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      in Soccer

      Why are England players wearing black armbands during tonight’s match?

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      ENGLAND are taking on Ireland in a huge Nations League clash this evening.And the Three Lions players took to the pitch wearing black armbands in a touching tribute.England will pay tribute to former manager Sven-Goran Eriksson tonightCredit: Gary StoneWhy are England players wearing black armbands during tonight’s match?England players are wearing black armbands during tonight’s Nations League clash against Ireland in memory of former manager Sven-Goran Eriksson.In January 2024, the Swede announced that he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer before the tragic news of his passing was revealed on Monday, August 26.A statement from his children, Lina and Johan, said: “Our father Sven-Goran Eriksson fell asleep peacefully in his home at Bjorkefors outside Sunne this morning. He has for a long time fought bravely with his illness, but now it came to an end.”Dad told us at the beginning of this year about his serious illness and received an amazing response from friends and football fans around Europe.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He was invited to several football teams in England, Italy, Portugal and Sweden. They shared their love for football and for dad.”It was unforgettable for both him and us. He expressed his appreciation and joy and stated that such beautiful words are usually only uttered when someone has died.”We hope that you will remember Svennis as the good and positive person he always was both in public and at home with us.”During Sven’s time as England manager, he guided the Three Lions to some memorable results, with a 5-1 win over rivals Germany in Munich certainly one of the highlights.Most read in FootballThe Swede also managed 12 clubs, including Manchester City, Leicester, Lazio and Roma, winning 18 trophies.It has been confirmed that England are planning a full tribute to Sven ahead of Tuesday’s Nations League clash against Finland at Wembley. More

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      Why are Jack Grealish and Declan Rice being booed against Ireland?

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      ENGLAND begin life without Gareth Southgate with a trip to the Aviva Stadium to take on Ireland in the Nations League TONIGHT.Jack Grealish and Declan Rice have both been handed starts by interim manager Lee Carsley – but why are some of the crowd booing the Three Lions duo?Lee Carsley will take on Ireland in his first match as interim England managerCredit: GettyWhy are Jack Grealish and Declan Rice being booed against Ireland?Jack Grealish and Declan Rice are being booed by parts of the Aviva Stadium during England’s clash with Ireland on Saturday evening.The crowd’s anger is down to the fact that both players represented Ireland earlier in their careers before switching allegiances to the Three Lions.Jack Grealish represented Ireland at youth levelCredit: Sportsfile – SubscriptionDeclan Rice was capped three times for the Republic of IrelandCredit: Sportsfile – SubscriptionBirmingham-born Grealish donned the Irish green at youth level due to the winger qualifying for the nation through his grandparents.The Man City forward switched his allegiances to England in September 2015.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRice is also preparing for a reunion with Ireland after earning three friendly caps in 2018 before opting to represent the Three Lions instead.The London-born midfielder, like Grealish, was able to play for the ‘Boys in Green’ due to his grandparents originating from Cork.And it’s not just on the field where the connections lie, as the man in the England dugout for the first time, Carsley, appeared 40 times for Ireland during his playing career.Lee Carsley made 40 appearances for Ireland during his playing daysCredit: GettySpeaking exclusively to SunSport, former Ireland goalkeeper Shay Given stated that the former Irish internationals can expect a fiery atmosphere in Dublin.Most read in FootballHe said: “Lee won’t be expecting anything else other than a volatile reception with his team because it’s our biggest rival.”It’s going to be a fiery atmosphere, that’s for sure. It’s crazy how the stars have aligned that his first game is Ireland away.”I don’t imagine Lee will be doing a lap of honour after the game! He knows what he’s walking into.”Rice and Grealish are two brilliant players who were both wearing the green of Ireland at one point.”I’m sure they’ll be in for a bit of a reception as well.”Jack’s back in the squad. I texted him jokingly the other day that I hope he’s ready for a nice reception when he gets back to Dublin and I got a few laughing faces back.”During Carsley’s pre-match press conference, he was asked if he had any concerns over Grealish and Rice playing at the Aviva Stadium this evening, he said: “No, not all.”We spoke – not only (to) Jack and Declan, to the whole squad – we spoke about the atmosphere we expect it to be.”Exciting, passionate, loud, but it’ll be no different to what the players are used to in Premier League games or high level games. I think they’ll be ready for whatever comes out.” More

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      in Boxing

      Who is bare-knuckle boxer Danny Christie?

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      DANNY Christie is making headlines as he prepares for his next high-stakes match.Scheduled to fight for the BKFC Championship at BKFC 67 on October 12, 2024, his journey from a troubled past to becoming a rising star in the combat sports world is nothing short of inspiring.Dannie Christie is a bare-knuckle boxerCredit: Instagram/danny_tb_christieWho is Danny Christie?Danny Christie is a British bare-knuckle boxer who has gained recognition in the combat sports world, particularly in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).He rose to prominence due to his aggressive fighting style and notable matches, including a rivalry with fellow fighter Anthony Holmes.Danny is from Carlisle, England and transitioned into bare-knuckle boxing after competing in traditional boxing and mixed martial arts. His story is also compelling because of his journey from battling personal issues, including substance abuse, to turning his life around through combat sports.read more bare-knuckle boxingDanny’s matches are known for being intense and brutal, reflecting the nature of bare-knuckle boxing, a sport that has been growing in popularity in recent years. He is seen as one of the rising stars in this field, representing the UK on the global bare-knuckle boxing stage.What is Danny Christie’s fight record?He won five out of his seven fights so farCredit: Instagram/danny_tb_christieDanny Christie has fought a total of seven times in his bare-knuckle boxing career.Out of these fights, he has won five and lost one. Most read in BoxingAdditionally, one of his scheduled fights was cancelled.What are the rules in bare-knuckle boxing?In Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, the rules are designed to ensure safety while maintaining the sport’s intensity. Fighters are allowed to wrap and tape their wrists, thumbs, and mid-hands. However, no gauze or tape can be within one inch of the knuckles.At the beginning of each round, fighters Toe The Line by positioning their front foot on one of two lines that are three feet apart in the centre of the ring. The referee will then instruct them to Knuckle Up, signalling the start of the round.Only closed-fist punches are permitted. Kicks, elbows, knees, and grappling are not allowed.During a clinch, a fighter may use open-hand punches to try to create space. If there is a lull in action for three seconds, the referee will break the clinch.If a fighter is knocked down, they have 10 seconds to get back on their feet. Striking a downed fighter is prohibited and can result in disqualification and withholding of the fighter’s purse.The other fighter will be instructed to return to a neutral area during this time.If a fighter is cut and the blood impairs their vision, the referee may call a timeout to allow the cutman 30 seconds to address the cut.If the bleeding cannot be controlled and affects the fighter’s vision, the referee will stop the fight and award victory to the other fighter.Each round lasts 2 minutes, with each bout consisting of 5 rounds.Fighters must wear a groin protector with a cup, a mouthpiece, boxing trunks, and boxing or wrestling shoes.All fighters are expected to give their best effort and demonstrate complete sportsmanship throughout their bouts.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen is Danny Christie’s next fight?Danny Christie’s next fight is scheduled for October 12, 2024, at BKFC 67: Tenaglia vs. Soto. He will be facing David Mundell in a title bout, competing as the challenger for the BKFC Championship. More

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      What is Ashley Cole’s job with England?

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      ENGLAND take on Ireland in a huge Nations League clash at the Aviva Stadium this evening.Interim boss Lee Carsley will be joined in the dugout by some new faces, including former Chelsea and Arsenal defender Ashley Cole – but what is his role in the national team set-up?Ashley Cole will join Lee Carsley in the dugout against IrelandCredit: GettyWhat is Ashley Cole’s job with England?Ashley Cole is an assistant manager to Lee Carsley during his time as interim manager of the England senior side.Carsley stepped up from his role as Under-21s manager to replace Gareth Southgate after the former Three Lions boss resigned from his role following the 2-1 defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.The FA confirmed that Cole will assist the 50-year-old during his time in charge of the senior side.Cole worked alongside Carsley at Under-21 level, having also coached at Derby, Chelsea, Everton and Birmingham.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe former England left-back was capped by England on 107 occasions between 2001 and 2014 and played five major tournaments as his nation’s sixth most-capped male player.Cole will be joined by ex-Manchester City centre-back Joleon Lescott and the FA’s head of coaching, Tim Dittmer.The trio worked alongside Carsley with the Under-21s and were part of the Under-21 Euro-winning squad in 2023.Ex-coaches Martyn Margetson, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and former assistant Steve Holland all left the England set-up along with Southgate this summer.Most read in FootballHow to watch Ireland vs EnglandIreland vs England will be broadcast live on ITV1.You can live stream the match for FREE via the ITVX app/website.Alternatively, you can keep up to date with all the action by following SunSport’s live blog. More

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      in Soccer

      Why does England manager Lee Carsley not sing national anthems?

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      LEE CARSLEY will not sing God Save The King today when he takes charge of England for the first time against Ireland.Carsley made 40 appearances for Ireland as a player and takes the reins with the Three Lions senior squad after huge success with the England Under-21s, guiding them to European Under-21 Championship last year.Lee Carsley won’t sing God Save the King before England’s clash with IrelandCredit: PAThe 50-year-old has taken over from Gareth Southgate initially on an interim basis for the games against Ireland and Finland in the Nations League.Ireland are first up this afternoon in Dublin before a home clash against Finland at Wembley on Tuesday night.Southgate stepped down as England manager in July after steering the Three Lions to successive finals in European Championships.Like Southgate, Carsley has been promoted up by the FA from the Under-21s to take charge of the national team.Lee Carsley made 40 appearances for Ireland as a playerCredit: PAWhy does Lee Carsley not sing national anthems?Lee Carsely will not sing the national anthem today as he has never sung them in his career.The midfielder was born in Birmingham but made 40 appearances for Ireland as a player after qualifying through his grandmother, who was from Cork.Carsley did not sing the Irish anthem before playing for them nor the British anthem when managing the England Under 21s.The 50-year-old has said that he is too focused on the task at hand in his pre-match ritual when national anthems are rung out in the stadium.Most read in FootballCarsley said: “This is something that I always struggled with when I was playing for Ireland.”I am thinking about how the opposition are going to set up and our first actions within the game.”I fully respect both anthems and understand how much they mean to both countries.” More

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      in Soccer

      Who are Jack Grealish’s parents Kevin and Karen?

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      JACK GREALISH is the superstar footballer who is one of the nation’s favourite players.But who are the star’s parents? Here’s everything you need to know Kevin and Karen Grealish.Karen and Kevin Grealish inspired Jack to go into footballCredit: SportsfileJack plays for Manchester City and EnglandCredit: GettyWho are Jack Grealish’s parents Kevin and Karen?Jack was born on September 10, 1995, in Birmingham and he was raised by his parents Kevin and Karen.Kevin Grealish is a property director, while Karen is the director of Hampton Gate Management company.The couple were born just a year apart, with Karen being born in 1964 and Kevin being born the following year.They raised their son in Solihull, Birmingham, and were active supporters of his football dream.Read more on Jack GrealishKevin sees the funny side in his son’s career though, when he revealed Man City’s whopping £47,000 drinks bill from their Premier League and Champions League celebrations in 2023.How long have Kevin and Karen Grealish been together for?Kevin and Karen has kept much of their personal life private, so they have not confirmed when they got married. However, they have been together for as long as Jack has been alive. They are partly responsible for Jack’s love of football, as they are huge Aston Villa fans. Most read in FootballJack grew up watching Aston Villa’s games with his parents, inspiring him to pursue the sport himself.Jack now plays for Manchester City though, as a midfielder, as well as playing for the England national team.He is dating Sasha Attwood and the couple are expecting a child together.How many children do Kevin and Karen Grealish have?Jack’s family, including his fiancee Sasha and sister Kiera, are very closeCredit: PA: Press AssociationKevin and Karen have welcomed five children, including Jack who is their oldest. Their other children are named Kiera, Kevan, Holly, and Keelan Daniel Grealish.However, sadly, Keelan passed away from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in 2000, at the age of just nine months.Holly also has cerebral palsy, a group of movement disorders that cause poor coordination, stiff muscles, weak muscles, and tremors. More

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      in Soccer

      Who are Declan Rice’s parents Stephanie and Sean?

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      DECLAN RICE is an England ace who previously turned out for the Republic of Ireland.The Arsenal ace’s roots are Irish, but he was born in London. Here’s everything you need to know about Declan’s mum and dad, Stephanie and Sean Rice.Declan Rice’s dad Sean is also his managerCredit: Twitter/XDeclan with mum Stephanie after the match against Slovenia at Euro 2024Credit: GettyWho are Declan Rice’s parents Stephanie and Sean?Declan was born on January 14, 1995, in Kingston Upon Thames.His father, Sean, was born in London after his parents emigrated from County Cork, Ireland.Although Declan plays for Arsenal, his father Sean is a massive Chelsea supporter.His dad encouraged him to play football and became his agent in 2020.Read more on sportsDue to his Irish heritage, Declan played for Ireland’s youth teams from 2015-2018, winning 17 caps from Under-17 to U21 level.He then made his senior debut in 2018, earning three caps.However, in 2019 Declan switched his allegiance from the Republic of Ireland to England.Speaking about the transfer, Declan’s dad said: “I’m very Irish, my mum and dad were very Irish and Declan grew up in an Irish/English environment as a lot of people from London do.Most read in Football”And so at the end of the day he had to make a choice and I have to support my son.”Declan posted a statement about his transfer on Instagram that said he has “equal respect and love for both England and Ireland”.He said that, ultimately, he made the decision based on what he believes is “best for my future”.How long have Stephanie and Sean Rice been married?Stephanie and Sean have chosen to keep much of their personal life private, but Declan sometimes shares a snap of his parents on social media.Although they have not confirmed when they got married, the couple have been together since before Declan was born. Declan credits his mum with creating a close-knit family environment that encouraged him to pursue his passions.Like her husband, Stephanie is also of Irish descent but was born and raised in London.Declan is the proud dad of a son named JudeCredit: PA WireDeclan had Jude with his partner LaurenCredit: PA MediaHow many children do Stephanie and Sean Rice have?Stephanie and Sean have three children – Conor, Jordan and Declan.The footie star is the youngest and regularly posts pics with his brothers on Instagram.He credits his brothers with helping to get him into football and driving him to be the best he can.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne of his brothers made headlines in 2023, when he teased Declan transferring from West Ham to Arsenal.Declan is a now a parent himself as his partner, Lauren Fryer, gave birth to their son Jude in 2022. More

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      in Soccer

      Why is Phil Foden NOT playing for England today?

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      IT’S a new era for English football as interim boss Lee Carsley will guide the Three Lions for the first time in the Nations League tonight.Fifty-five days after their Euro 2024 heartbreak, England return to action when they travel to face the Republic of Ireland at 5:00pm.Phil Foden has withdrawn from Lee Carsley’s first England squadGareth Southgate stepped down as manager within two days of losing his second consecutive Euros final after a glistering eight years at the helm.And new steward Carsley has picked a new-look team as Tino Livramento, Morgan Gibbs-White, Angel Gomes and Noni Madueke earned their maiden Three Lions senior-call up.But Phil Foden joins a list of three stars who have withdrawn from the squad…Why is Phil Foden not playing for England?Phil Foden has withdrawn from England’s camp through illness.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe current PFA Player of the Year is suffering from a stomach virus and did not report to St George’s Park.Pep Guardiola cited the virus as the reason he did not travel to East London for Manchester City’s 3-1 victory at West Ham on Saturday.When asked about the possibility of Foden reporting for international duty, Guardiola said: “I don’t think so right now.”I think he will not go but I don’t know. He doesn’t feel well. But national teams, they decide. People say with antibiotics and so on he will be fine.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFoden is also ruled out of Tuesday’s game against Finland at Wembley.No information has been provided about when he might return to action.Cristiano Ronaldo breaks down in tears as 39-year-old becomes first player EVER to score 900 goalsFoden has scored four goals in 41 appearances for England since making his international debut against Iceland in September 2020.The 24-year-old temporarily left England’s camp during the Euros in Germany to support girlfriend Rebecca Cooke at the birth of the couple’s third child.Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins have also withdrawn from the squad in another huge blow to Carsley.Palmer, 22, and Watkins, 28, reported to England’s base on Tuesday.But following assessment, both returned to their respective Premier League clubs to continue rehabilitation for ongoing issues.Lee Carsley’s first senior England squad More