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    Meet the EFL icon, 36, with more hat-tricks than Haaland this season in ninth tier as he’s dubbed ‘absolute cheat code’

    ERLING HAALAND has been sensational so far this season but has not scored as many hat-tricks as this ninth tier hero.Brett Pitman has shown that the Manchester City star is not the only striker to be on fire this season.Brett Pitman has scored three hat-tricks this seasonCredit: @BMRFCHe has managed one more than Erling HaalandCredit: GettyThe former EFL ace – wo played for a number of top sides – has scored three hat-ticks this season for Baffins Milton Rovers FC in the Wessex League Premier Division.Pitman, 36, netted his latest three goals in the 3-1 win over Cowes Sports and it’s quickly seen him dubbed a ‘cheat code’ by fans.He netted his first with a clinical first-time finish before firing home from the spot.The striker completed his hat-trick with a thumping effort from the edge of the box.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBaffins’ manager Danny Thompson hailed the striker’s latest performance.He told club media: “The two goals he scored from open play, especially the third, was a great finish.”You know what you are going to get from Brett when he is in front of goal, you back him all day long to finish.”Pitman’s success in front of goal since joining Baffins has seen him lauded by fans on social media.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOne posted: “An absolute cheat code.”A second wrote: “Put my mortgage he could do it week in week out for City.”Daniel Sturridge suffers wardrobe malfunction live on Sky Sports during Chelsea’s defeat to Man City A third commented: “His finishing has always been top drawer.”A fourth said: “Might be the best player ever to be honest.”Another added: “Thinks he’s a Prime Higuain.”Pitman started his career at Bournemouth and helped the club to reach the Premier League in 2015.Former Cherries boss Eddie Howe has admitted that Pitman is “one of the best” he has ever worked with.However, he remained in the Championship after moving to Ipswich Town.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe striker continued his career in the EFL with stints at Portsmouth, Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers.Pitman dropped into non-league football in 2022 as he joined AFC Portchester before moving to Shaftsbury and now Baffins.He started his career at BournemouthCredit: Action Images – ReutersPitman also spent three seasons at PortsmouthCredit: Rex FeaturesWho are these famous footballers? More

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    Phil Foden’s son, 5, set to become star by entertaining fans as a YouTuber

    FOOTIE ace Phil Foden’s five-year-old son is set to smash the net again — with his own YouTube channel.Ronnie already has five million Instagram followers after dancing on the pitch following his dad’s 2023 Champions League triumph with Manchester City.Phil Foden’s five-year-old son Ronnie is getting his own YouTube channelCredit: GettyRonnie was nicknamed ‘The Dude’ by City fans and has since become the unofficial mascot for the teamCredit: GettyNow the cheeky chap could cash in on his fame by entertaining fans as a YouTuber after dad Phil, 23, and mum Rebecca, 22, set up a channel for him.A source said: “Ronnie loves being the centre of attention and is a big fan of some of the YouTubers so Phil and his mum have set up an account.“He could end up making loads of money from it.”Speaking about his son’s celebrations in Istanbul, Phil said: “His personality has made him who he is. READ MORE ON FOOTBALL”He just reminds me of myself when I was a kid and he’s very funny.”Ronnie was nicknamed “The Dude” by City fans and has since become the unofficial mascot for the team.And after their latest Premier League title in May, he was seen trying to open a bottle of champagne to the amusement of fans.He has a modelling contract and is on a talent group’s books despite only just starting school.Most read in FootballPhil and Rebecca also share daughter TruePhil Foden’s girlfriend Rebecca Cooke gives birth to boy with England star to fly back to Euro 2024 for Slovakia clash More

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    Ross Barkley and Wag Katherine congratulated by Molly-Mae Hague as they announce they’re expecting baby in adorable post

    ROSS BARKLEY and his other half were inundated with scores of well-wishes after revealing they are expecting a baby.The Aston Villa midfielder and Katherine Pilkington went public with their relationship back in February 2022.Ross Barkley has been dating Kara Pilkington for over two yearsCredit: INSTAGRAM@KATHERINE.PILKINGTONThe couple have revealed they’re expecting their first child and received a slew of congratulatory messages on social mediaCredit: INSTAGRAM@KATHERINE.PILKINGTONThe pair were congratulated by Molly-Mae Hague on InstagramCredit: InstagramTheir love has blossomed over the last two years, with the couple now pregnant with their first child.The pair announced the news with a heartwarming video reveal of their ultrasound scan, which included their dog, in a joint Instagram post.Pilkington’s accompanying caption read: “We can’t wait to meet you.”Their followers were blown away by the emotional reveal and barraged them with messages of congrats.READ MORE FOOTIE NEWSAnd Katherine’s pal, Love Island star and influencer extraordinaire Molly-Mae Hague, was among the first to congratulate the happy couple.The mum-of-one – who is still dealing with an emotional break-up with Tommy Fury – wrote: “You’re going to be the best mummy.”One person wrote, on X: “Congratulations girl!!!!”Another said: “So happy for you guys, tooo cute.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhile a third added: “Congratulations! So happy for you both.”Barkley, 30, also commented, leaving a single love-heart emoji.Molly-Mae Hague sparks ticket frenzy as she announces huge surpriseFormer Chelsea midfielder re-joined Villa from Luton in the summer for an undisclosed fee.He has made two appearances for Unai Emery’s side this campaign. More

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    Man Utd fans slam ‘disgusting’ Stephens with Southampton star shown straight red for horror knee-high lunge on Garnacho

    MANCHESTER UNITED fans raged at Jack Stephens for his reckless challenge on Alejandro Garnacho.The Southampton defender was given his marching orders for a horror tackle on the Argentina international in the 79th minute of the St Mary’s showdown.Jack Stephens took out Alejandro Garnacho with a horror tackle in the second half of Saints’ clash with Manchester UnitedCredit: ReutersThe poor attempt of a challenge left Argentina international Garnacho in agonyCredit: GettyReferee Stuart Atwell showed Stephens a straight red for the horror tackleCredit: GETTYStephens, 30, scythed down the winger with a ridiculously high challenge, catching his right knee with his studs.The tackle, which came as Saints were 2-0 down, left Garnacho in agony.The Manchester United bench leapt up in anger, although referee Stuart Atwell took his time before giving Stephens his marching orders.But the straight red didn’t calm down the Old Trafford faithful, one of who wrote on X: “Nasty challenge on Garnacho.”Another said: “Stupid as well as dangerous from Jack Stephens.”And another said: “Jack Stephens with a horrendous tackle. Rightfully sent off.”One remarked: “Disgusting.”BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother chimed in: “F**k off down the tunnel, Jack Stephens.”Most read in FootballFormer Chelsea and England star Joe Cole had a pitchside view for the tackle and reckons Atwell had no choice but to send Stephens for an early shower.Rafael van der Vaart slams Erik ten Hag signings and issues strict Matthijs de Ligt warningThe TNT Sports pundit said: “It looked horrendous from my angle. You knew he weren’t getting away from him. “As a centre-half, Stephens doesn’t want to be there. Garnacho knocked the ball [past him].”And he’s done it, Fletch, right in front of the Manchester United bench.”And they’ve all jumped up and rightly so. “The ref seen that and I feel the ref actually showed a lot of restraint in not giving it straight away and giving himself time to think.”But for me, it’s an easy straight red.”Things went from bad to worse for Stephens and Southampton in the 96th minute as Garnacho bagged United’s third and final goal of the match.Defeat to the Red Devils has extended Russell Martin’s troops’ winless start to the season and left them toiling in 19th place in the table.Alejandro Garnacho recovered from the horror tackle to secure a 3-0 win for UnitedCredit: PAAfter the match, a jubilant Ten Hag said: “The start was not easy.”I think the penalty was the turning point in the game and not so far after we scored and that was very important. From that moment on, the game was all ours.”Reflecting on Rashford’s ending of his drought, the Dutchman said: “It’s very important.READ MORE SUN STORIES”For every striker, they want to be on the scoring list. Once the first is in, more is coming.”Once a striker was talking about a ketchup bottle, once it’s going, it’s coming more.” More

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    Declan Rice reveals surprise second career alongside football as Arsenal star’s secret Instagram emerges

    DECLAN RICE is dabbling in photography after setting up a secret Instagram account to share his pictures.The Arsenal and England midfielder, 25, has become one of Mikel Arteta’s most important players since arriving from West Ham for £105million last year.Declan Rice has taken up photography and the first post on his secret Instagram was snaps from the England campCredit: InstagramIt included a snap of Trent Alexander-Arnold and his Player of the Match awardCredit: InstagramThree Lions skipper Harry Kane also featured after earning his 100th capCredit: InstagramNoni Madueke was photgraphed by Rice following his first England capCredit: InstagramBut his continual improvement on the pitch has not stopped him taking up other hobbies away from football.It has now been revealed he has started a photography Instagram account with the handle @dr.jpg.The bio reads: “Every 📸 taken by me 😁.”So far, Rice has only posted twice on the account, although both of those include a host of images.READ MORE ON ARSENALThe first set, which was shared earlier this week, show behind the scenes in the England dressing room following their 2-0 win over Fulham.Player of the Match Trent Alexander-Arnold, debutant Noni Madueke and 100-cap skipper Harry Kane were among those starring in the snaps.And Rice captioned it: “First game behind the lens. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 v 🇫🇮”The second post showcased a series of photos with his friends on the golf course.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRice also shared photos from the golf courseCredit: InstagramHe is a keen golf player and has married that hobby with photographyCredit: InstagramRice could be seen laughing at the camera in one of the snapsCredit: InstagramOne photo simply showed some golf balls, a green bag and someone preparing to take a shotCredit: InstagramTo which he simply added: “Golf life.”Rice will miss Arsenal’s North London derby against Tottenham on Sunday after being sent off before the international break in a 1-1 draw with Brighton.England fans baffled as Declan Rice appears to refuse captain’s armband against former team IrelandHe is likely to return for the trip to Atalanta in their opening Champions League game on Thursday.Arsenal then head to champions Manchester City, but could be without captain Martin Odegaard as he was seen leaving on crutches after being taken off for Norway in a 2-1 win over Austria.Rice gave the peace sign on the fairway and added a positive captionCredit: InstagramHe also shared a photo of the beautiful golf courseCredit: InstagramHe shared an image of this plaque showing a quote from golf legend Tom WatsonCredit: InstagramRice took one picture of an empty Wembley StadiumCredit: Instagram More

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    Erling Haaland to be allowed compassionate leave by Pep Guardiola after death of Man City star’s ‘chief fixer uncle’

    ERLING HAALAND has been offered compassionate leave following the death of his father’s best friend and his ‘uncle’, Ivar Eggja.The Manchester City striker shared a touching message for his confidant who passed away on Wednesday, aged 59. Erling Haaland has been offered compassionate late by Manchester CityCredit: GettyFollowing the death of his close family friend and ‘uncle’ Ivar EggjaCredit: erling.haaland/instagramHaaland has been told he is free to take a bereavement break by Pep Guardiola.This means the Premier League’s top goalscorer could be absent for Brentford’s visit the Etihad at 3pm on Saturday. Haaland returned from his Nations League break in Norway to train with Man City on Thursday, but Guardiola stresses that family comes first.In March, Haaland bravely played through the heartbreak of losing his paternal grandmother against Copenhagen.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHer death happened on the same day that he scored a brace against Everton in the Prem.Eggja was best man at Alfie Haaland’s wedding, as they shared a friendship which lasted decades.Seen as a chief fixer for the Haaland family, Eggja was also known as ‘uncle’ to Erling.He became a mentor and adviser to the 24-year-old as he helped him adapt to life at Borussia Dortmund.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe golden boot winner took to Instagram to publicly pay his respects to the late Eggja, posting a photo of himself holding his hand as he lay in his hospital bed.Haaland’s caption read: “You are a legend, Ivar. Words cannot describe how much you meant to me! Fans ask ‘how can you not love him?’ after Haaland’s blunt eight-word response to reporter’s fantasy football question”Words cannot describe how much you will be missed. I don’t give a s**t! I don’t give a s**! That’s exactly what I’m going to do.”Thank you for everything, you madman. We will see each other again. Rest in peace.”Eggja was present for Haaland’s unveiling at the Etihad in 2022 and attended last year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony, where Haaland came second behind Lionel Messi.The Norwegian star has enjoyed a sensational start to the season, scoring seven goals in just three games, including back-to-back hat-tricks against Ipswich and West Ham.He bagged the only goal of the game when Thomas Frank’s side last travelled to Man City.Erling paid tribute to Eggja on Instagram this weekCredit: erling.haaland/instagramThe 59-year-old was best friends with Alfie HaalandCredit: erling.haaland/instagram More

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    Erling Haaland in mourning as Man City star shares heartbreaking hospital pic after ‘chief fixer uncle’ dies aged 59

    ERLING HAALAND has paid a touching social media tribute to his father’s late best friend and his “uncle”, Ivar Eggja.The Haalands are mourning the loss of the 59-year-old father-of-three, who passed away on Wednesday.Erling Haaland is mourning the loss of his dad’s best friend, Ivar EggjaCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDThe Manchester City star paid a touching social media tribute to his “uncle” after rushing to see him in the hospitalCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDThe late Eggja played a big role in Erling’s lifeCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDAnd Erling took to Instagram to publicly pay his respects to the late Eggja, posting a photo of himself holding his hand as he lay in his hospital bed.The heartbroken Manchester City hitman’s accompanying caption read: “You are a legend, Ivar.”Words cannot describe how much you meant to me! Words cannot describe how much you will be missed!”I don’t give a s**t! I don’t give a s**! That’s exactly what I’m going to do.READ MORE ON HAALAND”Thank you for everything, you madman. We will see each other again. “Rest in peace, Ivar.”Eggja – who was the best man at Alf-Inge’s wedding – was more than just a close friend to the Haalands, he was a regular helper of the family.He helped Erling seamlessly transition to life in Dortmund, Salzburg and Manchester by making sure his apartments were fully furnished so he could focus on his football.Most read in FootballThe late Eggja is survived by his two sons – Fabian and Felix – and his daughter Ine, who confirmed his passing on social media.The late Ivar Eggja is the best friend of Erling’s dad, Alf-IngeCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDEggja was the best man at Alf-Inge’s weddingCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDEggja is survived by his three childrenCredit: INSTAGRAM@ERLING.HAALANDShe wrote on Facebook: “The superhero of our lives has been taken from us.”At 3.30 p.m. we said goodbye to Dad for the last time and it feels a bit like the whole world has been put on ice.How to stop Erling Haaland: Five tactics every Premier League team must use vs Man City”He meant so much to so many people, but to us he was everything.”Haaland’s agent, Rafaela Pimenta, also paid tribute to Eggja, saying: “Ever since I met you, I thought your power was to brighten up any room.”I didn’t know it was a superpower, and that you would go through so much, so soon, so fast.”In a way that is the best example of strength, dignity, tolerance and optimism that family and friends can only dream of. More

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    Chelsea legend’s daughter looks gorgeous as she puts on busty display in gold corset and shows off toned abs

    CHELSEA legend Frank Leboeuf’s daughter Jade took social media by storm with another set of glam pics.This time the 33-year-old went out with a gold corset that she accompanied with a set of golden bottoms.Chelsea legend Frank Leboeuf’s daughter Jade took social media by stormCredit: instagram @jade_leboeufJade posed in a gold ensemble for her social media fansCredit: instagram @jade_leboeufJade often poses in risque outfits on InstagramCredit: instagram @jade_leboeufJade has attracted a large audience on social mediaCredit: instagram @jade_leboeufThe social media model also donned a jacket as she went for a night out.Jade has amassed a huge number of fans on her social media and is regularly sharing posts that send her followers into a frenzy.Leboeuf’s daughter has amassed over 240,000 followers on Instagram alone.Most recently she risked an Instagram ban while posing in a white top for her followers.Read More on FootballThat was before she posed in a see-through top for her fans.While she sent her fans into a meltdown with a snap of her wearing some lace lingerie back in July.She did the exact same thing in March with another set of lingerie in March.Jade is married to French reality TV personality Stephane Rodrigues and the pair have a three-year-old son together.Most read in FootballHer dad Leboeuf spent five years at Chelsea where he registered a total of 24 goals and four assists in 203 appearances.The legendary defender won the FA Cup in 1997 and 2000 as well as the League Cup in 1998.Chelsea legend’s daughter cheekily shows off her bum in bold outfit as stunned fans say ‘excuse me?’ The now 56-year-old also enjoyed immense success with France as he helped his country win the 1998 World Cup as well as Euro 2000.Take a look inside Jade’s glamorous life…Jade has built up a loyal following on social mediaCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe stunning model is followed by over a quarter of a million peopleCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe regularly shares risque contentCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufThe French national works as a modelCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufShe was used to the limelight from an early age as the daughter of Chelsea legend Frank LeboeufCredit: Instagram @jadeleboeufJade describes herself as a digital creatorCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer posts tend to draw hoards of comments with fans often describing her as ‘beautiful’ and ‘sexy’Credit: instagram @jade_leboeufShe’s not afraid to wear revealing outfitsCredit: jade_leboeuf/instagramSee-through outfits are a favouriteCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHer father Frank played for Chelsea from 1996 to 2001Credit: Instagram @jadeleboeufHe won two FA Cups during his time in West London when Jade was still a kidCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeufHe was also a World Cup winner with France in 1998, giving him legendary status in his home countryCredit: INSTAGRAM @jade_leboeufJade is now making her own wayCredit: Instagram @jade_leboeuf More