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      in Soccer

      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 From starting new teams and providing free places for kids of low-income families, to replacing old and out-of-date equipment, the cash can change lives.It can be used in any way which encourages kids to take up the sport or aids access to the game.Perhaps you are with a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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      in Soccer

      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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      in Boxing

      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

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      in Motorsport

      Inside Lewis Hamilton’s close bond with brother Nicolas – including £70k gift before tragic slide into debt & addiction

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      GROWING up in the shadow of a world-famous sibling cannot be easy – least of all when that person is Lewis Hamilton. But according to his half-brother Nicolas, 32, the seven-world Formula 1 champion has supported him and his career at every turn… except for financially.Lewis and Nicolas Hamilton have always been ‘super close’Credit: GettyWatching Lewis race as a youngster inspired Nicolas to get into motorsportCredit: instagramNicolas has been Lewis’s plus-one for many star-studded and glamorous eventsCredit: GettyRecently, the 32-year-old hit out at claims his career in the British Touring Car Championships (BTCC) was being “bankrolled” by Lewis, who is reportedly worth £270million.Nicolas also spoke out about developing an “all-consuming” gambling addiction in 2017 that lost him thousands of pounds and left him feeling suicidal. To pay off his debts, he was forced to sell his “pride and joy” – a midnight blue Mercedes C63 gifted to him on his 24th birthday by Lewis.Nicolas, who told The Times “gambling is no longer an issue” last week, has faced many struggles throughout his life.READ MORE ON SPORTAnd it’s been his brother Lewis who has helped him to overcome many of the obstacles, as we reveal. ‘Didn’t treat me differently’At 18 months old, Nicolas was diagnosed with spastic diplegia – a form of cerebral palsy that affects his balance and movement.Doctors predicted he would never be able to run or walk but today, the 32-year-old can walk unaided and no longer uses his wheelchair.His many achievements include becoming the first disabled racer to compete against able-bodied racers at the BTCC in 2015 and achieving a career-best at Donnington Park last year.Most read in MotorsportNicolas believes Lewis played a part in him becoming the person his it today and much of his sibling’s help dates back to their childhood. While most brothers often bicker, fight and have a friendly rivalry that wasn’t the case for the Hamilton brothers – instead, the youngster felt encouraged by Lewis.  Nicolas Hamilton gives fans a tour of his specially modified British Touring Car for the 2019 BTCC seasonHe recalled: “We used to go outside and play basketball. He didn’t treat me any differently, so we would still run races, which I obviously wouldn’t win. “It never upset me, it actually spurred me on to either run faster or become more mobile. I don’t think that was his plan but it was the effect he had on me. “It has never been ‘I want to be better than him, bigger than him’, and I don’t think he ever wanted to be bigger or better than me.”Bully planNicolas’s school years weren’t easy. He recalled bullies regularly “taking the mick” out of how he walked and mocking him for being in a wheelchair. Nicolas has cerebral palsy, which affects the movement in his lower bodyCredit: InstagramLewis gave his brother tips to stop bullies from picking on himCredit: InstagramMost weekends, Nicolas and his family watched Lewis’s races in the UK and EuropeCredit: InstagramHe told the Independent: “Kids did not want to be my friend. I was getting pulled back in my wheelchair and wasn’t able to fend for myself”.On In The Pink podcast, Nicolas said it was Lewis – who took up martial arts after being bullied at school himself – who came up with a plan to help.He recalled: “[Lewis] said, ‘If people are laughing at this wheelchair that you’re in, then why don’t we make it cool and do some cool things in it?’“He taught me how to do wheelies and stuff in the wheelchair, and I almost became like a Tony Hawk skateboarder in my wheelchair.“I started jumping stairs and trying to be cool. That helped me through it. It was a character-building moment, so I’m glad I went through it.”‘Planted seed’Nicolas spent “every weekend” travelling with his family to watch Lewis’s races around the UK and Europe when he was younger.”I became a real racing nerd,” he admitted. “I knew all the drivers and talked about karting all the time.” It seems spending so much time in the motorsport world rubbed off on Nicolas and would help to shape his future career. He taught me how to do wheelies and stuff in the wheelchair, and I almost became like a Tony Hawk skateboarder in my wheelchair.Nicolas HamiltonLewis encouraged Nicolas to go into racing at 18 after spotting how naturally talented he was on a simulator.Nicolas told The Times: “Lewis could see that I was good on a simulator. He planted the seed in my mind.” Nicolas became determined to stop using his wheelchair in his teensCredit: GettyAt 18, his talent for simulator work was recognised by LewisCredit: AlamyThe Hamilton brothers at Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2011Credit: GettyBy then Nicolas had stopped using his wheelchair after spending time strength training so he could walk unaided. In 2011, he made his racing debut at the Renault Clio Cup in a modified car. But that year – had it not been for his sibling – could have been his last in motorsport.While competing on the Thruxton Circuit, in Hampshire, known for being the fastest in the UK, he had a terrifying crash. Nicolas lost control of his vehicle and struck a tyre barrier at 100mph. He was knocked out by the collision and had to be pulled out of his smoking vehicle by a marshal. Pretty much everyone presumes that Lewis bankrolls me in my motorsport career, that he pays for everything and provides endless opportunities because of his wealth and success in the sport, but it’s just not true.NicolasMany would have lost their nerve after such a terrifying incident but not Nicolas, who four years later became the first disabled driver to compete in the BTCC.He revealed it was his brother’s wise words that kept him racing. After the crash, Lewis advised him to take the corner again “as fast as he could as if nothing had happened”. Sports car giftCurrently, Nicolas is on a break from the BTCC while trying “to find half a million pounds” to fund his racing career. For now, he is working as a developer for driving games and a motivational speaker.He explained Lewis has been supportive of his racing dreams but has “never put a penny into my motorsport”. I don’t go to his races anymore. I haven’t for a long time… To see Lewis I would have to take a lot of time away from my life.NicolasIn Nicolas’s memoir, Now That I Have Your Attention, he wrote: “I know pretty much everyone presumes that Lewis bankrolls me in my motorsport career, that he pays for everything and provides endless opportunities because of his wealth and success in the sport, but it’s just not true; it is also something that I would never want or accept.”While Nicolas says his brother hasn’t financed his career in any way, he has splashed out on his sibling.Nicolas had to sell the Mercedes C63 (above) that Lewis gave him for his birthdayCredit: instagramLewis describes himself as his brother’s ‘No1 fan’Credit: Instagram / @lewishamiltonFor his 24th birthday, Lewis gifted him a midnight blue C63 Mercedes – thought to be worth around £70,000.Nicolas recalls: “We went out to the car park and he said, ‘Wow, look at that car, that’s so cool.’ It was a midnight blue C63 Mercedes. “I think I described it as ‘amazing’ and then he held out the key and said, ‘Happy birthday.’ I was gobsmacked. I remember him saying, ‘It’s insured, it’s ready to go, just drive it home.’”The gift was Nicolas’s “pride and joy” but in 2017, he was forced to sell it to pay off a tax bill that he couldn’t afford due to blowing thousands of pounds on gambling.‘No1 fan’ In recent years, Nicolas has admitted he has been unable to follow his brother as he races around the world but remains his “No1 fan”.He said: “I don’t go to his races anymore. I haven’t for a long time… To see Lewis I would have to take a lot of time away from my life.”In 2020, when Lewis secured his 92nd career win, which surpassed the record of legendary racer Michael Schumacher, his sibling gushed with pride online.He wrote: “Although I was not there, I live your emotions with an immense amount of pride! I am speechless, but always knew you had it in you.“I’m so grateful to have you as my brother… Here is to many more victories to put that record out of reach! Love always, your number 1 fan.”The siblings regularly share throwback photographs celebrating each other’s achievements – often with the hashtag #HamBrothers, in reference to their surname.Undercover spectatorLewis covered up to avoid being a distraction at Nicolas’s race last yearCredit: InstagramNicolas achieved a personal best while Lewis watched on (left) from the sidelinesCredit: InstagramWhen Lewis isn’t on the racetrack, he has sneaked in trips to watch his sibling race but chooses to keep a low profile. The F1 champion has been known to cover up to avoid diverting attention from his sibling’s achievements. Last year, when Nicolas achieved a personal best finishing sixth at Donnington Park, Lewis was watching from the sidelines in a long black coat with his hood up, a hat and a dark facemask.Gushing with pride, Lewis later said: “He got sixth in the race and I was just standing in the crowd just watching as a fan. I was so excited!“And no one knew that I was there actually, I was just jumping up and down trying to support him.”Lewis was unable to spend time with his brother in the pitlanes after the race but fuelled his confidence in a touching call afterwards.WHO COULD REPLACE HAMILTON AT MERCEDES? Mercedes will have a vacant seat for 2025.
      Here, SunSport’s F1 correspondent Ben Hunt looks at FIVE potential candidates who could replace him and partner George Russell in the Silver Arrows.
      Oscar Piastri – McLaren have sewn up Lando Norris to a new long-term contract that should (in theory) put him out of Mercedes’ reach. However, they are yet to tie down his teammate Piastri, 22. The Aussie has an excellent record and won the Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles before spending a year on the sidelines with Alpine and getting his chance in F1 with McLaren. He impressed on his debut season last year and has the potential to be a world champion.
      Daniel Ricciardo – The experienced driver’s future remains in doubt as he bides his time at Red Bull’s B-team. Ricciardo would be low-hassle and offer some stability but by that time he would be 35. It seems unlikely that they would opt for him at this point in his career, but if he has a good season this year, he could come into the reckoning.
      Kimi Antonelli – You may not have heard of the Italian, but he is mustard. Still only 17, he has won at all the junior categories and has been part of the Mercedes young driver programme since 2019. This season he has been promoted from F4 to F2, where he has been tipped to shine. A good debut season in F2 could sway Mercedes into taking a risk on him for 2025. Antonelli and his family are close to Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.
      Mick Schumacher – Wolff has always been so incredibly supportive of Schumacher and spoken highly of him, that you’d at least expect him to come into consideration. He knows the team from his role as reserve driver and consequently would get up to speed. But speed is also the problem. He was shocking at Haas and if he really was THAT good, he’d still be driving in F1.
      Alex Albon – A more-sensible choice would be the London-born Albon. A great guy who is also very quick. He has a fantastic relationship with Russell and would be the low-maintenance quick partnership similar to Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas that swept to successive titles. Albon would take little convincing to join from Williams and Mercedes would not need to pay him half of the £50million they were dishing out to Hamilton.

      Nicolas recalled: “He was like, ‘You drove f***ing amazing’ and for him to say that to me, it means so much. “After all these years of me watching him from the sidelines, him having success and that sort of stuff, now he’s watching me. It’s full circle.”Lewis regularly says how “incredibly proud” he is of his brother, who he lists as his inspiration, and praises him for being “such a great voice” for those with cerebral palsy.The F1 champ said: “He’s obviously racing in a series and a sport where there is not a lot of access… there is no access for people who particularly are disabled. And he stands for so much.“It’s been difficult – he’s been fighting to try and make up for the disability he has with his legs and it’s a continuous fight.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd the feeling is mutual, with Nicolas saying: “I could talk about him forever because my life has revolved around him – but not through hateful eyes, just pure pride. I’m his biggest fan.”Nicolas Hamilton’s memoir, Now That I Have Your Attention: 7 Lessons In Leading A Life Bigger Than They Expect, is out now.Nicolas details his gambling addiction and other struggles in his memoirCredit: Instagram More

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      in Motorsport

      My brother Lewis Hamilton made £24m while I sat crying & eating pot noodles as gambling debts forced me to sell my car

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      SITTING inside a dirty room, unwashed and slurping a Pot Noodle, Nicolas Hamilton broke down in tears before his computer screen. The 32-year-old – the half-brother of seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis – had frittered away thousands on gambling in a six-month binge and spiralled into a deep depression that left him on the brink of suicide.Lewis Hamilton helped to inspire his half-brother Nicolas to get into racingCredit: Instagram / @lewishamiltonNicolas says he and Lewis remain each other’s ‘No1 fans’Credit: GettyThe 32-year-old made history at the 2015 BTCC racing against able-bodied driversCredit: SWNS:South West News ServiceWhat started as a £2 bet on Arsenal scoring developed into an “all-consuming” addiction to online casinos and blackjack that rarely saw him leave his room in 2017.Two years earlier Nicolas, who has a form of cerebral palsy, had made history as the first disabled driver to go up against able-bodied racers in the British Touring Car Championship. He was forced to sell off his “pride and joy”, a midnight blue Mercedes C63 gifted to him by Lewis, to settle a hefty tax bill that he couldn’t afford due to his gambling and “naivety” about finances.In his memoir Now That I Have Your Attention, Nicolas speaks out about that dark time, which left him on the verge of ending his life.READ MORE ON SPORTHe wrote: “I felt so ashamed, using this amazing gift to pay my tax bill. “It felt like I had practically stolen the money from my brother and I have never forgiven myself for that.“It destroyed me. I got a real wake-up call. I had no way of going forward because I’d lost everything. “I was stuck. I had a balcony at my flat and I was thinking what would I do if I just jumped off it.”Most read in Motorsport Inside glamorous life of Lewis Hamilton’s brother Nic with racing career and Instagram model girlfriendNicolas’ struggles came three years into Lewis’ racing career with Mercedes, in 2017, when he was paid £24million a year – not including funds from sponsorships and endorsements.Yet he felt unable to confide in his half-brother, or his parents, and relied on daily calls to Samaritans over a difficult two-week period. Nicolas has since overcome his addiction – even able to take a trip to Las Vegas casinos recently without having a flutter – and says he’s grateful that “gambling is no longer an issue”.Recalling his difficult moments, he told The Times: “I wanted more of the winnings – and the losing didn’t really deter me. It just got me in a cycle.Nicolas followed half-brother Lewis into racing but says he is always ‘compared’ to the F1 world championCredit: InstagramNicolas was diagnosed with a form of cerebral palsy at 18 months oldCredit: InstagramIt was Lewis who recognised Nicolas’ talent on a driving simulatorCredit: Instagram“I couldn’t stop thinking about it — I just wanted to go back to my computer. The whole day would go quite easily. “I could see it was a problem but I was too far in. I was scared to stop. I’d lost so much money that I felt like, if I stopped, I was in a hole that I wouldn’t get out of.” After admitting all to his parents, Nicolas says they were “supportive” and “felt sorry for me”. He’s never spoken to Lewis about selling the Mercedes, which was bought for him as a surprise 24th birthday present.’Lewis spurred me on’Overcoming gambling addiction was just one of many struggles Nicolas has battled throughout his life.In 1992, he was born two months premature and spent the first six weeks of his life battling to survive in intensive care. At 18 months old, Nicolas was diagnosed with spastic diplegia, which affects his balance and muscle movement in the lower half of his body. Doctors predicted he would never be able to walk or run.Even at my most vulnerable moment, when I was in the midst of experiencing the scariest, closest-to-death moment of my life, people will still compare me with himNicolas HamiltonGambling addiction: five warning signsIS someone you know gambling more than they can afford to lose? Are you concerned they may be addicted? If so, read GamCare’s list of five signs to take note of.

      1) Being withdrawn – Have they stopped socialising? Addicts can lose interest in their usual activities or hobbies. Often they choose not to spend time with family or friends – in favour of staying at home – and when they do they may constantly check their phone.  
      2) Mood change – Are they acting differently? There could be noticeable changes in their mood and behaviour, which could include looking worried, agitated or upset for no apparent reason. 
      3) Sleeping problems – Do they constantly seem tired? Chasing losses and losing money can cause sleeping issues. Anxiety or constant worry can lead plays to be up at all hours. Some gamblers play during the night, which can disturb their sleeping pattern. 
       4) Financial concerns – Has money gone missing from bank accounts or are they regularly short of money and need to borrow money? This could be a sign. Some feel pressure to take out loans to generate income. 
      5) Lying – Do they lie about what they do with their time? Many feel expected to provide for others. If they are hiding a gambling addiction they may be scared of their problem being found out and feel very low wrongly believing they have let people down. 
      Do these warning signs apply to your loved one? GamCare runs the National Gambling Helpline. Freephone 0808 8020 133 or talk via web chat at: www.gamcare.org.uk. They provide information, advice and support for anyone affected by gambling. Advisers are available 24/7, every day of the year. 

      The disability meant much of his teens was spent in a wheelchair, which led to bullying from classmates.He recalled them mimicking him while he attempted to walk with mobility aids and try to tip him over while in his wheelchair.Nicolas told The Independent: “I didn’t have a voice or a purpose in school – a disabled boy and only person of colour in my school… kids did not want to be my friend. I was getting pulled back in my wheelchair and wasn’t able to fend for myself.”Growing up, he had a strong bond with Lewis – admitting they “were super close” – and says his sibling would encourage him to take part in sports.Nicolas said: “We used to go outside and play basketball. He didn’t treat me any differently, so we would still run races, which I obviously wouldn’t win. “It never upset me. It actually spurred me on to either run faster or become more mobile. I don’t think that was his plan but it was the effect he had on me.” Lewis encouraged Nicolas to learn wheelchair ‘tricks’ to deter bullies from picking on himCredit: InstagramLewis in 2017 when he earned £24m a year with MercedesCredit: AlamyNicolas set a personal best last year, placing sixth in a BTCC raceCredit: AlamySimilarly, his parents instilled resilience, regularly telling him to “brush yourself off” after falls while walking and encouraging him to be independent and strong. Legs ‘like mush’At 16 years old, Nicolas’ life changed forever after a rude interaction in 2008 that encouraged him to work even harder than before to no longer need to use his wheelchair. He was travelling abroad to watch Lewis in a race with his mum when a lady at an airport check-in counter, refused to address him directly and instead spoke to his mum.“She just asked my mum whether I needed assistance or help,” Nicolas recalled during an interview with The Independent last year. Lewis has never put a penny into my motorsportNicolas“I had all the hormones of a teenager wanting to be a man. I was growing a beard. I wanted to talk to girls and go to the pub.“But I’d become lazy and I was in a wheelchair because it was easier for me. It was hard work to walk around. “Able-bodied people weren’t looking at me in the way I wanted to be perceived. That was when I got out of my wheelchair. And I haven’t been back in.”Nicolas starting regular strength training and physio to help him walk – despite it causing neck, back, pelvic and muscular pain – and says before his legs “were like mush”. He told The Times: “Pain will always be a part of my day. I do not take anything for it. I learn to deal with it.”At 16, Nicolas says his legs were ‘like mush’ but now he can walk unaided and no longer uses his wheelchairCredit: GettyHe’s focused on motivational speaking alongside his racing careerCredit: InstagramLewis celebrating with Nicolas at the Brazilian F1 Grand Prix back in 2008Credit: Getty’Bankrolled’ furyNicolas was encouraged to go into racing by his brother at 18 after noticing he was “good on a simulator” and says he “planted the seed in my mind”.In 2011, he made his racing debut at the Renault Clio Cup in a modified car and four years later, became the first disabled driver to compete in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Despite his personal achievements, Nicolas has regularly been compared to his famous brother including after a near-fatal crash in 2011 after he hit a tyre barrier at 100mph on the racecourse at Thruxton Circuit, in Hampshire.While being pulled out of the car, which had smoke coming from the bonnet and engine, he recalls a marshal telling him: “Oh dear, Lewis isn’t going to be impressed with this, is he?”Nicolas, who described it as “the most insensitive comment”, added: “Even at my most vulnerable moment, when I was in the midst of experiencing the scariest, closest-to-death moment of my life, people will still compare me with him.” It has been really hard being related to Lewis and trying to carve my own career in motorsportNicolasIn April last year, Nicolas recorded his best finish to date – sixth place during a BTCC race at Donnington Park – which helped to silence the critics who said he was only driving because of his famous brother. “To come across the line with that result, after everything I’ve been through – best day of my life,” he said. “To finally shut the critics up on 23 April was the best thing I could ever wish for. It was a load of relief and a lot of weight off my shoulders.”Nicolas has faced nepotism comments, online trolling and bullying throughout his racing career due to beliefs that his famous sibling helped him financially or with connections. Last year, he defiantly stated: “Lewis has never put a penny into my motorsport.” And has since addressed it in his memoir. Nicolas’s memoir Now That I Have Your Attention comes out this monthCredit: InstagramHe described Lewis as ‘the best human being to ever sit behind the steering wheel of a car’Credit: GettyHe wrote: “I know pretty much everyone presumes that Lewis bankrolls me in my motorsport career, that he pays for everything and provides endless opportunities because of his wealth and success in the sport, but it’s just not true; it is also something that I would never want or accept.”Nicolas revealed his father Anthony financially supported his first season as a driver but since then, he has had to find the funds himself.To do so, the 32-year-old has taken on a number of jobs including working for racing video games companies, where he spends up to eight hours analysing virtual cars.Nicolas is also a public speaker – working for nine different UK agencies – and has other one-off gigs including representing MGM as an ambassador at last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix.🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 He remains passionate about racing and hopes to someday compete again after parting ways with Team Hard last year but first, he has to raise the money to compete. Nicolas explained: “I’d love to be back on the grid and I think I deserve to be but I’ve got to find half a million pounds.”Despite being compared to his F1 racing champion brother, whcih he calls “hard”, there is no sibling rivalry.Instead, Nicolas credits Lewis – who he describes as “the best human being to ever sit behind the steering wheel of a car” – as someone who helped to make him the man he is today. Nicolas adds: “He’s still a massive reason why I’m as strong as I am and why I’m out of my wheelchair. I’m still his No 1 fan…READ MORE SUN STORIES“But it has been really hard being related to Lewis and trying to carve my own career in motorsport.”Nicolas Hamilton’s memoir, Now That I Have Your Attention: 7 Lessons In Leading A Life Bigger Than They Expect, comes out on April 11 and is available to preorder. More

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      in Soccer

      Three ways Phil Foden has been transformed into Man City’s new David Silva and England’s Euro 2024 swiss army knife

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      WHEN David Silva announced he was leaving English football at the end of the 2019/20 season to return to Spain with Real Sociedad, Manchester City fans were rightly devastated.A magician with the ball at his feet and an uncanny knack for finding space where no one else thought it existed, Silva was a firm favourite for City fans and neutrals alike.Phil Foden has become one of the best players in the Premier LeagueCredit: GettyMan City wondered how they could replace David Silva when he left in 2020Credit: PA:Press AssociationBut careful nurturing from Pep Guardiola has seen Foden blossom into a world class talentCredit: GettyIt could make Foden a key player for England and Gareth Southgate at the EurosCredit: ReutersFoden’s stellar season has seen him tipped as a frontrunner for Player of the YearEveryone wondered how much would it cost to replace a player like Silva. Even for a club as well funded and backed as Man City the cost would be extraordinary. However, it turns out the transfer fee to find the Spaniard’s successor was a big fat zero.This is because City had the perfect replacement already breaking through from their youth system in Phil Foden.Fast forward to now and the 23-year-old midfielder has 33 England caps and is a mainstay in Pep Guardiola’s team as they hunt a second Treble on the bounce.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLInitially he was used very carefully by Guardiola with his minutes and exposure to big games limited, leading to suggestions the ex-Barcelona boss did not rate him.But with Foden now tipped as a frontrunner to pick up the Player of the Season award, we look at how Guardiola transformed the Stockport technician into one of the world’s best players and what it might mean for England’s Euro hopes.Decision-making in the final thirdHis final third decision making has become second to noneAnd performances like those seen against Man Utd show he has the ability to back himselfPositions when you are referencing Guardiola’s team, especially when they are attacking and dominating possession with fluid players roles and movement around the pitch.This season, Foden could best be described as an attacking midfielder. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe routinely takes up roles on the right, left and centre between the midfield and the striker.However, the key thing that Foden gives is his ability to get on the ball in the final third and to create danger for his team. Man City boss Pep Guardiola says top-class Phil Foden can do whatever he wants in footballHis game intelligence is extremely high and you will regularly see Foden scanning and shifting his positioning in order to get separation from defenders to receive the ball. When he gets on the ball in the final third his decision-making of understanding when and where to carry the ball and when to look for opportunities to slide through balls beyond the opposition defensive line is second to noneHere as Foden gets the ball into his feet he is between opposition defenders before turning and driving into the gaps left by the defenceFoden’s versatility and tactical understanding could be crucial for England this coming summer in the Euros if England boss Gareth Southgate finds a way to get Foden into the starting lineup. The key for England will be finding a way to get both Jude Bellingham and Foden in the lineup together, with most believing Foden will line up from the left wing.If this is the case, Foden will still come inside to take up positions in the channels from where he can get on the ball and link with the likes of Bellingham and Harry Kane in more central positions. For this to be effective, England will need to play a defender at left-back who can get forward and provide width on the outside in order to stretch the opposition and create more space for Foden to exploit.This time on the right we see Foden receive the ball before driving at the back line to create space for Jeremy Doku to run into before slipping a pass throughThe fact Foden is comfortable when asked to play in any of the attacking midfield positions makes it easier for Southgate to find space in the starting lineup for him for England this summer. Indeed, Foden ranks in the top ten in the Premier League for key passes (61), shot creating actions (120) and goal creating actions (16).Receiving deep and between linesFoden has proven in multiple games how he is capable of playing across the attackWhether he is out on the wing in bigger games where he can have a more explosive impactOr drifting to find the best space to exploitFoden also has the ability to receive the ball deeper in order to help City progress the ball through the thirds. His intelligence in interpreting space between the lines and understanding how to take advantage of it make him Foden a key City asset to that end.We often see Foden moving from side to side while the likes of Rodri or the central defenders are in possession for City. This movement is deliberate from the English international’s part as he looks to open up angles and passing lanes for his teammates to get the ball forward and through the lines of opposition pressure.Here Foden identifies that there is no passing lane open to him and he makes an intelligent movement across to open the angle and then to receive the ballEngland’s midfield this summer will have likely have Arsenal’s Declan Rice acting as one of the key ball progressors from deeper positions. Having a player like Foden playing ahead of him, whether centrally or from the channels on either side of the pitch, will make it easier for England to progress the ball. Foden works hard to find these pockets of space between the lines when the opposition are sitting in a deep defensive block, something England will likely come up against a lot in the summer.Foden is an attacking midfielder who has developed into a young player with an excellent understanding of space on the pitch. Here we see City in possession just inside their own half with Foden initially covered by a defender before he makes a run between the lines to find an angle to receive the ballFor England to be successful this coming summer in Germany they will have to find ways to play and break down teams that want to sit deeper and defend in front of them. This means the likes of Foden will be extremely important for Southgate and his coaching staff.Aggression against the ballGuardiola is, of course, known as a coach who favours counter-pressing in order to put pressure on the ball and to win possession back as close to the opposition goal as possible. As a result of this Foden has been well coached in terms of his understanding of when and how to press in order to be as effective as possible out of possession. Interestingly, Foden is equally important to City whether pressing as part of an organised pressing structure or when asked to press himself in order to slow down and disrupt the opposition build-up.Foden will typically press very quickly using his pace effectively to close down the gap to the opposition player in possession and the angle that he takes up is usually very good. Here Foden is extremely quick to press the ball and he forces the man in possession to turn back to the goalkeeper allowing City to move higher and go man to manThe angle of approach is very important as Foden will run towards the play in possession and try to block any passing angle that is open for the man in possession to play through the press.Out of possession has been one of the areas that England have struggled with in recent years. They have been effective with the ball and when creating chances and opportunities but they have been far less impressive when pressing high and looking to regain the ball. Having a player like Foden who understands when to go high and trigger a press and how to engage and either win possession or force the opposition back will definitely help with that.In this situation Foden’s counterpresses against two attacking players to allow the City defence time to get into their blockOut of possession, we have seen Foden develop into a leader who organises and leads the team in looking to regain possession of the ball. Guardiola has taught him one to press and counter press and now England are in a position to benefit from this.READ MORE SUN STORIESConclusionThe development of Foden from academy graduate to key member of the first-team squad has been impressive. The young England international is now arguably the most important attacking player for Guardiola’s side and he should have a key role to play for England in the Euros this summer.How England could line up at the Euros with Foden in the team More

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      in Soccer

      Strictly star Kai Widdrington backs Sun’s Footie For All campaign giving grassroots game a huge boost

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      WHEN Strictly’s Kai Widdrington was 12 he had to make a choice — football or dance.At 14 he was a world Latin American dance champion, so clearly he made the right decision.Strictly pro dancer Kai Widdrington returns to his football rootsCredit: Simon Jones – The SunHe visited Littleton Junior FC and voiced his support for The Sun’s Footie For All campaignCredit: Simon Jones – The SunBut he still remembers his time on the pitch with pride, and wowed a group of kids with his football skills thanks to The Sun. Littleton Junior FC put Kai — who was once in the academy at Southampton — through his paces as they celebrated a £1,000 grant from our Footie For All campaign with Tesco, which is giving grassroots football a huge boost.Kai told The Sun: “Football has always been a part of my life and to see younger generations still loving it is incredible.“Each of these kids is having the best time, and it makes me nostalgic for my years playing grassroots football. It would be criminal for these sessions not to be available to anyone who wants to play.”READ MORE ON THE CAMPAIGNThe Latin and ballroom star, 28, was joined by his dad Tommy, 52, who manages Aldershot Town, and brother Theo, 25, a professional player and midfielder at the club.Kai said: “When you’re young you take it for granted that you can play. Having goals and parents to help is a luxury. “We used to just use bags or coats as a goal.“Like these kids, I played because I loved the game. It’s such a golden memory to have with your friends.Most read in Football“The skills I learnt on the pitch have stayed with me for life. “A lot of the people I played grassroots with have gone on to coach at their local clubs and some, like my brother, play professionally.Strictly Star Kai Widdrington goes back to his roots for Sun footie campaign‘Achieve their dreams’“When you play at this age, football remains part of your life. “In my case, my dad lives, eats and breathes football. I was lucky to have a parent who played football professionally. Kai joined by his football manager dad as he visits Littleton Junior FCCredit: Simon Jones – The Sun“But we’re all here because we love the game, same for the coaches and the kids.”Kai grew up moving around the country as Tommy started his career with Southampton. Other clubs he played for included Port Vale and Hartlepool.The family’s visit to Littleton Junior FC came as The Sun is offering another 150 grants of £1,000 each, after our first £150,000 cash pot helped squads across the country.From starting up new teams and providing free places for kids from low-income families to replacing old and out-of-date equipment, the money has gone to good use.So today we urge YOU to apply for one of our fantastic new Footie For All grants.They can be used in any way that encourages kids to take up the sport or aids access to the game.Perhaps you are a local team which wants to offer parents help with membership fees.Maybe you need new kits or more pitch space to play on. Grants can also be used to help with transport or running costs.Littleton Junior FC, near Winchester, Hants, have used their grant to buy new equipment for the club, which has more than 600 players and 104 coaches.The club also have a hardship fund to ensure any families who are struggling don’t have to remove their kids from sessions.Under-7’s coach Ken Holt, whose son Joshua, seven, plays, said: “The grant from The Sun has been hugely helpful, as all the kit required for the kids to play is really expensive. “Even things like bibs and cones, the cost really adds up.“But seeing how much the kids love it, the friendships they make and skills they develop is worth it.“Having Kai and his family come to visit the boys was really exciting for them.“Getting to play with a celebrity is great and they all really mucked in.”Despite some initial nerves when the Widdringtons arrived, it didn’t take long before Rari, seven, made a beeline to Theo to ask him: “How many keepie-uppies can you do?”.Without giving him, or Kai, a chance to demonstrate, the boys began showing off their own skills. But Theo didn’t take long to display his tekkers and give tips.Theo, who has fond memories of games with Pace Youth FC in Southampton, said: “It’s been lovely seeing these kids have fun in a safe space.“When you’re this age there is nothing better than going out and scoring goals with your mates.“Seeing how well this is run is amazing. “These kids are learning life lessons, respect, dedication and an appreciation of team-mates — all while having a really fun time.”Within seconds of leaving the pitch, Theo and Kai were called back for a game with the six-year-olds. “They’re like little Duracell batteries,” Kai joked, as he got tackled. Proud Tommy told The Sun: “This is where it all starts and even at this young age I can see some kids here have potential to be great.“They could be potential Premier League players. For many parents, money is hard, but you spend time running your kids around the country because you love them.“Plus you have a potential footballer on your hands and you want to help them achieve their dreams.”After winning the World Junior Latin American championship at 14 Kai landed a spot as a pro on Ireland’s Dancing With The Stars in 2017, before joining BBC One’s Strictly in 2021.He is preparing for a live tour with girlfriend and fellow Strictly pro Nadiya Bychkova, 34. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “Like a football game, if we make people laugh and cry during the show, we have done our job.”
      The tour kicks off on June 1. For tickets visit nadiyaandkai.com/
      Kai is preparing for a live tour with Strictly girlfriend Nadiya BychkovaCredit: Splash News More

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      England WAGs rich list reveals the stunning influencers raking it in as models & fashion moguls…including star worth £4m

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      THE England football stars are pocketing thousands a week but it seems their wives and girlfriends aren’t short of a bob or two in their own right.England’s WAGS are planning to splash £100k on private bodyguards for the Euros in Germany this summer, we revealed last week.Dani wins the influencer race and is worth £4m in her own rightCredit: InstagramThe star has a successful career on the small screenCredit: InstagramLed by Harry Maguire’s wife Fern and Megan Pickford, wife of goal-keeper Jordan, the group intend to share the cost of their own personal security team.Their decision comes after the Sun on Sunday revealed the threat of terror attacks at the Euros is feared by the German Government to be high.We’re sure they’re not going to have to look far to find some cash to pay their own hand-picked heavies, but how much are the WAGs worth in their own right?Some have amassed huge followings of their own on social media, with the possibility to earn thousands on a single post.READ MORE IN FEATURESThe amount they can earn – estimated by Influencer Marketing Hub – is dictated by how many followers they have, average likes and the reach of their account.With her celebrity upbringing, Dani Dyer, wife of West Ham ace Jarrod Bowen, is the overwhelming front runner on the Instagram front.But who else is raking it in on social media or with other personal projects?Dani Dyer, wife of Jarrod BowenOne of the most popular Love Island stars of all time, Dani Dyer, 27, is estimated to be worth more than £4m in her own right.Most read in Euro 2024Since her triumphant time in the villa in 2018, Dani has emerged an influencer, amassing a whopping 3.7 million followers on Instagram.TV personality Dani, the daughter of film and TV star Danny Dyer, married West Ham footballer Jarrod Bowen in 2021. Fans love Dani’s bubbly personality, down-to-earth attitude and humour.With her Instagram posts averaging 221.7k likes, Dani is allegedly able to demand a cool £5750 per paid post.UEFA Euro 2024: The glamorous life of WAGsThe mum-of-three will also be making a fair wedge with her recent collaboration with comfy clothing brand Lovall and also after being unveiled as an agony aunt for Netmums.Essex girl Dani has also written a book, appeared in an advert for washing powder Surf and made a podcast series with her famous dad.Records for her company, I Want It, I Got It, showed she earned £247,000 in the year to 2023.Katie Kane, wife of Harry KaneKatie is a qualified fitness instructorCredit: InstagramSports science graduate Katie has a successful career as a fitness instructor and also works closely with the Harry Kane Foundation, recently working on a children’s mental health school campaign with Bounce Forward.Katie and family are currently living in Germany as ex Tottenham star Harry is currently enjoying his first season with Bayern Munich.But it’s not known if Kate is currently working as a fitness instructor after the move abroad and recent birth of fourth child Henry.Katie has a large reach on Instagram with 294k followers and could potentially command an estimated £850 per paid Instagram if she wanted to.She and Harry were childhood sweethearts, with the emotional striker telling fans he had finally married his best friend in the summer of 2019.Sasha Attwood, girlfriend of Jack GrealishSasha is a model and had worked with many fashion brandsCredit: InstagramShe and Jack have been together since their teensCredit: Tim StewartStunning Sasha has been modelling since she was a teenager, with big-money contracts for clothing firms Boohoo, Lipsy and hair giant GHD already under her belt.The 28-year-old partner of Manchester City heartthrob Jack Grealish is also a popular influencer, regularly sharing skincare and make-up tutorial videos on Instagram with her 264k followers. It’s estimated Sasha can earn upwards of £700 for each sponsored Instagram post.The couple appear together at high profile events and have been muted as the new Posh and Becks after Jack was named an ambassador for Gucci.Sasha has been by Jack’s side throughout his career after meeting at school in Solihull when they were 15.Fern Maguire, wife of Harry MaguireFern is reported to have led the call for securityCredit: InstagramFern and Harry got married in 2022Credit: InstagramQualified physio Fern was awarded a first class honours degree in      Science and  Physiotherapy in 2017.Since then she’s also picked up 114k followers and emerged as an influencer due to her high-profile relationship with the England and Manchester United footballer.While also carving out her own physio career, Fern has been a rock to Harry as she’s helped support him through some tough moments.The 29-year-old has not updated her Instagram since last summer so she may be working on personal projects or simply enjoying motherhood.But her faithful following means Fern could still be earning approximately £300 per paid grid post.Olivia Naylor, girlfriend of John StonesOlivia is a beauty entrepreneurCredit: Instagram @olivianaylorShe has been dating the Man City star since 2019Credit: InstagramEntrepreneur Olivia has built up her own thriving beauty business, setting up the Olivia Naylor Clinic and also the Brow and Blade Academy. She is an eyebrow specialist and also a trainer for permanent make-up.Olivia has also branched out into fashion, and is involved with Moosh, a children’s clothing firm.While Olivia’s official clinic account has 41.2k followers and her Brow and Blade Academy page has 9.4k, her personal Instagram has just 4100 and it does not appear she does any paid posts.Olivia, who started dating Man City defender John in 2019, has a child from a previous relationship.Megan Pickford, wife of JordanMegan is married to goalie JordanCredit: InstagramMegan and Jordan pictured last year, before the birth of their second childCredit: Instagram / @meganpickford_Megan has a degree of Childhood Studies from the University of Sunderland but also has worked as a fashion model.Since giving birth to son Arlo George and daughter Ostara Haze the blonde Wag seems fulfilled with her life as a wife and mother of two.She has an impressive 113k followers on Instagram where she regularly shares pictures of her life as a wife and mother, often travelling to exotic locations. Her high stats indicate her estimated wealth per grid post could be £300. Aine May, long-term partner of Conor GallagherAine is a model and trained dancerCredit: InstagramAine moved to London from CorkCredit: InstagramGlamorous Aine moved to London to pursue a dream of becoming a professional dancer however plans changed when she was signed to Pulse model agency.She’s appeared in many fashion campaigns and has built up 53.3k followers on Instagram with her antics. It’s estimated Aine could make around £200 per paid Instagram post.The blonde, from Cork, is regularly in the crowd to watch Conor in action and will no doubt be cheering the Chelsea midfielder on in Germany.Lauren Fryer, girlfriend of Declan RiceLauren is Declan’s childhood sweetheartCredit: Lauren Fryer InstagramDeclan’s childhood sweetheart Lauren Fryer is a devoted mum to the couple’s son Jude.Not much is known about Lauren’s personal life since she keeps a very low profile.She is on social media but has never posted anything on her Instagram account, disappointing the 38.7k people who currently follow her page. If she ever did decide to share a paid post, it’s estimated Lauren could earn a potential £162 per post.No doubt she’ll be cheering Declan on and was seen with England flag face-paint at the Euros in 2021.Hannah Atkins, girlfriend of Trent Alexander-ArnoldHannah is a model and has been with Trent for four yearsCredit: BackGridModel Hannah is an up-and-coming star of the fashion industry, with previous collaborations with Boohoo and PrettyLittleThings.She’s been in a committed relationship with Liverpool defender Trent since 2020 and they are regularly spotted at high profile fashion events together.However despite her label as an influencer, stylish Hannah is low key on social media so her Instagram earnings are unclear.Anouska Santos, partner of Luke ShawAnouska has been with Luke since 2017Credit: InstagramThe couple now have three children, following the birth of a daughter two weeks agoCredit: INSTAGRAM @anouskasantosNot much is known about Anouska’s professional status, but she is currently enjoying life as a mum-of-three after the very recent arrival of her baby daughter.The 33-year-old, who went public with Luke in 2017, has amassed a following of 72.4k on Instagram by photos of her travelling experience, interior désign and other lifestyle content.Anouska could earn approximately £275 per post, judging by her number of followers and average reach.Manchester United star Luke is currently injured but one of the first names on the team-sheet when fit.Fingers crossed Luke and Anouska make it!Tolami Benson, Bukayo Saka’s partnerTolami is a fashion model with 39k followersCredit: InstagramMoney seems no issue for Saka’s long-term girlfriend Tolami Benson, 23, who regularly shares photographs of herself on holiday in far flung destinations.Fun-loving Tolami works as a fashion model and Instagram influencer, with a good engagement with her 39k followers, regularly attracting an average of 6000 likes per post.READ MORE SUN STORIESHer Instagram page doesn’t feature any photographs with Saka, but there are popular posts of Tomali wearing an Arsenal shirt.It’s estimated brands could pay her upwards of £220 per paid grid post as she shares photographs of herself living it up across the globe. Fair play! More