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      in Soccer

      Inside West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen & Dani Dyer’s fairytale romance as ‘proposal expected any day now’… with Danny’s blessing

      by

      FINDING a partner your parents approve of is hard enough – but it’s almost impossible when you’re the daughter of TV’s most famous hardman.Dani Dyer appears to have finally managed it, however, after settling down with West Ham United star Jarrod Bowen, who last night steered her dad Danny’s favourite team to their first trophy in over 40 years.
      Dani and Jarrod have enjoyed dates together at Ascot race course dressed to the ninesCredit: danidyer/Instagram
      Danny and Jarrod are firm friends and the actor is hoping the pair will get marriedCredit: Instagram
      Danny jokes he’s fallen even more in love with Jarrod, 26, than his daughter since the new parents met in 2021 and hilariously has even joined in with fans’ X-rated terrace chant: “Bowen’s on fire and he’s sh***ing Dani Dyer.”
      The EastEnders actor, 45, and footballer were pictured together with babes in arms two weeks ago after Dani, 26, gave birth to twins.
      And when Jarrod scored the winning goal to clinch the Europa Conference League title for West Ham this week, a delighted Danny shared a snap of his daughter’s man holding the trophy, captioned: “F****** perfect”.
      Now, insiders claim that Danny and his family are desperate for the winger to get down on one knee and make Dani – who also has a son, Santiago, with her ex Sammy Kimmence – a bride.
      Read More in Football
      Engagement ‘any day now’
      A source close to the couple said: “Everyone’s saying they’ll be engaged any day now. They’re a proper family – they’ve just moved into a new house together and both sides of the family love them as a couple.
      “It’s Dani’s dream to be married now she’s a mum of three – Jarrod has really stepped up as a dad to Santi and they’re so happy together.

      “All their friends are expecting an engagement announcement any day soon – she’d say yes in a flash. It’s something they’ve talked about a lot.”
      The couple met not long after Dani’s former long-term boyfriend Kimmence was jailed for swindling pensioners out of thousands of pounds – leaving her to cope as a single mum.
      Most read in Football
      Previously, the TV star shot to fame thanks to her Love Island romance with Jack Fincham, but the pair split just months after leaving the villa.
      When her romance with Jarrod was first revealed, Dani said: “Everything is so early days. Jarrod is a lovely guy, and we’re enjoying getting to know each other.
      “But Santi will always be my main priority, he will always come first.
      “I am concentrating on being a mum and, beyond that, whatever happens, happens.”
      Stepdad duties
      Jarrod is regularly seen carrying little Santiago and taking him to his gamesCredit: danidyerxx/Instagram
      Within months Jarrod had become a firm fixture in Dani’s life and appears to be loved by Santi, two, who calls him JayJay.
      The couple welcomed twin girls Summer and Star in May, and their relationship appears to be going from strength to strength.
      While Dani was pregnant, Jarrod helped Santiago do an ultrasound to see how his little sisters were developing.
      Shortly after their birth, Dani wrote on social media: “Our first week together and enjoying every moment of the newborn bubble.
      “It’s been amazing watching Santi be a big brother he has melted my heart in ways I couldn’t imagine and he just feels like such a big boy all of a sudden.
      “My heart feels so so full and so excited for our journey together as a family of 5.”
      The West Ham ace slotted quickly into family life as a stepdad and is often photographed by Dani bonding with his stepson – even taking the tot in full West Ham kit on the pitch after games.
      Danny smitten
      Actor Danny is a big fan of his daughter’s boyfriend and jokes he loves Jarrod moreCredit: Instagram
      It’s not just the toddler who is a fan. Dani’s dad is a lifelong Hammers fan and has joked about how smitten he is with his daughter’s other half.
      “I’m probably more in love with your boyfriend than you are,” the EastEnders actor joked on his podcast with Dani, Sorted with the Dyers.
      The family have been keen for things to become official between the pair since last November.
      A source said: “Dani definitely thinks he’s The One, and she’d love a ring on her finger.
      “They’re in a really happy place, and she knows there’s no need to rush things, but she would love or him to propose and friends think it could be on the cards.
      “A Christmas engagement would be lovely. She’s had a tough time in past relationships, but she’s finally got her fairy tale.”
      Sadly, no ring materialised over Christmas and now the family are hoping this summer could see the footballer get down on one knee.
      Even after being with Jarrod for a few months, Dani already had his seal of approval.
      She said: “My dad thinks Jarrod’s a lovely guy. He’s invested in all of the West Ham players – because he supports the team and follows some of them, he’s like: ‘They’re all my friends.’ I’m like: ‘Right, OK, Dad.’
      “But he’s always been such a big football fan. As soon as Santi was born, the West Ham babygros were coming in from Grandad.”
      Footie banter
      Dani is vocal in her support of Jarrod’s careerCredit: Instagram
      Former Islander Dani certainly appears to be taking her duties as a WAG seriously and is regularly snapped at Jarrod’s games – even when heavily pregnant.
      However, ahead of the Europa Conference League final, the star couldn’t rely on his family life to give him a break from the pressures of the day job.
      Ahead of the clash, he joked: “The missus’ old man is obviously on me every week.”
      Following the win over Fiorentina, Dani shared a story with a photo of Jarrod saying: “So proud”.
      Their romance has infamously inspired an X-rated song by Hammers fans, and Jarrod was left unimpressed last night when a fan stormed on to the pitch singing it during an interview with BT Sport.
      But at least Danny has at least been able to see the funny side.
      After the Hammers beat Lyon to reach the semi finals of the competition back in April, he joked on Instagram: “Jarrod Bowen is on fire…and he’s… cuddling me daughter or something. So proud. What a f***ing night.”
      New family home
      The couple moved into a new family home before Dani gave birth to their twinsCredit: Instagram
      Over the course of their relationship, Dani has not been shysharing her love for the footballer in a flood of gushing Instagram tributes.
      On their first anniversary, she wrote: “One year of loving you… Happy Anniversary baby… your the boyfriend I’ve always dreamed of having… grateful for someone as kind and special as you.”
      The couple have been away on several luxury holidays and even visited Disneyland with Santiago. They’ve also enjoyed dates at spa The Cave Hotel, Ascot races and the Bulgari Hotel Milano.
      In March, they moved into a gorgeous new home ahead of welcoming their twins and celebrated with booze-free prosecco.
      Read more on The Sun
      Dani decorated the pad in classic white and greys with large mirrors to make the most of natural light.
      Now, she’s just waiting for the ultimate accessory… that long-awaited sparkler! More

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      in Motorsport

      Why daredevil riders still flock to Isle of Man TT despite ‘world’s deadliest race’ claiming lives of 267 motorcyclists

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      WITH another rider perishing at the Isle of Man TT, the age-old question is being asked once again.Why do so many motorcyclists risk their lives every year in what has been dubbed the deadliest race in the world?
      The Isle of Man TT is known as the world’s deadliest raceCredit: Pacemaker
      Raul Torras Martinez, 40, became the latest victim this weekCredit: Facebook
      The answer from many of the competitors is that the danger is what makes the annual test of nerves so thrilling.
      This week Spanish motorcyclist Raul Torras Martinez, 40, became the 267th person to lose their life on the notorious 37.73-mile track since the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy began in 1907.
      Raul was clocking average speeds of 125 mph as he did the final lap this week, having taken part in 21 races over the past six years.
      Even though the TT is a time-trial, which means competitors are racing against the clock rather than overtaking each other on tight bends, it is incredibly perilous.
      READ MORE FEATURES
      TV presenter Guy Martin was lucky to escape a fireball crash in 2010Credit: Documentaires Auto/Moto
      He returned to racing despite fracturing his spine and bruising both lungsCredit: Alamy
      The main hazards are the trees, lamp posts, stone walls and steep banks on the edge of the 200 bends.
      The late motorcycle champ Barry Sheene called it “a suicide mission” and the track requires great skill to get around in one piece.
      Thousands apply, but only 60 solo competitors and 30 sidecar pairings get to take on the most dangerous race in motorsport.
      Dicing with death
      Peter Hickman, 36, who holds the lap record, says: “The danger is what makes it exciting.”
      Most read in Motorsport
      The two men tussling to have the record for the most Isle of Man TT wins know the risk of the sport.
      Former bricklayer John McGuinness, 51, who shares 23 wins with Michael Dunlop, said:  “During my first race in ’96, I lost my best mate in practice. A lad named Micky Lofthouse.
      “I wanted to go home, but I decided to do the race and see what it was like.”
      It’s an adrenaline rush like no other that kept tempting him back.
      John said: “You race through villages, woodland, over a mountain, big open areas, tight twisty bits, unbelievably fast bits. 
      “I’ve done extreme sports but I cannot find anything that comes even close.”
      Robert Dunlop in 2006 with sons Michael and WilliamCredit: Pacemaker Press
      Flowers are laid at the spot where Robert Dunlop was killed during a practice race in Northern Ireland in 2008Credit: PA:Press Association
      Dunlop, 34, who equalled John’s record this week, had even more reason to quit the sport.
      His dad Robert, legendary uncle Joey and brother William all died racing motorcycles – although none in the Isle of Man TT.
      I’ve done extreme sports but I cannot find anything that comes even closeJohn McGuinness
      Michael said: “Nobody in my mind would have went through what I’ve been through and come back to do this if they didn’t love motorbikes.
      “I personally love motorbikes, it’s been my life. I’ve had a fantastic lifestyle out of it.
      Four years prior to his death in 2018 aged 32, William told The Sun, “I don’t care if I die racing” because it will be over in “an instant”.
      Backlash over ban calls
      There have been calls for the Isle of Man TT to be banned.
      But that is unlikely because the island in the middle of the Irish Sea has its own independent-minded government.
      There are no speed limits for the population of 85,000 people and the event brings in close to an estimated £30 million a year.
      The spots for deadly accidents, not including the latest fatal smash this week
      Even the relatives of those riders who have died do not wish to see brakes put on the TT.
      Leanne Harper, whose partner Dan Kneen died instantly after colliding with a tree in 2018, said: “With the experiences he had and the euphoria he felt, that feeling of being on the edge, Dan lived way more than the average 30-year-old. 
      “They know the risks, but the passion and joy overcomes that. 
      “If he was to have the same experiences again, knowing the outcome, he would probably have still raced the TT.”
      Last year six riders did not make it off the island alive, which equalled the previous worst year for fatalities.
      Tragically, they included Roger Stockton, 56, and son Bradley Stockton, 21, from Crewe in Cheshire, who died when their motorcycle and sidecar hit a wall.
      Mark Purslow,  29, from Llanon in west Wales, died during qualifying.
      His sister Hana said: “He always said that if he was going to go, that was the way he was going to go.”
      Mark perished on the notorious Ballagarey corner – which is nicknamed Ballascarey.
      There is no place more dangerous than the TTGuy Martin
      TV presenter Guy Martin lost control of his bike there at 170mph in 2010, escaping the fireball that engulfed his vehicle.
      Despite fracturing his spine and bruising both lungs Guy went back the next year.
      He said in 2012: “The reason I ride a motorbike is because of the danger and there is no place more dangerous than the TT. I like pushing myself.
      “I don’t like routines, I like to be challenged and nothing beats the buzz of going round there.”
      Safety measures
      This year extra safety measures have been introduced in the hope that less families will be deprived of loved ones.
      It includes GPS monitoring and a digital red flag system, so officials can react quickly to any problems.
      There is also a huge emergency team on hand, for the inevitable crashes.
      Isle of Man TT medical chief Dr Gareth Davies said: “We have a system whereby there are trackside medics that will be at the rider’s side within a matter of seconds.
      “And then we have three different helicopters to support the racing, three response cars, and then about five or six different ambulances.”
      There’s no way they’re not thinking about what can go wrong or happenJohn McGuinness
      But there is always a huge risk when a rider travelling at 180 mph can hit a wall at any time.
      Even a veteran like McGuinness admits to feeling nervous before heading out to face the demon track.

      He said: “We cross each other’s paths and it’s like ‘how are you doing’ but I know they’ll all be s***ing themselves.
      “We just cover it up a bit more. There’s no way they’re not thinking about what can go wrong or happen.”
      Only 60 solo competitors and 30 sidecar pairings get to take on the most dangerous race in motorsportCredit: Alamy
      Riders have to navigate a treacherous mountain course More

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      in Soccer

      My flat overlooks major football stadium – we can watch every game but there’s an unexpected problem about living here

      by

      FOR die-hard fans, the thought of owning a flat overlooking your team’s football pitch is a dream come true.That was the case for lifelong AFC Wimbledon supporters David Kenwery and Liam Nolan when property adjoining the club’s brand new stadium became available.
      Blocks of flats adjoin the AFC Wimbledon stadium in south west LondonCredit: Rex
      The development was supposed to provide ‘affordable’ homes for people struggling to get on the housing ladder – with the added perk that some flats overlook a football pitchCredit: Olivia West
      The friends bought a fourth floor two-bedroom, two-bathroom flat off-plan built within the grounds of the Cherry Red Records Stadium on Plough Lane – despite the fact neither of them live anywhere near it.
      Offshore wind farm site manager David is based in Hull, while IT consultant Liam, who grew up in the area, now works in Adelaide, Australia. 
      But both men regularly make the trip to south west London to watch the EFL League Two team they have supported for 40 years.
      Flats like David and Liam’s now go for a hefty £570,000 – however David, 60, tells The Sun: “For a football fan, homes built into a ground is about as good as it gets. 
      READ MORE FOOTBALL STORIES
      “How could I resist having a home next to the ground for match days?”
      But living above AFC Wimbledon’s pitch can come with some strange quirks – including one particular rule.
      On a residents forum for the flats, tenants claim they’re forbidden from hanging washing out on their balconies.
      Some of the flats offer a fantastic view of the pitchCredit: Getty
      Residents of the flashy Stadia apartments say the ground rent has rocketedCredit: Cascade News
      And when we visit, some tell us their ground rent – a maintenance fee for house buyers – has DOUBLED since they moved in, making their monthly costs now the same as a typical mortgage.
      Most read in Football
      Some tenants living in the flashy Stadia apartments run by Galliard Homes claim that as well as coughing up £500 a month in fees, they are being asked to pay a whopping £25,000 to use one of the spaces in the underground car park.
      Meanwhile people living nearby the new stadium claim their weekends can be fraught with hassle, with regular traffic jams and fans blocking drives and using their front gardens as a toilet.

      One young couple said they had paid £750,000 for a three-bedroom flat in the new development, where the shared ownership deals on offer meant some buyers only had to pay a portion of their home’s full value.
      The woman, 27, who declined to give her name, said: “Moving here allowed us to buy our first home so we were happy and grateful for that.
      “But they doubled the ground rent after we moved in, from £350 to £700, which was not what we were expecting.
      “We complained and it has now come down to about £500. But that’s still the same amount that some people will spend on their entire mortgage!”
      Like David and Liam’s, the couple’s apartment has a direct view of AFC Wimbledon’s pitch, which means they get a free view of the team’s games when they play – but they “don’t see it as a perk”.
      Some flat owners have moaned they can’t hang washing on their balconiesCredit: Olivia West
      Traffic can be grid-locked on match daysCredit: Olivia West
      The woman’s partner, also in his 20s, adds: “We can see the pitch from our window but – let’s be honest – they’re not the best football team.
      “Another issue is that they’re demanding £25,000 to buy a parking space in the flats, which is completely unaffordable.
      “And it seems that no-one here wants to pay that as the car park is always empty. It’s ridiculous.”
      Before they were unveiled a few years ago, developers Galliard Homes boasted that around a third of the 604 homes would be available through shared ownership, which would provide “luxury living to all levels of buyers”.
      The fact that a number of the apartments overlooked the football ground was also a key selling point – with AFC Wimbledon fans in particular keen to snap up the homes.
      Emotional return
      The Plough Lane stadium’s completion marked an emotional return for a football club that had been torn away from its natural home since 2002.
      That was the year the Football Association agreed the old Wimbledon F.C. could relocate 60 miles north to Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire to prevent it from going bankrupt.
      The players were dubbed the ‘crazy gang’ in the 1980s because of their FA Cup winning heroics – upsetting Liverpool in the 1988 final – and the antics of club heroes like midfield hardman Vinnie Jones.
      So morphing into a new team called the MK Dons was never going to be accepted by the majority of supporters.
      Those that boycotted the move created AFC Wimbledon in its place and a window of opportunity emerged when Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium closed in 2017.
      The new AFC Wimbledon stadium is built on the site of an old dog trackCredit: Olivia West
      Planning permission was won for a stadium to be built on the 12-acre site just 250 yards from the club’s original ground that closed down 30 years ago.
      Galliard Homes agreed to stump up £14million for the new 9,300 capacity ground on the proviso that a number of apartment buildings would be erected alongside it.
      The company claimed that with one-bedroom flats on offer from £425,000, it would be affordable for both first time buyers and local parents looking for buy-to-let opportunities.
      But the romantic vision of a small club finally finding a home isn’t shared by some who live in the area.
      Adam Pfeiffer, 52, lives on a small private road opposite the new ground and reminisces about the peaceful weekends he used to enjoy before the club returned.
      Mechanic Adam says: “It’s a nightmare living here now and I don’t even like football.
      “The fans take the p***. They park wherever they want and litter all over the street. I regularly spot people using my front garden as a toilet on weekends.”
      On ‘event days’ you have to pay £3.20 for one hourCredit: Olivia West
      Business owners like Andrew Yeates are getting cheesed off with the new stadiumCredit: Olivia West
      Kris McKnight runs BB Plumbers close to the stadium. He says: “The dogs stadium was falling to bits so I guess they needed to do something, but it’s a shame that they got rid of it.
      “It was the last dog track in England and it was a great night out when you won.”
      Business owners are also getting cheesed off with the new stadium because they are now being made to pay £3.20 an hour for parking on match days.
      Andrew Yeates – director of the local Balloon and Kite Company – says: “The only real impact is the parking restrictions.
      “On ‘event days’ you have to pay and display for one hour and that makes parking more difficult. 
      “We have to pay for the hour when we are working and then move it around, or we have to park a long way away.
      “The biggest complaint I have is that you don’t always know when it’s an event day so you can get caught out. If you don’t know, you get a ticket, it’s that simple.”
      ‘Traffic is gridlocked’
      Roldan Aquino says the new development is a nightmare for traffic in the area, which was already congestedCredit: Olivia West
      Roldan Aquino, 50, helps run a food truck opposite the stadium where gourmet burgers cost £9. 
      He says traffic is frequently gridlocked around the new stadium.  
      “It can be a nightmare some days,” he says. “When there are temporary traffic lights here for whatever reason, it completely kills the business – people can’t get through and a 10 minute drive takes about three hours.”
      But not every business owner is downcast about the new development. Ania Ridley, 40, is landlady at the The Corner Pin pub where a pint of lager costs £5.10.
      She says: “I’ve worked here for 21 years and when the stadium was first built, I was worried because we all know what football fans can be like. 
      “But the ones that come here are really nice and polite – they even apologise if they spill their drinks.
      “And the development has brought in new people and younger people into the area, which is great for the pub.
      “It used to be mainly old people popping in for a drink but we have a younger crowd now and they are more likely to spend money.  
      “I think the new flats have given the whole area a boost.”
      The landlady of The Corner Pin pub, Ania Ridley, has welcomed the new developmentCredit: Olivia West
      A spokesperson for Galliard Homes said: “The Wimbledon Grounds development has been a resounding success, offering significant benefits to the local community.
      “One of the notable achievements of this project was the successful return of AFC Wimbledon to Plough Lane, made possible through our financial support and the generous gifting of land to the football club.
      “The Wimbledon Grounds development was undertaken as a joint venture partnership with The Peabody Trust, previously known as Catalyst Housing Association. Due to this partnership, we were able to achieve a significant increase in the number of affordable housing units, rising from an initial 60 to an impressive 181. These units were subsequently transferred to Catalyst Housing Association, who oversaw the sales and management of them as shared equity properties.

      “Parking was offered as an additional cost, due to the limited number of parking spaces available for the private units. Most spaces were held by Catalyst Housing Association for use of the affordable units.
      “The ground rents for the properties were determined in the traditional manner, based on the size of each flat. The initial rate was set at 0.1% of the property price, followed by a nominal peppercorn amount in subsequent years.” More

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      in Soccer

      How Erling Haaland is morphing into Cristiano Ronaldo – including £2k PJs, bizarre pre-match habit and £50K home gadget

      by

      THEY are two of the biggest names in world football with millions of adoring fans across the globe. But scoring a tonne of goals isn’t the only thing Erling Haaland and Cristiano Ronaldo have in common. 
      In recent months, Haaland and Ronaldo have shown some striking similaritiesCredit: Instagram / @erling.haaland
      The pair’s common interests seem to go beyond the pitchCredit: Instagram / @cristiano
      From their love of designer £2,000 pyjamas to lookalike girlfriends and quirky match rituals, all signs show that the pair are truly twinning. 
      Here, we look at seven signs that prove that Manchester City’s title winner is slowly but surely becoming the Premier League’s next Cristiano Ronaldo. 
      Matching fashion 
      The two men are known for their love of fashion and luxury designer brands. 
      Haaland, 22, has been spotted in pricey designer gear from fashion houses such as Dolce and Gabbana and Burberry, while Ronaldo, 38, enjoys the designs of Gucci and Jacob & Co. 
      READ MORE FOOTBALL FEATURES
      Cristiano Ronaldo was spotted in a pair of pricey Louis Vuitton PJs in 2020Credit: Instagram
      Haaland’s love for the fashion trend has been well documentedCredit: INSTAGRAM
      The Norwegian wore PJs to celebrate Manchester City’s EPL victoryCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      The pair have also made headlines for wearing luxury pyjamas out and about.
      This week, Haaland celebrated Manchester City’s win by wearing light blue PJs. 
      He owns a vast collection including a Mojolica print that set him back over £2,400 and a Burberry set that costs £1,680. 
      Ronaldo has also dabbled in the pyjama fashion craze – he was spotted on a luxury yacht in a £1,800 Louis Vuitton set in 2020. 
      Most read in Football
      Ice breakers
      Ronaldo is known for his rock-hard abs which he maintains with cryotherapyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/cristiano/
      Haaland also splashed £50,000 on a cryotherapy chamber to stay in perfect conditionCredit: INSTAGRAM/ERLING HAALAND
      The key to their perfectly toned bodies appears to be their shared love for hi-tech ice chambers. 
      In 2021, it was reported that Ronaldo had a £50,000 cryotherapy chamber shipped from Turin to Manchester to help keep him in shape. 
      He reportedly likes to spend three minutes in the chamber at a temperature of -160C. 
      Last year, it was claimed that Haaland had also splashed the same amount on a cryotherapy chamber to help stay in top condition. 
      Cristiano Ronaldo enjoyed a cryotherapy session in his pantsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/cristiano/
      He is said to have ordered the walk-in ice pod to his home in Cheshire. 
      Cryotherapy has been noted to have a number of benefits including pain relief, muscle healing, aiding weight loss and reducing inflammation.
      Copycat diet
      Haaland copied Ronaldo’s diet
      Haaland follows a strict diet and does not drink alcohol or go to nightclubs, although he had admitted that he enjoys a glass of pina colada. 
      His diet changed when he was playing for Red Bill Salzburg and consists of mostly fish. Apparently, he was convinced after hearing it was one of the factors keeping Ronaldo in perfect physical condition in his mid-30s. 
      Dad Alf-Inge Haaland said: “He was told a story by Patrice Evra about a lunch he had with Ronaldo and Cristiano had fish, nothing else.
      “Erling now tries to do the same things because Ronaldo is still at the top of the game, so it shows the value of doing the right things.”
      Five-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo likes to keep himself disciplined with customised meal plans recommended by a personal dietician. 
      His diet typically consists of “six high-protein, high-grain, low-fat mini-meals a day.”
      He is also a big fan of cheese, ham and low-fat yoghurt for breakfast, with a preference for fish and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. 
      Ronaldo also stays away from alcohol and sugary drinks and snacks and only drinks alcohol.
      Lookalike girlfriends 
      Georgina Rodriguez has been dating Ronaldo since 2017Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/CfOydu7sJaK/
      Haaland’s girlfriend, Isabel Johansen is also a football player
      Both Ronaldo and Haaland have glamorous, lookalike girlfriends who seem to have set themselves apart from the average WAG. 
      Georgina Rodriguez, 29, has managed to establish herself as a businesswoman and socialite and has her own Netflix reality show. 
      With close to 50million people following her, she is the most followed WAG on Instagram.
      The former Gucci ship worker, who has been dating Ronaldo since 2017, has now become a model and a brand ambassador in her own right. 
      Isabel, 19, is Haaland’s girlfriend who left her home country of Norway to live with him.
      But she’s not just the girlfriend of one of the best players in the world – she’s also a footballer herself, with the couple said to have met through the sport.
      When Erling made the move to City, student Isabel – who has played for local Norwegian club Bryne – was granted permission to study remotely so she could be with him.
      Pre-match habit 
      Fans spotted Haaland standing on his tiptoes
      Fans have previously pointed out that Ronaldo has done it throughout his career
      This month, eagle-eyed fans were sent into overdrive when they concluded that Haaland and Ronaldo appear to have one odd pre-match habit in common. 
      When Haaland posed for pictures alongside his teammates before their semi-final clash with Real Madrid, many fans saw that he was standing on his tiptoes. 
      The pose has been a favourite of Ronaldo’s for years, especially when posing with a group of people. 
      A fan pointing it out on Instagram made the comment: “You’re already the tallest in the team”.
      One fan replied: “Bros trying to be like his idol Cristiano”.
      Another added: “He is copying Ronaldo in every single thing”.
      Record setters 
      Ronaldo has had two stints at Manchester UnitedCredit: AFP
      Haaland joined Manchester City in the summer of 2002Credit: Rex
      There’s no denying that Haaland and Ronaldo are two of the best players – they have both played for Manchester-based clubs and have impressive track records to show for it. 
      Ronaldo spent six seasons at Manchester United between 2003 and 2009 before returning in 2021, while Haaland joined Manchester City in the summer of 2022.
      Ronaldo holds the record for most international goals, according to UEFA, having scored 122 times for Portugal since making his debut in 2003. 
      He also holds the record for the most appearances in the Champions League, having played in the tournament 183 times. 
      Meanwhile, Haaland has been busy building his own impressive legacy – the Norwegian this year broke the record for the most goals in a Premier League season. 
      After scoring his 35th goal against West Ham, he moved past Alan Shearer and Andrew Cole, who have 34 goals between them. 
      Many have pointed to Haaland being one of the few players to break the records set by Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. 
      Last year, Haaland’s Manchester City teammate, Bernardo Silva, who has had the chance to play with both spoke about how they stack up against each other. 
      He said: “I was speaking with a few friends the other day and I said [Haaland] is the only player who gets close to Cristiano in terms of knowing where the ball will land inside the box.” 
      Read More on The Sun
      And this year, he said: “[Haaland] has definitely got the same mentality as Cristiano, always wanting to be in the box, always wanting to score. 
      “He doesn’t care if he touches the ball one or two times, when he touches he scores. He’s just a proper striker.”  More

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      in Soccer

      I live at entrance to major football stadium – fans queue up outside my front door but not for the reason you’d expect

      by

      WANDERING along Ellerslie Road, the attractive Victorian terrace homes are typical for this affluent area of west London.But halfway down the street, sandwiched between grand entrances to end-of-terrace properties, lies the entrance to Championship side Queens Park Rangers’ football ground.
      The stadium is sat behind a row of Victorian terrace houses in West LondonCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Donna’s dog Misty is loved by fans who like to stop and take pictures of her on match dayCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The bright blue gates provide access to the Stanley Bowles Stand within the Loftus Road Stadium, with a huge sign reading “Welcome to the Loft”.
      While it might be a football fan’s dream to live a stone’s throw from a major ground, locals have mixed feelings about the 18,000 fans who descend on their street every week.
      But one resident who loves match days is two-year-old German Shepherd Misty – who has become the club’s unofficial mascot.
      Owner Donna Fitzgerald, whose garden backs onto the stadium, says her pooch enjoys watching the crowds of fans from the window or the front garden.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL STADIUMS

      She tells us when we visit: “Everybody stops to say hello to Misty. She loves a match day.
      “She’s famous among the fans, they all stop to take photographs of her in the doorway.”
      There is one issue that drives residents who live next door to the football ground mad – literally.
      “It’s s*** living here sometimes,” Donna admits. “I often can’t take my car out on match days, which is a joke because I pay for a parking permit and council tax, so I should be able to come and go as I please.
      Most read in Football
      Houses on the street can sell for up to £1millionCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The main entrance to the Loftus Road stadiumCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      “The fans can be awful. I’ve had fellas wee outside my door, and they all drop rubbish.
      “That said, I’m a Chelsea supporter, so I’m not QPR’s biggest fan.”
      The parking issue is a gripe shared by many Ellerslie Road residents – especially given they have to fork out £119 a year to park their car on the road. If they have two vehicles, that shoots up to £497.
      Council tax for the properties starts from £870 and can go up to £2,612 according to the Hammersmith and Fulham local authority’s website.
      On match days the road is closed to traffic to allow fans to be corralled into the stadium – which holds up to 18,439 supporters – by police.
      Residents at one end are not allowed to leave their cars on the road outside their homes, as it’s needed for a control marquee to manage fans.
      Fines
      Greg has been fined several times for leaving his car on the road by his houseCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      Greg lives close to one of the stadium entrances which fans use to access the standCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      It’s left a sour taste in local resident Greg’s mouth, as he has been hit with fines for not moving his motor.
      The 41-year-old, who did not wish to give his surname, said: “The stadium is not fit for purpose any more, and [the council] know that.
      “If I leave my car outside my house on match day, I get fined up to £130 a time.
      “I pay council tax and for my permit, so I don’t see why I have to move it. It’s ridiculous.
      If I leave my car outside my house on match day, I get fined up to £130 a time. I pay council tax and for my permit, so I don’t see why I have to move it. It’s ridiculousGreg, Ellerslie Road resident
      “They set up a chicken coop style thing in the bays outside my house to control the fans, but I don’t think they do it that well.
      “Once upon a time we used to get a free ticket through the letterbox to a game, but that’s not happened in years. It would be nice to get it back.”
      The stadium was built in 1904 and later The Stanley Bowles stand, accessed from Ellerslie Road, was opened in 1972 to replace the old tin-roof grandstand.
      It is said to be the loudest stand, as it has 237 rail seats that allow club supporters to stand up during the game.
      ‘Nice atmosphere’
      Not all residents resent the football ground; Judith, who has lived on the street for 40 years, likes the bustling atmosphere it creates.
      She says: “I think the club manage it all pretty well. They clean the street after any home games, and I’ve never had a problem with any of the fans wandering down the road.
      “It’s quite a nice atmosphere, and I don’t mind hearing them shout when their team score.”
      It’s quite a nice atmosphere, and I don’t mind hearing them shout when their team scoreJudith, Ellerslie Road resident
      Houses on the normally quiet road sell for upwards of £1million and flats regularly go for £500,000 – despite being next to the roaring stadium.
      New homeowner Cleo admitted the stadium was a concern for her and her boyfriend when they purchased their, flat but say they’ve not had many issues.
      The social worker, 31, says: “We’ve been here for eight months and have never really had an issue living next to the stadium.
      “We did have reservations about buying the flat knowing where it was, but the flat is just so lovely.
      “It’s a bit annoying that we have to move the car sometimes, but when we’ve left it on the street there hasn’t been any damage done to it or anything.
      “We’ve also been very kindly let out the barrier on match day by the police, which was really nice of them.”
      Cleo adds that when the trees are bare in winter, they can see a section of the pitch, but not enough to watch a full game.
      ‘Bring back free tickets’
      Anin is a big fan of football and wishes the club would start giving out free tickets againCredit: JOHN McLELLAN
      The stadium is surrounded by houses in West LondonCredit: Google Earth
      At the other end of the road Anin, 72, is a big fan of living by the stadium.
      He says: “Parking used to be a problem, but now they’ve put in restrictions it isn’t.
      “We used to get free tickets, but they stopped about 15 years ago, which is a shame. I’d like them to start again.
      “The fans are alright, and it’s only about two and a half hours, and then it’s quiet again.
      “It’s a really nice family friendly atmosphere around a home match.”
      Another fan of the stadium being just behind their home is student Fahim, 26.
      He and his flatmates live on the end of a row, right next to an entrance for the stand.
      He says: “My flatmates and I try to support QPR, as they’re right behind us.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Living next to the stadium, it doesn’t really make that much of a difference to us generally.
      “The road gets closed twice a week during the season, but it doesn’t bother me much as I don’t drive, and we can get in and out on foot.”
      Fahim tries to support his local teamCredit: JOHN McLELLAN More

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      Inside Man City WAGs’ glamorous lives as Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne’s partners steal show at title celebrations

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      THEY say that behind every successful man there stands a woman. It certainly appears to be the case with the Manchester City team, who were crowned Premier League champions after a win over Chelsea over the weekend.
      Ilkay Gundogan is married to model Sara Arfaoui, one of the most popular WAGSCredit: Instagram @sarabenamira
      Most of their WAGS joined them on a night out to celebrate winning the prestigious trophy for an incredible three consecutive seasons – and stole the show in the process.
      Here, we take a look at the luxurious lives of some of the other halves of the Manchester City squad.
      Sasha Attwood
      Sasha Attwood has been dating Jack Grealish since they were 16Credit: Instagram @sasha__rebecca
      Their relationship has been highly scrutinised due to his bad boy reputationCredit: sasha_rebecca/Instagram
      Thanks to her relationship with winger Jack Grealish, Sasha Attwood has become one of Britain’s most talked about WAGS.
      They are childhood sweethearts and have been together since they were 16.
      READ MORE SPORTS FEATURES
      Keen to build a legacy of her own, she has forged a career in the modelling industry and has been scooped up by beauty giant L’Oreal.
      Sasha has starred in social media campaigns for the brand, thanks to her 173,000 followers on Instagram.
      On her social media pages, Sasha often posts about her holidays to places such as Mykonos, Santorini, Dubai, and California.
      Her relationship with Jack, 27, has come under scrutiny in the past due to his bad boy reputation, but they appear to be stronger than ever these days. 
      Most read in Football
      Isabel Haugseng Johansen
      Isabel Haugseng Johansen hilariously dressed in boyfriend Erling Haaland’s trademark PJs as they celebrated at a nightclub this weekCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      She is said to have moved away from Norway to be with himCredit: Getty
      Isabel, 19, is the girlfriend of Norwegian striker Erling Haaland and left her home country of Norway to live with him.
      But she’s not just the girlfriend of one of the best players in the world – she’s also a footballer herself, with the couple said to have met through the sport.
      When Erling, 22, made the move to City, student Isabel – who has played for local Norwegian club Bryne – was granted permission to study remotely so she could be with him.
      He is said to be totally “smitten” with Isabel and the pair have enjoyed many luxurious holidays, including a vacation to a villa in Marbella last year.
      During City’s title win party, the love birds were snapped celebrating by wearing matching silk blue pyjamas.
      Michele Lacroix
      Michele turned heads when she showed up to Manchester City’s celebrations in a see-through topCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      She has been married to Kevin De Bruyne since 2017Credit: .instagram/lacroixmichele
      Michele Lacroix, 29, and Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne have been married since June 2017 after meeting when he was playing for Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga.
      The couple share three children – sons Mason Milian, Rome, and Suri, who was born in September last year.
      Michele regularly shares steamy bikini pics of herself and has amassed a following of 383,000 on Instagram.
      Although she’s not a regular at his games, they have been spotted enjoying some quality time together at holiday destinations such as the Maldives.
      Glamorous Michele made headlines this week when she went braless in a see-through top as the WAGs joined their partners to celebrate.
      Taylor Ward
      Taylor is the daughter of reality TV star Dawn Ward and ex-footballer Ashley Ward
      She married Riyad Mahrez in a secret Islamic law ceremony in 2021
      Model and socialite Taylor, 24, is the wife of winger Riyad Mahrez.
      She’s one of the most popular WAGS on social media and has a staggering 2.5million followers on Instagram. Her mother is Dawn, the reality star who is married to football star Ashley Ward.
      After months of speculation, they confirmed their relationship on social media in October 2020 and tied the knot in a secret ceremony in 2021.
      They have confirmed that they are planning another wedding in the UK so their union can be legally recognised as the first one was under Islamic law.
      In July last year, Taylor and Riyad confirmed that they have welcomed their first child together.
      The blonde beauty certainly has a taste for the finer things in life and has been spotted holidaying at destinations such as the Bahamas, Maldives, Dubai, and Lake Como.
      She also decks herself in pricey designers such as Dior, LV, and Chanel. 
      Sara Arfaoui
      Sara is a model and TV personality who has fronted several reality showsCredit: Instagram / @sarabenamira
      She’s been married to Ilkay Gundogan since 2022Credit: Instagram / @sarabenamira
      Sara Arfaoui, 28, has been married to German midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, 32, since last year.
      They tied the knot at a registry office in Denmark before holding a lavish ceremony at Lake Como.
      She was born in France but moved to Italy at a young age and has carved out a successful career as a model and television personality and has hosted several reality shows.
      Like many of her fellow WAGS, she enjoys the highlife and has been spotted holidaying at exotic locations.
      Unfortunately, she hasn’t taken too well with British cuisine since moving from Italy and has written about the “horrible food” on her Instagram page.
      The couple welcomed their first child in March this year, a day after City’s Champions League win over RB Leipzig.
      Olivia Naylor
      John Stones is said to have left his childhood sweetheart when he met Olivia NaylorCredit: Instagram @olivianaylor
      The pair welcomed a son in January this yearCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      John Stones met his girlfriend, former beautician Olivia Naylor, at a nightclub.
      The self-professed “brows, lash line, lip blush and microblading” expert is a mother of two – one from a previous relationship – while John also has a daughter with ex Millie.
      In January this year, the couple welcomed a son, their first child together.
      Olivia, 33, has a successful beauty career and owns her own salon near her home in Cheshire.
      She recently showed off helped to shed light on the condition of a two-year-old boy living with leukaemia.
      Rebecca Cooke
      Rebecca is extremely private and likes to keep away from the limelightCredit: Getty
      She has two kids with midfielder Phil FodenCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
      Rebecca is the long-term partner of midfielder Phil Foden, 22 and the pair are said to live together in a £3.2million mansion.
      She became a mother at 18 when she gave birth to their son, Ronnie.
      Reflecting on his birth, Phil said: “I was there for the birth. I walked out of the room, gave it a little tear and then went back in like nothing happened.
      “I’m not one for crying in front of people. I like to be on my own, but I was there in the room, watched it happen and it was a special moment. Your life changes.”
      They welcomed a daughter in 2021 but her name has not been made public.
      Ines Tomaz
      Ines Tomaz and Bernando Silva announced their engagement in 2022
      She’s environmentally conscious and likes to support brands with the same ideology
      Lisbon-born Ines, 24, has been with Bernardo Silva since 2020 and announced their engagement in 2022.
      She often posts herself in swimwear on Instagram where she has over 100,000 followers and promotes brands that support the environment.
      The pair met shortly before the Covid lockdowns and stayed with friends in a large house not far from Lisbon.
      They moved to a new house in Manchester last year and recently announced they’re expecting their first child together.
      Lais Morares
      Lais Morares has been married to goalkeeper Ederson since 2014Credit: Instagram @ederson93
      She’s been seen cheering her husband on in the stands at the EtihadCredit: Getty
      Lais has been married to goalie Ederson, considered to be one of the best goalkeepers in the world, since 2014.

      She keeps her life extremely private but is said to be a hands-on mum to the couple’s three children.
      Lais has been seen cheering on her husband from the stands at the club’s Etihad Stadium. More

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      Seven signs Erling Haaland is football’s wackiest star – from awkward workouts with ‘world’s sexiest athlete’ to £2k PJs

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      HE’S the unstoppable goal machine who’s often compared to The Terminator.But in real life, Erling Haaland is far from a robot, with a quirky, larger-than-life personality that has frequently left fans in stitches.
      Erling Haaland is easily one of football’s wackiest starsCredit: INSTAGRAM/ERLING HAALAND
      Not only does the Manchester City striker, 22, have 35 goals to his name this season, but he also has a bizarre ‘cannibal’ diet and an astonishing wardrobe of luxury pyjamas.
      Mix that in with hilarious interviews, questionable ‘dark art’ tactics during matches and some very awkward run-ins with influencer supermodels and you have the makings of a truly once-in-a-generation striker.
      Here, we reveal seven ways City’s target man has made his mark – on and off the pitch.
      ‘Dark arts’ tactics
      Haaland is considered among the world’s greatest footballers – as highlighted when he became the Premier League’s highest goal-scorer with five games to go.
      READ MORE FEATURES
      But it seems he’s not always gentlemanly about his tactics, which have amused some fans and left others slamming his “childish mind games”.
      The striker reportedly yelled ‘hit me in my balls’ before this free kickCredit: Twitter
      Haaland appeared to mock Everton’s Ben Godfrey in one matchCredit: BBC
      Earlier this month, the star was branded a “madman” after making a rather unusual shout to his opponent.
      During his team’s 3-0 victory against West Ham, viewers were stunned as he appeared to yell “hit me in my balls” while standing in the wall for a free kick.
      “This man is a different bread I swear,” declared another tweeter.
      Most read in Football
      While another said: “Just when I thought I couldn’t love Haaland anymore…”
      Last year, he also appeared to mock Everton defender Ben Godfrey by pulling a funny face in a video which quickly went viral.
      He was attempting to mimic the player’s complaints to the referee and fans found it hilarious.
      One wrote: “Football is so much better when players have a personality, these were at it all game and made for a great watch.”
      Haaland was accused of ‘farting’ on players during a match against Bayern MunichCredit: Tiktok
      In another bizarre moment, Haaland was accused of having “no respect” by Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka after apparently farting throughout their Champion’s League clash.
      Hilarious footage emerged of the defender, 28, pinching his nose while his rival grinned broadly.
      Later, Goretzka told international newspapers that Haaland “farted every time we approached him”.
      The revelation, which fans joked could explain his whopping score sheet, led some to rebrand the star “Erling Fartland”.
      One amusingly quipped: “Extra propulsion for additional speed.”
      Squad banter
      Haaland’s reputation for being a jokester led to him being cast in a Sky Sports video, where he explained what he was doing while his Man City teammates were at the World Cup.
      In the video, he was seen driving a lawn mower, dressing up like the club’s mascot and pretending to talk with teammates’ football shirts.
      Haaland released an amusing video about what he did to keep occupied while Man City’s England players were at the World CupCredit: instagram.com/skysports
      He even dressed up in the Man City mascot’s headCredit: instagram.com/skysports
      He said: “I have been working hard while the guys are away. Sometimes it’s a bit boring but time is flying.
      “I do miss all the banter, I’m not going to deny… celebrating goals alone it’s not the same.”
      In another video back in March, Haaland and Jack Grealish handed out an Oscar-style award to the team’s “biggest fraud”.
      They announced the gong would go to Ruben Dias and the England ace said he was “in the gym four times a day” but they “never see anything”.
      Haaland added: “Yeah, I mean, he’s all the time in the gym and the results… where is the results?!”
      Odd diet
      In his doc, Haaland revealed he ate hearts and liversCredit: Haaland: The Big Decision.
      Haaland’s complicated water filtration systemCredit: Haaland: The Big Decision.
      Haaland’s stomach issues may come as no surprise considering his, erm, unique diet.
      The star has revealed he eats huge chunks of freshly-butchered heart and liver, which he says maintains his peak performance on the pitch.
      His unusual intake led him to be compared to the fictional cannibal Hannibal Lecter, originally seen in the film Silence Of The Lambs.
      In the 2022 documentary Haaland: The Big Decision, he said: “You (referring to other people) don’t eat this but I am concerned with taking care of my body.
      “I think eating quality food that is as local as possible is the most important.”
      Haaland consumes a whopping 6,000 calories a day – more the double the recommended amount for men – and often requests cheese and ham omelettes from Man City chefs.
      His odd consumption habits don’t stop there as it was also revealed he only drinks water from a complicated filter system that has multiple tubes and cords.
      He starts the day by getting “some sunlight in my eyes”, which he said was “good for cardiac rhythm”, before having his pimped-up H2O.
      “I have also started to filtrate my water a bit. I think it can have great benefits for my body,” Haaland said. 
      The star, who regularly takes ice baths, drinks the fluid from glasses that filter out blue light and claims it helps to improve his sleep. 
      Quirky posts
      Haaland’s quirky personality extends to his social media accounts too.
      In an April Instagram post, he revealed he drinks a “magic potion” – aka goats milk – and share some snaps of him at a farm.
      The striker claimed a ‘magic potion’ – goats milk – was behind his high score tallyCredit: instagram.com/erling.haaland
      The footballer also has shared a number of snaps of himself in animated scenes, including one showing him as a Viking.
      In one post depicting him with a zombified face, he wished fans “HAPPY HAALANDWEEN!!”.
      On another occasion in March, the star shared a touching post to mark International Women’s Day – but it didn’t go exactly to plan.
      He posted a word search but referred to it as a “crossword puzzle”, leading to mockery from fans.
      One wrote: “What makes it even better is that isn’t a crossword puzzle.”
      Another, making light of the situation, quipped: “Babe, are you feeling okay? You didn’t even finish your Official Erling Haaland International Women’s Day Crossword puzzle…”
      Hilarious interviews
      Haaland gave ‘hilarious’ responses to one interviewer earlier on in his careerCredit: YouTube
      In comparison to most media-trained footballers, Haaland’s post-match interviews are a breath of fresh air.
      Back in 2019, he revealed that he sleeps with up to five footballs in his bed and branded them his “girlfriends”.
      Haaland told Dagbladet: “They lie in bed and I sleep well with them… I look at them every day. The best thing is to score goals.”
      “In Salzburg, I have five,” he added. “They are my girlfriends.”
      And it seems the tradition has continued since joining Man City, as part of a £51.2million five-year deal in 2022.
      When quizzed about the odd antics in February, he replied: “It’s true. I love when I score a hat-trick to just feel the ball a bit more.”
      But when he’s not talking about his ‘girlfriends’, unlucky reporters can occasionally draw the short straw with some very awkward responses.
      In September 2019, after netting three goals to help his side Red Bull Salzburg win against Belgian team Genk, his very half-hearted post-match interview left fans praising his “dry wit”.
      The reporter asked: “You made history scoring your first-half hat-trick, how are you feeling right now?
      Haaland replied, “I feel good”, before being pushed to elaborate.
      He added: “You asked how I feel. I answered.”
      Next Haaland was quizzed about his “secret” behind scoring 17 goals in just nine games, only for him to give the answer: “To work hard.”
      The exasperated reporter then asked: “You go to Liverpool in two weeks’ time. Your father [Alfe-Inge Haaland] scored at Anfield in 1997, are you hoping to follow suit?”
      The star said: “I hope so.”
      Sometimes with Haaland, it appears the less said, the better!
      Pyjama obsession 
      Haaland splashes out on pyjamas worth up to £2,400Credit: Social Media
      He even wears them to high-end restaurants and teammates ‘giggle’ at his dress sense
      Footballers are renowned for their expensive tastes in clothing – but the Man City ace appears to have focused on a very specific type of outfit.
      It seems that Haaland has a penchant for expensive pyjamas as he’s got a wardrobe full of pieces costing up to £2,450 a set.
      In April, he was snapped in red, white and black Dolce & Gabbana PJs that cost £1,000 while flying to the Monaco Grand Prix.
      Haaland’s also dined out in his nightwear too – including at high-end Manchester restaurant Rosso, when he wore a powder blue silk shirt that cost £1,100.
      Last December, he shared a snap of himself in £2,450 Dolce & Gabbana pyjamas while wishing fans a Happy Christmas.
      The footballer’s teammates reportedly “have a giggle” at his odd dress sense.
      One source told the Daily Mail: “He has so much money but look what he wears!”
      Haaland also got a bit of flack for a GQ photoshoot in January when he let down his flowing blond locks.
      Racy workouts
      Haaland recorded a workout video with fitness guru Pamela ReifCredit: YouTube
      Borussia Dortmund hired the ‘world’s sexiest athlete’ Alica Schmidt to train its playersCredit: instagram.com/alicasmd
      Keeping in peak physical condition is a must for any sportsperson, yet it seemed Borussia Dortmund took an unorthodox approach to fitness while Haaland was there.
      In 2021, they hired Olympic hopeful Alica Schmidt, who was branded the “Sexiest Athlete in the World” by Australian magazine Busted Coverage.
      After spotting photos of the 24-year-old stunner, one fan quipped: “That’s why players stay in Dortmund.”
      Another described it as “the greatest strategy of any club to keep their best players” and a third added: “I bet this is why Haaland didn’t wanna leave.”
      A year later, Haaland recorded an exercise video with fitness guru Pamela Reif, who has nine million followers, to help Dortmund fans exercise at home.
      And the pair appeared to hit it off during their nine-minute video, especially when the football found some stretches too hard to complete.
      Read More on The Sun
      After the hilarious and awkward video was posted, one fan wrote: “I like Dortmund’s strategy of keeping Haaland at the club.”
      Sadly for supporters of the German football team, Haaland left the club later that year to join Man City. More

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      Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy’s sauciest bedroom confessions – post-Strictly sex marathon to racy role play & emoji code

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      THEY’VE never been shy, retiring types – but Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy have been extremely candid about their sex life. Since starting their Therapy Crouch podcast this year Abbey, 37, and Peter, 42, have become even more open about what they get up to in the bedroom. 
      Peter Crouch and Abbey Clancy have never shied away from PDAsCredit: Instagram
      The couple have been extremely candid about their sex life on podcast The Therapy CrouchCredit: Instagram
      Peter was once asked what he’d be if not a footballer and famously quipped: “A virgin”.
      And now the couple’s recent revelation over Peter’s use of sexy emojis left some fans in hysterics. 
      It’s not the only saucy confession they’ve made in their 18-year relationship.
      From role play to Strictly sex marathons, we reveal the Crouches’ sauciest ever sex stories.
      READ MORE ON ABBEY CLANCY
      ‘Freak in the bed’ 
      On their podcast Pete joked he had never scored until he met Abbey in a Liverpool nightclub in 2005.
      He had netted two goals in a match against Wigan the night they met – and referred to Abbey as his “hat trick”.
      But model Abbey insisted she made him wait for nookie because she isn’t a “complete ho” – but described her bedroom style as “Lady on the street, freak in bed”.
      Peter joked back while referring to Ludacris’s song Nasty Girl: “Clean in the workplace, dirty in the sheets.”
      Most read in Football
      Nordic and naughty
      Abbey admitted she’s a ‘freak in the bed’Credit: Instagram
      Abbey confessed she’d love to dress Peter as a sexy Viking to spice things up after watching a show about the Nordic pillagers. 
      She said: “I would love you to get jealous. The only time you got jealous was when I was watching that Viking thing. 
      “There’s this show, The Vikings and they are all unreal. Vikings is a thing.”
      She added: “When I watched that show. They’re just cool. Even the girls are as hard as nails. But hot as anything.”
      Peter protested he would look more like Rodney Trotter – getting Vikings confused with Gladiators. 
      He joked to his wife: “You started going to me, ‘Why don’t you be like a Viking?’
      “Have you seen Only Fools And Horses, have you seen when Rodney dresses up as a Gladiator? 
      Emoji code 
      Glamourous Abbey told how she has to “trick” Pete into keeping his hands off herCredit: Instagram
      Abbey branded Peter “vile” for the emoji code he sends her when he’s in the mood. 
      The couple – who have four children together, two boys and two girls called Sophia, Liberty, Jack and Johnny – say they get frisky when the kids are at school. 
      But Abbey claims Peter ruins the mood with his grotesque texts. 
      She said: “I just don’t know how long I can go on with these sexual emojis that you keep sending me.
      “If the kids go to school and he hears me like, put the key in the door, I’m in and no one’s in the house, I just get a beaver and an aubergine emoji text. 
      “I’m not even gonna say the last one but you can imagine what it is.” 
      Peter confirmed: “There’s three emojis.” 
      Abbey described the third emoji: “I’ve got a bit of hydration in there. How vile is that? Am I supposed to go, ‘Oh yeah, now I’m bang up for it’.”
      She added: “Do you think you’re going to get lucky with those messages?”
      Crouch replied: “I’m just letting you know, I’m just putting my cards on the table.”
      Post Strictly sex marathon
      Abbey put Peter on a sex ban while she competed on StrictlyCredit: PA:Press Association
      While competing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2013, Abbey placed Peter on a football-style sex ban. 
      But after 13 weeks in the wilderness, Abbey went on to win the series – which was no doubt a relief to Peter who then played for Stoke City. 
      Abbey told the Daily Star: “Let’s just say Peter is looking forward to having me back. 
      “He just kissed me and twirled me around when I won. I need to spend some quality time with him.”
      Pussy galore
      Abbey revealed she had to buy an XXL bed to accommodate 6ft 7 PeterCredit: BBC
      Abbey has told how the only thing that can put her off sex with Pete is having their beloved pet cat in the room. 
      Peter said the cats had become a bone of contention – especially when he could hear them doing their business in their litter boxes. 
      He said: “So you know whatever happens in our bedroom, you know if I’m relaxing, in the bath, sleeping… There might be the odd occasion where you know things may progress…”
      Peter continued: “Well it always seems to be like when you’re doing any of those things, I hear the rustling of stones.”
      Abbey replied: “I would never have sex in front of our cat. Let’s just put that out there.”
      Peter then added: “Honestly, every time you hear the rustling of stones and you just think to yourself, cat’s having a s***.”
      Quality not quantity
      Abbey says Peter is lucky to get sex once every two weeksCredit: Instagram
      Abbey revealed how with four kids the duo are “lucky” to get down to business once every fortnight. 
      The pair laughed after a listener claimed his sex life had dwindled to only once every two weeks. 
      The fan wrote in: “Naturally as the years have gone by things have started to slow down a bit. This has gotten worse over the past six months and we are lucky if we get it on once every couple of weeks.”
      Abbey responded: “That sounds bloody fine. I think he’s lucky, him.” 
      Peter chipped in: “Peter, 42, from Surrey is that.”
      Abbey continued: “I think he should grow up, once every two weeks, what’s he complaining about?”
      Hair dryer treatment
      Abbey revealed she uses a trick to confuse her frisky husband while drying her hair.
      She said Peter used to always try it on while she used the hairdryer in the nude so she banned him from the bedroom. 
      But after he ignored the ban she devised a double knotting system for her dressing gown to slow him down. 
      She said: “It drives me insane. I’ve come up with a new tactic with the dressing gown.
      “Instead of tying the belt at the front, I tie it at the back. It’s like ‘how do I untie this thing?’ It works a treat.”
      Asked by Peter why she would not want him admiring her, she replied: “I do.”
      Playing footsy
      Abbey once revealed how she had to get a custom bed made to accommodate Peter’s 6ft 7 frame.
      Read More on The Sun
      As a young couple, they made the purchase after Pete’s feet stuck out the end of a regular sized bed which usually measures 6ft 5. 
      She told This Morning in 2008: “It’ll be the first time Pete’s feet are not going to stick out the end.” More