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    Mykhailo Mudryk and Chelsea break silence on failed drugs test after £88million star is suspended from football

    BOTH Chelsea and Mykhailo Mudryk have broken their silence following the winger’s provisional suspension from football.The Ukrainian star failed a drugs test after providing a positive result with an A-sample in late October.Mykhailo Mudryk has broken his silence after being provisionally suspended from footballThe 23-year-old winger, who arrived at Stamford Bridge in January 2023 for a fee that could rise to £88million, insists that he never knowingly broke any rules.Mudryk wrote on Instagram this morning: “I can confirm that I have been notified that a sample I provided to The FA contained a banned substance.“This has come as a complete shock as I have NEVER knowingly used any banned substances or broken any rules, and am working closely with my team to investigate how this could have happened.“I know that I have not done anything wrong and remain hopeful that I will be back on the pitch soon.READ MORE ON CHELSEA“I cannot say any more now due to the confidentiality of the process, but I will as soon as I can.”Mudryk and Chelsea are now said to be awaiting the result of the B-sample, which will confirm the original test if it also comes back positive.Tribuna claims Mudryk has tested positive for meldonium, a banned metabolic substance similar to insulin.It can apparently allow the body to “use oxygen sparingly and quickly restore energy to prepare for new loads of physical stress.”Most read in FootballMeldonium is widely used in Eastern Europe and has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned list since 2016.But if confirmed, the 23-year-old could face a ban of up to four-years from football.Mykhailo Mudryk reveals his cheat meal and best Chelsea pals in Q&A Chelsea meanwhile shared a statement on Tuesday morning, writing: “We can confirm the FA recently contacted our player Mykhailo Mudryk concerning an adverse finding in a routine urine test.”Both the Club and Mykhailo fully support The FA’s testing programme and all our players, including Mykhailo, are regularly tested. “Mykhailo has confirmed categorically that he has never knowingly used any banned substances. “Both Mykhailo and the Club will now work with the relevant authorities to establish what has caused the adverse finding.”The Club will not be commenting any further.”Mudryk is a Ukraine internationalWhat drug did Mudryk take?By SunSport’s Joshua JonesMYKHAILO MUDRYK returned a positive sample for a drugs test in October.The Chelsea winger could face a ban for up to four years – because the drug was a performance-enhancing substance.It is alleged Mudryk had the drug meldonium in his system.Meldonium – aka mildronate – is a metabolic modulator similar to insulin and is widely used in Eastern Europe.It is used in heart disease therapy but is also claimed to enable athletes to withstand greater stress, use oxygen more sparingly and restore energy levels quickly.Meldonium was added to the World Anti-Doping Agency banned list in January 2016 following its high prevalence at the 2015 European Games in Baku.Just months later, former tennis world No1 and Wimbledon champion Maria Sharapova was banned for two years by the International Tennis Federation – although this was later cut to 15 months on appeal.Sharapova had been taking the drug for ten years for various health issues and claimed she was unaware it had been added to the banned list.Also in 2016, Russian boxer Alexander Povetkin was found to have traces of meldonium in his system before he was due to fight fellow heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder.Mudryk has not played since scoring in the 2-0 Conference League win at Heindenheim on November 28.He has also not been in a match-day squad since the 3-0 win over Aston Villa in the Premier League on December 1.And the official reason given for Mudryk’s absence by his club is that he has been ill.Mudryk has not been seen training at Cobham in the interim.  SunSport has reached out to Mudryk’s agent for comment.FA rules state that a player notified of a test result can then be provisionally suspended. They then have the chance to respond with an explanation before a decision is made on a potential charge. Mudryk is known to have undergone a test in August which was clear and insists he had not changed his behaviour since.Enzo Maresca will next speak to reporters on Wednesday ahead of Chelsea’s Europa Conference League clash with Shamrock Rovers on Thursday evening, with Chelsea hosting an open training on the same day at 3pm.  How long are drugs bans in football?By SunSport’s Joshua JonesMYKHAILO MUDRYK could be banned for up to four years after failing a drugs testBut what are the rules regarding drugs in football?There is a big difference between recreational drugs and performance-enhancing substances.Recreational drugs – such as cannabis, cocaine, heroin, LSD and MDMA – carry a six-month suspension.However, this ban can increase to up to two years if a drug is detected when a player is tested after a match.But performance-enhancing drugs carry a far more severe punishment.And crucially the alleged drug Mudryk tested positive for, meldonium, falls under that category.The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code’s standard ban is four years.That is how long Paul Pogba was suspended for following his failed drugs test – although it was later reduced on appeal to 18 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.The FA follows the UK Anti-Doping code under the WADA authority so will follow their lead and procedures.Should Mudryk’s follow-up secondary ‘B’ sample also test positive, he is likely to be hit with at least an 18-month ban but it could be as high as four years.The only person in football currently banned on the UKAD sanctions list for anti-doping rule violations is Craig Campbell.The former Scottish striker was banned for four years in December 2022 after being convicted of dealing cocaine. Two decades ago, the Blues saw Romanian striker Adrian Mutu banned from football for seven months in September 2004 after he tested positive for cocaine.Mutu’s deal was terminated for breach of contract and Chelsea were eventually awarded £14m in compensation by the Court of Arbitration for Sport.While ex-Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba was banned for 18 months in August 2023 after testing positive for performance-enhancing substance DHEA, leading to the eventual termination of his Juventus contract.Mudryk has featured in 15 games in all competitions this season – chipping in with three goals and five assists.But he is yet to be directly involved in a Premier League goal this term from his seven outings.READ MORE SUN STORIESMudryk made the switch to West London from Shakhtar Donetsk in an £88million deal after Chelsea pipped Arsenal to his signature.But he has so far failed to justify his hefty price tag – banging in just five top-flight goals from 53 matches. 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    Rasmus Hojlund destroys Kyle Walker with savage poem after Man City star’s ’embarrassing’ play-acting against Man Utd

    RASMUS HOJLUND destroyed Kyle Walker with a savage poem on social media after the defender’s “embarrassing” dive.The pair sparked a melee during the first half of Sunday’s incredible Manchester derby when they squared up after Walker’s late tackle on the Danish striker.Rasmus Hojlund clashed with Kyle Walker in the Manchester derbyCredit: GettyThe Man City star dived to the ground after the clashCredit: AFPHojlund, 21, reacted furiously to the challenge and immediately leapt up and sprinted to the England man – clashing with him forehead to forehead.After a couple of seconds, Walker threw himself to the ground despite minimal contact, clutching his face as Hojlund watched on in bemusement.Harry Maguire was left raging by the incident, charging over to scream at Walker on the ground, before being jostled away by Erling Haaland.Roy Keane was far from impressed at the interval, calling Walker “embarrassing”.READ MORE ON MAN UTDSky Sports brilliantly replayed the moment to Keane during half-time and included a pop out screen to show the United legend’s reaction.And the United legend, who couldn’t believe his eyes, vented: “Look at this, I don’t know the guy and I’m embarrassed for him. It’s embarrassing.”Both Walker and Hojlund were booked by Anthony Taylor for the incident.But it was the United striker who got the last laugh as his side came from behind to claim bragging rights, thanks to Amad Diallo’s late heroics.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd Hojlund wasted no time in rubbing it in to Walker after full time.He shared a picture of the pair clashing heads on Instagram, calling the England defender out for his play-acting.Man Utd player ratings: Amad Diallo experiences greatest moment of his career but Diogo Dalot doesn’t do enough vs CityRoy Keane watching Kyle Walker’s ’embarrassing’ diveAlongside it, he wrote the poem: “Manchester is red. Violets are blue. What a brilliant performance. But the Oscar goes to…”And United fans, unsurprisingly, absolutely loved it.One posted: “Rasmus Hojlund has just absolutely rinsed Kyle Walker.”Another commented: “I already loved Rasmus. Adore the guy now!”A third said: “I’m guessing Rasmus Hojlund manages his own social media pages and I hope it never changes. What a man.”Manchester is red. Violets are blue. What a brilliant performance. But the Oscar goes to…Rasmus HojlundWhile one wrote: “Rasmus Hojlund has absolutely ruined Kyle Walker with that caption.”United boss Ruben Amorim put his faith in Hojlund and Diallo for his first derby showdown after DROPPING both Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from the matchday squad.The new manager appeared to suggest it was down to performances on the training and match pitch – while warning his stars how closely he is watching them.Man Utd player ratings vs Man City as sensational Amad Diallo turns derby on its headAMAD DIALLO left Manchester City stunned as he turned the derby on its head.The flying winger won a penalty, converted by Bruno Fernandes, in the dying embers to level it up.But the best was yet to come as Amad flicked past an onrushing Ederson before expertly slotting in a dramatic winner from a tight angle deep into injury time.Here’s how SunSport’s Neil Custis rated the Man Utd players…Andre Onana – 6He just does not fill you with confidence. Does not command his area and as we found out midweek in Plzen, his distribution from the back is a major plus for the opposition.Wasn’t tested that much however.Lisandro Martinez – 7Looking a calmer presence under Amorim than he did before when he seemed to want to live up to his nickname from his Ajax days of ‘The Butcher of Amsterdam’.Great through ball at the end to pick out Amad’s run for the winner.Harry Maguire – 8Had a great battle with Erling Haaland which the United man won.The right call to bring the former captain in for such a big game. Looks like he suits the position in the centre of that back three.Matthijs de Ligt 78′ – 7A decent enough performance. Looked more comfortable alongside Maguire than other centre-back partners.Diogo Dalot – 5Mistimed his jump to be beaten to the ball by Josko Gvardiol for the City opener. Did not create enough going forward from his wing-back role.Bruno Fernandes – 8Missed a big chance after being put through by Hojlund and clipping the ball wide.But when the moment comes from the penalty spot he is a cool head in the hottest of atmospheres sending Ederson the wrong way to equaliseManuel Ugarte – 7Sat in front of the back four and negated much of what Phil Foden was trying to do for the home side.Noussair Mazraoui 78′ – 8The best of the summer buys. Used as the right wing back on this occasion and is able to adjust to whatever is asked of him. One of United’s bets performers on the day.Mason Mount 13′ – 6Looked very close to tears when he had to come off after early in the game. He is just getting no luck whatsoever with injuries and has not had a decent run since joining the club.Amad Diallo 90′ – 9The greatest moment of his career so far with a memorable derby winner. A brilliant run first of all to meet Martinez pass, he then clipped the ball past Edersonn and while it was a scuffed finish he got it on target.Had almost grabbed an equaliser with a flick header before that which was well saved by Ederson.Then was alert to Nunes back pass to win the penalty that did lead to United drawing level.Rasmus Hojlund 78′ – 6Most we saw of him was a head to head confrontation with Walker when the City player slumped to the ground and a little fall of his own when he tried to win a pen.But then he provided a great through ball for Fernandes which should have brought the equaliser.SubsKobbie Mainoo 13′ – 6Did a solid job as he came on ina deeper role than Mount and Fernandes moved forwardJoshua Zrikzee 78′ – 6Not the man who is going to come on and change a game, but he did well to hold onto possession in the closing seconds.Antony 78′ – 6Came on to try and make a difference but is lacking the confidence which a lack of starts brings.Leny Yoro 78′ – 6Continues to ease himself back to full fitness after that summer injury.Victor Lindelof 90′ – 6No time to have any influence on the game.He said: “We try to evaluate everything training performance, game performances, engagement with team-mates, push their team-mates up.”Everything is on the line when we analyse and try to choose the players. It is my selection. Simple.“I don’t want to send a message it is simply an evaluation and they know it. The players are really, really smart.”Everybody understands my decision and I have to choose. It is simple selection.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Of course the context is difficult because we have to win games and we have a difficult situation now.”I pay attention to everything, the way you eat, the way you put your clothes to go to a game. Everything. I make my evaluation and then I decide.” More

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    Former Premier League star begins new career as rapper with debut album set to be released

    A FORMER Premier League star is set to release his debut album while competing in Serie A.The striker currently plays for Fiorentina but has found the way to share his time between the football pitch and the music stage.Fiorentina star Moise Kean is releasing his debut rap album ‘Chosen’Credit: Instagram @moise_keanKean used to play in the Premier League with EvertonCredit: GettyKean has been enjoying an impressive season with FiorentinaCredit: RexThat’s none other than Moise Kean, who made a name for himself during stints with Juventus, Everton and Paris Saint-Germain before linking up with the Viola.According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Kean, 24, will launch his debut album “Chosen” on December 16.The Italy international’s album comprises of a total of 11 rap tracks.The centre-forward has had a long passion for music and never hid it during his football career.Read More on FootballBack in 2019, the Italian appeared in a video by Turin rapper Boro Boro. And last year, Kean’s first single “Outfit” dropped and was seen performing with rap group 19F.The forward joins a group of footballers that have tried their luck in music.Fulham’s Alex Iwobi, Inter Milan’s Stefan de Vrij and Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana have all released songs.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Kean is one of few footballers to have managed to release an album.AC Milan star Rafael Leao also belongs in that small list as he dropped “Beginning” in 2021.Gutted Everton fan spent ‘all his savings’ travelling 10,000 miles for Merseyside derby before Storm Darragh KO’d matchIn fact, Kean recently revealed that he and Leao are working on an album together.The striker spent four years at Everton, three of which were out on loan, and only managed four goals and two assists in 39 appearances before his departure in 2023 for Juventus.Kean has rediscovered his goalscoring prowess in Italy as he’s stood out this season with Fiorentina by registering a total of 13 goals and one assist in 17 appearances.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Richarlison set to become a dad as Tottenham star and law student partner reveal they are having a baby

    RICHARLISON has announced he is to become a father with his partner pregnant.The Tottenham Hotspur star and Amanda Araujo made the announcement on social media.Richarlison is set to become a dadCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDaZGGkNvW0/?hl=en&img_index=1He and his partner are expecting their first child togetherCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDaZGGkNvW0/?hl=en&img_index=1Richarlison and Amanda Araujo made the announcement on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDaZGGkNvW0/?hl=en&img_index=1She showed off their first baby scan picturesCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDaZGGkNvW0/?hl=en&img_index=1Richarlison, 27, shared the news on Instagram with a collection of pictures of himself and Amanda.In the snaps they can be seen posing with ultrasound pictures as well as a baby-sized pair of flip flops.He captioned the post: “Now there are 3 of us.”The happy couple were congratulated on their pregnancy by fans.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne posted: “Congrats to you to! Such wonderful news.”A second wrote: “Congratulations bro, God bless you.”A third commented: “Little Pombo is coming.”A fourth said: “Mini pigeon is coming.”Most read in FootballAnother added: “That’s right my brother! God bless too much.”Amanda has studied law at a private university in Sao Paulo Brazil.They were spotted for the first time together in July 2023 when they holidayed with friends in Brazil.Richarlison breaks down in tears as he reveals he wanted to quit football and would always Google ‘rubbish about death’The happy couple were congratulated on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDaZGGkNvW0/?hl=en&img_index=1They are thought to have started dating in July 2023Credit: https://www.instagram.com/p/DDaZGGkNvW0/?hl=en&img_index=1Amanda has been a supportive partner to Richarlison during his injury troubles in North London.Last November she flew over to see him after he underwent groin surgery.He is still struggling with injury issues and has only featured in seven matches this season.The forward has not played since he withdrew from action against Aston Villa in November.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Cause of West Ham star Michail Antonio’s horror crash wasn’t booze or drugs, cops say – as striker remains in hospital

    COPS have ruled-out drink and drugs as causes of West Ham star Michail Antonio’s horror crash, sources claim.Officers are working on the basis no third-parties were involved in the moments before the £260,000 wrecked Ferrari FF was wrecked in Essex, on Saturday.Michail’s Ferrari FF hit a tree in Theydon Bois, Essex, on SaturdayCredit: GettyMichail miraculously survived the horror crash with only a fractured legCredit: Steve BellHe was stuck in the wreckage for nearly an hour before being airlifted from the siteCredit: UKNIPIn a tribute to their team mate West Ham players wore Michail Antonio shirts ahead of their game with WolvesCredit: PAAnd there has been no suggestion of excessive speeding – raising the spectre Antonio’s miracle escape could be a freak accident.A source said: “Drink and drugs have already been ruled out, and officers are not currently looking for anyone else.“There is no smoking gun as far as cops are concerned right now – but they have to investigate because the smash was so serious and caused such extensive injuries.“Just because cops are involved doesn’t mean a crime has been committed.”Read more SportSkid-marks show Antonio was driving uphill from Theydon Bois to Waltham Abbey, when his motor slid off the road.The crash took place at 12.50pm on Saturday as the front end of Storm Darragh swept across the country – with locals saying the route can be treacherous with run-off, in heavy rains.The wreck of Antonio’s rare supercar was said to be in a tight-security lock-up – rather than the usual compound cars involved in crashes around the M25 in Essex.Sources said it was set to be kept there in case investigators needed to examine it as part of an investigation into the star’s shocking near-miss.Most read in FootballThe striker was continuing to recover from surgery to a broken leg on Tuesday, amid fears the fracture could shorten the 34-year-old’s career.Dog walker Samuel Woods, also 34, told how Michail was seriously dazed when he saw him trapped in the ripped-apart motor.Major update on Michail Antonio as West Ham star undergoes surgery after horror Ferrari crashSamuel told The Sun: “I said to him, ‘Hello’ to see if anyone was alive. He was so disorientated. He said, ‘Where am I? What’s going on? What car am I in?’ I couldn’t believe what happened.”The driver’s side of the high-powered car was ripped apart by the impact with a tree in Theydon Bois, Essex, on Saturday. Michail was sent flying across the interior to the passenger side.Drivers reported seeing smoke pouring from the motor.The star was trapped inside the supercar for almost an hour in the wreckage before being airlifted from the scene.He had to be cut free from the 2011 Ferrari FF and was rushed to hospital.Cops have appealed for dashcam footage in a bid to understand the lead-up to the smash.They said an investigation by its Roads Policing Unit had been opened.In a heartfelt tribute, Hammers stars wore shirts featuring Antonio’s name and number ahead of their clash with Wolves at London Stadium.Team-mate Jarrod Bowen said: “Mic has been longer than I have, everyone loves him. He’s a big character in here.”Those few hours on Saturday were difficult. He’s not just a team-mate he’s a friend of ours, he’s been a friend of ours for many years. A dad as well to beautiful children.”And you see the support, I just want to say thank you for all the support from everyone.”Michail moved to West Ham from Nottingham Forest in 2015 for £7 million,READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has since become the top Premier League scorer for the East London club, with 68 goals in 268 games. The athlete also co-hosts the BBC’s Footballer’s Football podcast alongside Callum Wilson from Newcastle.Michail Antonio’s incredible riseBy Jon BoonThe outpouring of love from the football community for Michael Antonio has been massive, with the striker recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.After impressing in 2008, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract.Antonio said: “They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Away from football, Antonio has bravely opened up about his mental health struggles in recent times.The Jamaica international was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.He revealed: “I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle…” More

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    Michael Schumacher hard drive feared to contain leaked ‘intimate’ photos & files is MISSING, blackmail trial hears

    A HARD drive feared to be filled with Michael Schumacher’s “intimate” pictures and medical files has gone missing, a German court heard.Three suspects who allegedly orchestrated a £12m blackmail plot against Schumacher appeared at Wuppertal District Court near Dortmund.Details around seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher’s blackmail plot have been revealedCredit: AlamyThe former security guard for the Schumacher family Markus F allegedly planned the blackmail plotCredit: FacebookBouncer Yilmaz T was also hired to extort £12million from Schumachar’s family, it is claimedMichael Schumacher and his wife Corinna before his accident in 2013Credit: AlamyThe extortionists have been accused of threatening the Ferrari star’s family and conspiring to leak private pictures of him on the dark web. The photos were part of a cache of 1500 computer files including personal videos, medication lists and the contents of Schumacher’s patient file.They were allegedly stolen by a former security guard who worked for the Schumacher family.All the data was reportedly transferred to two hard drives and four USB sticks. more on the f1 legend However, one of the hard drives which may still hold data on the F1 legend has gone missing.All three accused face prison sentences if convicted. Yilmaz T, 53, a former bouncer at the large Grey nightclub in Konstanz, Baden-Württemberg, is believed to have had the hard drive.He is thought to have initiated the extortion, by calling the Schumacher family and claiming to act as a middleman for other parties.Most read in MotorsportYilmaz T revealed he had two hard drives filled with the sporting legend’s medical records and private pictures.He is alleged to have threatened to leak them on the dark net. Schuey’s family awarded £170k damages over AI-generated ‘chat with F1 star’He claimed that he hid the hard drive with family members and friends.But while cops were able to recover the four USB sticks and one of the hard drives, the second one was not found.The former bouncer claimed to have received all the data from Markus F, 53, who is said to be the mastermind of the sickening plot.Markus F worked for Schumacher’s family as a security guard for years. He allegedly stole the data and passed it on to Yilmaz T. Markus F has been charged with aiding and abetting extortion and violating personal privacy.He has two prior convictions, including fraud in 127 cases, and in this case, he is charged with If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison.PLOT’S ‘MASTERMIND’Yilmaz T’s son, Daniel L, 30, is also accused of supporting him in threatening the family by setting up an encrypted Gmail account and transmitting files.Yilmaz T claims he joined the plot to help a nurse – who has not yet been named – who also worked for the Schumachers. He told the court: “Completely honestly I didn’t see it the way it all came out. “Ok, it went badly, but…I was also given some pressure myself. “For example, the nurse became unemployed, so she wasn’t in a good financial situation. “And I was supposed to sort out money to help her out.”Markus F – who is accused of being the plot’s mastermind – worked as a security expert for Michael Schumacher for nine years.He is thought to have provided the original computer files which he wrongfully obtained during his work for Schumacher’s family to the ex-bouncer.Markus F also worked for the German Honorary Consultate in Egypt.In court, he refused to say a word other than to confirm his name and address. But in a statement read by his lawyer, he claimed that he had been asked by Corinna to digitalise copies of photos taken of her husband.Schumacher’s wife Corinna, 55, has filed a motion to protect her husband, which will allow her to exclude the public from the trial if the seven-time world champion’s current state of health is discussed.The F1 star, who hasn’t been seen or heard from for over a decade after a horror ski crash, has been looked after by his close-knit family since the accident.The seven-time world champion’s family have kept his health a guarded secret for years.Markus F was allowed inside the famous Schumacher inner circle for upwards of eight years as Michael’s wife Corinna felt he was a trusted aide.Earlier this year, the relationship drastically declined as Corinna was forced to sack him due to changes to her husband’s care plan.This allegedly turned him bitter as he started to hatch a plan to extort the Schumacher family. What happened to Michael Schumacher?MICHAEL Schumacher’s life was hanging by a thread 10 years ago as medics tried desperately to keep him alive after a tragic skiing crash that left him with horrific brain injuries.The F1 legend was given the best possible treatment as he was put into a medically induced coma, had his body temperature lowered and underwent hours of tricky operations on his brain.Back in 2013, the retired seven-time world champion and his then 14-year-old son set off on the Combe de Saulire ski run in the exclusive French resort of Meribel.Footage from his helmet camera revealed he was not travelling at excessive speed when his skis struck a rock hidden beneath the snow.He catapulted forward 11.5ft and crashed into a boulder head first that split his helmet into two and left him needing to be airlifted to hospital for two life-saving operations.At one point his family were told to brace themselves for the worst case scenario as the situation was much worse than originally believed.At the time, medics said Schumacher was likely to stay in an induced coma for at least 48 hours as his body and mind recovered.But the coma ended up lasting 250 days – more than eight months.After he woke up in June 2014, he was discharged from the hospital and sent to his home in Lake Geneva to get further treatment.Since then his wife Corinna and his inner circle of friends have expertly avoided almost anything leaking out about his health status.Only small amounts of information have been released including reports that Schumacher was in a wheelchair but can react to things around him.In 2019, it was said that Schumacher was set to undergo breakthrough stem cell therapy in a bid to regenerate and rebuild his nervous system.Renowned France cardiologist Dr Philippe Menasche, who had operated on him previously, was set to carry out the treatment that would see cells from his heart go to his brain.Following the treatment at the Georges Pompidou Hospital in Paris, he was said to be “conscious”, although few other details were given about his state.Schumacher’s family contacted the Swiss authorities to file a report about the alleged blackmail plot, with Swiss police then working alongside German cops to investigate the case.Cops arrested Markus F, along with Yilmaz T and Daniel L. for the alleged blackmail plot earlier this year.Authorities said they were able to track down the alleged extortionists through “technical measures”.Senior public prosecutor Wolf-Tilman Baumert, spokesman for the Wuppertal public prosecutor’s office, said: “After the advanced investigations, we currently assume that the accused son may have acted more as an accomplice.”Speaking for the first time at Wuppertal District Court, Yilmaz T said he had done nothing wrong – it was all to help out a poor nurse.He told the court: “I contacted the family. I told them that I could get the data and that I would then call back in 3 days and see if they were interested.”READ MORE SUN STORIESYilmaz T disclosed that the nurse, who has not yet been named, had also worked for the Schumacher family.However, Yilmaz T later confessed that he had never even met the nurse and that he had only been shown a picture of her by Markus F. More

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    Tomas Soucek reveals heartwarming video call with Michail Antonio as he dedicates celebration to stricken West Ham star

    TOMAS SOUCEK has revealed the heartwarming call with Michail Antonio before West Ham took on Wolves.The Hammers star was the victim of a terrifying car crash that saw him airlifted to hospital.Tomas Soucek dedicated his celebration to Michail AntonioCredit: GettyHe also shouted Antonio’s name into the cameraCredit: AlamyAfter the match, Soucek admitted that the team spot to Antonio before the gameCredit: Sky SportsThe West Ham star was involved in a terrifying car crash on SaturdayCredit: GettyHis £260,000 Ferrari was left wrecked after colliding with a treeCredit: Steve BellAntonio, 34, had to be cut free from his £260,000 Ferrari FF after it hit a tree in Theydon Bois, Essex, on Saturday.He has since undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture in a London hospital.West Ham beat Wolves 2-1 on Monday night in their first match since the shocking incident.After the game, the Czech midfielder revealed that he and the rest of the team spoke to Antonio on a video call.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe told Sky Sports: “It was a tough week for us and his family. It’s really tough but we are happy he came to the position he can be.”We saw him before the game, we had a video call with him before the game.”I was so happy, he smiled to us and he gave us all the best and so happy for him. I can’t wait to visit him.”He’s a lovely guy, so happy. He had a few jokes and wished us all the best.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”He’s the top scorer for West Ham, one of the best West Ham have had.”This was great we saw him today, I wish him all the best.West Ham fans pay emotional tribute to Michail Antonio with ninth-minute applauseJarrod Bowen also paid tribute to AntonioCredit: GettyMohammed Kudus also displayed Antonio’s shirt after his offside goalCredit: PAThe West Ham team wore pre-match jackets in honour of AntonioCredit: GettyMichail Antonio’s incredible riseBy Jon BoonThe outpouring of love from the football community for Michael Antonio has been massive, with the striker recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.After impressing in 2008, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract.Antonio said: “They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Away from football, Antonio has bravely opened up about his mental health struggles in recent times.The Jamaica international was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.He revealed: “I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle…”Read more about Michail Antonio’s incredible rise and life away from the game.”These things happen, but hopefully he will be even better soon.”Soucek, 29, opened the scoring with a header and dedicated his goal to his team-mate and showed nine fingers in reference to Antonio’s shirt number.He added: “I dedicated it to him, I said to myself that I want to score even more today. “Antonio has been here since I came and he’s been my favourite.”It’s tough not to play a long time without him. This is for him, he’s a massive player and he’s in my heart.”It was really tough. I was with the kids and I saw the information on my phone.”I messaged everyone what I could on how he is. I wish him all the best, I was so scared as to what was going to happen.”Mohammed Kudus made his own salute to Antonio as he scored and celebrated with his stool while also handing a shirt with the star’s name on the advertising board.However, the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR check.Matt Doherty equalised for the visitors in the 69th minute.However, West Hame star Jarrod Bowen fired in the winning goal just two minutes later.The captain made his own tribute to Antonio as he held up the forward’s shirt towards the stands.The whole team were involved in a tribute to their team-mate before kick-off as they warmed up in shirts with “Antonio” on the back.The whole crowd in the stadium rose to their feet in the 9th minute to applaud the Jamaica international.The victory would have eased some pressure on Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui, with the club now nine points from the bottom three.READ MORE SUN STORIESReports had claimed that former Chelsea boss Graham Potter is open to replacing the Spaniard should he be sacked at the London Stadium.After the full-time whistle emotions boiled over as a huge brawl broke out after a disagreement between Bowen and Mario Lemina.Lopetegui dedicates win to AntonioJulen Lopetegui dedicated West Ham’s win over Wolves to star Michail Antonio.He said: “Mick is a very special player, a special guy, we love him a lot and we are very happy to be able to dedicate this victory to him. “It has been a tough few days for a lot of reasons. Today we are happy because we achieved three important points.”It was a very difficult match, as all the matches in the Premier League are, and we overcame different moments in disallowing the goals.”We had a lot of shots, the first very clear chances we had in the first half we didn’t take advantage of – we did the same against Leicester and in the end we lost. “Today after we started winning, making it 2-0 was more or less key, so the disallowed goal and them equalising was a trigger moment to be strong in our mentality. I think we did that. “I am happy for the players to have the possibility to dedicate this victory to Mick and his family. They deserve this.” More

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    Ryan Reynolds left in disbelief after watching Wrexham star’s wonder goal that was assisted by Storm Darragh

    RYAN REYNOLDS was left gobsmacked by Wrexham’s stunning winner against Burton Albion – which had a little assist from Storm Darragh.The Red Dragons ran out 1-0 winners at the Pirelli Stadium on Saturday thanks to a 65th minute strike from midfielder Elliot Lee.Elliot Lee secured Wrexham victory against Burton Albion in styleCredit: SKY SPORTSThe midfielder scored straight from a corner in the 65th minuteCredit: SKY SPORTSHollywood A-lister and Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds wasn’t in attendance at the Pirelli Stadium to witness Lee’s stunnerCredit: RexReynolds gave an x-rated reaction to Lee’s stunner on InstagramCredit: INSTAGRAM@VANCITYREYNOLDSLee sent the travelling Wrexham fans into pandemonium by finding the back of the net straight from a CORNER.The 29-year-old’s stunner spread like wildfire on social media and quickly came to the attention of club co-owner Reynolds.And the Hollywood A-lister couldn’t help but give an x-rated response to the goal.Along with a clip of Lee’s goal, the ‘Deadpool’ star wrote on his Instagram story: “FFS, Elliot Lee.”READ MORE ON WREXHAMFootie fans were blown away by Lee’s strike, although many were quick to point out by the incredible winds battering the UK courtesy of Storm Darragh played a role in the goal.One wrote on X: ‘Almost like there was a 90mph wind or something.”Another said: “Storm Darragh assist.”And another said: “Yeah, because the conditions didn’t help in anyway.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHow Ryan Reynolds has been watching Wrexham games in styleCO-OWNER Ryan Reynolds hasn’t been able to make it to Wrexham in recent weeks due to filming commitments.But that hasn’t stopped him from watching his team in style.Streaming the match on a laptop or even a TV was not grand enough for the Deadpool star as he worked on the set of his latest movie.With a giant green screen behind him, he could not resist broadcasting Wrexham’s recent game on to the huge projector.Reynolds and his crew watched on as the Welsh side notched their 23rd win of the season against Crawley Town.He looked enamoured as the game played on behind him while surrounding by various pieces of Hollywood machinery.And Reynolds captioned the moment: “Watching the Wrexham game at work: new level unlocked.”It’s not clear what project Reynolds was working on at the time, with the actor currently developing several new movies including sequels to smash hits Free Guy and Red Notice.”He can’t seriously claim that he meant to score that goal.”But Elliot, who now has 35 Wrexham goals to his name, insists he MEANT to find the back of the net from the set piece.I’ve tried for the last three years to join Wrexham but I think my surname will stop me, admits ex-Premier League star James Chester He told Wrexham’s YouTube channel: “We do a lot on set pieces and with Parky (Phil Parkinson), he gives us license to shoot.”And that’s, basically, what the plan was today with the wind – just shoot for goal and see what happens.”The keeper will be under pressure and luckily for me ones gone in the back stick.”Victory over Burton Albion fired Wrexham joint-top of the League One table.Phil Parkinson’s charges are currently level on points with Wycombe Wanderers.Wrexham will be back in action on Tuesday night, welcoming Crewe Alexandra to the SToK Racecourse. More