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      in Soccer

      When stars get angry after being substituted, from Messi’s spat with Pochettino to Ozil kicking a water bottle

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      SERIAL winner Cristiano Ronaldo threw the most almighty strop when he was hauled off in Manchester United’s 3-1 win over Brentford.The Portuguese superstar, 36, gave boss Ralf Rangnick a cursory glance, while muttering and then slamming his coat to the ground as he was subbed off after a disappointing performance.
      Cristiano Ronaldo was furious to be subbed off by Ralf RangnickCredit: AFP
      Latest reports claim the ex-Real Madrid forward is frustrated with life at Old Trafford, which could explain why he showed his anger with the German tactician’s decision to remove him from the action.
      Ronaldo, though, isn’t the only superstar to show his anger after being taken off. Here’s seven who couldn’t contain their emotions.
      Lionel Messi
      LAST September, Mauricio Pochettino replaced talisman Lionel Messi with Mauro Icardi with 15 minutes left on his debut against Lyon.
      To soften the blow, the ex-Spurs manager extended his hand as the Argentine legend trudged off the pitch.
      But Messi snubbed his handshake, gave Poch a dirty look and shook his head as he sat on the bench for the remainder of the match. To make matters worse, Icardi netted the winner.
      Lionel Messi gives boss Mauricio Pochettino a cursory glanceCredit: AP
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      Mesut Ozil
      BACK in 2019, when his Arsenal career was beginning to come to an end, Ozil took his issues out on a water bottle.
      Interim boss Freddie Ljungberg made the call, subbing the German playmaker in a Premier League game against Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium.
      Players and staff looked on as Ozil’s moment of petulance showed what was about to come when Mikel Arteta took over the reigns and booted him out.
      Mesut Ozil booted a water bottle after he was taken off against Man CityCredit: AFP or licensors
      Kylian Mbappe
      PLAYING under Thomas Tuchel can be a tough experience, with the disciplinarian regularly keeping his players on their toes with a strict regime.
      The France international was often sacrificed by his manager when games were seemingly won, irking the World Cup winner.
      In the 68th minute, Mbappe’s race was run during the 5-0 win over Montpellier in 2020, according to his gaffer.
      As he came off, Tuchel explained his decision to the forward, who talked things over his boss, then went to sulk on the bench.
      Kylian Mbappe went to sulk on the bench after disagreeing with Thomas Tuchel’s decisionCredit: Reuters
      Granit Xhaka
      AFTER having an absolute stinker against Crystal Palace in 2019, the then Arsenal captain was taken off at the Emirates Stadium to a chorus of boos from the home fans.
      He waved his arms in the air in fury at the reaction, told the crowd to “f*** off” and threw his shirt to the ground before going down the tunnel.
      As a result, he was stripped of the captaincy by Unai Emery.
      Granit Xhaka stormed off the Emirates Stadium pitch to a chorus of boos by home fansCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Sergio Aguero
      MANCHESTER CITY’s record scorer didn’t always see eye-to-eye with Pep Guardiola.
      During a game against Spurs, the Spaniard wanted something different upfront and brought on Gabriel Jesus in place of the Argie on the hour mark. Aguero was livid and let him know about it as the pair aired an angry exchange in public.
      “That’s normal,” Guardiola said after the final whistle.
      “The players want to play and I can understand him. He is a top player. But at that moment I needed a little more energy with Gabriel in that position. That is why I decided to take a decision.”
      Sergio Aguero was livid with Pep Guardiola for subbing him offCredit: Reuters
      Gonzalo Higuain
      MAURIZIO SARRI and Gonzalo Higuain had a strange relationship, but you can’t argue that the Italian got the best out of the striker.
      The chain-smoking manager would regularly haul off the star and the pair would quarrel on the touchline.
      Speaking of their strained relationship, Sarri revealed: “I don’t know why that is, but it’s always been the case. Maybe it’s because he needs a rather aggressive counterpoint to bring out the best in him.”
      He added: “He needs pampering one day and beating against a wall the next! When he’s feeling down, he needs caring for.
      “When he’s on a high, he must be brought down a peg because he can get too carried away.”
      Gonzalo Higuain and Maurizio Sarri had a strained relationship through the yearsCredit: Getty
      Lautaro Martinez
      THE Inter Milan striker and former manager Antonio Conte had a furious bust-up last season when Martinez was substituted after coming on earlier in the game.
      And he reacted in the worst possible way, taking his shirt off and throwing it to the ground in front of a fiery Conte.
      According to Sky Sports in Italy, his manager shouted to Martinez: “Have respect! Who are you angry with? Never react like this again.”
      Lautaro Martinez risked the wrath of Antonio Conte with his reaction at Inter MilanCredit: EPA More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd wonderkid Anthony Elanga idolises Thierry Henry, has already scored first senior goal and signed bumper deal

      by

      BRILLIANT Anthony Elanga is well on his way to becoming Manchester United’s next youth success story.The Swedish winger, 19, has been tipped to join a Championship side on loan in the January transfer window, with first team experience the goal.
      Anthony Elanga, 19, scored his first senior Man Utd goal against WolvesCredit: Paul Marriott – The Sun
      The Swedish winger scored a bullet header any target man would be proud ofCredit: Getty
      Of course, Red Devils fans will already know about his prowess from last season.
      The flying youngster scored his first senior goal for United with a bullet header against Wolves on the final day of the campaign.
      The youth star has impressed for the Under-23’s again this season, but has found game-time limited.
      However, some fans are calling for him to start ahead of England international Marcus Rashford.
      Elanga made his senior debut against LeicesterCredit: AP
      Elanga has four goals in eight games for the Under-23s this seasonCredit: Getty
      Football is something that is very much in his blood.
      His dad Joseph Elanga was a professional footballer, who earned 17 caps for Cameroon and was called up to the 1998 World Cup squad.
      Anthony was previously handed the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award, which has been won by first-teamers Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood in the past.
      While back in March, Elanga was rewarded for his rapid progress with a new long-term deal at Old Trafford.
      Anthony Elanga is the latest promising talent coming through the Man Utd ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      19-year-old forward and Swedish youth star Elanga won the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award last seasonCredit: Sportsfile
      KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
      Anthony’s father Joseph could say he taught him everything he knew.
      But the elder Elanga, now 42, wasn’t a forward like his son. He was a defender, who made a career for himself in Europe – in countries including Greece, Sweden and Denmark, before retiring in 2012.
      His best years were with Malmo from 2000-2005, who he won the Swedish championship with in 2004. He would join the club for one season again in 2010 and win a second league title.
      Joseph was a member of the Cameroon 1998 World Cup squad, but didn’t play a game.
      During his career, however, he did manage to gain 17 caps for his country.
      Joseph Elanga played in Europe for clubs including Malmo and Brondby (pictured here)Credit: Getty
      Elanga Sr played 17 times for Cameroon and was picked for their 1998 World Cup squadCredit: Alamy
      A THREAT UPFRONT
      United’s youth sides are blessed with promising forwards, with the likes of Shola Shoretire, Charlie McNeill and Dillon Hoogewerf all showing they have a bright future in the game.
      Like them, Elanga has the ability to play out wide or though the middle as a No9.
      Predominantly right-footed, he uses his pace and skill to beat his man, often cutting in before unleashing a shot on goal.
      His solo runs are reminiscent of a young Ryan Giggs, who could take three or four players out of a game in one swashbuckling gallop.
      Elanga has been with the Red Devils since the U12s, joining the academy from Sunday League side Hattersley FC.
      In 2019-20, after a prolific season with the U18 side with who he scored seven times in nine games, he was the recipient of the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award
      In March Elanga signed a long-term deal with the Red DevilsCredit: Getty
      Elanga has an eye for goal and was previously named Utd academy player of the yearCredit: Getty
      Predominantly right-footed, Elanga likes to drift to the left and cut in towards goalCredit: Getty

      HOPEFUL FOR THE FUTURE
      Elanga – who scored two goals in five matches for Sweden’s U17s – had excited Solskjaer in training before his first-team debut.
      “He’s got an X factor, some attributes, it’s not like a gift, but he’s got the acceleration, pace, speed, that’s a given for wingers and he’s got qualities I like,” the Norwegian explained.
      “He’s a goalscoring winger, he’s confident, he likes to beat men, right foot, left foot, he’s got a great attitude.”

      Humble Elanga understands he has to work hard to achieve regular first team footballCredit: Instagram anthonyelanga
      Elanga can see a pathway to the United first team after seeing the likes of Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood flourishCredit: Getty
      Elanga is equally as positive for his future, and knows what he has to do to impress his boss.
      Back in November he told PA, “You look at the likes of Mason and Rashy, there is a pathway there.
      “It just shows you that if you’re willing to put the work into it and continue to work hard day in, day out in training there’s a pathway for you there.”
      HEROES IN THE GAME
      In an interview with The Athletic last year, Elanga revealed who he models his game on.
      “Thierry Henry was my idol and I tried to match my game with his,” he said.
      “He was quick. He could play anywhere across the front three – striker, left wing, right wing – and that’s how I want to replicate my game.”
      Solskjaer said Elanga has an X-Factor about him and a promising futureCredit: Getty
      Elanga idolises Thierry Henry and tries to copy his hero’s gameCredit: Getty
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      Manchester United legend Gary Neville caught a glimpse of Elanga in full flight, when he co-commentated on United Under-21s 6-0 win over Salford City in the EFL Trophy last year.
      He said the youngster was a “nightmare to play against” and called his goal “Thierry Henry-esque.”
      If he’s half the player Henry was, United have got themselves a real talent.
      Solskjaer says Man Utd striker Marcus Rashford in doubt for Granada match More

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      Spurs owner Joe Lewis lives on a £112m boat, is friends with Tiger Woods and gave The Nolans their first ever gig

      by

      JOE LEWIS owns Tottenham Hotspur, but you’ve probably hardly ever seen him. The East End-born self-made billionaire rarely visits the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to cheer on Harry Kane and Co, preferring life on a superyacht in the Caribbean to trips to North London.
      Billionaire Joe Lewis is the very private owner of Tottenham HotspurCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      Spurs owner Joe Lewis has an estimated worth of £4bnCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Residing mostly in the Bahamas on his £112m boat called Aviva III, he also has a home next door to Sean Connery’s former estate and is friends with Tiger Woods.
      Over the years, he launched the careers of Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock founder Robert Earl and 70s pop sensations The Nolans.
      And according to the Forbes rich list, he has an estimated fortune of a whopping £4.3bn.
      Let SunSport take you through the world of the man nicknamed “The Boxer” because of his sporting namesake.
      Who is Joe Lewis?
      Joe is true cockney who was born within the sound of the St. Mary-le-Bow church bells in 1937, which makes him 84 years old. He is thought to have been raised in a flat above the Roman Arms pub in East London.
      Roman Road in Bow, East London, where Lewis was reportedly raisedCredit: Google Streetview
      Credit: Alamy
      Joe Lewis was born within the sound of the St. Mary-le-Bow church bells
      He left school at 15 to work in his family’s cafe as a waiter, earning £6 a week.
      He later established more businesses in London’s West End under the name Tavistock Banqueting.
      Joe opened restaurants including the Northumberland Grand, which was the first fancy dress-themed eaterie in London aimed at tourists.
      From there he developed the Beefeater, the Cockney, the Caledonian and the Hanover Grand.
      He managed his first super club called The Talk of the Town in the 60s, where the likes of Frank Sinatra, Diana Ross and Tom Jones performed.
      At the Hanover Grand, Joe granted The Nolans their first ever live show and he gave Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock founder Robert Earl his first job.
      The Talk of the Town was London’s super club of the 60sCredit: Alamy
      Joe Lewis launched the career of The Nolans handing them their first gigCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Joe Lewis gave Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock boss Robert Earl his first jobCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Joe even delved into the world of tourist shops, selling souvenirs and laying on bus tours of London for foreigners and dropping them off at his restaurants.
      He sold the business in 1979 for an incredible £30m and moved to the Bahamas as a tax exile.How he turned his millions to billions… 
      After moving to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, Joe entered the world of currency trading.
      It’s there he made tens of millions, gambling on stock, as he looked to continue accumulating his massive wealth.
      And it was in September, 1992 when he became a billionaire, thanks in part to one shrewd investment on a day called Black Wednesday.
      Joe teamed up with investor George Soros believing the Pound was overvalued and would collapse as Britain attempted to align it with other Euro countries.
      He bet on the Pound crashing out of the European Exchange Rate Mechanism and as it did he became a billionaire overnight.
      Joe repeated the trick many years later betting against the Mexican peso and landed himself even more dough.
      After selling his business Joe Lewis moved to the BahamasCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Joe Lewis made his first billion on Black Wednesday in 1992Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Joe Lewis gambled on the pound crashing out of the European Exchange Rate MechanismCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      He lives on one of the most luxurious boats in the world…
      Well, for most months of the year… and it’s not just any old boat.
      The Aviva III, built in 2007, is Joe’s mobile private office and it’s 223ft in size with an estimated value of £112m.
      It was crafted by German builders Abeking and Rasmussen and designed by Reymond Langton.
      The large yacht can host up to 16 people and in sea trials reached up to 20 knots (23mph).
      Joe is a keen sportsman, with the ship boasting a full-sized tennis court.
      Joe Lewis owns the Aviva III which is worth £112mCredit: Jeremy Young – The Sunday Times  
      The mega yacht has a full-sized tennis court and can reach 23mphCredit: Alamy Live News
      In May 2013, Spurs went on a trip to the Bahamas and were welcomed on board the vessel by host Joe.
      Michael Dawson, who was skipper at the time, said: “I had never met him before, so it was nice to go over there and a great experience.
      “What a really nice guy. And that yacht is unreal! But he’s just a normal guy.
      “You could chat to him about anything. He tunes into all the games, he loves it.
      “We just sat there chatting. He made us feel so welcome over there. It was relaxed. A lot of team-bonding together.
      “It helps to be able to put a face to the person investing so much in this club he wants to be successful.
      “He’s always watching. He knows what goes on. He would remember every game, every little thing.”
      Joe Lewis welcomed Spurs players onboard his boat in 2013Credit: PA:Press Association
      Michael Dawson waxed lyrical about meeting Joe LewisCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Joe has friends in high places…
      Of course, when you’re as wealthy as Joe you’re going to attract the creme de la creme of society.
      His best mate is Tiger Woods, who has called Joe “my business mentor” in the past.
      Each year, when he’s not injured, Tiger takes part in Joe’s Tavistock Cup competition in Florida.
      It’s held on two of Joe’s developments in Orlando called the Isleworth and Lake Nona.
      Tiger Woods has called Joe Lewis “my business mentor”Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Joe Lewis and Tiger Woods regularly play golf together in FloridaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Incidentally, when Tiger Woods had his infamous 2009 low-speed car accident it was at Joe’s Isleworth complex, where the golfer has a home.
      Joe, who also owns property in Argentina and Bulgaria, boasts Ernie Els is another pal, and the pair are said to regularly dine together.
      Being mates with golfers gives you the hint that Joe is a keen golfer himself.
      He is believed to play off a 14 handicap and has practised with Woods and Els in the past.
      Joe Lewis and Ernie Els often have dinner togetherCredit: PA:Press Association
      Pablo Picasso is one of the artists Joe Lewis lovesCredit: AFP – Getty
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      He has an epic art collection…When you’re a wealthy man, you need hobbies aside from golf and relaxing on yachts.
      That’s why Joe has an art collection that’s the envy of every Premier League owner.
      Said to be worth around £1bn, he owns works by post-expressionists Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, and Miros.
      However, in 2008 Joe made headline news, at least in the art world, with one extravagant purchase.
      The businessman splashed £26.3 million on Francis Bacon’s Triptych 1974-1977 painting.
      And you’d never guess where he keeps all his art? Yeah, that’s right.. the paintings adorn the walls of his mega yacht.
      Joe Lewis spent £26.3 million on Francis Bacon painting Triptych 1974-1977Credit: Christie’s
      Joe Lewis keeps most of his art collection on his luxury yachtCredit: Reuters
      And now for something personal…
      Joe has been married twice, his first wife was Esther Browne who he met at his greasy spoon.
      She now lives in Ireland.
      They had two children, Vivienne and Charlie, before they divorced.
      Joe then married his former assistant Jane, however they don’t have any kids.
      But before you go thinking life has been all rosy for Joe, he has been touched by loss.
      He lost his dad to cancer, so he wanted to give something  back.
      Joe set up a foundation to help fund research, and the charity is run by daughter Vivienne.
      Joe Lewis has been called a regular guy by anyone who meets himCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      in Soccer

      Nine funniest transfer unveilings, from Kieran Trippier missing the Newcastle badge to Alexis Sanchez playing the piano

      by

      IT is that time again when football clubs all around the world will be looking to improve their squads.Star signings will be paraded to fans across the globe in unveiling ceremonies, while social media will be awash with comment.
      Kieran Trippier hilariously misses the badge of his jersey in his photo call
      However, sometimes these announcements can be unintentionally hilarious.
      Here’s seven SunSport has seen over the years tickled the funny bone and appeared plain daft.
      Kieran Trippier
      England right back Trippier returned to our shores in spectacular fashion, when he signed for the world’s wealthiest club Newcastle.
      However, when it came to donning the shirt for the first time in the photo call he made one crucial error.
      Instead of pointing to the badge on his jersey, his finger was nearer his sleeve.
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      One can only hope his crosses are far more accurate.
      Alexis Sanchez
      It was an unveiling that has since brought hundreds of memes.
      After Manchester United captured Chilean Sanchez from rivals Arsenal, they produced a bonkers video for their social media channels.
      In it, the forward can be seen playing the piano along to the tune, ‘Glory Glory Man Utd’ wearing the famous red jersey.
      Apparently, Sanchez is a skilled pianist… you would never have known it.
      When Manchester United signed Alexis Sanchez they filmed a video of him playing pianoCredit: Manchester United FC
      Douglas Bergqvist
      Ukrainians FC Chernomorets Odesa didn’t set the bar high when they announced the signing of Bergqvist.
      The club’s Instagram page showed a picture of the Swedish defender wearing a kit from his old club Kalmar FF, but painted purple and black stripes over him to make it look like he’s wearing their jersey.
      And just in case fans couldn’t tell, the club blasted the word Chernomorets across his chest for good measure.
      Definitely a photoshop fail.
      Chernomorets’ efforts to draw their own kit on top of BergqvistCredit: Instagram @chernomoretsfc
      Marvin Ducksch
      In 2016, St Pauli unveiled striker with a masked man posing as his boss.
      Boss Ewald Lienen was supposed to turn up as the club announced the signing of the ex-Borussia Dortmund strike.
      But when he missed the scheduled photo opportunity, some quick thinking saw someone step into the shot in his place – wearing a mask of his face.
      The club’s move was seen straight through as Twitter users posted a string of tongue-in-cheek comments about their manager’s makeover.
      Marvin Ducksch signed for St Pauli with his new ‘manager’Credit: Twitter @St. Pauli
      Aaron Lennon
      Cheer up, Aaron.
      At least that’s what you would’ve hoped the Everton club photographer would’ve said when he was taking snaps of the winger to present him to supporters.
      But he couldn’t get the ex-Spurs winger to crack a smile, which made it funny in itself.
      Then Toffees boss Roberto Martinez revealed later the club would use a different photographer moving forward.
      Glum Aaron Lennon doesn’t look happy signing for EvertonCredit: Everton FC
      David Ginola
      One for the ladies.
      90s football pin-up Ginola was good eye candy for female football fans, so Spurs knew what they were doing when they told the Frenchman to whip off his top and hold the shirt aloft on the White Hart Lane pitch.
      Not only did he reveal his shirt number (17), but his remarkable torso, six-pack and all, was on display.
      David Ginola shows off his abs at White Hart LaneCredit: EPA
      Bryan Robson
      Truly horrific, and that’s no slight on Captain Fantastic.
      When Middlesbrough hired Robson as player-manager, the marketing men put their heads together to come up with this gem of a photocall.
      Why not have the new gaffer wearing a shirt, tie and blazer and match it with Boro shorts and socks?
      That’s exactly what happened, and they clearly couldn’t decide what footwear he should have on, in this embarrassing moment for all.
      Bryan Robson shows off his football skills in a half suit, half kit ensembleCredit: Getty
      Benito Carbone
      There’s no room for stereotyping in football.
      But back in the 1990s, when Italian star Benito Carbone signed for Sheffield Wednesday there was only one thing to do.
      That’s right, pose with manager David Pleat eating a fork full of spaghetti.
      Bear in mind, this is the same club that got Paolo Di Canio to chomp on a pizza in his unveiling photo.
      Italian Benito Carbone poses with a plateful of spaghettiCredit: PA:Press Association
      Omar Gonzalez
      The force is strong with this one, well at least Mexican club Pachuca thought so.
      For the surprise signing of USA international defender Omar Gonzalez, the Liga MX sort to appeal to film buffs.
      They disguised Gonzalez in a Darth Vader outfit at a press conference, finally asking him to take off his mask for the big reveal.
      Novel, certainly, entertaining, kind of, pointless, definitely.
      The force was strong with Omar Gonzalez when he dressed up as Darth Vader for PachucaCredit: FC Pachuca More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea wonderkid Lewis Hall, 17, has been with the Blues since age eight and is club’s youngest ever FA Cup star

      by

      IT was a performance that belied his tender years.Lewis Hall, just 17, rightly earned the plaudits from fans, pundits and his manager for an impressive performance against Chesterfield in the FA Cup third round.
      Chelsea youngster Lewis Hall was star of the show in the Blues 5-1 win over ChesterfieldCredit: Getty
      Hall delivered an assist on his first team debut for the BluesCredit: Getty
      Playing out of position, the talented teenager was man-of-the-match in a swashbuckling display on the left side of defence.
      He made history by becoming the club’s youngest player to start an FA Cup game at the age of just 17 years and 122 days against Chesterfield
      He capped off a wonderful performance with an assist for Romelu Lukaku in the 5-1 win, and had boss Thomas Tuchel purring about him, although the German manager did offer some perspective.
      Tuchel said: “There’s no need to talk it down (Hall’s performance vs Chesterfield) but no need to get overwhelmed, because we played against a fifth division team.
      “The young boys have to step up and show what they’re capable of, and they did it again.”
      Blue is all he’s known
      Like many that come through the academy at Cobham, Slough-born Hall has been with the club since playing with the U8’s.
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      Over time, he has steadily risen through the ranks to shine for the U18’s, as well as the U23 side.
      Hall, who primarily operates at left-back or in central midfield at youth level, has particularly impressed during this campaign.
      At U18 level, he’s his team’s definitive playmaker – registering three goals and four assists in just six games.
      That prompted his coaches to promote him to U23 football, and he has shown he hasn’t been overawed playing at a higher age group scoring twice in seven games for the Premier League 2 side.
      The experience gave Hall the perfect platform to succeed in the first team.
      He’s modest
      What was most impressive about Hall’s performance was his level of maturity on and off the pitch.
      During the game he picked the right pass and always did the right thing.
      Afterwards, he showed a modest approach and total honesty when it came to describing how he felt about making his bow for the club he clearly loves.
      “It’s a dream come true,” he told Chelsea TV.
      Last summer Hall signed a scholarship deal with the clubCredit: Instagram @lewishall_10
      Playing at left-back or in midfield, Hall has excelled for both the U18 and U23 sidesCredit: Getty
      Hall’s talents haven’t gone unnoticed by England, who have called him up to U18 levelCredit: Rex
      “It’s something I’ve worked towards since a kid. To finally get the opportunity today… I’ve got to thank everyone. My family, the manager, the fans for making me feel so welcome.”
      Incredibly, Hall only signed scholarship terms with the club last summer, and alongside his FA Cup appearance has also appeared in the FA Youth Cup, UEFA Youth League and Papa John’s Trophy.
      It’s a progression, starting with seeing his name on the team sheet for the first eleven, that has surprised Hall as he continues his development.
      “When I saw my name it was just instant shock,” Hall revealed at full-time.
      “Nerve-wracking for a couple of hours. I just had to sit there for a bit and think ‘wow, this is the day’.
      “As soon as I stepped on to the pitch the fans were behind me and wanted me to do well. It gave me the motivation and confidence to do what I can do.
      A thankful Romelu Lukaku runs to Hall to celebrate his team mate’s assistCredit: Getty
      Hall has been integrated into Tuchel’s training sessionsCredit: Getty
      Hall appears to have a promising future at Chelsea after a breakthrough campaignCredit: Getty
      “I started off [the season] in the U18s and just worked my way up. I’ve finally achieved what my aim is at Chelsea. I’m lost for words really.
      “I’ve achieved my aims already and gone beyond what I wanted to achieve [this season]. When I get home I’m going to have to take a couple of days to take it all in and think about what’s next.”
      Given he has taken to first team football like a duck to water, and proved to his coach that he can be trusted, you can bet we haven’t seen the last of Hall this season. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Footballers who have taken London Tube, from ex-Arsenal star Mesut Ozil to the German national team and Peter Crouch

      by

      FOOTBALLERS… sometimes they’re just like us.Former Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil showed what a regular guy he was by taking the Tube for a sightseeing tour before he left our shores for Turkey.
      Mesut Ozil isn’t the only footballer to take the TubeCredit: Instagram @m10_official
      But the German star isn’t the first footballer to brave the rush hour crowd and take a trip on the London Underground.
      Messrs Dier, Eriksen and Zaha have all charged up their Oyster cards and got on a train.
      And there’s an honourable mention for former Spurs manager Christian Gross who bragged about getting the Tube to his first press conference as Tottenham boss.
      A pioneer in these circles.
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      The German national team
      Per Mertesacker looks thrilled to be on the London UndergroundCredit: Handout – Getty
      Before they played England in an international friendly at Wembley back in 2013, Per Mertesacker, Mats Hummels and manager Joachim Low tried the underground.
      They ventured on the Bakerloo Line, talking to other commuters and did their best to fit in with the locals.
      They said they did it to escape the congested streets of London, and the German FA were delighted it was their first time on the Tube
      Apparently, they changed at Baker Street, had a nosey at the Sherlock Holmes museum before heading to the Metropolitan Line to get to Wembley Park.
      The German national team went to Wembley Park for a friendly against EnglandCredit: Handout
      The German national team changed at Baker Street to take in the Sherlock Holmes museumCredit: Handout – Getty
      Christian Eriksen and Eric Dier
      Because it’s always best for footballing team-mates to travel in pairs.
      Former Spurs star Eriksen and his pal Dier were snapped a day after celebrating a 4-1 win over Sunderland in 2016 on the Tube.
      They seemed in jovial spirits as they joked with each other and passengers, happily posing for snaps.
      No word on where they got off, but they were enjoying some downtime before a crucial game against Leicester.
      Eric Dier and Christian Eriksen share a laugh on the London UndergroundCredit: Twitter
      Wilfried Zaha
      The Palace winger uses his dazzling feet to good effect on the pitch, so he definitely should’ve paid attention to those ‘Mind the Gap’ announcements.
      After a game against Manchester City in 2016 at the Etihad, Zaha was seen completing the final leg of his journey home on the Tube.
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      Better still, he even wore his full kit – just so he couldn’t be missed.
      And like a seasoned traveller, he had some headphones on and wasn’t ready to talk to any other commuters, preferring to keep to himself.
      Wilfried Zaha kept his headphones on during his London Underground rideCredit: Twitter
      Juan Mata
      You would’ve thought they’d lay on a car…
      Before Spanish international Mata joined Man Utd, he was snapped getting on the Tube to get a connecting train to Manchester in 2014.
      But he clearly wasn’t a Tube regular, oh no, no, no, because he was wrapped up far too warm. Everyone knows how sweaty you can get underground. He should’ve ditched the hat!
      Juan Mata took the Tube before heading to Manchester to sign for UnitedCredit: Twitter
      Joey Barton
      He’s just a regular Joe now…
      The former Man City midfielder turned manager showed he’s just like one of us when he was pictured getting on the train back in 2014.
      One keen fan decided to share his snap on Twitter, telling the world Joey was ‘slumming it’ but we think it’s commendable.
      However, not too sure of the John Lennon-style breton cap though.
      Joey Barton tried to go inconspicuous on the Tube by wearing a hatCredit: Twitter
      Peter Crouch
      There would definitely be far more comfortable ways for the big man to travel!
      ‘Crouchy’ was spied squeezing his 6’7″ frame into a carriage shortly after announcing his missus Abbey Clancy was expecting their third child.
      Trying to go as incognito as possible, Peter wore a baseball cap over his face and a white shirt to seem like an every man.
      It was a busy Friday night, but that didn’t stop Peter enjoying his ride though on the Northern Line.
      Peter Crouch stood out like a sore thumb when he took the trainCredit: Splash News
      Hatem Ben Arfa
      When the Frenchman was plying his trade at Newcastle United in 2014, he thought he’d give the Tube a go.
      Shortly after wearing the black and white of the Toon, he topped up his Oyster card and touched into the Underground.
      One eager fan managed to get a snap with his hero, even calling the midfielder a ‘#toplad’ for his efforts. Ben Arfa doesn’t look that thrilled to have been spotted though.
      Hatem Ben Arfa looked thrilled to be recognised by a fan on the London UndergroundCredit: Twitter
      Marc Albrighton
      When the Leicester City wide man was at Aston Villa, he made one young fan’s day by posing for a snap.
      Albrighton was travelling on the Tube, presumably the District and Hammersmith and City lines, after a game against West Ham United.
      Good on Albrighton for happily smiling for a photo, as well as taking the Tube like a normal fan in 2012.
      Marc Albrighton made a young fan’s request a dream on the TubeCredit: Twitter
      Joe Ledley and Martin Kelly
      Palace full-back Kelly and former Eagle Joe Ledley took on the commoners route by going underground.
      The pair were tickled pink when they were spotted and snapped sat down on the Tube in 2015.
      But by the looks of Kelly attentively gazing at the Underground map, he needed to have a good look to see where he was going.
      Martin Kelly and Joe Ledley found something to laugh about on the TubeCredit: Twitter
      Vlad Chiriches
      You would never recognise him…
      The former Spurs centre-half could’ve gone completely unnoticed on the Tube if one eagle-eyed fan hadn’t sneaked this picture.
      Casually dressed in a hoodie and jeans, with his earphones plugged into his ears, Chiriches seemed at ease on the train in 2014.
      In fact, we’ve never seen him look so comfortable in North London.
      Vlad Chiriches blended in on the TubeCredit: Twitter
      Lewis Holtby
      While on loan at Fulham, the German midfielder endeared himself to The Cottagers faithful by taking the Tube home after a game.
      After all, he just starred in a 1-0 win over Newcastle back in 2014 and wanted to share a snap of himself being a regular punter.
      Lewis Holtby gave Fulham fans cheer by taking the Tube home after a winCredit: Twitter
      Christian Gross
      The modern day Tube pioneer.
      When Christian Gross took up his post at Tottenham Hotspur in 1997 he decided he would take the Tube to his press conference.
      Proud of his efforts, he then told a pack of journalists (proudly flashing his travelcard) and calling it ‘the ticket of his dreams’.
      A year later he was sacked, but we’ll never forget that moment.
      Christian Gross flashed his travelcard as the ‘ticket of his dreams’Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Oriol Romeu
      A cheeky pretender to the crown…
      The Southampton midfielder had a pop at Mesut Ozil’s Tube snap by posting his own on Instagram.
      Romeu even slyly captioned the pic, where he looked moody, “Doing Ozil’s things” with a winking face emoji, as well as a train emoji.
      Maybe Romeu had the hump because no one recognised him?
      Oriol Romeu poked fun at Mesut Ozil when he took the TubeCredit: Instagram
      Roberto Mancini
      When our SunSport reporter Gary Stonehouse spotted Italy boss Roberto Mancini on the Tube, he couldn’t wait to get a snap.
      We spied the Italian don heading to Wembley for his former club Man City’s semi-final clash with Arsenal.
      Mancini posted for pictures with fans, telling one he wanted to be Arsenal manager next season. He also gave our Gary some great Tube banter.
      SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse poses with Roberto Mancini on the TubeCredit: Twitter More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Boxing

      How Money Kicks went from Dubai’s richest kid with personal zoo to boxer set to fight Floyd Mayweather

      by

      RASHED BELHASA, better known as social media sensation Money Kicks, is set to fight one of his pals who visited his famed zoo in Dubai.The 20-year-old, who has started to carve out a career for himself in boxing, is reportedly in talks to take on Floyd Mayweather in an exhibition bout which could take place on the helipad of the famous Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.
      Instagram star Money Kicks is set to face Floyd Mayweather
      Recently, Money Kicks has carved a career for himself in boxing
      Belhasa, better known as Money Kicks, always wore The Money Team caps growing upCredit: Instagram
      After claiming talks were at the ‘last stage’, Money Kicks told Sky Sports: “I never thought I would ever fight Floyd. He is the best fighter ever.
      “When I was young, I would collect his ‘The Money Team’ caps.
      “Mayweather’s team asked my team for a meeting. We thought: ‘No way will this happen!’
      “The same day of the meeting, I saw Mayweather saying, ‘I would love to fight Rashed’.
      “He is serious. It is an honour that he has called me out. I thought: ‘This will go viral!'”
      On Instagram, Money Kicks has over two million followers. He lives in a mansion in the UAE that has its own private zoo filled with over 500 exotic animals.
      Because of that, the son of construction mogul Saif Ahmed Belhasa, worth around £4billion, can count the world’s greatest footballers and sports stars as his friends, including Mayweather.
      Inside the private zoo, you’ll find lions, tigers, panthers, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and even bears.
      Hilariously, he has even named some of them after A-list celebrities and cartoon characters.
      Anthony Joshua and Money Kicks square up with the social media star wanting to take on boxing’s elite
      Wealthy Money Kicks shows off his wheels
      Inside his family mansion in Dubai he has a zooCredit: Channel 4
      Footballers like Paul Pogba have visited him and his chimpanzeesCredit: Instagram
      David Luiz had fed his tigersCredit: Instagram
      While Luiz has also larked about with Belhasa’s giraffes Bert and ErnieCredit: Instagram @davidluiz_4
      There’s two giraffes named after Sesame Street’s Bert and Ernie.
      While there is a monkey called Paris Hilton, who incidentally has visited Belhasa.
      Other celebrities including Ronaldo, Jackie Chan, Rihanna and Mariah Carey have also had animals named after them, as well as made the pilgrimage to the astonishing grounds you need a go-kart to negotiate around.
      Footballers come in their droves, wowed by Belhasa’s wealth and the opportunity to feed a beast they’d never encounter otherwise.
      Jesse Lingard, John Terry, David Luiz, Luka Modric and more have all fed a tiger or a cub some milk for a photo op.
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      Jesse Lingard couldn’t wait to pose for a photo op at Belhasa’s family zooCredit: Instagram
      Brazilian Willian got close to a bear cubCredit: Instagram
      Lionel Messi is a friend of Belhasa tooCredit: Instagram
      Regular Dubai visitor John Terry has fed tigers at the mansionCredit: Instagram
      Pogba now considers Belhasa as a friendCredit: Instagram
      While Belhasa has also  struck up a friendship with Anthony Joshua and Logan PaulCredit: Instagram
      While Paul Pogba loved nothing more than hanging out with Belhasa and his chimpanzees.
      Even boxers Anthony Joshua and Floyd Mayweather have gone toe-to-toe with some bears and orangutans.
      The zoo itself can be seen from the lavish home’s living room and was featured on Channel 4’s World’s Weirdest Homes back in December.
      Belhasa revealed that the zoo isn’t open to the public, the family don’t make a profit from it and the animals aren’t badly treated.
      Floyd Mayweather has visited the lavish home of BelhasaCredit: Channel 4
      Belhasa is the son of construction mogul Saif Ahmed Belhasa, said to be worth around £4 billionCredit: Instagram
      Belhasa revealed the animals are all very well cared forCredit: Instagram
      He has animals named after celebrities, including RonaldoCredit: Instagram
      Recently, Belhasa rubbed shoulders with Mo SalahCredit: Instagram
      “We take care of all our animals,” he said.
      “When I went to Kenya, I see a lot of lions dying because they eat once a month and here they eat every single day.”
      Because of his wealth, Belhasa rubs shoulders with celebrities who make him their first port of call when they arrive in Dubai.
      “They all want to spend time on our family farm and see our tigers,” he told Dubai’s English-speaking newspaper, The National.
      Floyd Mayweather fed the bears on a visitCredit: Instagram @floydmayweather
      Belhasa’s home featured on Channel 4’s World’s Weirdest Homes back in DecemberCredit: Channel 4
      And Belhasa is the first port of call for celebrities visiting DubaiCredit: Instagram
      The zoo can be seen from the lavish mansion’s living roomCredit: Channel 4
      Wealthy Belhasa has a pool with its own waterfallCredit: Channel 4
      “Wiz Khalifa is my friend. Steve Aoki is my friend. They have all come to our farm.
      “But sometimes I have to say no to celebrities who want to come here. I don’t have the time and it is tiring.”
      Alongside being heir to a home zoo, Belhasa also boasts an incredible trainer collection worth around £800,000 that he loves to show off to his sporting mates.
      In fact, he has an entire room dedicated to his shoes – that include limited editions Yeezys, Bapes and Air Jordans kept in secure cases so they’re well preserved.
      As well as a zoo, Belhasa has a stunning trainer collectionCredit: Channel 4
      The sneakers are housed in their own room in the mansion and are said to be worth around £800kCredit: Instagram
      It all adds to Belhasa’s popularity in the sports worldCredit: Instagram
      Belhasa has become a social media phenomenon and has over two million followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram
      He isn’t afraid to show off his wealth to his fans and make friends with footballers like Jesse LingardCredit: Instagram
      It’s all part of Belhasa’s masterplan, to eventually open his own trainer store in Dubai.
      “Whatever I make from my clothing line and YouTube ads, I put into buying sneakers,” he revealed.
      “But this isn’t just me wasting money, this is a serious business investment.”
      Back in 2017, Belhasa made headlines when he showed off his birthday present – a £200k Ferrari F12 Berlinetta – to his followers on social media.

      Belhasa loves cars and befriending footballersCredit: Instagram
      @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.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-zkaekv{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-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::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);}
      Billionaire’s teen son Rashed Belhasa shows off £200,000 Ferrari wrapped in Louis Vuitton print
      He had the supercar custom-wrapped in Louis Vuitton Supreme logos, flaunting his lavish lifestyle.
      However, with the legal driving age being 18 in Dubai, Belhasa had to wait a year before he could drive it.
      Honestly, it’s not that hard a life, is it? More