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      I’ve had deaths threats after games with thugs hoping my mum dies of AIDS & I end up paralysed, says ex-ref David Coote

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      DAVID Coote last night revealed the sickening abuse aimed at match officials — including death threats and warped internet trolls saying they hope his mum dies of AIDS in her sleep.Sacked Coote called for TV pundits to stop “whipping up” fans into a frenzy against referees amid “hysterical” analysis, claiming messages he has received from crazed supporters added to his spiral into cocaine abuse.David Coote revealed the sickening abuse aimed at match officialsCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers LtdThe sacked ref has received death threats and had warped internet trolls saying they hope his mum dies of AIDS in her sleepCredit: PAMichael Oliver sent off Gunner Myles Lewis-Skelly during Saturday’s Wolves versus Arsenal Premier League clashCredit: PAWeeping, the 42-year-old, who described some messages as “abhorrent”, told The Sun: “I’ve received death threats during my career. “I’ve needed an accelerated response tag on my home address for me to speak to the police in an emergency.“I’ve also had messages from irate supporters hoping that I had an accident on the way home from a game. “They didn’t just want me to die but to be paralysed, so I’d suffer every day for the rest of my life.Read More on Sport“Other messages included hoping that my mum dies of AIDS overnight.“People target referees without accountability on social media, and at matches. “I can’t see how that is acceptable. “There is standard abuse on a regular basis, but some crosses any line of acceptability.Most read in Football“I’m sorry people are talking about me for the wrong reasons. “I’m not here looking for sympathy. Scandal-hit Premier League ref David Coote SACKED after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder“I just want to say that I am a human being that’s made mistakes.“I’m paying the consequences. “I’m taking responsibility for making those mistakes. “I hope that others in my situation seek help in the right ways as I’m now trying to do.”Coote revealed that at the elite level of the game it’s not always a stadium full of 60,000 fans screaming ‘the referee’s a w*****’ that causes the most upset.He said: “We have an earpiece in, and are on comms. “We’re constantly talking to each other and listening to players on the field, so actually the noise in the stadium doesn’t impact us very much.“But what is more impactful is the things you hear and see that are individual — the targeted abuse.“There are fans who decide to hang around for an hour or two after a game to individually abuse us, hanging over the barriers as we leave the stadium.“And there are those who take to social media. “Some refs might not be on social media, but it still has an impact on friends and family.“Some of the things said are abhorrent. “That has more impact on us as individuals, and as people.”He went on: “Every official that takes the pitch up and down the country from a local playing field to the Premier League is a human being, not just a referee.“They have feelings. “They may not show them, but it will impact them when they’re receiving abuse. “I’ve struggled and I’ve tried to get through it in my own way and made poor decisions in doing so.“I hope that others make better decisions  and that referees are given an easier ride in the levels of scrutiny, and levels of abuse that come in their direction.“I hope this shines a light on the impact it can have on a person.”Coote spoke out as fellow referee Michael Oliver, his partner Laura and two-year-old daughter, received death threats after Saturday’s Wolves versus Arsenal Premier League clash, when he sent off Gunner Myles Lewis-Skelly.Fans said they knew where he lived and were going to brick his windows.Three weeks ago, after Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United, someone said they were going to blow up Oliver’s car with his family inside it.Coote said of the menaces towards his friend: “This isn’t the first time this season we’ve heard of such abuse. “Sadly, it won’t be the last.“I know only too well the toll these appalling and frightening threats can have, but you have no option other than to take it.“Referees have no right of reply, while those who make the threats face no action. “It has to change.”Referees have no right of reply, while those who make the threats face no action. It has to changeDavid CooteDespite his fall from grace, Coote is keen to draw attention to how tough refereeing can be. He pointed out that officials are increasingly forced into “centre stage”.In the January 8 Carabao Cup semi-final between Spurs and Liverpool, Stuart Attwell became the first ref in England to announce a VAR decision in the stadium when he explained why Dominic Solanke’s late goal for Spurs was ruled out. Coote said: “The difficulty with being a referee is that the concept of resilience is key to doing what we do.“That means the opposite of resilience is a vulnerability or a weakness. “If I’ve got to be resilient to do the job then showing weakness and vulnerability immediately casts doubt over the ability to do that role.“I hope others who are finding things difficult are given the support they need to be able to show weakness and vulnerability because it’s impossible to keep up the facade over the course of time.”Coote’s sacking triggered change in the PGMOL, the referees’ governing body, including providing psychological support.He said officials had had the chance to have their say on “what could be done differently”. He said he was grateful for the support of colleagues, the PGMOL’s Howard Webb and Danielle Every and well-wishers in the street.The support has helped me get through some really tough timesDavid CooteHe said: “The support has helped me get through some really tough times.“My episodes hit the whole refereeing community hard because it showed just how accountable everybody in the game is.”Coote, a fan of League Two Notts County, began his route to top-level officiating by running the line for his dad and uncle’s Sunday team aged 14.He was urged to take a referees’ course and progressed through the levels of the game until he was invited to become a full-time Championship official.The Premier League followed and, a few years later, he added the VAR skill set.He said: “Nobody really prepares you for moving through each level and then arriving in the Premier League, which is like a goldfish bowl.”You don’t apply for promotion, people just take a judgment on your performances and you as a person, and give you the opportunity at a new level.“All of us who operate at the top levels of the game, we’re just normal guys, football fans who’ve been fortunate enough to be selected and move through the levels.“I’ve been really fortunate as a football fan to have seen the great players at such close quarters. “But there is a trade-off. “We don’t get an easy ride of it.”Coote said there’s no a simple fix to make football genuinely inclusive.He said: “It’s a difficult world to work in. “To be ‘me’ in football wasn’t easy. “I didn’t want to draw unnecessary attention to myself and I understand why others wouldn’t want to do the same.“I’ve no doubt that if somebody did come out there would be a lot of support but also they’d be opening themselves up to online abuse and prejudicial views that have no place in the society we live in.“It’s much more than a football problem. “It’s more of a society problem, particularly given how tribal football fans can be in a win-at-all-costs game.”Despite the scandal, Coote hopes to remain in the game and is keen to play a role speaking out for refs in the media.For now, he is training for a marathon in May to raise funds for research into motor neurone disease, which his uncle has.He said: “I’ll be looking to make sure my health and wellbeing is in the best possible place.”IT’S VERY BRAVE MOVEBy AMAL FASHANU, Niece of Justin who runs foundation in his name“IT is very brave for anyone to come out, but more so for someone in the public eye.“This will affect David Coote and is a big step but it should have less of an effect that in would on a player. Amal Fashanu, niece of JustinCredit: Darren FletcherNorwich striker Justin killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come outCredit: Getty – Contributor“It’s not the same level of fame.”Amal, whose former Norwich striker uncle killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come out, added: “We’d love to chat to him at the foundation.“We’d be there to offer any support and counselling.“We also help people with mental health problems and would be there for him if that was an issue.“There’s still something very wrong at the top of football.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We’re in 2025, when everyone is supposedly liberal and accepting, yet something is stopping these men accepting who they are.“Football is still failing in this regard.” More

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      I’m gay but hid my sexuality in macho football world…it led to behaviour I deeply regret, says shamed ex-ref David Coote

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      SACKED referee David Coote has revealed he turned to cocaine over fear of coming out in the “macho world” of the Premier League.Tearful Coote said he took coke to “escape” after being forced to hide being gay.David Coote says he felt unable to come out as gay as he feared the abuse he received for doing his job would get even worseCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers LtdThe Sun exclusively revealed film of him snorting powder at last summer’s Euros in GermanyCoote says he has been in an ‘incredibly dark place’ since news emerged of his drug-taking at Euro 2024Credit: PACoote also admitted he was “not sober” in his rant at ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, and got abuse and death threats as a ref.The sacked 42-year-old told how living a lie led him down paths that eventually torpedoed his career.Coote told The Sun: “I felt a deep sense of shame during my teenage years in particular.“I didn’t come out to my parents until I was 21. I didn’t come out to my friends until I was 25.READ MORE ON DAVID COOTE“My sexuality isn’t the only reason that led me to be in that position. But I’m not telling an authentic story if I don’t say that I’m gay, and that I’ve had real struggles dealing with hiding that.“I hid my emotions as a young ref and I hid my sexuality as well — a good quality as a referee but a terrible quality as a human being.“And that’s led me to a whole course of behaviours.”He says he has been in an “incredibly dark place” since news emerged of his drug-taking at Euro 2024. Without the support of family and colleagues, he added, “I’m not sure I’d be here today”.Most read in FootballGiving his first interview since the scandal broke, he said he hoped to help break down the “macho world” of Premier League football.He added: “I’ve had issues around my self-esteem — and that relates to my sexuality. I’m gay and I’ve struggled with feeling proud of being ‘me’ over a long period of time.Scandal-hit Premier League ref David Coote SACKED after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder“I have received deeply unpleasant abuse during my career as a ref and to add my sexuality to that would have been really difficult.“There’s a lot to be done throughout football and more widely in society with regard to discrimination.“I didn’t want to be that person that was putting their head above the parapet to be shot at, given the abuse we all get as a referee in any event.”Coote was suspended last October after footage showed him calling then-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a “c***”.The Sun then revealed a film of him snorting powder at last summer’s Euros in Germany.We also told how he tried to arrange a drugs party during Spurs’ Carabao Cup win over Man City on October 30.Coote was then the subject of a new FA probe over allegedly issuing a yellow card to order — before he was eventually fired.In an emotional interview, he says a “pressure cooker” of suppressed emotion, combined with a punishing work schedule, left him wanting to “escape” with cocaine.Coote was suspended last October after footage showed him calling then-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a ‘c***’Credit: XThe sacked 42-year-old said living a lie led him down paths which eventually torpedoed his careerCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers LtdHe said: “It’s not something I was reliant on day by day, week by week, month by month.“I’ve had long periods where I’ve not used it — but it was one of the escape routes I had. Just getting away from the stresses, the relentlessness of the job. It fills me with a huge sense of shame to say that I took that route.”He recalled: “In 2023 I lost my mum very suddenly. At the same time my uncle was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. After Covid and the introduction of VAR, six officials were suddenly needed for each game.“I was selected by Fifa for the U17 World Cup in Indonesia, as well as the Euros and Olympics last year.“It meant that over the course of the 2023-24 season I was involved in more than 90 games — often back to back. At the end of last season I went straight into the Euros and that was incredibly pressurised. I had another tournament coming up immediately — heading to Paris for the Olympics.”The cocaine footage saw him inhale a 4in line up a US banknote. Another image showed his bank card next to six chopped-up lines.I’m gay and I have struggled with feeling proud of being ‘me’ over a long period of timeHe said: “I don’t recognise myself in the cocaine video. I can’t resonate with how I felt then, but that was me. I was struggling with the schedule and there was no opportunity to stop. And so I found myself in that position — escaping.”Coote is still being probed after a pal told him he was putting money on Leeds player Ezgjan Alioski getting booked before a 2019 clash against West Brom.Coote did caution the player and later messaged his friend: “I hope you backed as discussed.” However he told The Sun: “There was no agreement prior to the game. I went and did my job. The player committed a yellow card tackle.”He added: “I received nothing for it. I’m really disappointed that anything like this has come out because it tarnishes the integrity of the game. And whatever people think of me as a referee, as a human I have always gone out and done my best on the pitch.”Coote says he was merely trying to “deflect” the pal but admitted: “I wasn’t in a great place, and I was messaging people that in hindsight I shouldn’t have trusted. I was naive.” Coote says he “made some really poor choices and I really wish I could turn back the clock now and do things differently”.But he said he can instead take responsibility. After seeking therapy, he has kicked his drug habitCoote believes the dramatic turn of events which cost him his beloved job in football has helped him re-evaluate his lifeCredit: GettyCoote said: “I put on this hard exterior. Football became a place where I could go and referee and be engrossed in the game.“But then I’d come home and it would be more difficult because I’m living a double sense of being.“To other people who are in my situation, I’d say seek help and talk to somebody because if you bottle it up like I have done it has to come out in some way.”’POOR CHOICES’Coote believes the dramatic events which cost him his beloved job in football has helped him take stock.He said: “It’s been incredibly tough because I loved the game. I started refereeing when I was 14.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’ve found it easier since knowing my fate and being able to re-evaluate what’s important to me.“To spend some quality time with family and friends, and take time to make sure I’m in the best place to move forwards.”’IT’S A VERY BRAVE MOVE’By Amal Fashanu, niece of Justin who runs foundation in his name“IT is very brave for anyone to come out, but more so for someone in the public eye.“This will affect David Coote and is a big step but it should have less of an effect that in would on a player. It’s not the same level of fame.”Amal, whose former Norwich striker uncle killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come out, added: “We’d love to chat to him at the foundation.“We’d be there to offer any support and counselling.“We also help people with mental health problems and would be there for him if that was an issue.“There’s still something very wrong at the top of football.“We’re in 2025, when everyone is supposedly liberal and accepting, yet something is stopping these men accepting who they are. Football is still failing in this regard.” More

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      Fresh blow for Kyle Walker as raging wife Annie Kilner REFUSES to watch AC Milan debut as CBB bosses plot to sign her

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      KYLE Walker’s raging wife Annie Kilner is to snub his Italian footie debut — while Celebrity Big Brother bosses want her on the new series.Annie, 31, is refusing to travel to see her love cheat hubby, 34, play for AC Milan against arch-rivals Inter this weekend.Kyle Walker’s raging wife Annie Kilner is to snub his Italian footie debut for AC MilanCredit: GettyAnnie has been told to ‘name your price’ to sign up for Celebrity Big BrotherCredit: annievkilner/InstagramAnnie was expected to fly to Milan last weekend with their four boys to see Kyle being unveiled to fansCredit: GettySources said they are barely speaking after a series of rows over his ex-mistress Lauryn Goodman’s reported plans to relocate abroad.Meanwhile, mum-of-four Annie has been told to “name your price” to sign up for CBB, which airs this Easter.A source told The Sun: “ITV have approached Annie’s team. Coleen Rooney’s success on I’m A Celebrity proved how much interest there is for Wags and they would love to replicate her success on CBB.“Annie’s team were told to name their price — they’ll do anything to get her on board. It would be an absolute coup to get her in the Big Brother house.”READ MORE ON KYLE WALKERShe was expected to fly to Milan last weekend with their four boys to see Kyle being unveiled to fans.But Annie, sporting a new braided hairstyle, celebrated a pal’s 40th birthday instead.She is now refusing to fly out this weekend too. A source said: “She’s sick and tired of dropping everything for Kyle and is putting her foot down.Most read in Football“He’s flown his mates out and she’s livid. He appears to be settling in very well and that’s not helping matters either.“Kyle’s mum and dad are going to be in the San Siro on Sunday to support him. Kyle Walker’s ex Lauryn Goodman in bid to QUIT UK with their kids – and makes plea to Man City star for help”Again, she had no idea and was furious when she found out. They’re not communicating whatsoever.”Kyle, who has two kids with influencer Lauryn, 34, is on loan from Man City.She’s sick and tired of dropping everything for Kyle and is putting her foot down, a source revealedCredit: GettyAnnie Kilner is a top target for Celebrity Big BrotherCredit: instagram/annievkilnerHusband Kyle has just moved to MilanCredit: InstagramAnnie, who was recently pictured sporting a new braided hairstyle, celebrated a pal’s 40th birthday instead of flying to ItalyCredit: GettyKyle, who has two kids with influencer Lauryn, 34, is on loan from Man CityCredit: Splash More

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      Fresh Lauryn Goodman claims rock Kyle Walker’s marriage as Annie Kilner refuses to join him in Italy after blazing row

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      FUMING Annie Kilner pulled out of joining hubby Kyle Walker in Italy after more rows over his ex-mistress.Annie, 31, was due to fly out with their four kids to see the England defender, 34, unveiled to the AC Milan fans.Annie Kilner showed of her new hairdo after she pulled out of joining hubby Kyle Walker in ItalyCredit: annievkilner/InstagramAnnie was due to fly out with their four kids to see Kyle unveiled to the AC Milan fansCredit: GettyAnnie is said to have clashed with Kylie over his ex-mistress Lauryn GoodmanCredit: AlamyBut she stayed at home amid claims Lauryn Goodman, mum of two of his kids, was lining up a move to Italy.Model Annie, showing off new braided hair in online snaps, went clubbing instead.One source said: “Annie was supposed to go on Friday but Storm Eowyn put it back until Saturday.“Then a row over Lauryn and her future plans blew up and Annie did a full 180. read more on Kyle Walker”She was also p***ed off he flew his friends out before her. “So she went on a girls’ night out and posted the pictures as a big ‘f*** you’.”Kyle, on loan from Man City, yesterday chatted with ex-AC Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic before watching his new side beat Parma 3-2 in a thriller at the San Siro.Annie filed for divorce last August and wants half of his £27million fortune.Most read in FootballThe source added: “Annie still expects to join him and says it’s to keep the family together, but they are still very much heading towards a divorce. “There are those around them that think the distance between them at the moment is the best thing all round. Kyle already seems a lot happier in Italy.”Kyle Walker & Annie Kilner plotting move to Italy in bid to save marriage – as love rat lines up deal with Serie A giantsThe latest twist came after influencer Lauryn, 34, reportedly wanted to move to Italy, though she branded it “fake news”. Kylie pictured chatting with ex-AC Milan star Zlatan IbrahimovicCredit: Reuters More

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      Jamie Vardy undergoes celeb health treatment at top clinic within days of Rebekah launching vodka range

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      JAMIE Vardy started a “full body reboot” within days of wife Rebekah launching her own vodka range.The 38-year-old Leicester City star is undergoing a celebrity health treatment called “Icoone” at a top London clinic.Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy is undergoing a celebrity health treatment called ‘Icoone’ at a top London clinicRebekah Vardy has launched a new vodka range called SK-TL vodkaCredit: Dan CharityBecky accidentally revealed his secret when she put a montage of photos on her social media to celebrate his birthday this month.It showed him in a grey bodysuit, with just a pair of paper pants underneath, preparing for a procedure which can also reduce fat, improve circulation and help detoxify the body.Loved by stars such as Paris Hilton and Gwyneth Paltrow, it is touted as “perfect for women on the go”.Becky, who has had treatments from top aesthetician Sadaf Jaffari, suggested ex-England striker Jamie give it a try.READ MORE ON VARDYA source said: “Becky goes to see Sadaf for treatments and suggested Jamie should go too. “Jamie’s having it as a muscle recovery treatment as he has to keep in tip top shape.“He had to wear a grey bodysuit to have it done. “He looked a bit daft but thought it was a good idea.Most read in Football“He had the first one before Christmas and neither he nor Becky put it on their socials at the time. “But when she did a round up of photos for his birthday this month she included it.Kylie Jenner officially launches Sprinter vodka soda – and fans say she’s ‘trying to compete’ with Kendall’s tequila“He got a bit of ribbing from the other players and he just laughed it off.“Jamie is superfit and takes huge care of his health and fitness these days. “This treatment is all part of that. “The days of Jamie Vardy having a party all night are over.”Becky says her fruity vodka SKTL was inspired by Jamie’s home-made version which had sweets in it.That tipple fuelled celebrations after Leicester’s Premier League win in 2016, and sparked the terrace chant “Jamie Vardy’s having a party”.Becky features in a promo for SK-TL vodkaCredit: SKTL More

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      Trio of footballers caught using mobiles behind the wheel within minutes of leaving club’s training ground

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      A HAT-TRICK of Newcastle players have been seen using their mobile phones while behind the wheel of their cars.England star Anthony Gordon and his Toon team-mates Sandro Tonali and Sven Botman were all seen handling their devices at the wheel.Sandro Tonali was filmed holding his phone as he drove off after queuing in trafficSven Botman was also seen handling his device at the wheelWinger Gordon, 23, was seen using his while queuing at traffic lights in his £230,000 grey Lamborghini Urus S.Italian midfielder Tonali, 24, was filmed holding his phone as he drove off after queuing in traffic.And Dutch centre-back Botman, 25, used his phone while sitting at traffic lights in his £155,000 Mercedes-Benz G-wagon.They were all seen near Newcastle’s Darsley Park training ground by fans who approached and filmed them in their cars.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLERSIt is illegal to hold and use a mobile phone or any other device that can send and receive data while driving a car or motorbike.The law still applies when drivers are stopped at lights or queuing in traffic. Breaking the rules can result in six points on a licence and a £200 fine.Nicholas Lyes, of road safety charity IAM Road-Smart, said: “Illegal phone use behind the wheel is distracting and dangerous.Most read in Football“In 2023, there were more than 200 people either killed or seriously injured in collisions caused by phone use.“The safest option is to put the phone somewhere safe and out of sight.”Jesy Nelson’s boyfriend risks fine and six points after she films him driving on his phone A source added: “Using phones behind the wheel is dangerous and irresponsible. “Football players are in a position of influence and should help to set the highest example.”Newcastle United declined to comment. More

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      England ace Jude Bellingham pictured for first time with stunning model girlfriend…and she’s already met his parents

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      ENGLAND ace Jude Bellingham is seen for the first time with his new Instagram model girlfriend.The Real Madrid star, 21, has been on a string of dates with American Ashlyn Castro, 27 — who met his parents this week in the Spanish capital.Real Madrid star, Jude Bellingham 21, has been on a string of dates with American Ashlyn Castro, 27Credit: InstagramEngland ace Jude seen for the first time with his new Instagram model girlfriend AshlynCredit: BackGridAshlyn is from Los Angeles where Jude and best mate Trent Alexander-Arnold went on holiday after the Euros in JulyCredit: InstagramInstagram model Ashlyn Castro chatted to Jude’s mum Denise, left, and dad Mark, second from left, in Real Madrid’s WAGS and family boxCredit: BackGridInstagram model Ashlyn chatted to his mum Denise, 56, and dad Mark, 48, in Real Madrid’s Wags and family box on Wednesday.The American even hugged Denise as Jude’s team ran out 5-1 winners against Salzburg in the Champions League.England superstar Jude and Ashlyn then went for lunch together the next day.Pals say they have been on several dates after they began liking each other’s social media posts.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL NEWSJude was said to have been particularly drawn to one in November featuring pictures of Ashlyn in a low-cut dress laying on a bed.She is from Los Angeles where Jude and Three Lions team-mate Trent Alexander-Arnold went on holiday after the Euros in July.Ashlyn, who has 140,000 Instagram followers, was rumoured to have previously dated Creed actor Michael B Jordan and was linked with basketball player LaMelo Ball, 23.Ashyn sips a drink in the executive box with the star’s parentsCredit: BackGridThe American even hugged Jude’s mum Denise after the final whistleCredit: BackGridDespite the 5-1 drumming, Ashlyn did not appear to be overawed by the occasion as she watched from the executive box in the stands with Jude’s parentsCredit: BackGridShe suffered heartbreak in July 2021 when her dad died from Covid, aged 59. In a touching ­tribute, she described him as “superman to me”.Most read in FootballJude was crowned Britain’s most eligible bachelor by posh gossip magazine Tatler in October.It said: “For this midfielder, it’s all about the right or left swipe — and we aren’t talking about footwork. Rumours are swirling that he’s on celeb dating app Raya.”Wholesome moment Jude Bellingham leaves a young Real Madrid fan crying with happiness as he hands him his shirtIn April there was speculation that Jude had been dating model Laura Celia Valk, 26, who was said to be “completely smitten”. Last month she said she was single.In 2023 he was reportedly dating Ghanaian model Asantewa Chitty. He is also said to have dated US TikTok star Azra Mian. In 2023 The Sun revealed he had been ­messaging R&B singer Rmarni. Last night Jude’s agent and Real Madrid were approached for comment. The Sun also sought comment from Ashlyn.Jude and Ashlyn went for lunch in Madrid the day after the match, which Real won 5-1Credit: BackGridPals say Jude and Ashlyn have been on several dates after they began liking each other’s social media postsCredit: BackGridAshlyn and Jude seemed happy to wander the busy streets of Madrid as they enjoyed their public lunch dateCredit: BackGridThe lunchtime outing was the first time the pair have been seen in publicCredit: BackGridJude ended up on the winningCredit: GettyAshlyn’s photos have earned her 140,000 followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe has also been previously linked with American basketball player LaMelo BallCredit: instagramA series of stunning pictures on Instagram are said to have grabbed Judes’s attention, according to palsCredit: InstagramJude’s heart seems to have been captured by Ashlyn’s stunning styleCredit: InstagramIn 2023 The Sun revealed he had been ­messaging R&B singer Rmarni, but it seems he now only has eyes for AshlynCredit: InstagramBefore meeting Ashlyn, rumours suggested the ace was on celebrity dating app Raya.Credit: InstagramAshlyn suffered heartbreak in July 2021 when her dad died aged 59 just 14 days after catching coronavirus, but it looks like Jude is helping her enjoy life againCredit: Instagram More

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      Inside Kyle Walker & Annie Kilner’s move to Milan to put sex scandals behind him – but will he escape Lauryn Goodman?

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      TOUCHING down in Italy to embark on a new chapter of his career, Kyle Walker now wants to say “arrivederci” to his scandals back home.The England defender, 34, sealed his loan move to Serie A giants AC Milan on Thursday after eight highly successful but incident-packed years with Manchester City.Kyle Walker sealed his loan move to Serie A giants AC Milan in ItalyCredit: AlamyLong-suffering wife Annie Kilner will keep close eye on Kyle as he enjoys life in the new cityCredit: BackGridKyle, Annie and their kids in Christmas PJs on InstagramCredit: InstagramReality star Lauryn Goodman continues to make their lives a misery and told pals she wants to follow the footballer wherever he goesCredit: AlamyHe hopes to start afresh by moving away from the goldfish bowl of Cheshire and the constant noise ­surrounding his dalliances with Lauryn Goodman — mistress and mother of his two love-children.Kyle’s marriage to embattled wife Annie Kilner, 33, is dangling by the thinnest of threads.An insider told The Sun: “Annie has made it clear to friends she is making the move to Italy for the sake of her family, telling them, ‘I’m doing it for the boys’.“Getting away from the UK and the noise surrounding Kyle’s sex scandals is what they desperately need. They feel smothered.Read More on Sport“It’s been a traumatic 12 months and they now just want to put it behind them and attempt to lead some sort of normal existence for a while.”Last night Kyle said on Instagram: “Signing for this incredible club in 2017 was a dream come true.“Seven years later, winning 17 trophies . . . is something I could only have dreamt as a child.“To my teammates: from the moment I walked through the door, thank you for the great memories and all the success we have shared.Most read in Football‘Annie feels terrorised by it all’“To [manager] Pep Guardiola, thank you for believing in me . . . your guidance has helped shape me into the player I am today. I’ll be forever grateful.“To Annie and all my family who have been there and supported me on this journey, thank you.Kyle Walker lands in Italy to complete AC Milan loan deal“Lastly, to the fans — thank you for embracing me as one of your own from day one.”The insider added: “Annie is still intent on going through with the divorce, which Kyle won’t oppose, but the longer they remain together, the more chance they have of eventually reconciling against the odds.“Kyle accepts that he is taking his problems with him and won’t ever escape what he has done.“This is an opportunity for him to get some breathing space and for the couple to work out their next steps.”Annie and their four boys will fly to Italy by private jet from Manchester Airport ahead of Milan’s Serie A showdown against Parma tomorrow.They will be in the San Siro to watch Kyle unveiled to the Rossoneri but will return to the UK hours later as Kyle settles into life in Milan with his new teammates.Wag Zoe Cristofoli is the partner of French defender Theo HernandezCredit: Instagram @zoe_cristofoliStunning Instagram model ­Agustina Gandolfo is the wife of Inter captain Lautaro MartinezCredit: https://www.instagram.com/agus.gandolfo/?hl=enIlaria Belloni is the partner of Kyle’s new captain with the Rossoneri, Davide CalabriaCredit: InstagramCatwalk queens at Milan Fashion Week last yearCredit: GettyThe star cannot play for the seven-time European champions until next month, due to Brexit red tape.The full-back’s new club is finding the couple and their four children a mansion to live in, rather than a hotel, which is a more common move for new signings.The pair are already eager to start ­getting used to Italian culture.For now, Annie is said to be keen to maintain their kids’ schooling in the UK until they have found a home in Milan — but that will hinge on Kyle securing a permanent move.Annie will begin making plans, while back in the UK, to move the family. She is keen for them to begin a new life abroad as soon as possible — once schools have been identified and they have worked out where they want to live.AC Milan’s English trio includes Ruben Loftus-CheekCredit: RexTammy Abraham also plays for the RossoneriCredit: GettyFikayo Tomori will also be one of Walker’s new teammatesCredit: GettyIn the meantime, they expect to fly between the UK and Italy, to be with Kyle as he begins the next chapter in his footballing career.Once they do find a home, would-be interior designer Annie will have the chance to put her own stamp on the property and turn it into a proper home, where their three eldest children Roman, 12, Riaan, eight, and six-year-old Reign, will be home-schooled, while she dotes over five-month-old Rezon.If the move to Milan works out, sparking an extended spell beyond this season — his £4.2million loan deal includes an option for him to stay permanently until 2027 — it is likely they will be enrolled in a top international school nearby.The move to Italy also means that the couple will have put several countries between themselves and reality star Lauryn, 34, who continues to make their lives a misery.The influencer has told pals she wants to follow the footballer wherever he goes in a bid to force him to have a relationship with their two young kids — Kairo, four, and one-year-old ­Kinara.And that is despite Kyle paying for her £2.4million West Sussex mansion and providing £12,500 a month in child maintenance.They could go to the ends of the Earth and still not escape LaurynAn insiderThe insider added: “They could go to the ends of the Earth and still not escape Lauryn.“Because of what he’s done, she is going to be in their lives for a long time to come and there’s nothing they can do about it.“It’s all Annie thinks about. She feels terrorised by it all and worries constantly about what Lauryn is likely to do next.”Kyle informed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola of his wish to move abroad earlier this month after he was left out of the Premier League champions’ squad for their FA Cup third-round clash against Salford City, despite being fit and available to feature.The Catalan manager said at the time: “Two days ago Kyle asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career.“He arrived eight years ago with us and we start to win, win, win, win, and he has been important for the national team and, of course, with our team.“But he has said he wants to explore in his mind and in his heart.”The switch comes 12 months after the defender told The Sun in a bombshell interview in January last year that he was close to agreeing a move to top German outfit Bayern Munich in July 2023 to escape his looming baby scandal.Packed with lavish nightclubs and barsClubs in the lucrative Saudi league were first mooted as his likely destination, buoyed perhaps by an expensive impending divorce.But Kyle’s determination to remain playing at the top level and win 100 caps for England (he’s just seven appearances away from the feat) under new boss Thomas Tuchel made the move to Italy a more attractive option.And he did not need much ­persuasion to join, as both Milan clubs — AC Milan and Inter — are top-tier sides, while the city is regarded as a Wags’ paradise.After all, it is the home of luxury fashion brands including Prada, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci, and their respective stores are commonly ­visited by Wags with expensive tastes who also compete for front-row seats during the star-studded Milan Fashion Week shows.The cosmopolitan nightlife is also a big pull, as locals identify with the “work hard, play hard” mantra, while the city is packed with lavish nightclubs and bars, often frequented by footballers and their glamorous partners.Kyle and Annie will have help settling into their new surroundings courtesy of AC Milan’s English trio Tammy Abraham, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Fikayo Tomori. Striker Tammy, 27, who joined Milan from Serie A rivals Roma, has a long-term partner in lifestyle blogger Leah Monroe, 25, and is the father of her one-year-old son Amari.His former Chelsea teammates Ruben, 29, and Fikayo, 27, both appear to be single.But they have been previously linked with Love Island stars Amber Davies and Amber Gill respectively.The two Milan clubs currently possess some of Italy’s most talked-about Wags, who will soon be mingling with the Walkers at the San Siro — the iconic 80,000-seater stadium both teams share.Annie feels terrorised by it all and worries constantly about what Lauryn is likely to do nextAn insiderStunning Instagram model ­Agustina Gandolfo, 29, is the wife of Inter captain Lautaro Martinez, 27 — the Argentinian striker who won the World Cup alongside Lionel Messi in Qatar in 2022.The blonde boasts her own brand as a fitness and healthy lifestyle expert — and an impressive one million followers on Instagram.She also runs her own restaurant in Milan called Coraje.A regular sight in the Wags’ section at Walker’s AC Milan, meanwhile, is tattooed model Zoe Cristofoli, partner of French defender Theo Hernandez, 27.The influencer, 29, loves getting inked so much she even owns her own parlour Ink Studio Lagrange, based in Turin. She is also a part-time DJ.Then there’s Ilaria Belloni, the partner of Kyle’s new captain with the Rossoneri, Davide Calabria, 28.The pair are considered to be one of Italy’s most glamorous couples and have attended Milan Fashion Week’s Giorgio Armani catwalk show together. And with a Master’s degree in marketing, communication and ­digital strategy, Ilaria, 28, is no ordinary Wag.The city’s footie partners are also no strangers to their own sex scandals.The wife of former Inter striker Mauro Icardi, 31, was rumoured to have been having an affair with his teammate Marcelo Brozovic, 32, which forced the Argentinian striker out of the club in 2019.READ MORE SUN STORIESWanda Icardi, 38, who was previously married to her husband’s international teammate Maxi Lopez, 49, sued an Italian gossip website for allegedly claiming the pair enjoyed a steamy affair.By the sounds of it, Kyle’s going to fit right in.Both Milan clubs — AC Milan and Inter — are top-tier sides, while the city is regarded as a Wags’ paradiseCredit: GettyThe two clubs share the San Siro — the iconic 80,000-seater stadiumCredit: Getty More