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    Karim Benzema’s amazing car collection is worth £6m, including £2.5million Bugatti Chiron and £1.5million Veyron

    HE’S a real petrol head…As one of the world’s leading forwards, Karim Benzema has made a packet out of the game.
    Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has an incredible car collectionCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    On Instagram Benzema happily shows off his famous cars
    So is it any wonder that he houses these sweet rides in his garage.
    The Real Madrid star, who now has his sights set on Liverpool in the Champions League final, drives a car collection worth an estimated £6million.
    Last year he added a £2.5 Bugatti Chiron to his fleet, and he also has a very rare Bugatti Veyron worth £1.5million, as well as a Ferrari 458 Spider and many more cool cars.
    Feast your mince pieces on the 34-year-old French striker’s enviable motors.
    The new addition…
    Benzema showed off his most recent cool whip – a £2.5million Bugatti Chiron – on Instagram.
    The hypercar absolutely trounces the already brilliant Veyron in terms of performance.
    It’s top speed is limited to 261 mph, while it’s capable of reaching 0-62 mph in just under 2.5 seconds and 186 mph in 13.6 seconds.
    It’s not just a hypercar, it’s a hyper hyper car.

    Suits you, sir! Benzema shows off his new £2.5m Bugatti Chiron
    His boy racer…
    In 2017, Karim Benzema showed off his limited edition Mercedes Benz-SLRCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    The Mercedes Benz-SLR goes from 0-60mph in only 3.5 secondsCredit: Handout
    Benzema’s Mercedes Benz-SLR sits pride and place in his garage, and so it should.
    Worth around £750k, it’s the special Stirling Moss edition version which can go from 0-60mph in just 3.5 seconds.
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    Karim showed off the motor in 2017 on his social media, shortly after crashing his Audi RS6.
    The show pony…
    Footballers like Karim Benzema love FerrariCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    The Ferrari 458 Spider costs around £200,000Credit: Alamy
    Footballers love Ferrari and Benzema is no different.
    He’s been seen regularly darting around the streets of Madrid in a class Ferrari 458 Spider, which has a value of around £200k.
    Other Ferrari 458 Spider drivers include Mesut Ozil, Frank Lampard and Theo Walcott.
    The company cars…
    As part of Real Madrid’s sponsorship deal with Audi, Karim Benzema can get his hands on any of their cars he wantsCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Benzema has been spotted in Audi’s RS6 Avant C7, which is worth £90,000Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    A keen Audi driver, Karim Benzema also owns a Q5Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Corporate sponsorship is a wonderful thing for a footballer.
    Especially if you play for Real Madrid and Audi want a piece of you.
    Thanks to their marketing geniuses, Benzema has been seen in two of their cars – their RS6 Avant C7 model worth around £90k.
    As well as their standard SUV, the Q5, that retails for a modest £40k.
    A true gentleman’s car…Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    A Rolls Royce Wraith worth £250,000 sits pride and place in Karim Benzema’s garage
    Karim Benzema isn’t afraid of parking his backside on top of his Rolls RoyceCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    After all, you wouldn’t be a real millionaire without one, right?
    Benzema has the Wraith model, estimated at £250k, sitting pride of place in his Madrid mansion.
    He’s posted moody shots on social media of the beauty, which he hardly seems to drive.
    But he has parked his backside firmly on the car’s bonnet, which is surely sacrilegious.The statement car…
    The Lamborghini Gallardo is a firm favourite with footballers, including Karim BenzemaCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Able to reach a top speed of 202mph, Karim Benzema loves cruising around in his LamborghiniCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Karim Benzema can’t decide which car to drive to the supermercadoCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Popping down to the shops in a red Lamborghini will get you noticed.
    And if it’s a super-speedy Gallardo model, you’ll be sure that Benzema is in and out of the supermercado in minutes.
    Wayne Rooney once had one, as did Robinho when he was at Manchester City.
    It can reach a top speed of 202mph and is Italian craftmanship at its finest.And the Sunday car…
    The Mercedes-AMG Classe G63 is worth around £140,000Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Karim Benzema added the G-Wagen to his car collection in 2017Credit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Well, if your Sunday car is worth £140k!
    Benzema rides a very well looked-after Mercedes-AMG Classe G63 on his downtime.
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    Often nicknamed the G-Wagen, it’s a comfortable ride that’s been described as one of the best SUVs in the world by motor experts.
    It certainly tickles Karim’s fancy, who added it to his car collection in 2017.Another Bugatti…
    Only 450 Bugatti Veyron cars were made by the French car manufacturerCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Karim Benzema’s astonishing Bugatti Veyron is worth around £1.5 millionCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Living life in the fast lane, Karim Benzema’s Bugatti Veyron is fastCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Benzema’s Bugatti Veyron can reach a top speed of 267.86mphCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    Big-spender Karim Benzema drives a car collection worth around £6millionCredit: Instagram, @karimbenzema
    What will Benzema drive next?
    His first Bugatti purchase was the ridiculously super Bugatti Veyron.
    Worth £1.5 million, and one of those cars that’s a collectors’ item that grows in price, Benzema clearly loves the stylish supercar.
    It’s the fastest roadworthy car in existence, able to hit a top speed of 267.86mph. Only 450 were ever made.
    Karim Benzema shows off his goal scoring skills in Real Madrid training More

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    Inside Andy Carroll and Billi Mucklow’s incredible £5m Essex lovenest

    ANDY Carroll and TOWIE star Billi Mucklow own an incredible Essex lovenest.The pair are due to tie the knot in two weeks time, but yesterday it was revealed that the Newcastle striker passed out in bed next to blonde bombshell Taylor Jane Wilkey after flying to Dubai to gatecrash his fiancée’s hen party.
    Inside Andy Carroll and Billi Mucklow’s Essex mansion
    The spacious garden features a football pitch and a mini Angel of the North statue
    The footballer started dating Billi in 2013
    They share three children – Arlo, Wolfie and Marvel Mae.
    Andy popped the question during a romantic holiday in Rome in 2014 and they are due to get married in June 2022.
    However Andy was recently pictured asleep in bed with another women – and a representative for Andy and Billi declined to comment.
    The woman in question though – Taylor Jane Wilkey – told The Sun: “It was all just a bit of entirely innocent fun.”
    After their drip to Dubai the couple returned to their amazing home in Essex.
    With nine bedrooms, four bathrooms, lavish decor and plenty of space for the 6ft 4in centre forward not to whack his head on a low beam, it seems the ideal property.
    Not one to forget his roots, the Newcastle-born father of five has even customised his garden with a special mini Angel of the North statue in his garden!
    The home boasts a massive nine bedrooms.
    And in the master bedroom there’s a naughty touch – hanging from the ceiling above the bed is a huge mirror.
    The modern bathroom features his and hers sinks, so the couple can get ready together in a hurry, if needs be.
    A bespoke kitchen is perfect for any wannabe chef, and features two curved islands as well as an impressively sized cooker.
    While the conservatory works as a dining room, and is perfect for entertaining guests.
    Finally, entertainment is always on hand with the incredible home cinema room – making movie night a pleasure.
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    Their massive garden on his one acre of land, and he has built his own football pitch, where he can hone his skills and stay fit.
    But, by far the most impressive thing we’ve seen that defines Carroll’s roots, is the mini Angel of the North statue he has.
    It’s a carbon copy of the real thing, just a little bit smaller, and rests on some astro-turf.
    During his time with West Ham, he must’ve really missed the North East – but at least he had the perfect reminder in his backyard.
    Andy has two children – Emilie Rose and Lucas from a previous relationship.
    The master bedroom features a mirror on the ceiling
    The property boasts nine bedrooms in total
    Carroll has plenty of room in his home for his four children
    The bathroom has his and hers sinks
    The kitchen features two curved islands and a modern cooker
    The decor for Carroll’s abode is lavish
    The home cinema room is perfect for chilling out inCredit: John Thoma Bespoke Estate Agency
    The conservatory doubles as a plush dining room
    There are four bathrooms complete with modern decor
    A balcony overlooks the lush garden with Angel of the North statue
    Andy Carroll and Billi Mucklow got engaged in 2014 and have three kids togetherCredit: Instagram
    Carroll loves the North East so much he had a replica built of the famous Angel of the NorthCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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    I played for West Ham at Anfield but quit football for jazz and now I perform with superstars like Stevie Wonder

    WHEN Gavin Holligan was 18, he had the football world at his feet.He appeared for West Ham at Anfield in a 2-2 draw – coming on for Joe Cole and nearly scoring against Liverpool.
    Gavin Holligan is now an accomplished jazz musician after a career in footballCredit: Instagram / @gavinholligan
    Holligan in action for Wycombe WanderersCredit: Getty
    But by 24, and after a series of niggling injuries, Holligan had lost his appetite for the game.
    Instead, the talented vocalist and keyboardist leaned towards music – having graduated from The BRIT School, where the likes of Adele, Amy Winehouse and Jessie J all honed their craft.
    Today, as a brilliant jazz singer and performer Holligan, now 41, has starred on stage alongside Stevie Wonder, played Coachella music festival with Welsh songstress Duffy, and been on tour with Gloria Gaynor.
    And it seems like the American soul singer’s classic hit ‘I Will Survive’, was the mantra for Holligan as he bravely moved from football to music.
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    “Football was my dream as a youngster, before I began a career in music,” he told SunSport EXCLUSIVELY.
    “I joined Crystal Palace academy, was heartbroken after I was released, then after spells at non-league teams Walton and Hersham and Kingstonian, I went to West Ham when I was just 18.
    “By that time I had finished at The BRIT School, but I focused on football after a chat with my dad who said I could do music after.”
    Following a £150,000 move to the Hammers in 1998, which made Holligan the most expensive non-league signing in history, the striker was thrust into the first team for a Premier League match against Liverpool.
    .css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-1x7hydu{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
    It was a special occasion for the boyhood Reds fan, who came on as a sub with 10 minutes to go and in a West Ham side that featured Rio Ferdinand and Frank Lampard.
    “It was a moment in time I will never forget,” he said.
    “And I could have scored too, but for David James pulling off a great save.”
    However, Holligan failed to convince manager Harry Redknapp of his abilities and was sent to train with the youth team.
    And things took a turn for the worse when Redknapp discovered Holligan had performed at former international sprinter Julian Golding’s wedding.
    “I asked the youth team manager if it was OK, but Harry found out and went spare,” Holligan said.
    “And I think there was a little bit of tension with the management and me from then on, because they were always looking at my commitment level after that.”
    Holligan was released by West Ham, before signing for Lawrie Sanchez at Wycombe and performed admirably.
    But when Tony Adams took over, he was found to be surplus to requirements and sent on his way.
    Holligan’s love for the game began to wane, and after dropping back into non-league with Havant & Waterlooville injuries also took their toll.
    Injuries took their toll on Holligan who was forced to retire at 24Credit: PA
    A skilled keyboardist, Holligan contacted his old pals from The BRIT School and became a touring musicianCredit: Instagram / @gavinholligan
    “I remember pulling up with an injury, and thinking this was the last time I’d ever really play at a competitive level,” he recalled.
    “I knew at that point I couldn’t sustain it, plus the demoralisation of having to keep battling back from injury and feeling a bit of a nuisance because you’re paid to play football was too much.”
    At 24, Holligan was left on football’s scrapheap. But, remembering back to his conversation with his father, he always knew music was something that he could fall back on.
    He reached out to friends from his days at The BRIT School, and started work as a hired gun for various established artists.
    By 2008, talented Holligan managed to secure work on ‘Mercy’ singer Duffy’s US Tour.
    He played several major American chat shows, and performed at the Coachella music festival.
    “It was an amazing time,” he said.
    “We played Coachella, which was an incredible experience, and I also appeared on Jay Leno and David Letterman.
    “Then not long after that I joined Gloria Gaynor’s support band for a series of gigs celebrating the 30-year anniversary of her hit ‘I Will Survive’.
    “I definitely think being a former Premier League footballer gave me some sort of kudos to my peers, but it helped that I was also bad-ass on the keyboard.”
    Then in 2010, Holligan got to work with a true music legend in Stevie Wonder, who was also a major influence.
    “He was one of my heroes, so to be asked to work with him was a massive deal for me,” he said.
    “Obviously, he’s incredibly and insanely talented live. And he’s just got this cosmic energy. It’s like he can see into your soul.”
    Holligan is enjoying his second life. His first was as a professional footballer. Now, for his second chapter, he’s releasing his own music.
    Holligan appeared on keyboards while Duffy performed on the Late Show by David Letterman on US TV
    Now, at the age of 41, Holligan is making his own musicCredit: Instagram / @gavinholligan
    Stevie Wonder poses alongside Holligan and his backing band
    Current single ‘This Hotel Is Closed’ is being heavily played on Jazz FM at the moment, while some live dates are also planned.
    Holligan revealed: “Being involved in music is just so different to the football world.
    “I can get a call tomorrow from a group who has lost a performer before they play Glastonbury, and I won’t need any pre-match prep like if I was called up for an important game at the last minute.
    “But now I am older person, knowing a bit more about life and seeing things differently to when I was a teenager, I am happy where I am.
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    “Perhaps I was born to be a musician rather than a professional footballer.”
    To find out more about Gavin Holligan’s music, see his website. Alternatively, he has a live date at the 606 Club in London you can buy tickets for. More

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    Harry Maguire could have been an accountant but Man Utd star has still made his fortune with his ‘massive head’

    MANCHESTER UNITED star Harry Maguire may have had a difficult campaign, but at least he’s got the support of his new boss.The Red Devils captain, 29, has struggled for form – like may of his team mates to be fair – in what was a dismal campaign for the 20-time league champions.
    Harry Maguire became the most expensive defender in the world after signing for United in 2019 for £85mCredit: Getty – Contributor
    But Maguire, nicknamed slab-head, could have been an accountant, his former teacher revealedCredit: PA:Press Association
    But despite some inconsistent performances, incoming Dutch boss Erik ten Hag has backed the England star to come good.
    “Next season is a different season,” ten Hag revealed in a press conference.
    “He’s done a great job, and he’s a great player.
    “He’s achieved a lot with his contribution to Manchester United so I’m looking forward to working with him.”
    Maguire has enjoyed a remarkable rise. The burly 6ft 4in defender was a revelation at Leicester City and one of the first names on the team sheet for England, but when he was a kid he was a numbers whizz.
    Maguire attended St Mary’s Catholic High School in Chesterfield, where he excelled with his studies.
    “He was a remarkable pupil who always came in and worked very hard,” Sue Cain, deputy headteacher at the school told the Derbyshire Times.
    “He was never in any trouble and he had such a good attitude. He did everything you asked him to do and he never questioned why. He was a popular lad.”
    The brainy centre half ended up scoring high grades in his exams, including in maths which is where Cain believed he had a future.
    “He got A* and A grades in his GCSEs,” she revealed.
    “I think he would have gone on to study business or maths and probably have been an accountant.”
    In the end, the Sheffield-born star chose football, even though he showed promise at cross-country running, rugby and table tennis as a pupil.

    A keen runner as a kid, Harry Maguire, left, shone at school sports dayCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
    Maguire, second row first from the right, was a brain box at schoolCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
    His former PE teacher, Martin McKee said he was destined to become a footballer.
    “He could really dominate a game from central midfield,” he divulged.
    “He had an aura about him. He could dribble around everyone if he wanted to.”
    FAMILY AFFAIR
    Level-headed Maguire might’ve left the school over 10 years ago, but he’s still very much part of their fabric.
    He returns regularly, giving talks to the boys about his experiences and presented his former teachers with a signed shirt.
    It’s the same school his brother Laurence, who plays for Chesterfield, attended. Their sister, Daisy was also taught at St Mary’s.
    Football in the Maguire clan is a family trait. Another brother Joe, 26, currently plays for Tranmere Rovers.
    But it’s Harry who’s earned all the plaudits and he’s had to work hard to get where he is today.
    As a youngster he looked up to the likes of John Terry and Rio Ferdinand, knowing that he had to work hard on his distribution to be taken seriously in the modern game.
    On a trip to the school, Maguire presented a signed shirt to former PE teacher, Martin McKee and Deputy Headteacher, Sue CainCredit: Glenn Ashley Photography
    As a teenager, Maguire starred for boyhood club Sheffield UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    At The Blades, Maguire won their Player of the Season award three years in a rowCredit: PA:Press Association
    HE ACHIEVED HIS DREAM
    He fulfilled a childhood dream by playing for Sheffield United, where he came through their youth system.
    In his first full season, he helped the Blades into the playoffs as they attempted to gain promotion from League One.
    A heartbreaking penalty shootout loss in the final to Huddersfield Town in 2012 dampened his spirits slightly.
    However, Maguire’s contribution was well-received, and he was named both their Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year during a remarkable nine month spell.
    Sporty Maguire launches a shot put during sports practiceCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
    Maguire’s presented with a house awardCredit: SWNS:South West News Service
    Soon, Maguire was playing in the Premier League with Hull CityCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Maguire scored his first Premier League goal against MiddlesbroughCredit: Reuters
    For the next two years, he was crowned Player of the Year as his star continued to grow.
    PREMIER LEAGUE REGULAR
    In 2014, Steve Bruce, a commanding centre half in his day, decided to splash £2.5m on the promising talent.
    That’s where Maguire continued a trend of rising to a tougher challenge.
    In 2016, he made his Premier League debut with Hull City – becoming a regular when Marco Silva took charge.
    Harry Maguire become an England hero at the World CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Fearless defender Maguire helped England reach the semi-finals of the 2018 World CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
    It was a tumultuous season for The Tigers, who in the end were relegated, but for Maguire, personally, it was another landmark.
    Showing his leadership qualities, he captained the East Yorkshire side to victory against Middlesbrough in April 2017 in a 4-2 win.
    He also scored his first Premier League goal – a bullet header – that’s become something of a trademark.
    In 2017, Leicester City secured Maguire’s services for £17m, which had some experts in the game questioning his transfer fee.
    But Maguire instantly became a hero on the pitch with the Foxes. His heart and desire earning him the Players’ Player of the Season, as well as Fans’ Player of the Year in his first season.
    Goals from headers have become Maguire’s trademarkCredit: Reuters
    Leicester City paid £17m for Maguire’s services in 2017Credit: Reuters
    A fearless competitor, Maguire’s a hard grafter on the training pitchCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Maguire modelled his distribution on the likes of John Terry and Rio FerdinandCredit: Getty – Contributor
    His commitment to the cause – Maguire played every minute of the 2017-18 campaign – was adored by his supporters.
    HE’S NOT VERY SHOWBIZ
    Off the pitch, Maguire lives his personal life privately.
    He does have a glamorous Wag in tow, the beautiful Fern Hawkins – a physiotherapy graduate – who rose to fame after she was seen cheering him on in Russia from the stands.
    The pair regularly pose for loved-up selfies on social media, but Maguire is normally one to shun the limelight and glitzy life.
    In 2019, they became parents for the first time – and Maguire shared a snap of his daughter Lillie Saint on Instagram.
    A year later they added Piper Rose to their family.
    Fern Hawkins is Harry Maguire’s stunning wifeCredit: Instagram
    Every inch a Wag, Hawkins shares snaps of her glamorous life on social mediaCredit: Instagram
    Hawkins rose to fame cheering on Maguire from the stands at World Cup 2018Credit: Getty – Contributor
    Despite sharing some snaps on social media, Maguire does like to keep his private life personal
    Maguire got engaged to Hawkins in 2018Credit: Instagram @_fernhawkins
    In 2019 Maguire shared an image of his daughter on social mediaCredit: Instagram @_fernhawkins

    In early May, Maguire and Hawkins finally said their ‘I do’s’ at a low-key Crewe Registry Office ceremony, but plan on having a more romantic ceremony in a chateau in France this summer.
    But don’t be fooled into thinking he’s all glitz and glamour. After all, we’re talking about a man who once reported for England duty with two carrier bags full of his stuff that trended on Twitter. That picture got him a rollicking from his mum.
    “I’ve seen the picture on Twitter with the bags. It was just full of boots and shin pads and dirty stuff which I’ll give the kit man,” he said at the time.
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who joined in celebrations for Guardiola’s team
    “I’ll try and get some better luggage in future. My mum mentioned it. She sent me a text later on saying ‘what’s with the bags?’”
    Should he move to Old Trafford, he can certainly ask Paul Pogba for some luggage advice.
    However, it’s hard to imagine modest ‘slab-head’ being affected by a big-money transfer to start splashing the cash on designer luggage. More

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    I trim Jack Grealish’s hair and give Paul Pogba his iconic hairstyles – so I’m ready for the World Cup as their barber

    WHEN a footballer wants a fresh cut, they call up Ahmed Alsanawi – the barber for the world’s elite stars.The 31-year-old stylist has trimmed the likes of Jack Grealish, Eden Hazard, Kylian Mbappe, and Paul Pogba.
    Ahmed Alsanawi is the go-to barber for football’s elite, including Jack Grealish
    This hairstyle for Grealish went viral on social media
    Operating remotely or from his A Star Barbers Shop in Chessington, near Chelsea’s Cobham training ground, it all started for Ahmed in 2013, when a number of Blues youngsters wanted to freshen up their look.
    Since then, business has boomed for the Iraqi entrepreneur – who flew to the 2018 World Cup in Russia to groom the France national squad, upon pal Pogba’s request, and got a shoutout on a social media video after they won the competition.
    And he even appeared in a Pepsi ad, alongside the French midfielder, Argie legend Lionel Messi, Liverpool ace Mo Salah and England winger Raheem Sterling.
    But it was his latest cut of Grealish – who recently inked a deal to be an ambassador for fashion brand Gucci – that went viral.
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    “He’s iconic because everyone copies his hairstyle,” Alsanawi told SunSport EXCLUSIVELY.
    “Even my son comes to me and says he wants to grow his hair like Jack’s.
    “He’s a positive influence, which is why Gucci signed him up, so it’s a pleasure to style him.”
    Alsanawi got into barbering because he was unhappy with haircuts he was getting from his own stylist.
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    He began learning his craft by cutting his own hair, then his family’s, before getting a job in a barber shop.
    “I was a bit lost and didn’t really know what I wanted to do.
    “I had a diploma in art, so I had an eye for it. But when I was getting dodgy haircuts from barbers, it made me decide to chop my own hair.
    “From there, I started cutting family members, and worked in a shop for a couple of years.
    “My wife and I opened up A Star Barbers in 2013, and it’s about ten minutes from Chelsea’s training ground.
    “Organically, all the youngsters – Reece James, Dominic Solanke, and a few others came through the door at first.

    “Then John Terry hit me up one day and asked me to come to the training ground.
    “I did Chelsea’s stars for three years, cutting Eden Hazard, Diego Costa, and even Jose Mourinho.
    “I actually cut Mourinho’s hair on the day he got sacked! He wanted to go short, so I took all his hair off!”
    Social media had a hand in helping A Star Barbers’ rise. Today, their Instagram account has around 718,000 followers, and it’s been through footballers sharing Alsanawi’s haircuts that even more clients have hit him up.
    Through his A Star Barbers business, Alsanawi has created trends in the football world
    Long-standing client Eden Hazard gets a trim from Alsanawi
    “It was a sort of snowball effect, really,” Alsanawi continued.
    “Footballers began sharing photos on social media of the haircuts I gave them, and it blew up for me.”
    Within five years of launching his own barber shop, Alsanawi was invited to Russia during World Cup 2018 by fashionista Pogba and Real Madrid star Hazard to cut their hair before the semi-final.
    “Paul and Eden called me up before they were playing against each other, so I had to go to both teams’ camps to do their hair,” Alsanawi said.
    “Before that semi-final I must have done around 30 or 40 haircuts the day and night before that match. I was so busy.”
    France eventually went on to win the World Cup – defeating Croatia in the final.
    It gave Alsanawi great satisfaction, as well as a thanks from Pogba for helping him achieve his dream.
    “I was on holiday when France won the final, and them winning it made me feel like I contributed to it.
    “And then Paul gave A Star a dedication in a live video when they were celebrating afterwards, which was just amazing.”
    Alsanawi’s growing company now has its own coffee line, A Star Coffee, they do tattoos with A Star Tattoos , and he is launching his own hair products soon.
    With 2022 being a World Cup year, he is also already prepping for the tournament in Qatar.
    “Nothing’s certain, because they might find another barber, but I think I’m going to Qatar with England, France and Belgium.
    Pal Paul Pogba invited Alsanawi to Russia to cut his hair at the 2018 World Cup
    PSG star Kylian Mbappe has since become a regular client
    Pogba’s hairstyles have become famous because of Alsanawi
    “A couple of players from the Qatar national team have reached out to me too, which would be amazing.
    “I’m from the Middle-East, so that would be a privilege to give them haircuts.”
    But he won’t be passing on any tips to any rivals.
    “When I have a footballer in my seat, we don’t talk about the game,” Alsanawi revealed.
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    “I keep it professional and try and maintain friendships by talking about other things.
    “Because, at the end of the day, I am their barber and my job is to make them look good on the pitch.” More

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    Most explosive footballer feuds as Rooney snipes at Vardy – pitch scraps, infamous golf club attack & comical put-downs

    UNITY is critical to a football team’s success – but Jamie Vardy and Wayne Rooney aren’t the only teammates who have fallen out.Testosterone and egos can combine to create a fatal cocktail that splits a dressing room apart.
    Wayne Rooney and Jamie Vardy played together for EnglandCredit: Rex Features
    Coleen and Wayne Rooney have been in court in a libel case brought by Rebekah VardyCredit: The Mega Agency
    At the Wagatha Christie trial this week Leicester City striker Jamie claimed “Wayne is talking nonsense” about allegedly asking him to calm his wife Rebekah down at the Euro 2016 tournament.
    Wayne, 36, and Jamie, 35, had been part of the England squad at the time and Rebekah sat next to Rooney’s wife Coleen to watch them play.
    While the row between the Vardys and Rooneys has led to a multi-million pound libel trial, far worse has happened between other team mates – including extreme violence.
    Here we look at the most explosive feuds that have blighted the beautiful game.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The 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    John Arne Riise and Craig Bellamy
    In the run up to Liverpool’s big match against Barcelona in the Champions League in 2007, fiery striker Bellamy wound-up defender Riise by calling him “Ginge” and telling him to sing.
    After the Norwegian refused, Bellamy got a golf club and whacked him with it while drunk in what Bellamy later admitted was “bullying behaviour”.
    Riise claimed the attack was so vicious it could have ended his career.
    Riise did not appreciate Bellamy’s golf swing celebrationCredit: Getty/AP
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    He was even more shocked when Bellamy made fun of the assault by mimicking a golf swing after scoring in the key game.
    The Norwegian said: “I thought it was f*****g disrespectful.”
    Mick McCarthy and Roy Keane
    Mick McCarthy sent his skipper Roy Keane home following a World Cup bust-upCredit: Sportsfile
    Manchester United’s former midfield hardman Keane has never been one to mince his words – and telling it like it is did not please his manager when he was on international duty for the Republic of Ireland.
    As captain of the squad at the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan he felt the need to complain publicly about his team’s preparation.
    Gaffer McCarthy confronted Keane in front of the other players and his star player retorted: “You can stick your World Cup up your b******s.”
    The manager sent his captain home, but this wasn’t the first time they’d fallen out as they’d had an argument back in 1992 when McCarthy called Keane a “disgrace” for arriving back late on a team bus.
    Rafael van der Vaart and Zlatan Ibrahimovic
    Van der Vaart and Ibrahimovic together at Dutch side AjaxCredit: AFP – Getty
    Both Swede Ibrahimovic and Dutchman Van der Vaart thought they were the best players at Holland’s legendary side Ajax.
    Van der Vaart said: “He came to the club and believed that he was the best player at Ajax. It was just two egos converging in one place.”
    When Holland faced Sweden in a friendly, Ibrahimovic injured Van der Vaart in a nasty challenge.
    Ibrahimovic later said: “I don’t like you, I don’t like you as a captain. I didn’t injure you on purpose and you know it.
    “If you accuse me again, I’ll break both your legs and this time it’ll be on purpose.”
    Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer
    Bowyer and Dyer had to be pulled apart during a big clashCredit: Getty
    One of the most notorious bust-ups was when Newcastle United teammates Bowyer and Dyer squared up to each other near the end of a game in 2005.
    Opposition players exchanging blows is controversial enough, but those on the same side is a total no-no.
    Reportedly, Bowyer had complained that Dyer wasn’t passing to him and his teammate responded that he wasn’t giving him the ball because he didn’t rate him.
    Both players were sent off and handed bans. 
    Legend has it that then Newcastle manager Graeme Souness offered to take them on in the dressing room afterwards, but they declined.
    El Hadji Diouf and Jamie Carragher
    Former Liverpool teammates Diouf and Carragher can’t let their row restCredit: Getty
    Liverpool’s legendary defender Jamie Carragher and the club’s former striker Diouf have an ongoing war of words.
    Diouf, who joined the Anfield side in 2002, said “the difference between Jamie and me is that I am a world class player and he is a s***.”
    Carragher mocked Diouf by saying: “The other big difference is he’s scored less goals for LFC in the Premier League than me! (Not counting OG’s!!)”
    Diouf only scored three goals in 55 games during his three years on Merseyside.
    Michael Owen and Alan Shearer
    Owen slighted Shearer’s beloved Newcastle UtdCredit: PA:Press Association
    Shearer is passionate about his boyhood team Newcastle United and did not take well to former teammate Owen making disparaging comments about them.
    In his autobiography, the former Liverpool man said Newcastle fans were “deluded” about their club’s stature.
    Owen, who like Shearer was one of England’s top strikers, later said moving to the Geordie side was a “downward step” after Real Madrid and something he regretted.
    Shearer posted a clip of Owen saying he “couldn’t wait to retire for the final six or seven years” of his career followed by the comment “Yes, Michael, we thought that also, whilst on £120K a week.” Ouch.
    Ousmane Dabo and Joey Barton
    Dabo suffered an eye injury when Barton punched him over and overCredit: Chris Neil/PA
    Hothead midfielder Barton was never far from controversy during his career – but the lowest moment was his attack on Manchester City teammate Dabo in 2007 during a training session.
    Witnesses told how he repeatedly punched Dabo while he was on the ground, resulting in an eye injury.
    Barton admitted assault and was given a four month jail sentence suspended for two years.
    Dabo said: “He says he is a man, a bad boy, but he is just a coward.”
    Stefan Effenberg and Lothar Matthaus
    It was no holds barred on the barbs between Effenberg and German legend MatthausCredit: AP/Empics
    When Bayern Munich played Manchester United in the Champions League final in 1999 their two star midfielders couldn’t hide a mutual loathing.
    Effenberg had questioned Matthaus’s courage after he failed to take Germany’s penalty in the 1990 World Cup Final.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}IN THE MONEY .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}£184m lotto winners revealed & husband didn’t even wake up wife to tell her
    Matthaus later retorted that Effenberg had “lost his touch” and thought that Bayern giants should sell him.
    Effenberg, nicknamed The Tiger, responded with a world class put down in his autobiography. A chapter titled ‘What Lothar Matthaus knows about football’ was left blank. More

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    Best players who left Chelsea on a free transfer as Antonio Rudiger heads to Real Madrid, including Lampard and Drogba

    CHELSEA face a free transfer exodus.German international Antonio Rudiger is Real Madrid-bound, after failing to agree a contract with the Blues.
    Antonio Rudiger is heading for the exit door at ChelseaCredit: Getty
    Fellow defender Andreas Christensen is also set for LaLiga – with Barcelona leading the chasing pack for the Denmark star’s signature.
    But the Premier League giants have done this dance before – losing a host of great players on free transfers in the past.
    Here’s the best who have left for nothing over the years.
    Frank Lampard
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Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Read more in 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}CHELSEA NEWS .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Chelsea takeover to be CONFIRMED this week, Azpilicueta to Barca latest
    Chelsea’s all-time top goalscorer, Lampard signed for MLS side New York City in 2014.
    However, rather than wait till January for the US season to start, he was controversially loaned out to Manchester City for match fitness.
    Astonishingly, his first goal for City came against Chelsea – which moved Lampard to tears.
    Didier Drogba
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    Legend Drogba’s last kick in a Chelsea shirt won the West Londoners their first ever Champions League against Bayern Munich with the final penalty in a shootout.
    His next kick, after moving for nothing, was for Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua.
    But in 2014, he returned to Stamford Bridge under Jose Mourinho’s blessing to “make more history”.
    Hilariously, he left again on a free for Montreal Impact after 40 appearances and seven goals.
    Frank Lampard became Chelsea’s highest goalscorer before he was released on a freeCredit: Getty
    Chelsea legend Didier Drogba departed the club twice for freeCredit: Getty
    John Terry
    Loyal servant Terry left Chelsea for Aston Villa in 2017, following 717 appearances for the Blues.
    His final season in football nearly earned his new side promotion from the Championship.
    He later joined the Aston Villa coaching staff, before departing the club in 2021.
    John Terry’s time at Stamford Bridge ended in 2017Credit: Getty

    Ashley Cole
    After winning Premier League titles, FA Cups, a Champions League and Europa League, among other trophies, Cole’s work was done in 2014.
    He had already lost his place in the first team to César Azpilicueta in his final season at the club, so it was no surprise he was on the list of players leaving the club once their contracts were up.
    Embarking on a new adventure, he spent a season at Roma – before a stint at LA Galaxy, and then finishing his career at Derby County.
    Ashley Cole won the Premier League with the Blues before departing for pastures newCredit: Getty
    Claude Makelele
    The France midfielder won two league titles with Chelsea before leaving the club in 2008.
    It appeared he had run his race in the Premier League, but at new club PSG he found a new lease of life.
    He won the Coupe de France in 2010, and was then appointed assistant manager to Carlo Ancelotti from 2011-2013.
    Claude Makelele left the Blues after five seasons at Stamford BridgeCredit: Getty
    Salomon Kalou
    Super-sub Kalou was often the unlikely hero at Chelsea.
    But, wanting regular first team football, he was released in 2012 and soon joined French side Lille.
    In Ligue 1 he was a hit, scoring 34 goals across two full seasons.
    The Ivory Coast star finished his career at Hertha Berlin – where he played 172 games and scored 53 goals.
    Interestingly, he never won anything after leaving our shores.
    Super sub Salomon Kalou moved to Lille for regular first team footballCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    Branislav Ivanovic appeared 377 times for the BluesCredit: PA
    Branislav Ivanovic
    In ten seasons at Chelsea, Ivanovic hardly ever let the club down.
    In 377 appearances, he won it all – Premier League titles, FA Cups, a League Cup, Champions League and Europa League too.
    But, in his final season cracks were beginning to show – and the Blues made the heartbreaking decision to cut the Serbian.
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    A spell at Zenit Saint Petersburg followed, where he won back-to-back league titles and a cup.
    Ivanovic returned to the Premier League with West Brom, before he was released in 2021. More

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    Man Utd wonderkid Louis Jackson, 16, starred in FA Youth Cup win and is being mentored by legend Darren Fletcher

    MANCHESTER UNITED have always had a rich affiliation with Scotland.Think Sir Alex Ferguson, Denis Law, Alan Brazil, Brian McClair, and most recently Scot McTominay who have all left their mark at Old Trafford.
    Louis Jackson is a highly-rated centre back at Man UtdCredit: Getty
    Jackson lifts the FA Youth Cup after starring in the final in front of 70,000 fansCredit: Getty
    And in front of 70,000 fans at the Theatre of Dreams last week, it was Louis Jackson, 16, who stood out in the FA Youth Cup final win over Nottingham Forest.
    The Scotland U17 international showed composure on the ball, as well as a calming presence in the backline.
    An avid United fan growing up, Jackson is set to have a bright future in the game.
    Earlier this season, he became their youngest ever youth player when he played for the Under 23s at the age of 15.
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    He’s got by with a little help from his friends too, in the shape of mentor and United’s technical director Darren Fletcher.
    U17 European Championships
    Jackson is preparing for Scotland’s opening game in the U17 Euros – a tough match with two-time winners Portugal.
    But before he went out to join the squad in Israel, it was former midfielder Fletcher who had a word in the young lad’s ear.
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     “Darren Fletcher has been a big help for me. He’s a really nice guy and he makes a point of always talking to me,” he said.
    “He’s always asking me if there is anything I need or any help he can give me.
    “Just before I left to come out to Israel with Scotland he pulled me aside and had a quick chat and wished me all the best. He said he would be watching us.
    “He had an amazing career with Manchester United and with Scotland. Any advice he can give me is a big help. He’s a man I look up to and he’s a great role model for the younger players like me.”
    Victorious night
    Jackson’s confidence in the Scotland squad will be sky-high after he helped United’s U16 beat Forest in the FA Youth Cup final – with the club recording their first win in the competition since 2011.
    Jackson’s ability on the ball and anticipation stand outCredit: Getty
    Scotland U17 international Jackson will be appeared for his country in the U17 EurosCredit: Kenny Ramsay
    Speaking about the occasion, the defender revealed he was blown away by the record-breaking crowd – an amazing 67,492 cheered the home team on to victory.
    Jackson said: “The Youth Cup win was a magical night. It was massive for the whole of the Manchester United Academy and I can’t thank the fans enough for the support they gave us.
    “It’s hard to put to words how incredible it was. For me, it was the stuff of dreams.
    “To play in front of 70,000 shows just how big the Academy is at the club.”
    Impress the new boss
    Now, Jackson will be hoping to impress new manager Erik ten Hag, who left Ajax’s title celebrations behind to fly Manchester and bed in to his new job.
    Future star Jackson is hoping to impress new manager Erik ten HagCredit: Getty
    The youngsters knows he’s at a club that is prepared to give youth a chance.
    “It’s in the Manchester United DNA for kids to come through here,” he said.
    “I’m a lifelong Manchester United fan. I’ve had a season ticket since I was five years old and walking out to a crowd like that was just incredible. It shows how much the Academy means to the club.
    “I made my debut for the Under 23s when I was 15 last pre-season. These experiences are just so good for your career.
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Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}STAYING PUT .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}I’m a working mum-of-three but I won’t give up my council house – I deserve it
    “The new manager is coming in and he has a reputation for being big on youth, so there is a really good feeling around the place now.
    “It’s important for us to see that he trusted the kids at his previous job because that gives the younger players like us belief.” More