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      Jude Bellingham owes superstardom to mum he calls his ‘queen’ & ‘hero’ ex-cop dad – as Jose Mourinho praises family

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      GRATEFUL Jude Bellingham made mum Denise the centre of attention after his Wembley triumph as thanks for helping his dreams of glory come true.The Champions League winner, 20, credits the woman he calls his Queen with getting him within touching distance of Euros greatness.Jude Bellingham owes a lot to his family following his Champions League victory with Real MadridCredit: AFPJude has won the coveted trophy in his first season at the Spanish clubCredit: GettyReal Madrid star Jude took Denise, dad Mark and younger brother Jobe from the crowd and later fought back tears as he thanked his family for their support.He said: “This is the best night of my life. I was all right until I saw my mum and dad’s faces.“The amount of nights where they could be at home by seven o’clock and they’re doing trips at 11 and 12 at night to take me to football.“And my little brother there who I’m trying to be a role model for. Yeah, it’s the best night of my life.”READ MORE ON JUDE BELLINGHAMEngland fans were now urging Jude to save his strength for the upcoming Euros in Germany, after playing 42 games for Real in a debut season which saw him La Liga Player of the Year.Chelsea fan Richard Wilson, 36, from Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, said: “Jude has played twice as much football as most top professionals at his age — he must be knackered.“But he has the ability to become a true England great.”On Saturday night Jude celebrated the 2-0 win over former club Borussia Dortmund by taking Denise to the sidelines to meet former Madrid manager and TV pundit Jose Mourinho, dubbed The Special One.Most read in FootballJude snapped the pair together, telling smiling Mourinho: “Sorry about that, my mum’s fancied you for years!”Mourinho later told TNT Sports: “Special player, special family. To see that family, the way they are there, they are not looking for cameras, they are not looking for the VIP seats, they are just there to support their kid in the most humble way.Gareth Evans recalls playing against ‘exceptional’ 16-year-old Jude Bellingham on his debut“For me, it’s really beautiful. Family, we play for them, especially in these moments, we play for them.”Mum Denise, 54, had accompanied former Birmingham City player Jude when he was sold to Dortmund in 2020 for £21million — then stayed by his side as he moved to Madrid last year for an initial £88million.Retired cop Mark, 48, remained at home with 18-year-old Jobe, currently playing for Sunderland.Denise made sure to celebrate her birthday, in December, back in the UK.Jude wrote online: “Happy Birthday to my Queen! Love you more than life.”He has admitted: “Without my mum, sometimes I’d get too low with the lows or too high with the highs and I stay pretty humble because I’ve got her around.“She’s a great laugh as well. We get on so well, and we’re always doing stuff together. The role my mum is playing is massive.“It’s probably the biggest role of anyone, more than my coaches and managers, to be honest.”Denise, a former human resources manager, looks after all of Jude’s financial affairs, while Mark is his manager.Jude said: “It leads to great conversations at the table. It can be anything from a discussion about a movie or something that happened to, ‘By the way, Real Madrid is interested . . . ’.”Jude has said he only has “good memories” about his childhood in Hagley, West Midlands.He was not obsessed with football as a young child, despite Mark being a prolific striker in the non-league game.When taken along to his dad’s training sessions, he opted to make a daisy bouquet for his mum or play hide and seek.Jude took a photo of his mum with her crush Jose MourinhoCredit: Pixel8000But he became hooked. He recalled: “We talk about footballing heroes, and my dad was like my first.”“Seeing the way he played and the atmosphere, it made me fall in love with football.”The family’s unwavering support let him focus on simply being a “good footballer” and not getting caught up in the trappings of attention and fame.But The Sun revealed he has found time for romance with Dutch model Laura Celia Valk, 25.Yesterday he flew back to Madrid ahead of a huge parade in the city to mark the club’s 15th European Cup win.That means he will not be available for England’s friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina at St James Park, Newcastle, tonight.But he will join team-mates in time for our final friendly before the Euros against Iceland at Wembley on Friday night.An England source told The Sun: “He’ll probably join in light training with the squad on Wednesday or Thursday but Gareth Southgate will want him to take a well-earned break.“He might be on the substitutes’ bench against Iceland but is unlikely to get any game time.”Supporter Paul Taylor, a 46-year-old building firm director from Birmingham, said: “We have our best chance in my lifetime with this squad and Jude is our stand-out player. He needs to take a break before the Euros.”And events organiser Jemma Swift, 39, from West London said: “We have our best chance of finally winning a trophy.“If he stays fit and fired up it’ll be an incredible summer!”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe England source added: “I’m sure Jude will be raring to go once the Euros kick off and will be fired up when the time comes.“He has tasted success and now he will be wanting more in an England shirt.”Bellingham has found romance with Dutch model Laura Celia ValkCredit: Instagram/lauraceliavBaby Jude with mother DeniseCredit: Twitter More

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      Miss Universe, glam rapper and an ex army recruit… meet Real Madrid & Dortmund WAGs ahead of Champions League final

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      AS the world tunes in to watch Dortmund take on Real Madrid at Wembley, eyes will also be on the glamorous spectators cheering on the players. The wives and girlfriends of the two Champions League teams will be keenly watching the match, hoping their significant others will lift the trophy.The wives and girlfriends of the Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund players will be cheering on their menCredit: Instagram/lauraceliavStunning Israeli model Mishel Gerzig, who is dating Real Madrid goalie Thibaut Courtois, served in the IDFCredit: Capture Media AgencyAfter meeting on Instagram, the pair married in June of last yearCredit: Instagram / @mishelgerzigFrom a Miss Universe and a journalist to a dressage rider and rapper, they have proved that they are the ultimate combination of beauty and brains. Here, we look at the WAGs of Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, who are set to battle it out for the title on Saturday.Real MadridMishel Gerzig The stunning Israeli model captured the heart of former Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after meeting through Instagram in 2021. READ MORE FEATURESThe pair enjoyed a whirlwind romance before tying the knot in June 2023. She’s the proud stepmother to Courtois’ two children from a previous relationship, lovingly describing them as “amazing.”Her grid is full of bikini-clad pics on sun-soaked beaches. But she’s more than just a pretty face, the 27-year-old model has even served in the Israel Defense Forces.Mina Bonino Most read in Champions LeagueMina Bonino and Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde have two sons togetherCredit: Social Media – Refer to SourceFederico Valverde has shown that he’s not afraid to defend his wife’s honourCredit: Instagram / @minaboninoThe Argentine journalist boasts both brains and beauty and is happily married to midfielder Fede Valverde, 25.Last April, Mina, 30, released an emotional statement after her husband allegedly punched Villarreal’s Alex Baena following a comment about Mina’s pregnancy scare with her second son.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024The incident occurred after Real Madrid’s 3-2 defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu. Valverde reportedly confronted Baena as he boarded the team bus and punched him in the face.Mina and Valverde have two sons, Benicio, born in 2020, and Bautista, born in 2023. Andrea Martinez Andrea Martinez is a former basketball player and was crowned Miss Universe Spain in 2020Credit: Instagram/andrea.martinezfKepa Arrizabalaga and Andrea Martinez have been married for three yearsCredit: Instagram @kepaarrizabalagaAndrea Martinez is a multi-talented Spanish star. Known for her impressive career as a former basketball player and her work as a model, the 31-year-old is a true powerhouse.In 2020, she was crowned Miss Universe Spain in her homeland. Three years later, she tied the knot with Real Madrid keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga at a stunning wedding in Marbella.Several of Kepa’s former Chelsea teammates attended. Laura Celia ValkLaura Celia Valk is Jude Bellingham’s gorgeous new girlfriendCredit: Gooseberry IntimatesIt has been reported that the model is ‘completely smitten’ with JudeCredit: GettyJude Bellingham and his new girlfriend, Laura Celia Valk, have enjoyed a series of luxurious dates.The 20-year-old midfielder has moved on from his split with Asantewa Chitty last year and is reportedly dating the 25-year-old Dutch model, who seems to be ‘completely smitten’ with him.The stunning blonde boasts nearly 500k followers on Instagram and has modelled for a string of brands, including PrettyLittleThing.Shalimar Heppner Shalimar Heppner is a PR manager whose family owns restaurants across the worldCredit: Instagram/shaliimaarThe married couple often show off their luxurious lifestyle on their social mediaCredit: Instagram/shaliimaarThe wife of Real Madrid star David Alaba, 31, is a multifaceted talent in her own right. At 29 years old, she’s a German model, social media personality, and PR manager known for her glamorous presence both online and offline.Her father, Frank Heppner, is a renowned restaurateur and hotelier with establishments across the globe. The couple’s love story began in 2017, and since then, they have built a beautiful family together, raising two children.Anastasia TamazovaAnastasia Tamazova got married to goalie Andriy Lunin after six years of datingCredit: Instagram/a.nastasicaThe pair broke the internet with their wedding pictures, which showed the goalie in a tracksuitCredit: Instagram/a.nastasicaAfter six years of dating, goalkeeper Andriy Lunin married Anastasia in a tracksuit in 2021.The stopper revealed the news during the low-key civil ceremony in the Spanish capital.The Ukrainian, 25, wrote: “A very special and important day in our life. I love you.”Dressed in all white, Anastasia, also 25, posted: “Husband, love you. The best day of my life.”She is an influencer who shares glimpses of her luxury lifestyle on TikTok and Instagram. Dortmund Lisa Marie StraubeThe stunning WAGs will be there to provide some moral supportCredit: twitter/lisamsatrubeLisa Staube is the rumoured of Mats Hummel after his shocking divorceMats shares a son with his ex-wife, Cathy FisherCredit: GettyThe 23-year-old Instagram model is rumoured to be dating central defender Mats Hummels, 35, after his shock divorce from his ex-wife Cathy Fischer. Cathy, a former playboy model, gained recognition when she was named Germany’s WAG of the Year in 2013. She and Mats tied the knot in June 2015 but sadly parted ways in 2022, with Cathy confirming the separation via Instagram. The former couple share a son Ludwig.Scarlett Gartmann Scarlett married Marco Reus after four years of datingCredit: Instagram/scarlettgartmannThe pair welcomed their first child in 2019Credit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannThe 30-year-old beauty was born in Hagen, Germany, just 13 miles from Dortmund’s Marco Reus’ hometown. They began dating in December 2015, welcomed their first child four years later, and married in the same year. She is passionate about dressage riding and is dedicated to fitness, often sharing workout videos on her Instagram account.LoredanaLoredena is an Albanian rapper with a huge following on social mediaCredit: Instagram/loredanaKarim has been forced to deny claims that his poor form has been due to his relationship with LoredenaCredit: Instagram/loredanaThe Albanian rapper, 28, boasts a massive Instagram following of over 3m fans and is currently in a relationship with Karim Adeyemi. They were first seen together last summer. He found himself defending her when critics blamed his relationship for his poor performance last season. He expressed his frustration, stating: “I understood the scrutiny that comes with being in a public relationship, but I was taken aback by the backlash following a bad game.”It’s not unfair to me because of my performance, but it’s unfair to my girlfriend.”Lisa FüllkrugLisa is a regular face in the stands whenever Niclas is playingCredit: GettyThe couple share a 5-year-old daughter called EmiliaCredit: GettyShe’s the loyal wife of Niclas Füllkrug, 31, who’s always seen cheering on her hubby from the stands. The couple share an adorable 5-year-old daughter, Emilia. Despite being married for years, their bond remains strong and unwavering.The pair often give fans a glimpse into their happy life by uploading loved-up family snaps together. Katja Kuhne Katja Kuhne is nine years older than her beau, Marcel SabitzerCredit: https://www.instagram.com/katjakuehne_/?hl=enKatja first gained fame by starring in Germany’s version of The BachelorCredit: INSTAGRAMAt 38, the Ukrainian model is nine years older than midfielder Marcel Sabitzer.Katja rose to fame starring in the German version of the reality TV show The Bachelor.The pair met in 2017 and Sabitzer popped the question on a romantic getaway to MaldivesThe Austrian dropped to one knee to ask for her hand in marriage. They share a daughter, Mary Lou, who has changed their lives.Priscilla HallerUnlike many other WAGS, Priscilla Haller likes to keep a low profileCredit: Instagram/priscilla.hallerSebastian has credited her for her support during his cancer battleCredit: https://www.instagram.com/priscilla.haller/?hl=enSebastian Haller has revealed that the hardest part of his cancer fight was telling his children about his illness. The 29-year-old Borussia Dortmund – who used to play for West Ham – received his diagnosis of a testicular tumour merely two weeks after joining the club as a replacement for Erling Haaland.READ MORE SUN STORIESThroughout his cancer battle, he praised his wife, Priscilla, for her unwavering support. Although details on her are scant, she is consistently seen by his side and is a dedicated mother to their cherished two children. More

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      Ballon d’Or fave Jude Bellingham will take on Utd reject Jadon Sancho in Champions League final – who will take glory?

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      TWO of England’s most expensive football stars go head to head in tomorrow night’s Champions League final.One is considered to be the best footballer in the world and the other a trouble-maker on the pitch.We take a look at Jude Bellingham, now he’s become one of England’s most expensive starsCredit: GettyAnd we compare him to Jadon Sancho, who he’s set to go up against tomorrow night – and who has a much more complicated reputationCredit: GettyJude Bellingham, 20, more than justified the £88million transfer fee Real Madrid paid for him by scoring 23 goals this season and earning player of the year awards.But that was not the case for Jadon Sancho, who was banished to Manchester United’s youth set- up last autumn despite the club shelling out a whopping £73million for his services.But Jadon, who has been accused of being stroppy and not training properly, now has the opportunity for one of the greatest comeback stories in football history.The 24-year-old winger will step out at Wembley for underdogs Borussia Dortmund, where he is currently on loan and uncertain about where he will be next season.READ MORE BEAUTIFUL GAMEJust three years ago both talents were on the subs’ bench for England in the Euro 2020 final. But manager Gareth Southgate hasn’t selected Jadon for his squad in this summer’s Euros while Bellingham is certain to start in the tournament’s games.Here we look at how the two attackers took such different paths.JUDE BELLINGHAM – THE GOLDEN BOYON the face of it, this son of a policeman from Stourbridge in the West Midlands could not be more different to his big-match rival Jadon Sancho.Most read in FootballJude Bellingham’s Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti described him as “serious, professional and mature”.Jude Bellingham is the favourite to win the coveted Ballon d’Or prize, and has been named the top footballer in Spain this seasonCredit: GettyEven his private life seems to be perfect, as he’s reportedly together with Dutch model Laura Celia ValkCredit: InstagramHe is the favourite to win this year’s coveted Ballon d’Or prize for the best player in Europe, and has already been named the top footballer in Spain this season.Jude Bellingham explains why Real Madrid move was ‘no brainer’ despite holding transfer talks with European giants In his first campaign at Real, who have been crowned champions of Europe a record 14 times, he won the country’s league title and netted  23 times.That’s an incredible total for a 20-year-old midfielder.Even his private life seems to be perfect. Jude is reportedly dating 25-year-old Dutch model Laura Celia Valk, who has become a regular part of his Madrid lifestyle.The stunning blonde boasts nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram and has posed for a string of brands, including PrettyLittleThing and Lipsy. Their relationship follows his split from Instagram model Asantewa Chitty last year.It’s very special for me to play this game, but we have to try to put the emotions to one sideJude BellinghamBellingham owns a £156,000 black BMW SUV and lives in a luxurious gated estate in the upmarket La Finca area of Spain’s capital.The handsome star has been courted by the biggest brands, modelling for swanky fashion label Gucci and becoming a brand ambassador for Adidas’s Predator football boots.Undoubtedly, though, his focus remains on the beautiful game.Bellingham does not court attention, isn’t seen falling out of nightclubs and isn’t one to talk about his private life.Keeping his feet planted firmly on the lush green turf are his parents.Mum Denise, 55, moved with him to Madrid, sometimes acting as his chauffeur and also making his bed.Ex-cop dad Mark, 47, is his agent and has been helping manage his son’s career since he was a youth star at Birmingham.Bellingham displayed a mature approach when talking about tonight’s final, admitting: “It’s very special for me to play this game, but we have to try to put the emotions to one side.” Jude’s parents Denise and Mark are supporting him through this phase of his careerDad Mark has helped him manage his career since he was a youth star for BirminghamBut in a couple of ways, Jude and Jadon have some things in common.They both signed for Borussia Dortmund as teenagers rather than risk ending up on the bench of a moneybags Premier League side.Bellingham, who made his league debut for Birmingham City aged just 16 in 2019, was courted by Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool among others.Instead, the next year, just like Sancho, he joined the top German team.He has also been known to speak his mind rather than simply towing the party line.Bellingham was fined by the German Football Association in 2021 after criticising a referee in a big match between Dortmund and rivals Bayern Munich. He said: “You give a referee, that has match-fixed before, the biggest game in Germany. What do you expect?”Earlier this year, there were allegations that Bellingham had called ex-Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood a “rapist” during a game in the Spanish league.Greenwood’s side Getafe reportedly asked that the apparent dig — which referred to a charge against the striker which prosecutors later dropped — be placed in the referee’s official match report.Following a LaLiga probe into the alleged slur, the accusations were dismissed amid reports it could not be proven what Bellingham had said.JADON SANCHO – COMEBACK KIDIT was something of an understatement when Jadon Sancho said this week it is “crazy” that he will be playing in tomorrow night’s Champions League final.The South Londoner went from one of the game’s most sought-after footballers to exiled from his own squad last September.It’s been pretty tumultuous for Sancho recently, as he was exiled from his own squad not that long agoCredit: GettyStrict Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag said that he hadn’t been picked for the side that lost 3-1 to Arsenal due to his ‘performances in training’Credit: GettyBut it might not be completely fair to just say that he’s ‘lazy’Credit: GettyIt came after strict Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag said publicly that Sancho had not been picked for the side that lost 3-1 to Arsenal due to his “performances in training”.The forward was banished from the first team and made to train alone at the youth academy.He wasn’t even allowed into the canteen and had to eat his meals from a lunchbox.Earlier this year, he left Old ­Trafford on loan to return to former club Borussia Dortmund.The player had hit back at ten Hag’s “performance” accusation on social media, insisting that it was “completely untrue” and claiming he was being made a “scapegoat” by the struggling club.His gaffer demanded an apology but Sancho refused, preferring to spend four months in exile instead.This week, one of Man Utd’s coaching staff, Benni McCarthy, said Sancho, 24, had told him, “I ain’t apologising, because if I do I’m apologising for being lazy, always being late and not giving my best”.Which he didn’t think was true. Off the pitch, Sancho was filmed partying with Nigerian model and dancer Cocainna, 26. And it wasn’t the first time he had been accused of taking his eye off the ball.Sancho has been filmed partying with Nigerian model Cocainna off the pitchCredit: InstagramDuring his first spell at Dortmund, Sancho didn’t show up on time for a training session ahead of a key game, and was also suspended by the club for coming home late from international duty.As a 17-year-old youth player at Manchester City, he refused to return to training, reportedly in a bid to force a move away from the club.Benni thinks that Sancho didn’t give in to ten Hag’s demand because, “from the streets, no one wants to apologise”.The controversial player grew up on a housing estate in Kennington, raised by his hard-working parents.And he emphasised his attitude to the game ahead of tonight’s big match, revealing: “I grew up with cage football and it’s always been with me.“Every time I go on the pitch, I always try and do the skills I do in the cage.”Calling him lazy may be unfair as, when Jadon was still at school, he travelled from South London to ­Watford most days to train with their youth team. He then left home at 14 to be closer to the Hertfordshire club and, a year later, he joined Manchester City.I grew up with cage football and it’s always been with meJadon SanchoThe ambitious youngster wasn’t happy with a £30,000-a-week pay cheque just to play in City’s reserves.He’d been named player of the tournament at the under-17s Euros for England and decided to switch to Dortmund in the hope of getting first team game time.His stunning performances in Germany saw him picked for England, and he came off the bench as a sub in the Euro 2020 final against Italy.But his failure to convert a penalty, with Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka also missing, cost the national team the match.Even though he fell out with Man Utd, he has remained good pals with many England stars, including Jude Bellingham — who he described as a “friend.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhatever tonight’s result, the fact that Sancho is on the biggest stage in club football is a huge turnaround.As he said: “It’s kind of crazy . . .  me being in the Champions League final, especially where I came from. I’m just happy.” More

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      We had 5 hours of hell as Siena had life-saving op…but she’s fixed now. She’s our heart warrior, says Jack Wilshere

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      FORMER Arsenal and England star Jack Wilshere suffered “five hours of hell” as his five-year-old daughter Siena had life-saving cardiac surgery.And he said he had been “100 per cent” sure she would die during the operation to fix a hole in her heart in February.Retired football star Jack Wilshere suffered ‘five hours of hell’ as his five-year-old daughter Siena had life-saving cardiac surgery, pictured with wife Andriani, leftCredit: Eleven Miles.Siena had a rare kind of heart issue which required swift actionCredit: Eleven Miles.Jack, 32, also recalled how he and his wife Andriani spent 45 minutes crying as they were gripped by the fear of losing her.Only a month earlier, doctors had told the father-of-four that Siena — his second-youngest child — had the heart condition.While it can be fatal, it often does not need surgery — but Siena had a rare kind which required swift action.Arsenal ace Jack, who played 34 times for his country, told The Sun how he lost almost a stone due to stress during the month between her diagnosis and the surgery.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSEven worse was the moment when Siena, now six, was given an anaesthetic just before the op began.He said: “When I took Siena down to the surgery I had to drag my wife out of the anaesthetic room and we went to a room upstairs and we were just crying, both of us, for about 45 minutes.Heart murmur“It was five hours from hell, waiting for the phone to ring. It was a blur.”Jack and Andriani have now become ambassadors for the British Heart ­Foundation, and he praises the charity’s work in helping to keep poorly children like their daughter alive.Most read in FootballHe also hopes to alert other parents to the signs of heart problems.In Siena’s case the early symptoms for a congenital heart defect, which means it was present from birth, were not ­obvious.Four Arsenal stars confronted Arsene Wenger after huge stars sold to bitter rivals, reveals Jack Wilshere Jack said: “She was probably a bit more out of breath than her friends when she was on a trampoline, and chest infections hung around for longer.”Medics thought it may be due to asthma, because Andriani had ­it as a child.But it took two years for the real cause to be discovered, during a family holiday in Cyprus, where many of Andriani’s relatives live.Jack said: “My kids got ill — nothing serious — ear infections. The doctor listened to her heart and said, ‘I don’t want to worry you, but I can hear a bit of a murmur in her heart’, and said, ‘You should get it checked when you get back to the UK’.“That doctor saved my daughter’s life.”A cardiologist carried out a series of tests on Siena, and days later, rang Jack, who coaches Arsenal’s under-18s, just as he was about to go away with his squad.He recalled: “At the time I found out I was with my assistant.“I was at the training ground and I virtually broke down in his arms when I told him. All my staff were brilliant.”The hole in Siena’s heart was so serious that surgery was arranged for just a month later.Tests had revealed the gap in the muscle wall between the lower ­chambers of her heart meant it had to work much harder, which is why she was so out of breath.A tearful Andriani, 33, said: “I remember just falling to the floor and crying, I just couldn’t believe the news. It was shocking.”Siena after the life-saving February operationCredit: BBC SportOnly 40 per cent of people born with a heart defect need heart surgery.Often the issues are spotted while the child is in the womb.But the worst cases carry the chance of sudden death, and it is necessary to carry out the operations while patients are still young.Siena had a rare condition in which, Jack said, her veins had rerouted because they were leaking into her lungs.The wait for the day when she would be “fixed” was almost impossible for the doting dad to bear.And there was also the fear of his daughter undergoing a precarious operation.He said: “I remember the date she got diagnosed — the 27th of January — and she eventually had the surgery on the 27th of February, and that whole month I lost six kilos.Bag of nerves“I can’t even remember it, it was so stressful, because obviously there were risks involved in the surgery.”There was a one per cent chance she wouldn’t wake up.”His wife was equally anxious.Andriani said: “The night before, we were a bag of nerves. I remember having this feeling in the pit of my stomach.”A team of medics had to close the defect in Siena’s heart, which could have caused sudden death.She had surgery on Monday and we were back home on Friday. She was laughing, she’s really bubbly, she loves lifeJack WilshireAfter crying with his wife, Jack went for a coffee with his parents and took a walk around the block.Thankfully, they got the message that Siena had pulled through.Andriani recalled: “When we went down to the intensive care unit, it was all such a blur.“I heard Siena cry and it was then that I knew she was going to be OK.”Jack is in awe of the way his brave daughter had dealt with the terrible ordeal.He said: “I have been through surgery. I had a lot of injuries as a player, and it took me ages to recover.“She had the surgery on the Monday and we were back at home on the Friday and she was laughing.“She’s really bubbly, she loves life. It’s great to have her fixed.”And he added: “We call her our heart warrior. The bravery and strength she’s shown has been incredible.”Three months on, it seems that Siena is making a good recovery.Jack said: “The surgery has made all the difference and she has so much energy now.”Up against itThe breathlessness and coughing fits have relented.The couple are far from alone, because every day 13 babies in Britain are diagnosed with congenital heart disease.It was the British Heart Foundation which helped Jack and Andriani to understand what they were up against.Andriani said: “We didn’t know anything about congenital heart conditions and never thought our daughter would ever require open- heart surgery.“Turning to the BHF made us feel less alone and gave us the answers and support we needed.”The charity has been funding research into heart conditions for more than 60 years and put £99million into the field during 2022-2023.Wilshere and partner Andriani have become ambassadors for the British Heart FoundationCredit: BBC SportProud dad Jack says: ‘We call her our heart warrior’Credit: Eleven Miles.Jack said: “We’re supporting the British Heart Foundation because without life-saving research keeping children’s hearts beating, we might not have Siena here with us today.”It is not the first time the star has faced a health crisis with one of his children.His eldest son, Archie, 12, from his relationship with Lauren Neal, often had to be rushed to hospital in the middle of the night, suffering from seizures.Under controlJack, who also has daughter ­Delilah, ten, with Lauren and a four-year-old son, Jack Junior with Andriani, said in 2019: “My wife and I would sit up most nights because most of the seizures were happening at night.”Fortunately, doctors got the ­condition under control.Now Jack’s aim as a British Heart Foundation ambassador is to raise awareness of the charity’s important work and to encourage people to have any problems or concerns properly assessed.Many adults don’t even know they have a hole in the heart.Jack said: “There are people ­suffering cardiac arrests who have gone undiagnosed.”And he added: “You know your child better than anyone. If you think something isn’t quite right, don’t take no for an answer.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It is the most common defect you can be born with.”
      To donate £5 please text FIVE to 70507 and help British Heart Foundation fund more life-saving research.
      Jack played 34 times for EnglandCredit: Getty More

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      Forget Beckham, here’s proof that Gareth Southgate has always been the ultimate fashion icon

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      IF there is one thing footie boss Gareth Southgate does well besides managing the England team, it is being a dapper gaffer.He caused waistcoat sales to soar as he led the Three Lions to the World Cup semis in Russia in 2018, then sported a sharp suit and tie for Euro 2020 when England made the final at Wembley.Gareth Southgate is a real fashion iconCredit: PABut the unlikely style icon has since opted for more relaxed polo shirts and cardies, “to put players at ease”.Gareth, 53, told GQ mag: “When you’re working with young lads, you don’t want to be too stiff in what you’re doing or wearing.”Deputy Fashion Editor Abby McHale takes a look at Gareth’s gear over the years as player then manager . . . 1995Clean-shaven 25-year-old Gareth holds a Union Flag in full Nineties clobberCredit: GettyCELEBRATING in his playing days with a Union Jack flag after his first England call-up in 1995, the then clean-shaven 25-year-old Gareth is in full Nineties clobber.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Aston Villa star was on trend for the time with a Calvin Klein jumper tucked into jeans, worn with a belt.With the average age of today’s England squad about the age he was here, the lads would be curious to check out the cut of his jib.1996In 1996 Southgate rocked this white sweatshirt by Japanese sportswear brand MizunoCredit: GettyTO be fair, there’s no points for fashion flair at the training ground – and Gareth looks more on the ball with his footie than his appearance.Back in the day, the Villa hotshot might just have got away with that white sweatshirt by Japanese sportswear brand Mizuno.Most read in FootballBut he teamed it with three-quarter-length tracksuit bottoms with natty side zips.Maybe best we don’t get too good a look at them here.Inside Gareth Southgate’s love life including secret Tesco car park meetings2006New Middlesbrough manager Gareth is bossing things in his roomy suitCredit: PA:Press AssociationSTARTING his managerial career at Middlesborough, after seeing out his playing career there, Gareth is working hard to look the part.But whatever his skills as an aspiring leader of men, at age 35 he is not bossing things sartorially.He is hardly playing a blinder with the roomy suit, stripey tie and checked blue shirt, although the whistle and flute do sort of match his hair.Time to raise his game.2014While managing the England U-21s Southgate wore an all-blue get-up with brown beltCredit: Getty Images – GettyNOW managing the England Under-21s, and into his forties, our man has a sharper, short haircut and is finally getting somewhere style-wise.The all-blue get-up, with brown belt, is nothing too offensive yet not the most trendy.He was clearly expecting a spot of rain, but the duffle coat on his arm does stray into “dad on a day out with the kids” territory.2018Southgate changed up his style for the 2018 World Cup and boosted sales of waistcoatsCredit: AFP or licensorsGRACING the big stage at the World Cup with a newly suave vibe, this is a total transformation.Our boys suffered semi-final heartbreak in a defeat to Croatia but it took nothing away from the gaffer’s suit.His Marks & Spencer three-piece catapulted him into the hall of football fashion fame.Waistcoat sales and online memes went wild, as brands copied the look.Some hailed it as the male corset, framing a fella’s body.2021A sharp Gareth at the last EurosCredit: GettyTHREE years on from that wondrous waistcoat and Gareth still looks sharp.But he’s done away with the three-piece suit, to keep it simple and not draw too much attention to himself – maybe a lesson learned?The navy suit and pocket square are jazzed up by a polka-dot tie, which was dubbed lucky by some until we lost in the delayed Euros final to Italy.Quite the sophisticate on the side-line is our Gareth.2022 The England coach debuted a knitted polo back in 2022 for the World CupCredit: GettyWHILE Southgate has said this year he is all about thin knits, it seems he has already been wearing the look for two years.Debuting a knitted polo back in 2022 for the World Cup, the £39.50 Merino wool blend zip neck was once again an instant hit with fans.And it seems the 2018 waistcoats may never see the light of day again after he told BBC Radio 4 that he hasn’t worn one sinc2024Gareth wore this posh cream cardy for GQ magTHIS year as England boss Gareth might be trying to fly under the radar with his outfits, but it seems to be having the opposite effect.READ MORE SUN STORIESPosing for GQ mag in a posh cream cashmere cardy, the 53-year-old looks more dapper than ever.Showing cardigans don’t just have to be for the older generation, let’s see if his new laid-back attitude for a younger England squad stands us in good stead for the Euros next month. More

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      Chelsea ace Raheem Sterling handing out tuition-fees to help more Black students get into university

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      FOOTIE ace Raheem Sterling is helping more Black, African, and Caribbean heritage students go to university.It will be the second year of the scholarship programme from the foundation named after him.Raheem Sterling is continuing his efforts to get more Black students into top universitiesCredit: GettyHe says that many students are put off applying due to the potential for financial strain on their familyCredit: The Raheem Sterling FoundationHis initiative comes as research found that from 2021-22 fewer than five per cent of UK students starting undergraduate degrees at Russell Group universities were black.The Chelsea and England player, 29, will give a financial boon to 14 successful applicants to get them through higher education without worrying about having enough cash.Raheem told The Sun: “You only have to look at the data to see that very few capable and talented students from minority backgrounds are applying for university.“A lot of that hesitation stems from the anxiety that the financial strain can place on not only the student but their family.READ MORE ON RAHEEM STERLING“There are plenty of young people from challenging backgrounds, from minority communities, that have the talent to really make a difference in this world, but they are hit by obstacle after obstacle.“I wanted the Foundation to take away some of that worry and allow young people to focus on maximising that talent, whether that be at university or other.”The grants are for students attending King’s College London and the University of Manchester.Potential students can only apply for the grants if they have accepted an offer to study at one of the universities.Most read in FootballIt covers tuition fees, accommodation expenses and other essential educational costs, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than affording to live.Research by the Department of Education found that worries about living costs and day-to-day finances are one of the top concerns of students.Inside England’s stunning five-star Euro 2024 base with robot waiters that will cost £800,000One previous grant recipient in London said: “It has helped me massively by taking away my financial burdens. “Having the financial means for transport, clothes, food and other expenses is costly, especially in London.“I had more time to focus on my studies, very useful in busy exam periods.”A law student at Manchester who was given the funding last year said: “The grant has given me the gift of time, allowing me to work on my professional development and craft a successful application to Rare Foundations: Law, a highly competitive programme for students interested in commercial law.”They also told how the foundation provided networking opportunities and specialist CV workshops.Another recipient told how it has “given me peace of mind” allowing them to focus on their university life.The scheme also provides three-years of mentorship for each of the beneficiaries, something Raheem credits with turning his life around.He said: “I’ve loved hearing from our first-year scholars and how they have benefitted not only from the financial support but the mentorship programme too.“To me, this is just as valuable as the education.“Mentorship played a huge role in me reaching the top levels of professional football, and I want other young ones to benefit from the guidance and support that a mentor can offer them.“We really want to build upon this scholarship programme. “This year we have made 14 places available across King’s College London and University of Manchester and I’m hoping, moving forward, that we can positively impact more lives in minority and underserved communities.”The Raheem Sterling Foundation is focused on helping improve social mobility, education, and employment opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.READ MORE SUN STORIESOther initiatives the charity supports include the #BoyFromBrent project, which has put amnesty knife bins across London’s Brent borough, and a broadcast academy linked to talkSPORT and News UK.
      The deadline to apply for the grants is May 30 and can be applied for on the websites of King’s College London and The University of Manchester. More

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      Inside Phil Foden’s incredible rise to fame from trophies to money off pitch – and new nickname given to him by mates

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      ENGLAND sensation Phil Foden has been dubbed “Fodenballs” by his mates — for following in the footsteps of David “Goldenballs” Beckham.Like Becks, the attacking midfielder is netting trophies on the pitch and millions of pounds off it.Man City ace Phil Foden has been dubbed the David Beckham of his generation – as friends call him ‘Fodenballs’Credit: GettyPhil is currently expecting his third child with sweetheart Rebecca CookeCredit: Sophie Eleanor Photography / Go PR & EventsManchester City ace Foden is set to star in tomorrow’s FA Cup final against rivals Manchester United.The showdown comes on the back of another incredible season in which he won his sixth Premier League title and scored a stunning 24 goals in all competitions.He was named both Premier League player of the year and the Footballer Writers’ player of the year. And on Tuesday Gareth Southgate named the 23-year-old in his provisional 33-man squad for next month’s Euro 2024 tournament in Germany.READ MORE ON MANCHESTER CITYBut humble Foden is proving just as savvy when it comes to doing deals. Latest publicly available accounts from his companies show his off-pitch earnings shot up by almost £10million.His wealth has increased by £4.8million in a year after setting up PWF Management Ltd to handle his image rights and sponsorship deals.That is the equivalent of £400,000 a month.Most read in FootballFoden and mum Claire Rowlands are listed as directors of the “sports activities” firm.He has also amassed £4.4million in a second firm, Rondog Sports Ltd — named after his nickname of “Ronnie”, given to him by his gran to differentiate him from his dad, who is also called Phil.Man Utd & Man City Premier League combined XIThe Man City ace with mum Clare and dad Phil SnrFoden has deals with Nike, Hugo Boss and jewellery firm Cernucci on top of his £200,000-a-week City wages.Top players also earn from the sale of merchandise including shirts that bear their name. Shrewd Foden also set up PF Property Holdings in 2022.Foden, expecting a third child with sweetheart Rebecca Cooke, 24, has splashed out £2.8million on a home in the footballer enclave of Prestbury for parents Phil Snr and Clare.He then paid £3million for the five-bedroom mansion where he lives with Rebecca, five-year-old son Ronnie and daughter True, one. It is just a stone’s throw from where United’s Wayne Rooney used to live.Despite it all, Foden still has some way to go to catch up Goldenballs Beckham who, according to the recent Sunday Times Rich List, is now worth £455million with wife Victoria. Also, unlike Becks, Foden is yet to amass a huge garage of supercars, having only passed his driving test in December while at the wheel of a VW ID3.However, he does have a £150,000 Mercedes G Wagon — decked out with sky blue seats — and a £100,000 Mercedes Vito people carrier.Despite his millions, Foden remains a regular visitor to the working class area of Edgeley, Stockport, where he grew up and learned his skills while kicking a ball against a wall.He is a loyal customer of Scissor Trim where he pays £20 for a skin fade, grabs Indian takeaways from Bombay Castle and often pops into Fresh Clothing.Fans pay tribute to Phil back home in StockportCredit: Matthew Pover LimitedAnd he and Rebecca shunned glitzy venues in Manchester to hold a baby shower for their third child at League One Stockport County’s function room.The ace is also a close pal of Stockport-based boxer Niall Brown and loves nothing more than going fishing with pals. He famously missed City’s 2018 title celebrations to go fishing with his dad.He also loves the freedom of riding quad bikes with his childhood mates.A source said: “Phil’s a legend to City fans on the pitch, and a legend to his family and friends off it thanks to his down-to-earth nature.“He can afford the finest things in the world, but loves nothing more than going back to where he grew up, getting a hair cut, seeing his mates and having a kickabout with some of the kids that idolise him.”It’s good to play with [kids in Stockport] and see a smile on their face. I just want to be a good role model for themPhil FodenPhil said previously: “I’ve still got family around Stockport, so I go and visit sometimes, and kids are just starstruck to see me.“It’s quite strange because I was one of those kids and was just the same as them.“They look up to you, so it’s just to give something back because I used to play there growing up. “It’s good to play with them and see a smile on their face. I just want to be a good role model for them.”If City win the FA Cup tomorrow, Foden will bag his 18th trophy of his career since making his City debut in November 2017.In 2018 he became the youngest recipient of a Premier League winner’s medal.Since then he has won five more Premier League titles, four League Cups, two FA Cups, two Community Shields, a Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup.He also won the U-17 World Cup with England, prompting City boss Pep Guardiola to describe the then 17-year-old as “the most talented player” he had ever seen.United legend Ryan Giggs, who retired aged 40, is the most decorated English footballer of all time winning 34 trophies including 13 league titles.We take a look at Phil Foden’s record compared to David BeckhamLEEDS FANS’ HOLS DASHTWO Leeds United fans are ditching their family holiday in the Med to go to their team’s Wembley play-off final — before flying back.Liam Cooper and Dean Fairbrother will leave their wives in their Ibiza hotel late tomorrow night to catch the 12.50am plane to London.Leeds United fans Liam Cooper and Dean Fairbrother will briefly ditch their family holiday to catch the game’s match on SundayCredit: Liam Cooper / SWNSA look at the duo’s mad dash to see the match at the weekendThey will see Sunday’s 3pm game with Southampton which may return Leeds to the Premier League.READ MORE SUN STORIESFood inspector Liam, 43, from Leeds, and, Dean, 59, a finance adviser in Devon, will fly back to continue their £5,500 hols.Dean said: “Normal people don’t understand why you do these things.” More

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      Ultimate footie sex survey reveals which fans are Premier League’s WORST lovers & who is most likely to have an affair

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      WITH the football season ending on a thrilling note over the weekend, devoted fans will now have more time to score in the bedroom.But which sets of supporters have romped away with it in our exclusive sex survey – and who has scored an embarrassing own goal? How do fans of your football team score in the bedroom?Credit: GettyGemma Keough and husband Stephen’s love life is inspired by their love of Manchester UnitedCredit: SuppliedOur poll has delved into the sex lives of fans from every Premier League club – and came up with some startling results.With the help of OnePoll, we surveyed over 1,800 sexually active supporters across the clubs – 960 men, 875 women and 12 who identified as non-binary or other identity.We found that Wolves fans were top of the league for sex – with 33 per cent romping on a daily basis, followed by Everton (30 per cent) and Newcastle (25 per cent). Brentford fans were bottom of the table, sadly, with none of the respondents saying they had daily sex.Read More FeaturesFulham fans claimed to last the longest, with more than a third (36 per cent) boasting they averaged longer than half an hour.But that’s not the case for all of their fans. For some it’s a ‘they think it’s all over… it is now’ scenario, as more than a third (36 per cent) of Fulham supporters admit being the league’s worst lovers – lasting less than five minutes. They are followed by fans of Brighton and Hove Albion (23 per cent) placing second, and Burnley and Man Utd supporters (19 per cent) tying for third.Incredibly, many fans admit to taking their footie obsession into the bedroom, with 29 per cent of Wolves and West Ham fans saying they ‘always’ think about football during sex and a further 71 per cent saying they ‘occasionally’ did.Most read in FootballBut if you’re after a partner who keeps their mind on the job, opt for a fan of Sheffield United or Man Utd – 83 per cent and 80 per cent, respectively, say they NEVER think about the beautiful game in the bedroom.Randy Newcastle fans are top of the league as most likely to wear football kit for sex, while 66 per cent of Everton and 41 per cent of Aston Villa fans would rather see their team win than get it on with their partner.Here we reveal the full-time results of our very own league.Dear Deidre: Understanding why your man’s gone off sex ‘Win or lose, we head to the bedroom’Gemma and Stephen appear to be typical United fans between the sheetsCredit: Olivia WestMUM OF THREE Gemma Keough, 33,  and husband Stephen, 33, are die-hard Manchester United followers.The couple, from Chadderton, Manchester, say the survey results are spot on, claiming they regularly make love for longer than 30 minutes.Gemma says: “Stephen and I met at a friend’s party in June 2006 and we bonded over a love of Manchester United.Stephen told me he couldn’t date anyone who didn’t support his beloved Man U and, frankly, I was the same.There are times I’ll wear a football jersey to bed and it definitely gets us going.Win or lose – we celebrate or commiserate in the bedroomIn the bedroom, the football survey results fit us perfectly.We’re not like Fulham fans who finish in five minutes.We like to last as long as possible. We, like our team, have staying power.Stephen is a big fan of doggy style in the bedroom, just like most fans, apparently!
      When asked in our survey, ‘What’s the most unusual place you’ve had sex’, several answered they had romped in a graveyard, on the beach and in the cinema.
      Other had got steamy in the library, behind a police station, in a medieval monastery and in the staff toilets at Dominos Pizza. One even claimed they had sex in an old tree.

      The survey found more than three quarters of Man U supporters don’t think about footy when making love.We agree with that, although on occasion it can get us in the mood.Win or lose – we celebrate or commiserate in the bedroom.”’I wear Brighton shirt during sex’PARTY entertainer Jamie Bannerman, 43, is a Brighton and Hove Albion superfan and has supported the team since he was six years old.Jamie from Chessington, South West London, admits if the Seagulls win, bedroom fun is definitely on.Jamie Bannerman says if Brighton win, his best bedroom moves come outCredit: SuppliedHe says: “I’ve been a fan of Brighton and Hove Albion for 36 years and my love for the team is the longest relationship I have ever had. Home or away, I am there.The only reason I don’t have a season ticket now is the cost of living. I’m fascinated by the survey results and I can say I am definitely not in the Brighton fans who make love less than once a month.For me, it’s at  least a couple of times a week and, if the team scores, my best bedroom moves come out. The best sex positionsThe most searched sex positions…
      It’s more regular if the teams are on a winning streak. It definitely puts you in a more amorous mood because victory gets the endorphins rushing and helps my love-making.If the team loses, bedroom antics are not on the agenda. I have to admit I am in a bad mood for the next couple of days and I’d expect nothing less of a die hard fan.I wear an old Albion T-shirt to bed and it is essential bedroom wear. I reckon it makes me last longer between the sheets so I won’t give it up.My Mrs is a Palace supporter so if our teams are playing each other one of us is up for it and one of us isn’t.On occasion, I am one of the Seagulls fans who thinks about footie during sexI know she gets sick of seeing my team T-shirt in the bedroom and reckons it puts her in a bad mood, but team loyalty is important.It can be a footie war in our house when we’re competing against each other. It keeps us both on our toes.On occasion, I am one of the 58 per cent of Seagulls fans who sometimes think about footie during sex.If the team wins, of course I will – I feel spurred on thinking about it.I love my team and I reckon many fans’ love life is affected by their team’s performance!”’If we lose, it’s lights out’JENNIE Rees, 45, has been a Manchester United fan since she was nine and admits she won’t sleep with her fella if her team loses.Jennie, from Milton Keynes , Bucks, says a loss puts her in a shocking mood and she’d rather think about what the team did wrong.Jennie Rees thinks about Man United matches while getting it onCredit: SuppliedJennie says: “Man Utd winning or losing does rule my love life. I have followed the team for 36 years and their losses hit hard. If they don’t score it’s lights off and roll over to think about what the team did wrong.On the flip side,  my team helped me find the love of my life.I met my man, IT director Dan, 48, on a dating app 11 years ago and he’s a super Man U fan as well.When we first spoke, and Dan found out I could match him fact for fact about United, he said I was the one for him. We hadn’t even been on a date by then. A love of football has kept us together since and also means our libidos are in tune because we support the same team.Me and my fella go over play by play, so of course it’s on my mind when we get up to mischiefWe may make up the minority but me and my fella go over play by play, so of course it’s on my mind when we get up to mischief.I do think the statistic that Man U followers last longer than 30 minutes every time is hilarious.I don’t reckon anyone lasts that long on a regular basis!Dedicated fans like me and Dan enjoy a romp and then have enormous fun and more lengthy discussions talking about upcoming games.A true fan like me would rather see Man U win than make love  – that’s dedication for you.READ MORE SUN STORIESDan’s the same and it’s why we are so well connected – in and out of the bedroom.Loving the same team and thinking the same about football keeps passion in the relationship.” More