More stories

  • in

    Man City star Erling Haaland’s success on pitch fuelled by ‘hat-trick pasta’ dish at favourite Italian restaurant

    SUPER striker Erling Haaland’s hunger for goals is inspired by a lucky “hat-trick pasta” dish he eats at his favourite Italian restaurant.Man City’s 23-year-old Premier League scoring machine regularly tucks into a special of pasta, cream and mushrooms.Erling Haaland’s hunger for goals is inspired by his favourite Italian restaurantCredit: The Mega AgencyErling has eaten at Vero Moderno in Salford, once a week, almost every week, for the last two yearsCredit: Instagram/VeroModernoNordic net-buster Haaland’s meals are cooked for him by Beppe Piccoli, owner of Vero Moderno in Salford, Greater Manchester.The 6ft 4in goal monster has eaten there once a week, almost every week, for the last two years.Beppe said: “When I first gave it to him the very first time I met him, it was before the season kicked off.“I said, ‘When you score a hat-trick on Sunday, please thank Beppe and Vero Moderno’. He scored a hat-trick didn’t he? It was quite funny.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“Then he came back and asked for the same pasta and I said to him, ‘Last time you didn’t thank me. Please do it when you do another hat-trick on Sunday’. Same pasta, another hat-trick.“That’s how everything started with him and we developed a big friendship.“We joke now about the ‘hat-trick pasta’. He’s a world class player, a world class guy. You can’t buy that.”Haaland scored 52 goals in all competitions last season.Most read in FootballSo far this season his tally is 29. And his lucky dish appears to have inspired his team mates — with the likes of Jack Grealish, Ruben Dias and Rodri also hanging out at the same restaurant.Erling Haaland reveals secret talent after childhood vid goes viralCity boss Pep Guardiola even visited last month.Beppe said it all began when the club’s Italian team doctor Max Sala came in for a bite to eat.He said: “I think that’s how it started as they have three Italians working in the medicine department and they were looking for good, authentic Italian food.“They are all very good guys, and very kind and generous customers. They just want to be treated as normal customers and naturally we treat everyone in the same way here.”Haaland previously attributed his goal-mouth success to his dad Alfie’s lasagne, saying; “There has to be something special he adds to it.” More

  • in

    Man Utd dealt fresh blow as club is SUED by its own staff after major wages blunder

    MANCHESTER United is being sued for up to £100,000 for accidentally emailing 167 staff their wage slips and those of everyone else in the pool.Casual workers were sent the name, address, National Insurance number, earnings, pensions benefits and tax contributions of all the others in the mass blunder.Manchester United is being sued for up to £100,000 after accidentally including wage slips of more than 150 employees ina mass email blunderCredit: GettyThey were on a single file received by catering and hospitality, museum and stadium tour staff and programme sellers, it is said.The club was trialling a system with a “lack of managerial staff overseeing the procedure”, it is claimed.The workers have lodged a High Court compensation claim on data protection grounds, pointing out the information could be used by criminals to commit financial fraud.Jonathan Whittle, of Your Lawyers, which represents 32 claimants, said: “The club’s billionaire owners should take responsibility for this error.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe gaffe, on March 9, 2018, was previously reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office. It recommended improvements.A Man United spokesman said: “We take the data privacy of our employees very seriously and regret this isolated incident, which occurred in 2018. “Measures were put in place to prevent it happening again and we informed the Information Commissioner’s Office, which took no further action.”Most read in Football11 forgotten stars who define Liverpool vs Man Utd rivalry More

  • in

    Blow to Christian Horner and Geri Halliwell as woman at centre of sexting scandal switches lawyers and is set to appeal

    EMBATTLED racing boss Christian Horner shared loving snaps of wife Geri Halliwell on Mother’s Day — and thanked her for being there for the family.The Red Bull F1 chief — cleared of misconduct over sexting claims —posted two of Geri with their son Monty.Despite being cleared of misconduct, Christian Horner could be set to defend himself in the courts againCredit: GettyHorner and wife Geri were dismayed to learn that the F1 boss’ unidentified accuser has switched lawyers and is poised to appeal on last month’s verdictCredit: ReutersHe also added another of his mum, Sara.Horner, 50, wrote: “So appreciative of the mums in our family for everything they do.“We’re always grateful, today and every day.”Geri, 51, flew out to grand prix in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to back her husband after an internal probed found in his favour over a colleague’s sexting claims.READ MORE ON CHRISTIAN HORNERBut the couple, who share three kids, were dismayed to learn the unidentified woman had switched lawyers and is poised to appeal.A source said: “Christian and Geri are braced for more fireworks but a thorough investigation has already found in his favour.“The woman’s honesty has been called into question and her evidence was shown to be flawed.”Horner and Geri flew home after Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez grabbed a 1-2 triumph in Saudi Arabia.Most read in MotorsportMax’s father Jos, 52, has backed Horner’s accuser, who has been suspended from Red Bull’s UK HQ.He has called for £8million-a-year Horner to be axed.The Sun’s source added yesterday: “Christian’s enemies are making it clear they will not give up.“But he and Geri are staying strong and will face them down.F1’s Christian Horner says ‘time to draw a line’ on claims of inappropriate behaviour “Christian will be back at work at Red Bull’s HQ first thing on Monday to get on with the business of running his team and winning races.”Chris shared loving snaps of wife Geri and his children on Mother’s DayCredit: InstagramHorner thanked her for being there for the familyCredit: Instagram More

  • in

    Newcastle face transfer competition from Premier League rivals for on-loan Chelsea star Lewis Hall

    CRYSTAL PALACE are ready to move for Lewis Hall for the second time.Versatile Hall, 19, went from Chelsea to Newcastle on loan last summer but has hardly figured for the Toon.Lewis Hall is the subject of interest from Crystal PalaceCredit: GettyHall has seldom featured for Newcastle this seasonCredit: AlamyNow the Eagles are standing by with a bid for the player they tried to snap up before losing out to the Geordies.Hall headed to St. James’ Park in a loan transfer costing £4million with an additional obligation to pay £24m to make the switch permanent.However, a clause in the deal means the Magpies need to finish above 15th in the table for the move to go through.Newcastle currently sit in 10th before their game with Chelsea, with 14 points separating them from Brentford in 15th.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRegardless of the interest from Prem rivals, Eddie Howe seemed confident Newcastle will seal a deal for Hall.He said earlier this week: “It’s nailed on. I’m preparing for Lewis to be at Newcastle for many years.“He was always brought in with a long-term view and I’m delighted because he has many qualities we are looking for.“Something we just need some patience. Players develop at different speeds, but we’re delighted with the progress he’s made.Most read in FootballCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL “We have always believed in him and his quality, and we have been working really hard with him on his game. “He’s a really talented lad. I believe in him and my vision is that he will be here for many years.”Football’s weirdest contract clauses revealed including non-Arsenal agreement and a private jet promiseHall has played has played just 11 times in total this season. More

  • in

    Man United’s Scott McTominay faces losing nearly £1million after investing in failed firm run by his Wag’s dad

    MAN United’s Scott McTominay faces losing nearly £1million after investing in a failed firm run by his Wag’s dad.Fortress Capital Partners went bust last year.Scott McTominay could lose nearly £1million after a firm run by his partner’s dad went bustCredit: InstagramMcTominay lent Fortress £1million to buy an investment property in PortugalCredit: GettyThe firm, operated by McTominay’s fiancée Cameron Reading and her dad Ashley, owed £18million, leaving 230 people out of pocket.It borrowed from investors including Boyzone star Shane Lynch, then lent it out at higher interest rates.The Readings also splashed out millions on luxury investment properties in the UK, Dubai and Spain. McTominay, 27, lent Fortress £1million to buy one in Portugal.The Scottish midfielder now stands to get back just £100,000 after administrators confirmed investors are expected to get just 10p of every £1 they put in.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“Cam”, 23, owes the firm £1.2million but shares her luxury lifestyle on social media, which has angered some investors.One who lost thousands told The Sun on Sunday: “There is a photo of Cam blowing a kiss with a glass of Champagne at a Claridge’s hotel room with Scott. It really rubs salt in the wound for those of us who’ve lost our life savings or face losing their homes.“There’s another pic from Instagram of Ashley, his wife, Cam and her sister. They always seemed to be going on holiday. At one point, they were in Dubai for months and months.”Cam has been forced to sell properties in Dubai and Spain to help settle her debts.Most read in FootballSinger Shane, 47, is also owed £730,000 and faces a shortfall of £657,000.McTominay’s agent was contacted for comment.The company was operated by McTominay’s partner Cameron Reading’s dad. Pictured middle Cameron, and her dad Ashley. pictured leftCredit: InstagramScott McTominay reveals two strict rules implemented by Erik ten Hag at Man Utd More

  • in

    Man Utd defender Brandon Williams slammed for leaving his £100k car in two disabled spaces on the same day

    MANCHESTER United defender Brandon Williams has been slammed after he left his £100,000 car in two disabled bays on the same day.He parked his Land Rover Defender in a blue badge space at a supermarket.Brandon Williams parked his Land Rover Defender in a disabled bay at a supermarketCredit: mancpicss66 Later that day the footballer parked in another disabled bay in a multi-storey car parkCredit: mancpicss66 Williams played for Manchester United in pre-season before being sent out on loanCredit: Kenny RamsayWilliams, 23, and model Shanice Eastmond then drove around the corner on Wednesday to a multi-storey in Wilmslow, Cheshire, where they again parked in a disabled bay. Williams, who earns £65,000-a-week, is currently out injured on loan at Ipswich.An onlooker said: “I know he’s injured but someone in a wheelchair may need to park closer. “He’s either arrogant, ignorant or both.”READ MORE BRANDON WILLIAMSThe AA said: “Those misusing disabled bays can expect a fine.”Williams has made 17 appearances in all competitions for Ipswich Town this season, bouncing back from scoring an own goal in one of his first games for the club.But he has not played at all in 2024 due to injury, with his last appearance coming in December.Williams did play for Manchester United in pre-season, but played only one competitive game for the club under Erik ten Hag.Most read in FootballHis contract at Old Trafford is set to expire in June 2024.Solskjaer reveals Cristiano Ronaldo demanded to skip games… but then kicked off when he was benched More

  • in

    Anthony Joshua’s coach putting his body on the line as ‘monster’ boxer keeps catching him in training

    BEN DAVISON has sacrificed his body to help heal Anthony Joshua’s mind.After losing his WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight world titles to Oleksandr Usyk and then failing in the rematch 18 months ago, the London 2012 icon was beltless, coachless and rudderless.Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou face off tonightCredit: GettyAJ has been brought back by coach Ben DavisonCredit: GettyTeam GB guru and decade-long mentor Rob McCracken was axed.Back-to-back 2023 wins with Dallas-based trainer Derrick James seemed to cement a new partnership for 34-year-old Joshua.But Davison was in AJ’s corner for the December 23 obliteration of Otto Wallin — the most high-risk and convincing victory of Joshua’s busy year — and has now been given the gig full-time.The Watford legend has swapped a 10,000-mile round trip for a pop around the corner to Harlow in Essex and is feeling the benefits while Davison happily feels the pain.READ MORE IN BOXINGDavison, 31, said: “Physically it has been very challenging.“He has clipped me a few times but, thank God, he has realised and softened the shot slightly.“A couple of times I’ve not really braced myself with the body bag on and I have felt a few of them.“Obviously he is an absolute monster, so physically it is demanding, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”Most read in BoxingCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Davison has built a relationship with AJ. He said: “I might not have known him for ten years but I can read the room and sense if he is in the mood for a chat or not.“I felt I could tell when he wants a bit of space or he wants a laugh and a joke. I think I understand him.”EXCLUSIVE: Eddie Hearn ‘NERVOUS’ for Anthony Joshua’s clash with Francis Ngannou as ex-UFC champ could end Brit’s title hopes foreverDavison befriended Tyson Fury when he was at his 28st nadir and lowest psychological ebb — and guided him back to greatness.For 19 months Davison lived in the Gypsy King’s Morecambe home and whipped him into shape for a couple of warm-up wins and the iconic 2018 draw with Deontay Wilder.If Fury and Joshua ever finally fight, Davison will look like the third man in a boxing soap opera love-hate-triangle.He said: “I do have a tremendous amount of love and respect for Tyson and that will never change.“And now I have a lot of love and respect for AJ.”*Watch Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou on DAZN and Sky Sports. ANTHONY JOSHUA VS FRANCIS NGANNOU: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE CROSSOVER BOUT More

  • in

    Christian Horner ‘still in contact with accuser’ despite wife Geri Halliwell wanting her ‘out of the picture’

    SEXT probe F1 boss Christian Horner’s accuser is apparently still in contact with him at work.The unidentified woman’s complaint that Red Bull Racing boss Horner, 50, sent her “sexually suggestive” messages threatens to wreck his marriage and career.Geri Horner is said to want Christian’s accuser ‘out of the picture’ amid news she is still in contact with him at workCredit: GettyBut she has stayed at work at Red Bull’s HQ in Milton Keynes, Bucks, despite being locked in an explosive dispute with her boss.And embattled Horner is having to carry on daily “business as usual” with the staff member who detonated the scandal.Sources told The Sun today the attractive employee even asked to fly to the Bahrain Grand Prix to support the team last weekend.Geri — who staged a toe-curling public show of support for Horner in Bahrain — is said to want the woman “out of the picture”.READ MORE ON CHRISTIAN HORNERThe heartbroken Spice Girl, 51, is also understood to have read her hubby the riot act over his behaviour and messages he sends on his phone.But she was left frustrated today after learning the woman at the centre of the storm was staying put and has engaged high-powered lawyers to fight her corner.A source told The Sun: “It’s frustrating for everyone and ridiculous to try to maintain business as usual in the circumstances.“The woman’s role involves continuing contact with Christian and they are having to get on with day-to-day work as though nothing has happened. But something has to give.Most read in Motorsport“She wanted to fly to Bahrain in her work role but that would have created a circus which no one wants and would be good for no one.“Everyone at Red Bull and the wider world of F1 knows the identity of the woman at the centre of this.Christian Horner gives defiant seven-word statment amid sext leak storm after Bahrain Grand Prix win“She has also acquired very expensive lawyers who have been advising her since the scandal blew up — but no one knows who’s paying for them.“It all plays into claims that there’s a conspiracy to unseat Christian.”The woman — one of 1,400 Red Bull Racing staff based in the team’s state-of-the-art Milton Keynes HQ — was at her desk earlier today while Horner was in Saudi Arabia preparing for this weekend’s F1 race.Tensions mounted after Jos Verstappen, father of Red Bull’s world champ and top driver Max, warned the team will “explode” if Horner stays in his £8million-a-year role.The two men were seen locked in what looked like a fiery argument during the Formula One season opener at the weekend — in which Red Bull stormed to first and second places thanks to Max and team-mate Sergio Perez.Sky Sports footage showed Horner and Jos Verstappen app­ar­ently arguing, following reports they have previously clashed in a rift that has lasted for months. More