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      Man Utd star Fred gets shock chance for Brazil as boss Tite calls him up ahead of vital World Cup games

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      NINE Premier League players were called up by Brazil coach Tite for next month’s World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay.Keepers Alisson and Ederson, centre back Thiago Silva, strikers Gabriel Jesus, Roberto Firmino and Richarlison, and midfielders Douglas Luiz, Fabinho… and Fred.
      Man Utd midfielder Fred has been called-up to the Brazil squad for crucial World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and ParaguayCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      The recall of the little Manchester United left footer is something of a surprise – perhaps even to United fans.
      Tite was questioned about it in Friday’s virtual press conference.
      He leant on data from his physical preparation specialist Fabio Mahseredjian, he pointed out that Fred is way above average both in terms of the ground he covers, and in the ground he covers at pace.
      This, more than any eye catching ability, is useful to Brazil – for reasons that may much to do with their quarter final defeat to Belgium three years ago. 
      The Belgians won the game in the first half coming for the space down the Brazilian left – where full back Marcelo has never been a great defender, and Neymar ahead of him is given freedom to create.
      After Russia 2018 Tite gave up on Marcelo, and originally went with cautious full backs on both flanks.
      A poor run of results towards the end of 2019 forced a rethink. Now Renan Lodi of Atletico Madrid is allowed to attack from left back – meaning that the space behind him has to be protected.
      In last year’s four rounds of World Cup qualifiers Brazil won all their games with Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz performing a key role balancing out the side on the left of midfield.
      WIN £50,000! Play Dream Team Euros – our FREE fantasy football game
      Fred has been called up by Tite following the suspension of Douglas LuizCredit: AFP or licensors
      Exciting Raphina hasn’t been called up despite his impressive form for LeedsCredit: Eddie Keogh Telegraph Media Group
      But he is suspended for the next game, at home to Ecuador – and so in comes Fred as cover.
      There is no place for Raphinha of Leeds, though supporters of his club have been arguing for his inclusion. But there is no surprise in his absence. 
      Firstly, Raphinha is far better known in Yorkshire than he is in Brazil. He is one of an increasing number of Brazilians who have made their name abroad.
      And also, Brazil have more wide strikers than they know what to do with. There is intense competition for places.
      His best chance is the Copa America, due to be staged in Colombia and Argentina in a month’s time.
      A wave of social unrest in Colombia means that a change of venue cannot be ruled out, but with the local football authorities desperate for revenue, it is highly likely that the competition will go ahead, somehow and somewhere.
      Brazil will be hopeful of regaining the Copa America they last won in 2019Credit: AFP

      The problem here for Brazil’s coach is that the local championship does not shut down – so any home based players who are called up will miss more than a month of club matches.
      In this situation, should Tite prefer to give a rest to his usual first choices, it might be interesting to have a look at the likes of Raphinha.
      The Leeds winger, then, faces an anxious few weeks while he waits to see if the Copa America will indeed go ahead – and if he will have a part to play in the competition.
      Who are the favourites for Tottenham’s Harry Kane transfer More

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      Goalkeepers who scored in the Premier League, after Liverpool star Alisson’s dramatic late winner against West Brom

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      THE keeper’s up!Liverpool’s goalie Alisson rescued the Reds with a dramatic late-winner against West Brom in the 95th minute to keep their hopes up for a top four finish.
      Brazilian Alisson rises above the West Brom defence to head homeCredit: Getty
      Liverpool’s stars celebrate Alisson’s dramatic winner against West BromCredit: AFP
      The Brazilian, 28, became the sixth goalkeeper to score in the Premier League after netting with a soaring header.
      But who else managed to find the back of the net after coming out of goal?
      Here are the five who did it before.
      Peter Schmeichel, 2001
      Post Manchester United, the Great Dane kept sticks for Aston Villa in his twilight years.
      And even though he was carrying a thigh injury, that didn’t stop Schmeichel coming up for a corner in stoppage time in a game against Everton.
      Incredibly, after Steve Staunton’s corner broke for him at the far post he was able to volley the ball home.
      In doing so, he became the first No1 to score in the Prem, but it wasn’t enough to rescue his side from losing 3-2.
      Peter Schmeichel became the first goalkeeper to score in the Premier LeagueCredit: PA
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      Brad Friedel, 2004
      The ex-Liverpool shot-stopper managed the same feat in similar circumstances as Schmeichel three years later – but in more dramatic circumstances.
      With his Blackburn team trailing Charlton 2-1, the American arrived in the penalty box to distract opposition defenders.
      The ball somehow cannoned to him, and he stuck out a left foot to deflect the ball into the net for an equaliser in the 90th minute.
      Astonishingly, Charlton won the game 3-2 with a Claus Jensen goal in stoppage time.
      Brad Friedel wheels away after scoring a dramatic equaliser for BlackburnCredit: Getty
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      Paul Robinson, 2007
      Look away, Ben Foster.
      When Spurs star Paul Robinson had a free kick on the left of his penalty box, his plan clearly was just to knock it long and aim for his centre forward.
      However, the ball took a weird bounce over a poorly positioned Foster and into the goal up the other end.
      Afterwards Watford boss Adrian Boothroyd said: “I’ve never seen anything like that before to be honest, but it’s a freak goal and Ben Foster will bounce back and fulfil his potential as one of the best keepers in England.”
      Paul Robinson scored a freak goal against WatfordCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Tim Howard, 2012
      Anything Robinson can do, Tim Howard can do better.
      The ex-Everton goalie received a pass back, launching a long ball forward from his own area.
      The wind at Goodison played a huge part – carrying the ball 101 yards, via another awkward bounce over a hapless Adam Bogdan in the Bolton goal.
      Howard didn’t celebrate the goal, and when the final whistle went said: “It’s not nice, it’s embarrassing, so I felt for Adam.”
      Tim Howard refused to celebrate his goal and had sympathy for Ben FosterCredit: Dave Pinegar – The Sun
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      Asmir Begovic, 2013
      The last goalie to score in the Premier League before Alisson was Begovic eight years ago.

      And it was another embarrassing moment for his fellow No1 – Artur Boruc.
      The Bosnian launched the ball forward after it passed back to him, while playing for Stoke against Southampton.
      His clearance carried to the Pole’s box, only to bounce over Boruc, and into an empty goal.
      Asmir Begovic was the last goalie to score in the Premier LeagueCredit: Action Images – Reuters More

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      Cheaper alternatives to Erling Haaland that could save Europe’s top clubs millions in the transfer market

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      THIS summer Erling Haaland will be the biggest transfer target in football.The Norwegian hotshot, 20, is being hunted by the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea, and both Manchester clubs in a deal that will likely cost over £100million.
      Erling Haaland is one of the most sought-after strikers in the world, but could cost clubs over £100mCredit: Getty
      But not everyone can afford to pay that kind of fee, especially because the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has meant clubs have less financial muscle than before.
      No, they and their scouts will have to be a bit more savvy when it comes to looking for the ‘next Haaland’ – a player who started his career at unfashionable Molde before moving to RB Leipzig for £7million.
      Here’s SunSport’s guide to who could fit the bill for Europe’s penny-pinchers, including their value on Transfermrkt.com
      PATSON DAKA
      Like Haaland, Zambian striker Daka is sharpening his finishing at Red Bull Salzburg before an inevitable big-money move.
      At 22, time is on his side to continue to improve and his goalscoring record is just as impressive as the man whose boots he was asked to fill.
      In his past two seasons, the 6ft 1in prolific hitman has scored 60 goals in 85 games.
      Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea are some of the Premier League clubs said to be interested.
      Transfermrkt value: £20m
      Patson Daka is following in Haaland’s footsteps at RB Leipzig and scoring goals for funCredit: Getty
      GIANLUCA SCAMACCA
      At 6ft 5in, Italian centre-forward Scamacca, 22, is just as dominant as Haaland physically.
      He’s not quite got the numbers goalscoring-wise as the Borussia Dortmund striker, but the Sassuolo-owned target man has been flying at Genoa on-loan this campaign.
      A dozen goals in 29 appearances in all competitions for a mid-table side in Serie A shows he can find the net.
      For Italy’s U21 team, the Juventus target is more prolific with eight goals in 14 games.
      Transfermrkt value: £7m
      At 6ft 5in Scamacca has the same physical presence as HaalandCredit: AP
      DARWIN NUNEZ
      Uruguayan Nunez is a real presence upfront, standing at 6ft 2in.
      In all competitions this term, the Benfica striker has managed 14 goals in 39 games – with a better rate in the Europa League of five goals in eight games.
      He has been capped by his country, appearing four times and scoring twice.
      But given Benfica paid £20million for him in 2020, he won’t come cheap.
      Transfermrkt value: £20m
      Darwin Nunez has shown his quality in the Europa League for Benfica this termCredit: EPA
      ADAM HLOZEK
      The youngest on the list, Czech striker Hlozek is said to be interesting Premier League side West Ham.
      The 18-year-old has been in blistering form for Sparta Prague this season – scoring 11 goals in 17 league games.
      And he’s already made his international debut for the Czech Republic against Slovakia at the end of last year.
      Incidentally, Hlozek is also a record breaker – being the youngest Sparta player ever after making his debut in 2018 aged just 16 years, 3 months and 16 days.
      Transfermrkt value: £10m
      18-year-old Adam Hlozek has 11 goals in 17 games for Sparta PragueCredit: Alamy
      MYRON BOADU
      The Dutch striker, 20, is a product of AZ Alkmaar’s talent factory and is a master poacher.
      AC Milan and Liverpool are said to be keeping tabs on Boadu, who exploded on to the scene in the 2019-20 season – scoring 20 goals in 39 games in all competitions.
      This year, his numbers have tailed off a little with four goals in 13 games – but he’s still highly-thought of.
      Boadu made his debut for Holland against Estonia in 2020 Euro qualifier against Estonia, scoring the fifth goal in a 5-0 rout.
      Transfermrkt value: £10m
      Myron Boadu, 20, enjoyed a breakout season in 2019-20 scoring 20 goals in 39 gamesCredit: Rex
      BRENNER
      Last year, Brazilian Brenner, 21, was one of the most talked about talents in South America.
      He was even linked with a move to Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal after a stunning season at Sao Paulo, where he scored 22 goals in 38 games in 2020.
      However, MLS club FC Cincinnati managed to beat a host of Europe’s top clubs to his signature – with clubs reluctant to spend the £10million fee during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
      He has one goal in his first three games so far.
      Transfermrkt value: £10m
      Brenner is now playing in the MLS after starring at Sao PauloCredit: Rex
      JOSE MACIAS
      Mexican striker Macias, 21, has scored goals at his parent club Guadalajara, as well as Leon in Liga MX.
      In his first 115 games, he’s managed 42 goals and proven he’s got an eye for goal.

      International boss Gerardo Martino has been keen to blood the prodigy into the Mexico national team, and already he’s thriving.
      Four goals in his first five games shows that’s he’s ready for a new challenge, possibly in Europe.
      Transfermrkt value: £10m
      Jose Macias, right, has 42 top flight goals in Mexico’s top flight, as well as four international goalsCredit: AFP More

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      Chelsea v Leicester Wags from Croatia’s answer to Shakira to a reality TV star and social media influencer

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      ON Saturday, Chelsea and Leicester go head-to-head in the FA Cup final.And cheering the players will be their Wags, who will be hoping their fella can be the match-winner.
      Chelsea Wag Izavel Kovacic will be watching all the action on SaturdayCredit: Alamy
      Harvey Barnes’ girlfriend Naomi Dann will be cheering her beau on
      From Croatia’s answer to Shakira to a reality TV star, social media influencer and outspoken team critic BOTH these sets of players have amazing women by their side.
      Let SunSport introduce you to this season’s FA Cup Final Wags.
      IZABEL KOVACIC
      Chelsea star Mateo Kovacic’s beautiful wife is a businesswoman, model and in her homeland has been compared to Colombian singer Shakira for her striking looks.
      The 28-year-old is the founder and owner of a successful range of organic and eco-friendly baby products Lunilou.
      Since 2015 she has run the company – which sells baby moccasins, pillows and other accessories – alongside her older sister, Ivana Lucic,
      Izabel had studied economics at university in the Croatian capital Zagreb and were pushed to start the business because Ivana’s oldest daughter has sensitive skin.
      Izabel Kovacic has been called the ‘Croatian Shakira’ because of her looksCredit: Refer to Caption
      The 28-year-old beauty is the wife of Chelsea midfielder Mateo KovacicCredit: Refer to Caption
      NAOMI DANN
      Leicester City hotshot Harvey Barnes has been dating gorgeous Naomi, 22, since they met at school.
      While Harvey was working hard to break into Leicester’s first team, Naomi went to university and graduated in 2020.
      Fitness-obsessed, she is working on becoming a social media influencer.
      She has started by modelling leisure wear for InstaFit –  an online brand that offers workout tips, how to live a healthier life, as well as sells sportswear.
      Gorgeous Naomi Dann is a social media influencer
      Dann is a fitness model on Instagram
      KENNEDY ALEXA
      Foxes playmaker James Maddison is to be a father for the first time with the stunning Kennedy.
      The happy couple recently announced they were expecting a baby on Instagram – and couldn’t hide their glee with a snap of the scan.
      They became Instagram official when they shared a snap on Christmas Eve wearing matching pyjamas.
      Kennedy is an English model, who used to live in Los Angeles.
      James Maddison and Kennedy Alexa announced they were expecting their first baby togetherCredit: Instagram / @kennedyalexa
      Kennedy Alexa is a model who once lived in LACredit: Instagram @kennedyalexa
      ISABELLE DA SILVA
      Outspoken Blues defender Thiago Silva’s wife might have some explaining to do on the next Wags night out.
      After Timo Werner’s woes in front of goal continued in the 1-1 draw with Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final, she was vocal about the German’s poor finishing.
      In a series of now deleted videos on Instagram, she lambasted the ex-RB Leipzig star.
      “This is karma guys,” she said in Portuguese.
      “Every team I go to there is a striker who keeps missing goals… this Werner, what is his name?”
      In a second video posted on her account, the 34-year-old added: “We need a goal, we need to win this match but my attackers don’t want to score, I don’t know why they don’t score.”
      34-year-old Isabelle da Silva is the wife of Chelsea star Thiago Silva
      Isabelle was recently vocal about Silva’s team-mate Timo Werner’s poor finishing
      STINE SCHMEICHEL
      The wife of the Leicester No1, Stine is a trained midwife.
      She is also co-founder of Fodboldfonden – an charity that raises funds for the benefit of vulnerable and disadvantaged children.
      They first met when they were just 17 at 7-Eleven at a Copenhagen train station.
      In 2015 they finally wed, after having two children, Max and Isabella.
      Stina Schmeichel is a trained midwife and runs a successful charityCredit: Getty
      Kasper and Stina Schmeichel have known each other since they were 17 and have two kids togetherCredit: Getty
      SOPHIA WEBER
      Kai Havertz and Sophia are childhood sweethearts.
      The pretty brunette keeps a low profile and deleted her social media to remain private.
      However, Havertz sometimes gives us a glimpse into their private life.
      And they both appear to be Harry Potter fans, dressing up in character for a party.
      Sophia Weber and Kai Havertz are childhood sweetheartsCredit: Facebook
      The pair are big Harry Potter fansCredit: Facebook
      REBEKAH VARDY
      The most famous out of the Wags, Rebekah has made reality TV her own.
      She infamously appeared on I’m a Celebrity… where she ate sheep’s anus and bull’s penis.
      And Vardy, 39, isn’t afraid to stand up for her rights – taking on Coleen Rooney in the courtroom after she was accused of leaking stories about her fellow Wag.
      Most recently, the wife of Jamie Vardy was seen strutting her stuff on ITV’s Dancing on Ice.
      Rebekah Vardy has become a reality TV star in her own right
      Rebekah married Jamie Vardy in 2016Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      KATRINE FRIIS
      Danish looker Katrine is the other half of Chelsea centre-back Andreas Christensen.
      She has embraced the life of a Wag with ease – she loves going to Harrods, Liberty, Cartier on Bond Street and even shopping on Regent Street, which she shares with snaps on social media.

      When Katrine isn’t perusing the shops, she loves travelling and uploads bikini pics on Instagram to show off her amazing lifestyle.
      Both Katrine and Andreas are the owners of a cool dog they called Marley.
      Can we expect the pitter patter of tiny feet (other than paws) anytime soon?
      Danish beauty Katrine Friis has embraced Wag life with open armsCredit: INSTAGRAM
      Friis is the girlfriend of Chelsea defender Andreas ChristensenCredit: INSTAGRAM
      Chelsea vs Leicester – Watch LIVE for FREE, channel info and kick-off time More

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      Bologna prodigy Wisdom Amey makes historic Serie A debut aged just 15 to become youngest ever in Italian football

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      IT was the briefest of cameos, but gave us a look into the future.With time running down, Sinisa Mihajlovic looked towards his Bologna bench as his side trailed Genoa 2-0 at home to offer fans hope for times ahead.
      Wisdom Amey, 15, has become Serie A’s youngest ever debutant against GenoaCredit: EPA
      Wisdom Amey was introduced to proceedings in the 89th minute to make his debut at just 15 years and 274 days.
      The talented centre back is said to be one for the future, so this fleeting appearance was merely just a runout for experience.
      But the defender, who is now Serie A’s youngest ever debutant, showed no fear as he got to grips with the rigours of top flight Italian football.
      And this is just the beginning.
      RECORD BREAKER
      Two weeks before his record breaking Bologna bow, Amey wrote on Instagram, ‘Believe in it, do it, make it real’.
      And he certainly did all of those things when he entered the fray for Takehiro Tomiyasu with a minute plus four minutes of stoppage time.
      Amey, who doesn’t turn 16 until August, surpassed former Roma player Amadeo Amadei from 1937 and former Genoa player Pietro Pellegri, who had equalled the record in 2016 to become youngest ever Serie A player.
      “He responded well, I’m happy with my choice,” Mihajlovic told Sky Sport Italia after the game.
      And he was joined by 16-year-old midfielder Kacper Urbanski, who was also given his chance as the Serbian manager looked towards next season.
      Amey appeared alongside Kacper Urbanski, 16, who also made his Bologna debutCredit: Rex
      Focused Amey showed no fear as he entered the fray in the 89th minuteCredit: Rex
      “Amey and Urbanski entered very well, they weren’t afraid, I’m happy to have thrown them into the fray,” Mihajlovic added.
      COMMANDING PRESENCE
      Immediately, Bologna fans would’ve been struck by his hulking presence.
      Standing at 6ft 1in, Amey is no shrinking violet on the pitch.
      And former Watford coach Luca Vigiani has sung his praises to Mihajlovic – insisting the youngster’s size and athleticism means he is already first team ready.
      Amey has starred this campaign for Bologna’s U17 team under Vigiani.
      “He is a centre-back with considerable physical power,” Vigiani said.
      “He has good technique and concentration. We already consider him an adult.”
      Standing at 6ft 1in tall, Amey is a commanding presence at the backCredit: Alamy
      Amey has been a standout for Bologna’s U17 team this campaign
      Bologna boss Sinisa Mihajlovic, who handed Amey his debut, has been credited for giving AC Milan’s brilliant keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma a chanceCredit: Getty
      JOURNEY TO BOLOGNA
      Amey was born in Bassano del Grappa, Vicenza, to a Togolese father and Nigerian mother in 2005.
      His journey to Bologna hasn’t been straight-forward.
      First, he began his youth career with Serie C side Bassano Virtus, before moving to Vicenza in 2018.

      A year later he moved to Bologna, where he is now thriving.
      Famously, Mihajlovic gave a debut to goalie Gianluigi Donnarumma when he was just 16 during his stint at AC Milan in 2015-16, and has been praised for giving youth a chance.
      If Amey impresses as much as Donnarumma has, he’s sure to have a stellar career in Serie A.
      Fans celebrate Inter Milan winning the title Serie A football championship More

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      Inside Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel’s unique coaching methods that have led Blues to FA Cup and Champions League finals

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      FORGET ground control, Major Thom is more interested in ball control.Chelsea’s militant boss Thomas Tuchel, 47, has only been with the Blues since late January, but already he’s got his players marching to the sound of his beat.
      Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has transformed the Blues with his unique training methodsCredit: Getty
      The German has led the Premier League giants to both FA Cup and Champions League finals, and the club sit pretty in the top four.
      Tuchel’s coaching methods that showcase his forward-thinking talents have improved his charges physically, technically and mentally.
      And even a Carlsberg ad has aided Chelsea’s season.
      BALL CONTROL
      In his early training sessions, the ex-PSG manager was keen to see his new players’ technique and control of the ball.
      Something he implemented from his early days in the Bundesliga, Tuchel had Mason Mount and Co playing with a size 1 Nike ball during a drill.
      Tuchel’s reasoning behind it is that playing with a smaller ball improves a players’ first touch and makes passing more accurate.
      Later on in those sessions, the regular size 5 ball was reintroduced – but coaches brought in smaller goals to make finishing harder.
      Under Tuchel, Chelsea have moved the ball much faster in the final third – which can be credited to this coaching drill.
      Chelsea’s stars get to grips with size 1 footballsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The idea is to try and improve players’ control and accuracy with the ballCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      When the size 5 footballs were reintroduced, the goals were shrunk for the Blues playersCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      GOALKEEPER TRAINING
      While many goalkeeping coaches around the world insist on sharpening reflexes or improving footwork, at Chelsea things are a little different.
      Tuchel wants his goalies to be dominant in his box and demands they are a physical presence.
      Luckily for him, Edouard Mendy stands at 6ft 6in and is already an intimidating sight for opposition forwards.
      But, to bulk him and Kepa Arrizabalaga up, a rucking shield as used by rugby stars has been introduced.
      As the keepers jump in the air to claim catches, coach Petr Cech is on hand to shove a rucking shield into their bodies.
      There is method in the madness with the goalkeepers improving their physicality and becoming able to deal with obstacles, especially from set pieces, in congested penalty areas.
      Coach Petr Cech shoves a rucking shield into Edouard Mendy’s body as he catches the ballCredit: Getty
      Kepa Arrizabalaga is put through his paces on the training ground in CobhamCredit: Getty
      MIND GAMES
      While Tuchel wants his players to be perfect technically and physically, psychology has also played a part in Chelsea’s astonishing run.
      They’ve become harder to beat and are much more resilient than under previous coach Frank Lampard.
      In the 30 games before his arrival this season, Chelsea conceded 27 goals. In the 24 games since, they’ve conceded just 11 – and the stat would be much better if it wasn’t for their freak 5-2 loss to West Brom.
      He’s also installed a mentality in his players that they shouldn’t fear anyone. How has he done it? With the help of a Carlsberg ad.
      Recently, Tuchel brought his players into Cobham for, what they thought, was a video analysis talk.
      Instead, they were surprised to see an advert featuring a cinema packed full of Hell’s Angels made ten years ago by the Danish beer giants.
      Chelsea stars exchanged quizzical looks as they watched a series of couples enter the cinema to be confronted by the unsettling audience, with only two seats available right in the middle of the bikers.
      Some turned away immediately, visibly put off from taking a seat in among the 148-strong menacing audience, who were all staring at them as they walked into the auditorium.
      A Carlsberg ad featuring intimidating Hell’s Angels bikers has inspired Chelsea’s stars mentally
      In the ad, a fearless couple sit next to the bikers and are cheered by them

      But those who did take their seats were greeted with cheers, applause and a bottle of the drink – as the advert-makers proved a point of showing how people should not be frightened of situations.
      Tuchel also made a point of telling his players they needed to be brave – and not scared of any situation or team who confronts them.
      OPPOSITION TRICKS
      Even mathematical genius Alan Turing wouldn’t be able to crack this German’s code.
      As we reported, Tuchel has come up with a clever ‘secret’ trick to fool Chelsea’s opponents during games.
      He tells players to use code words when they attack, so that his men know where to run when they are going forward — and who to aim for.
      It is a system that includes a group of these key ‘triggers’ to let Blues stars know what side they will go down, whether the ball is put in high or low and even if it is long or short.
      One baffled rival told SunSport: “You have no idea what’s going on but they know exactly what they are doing.
      Tuchel has taught his players a special code to communicate with each other on the pitchCredit: Getty
      Chelsea’s stars can baffle the opposition when they talk with one another on the pitchCredit: Rex

      “It just makes the attacks quicker and more deadly because sometimes a guy passing does not even have to look up to know where the runner will be.
      “They use different words all the time too, so you can’t even work it out during the game.”
      AN INNOVATOR
      In the past, Tuchel has continued to invigorate his stars with innovative training methods designed to improve them as players.
      In Germany, his unique approach was famous among those who worked under him.
      At Borussia Dortmund, he would get his side to play on pitches with no width or no depth.
      Tuchel’s unique methods on the training pitch are famousCredit: Getty
      At Borussia Dortmund, Tuchel would get his side to play on pitches with no width or no depth.Credit: Rex Features

      Often, he forced players to take extra touches with their knees or made defenders carry tennis balls to stop them grabbing other players’ shirts.
      And when he wanted more centralised attacks, he cut the corners off the training pitch to make the final third into a triangle.
      You might call his methods bizarre, but they’re certainly getting results. And you won’t see any Chelsea fans complaining if they end the season victorious.
      Barcelona ‘want to offer Chelsea Miralem Pjanic in swap transfer for Jorginho’ after career revival under Thomas Tuchel More

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      The amazing homes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Beckham, but which footballer owns the most expensive property?

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      THE life of an A-list footballer is one filled with luxury.The likes of David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have earned fortunes from the game – splashing the cash on some stunning homes.
      David Beckham has a plush pad with wife Victoria Beckham in central LondonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      But which footballer has the most expensive house and how much is it worth?
      Join SunSport for the definitive countdown as we give you the most expensive footballers’ homes.
      7. John Terry, £5m
      In 2014, JT  sold his pad in Surrey to Omani royals for an incredible £16m – making a tidy £10million profit.
      But what John bought next was equally as impressive, and literally next door to where he previously resided.
      He splashed £4.35m on Colin Montgomerie’s former home after initially renting it.
      The property has seven bedrooms, six bathrooms, four receptions rooms and a two-bedroom staff annex.
      He has since added an astro-turf pitch, which has boosted the property’s value to £5million.
      All in all, JT boasts a property empire worth around £47million – with his latest venture in knocking down Tandem House in the area and turning it into two homes.
      John Terry sold his previous home for £16mCredit: Reuters
      JT’s new pad, with his former mansion with red brick walls on the right of it in this picture
      6. Nicky Butt, £5.5m
      The former Manchester United star is quids in with the sale of this property.
      Butt did live in a stunning luxury pad complete with an indoor swimming pool and a cinema room in an exclusive area of Greater Manchester.
      However, he just recently sold the six bedroom house for a whopping £5.5million.

      And the buyer is in for a treat with a luxury pad complete with an indoor swimming pool and a cinema room.

      Nicky Butt has sold his £5.5m mansion after two years on he market

      The home boasts an amazing cinema room
      The swimming pool completes the luxurious picture
      5. Lionel Messi, £6m
      Boasting sea views and being in a no-fly zone, Messi’s abode – valued at £5.5milion – in Barcelona offers a tranquil experience.
      Located in the exclusive suburb of Castelldefels, it’s the perfect spot for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner to reside.
      Just 12 miles away from the Camp Nou, Messi’s home has a small football pitch, a swimming pool, an indoor gym and a playground for his three children.

      Close friend Luiz Suarez used to live nearby while Philippe Coutinho still does, should a team debriefing be needed.

      The Messis live in a stunning mansion in the exclusive suburb of CastelldefelsCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

      The home boasts a stunning and spacious loungeCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

      Messi has a room dedicated to a collection of shirts in his home

      Messi often plays football in his garden with his Dogue de Bordeaux called HulkCredit: Instagram @leomessi
      4. Cristiano Ronaldo, £8m
      In 2018, Ronaldo moved to Juventus.
      And he needed a house that was fit for the new king of Turin.

      His current digs feature two adjoining villas found on a private road guarded by security, which leads to an entrance gate.

      The villas themselves have separate entrances, and are surrounded by lush gardens and vegetation.

      Ronaldo is believed to have fallen in love with the home because of its similarities with his Madrid property.

      There’s a state-of-the-art gym that he and former shop assistant Georgina love to use together. And there’s also a swimming pool, which Ronaldo cools down in by doing a few laps following a strenuous session lifting weights.

      The property is so high up, ‘it’s as if Turin were at the feet of CR7, a tribute of the city to the long-awaited and newly-arrived champion,’ La Gazzetta dello Sport reported at the time of purchase.

      Ronaldo’s home in Turin features two adjoining villasCredit: Instagram

      Ronaldo relaxes on one of the many terracesCredit: AFP or licensors

      The property boasts amazing views of the city of TurinCredit: Instagram

      Ronaldo has found a place to sunbathe in his current Italian homeCredit: Instagram / @cristiano

      The property boasts plenty of space for the whole Ronaldo familyCredit: Instagram

      Ronaldo relaxes in one of the many lounge areas of the homeCredit: Refer to Caption
      3. Kaka, £9m
      The Brazilian great may be retired, but if he’s looking to put his feet up at his luxury pad in Madrid then he may have a fight on his hands.
      Kaka bought this gem, which is situated near Ronaldo’s in the city’s exclusive La Finca area, for £6.4m.
      Since moving to the MLS, Kaka has rented the house out to Gareth Bale for a cool £16k a month and it’s unlikely that the Welshman will hand the keys back willingly.
      The brainchild of leading designer Joaquin Torres, this 16,000 square foot home is built on two-storeys.
      It also has a private indoor pool and a gym. Should Bale return to Spain after his loan move to Spurs, at least he goes back to a home he loves.
      Real Madrid team-mate Sergio Ramos is a neighbour. Even their boss Zinedine Zidane lives nearby.
      Kaka bought this beauty before heading to the MLSCredit: Instagram
      Kaka won the Ballon d’Or in 2007 – the last person other than Ronaldo or Messi to take home the awardCredit: Reuters
      Gareth Bale currently rents this Madrid home off KakaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      2. Wayne Rooney, £20m
      Worth around £20million, Rooney’s home has been nicknamed the Morrisons mansion, because it’s so big it looks like a superstore.
      The stately Cheshire pile boasts a garage with his collection of cars, a cinema, swimming pool, and even two man-made fishing lakes.
      Most recently, the Derby County boss laid down a full-size artificial pitch in his back garden – complete with a seating area.
      It was former horse riding arena, but Rooney didn’t need that.
      Instead, he built a brand new pitch with its own dugouts and changing rooms.
      Planners at East Cheshire Council ruled Rooney’s revised plans “onside”after there were no objections from neighbours.
      It also has huge indoor swimming pool surrounded by a glass pavilion, a hot tub, plunge pool, steam room and “his” or “hers” changing rooms.
      Wayne Rooney built his Cheshire home from scratchCredit: PA:Press Association
      Wayne Rooney’s huge football pitch has been builtCredit: Google
      The Rooneys’ new Cheshire home has been mocked for “looking like a Morrisons”Credit: The Mega Agency
      1. David Beckham, £39.5m
      Reportedly worth £339m, Becks can have any home he wants.
      So, it’s no surprise that the former Man United star tops our list with his stunning London abode.
      Bought for an incredible £31.5m in 2013, they added £8m worth of refurbishment on to the property value over the next 3 years.
      It has eight bedrooms, two dressing rooms, a catwalk style runway fit for any fashionista, a playroom, gym, spa and a salon-style room.
      Neighbours include Robbie Williams, Simon Cowell and Elton John, so he’s in good company.
      David Beckham spent an extra £8m renovating his £31.5m homeCredit: Rex Features
      David Beckham tops the property list for footballersCredit: Getty – Contributor More

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      Inside Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Perrie Edwards’ A-list life in £4million Cheshire home as they reveal baby news

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      IT’S official!Liverpool star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and his Little Mix girlfriend Perrie Edwards have revealed they are expecting their first baby together.
      Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Perrie Edwards have revealed they are expecting a babyCredit: Instagram
      The pair took to Instagram to share a photo of the singer’s growing bumpCredit: Instagram
      The pair took to Instagram to share a photo of the singer’s growing bump, as well as a sweet snap of the two in a loving clench.
      “Anyone got any advice on how to change nappies?” he captioned the photo.
      “So grateful and excited to become a dad. Bring on the sleepless nights.”
      They reportedly began dating in 2016 and live together in a £4million home in Cheshire on the same street as legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
      And they’ve been happy to share their superstar lifestyle on social media to their millions of followers.
      WHAT A LIFE
      When you have a lovely home, of course you’re going to show it off on social media.
      And in the past year, Perrie and Alex have had three!
      During the first lockdown, the pair were happy to reveal a property they previously lived in in the north and the luxury they had become used to.
      The hot couple showed a penchant for dance, when they performed a hilarious TikTok routine and posted it on Instagram.
      Then, the Ox posted pics online enjoying his former home’s amenities – a pool and a relaxing jacuzzi.
      They’ve been happy to share their lifestyle on social media to their millions of followersCredit: Refer to Caption
      In the last year, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Perrie Edwards have shared three propertiesCredit: Refer to Caption
      The two have a Surrey property that they have been renovatingCredit: Refer to Caption
      Oxlade-Chamberlain is used to living a life of luxuryCredit: Instagram
      Edwards and Oxlade-Chamberlain regularly share their life on social mediaCredit: Instagram
      But in August last year, the Ox and his pop star missus splashed £4m on a mansion on a private road in Wimslow, Cheshire – just a few doors away from Manchester United legend Fergie.
      However, the two have kept that one private for now.
      Alex and Perrie also have ANOTHER house in Surrey, which they’ve been renovating.
      NICE CAR
      Over the years, Oxlade-Chamberlain – who pockets around £120,000-a-week – has enjoyed driving some fine motors.
      Most recently, we’ve seen him with a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon that has a starting price of £90,000.
      The England star has also been seen behind the wheel of a Range Rover Autobiography worth £100,000 and driving into training in a £264,000 Rolls-Royce.
      With a new baby on the way, he may soon be investing in a more roomy SUV.
      Perrie also passed her driving test last year, so it’ll be a car they could share.
      The loved-up pair are often seen on the red carpet togetherCredit: Splash News
      Oxlade-Chamberlain poses with a £90,000 Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon
      Perrie Edwards celebrates passing her driving licence in 2020
      AMAZING HOLIDAYS
      Last summer, Alex and Perrie put coronavirus worries aside to enjoy a luxury holiday in Ibiza.
      They took a private jet to the island on a no-expenses spared trip and were joined by his brother, Christian.
      There they rented a boat, with the Ox representing by wearing a retro Liverpool jersey.
      Alex also enjoyed some watersports on a flyboard, while soaking up some rays with his beloved.
      Of course, there was an obligatory swimwear pic of the pair too.
      Loved-up Alex and Perrie enjoyed a no-expenses spared trip to Ibiza last summerCredit: Instagram / @perrieedwards
      Oxlade-Chamberlain enjoyed some watersports on a flyboardCredit: Instagram
      Liverpool star Oxlade-Chamberlain also represented his club on board a private boat
      HIS INJURY HELL
      Like his time at Arsenal, Oxlade-Chamberlain has had his career at Liverpool blighted by injury.
      Edwards has nursed him to health, while he’s suffered two long-term problems, including a cruciate ligament rupture in 2018 and a knee injury in 2020.
      He has returned back to full fitness, but has been unable to force his way back into Jurgen Klopp’s plans.

      Recently, Oxlade-Chamberlain has been linked with a move away from Anfield.
      Reports suggest Liverpool will accept £17million for the 27-year-old they bought for £35million from Arsenal.
      Should he move down south, at least he will have a lovely home he can settle in.
      In happier times with Liverpool, Oxlade-Chamberlain has won the Champions LeagueCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Two serious injuries have left Oxlade-Chamberlain’s career at Liverpool in tattersCredit: PA:Press Association
      With Perrie by his side, what will the Ox do next?Credit: Instagram / @perrieedwards More