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      I went from non-league to FA Cup Final with Sunderland and won promotion at Oxford… now I’m helping kids with autism

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      MARTIN GRAY went from naughty schoolboy to a promotion winner at both Sunderland and Oxford – now he is helping other youngsters in need.The 53-year-old was a self-confessed bad boy as a kid and he never dreamed that he would make it as a footballer when he was released by Middlesbrough aged 15.Martin Gray is now making a big impact off the pitch by helping kids in the North EastCredit: GettyThe former midfielder went from non-league to being a Sunderland heroCredit: PAThree years later he was handed a lifeline by Denis Smith and Malcolm Crosby at Sunderland, and that led to him working under the pair for the best part of ten years.“I remember leaving the Northern League, where I was playing for Ferryhill, and Denis Smith signed me for Sunderland,” Gray told Sun Sport. “Seven years later he and Malcolm Crosby signed me for Oxford United. I probably had ten years playing under them.“Malcolm was an inspiration and like a father figure to me if I’m honest. I was a late developer and wasn’t at the level of the other players when I first went to Sunderland but I don’t think they signed me based just on my skills.“I think they got me for my work ethic, hunger and toughness etc. I found it really difficult at first as I knew I didn’t have the qualities of the lads that were there but Dennis and Malcolm, mainly, what they did to try and help me as a person and player was amazing.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“Malcolm was the best person that I worked with in football and had the biggest impact. He’s a great person.”Smith was sacked by Sunderland in December 1991 with assistant Crosby taking over, and Gray would go on to make his debut and was even part of the travelling squad that went to Wembley in the 1992 FA Cup Final where they lost 2-0 to Liverpool.He said: “That was special. I played against Blackburn the week before as he had rested Paul Bracewell and a few others. I was involved in the last couple of matches leading up to the final and managed to get in the travelling squad.“I never, and didn’t deserve to, make the bench but that whole occasion of wearing the suits and being part of it was unbelievable.”Most read in ChampionshipFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSGray was part of Peter Reid’s squad that won promotion to the Premier League – and that was a campaign he enjoyed double joy after departing the North East for a reunion with his mentors at Oxford.He said: “I signed on deadline day and we were celebrating promotion a few weeks later. That was amazing.Sunderland fans in hysterics as captain Luke O’Nien ‘auditions for WWE’ in post-match brawl at Luton “I played the last ten or 12 games of that season and it was good to contribute to help get over the line and reach the Championship.“I was eventually made club captain down there and I had an amazing time there. I had four special years at Oxford.“We were the small club in the big league going up against the likes of Birmingham, Middlesbrough, Man City, Sunderland, many thought that we would just be the whipping boys.“We had Joey Beauchamp and some other really good players that went on to become Premier League regulars like Matty Elliott, Phil Gilchrist, Darren Purse and Dean Windass, who I still speak with almost every day.“Dennis created a great working ethic within the club and we were a very close team with no superstars and if anybody got above themselves then they were soon brought back into line.”Oxford, whose draws with West Brom and Derby over the past week have left them 11th, are now back in the Championship and travel to the Stadium of Light to face table-topping Sunderland tomorrow.Gray, who moved to Darlington in 1999 before hanging up his boots, said: “It’s great to see them back after coming close a few times.Martin Gray pictured in action for Oxford United against Man CityCredit: PA“They are still a small fish in a big pond but they are holding their own. It goes to show that by putting trust in young managers and allowing people to develop can really pay off.“They are in the top half and got a good result last weekend against a tough opponent. “They’ve done great and then you look at Sunderland and wonder where all this has come from.“I didn’t know much about Regis Le Bris but I heard after pre-season some really good feedback about what he was doing. And what he is doing is working and they’ve got off to a start that most of us never expected.“I’ve been to the Derby and Leeds matches recently and from where they were two or three years ago to now is something I didn’t foresee to be honest.”Gray is set to attend the clash between his two former teams, but unlike his tigerish displays on the pitch, he is holding back when it comes to making a prediction.“I’m sitting on the fence and going for a draw aren’t I,” he says with a huge grin when pressed for a prediction.“Both clubs have had a great start to the season and I want them to each do well. So I’ll be supporting both teams massively as they both played a massive part in my career.”The midfielder enjoyed promotion with Oxford in 1996Credit: PAAway from the pro game and his coaching career, including leading Darlington to numerous promotions, Gray has also made a huge impact in the North East with his work in education – especially in providing alternative provision for children and young people.In 2018 Future Pathways began in Darlington, a provision which set out to offer support and education to young people. The young people accessing the service have a range of complex needs, and felt mainstream schooling was unable to meet them, but are now thriving in the small bespoke environment.Gray added: “Whether you are dealing with a young child that has difficulties due to trauma that they have unfortunately come across to a footballer that is not getting a new contract or being released, then you have to deal with people in a caring way.“It’s amazing. It used to be kids just getting kicked out of school and being labelled as naughty, and I’ll be honest, that was me.“But there was no alternative education around then, you were just labelled and got excluded.“Our provision is based around a sporting theme from boxing, biking, football… They do their education around the sport and the education is built around that and developing life skills, it feels so rewarding and it’s just great to help the kids we have.”Still keen to stick to his sporting roots, Gray still runs a sporting academy in partnership with a local college, where he hopes to inspire the next generation of players and offer high quality coaching. Staff from Gray’s Future Pathways Alternative Provision company are about to embark on a sponsored 30-mile walk from Sunderland Royal Hospital to Darlington Memorial Hospital.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe money earned from this fundraiser will go towards delivering Christmas Presents to children in both of these hospitals in December.If you would like to sponsor them please visit: Fundraiser for Anthony Verity by Tyler Hutchinson : Future Pathways Staff Walk from Sunderland to DarlingtonWho are these famous footballers? 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      England 3-4 Germany LIVE RESULT: Lionesses beaten by Germans in frantic seven-goal thriller at Wembley – latest updates

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      ENGLAND lost a seven-goal thriller against Germany as they were beaten 4-3 at Wembley. The Lionesses went 3-0 down in 27 minutes but pulled two back before the break, including one from the spot. After half-time, however, Germany restored their two-goal lead before Lucy Bronze pulled one back again a few minutes from time. Kick off time: 7.30pmTV/Stream: ITV 1 / ITVXEngland XI: To follow…Germany XI : To follow…FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…England looking for repeat performanceWhen it comes to the Euros, it brings fond memories for all fans of the Lionesses.Next summer’s tournament will be held in Switzerland, something which will be seen as a positive for England.Sarina Wiegman will be looking to ensure that her squad is in fine form by then to look to get their hands on the trophy once again.Copy linkCopiedLionesses needing to bounce backAs they look to build towards next summer’s Euros, England go into another friendly next Tuesday.They welcome South Africa to the Coventry Building Society Arena.Sarina Wiegman will hoping to see a more rounded performance for her team than against Germany tonight.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGermans offer real firework displayIt is difficult for any side to stamp their authority away from home in internatonal football.Germany proved to be the exception to the rule this evening.Finding themselves 3-0 up after 29 minutes, it all started to look a little to easy for the visitors.The Lionesses fought back but the damage was done and Germany held on for the victory.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedReality check for LionessesThe coach seemed to take a lot from tonight’s defeat against the Germans:We wanted to press high but we lost the ball in too many moments when we should not lose the ball. Unforced errors were too high. There were moments that challenged us tactically. That is why we play these games, we have been challenged. We wanted to see where we are right now.Sarina WiegmanEnglandCopy linkCopiedLionesses pay the penaltyEngland struggled with to control their temperament this evening.Gifting the visitors two goals by giving away blatant penalties.Defensively, the Lionesses struggled to cope with the visitors although they still looked dangerous on the attack.Copy linkCopiedEngland ship most goals under bossSince Sarina Wiegman took over the Lionesses, tonight is the most goals they have conceded.The visitors stunned the home crowd into silence by steaming into a three goal lead at Wembley.Despite the comeback from England, a second half goal from the Germans secured victory.Copy linkCopiedFT: England 3-4 GermanyThe referee brings the game to a close at Wembley.Germany have come out on top in this one.It is a big wake-up call for the Lionesses.Copy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany90+3. Naz does brilliantly to take the ball in her stride and use her pace down the wing.She is brought down and the referee awards a free kick and produces a yellow card.The resulting free kick is cleared and the visitors look to hit England on the counter-attack.Copy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany90. Germany have put down a real marker tonight.Unless England can find at least an equaliser, this defeat will hurt despite it being a friendly.The Lionesses have six added minutes to try and rectify that.Copy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany86. This has been some game for a friendly.It shows just what a terrible tournnament the Nations League is in the men’s format.Germany almost add a fifth as the cross comes in and Cerci almost pokes it past Hampton.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedEngland 3-4 Germany82. England have been offered a lifeline in this game.A seemingly harmless corner comes into the box and Berger comes out to make a regulation catch.She drops the ball and allows Bronze to slot home with a goal from nothing.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Lucy Bronze (England)Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-4 Germany77. Dejection for the English camp. Walsh plays the ball through to Hemp, who slams the ball into the far corner of the goal.As she wheels away to celebrate, the assistant’s flag goes up.VAR confirms that she was offside.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-4 Germany72. Carnage at Wembley in the penalty area.England struggle to clear their lines and then Wolter kicks the bottom of Russo’s boot without getting any contact on the ball.The referee points to the spot and VAR does not change the decision.Dabritz drills the ball home to make this even more of an uphill challenge for the Lionesses.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Sara Dabritz (Germany)Copy linkCopiedPenalty to GermanyCopy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany68. As both sides ring the changes, England force a corner.The Lionesses need to show their attacking roar a bit more here.Berger comes to punch the corner clear and the visitors manage to clear their lines.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany64. It would be quite ironic if this half ends goalless.Germany are starting to turn the screw more and more.This time it is Rauch who drills a shot at goal but Hampton tips it over the bar.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany60. Big chance for Germany to extend their lead.Some brilliant play by Brand on the right, checking inside with the goal at her mercy.Hampton gets down well to save at the near post to deny her.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany56. This is certainly not a game for defensive coaches to brag about.However, it sure is entertaining.It is almost like Man Utd have offered to coach both teams in the preparation for this game.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany52. Germany almost doubled their lead.As England struggled to clear their linesm the ball broke to Brand at the back post.She drilled the ball into the back of the net but fortunately for the hosts the assistant immediately raised her flag for offside.Copy linkCopiedEngland 2-3 Germany48. Toone has been replaced by Park at the interval.For the visitors, Rauch has replaced Linder and Cerci comes on for Hoffmann.It has been a cagey start to the second half so far, neither side able to get a grip on the game.Copy linkCopiedKick-off: England 2-3 GermanyWe are back underway at Wembley.It has been a goal-fest so far.England get the second half started.Copy linkCopiedHT: England 2-3 GermanyThe fans will be hoping for more of the same in the second half.Most of Wembley was stunned to see the Lionesses 3-0 down at home but they have clawed their way back into this one.What a second half we have in store from what we have seen so far.Copy linkCopiedHT: England 2-3 GermanyThe referee brings an entertaining half to a close.Germany have a slender lead after making a jaw-dropping start to this game.Both managers will have a lot to say in the interval.Copy linkCopied More

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      Mario Balotelli, 34, closes in on shock Serie A return after four months unemployed

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      MARIO BALOTELLI is closing in on a major Serie A return after spending the last four months as a free agent.Balotelli, 34, has been without a club since his departure from Adana Demirspor in June, after seven goals and one assist in 16 appearances last season.Mario Balotelli is closing in on a return to Serie A with GenoaCredit: GettyBalotelli has been a free agent for four months after leaving Adana DemirsporCredit: GettyBut the striker now looks set for a return to elite football after three years out in the wilderness playing for Demirspor in Turkey and Sion in Switzerland.According to transfer insider Nicolo Schira, the ex-Italy international has been training in his bid to regain match fitness.And it looks like the Manchester City cult hero has impressed Genoa club chiefs, who are keeping a close eye.Read More on FootballSchira claims the former Liverpool star is now awaiting the “final green light” to put pen to paper with Alberto Gilardino’s side.And the Italian is “very excited” about a possible return to the Serie A.Balotelli has experienced tremendous success in Italy as he burst onto the scene with Inter Milan in 2007 at the age of 17.The centre-forward went on to amass a total of 28 goals and 15 assists during his three-year stint at Inter.Most read in FootballThat led to a lucrative move to City where he spent three turbulent years that saw him racking up 30 goals in 80 appearances as well as numerous on and off-field run-ins.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat included setting his own house on fire by letting off fireworks in his bathroom and the infamous ‘Why always me’ shirt celebration against Manchester United.But will remain in City folklore for setting up Sergio Aguero for his famous league-winning strike against QPR in 2012.Former Premier League bad boy Mario Balotelli takes up new sport as he ‘calls out former UFC champion’Balotelli moved to his beloved AC Milan in 2013 where he spent one year and registered 18 goals as well as eight assists in 41 appearances.A Premier League return soon followed to Liverpool but he couldn’t meet expectations and was loaned back to Milan in 2015 after only four goals in 28 games at Anfield.Stints at Nice, Marseille, Brescia and Monza soon followed as his star status started to dwindle.Balotelli also amassed 14 goals in 36 caps with Italy and shone bright during Euro 2012 as he helped his national team reach the final. More

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      England Womens’ team backroom staff: Lionesses’ goalkeeping coach, head of medical & sports psychologist revealed

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      England Women’s national football team has a dedicated backroom staff that plays a crucial role in supporting the team’s success.Here’s everything you need to know about the team behind the team — the Lionesses go head-to-head with their vanquished foes Germany in a friendly on October 25, 2024.England are hoping to register a third match win against Germany under head coach Sarina WiegmanCredit: GettyThe backroom team represents a blend of experience and expertise across various aspects of football.They all work in collaboration to support the Lionesses’ success on the international stage.Arjan Veurink — Assistant CoachLionesses manager Sarina Wiegman with Arjan VeurinkCredit: GettyArjan Veurink serves as Serena Wiegman’s right-hand man.He joined the England setup alongside Wiegman, having previously worked with her at the Netherlands national team.More on the LionessesVeurink’s experience and tactical knowledge complement Wiegman’s leadership, forming a strong coaching partnership.He plays a key role in deciding tactics and was responsible for the Lionesses switching to a 3-4-1-2 formation during the Euro 2022 group stage.Geraint Twose — Assistant CoachEngland coach Geraint Twose pictured during a training session at The Lensbury Resort, Teddington on July 19, 2022Credit: PAGeraint Twose works alongside Weigman and Veurink as an assistant coach.His role involves working on specific aspects of players’ technical skills and contributing to overall tactical strategies.Most read in FootballHe worked with the England Men’s U15 side before taking the position with the Lionesses, having previously worked with the Cardiff City academy for 17 years.Darren Ward — Goalkeeping CoachDarren Ward with England’s Demi StokesCredit: GettyDarren Ward is the goalkeeping coach for the Lionesses.A former professional goalkeeper himself, Ward has an extensive background in developing goalkeeping talent.He was appointed when Wiegman took over as head coach in 2021. His experience includes working with elite players like Dean Henderson during his time at Sheffield United.Ward’s role focuses on enhancing the skills of goalkeepers including Mary Earps and Ellie Roebuck.He ensures they are match-ready and capable of performing under pressure.Ritan Mehta — Lead Team DoctorEngland Doctor Ritan Mehta looks on during a training session on October 8, 2022Credit: GettyDr Ritan Mehta serves as the lead team doctor for the Lionesses.He joined the FA in 2014 and has focused worked in football for the past 15 years altogether.His responsibilities include overseeing player health and managing injuries.Dr Metha ensures the overall medical well-being of the squad.Kate Hays — Lead PsychologistKate Hays helps the team with their stress, focus and mental resilienceCredit: X/DrKateHaysKate Hays is the lead psychologist for the England women’s team.Her role focuses on enhancing players’ mental resilience and performance under pressure.Hays employs various psychological techniques to help the team manage stress, build confidence and improve focus during matches.Anja van Ginhoven — General ManagerPrince William speaking with Sarina Wiegman and Anja Van Ginhoven (right) on June 15, 2022Credit: AFPWiegman regarded Anja Van Ginhoven as an essential addition to her staff when she moved from the Netherlands to England.Van Ginhoven previously served as a media officer for the Dutch Football Association.She played a significant role in selecting England’s base camp in Terrigal for the 2023 World Cup, ensuring that the team had access to top-notch facilities and an optimal location to compete effectively at the World Cup.Kay Cossington — Head of Women’s FootballLucy Bronze celebrating her 100th England appearance alongside Kay Cossington (left) and Sarina Wiegman on February 16, 2023Credit: GettyKay Cossington is the Head of Women’s Football at The FA and has been pivotal in shaping women’s football in England.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe joined The FA in 2005 and has been instrumental in implementing initiatives to revamp the girls’ talent pathway, making football more accessible while increasing participation rates among young female players.Cossington’s contributions have been recognised with an MBE for her services to association football in 2024, highlighting her significant impact on women’s football development in England. More

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      Serie A clash CALLED OFF at last-minute due to floods as club now face losing two key players for crunch clash

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      AC MILAN’S Serie A clash with Bologna has been postponed due to extreme weather conditions.The two teams were expected to face off on Saturday at the Renato Dall’Ara Stadium.AC Milan Serie A clash with Bologna has been postponed due to extreme weather conditionsCredit: RexExtreme rain and flooding have hit Bologna in recent daysCredit: GettyHeavy rain has caused landslides, flooding, road closures and some power outagesCredit: GettySchools, parks and sports centres will remain closed in the cityCredit: GettyHowever, Bologna Mayor Matteo Lepore announced that the game would not be played due to extreme rain and flooding that hit the region in recent days.Lepore added that heavy rains, which started on October 19, caused landslides, flooding, road closures and some power outages in several areas.The game between Milan and Bologna will be rescheduled, but no details are known at this point.However, it will be hard finding another time to host the Serie A clash due to the league and the Coppa Italia schedule as well as the fact both teams play in the Champions League this season.Read More on FootballThat unfortunate event will have especially serious ramifications for Milan, who will be without two key players in their upcoming crunch clash with Napoli.Those are Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez, who were due to serve a suspension at Bologna.Instead, the Rossoneri duo will now serve it on Tuesday’s crunch clash with Napoli at the San Siro.Paulo Fonseca’s side will be hosting the Serie A leaders, who are five points ahead of the fourth-placed Milan giants.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe municipality of Bologna said in a statement that the match would bring about 35,000 people near the most critical area of the city.Schools, parks and sports centres will remain closed in the city as a precaution.Napoli fans try and fail to prounce ‘Scott McTominay’_1But Milan chairman Paolo Scaroni said: “The match is postponed because with a decision that in my opinion is incomprehensible, the mayor has prohibited the match from being played even behind closed doors.”Bologna vs AC Milan will be rescheduled at a later dateCredit: APTijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez were suspended against Bologna and will now serve the ban against NapoliCredit: Getty More

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      Meet Barcelona’s beautiful Wags ahead of El Clasico, from a Ukrainian pop star to a German social media influencer

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      BARCELONA travel to the Bernabeu on Saturday for El Clasico top of LaLiga.The Catalans have been in blistering form in the league, and are three points clear of their rivals.Barcelona youngster Fermin Lopez’s girlfriend, Berta GallardoMarina Luczenko is the wife of Barcelona shotstopper Wojciech SzczesnyAna Pelayo is another Barcelona Wag who will be watching El Clasico closelySuperstar striker Robert Lewandowski has spearheaded their title challenge – scoring 12 times in the opening 10 games.Hansi Flick’s side boast an array of talented stars who will want to impress after a disappointing Champions League result against Bayern Munich.And cheering them on will be their beautiful wives and girlfriends.From a Ukrainian singer to a German social media influencer, meet the players’ amazing Wags.Read more football newsAnna LewandowskaPolish stunner Anna, 36, is a former karate champion – who repped her country in competitions around the world.In recent years, the brunette – married to goal ace Robert Lewandowski – has moved into the world of health and fitness and has her own nutritional brand, Foods by Ann.She introduced the hot-shot striker to a different diet – and has been credited with improving his fitness in recent years.Anna is believed to be one of the world’s richest Wags.Most read in FootballAnna Lewandowska is one of the most famous Wags in European footballRobert Lewandowski poses for a New Year’s snap with the health and fitness expertNatalia BelloliNatalia, 25, is one of the most popular Wags from Brazil, with over 450,000 followers.Top ten Premier League managers’ WagsShe uses her Instagram as a personal blog to show off her life with Barcelona’s Raphinha.And a lot of snaps feature their adorable son, Gael.Natalia is also a total fashionista, and dresses in designers like Dolce & Gabbana and Louis Vuitton.Natalia Belloli has over 450k followers on InstagramGorgeous Natalia often shows off her amazing bikini body to her followersNatalia poses for a snap with husband RaphinhaBerta GallardoSpanish model and influencer Berta, 22, and Barça midfielder Fermin Lopez went public with their romance this summer.However, rumours of their relationship began a year earlier before they confirmed they were a couple.Berta was spotted on the pitch planting a kiss on Lopez after Spain won Euro 2024.The fashion queen is a slow burner on Insta, with just 74,000 followers. Expect that to grow when her beau fulfils his potential and becomes a superstar footballer.Berta Gallardo is a fashion model who went public with her romance with Fermin Lopez in the summerBerta Gallardo has over 74,000 followers on Instagramread more sport featuresLaura Abla SchmittTikToker Laura is a favourite with her 260,000 followers, while her content has generated over 24million views.The Berlin-born beauty, 26, will have to put her own allegiances aside in support of Dani Olmo, who plies his trade at RB Leipzig.She went public with their romance on New Year’s Day, with an Instagram snap of them walking side-by-side.Although, German newspaper Bild reported the pair got together some six months before that.Laura Abla Schmitt has a huge TikTok following of over 260,000The German social media influencer is in a romance with Dani OlmoMikky Kiemeney De JongDutch fashion designer Mikky, 26, is the longtime partner of Man Utd target Frenkie de Jong.She was a hockey player of some repute when she met the former Ajax star.Today, she’s a social media influencer with over 1.5million followers on Instagram.And Mikky also has her own self-named fashion brand that sells leisure wear.Back in May, the pair secretly got married in front of close friends and family.Frenkie De Jong’s Wag Mikky Kiemeney is a fashion designerMikky and Frenkie de Jong got secretly married in the summerMarina Luczenko-SzczesnaMarina, 35, is the wife of new Barcelona goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny.The celebrity couple married in 2016, after the former Arsenal star proposed at her birthday party.The brunette was born in the Ukraine, but moved to Poland at the age of two where she became a pop star.Marina has worked with British singer and X Factor winner James Arthur in the past.Marina Luczenko is a pop star who worked with X Factor winner James ArthurMarina Luczenko and Wojciech Szczesny got married in 2016Ana PelayoSpain midfielder Gavi has made news on and off the pitch.He returned after a long injury lay off to first team action, with much fanfare.READ MORE SUN STORIESThen after coming on as sub in the 5-1 win over Sevilla, he was spotted getting a kiss from gorgeous Ana.The 21-year-old student is a pal of his sister, Aurora. She is also close to Luis Enrique’s daughter, Sira.Brunette beauty is the private Wag of the returning youngster GaviGavi met Ana through his sister Aurora who is a close friend More

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      Meet Real Madrid’s amazing Wags from a glam Dutch model to a TV presenter with one million followers on Instagram

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      REAL Madrid are the world’s most famous club, so it is fitting they have the world’s best players.The likes of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr, teenage wonderkid Endrick and more star for Los Blancos at the Santiago Bernaebeu.Real Madrid’s Wags will be tuning into El Clasico this weekendBrazil beauty Gabriely Miranda will be fully supporting her footballer on SaturdayAnd this weekend they welcome their LaLiga rivals Barcelona to the Spanish capital.It promises to be a mouth-watering clash – with both teams vying for top spot in the league.Just three points separate them as they head into El Clasico with everything to gain.Cheering on the Champions League winners will be their wives and girlfriends, which include a Dutch model and Argentine TV host.Read more football news Maria MazalliWith over one million followers on Instagram, Maria is one of the most popular Wags on social media.The influencer, 24, is reportedly dating Real Madrid ace Vinicius Jr, who could be Real Madrid’s game-changer this weekend.A fashion queen, she is regularly sharing paid partnerships with brands to model their latest wear.She appeared on Brazilian TV show De Férias com o Ex, where contestants are chosen to go on vacation in a tropical paradise, however, it soon turns into hell as their ex-lovers start showing up.Maria Mazalli is reportedly dating Brazil superstar Vinicius JrMazalli is a reality TV star and influencerLaura Celia ValkGorgeous Laura is a Dutch super model with over 500,000 followers on Instagram.The secret signs Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend Laura Valk shows in her sexy snapsShe regularly shows off her amazing figure in revealing lingerie and bikini shoots.Laura, 25, is believed to be dating England star Jude Bellingham since last year.She is not only a model for the likes of PrettyLittleThing but she is the owner of her own social media consultancy agency.Stunning Laura Celia Valk is a model from the NetherlandsLaura Celia Valk dates England star Jude BellinghamGabriely MirandaStunning Gabriely, 23, is also a model and influencer.Hailing from Brazil, she married wonderkid Endrick last month after less than a year together.It was previously reported that the pair had a relationship contract.These included Endrick being banned from having a virtual girlfriend on Grand Theft Auto and also being forbidden from commenting on other girls’ Instagram accounts.It is also claimed that Endrick and Miranda must say ‘I love you’ to each other in all situations.Gabriely Miranda married Brazil wonderkid Endrick last monthGabriely reportedly has a relationship contract with EndrickOne of the clauses is the couple must say ‘I love you’ to each other regularlyMina BoninoArgie stunner, 30, met partner Federico Valverde in 2019 on Instagram.The pair struck a romance soon after they agreed to meet up – and just two months later they were living together in Spain.In 2020, Mina welcomed their first son Benicio into the world, while this year they added to their brood with another boy called Bautista.The Brunette beauty is a journalist who worked for Argentine TV and has over one million followers on Instagram.Anastasiia TomazovaReal Madrid will have to turn to No2 keeper Andriy Lunin for El Clasico.Regular shotstopper Thiabaut Courtois will be missing in action because of an injury.Lunin will have the backing of 23-year-old influencer, Anastasiia.She’s often supportive of her man, insisting he should be their No1 on social media and threatening he may leave if he doesn’t get more game time.Anastasiia Tomazova is a stunning Ukrainian Wag who loves to voice her opinionAnastasiia has said beau Andriy Lunin could leave the club if he doesn’t play moreTaina CastroBack in May, Eder Militao and fellow Brazilian footballer Leonardo Pereira did a wife swap.Pereira shacked up with Militao’s old flame, Karoline Lima. While, Militao began romancing Pereira’s ex Taina Castro, 23.The Real Madrid man was more discreet with his relationship, despite rumours of them getting together last year.Since Pereira went public, Militao did the same – and everybody is reportedly happy with the arrangement.Taina Castro has dated a few footballers in her lifetimeGlam Taina is in a romance with defender Eder MiliatoMaria Sanchez Del MoralGorgeous Maria, 29, studied to be a primary teacher at a university in Seville, which is where she comes from.She was inspired to follow in her mother’s footsteps, who is also a teacher.To supplement her income, the Andalusian bombshell took advantage of her sultry looks by doing a bit of modelling.They are yet to marry or have children.Maria Sanchez Del Moral is a teacher from SevilleMaria Sanchez Del Moral is also in a romance with Dani Ceballos More

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      Jude Bellingham is Britain’s most eligible bachelor with England hunk more desirable than a Princess and Lord

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM is amongst the frontrunners to win the Ballon d’Or next week but he is impressing just as much off the pitch.The Real Madrid star won the Champions League and LaLiga in his debut season with the club, before reaching the Euro 2024 final with England.Jude Bellingham has been ranked the most eligible British bachelorCredit: GettyHe caught the eye before the tournament event started however by appearing in an advert for Adidas.Bellingham, 21, also became the face of Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS as he modelled boxers while showing off his football skills.They have helped make Bellingham an international star and he has now been ranked as one of the most desirable singletons in Britain.A top ten list of British bachelors and bachelorettes has been compiled by Tatler, with multiple sports people included.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL10. Lord Albert Caspian DalmenyCaspian, 19, is the son of Earl Harry Primrose, a British aristocrat and the Chairman of Sotheby’s.The heir apparent is set to jet off to South Africa soon to work in animal conservation.9. Rosie WrightingAt just 27-years-old Rosie is the youngest female MP in Parliament.She studied fashion at the University of Westminster and became the chair of the Westminster North constituency before gaining her seat in Kettering for Labour in July.Most read in FootballRosie Wrighting is the youngest female MP in ParliamentCredit: X/ rosie_wrightingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS8. Olivia DeanOlivia may not actually be single as rumours have linked her to pop star Harry Styles.The 25-year-old is an award-winning singer with appearances at Glastonbury and hits including ‘Dive’ and ‘The Hardest Part’.Olivia Dean is an award-winning artistCredit: GettyShe was rumoured to be dating Harry StylesCredit: INSTAGRAM @oliviadeanoMoment Jude Bellingham video chats sick child in hospital after ex-team-mate calls him out of the blue7. Tade OjoraAn Old Etonian, Ojora represented Team GB at the Olympics this year, competing in the 110-metre hurdles.When he is not on track the 25-year-old can be seen at Givenchy events and travelling around the Mediterranean.Tade Ojara competed in the Olympics for Team GBCredit: Getty6. Lady Alexandra RussellAlexandra, 23, is the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Bedford and works as an interior design assistant for 1990s It girl Emma Benyon.5. Orlando GettyA recent Business and Spanish graduate from Edinburgh University, oil heir Orland is a big face in the London social scene.He can often be spotted at Raffles as well as Club Malasana in Madrid.4. Frankie GoldsmithPart of the Goldsmith clan, his uncle is former Conservative MP Zac Goldsmith, who once ran for Mayor of London and now sits in the House of Lords.Young Frankie, 19, plans to study engineering at university and is reportedly a ferocious fast bowler.3. Princess Theodora von LiechtensteinTheodora, 19, is an environmentalist, equestrian, and member of the Princely family of Liechtenstein.Now a student at Cambridge University, Theodora has been giving back from an early age having set up Green Teen Team Foundation, a conservationist non-profit, at the age of nine.Princess Theodora, right, set up a non-profit at the age of nineCredit: Getty2. Jude BellinghamBellingham, 21, was rumoured to be dating model Laura Celia Valk but neither party confirmed things were official.The midfielder lives with his mum in Madrid and he is yet to find time or space for a relationship as he is a key member of Carlo Ancelotti’s team.READ MORE SUN STORIESJude Bellingham is a hit on and off the pitchCredit: Getty1. Lyla Elichaoff and Esme BertelsenTrinny and Susannah’s daughters Lyla, 21, and Esme, 23 and like ther famous mothers they also have an eye for fashion.Esme makes digital art, has an eye for vintage clothes and loves boxing, while Lyla has inherited Trinny’s entrepreneurial spirit by all accounts.Lyla and Esme are Britain’s most eligible pairCredit: Luc BraquetThey are following in the footsteps of their famous mothersCredit: Luc Braquet More