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      Inside Laura Woods and Adam Collard’s whirlwind romance as sports presenter and Love Island hunk expect first baby

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      LAURA WOODS and Adam Collard have enjoyed a whirlwind romance – and are now expecting their first child together.The sports presenter and former Love Island hunk went public with their relationship in October.Laura Woods and Adam Collard have been going strong for nearly a yearCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyThe former Love Island hunk wooed Laura with a string of texts before an undercover date in OctoberCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyBut Laura’s ‘stability’ has also left Adam feeling the loveCredit: InstagramAnd they announced the wonderful news they are expecting a baby togetherThey are often seen on holiday togetherCredit: Instagram / @adamcollardThey’re not shy in sharing loved-up picsCredit: InstagramSince then they have been seen in scores of loved-up posts and been through their share of challenges.However, everything came to a head recently as they announced the wonderful news that Laura, 37, is expecting a baby.The TV presenter and award-winning journalist shared a picture of an ultrasound on Instagram, complete with her French bulldog peeking over the top.They have largely kept their relationship out of the public eye, which for notorious ladies’ man Adam, 28, seems to suggest he has turned a corner in his romantic life.READ MORE ON LAURA WOODSAdam spilled the beans on how he pulled Laura following a string of dates including at the Black Bull pub in Trimdon, Co Durham, and heading off for a weekend away in St Ives in early October before going public later that month.Speaking exclusively to The Sun in October, he revealed he had wooed her with a series of flirty social media messages before wining and dining her on an “undercover date”.He said: “The first time we met – I’ll hold my hands up – I did DM her first and got a reply but then nothing ever happened. Then she called us out for basically leaving her on read.”It’s hard to meet people, isn’t it? I’m from Newcastle and eventually we met up, and then went on a very undercover date, and obviously what comes out in the press, comes out in the press, but it’s not always the full story.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLaura is a regular sight on Adam’s InstagramCredit: instagramThey make the most of their free time togetherCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy”I’m kind of glad in a way as well, as I feel like there’s an element of having to hide too much now.”Laura’s charm seemed to rub off on Adam almost instantly, as he also suggested he felt he might have found “The One”.How Euro 2024 host Laura Woods finally tamed Love Island’s biggest bad boy Adam Collard who made Joey Essex look like a puppyBy Christmas, Laura’s parents had also given the seal of approval for their relationship as he spent the holidays with her, joking that “luckily they don’t read many papers”.Yet even before that, Laura and Adam enjoyed a romantic getaway to Amsterdam, Holland, which saw them checking out a rude restaurant, enjoying a trip down the city canal’s and relaxing in a spa.Adam claims to have had 25 girlfriends in the past, yet the “influence of stability” – as relationship expert Jo Hemmings puts it – Laura gives off has been the cornerstone of their blossoming romance.While the pair have continued to be front and centre in their respective careers, with Laura a fan favourite on ITV and TNT Sports, they have also made time for each other.When they aren’t grafting, they have often been seen enjoying one another’s company on holiday.Following their trip to Amsterdam, their next getaway in February saw them skiiing on the famous French Alps, though Laura revealed it resulted in a few “near-death experiences”.In March, during the international break, the pair changed lanes by jetting off together for some sun and sea at Tulum Beach in Mexico.Adam and Laura shared a number of snaps from the holiday, including one of Laura planting a kiss on Adam’s cheek while they were at a restaurant before also revealing what their favourite food was following a date night at Checkpoint Ciao.How Laura Woods tamed Love Island bad boy Adam CollardHE was one of Love Island’s most notorious bad boys – but one woman seems to have changed all that.Personal trainer Adam Collard, 28, has been dating Euro 2024 presenter Laura Woods, 36, since 2023.The former loverat has called her “The One,” spent Christmas with her – the first time he’s done so with a girlfriend since he was 21 – and kept their relationship relatively out of the limelight, seemingly on Laura’s wishes.It’s a far cry from the man who admits himself he’s been “ruthless” in the past, claims to have had 25 girlfriends, and spent many years partying and juggling flings with girls including Zara McDermott and Lottie Moss.Relationship expert Jo Hemmings says: “He’s now 28, he’s a professional with a job, and I think he just went off the whole idea of ever realistically meeting somebody on a TV show.“He’s now met somebody who is also a professional, and is only on TV as a byproduct of what she does in sport.“He’s got himself in a comfortable place. Financially, he’s older, he’s more mature, he’s more settled.“He once played into this roguish character that people saw him as, and became a parody of himself. But look who’s laughing now.“He’s got a fabulous girlfriend, they’re in a long term relationship, he’s well off, he’s still in the public eye, and he’s getting on with his life in the way that I think he always wanted.”Read the full article hereThe following month, Laura shared a selfie from the Tulum trip featuring Adam with the caption: “Things I love.”However, in May as the hectic English football season drew to a close, Laura suffered an horrorendous facial injury.Laura had been due to present TNT Sports’ coverage of Tyson Fury’s undisputed heavyweight title fight with Oleksandry Usyk before she was forced to pull out after revealing she had accidentally smashed a glass lampshade while on holiday with Adam.She explained how the smash had caused it to shatter before it cut her face and arm, leaving her with some nasty injuries around her eye.Unfortunately, the freak accident was used by vile trolls as a way to bash Adam by suggesting he was involved, before he snapped back: “Shut up you stupid c*** and read her Instagram post.”Laura described Adam as her “hero” that day as she hailed him for “acting so quickly and not leaving my side since and to his family for taking care of me in a time when I was petrified”.After some time being seen with a bandage around the effected area, Laura was back on TV in time for ITV’s coverage of the Euros.In early July, Adam posted a loved-up pic of the pair to celebrate Laura’s birthday, captioning the post: “Happy birthday you rockstar x.”Laura had a nasty accident in May when she shattered a lampshadeCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyLaura described Adam as a ‘hero’ for all his helpAnd fast forward a couple of weeks and they have shared the news that they are expecting a baby.The post was simply captioned: “Hey, baby,” followed by some love heart emojis.However, some eagled-eyed fans had noticed some telltale signs that gave away the news days prior.Recent social media posts by Laura had not showed her stomach, while a post from Adam saw a note reading: “Just remember 5 years ago, you dreamed about where you are now”, which may have been another clue.Fans also noticed a brief social media hiatus from them in the days prior to the announcement.Adam has made no secret of his desire to have kids, but declared he would not be plastering them all over social media.He previously said: “I’m protective, whether it’s Laura, or my family, my friends. I want to get married. I want to have kids as well. “I’ve always thought, what type of person will I be? How can I protect my kids?”Obviously I’ve never had a kid, but I don’t think I’ll be plastering it all over [social media]. “I want them to have a fair fight and a chance not to be judged straight away.READ MORE SUN STORIES”As long as my really close circle knows exactly who I am, I don’t care. I think you have to take everything with a pinch of salt.”Laura will carry on working over the next few weeks as TNT Sports broadcast the Paris Olympics.They went public with their relationship last OctoberCredit: InstagramRomantic getaways have been a regular occurrence with their first being a trip to AmsterdamCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyTwo months later they were hitting the ski slopes at the French AlpsCredit: laurawoodsy/InstagramThen in March they enjoyed a holiday to Tulum Beach in MexicoCredit: laurawoodsy/Instagram.. More

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      How Laura Woods hid her pregnancy while being front-and-centre of ITV Euro coverage from outfits to social media silence

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      LAURA WOODS announced she was expecting a baby on social media on Sunday evening.And the news came as a big shock to fans – just a week after the Euro 2024 final.Laura Woods disguised her pregnancy during the EurosCredit: GettyThe presenter announced the news on social mediaCredit: InstagramWoods and Adam Collard have been dating for ten monthsCredit: Instagram / @adamcollardWoods and her Love Island boyfriend Adam Collard posted a shared Instagram photo of the scan and her pet pooch in the background – alongside the caption: “Hey, baby.”And it means the TNT and ITV host was expecting throughout her time in Germany covering the Euros.So how did the couple keep the pregnancy secret and hide it from the public so well?Social media blackoutWoods, 37, is a regular on Instagram but went noticeably quiet during the Euros.READ MORE ON LAURA WOODSShe posted a smiling selfie with pal Ally McCoist on June 14 – the opening day of the tournament – with her belly cropped out.The next four posts on her timeline are ITV Football uploads shared by the Arsenal fan. That includes a video from her birthday on July 2, where she was presented with a cake and blew out the candles in the ITV studio. The following day, Woods shared the Discovery+ advert for their coverage of the Paris 2024 Olympics.Most read in FootballWoods’ last personal post was way back on June 14, the opening day of the EurosShe rocked a grey suit and tight white top before the first gameCredit: PAWoods opted for a looser-fitting white dress for one of the matchesCredit: RexAnd although those photos were undoubtedly taken a while ago, she even has her arms crossed in her pink jumpsuit. Outfit changesSpeaking of her pink jumpsuit, Woods appears to have shown plenty of tactical intelligence with her on-screen outfits. She switched up her trousers-and-blazer combo from the opening game for more subtle, less-fitted pieces by the end of the tournament – possibly to disguise her growing baby bump. Laura Woods’ stuns in bold outfit as ITV host wears low cut blazer for Euro 2024 finalWoods opted for a variety of outfits in GermanyCredit: ITVThis lanyard was strategically placed over her stomachCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)She was regularly spotted with arms folded to cover her stomachCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)They included a flowing white dress for England vs Slovenia, a dark dress for the semi-final and a double-breasted blazer as part of a stylish navy suit for the final.Strategic posesAs well as the choice of wardrobe, Woods was also clever with her poses in front of the camera throughout the Euros. She regularly thought up genius ways to hide her tummy. That included cropping photos, using her hands to cover her belly, holding her phone in front of her, folding her arms and even using her accreditation lanyard. On top of that, Woods spent much of her time presenting behind a table, desk or plinth – either in the ITV studio or live on location inside stadiums. She wore a stylish number for the final in BerlinCredit: RexThe pundit used her hands to cover her belly on screenCredit: ITVWoods spent plenty of time behind the studio deskCredit: InstagramAdam’s birthday bamboozleLastly, Collard was clearly in on the act, too, as the couple waited to make their news public. The former Celebs Go Dating star seemingly threw fans off the scent if there were any suspicions of a baby on the way with his gushing post for Woods’ birthday.The series of black-and-white snaps included some older pics of them earlier in their relationship.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd it also included a couple of photos of the happy pair drinking on nights out – quite possibly containing alcohol before they conceived. However, Collard may have dropped a hint at something big was to come with a snap last week of a post-it note reading: “Just remember 5 years ago, you dreamed about where you are now.”Collard posted a series of pics of the couple for Woods’ birthdayCredit: InstagramThe fitness guru was twice on Love IslandCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsyHow Laura Woods tamed Love Island bad boy Adam CollardHE was one of Love Island’s most notorious bad boys – but one woman seems to have changed all that.Personal trainer Adam Collard, 28, has been dating Euro 2024 presenter Laura Woods, 36, since 2023.The former loverat has called her “The One,” spent Christmas with her – the first time he’s done so with a girlfriend since he was 21 – and kept their relationship relatively out of the limelight, seemingly on Laura’s wishes.It’s a far cry from the man who admits himself he’s been “ruthless” in the past, claims to have had 25 girlfriends, and spent many years partying and juggling flings with girls including Zara McDermott and Lottie Moss.Relationship expert Jo Hemmings says: “He’s now 28, he’s a professional with a job, and I think he just went off the whole idea of ever realistically meeting somebody on a TV show.“He’s now met somebody who is also a professional, and is only on TV as a byproduct of what she does in sport.“He’s got himself in a comfortable place. Financially, he’s older, he’s more mature, he’s more settled.“He once played into this roguish character that people saw him as, and became a parody of himself. But look who’s laughing now.“He’s got a fabulous girlfriend, they’re in a long term relationship, he’s well off, he’s still in the public eye, and he’s getting on with his life in the way that I think he always wanted.”Read the full article here More

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      Ex-England star baffled at incorrect answer to question involving him on The Chase that leaves Bradley Walsh speechless

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      HYSTERICS erupted on The Chase and from an-England star online – over an amusing football question and especially the contestant’s answer.Host Bradley Walsh doubled over in laughter – and that was just when he read the QUESTION out.Presenter Bradley Walsh couldn’t believe the contestant’s replyChaser Paul Sinha joked the competitor was ‘stitched up’The presenter of the popular ITV quiz show could then barely contain himself when he heard the first multiple-choice alternative to the answers.And Walsh, a former Brentford reserves goalkeeper, almost toppled over with mirth when a guest on the ITV quiz actually selected that option.The TV host was clearly tickled even just divulging the question.The contestant was asked to choose which footballer was the subject of a well-known chant – one that’s particularly famous on Merseyside.READ MORE TOP STORIES”He’s big, he’s red, he’s feet stick out the bed,” Walsh said.But discovering Peter Reid was the first alternative rendered the 64-year-old speechless – as he cracked up and held his head in his hand.Everton legend Reid, 68, who won 13 caps, was a 5ft 8ins midfield dynamo.Former Three Lions stopper Peter Shilton and 6ft 7ins ex-Liverpool striker Peter Crouch were then revealed as other alternative answers.Most read in FootballPeter Reid, pictured in the 2-0 FA Cup final win over Watford in 1984, was known as a pocket dynamo and one of Everton’s ‘dogs of war’ in midfieldCredit: Rex FeaturesPeter Crouch even towered over burly centre-backs like John TerryCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut the guest speculated that correct answer Crouch was an “actor” – a comment which hardly helped Walsh recover his decorum.She then plumped for Reid – with the broadcaster responding gleefully by explaining the ex-Manchester City ace was his mate, so he must take a photo of the question and answers for him.Crystal Palace receive £7 million offer from Premier League rivals for wonderkid chased by host of Championship clubsQuiz show “Chaser” Paul Sinha jokingly told the contestant she had been “stitched up” by the question.Crouch had been on the red half of Merseyside while in the blue corner was Reid.And he responded to seeing a clip of the incident by posting it himself – also adding two laughing emojis.Yet viewers were arguably even more amused.One said of the contestant: “Love how she didn’t take the hysterics as a clue.””That is very funny. Love Bradley!” wrote a second observerBut other fans pointed out that, back in the day, Reid could in fact give Crouch a run for his money rhyme-wise.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis message typified such revelations: “I remember singing ‘he’s blue he’s round he’s worth a million pound…Peter Reid!'”One fan helpfully added for today’s generation: “A million was a lot of money football transfer wise in 1985 kids.” More

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      Former Match of the Day presenter and ITV host reveals he believes in WITCHES and says they’re a ‘force only for good’

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      EX-MATCH of the Day presenter Adrian Chiles has gone from fearing fictional witches to believing in real ones.The Beeb star claims wand-wielding women are “only a force for good”.Adrian Chiles likes Wimbledon tennis, West Brom and witchesCredit: GettyThe Brummie covered sport for the BBC and ITVCredit: PA:Press Association‘The Wicked Witch of the West’ in The Wizard of Oz, as played by Margaret Hamilton, terrified many kids, including the young ChilesCredit: AlamyChiles, 57, was traumatised as a kid by 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz – featuring the sharp-fingered, hook-nosed Wicked Witch of the West.But the West Brom fan was transformed after popping into a shop selling witch goods.Now he wants to buy some crystals and explore the magical world further – perhaps hoping to help the Baggies conjure some pointy hat-tricks.The Brummie broadcaster was on MOT2 from 2004-2010 then worked for ITV Sport for six years.READ MORE TOP STORIESHe also presented The One Show with Christine Lampard and currently works on BBC Radio 5 live.The father of two revealed in a column for The Guardian how he has become enchanted by witches.Chiles did a “double take” when he spotted “The Wicklow Witch. Candles, Crystals, Witchy Supplies” in the Black Country village of Cradley.Friends were incredulous when he asked if they knew it – so he even “wondered if I’d dreamed it” and went back to check.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOnce there, he explained he met someone who changed his beliefs.Chiles wrote: “Behind the counter, was the witch herself. I asked her if there were many witches, here in the Halesowen area.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers”‘You’d be surprised,’ she said. Actually, I wouldn’t. I don’t think anything is ever going to surprise me again. “I’ve been decidedly anti-witch ever since I was scared half to death 50 years ago by that nasty piece of work in The Wizard of Oz'”I’m thankful to this witch, the delightful Juliet O’Brien, for putting me right on a few things, not least that proper witches don’t do bad things because they know such behaviour will only come back and haunt them.”Chiles stressed: “Witches are a force only for good. “I’ve been reading up on them in a book I bought from Juliet called ‘Basic Witches’ and I’m liking what I’m finding. I’m going back soon to pick up some crystals, seriously.”All in all, it seems he wouldn’t be scared if he suddenly discovered there was a Wicked Witch of the West Brom.But it might be a bit much to expect him to transfer his allegiance to Crystals Palace!Chiles presented The One Show with Christine Lampard, nee Bleakley More

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      Gary Neville reveals moment Roy Keane snapped at ITV staff member after blunder with his PANTS during Euro 2024

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      GARY NEVILLE hilariously revealed the blunder that left Roy Keane fuming while in Germany for Euro 2024.Both Neville and Keane were out in Germany providing coverage for ITV during the tournament.Gary Neville revealed the blunder that left Roy Keane fuming at an ITV staff memberCredit: YouTube/theoverlapKeane set off an a rant about being pandered overCredit: YouTube/theoverlap[embedded content]While out on the continent the Manchester United icons were helped with their wardrobe to make sure they looked their best on-screen.But one blunder from a helpful member of staff on the ITV team left notorious moaner Keane less than impressed.Sitting down with Keane, Jill Scott and Ian Wright, for the Stick to Football: The Overlap Special, brought to you by Sky Bet, Neville revealed the moment that had him laughing.The 49-year-old retired right-back, explained: “The funniest thing yesterday – someone tried to carry his [Roy’s] clothes in from the car to the studio.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”As they came up to him at the studio his pants slipped off the rail.”[Roy went] ‘OH MY GOD! That’s why I should f******g carry my own rail. That’s why I should carry them myself.'”Keane, 52, leapt to his own defence, but admitted that he doesn’t need pandering after and wouldn’t have made the mistake himself.He said: “There’s people here obviously to help us and they’re really helpful. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”But you get out of the car and you’ve got a little bag and they’re going ‘I’ll carry your bag’ – I can carry the bag!”He jokingly added: “I don’t want people helping me, I just want to look after my own stuff.ITV pundits gush over Yamal and reveal what they did at 16 from working on building sites to drinking cider in a field”Because what happens is when people take your stuff off you, they’re dead blase with it and my pants are all over the floor.”But I wouldn’t have dropped my pants. And people are walking all over my pants!”Keane didn’t stop his rant there either, adding: “People are really helpful, but it’s ridiculous. “I can do it. ‘Do you want a cup of tea?’ – I can make my own tea!”Roy Keane’s angriest momentsWhat really ticks off Roy Keane?The Irishman is known for his no-nonsense approach to football.And some particular things really do get on Keane’s wick.It all makes for great entertainment for fans, who love the Man United legend’s take on the beautiful game.But is Keane being a bit too sensitive himself?From smiling players to ABBA, nothing is sacred.And we all know about his dislike for a prawn sarnie…Here are the things that really make Roy Keane angry. More

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      Ten most influential Euro 2024 pundits revealed as Rooney earns nearly £10,000 per POST and Laura Woods beats Alex Scott

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      EURO 2024 ended in heartbreak for England – but some pundits secured huge social media wins.Both the BBC and ITV sent crews out to Germany to cover every kick of the action.Wayne Rooney has the potential to earn the most from InstagramCredit: GettyFrank Lampard could make over £5,000 per postCredit: GettyITV host Laura Woods has a high engagement rate from her followersCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)Alex Scott makes the top tenCredit: GettyMany star-studded names took to the studio or commentary box from World Cup winners to Premier League champions.But along with their cheques from the BBC and ITV, several have made huge sums of money via their social media accounts.Experts at SlotsUp.com have crunched the numbers to reveal the most influential pundits and how much money each can make from a sponsored Instagram post.Wayne Rooney comes out on top thanks to his huge 16.3 million following, with brainiacs believing he can pocket close to £10,000 from an upload.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCesc Fabregas is in second and is also way ahead of the rest as he could receive just above £9,000 from each post or £3,623 per story.There’s a dip in figures to third but Roy Keane, with his top 19.75 per cent engagement rate, can earn £5,277 per post and £9,530 per reel.Frank Lampard pips Rio Ferdinand as the former England team-mates complete the top five.Micah Richards is next on the list as he could bank a whopping £3,702 with each upload on Instagram.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLaura Woods is in seventh, with her potential earnings rated at £2,836.The presenter has 764,000 fans, which is the second lowest amount of followers compared to the rest of the top ten.Laura Woods’ stuns in bold outfit as ITV host wears low cut blazer for Euro 2024 finalHowever, her engagement level is impressive at a strong four per cent.Alex Scott ranks below Woods and the ex-Lionesses star is supposedly not maximising her earnings because she still has a “creator” account and not a “business” one.Ally McCoist and Joe Hart complete the top ten list of influential pundits.BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:BBC presenters:Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark ChapmanITV presenters:Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods BBC pundits:Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFaddenITV pundits:Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina UnkelBBC commentators:Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan PearceITV commentators:Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe SpeightBBC co-commentators:Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFaddenITV co-commentators:Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros Townsend More

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      ITV pundits gush over Yamal and reveal what they did at 16 from working on building sites to drinking cider in a field

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      LAMINE YAMAL became a European Champion at just 17 years old last week.The teenager earned Uefa’s Euro 2024 Young Player of the Tournament award as Spain lifted the trophy in Berlin.Lamine Yamal became a European Champion at just 17 years oldCredit: GettyITV pundits Gary Neville, Roy Keane, Ian Wright and Jill Scott recalled what they were doing at the same ageCredit: YouTube/Stick To FootballYamal played the majority of the tournament as a 16 year old, turning 17 just one day before Spain’s 2-1 final victory over England.The youngster already proved he could mix it with the big boys at club level last term, featuring in all but one of Barcelona’s 38 league games.But nobody was expecting him to be quite as impressive as he was for Spain this summer, with no player racking up more goal contributions at the tournament than Yamal’s five.While he also smashed the record for youngest goalscorer in Euros history and became the youngest player to ever start a major international final.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis unprecedented talent levels at such a young age have had former pros harking back to their youth and recalling what they were doing when they were just 16.ITV pundits Gary Neville, Roy Keane, Ian Wright and Jill Scott got together on the Stick to Football: The Overlap Special, brought to you by Sky Bet to cast their minds back to their formative years.Despite a combined 346 international caps and over 60 career trophies, none of the four retired pros were tearing it up on the biggest stage back in their teens.Discussing how they spent their time when they were 16 each of the stars explained how they were a world away from Yamal’s levels.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNeville explained: “That year I started playing for [Manchester] United and did my GCSE’s.”While Jill Scott has a similar memory as she recalled being in the youth ranks at Sunderland when she was 16.’No one gets close to him’ – Gary Neville names best striker he played with that ‘a lot of Man Utd fans disagree with’Although the former Lionesses hero explained that now colleague Roy Keane, may have been manager of the men’s team at the time.Prompting Keane to say: “That makes me feel really old that.”The Irishman himself was certainly not lifting trophies aloft, as he revealed he would have been drinking in a field with his friends at the age of 16.Keane said: “When I was 16 or 17 I was probably drinking bottles of cider in a field – living the dream.”Although that was still a lot better than what he was doing when he was 11, adding that he used to smoke cigarettes back in his youth.He added: “I remember we used to play football after the games in the evening, watching the 1982 World Cup. “I would have been 11 and we’d be playing football and we would have the odd cigarette.”I remember saying ‘I’m giving them up, I want to be a footballer’.”And Ian Wright was also miles away from the pitch when he was 16, with the Arsenal icon not turning pro until he was 21.He chimed in: “I was on a building site, I was working back then. “I was just working for a private guy who used to renovate houses, I was getting £50-a-week.”Yamal’s breakthrough tournament hasn’t been without the mundane realities of being a teenager though.With the La Masia graduate admitting that he was forced to do homework while in Germany for Euro 2024, balancing his school work with breaking records.READ MORE SUN STORIESBefore the tournament began, he explained: “I brought my homework here because I’m in the 4th year of ESO [Spanish secondary school].”I have online classes too and those are going fine. I hope the teacher doesn’t get mad at me.”Inside the baffling, brilliant story of Lamine Yamal – from being bathed by Messi to doing homework while taking Euros by stormLAMINE YAMAL has confirmed his status as football’s next superstar at Euro 2024 – but has only been playing 11-a-side games for four years, write Jack Rosser.Spain’s incredible 16-year-old bent home the goal of the tournament so far against France as La Roja sealed the spot in the final.But his first five years in Barcelona’s academy were spent playing seven-a-side football, up until the age of 12 in 2020 when he finally got a crack at 11-a-side games.Yamal’s story is baffling, brilliant and barely believable in equal measure.He is a boy born to a Moroccan father and a mother from Equatorial Guinea, who turned 17 the day before the Euros final, and was cradled by footballing royalty at just six months old.Staggering pictures of Yamal as a baby being held and bathed by Messi, taken for a Barcelona charity calendar 16 years ago, resurfaced this week.He did not restrict his brushes with greatness to Barcelona either, with footage of Yamal as an academy player walking as a mascot with Spain and Real Madrid icon Sergio Ramos at an El Clasico in 2016.There is a touch of fate about this gem, Spain’s “little MVP”, as team-mate Nico Williams has dubbed him.Yamal has been doing homework in his spare time and received exam results during the tournament. He passed, obviously.Now he’s the youngest ever goalscorer at the Euros, also becoming the youngest player to ever start a major semi-final – claiming that title from Pele.But it’s Yamal’s humble approach on and off the pitch that most impresses everyone he meets.And France star Adrien Rabiot probably felt quite embarrassed as he boarded his plane back home from Germany.He had tried to intimidate Yamal ahead of their semi-final clash – telling Yamal he “needs to do more.”Was this good enough, then? Yamal responded with a goal for the ages and a man of the match performance.A season which started with a pre-season game against Tottenham where Yamal excelled but was overshadowed by Oliver Skipp scoring a brace will end on the biggest stage European football has to offer on Sunday.From being outshone by Skipp to eclipsing Pele’s records is not a bad year’s work – just imagine what he will do when he grows up.Read all about the incredible rise of Lamine Yamal in full… More

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      TV viewing figures for Euro 2024 final revealed as ITV see huge win in battle with BBC for England’s defeat to Spain

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      ITV had a major win in the battle for viewers during Euro 2024 – but more fans still chose the BBC for the final.The British broadcasting powerhouses both aired the Three Lions’ second successive European Championship final defeat on Sunday night.England’s Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain was broadcast on both the BBC and ITVCredit: GettyA whopping 24.2million fans tuned into the finalCredit: PAIan Wright and Gary Neville were part of ITV’s all-star team for Euro 2024Credit: GETTYA whopping 24.2 million viewers watched England’s heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Spain in Berlin across both channels.Just over 22 million people watched the agonising match from start to finish.Some 26 per cent of England fans chose ITV watch the match, which was aired on ITV1 and streamed on ITVX.That represented a seven per cent points increase for the broadcaster from the Euro 2020 final in the summer of 2021.READ MORE EURO 2024 NEWSThe figure saw ITV set a new record for their highest-ever viewing share for a major men’s football tournament final.Euro 2024 was a resounding success for the broadcaster, who had two of the three highest rating matches.They also had the biggest audience on a single channel, with a peak of 21.6 million tuning in for England’s last-gasp semi-win over the Netherlands on all their platforms.That was in keeping with their recent dominance of the single-channel audience, which they’ve had for the last six major men’s football tournaments.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEngland ratings: Palmer the super sub but captain Kane struggles yet again in Spain heartbreakCOLE PALMER came off the bench to be England’s star man – but his heroics were unable to stop heartbreak against Spain, writes Tom Barclay.Mikel Oyarzabal struck a late dagger through the hearts of the Three Lions to seal a 2-1 Spanish victory.And that ensured that 58 years of hurt will go on.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated each England player in the crushing defeat:Jordan Pickford: 8Carefully controlled a blast of a backpass from John Stones on his line in the first half. Could do little to stop Williams’ opener but made two terrific stops to deny Yamal, only for Oyarzabal to poke home at the death.Kyle Walker: 6Had his hands full with Williams but managed the Spanish livewire pretty well but could not get near his powerful opener. John Stones: 8A colossus again as he played every single minute of this Euros, despite lack of Manchester City game-time. Superb block on early Williams shot, was often in the right place at the right time and at one point dribbled all the way up the pitch.Marc Guehi: 6Solid alongside Stones and overall it has been a brilliant first tournament for the Crystal Palace star. But Oyarzabal nicked in front of him for the winner.Bukayo Saka: 7Most consistent attacker for England across the tournament and had a good battle with pantomime villain Marc Cucurella here. It was his cross that Bellingham laid off for Palmer to work his magic.Declan Rice: 7Went past his boss Gareth Southgate’s cap haul by winning his 58th here and he is still only 25. Was in the thick of it in the midfield battle throughout. Kobbie Mainoo: 5Just 19 and starting a major final for England in the middle of midfield. Fewer bursts forward though than in recent games as his side struggled for possession and was subbed for Palmer as Southgate searched for a leveller. Luke Shaw: 7Looked so sharp for a player making his first start since Luton away on February 10, winning his battle against Lamine Yamal in the first half. But Yamal got the better of him after the break to tee up Williams’ opener.Phil Foden: 6Out of possession it was his job to man-mark Manchester City colleague Rodri, until the Spanish maestro went off injured at half-time. Had a half-chance just before the break but could not beat Unai Simon.Jude Bellingham: 7Shunted wide left when England did not have the ball – which was a lot of the time. Riskily flew into a few tackles, but it was his clever lay-off that teed up Palmer.Harry Kane: 4His lack of involvement was summed up by England fans calling for Ollie Watkins in the 57th minute. They got their wish on the hour.SUBS: Ollie Watkins: 6Semi-final hero was introduced far earlier here to get some legs in behind, though he did not have too much impact this time.Cole Palmer: 9What an impact after emerging with just twenty minutes to go. Yet another of Southgate’s subs paid off handsomely as Palmer curled a peach of an equaliser with 17 minutes remaining, sending most of the Olympiastadion potty.Ivan Toney: 6Thrown on right at the end but could not make an impact.Gareth Southgate: 7The game was a chess match for the first half and Southgate was never going to go early with his bold moves.His subs were excellent to be fair, with Palmer brilliantly getting his team back into it.Critics will say England did not play attacking enough but Spain are one hell of a side – and Southgate’s men pushed them all the way.Meanwhile, 19.3 million fans tuned into the coverage on BBC One.That equates to a 63 per cent audience share.But overall, the peak audience of 24.2 million is down from the 30 million that tuned into the Euro 2020 final as England lost on penalties to Italy.Gareth Southgate drops quit hint on live TV minutes after England’s heartbreaking Euro 2024 final lossSuccess is something Gareth Southgate may never experience as the Three Lions boss.The 53-year-old hinted that he could walk away from the job before a ball had even been kicked in Germany.And the former defender dropped a huge hint he could end his reign as England manager in the coming days by referring to his players as “they” in one of his post-match interviews.He said: “I think England are in a really good position in terms of the experiences they’ve got now. The age of the squad.”Most of this squad are going to be around not only for the World Cup but the next Euros as well.”There’s a lot to look forward to but this moment is not any consolation.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen further pressed on his future, Southgate added: “I don’t think now is a good time to make a decision like that.”I need to talk to the right people. It’s not for now.” More