Features

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      From Georgina Rodriguez’s astonishing Insta payday to ‘Serbia’s Posh and Becks’… Euro 2024 Wags rich list revealed

      by

      EUROPE’S top footballers earn millions of pounds each year for their talents on the pitch.But some of their wives and girlfriends have mega-bucks earning power in their own rights.Georgina Rodriguez is the ultimate WAG when it comes to earnings on InstagramCredit: instagram/@georginagioShe is engaged to Portuguese superstar Cristiano RonaldoCredit: instagram/@georginagioWhile Dani Dyer topped the England squad’s WAGs rich list, there are many other models and social media influencers who’ve been cheering from the sidelines throughout the Euros 2024.From sports stars to TV presenters – and even an architect and a tattoo artist – they could cash in even more on Instagram thanks to their millions of followers.Georgina Rodriguez – £150k per postThe rockstar of WAGs, Georgina Rodriguez, 30, has amassed more followers than any other wife or girlfriend – 60 million, to be precise.Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo’s girlfriend has had her wealth bumped up by Netflix documentary I Am Georgina, as well as ad campaigns for Prada, Gucci, and Chanel.READ MORE EURO FEATURES Admirably, Georgina is also an ambassador for the Save the Children organisation. Her huge social media following means she can afford to be picky about what she promotes and could earn a cool £150,000 per post.On Instagram, she gives fans a glimpse of her incredible life. She posts snaps of her children and her beau. Georgina also shows herself on private jets, luxurious holidays, and impeccable fashion sense. Most read in Euro 2024Her man, Cristiano also has a huge following on the platform. He is currently the most followed person on Instagram, with 632million, more than the likes of Beyonce and Kim Kardashian. Stunning England wags watch on as England face Denmark at Euro 2024Anna Lewandowska – £140k per postAnna Lewandowski is as accomplished as her husband and comes second on the listCredit: instagram.com/annalewandowskaThe pair are thought to be worth £100million togetherCredit: INSTAGRAM @_RL9 @annalewandowskaPoland striker Robert Lewandowski’s wife, Anna Lewandowska, won World and European championship medals in karate before retiring and building a multi-million-pound health and fitness empire.Anna, 35, is known as the face of fitness in her native Poland and is one of the country’s wealthiest women.It is estimated that, between them, Anna and Robert are worth a staggering £100 million.Anna has 5.6 million followers on Instagram, where she often posts a mixture of fitness, yoga and green juices, along with cute snaps of their daughters, Klara, seven, and Laura, four. Her social media earning power is estimated at around £140,000 per post.Dani Dyer – £9k per postDani Dyer can earn £9,000 per sponsored post on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe has been married to England’s Jarrod Bowen since 2021Credit: Instagram/danidyerxxOne of the most popular Love Island stars of all time, Dani Dyer, 27, is estimated to be worth more than £4 million in her own right. Since her triumphant win with ex-boyfriend Jack Fincham in 2018, Dani has amassed a whopping 3.7 million followers on Instagram. TV personality Dani, the daughter of former EastEnders star Danny Dyer, married West Ham and England footballer Jarrod Bowen in 2021. Fans love Dani’s bubbly personality, down-to-earth attitude and humour and it is estimated Dani could earn up to £9,000 per post.Alice Campello Morata – £8k per postAlice is an entrepreneur in her own right and owns successful businessesShe is married to Spain’s captain, Alvaro MorataCredit: AFP or licensorsSpain captain Alvaro Morata’s wife, Alice Campello, is a superstar in her own right.The mum of four is a model and entrepreneur, running her own fashion label and cruelty-free beauty line.Her Instagram page combines model poses and cute, wholesome family shots.It obviously caught Morata’s eyes in the early days, as she revealed they met after he slid into her DMs.Now, 29-year-old Alice’s beauty and business brain could see her earning a tidy £8,000 per post.Zoe Cristofoli – £2.7k per postZoe is often seen on Instagram showing off her vast collection of tattoosCredit: Instagram @zoe_cristofoliShe shares one son with France’s Theo HernandezCredit: SplashTattoo lover Zoe Cristofoli, 28, is the girlfriend of French star Theo Hernandez, playing for France in the Euros.Model Zoe and the defender share a son called TJ. The stunner loves ink and often showcases the hundreds of tattoos covering around 60 percent of her body on her Instagram page.She also co-owns a tattoo parlour called Ink Studio Lagrange in Turin.Rose Bertram – £2.4k per postRose Bertram has been linked to French superstar Kylian MbappeCredit: SplashShe has modelled for countless brands and even appeared on the cover of VogueCredit: SplashBelgian model and influencer Rose Bertram is rumoured to be dating France captain Kylian Mbappe.The stunning blonde was signed to a modelling agency at the age of just 13. Now aged 29, she has appeared on the front cover of fashion bible, Vogue.And, with over a million followers on Instagram, her growing presence could see her rake in over £2,400 per post.Sara Gundogan – £3k per postSara is a successful TV presenter in her own rightCredit: Social media – Refer to sourceShe is married to Germany’s captain Ilkay GundoganCredit: ReutersModel and TV presenter Sara Gundogan is married to German captain Ilkay Gundogan.The former Manchester City star’s wife put her own TV career on the back burner when she married Gundogan in 2021.But the 28-year-old is now looking to rebuild it, having starred in Prime Video’s series Married To The Game, which followed the lives of five football WAGS.On the show, Sara – who has a one-year-old son with Gundogan – sparked fury when she called the restaurant scene in Manchester “horrible”.But she has since revealed she misses the rainy city since his transfer to Barcelona.In part, thanks to her new TV career, it’s estimated Sara could command around £3000 per Instagram post.Iris Law – £2.8k per postIris Law is the child of actors Jude Law and Sadie FrostCredit: GettyShe is said to be in the early stages of a relationship with Trent Alexander-ArnoldCredit: Guess JeansIris Law has always been used to life in the spotlight as the daughter of actors Jude Law and Sadie Frost.The striking beauty has carved out a modelling career of her own starring in campaigns for Dior, Burberry and Stella McCartney. And the 23-year-old is now rumoured to be in the early stages of a romance with England and Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold, 25.Iris and the player were spotted on a romantic date in Monaco.With her family background and burgeoning career, stunning Iris can already command around £2800 per post.Vlada Zinchenko – £2.6k per postVlada is a TV presenter who regularly reports on sportsCredit: Instagram / @v.lada_sedanShe is married to Ukraine’s Oleksandr Zinchenko and has two kids with himCredit: InstagramStunning Vlada Zinchenko was already a successful sports journalist in their native Ukraine when she met Ukraine’s Oleksandr Zinchenko.The Ukraine footballer famously admitted to proposing to her at home in his boxer shorts at 4am, but, despite that, she said yes, and the couple married in 2020.The couple have two children together.But 28-year-old Vlada is one WAG who won’t be watching from the stands, as she’s reporting on the football for Ukrainian TV.Her Instagram earning power could be as much as £2600 per post.Dani ter Stegen – £2.2k per postDani ter Stegen can charge over £2,200 each time she posts an advert on InstagramCredit: InstagramDani has two kids with German goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter StegenCredit: InstagramDani ter Stegen, married to German goalie Marc-Andre ter Stegen, has brains and beauty and is a qualified architect.Canny Dani managed to juggle her architecture studies with a burgeoning career as a model and social media influencer so has amassed almost 600,000 followers.The couple, who are based in Barcelona, also have two young children meaning Dani is a very busy woman. But she could capitalise on her social media presence to the tune of £2,250 per post.Laura Celia Valk – £2k per postLaura Celia Valk is said to be dating England’s Jude BellinghamCredit: InstagramGorgeous Dutch model, Laura Celia Valk is rumoured to be dating England’s wonder kid Jude Bellingham.She has worked for a string of popular brands, including PrettyLittleThing, and regularly shares snaps of her stays in luxury hotels around Europe. Her earning power online could be around £2000 per post.Sophia Weber – £1.5k per postSophia Weber has 430,000 followers on Instagram and can make £1,500 on InstagramCredit: Instagram @sophiaaemeliaSophia Weber and Kai Harvetz are childhood sweetheartsSophia Weber and Germany footballer Kai Havertz are childhood sweethearts. They grew up in the same neighbourhood and officially started dating in 2018.The couple avoid a flashy lifestyle, with Sophia making sure her football star boyfriend keeps his feet on the ground by helping to load the dishwasher and do household chores when he is at home.But down-to-earth Sophia has also carved out an impressive career for herself as a model and social media influencer who has amassed 430,000 followers on Instagram.Lisa Muller – £800 per post Lisa Muller is married to Germany’s Thomas MullerCredit: InstagramLisa Muller, 34, and Germany striker Thomas Muller were born just days apart in Weinheim, Germany and first started dating in 2007 before tying the knot two years later.As Thomas flourished at Bayern Munich, Lisa’s passion for horses saw her build her own sporting career as a professional dressage rider and horse trainer.The couple own their own stables and Thomas’ favourite horse is said to be called Dave.Her 220,000 Instagram followers could see her earn around £800 per post.Ines Degener Tomaz – £800 per post Ignez Degener Tomaz can ask for £800 each time she posts an advert on InstagramCredit: InstagramShe has been married to Portugal’s Bernardo Silva since last yearCredit: InstagramModel Ines Degener Tomaz and Bernardo Silva married last year in their native Portugal.The stunning mum of one regularly posts snaps of herself following her beau’s career worldwide and cute pictures of their daughter. The 25-year-old could earn up to £800 per post, thanks to her 207,000 followers on Instagram.Daniela Machado – £500 per postDaniela Machado is still building her online following but can make £500 per postCredit: Instagram @danielalexmachadoShe has been engaged to Joao Cancelo since 2021Credit: ReutersDaniela Machado and Portuguese star Joao Cancelo are childhood sweethearts who have been engaged since 2021.The couple have one daughter Alicia and Daniela is currently expecting their second child, posting cute pregnancy photos on Instagram. She is still building a following online but could earn around £500 per postDjina Petrovic – £220 per post Djina is a former Miss Serbia and also runs her own beauty labelCredit: InstagramDjorde Petrovic and Djina have been called the Posh and Becks of SerbiaCredit: Instagram – djinapetrovicSerbian ace Djordje Petrovic and his model girlfriend are one of their country’s hottest young couples and are known as its ‘Posh & Becks”. Brunette stunner Djina Petrovic is Miss Serbia and a former Miss Earth contestant.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe also runs her own fashion label.She is expecting the couple’s first child which she announced earlier this year in an adorable Instagram post, and could soon see her potential earnings rise from £220 per post. More

    • 163 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Psychic eagle Honey predicts resounding WIN for England against Slovenia at Euro 2024

      by

      HONEY the psychic eagle has landed again…and predicted a resounding WIN for England in their next Euros match.While the Danes gave pain to The Three Lions with a 1-1 draw this week, they are now set to soar back to success on Tuesday, according to the 23-year-old African Tawny Eagle who “never gets a prediction wrong”.Honey the psychic Eagle with birds of prey handler Brad HigginsCredit: John McLellanAfrican Tawny Eagle Honey selects England as her choice to winCredit: John McLellanAlex Leonard, pictured left, said: ‘Honey the eagle has landed and made her next psychic prediction and it’s a resounding win for the Three Lions against Slovenia’Credit: John McLellanAlex Leonard, director of Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford, Kent, said: “Honey the eagle has landed and made her next psychic prediction and it’s a resounding win for the Three Lions against Slovenia.“She flew without hesitation and landed next to the England flag.“It’s bad news for Slovenia. “Our boys are going to be back flying high. Read More on Sport”Honey never gets a prediction wrong.”Alex, along with bird of prey handler Brad Higgins each held a flag and let Honey fly through the air to choose who to land on.Eagle-eyed fans spot awkward moment between Cole Palmer and Gareth Southgate live on BBC as fans say ‘that’s not good’ More

    • 275 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Secrets to England star Marc Guehi’s meteoric rise – from church on Sunday to Three Lions legend he idolised as a kid

      by

      WHEN he was a lad, England ace Marc Guehi loved playing the drums at church.His religion was so important to him that he didn’t play football on Sunday.As a youngster, religion was so important to Marc Guehi, he would go to church on Sundays and not play footballCredit: GettyMarc (circled) aged around seven, celebrates a trophy with South London club Cray WanderersMarc, left, celebrates England U17s World Cup in 2017Credit: Getty – ContributorYet at just 23, the Crystal Palace captain didn’t miss a beat as the Three Lions won their first game in the Euros and he continued to establish himself as a fixture in the heart of the defence.After England’s warm-up stinker against Iceland, his faultless and composed display in the 1-0 win against Serbia eased fans’ nerves after Harry Maguire missed out on the 26-man squad. Marc still attends church and family is hugely important to him. This has made him respected and reliable both on and off the pitch and has helped put him on the path to success.His drive to succeed started early. Marc’s school motto was “Be The Best That You Can Be” and he took it to heart.READ MORE ON MARC GUEHIHe was a very quiet boy and comes from a religious family. They are a very tight unit.Steve Owen, coached Marc from the age of five in South LondonThe Crystal Palace ace was born in Abidjan, the largest city in the Ivory Coast, West Africa, but moved to England aged one.His dad John, 52, became a minister at a church in Lewisham, South East London, where Marc played the drums.Steve Owen, 65, who coached him from the age of five with Cray Wanderers, in Sidcup, South East London, before Marc moved to Chelsea’s youth system, said: “Marc was in a younger group but I used to sneak him in to play with older boys aged six.“He was a left-sided centre-back like he is now, and not many players got past him. He wasn’t a flair player, but was solid in everything he did.Most read in Football‘Amazing dedication’“He was a very quiet boy and comes from a religious family. They are a very tight unit.“I still speak to his dad occasionally. He was always the one to take Marc to training, from when he was at Cray to Chelsea.Wyett ratings England v Serbia“Marc was never late once, he was always early. His dedication for such a young kid was amazing.“He is still very regimented in what he does and I think that is down to his background.”Marc, whose full name is Addji Keaninkin Marc-Israel Guehi, moved to Chelsea’s academy at the age of eight and idolised club legend John Terry throughout his youth.He worked his way through the ranks and played in two Carabao Cup matches for the Blues before two loan spells at Swansea City.In 2021, the muscly 6ft defender — who is not on social media — signed for Palace for £18million on a five-year deal and has become one of the Premier League’s most highly-regarded young defenders.Steve, who scouts for Chelsea’s academy, said: “When Marc was at Chelsea he came to Cray to do a presentation for the lads. He is a role model to everyone at our club. Seeing him at the Euros is fantastic, it’s a dream come true for any young footballer.”As well as his no-nonsense defending, he is superb on the ball, with the ability to dribble past opponents and launch attacks.And despite his quiet nature, he is also a natural leader, becoming Palace’s youngest captain in ten years when he wore the armband for the first time in 2022. He is now the Eagles’ permanent skipper.Marc also captained England under-17s in the Euros in 2017, when they lost the final on penalties to Spain.Later that year he scored in the final of the under-17s World Cup, starring alongside fellow Euros team-mates Phil Foden and Conor Gallagher, in a 5-2 win, again against Spain.He has maintained his friendship with Conor in the England camp in Blankenhain, where in downtime they compete against each other in games of Mario Kart, basketball and table tennis.Conor said: “Me and Marc go way back. We both joined Chelsea academy, we would’ve been seven or eight years old.“We played with England together growing up, we went to Swansea together, Crystal Palace . . . so yeah, pretty much anywhere I’ve gone he’s kind of been following me.“He’s a great friend of mine and he’s a top player as well.”Marc’s leadership skills were clear at school, where he was a “responsible person” who acted as a role model to other pupils.Marc’s old headteacher Edward Dove, of Marvels Lane Primary School in Lewisham, said: “Marc was with us for five years and he was a great kid. We have been following him with interest and pride.“It’s not often you get a club captain at such a young age.“That’s got something to do with his values, which hopefully we played a little part in.“He embraced our motto of ‘Be The Best That You Can Be’. He always knew he was part of a team. He was a great role model.“Marc hasn’t forgotten his roots. He has come back to visit us twice, after the under-17s won the World Cup and when he joined Crystal Palace.“He has got great values which he seems to have maintained.”Living with parentsAs of last October, Marc was still living with his parents and sisters Lois, 21, Joelle, 16, and 12-year-old Shirel. He said previously: “It’s actually hard to put into words what my mum and sisters have done for me, because anything I say wouldn’t actually justify what they’ve done.“I’m just so grateful to have them in my life.“My sisters and I have always been close.“We are all fortunate because not everyone has that and I’m very aware of it. I’m just glad we’ve grown up together.”“God first” was the rule in Marc’s house growing up, which is why he would never play football on a Sunday until he began pursuing it as a career — and it is now paying off.With two years left on his £50,000-a-week deal with Palace, he is being touted with a £65million move to Prem giants Liverpool, among others.I still go to church on Sundays when I can and it’s played a big part in both my football and my life in general, with my morals, my values and who I put my trust in.Marc GuehiHe has won 12 senior England caps and is in line for another in today’s match against Denmark, with a win putting the Three Lions through to the Euros knockout stage.And he will have Man United’s Maguire, 31, worrying about getting back into Southgate’s starting 11 if he keeps up his perfect performances.Marc has said: “My dad was a minister, so faith is massively important in my life.“I still go to church on Sundays when I can and it’s played a big part in both my football and my life in general, with my morals, my values and who I put my trust in.“My faith is something I value very highly in my life, for sure.“Church was also where I used to play the drums. We didn’t have a set at home so it was the only time I could play.“It was nice to just be free and enjoy it and it was an enjoyable part of growing up.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’m not up there with the greatest drummers in the world but I’d like to think I’m OK at it.”If England are to win this year’s Euros, after losing in the final in 2021, they could do worse than follow the beat of Marc’s drum . . .Marc making his name at Chelsea’s academyPutting in the hours of training in GermanyCredit: GettyDespite his quiet nature, he is also a natural leader, becoming Crystal Palace’s youngest captain in ten yearsCredit: Getty More

    • 275 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      How Euro 2024 host Laura Woods tamed Love Island’s biggest bad boy Adam Collard who made Joey Essex look like a puppy

      by

      HE was one of Love Island’s most notorious bad boys when he first was on the show – but one woman seems to have changed all that.Personal trainer Adam Collard, 28, has been dating Euro 2024 presenter Laura Woods, 36, since last year, confirming their relationship in October 2023.Love Island star Adam Collard was once the ultimate ladies’ manCredit: Splash NewsBut he’s been dating Euro 2024 host Laura Woods since OctoberCredit: In stagramLaura has her own career, which is what Adam needs, according to relationship expert Jo HemmingsCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyThe former loverat has called her “The One,” spent Christmas with her – the first time he’s done so with a girlfriend since he was 21 – and in a break from tradition, kept their relationship relatively out of the limelight, seemingly on Laura’s wishes.It’s a far cry from the man who admits himself he’s been “ruthless” in the past, claims to have had 25 girlfriends, and spent many years partying and juggling flings with girls including Zara McDermott and Lottie Moss.Relationship expert Jo Hemmings says: “He’s now 28, he’s a professional with a job, and I think he just went off the whole idea of ever realistically meeting somebody on a TV show. “He’s now met somebody who is also a professional, and is only on TV as a byproduct of what she does in sport.MORE LOVE ISLAND FEATURES“He’s got himself in a comfortable place. Financially, he’s older, he’s more mature, he’s more settled. “He once played into this roguish character that people saw him as, and became a parody of himself. But look who’s laughing now. “He’s got a fabulous girlfriend, they’re in a long term relationship, he’s well off, he’s still in the public eye, and he’s getting on with his life in the way that I think he always wanted.”Here, we reveal how Laura finally managed to tame Adam, whose bad boy womanising made current Island villain Joey Essex look like a puppy.Most read in Euro 2024Infamous villainAdam first shot to fame in 2018, when he walked into the Love Island villa as the first bombshell, quickly stealing Kendall Rae Knight from Niall Aslam.He then swiftly moved on to Rosie Williams, and implied they’d had sex, when he joked he’d had a “really, really good sleep” and woken up with a “spring” in his step.Adam was accused of ‘gaslighting’ Rosie Williams in his first Love Island stintCredit: Rex FeaturesHe then dumped her for Zara McDermott, as she predicted he wouldCredit: Splash NewsLaura Woods can’t keep her hands off boyfriend Adam Collard as loved-up couple snog on the beach in MexicoWithin days – and just as Zara McDermott walked in – he decided Rosie had become too clingy.Adam told Zara he’d “caught feelings” for her, but when Rosie confronted him about it, he suggested her jealousy over his flirting with Zara is what “pushed him away”.Charities like Women’s Aid even stepped in, issuing warnings about his behaviour, saying he exhibited signs of “gaslighting and emotional abuse”.Then, when Zara was dumped from the island without him, Adam moved on to Darylle Sargeant, despite promising Zara he’d stay true to her – and he left soon after.Serial playboyZara and Adam were together for eight months and even got matching tattoosCredit: Splash NewsAdam with ex-girlfriend Sarah GodfreyOnce out of the villa, Adam managed to get back into Zara’s good books and they hooked up again, even getting tattoos of each other’s initials.She claimed she’d “tamed” his wild ways, and they moved in together in Essex.But just eight months later, it seemed Zara and Adam’s relationship was on the rocks as he enjoyed a drunken night out surrounded by girls, including Instagram model Brittany Archer.Announcing the split soon after, Zara wrote: “Sometimes in life, you just aren’t enough for someone; no matter what you do for them or how much you try to be.”Two months after the split, he got his tattoo removed – and hours after, was pictured partying with Lisa Rinna’s model daughter Delilah Hamlin, who dated Eyal Booker.Following Zara, he had a short relationship with Irish fitness influencer Sarah Godfrey, as well as a fling with TOWIE star Demi Sims.’Game plan’ revelationHe went into the Love Island villa the second time and got a ‘game plan’ girlfriendCredit: InstagramAdam was spotted ‘all over’ another girl after fans accused him of cheating on PaigeCredit: tiktok/@alexkellyBut Adam made a shock return to Love Island in July 2022.It actually seemed like he was finally ready to settle down, as he coupled up with paramedic Paige Thorne immediately, and remained coupled up with her for the duration of the show.They were together for four months after the show ended, but split in November 2022, when Paige accused Adam of cheating, and he was caught on video flirting with other girls on a night out.Adam later admitted he chose Paige as part of a “game plan” when he went into Love Island the second time.Love Island bad boysAdam Collard is just one of many Love Island bad boys, as we reveal the others…
      Michael Griffiths – In series five, Michael left viewers – and Amber Gill, who he’d been coupled up with since the start – absolutely stunned as he coupled up with Joanna Chimonides in Casa Amor. He became the first member of Destiny’s Chaldish, and Amber went on to win the show.
      Liam Reardon – Love Island viewers were rooting for Millie Court and Liam in series seven until he cheated on her with Lillie Haynes in Casa Amor. Despite doing this, and then only confessing when Lillie dropped him in it, Millie got back together with Liam and then won the show with him. Apart from a brief split, they’re still together now.
      Jordan Hames – Just two days after asking Anna Vakili to be his girlfriend in series five, Jordan started trying it on with India Reynolds – who wasn’t even interested in him. A huge argument erupted and he was dumped from the villa soon after.
      Luca Bish – In series eight, Luca coupled up with Gemma Owen almost immediately, and constantly labelled her “muggy” any time she even spoke to another boy. This was all while he encouraged all the boys to cheat on their girls in Casa Amor. Luca’s family even issued a statement apologising for their son’s “insensitive behaviour”, saying that when he watches the episode back he’ll be “embarrassed and deeply apologetic”.
      Josh Ritchie – All the way back in series one, Josh Ritchie brutally ended his short-lived romance with Naomi Ball because she refused to have sex with him. He then turned to Jess Hayes, because he thought he could get a “good three-weeks sh*gging” with her. Love Island was a different show back then!
      Terry Walsh – In series two, Terry was coupled up with Malin Andersson and things were getting very serious, with the pair having a lot of sex. She then, shockingly, got dumped from the villa, and he told her he’d wait for her. The next day, Emma Jane Woodhams walked in, and he was very quickly having sex with her, in front of all their housemates, with Emma on top of the sheets. Malin then came in and gave him what for, in one of Love Island’s most memorable showdowns of all time.

      Speaking to Mail Online, he said: “The thing with Love Island is I’m the only one who is willing to admit it, I would completely choose the right person to stay on the show.”That’s why I got back on the show in my eyes, they realised I didn’t care about anything.“We all know the game. It was really hard for me the second time because I could see through everything, it is unbelievable how clear it is the second time.”So yes, everyone comes on and says I am here to find love and that, yes you kind of are and obviously that is unreal but nobody is daft.”‘Ruthless’Adam had a fling with Lottie Moss when he went on Celebs Go DatingCredit: E4His plan worked, as he got more TV work off the back of his Love Island appearance, signing up for Celebs Go Dating after his split from Paige, on which he met Lottie Moss.On the first night they met, Adam and Kate Moss’ younger half-sister slept together, and did this another three times throughout their time on the E4 dating show.The dating experts Paul C Brunson and Anna Williamson then encouraged them to actually go on a date to a restaurant together.The next day, Lottie dumped “f***boy” Adam when she found out he’d decided to kiss another girl he was dating.But two months later, he was dating Laura Woods, and said: “Do you know what, as much as I have been a little bit ruthless in the past with relationships and yes I’ve ended things when it has started to not work out, I am actually a bit of a hopeless romantic.”I do think there is someone for every person and I want to go and do all the things I like to do with someone else.”‘The One’Adam has called Laura ‘The One’Credit: Instagram @laurawoodsyShe rarely posts with him and, by his standards, he’s the sameCredit: InstagramUnusually for Adam, the couple kept their relationship private at first, meeting in secret at the Black Bull pub in Trimdon, Co Durham, and heading off for a weekend away in St Ives in early October, before finally going public later that month.And it’s likely this was something Laura has been very keen on.She has previously said: “For anyone to see that part of me fills me with dread. “It sounds like it’s a bad thing but only because I associate social media and relationships in a bad way. “I’m almost certain nothing good can come from sharing. Maybe I’ve learned, maybe it’s something historic, I’ve never thought it was a good idea to share them.”I’ve met [Laura’s parents] and they’ve given me the thumbs up – luckily they don’t read many papersAdam CollardEven now, Laura has only posted about him on Instagram once, as part of a post about “things she loves,” while it’s Adam who is more vocal about their relationship.He often comments on her pictures complimenting her, and has posted about their holidays numerous times – although nowhere near as many as he would’ve in previous relationships.And it seems he’s finally found The One with her, as he’s admitted Laura has always “given him the benefit of the doubt” when it comes to his “bad boy reputation”, which has ultimately made their relationship stronger.He told The Sun: “For someone who’s had 25 girlfriends, I’ve really only had three. “If you actually ask the people that I’ve really been going out with, I think that they would have very different opinions based on how I’ve treated them and she’s definitely given me the benefit of the doubt with that. “She definitely sees through it.”He’s even won round her parents.Before going to hers for Christmas, he told us: “I”m going to her parents, so it’s pretty special. I’ve met them and they’ve given me the thumbs up – luckily they don’t read many papers.”Laura’s ‘stability’He’s now a doting boyfriend to LauraCredit: InstagramJo says it’s Laura’s job as a sports presenter that would have appealed to Adam, and changed him.“There is an influence of stability from Laura,” she explains. “Because she’s not on a TV show to find fame and fortune. She’s got a really good job of her own, but she does incredibly well, so I think that’s a stabilising energy for him.“I also think he’s of an age and in a position now in his life where he’s ready to settle down, and what has gone before has just helped build him up into a situation where he is.READ MORE SUN STORIES“His heartbreaker and player image appealed to women. They went after him as the one who wanted to tame him. But he wasn’t really ready. “I do think having worked towards a stable, healthy, non-reality TV-based relationship, is probably exactly what he needed, and exactly what he wanted.” More

    • 275 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Lauryn Goodman WILL take son Kairo to see dad Kyle Walker play at Euros with camera crew despite feud with wife Annie

      by

      KYLE Walker’s ex-girlfriend Lauryn Goodman has tickets and flights booked to Germany to take his son Kairo to England’s third Euros group game.But influencer influencer Lauryn, who shares Kairo, four, and a daughter, who is nearly one, with the married defender, has ditched plans to attend tonight’s game against Serbia.Lauryn Goodman has tickets and flights booked to Germany to take Kyle Walker’s son Kairo to England’s third group game in the EurosCredit: SplashLauryn is also mum to the Man City fullback’s daughterCredit: SplashShe changed her mind to avoid a backlash and will now fly out for the game against Slovenia, in Cologne, on June 25.Meanwhile, Kyle’s wife Annie Kilner, 31, is scheduled to depart on a £30,000 private jet this morning to attend tonight’s game.She is expected to travel with three of their four sons but not to stay for more than a day.When Lauryn, 33, arrives, Kairo will be wearing a ­football top at the Slovenia match with “Daddy and Kyle’s number 2 on the back.read more on Lauryn GoodmanA source said a camera crew could be there to capture her every move as Lauryn has signed up for a new docu-ality series lifting the lid on life as a Wag.The source told The Sun on Sunday: “Lauryn truly believes that Kyle will want his son there. “She has been given ­tickets and the flights have been sorted out for her to go. “Kyle and Lauryn aren’t speaking since Annie found out they have a daughter together too.Most read in Football“But when they were, during the World Cup, it was Kyle who ­actually asked for Kairo to be at the Euros.“Since that day, Kairo has been excited. What little lad wouldn’t be?Kyle Walker risks explosive showdown between wife Annie and Lauryn Goodman after ‘inviting’ ex and two kids to Euros”Kairo shouldn’t have to watch his daddy playing for his country from a TV set in England — he deserves to be there.“Kairo has been filling in a chart with football-shaped stickers. “It is in his bedroom and he fills it in every night.“Lauryn doesn’t encourage it — Kairo has been football mad since he was tiny. “He has football goal nets in the living room too. “He plays every morning before nursery and gets Lauryn to tackle him.”Lauryn had been due to fly out with her son and her grandfather today to England’s opening game.The source added: “She was offered tickets for the first match and was planning to go but turned them down at the last minute.“She knew the focus would turn to her and she would be blamed by fans if they didn’t win, or if Kyle played badly.“She doesn’t want that pressure on her or Kairo. “Going to ­Germany is not about some daft WAG war, it is about being a good parent.Kyle’s wife Annie Kilner is scheduled to depart on a £30,000 private jet this morning to attend today’s gameCredit: BackGridLauryn became pregnant while Kyle, 33, was on a break from Annie in 2019. Son Kairo was born the following year.Despite fathering a child with Lauryn, the Man City star and Annie rekindled their relationship and got married in 2021.But Kyle stayed in touch with the influencer and they started to have time together including days out with Kairo and then rekindled their relationship, too.Their daughter was conceived in October 2022 while he was in London for treatment for a groin injury.In December, Lauryn broke the news about her baby girl to Annie, who was herself pregnant with her fourth child.Annie announced she was separating from the £160,000-a-week footballer.He moved out of the home they shared with sons Roman, 11, Riaan, seven, and Reign, five, in Prestbury, Cheshire, to a rented property nearby.Annie gave birth to Rezon in April with Kyle at her side. The boy’s arrival was announced the day before Kairo’s fourth birthday.Last night, a spokesman for Kyle said: “Kyle is laser-focused on the games ahead so as to give the team the best possible chance of bringing home the trophy for the millions of England fans watching, including his wife and their children.“He will not be distracted by any off-pitch activity.”Kyle did not invite Lauryn to the Euros.”Two other Wags arrived at Manchester Airport last night to jet off to Germany.READ MORE SUN STORIESLuke Shaw’s long-term partner, Anouska Santos, 34, was set for a flight to Dusseldorf, and said: “I’m really excited to be going.”She was joined by Megan Davison, 28, wife of goalie Jordan Pickford, 30,, who was wearing a necklace adorned with her husband’s name.Lauryn fell pregnant with Kairo while Kyle was on a marriage break from Annie in 2019Credit: GettyLuke Shaw’s partner Anouska Santos and Jordan Pickford’s wife Megan leave for GermanyCredit: Zenpix More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Ultimate Euro 2024 rich list reveals England’s top earners & how Ronaldo’s salary is EIGHT times higher than Mbappe’s

      by

      EURO 2024 will see some of the world’s finest talents clash on the pitch – but who comes out top dog away from it?With staggering salaries and lucrative endorsement deals worth millions, players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Kylian Mbappe could retire now and never have to work again.Cristiano Ronaldo tops the rich list of players taking part in the Euros this yearCredit: @cristianoRonaldo on holiday with his fiancee Georgina Rodriguez and their childrenCredit: Instagram/@cristianoRonaldo is the richest footballer playing in the Euros this yearCredit: Instagram / @cristianoEven the likes of England superstar Jude Bellingham, who is just 20 years old, is already worth a not-so-small fortune thanks to commercial tie-ups, including an eye-catching deal with Kim Kardashian’s Skims.Ahead of the first game of the tournament kicking off tonight, here we reveal the ultimate Euro 2024 rich list.Cristiano Ronaldo £471mPortugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, will play his sixth European Championship when his team faces Czech Republic on Tuesday. It is believed this could be his last Euro games. In 2020, he became the first active team sport athlete to surpass $1billion in career earnings – and two years later, he signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.READ MORE ON SPORTAccording to Forbes, he is paid around £164million by the club for his on-field duties.Ronaldo has raked over £47million in endorsement deals with brands such as Nike, Unilever, and Herbalife.The star also has an incredible property portfolio.Among the impressive homes owned by Ronaldo and his fiancée Georgina Rodriguez are a £5.5million house in Lisbon, a £1.5million flat, and a £2.5million mansion overlooking the River Cavado.Most read in Euro 2024Kylian Mbappe – £141mAfter making his debut for the French national team in 2017, Kylian Mbappe has risen to become one of the most exciting players in the world. With a £141million net worth, he is the second richest player in the tournament this year. At just 25, he has lifted some of the biggest trophies, including the World Cup in 2018.England fans’ must watch guide to Gelsenkirchen ahead of Three Lions’ Euro 2024 clash vs SerbiaAt just 25, Kylian Mbappe is one of the richest athletes in the worldCredit: GettyThe star often posts snaps of his lifestyle on social mediaCredit: Instagram / @k.mbappeHis salary is pegged at a whopping £21million-a-year – which equates to £404,000-a-week.However, that marks a drastic pay CUT compared to the previous two-year deal he was on at PSG, which netted him a staggering £5.1million per week.And it works out at about an eighth of Ronaldo’s!Mbappe has also signed lucrative deals with Hublot, Louis Vuitton, Oakley, and Hennessey. According to Forbes, his endorsement deals fetch him £15.7million alone.Earlier this month, it was reported that he had purchased a £15million mega mansion in Spain after finalising his move to Real Madrid. Harry Kane – £72mEngland’s Harry Kane is the third richest player in the tournament this yearCredit: GettyHe has an impressive £13million property portfolioHarry Kane, England’s top goal scorer of all time, saw his net worth shoot up by £24million to £72million in just a year.That figure will continue to rise since. In 2023, he signed a lucrative deal to move to Bayern Munich that pays £21.5million per year.His £100million transfer was said to have come with a £30million signing fee.Kane’s skills have also netted him an endorsement deal with Amazon and a partnership with Sketchers that is said to be worth £2million.He has also invested in properties with a portfolio that stands at an eye-watering £13million. Despite this, it’s been reported that Harry lives in a £1million-per-year rented mansion with wife Katie and their three kids.Antoine Griezmann – £71mAntoine Griezmann has a peak base salary of £21millionCredit: AFPHe lives in a modern home with his wife and kids worth £5millionCredit: INSTAGRAM/EriKA ChoperenaFrance’s Antoine Griezman, 33, has a reported net worth of £71million.His £21million peak base salary made him one of the ten highest-paid football players in recent years. Away from the pitch, he earns over £4.7million in endorsement deals with brands such as Puma, Gillette, and Head and Shoulders.Fans have seen glimpses of the Atletico Madrid player’s elegant modern home, which is said to have cost over £5million. Robert Lewandowski – £67mRobert Lewandowski is one of the best strikers of all timeCredit: Instagram @_rl9He owns a deluxe £7million apartment in Warsaw with his wifeCredit: INSTAGRAM @_RL9 @annalewandowskaPoland’s Robert Lewandowski’s impressive skills on the pitch saw him crowned the best player by FIFA and UEFA in 2020. According to Celebrity Net Worth, his salary in 2020 was £23.5million, which made him one of the highest-paid football players in the world.The Barcelona player has often been named one of the best strikers of all time and has many sponsorship deals to his name. In 2016, it was reported that he spent £7million on a deluxe apartment in Warsaw, his home city. Kevin De Bruyne – £56mKevin De Bruyne’s career has netted him a £56million fortuneCredit: GettyHe owns properties in Cheshire and BelgiumCredit: INSTAGRAMKevin De Bruyne has been one of Belgium’s most trusted aces for many years. The Manchester City player’s stunning career has earned him a £56million net worth. Regarded as one of the greatest of his generation, the 33-year-old’s base salary is £15.7million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.His huge popularity has been a hit with brands – he has partnered with Nike, McDonald’s, and Emirates. Like many on this list, he enjoys the finer things in life. He owns properties in Cheshire and a villa in Belgium, his home country, equipped with a jacuzzi, swimming pool, and a basketball court.Romelu Lukaku – £50mRomelu Lukaku is one of Chelsea’s most expensive signings of all timeCredit: GettyBelgium striker Romelu Lukaku is believed to be worth a staggering £50million.With an impressive resume that includes stints with Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Chelsea, it is no surprise that he is one of the most in-demand players in the world. In 2021, his return to Chelsea made him the seventh-most-expensive player in a club-record transfer worth £97.5million. After one season, he was sent out on loan to Roma and forced to take a pay cut. According to Football Transfers, he now earns an annual salary of £6.3million. Luka Modric – £58.9mCroatia’s Luka Modric recently splashed £10m on a mansionCredit: GettyThe footballer with wife Vanja Bosnic, who secured a monumental deal that took him to Real Madrid in 2012Credit: Instagram @lukamodric10Croatian captain Luka Modric is best known for his long tenure as a midfielder for Real Madrid.Regarded as one of the greatest players in the world, he has amassed a fortune of £58.9million.While his annual salary with the La Liga team has not been made public, it has been estimated to be around £7.8million.Last year, it was reported that he had forked out £10.1million on a new home in Madrid.It has a huge parlour, nine bedrooms, a swimming pool, and a gym. He lives there with his wife, Vanja, and their three kids.Thomas Muller – £45millionHarry Kane’s Bayern teammate reportedly earns £345,000 a weekCredit: ReutersThe Geman icon with wife Lisa, who he married in 2009Credit: Instagram @esmuellertGerman icon Thomas Muller, 34, has made around £45million throughout his career.Very few can match his trophy hauls, which include the Bundesliga, Champions League, and the World Cup.He is said to be making £18million a year and £345,000 a week.This makes him one of the highest-paid footballers at Bayern Munich, where he has been since 2008.He lives in Munich in a villa with his wife, Lisa, which was burgled while he played football in 2022.Jude Bellingham – £40mAt just 20, Jude Bellingham has made £40million in his careerCredit: GettyHe’s recently been unveiled as the new face for Kim Kardashian’s fashion brand SKIMSCredit: SKIMSEngland and Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham is worth £40million, thanks partly to his £103million deal transfer to Real Madrid last year. This equates to a yearly salary of £11.6million a year and weekly wages of £200,000.The 20-year-old has a growing endorsement portfolio, which includes partnerships with Louis Vuitton and Lucozade. More recently, he became the face of Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS.READ MORE SUN STORIESAdidas has also designed a logo in his image. That partnership is said to fetch him £2.6million.Jude became the youngest first-team player for Birmingham City when he was 16 and has continued to break records since. They include becoming the youngest English goalscorer in the Champions League back in 2021. More

    • 300 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      England WAGS are no fun compared to Germany 2006 line up – they knew how to party & were unafraid to splash stars’ cash

      by

      AS starting line-ups go, it’s the equivalent of pitching a Panini All-Star Legends XI against Accrington Stanley.In the former first 11, clad in a dazzling kit of Hermes, Roberto Cavalli and a lick of caramel hair extension, we have Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, nee McLoughlin, Cheryl Tweedy, Abbey Clancy and flamboyant journeywoman Nancy Dell’Olio.Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, Louise Bonsall, Elen Rives and a pal hit the townCredit: RexThe glam squad, Cheryl, Coleen and Posh, at an England gameCredit: AlamyElen Rives and Carly Zucker on a night outCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe latter, a team of identikit smooth-foreheaded influencers, names available on Google.Yep, on the eve of the Euros, the question remains: Where have all the good Wags gone?What we all wouldn’t do to bring back the glory days of BadenBaden, Germany, 2006, when England was awash with first-team talent.Eighteen years on from that memorable World Cup — probably less memorable for the £140-a-pop bottle of Moet-swigging wives and girlfriends — the glory days are long gone.read more on eurosToday’s generation are a bunch of camera-ready, media-wary young women who’ve grown-up on TikTok.And where’s the fun in that?As a cub reporter of 24, my first foreign assignment for a national newspaper was in Baden-Baden.It was a baptism of fire. And pear bellinis. Sooo many pear bellinis.Most read in FootballAfter being dispatched to the Black Forest, I decided to invite my German housemate: The Bavarian Batman to my Robin. Initially, it proved a masterstroke.England Wags Instagram Rich ListOn night one ­— after the Wags went to the quiet spa town’s local bar, Garibaldis — German Martin and I followed and I made him charm the local barman . . . and get a copy of the girls’ astonishing £3,300 bar tab.Meine damen und herren, we were up and running.This first night quickly set the tone for the most exhausting two weeks of my hitherto relatively sheltered young life.Each night, Martin and I would traipse to Garibaldis and watch the Wags in action. (Soon joined by the rest of the media “pack”).They were a glorious, life-affirming, carefree sight to behold — and provided thous- ands and thousands of words of copy. Or “content”, as their 2024 counterparts might say.Unquestionably, Head Wag was Mrs Beckham. Unlike the rest of the squad, the Spice Girl was accompanied by a shaven-headed, ex-Forces body- guard at all times.Unfortunately, he clocked Martin and I (pretending to be a couple) early doors, during a quiet family dinner in the Wags’ Michelin-starred hotel restaurant, Wintergarten.’META-FEMINISM’He pointed me out to Victoria, who veritably swivelled in her chair and stared me menacingly in the eye.She audibly tutted in disgust over her steamed broccoli. My card was marked.From here, I became enemy No1 with Coleen and co.“You’re scum and you know you are,” chanted the late Neville Neville, Gary’s dad, and quite the character.He was swiftly joined by a 40-strong contingency of family and friends, their voices ringing loud and clear — certainly louder than any of the muffled, on-pitch national anthem renditions of their loved ones — in the Brenners Park Fritz and Felix bar.Unembarrassable, because I was 24 and on a crucial work assignment, fearing instant dismissal if I failed in my 007 Wag mission, I resolutely stayed put, smiling gormlessly and cheerfully sipping my champagne.(Many of these would later appear on my newspaper’s expenses tab).These ladies knew how to party, and they were staunchly, admirably, unafraid to spend their partners’ cash however they saw fit. Which is meta-feminism, I suppose.Starting with some shopping-shopping in Baden-Baden.Clemmie and her friend Martin covered the action on her first big assignmentCredit: SuppliedCheryl and Victoria out on the townCredit: MatrixThey were up at around 9am for a spot of breakfast (and caffeine) before a busy morning hitting the designer stores.While the men dribbled and tackled, their womenfolk dribbled with excitement and tackled Gucci and Prada and Co with the enthusiasm of Goldenballs eyeing a free kick.While they shopped, I trailed.On June 19, the eve of England’s final group game, £57,000 was spunked in an hour. A Spanish paper dubbed them “hooligans with credit cards”.“Everywhere I go, there’s that annoying little blonde,” hissed “hooligan” Coleen, in her new £900 shades, pointing at me in my sensible M&S ensemble, total cost approx 50 quid.She had a point, to be fair.I was one of the few reporters based at the Wags’ hotel, and by the end of the stay even I was sick of me. Fleet Street’s assortment of high-brow, knowledgeable football reporters also loathed my presence.My esteemed colleague actually rang our news editor at one point pleading for me to get sent home (sent off?) as my constant Wag coverage was “undermining the credibility of the game”.The Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of themClemmie MoodieHe said he was losing the trust of the families because I was writing about the ladies’ karaoke habits. (More on these later.) But the Wags were selling papers. I stayed.Afternoons saw the gang hitting up the hotel spa for various facials and manicures.Naturally, I booked in and spoke to a lovely therapist, who praised Mrs Beckham’s tan and gave me an identical treatment.When not utilising the hotel’s five-star facilities, or getting papped — one memorable shot saw Posh, Coleen and her mate, Claire, Louise Bonsall (Michael Owen’s missus) and Elen Rives (Frank Lampard’s partner) confidently strutting into town like the line-up scene from The Usual Suspects — the gang were making the most of their in-room entertainment.Honourable mentions here to Ms Rives and Alex Curran, Stevie G’s other half, who racked up hotel bills of £28,607 and £25,321 respectively. The latter’s included 60 bottles of pink champagne.The 22-strong contingent’s cumula-tive hotel spend was just shy of a reported £600,000. Their total spend, including alcohol, almost £1million.’RAUCOUS NIGHTS’As I wrote at the time, “the Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of them”.Elsewhere, the genteel Black Forest town’s nightclub, Maxi’s, soon became the extra-time venue of choice.While management refused to give the girls freebie drinks, they were allowed off the £7 entry fee.A 3am finish became the norm. While the women slept it all off, I filed copy, by now a shell of a creature.“More, more, more,” came the newsdesk cry, at a time when tabloids were at their peak and social media was but a twinkle in Joe Cole’s eye.On the subject of the former Chelsea midfielder, his beautiful, athletic girlfriend Carly Zucker briefly became a star of the show.A ripped personal trainer before abs on women were a “thing”, she would go jogging most mornings. Martin and I, especially, had a vested interest in making her a star.She worked for £22 an hour as a personal trainer at the Virgin Active gym opposite my then office.Obviously, weeks before the tournament kicked off, I made hapless Martin sign up for a course of PT sessions with her, hoping we’d have a ready-made friend out there.Posh shopping in some denim hotpantsCredit: GettyCarly Zucker had abs before they were trendyCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdAlas, when she saw us both, her look was not one of unconfined joy.Anyway, karaoke became a big theme of those halcyon few weeks — We Are The Champions, I Will Survive and The Black Eyed Peas’ 2005 classic My Humps were regularly requested.Victoria was largely absent from these raucous singing nights.Perhaps she was missing Ginger.When we weren’t working 19-hour days we angered the women even more by setting up camp outside the hotel and playing raucous games of football beside the gently flowing river.It’s safe to say manager Sven-Goran Eriksson’s squad had little to fear in the way of last-minute selections. By the end of my stint in the salubrious town there was no amount of health-giving spa water that could heal my broken body.But my heart was full.These women, superstars one and all, partied like it was the apocalypse and did it, on the whole, with good grace.They knew we had a job to do and were savvy enough to know such exposure could prove hugely lucrative in the coming months. And, undoubtedly, it did.WORLDS AWAYAnd the husbands? Lost on penalties in the quarters, naturally. (Mrs Beckham’s husband was crocked and Mrs Rooney’s husband got sent off).So what of today’s Wag world? While the tournament bases are only 475 miles away, the Wag fun possibilities seem worlds away.Well, I suppose there will be some drama. England’s star defender Kyle Walker will have not one, but two Wags in attendance as he hopes to score purely on the pitch for once.Five of the six children he has fathered with both are also expected to be there to cheer on daddy-o. Wife Annie Kilner — perhaps the most famous of this generation of Wags — and her four children will be sitting among the rest of the players’ families in pitchside seats arranged by the FA.His ex-mistress, Lauryn Goodman, is also planning to support him, alongside son Kairo.The possibility of thuggery threatens to overshadow anything Serbia’s militant fans could possibly throw at the tournament.READ MORE SUN STORIESOtherwise though — with no Jack Grealish and his semi-famous gf Sasha Attwood — the pickings for mischief, madness and good old- fashioned front-page fun look decidedly limited.Looks like it’s down to the boys to bring it home, then.Sven-Goran Eriksson’s girlfriend Nancy Dell’Olio wearing a Number one capCredit: RexLisa Roughhead (left) girlfriend of Michael Carrick and Michaela Henderson-Thynne girlfriend of Stewart Downing at the Garibaldi restaurantCredit: RexDavid Beckham sits on the bench after his substitution at the quarter-final against PortugalCredit: ReutersWayne Rooney was sent off with a red cardCredit: Getty More

    • 288 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      How Robbie Williams turned a mate’s charity football match into the £106m Soccer Aid – & why he still hasn’t got an OBE

      by

      TWO decades ago, Robbie Williams met football agent Kenneth Shepherd at a charity game his mate was playing in.After watching the match at Newcastle’s St James’ Park stadium, the pair wanted to create a similar event to raise cash and awareness for children suffering across the globe.Robbie Williams and Harry Redknapp at Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyJose Mourinho and Olly MursCredit: RexActor Woody Harrelson in 2010 taking the winning penaltyCredit: AFPA triumphant Robbie lifts the cup for EnglandCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSoccer Aid for Unicef was launched in 2006, originally as a one-off — but 18 years and 13 star-studded games later, it has generated an incredible £106million for kids suffering in some of the world’s most deprived countries.And Sunday’s spectacle in front of a packed crowd at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge was as popular as ever — with 3.6million people watching at home, topping the day’s ratings for ITV.England’s 6-3 victory over the World XI — their first win since 2018 — raised £15million for Unicef.Singer Robbie, 50, said yesterday: “Thank you for your kind messages about Soccer Aid. Un-f-ing-believable. Just absolutely incredible. So proud and so pleased.”Read More on SportWith so much money raised, some believe Robbie could finally be awarded an OBE — 12 years after his Take That pal Gary Barlow got one for services to music and charity.The dad of four began working with children’s charity Unicef in 1998 and two years later became an ambassador, travelling to countries including Haiti when it was devastated by an earthquake in 2010.In the first Soccer Aid, Robbie captained and played alongside his pal Jonathan Wilkes, 45 — who featured in the match that inspired the event.One source said: “Soccer Aid spiralled into something Robbie couldn’t have ever imagined.Most read in Football“It has teams in place to work all year round to organise the event and help distribute the funds with Unicef.“Robbie is so proud of Soccer Aid. They have helped so many people and raised awareness for Unicef and the work they do. It’s incredible.Watch moment Usain Bolt injures himself at Soccer Aid before athletics legend carried off on stretcher“The only thing standing in Robbie’s way for an OBE is the fact he spends much of the year abroad, but he’s now sold his US homes and is spending more time in the UK.“He’s a British icon and a thoroughly nice guy. It seems mad he hasn’t had Palace recognition yet.”Kenneth, boss of Triple S Sports Management and son of ex-Newcastle owner Freddy Shepherd, has said: “The idea was conceived when Dad and I met Robbie at The Match in 2004, which was a game between ex-pros and celebrities.“Suddenly Soccer Aid was born. Freddy and Robbie agreed to do it for Unicef and turn it into a global initiative for children around the world, and a lasting and fitting legacy for Dad.”As well as helping push the total raised above the £100million mile- stone, Sunday’s game also provided the light-hearted entertainment which has made the occasion so loved by so many.Ex-Love Islander and boxer Tommy Fury, 25 — the younger brother of champ Tyson — had onlookers in stitches when he produced the funniest moments of Sunday’s show while playing for the World XI.Thank you for your kind messages about Soccer Aid. Un-f-ing-believable. Just absolutely incredible. So proud and so pleasedRobbie WilliamsAfter coming off the bench to Rocky theme tune Eye Of The Tiger, he kicked thin air instead of the ball and took a throw-in underarm, leading fans to question whether he had actually seen a game before.It surely ranks among the best moments we have seen at the match, which has previously been played at Old Trafford and Wembley.Others highlights over the years include Hollywood actor Woody Harrelson scoring the winning penalty in the 2010 shootout — despite obviously not even knowing what a penalty was — and Kasabian rocker Serge Pizzorno channelling his inner Ronaldinho to lob ex-England goalie David Seaman.Jose Mourinho running on to the pitch to wipe out singer Olly Murs, and Inbetweeners actor Blake Harrison’s beaming pre-match grin are other honourable mentions.As well as wanting to back a good cause, there is a competitive streak among those who take part — from ex-footballers to other sporting icons like Sir Mo Farah, along with actors including Tom Hiddleston and singers such as Tom Grennan.I’m A Celeb’s Sam Thompson, 31, revealed heavyweight boxer Tony Bellew, 41, got angry after conceding penalties against him in training.‘Tony stormed out’He said: “He stormed out of goal and went, ‘Why don’t you put on the f****ing gloves, then?’. Then I put the gloves on and saved a couple from him.”Chelsea legend Frank Lampard, 45, took charge of the England team alongside his uncle, former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp, 77 — bringing professionalism and a desire to win.Speaking at a Soccer Aid training day last Friday, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, 45, told The Sun: “Paddy McGuinness took out Sam really quite badly yesterday — and they’re on the same team!“He’s lucky he’s flexible, because if that was me, I think it would’ve snapped both my legs.“When you go into the changing rooms and your kit’s in there, and Frank Lampard’s there giving a team talk — he played a six-minute motivational video about playing for England — and you’re like, ‘bloody hell, this is a bit serious’.“I haven’t really kicked a ball for 20 years, so yesterday I was actually better than I thought I’d be. Not good enough, but better than I thought I’d be.”Many of the stars made room for a tipple or two in the bar at Champneys spa resort in Tring, Herts, on Thursday night.But Eddie, perhaps wisely, gave it a miss and said: “I can’t do this and have a drink and not expect to do a hamstring.”Redknapp said at the training event: “Some of them had very late nights, but it’s being marked down.“Me and Frank, we’re aware of those that are having late nights. When the team’s picked, they may have to miss out.“Robbie Keane is leading our team astray. He was up singing at 10.30pm last night and he got them all at it. Tom Grennan gets up and started singing, which was worth listening to.“What we’re gonna do, we’re gonna lead them (the World XI) into the bar. We’ll be like that sheep that leads the sheep into the slaughterhouse.Theo Walcott, Mo Farah, actor Tom Hiddleston and Jack WilshereCredit: ReutersSir Mo Farah, Stuart Broad, right, and Tommy FuryCredit: RexThe World XI’s Kaylyn Kyle, left, and Jill ScottCredit: RexPaddy McGuinness with cricketer Stuart Broad and Alex BrookerCredit: Rex“My players are gonna lead their lot into the bar and then we’re gonna disappear and leave them in there, so they can start drinking and we’ll all be in bed.”He added: “Robbie loves it. He likes a bit of Danny Boy — the Irish, you know. Great fun.” Harry may well have followed through with his cunning plan, as his side breezed past their opponents — who included ex-Chelsea ace Eden Hazard and Olympics legend Usain Bolt, who was stretchered off after rupturing his Achilles.There were some sore heads yesterday as Strictly star Bobby Brazier, actor Danny Dyer and former Lioness Jill Scott led celebrations on the coach taking them to the after-party.Cheering from the Stamford Bridge sidelines was former Take That singer Robbie, along with wife Ayda Field, 45, and their children.Speaking previously about what the donations could be spent on, Robbie said: “It could help Unicef to get life-saving food supplies moving again. Cheering from sidelines”It could help ensure that children are still able to receive their routine vaccinations.“It could help get children back to school, back with their friends, back to just being kids again. The list goes on.”In a video he posted online thanking fans for their kind messages about the match, Robbie — who was on the coaching staff for Soccer Aid’s England side this year — was still in bed shortly after 1pm following a late night of partying.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe is now teetotal after years of drug and alcohol abuse, and has gone from one of this country’s best-loved hellraisers to best fundraisers.A non-alcoholic cheers to that, Robbie. More