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      in Motorsport

      Five haunting questions behind Formula One’s greatest riddle – what caused Ayrton Senna’s fatal crash 30 years ago?

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      HEADING into a curve that the Formula One genius Ayrton Senna knew very well at the San Marino Grand Prix, there was no sign it would be the Brazilian’s final moment.But rather than his blue Williams racing car turning into the Tamburello left corner, it sped at 190mph straight into a concrete barrier.Ayrton Senna’s fatal crash 30 years agoCredit: GettyThe Brazilian was a three-time Formula One world championCredit: AP:Associated PressSenna’s girlfriend Adriana Galisteu mourns in front of his coffinCredit: AFPThirty years on from the three-time world champion’s death, serious questions still remain about how a man revered as the motorsport’s greatest talent could have lost control of his hi-tech vehicle.Was it really a driver error? Or were ill-judged modifications to Senna’s car to blame?Investigators in Italy believed members of the British-based Williams team were at fault.Conspiracy theorists have asked why it took the company a month to hand over the black boxes to the authorities and why they arrived so badly damaged.Read More In The SunBut fingers were also pointed at bumps in the historic Imola circuit.On top of that, there were questions as to whether debris had properly been removed from the track following an earlier collision. Could a shard of metal have interfered with Senna’s racing car?The risk of racing was clear because the day before, 33-year-old Austrian driver Roland Ratzenberger suffered a fatal crash.Jordan’s Rubens Barrichello had been lucky to get out alive following a high speed smash on the Friday.Most read in MotorsportCritical issues about the car’s safety were largely skirted over in the Bafta-winning 2010 documentary Senna.And today no one knows why his life ended at the age of 34.Video shows Ayrton Senna racing in the San Marino Grand prix in 1994 before tragic death of driverThankfully, improvements introduced following his death has meant Ayrton was the last F1 driver to die during a race.That has only added to his legacy.Ben Hunt, The Sun’s F1 correspondent, says: “There is no other sporting icon who is celebrated in such a way. “The livery of his iconic crash helmet, featuring the colours of the Brazilian flag, are seen at every race on the calendar.”Here we look at the possible causesCar trouble?Senna in his Williams car on the day of the crashCredit: AFPThere were plenty of problems facing Williams and its reported £16million-salary star signing Senna in the weeks running up to the crash.Williams drivers had won the previous two Formula One championships, but new rules had cut into their reliance on electronic devices.Ayrton struggled with the latest vehicle, admitting at the start of the season: “The cars are very fast and difficult to drive. We’ll be lucky if something really serious doesn’t happen.”As is common in motorsport, he liaised with the team’s engineers to change the set-up, including adjusting the steering column.Senna did not appear to turn the wheel on the seventh lap as he approached the bend and instead went into the wall.During the crash part of the suspension had penetrated his helmet, causing a fatal head injury.The steering wheel was found to be broken.Italian prosecutors alleged that it had snapped prior to impact, leaving Senna unable to control his speeding vehicle.They charged the team’s founder Sir Frank Williams, technical director Sir Patrick Head and chief designer Adrian Newey with manslaughter.At the trial the prosecution said: “The steering column had been cut and a new element – which was not of the same quality of metal or of the same diameter, being 18mm instead of 22mm – was welded in.A complete stranger came up to me and said ‘Your dad is a murderer’Claire Williams”And it was where the new element had been welded that the column broke.”The Williams team analysis showed the steering column was not to blame and all three men were acquitted. In 2003 the Italian courts reopened the case and in 2007 determined that the steering column was responsible, but by that point it was too late to rearrest anyone for manslaughter.Newey admitted in his 2017 autobiography: “Regardless of whether that steering column caused the accident or not, there is no escaping the fact that it was a bad piece of design that should never have been allowed to get on the car.”While people in the sport do not blame the legendary Sir Frank, who died in 2021, some members of the public did.Sir Frank’s daughter Claire Williams remembered a year after Senna’s death “being in a pub, a complete stranger came up to me and said ‘Your dad is a murderer’.”Unsafe track?Roland Ratzenberger died on the same track the day before SennaCredit: AFPThere were concerns about the Tamburello corner on which Senna’ fate was sealed.A number of drivers had come off at that corner, including Gerhard Berger who’d gone up in flames in 1989.But all of the incidents were linked to car trouble rather than the track design.Senna, though, had noticed ripples on that bend during practice.There is no other sporting icon who is celebrated in such a wayBen HuntJust before the San Marino race he said about the track: “My car reacts a bit nervously on this kind of surface. “It stems from the special aerodynamics but it’s also got to do with a difficulty in the suspension.”The Italians charged three senior men connected to the track, Federico Bendinelli, Giorgio Poggi and Roland Bruynseraede, with manslaughter.State prosecutor Maurizio Passarini claimed that a raised edge at the Tamburello corner launched the Williams car into trouble.The three men were found not guilty by a judge in 1997.’Modern F1 misses a Senna’ By Bent Hunt, The Sun’s F1 Correspondent
      SENNA still has global appeal with new fans attracted by the ‘Drive to Survive’ boom.
      So why is he so popular?
      One simple explanation is that he was a brilliant driver, which of course we know and there is simply not enough room to pick out the evidence of this.
      Another aspect was the dark arts. The ability to mix sport with politics to achieve what he wanted or perhaps what he felt he deserved.
      He coupled this with his attitude on track, taking matters into his own hands and stepping over the line, such as deliberately ramming Alain Prost in Japan 1990, influencing the outcome of the title.
      Questionable morals perhaps, but taking it to the limit and going beyond is now almost celebrated.
      Senna offered a new level of professionalism but with it a complexity within his own personality.
      Magnetic charm and a level of charisma that is unthinkable among today’s drivers on the grid.
      Senna was intelligent, opened up with honesty and discussed the dangers he faced, putting his life on the line each time he went out to race.
      He appealed to and intrigued the public in equal measure. He had a personality.
      And that’s something that F1 desperately misses right now.

      Race debris?The wreck of Senna’s car following his fatal crashCredit: AllsportAt the start of the race Bennetton’s JJ Lehto stalled and an unsighted Pedro Lamy in a Lotus piled into his car, sending pieces of their vehicles into the crowd and on to the grid.A safety car was brought out so that the debris could be collected and then the race restarted.But a photograph in Autosport magazine suggested that Ayrton’s car passed over one piece. Could that have caused a slow puncture?Williams’s Adrian Newey said in 2017: “His right front and right rear tyres were destroyed in the accident, so it was impossible to examine them, but debris that size could have caused a slow puncture. “The puncture would have caused the bottoming we saw, and that in turn would have caused the rear to step out as it lost grip.”Driver error?Senna, pictured during a race in 1989, pushed his cars to their limitsCredit: GettyAlain Prost was knocked out a crucial championship race by SennaCredit: GettyAyrton Senna is regarded as one of the greatest ever racing drivers – with his fearlessness putting him on the podium.He had a reputation for pushing his machines to their absolute limits.On top of that the Brazilian hated losing, admitting: “Being second is to be the first of the ones who lose. “Winning is like a drug. I can’t settle for second or third in no circumstances whatsoever.”In 1990 he knew he would become world champion if his great rival Alain Prost did not finish the Japanese Grand Prix.At the first turn he ran into the back of Prost’s Ferrari taking them both out of the race.Some observers believed it was deliberate and Senna later admitted: “I didn’t care if we crashed.”Is it possible that Senna was simply racing too hard at San Marino in 1994 in order to keep ahead of Michael Schumacher who was not far behind him in second place?Black Box controversyA jury were shown the black box recorder from Senna’s carCredit: EPASenna’s Williams car was fitted with two black box recorders designed to keep data safe if there was a crash.They were similar to the devices on aeroplanes, but not as robust.A senior member of staff at the San Marino track told the 1997 trial that two members of the Williams team removed the recorders shortly after the crash.After giving evidence Fabrizio Nosco told journalists: “I have seen thousands of these devices and removed thousands for checks.“The two boxes were intact, even though they had some scratches. The Williams device looked to have survived the crash.”It took the Williams team over a month to hand over the black boxes to the crash investigators.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen they arrived they were too badly damaged to yield the information needed to determine the exact cause of the accident. Other witnesses told the court they were wrecked by the high speed impact of the Williams vehicle hitting the wall.Austrian driver Roland Ratzenberger died on the same weekend as SennaCredit: Getty – Contributor More

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      in Soccer

      Love rat Ryan Giggs was slammed as a ‘liar, womaniser & cheat’ by OWN lawyer – has he finally settled with Zara Charles?

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      HE is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of his generation but Ryan Giggs has never been far from controversy.His name conjures up pictures of two distinctly different men – the pitch legend who dazzled at Manchester United and the love cheat accused of abusive behaviour.Ryan Giggs, 50, and lingerie model Zara Charles, 36, are having a baby togetherCredit: ZenpixGiggs and his ex-wife Stacey Cooke in the Royal Box of Wimbledon in 2012Credit: AFPThe Man United legend was a quiet maestro on the pitch, but his personal life has been far less sanguineCredit: Getty – ContributorEarlier this year, Giggs’ brother, Rhodri – left deeply wounded after Ryan’s infamous affair with his wife – told the legendary player to “grow the f*** up” after “banging everything in sight.”As The Sun reveals Giggs is about to become a dad again aged 50, could it be that he has finally taken on his brother’s advice?A source said Ryan – who already has two kids – and lingerie model Zara Charles, who has a child from a previous relationship, were “thrilled at the prospect of becoming parents again”.The source added: “They have a solid, loving relationship and are building a long-term future together.”Read More in SportIt follows a tumultuous few years after Giggs was arrested in November 2020 on allegations of assaulting ex-partner Kate Greville as well as being a coercive and controlling partner. He was also charged with assaulting Kate’s sister, Emma.Giggs stepped back from his role as Wales manager as scandal engulfed him for a second time – the first being the notorious affair with his sister-in-law, Natasha.While the case against him collapsed at court, his reputation had been yet again tarnished, with his own barrister called him a “cheat, a womaniser, a liar and an adulterer”.Most read in FootballRyan has a notorious affair with Natasha Giggs, the wife of his brother RhodriCredit: CollectNineties star Dani Behr and Ryan Giggs were a famous power coupleCredit: Rex FeaturesGiggs’ controversial love life has dominated front pages over the yearsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdGirlfriend Zara Charles, 36, stood by him throughout the case.But, as they look forward to a new life together, the question will be whether Giggs can rebuild the image he once had as a clean-living family man. Roy Keane opens up on Ryan Giggs feud which saw Man Utd legend stop speaking to team-mate for six monthsRollercoaster childhood Giggs made his name playing for the most famous football club in the world after he was scouted at the age of 14 by Sir Alex Ferguson in 1987.Ferguson pulled up outside Giggs’ family home in Salford in a gold-coloured Mercedes and signed the young player after watching him perform at Manchester City’s School of Excellence.The Giggs family moved to the Manchester suburb when Ryan was just six and he said his first memories were making friends with kids in the street and playing football.His dad, Danny Wilson, is a former rugby union and Wales international rugby player, while mum Lynne worked as a children’s nurse.But their marriage was not an entirely happy one, according to Giggs.He wrote in his 2006 autobiography: “It was a fiery relationship which would occasionally spill over into real unpleasantness. There were many arguments, and too many of them became physical.”His parents finally split when he was 16 and Giggs said it may have “contributed to that inner steel where I can block things out”.He said: “When I was playing football, I never thought about the arguments between my mum and dad. Everyone’s childhood shapes who they are and what they do.”String of flingsGiggs’ grit and determination on the field made him one of the most decorated players of all time.He made his first-team debut aged 17 and went on to become the first player to win two consecutive PFA Young Player of the Year awards.As his star rose on the pitch, his boyish looks – along with fancy cars, a luxury house and designer gear-  bought inevitable adulation from women.Soap star Patsy Kensit has a fling with the footballerCredit: Dave HoganCaroline Stanbury was another former flameCredit: Rex FeaturesRyan and then-wife Stacey Cooke in 2007Credit: GettyGemma Atkinson and Giggs were rumoured to be together, but insisted they were just palsCredit: Flynet Pictures His first high-profile relationship was with TV presenter Dani Behr.One of the first big showbiz-footballer couples, they split after a year and Dani later said: “It was difficult because of manager Alex Ferguson.“I lived in London and Ryan was in Manchester and he didn’t like his team travelling a long way to that was difficult. He controlled Ryan.”Dani went on to date Les Ferdinand before marrying restauranter Carl Harwin in 2005.There were three people in my marriage and one of them was Ryan GiggsDamian BurkeIt girl Davinia Taylor, the daughter of a multi-millionaire, was his next regular girlfriend in 1995 but Giggs said it never got to the moving-in together stage because she was only 17 to his 22.The pair were seen arguing in a nightclub, which allegedly ended in Giggs throwing a glass in Davinia’s direction that smashed on a nearby pillar.When the couple split, brief flings with models Paula Hamilton and actress Patsy Kensit followed, but it wasn’t long before he and Davinia were back on with talk of wedding bells.But it all came to nothing when the heiress told the papers that Ryan didn’t give her enough attention and spent too much time with his pals.Giggs’ legendary football career
      During his glittering career with Manchester United, Ryan Giggs became known as one of the best players Britain has ever produced. His career in stats:
      1986 – The year Sir Alex Ferguson watches Giggs score a hat during a match for Salford Boys.
      1987 – Ferguson turns up at Giggs house and signs him u,p promising to turn him professional within three years. 
      1989 – Giggs captains England at schoolboy level, playing at Wembley against Germany.
      1991 – He makes his Manchester United debut aged 17.
      963 – Times played for Manchester United between 1991 and 2014
      632 – Number of appearances in the Premier League
      109 – Goals scored in the PL
      162 – Number of goal assists in the PL
      13 – Number of Premier League medals
      4 – FA Cup medals
      9 – FA Community Shields medals
      64 – Number of times Giggs played for the Wales national team between 1991-2007
      2007 – given an OBE for services to football

      Their final split came as Manchester United stablemate David Beckham started dating ‘Posh Spice’ Victoria Beckham and they became the couple of the moment.In 1998 Ryan and new sweetheart Emma Gardner suffered heartbreak when they lost a much-wanted baby.Ryan said the miscarriage taught him there is more to life than football but, again, long-lasting love was not to be.Giggs finally met the woman he was to marry, Stacey Cooke, in 2002 at a music festival. By the time they wed in a low-key ceremony in 2007, they already had four-year-old daughter Liberty and baby son Zachary.The marriage was rocked by Giggs’ infidelity as an exasperated Stacey stuck by him.Ryan Giggs leaves the Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester in 2022Credit: AFPGiggs at Manchester Crown Court watching ex-girlfriend Kate Greville giving evidence on police videoCredit: PAGiggs and Kate Greville before their splitCredit: BackGridThree years after son Zachary was born, Giggs had a six-month fling with Welsh model and Big Brother contestant Imogen Thomas. He took out a super injunction to stop The Sun revealing their affair, which led to weeks of speculation until MP John Hemming used parliamentary privilege to name the footballer in a Commons debate in 2011.Giggs lost £150,000 in legal fees in the process.It soon emerged the Premier League star had also been sleeping with sister-in-law Natasha Lever, who was married to his younger brother Rhodri, also a footballer.The affair started when Stacey was pregnant with the couple’s first child.Natasha revealed that she aborted Ryan’s baby weeks before marrying his brother Rhodri, who is three years younger. She said the cheating footballer gave her £500 toward the costs of the procedure. Stacey was devastated but the pair stayed together.His relationship with brother Rhodri has never recovered.’Grow the f*** up’In January Rhodri laid into his brother on The Central Club podcast, saying he could have done serious damage to his brother had he sold stories about the affair.Rhodri said: “I’m not that bitter and not that twisted, but he needs to be careful, because I could have. Giggs’ love life under the microscopeBy Jo Hemmings, relationship expert
      To say Ryan Giggs has had a chequered relationship history would be an understatement.
      Being catapulted into fame at a young age – Giggs was only 14 – followed by his parents splitting up two years later after a fiery and abusive relationship, it’s perhaps no wonder that he ended up in a series of poor relationships alongside reckless and controlling behaviour.
      Without the anchors of a stable parental relationship, nor the usual hanging out with friends and growing up in a typical teenage environment, it seems that Giggs took a long time to understand the maturity, compromise and effort that having an enduring relationship takes.
      It’s almost as if he has lived his life in reverse – stardom when just a teen and all the adulation that goes with that, robbed him of the opportunity to grow up in a healthy, grounded environment, looking to the future for his ambitions rather than living them out at young and impressionable age.
      Now he’s 50, a moment when a lot of men take stock of their lives for personal and professional reasons, wondering if they have achieved enough, Giggs – with the blessing of his former wife Stacey – seems to have found the emotional security and balance missing from his youth and can focus on his personal life and fulfilment moving forward.

      “A lot of people could have, but they didn’t, and it’s all from him making the choices he’s made, no one else. You can’t go through life and this nice, innocent family man when you’re banging everything in sight. How old is he, 48, 49? He needs to grow the f*** up.’”Giggs’ long-suffering wife Stacey finally walked away from the marriage in 2016 after tiring of her husband’s womanising ways.The Sun reported how the final straw came when Stacey heard the footie hero had flirted with waitresses at a restaurant he owns close to their £6million mansion in Worsley, near Manchester.You can’t go through life and this nice, innocent family man when you’re banging everything in sightRhodri Giggs on his brotherTheir divorce was a costly affair.He fought over giving his wife a chunk of his extensive fortune but they came to an agreement out of court.A year later Giggs was pictured with PR expert Kate Greville on holiday in Italy. They met when she was tasked with helping to plan the launch of Giggs and Gary Neville’s Hotel Football business.It was the start of yet another stormy relationship.Kate’s ex husband Damian Burke claims she dumped him by text and told a pal: “There were three people in my marriage and one of them was Ryan Giggs.”His words echoed that of late Princess Diana who famously said there were three people in her marriage.In August 2022 Giggs appeared in court charged with causing Kate, 37, actual bodily harm and engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour between December 2017 and November 2020. He also denied assaulting Kate’s sister, Emma.The United ace celebrates with his children, Zach and Libby, after winning the league in 2011Credit: AFPSir Alex Ferguson scouted the future star when he was just a teenagerCredit: Getty – ContributorGiggs was accused of headbutting Kate during a row as well as trying to control her.She told Manchester Crown Court how she “became a slave to his every need and every demand” and alleged that Giggs once told her she ‘did not deserve to be a parent’ during a blazing row.Giggs was also accused of having ‘full-on’ relationships with eight other women during the ‘toxic’ six-year relationshipDuring the case an  email emerged in which Giggs accused Kate of making him look stupid over a trip to Scotland with his friends.He wrote: ‘’Only an evil, horrible c*** does that. Utterly astonishing. Now I look like a t*** telling my three of my friends I am going to Scotland at the weekend. I simply cannot believe you f****** did that. I am so f****** mad right now and I am scaring myself because I could do anything.’”Giggs’ own barrister told the court that being a cheat, a womaniser, a liar and an adulterer isn’t a crime.Chris Daw QC told jurors his client was not on trial for “being flirtatious”, being a “compulsive womaniser”, an “adulterer” or a “liar” or a “cheat”.The QC said. “If they were crimes, just think how many prisons we would need.”After a highly-charged four-week trial a jury was discharged after failing to reach verdicts on any of the charges.A retrial was planned for July 2023 but the CPS dropped the charges shortly before.Prosecutor Peter Wright KC said Kate had “indicated an unwillingness” to give evidence in a re-trial as giving evidence in the first trial had “taken its toll” on her and her sister, Emma.New chapterGiggs, who has won 64 caps for his country, stepped down as manager of the Wales international team in the wake of the allegations.He is now a director at Salford City, which he part owns.Giggs has had a glittering career,  winning 13 Premier League titles, two Champions League trophies, four FA Cups and three League Cups.Nobody can doubt his prowess on the field and he has been compared to the late, great George Best.Whether he can now deliver off the field and finally commit long-term to a loving relationship remains to be seen, but friends are confident.READ MORE SUN STORIESA source said: “Ryan was nervous about what his kids would think but they’ve got to know Zara over the last few years and really like her.“They’re happy because they know he’s happy.” More

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      in Soccer

      Savvy Ryan Reynolds turning Wrexham stars into ‘money machines’ OFF the pitch with power of £273m Hollywood fortune

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      FEW football clubs have seen their fortunes change quite as dramatically as Wrexham AFC. But it’s not just the fans who are benefiting from Hollywood star owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, with the players punching way above their lower league status too – on and off the pitch.Ryan Renolds and Rob McElhenney bought Wrexham for £2million in November 2020Credit: AlamyFans believed they spotted Wrexham star Ollie Palmer (right) in the background of the new Deadpool trailerThe striker, 32, joined the football club back in 2022Credit: AlamyThis week, Reynolds appeared to confirm Wrexham star Ollie Palmer has a cameo in the star’s new Marvel film Deadpool & Wolverine. The actor, who is worth £273million, wrote “keen eyesight” in response to a fan’s social media post asking whether the striker, 32, was in the background of the movie trailer.   Brand and culture expert Nick Ede claims the A-list owners, as well as the popularity of doc series Welcome To Wrexham, could open “a golden door” for the club’s best players, who could become famous ‘money machines’ in their own right.Nick told The Sun: ““Ryan and Rob have made a massive impact, all eyeballs have been on the club because of them and their huge TV show. READ MORE ON SPORT“It’s enabled them to give a voice to the players but also gifted them a bigger following, meaning players can get other big opportunities.“We have seen Ollie get a cameo or an extra role in the new Marvel film but that’s just the beginning. Some of the standout stars will make a lot of money from endorsements and deals.”Here Nick takes us through some of the potential ways Wrexham stars could benefit – from striking “Beckham-style” modelling deals to landing £100,000 pay cheques.Building the brandIt proved a game changer for Wrexham when Ryan and Rob bought the Welsh club for a reported £2million back in November 2020.Most read in FootballThe team has since achieved two back-to-back promotions, meaning next year they will play in League One – two below the Premier League.  Many of the players, who would previously have only been known by lower league fans, are now famous and have supporters across the world thanks to the Disney+ show Welcome To Wrexham.Ryan Reynolds all but confirms Wrexham star’s cameo in new Deadpool movie as striker ‘spotted in bar scene’Ryan and Rob lifting the Vanarama National League trophy last year after Wrexham were promotedCredit: GettyOllie launched WXM Clothing in November 2022Credit: Instagram/olliep9_His business has been supported by Ryan and Rob who have posted snaps wearing his clothes onlineCredit: Facebook/VancityReynoldsIt’s enabled some of the players incredible opportunities, including Ollie Palmer bagging a part in the third Deadpool film.Away from his footballing career, the striker has also launched the brand WXM Clothing in November 2022, which could prove to be another wise money-spinner.Crucially, the business venture has been supported by Ryan and Rob, who have regularly worn his gear in pictures on social media, where they collectively have nearly 54million followers.Nick says: “Having the guys wearing Ollie’s actual brand is a great way of endorsing what he does and will definitely help him to build his brand.“He is one of the players who ticks every box and is a star in the making, whether he carries on in Hollywood, who knows, but I suspect he will be endorsing lots of different things.“I can see him doing modeling and it could lead to him becoming a bit like David Beckham.”All eyes are on him. He’s a really good player and there may be a bidding war for him in the next for years.Nick Ede, brand and culture expertNick also believes coming from “an underdog football team” could bag Ollie more fans and describes the footballer’s future as “very exciting”.  He adds: “Ollie is someone brands are going to want to jump on now while his star is on the rise because he will make money for them and will be loyal to them. But also he will make a lot of money for himself.“I could see someone like Ollie, who is a rugged, sexy man, doing an aftershave or a fragrance launch, which could demand good fees of around £100,000 up to £250,000 as he becomes a bigger star.” Incredible bond with players and city
      FANS have been won over by Wrexham AFC owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney – and it’s no wonder after a series of generous and thoughtful acts to help others.
      Ryan helped the wife of Wrexham defender Anthony Forde get a second opinion after she was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer and given months to live. He arranged for Laura, who was planning her own funeral, to speak with one of the leading neurosurgeons in the US. They later confirmed the mass in her brain was benign and the initial diagnosis was wrong last year.
      Wrexham legend Martyn Chalk, who played for the club between 1996 and 2002, received money from the club owners to cover for his medical bills. They donated £1,000 each to a fundraiser after he broke his femur and fractured his legs in Thailand, in December 2023.
      The family of Louis Perrin, four, received a £10,000 donation to help convert their home to meet the disabled child’s needs. Parents Aaron and Charlotte were “blown away” by the sum, in February. They said it would help make life easier for their son who has TUBA1A, which causes leg spasms, limited mobility, epilepsy and cerebral palsy.
      Charity football match organisers were “overwhelmed with happiness” last year when Ryan and Rob donated £5,000. The money was being raised for the children’s ward at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. 
      Last year, it was revealed that Ryan visited a terminally ill fan in hospital and gifted them one of his original gloves from the film Deadpool. The other was gifted to the club’s goalkeeper Ben Foster.
      Former Wrexham footballer and Dementia sufferer Gareth Davies was invited to be a “guest of honour” at Wembley Stadium in 2022. Ryan and Rob personally reached out after spotting a post on Twitter. In response, Rob wrote: “He showed up for Wrexham AFC and we’ll show up for him.” 
      When footballer Jordan Davies and his partner Kelsey Edward’s’ son was stillborn, the Wrexham duo donated £10,000 to their fundraising page. They were raising money for the charity Stillbirth & Neonatal Death Society (SANDS) in 2022.

      ‘Stand-out star’While there’s much intrigue about Ollie’s future after his apparent Marvel debut, Nick believes there’s an even bigger “stand-out star”.Paul Mullin was listed as a GQ Men of the Year Honouree after a superb season with Wrexham last year when he netted an impressive 38 goals. Nick says some of the players could carve out David Beckham-style modelling careersNick tips Wrexham striker Paul Mullin as one of the ‘stand-out stars’ to watchCredit: PAIt’s led to the footballer writing his autobiography, Paul Mullin: My Wrexham Story, and a mural of him being painted on the side of a local pub.Nick suspects Paul will be a popular choice for brands in the next few years as he continues to prove himself at the club. “All eyes are on him,” Nick says. “He’s a really good player and there may be a bidding war for him in the next for years. We could even see a musical next, who knows? We’ve seen Bend It Like Beckham: The Musical and a play about The Three Lions so it could happen. Nick“I can see him landing great endorsements, commentary roles and various TV opportunities, as footballers are very popular on these shows.“Paul is an inspiration to a lot of people so he could earn good money from public speaking and while working with brands, whether that is alcohol or apparel.” Giant sponsorsThe club’s exposure has enabled them to land impressive sponsorship deals too, including a deal with US giant Gatorade earlier this month. Since buying Wrexham, the club went from having one shirt sponsor to three – and has pulled in huge names including TikTok, Expedia, United Airlines and Vistaprint. Nick explains that landing such big brands, who hope to take advantage of the club’s TV deal and international following, not only benefits the club’s finances but the players too.“Most of these clubs wouldn’t receive this kind of endorsement, they may get sponsored by a local business or business associated with the counties they are in.Wrexham AFC managed to land United Airlines as one of its sponsorsCredit: GettyThe clubs fanbase has grown since Welcome To Wrexham first aired in 2022He said: “To have huge brands associate with a minor club is brilliant and all down to the star power of Ryan and Rob. “Having a TV show, which is potentially watched around the world, is a good way for advertisers and sponsors to get good bang for your buck. “It’s a win-win for anyone who wants to be associated with Wrexham but also offers big opportunities for the club’s stars.”Movie spin-off?Nick says Ryan and Rob have delivered “absolutely genius PR” since taking over the club and believes part of the success is they are “credible and authentic”.He notes the multiple charitable donations made by the duo and investment in community projects to help the locals of Wrexham too. Nick says: “Who would have thought that this small Welsh town would suddenly become one of the biggest TV hits in the world and have all eyes on them.“I can compare it to what Taylor Swift has done when she’s gone to different countries and her concerts have helped to grow mini economies thanks to fans buying food and drink and celebrating.”He believes the Wrexham owners should continue “carrying on doing what they are doing” to draw attention to the club, which will in turn benefit the players.But Nick suggests other ventures that could increase the club’s popularity, spread their story to more fans and expand the interest around the area as a whole. “I can imagine they might make a movie about Wrexham’s rise, it’s such an interesting and compelling story,” he says. “It could focus on the regeneration around Wrexham, showing how the football club helped to rebuild the community, which would create even more of a buzz.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We could even see a musical next, who knows? We’ve seen Bend It Like Beckham: The Musical and a play about The Three Lions so it could happen. “Especially with Ryan Reynolds, he loves a good old singsong so it could next on the cards and they get an Oscar for it.”  More

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      in Soccer

      Biggest footballer broods – from Arsenal striker with 8 kids to four different mums to Brazil legend’s FOURTEEN heirs

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      NOT content with being part of a team on the pitch, many football players have chosen to create their own squad at home as well.Manchester City star Phil Foden is expecting his third child with girlfriend Rebecca Cooke at just 23 years old – meaning there’s plenty of time to build up to a full 11.Phil Foden is expecting his third child at the age of 23Credit: Sophie Eleanor Photography / Go PR & EventsKyle Walker has six kids – four with ex-wife Annie and two with Lauryn GoodmanCredit: AFPThe midfielder and his childhood sweetheart celebrated the exciting announcement with a lavish baby shower this week as they prepare for their new arrival.Foden and Rebecca, 22, posed for a cute snap with their two kids Ronnie, four, and True, one, in hand.At this rate, Foden is likely to be following in the footsteps of Man City teammate Kyle Walker – who recently welcomed his sixth child.And it’s not unusual for footie stars to have a lot of children, as we reveal the players with the biggest broods…READ MORE SPORTS FEATURESKyle Walker – six kidsKyle Walker welcomed his fourth child with estranged wife Annie Kilner earlier this month – and was said to be over the moon about becoming a father again.The couple, who also share three sons Roman, 11, Riaan, seven, and Reign, five, split in January after two years of marriage.It came after influencer Lauryn Goodman revealed her son Kairo, four, and eight-month-old daughter are both Walker’s children.Earlier this month, we revealed Lauryn is taking their two kids to the Euros — where the England ace’s ex-wife and four boys will also support him.Most read in FootballLauryn told a pal: “I am determined my children will get to see their daddy playing for the Three Lions this summer.”She told pals he invited them to Germany in June and she is determined to go.Kyle Walker risks explosive showdown between wife Annie and Lauryn Goodman after ‘inviting’ ex and two kids to EurosA source says Walker told Lauryn: “I want you there. And I want Kairo there to see me play.”But a source close to Walker insisted he had not invited her.Cristiano Ronaldo – six kidsCristiano Ronaldo – who named his CR7 fashion brand after his initials and his football shirt number – also confessed he wanted to have seven children because it is his “magic number” To date, the former Manchester United star has had six children – although, in April 2022, he tragically lost one of his sons shortly after he was born.Cristiano Ronaldo is father to six children – although one son tragically died after birthCredit: instagram/Cristiano RonaldoHis eldest son Cristiano Ronaldo Jr, 13, was born in the United States and brought up by Ronaldo.His mother has never been named.In June 2017, not long after he’d begun dating model Georgina Rodriguez,  it was revealed that Ronaldo had fathered twins, Eva and Matteo, now six, via a surrogate mother in the United States.The following month, Ronaldo confirmed he and Georgina were expecting a baby, who was born in November 2017, named Alana Martina.On April 18 2022, the couple sadly announced Georgina had given birth to twins but one had died, while daughter Bella survived.They said in a statement: “It is with our deepest sadness we have to announce that our baby boy has passed away.”It is the greatest pain that any parents can feel.”Only the birth of our baby girl gives us the strength to live this moment with some hope and happiness.”Baby boy, you are our angel. We will always love you.”Ian Wright – eight kidsIan Wright and Nancy Hallam with daughters Lola and RoxanneCredit: GettyIan Wright has eight kids by four different women, and was just 19 when he first became a dad,  adopting girlfriend Sharon Phillips’ son Shaun, 42, who went on to play football for Chelsea and Man City.”I didn’t have a job, and no means, but I took him on because it was the right thing to do,” he told The Mirror.Ian went on to have two more children with Sharon – Bradley, 39, and Brett, 38 – making Ian a father of three by the time he was 21.A year after welcoming Brett, Ian and Sharon broke up, as he reconnected with a childhood friend named Debbie, who grew up down the road from him.They had a luxury wedding in Mauritius in 1993, before welcoming their first son together, Stacey, the following year.Three years later, Debbie kicked Ian out of the house when she learned he’d been having an affair – but took him back soon after, and they had daughter Bobbi-Lee.But in 2008, Debbie revealed Ian had been unfaithful again, and had fathered another child during a fling, a daughter named Coco, born in 2006.“I support her but play no other part in her or her mother’s life,” Ian confessed in his autobiography, A Life In Football.Ian went on to marry his second wife Nancy Hallam – who he met in a pub – in 2011, and has called her his “perfect woman”.They have two daughters together, Lola and Roxanne, who he says he “can’t stand to be apart from”.In his book, Ian says: “I didn’t set out for it to be like that. I wanted to get married just once and never planned to have so many children in so many different circumstances.”Roberto Carlos da Silva Rocha – 11 kidsRoberto Carlos has 11 children with seven different women, and is a grandfatherCredit: Getty Images – GettyFormer Brazilian footballer Roberto Carlos, 51, has 11 children with seven different women – and has one grandchild, Pedro, seven, who’s older than some of his aunts and uncles.Pedro is the child of the former Real Madrid player’s second daughter, Giovanna, 27.Including Giovanna, Carlos has three children with his first wife Alexandra Pinheiro – the other two are Roberta and Roberto Carlos Jr, who’s adopted. He also has four children with his current wife, Mariana Luccon – Manuela, 14, Marina, seven, and two younger ones.He also has four sons – Carlos Eduardo, Christopher, Junior and Luca – all from other relationships. In 2018, Carlos told a Brazilian radio station he  was suffering because he was unable to see some of his children.According to BeSoccer, three of his former partners took legal action against him after this, accusing him of lying and not attending to the needs of their children.Brazilian Barbara Thurler filed for neglect after not receiving alimony for his two children.She even alleged he had attempted to put his two children on the streets despite their young age, adding: ”My son asks me if his father has died.” Barbara’s pleas encouraged Hungarian Alexandra Phaedra to come forward too.Then Dora Robles, from Mexico, also claimed not to have received the child support stipulated by the judge. The three claimed that Carlos neglected his children on more than one occasion.Carlos denied the accusations and reiterated that the lack of contact with his kids was due to the distance between countries and a bad relationship with their mothers.However he agreed to meet financial deadlines eventually. Pele – seven kidsBrazil’s soccer legend Pele had seven childrenCredit: ReutersPele’s family gathered at hospital to be beside Brazilian World Cup legendCredit: InstagramHe died at the end of 2022, at the age of 82, but Brazilian legend Pele had a lot of children in his lifetime.In his Netflix documentary,  the football icon – who was married three times – even confessed to not knowing how many children he fathered due to the number of affairs he had.Pele married his first wife, Rosemeri dos Reis Cholbi, in February 1996 and the pair had three children – Kelly, Edinho and Jennifer.However, after splitting up with Rosemeri, the goal-scoring machine had a fling with his housekeeper Anizia Machado which led to the birth of his daughter Sandra Machado in 1993.He refused to take a DNA test, leaving Sandra no choice but to file a lawsuit to be recognised as his daughter as well as publishing a book entitled The Daughter Pele Never Wanted.Pele lost the lawsuit as DNA evidence showed that Sandra was his biological daughter.Four years later, Pele had another daughter, Flavia Kurtz with journalist Lenita Kurtz.In 1994, Pele married his second wife, psychologist and gospel singer, Assaria Lemos Seixas and the couple had twins Joshua and Celeste.Pele never had children with his third wife, Marcia Cibele Aoki, who he married in 2016.Diego Maradona – Between five and 11 kidsDiego Maradona accepted five of his children as his but may have had up to 11Credit: EPANot long before Diego Maradona died in 2020, one of his daughters, Giannina, joked the Argentine could make up a full starting eleven with his brood.The football star accepted two sons and three daughters were his, but is alleged to have at least six other children from various flings and some have previously appealed for their dad’s love.Maradona accepted his two daughters with ex-wife Claudia Villafane – Dalma and Gianinna – along with his son Diego Fernando who he had with girlfriend Veronica Ojeda.He also had flings with bar worker Valeria Sablalin, who gave birth to daughter Jana Maradona, and Italian Cristinia Sinagra, with whom he had son Diego Sinagra.But Santiago Lara and Magali Gil also made appeals in the media to the football legend and both were said to have been trying to get a DNA test before he died.The star is also alleged to have fathered up to four children while he was living in Cuba, three of whom have been named as Joana, Lu and Javielito.Garrincha – At least 14 kidsGarrincha is believed to have fathered at least 14 children during his colourful lifeCredit: Getty – ContributorGarrincha was regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever, before he tragically drank himself into an early grave in 1983, at the age of 49.But he had a very scandalous lifestyle off the pitch, and is believed to have fathered at least 14 children.He had eight daughters with his first wife Nair Marques who he was married to from 1952 to 1965.Garrincha then married samba singer Elza Soares, after a scandalous affair but they separated in 1977, after he hit her during an argument.With his colourful lifestyle, Garrincha had many more affairs, including one with showgirl Angelita Martinez and it’s thought he fathered at least six more children on top of his eight legitimate daughters.Antoine Greizman – three kids born on same dayAntoine Griezmann has three children all born on the same day over five yearsCredit: INSTAGRAM/EriKA ChoperenaWhile it’s not unusual to have three children, Barcelona football star Antoine Greizmann welcomed all of his on exactly the same date over five years.The World Cup winning striker’s daughter Alba was born on April 8, 2021.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, his daughter Mia was born on the same date in 2016, and son Amaro, was born on April 8 2019.Now THAT’S a hat trick! More

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      I’ll take Kyle Walker’s kids to Euros, says Lauryn Goodman raising risk of explosive Annie Kilner showdown

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      KYLE Walker’s ex Lauryn Goodman is taking their two kids to the Euros — where the England ace’s wife and four boys will also support him.Lauryn, 33, told a pal: “I am determined my children will get to see their daddy playing for the Three Lions this summer.”Kyle Walker could be at the centre of a showdown between the mothers of his chikdren at the Euros this summerCredit: GettyLauryn Goodman is determined her kids should be able to see their dad represent his countryCredit: PAKyle’s wife Annie has given birth to her fourth child with the international footballerCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe Influencer, mum to the England star’s son Kairo, four, and a daughter, eight months, told pals he invited them to Germany in June, and is determined to go.A source says Kyle told Lauryn: “I want you there. And I want Kairo there to see me play.”But a source close to Kyle, 33, insisted he had not invited her.His wife Annie, 30, intends to be in Germany with their children.READ MORE KYLE WALKERLast week it emerged Annie had given birth to their fourth son.His arrival was revealed on the day Kairo turned four.Kyle was at his wife’s side for the birth — despite them splitting in January when she found out he was the dad of Lauryn’s baby daughter.A source said: “Lauryn won’t let Kairo down. She told friends Kyle said he wanted her to take the children to the Euros when they were still close, before Annie found out they had a daughter.Most read in Football“Kairo has been excited. Lauryn is a good mum. She won’t let her son be disappointed.“It felt calculated that the baby news came out on Kairo’s birthday last week. Kyle Walker had ‘no feelings’ for Lauryn Goodman in ‘fleeting’ romance – despite fathering her two children, pal claim”Kyle did not even send a message through solicitors or a card. It’s heartbreaking. “Lauryn feels he once had such a wonderful relationship with his son.”Now she will do everything she can to ensure her children aren’t affected by his actions.”Lauryn has told pals Kyle made the promise to Kairo because the youngster didn’t go to the 2022 World Cup. The source said: “During the World Cup Kyle would message Lauryn saying, ‘That win, that celebration . . . was for Kairo’.“He even brought Kairo a World Cup ball and a shirt back.“Kyle apparently said he was sorry Kairo wasn’t there and wanted him at the Euros.“What boy doesn’t want to see their daddy at work? It just so happens for Kairo that his daddy is a footballer.“Kairo idolises the ground Kyle walks on. They had built up a wonderful relationship, they loved playing football together and hanging out. They adore each other.“Kairo goes to his wardrobe and picks out the football tops he wants to wear. He has Liverpool, Chelsea but all he wants is Manchester City.“He knows that is the one Kyle bought him and had Dad printed on the back. He is proud of that.”Lauryn, 33, who is about to star in a TV documentary about Wag life, has not seen Kyle since Annie found out in December he is the dad to both Lauryn’s children.By going to the Euros she isn’t trying to be confrontational towards Annie. All Lauryn cares about is being a good mumSourceThe source said: “Those children have done nothing wrong. “Lauryn will not let her son be crushed because of his father’s actions.“Annie took her children to see Kyle play for England in March. Lauryn is just doing the same. You can’t let kids down.“Kairo has no idea that his dad isn’t making an effort and she doesn’t want him to feel left out, she has to protect him.“When she takes him to Germany she will come up with an excuse as to why they can’t see him after the game to protect Kairo. “But there is no way she will break that promise.“When he is old enough he will know the truth, but not now.“By going to the Euros she isn’t trying to be confrontational towards Annie. All Lauryn cares about is being a good mum.“She thinks Kyle and Annie are clearly back together and has no malice. “She doesn’t want to see Kyle or Annie. Going to the Euros is about her children, simple as that. “Lauryn won’t be mingling with the Wags.“All she will do is let Kairo cheer on his daddy, and feel proud.”Lauryn, 33, is about to star in a TV documentary about Wag lifeCredit: SplashInfluencer Lauryn has two children with star footballer Kyle and wants him to be there for themCredit: Click News and MediaLauryn fell pregnant with Kairo while Kyle was on a break from Annie in 2019. But Annie took him back and they wed in 2021.Kyle and Lauryn’s daughter was conceived in October 2022 when Kyle travelled to London for an op.The source added: “Kairo is too little to understand. He just asks when he is going to see his daddy.“Lauryn tries to give him answers to soften the blow without lying to him. “She was sobbing on Wednesday but hides that from the kids.“Kyle spoke out in January and said his children were the innocent ones in all this mess but he seems to have forgotten that now.”Set for showdownBy Lizzie Cundy, TV personality & ex-Wag
      WHEN Annie Kilner and Lauryn Goodman both attend the Euros this summer it could be the most awkward run-in in Wag history.
      Forget the game, this has the potential to be far more interesting.
      It’s shaping up to be the most raucous event since the 2006 Wags were dancing on the tables of Baden-Baden.
      There is only one person to blame for this drama and that is Kyle himself.
      I sympathise with Annie as she’s just given birth.
      And Lauryn has every right to go to the Euros because she has children with Kyle.
      If he was to score a goal or be man of the match you would want your child to be there to say they saw that.
      But I can only see this unravelling further.
      This very sorry affair will surely go global. I can imagine a documentary or even a movie being made.
      Whatever you think about footballers and their wives, people are gripped.
      This could get bigger than handbags at dawn or, dare I say, Wagatha Christie.

      A spokesperson for Kyle said: “Lauryn continues to pursue wild and untrue stories whilst Kyle and Annie attempt to move forward away from any drama.“All comments are being dealt with privately and through the proper legal channels as the couple do not wish to engage in further public dispute, particularly where children are involved.” Yesterday Kyle captained Manchester City in their 1-0 win over Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.Prem stars won’t know what’s hit them’, as wronged pair Lauryn Goodman & Rita Johal set for TV show about life of WAGSSources close to the player said: “Kyle categorically did not invite Lauryn, or any member of her family, to the Euros. “He is fully focused on taking his country all the way to picking up the trophy. He is grateful for all the support.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSources say Annie has sought legal advice over some of Lauryn’s posts, with a view that they could be harassment. We approached Lauryn’s people for comment. More

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      The Sun’s grassroots footie grants are amazing…keep it up, says Harry Redknapp as he joins young talent for session

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      HARRY REDKNAPP joined a coaching session for budding talent at a grassroots club – and hailed The Sun Footie For All campaign as “amazing” for helping to keep kids on the pitch.The 77-year-old former Premier League manager visited Milford-on-Sea Youth Football Club in Hants, one of the organisations who have been handed a £1,000 grant under the scheme.Harry with young Milford footballer Jack Gunner after joining kids on the pitchCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdHarry shares tips with under-15 players at the clubCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdAnd this week is the final chance to get YOUR bid in for one of our grants before applications close for round two of the fund’s payouts.We teamed up with Tesco’s Stronger Starts Campaign — which funds healthy foods and activities for children — to support kids’ football clubs after shocking figures showed 94 per cent of grassroots teams were struggling in the face of soaring costs.Clubs across the country also told us how some kids are being forced to drop out as families couldn’t pay for memberships, kit or transport.Harry said at pitchside: “I love seeing them enjoying themselves, and they make friends at this age that they will probably be friends with for the rest of their lives.READ MORE ON FOOTIE FOR ALL“We can’t all be professionals but you can all go out and enjoy playing, and that’s what they do. “They’re so enthusiastic. I love being with the kids and watching them play.Running costs“The adults who volunteer to coach, referee and everything else are extra special because they give the kids so much. “They give up their time every week and deserve all the praise in the world.Most read in FootballHarry pictured practising with his own son Jamie – who’s now 50Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd“This grant from The Sun and Tesco is so important and an amazing thing to do.”We have already handed out 150 grants and have another £150,000 of funding to dish out before applications shut at midnight on April 30.Olly Murs supports The Sun’s Footie For All campaignSo today we urge YOU to apply for one of our handouts. From starting new teams and providing free places for kids of low-income families, to replacing old and out-of-date equipment, the cash can change lives.It can be used in any way which encourages kids to take up the sport or aids access to the game.Perhaps you are with a local team who want to offer parents help with membership fees.I used to spend every Saturday and Sunday on pitches like thisHarry RedknappMaybe you need new kit or more pitch space to play on. Grants can also be used to help with transport or general running costs.Harry and his wife Sandra are no strangers to grassroots clubs, having spent many weekends watching their kids Mark, now 54, and Jamie, 50, play as they grew up.And they won’t be short of grandchildren to watch having a kickabout either, with eight so far.Harry made a career out of managing some of the UK’s top teams including Tottenham, Bournemouth, West Ham, Portsmouth, Queens Park Rangers and Birmingham City.His tenure at Tottenham saw them make it into the Uefa Champions League.Being back at an evening training session and helping out with drills for the under-15s and under-11s left Harry feeling nostalgic for his days of coaching youngsters.He recalled: “I used to spend every Saturday and Sunday on pitches like this.“I loved it, watching my kids enjoy just playing the game. It was fantastic.”Getting involvedWithin minutes of arriving at the club, Harry couldn’t help getting involved with the young players.Keen to show off their skills, they quickly formed a circle and did the one and two-touch drills they were asked for.Harry questioned by the club’s under-11sCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdFootball legend Harry Redknapp chatting with the kidsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThey passed the ball around the circle while one in the middle tried to intercept it. If they got it, the player who had failed to make the pass took their place in the centre.While a few struggled to get to grips with minimal contact on the ball, Harry knew he had the right story to get them on board.He said: “Luka Modric, if you’ve heard of him, he used to play for Real Madrid, never went into the middle for this drill in four years.“I coached him at Tottenham, and he was incredible at just being bang, bang, bang with the ball. “He never once gave the ball away in a game, and this drill helped him hone that skill.Knowing where the ball is going to go before it arrives is what makes professionals so great, so hone this skill if you can. It’s just practiceHarry Redknapp“The players used to do this for 20 minutes before I even started the session. “Knowing where the ball is going to go before it arrives is what makes professionals so great, so hone this skill if you can. It’s just practice.”Harry didn’t spare his praise, declaring: “Good touch,” and “Nice pass,” and reminding the boys to be “On your toes”.As he moved on to help out with the under-11s, he told The Sun: “It’s an absolute pleasure to meet kids like this. They play because they love the game.”For the younger ones, he set up a cross passing drill and happily stepped into the middle to show what he wanted. Once things were up and running, he selected Vinnie, 11, to take over transferring the ball.’Getting good’Like the older boys, Harry kept reminding the kids to be on their toes before declaring: “I like it, you’re getting good.”He rounded off the session with: “That is excellent, lads, you are good,” leaving the boys grinning from ear to ear.The football legend also made sure to spend some time with the seven- and eight-year-olds and asked about their favourite clubs and players.We have to say a massive thank you to The Sun for awarding us this fundingClub secretary AJ AitkenMilford-on-Sea have used their £1,000 grant from The Sun and Tesco for balls, ball launchers for goal scoring drills, bibs, cones and more for all their teams.Under-15s coach and club secretary AJ Aitken said: “We have to say a massive thank you to The Sun for awarding us this funding.“It’s wonderful that something like this is available to teams across the country, as having a kid doing sport can cost a fortune.“Allowing us to buy all the equipment we need means we can keep fees low for families, meaning parents don’t worry, and the kids can just focus on being part of a team.“It also elevates it from a kickabout in a muddy field to something with structure. For the lads, having Harry come to visit has been brilliant.“They’ll remember it for ever, and I know they’ll be telling all their pals at school about training with him.”Kids can play with the club from the age of seven to 16, and it caters for both girls and boys.Dad Michael Gunner, whose son Jack, 11, plays for the under-11s, is thrilled that there is such a great club on their doorstep.He said: “I loved playing football, and it’s a bit like reliving my youth, seeing Jack do it too.“I’ve still got friends from playing when I was his age, and it’s great that The Sun is making sure clubs like this survive.“It runs on volunteers, but things still have to be paid for, and the grant from The Sun allows that.”The team has existed for around 25 years and has grown from 15 boys having a kickabout to 152 girls and boys across their teams.It was initially started by several mums who wanted to give their sons something to do other than play games.It’s a mentality that Harry agrees with.Under-15s coach and club secretary AJ Aitken thanked The Sun for supporting young people playing footballCredit: Chris Balcolmbe – Commissioned by The SunCharlie Bond says the club instilled a love of football in him that he didn’t previously haveCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdHe said: “Grassroots is so important because it gets them out of the house and their faces out of technology.“They get to be healthy and active. They won’t all be great players, but it’s not about that. It’s about having fun and loving the game.”For Charlie Bond, 15, the club has instilled a love of football he didn’t previously have.He said: “I joined because my friends played and the three years that I’ve been here have made me love it.“I love the sport and the team. Getting to train with Harry was a bit stressful as none of us wanted to mess up, but we know he’ll have made us better.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Even just five minutes with him will have improved us. He’s given us tips and motivation to be better.“Everyone’s dream is to play professionally, but for now I love playing here.”GET £1k FOR YOUR CLUB NOW
      ONLY 11 DAYS LEFT TO APPLY
      YOUR footie club could net a £1,000 boost to keep your young players at the top of their game.
      If you are a not-for-profit grassroots club in England, Wales or Scotland working with youngsters under 18 you could be eligible for one of our grants.
      We want to hear the story of your club and the huge difference you are making to kids and your community.
      We’ve got 150 grants of £1,000 to dish out before applications shut at midnight on April 30.
      Funds can be used for anything which encourages more children to take part in the sport.
      Perhaps your club needs help with pitch fees or wants to sponsor funded places for children who can’t afford membership.
      To apply and for full T&Cs, see: tescostrongerstarts.org.uk/footiefund More

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      Masked thugs roughed up Dele Alli during armed raid at his house… I was terrified and feared I’d die, says ex Ruby Mae

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      DELE Alli’s ex Ruby Mae has revealed she feared she was going to die when armed raiders stole £350,000 of watches and gems.The model, 29, said two masked men tried to rip rings off her after roughing up the England star.Traumatised Ruby Mae, right, speaks of the horrific experience of encountering armed robbers at ex Dele Alli’s homeCredit: Tom Horton / REXDele, who played for Spurs at the time of the crime, was badly shaken by the incidentCredit: Peter Byrne / PA WireWhile the attackers remain at large, Ruby says the police were very helpful when they turned upCredit: Paul Edwards – The SunTalking for the first time about her ordeal in London, she said: “I thought I was going to be killed.”The traumatised model lay in the dark as two men with concealed weapons burst into her bedroom.She added that the thugs roughed up Dele and made him hand over three watches, including a Rolex.Ruby was in bed with the lights off and tried to protect their dog as the men grabbed her arms for her rings and bracelets. READ MORE DELE ALLIThey failed to take them before panicking and fleeing with the goods.Ruby told The Sun: “It was like a movie. I feared all sorts of things were going to happen.“I honestly didn’t know what was going to come next.”She had been watching Netflix thriller Dead To Me, and Dele and pals were playing pool downstairs when the burglars evaded security to get in through the back door.Most read in FootballRuby said: “They roughed up Dele and forced him upstairs with them into the wardrobe area, which is separated from the bedroom.“I couldn’t see the door from the bed but Dele’s friend came up first.Dele Alli shows off drastic new haircut.. and fans think it’s a cryptic transfer hint for his new club“They came to me in a panic and I instantly realised something was wrong. His friend wouldn’t have usually come into the bedroom.“Behind the friend, towards the door was what looked like a silhouette. I was confused and said, ‘Dele?’ and the guy didn’t answer.“I realised this guy was not the same height or body structure as Dele. He came over to me and was very intimidating.“He started asking me where everything was while trying to take off my bracelets and rings.”She added: “It was terrifying. I was just hoping for it all to be over and for us to be safe.”Desperate Ruby tried to shield poodle Uno at the £2million home in North London. She said: “I had taken the dog out to go to the ­toilet, then went upstairs.“When the burglar came in, my first instinct was to protect the dog.“I wasn’t answering any of their questions as I was in shock and didn’t know, at this point, that there were two of them — and that one was already taking the jewellery with Dele.“I couldn’t get the jewellery off as I was panicking and holding the dog behind me.“I wasn’t answering his requests and I was terrified they were going to hurt Uno.I wasn’t answering any of their questions as I was in shock Ruby Mae“I didn’t know whether to tell them or not, and I didn’t even know where everything was. I wasn’t thinking straight.”Ruby said the raiders began to panic when they realised how long they had been in the house.She added: “They jumped the fence out the front and ran away with whatever they had both managed to find. I don’t have a clue how they got past the security and into the house.“The police turned up a few minutes later. They were very helpful and made sure we were OK.”Dele, 27, his adoptive brother Harry Hickford, 27, and the pal were badly shaken.Ruby added: “It affected all of us. To get burgled is one thing, but to get burgled when you’re in is so scary. All of us were speechless.A view of Dele’s gated property in North London where the incident took place“We were all just like, ‘What the hell has happened?’ We didn’t even know what to say to each other.“We were all very emotional and up and down. We were tired and had to do the police interviews. It was all very traumatic.“Psychologically, it has had an impact. Being home alone is scarier than it once was.“Every now and then I still think about it. I can’t believe it happened. It was awful.”After the raid in May 2020’s Covid lockdown, police gave Dele and Ruby alarms to activate if they were in danger which signalled directly through to cops.Ruby said they randomly sounded weeks later and police turned up with a dog unit within moments.It’s a pretty weird feeling knowing the people who did it never got caught and are still out thereRuby MaeThe alarms were on top of the 24-hour security they already had in place before the break-in.No arrests have been made and the attackers remain at large.Ruby said: “It’s a pretty weird feeling knowing the people who did it never got caught and are still out there.“But they took stuff that can be replaced, so I’m just glad we all got through it without something really serious happening.“A watch is a watch, who cares. As long as you’re safe, that’s the most important thing.”Ruby and Dele split in 2021 — less than a year after the raid — with Ruby saying they “drifted” and lost their spark.They had met in a London bar in 2016 and for five years were one of the most photographed young couples in Britain.Ex-Tottenham midfielder Dele won PFA Young Player of the Year two years running, and made his Three Lions debut aged 19 in 2015.He scored in a 2-0 win over Sweden in the quarter-finals of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, with Ruby, from Wigston, Leics, cheering him on with other Wags.But Dele lost his place in the England squad for the Euro 2020 qualifiers and has yet to be recalled. I have a reminder at 11 o’clock every day that says ‘World Cup 2026’. That’s my aim for nowDele AlliHe left Spurs for Everton in January 2022, but failed to impress and went on loan to Turkish side Besiktas.He returned early and has yet to play for Everton this season.Last year Dele revealed that one of his mum’s friends had abused him as a child.He also spent six weeks in rehab in the United States for an addiction to sleeping pills.Last Monday Dele appeared on Sky Sports as an analyst as his side were hammered 6-0 by Chelsea. He revealed his ambitions to play for England again saying: “You know you can set reminders on your phone. I have a reminder at 11 o’clock every day that says ‘World Cup 2026’. That’s my aim for now.“I know how good I can be when my head is in the right place, and I’m feeling good.”Ruby remains a successful model and said: “People think it’s a glamorous life but it’s quite cut-throat with a lot of pressure to look a certain way.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The good things are that you get to meet amazing people, work with different brands daily and travel.”
      Read more of Ruby Mae’s interview online tomorrow
      The pair a year after the 2020 incident, with Ruby saying that they ‘lost their spark’Credit: Getty More

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      Anthony Joshua reveals job he’d love to do if he wasn’t heavyweight boxer – and it’s right up the muscle man’s street

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      AS a two-time heavyweight world champion, boxer Anthony Joshua has faced some tough battles in the ring — but none compares to the grilling he got from one nine-year-old fan.The sporting icon agreed to be interviewed by Josie Bell for children’s current affairs magazine The Week Junior.Anthony Joshua was interviewed by Josie Bell for children’s current affairs magazine The Week JuniorCredit: Mark Robinson for The Week JuniorAJ confessed he would have loved to be a bricklayer or an accountant if he wasn’t a boxerCredit: GettyAnthony Joshua lands a punch on Francis Ngannou during their contest in MarchCredit: GettyAnthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko in 2017Credit: GettyYoung reporter Josie, above, quizzed the 34-year-old on a range of topics when they went head to head for the on-camera chat at Finchley Boxing Club in North London, where Anthony used to train as an amateur.The ring legend, who knocked out Francis Ngannou inside two rounds last month, told how he would have loved to be a bricklayer or an accountant if he wasn’t a boxer.And he revealed his favourite film is — unsurprisingly — Rocky.‘I have no fear’But he admitted he has never seen Margot Robbie’s Barbie blockbuster.READ MORE ON ANTHONY JOSHUAThe dad to son JJ, eight, said: “There’s two jobs I like. One would be a bricklayer, because I like building and would always like to make my house bigger. I think everyone wants a bigger house.My favourite film is Rocky. It’s about a guy who has potential. But he has to become his own hero.Anthony Joshua“I’d probably like to be an accountant. Do you know an accountant is someone who counts everyone’s money? So I’m in control of the piggy bank.”He added: “I haven’t actually seen the Barbie film or the Wonka film.“My favourite film is Rocky. It’s about a guy who has potential. But he has to become his own hero. It’s a really good story about a guy who becomes a famous boxer.”Most read in BoxingArmed with a notebook and pen, Josie, from Kenley, Surrey, also asked: “What’s your biggest fear?”Anthony boldly replied: “I don’t have a biggest fear as I have a very positive mind and everything’s fun. Every day is a blessing. So I have no fear.”Anthony Joshua back in frame for world title BEFORE facing winner of Fury vs UsykThe boxer also explained that his favourite subject at school was PE. And he offered some tips on how to handle playground bullies.He said: “If I saw someone getting bullied, I would try and protect them because I don’t think getting bullied is nice. I don’t like bullies.“The best thing you can do is go and find your teacher to let them make sure that they take care of the student.“So I’d try and make sure that they’re protected first. And then I’d try and find a teacher as soon as possible.”Award-winning The Week Junior, aimed at children aged eight to 14, will feature the boxing champ as its cover star in its latest issue, out tomorrow.I hope he takes my advice and goes to see the Barbie movie.Josie Bell, The Week JuniorAfter his interview, Anthony told The Sun: “I knew Josie was going to ask me some seriously tough questions, but I was prepared.“Move over Piers Morgan, there is a new kid on the block.“I really enjoyed hearing from the kids at The Week Junior.”Delighted Josie said of her big assignment: “Anthony was super kind. He answered all my questions.“I was a bit nervous but he helped me loads.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I want to interview more mas- sive stars.”She added: “I hope he takes my advice and goes to see the Barbie movie.”The ring legend told how he would have loved to be a bricklayerCredit: GettyAJ on the cover of The Week JuniorCredit: Mark Robinson for The Week Junior More