch their operation into Wednesday’s game between Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in the capitalCredit: GettySpanish police outside the Santiago BernabeuCredit: AFPThere are fears of another terrorist attack after gunmen killed more than 140 people in Moscow last monthHead of The Ministry of the Interior, Fernando Grand-Marlaska, said: “In terms of preventing the terrorist threat, the State Security Forces and Bodies have activated all their early warning and protection systems, as well as all their response mechanisms ready and willing.” He added that all pertinent initiatives have been adopted to guarantee the safety of both the participants and attendees of the sporting event and the Spanish citizenry as a whole, local media report.That includes more than 2,000 agents from the National Police and the Civil Guard, who will be joined by members of the Municipal Police.The response from Spanish authorities has been conducted in line with the Anti-Terrorism Prevention, Protection and Response Plan for the current level 4 out of 5 anti-terrorist alert.Also taking place tonight is Arsenal’s highly-anticipated clash with Bayern Munich in the capital.The Met Police said it has a ‘robust policing plan’ in place for the game at the 60,704-capacity Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan, overseeing the policing of London today, said: “The UK terrorism threat level remains at ‘substantial’ meaning an attack is likely. Manchester City fans have already arrived in Plaza Mayor in MadridCredit: PAPolice are on alert in the Spanish capital following the threatsCredit: PACity take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday nightCredit: GettyThe match is one of four quarter-final first legs taking place this weekCredit: GettyCity fans snapped up over 3,800 tickets for their trip to face Real MadridCredit: PASupporters are hoping to see their side continue their Champions League defenceCredit: PA”We work closely with colleagues from across Counter Terrorism Policing in planning for events here in London, to take into account any relevant information that could help us to keep those attending safe.”We’re aware of online and media reports in relation to calls to target matches across Europe and here in London. “However, I want to reassure the public that we have a robust policing plan in place for tonight’s match and we continue to work closely alongside the club’s security team to ensure that the match passes peacefully.“As ever, we ask the public to remain vigilant, and if they see any that doesn’t look or feel right, then report it to police or security staff.”Security will also be stepped up for PSG’s clash with Barcelona in Paris on Wednesday.A French Interior Ministry source told The Sun: “Security will be enforced to counter any threats.”Specialist anti-terrorist teams will be in place, along with soldiers outside the ground.”The Return of ISISISIS’s infamous black flag is feared to be rising once again – with the attack on the Moscow hall being one of their bloodiest since they were defeated in the Middle East.
      The terrorist groups attacks sparked horror around the world for years – and their violent videos showing beheadings, burnings and other executions shocked society to its core.
      But it is feared that following on from the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan and the crisis in the Middle East following the October 7 massacre, the group is gathering strength.
      US General Joel Vowell – who leads America’s efforts abroad to squash ISIS – warned that the threat of a suspected attack has risen 200 per cent in the last three months.
      He has headed the ten year US-led coalition Operation Inherent Resolve against ISIS, which saw Western troops stationed in Iraq and Syria – two hotbeds of the terror group’s activity.
      In January he met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to talk about removing US troops from Iraq – but instead issued a disturbing message.
      The Middle East expert explained that ISIS cells have been rallying their forces in the background, “in Syria and Iraq in the last 60 days in particular”.
      Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist extremist movement, launched a brutal attack on Israel’s border in the early hours of October 7 2023 dubbed Israel’s “9/11” – killing over 1200 people.
      Extremist Islamist groups including the Houthis and Hezbollah have aimed attacks at the US and the UK, citing support of Israel – because of their war against Hamas.
      Professor Anthony Glees told The Sun that the Western world now faces threats “from all sides”, and that the fight against Hamas, the Houthis and Hezbollah shouldn’t detract from efforts to protect ourselves from older terrorist threats like ISIS.
      “I absolutely think we are being assailed from all sides. That makes us vulnerable. And when you’re vulnerable, you get bullied and attacked.”
      The security expert also told The Sun that he “absolutely” thinks it’s possible that we could be looking at a new wave of a terrorist threat like those seen over the last 20 years.
      The raging threat of terror groups like Hamas, the Houthis and Hezbollah could be combined with attacks by organisations like ISIS on UK soil.
      Ex-US General Ben Hodges said: “The UK is in a pre war environment. That means war is coming.”
      Met Police commissioner Mark Rowley warned this time last year that Britain that the UK has tens of thousands of potential terrorists hiding in plain sight.
      Sir Rowley warned that they were on the security services radar, and would need just a “spark” to act on their extremist beliefs.
      Glees told The Sun that the events of October 7 and the ensuing war has “provided that spark”.
      He said: “I think what has happened since the seventh of October, has, in a sense, provided a spark.”
      Glees “absolutely” thinks the threat of a terror attack on British soil has been increased.
      He warned that while we have a nuclear deterrent, which could be used to ward off certain enemies, it won’t prevent more conventional attacks like those that might come from a terrorist organisation like ISIS.

      There will be some 500 ordinary police alone securing the game, and these will be swelled by an unspecified number of specialist units, including military ones. PSG has also reported cyber attacks on its ticketing system over the past two days. This raises the fear that terrorist are attempting to gain access to the stadium, said the Interior Ministry source. France has already increased its security alert rating to the highest level after ISIS claimed responsibility for the deadly attack on Crocus City Hall in Moscow last month.It resembled the November 2015 attacks on Paris, when ISIS operatives struck across the city, killing 130 people, and wounding hundreds of others.The night of violence started with an attack on the Stade de France, when suicide bombers hit an international match between France and Germany.England fans have already been warned over new terrorism threats ahead of this summer’s Euro 2024 in Germany.READ MORE SUN STORIESGerman Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the Islamist attack in Moscow has raised “dangers to a new level”, with drastic steps being taken already.That includes a plan to temporarily close borders and ramp up frontier checks, while British police will also make the journey to help bolster ranks in the host country.Arsenal are in action on Tuesday when they take on Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium in North LondonCredit: PA:Press AssociationAtletico Madrid’s welcome Borussia Dortmund to the 70,000-seater Metropolitano Stadium on WednesdayCredit: GettyFrench police are also stepping up their proceedings when PSG face Barcelona at the Parc de Princes in ParisCredit: Rex More

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      England fans at Euros told by Uefa to book hotels on street with zombie drug addicts in ‘Germany’s biggest slum’

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      CLUELESS football bosses are advising England fans at the Euros in Germany to stay in an area plagued by violent drug addicts dubbed “zombies”.Uefa have earmarked hotels in Frankfurt’s railway station area, or Bahnhofsviertel, as the base for tens of thousands of Three Lions supporters.England fans have been urged to stay in areas of Frankfurt plagued by ‘zombie’ addictsCredit: Dan CharityAddicts make no attempt to disguise their drug use on the streetCredit: Dan CharityThe area has been branded ‘the most dangerous slum in Germany’Credit: Dan CharityThe area is so bad that road sweepers are given police protectionCredit: Dan CharityBut it has been branded “the most dangerous slum in Germany” — with its streets packed with 5,000 shuffling junkies and 300 dealers.Heroin and cocaine had been the traditional drugs of choice, but crystal meth and a new crack cocaine mixture has hit the streets.A drug aid worker said: “It’s mixed together differently. It makes them angrier.”Günter Tauber, former head of the command and situation service of the city police, said: “Aggression is increasing sharply. This new mixture causes users to lose control and they become more aggressive than ever.”READ MORE ON EUROSThe area is so bad that road sweepers are given police protection, two schools have begged for a dedicated security force and US firms have told employees to take taxis even for short trips.Peter Postleb, adviser to the mayor when Frankfurt was a World Cup city in 2006, said pimps and dealers were indiscriminate and would attack even in broad daylight next to packed cafes.The security consultant told The Sun: “I don’t think it’s OK of Uefa to make a recommendation for fans to stay in this area.“Passers-by walking through the Bahnhofsviertel have been robbed and threatened.Most read in Euro 2024“Crack users who take it for a long time, they all have some kind of damage in their psyche and are very aggressive.He added: “Situations can quickly escalate. As a passer-by, you ­unfortunately quickly come into conflict with the scene, which has become very aggressive. You are harassed and pushed.”UEFA Euro 2024: The glamorous life of WAGsMr Postleb said the area went downhill during the pandemic when businesses and bars closed, allowing more space for junkies and dealers to move in.He added: “Police are very aware of the problem. They have been carrying out raids recently, big raids, and the whole of Bahnhofsviertel has been cordoned off.“I have no doubt they will step it up before the tournament.”But they face a race against time — with Harry Kane and his teammates facing Denmark in a crucial group tie on June 20.Uefa advice tells fans: “You’ll discover a variety of accommodation in close proximity to the Central Station or throughout the entire Bahnhofsviertel area.The streets are packed with 5,000 shuffling junkies and 300 dealersCredit: Dan CharityThe area went downhill during the pandemic when businesses and bars closedCredit: Dan Charity“From here, you can easily and conveniently access other key transportation hubs within the city.“This makes Bahnhofsviertel an especially appealing choice if you’re considering trips to explore the city or its surroundings.”DAYTIME GUN FIGHTYet half of all the crimes in Frankfurt are committed on just three streets in the area, with four violent attacks every day.One video shows a man being shot during a daytime gun fight. In another, a pedestrian is knocked out with a single punch, then robbed of his wallet and possessions while he is sprawled on the ground.James Monks, organiser of the England Supporters Club’s West Midlands branch, has followed the official advice and booked a room in the area.The Wolves fan, 31, fumed: “It seems an odd decision from Uefa to recommend fans stay in such a dangerous area. I do wonder if Uefa executives will base themselves in Bahnhofsviertel!“Hopefully the authorities will clean up the area in time but it doesn’t sound good.“I just hope the thousands of England fans travelling to Germany remain safe.”It seems an odd decision from Uefa to recommend fans stay in such a dangerous area.Newcastle United fan David Airey, 39, a member of the England Supporters Travel Club, said: “Uefa must rectify their guidance immediately. As someone travelling to the Euros with my young son, it is worrying that Uefa are offering guidance without fully doing their research first.“Their naivety in this situation could put unsuspecting fans and families in danger. The first they realise there may be problems could be when they arrive.“By this time, it will almost certainly be too late to book somewhere else that is either available or not extortionately priced.”Politicians have described the area as “the open wound of Frankfurt”.Half of all the crimes in Frankfurt are committed on just three streets in the areaCredit: Dan CharityHeroin and cocaine had been the traditional drugs of choiceCredit: Dan CharityCornelia Bensinger, from the Pro Altstadt association, said: “The gateway to the city looks like ­Harlem in the 1970s.”A spokesman for the city said they would need until the end of the week to respond.But Frankfurt Chief Supt Björn Thies insisted: “The Frankfurt police are on duty around the clock in the Frankfurt railway station area with numerous police officers from various departments, both in uniform and in civilian clothes.“In addition to the daily presence, large-scale checks are carried out at regular intervals.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUefa said: “Accommodation options indicated on the event guide are aligned with the host ­cities and reflect the offers provided on all major accommodation booking platforms.“For any updates and further information, we also refer fans who plan to travel to Germany to the respective tourism pages of the respective cities or regions.”Uefa earmarked hotels in Frankfurt’s railway station area as the base for tens of thousands of Three Lions supportersCredit: GettyHarry Kane and his teammates face Denmark in a crucial group tie on June 20Credit: Getty More