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      in Soccer

      How Bukayo Saka met his match in girlfriend Tolami Benson who is Vogue’s golden girl & teased romance with cheeky clues

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      THERE has been no shortage of breakout stars in England’s Euro 2024 campaign – and that includes in the stands.Hailed by Vogue for ‘reviving WAG fever’, Bukayo Saka’s stunning girlfriend Tolami Benson has gained an army of new Three Lions fans, won over by her slick style, down-to-earth nature and sweet relationship with the superstar winger.Tolami Benson has been praised for her style and class during the 2024 Euros tournamentCredit: GettyTolami has been dating England and Arsenal player Bukayo Saka for four yearsCredit: PAShe has been seen cheering on her man with the rest of England’s WAGsCredit: RexThe 23-year-old has been a constant presence at the Euros, cheering on Saka, 22, as he helped his nation reach a second consecutive final at the tournament.Like Victoria Beckham before her, Tolami has become an instant fashion icon, thanks to her wardrobe full of slick retro England outfits – often topped with her signature Prada shades.Before the tournament, her Instagram fan count stood at 76,000 – now it has surpassed 173,000.It is no mean feat, considering she rarely posts about her relationship on the app, with the low-key couple not even following each other.READ MORE FEATURES Instead, Tolami prefers to share snaps of herself in Germany with fellow WAGS like Megan Pickford – or working at the tournament on her laptop as she continues to carve out a career as a PR executive.And when she has posed up with Saka on social media, he’s usually been behind a mask as they cheekily drip-feed clues about their relationship to super-sleuth Arsenal fans.Here, we look at how Tolami has risen to become England’s new queen of the WAGS.Cheeky cluesFamously a whip smart student who achieved four A*s and three As in his GCSEs, Saka appears to have met his match.Most read in Euro 2024After studying at Birmingham City University, Tolami – who, like her man, is of Nigerian descent – graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Public Relations and Media Public Relations.It was reported that in May, she started a new job as a senior planning executive for Zenith.England stars celebrate reaching Euro 2024 final with Wags as Ollie Watkins kisses girlfriend after late winnerIn the early stages of their romance, the pair went to great lengths to hide his identityCredit: InstagramThe pair were first seen together in public during the Qatar World Cup in 2022Credit: World Cup News Pool (WCNP)Later that year, the game was truly up when they posted matching holiday snaps from DubaiShe has been showing support for her man since by wearing Arsenal shirtsCredit: InstagramAlthough she has been in a relationship with Bukayo since 2020, they initially tried to keep their budding romance on the low, keeping his appearance masked or face out of shot in any pictures together. Rumours of their romance began to swirl a year later, and their relationship was seemingly confirmed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when they were pictured embracing in the stands.Even though their love had become the worst-kept secret on the internet, they still tried to keep it on the lowdown.However, when they cheekily posted near-identical pictures of themselves relaxing on a superyacht in Dubai later that year, eagle-eyed fans easily put two and two together.Since then, Tolami has been has been happy to support Saka both in the stands and online, notably posing up in an Arsenal kit in one stunning snap.But during the Euros this year, the lovebirds have certainly upped their game.Euro starsTolami consoled Bukayo after his side failed to defeat Denmark in their matchCredit: ReutersThey have shared many cute moments in the standsCredit: GettyThe jacket she wore for England’s game against Serbia was a sweet nod to Bukayo’s breakthrough season at ArsenalCredit: GettyWhen Tolami stepped on to the stands for England’s first game against Serbia, she had all eyes on her.She wore a custom biker jacket in white, black, and blue that showed off her impeccable style. Pertinently, she had the number 87 stitched on it. This was Bukayo’s jersey number during his breakout 2018/2019 season with Arsenal.When England beat Switzerland in their game, Saka was awarded the man-of-the-match trophy, which he took to the stands to show Tolami.Shortly after, she posted a picture on Instagram of herself posing with the gong in her hand, captioned “My baby’s baby.”She also seemed to acknowledge that they have now decided to showcase their romance more publicly. In a post, she wrote, “Private relationship with a splash of random flexing.”Vogue’s golden girlTolami’s Instagram page shows her incredible fashion tasteCredit: Instagram/@tolami_bensonHer Euro wardrobe has earned her praise from fashion biblesCredit: Mark Large/Daily MailTolami is seen in a snap with other WAGs, including Megan Pickford, Anouska Santos, and Dani DyerCredit: InstagramIn a true stamp of approval, Vogue has praised Tolami’s style and appearances at England’s game and joked that she is the best reason for tuning in for matches.According to the fashion bible: “It means we get to see another Tolami Benson match-day look.”Benson, who has been dating England’s starboy Bukayo Saka for four years, has been well and truly mastering the art of Waggery at the tournament, and for many of us – this writer included – her wardrobe has been the most exciting part of the whole affair.”She has been credited with bringing back the attention WAGs used to receive in the heydays of Coleen Rooney and Victoria Beckham, in part thanks to her eye-catching designer wardrobe featuring pieces from Diesel, Off-White and Prada.Glamour has also praised how she wears her hair and her nail art, which often pay subtle tribute to the England team.Tolami also appears to be close with other wives and girlfriends. On Instagram, she posed for a picture with Dani Dyer, Megan Pickford, and Anouska Santos.READ MORE SUN STORIESAt club level, she is close to Laura Trossard Hilven, wife of Arsenal player Leandro Trossard. On her Instagram, she posted a snap of them cuddling with the caption: “My L” alongside a white heart emoji.On Sunday, she will hoping the Euro 2024 trophy is coming home with her boyfriend, too.Tolami also appears to be good friends with Laura Trossard Hilven, who is the wife of Arsenal’s Leandro TrossardCredit: Instagram/tolami_bensonPictures showed Tolami and Bukayo gazing lovingly into each other’s eyes during during the last World CupCredit: Dan Charity / Commissioned by the SunShe has showed off her incredible physique in tiny bikinis while on holidayCredit: Instagram/@tolami_bensonEngland’s new Euros WagsENGLAND football stars will be hoping their other halves will bring them good luck in Germany this summer and SunSport runs down the new faces to expect to see. Erica Correa: We exclusively revealed Man Utd star Marcus Rashford has been growing close to the Colombia-born model.Laura Celia Valk: The Dutch stunner is rumoured to be dating Jude Bellginham and staying in his Madrid mansion.Ellie Alderson: The interior designer is with Ollie Watkins, who will be hoping for a place on the plane after missing the last Euros and World Cup.Dani Dyer: The actor and reality TV star is going out with Jarrod Bowen, who is in fine form and in line for a Euros call up.Annie Keating: Girlfriend to Anthony Gordon, who is vying for a place in England’s competitive frontline. Iris Law: The model and daughter to actor Jude sparked romance rumours with Trent Alexander-Arnold after they were spotted together. More

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      From drugging teammates with sleeping pills to baffling 95-0 scoreline – inside the murky world of football match-fixing

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      ENGLAND fans are furious after a scandal-hit referee has been chosen for tomorrow’s Euro 2024 semi-final clash.German-born Felix Zwayer, who will oversee the Three Lions game against the Netherlands, was banned for six months for match-fixing back in 2005.Felix Zwayer, who was previously given a ban for match-fixing, will referee England’s semi-final clashCredit: RexThe official previously clashed with Jude Bellingham over decisions made in a 2021 matchCredit: AFPBellingham was fined £34,000 for criticising Zwayer in this post-match interview in 2021The 43-year-old had received a £250 bribe from another referee, Robert Hoyzer, who had links to a £1.7million Croatian gambling syndicate in Berlin.While Zwayer was reinstated as a FIFA-listed ref in 2012, some fear England may be at risk of harsh treatment due to Jude Bellingham criticising him three years ago.The Three Lions ace, then 18, previously fumed at the official in a post-match interview for not giving his side, Borussia Dortmund, a penalty while awarding one to Bayern Munich.Bellingham, whose team lost 3-2 in the 2021 match, was fined £34,000 for raging: “You can look at a lot of decisions in that game.READ MORE FROM FEATURES“You give a referee that has match-fixed before the biggest game in Germany. What do you expect?”Zwayer was one of five refs who helped to expose crooked Hozyer – who was jailed two-and-a-half years and given a lifetime ban from working in the sport. Sadly match-fixing is nothing new in the world of football – here we reveal some of the utterly astounding scandals.Drugging teammatesBack in 2011, a clash between Italian third-division teams Cremonese and Paganese became famous for all the wrong reasons.Most read in FootballObservers noticed Cremonese’s players looked sluggish and reported feeling tired during the match.Some were reported to have struggled to walk and one member of the team crashed his car while driving home from the match.England’s penalty shoot-out secretsMarco Paolini drugged his teammates with sleeping pillsCredit: RAIIt later transpired that Cremonese’s goalkeeper Marco Paolini had been drugging his teammates with sleeping pills in a bid to pay off gambling debts.The footballer, who had placed the drug in their water bottles, was banned for five years after an FA investigation found links to disgraced Singapore businessman Dan Tan.95-0 winMost football fans would be happy with their side winning a match by a couple of goals – but in Sierra Leone eyebrows were raised by two surprisingly flattering score lines in 2022. Gulf FC and Kenama were both investigated by the nation’s football association after the teams managed to score in excess of 90 goals each.It followed Gulf beating Koquima 91-1 – after being ahead 7-1 in the first half – and Kenama thrashing Lumbebu United 95-0 after leading 2-0 before the second half commenced.The two results were annulled due to allegations of match manipulation and the Sierra Leona Football Association launched an investigation.The four teams were initially suspended by organisers. Later they were forced to replay the matches and put investigation.Totenero scandalItaly’s Paolo Rossi was banned for two years as part of the scandalCredit: PA:Press AssociationTotenero remains the world’s most famous match-fixing scandal – and led to a staggering 21 players, club owners and officials being given prison time.It came to light after an Italian newspaper discovered two greengrocers in Rome had masterminded a ring to facilitate teams to throw matches.They had bribed players including some from the football team Lazio, who were regulars in the restaurant, before eventually running out of money. The 1980 scandal, dubbed ‘totenero’ – the Italian word for illegal gambling – led to both Lazio and AC Milan being relegated from Serie A.Of the arrests, the most notable was Perugia forward Paolo Rossi – who was banned for two years before representing Italy at the 1982 World Cup, where he was the tournament’s top goalscorer.Disgrace of GijonWest Germany’s Wolfgang Dremmler scoring in the match against AustriaCredit: PA:Press AssociationAlgeria fans held money up to photographers, alleging there had been a fix between West Germany and AustriaCredit: AP:Associated PressWhile FIFA stated no rules had been broken, many were furious after a match between West Germany and Austria during 1982 World Cup.For both teams to progress through the group stage at the expense of Algeria, Germany needed just a 1-0 victory over the rivals.The only goal of the match came within 10 minutes of the game and after players passed the ball between them unwilling to compete further.Algeria were knocked out of the tournament and angry fans posed in front of photographers with money showing their disapproval of how the game had been fixed.The game – dubbed ‘the disgrace of Gijon’ – led FIFA to introduce a new rule for all final group games to be played simultaneously.Referee outrageJuventus director Luciano Moggi was involved in the ref-fixingCredit: PA:Press AssociationMoggi walking to court in 2010 for his involvement in the 2006 corruption scandalCredit: AFPIn 2006, Italian football suffered yet another scandal when police intercepted phone calls that revealed club officials had arranged for favourable referees. Teams including Juventus, Milan, Fiorentina, Lazio and Reggina were found to have been involved in conversations with the referee organisations. It led to prison sentences and football bans for Fiorentina’s co-owner Andrea Della Valle and Juventus director Luciano Moggi. England’s penalty shootout recordTHE dreaded penalty shootout.England’s nemesis at no fewer than EIGHT major tournaments since 1990, from the West Germany heartache at Italia 90 to Wembley woes on the brink of Euro 2020 final glory.But the perfect shootout win over Switzerland at Euro 2024 gives some reason for optimism…1990 World Cup semi-final vs WEST GERMANY, 04/07/1990 – LOST 4-3Euro 1996 quarter-final vs SPAIN, 22/06/1996 – WON 4-2Euro 1996 semi-final vs WEST GERMANY, 26/06/1996 – LOST 6-5Friendly vs BELGIUM, 29/05/1998 – LOST 4-31998 World Cup last 16 vs ARGENTINA, 30/06/1998 – LOST 4-3Euro 2004 quarter-final vs PORTUGAL, 24/06/2004 – LOST 6-52006 World Cup quarter-final vs PORTUGAL, 01/07/2006 – LOST 3-1Euro 2012 quarter-final vs ITALY, 24/06/2012 – LOST 4-22018 World Cup last 16 vs COLOMBIA, 03/07/2018 – WON 4-3Nations League third-place play-off vs SWITZERLAND, 09/06/2019 – WON 6-5Euro 2020 final vs ITALY, 11/07/2021 – LOST 3-2Euro 2024 quarter-final vs SWITZERLAND, 06/07/24 – WON 5-3OVERALL: Played 12 Won 4, Lost 8Of the teams involved, Juventus received the heftiest punishment with them being stripped of two Serie A titles and relegated to Series B.It led to a number of the team’s star players including Fabio Cannavaro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic leaving the club. Nearly 35 international footballers left the Italian league as a result of the scandal and moved to teams in other European leagues. 146 goals In another scandal involving absurd scorelines, four teams were banned from Nigeria’s lower league after 146 goals were scored in two matches.Both Plateau United Feeders and Police Machine were battling for promotion in 2013 but faced large goal differences so the teams took it into their own hands.Plateau United Feeders were 7-0 up at half-time against Akurba FC but went on to score a staggering 72 more goals.Similarly, Police Machine won 67-0 against Babyaro FC after being 6-0 ahead at halftime.The games saw one player score 11 times, three own goals and new footballs being used instead of retrieving balls from the back of the net. All four teams were banned for 10 years due to the “shameful incident”.Deliberate own goalTwo Brazilian footballers were sacked in an alleged match-fixing scandal in 2022Credit: TwitterIt’s claimed a midfielder deliberately scored an own goal and the keeper did nothing to stop himCredit: TwitterIn Brazil, at least two footballers were sacked after a bizarre own goal one minute before the end of the match. In footage from the game, it appeared that midfielder Julio Campos kick the ball into his own net on purpose and the goalkeeper did nothing to stop it.The game finished with Campos’ team, Atletico Amazonense, losing 4-1 to rivals Sul America in 2022. Two players were fired after the incident and regional prosecutors were asked to launch an investigation into match-fixing. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe loss ruled the team out of the race for promotion to Brazil’s top tier and the club’s president Henrique Barbosa was furious.In a statement, the club branded the actions “serious sabotage” and said Campos had an “unethical attitude” and “was determined to sabotage his own side” from the “beginning of the game”.Former referee Robert Hoyzer was jailed for more than two years and banned from footballCredit: Getty More

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      in Motorsport

      British GP scandals from Schumacher’s infamous Silverstone win to VERY awkward Cara Delevingne chat and X-rated blunder

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      IT’S one of the most legendary races in Formula 1, but the British Grand Prix has had to steer a path through shocks and scandals over the years.From spying on the competition to insane collisions, countless infamous sporting moments have left fans reeling.The British Grand Prix has given fans some of the most memorable moments in Formula 1Credit: Tim Williams/British Photography AwardsMichael Schumacher has been involved in controversies at SilverstoneCredit: AP:Associated PressThe legend celebrated coming second in 1994 – little did he know he’d be disqualified and banned shortly afterwardsCredit: Times Newspapers LtdAnd there’s been some spicy moments off the track too – remember Cara Delevingne’s infamous grid chat with Martin Brundle last year? As Formula 1 returns to Silverstone on Sunday, there could be more fireworks in store, with the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris, and Max Verstappen all vying for the top prize.Here, we look at the British Grand Prix’s most memorable controversies – from the scandalous to the pure ridiculous.No stopping himMichael Schumacher is considered by many to be the greatest driver in F1 history, but his glittering career didn’t come without a few controversies.READ MORE FEATURES In 1994, the star – who tragically suffered a severe brain injury in 2013 – was hit with a five-second penalty after illegally passing frontrunner Damon Hill on the formation lap.Remarkably, he ignored the punishment and, after 21 laps, was served a black flag, which should have resulted in his disqualification – only to seemingly ignore that too.He finally served the time penalty on lap 27, eventually finishing second as confusion reigned.Princess Diana presented Hill with his award on the podium as Schumacher looked on.Most read in MotorsportHowever, shortly after, Michael was disqualified and banned for two races after being dragged to the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council.His protests that he had not seen the black flag did not go down well with officials.Greatest F1 track on Earth’ created featuring iconic parts from Silverstone, Spa and SuzukaVictory from the pitsSchumacher won in 1998 while not even on the trackCredit: AP:Associated PressIn 1998, Schumacher again came under intense scrutiny when he won the British Grand Prix… from the pit lane.It all started when he was judged to have illegally overtaken Alexander Wurz while the safety car had been deployed as he chased down race leader Mika Hakkinen.The German was given a 10-second penalty for the move, but Ferrari claimed to be confused by whether it would be added to their driver’s time or if he would need to come into the pits for a stop-and-go.Ultimately, Schumacher was called in by his team on the final lap, meaning that by the time he reached the team’s garage, he had already crossed the finish line, sparking fury among their rivals.It soon emerged that the bungling stewards had only announced the punishment with just two laps of the race left.Despite many expressing disappointment at how Schumacher won, the rules at the time were vague, meaning his victory stood.180mph smashLewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have had one of the most heated rivalries in Formula OneCredit: GettyThe pair collided at top speed, with Max having to go to the hospital to get checked outLewis Hamilton’s wild celebration did not go down well with everyoneCredit: PAWhen it comes to heated rivalries on the grid, very few come close to the intensity of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.In 2021, their feud came to a head when they collided in a 180mph clash at Copse Corner. It was the first time that year that a battle between the two would end in a collision.Max crashed heavily into the barriers and was taken to hospital for precautionary checks. Lewis was penalised with a 10-second penalty but still went on to win the race by passing Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.He was later accused of “dirty driving by Red Bull’s Christian Horner as the debate about racing etiquette raged.Max also slammed Lewis’ behaviour on X, writing: “Watching the celebrations while still in hospital is disrespectful and unsportsmanlike behaviour, but we move on.”Spygate Nigel Stepney stole hundreds of pages of Ferrari data and passed them on to McLarenCredit: GettyTheir plan came to light when Mike Coughlan’s wife made photocopies of the documentsCredit: Sutton Motor Sport ImagesIn 2007, McLaren was hit with a huge $100million fine in one of the biggest controversies to come out of Formula 1.Dubbed Spygate, it centred around Nigel Stepney, who worked for Ferrari and his old friend, Mike Coughlan, who was the chief designer of McLaren.When Stepney felt like he had been unfairly shut out of a promotion, he stole almost 800 pages of confidential Ferrari data and passed them on to Coughlan. But their plan came crashing down when Coughlan’s wife tried to make copies of the documents at a shop in Woking.The photocopier, a Ferrari fan, became suspicious and alerted the team, who launched a bombshell legal case days ahead of the British Grand Prix in July.While McLaren was initially cleared of wrongdoing, a second investigation led to the record punishment. The scandal remains a huge stain on McLaren’s legacy.Protest on live trackJust Stop Oil protestors recklessly sat on the tracks while a race was underwayCredit: RexThe protestors were arrested and charged for their actionsCredit: RexIn 2022, a huge security lapse at Silverstone saw six environmental protestors storm the tracks and recklessly sit down while the race was ongoing.Luckily, the cars had slowed by the time they got to the protestors, due to a multi-car incident at Turn 1.After they were removed, all six Just Stop Oil protestors were arrested and charged with causing a public nuisance.At their trial, prosecutors said they risked “serious harm” to the drivers and the marshals who had to get them off the tracks. Although they were found guilty of the offence, they were spared jail and handed suspended sentences instead. Cringe snubCara Delevingne declined an interview with Martin Brundle on the gridCredit: Sky Sports F1The model was slammed on social media for snubbing F1 legend MartinCredit: Sky Sports F1Former racing driver turned commentator Martin Brundle is one of the most respected figures in Formula One. The Sky Sports presenter is known for interviewing team principals, drivers, and VIPs before the beginning of each race. But it seemed last year, model Cara Delevingne didn’t get the memo when she appeared to snub him as he approached her for an interview during the grid walk.Initially, a member of her team said she did not want to talk. Martin then responded with: “She doesn’t want to talk? But everybody needs to talk on the grid, that’s the deal now.”🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 He then took matters into his own hands and asked her for a “quick chat”, to which she said: “No” and added that she couldn’t “hear anything”.As Martin walked away from Cara, he quipped: “Oh well, I’m sure it would have been extremely interesting.”Fans immediately took to social media to slam her over the incident, which went viral.One vented: “Terrible form. This is Martin Brundle’s gridwalk. Has been for eternity.”As the storm grew, Cara was forced to defend herself, telling one fan: “I was told to say no so I did. Thank you for seeing both sides xxx”X-rated displayA screen malfunction resulted in a very awkward sceneCredit: YouTubeIn 2015, fans in attendance were left in fits of laughter after the big screen malfunctioned and appeared to depict a lewd act. The screen showed two men in a jerking motion, with one man’s hand in front of the other. READ MORE SUN STORIESAs the up-and-down hand motions continued, fans could be heard laughing, with one shouting, “What’s he doing?”After a few more seconds, the two men disappeared from the screen as it went completely blank. More

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      Inside England squad’s bizarre life at Euro 2024 – from Ed Sheeran gigs to cringe personalised pillows and goodie bags

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      THE pressure may be on for the Three Lions on the pitch, but once the final whistle has blown the team behind the players is making sure they have the perfect environment to relax and recover.The England team is staying at the swanky five-star Spa & Golf Resort Weimarer Land in sleepy Blankenhain for Euro 2024. Pop megastar Ed Sheeran joined the England squad at their base this weekCredit: GettyHe treated them to an impromptu gigCredit: GettyThe England squad are staying in a £300-a-night resort for the Euro tournamentCredit: GettyThey have access to a stunning indoor swimming pool, among other featuresCredit: Darren FletcherOn Monday, they were joined by Ed Sheeran, who treated the team to an impromptu performance to celebrate their win against Slovakia, which took them into the quarter-finals.England fan Ed has been in Germany supporting his team and was spotted in the stands celebrating Jude Bellingham’s winning goal.As the team prepares for their next match against Switzerland, every effort has been made to make the base camp a home-from-home for Harry Kane and co.Manager Gareth Southgate and his staff have ensured the hotel is full of personal touches to ensure homesickness or boredom doesn’t impact the players’ performance on the pitch.READ MORE FEATURES In every player’s room, there are photo collages of their families and pets, along with inspirational notes from their nearest and dearest telling them how proud they are of them for representing their country.Attention to detail is second to none and even the hotel’s sofas have had a cringe makeover – decorated with cushions printed with the faces of their loved ones, according to the Telegraph.And instead of the customary solitary chocolate on their pillows at bedtime, Southgate’s team each have an individually selected goodie bag with their favourite sweets and treats.The hotel even smells like home too, with specific scents imported from England’s UK base, George’s Park, to Germany.Most read in Euro 2024The resort’s corridors feature the same ‘signature’ scent used at England’s headquarters – a “fresh, comforting aroma that is distinguishable and lets you know you’re in a high-end space,” with notes of bergamot, lily, and jasmine. There is a different, more energising fragrance for the gym and recreation areas, while a lavender-based aroma will be used in bedrooms to create a relaxing and sleep-friendly atmosphere at night. England squad get serenaded by Ed Sheeran ahead of Switzerland clash as star finally completes his Lego HogwartsTheir bedrooms have been customised with pictures of their loved ones. Pictured, the hotel ahead of their stayCredit: Darren FletcherSofas in their rooms have been decked out with cushions featuring their family’s facesCredit: Darren FletcherAlongside an indoor pool, there’s also an outdoor pool where they can cool offCredit: Darren FletcherEngland’s players can relax in this luxurious spa after a hard day’s workCredit: Darren FletcherThe hotel’s swanky barCredit: Darren FletcherPools, darts… and Harry Potter LegoThe £300-a-night resort has everything to keep the players entertained in their downtime – two 18 hole golf courses, a luxury spa, saunas, swimming pools, and a a football pitch.There’s also a basketball court and a padel court, dart board, pool table and cinema room – meaning they will certainly have no excuses to be bored.And as Gareth Southgate has allowed the players’ wives and families to come to the resort after each match to give them much-needed family time, there are plenty of activities for the WAGs and children to enjoy.Declan Rice posted a picture of himself and Eberechi Eze enjoying a game of padel, the world’s fastest-growing racquet sport. Padel is a cross between tennis and squash.The team have been mountain-biking around the hotel’s extensive grounds to flush out their legs in between games.The resort also features two 18-hole golf coursesCredit: GettyDeclan shared a snap of the lads playing padelCredit: InstagramHe also showed off the fancy firepit at nightCredit: InstagramAnthony Gordon tries his hand at dartsCredit: GettyKobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer have a game of poolCredit: GettyBut Newcastle star Anthony Gordon came a cropper last week when he fell off his bike whilst trying to film himself cycling, suffering gashes to his face, hands and arms.Another less risky activity keeping the players busy is Lego, with Lewis Dunk building a 6,000-piece Harry Potter castle with the team masseuse.The Brighton captain said: “It’s going to be Hogwarts. It’s not just me. Me and Ben the masseuse, we’re working on it.”To be fair, he has done more than me so far. He’s loving it. I’ve done a little bit. I’m just glad my kids ain’t here to smash it up!”In the evening the team can relax around fire pits over-looking one of the resort’s luxury swimming pools.And all the players have been spotted getting competitive over games of darts and pool.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYAnd Jude Bellingham revealed his new goal celebration was inspired by the card game Werewolf that the team plays together.After scoring the winner in England’s first match against Serbia, Bellingham unveiled a new celebration with Trent Alexander-Arnold where they both fell to one knee and covered their faces with outstretched hands.He later explained the inspiration behind it was a backroom game of cards, saying: “The celebration was from a game we play called wolf and one of the staff always holds his face like that when he doesn’t know what’s going on.READ MORE SUN STORIES“So it was more a celebration for the backroom staff who put in so much work every day and they won’t receive any awards like this or get to have the moments we get to have on the pitch.”But we value them so much and it’s important going through the tournament that we keep that atmosphere.”Lewis Dunk has been building a Lego Hogwarts with the team’s masseuseJude Bellingham says his goal celebration pose is a way to pay tribute to England’s backroom staffCredit: GettyConnor Gallagher and Marc Guehi in a game of head tennis ahead of a training sessionCredit: GettyThe stars have access to the hotel’s pools when at the resortCredit: GettyThere is an incredible gym where the lads can work outCredit: Darren FletcherEngland’s five-point penalty shootout planEXPERT football psychologist Professor Geir Jordet has told Gareth Southgate and his players what they can do to give themselves the best chance of victory in any shootouts.And he has even thrown in a rogue, bold suggestion for the Three Lions manager…1. START PLANNING LAST YEAR “It’s about planning for the opposition’s penalty takers but also ‘how do we win the psychological game against each opponent?’2. SMART SOUTHGATE LEADERSHIP”Southgate will have two minutes to influence his players as effectively as possible, show he has a plan and get confidence across.”3. DICTATE AS A TEAM”A shootout is really a team performance. Have the goalkeeper walk with the penalty taker into the penalty area to basically create a two-versus-one against the other goalkeeper. Dominate the centre circle, support the players who missed.”4. ‘BULLETPROOF’ INDIVIDUAL ROUTINES “Have really good, individualised and rehearsed pre-shot routines that are bulletproof and polished so they’re more likely to be able to resist the stress and more likely to score.”5. SHOOT YOUR SHOT  “Practise the shot itself, trying to simulate penalty shootouts in training. Even recreating 20 per cent of a Euros final penalty shootout is going to have a benefit for your performance.”AND A JOR DROPPING IDEA…Jordan Pickford is the No1 but Dean Henderson actually has a far better penalty record – saving 8/22 (36 per cent) compared to Pickford’s 8/62 (13 per cent).Jordet said: “One could consider making a late substitution for a penalty shootout. I doubt that they dare to do it in case it fails and the pressure is even higher but it would be a very ballsy move.” More

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      in Soccer

      Andy Carroll’s troubled history of bar brawls and stag do scandals… and how he rebranded for ‘livid’ wife Billi Mucklow

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      DRUNKEN brawls, racy club nights and the most notorious stag do in football – Andy Carroll’s life off the pitch has often been a series of embarrassing own goals.We revealed this week how the footballer, 35, was filmed stumbling down a posh Mayfair street after scrapping with another man at 1am.Andy Carroll was seen brawling in London at 1am as wife Billi tried to calm him downCredit: SuppliedWitnesses claim he was yelling at members of the publicCredit: SuppliedThe former England star has never been far from scandalCredit: EmpicsAndy and Billi have stuck together through thick and thinCredit: Instagram @billimucklowHe was then seen shouting, “You f***ing want some?” at bystanders while wife Billi Mucklow, 36, and the staff from Sexy Fish restaurant, where they had dined, tried to calm the footie ace down.Towie star Billi is said to be disappointed with her husband for his outburst, with a witness saying: “She was not impressed.“It looked like they had been having a pleasant evening, knocking back the drinks and enjoying the Asian cuisine.“But Andy had a row with a guy as they were preparing to leave.”READ MORE FEATURESIt is just the latest booze-fuelled scandal to hit the former England striker, who infamously nearly torpedoed his own wedding after being pictured in bed with two women on his stag do.In recent years, he has cut a reformed figure on social media, sharing sweet ‘Instagram dad’ snaps of his kids’ birthdays and gushing posts about his wife. But unfortunately for long-suffering Billi, trouble always seems to be around the corner.Drunken brawlsThe couple have three children together, Arlo, eight, Wolf, five, and Marvel Mae, two, while the sports star also has two children, Emilie, 13, and Lucas, 12, from his previous relationship with former fiancée Faye Johnstone.Most read in FootballAndy and Billi started dating in 2013 and got engaged a year later, but she was aware that he had a troubled side before they met.Back in 2010 he was arrested and subsequently fined for assaulting a man outside a Newcastle nightclub.Footie ace Andy Carroll wrecks £130k Mercedes in horrifying head-on crash with Ford FiestaAndy went to court aged 21 for his role in a drunken brawl that left a victim in hospitalCredit: PA:Press AssociationHis time at Newcastle United was marred by his off-the-pitch behaviourCredit: APAndy claims having a family has helped him to calm downBilli is said to be disappointed in her husband over his latest brawlCredit: InstagramAndy had been drinking at the city’s Blu Bambu club on December 7 when things descended into a fight and the victim required hospital treatment.The Premier League star paid £1,000 after admitting to the assault. He was also ordered to pay an additional £2,500 compensation.Then in October 2010 he was charged with assault in an incident with his ex-girlfriend, but due to a lack of evidence, the charges were dropped.That same year, Andy was alleged to have attacked fellow Newcastle player Steven Taylor, leaving him with a broken jaw. Andy was seen with a bandaged hand.I was stupid, I was young, and I was carried away with the lifestyle that I hadAndy CarrollHowever, it was never confirmed by the club, Andy or Steven. He was also involved in a scuffle with a photographer in 2012, just a year before he started dating Billi.Paddy Cummins claimed that he was attacked by a drunk Carroll when he tried to take a picture of him apparently without his leg brace at around 2.30am following a West Ham Christmas party.The footballer was alleged to have tried to gouge the snapper in the eye for trying to take photographs.Andy denied the allegations, and it never went to court.Hotel room fiascoAndy was pictured lying in bed with two unknown women on his stag doTaylor, one of the girls, claimed nothing happened and that Andy was too drunk to try anything onCredit: Simon JonesSince meeting Billi, Andy has credited her with turning his life around – so much so that he has even taken up yoga, which she teaches.In 2019, he told Newcastle United FC: “I’ve got no doubt that I was daft when I was here, and no doubt that I was daft for a couple of years after as well.“But I met my missus, and we’ve got four kids living at home now, we’ve got animals, we’ve got responsibilities. There’s no more behaviour like it was, you know.”I was stupid, I was young, and I was carried away with the lifestyle that I had.“Now it’s completely different. I’m actually a dad, I’ve grown up, and got responsibilities, so… I’ve got a purpose.”Unfortunately for Andy, he landed himself in hot water with his wife and the nation three years later, just days before their wedding.While on his Dubai stag do in 2022, the sportsman invited two girls back to his hotel room.Taylor Jane Wilkey, then 27, was one of the women who ended up back at the accommodation with Andy, and alleged he’d been on a 17-hour bender.Billi was livid over the picturesAnnonymous sourceThe party girl also claimed that she had no idea he was celebrating his upcoming wedding and had been told it was just a lads’ holiday.She told The Sun: “It was an amazing day, the booze was flowing and Andy seemed to be having a great time.“He came over to chat to us and asked what we did, he seemed nice, a gentleman.“But at no point did anyone mention it was a stag do, we were told it was a lads’ holiday. I didn’t know he was getting married.”Taylor told that, despite how it looked, nothing had happened between the girls and the 6ft 4inch footballer.“He was honestly in no state to do anything,” she said, before adding: “I’m so sorry for all this mess — but I did nothing wrong.”The incident came to light when a photo of Andy bare-chested in bed flanked by two girls circulated on the internet.His then wife-to-be was said to be furious at his behaviour, but still opted to go through with their wedding.Wedding bellsThe couple went ahead with their wedding despite the stag do chaosCredit: INSTAGRAMBilli regularly posts photos from their wedding to celebrate birthdays and anniversariesCredit: InstagramThe couple read their vows at a lavish ceremony at Hampshire’s five-star Four Seasons Hotel, where champagne flowed.But Andy’s recent antics still cast a cloud over the happy day. One onlooker said: “Billi and Andy were both emotional when they saw one another, but the atmosphere totally changed when the officiator asked if anyone present knew why they should not be married.“Everyone in the ceremony started to laugh really loudly, and Billi and Andy joined in.“It really broke the ice in what has been a very difficult build up to the wedding for Billi.”They added: “She has been waiting for this day for a long time and after everything that has gone on over the past week, to finally get to say their vows was massive.“Billi was almost 20 minutes late, which added to Andy’s nerves, but after the hysterics, everyone was far more relaxed.”Billi has been getting fed up with Andy’s wild behaviour over the yearsCredit: InstagramAndy was spotted looking cosy with DJ Kitty McPaws last yearBut last year Andy was in hot water again after being filmed cuddling up to a DJ named Kitty McPaws on a night out.A party guest said: “He caressed her bum. It was very flirty.“Someone made a joke that Kitty McPaws was living up to her name because they were pawing each other.“Andy was very carefree. He knew others were watching and that at one stage he was filmed with Kitty.”After the video became public, Kitty said: “He was on a night out and I was DJing. We had a quick chat before my set. That was it.”Andy Carroll’s careerAndy Carroll was just seven years old when he was scouted for Newcastle United’s academy.He then went on to play for their youth team before making his first team debut in 2006.His first match was against Palermo in the UEFA cup where he was brought on as a substitute. At just 17-years-old, he became the youngest player to represent Newcastle United in a European game.While at the club he was seen as a rising star thanks to his goal scoring abilities. In 2011, Andy was transferred to Liverpool FC for a fee of £35million.After a year playing for the club we was loaned to West Ham United, who would later buy him for £15million.His time at the London club was marred by injuries and he only appeared 18 times in the 2013-2014 season. The club released him in 2019, following his ankle surgery and he returned to Newcastle United. In 2021 he was transferred to Reading and a year later moved to West Bromwich Albion.In 2022 he was back at Reading but he left again after a year to move to Amiens in FranceWhile Billi didn’t make any public statement about the incident, behind closed doors she was reportedly furious.At the time, insiders told Closer: “Billi was livid over the pictures. Andy totally denies any wrongdoing at all – he’s assured her that nothing happened and that he was just on a night out with his mates, which ended up carrying on and that it was all just innocent fun – but Billi wasn’t happy.”However, the pair managed to work it out behind the scenes and continued to share photos of their seemingly idyllic life on social media. Car crash horrorAndy was involved in a freak head on collision with another vehicleCredit: © Jeff MooreLuckily no one was seriously hurt in the collisionCredit: RexIn 2022, Andy made headlines after being involved in a horrific car crash in his £130,000 Mercedes GLS SUV.Witnesses saw him and a driver of a Ford Focus being breathalysed at the scene but neither were arrested. The cars had collided head on and the red Ford had been shunted 30 yards up the road. John Cooper, who lives nearby, said: “I heard the most awful bang.“I saw Andy Carroll emerge from his vehicle. He was wandering around in a daze.”The dad-of-three was said to go and check on the occupants of the other motor to ensure no one was seriously hurt. Just one crash victim went to hospital with chest pains. Move abroadAndy enjoys being able to spend time with his family in France without people knowing who he isCredit: InstagramThe couple share lots of photos of them with the kidsCredit: InstagramAndy and Billi doing yoga with their totCredit: InstagramThey often post loved-up snapsCredit: Instagram/@billimucklowNowadays, Andy plies his trade in France, playing for Ligue 2 club Amiens since signing last September.His life with Billi appears more settled, with his wife regularly sharing enviable snaps of their glamorous holidays abroad and pictures of him tending to the kids.For his part, the footballer says he is enjoying the level of anonymity that living in France provides him with.He told MailOnline: “Here [in France] I can walk into the bakery and get a pain au chocolat and no one’s saying, ‘How was the game? Can I get a picture?’ Here I feel like I’m normal. I just wanted to get out. Be free. Be me.”He later added: “Here I can take my kids to the zoo here and they’re not saying, ‘Come on dad’ because people are asking for photos or autographs. There’s a little pub around the corner where me and a couple of the boys went to watch Newcastle beat PSG the other week. What a game! No one said a word to me.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile Billi may not have completely tamed Andy’s wild side, she has certainly tempered it with time and patience.However, more of both might be required after his latest brawl. More

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      From Georgina Rodriguez’s astonishing Insta payday to ‘Serbia’s Posh and Becks’… Euro 2024 Wags rich list revealed

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      EUROPE’S top footballers earn millions of pounds each year for their talents on the pitch.But some of their wives and girlfriends have mega-bucks earning power in their own rights.Georgina Rodriguez is the ultimate WAG when it comes to earnings on InstagramCredit: instagram/@georginagioShe is engaged to Portuguese superstar Cristiano RonaldoCredit: instagram/@georginagioWhile Dani Dyer topped the England squad’s WAGs rich list, there are many other models and social media influencers who’ve been cheering from the sidelines throughout the Euros 2024.From sports stars to TV presenters – and even an architect and a tattoo artist – they could cash in even more on Instagram thanks to their millions of followers.Georgina Rodriguez – £150k per postThe rockstar of WAGs, Georgina Rodriguez, 30, has amassed more followers than any other wife or girlfriend – 60 million, to be precise.Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo’s girlfriend has had her wealth bumped up by Netflix documentary I Am Georgina, as well as ad campaigns for Prada, Gucci, and Chanel.READ MORE EURO FEATURES Admirably, Georgina is also an ambassador for the Save the Children organisation. Her huge social media following means she can afford to be picky about what she promotes and could earn a cool £150,000 per post.On Instagram, she gives fans a glimpse of her incredible life. She posts snaps of her children and her beau. Georgina also shows herself on private jets, luxurious holidays, and impeccable fashion sense. Most read in Euro 2024Her man, Cristiano also has a huge following on the platform. He is currently the most followed person on Instagram, with 632million, more than the likes of Beyonce and Kim Kardashian. Stunning England wags watch on as England face Denmark at Euro 2024Anna Lewandowska – £140k per postAnna Lewandowski is as accomplished as her husband and comes second on the listCredit: instagram.com/annalewandowskaThe pair are thought to be worth £100million togetherCredit: INSTAGRAM @_RL9 @annalewandowskaPoland striker Robert Lewandowski’s wife, Anna Lewandowska, won World and European championship medals in karate before retiring and building a multi-million-pound health and fitness empire.Anna, 35, is known as the face of fitness in her native Poland and is one of the country’s wealthiest women.It is estimated that, between them, Anna and Robert are worth a staggering £100 million.Anna has 5.6 million followers on Instagram, where she often posts a mixture of fitness, yoga and green juices, along with cute snaps of their daughters, Klara, seven, and Laura, four. Her social media earning power is estimated at around £140,000 per post.Dani Dyer – £9k per postDani Dyer can earn £9,000 per sponsored post on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe has been married to England’s Jarrod Bowen since 2021Credit: Instagram/danidyerxxOne of the most popular Love Island stars of all time, Dani Dyer, 27, is estimated to be worth more than £4 million in her own right. Since her triumphant win with ex-boyfriend Jack Fincham in 2018, Dani has amassed a whopping 3.7 million followers on Instagram. TV personality Dani, the daughter of former EastEnders star Danny Dyer, married West Ham and England footballer Jarrod Bowen in 2021. Fans love Dani’s bubbly personality, down-to-earth attitude and humour and it is estimated Dani could earn up to £9,000 per post.Alice Campello Morata – £8k per postAlice is an entrepreneur in her own right and owns successful businessesShe is married to Spain’s captain, Alvaro MorataCredit: AFP or licensorsSpain captain Alvaro Morata’s wife, Alice Campello, is a superstar in her own right.The mum of four is a model and entrepreneur, running her own fashion label and cruelty-free beauty line.Her Instagram page combines model poses and cute, wholesome family shots.It obviously caught Morata’s eyes in the early days, as she revealed they met after he slid into her DMs.Now, 29-year-old Alice’s beauty and business brain could see her earning a tidy £8,000 per post.Zoe Cristofoli – £2.7k per postZoe is often seen on Instagram showing off her vast collection of tattoosCredit: Instagram @zoe_cristofoliShe shares one son with France’s Theo HernandezCredit: SplashTattoo lover Zoe Cristofoli, 28, is the girlfriend of French star Theo Hernandez, playing for France in the Euros.Model Zoe and the defender share a son called TJ. The stunner loves ink and often showcases the hundreds of tattoos covering around 60 percent of her body on her Instagram page.She also co-owns a tattoo parlour called Ink Studio Lagrange in Turin.Rose Bertram – £2.4k per postRose Bertram has been linked to French superstar Kylian MbappeCredit: SplashShe has modelled for countless brands and even appeared on the cover of VogueCredit: SplashBelgian model and influencer Rose Bertram is rumoured to be dating France captain Kylian Mbappe.The stunning blonde was signed to a modelling agency at the age of just 13. Now aged 29, she has appeared on the front cover of fashion bible, Vogue.And, with over a million followers on Instagram, her growing presence could see her rake in over £2,400 per post.Sara Gundogan – £3k per postSara is a successful TV presenter in her own rightCredit: Social media – Refer to sourceShe is married to Germany’s captain Ilkay GundoganCredit: ReutersModel and TV presenter Sara Gundogan is married to German captain Ilkay Gundogan.The former Manchester City star’s wife put her own TV career on the back burner when she married Gundogan in 2021.But the 28-year-old is now looking to rebuild it, having starred in Prime Video’s series Married To The Game, which followed the lives of five football WAGS.On the show, Sara – who has a one-year-old son with Gundogan – sparked fury when she called the restaurant scene in Manchester “horrible”.But she has since revealed she misses the rainy city since his transfer to Barcelona.In part, thanks to her new TV career, it’s estimated Sara could command around £3000 per Instagram post.Iris Law – £2.8k per postIris Law is the child of actors Jude Law and Sadie FrostCredit: GettyShe is said to be in the early stages of a relationship with Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: Guess JeansIris Law has always been used to life in the spotlight as the daughter of actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost.The striking beauty has carved out a modelling career of her own starring in campaigns for Dior, Burberry and Stella McCartney. And the 23-year-old is now rumoured to be in the early stages of a romance with England and Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, 25.Iris and the player were spotted on a romantic date in Monaco.With her family background and burgeoning career, stunning Iris can already command around £2800 per post.Vlada Zinchenko – £2.6k per postVlada is a TV presenter who regularly reports on sportsCredit: Instagram / @v.lada_sedanShe is married to Ukraine’s Oleksandr Zinchenko and has two kids with himCredit: InstagramStunning Vlada Zinchenko was already a successful sports journalist in their native Ukraine when she met Ukraine’s Oleksandr Zinchenko.The Ukraine footballer famously admitted to proposing to her at home in his boxer shorts at 4am, but, despite that, she said yes, and the couple married in 2020.The couple have two children together.But 28-year-old Vlada is one WAG who won’t be watching from the stands, as she’s reporting on the football for Ukrainian TV.Her Instagram earning power could be as much as £2600 per post.Dani ter Stegen – £2.2k per postDani ter Stegen can charge over £2,200 each time she posts an advert on InstagramCredit: InstagramDani has two kids with German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter StegenCredit: InstagramDani ter Stegen, married to German goalie Marc-Andre ter Stegen, has brains and beauty and is a qualified architect.Canny Dani managed to juggle her architecture studies with a burgeoning career as a model and social media influencer so has amassed almost 600,000 followers.The couple, who are based in Barcelona, also have two young children meaning Dani is a very busy woman. But she could capitalise on her social media presence to the tune of £2,250 per post.Laura Celia Valk – £2k per postLaura Celia Valk is said to be dating England’s Jude BellinghamCredit: InstagramGorgeous Dutch model, Laura Celia Valk is rumoured to be dating England’s wonder kid Jude Bellingham.She has worked for a string of popular brands, including PrettyLittleThing, and regularly shares snaps of her stays in luxury hotels around Europe. Her earning power online could be around £2000 per post.Sophia Weber – £1.5k per postSophia Weber has 430,000 followers on Instagram and can make £1,500 on InstagramCredit: Instagram @sophiaaemeliaSophia Weber and Kai Harvetz are childhood sweetheartsSophia Weber and Germany footballer Kai Havertz are childhood sweethearts. They grew up in the same neighbourhood and officially started dating in 2018.The couple avoid a flashy lifestyle, with Sophia making sure her football star boyfriend keeps his feet on the ground by helping to load the dishwasher and do household chores when he is at home.But down-to-earth Sophia has also carved out an impressive career for herself as a model and social media influencer who has amassed 430,000 followers on Instagram.Lisa Muller – £800 per post Lisa Muller is married to Germany’s Thomas MullerCredit: InstagramLisa Muller, 34, and Germany striker Thomas Muller were born just days apart in Weinheim, Germany and first started dating in 2007 before tying the knot two years later.As Thomas flourished at Bayern Munich, Lisa’s passion for horses saw her build her own sporting career as a professional dressage rider and horse trainer.The couple own their own stables and Thomas’ favourite horse is said to be called Dave.Her 220,000 Instagram followers could see her earn around £800 per post.Ines Degener Tomaz – £800 per post Ignez Degener Tomaz can ask for £800 each time she posts an advert on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe has been married to Portugal’s Bernardo Silva since last yearCredit: InstagramModel Ines Degener Tomaz and Bernardo Silva married last year in their native Portugal.The stunning mum of one regularly posts snaps of herself following her beau’s career worldwide and cute pictures of their daughter. The 25-year-old could earn up to £800 per post, thanks to her 207,000 followers on Instagram.Daniela Machado – £500 per postDaniela Machado is still building her online following but can make £500 per postCredit: Instagram @danielalexmachadoShe has been engaged to Joao Cancelo since 2021Credit: ReutersDaniela Machado and Portuguese star Joao Cancelo are childhood sweethearts who have been engaged since 2021.The couple have one daughter Alicia and Daniela is currently expecting their second child, posting cute pregnancy photos on Instagram. She is still building a following online but could earn around £500 per postDjina Petrovic – £220 per post Djina is a former Miss Serbia and also runs her own beauty labelCredit: InstagramDjorde Petrovic and Djina have been called the Posh and Becks of SerbiaCredit: Instagram – djinapetrovicSerbian ace Djordje Petrovic and his model girlfriend are one of their country’s hottest young couples and are known as its ‘Posh & Becks”. Brunette stunner Djina Petrovic is Miss Serbia and a former Miss Earth contestant.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe also runs her own fashion label.She is expecting the couple’s first child which she announced earlier this year in an adorable Instagram post, and could soon see her potential earnings rise from £220 per post. More

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      How Euro 2024 host Laura Woods tamed Love Island’s biggest bad boy Adam Collard who made Joey Essex look like a puppy

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      HE was one of Love Island’s most notorious bad boys when he first was on the show – but one woman seems to have changed all that.Personal trainer Adam Collard, 28, has been dating Euro 2024 presenter Laura Woods, 36, since last year, confirming their relationship in October 2023.Love Island star Adam Collard was once the ultimate ladies’ manCredit: Splash NewsBut he’s been dating Euro 2024 host Laura Woods since OctoberCredit: In stagramLaura has her own career, which is what Adam needs, according to relationship expert Jo HemmingsCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyThe former loverat has called her “The One,” spent Christmas with her – the first time he’s done so with a girlfriend since he was 21 – and in a break from tradition, kept their relationship relatively out of the limelight, seemingly on Laura’s wishes.It’s a far cry from the man who admits himself he’s been “ruthless” in the past, claims to have had 25 girlfriends, and spent many years partying and juggling flings with girls including Zara McDermott and Lottie Moss.Relationship expert Jo Hemmings says: “He’s now 28, he’s a professional with a job, and I think he just went off the whole idea of ever realistically meeting somebody on a TV show. “He’s now met somebody who is also a professional, and is only on TV as a byproduct of what she does in sport.MORE LOVE ISLAND FEATURES“He’s got himself in a comfortable place. Financially, he’s older, he’s more mature, he’s more settled. “He once played into this roguish character that people saw him as, and became a parody of himself. But look who’s laughing now. “He’s got a fabulous girlfriend, they’re in a long term relationship, he’s well off, he’s still in the public eye, and he’s getting on with his life in the way that I think he always wanted.”Here, we reveal how Laura finally managed to tame Adam, whose bad boy womanising made current Island villain Joey Essex look like a puppy.Most read in Euro 2024Infamous villainAdam first shot to fame in 2018, when he walked into the Love Island villa as the first bombshell, quickly stealing Kendall Rae Knight from Niall Aslam.He then swiftly moved on to Rosie Williams, and implied they’d had sex, when he joked he’d had a “really, really good sleep” and woken up with a “spring” in his step.Adam was accused of ‘gaslighting’ Rosie Williams in his first Love Island stintCredit: Rex FeaturesHe then dumped her for Zara McDermott, as she predicted he wouldCredit: Splash NewsLaura Woods can’t keep her hands off boyfriend Adam Collard as loved-up couple snog on the beach in MexicoWithin days – and just as Zara McDermott walked in – he decided Rosie had become too clingy.Adam told Zara he’d “caught feelings” for her, but when Rosie confronted him about it, he suggested her jealousy over his flirting with Zara is what “pushed him away”.Charities like Women’s Aid even stepped in, issuing warnings about his behaviour, saying he exhibited signs of “gaslighting and emotional abuse”.Then, when Zara was dumped from the island without him, Adam moved on to Darylle Sargeant, despite promising Zara he’d stay true to her – and he left soon after.Serial playboyZara and Adam were together for eight months and even got matching tattoosCredit: Splash NewsAdam with ex-girlfriend Sarah GodfreyOnce out of the villa, Adam managed to get back into Zara’s good books and they hooked up again, even getting tattoos of each other’s initials.She claimed she’d “tamed” his wild ways, and they moved in together in Essex.But just eight months later, it seemed Zara and Adam’s relationship was on the rocks as he enjoyed a drunken night out surrounded by girls, including Instagram model Brittany Archer.Announcing the split soon after, Zara wrote: “Sometimes in life, you just aren’t enough for someone; no matter what you do for them or how much you try to be.”Two months after the split, he got his tattoo removed – and hours after, was pictured partying with Lisa Rinna’s model daughter Delilah Hamlin, who dated Eyal Booker.Following Zara, he had a short relationship with Irish fitness influencer Sarah Godfrey, as well as a fling with TOWIE star Demi Sims.’Game plan’ revelationHe went into the Love Island villa the second time and got a ‘game plan’ girlfriendCredit: InstagramAdam was spotted ‘all over’ another girl after fans accused him of cheating on PaigeCredit: tiktok/@alexkellyBut Adam made a shock return to Love Island in July 2022.It actually seemed like he was finally ready to settle down, as he coupled up with paramedic Paige Thorne immediately, and remained coupled up with her for the duration of the show.They were together for four months after the show ended, but split in November 2022, when Paige accused Adam of cheating, and he was caught on video flirting with other girls on a night out.Adam later admitted he chose Paige as part of a “game plan” when he went into Love Island the second time.Love Island bad boysAdam Collard is just one of many Love Island bad boys, as we reveal the others…
      Michael Griffiths – In series five, Michael left viewers – and Amber Gill, who he’d been coupled up with since the start – absolutely stunned as he coupled up with Joanna Chimonides in Casa Amor. He became the first member of Destiny’s Chaldish, and Amber went on to win the show.
      Liam Reardon – Love Island viewers were rooting for Millie Court and Liam in series seven until he cheated on her with Lillie Haynes in Casa Amor. Despite doing this, and then only confessing when Lillie dropped him in it, Millie got back together with Liam and then won the show with him. Apart from a brief split, they’re still together now.
      Jordan Hames – Just two days after asking Anna Vakili to be his girlfriend in series five, Jordan started trying it on with India Reynolds – who wasn’t even interested in him. A huge argument erupted and he was dumped from the villa soon after.
      Luca Bish – In series eight, Luca coupled up with Gemma Owen almost immediately, and constantly labelled her “muggy” any time she even spoke to another boy. This was all while he encouraged all the boys to cheat on their girls in Casa Amor. Luca’s family even issued a statement apologising for their son’s “insensitive behaviour”, saying that when he watches the episode back he’ll be “embarrassed and deeply apologetic”.
      Josh Ritchie – All the way back in series one, Josh Ritchie brutally ended his short-lived romance with Naomi Ball because she refused to have sex with him. He then turned to Jess Hayes, because he thought he could get a “good three-weeks sh*gging” with her. Love Island was a different show back then!
      Terry Walsh – In series two, Terry was coupled up with Malin Andersson and things were getting very serious, with the pair having a lot of sex. She then, shockingly, got dumped from the villa, and he told her he’d wait for her. The next day, Emma Jane Woodhams walked in, and he was very quickly having sex with her, in front of all their housemates, with Emma on top of the sheets. Malin then came in and gave him what for, in one of Love Island’s most memorable showdowns of all time.

      Speaking to Mail Online, he said: “The thing with Love Island is I’m the only one who is willing to admit it, I would completely choose the right person to stay on the show.”That’s why I got back on the show in my eyes, they realised I didn’t care about anything.“We all know the game. It was really hard for me the second time because I could see through everything, it is unbelievable how clear it is the second time.”So yes, everyone comes on and says I am here to find love and that, yes you kind of are and obviously that is unreal but nobody is daft.”‘Ruthless’Adam had a fling with Lottie Moss when he went on Celebs Go DatingCredit: E4His plan worked, as he got more TV work off the back of his Love Island appearance, signing up for Celebs Go Dating after his split from Paige, on which he met Lottie Moss.On the first night they met, Adam and Kate Moss’ younger half-sister slept together, and did this another three times throughout their time on the E4 dating show.The dating experts Paul C Brunson and Anna Williamson then encouraged them to actually go on a date to a restaurant together.The next day, Lottie dumped “f***boy” Adam when she found out he’d decided to kiss another girl he was dating.But two months later, he was dating Laura Woods, and said: “Do you know what, as much as I have been a little bit ruthless in the past with relationships and yes I’ve ended things when it has started to not work out, I am actually a bit of a hopeless romantic.”I do think there is someone for every person and I want to go and do all the things I like to do with someone else.”‘The One’Adam has called Laura ‘The One’Credit: Instagram @laurawoodsyShe rarely posts with him and, by his standards, he’s the sameCredit: InstagramUnusually for Adam, the couple kept their relationship private at first, meeting in secret at the Black Bull pub in Trimdon, Co Durham, and heading off for a weekend away in St Ives in early October, before finally going public later that month.And it’s likely this was something Laura has been very keen on.She has previously said: “For anyone to see that part of me fills me with dread. “It sounds like it’s a bad thing but only because I associate social media and relationships in a bad way. “I’m almost certain nothing good can come from sharing. Maybe I’ve learned, maybe it’s something historic, I’ve never thought it was a good idea to share them.”I’ve met [Laura’s parents] and they’ve given me the thumbs up – luckily they don’t read many papersAdam CollardEven now, Laura has only posted about him on Instagram once, as part of a post about “things she loves,” while it’s Adam who is more vocal about their relationship.He often comments on her pictures complimenting her, and has posted about their holidays numerous times – although nowhere near as many as he would’ve in previous relationships.And it seems he’s finally found The One with her, as he’s admitted Laura has always “given him the benefit of the doubt” when it comes to his “bad boy reputation”, which has ultimately made their relationship stronger.He told The Sun: “For someone who’s had 25 girlfriends, I’ve really only had three. “If you actually ask the people that I’ve really been going out with, I think that they would have very different opinions based on how I’ve treated them and she’s definitely given me the benefit of the doubt with that. “She definitely sees through it.”He’s even won round her parents.Before going to hers for Christmas, he told us: “I”m going to her parents, so it’s pretty special. I’ve met them and they’ve given me the thumbs up – luckily they don’t read many papers.”Laura’s ‘stability’He’s now a doting boyfriend to LauraCredit: InstagramJo says it’s Laura’s job as a sports presenter that would have appealed to Adam, and changed him.“There is an influence of stability from Laura,” she explains. “Because she’s not on a TV show to find fame and fortune. She’s got a really good job of her own, but she does incredibly well, so I think that’s a stabilising energy for him.“I also think he’s of an age and in a position now in his life where he’s ready to settle down, and what has gone before has just helped build him up into a situation where he is.READ MORE SUN STORIES“His heartbreaker and player image appealed to women. They went after him as the one who wanted to tame him. But he wasn’t really ready. “I do think having worked towards a stable, healthy, non-reality TV-based relationship, is probably exactly what he needed, and exactly what he wanted.” More

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      Ultimate Euro 2024 rich list reveals England’s top earners & how Ronaldo’s salary is EIGHT times higher than Mbappe’s

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      EURO 2024 will see some of the world’s finest talents clash on the pitch – but who comes out top dog away from it?With staggering salaries and lucrative endorsement deals worth millions, players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe could retire now and never have to work again.Cristiano Ronaldo tops the rich list of players taking part in the Euros this yearCredit: @cristianoRonaldo on holiday with his fiancee Georgina Rodriguez and their childrenCredit: Instagram/@cristianoRonaldo is the richest footballer playing in the Euros this yearCredit: Instagram / @cristianoEven the likes of England superstar Jude Bellingham, who is just 20 years old, is already worth a not-so-small fortune thanks to commercial tie-ups, including an eye-catching deal with Kim Kardashian’s Skims.Ahead of the first game of the tournament kicking off tonight, here we reveal the ultimate Euro 2024 rich list.Cristiano Ronaldo £471mPortugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, will play his sixth European Championship when his team faces Czech Republic on Tuesday. It is believed this could be his last Euro games. In 2020, he became the first active team sport athlete to surpass $1billion in career earnings – and two years later, he signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.READ MORE ON SPORTAccording to Forbes, he is paid around £164million by the club for his on-field duties.Ronaldo has raked over £47million in endorsement deals with brands such as Nike, Unilever, and Herbalife.The star also has an incredible property portfolio.Among the impressive homes owned by Ronaldo and his fiancée Georgina Rodriguez are a £5.5million house in Lisbon, a £1.5million flat, and a £2.5million mansion overlooking the River Cavado.Most read in Euro 2024Kylian Mbappe – £141mAfter making his debut for the French national team in 2017, Kylian Mbappe has risen to become one of the most exciting players in the world. With a £141million net worth, he is the second richest player in the tournament this year. At just 25, he has lifted some of the biggest trophies, including the World Cup in 2018.England fans’ must watch guide to Gelsenkirchen ahead of Three Lions’ Euro 2024 clash vs SerbiaAt just 25, Kylian Mbappe is one of the richest athletes in the worldCredit: GettyThe star often posts snaps of his lifestyle on social mediaCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappeHis salary is pegged at a whopping £21million-a-year – which equates to £404,000-a-week.However, that marks a drastic pay CUT compared to the previous two-year deal he was on at PSG, which netted him a staggering £5.1million per week.And it works out at about an eighth of Ronaldo’s!Mbappe has also signed lucrative deals with Hublot, Louis Vuitton, Oakley, and Hennessey. According to Forbes, his endorsement deals fetch him £15.7million alone.Earlier this month, it was reported that he had purchased a £15million mega mansion in Spain after finalising his move to Real Madrid. Harry Kane – £72mEngland’s Harry Kane is the third richest player in the tournament this yearCredit: GettyHe has an impressive £13million property portfolioHarry Kane, England’s top goal scorer of all time, saw his net worth shoot up by £24million to £72million in just a year.That figure will continue to rise since. In 2023, he signed a lucrative deal to move to Bayern Munich that pays £21.5million per year.His £100million transfer was said to have come with a £30million signing fee.Kane’s skills have also netted him an endorsement deal with Amazon and a partnership with Sketchers that is said to be worth £2million.He has also invested in properties with a portfolio that stands at an eye-watering £13million. Despite this, it’s been reported that Harry lives in a £1million-per-year rented mansion with wife Katie and their three kids.Antoine Griezmann – £71mAntoine Griezmann has a peak base salary of £21millionCredit: AFPHe lives in a modern home with his wife and kids worth £5millionCredit: INSTAGRAM/EriKA ChoperenaFrance’s Antoine Griezman, 33, has a reported net worth of £71million.His £21million peak base salary made him one of the ten highest-paid football players in recent years. Away from the pitch, he earns over £4.7million in endorsement deals with brands such as Puma, Gillette, and Head and Shoulders.Fans have seen glimpses of the Atletico Madrid player’s elegant modern home, which is said to have cost over £5million. Robert Lewandowski – £67mRobert Lewandowski is one of the best strikers of all timeCredit: Instagram @_rl9He owns a deluxe £7million apartment in Warsaw with his wifeCredit: INSTAGRAM @_RL9 @annalewandowskaPoland’s Robert Lewandowski’s impressive skills on the pitch saw him crowned the best player by FIFA and UEFA in 2020. According to Celebrity Net Worth, his salary in 2020 was £23.5million, which made him one of the highest-paid football players in the world.The Barcelona player has often been named one of the best strikers of all time and has many sponsorship deals to his name. In 2016, it was reported that he spent £7million on a deluxe apartment in Warsaw, his home city. Kevin De Bruyne – £56mKevin De Bruyne’s career has netted him a £56million fortuneCredit: GettyHe owns properties in Cheshire and BelgiumCredit: INSTAGRAMKevin De Bruyne has been one of Belgium’s most trusted aces for many years. The Manchester City player’s stunning career has earned him a £56million net worth. Regarded as one of the greatest of his generation, the 33-year-old’s base salary is £15.7million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.His huge popularity has been a hit with brands – he has partnered with Nike, McDonald’s, and Emirates. Like many on this list, he enjoys the finer things in life. He owns properties in Cheshire and a villa in Belgium, his home country, equipped with a jacuzzi, swimming pool, and a basketball court.Romelu Lukaku – £50mRomelu Lukaku is one of Chelsea’s most expensive signings of all timeCredit: GettyBelgium striker Romelu Lukaku is believed to be worth a staggering £50million.With an impressive resume that includes stints with Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Chelsea, it is no surprise that he is one of the most in-demand players in the world. In 2021, his return to Chelsea made him the seventh-most-expensive player in a club-record transfer worth £97.5million. After one season, he was sent out on loan to Roma and forced to take a pay cut. According to Football Transfers, he now earns an annual salary of £6.3million. Luka Modric – £58.9mCroatia’s Luka Modric recently splashed £10m on a mansionCredit: GettyThe footballer with wife Vanja Bosnic, who secured a monumental deal that took him to Real Madrid in 2012Credit: Instagram @lukamodric10Croatian captain Luka Modric is best known for his long tenure as a midfielder for Real Madrid.Regarded as one of the greatest players in the world, he has amassed a fortune of £58.9million.While his annual salary with the La Liga team has not been made public, it has been estimated to be around £7.8million.Last year, it was reported that he had forked out £10.1million on a new home in Madrid.It has a huge parlour, nine bedrooms, a swimming pool, and a gym. He lives there with his wife, Vanja, and their three kids.Thomas Muller – £45millionHarry Kane’s Bayern teammate reportedly earns £345,000 a weekCredit: ReutersThe Geman icon with wife Lisa, who he married in 2009Credit: Instagram @esmuellertGerman icon Thomas Muller, 34, has made around £45million throughout his career.Very few can match his trophy hauls, which include the Bundesliga, Champions League, and the World Cup.He is said to be making £18million a year and £345,000 a week.This makes him one of the highest-paid footballers at Bayern Munich, where he has been since 2008.He lives in Munich in a villa with his wife, Lisa, which was burgled while he played football in 2022.Jude Bellingham – £40mAt just 20, Jude Bellingham has made £40million in his careerCredit: GettyHe’s recently been unveiled as the new face for Kim Kardashian’s fashion brand SKIMSCredit: SKIMSEngland and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is worth £40million, thanks partly to his £103million deal transfer to Real Madrid last year. This equates to a yearly salary of £11.6million a year and weekly wages of £200,000.The 20-year-old has a growing endorsement portfolio, which includes partnerships with Louis Vuitton and Lucozade. More recently, he became the face of Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS.READ MORE SUN STORIESAdidas has also designed a logo in his image. That partnership is said to fetch him £2.6million.Jude became the youngest first-team player for Birmingham City when he was 16 and has continued to break records since. They include becoming the youngest English goalscorer in the Champions League back in 2021. More