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      Inside Gareth Bale’s multimillionaire lifestyle in Madrid, with £6.5m home, £230,000 Ferrari and golf on his doorstep

      by

      IT’S no surprise that he doesn’t want to leave.
      Gareth Bale, 31, has been frozen out at Real Madrid by boss Zinedine Zidane, who clearly doesn’t see eye-to-eye with the Welsh wizard.

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      Gareth Bale’s home is closer to his favourite golf than to both the Bernabeu and Real Madrid’s training ground

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      Gareth Bale has been frozen out by Zinedine ZidaneCredit: EPA
      Now, Bale is determined to see out the remainder of his two-year deal, worth £60million, after Los Blancos scuppered his dream move.
      And that’s despite not figuring in the club’s past eight games, where he’s been sat on the bench looking thoroughly bored.
      However, all’s not lost in his personal life.
      He lives in a stunning £6.5million home, has a car collection that features a Ferrari, Mercedes, and Audi, as well as a stunning golf course on his doorstep.

      HOME
      Bale lives in the exclusive La Finca neighbourhood, home to Madrid’s wealthiest.
      Boss Zidane is, perhaps unfortunately, a neighbour, team-mates Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema are nearby, while Cristiano Ronaldo used to live there.
      Bale’s home itself was rented by Real Madrid legend Kaka before he moved on to pastures new.

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      Bale rents a £6.5million home in the La Finca neighbourhood Credit: Solar Pix

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      Bale often shares glimpses of the property on social media

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      The property has a swimming pool

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      Originally, Kaka rented Bale’s current home
      And it’s a wonder of modern architecture, created by Joaquin Torres and worth in the region of £6.5million.

      Bale is said to pay £10,000-per-month in rent to stay in the Pozuelo de Alarcón part of La Finca, in this amazing 1,500 square metre property that is built on two-storeys.
      It boasts four bedrooms, an indoor pool, gym, two utility rooms, several terraces and porches, as well as a six-car garage.

      CARS
      Said to earn £600,000-per-week before tax, Bale has plenty of change left over from his rental property.
      And through the years, he has added some of the best cars a footballer can drive.
      Alongside a £165,000 Mercedes SLS AMG, Bale has been seen riding in a £152,000 Bentley Continental GT, a £156,000 Lamborghini Huracan, as well as a £230,000 Ferrari GTC4Lusso.
      With Real Madrid’s players getting a pick of Audi motors thanks to a huge sponsorship deal, the winger also treated himself to a £65,000 Audi Q7 50 TDI last Christmas.

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      Bale’s car collection includes this amazing Mercedes SLS AMG worth £165,000

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      This £156,000 Lamborghini Huracan also belongs to Bale

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      Most recently, Bale treated himself to a new AudiCredit: Darren Fletcher – The Sun

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      Bale knows how to live the high-life in Spain
      GOLF
      After all, that handicap won’t improve itself.
      Bale has been accused of caring more about golf than playing for Real Madrid.
      In his grand estate in Glamorgan, Wales he built a three-hole golf course that are replicas of the 12th at Augusta, Royal Troon’s Postage Stamp and the tricky par-three 17th at Sawgrass.
      To feed his golf fix in Madrid, Bale belongs to the members-only Ciudad Grupo Santander.
      A golf course co-designed by Seve Ballesteros, it stretches out to nearly 7,500 yards from the back tees.
      For a special day out, he will drive to the Real Club de Valderrama in San Roque, Andalusia.
      When he takes a holiday, Bale makes sure he picks a retreat with a golf course.
      His preferred choice is the five-star Finca Cortesin in Marbella that boasts an 18-hole course, as well as two outdoor pools and a private beach club with infinity pool, restaurant and bar.
      Rooms are priced at around £900-per-night.

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      Bale has been accused of caring more about golf than Real Madrid

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      Bale belongs to the members-only Ciudad Grupo Santander in Madrid

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      Whenever Bale picks a holiday he makes sure there’s a golf course on site
      CHILDHOOD SWEETHEART
      While his loyalty to Real Madrid has been questioned, his love for childhood sweetheart Emma Rhys-Jones, 29, has never been in doubt.
      The pair met at Whitchurch High School and began dating in the early noughties.
      In 2016, they got engaged, but their romance has had its difficulties.
      Her dad Martin was released from prison in June after being imprisoned for fraud for six months in the US.
      Emma banned him from a wedding that was initially scheduled for 2018, after he moved in with a florist half his age, Alina Baranova. 
      While other members of her family including her aunt Jane Burns have been embroiled in a violent drugs feud.

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      Emma Ryhs-Jones is Bale’s childhood sweetheart Credit: PA:Empics Sport

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      Bale and Rhys-Jones married in 2016

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      With such an incredible lifestyle in Madrid it’s easy to see why Bale doesn’t want to leaveCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      In 2019, Gareth and Emma married in a hush-hush ceremony at a five-star hotel on a Majorcan island in front of just 60 guests.
      Guests were told of the location only 24-hours before the big day, and were asked to hand in their mobile phones to security guards as they entered the hotel.
      With his life set in Madrid, you can see why he doesn’t want to leave.

      Gareth Bale will STAY at Real Madrid in £60m stand-off because he has not forgiven club for stopping his move to China More

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      Chelsea transfer target Xavier Mbuyamba has been called the ‘new Van Dijk’ and was schooled by Barca at La Masia academy

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      BARCELONA’s loss might be Chelsea’s gain.
      The Blues are said to be keen on adding towering defender Xavier Mbuyamba to their ranks, after he reportedly cancelled his contract with the La Liga giants.

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      Dutch defender Xavier Mbuyamba is said to be interesting ChelseaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      And the 18-year-old Dutch defender comes with the some pedigree.
      Standing at 6ft 5in, not only is he a man-mountain, his composed style has drawn comparisons to Liverpool star Virgil Van Dijk.
      However, he is something of a late bloomer.
      AN UNKNOWN ENTITY
      As is standard with Dutch players coming through the youth system, it’s normally the big two – Ajax and PSV – who have first dibs on the best talents coming through.

      But Mbuyamba slipped through the cracks.
      And he was ignored by the national team at youth level too.
      “It is strange that they never came, but the same applies to the KNVB,” Mbuyamba told Dutch TV station RTL.
      “I was called up for the first time [to the Under-19s squad] in November 2019. The staff immediately said that they thought it strange that I had never been noticed before.”

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      At 16 Mbuyamba broke into the MVV Maastricht first teamCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Impressed by his talents, Patrick Kluivert recruited Mbuyamba to the La Masia academyCredit: Instagram mbuyamba.x
      CLUB BREAKTHROUGH
      Mbuyamba made his debut at the age of 16 in the unfashionable Dutch second division with MVV Maastricht.
      Soon, the world’s biggest clubs starting taking notice of him.
      Barcelona academy director Patrick Kluivert invited him for a trial at La Masia.
      Chelsea also registered their interest, and he trained with the West Londoners for a week.
      But, swayed by the prospect of appearing in Barcelona’s B side and then the first team, he opted for the move to Spain in 2019.

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      Mbuyamba had hoped to break into Barcelona’s B side this seasonCredit: Instagram mbuyamba.x

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      Despite impressing for Barcelona’s under-19 team, Mbuyamba found his chances of progression limitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Mbuyamba bravely decided to leave Barcelona by mutual consentCredit: Instagram mbuyamba.x
      WHERE DID IT ALL GO WRONG?
      Mbuyamba’s hopes of prospering with Barça hit a halt when the B side refused to give him a starting role.
      Having starred for their under-19 team in central defence and at right-back, it was hard for the ambitious centre half to stomach.
      However, a divide between La Masia and the B team was said to be one of the reasons for Mbuyamba’s lack of opportunity at a higher level.
      He also had hoped a loan deal would help him gain valuable first team experience, but Barcelona saw it differently.
      Initially, they demanded around £1.8million for his talents. But his contract was cancelled by mutual consent, and he is now available as a free agent.
      WHAT’S NEXT?
      Chelsea are said to be one of four Premier League clubs who have made offers to Mbuyamba.
      Real Madrid, Juventus and other European giants are also monitoring the situation.
      And what are they getting for their money?

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      Mbuyamba has been compared to Virgil Van DijkCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      West London could be Mbuyamba’s next destinationCredit: Instagram mbuyamba.x

      Powerful aerially, Mbuyamba boasts that same rapid recovery speed Van Dijk utilises to snuff out danger.
      He’s also remarkably comfortable in possession, given his height, and is at ease playing the ball out of defence.
      Whether that’s at Chelsea’s Cobham training ground, only time will tell.

      Chelsea ‘make £20m move’ for John Stones as centre back remains top transfer target for Frank Lampard More

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      Neymar can come of age and lead PSG to Champions League glory with Di Maria suspended and Mbappe an injury doubt

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      Neymar is now closer to 29 than 28.
      Ten years have gone by since he made his international debut for Brazil.

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      Neymar will be looking to be PSG’s main man as they resume their Champions League campaignCredit: Icon Sport – Getty
      In terms of his career at the highest level of the game, he is probably closer to the end than the beginning.
      And yet he still comes across as an eternal adolescent. But maybe that is about to change. Opportunity is certainly knocking.
      Neymar goes into the condensed form of the Champions League still seen as a boy. He has the chance to come out of it as a man.
      The type of challenge on offer over the next couple of weeks is the very reason that he joined Paris Saint Germain.

      Whatever the financial incentives to move to Paris, there was an element of sporting nobility in his choice.
      He had achieved great things at Barcelona. But, understandably and undeniably, it was Lionel Messi’s team. Neymar wanted to carry his own side.
      Now he has to. Kylian Mbappe has a damaged ankle and is an injury doubt for the quarter final against Atalanta.
      Even if he plays, he will surely not be fully fit. Angel Di Maria is suspended.

      BURDEN OF RESPONSIBILITY
      The responsibility rests on the slender shoulders of the Brazilian. He is up against an attack minded opposition, who should offer him acceleration space. It is all set up for him.

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      Neymar joined PSG to lead the French giants to Champions League gloryCredit: AFP or licensors

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      With Kylian Mbappe an injury doubt, the burden of responsibility lies with NeymarCredit: AFP or licensors
      If events follow Neymar’s script, then many will begrudge him the glory.
      This is extremely harsh. For all of his excesses and tantrums, as a player there is no doubt that he is more sinned against than sinning.
      He is also extremely popular with many of his team-mates. There is clearly more to him than the petulant and spoilt figure that he often appears to be.
      And it is hardly his fault that he has not lived up to all of the expectations that have hovered around him for almost a decade and a half.
      INJURIES HAVE ROBBED HIM
      He was famously injured in the course of Brazil’s ultimately disastrous 2014 World Cup campaign.
      And in Russia 2018, for all the ridiculous diving, his level of performance was better than could have been expected for a player coming back from injury.
      And injury has blighted his time with Paris Saint Germain. But that was part of the risk of moving there.
      The financial clout of PSG means that domestic superiority is taken for granted. League and cup doubles are shrugged off as expected. The dream is the Champions League.

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      Injury has robbed Neymar of taking centre stage on the biggest stageCredit: Reuters

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      Now Neymar can put that right by starring for PSG and proving it at the highest levelCredit: AFP or licensors

      Neymar’s performances with Paris were clearly going to be judged overwhelmingly on what he produces in the knock out stages of Europe’s elite competition.
      And so far, because of injury, he has been ruled out of most of the action in both of his previous seasons with the club.
      It is almost as if Neymar’s time with Paris Saint Germain effectively starts on Wednesday. The man who crossed the Atlantic full of dreams now has to overcome Atalanta to make them come true.

      Watch ex-Man Utd star Herrera score a screamer after incredible Neymar assist ahead of PSG’s clash with Atalanta More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Bale’s millionaire lifestyle in Madrid, with a £6.5m home, £230,000 Ferrari and golf on his doorstep

      by

      NO wonder he doesn’t want to leave.
      Gareth Bale, 31, has been frozen out at Real Madrid by manager Zinedine Zidane, who clearly doesn’t see eye-to-eye with the Welsh wizard.

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      Gareth Bale’s home is closer to his favourite golf than to both the Bernabeu and Real Madrid’s training ground

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      Gareth Bale has been frozen out by Zinedine ZidaneCredit: EPA
      Now, Bale is determined to see out the remainder of his two-year deal, worth £60million, after Los Blancos scuppered his dream move.
      And that’s despite not figuring in the club’s past eight games, where he’s been sat on the bench looking thoroughly bored.
      However, all’s not lost in his personal life.
      He lives in a stunning £6.5million home, has a car collection that features a Ferrari, Mercedes, and Audi, as well as a stunning golf course on his doorstep.

      HOME
      Bale lives in the exclusive La Finca neighbourhood, home to Madrid’s wealthiest.
      Boss Zidane is, perhaps unfortunately, a neighbour, team-mates Sergio Ramos and Karim Benzema are nearby, while Cristiano Ronaldo used to live there.
      Bale’s home itself was rented by Real Madrid legend Kaka before he moved on to pastures new.

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      Bale rents a £6.5million home in the La Finca neighbourhood Credit: Solar Pix

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      Bale often shares glimpses of the property on social media

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      The property has a swimming pool

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      Originally, Kaka rented Bale’s current home
      And it’s a wonder of modern architecture, created by Joaquin Torres and worth in the region of £6.5million.

      Bale is said to pay £10,000-per-month in rent to stay in the Pozuelo de Alarcón part of La Finca, in this amazing 1,500 square metre property that is built on two-storeys.
      It boasts four bedrooms, an indoor pool, gym, two utility rooms, several terraces and porches, as well as a six-car garage.
      CARS
      Said to earn £600,000-per-week before tax, Bale has plenty of change left over from his rental property.
      And through the years, he has added some of the best cars a footballer can drive.
      Alongside a £165,000 Mercedes SLS AMG, Bale has been seen riding in a £152,000 Bentley Continental GT, a £156,000 Lamborghini Huracan, as well as a £230,000 Ferrari GTC4Lusso.
      With Real Madrid’s players getting a pick of Audi motors thanks to a huge sponsorship deal, the winger also treated himself to a £65,000 Audi Q7 50 TDI last Christmas.

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      Bale’s car collection includes this amazing Mercedes SLS AMG worth £165,000

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      This £156,000 Lamborghini Huracan also belongs to Bale

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      Most recently, Bale treated himself to a new AudiCredit: Darren Fletcher – The Sun

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      Bale knows how to live the high-life in Spain
      GOLF
      After all, that handicap won’t improve itself.
      Bale has been accused of caring more about golf than playing for Real Madrid.
      In his grand estate in Glamorgan, Wales he built a three-hole golf course that are replicas of the 12th at Augusta, Royal Troon’s Postage Stamp and the tricky par-three 17th at Sawgrass.
      To feed his golf fix in Madrid, Bale belongs to the members-only Ciudad Grupo Santander.
      A golf course co-designed by Seve Ballesteros, it stretches out to nearly 7,500 yards from the back tees.
      For a special day out, he will drive to the Real Club de Valderrama in San Roque, Andalusia.
      When he takes a holiday, Bale makes sure he picks a retreat with a golf course.
      His preferred choice is the five-star Finca Cortesin in Marbella that boasts an 18-hole course, as well as two outdoor pools and a private beach club with infinity pool, restaurant and bar.
      Rooms are priced at around £900-per-night.

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      Bale has been accused of caring more about golf than Real Madrid

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      Bale belongs to the members-only Ciudad Grupo Santander in Madrid

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      Whenever Bale picks a holiday he makes sure there’s a golf course on site
      CHILDHOOD SWEETHEART
      While his loyalty to Real Madrid has been questioned, his love for childhood sweetheart Emma Rhys-Jones, 29, has never been in doubt.
      The pair met at Whitchurch High School and began dating in the early noughties.
      In 2016, they got engaged, but their romance has had its difficulties.
      Her dad Martin was released from prison in June after being imprisoned for fraud for six months in the US.
      Emma banned him from a wedding that was initially scheduled for 2018, after he moved in with a florist half his age, Alina Baranova. 
      While other members of her family including her aunt Jane Burns have been embroiled in a violent drugs feud.

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      Emma Ryhs-Jones is Bale’s childhood sweetheart Credit: PA:Empics Sport

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      Bale and Rhys-Jones married in 2016

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      With such an incredible lifestyle in Madrid it’s easy to see why Bale doesn’t want to leaveCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      In 2019, Gareth and Emma married in a hush-hush ceremony at a five-star hotel on a Majorcan island in front of just 60 guests.
      Guests were told of the location only 24-hours before the big day, and were asked to hand in their mobile phones to security guards as they entered the hotel.
      With his life set in Madrid, you can see why he doesn’t want to leave.

      Gareth Bale will STAY at Real Madrid in £60m stand-off because he has not forgiven club for stopping his move to China More

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      15 bizarre football injuries after Barcelona star Frenkie De Jong is seen with a swollen hand from a nasty bee sting

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      THEY don’t just get injured on the football pitch.
      Frenkie De Jong is the latest footballer to suffer from a bizarre injury.

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      Frenkie De Jong shows off horrific bee stingCredit: Instagram / @mikkykiemeney

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      De Jong wore a bandage during Barcelona’s Champions League tie with NapoliCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      The swelling can be seen clearly on De Jong’s hand in trainingCredit: FC Barcelona
      The Barcelona midfielder showed off a swollen hand in his side’s 3-1 win over Napoli in the Champions League.
      According to reports, the ailment was the result of a nasty bee sting that caused the severe reaction.
      That’s prompted SunSport to look back at some of the weird and wacky injuries to befall other footballers over the years.
      CHRIS SMALLING
      Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was on holiday in Bali, when disaster struck.

      After local reports claimed he was stung by a jellyfish while out surfing – the truth eventually came out, and it wasn’t as exciting.
      He fainted in the hot heat and banged his head, hence the bandages.

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      Chris Smalling pictured in hospital in Bali
      DAVE BEASANT
      The Wimbledon FA Cup hero was at Chelsea when he suffered a hilarious foot injury. The keeper had dropped a bottle of salad cream in his kitchen and tried to control it with his bare foot.
      The bottle ended up breaking and tearing a tendon in his big toe, causing Beasant to miss two months of football.

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      Dave Beasant attempted to control a bottle of salad
      RIO FERDINAND
      The former Manchester United and England captain managed to strain his knee while at Leeds.
      Ferdinand rested his leg for too long while playing a game of Pro Evolution Soccer on his PlayStation.
      We’ve all done it.

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      Rio Ferdinand suffered a leg injury while playing a video game

      DAVID BATTY
      The Leeds United enforcer had been out injured with a knee problem.
      Then, his two-year-old daughter ran over him while on her tricycle – causing a setback to his ankle.
      Leeds’ hardman was crocked by a two-year-old.

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      David Batty’s daughter ran into him on her tricyle
      BRYAN ROBSON
      Captain Dynamo was given the task of trying to wake mecurial star Paul Gascoigne from his slumber ahead of the 1990 World Cup.
      Robson tried but couldn’t wake the midfielder, instead tipping the bed to push Gascoigne out.
      Robson then dropped the bed onto his toe, breaking it.

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      Bryan Robson broke a toe trying to wake up Paul Gascoigne
      ENNER VALENCIA
      The former West Ham forward didn’t impress Sam Allardyce with this injury.
      Somehow, Enner Valencia managed to badly cut his toe after stepping on a broken cup.
      it left ‘Big Sam’ striker-less for his next match.

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      Enner Valencia seriously cut his toe stepping on a broken cup
      SANTIAGO CANIZARES
      The former Valencia NO1 had waited an age to take over in the sticks of the Spanish national team.
      He was given an opportunity in 2002, but just before the World Cup was about to start he dropped a bottle of aftershave on his foot.
      Like Beasant, he severed a tendon and missed the tournament.

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      Santiago Canizares missed out on the 2002 World Cup because of a bottle of aftershave
      ALAN WRIGHT
      The former Aston Villa left-back was a cult hero in the Midlands.
      But the 5ft 4in Wright once missed a spell after injuring his knee.
      He did it trying to reach the pedals on his Ferrari.

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      Former Aston Villa defender Alan Wright got injured driving his Ferrari
      KEVIN KYLE
      While at Sunderland, the former Scotland international was once seen ‘walking a bit like John Wayne’.
      It was all because his eight-month-old son knocked a bowl of boiling water onto his crotch.
      Ouch.

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      Kevin Kyle’s son dropped hot water on his crotch
      LEROY LITA
      At Reading, the striker managed to hurt his back by stretching too vigorously.
      But this wasn’t done on the training pitch, no.
      It happened while laying in bed.
      Steve Coppell said at the time: “It’s not an injury that should be ridiculed or made light of.”

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      Leroy Lita injured himself by stretching too far in bed
      DARIUS VASSELL
      We’d definitely avoid recreating this one.
      The ex-Aston Villa and England striker tried to get rid of a blood blister on his toe by using an electric drill.
      It didn’t go well.

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      Darius Vassell tried to pop a blister with an electric drill
      ADAM CHAPMAN
      Former Oxford midfielder Chapman was heating some milk for his baby, a normally harmless job.
      But as he went to shake it the lid flew off, burning his chest and nipple.
      He had to go to hospital but was passed fit to play the next day.

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      Adam Chapman burnt his nipple trying to heat baby milk
      DAVID JAMES
      The former England shotstopper has two entries.
      He once pulled a muscle in his back while trying to reach for a remote control.
      Another time, James hurt his shoulder while fishing for carp.

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      David James should stay away from remote controls… and carp
      CHARLIE GEORGE
      Arsenal legend George didn’t let this injury stop him. The 1971 FA Cup hero once cut off a finger with his lawnmower.
      Thankfully, it wasn’t a leg.

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      Charlie George managed to cut off a finger while mowing the lawn
      KIERON DYER
      When at Newcastle the England man damaged his left eye – because he ran into a stationary training pole.
      It wasn’t an eye-for-an-eye in this case, leaving Dyer with a nasty shiner.

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      Kieron Dyer ran into a training pole

      Gareth Bale urged to quit Real Madrid as Rio Ferdinand bemoans ‘generational talent’ being wasted on sidelines More

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      Arsenal’s star Maitland-Niles, up for sale for £30m, joined Gunners at six but could leave on verge of breakthrough

      by

      IT looks like it’s all over for Ainsley Maitland-Niles at Arsenal.
      The midfielder-turned-defender endured a torrid time with the Gunners when Mikel Arteta first arrived at the club.

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      Ainsley Maitland-Niles is reportedly up for saleCredit: Alamy Live News

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      Arsenal star Maitland-Niles had appeared to have won manager Mikel Arteta overCredit: Reuters
      Out of favour, he was left out the team for reportedly turning up late to training on a number of occasions.
      But it appeared he had won back his manager’s faith, earning a spot in the Fa Cup final startling line-up against Chelsea, and starring in a 2-1 win.
      Now, the 22-year-old is said to be surplus to requirements at the Emirates, with a £30million price tag on his head.
      And that has alerted Tottenham to his availability, who could swoop to pinch the speedy star.

      His career so far has had its ups and downs.
      ARSENAL ACADEMY PRODUCT
      Born in Ilford, Maitland-Niles was mostly raised by single mother, Jules.
      “There were times their dad would help out, like playing with the kids,” she later told ViralRealLife.
      “There were also times when he wasn’t helping out in the right ways – like providing food.

      “Obviously, you can’t eat a pair of football boots.”

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      Ainsley, right, grew up in Ilford with older brother CordiCredit: Triangle News

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      He has been with Arsenal since the age of sixCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Ainsley’s passion for football took centre stage, and he soon joined Arsenal’s academy aged six.
      He dedicated his whole time to the club, slowly rising through the ranks and was called the best player in his age group by his youth coaches, according to his mum.
      In December, 2014 Maitland-Niles signed his first professional contract, but there was drama around the corner.
      JULES GET BANNED
      Jules became synonymous to Arsenal staff, but for all the wrong reasons.
      In 2015, she allegedly got into a furious bust-up with Arsenal’s former chief negotiator Dick Law at their London Colney training ground, and was said to have acted violent towards him after seeking reassurances about his future.
      She was arrested and later released without charge.
      Another time, while watching a then 17-year-old Maitland Niles in an Under-23 game, she grew animated on the sidelines and threatened to drag her son off the pitch.
      The club had seen enough, and she was banned from the training ground.

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      At 17 Maitland-Niles was playing for Arsenal’s Under-23 teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Jules Niles was banned from Arsenal’s training groundCredit: Triangle News
      MEANWHILE…
      On the pitch, things were starting to look up for Maitland-Niles.
      After making his debut aged 17 against Galatasaray in a Champions League match, a promising future beckoned.
      He was the second youngest player to appear in the competition for the Gunners, behind Jack Wilshere, and was left beaming with pride at his breakthrough.
      “I want to thank my family and God mostly for putting me here,” he told Arsenal’s website.
      When he was asked what he would do with his shirt from his first game, he revealed: “I think I’ll frame it and give it to my mum.”

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      After working his way through the youth ranks, Maitland-Niles was handed his Arsenal debut at 17Credit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Mick McCarthy called Maitland-Niles “outstanding” during his loan spell at Ipswich TownCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ‘OUTSTANDING’
      In his early days at youth team level, and during a loan spell at Ipswich Town during the 2015-16 season, Maitland-Niles played as a winger.
      Then Town manager Mick McCarthy raved about the exciting talent.
      He said: “He’s an outstanding player. If he doesn’t end up being outstanding for Arsenal I’ll be very surprised.”
      But manager Arsene Wenger saw his attributes differently.
      “His best position is central defensive midfielder,” the legendary French boss said.
      “He has great quality, he can steal the ball without making fouls… I think he is ready to play.”
      MAKESHIFT FULL-BACK
      Versatility, most probably, ended up becoming a hindrance for Maitland-Niles.
      When injuries forced Wenger and then Unai Emery to field Maitland-Niles at both left-back and right-back, his development in midfield was put on hold.

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      Arsene Wenger converted Maitland-Niles to a full-back, but believed he had potential as a central midfield playerCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Maitland-Niles believes he’s not a defenderCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      “I’m not a defender.” he said before the Premier League encounter against Aston Villa last year.
      “It’s not where I would choose to put myself in the team.”
      Stepping in for Hector Bellerin, he had his worst game in an Arsenal shirt, was run ragged, until he was dismissed for a second yellow card four minutes before half-time.
      FROZEN OUT
      When Arteta took over the reigns at Arsenal, Maitland-Niles found himself warming up the bench with Bellerin’s return.
      His manager threw down the gauntlet to him.
      “(He has to) Show me every day in training that he wants it more than anyone else; he wants to play for this club and fight for his place,” Arteta said.
      But that brought an adverse reaction to the star, who was reportedly late for training one too many times for the strict boss, who demands a professional attitude from his players.
      When lockdown ended, it appeared that Maitland-Niles’ days at the club were numbered.
      However, as football often does, a reprieve was around the corner.

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      Mikel Arteta handed Maitland-Niles a reprieve and he starred in the FA Cup finalCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      After a starring role Maitland-Niles looks set to leave ArsenalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      A brilliant performance against Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final win followed by another solid display against Watford meant he played himself into the FA Cup final starting eleven.
      And his swashbuckling runs, getting in-behind the Blues defence, were a constant threat for Frank Lampard’s team.

      Now, back in favour, the decision to sell Maitland-Niles is a strange one.
      But with 55 non-playing staff cut as the coronavirus pandemic hits Arsenal’s revenue, it’s needs-must for the Premier League giants.
      And Maitland-Niles, it appears, is the sacrifice.

      Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles reveals he was racially abused as a 12 year old during his youth career More

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      Man Utd’s No7 shirt curse was too big for Sanchez, but can Sancho be the heir to Best, Beckham, Ronaldo and Cantona?

      by

      JADON SANCHO is on the cusp of a mega-money move to Manchester United… finally.
      The Red Devils, after much negotiation, are set to land the Borussia Dortmund winger – initially tempting him to join with the promise of wearing their hallowed No7 shirt.

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      Jadon Sancho has been earmarked to take the famous No7 shirt at Manchester UnitedCredit: PA:Press Association

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      Sancho could succeed Alexis Sanchez as Man Utds new No7Credit: Getty – Contributor

      Now Sancho is thought to have agreed to a five-year deal worth a staggering £350,000 a week – with United paying £110million when all is said and done.
      But that has not proven a good omen in recent years with the likes of Memphis Depay and Alexis Sanchez crumbling under the pressure of its history.
      For 50 years, the club’s icons bore that shirt with pride, and did it justice.

      But since Cristiano Ronaldo donned it for the final time in 2009, no one has dealt with the burden of expectation.
      Here, SunSport takes a look back at the superstars to wear the hallowed shirt — and the sharp decline in success – starting with the two recent flops.
      ALEXIS SANCHEZ, 2018 TO PRESENT

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      Credit: Getty ImagesAlexis Sanchez failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford

      Success at United

      Appearances – 45
      Goals – 5
      No trophies

      After four glorious seasons with Arsenal, Chilean star Sanchez appeared to be a no brainer when United added him to their ranks for £32m.

      And Robin Van Persie had previously shown that he could adapt from a move from North London.
      However, Sanchez has been a major disappointment – a shadow of the player who ripped defences apart at the Emirates Stadium.
      Just five goals in 45 appearances, he is deemed surplus to requirements – shipped out to Inter Milan on loan this season.
      MEMPHIS DEPAY, 2015-16

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      Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Memphis Depay suffered curse of the Manchester United No7 shirt

      Success at United

      Appearances – 53
      Goals – 7
      No trophies

      Memphis was immediately handed the No7 jersey by Louis van Gaal after signing for £25MILLION from PSV.
      But, despite the hype surrounding his arrival, it was just constant disappointment for the Dutchman, and he left to join Lyon on loan after 12 months, which soon became a permanent deal.
      Depay has rediscovered his form with the French giants, scoring 53 times in 134 games from the wing.
      It’s a better return than the seven in 53 he managed with United.
      GEORGE BEST, 1963-74

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      Credit: Getty Images
      George Best celebrates his goal against Benfica in 1968 European Cup final

      Success at United

      Appearances — 474Goals — 181First Division (2) — 1964-65, 1966-67European Cup — 1968Football Writers’ Player of the Year — 1968Ballon d’Or — 1968Ballon d’Or third place — 1971

      In an era where shirt numbers were not assigned, Best donned it in 141 of his 474 games.
      In 1966, he wore it in what is generally considered his greatest-ever performance, netting twice as United battered the great Benfica 5-1 in Lisbon — and against the  same opponents in the European Cup final two years later.
      Best is considered by many the most naturally gifted footballer to have come out of Britain.
      BRYAN ROBSON — 1981-94

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      Credit: Getty Images
      ‘Captain Marvel’ Bryan Robson was always there when Manchester United needed him

      Success at United

      Appearances — 461Goals — 99Premier League (2) — 1992-93, 1993-94FA Cup (4) — 1982-83, 1984-85, 1989-90League Cup — 1991-92European Cup Winners’ Cup — 1990-91European Super Cup — 1991

      Immediately picked up the No.7 shirt, despite Steve Coppell still being at the club.
      ‘Captain Marvel’ was unlucky to play in a United side which failed to challenge for the title during the 1980s — and is the club’s longest-serving captain, who won 90 England caps.
      A leader whose influence was apparent as his two goals famously helped the Red Devils overturn a 2-0 deficit against Barcelona in one of Old Trafford’s most glorious nights in 1984.
      ERIC CANTONA — 1992-97

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      Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Eric Cantona was the catalyst for Manchester United success in 1990s

      Success at United

      Appearances — 185 Goals — 93Premier League (4) — 1992-93, 1993-94, 1995-96, 1996-97FA Cup (2) — 1993-94, 1995-96PFA Players’ Player of the Year — 1993-94Football Writers’ Player of the Year — 1995-96Ballon d’Or third place — 1993

      First player to be officially assigned the No7 shirt.
      Cantona was the catalyst, who helped transform United from nearly men to Premier League champions.
      He won the title in four of his five seasons at the club — and the only time he failed to was when he was banned for eight months for kung-fu kicking a Crystal Palace fan.
      DAVID BECKHAM — 1992-03

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      David Beckham graduated from No28 to No7Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd

      Success at United

      Appearances — 394Goals — 85Premier League (6) — 1995-96, 1996-97, 1998-99, 1999-00, 2000-01, 2002-03FA Cup (2) — 1995-96, 1998-99Champions League — 1998-99Intercontinental Cup — 1999Ballon d’Or runner up — 1999Fifa World Player of the Year runner up — 1999, 2001

      An academy graduate who started off as No28, before moving up through the No.24, No.10 and eventually No.7 shirt when Cantona left.
      Beckham provided vital assists in the Champions League quarter-finals, semi-finals and final in 1999 as United completed an incredible Treble.
      He wore the shirt during his peak years at the club and established himself as the best set-piece taker in world football.
      CRISTIANO RONALDO — 2003-09

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      Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Cristiano Ronaldo was handed No.7 shirt at age of 18 and thrived in it

      Success at United

      Appearances — 292Goals — 118Premier League (3) — 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09FA Cup — 2003-04League Cup (2) — 2005-06, 2008-09Champions League — 2007-08Fifa Club World Cup — 2008Ballon d’Or — 2008Fifa World Player of the Year — 2008Football Writers’ Player of the Year (2) — 2006-07, 2007-08PFA Players’ Player of the Year (2) — 2006-07, 2007-08PFA Players’ Young Player of the Year award — 2006-07Ballon d’Or runner up — 2007, 2009Fifa World Player of the Year runner-up — 2007, 2009

      Replaced Beckham and, at the tender of age of 18, was handed the most prestigious shirt at the club.
      But Ronaldo thrived under the pressure and went from strength-to-strength.
      Won a trophy in all but one season and became United’s fourth Ballon d’Or winner.

      MICHAEL OWEN — 2009-12

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      Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Michael Owen wasn’t the worst player, but never justified No.7 shirt

      Success at United

      Appearances — 52Goals — 17Premier League — 2010-11League Cup — 2009-10

      In the whole of world football, only Lionel Messi would have been fit to fill the huge chasm left behind by Ronaldo in 2009.
      Injury-prone Owen was nearly 30, had just been released by recently-relegated Newcastle and was only signed as back-up after United had missed out on Karim Benzema.
      Highs included a last-gasp derby winner, League Cup final goal and Champions League hat-trick, but never came close to doing the No.7 shirt justice.
      ANTONIO VALENCIA — 2009-19 (No7 for 2012-13 season)

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      Credit: Getty Images
      Antonio Valencia reverted back to No.25 after poor season with No.7 shirt

      Success at United

      Appearances — 339Goals — 25Premier League (2) — 2010-11, 2012-13FA Cup — 2015-16League Cup (2) — 2009-10, 2016-17
      Europa League – 2016-17

      United’s 2011-12 Player of the Year was then handed the No7 shirt after three seasons wearing the No25 — and it was again worn by a right-winger.
      However, while Sir Alex Ferguson led his men to a 13th title, Valencia endured without doubt his worst seasons at the club.
      At the end of the campaign, he requested the No25 shirt again and there was no No7 during David Moyes’ reign.
      ANGEL DI MARIA — 2014-15

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      Credit: Getty Images
      Despite his staggering fee, it was a disastrous spell in Manchester for Angel Di Maria

      Success at United

      Appearances — 32Goals — 4

      United and English football’s then record signing at £59.1million.
      Di Maria arrived from Real Madrid after a man of the match performance in the Champions League final, and initially looked a good signing.
      But his form dipped drastically, and he became a liability. Sold to Paris Saint-Germain after just one season for £44m.

      Man Utd and Jadon Sancho ‘agree five-year £350,000-a-week deal’ over £110m transfer from Borussia Dortmund More

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      Footballers on holiday, from Alli, Maddison, Grealish and Sancho in Ibiza to Ronaldo in Portofino and Rooney in Barbados

      by

      AFTER a long, hard season footballers love to unwind – just like the rest of us.
      With their mega salaries they are able to jet off to some of the most glamorous locations in the world.

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      The likes of Wayne Rooney, Dele Alli, Cristiano Ronaldo and more have shared snaps on social media soaking up the sun in these dream destinations.
      But where did they all go?
      ALLI, GREALISH, SANCHO AND MADDISON
      While some holidaymakers are shunning Spain after a spike in coronavirus cases, Dele Alli, Jack Grealish, Jadon Sancho and James Maddison are lapping up the attention in Ibiza.
      Spurs star Alli and Aston Villa hero Grealish were seen enjoying a couple of cold drinks with their female companions.

      While Alli and Maddison were spied hanging out at O Beach Club a previous evening.
      Separately, Sancho was seen enjoying time on a yacht with a mystery brunette.
      The Manchester United target also wasn’t slacking on his fitness, running shirtless and pumping some iron during his trip.

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      Dele Alli and James Maddison have been hanging about in IbizaCredit: Instagram

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      Jadon Sancho poses with Chuba Akpom on his way to IbizaCredit: Instagram / @cakpom
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      The Juventus forward might still be smarting from missing out on winning the Serie A Golden Boot, but at least he’s having a lovely holiday.

      Ronaldo is topping up his tan in beautiful Portofino, Italy, with his family and gorgeous missus Georgina Rodriguez.
      They’ve taken their new super-yacht for a spin in the Mediterranean Sea.
      And they also enjoyed a lavish dinner with friends at the expensive Langosteria Paraggi restaurant.
      Missing out on that Golden Boot doesn’t seem so bad now.

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      Cristiano Ronaldo and family are enjoying the sights of Med on a new luxury yachtCredit: Instagram / @cristiano

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      The Ronaldo clan have been relaxing on board their yacht
      ROONEY AND MINGS
      Wayne Rooney has whisked off wife Coleen after her ‘Wagatha Christie’ worries to Barbados.
      The pair are staying in a luxury £25,000-per-week five-bedroom mansion complete with an infinity pool.
      And they’ve found time to enjoy a romantic boat ride too.
      Aston Villa star Tyrone Mings has been toasting saving his side from Premier League relegation enjoying some time in Barbados.
      The towering defender, another Manchester United target, even showed his love for watersports – hopping on a jet ski.

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      Coleen and Wayne Rooney spent the day on board a luxury boat in Barbados Credit: Instagram
      RONALDO
      The Brazilian legend has been soaking up the sun with his girlfriend Celina Locks on a yacht in Spain.
      They are enjoying the delights of Formentera, the smallest of the Balearic islands.
      And Ronaldo, who hung up his boots in 2011 after suffering with hypothyroidism, looked healthier than ever in his swimming shorts thanks to a new fitness regime.
      He even took time to make a splash in the sea.

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      Ronaldo is enjoying his holiday off the Balearic islands
      JOHN TERRY
      With his favourite holiday destination Dubai probably being too hot right now, JT and his missus Toni jetted off to Portugal.
      And they did it in some style, evading the travel ban by taking a private jet to the Algarve with a glass of champagne in hand.
      They romantically drank wine and enjoyed the sunset at Maria’s Restaurant & Beach.
      Terry will be dining out on helping Aston Villa maintain their Premier League status, no doubt.

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      John Terry and wife Toni travelled in styleCredit: Instagram / @toniterry26

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      The Terrys took a private jet to PortugalCredit: Instagram / @johnterry.26

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      They have rented a stunning villa in the AlgarveCredit: Instagram / @johnterry.26

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      Terry is the captain of his own boat
      WILFRIED ZAHA
      The in-demand Crystal Palace forward will be checking his phone constantly on his holiday.
      Linked to Arsenal and Manchester United, his agent might have some trouble getting through to him in Dubai.
      Zaha is braving the sweltering heat of the Middle East, where it can reach 45C this time of year, and rented a boat with girlfriend Paige Bannister.
      They were pictured on a yacht in front of the Burj Al Arab hotel.

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      Wilfried Zaha is on holiday with girlfriend Paige Bannister
      CHILWELL AND DRINKWATER
      Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has been lapping up the hot weather in Mykonos, Greece.
      And he’s found himself a travel buddy in former Leicester City team-mate Ben Chilwell.
      The Foxes left-back has been linked with a summer move to the Blues, and hanging out with a Blues star just adds fuel to the fire.

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      Danny Drinkwater and Ben Chilwell have been hanging out in MykonosCredit: Instagram @dannydrinkwater
      DANNY INGS
      The Southampton striker enjoyed his best season in front of goal, netting 22 times last term to finish behind leading scorer Jamie Vardy.
      So, he treated himself to a trip to the Amalfi Coast, Italy, where he seems to be living his best life.
      Brilliant meals, check, a glass of wine, check, and lots of snazzy summer shirts.

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      Danny Ings shows off his tan on the Amalfi CoastCredit: Instagram
      MANUEL LANZINI
      Another footballer who has taken a short flight to Portugal is West Ham’s Argie star.
      Lanzini is enjoying Faro in the Algarve, Portugal, with his beautiful missus Jennifer Reina.
      The pair relaxed on a boat, before the midfielder proposed to the make-up artist and photographer on a cliff overlooking the sea.
      They’ve also enjoyed some time in Positano, like Cristiano Ronaldo and family.
      And they aren’t the only couple to have got engaged this summer.

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      Manuel Lanzini and fiancee Jennifer Reina pose for a snap in PositanoCredit: Instagram

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      The loved-up pair got engaged in Faro, PortugalCredit: Instagram

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      Jennifer Reina shows off her sparkling diamond ring
      NATHAN AKE
      The Manchester City-bound Dutch defender and his beautiful Wag Kaylee Ramman also got engaged.
      Ake, 25, got down on one knee in the Nice in the South of France – sharing the romantic snaps on social media.
      Immediately, they were congratulated by Premier League stars, including Jermaine Defoe, Diego Rico, Jack Wilshere, and Jamal Blackman.
      They’ll soon be celebrating a move north – to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City

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      Nathan Ake proposed to Kaylee Ramman on their holidayCredit: https://www.instagram.com/nathanake/

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      Kaylee has been lapping up the sun in Nice, France with AkeCredit: Instagram @kayleerm_
      JAMIE VARDY
      Vardy and his missus Rebekah, the other half of the Wagatha Christie chronicles, are also enjoying some sun away.
      They’re in Ibiza, well they’ve been seen cuddling in the sea and putting their troubles behind them.
      The Vardy family later enjoyed a trip on a speed boat, as they explored the island.

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      The Vardys have been tucking into the local cuisine in Ibiza

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      Rebekah Vardy shared an image of the pair enjoying sunset
      CHAMBERS AND HOLDING
      The Arsenal defensive pair will be celebrating the club’s recent FA Cup success.
      And they’ve picked the best place to do it, on the Greek island of Mykonos.
      They’ve hung out together, while Chambers has been stepping up his recovery from injury.
      The former Southampton man was seen doing some weight-lifting with a stunning backdrop behind him.

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      Rob Holding is in Mykonos, GreeceCredit: Instagram / @rholding95

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      Callum Chambers has met up with Holding in Mykonos when he’s not been pumping iron
      LAMELA, LO CELSO AND DIER
      Like the Arsenal duo, Spurs pair Lamela and Lo Celso are also on holiday together.
      The trio have chosen Ibiza, like Vardy, but will have to adhere to the strict quarantine rules
      For 14 days they’ll have to remain in quarantine, when they return.
      But they don’t look like they mind that.

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      Spurs Argie pair Lo Celso and Lamela cook some meat on a barbecue in Ibiza
      FRED
      Manchester United midfielder Fred has taken wife Monique Salum to Turkey for the pre-season break.
      The 27-year-old took to social media to upload a sweet image of the family, with their son Benjamin at The Land of Legends hotel in Belek.
      There they can enjoy sandy beaches, thermal spas and a host of golf courses.

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      Fred is enjoying his downtime in TurkeyCredit: Instagram / @moniquesalum
      JOSE MOURINHO
      The Tottenham manager is back in his homeland.
      Mourinho is in the Algarve with his family, including daughter Matilde, who was in Marbella last week without ‘The Special One’.
      He has a house in Ferragudo, Lagoa, where they regularly take their holidays.
      So far on their trip they’ve been dolphin watching.

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      Jose Mourinho is dolphin watching in his native PortugalCredit: Instagram matildefmf

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      Matilde Mourinho joined her dad in Portugal after spending time in MarbellaCredit: Instagram matildefmf
      ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN
      What a season it’s been for the former Arsenal midfielder.
      Now a Premier League winner, he and his Little Mix missus Perrie Edwards are in Ibiza.
      They were spotted eating out at the lavish Cala Bassa Beach Club with a convoy of pals.
      Will the Ox follow in Ake and Lanzini’s footsteps by popping the question? Watch this space.
      XHERDAN SHAQIRI
      The Swiss international and Liverpool star is another who swears by Spain.
      Winger Shaqiri is also in Formentera with pals, where he’s hired a boat.

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      Liverpool Premier League-winner Shaqiri is in Formentera

      And the Premier League-winner might want to invest in some suntan lotion.
      Pictures showed the former Bayern Munich star sporting a rather lobster-like colour.
      Some might say, it matches the shirt he wears.

      Leicester star James Maddison tries to kiss a girl on Ibiza holiday More