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      Fifa Club World Cup 2025 draw in full as Chelsea get shock reunion with cult hero while Man City face European giants

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      CHELSEA landed a plum draw in the inaugural Fifa Club World Cup – including a reunion with a club cult hero.The revamped tournament will now be contested with a similar format to the World Cup – staged next year in America from June 15-July 13 and featuring 32 of the globe’s top teams.Gianni Infantino with the new Club World Cup TrophyCredit: GettyThere was a special message from US President-elect Donald TrumpCredit: EPATrump’s daughter Ivanka was at the draw, and her son Theo helped pick out the first teamCredit: APDiletta Leotta was on hand to present the showCredit: EPAIt all kicked off with a glitzy group-stage draw from Miami, featuring a host of global football legends, and presented, in part, by Italian beauty, and former Premier League Wag, Diletta Leotta.Each country is limited to two entrants in the tournament, with the Blues and Manchester City taking England’s slots as the two most recent Champions League winners.Chelsea wound up in Group D, along with Brazil’s Flamengo, Club Leon of Mexico and Esperance de Tunis from Tunisia. And that likely means a shock clash against for Blues title winner David Luiz, who is still playing for the Brazilians at the age of 37.READ MORE IN football City meanwhile face Italian giants Juventus, Morocco’s Wydad AC and Al Ain of the UAE.Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid will play Saudi champions Al Hilal, RB Salzburg of Austria and Mexico’s Pachuca.Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich take on Benfica, Boca Juniors and Aukland City in Group C. Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger was on hand to help pick out the teams but only after being made to perform some awkward dad dancing.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSUS President-elect Donald Trump’s eight-year-old grandson Theo also helped pick out the draw with the politician’s daughter Ivanka.There was even a message from President Trump – who referred to Fifa president Gianni Infantino as “Jonny”. Fans baffled as Donald Trump sends bizarre video message to pal ‘Jonny’ Infantino before Fifa Club World Cup drawDavid Luiz won the Premier League with Chelsea and now could face them aged 37Credit: PA:Press AssociationTrump said: “The event is going to be incredible. I will try and be there if I can, I would, we’ll see what happens.”But I just want to say you’re led by a man named Jonny, I just know him as Jonny and he’s a winner and he’s the president and I’m the president.”We’ve known each other a long time and I’m so honoured to have this kind of relationship because Soccer is going through the roof as everybody knows.”It’s been doing so fantastically well, my son Baron is a tremendous soccer fan, he’s actually a good player – I guess not quite that kind of good but he’s a very good player.”But he loves soccer and it really is taking over the United States in terms of a sport and I congratulate everybody.”But in particular I wish you too have a good time and I want to send my highest regards and respect to Johnny.”It’s been an honour to be with you and will be with you very soon and we’re going to watch the World Cup very importantly also very soon.”I was very responsible along with Johnny in getting it and it’s going to be a fantastic thing.”The new Club World Cup format sees teams divided into eight groups of four and play each other once.Top two teams in each group then progress to the knockout stage.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe last 16 is the first single knockout round – followed by the quarter-final, semi-final and then final.Details on how fans can watch the Club World Cup emerged earlier this week, with DAZN snapping up the rights.Arsene Wenger performed some awkward dad dancingCredit: https://x.com/DAZN_ESBrazilian model Adriana Lima also presentedCredit: AFPDiletta Leotta with host Samantha Johnson Alessandro del PieroCredit: EPA More

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      Club World Cup draw LIVE: Chelsea paired with Brazilian giants while Man City set to face Juventus – latest reaction

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      CHELSEA and Manchester City have learned their fate for the Club World Cup with the draw coming to a thrilling end!The Blues’ standout tie from Group D sees them face Brazilian giants Flamengo and familiar face David Luiz will be in defence.While Manchester City have been dropped in Group G with Italian icons Juventus.GROUPS IN FULLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow our live blog below…Minnows thrilled by Au-inspiring drawNew Zealand champions Auckland City were just about the most excited team ahead of the draw.And they retained that status AFTER it.City captain Mario Ilich revealed their delight to be placed in an A-list Group C containing three of the world’s top ‘B’ teams – Bayern Munich, Boca Juniors and Benfica.Ilich said: “To get three powerhouses of football in their respective countries is a pretty unreal feeling, to be honest. “It was a long morning, waiting for the draw, waiting for pot 4 to come out, but we got there in the end and we’re pretty excited.”Copy linkCopiedWhy no Barcelona?Even though Arsenal and Liverpool will be missing, Barcelona’s absence from the Club World Cup is perhaps the most striking.After all, they’ve long dominated Spanish football with Real Madrid and are five-time Champions League winners.So here’s why Barca they won’t be in the USA next June.Europe has 12 of the 32 teams, including the last three kings of the continent – Real, plus the Prem’s two Club world Cup entrants Manchester City and Chelsea.That leaves nine European places – decided by results over the past four seasons AND a limit of two clubs per country.Real’s spot was already clear – as Champions League winners in 2024 and 2022.And Atletico Madrid have outscored Barca in recent years.Barcelona lifted the La Liga crown in 2023, but failed to get past the Champions League group stages in 2022 and 2023.Copy linkCopiedWhen does it all start?Now we’ve had the drama, dancing and Trump-eting from the draw, attention will gradually switch to the Club World Cup itself.The first match is at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami on June 15.And the final won’t be until July 13 at MetLife Stadium in New York New Jersey.We’ll have more dates, views and news later.Copy linkCopiedRecap of the whole drawHere’s how the 32 teams came out – with contrasting fortunes for Prem sides Chelsea and Manchester City.Copy linkCopiedDiletta wows but fans baffled by Del Piero’s commentDiletta Leotta stole the show as she made her entrance during the Fifa Club World Cup draw, writes TONY ROBERTSON.The Italian Dazn presenter wore a dazzling black dress for the occasion.Diletta Leotta wows in busty outfit at Fifa Club World Cup draw but fans baffled as Italy icon calls her an ‘immigrant’But as she made her entrance, strike legend Alessandro Del Piero made some strange comments to welcome her.He was heard firstly saying: “Another Italian in Miami.” Del Piero then added: “Another wave of immigrants.”Credit: GettyMain presenter Samantha Johnson stood by and awkwardly laughed at the comment, trying to brush it off as a joke in poor-taste.Fortunately for the draw, Leotta did not allow the comment to knock her off stride. She said her greetings to Del Piero and Johnson when making it to the stage before carrying on with the rest of the draw in a professional manner.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFans ask if Trump made Gi-normous errorSome viewers reckon Donald Trump mangled Fifa chief Gianni Infantino’s name during the US President-elect’s surprise speech at the drawTrump said: “The event is going to be incredible. I will try and be there if I can, I would, we’ll see what happens.”However, he then appeared to add: “But I just want to say you’re led by a man named ‘JOHNNY’, I just know him as Johnny and he’s a winner and he’s the president and I’m the president.”We’ve known each other a long time and I’m so honoured to have this kind of relationship because Soccer is going through the roof as everybody knows.”One viewer responded: “What’s Trump saying about Gianni lmao, he pronounced it as Johnny.”A second said: “My goodness, this Fifa Club World Cup draw has had an address from Donald Trump. Absurdity.”A third added: “Donald Trump randomly showed up at the Fifa club world cup draw.”Copy linkCopiedI’m Gunner ‘die of cringe’ watching Wenger danceArsene Wenger left fans in stitches after he was awkwardly forced to dance live on air, writes TONY ROBERTSON.The legendary ex-Arsenal boss works as Fifa’s Chief of Global Football Development and was at the Club World Cup draw.Football fans say ‘I’m dying of cringe’ as Arsene Wenger DANCES on stage at live Fifa Club World Cup drawHowever, viewers did not expect the 75-year-old to be roped into dancing.After the broadcast switched over to the downtown Miami studio, co-host Ana Jurka introduced some of the guests including singer Vikina, also nicknamed Miss 305.Vikina was asked to bring the Miami party and burst out into a dance.However, Jurka then gestured over to Wenger to go towards her and said: “You promised me.”Wenger pretended to run away but he was then counted down before bursting out into some dance moves.Fans were left astonished by the turn of events. One posted: “I’m dying of cringe. Enough. They screwed Wenger, this was all a mistake.”Copy linkCopiedChelsea re-Lu-nian for Flamengo heroChelsea landed a dream draw in the Fifa Club World Cup – but Manchester City will have things tougher, writes JACK FIGG.Enzo Maresca’s Blues wound up in Group D alongside Brazil’s Flamengo, Club Leon of Mexico and Esperance de Tunis from Tunisia.David Luiz has been with Flamengo since leaving Arsenal in 2021Credit: GettyThe draw looks set to reunite Blues fans with cult hero David Luiz – who won the Champions League in West London but now plays for Flamengo.City, meanwhile, face Italian giants Juventus, Morocco’s Wydad AC and Al Ain of the UAE.Jude Bellingham’s Real Madrid will play Saudi champions Al Hilal, RB Salzburg of Austria and Mexico’s Pachuca.Harry Kane’s Bayern Munich take onBenfica, Boca Juniors and Aukland City in Group C.Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger was on hand to help pick out the teams but only after being made to perform some awkward dad dancing.US President-elect Donald Trump’s eight-year-old grandson Theo also helped pick out the draw with the politician’s daughter Ivanka.Luiz was with Chelsea from 2011-14 and 2016-2019Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedTrump says son is ‘very good soccer player’Donald Trump’s mini-speech went onto include his verdict on 18-year-old son Baron’s footballing ability.Or “soccer” as the President elect called it.Baron Trump is pictured with parents Donald and IvankaCredit: SplashThe Republican, 78, said: “It’s been doing so fantastically well, my son Baron is a tremendous soccer fan, he’s actually a good player.”I guess not quite that kind of good but he’s a very good player.”But he loves soccer and it really is taking over the United States in terms of a sport and I congratulate everybody.”But in particular I wish you too have a good time and I want to send my highest regards and respect to Johnny.”Copy linkCopiedTrump video baffles fansFOOTBALL fans were left baffled after US President-elect Donald Trump made a surprise appearance during the draw for the Fifa Club World Cup, writes TONY ROBERTSON.Chelsea and Manchester City were among the 32 teams across the world waiting to find out who they would be drawn against for the controversial post-season tournament.Donald Trump made a surprise appearance during the draw for the Fifa Club World Cup after being introduced by Gianni InfantinoCredit: ReutersHowever, during a speech by Fifa president Gianni Infantino, Trump made an appearance with a pre-recorded message, although some fans believed he mispronounced the Fifa president’s name.He said: “The event is going to be incredible. I will try and be there if I can, I would, we’ll see what happens.”But I just want to say you’re led by a man named Johnny, I just know him as Johnny and he’s a winner and he’s the president and I’m the president.”We’ve known each other a long time and I’m so honoured to have this kind of relationship because Soccer is going through the roof as everybody knows.”Copy linkCopiedHour’s that!After waiting nearly 40 minutes from the scheduled 6pm start, Fifa then took an hour to complete the draw.Not bad considering it was 32 teams, four pots and all the placings.Copy linkCopied’Too much fun!’Presenter Samantha Johnson has almost the final say.She tells the wide array of stars on the stage – from the world of football and beyond – that they had “too much fun” with the draw”.Copy linkCopiedHere it is in one look!Just in case you didn’t quite memorise every draw, every group – here’s the whole thing at a glance.Copy linkCopiedLast team out!Mexicans Pachuca complete the final Group – H.That means they take on Real Madrid and Neymar’s Al-Hilal.But first up for the outsiders will be RB Salzburg.Copy linkCopiedMan City to face UAE sideAl Alain go into Man City and Juventus’ group.Copy linkCopiedGroup B draw concludedMLS side Seattle Sounders will open against Botafogo in Group B.Then come Atletico and PSG!Copy linkCopiedJapanese club drawn outUrawa Red Diamonds are in the same group as River Plate and Inter Milan.Wenger revealed the Japanese club promised him last night they will build a stronger team by next year!Copy linkCopiedSundowns over the moon with draw?Mamelodi Sundowns come out as F4 in Group F.That means they open against Ulsan – with tougher tests to come.Copy linkCopiedChelsea learn third group opponentsChelsea will meet Esperance Sportive de Tunisie in Group D.But first the Blues will meet Club Leon.Copy linkCopiedAuckland in Bayern groupNew Zealanders Auckland City are in the same group as Bayern and Salzburg.At C2, they open against Bayern.Copy linkCopiedInter Miami out first in fourth potDavid Beckham’s Inter Miami are in Group A with Palmeiras and Porto.Miami will face Al Ahly in their opener.Copy linkCopiedPot 4 draw under wayCopy linkCopiedHere’s the draw after Pot 3Just one pot to go now…Copy linkCopiedNeymar’s club to face Real MadridSaudi’s Al-Hilal come out of Group H at H2.That means Real Madrid first up.What a potential date for Barcelona legend Neymar! Credit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedMoroccans to tackle Man CityAC Wydad – the 2022 African champs – are G2 in Group G.So they open against Man City and will later face Juve.Copy linkCopied More

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      Football fans say ‘I’m dying of cringe’ as Arsene Wenger DANCES on stage at live Fifa Club World Cup draw

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      ARSENE WENGER left fans in stitches after he was awkwardly forced to dance live on air.The legendary ex-Arsenal boss works as Fifa’s Chief of Global Football Development.Arsene Wenger left fans stunned after he danced live on airCredit: https://x.com/DAZN_ESThe ex-Arsenal boss was roped into dancing by co-host Ana JurkaCredit: https://x.com/DAZN_ESFans were left ‘dying at cringe’Credit: https://x.com/DAZN_ESHe made an appearance during the Fifa Club World Cup live draw.However, fans did not expect the 75-year-old to be roped into dancing.After the broadcast switched over to the downtown Miami studio, co-host Ana Jurka introduced some of the guests including singer Vikina, also nicknamed Miss 305.Vikina was asked to bring the Miami party and burst out into a dance.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, Jurka then gestured over to Wenger to go towards her and said: “You promised me.”Wenger pretended to run away but he was then counted down before bursting out into some dance moves. Fans were left astonished by the turn of events. Reacting on social media, one fan said: “I’m dying of cringe. Enough. They screwed Wenger, this was all a mistake.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA second said: “Wenger, what are you doing…”A third added: “Arsene Wenger is now being forced to dance. God, this whole thing has been horrific.”Fans baffled as Donald Trump sends bizarre video message to pal ‘Jonny’ Infantino before Fifa Club World Cup drawAnother said: “Cringing watching the hosts make Arsene Wenger dance on stage at the Fifa Club World Cup draw…”Wenger was not the only person to leave fans scratching their heads, with US President-elect, Donald Trump, making a shock appearance during the stream. More

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      Major blow to Wayne Rooney as big money TV project on brink of being cancelled due to failing managerial career

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      WHILE his wife is Down Under on I’m A Celebrity, Wayne Rooney is in Plymouth fighting to save his career.But I can reveal there’s something almost as lucrative at stake for the footballing family — a big-money documentary which is supposed to be charting Wayne’s ascent in the world of managing.Coleen is set to leave the I’m A Celeb jungle this SundayCredit: RexUnfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be going too well, with fears that he could end up leaving Plymouth Argyle after a poor run of results.With the I’m A Celeb final taking place this Sunday, in a bit of bad timing, Wayne’s departure from the club might come shortly after Coleen exits the jungle.A TV insider said: “The whole point of the documentary was to celebrate his move from player to becoming a manager.“But obviously if that ends up being more of a horror show then the creators, or the Rooneys themselves, may pull the plug on the project.”read more on tvThe documentary is being made by Lorton Entertainment which also produced The Real Wagatha Story, the documentary about Coleen’s court battle with fellow Wag Rebekah Vardy, for Disney+, now available on ITVX.It was expected that the finished Plymouth Argyle show would end up with one of the big streamers too, though that also seems uncertain now.The first documentary Lorton made on Wayne, a feature-length 2022 programme simply called Rooney, dropped on Prime Video.The production company also made Prime Video mini-series We Are New­castle United and backed Boom! Boom!: The World Vs Boris Becker, a two-parter out on Apple TV+ last year.Most read in FootballFortunately for the family, matriarch Coleen is said to have telly execs lining up a few lucrative jobs for her on the back of having made an impression in the jungle.I also exclusively revealed in February there was talk of doing an At Home With The Rooneys show.Inside Wayne Rooney’s incredible trophy room as wife Coleen gives rare glimpse inside Man Utd legend’s house Here’s hoping they materialise at speed.Wayne Rooney’s upcoming documentary could be in jeopardyCredit: RexA PEAKY BLUNDER BY BEEB?TELLY tough guy Vinnie Jones says there is still one show he wishes he had been in – BBC drama Peaky Blinders.Vinnie is gearing up to play notorious gangster Danny Driscoll in the Only Fools And Horses musical at Hammersmith Eventim Apollo this Christmas.Vinnie Jones wishes he’d been in Peaky BlindersCredit: GettyHe told Chris Moyles on Radio X: “I mean, Fools And Horses, it’s one of them where you look at it same as that Peaky Blinders.“Obviously, I wish I would have done that, because I thought I was made for that as well. “Some things you think you’re made for, you know?”Vinnie, who featured in this year’s Netflix smash The Gentleman, added: “I grew up with Only Fools And Horses, and when I was playing foot­ball, it was every footballer’s favourite TV show.“And here we are, a few decades on, and I get asked to do it, and it’s an honour.”GAMBLE’S SAFE BET IS BACKTHERE are few sister shows I enjoy as much as The Traitors spin-off, Uncloaked, so I’m thrilled it is returning.Presenter Ed Gamble will be back with the visualised podcast on New Year’s Day, when season three of Claudia Winkleman’s BBC One show begins.The Beeb promises: “The podcast will take fans deeper with dissection of the episodes and exclusive access to the banished and murdered players.”The juicy section where bumped-off contestants find out which of their pals are the traitors will also return.Uncloaked will be available on BBC Two and iPlayer after every Traitors episode. An extended version will be on BBC Sounds, which will also have weekly playlists of all the music from the show.FORMER Top Gear and The Grand Tour host James May has launched a horseradish gin called Asian Parsnip Turbo. James said: “This is a limited edition, unless you really like it, in which case we may unlimit it.” See jamesgin.com.DUO TAKE PLUNGE?A “WILL they, won’t they” romantic drama has been commissioned by the BBC based on a multi award-winning novel.Open Water tells how keen photographer Marcus and dance student Effie feel an immediate connection when they meet.But Effie is dating Marcus’ friend Samuel.A shared project draws them together but can they resist the lure of love?The story is being adapted into an eight-part series from Caleb Azumah Nelson’s 2021 novel of the same name.Lindsay Salt of the BBC said: “Open Water is a tender, bold and dazzling story about the dance of early love and being seen for who you really are.”STARS from top TV shows have signed up for gritty new thriller Inheritance. The Sky drama will feature Wolf Hall’s Richard Dillane and Happy Valley’s Jack Bandeira.Set in Bristol, the UK and Jamaica, the story follows a mixed-race lawyer investigating an inheritance claim. SPLIT’S BRAVA BRAVOIT’S only a two-part special, but the ­latest helping of legal drama The Split packs in more drama than most ten-episode series.It sees central character Hannah (Nicola Walker) travel to Barcelona for her daughter Liv’s wedding to Spaniard Gael.The two-part special of The Split packs in more drama than most ten part seriesCredit: SISTERThe special sees Hannah Stern (Nicola Walker) travel to BarcelonaTagging along are ­Hannah’s sisters, Nina (Annabel Scholey) and Rose, (Fiona Button), plus her ex-husband Nathan (Stephen Mangan).Things get complicated when we’re introduced to lawyer Hannah’s new love interest, hunky Archie, played by Toby Stephens, son of the late Dame Maggie Smith. READ MORE SUN STORIESBut she isn’t the only family member caught up in complicated affairs of the heart – all of which is played out over one weekend.The Split: Barcelona airs on December 29 and 30 on BBC One. Both episodes are available on BBC iPlayer on December 29.Hannah’s new love interest Archie is played by Toby StephensHannah is joined in Barcelona by sisters Nina and Rose More

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      Fans baffled as Donald Trump sends bizarre video message to pal ‘Jonny’ Infantino before Fifa Club World Cup draw

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      FOOTBALL fans were left baffled after US President-elect Donald Trump made a surprise appearance during the draw for the Fifa Club World Cup.Chelsea and Manchester City were among the 32 teams across the world waiting to find out who they would be drawn against for the controversial post-season tournament.Donald Trump made a surprise appearance during the draw for the Fifa Club World Cup after being introduced by Gianni InfantinoCredit: ReutersHe was introduced by his ‘friend’, ‘Johnny’ who later revealed the trophy for the tournamentCredit: ReutersHowever, during a speech by Fifa president Gianni Infantino, Trump made an appearance with a pre-recorded message, although some fans believed he mispronounced the Fifa president’s name.He said: “The event is going to be incredible. I will try and be there if I can, I would, we’ll see what happens.”But I just want to say you’re led by a man named Jonny, I just know him as Jonny and he’s a winner and he’s the president and I’m the president.”We’ve known each other a long time and I’m so honoured to have this kind of relationship because Soccer is going through the roof as everybody knows.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 78-year-old continued by speaking about his son, Baron, and his relationship with football.He added: “It’s been doing so fantastically well, my son Baron is a tremendous soccer fan, he’s actually a good player – I guess not quite that kind of good but he’s a very good player.”But he loves soccer and it really is taking over the United States in terms of a sport and I congratulate everybody.”But in particular I wish you too have a good time and I want to send my highest regards and respect to Jonny.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe ex-Arsenal boss was roped into dancing by co-host Ana JurkaCredit: https://x.com/DAZN_ES”It’s been an honour to be with you and will be with you very soon and we’re going to watch the World Cup very importantly also very soon.”I was very responsible along with Jonny in getting it and it’s going to be a fantastic thing.”Football fans say ‘I’m dying of cringe’ as Arsene Wenger DANCES on stage at live Fifa Club World Cup drawReacting to the appearance, one fan online said: “What’s Trump saying about Gianni lmao, he pronounced it as Johnny.”A second said: “My goodness, this Fifa Club World Cup draw has had an address from Donald Trump. Absurdity.”A third added: “Donald Trump randomly showed up at the Fifa club world cup draw.”The opening game of the tournament will be in Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, with the USA.Trump’s video was far from the only bizarre moment from the draw.Fans couldn’t believe their eyes when they later spotted former Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger DANCING live on camera.Meanwhile, the trophy of the tournament was also revealed as a stunning gold plate – which Infantino opened with a huge golden KEY. More

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      Aston Villa legend Gary Shaw ‘died after banging his head while getting out of taxi on night out with pals’

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      ASTON Villa legend Gary Shaw died after banging his head while getting out of a taxi following a night out drinking with pals, an inquest has heard.Birmingham Coroner’s Court heard how the 63-year-old former footballer was found collapsed in the street by a neighbour after he had fallen and hit his head on a kerb.An inquest heard how Gary died after hitting his head when getting out of a taxiCredit: GettyThe Aston Villa legend (left) won the 1982 European Cup with the teamCredit: PAHe scored 79 times for Villa across 213 gamesCredit: RexAfter the accident on September 6 this year, he passed away surrounded by his family 10 days afterwards.The inquest was told Shaw had been for a night out at the Jam House in the centre of Birmingham and was put in a taxi by friends at around 1.30am.However, as he exited the cab, he fell and hit his head on a kerb before being found by a neighbour in the early hours.They then phoned an ambulance and the 1982 European Cup winner was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital.Read More on Footballer DeathsHowever, his condition deteriorated and he died ten days later on September 16 after suffering the “severe head injury”.Birmingham Coroner Louise Hunt recorded that Shaw died as a result of an accident.She said: “Mr Shaw had been out for the night drinking with friends on September 5.”In the early hours of September 6 and made his way home in a taxi.Most read in Football”He was found collapsed on the pavement outside his home address having fallen and hit his head.”He was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he was found to have a severe head injury as a result of the fall which resulted in his death on September 16.”Meet Aston Villa wonderkid Lamare Bogarde who has a famous unclePhilip Cutler, his brother-in-law, said in a statement how Gary had been out for the evening at the club.He confirmed that Gary was put into a taxi by friends at 1.30am and after getting out of the taxi, fell and hit his head on the kerb, rendering him unconscious.Philip said it was then sometime between 2am and 3am he was found and an ambulance called.A doctor said in a statement Gary had suffered an extensive and diffused head injury and that no surgical intervention was possible.He was then stabilised and put on the critical care unit. The doctor added Gary had a CT scan on September 9 which showed a deterioration in the brain, and his death was a result of a severe head injury caused by the fall.He also said that hypertension was a contributory factor, and a toxicological report showed that the ex-player had an alcohol reading of 221 milligrams per 100 millilitres.Gary, an academy graduate, who scored three goals on the way to the final against Bayern Munich in Rotterdam, also netted 18 times for Villa during their march to the first division title in 1981.He was named PFA Young Player of the Year following their title-winning season, in which he scored 20 times.The talented striker scored 79 times in 213 games for his boyhood club, and is regarded as one of Villa’s best forwards in their 150-year history.He also played for Blackpool, Walsall, Kilmarnock, and Shrewsbury Town.While he never earned a cap for England, he did play seven times for the U21s, scoring two goals.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn recent years, Gary, idolised by many on the terraces, had been a regular match day attendee at Villa Park and often held Q&A sessions with corporate guests.The club ambassador had also worked as a statistician, having formerly helped coach the youth team.Gary had worked as a club ambassador for Villa in later lifeCredit: Rex More

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      Bournemouth 1-0 Tottenham LIVE RESULT: Huijsen’s header secures Cherries three huge points against Spurs

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      BOURNEMOUTH have beaten Tottenham at the vitality thanks to a Dean Huijsen header.Huijsen became Bournemouth’s youngest ever goal scorer with his crucial first half goal.And it is a result which sees Spurs drop down to 10th.RESULT: Bournemouth 1-0 TottenhamFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from Vitality Stadium with our live blog below… More

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      TNT Sports commentator lined up for Northampton manager job to replace Jon Brady

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      ROBBIE SAVAGE is in the frame for the vacant Northampton job.Jon Brady resigned at the League One outfit yesterday after three-and-a-half years in charge with the club 21st in the table.TNT Sports commentator Robbie Savage is being lined up to take the Northampton jobCredit: GettyHe has led Macclesfield to the top of the league in his first managerial jobCredit: The TimesAnd SunSport understands Macclesfield boss Savage has impressed the Cobblers hierarchy.Savage, 50, took over as manager of the Northern Premier League side last summer.The ex-Wales and Blackburn midfielder has led Macclesfield to the top of the division in his first managerial post.Brady’s assistant Ian Sampson has been put in interim charge of Northampton and will lead the team in Monday’s home game against Peterborough.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA statement from Cobblers Chairman Kelvin Thomason said: “Upon receiving Jon’s resignation yesterday, the Board of Directors have discussed matters and given the circumstances have agreed to accept.”We really appreciate what Jon has done for the club, initially within the academy and over the last four years or so as first team manager.”I personally appreciated Jon’s kind words earlier this week when he acknowledged how well supported he had been by the club.”However we also all fully understand the real pressures that come with being a manager and while we all would have preferred things to be different, we understand Jon’s decision. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”We will now work with Jon and the LMA on his exit agreement.”In the meantime we are fortunate that we have a talented, passionate and experienced staff, headed up by Ian Sampson, to oversee things in the interim and allow us the time to work through matters. Bromley boss Andy Woodman shares craziest EFL memories including players’ full on fight in club shop I What the EFL?!”We also firmly believe we have both the talent and quality within the squad and every confidence in the players at the club.”It is clear we are a bit of a wounded animal on the pitch at the moment, but we know that the Cobblers supporters will always step up when needed and are sure they will get behind the lads at Sixfields on Monday.” More