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      Cole Palmer best player on pitch by miles as lackadaisical team-mate endures FA Cup nightmare

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      CHELSEA survived a second-half collapse to make the FA Cup semi-final in what will be a huge boost for Mauricio Pochettino.A 92nd minute goal was needed in the end from substitute Carney Chukwuemeka to make it 3-2 after Chelsea led comfortably at half-time, before Noni Madueke put the game to bed in the 98th minute.Chukwuemeka was the hero as he slid the ball through Stolarczyk’s legsCredit: AFPAnd spared quite a few of his team-mates blushesCredit: GettyA disastrous Axel Disasi own goal after 51 minutes came from nowhere to leave the door open for Leicester to get back in it.That was compounded by a brilliant Stephy Mavididi curler on the hour mark to make it 2-2, with Leicester looking like they were well on the way to joining fellow Championship side Coventry in the semis.The tie swung again though when Nicolas Jackson, clean through on goal, opted to fall down under contact from Callum Doyle to win a penalty.A pen was given, but VAR intervention found the foul was outside the box and his yellow was changed to a red.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLFrom there, Chelsea prodded the Leicester goal in the hope of finding a winner, and that only came after a moment of brilliance from Cole Palmer, with his deft backheel finding Chukwuemeka, who slotted home to make it 3-2.Noni Madueke, on as a sub, then put the tie beyond doubt with a deflected 20-yard effort after some great work in the build-up.”Que sera! Sera!” The Chelsea fans sung, and another trip to Wembley beckons.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the players…Most read in FA CupCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRobert Sanchez – 5A nervy showing, not one that will convince Mauricio Pochettino of his No.1 credentials. Caught on the ball by Patson Daka in his own box and flapped at a few crosses.Chelsea’s plans for £1bn new stadiumIt may be harsh to call him out for Axel Disasi’s bizarre own goal, but his positioning was the reason he had little to no chance of recovering, and was well beaten for the equaliser.Malo Gusto – 7An ever-present figure bursting down the right wing and at the heart of everything good for Chelsea. Looks to have nailed down that right-back slot under Poch.The one negative was his defending for Leicester’s equaliser, letting Stephy Mavididi cut in and curl a beauty into the top corner.Axel Disasi – 4Slow to make decisions on the ball at the back. Lackadaisical at times, and then one of the most incredible own goals you will see this season.Sanchez and Disasi were involved in a horrendous mix upCredit: ReutersA finish at the wrong end that summed up his woeful afternoon.Trevoh Chalobah – 6Compared to his centre back partner, had a pretty uneventful afternoon. Will be desperate to keep his place in the side with Thiago Silva benched and Levi Colwill injured.Hardly at fault for either of the goals.Marc Cucurella – 8Perhaps there is a career at Chelsea for the Spaniard after all, grabbing his first goal for the club with a tap-in into an empty net.Looked lively and full of purpose with left-back rival Ben Chilwell watching on from the bench.Moises Caicedo – 6Pretty anonymous until a neat link-up with Nicolas Jackson and a ball on a plate for Raheem Sterling only to watch his teammate shoot wide.Grew into the game after the break, getting into goalscoring positions, but does not bring any calmness or control to this Chelsea midfield.Conor Gallagher – 6Put in a shift, as he always does, and nearly found the bottom corner with a curling effort just before the break.Cole Palmer – 8A quiet opening for his recent high standards this season. Pochettino will be bemused as to why he did not take the first half penalty over Sterling given his record of five in the Prem.Sterling made up for it with an accurate low ball across goal that Palmer tucked away before the break. He then produced a cheeky backheel for Carney Chukwuemeka’s winner.With not a lot of the ball, he was still Chelsea’s best player by miles.Palmer was Chelsea’s best player againCredit: GettyMykhailo Mudryk – 7Unfortunate not to grab a goal in the first half with his positivity on the ball, seeing one shot blocked in the box and another well saved. Seems to finally look at home at Chelsea.Can feel hard done by as he was subbed off – to the frustration of the fans – with the scores level and 12 minutes of normal time to play.Raheem Sterling – 5Had several opportunities to find the bottom corner from inside the box but his touch was often found wanting and his finishing was non-existent.Brought down for a first half penalty, his effort from 12 yards was tame and easily saved by Jakub Stolarczyk before missing a one-on-one sitter.Moments later, he redeemed himself with an assist for Cole Palmer, but that was his last bit of quality. After an abysmal free-kick, the Chelsea fans chanted: ‘Get him off’.Sterling was booed by some sections of the Chelsea crowdCredit: AFPNicolas Jackson – 6Remains an enigma. From brilliant to bewildering. His dribble around Jannik Vestergaard to tee-up Cucurella was inspired, but at times his clumsiness on the ball cost him.In the second half, out of nowhere he then produced a Bergkamp-esque turn to win a free-kick and earn Callum Doyle a red card, but then missed a sitter from six yards near the end.READ MORE SUN STORIESSubsCarney Chukwuemeka (On for Mudryk) – 8One chance, one goal to win it in injury time. A delightfully cool finish after a one-two with Palmer inside the box.Noni Madueke (On for Sterling) – 8Forced Stolarczyk into a decent stop from close range from a Gusto cross, and then unleashed a worldie after a mazy run to seal the win.Ben Chilwell (On for Cucurella) – N/AMadueke’s late goal was specialCredit: Getty More

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      Inside the new adrenaline pumping experience hidden beneath a Premier League stadium

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      HIDDEN beneath a Premier League stadium is a thrilling new experience that recently opened its doors to adrenaline junkies.Buried under the 62,850-seat arena is the world’s first official Formula 1 karting track.F1 Drive – London opened in FebruaryCredit: F1 DRIVE – London / Tottenham Hotspur StadiumThe experience is hidden beneath a Premier League stadiumCredit: F1 DRIVE – London / Tottenham Hotspur StadiumThe steering wheels of the karts feature LED screensCredit: F1 DRIVE – London / Tottenham Hotspur StadiumPerhaps unsurprisingly, it’s Tottenham who play host.The North London side have excelled at making the most of their gleaming new stadium since it opened in 2019.Whether that be encouraging fans to enjoy craft beer at the stadium, hosting world title boxing fights, staging NFL games or putting on concerts for global artists.The latest innovation to hit the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is F1 Drive – London.READ MORE ON STADIUMSSunSport went along to start their engines.The centre-piece of the new experience, which is under the South Stand, is a 500 metre, 17 turn karting challenge.The whole set up felt as fresh and gleaming as the shiny stadium itself with loads of fantastic details from the world of Formula 1 that will delight motor enthusiasts.Giving the pre-race briefing is David ‘Crofty’ Croft (in video format, obviously), the cars have DRS and the grid start includes the famous ‘lights out’ system that fans of Drive to Survive will love.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe electric cars feature great details. Each has its own LED screen on the steering wheel showing your lap times as well as those of your competitors.The screen can also be used to activate DRS and ERS (energy recovery system) which boosts the power of the kart – ideal when trying to zip past an on-track rival.Inside new Saudi Arabia GP circuit designed by F1 icon featuring 20-storey-high first corner and biggest hills on calendar Sound is pumped into the individual motors alerting you to when DRS is available and if you’ve smashed your PB, as well as delivering realistic F1-like engine noises to make it all the more authentic.For any Max Verstappen wannabes it’s great fun – and will likely be a lot more competitive than the real F1 this season.Various packages are available for all ages, with the ‘sprint session’ (£70) and ‘elite session’ (£85) including two spells of 15 minutes on track. That easily felt like long enough.In addition to the karting itself, there are F1 simulators available to use. The wrap-around UHD screens and full-motion seats provide a highly authentic experience of taking on a real life Grand Prix circuit.There’s even a pit stop challenge for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the world of F1.For more details visit the official site here.All ages are catered forCredit: Getty Images for F1 DRIVE – London / Tottenham Hotspur StadiumThere are also F1 simulatorsCredit: Getty Images for F1 DRIVE – London / Tottenham Hotspur StadiumThere is a pit stop challengeCredit: F1 DRIVE – London / Tottenham Hotspur Stadium More

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      Chelsea hothead Nicolas Jackson has as many bookings as goals – but incredible gesture reveals his softer side

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      NICOLAS JACKSON has as many bookings as Premier League goals and on the surface looks like a bust-up waiting to happen.But SunSport can reveal there is a secret softer side to the 22-year-old Chelsea striker, one in stark contrast to his public image.Nicolas Jackson is starting to find his feet at ChelseaCredit: GettySenegalese Jackson did not own a pair of football boots until he was 16, while growing up in the poor town of Ziguinchor.It is something he has never forgotten and it was the inspiration behind a personal aid mission to help the kids of his old home town.While at former clubs Villarreal and Mirandes in Spain, kind-hearted Jackson scrounged spare kit from his team-mates throughout the season.Old boots, shirts, socks, shinpads. You name it, he took it all home and packed it away.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAt the end of the season, Jackson piled the lot into a dozen large boxes and took it all back to Ziguinchor — to give away to local children.Chelsea’s enigmatic forward paid the excess baggage fees out of his own pocket, which cost more than four times the price of his flight ticket.Despite playing in LaLiga, Jackson was not earning relatively big money at Villarreal. Even less at second-tier side Mirandes.But it did not stop him from digging deep to help the kids back home.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe £30million star has endured a turbulent debut season in the Premier League. But following a troublesome start during which he picked up five bookings and a ban before the end of September, he is now settling down.Could Jose Mourinho return to Chelsea?He has nine top-flight goals already — one short of the total Didier Drogba managed in his debut season at Stamford Bridge before going on to become a Chelsea legend.And boss Mauricio Pochettino said: “You all are now seeing how he is improving. The most difficult thing was to support him when it was tough.“He has the quality and the capacity. Now he is doing much better but still needs to improve a lot. The numbers are similar to Drogba in his first season.“That maybe gives the fans more belief in him and to be a little more patient with him but as always it depends on the circumstances.“He was the only striker and we demanded too much in every single game and in every single action, ‘Score, score, score!’ It is not easy.“Now, I hope people can start to understand he has the condition to be very good.”You all are now seeing how he is improving. The most difficult thing was to support him when it was tough.Mauricio PochettinoJackson admits adapting to English has been a challenge and it may be a clue to the hair-trigger temper he is working on.But being willing to fight for your team is not always a bad thing.He is also adopting subtle changes to his routine to make marginal gains.At least eight hours’ sleep every night, tweaks to his diet with the help of Chelsea’s expert nutritionists, eating precise portions of vegetables, carbs and proteins to get the best from his body.Poch added: “A player arrived here who needed support, needed help, needed to perform but with time, needed to adapt to the club.”READ MORE SUN STORIESChelsea welcome back Ben Chilwell, 27, to the squad for tomorrow’s FA Cup quarter-final against his old club Leicester.The defender missed Monday’s 3-2 win over Newcastle with injury.Jackson with Chelsea manager Mauricio PochettinoCredit: Rex More

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      Inside Ben White’s amazing lifestyle, from Instagram model Wag to tattoo obsession and his adventurous fashion choices

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      BEN White has become Arsenal’s Mr Reliable since signing from Brighton.The defender, 26, cost the club a staggering £50million when he joined in 2021.Ben White lives in an amazing lifestyle away from the pitchCredit: GettyWhite is married to Instagram model Milly AdamsAway fro the pitch, White boasts is a tattoo obsessiveBut he has proved his worth, becoming one of the best right-backs in the country.Such was the Gunners’ belief in him, he was awarded a four-year contract and pay rise at the Emirates.Away from the pitch, White lives a very different life.Admittedly, he watches very little football and dedicates his time to stunning Wag, Milly Adams.Read more Arsenal newsTattoos are another passion for the Dorset-born footballer, who plenty of ink on his torso.While his fashion sense knows no boundaries, with White not afraid to experiment with his looks.The missusKey to Ben’s happiness is wife, Milly.The sultry Instagram model from Hertfordshire, who boasts over 20,000 followers, reportedly began dating the sportsman in 2022.Most read in FootballSince then, they have appeared inseparable, and their love affair has been well documented on social media.Will Pugh and Tom Barclay discuss Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes ahead of ‘biggest game in 20 years’ against Man CityWhite wasted very little time before popping the question on a luxury holidayThe happy couple shared pictures of their engagement, including one of their matching ‘I love you’ wrist tattoos.Then, in May 2023 the pair said their ‘I do’s’ at a private ceremony at the Old Marylebone Town Hall in London.Weeks later, they followed that up with a SECOND wedding in Mallorca.He looked dapper in a tuxedo, while Milly was a picture of beauty in a white strapless thigh-split gown.She called it the ‘Best day of her life’ on Instagram.Ben has spoken about their relationship, revealing his competitive nature creeps in when they play board games.“I want to win everything that I do. My ­missus and I play a lot of games at home. We play bat and ball, Uno, this magnetic game. I won’t be letting her win.”And what happens if Milly starts winning?  “The ball gets lost . . . ”Gorgeous Milly Adams is an Instagram modelBrunette Milly has over 20,000 followers on InstagramWhite’s romance with Milly has played out on social media, including their engagementThe pair said their ‘I do’s’ for a second time in MallorcaWhite and Milly began dating in 2022Loved-up couple Milly and Ben share matching tattoosTatsBen’s love of tattoos is already well documented. You just have to see his chiselled body to see he loves ink.And there are several that have deep meaning.He recently added a butterfly to his torso, which surely signifies flying high in life and in his career.It was created by A Star Tattoos – a side business of A Star Barbers – who famously trim Jack Grealish and Paul Pogba.White’s body is also covered in positive messages.On his neck he has the word ‘Shine’ inscribed. Next to that, there’s a small cross.When White grew up in Dorset, he went to school Queen Elizabeth’s, which preaches strong Church of England ethics.A massive tattoo of a lion’s eyes stretches across White’s chest.The lion is a popular tattoo for professional footballers – with the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Memphis Depay sporting them.White sports numerous tattoos all over his bodyCredit: GettyA cross and the word ‘Shine’ appear on the back of his neckCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskWhite’s hands are also an ode to his love of inkread more sport featuresAgain, it symbolises bravery and strength.It was a tattoo that seemingly inspired his Arsenal team-mate Emile Smith Rowe, who later got a lion sleeve on his arm.And as previously mentioned, he has matching ‘I Love You’ tats written on his hands, as well as his star sign – Libra, and the date 1959.FashionWhen it comes to his clobber, White isn’t afraid to experiment.On his honeymoon in Ibiza, he and wife Milly wore matching black ensembles.The England ace donned cravat-style blue neckwear with an open shirt and Milly wore frilly see-through leggings above a bikini.White also loves expensive leisure wear, which he once wore on England duty in 2022.Instead of their Nike sponsored tracksuits, he went with a £650 Amiri combo instead.Along with a trackie, he’s often seen clutching an expensive wash bag or backpack on game day.Fashion conscious White shows off a fetching cravat on his Ibiza honeymoonWhite rocks a Balenciaga baseball cap and is a fan of leisure wearCredit: Instagram @milly_adamsHoodies and headwear feature heavily in White’s wardrobeCredit: Instagram @millywhiteWhite’s washbag from Goyard would have set him back around £1300Credit: GettyWhite also loves using a Louis Vuitton backpackCredit: GettyA Goyard one he was once seen holding would have set him back £1300, while he’s also the owner of a Louis Vuitton backpack that retails for for over £2,000.While, jewellery is also important for Benjamin, who often wears a diamond 18K white gold plated hoop cross earring.Silver chains are also wrapped around his neck.Disinterest in footballUnlike many footballers, White switches off from the sport when he’s away from training ground.He admittedly doesn’t watch football, which stems from his childhood.“Sitting down and watching a 90-minute game after I’ve trained all day and had four or five meetings about football … the last thing I want to do is watch more football,” White once confessed.While in an interview on Arsenal’s club website, he revealed he didn’t grow up in a football family and would have followed in his father’s footsteps as a gardener if he didn’t make it pro.He said: “I’d probably be working with my dad if I wasn’t a footballer. He used to be a gardener. I think that’s why there was never any pressure on me growing up, because I would have been very happy with that.”White added: “My dad has no idea about football to be honest. It’s quite funny, but it’s nice too. I’ve got the coaches here to tell me what I need to know anyway, so it’s nice not to have any added pressure or anything outside of that.Despite being a Premier League footballer, White barely watches any gamesCredit: GettyWhite says he would have been a gardener like his dad if he hadn’t made it proCredit: Sunday Times”I know I can go home and switch off from everything, think about other things, and they just tell me I did wellREAD MORE SUN STORIES“That’s how my life is arranged. When I come into the training ground, it’s all about football – 100 per cent focus. Then when I leave, I switch off from it.”I don’t think my dad has ever said to me ‘shall we watch a game on TV?’ He absolutely isn’t interested in that, I don’t think he’s ever watched one on TV.” More

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      I showered with David Beckham on England duty but thought ex-boss was weird – now I’m making my own way in coaching

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      FORMER defender David Wheater has started falling in love with football again — in a completely  different way — after quitting as a player last year.He and another former player,  Stuart Wise, have set up their own youth W2 Football Academy, which runs twice a week at Redcar College and Stokesley Sports Club.David Wheater says he’s rediscovered his love of footballCredit: GettyThat’s through coaching kids aged between five and 11It offers coaching for kids aged five to 11 and has proved to be a huge hit, having started only six months ago.Towering 6ft 5in former centre-back Wheater, 37, said: “Last year at   Darlington, I just couldn’t stay fit.“The physio was delighted when I was back training, then I’d go and warm up and pull up injured again.“I had to be honest with myself at the end of the season.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“I went and saw the manager and told him that my body was basically telling me to stop.“I used to think I’d play until I was 40.“Then I hit 30 and everything started hurting. It was horrible.”Although he did not win a senior England cap, Wheater represented the Three Lions in all age groups from under-16s to under-21s.Most read in FootballDuring his seven years at Middlesbrough he became known as the Redcar Rock.He played at every level in the top five tiers of English football.Wheater played across the five tiers of English footballCredit: Mark Robinson – The SunCHELTENHAM BETTING OFFERS – BEST FREE BET DEALS FOR THE FESTIVAL Big Wheats said: “The only two regrets I had from my career was maybe leaving  Bolton to go to Oldham in 2019.“And the fact I never played at Wembley, either.Football Food Tour: Behind the Scenes of Hospitality at Inter Miami, with incredible food“I was due to play for the under-21s at the national stadium but then I picked up a daft booking in the game before.“Then with Bolton I was on the bench. Three times I went there but never played.”After almost two decades as a professional, starting at Boro in 2004, a new chapter was about to start.He said: “The average age for a footballer to retire is about 36. But in the real world you’re only halfway through your working life. You cannot sit around and do nothing.“The idea of running an academy really appealed to me rather than men’s coaching.“It was inspired by my own growing up and having heroes like  Juninho and Fabrizio Ravanelli at Middlesbrough.“As a kid, I lived only minutes from Redcar College, where I am now coaching the kids.“When you see these youngsters in the academy smiling and enjoying their football, it means everything  to me.Wheats recently called time on his careerCredit: Craig_Brough“Don’t get me wrong, after working with them in Redcar and Stokesley, I get home and I’m absolutely exhausted.“But it’s so rewarding and I feel a real sense of achievement. I really love it.“I look at some of these kids as my own seven- to 11-year-old self. It was my dream to play professional football and I realised that ambition.“Ultimately, I hope I can make some of their dreams come true too.”Wheater joined up with Wise after their sons trained for Stokesley under-7s. Wise, 39, played for York City but a serious knee injury brought his career to a premature end.Wheater added: “It has been great working with Stuart and we share the same love of the game and working with the youngsters.“We just got roped in to take over and it snowballed from there.”Now more than 100 kids attend for three hours on a Wednesday evening, with extra sessions on the cards. They have even been asked to start teams.He came through at MiddlebroughCredit: PA:Press AssociationWheater played alongside Gareth Southgate, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Gaizka Mendieta at the Riverside.He was called up to England’s senior squad in 2008 under Fabio Capello but did not earn a cap off the bench.“Capello was a bit weird. I turned up and I don’t think he knew who I was.“My playing career was one hell of a ride, capped at every level playing for England and a couple of bench appearances for the senior team.”He laughed: “I’ve even had a shower with David Beckham, and John Terry follows me on Instagram so I’m very happy!”And Wheater once got a hefty elbow on the nose from Wayne Rooney. “I challenged for the ball and his elbow came out of nowhere and hit me smack on the nose.“I couldn’t dive or go over because as a bit of a hardman I never did things like that. But I’m sure he’d have got a yellow or even red card.“I never held any grudges — at the end I asked him for his shirt!”He has a collection of jerseys — including superstars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo bought at auctions.His big hobby is wrestling figures — he has a room in his house for them.READ MORE SUN STORIES“When I was growing up, I was addicted to watching WWE stars like Hulk Hogan. Now I’m still obsessed with buying wrestling figurines.“I never got into gambling, my weakness is buying these figures. My wife’s none too pleased about it.” More

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      Hollywood stars who attend Premier League games, after Adam Sandler is spotted watching Chelsea vs Newcastle

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      LAST minute goals, fast and furious football, passion and aggression – it’s no wonder Hollywood stars flock to our shores to watch Premier League games.For many, who are dropping into the UK to film their latest big budget flick, it’s the ultimate ticket.Adam Sandler takes in the action as Chelsea entertain NewcastleCredit: PAHollywood A-lister Tom Hanks has been seen in the stands at Villa ParkCredit: PAHanks visited the team’s dressing room and got a snap with John McGinnCredit: GettyAdam Sandler joined the A-list elite, when he showed up at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea against Newcastle.But he isn’t the only one who has been sucked into the stirring atmosphere and the drama at our country’s top grounds.Here’s 11 more footy fanatics who need to be there to cheer their side on.Tom HanksLike Prince William, the Oscar-winning Hanks is an Aston Villa fan.Read more football newsHe discovered them when he caught the football scores on the TV on a visit to England, and admittedly fell in love with the team when an announcer said their name.Amusingly, he told James Corden on The Late Late Show he thought it sounded like a holiday resort.He soon backed up his support by attending Villa Park for a 4-2 defeat to Arsenal in 2023.Idris ElbaLondoner Elba is a self-confessed Arsenal nut.Most read in FootballThe Premier League’s Top 10 sexiest managers according to AIHe grew up in nearby Hackney, and regularly features on the club’s media output.He has also been integral in getting the North London side to play in white.Idris teamed up with Adidas for the anti-knife campaign ‘No More Red’ to promote the idea.Idris Elba grew up in Hackney and has been a lifelong GoonerCredit: GettyElba has been a driving force in Arsenal donning a white kit for fixturesCredit: ReutersKevin CostnerCostner has admitted in the past that when he films in London, he loves to go the Emirates.He paid a visit to the stadium when promoting the 2016 movie, Criminal.Amusingly, the Yellowstone actor even tried to dovetail his love of the Gunners into that film.However, a scene of the Oscar-winner wearing an Arsenal scarf while beating up some bad guys was deleted in fear that it would promote violence.Kevin Costner is renowned Gunner and goes to games when he’s filming in LondonCredit: Peter KellyTom Cruise and Robert DuvallHollywood legends don’t come bigger than Tom Cruise and Robert Duvall.So, it was fitting the pair were guests at the Etihad for the Manchester derby in 2012.”This is the first game that I’ve seen in England,” Cruise said on Sky Sports 1. “I’ve been following it since the Eighties so I’m just excited that I’m able to be here.”The Top Gun actor added he had also received a message from mate David Beckham who was jealous he wasn’t at the game.Hollywood legends Tom Cruise and Robert Duvall popped into the EtihadCredit: Mark Robinson – The SunDuvall and Cruise even posed with the Premier League trophyCredit: Getty Images – GettyMargot RobbieAussie beauty Margot has brightened up Craven Cottage more than once.Her first visit was to see Fulham lose at home to Millwall, a game where she appeared on the pitch.Before going into the stadium, she was also seen flashing a jersey in support.It all stems from husband Tom Ackerley, who is a fan of the Cottagers. Margot Robbie appeared on the turf at Craven CottageCredit: RexBeforehand, Robbie showed off her Fulham coloursWill FerrellFunnyman Ferrell just loves football.Not only is he a MLS owner with Los Angeles FC, he has taken in plenty of Premier League games in his time.There was a misconception he was a Chelsea fan – although he debunked that in an interview on Sky Sports when he visited the Etihad.Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney invited him to the Racecourse Ground too last season, where he appeared to love his time in Wales.Will Ferrell loves the Premier leagueCredit: GettyFerrell was even spotted in the stands at Anfield onceCredit: PA:Press Associationread more sport featuresHugh GrantFulham’s Hollywood fan base doesn’t just stop at Robbie.Wonka actor Hugh Grant is also a regular in the stands, often seen clutching his match day programme like an avid supporter.And, in the past, he’s reportedly put his money where his mouth is – paying half of Robbie Ferrera’s transfer fee.”Apparently he paid half of it,” Herrera claimed. “It was a £30,000 down payment and then £30,000 after so many games, and I have been told – and it came from good sources – that he put down either the initial instalment or he was going to pay the final instalment.”Lifelong Fulham fan cheers on the CottagersCredit: RexMike MyersComic actor Myers is a die-hard Reds fan – and was a guest of honour in 2013 at Anfield.The Canadian, whose parents are both originally from Liverpool, brought his own flag for the occasion and wore the shirt for a moment that left him “speechless”.He has since spoken about the disappointment of losing the 2017 Champions League final to Real Madrid on his birthday.While last season he went for an away day at Manchester City, seeing his team lose 4-1.Comedian Mike Myers revealed visiting Anfield left him speechlessCredit: PA:Empics SportDaniel Day-LewisPiercing, pensive, thoughtful, arty… football is not a sport you would imagine method actor Day-Lewis would follow.However, let us shock you. He is a die-hard Millwall and was a regular on the terraces at The Old Den in the 1980s.”A house full of great books about art and literature was all well and good, but I was fascinated by the streets that were close by – Lewisham, New Cross and Deptford,” he said.”I supported Millwall with great gusto and was on the terraces every Saturday with the rest of the lads.”Actor Daniel Day-Lewis was a self-confessed Millwall nut in the 1980sCredit: ReutersSylvester StalloneGoodison Park has been good for Sly.Not only did he receive a rapturous reception when he visited in 2007, some eight years later he filmed scenes for Creed at the famous stadium.His fandom began because he was pals with former shareholder, Robert Earl.Stallone has revealed in the past he wished he bought his own stake in the club.Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone salutes the fans at Goodison ParkCredit: AP:Associated PressRay WinstoneCockney hardman Winstone bleeds the Irons and isn’t scared to voice his opinion on his club.Earlier in the campaign, he accused David Moyes of “bottling” the League Cup quarter-final by selecting a weakened side against Liverpool.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the past, he has also slammed the Scot’s tactics, although he also said he was happy for him achieving European success last season with the Hammers and has torn feelings about his tenure.In 2009, Winstone was involved in the Irons’ kit launch.Ray Winstone is a regular at West Ham and has been a fan since he was a kidCredit: AFP More

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      Ex-Premier League star Yannick Bolasie seals random transfer as fans say ‘this guy has toured the world’

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      YANNICK BOLASIE has completed the most surprising move of his 15-club career.Newly-promoted Brazilian top-flight side Criciuma have signed the former Crystal Palace and Everton winger, 34.Yannick Bolasie spent three months with Swansea and is now off to BrazilCredit: GettyBolasie’s most successful spell came in four years with Crystal PalaceFans on social media responded by saluting the ex-DR Congo’s cult spells in the Premier League.And one posted: “This guy has toured the whole world.”Yet the 6ft 2ins French-born ace has never before played outside Europe.Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano confirmed Bolasie’s arrival at Criciuma on Monday following a medical.READ MORE TOP STORIESThe club – little-known on this side of the globe – pulled off their greatest achievement as long ago as 1991 when lifting the Brazilian Cup.But Criciuma are the biggest team in the state of Santa Catarina, having also won Serie B in 2002 and Serie C four years later.The south-east Brazilian city is the core of the country’s flooring and home materials industry – and the second-largest such centre in the world.Now Bolasie hopes to raise the roof on Criciuma’s 19,900-capacity Estadio Heriberto Hulse stadium following what might be the last major move of his career.Most read in FootballBolasie bowed out of English football with the Championship SwansCredit: GettyHe’s been without a club since a short-term deal with Swansea ended in January – just as Luke Williams replaced sacked boss Michael Duff at the Championship side.Ex-Notts County manager Williams said of Bolasie’s departure: “Yannick has been great to work with. Everton aces Bolasie, Tom Davies and Niasse recreate Wayne Rooney wonder goal “He has been a real professional and we wish him well in whatever is next for him.”Non-leaguers Hillingdon Borough were Bolasie’s first club in 2006.Then came the first hint of his globe-trotting to come, via Maltese Premier League side Floriana.Three years with Plymouth Argyle followed, including loan stints with Rushden & Diamonds and Barnet.After switching to Bristol City he enjoyed his peak times – with Palace from 2012-2016.Having helped the Eagles back up to the Prem, Everton swooped in a £25million deal.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut a cruciate ligament injury undermined his five years at Goodison Park, leading to loan stints with Aston Villa, Anderlecht, Sporting Lisbon and Middlesbrough.Bolasie tried out Turkey for two years with Caykur Rizespor – before just a couple of months with Swansea and now his first taste of football in South America.Bolasie was with Everton from 2016 to 2021 but soon after arriving spent 12 months out with a cruciate ligament injuryCredit: PA:Empics Sport More

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      Eden Hazard mocks himself with speech about ‘no gym or running’ and gets burger dedicated to him on return to Lille

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      LILLE pulled out all of the stops as they welcomed club legend Eden Hazard back as guest of honour last night.The 33-year-old Belgian retired from football back in October after his epic career ended after years of injury and weight issues.Eden Hazard was treated to an epic return to his first club LilleCredit: ReutersThe former Belgian star came through the ranks there and helped them do the doubleCredit: AFPLille produced a special burger at the stadium in his honourCredit: X@ZachLowyA Hazard-themed cup was also available for fans to purchaseCredit: X@ZachLowyThe ex-playmaker, who won the Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup twice as well as a League Cup during his seven years at Chelsea, came through the ranks in France.Hazard joined Lille’s academy as a teenager in 2005 and went on to make 194 appearances and score 50 goals for the senior team.His dazzling form also proved instrumental in their league and cup double in 2011 and eventually earned him his move to England in 2012.Now having hung up his boots, he took the opportunity this weekend to visit his first club for their Ligue 1 home match against Rennes.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd his old employers rolled out the red carpet in style to honour the icon’s return.He was firstly honoured at the HQ as Lille got him to unveil one of their training centres that had been renamed after him.The mercurial winger poked fun at himself during the unveiling and made reference to the fact he was rarely seen in the gym during his playing career.Hazard said: “I only have one thing to say. This is the Eden Hazard pitch. So no gym, no running. Only playing football and breaking ankles.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat was just the start of the fun as Lille announced they would be selling Hazard-themed hamburgers and special edition Eco Cups to celebrate the occasion.And as some supporters tucked into them prior to kick-off, thousands more in the ground had another treat in store for Hazard as he watched on from the posh seats.Watch Eden Hazard ‘leave influencer for dead’ as ex-Chelsea star skins four players before scoring in charity matchAs the Lille and Rennes players emerged from the tunnel ahead of the 2-2 draw, a huge banner showing the icon’s face alongside the Ligue 1 and French Cup trophies he helped them to win was held aloft in one stand.Meanwhile, another was unfurled with a huge “Merci” written on it to show their gratitude for his efforts over a decade ago.Hazard enjoyed equal status at Stamford Bridge for his performances at Chelsea but failed to replicate the magic at Real Madrid as his career ended in disappointing fashion.He joined the LaLiga giants for an initial £88.3million in 2019 but he played just 76 times and scored only seven goals in four seasons.His time at the Bernabeu was plagued by injuries and fitness issues with reports that his weight was a problem and that he once turned up to training after the summer a stone too heavy.He recently opened up about those issues, saying: “With Chelsea, I’d just finished one of the best seasons of my career.“I said to myself, ‘now that I’m at Real Madrid, this is perhaps the last vacation I’ll be able to take.’ I let go of myself like I let go of myself every summer.Hazard unveiled a training pitch renamed after him at LilleCredit: X@brfootball“Seven years in England, without a break at Christmas, giving everything, so when I have three or four weeks of vacation, don’t bother me, barbecues, rose wine and all that.“That’s what allowed me to reset myself to start again. Then, Real, it went wrong and that’s it.“They say I was a slacker. But I haven’t spent 16 years as a professional without training. “It’s true that some mornings I arrived without sleeping well, not feeling like it, no desire, and when it’s like that I show it.“Don’t give me the ball. I’m making a square metre and I’m not moving. I don’t move.”On his weight, Hazard added: “I wasn’t watching what I ate but I didn’t go for a burger every day either. You can’t do that for 16 years. I didn’t think it was important.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’m a hedonist, I like to eat and drink with my friends. Dieting is bull***t, it doesn’t work.“If you want to play until you’re 40, then okay, but I knew I wouldn’t be like that. I always have some champagne in my fridge.”Fans unfurled two huge banners to show their appreciation before kick-offCredit: TNT Sports More