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      in Soccer

      How Championship is shaping up and who will win £200million Premier League jackpot – SunSport’s mid-season predictions

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      WE’RE now firmly into the second half of the race to make the Premier League promised land.Leicester and Ipswich have been setting the pace from the front – although the Tractor Boys have been reeled in recently by the blistering form of Southampton.
      Ipswich still occupy an automatic promotion spot despite Southampton’s strong formCredit: Rex
      Bournemouth striker Kieffer Moore is a target for several Championship clubsCredit: Getty
      With the transfer window open, we look at what the runners and riders need if they are to up the pace as the clubs make a dash for the winning post and the £200million jackpot prize of top flight football.
      Here SunSport looks at the top 14 teams who are currently in contention – and apologies to Swansea and Millwall down in 15th and 16th.
      I don’t see either as genuine contenders but, hey, this is the Championship, we might be left with egg on our face come May!
      Leicester
      Enzo Maresca’s side are going to be playing top-flight football next season.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      The squad is too good for the Championship so the focus must be now on building a team, philosophy and identity that will be able to stay in the Premier League.
      The Foxes will need to strengthen in attacking areas because they surely cannot be relying on veteran Jamie Vardy and Kelechi Iheanacho next season.
      Their midfield needs more creativity too. They do look a bit one-paced.
      Inter Milan and Italy midfield ace Stefano Sensi, 28, is said to have agreed to join the club this month in a move that will cost just under £2m.
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      Ipswich
      What the Tractor Boys have been achieving this season with the same team that won promotion from League One last term is nothing short of remarkable.
      However, they do lack the strength in depth that rivals such as Southampton boast.
      The ruthless Championship fixture schedule had been taking its toll on Kieran McKenna’s men in recent weeks with Saints chasing them down.
      They sensibly brought in Lewis Travis, who made his debut on loan from Blackburn against Sunderland on Saturday, while attacking midfield ace Jeremy Sarmiento from Spurs came off the bench.
      Conor Chaplin has been superb up front but Ipswich have been eyeing up a loan deal for Bournemouth striker Kieffer Moore while Wigan centre-back Charlie Hughes, 20, is also on the club’s radar.
      Chief scout Sam Williams has been personally watching him this season.
      Southampton
      Russell Martin never doubted that the Saints were going to be in the automatic promotion argument – even when four straight losses in September and a leaky defence at the time made it look unlikely.
      Their 4-0 thumping of Sheffield Wednesday made it 14 wins and five draws from their last 19 unbeaten Championship games.
      But with Kamaldeen Sulemana crocked and a lack of experienced replacements, Martin is keen to add another winger to his ranks to help push the Saints over the line in what is looking like a three-way fight with Ipswich and Leeds for second spot.
      David Brooks from Bournemouth is a realistic option while the Saints are keeping tabs on Manchester United kid Amad Diallo as a loan option after he was superb for Sunderland last season.
      Leeds
      Daniel Farke says the club will be reserved during this window as he is happy with his lot at Elland Road – after a chaotic summer where he was unable to nail down his squad until the last minute.
      The club have been in good form although they can be a little inconsistent. For example, they smashed Ipswich at home, only to lose a few days later at Preston.
      They could do with another left-back with Sam Byram having a string of injury issues while Junior Firpo has not exactly pulled up any trees.
      Rangers ace Borna Baristic could be an option.
      West Brom
      The Baggies need to bolster their attack if they are to be a serious threat in the business end of the season.
      As good as they can be on their day – especially at The Hawthorns – they lack a cutting edge at times. In fact, they are the lowest scorers in the top six.
      Bristol City striker Andreas Weimann is on their radar and West Brom boss Carlos Corberan said he wants someone who has good Championship experience.
      Coventry
      The Sky Blues are building up a nice head of steam right now.
      Their 3-1 comeback win over Leicester means they have now won seven, drawn four and lost just one of their last 12 league games and moved into the top six for the first time this season.
      Last year’s play-off finalists were hurt in the summer by the loss of star players Viktor Gyokeres and Gustavo Hamer.
      Boss Mark Robins has signed this month midfielder Victor Torp in a £2.1m deal from Norwegian top flight club Sarpsborg to fill the void he had not yet filled left by Hamer.
      Their top priority this winter should be to tie down attacking midfielder Callum O’Hare, who scored twice on Saturday, to a new deal as his form has turned around Coventry’s season and his current deal expires this summer.
      Sunderland
      Two things that must happen this month at the Stadium of Light is to keep Jack Clarke and sign a striker.
      The Black Cats look a bit short at the moment of making the play-offs and will have no chance if they fail to secure the above.
      Clarke scored his 13th of the season and is being chased by West Ham, Brentford and Crystal Palace but Sunderland must reject all advances.
      Bournemouth’s Kieffer Moore and Blackburn’s Sam Gallagher are on boss Michael Beale’s radar.
      Hull
      One of the surprise play-off contenders that has emerged this season is Liam Rosenior’s men – but he will be keen to maintain their push beyond this transfer window.
      And the club have already been active in boosting their ranks.
      Bringing in attacking midfielder Fabio Carvalho on loan from Liverpool after he was recalled from RB Leipzig is a great piece of business. Although he flopped in Germany, he is a proven performer in the Championship with Fulham.
      And bringing in experienced former Sheffield United striker Billy Sharp, who was a free agent, could prove to be inspired.
      Middlesbrough
      Michael Carrick’s men brought in veteran right-back Luke Ayling on loan from Leeds and attacking midfielder Finn Azaz from Aston Villa.
      But they do need a striker, like a lot of clubs competing, and must keep hold of man of the moment Hayden Hackney.
      The midfielder has been on fire for Boro and scored the winner against Chelsea to give his side a 1-0 Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg advantage – but Tottenham are preparing a January swoop after keeping a close eye on him.
      Norwich
      Although the Canaries spent most of 2023 sitting in mid-table, this morning despite being 10th they have just two points behind the play-off spots so the first half of 2024 could be far from a write-off if they can get their act together.
      David Wagner is one of several managers chasing Bouremouth’s Moore but an interesting target is United winger Facundo Pellistri, 22, whom they want to bring in on loan.
      United have a good relationship with the Canaries and were happy with how the Norfolk side looked after and developed Brandon Williams a couple of seasons ago.
      Preston
      North End fans are bracing themselves for a boring month with hardly any business expected to be done at Deepdale after a busy summer of activity.
      The team are sitting 11th but are just a couple of points behind the top six.
      Preston have been rumoured to be after Newcastle’s defensive midfielder Isaac Hayden after he was recalled from his loan to Standard Liege.
      Cardiff
      After being under a transfer embargo for a whole year, the Bluebirds can splash the cash this winter – and boss Erol Bulut has made it clear he expects exactly that.
      He wants to make “three or four signings” but a striker is the absolute priority.
      And they have joined the queue for Bournemouth’s Moore.
      He also wants a winger, midfielder and centre-back.
      Watford
      The Hornets would like to bring in a left-back during this window.
      Wesley Hoedt is the only natural left-footer in their defence.
      Valerien Ismael has got Watford into the play-off mix and will go all guns blazing in the remaining 19 games.
      Bristol City
      It’s madness usually to consider a team sitting 14th in mid-January as a serious promotion contender – but, right now, the Robins are exactly that, just four points behind sixth-placed Coventry.
      And one of their targets this month is a controversial one… Bristol Rovers striker Chris Martin.
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      Martin, 35, only left Ashton Gate last January, to join QPR, and moved to bitter rivals Rovers in the summer where he has been tearing up League One.
      The Robins want a No10 and striker before the end of the month. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside £100m rated Ivan Toney’s epic lifestyle, from being Premier League’s best dressed to doting dad with three kids

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      THERE are few cooler customers than Ivan Toney on and off the pitch.The £100million-rated striker, who returns to action on January 17 after a gambling ban, has been linked with a move away from Brentford.
      Ivan Toney is one of football’s coolest customers
      Wearing great outfits make Toney football’s best dressed
      Toney is the main man for Brentford and closing in on his return
      He is renowned for being calm in the penalty box, netting 29 penalties and missing just two during his incredible rise as the Premier League’s hottest marksman.
      But it’s away from football where he is really coming into his own.
      Toney revealed he would love to become an actor, when his playing days come to an end.
      However, he could have a future as a fashion designer – judging by the trendy threads he wears.

      From shopping at Bottega Veneta to modelling clothes by Louis Vuitton and the hip Gallery Department, Toney looks the part.
      And the father of two is also, very much, the doting dad – taking his brood on amazing holidays.
      He’s in fashion
      Although he’s one of the most in-demand footballers on our shores, Toney’s style is also definitely admired.
      His fashion posts draw plenty of praise on social media, as well as likes.
      Most read in Football
      It’s no wonder he has almost 500,000 followers on Instagram.
      Toney clearly loves shopping, sharing photos trying on Prada sunglasses and more in department stores.
      On one outing he can be seen clutching a Bottega Veneta bag – looking delighted with his purchase.
      On another Instagram post, he shows off a stunning Dior raincoat – captioning his snap, “Have fun with it”.
      One of the most fetching items we’ve seen him wear rang in his 26th birthday – a jacquard damier fleece blouson from Louis Vuitton costing £1,280, which drew almost 21,000 likes on Instagram.
      Toney’s favourite designer appears to be the LA-based Gallery Dept. – a staple among rappers and who hip-hop group Migos released their own capsule collection with in 2021.
      The style is very much vintage clothing meets modern art.
      Toney wears a Louis Vuitton fleece costing £1,280
      NBA leisure wear is also pulled off effortlessly by Toney
      Tonoey enjoys styling himself
      LA-based Gallery Dept. is one of Toney’s favourite high-end brands
      Toney models a Dior jacket
      Glam travels
      Toney reportedly earns around £1milllion-per-year with the Bees.
      When he’s not hard at work at the training ground or on the football pitch, he makes time for glam holidays.
      A fan of warm weather at winter, he has been spotted in Dubai in the past.
      Toney also loves the Caribbean, where he supported St Vincent by setting up a fund-raising campaign for the people affected by a volcanic eruption on the island in 2021.
      He often makes time to squeeze in some shopping when he’s away, dropping into Philipp Plein on a trip to Marbella.
      When abroad, Toney really likes to let his hair down.
      And he’s a fan of adventurous activity – seen taking a ride on a hoverboard above the sea.
      It’s a yacht life for Toney
      Travelling by private jet makes life easy for Toney
      One a break away, Toney went riding on some buggies
      Toney still found time to shop in Marbella at Phillip Plein
      Toney enjoys a ride on a hoverboard at sea
      He also took a buggy ride on a different break away with pals.
      Life’s a breeze for Toney when he’s away, enjoying the fruits of his labour by hiring a private boat for a day.
      Travelling in style is very much his MO, often arriving on foreign shores by private jet.
      Doting dad
      Taking in those experiences with him are his children.
      On social media, Toney proves to be very much the doting dad to his kids
      In one snap, he shared a photo pushing a pram and smiling for the camera at a tropical location.
      A second snap shows him clutching his youngest child, while another sits on his lap.
      He had plenty of puff to help blow out a candle on his son’s birthday.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Toney is very much the doting dad
      Dad Toney pushes a pram on another break away
      Toney loves to show off his kids on Instagram
      Toney helps his son blow out a candle on his birthday
      A third, on holiday, shows his sense of adventure shared with his offspring on a jet ski.
      If they take after their dad, they certainly will be in style too. More

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      in Boxing

      OnlyFans star Elle Brooke calls out UFC legends Ronda Rousey and Paige VanZant but first wants to fight Astrid Wett

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      ELLE BROOKE wants to fight former UFC stars Ronda Rousey and Paige VanZant in a boxing match.OnlyFans star Elle has been trying her luck at influencer boxing where she boasts a 3-1 record and is set for a rematch against former Love Island contestant AJ Bunker at Misfits Boxing 12 on Saturday.
      Elle Brooke wants to face ex-UFC stars Ronda Rousey and Paige VanZantCredit: Instagram / @thedumbledong
      But first Elle wants to lock horns with OnlyFans nemesis Astrid WettCredit: Twitter / @AstridWett
      Paige has also put together a strong OnlyFans game after leaving UFCCredit: Instagram @paigevanzant
      The model is also looking to face off another nemesis in the adult content world in Astrid Wett, who’s currently top of her list.
      The 26-year-old is then looking to follow in the footsteps of other social media personalities like Jake Paul by crossing paths with former MMA fighters.
      And that is why she would like to face off against UFC Hall of Famer Rousey and former MMA athlete-turned OnlyFans model Paige, whom the Brit wouldn’t mind facing in a bare-knuckle fight.
      Elle told talkSPORT: “A really huge fight like Paige VanZant or Ronda Rousey. Someone like that, but then in between I need that Astrid fight.
      Read More on Boxing
      “I don’t think those fights would ever work without that one because that is the money fight, that could be like a main [event].
      “Nate Diaz has fought Jake Paul and then he’s facing another opponent in a couple of months.
      “I know it’s called influencer boxing but it’s a crossover scene. You can get other fighters into the scene [and] I think that would make sense.
      “I think the only people who have done it are Jake Paul, KSI, and Bryce Hall. I would definitely love to put my name on the map by winning against a real fighter.
      Most read in Boxing
      “Not that I’m underestimating influencer boxers, but someone that is known to be good, tough, and shocking. I want to be a true underdog and come out on top.
      “I would do bare-knuckle. Apparently, it is better for you because it just grazes your face rather than rattle your brain in your head. Sure, I’ve seen people get their teeth knocked out but okay.”
      Rousey is still regarded as UFC’s greatest female fighter of all time as she enjoyed a four-year undefeated streak that saw her winning all 12 of her fights.
      However, the American bruiser picked up her first loss in 2015 against Holly Holm and never managed to bounce back as she went on to suffer another defeat at the hands of Amanda Nunes a year later.
      Rousey is a UFC Hall of Famer who currently competes in professional wrestlingCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Rowdy left Dana White’s promotion that year and crossed over to WWE in 2018 where she went on to dominate the women’s division by becoming RAW and SmackDown Women’s Champion.
      The Baddest Woman on the Planet left the company after SummerSlam in August when she lost to close friend and fellow UFC hero Shayna Baszler.
      The 36-year-old has since been competing in the independent circuit with MMA comrade Marina Shafir, with whom she also appeared in Ring of Honor.
      Rousey hasn’t shown intent to participate in influencer boxing as she is already a major attraction in professional wrestling.
      Meanwhile, Elle is focused on AJ after releasing a bizarre video mocking her rival.
      Inside Elle’s glamorous life as a boxer and OnlyFans star…
      Elle traded in OnlyFans for boxingCredit: PA
      Elle boasts 843k followersCredit: Instagram @thedumbledong
      She also showed fans a red outfitCredit: Instagram @thedumbledong
      Elle always embraces the seasons traditionsCredit: Instagram @thedumbledong

      She also recently posed in laceCredit: Instagram @thedumbledong
      She also posed in a pink lingerieCredit: Instagram / @thedumbledong
      And also embraced yellowCredit: Instagram @thedumbledong
      The influencer posed with a championship beltCredit: Instagram / @thedumbledong
      Elle recently visited the USCredit: Instagram @thedumbledong
      Including visiting TexasCredit: https://www.instagram.com/thedumbledong/
      The influencer has posed for several photoshootsCredit: instagram More

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      in Soccer

      I won two league titles at Arsenal… a misunderstood team-mate could have been next Ronaldo – he left Adams on the floor

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      ARSENAL hero Paul Merson insists Nicolas Anelka was “definitely” destined to become better than Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario.Anelka, who underwent a stormy career, joined the Gunners from Paris Saint-Germain in 1997 at the tender age of 17 years old and still managed to turn heads immediately after his arrival.
      Arsenal hero Paul Merson insists Nicolas Anelka could have been better than RonaldoCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Merson watched Anelka dominating Tony Adams and Steve Bould in trainingCredit: Rex
      Merson spent a few months playing with Anelka at ArsenalCredit: Getty
      Merson, who won two titles with the club, spent a few months with the famous striker in north London and was absolutely mesmerised by his talent as he absolutely stood out on the pitch.
      The Sky Sports pundit was also left in awe during training as he witnessed the ex-France international dominating notoriously tough defenders in Tony Adams and Steve Bould “every two minutes”.
      In fact, the former England international watched the then teenager leaving both veteran centre-backs “on their backside” before beating legendary goalkeeper David Seaman.
      Merson told the League of Legends show: “I played with a kid who came over to England and I definitely thought that he was going to be better than the Brazilian Ronaldo – and that was Anelka.
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      “When he came over, he was about 17 and he was leaving Tony Adams and Steve Bould on their backside every two minutes.
      “We used to do this one-on-one where we would stand in between the halfway line and the 18-yard box and the defender would start on the 18-yard line.
      “The boss would chip the ball into you and you would have to take on the defender one-on-one and then you’d have to try and beat the goalkeeper. I don’t think he ever missed.
      “He managed to get past the defender, whoever he was doing it against, then Dave Seaman would come out and he would go round him like he wasn’t there.
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      “I seriously thought that he was going to be the best in the world – and he should have been. He should have been as good as Ronaldo.”
      Anelka underwent a nomadic career that saw him leaving Arsenal for Real Madrid only two years after his arrival at Highbury, where he won the Double in 1998 and amassed 28 goals in 90 appearances.
      The Frenchman’s stint at the Santiago Bernabeu barely lasted a year and he returned to PSG before coming back to England in 2001 for Liverpool and Manchester City a year later.
      In 2005 the now 44-year-old signed for Fenerbahce but returned to the UK for a third time as he was signed by Bolton a year later.
      And Anelka found himself at top level once more in 2008 when he put pen to paper on a contract with Chelsea where he won the Premier League as well as two FA Cups until his departure in 2012.
      Short stints followed with Shanghai Shenhua, Juventus, West Brom and Mumbai City where he retired in 2015. More

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      in Soccer

      How unlikely Casanova Sven-Goran Eriksson won over England with Germany rout – as fans show support amid cancer fight

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      SVEN-GORAN Eriksson is much-loved by England fans – for one night in Munich in September 2001.The Swede, 75, has received messages of support by supporters all over the world after he revealed he has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
      Legendary Sweden manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has revealed he has terminal cancer
      Eriksson and his coaching staff celebrate England’s famous 5-1 win over GermanyCredit: Rex
      At Lazio. in Italy Eriksson scored his greatest successCredit: Getty
      He told a radio station in his homeland that he has “at best a year” to live.
      He revealed to P1: “Everyone understands that I have an illness that is not good.
      “Everyone guesses it’s cancer and it is. But I have to fight as long as I can.”
      When asked about the prognosis, Eriksson said he has “maybe at best a year, at worst a little less, or at best maybe even longer”.
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      The decorated ex-Three Lions gaffer added: “You can’t be absolutely sure. It is better not to think about it.
      “But you can trick your brain. See the positive in things, don’t wallow in adversity, because this is the biggest adversity of course, but make something good out of it.”
      Eriksson – or just Sven as England fans call him – has enjoyed some incredible achievements in the game.
      After all, this was a man who beat Juventus and AC Milan to winning a Serie A title with unfashionable Lazio – only the second in their history – in 2000.
      Most read in Football
      And despite his admitted failings with not getting the best out of the ‘Golden Generation’ of England footballers from 2001-2006, the 5-1 demolition of Germany at the Olympiastadion in Munich is immortal.
      Sven also proved himself to be an unlikely Casanova, charming beauties Nancy Dell’Ollio, Ulrika Jonsson and Faria Alam.
      Legend in Italy
      Sven arrived back in Italy in 1992 with Sampdoria, following a successful spell with Benfica who he led to a European Cup final.
      He had previously scored success with Roma in the Coppa Italia in 1985, but a trophyless stint with Fiorentina meant he had unfinished business.
      For the Genoa giants he won the Coppa Italia in 1994, ripping up the Italian defensive blueprint of man-marking by introducing a zonal marking system.
      He left Sampdoria for Lazio in 1997, where he would become a legend.
      A talented squad, that included future Ballon d’Or winner Pavel Nedved, Argies Juan Sebastian Veron, Nestor Sensini and Diego Simeone, as well as top scorer Marcelo Salas proved too much for their rivals in 2000.
      They pipped Juventus to win Serie A by a point, also ousting the great AC Milan side of that era in the title race.
      Knowing how to make a team difficult to beat was Sven’s strength and it played to the style of the league he coached in.
      Eriksson’s love affair with Italian football began in the 1980s at RomaCredit: Alamy
      It was at rivals Lazio he would win multiple trophiesCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Eriksson, pictured with ex-Lazio Owner Sergio Cragnotti, won the Serie A title and European Cup Winners’ CupCredit: Rex
      Lazio won the double that year – making it a trio of Coppa Italia wins for the studious manager.
      He left in 2001 with his legacy in place, also adding the Cup Winners’ Cup and Super Cup to his CV.
      New challenge
      That same year, Sven landed the England job to become the first foreigner to take charge of the national team.
      The Scandinavian tactician had flirted with the idea of coaching in the UK – almost joining Blackburn Rovers in 1996, before opting to stay in Italy for family reasons.
      But, the allure of working with England’s ‘Golden Generation’ of Beckham, Scholes, Lampard and more would prove to be too hard to turn down.
      In truth, his cautious approach didn’t always work. Tournament failures – losing in the quarter-finals of two World Cups (2002 and 2006), and the Euros in 2004.
      Least we not forget we lost to two very good sides in Brazil and Portugal (twice) in those games.
      However, before those losses, we did have reason to cheer for one unforgettable night in Munich when it all came together.
      The Three Lions travelled to Germany to face off against their bitter rivals, after a poor start to their 2002 World Cup qualification campaign in a crucial game.
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      Eriksson coached England to a famous 5-1 win over GermanyCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Michael Owen was the hero scoring a hat-trick on that famous eveningCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Steven Gerrard also contributed towards Svenmania in the 5-1 routCredit: Reuters
      Wins against lesser opposition didn’t exactly fill us with confidence.
      But we took the Germans to the sword on their own soil. Spearheaded by Michael Owen who scored a hat-trick, and rounded off by Emile Heskey – it was an awesome display in a 5-1 win away from home.
      It kickstarted Svenmania. Unbelievably in his homeland, the game was watched by over a million football fans – double the amount that tuned in to watch Sweden take on Macedonia that night.
      Marks & Spencer, a longtime supporter of the England national team, printed 9,000 Germany 1 England 5 T-shirts, which sold out in a day.
      “I can’t remember a menswear product selling so well,” a spokesman revealed at the time – a testament to Sven’s greatest day.
      Unlikely Casanova
      Sven married Ann-Christine Pettersson in 1977, they had two children, before they divorced in 1994.
      The cause of their split, he admitted, was an extramarital affair with curvy beauty Graziella Mancinelli.
      It was a trait that followed Sven in his love life.
      By 1998, he began a romance with glam lawyer Nancy Dell’Ollio who left her husband for the unlikely Casanova.
      Eriksson had a longterm romance with Italian lawyer Nancy Dell’OlioCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      He had an affair with fellow Swede Ulrika JonssonCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Glam FA secretary Faria Alam also fell for Eriksson’s charmsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Again, he would stray – enjoying a brief tryst with Italian actress Debora Caprioglio.
      Nancy forgave him, joining Sven in London at his £2million Regent’s Park.
      His wandering eye led to more well-publicised affairs – with TV personality Ulrika Jonsson in 2002 and FA secretary Faria Alam in 2004.
      Nancy stuck by Sven until 2006, when they finally called it quits.
      “People said the constant media attention was something I had to accept, but I never understood what was so interesting about my private life,” he wrote in a column in the Daily Mail.
      Plenty of support
      Former players have spoken in support of Sven after his shock cancer diagnosis.
      Wayne Rooney took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and wrote: “Sad news this morning. Thoughts are with Sven Goran-Eriksson and his family.
      “A brilliant coach and a special person. Loved and respected by everyone. We’re all with you Sven, keep fighting.”
      Ex-player Trevor Sinclair posted: “Upsetting to read my old boss Sven Goran-Eriksson has terminal cancer!
      “An absolute gentleman & excellent coach that I am eternally grateful to, as I earned all my England caps under him. I wish him love & comfort during his final battle.”
      While fans have united to wish Sven the best.
      Wayne Rooney has thrown his support behind Eriksson after his sad cancer revealCredit: AP
      Eriksson has revealed he has ‘at best’ a year to liveCredit: Reuters
      One shared: “Really sad news about Sven Goran Eriksson, I hope he finds the strength to fight as long as he can, as someone who cared for my grandad with terminal cancer it is the cruelest disease. Wishing him & his family the best.”
      A second added: “Cancer is just the most evil disease that take everything from not only the person suffering but everyone who loves them.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      “Wishing Sven Goran Eriksson the best possible in his health & hope that he has the best support around him to help him fight it.”
      We, at SunSport, echo those thoughts. More

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      in Soccer

      Alex Scott & Jess Glynn are ‘getting serious’ but one’s got a ‘rebellious side’, says body language expert

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      WHILE the beginning of their relationship may have been underwraps, but Alex Scott and Jess Glynne have been packing on the PDA since making their relationship official in November.Since then the BBC presenter and Brit Award-nominated pop star’s relationship has gone from strength to strength and this month they took the next stepas they jetted off on their first couple’s holiday to Mexico.
      Alex Scott and Jess Glynne have been official since NovemberCredit: Rex
      The video Alex shared of their moped ride displays ‘strong affection’ according to body language expert Judi JamesCredit: instagram
      Judi James says that the couple’s gestures suggest that their relationship is authenticCredit: instagram
      Former Lioness Alex shared a glimpse into their romantic getaway on Instagram earlier this week sharing a selection of sun-soaked snaps as well as a video of the pair riding around on a moped.
      And according to body language expert Judi James the holiday video suggests the pair are getting serious.
      TRUST & AFFECTION
      Speaking exclusively to Fabulous, Judi says: “Alex and Jess’s body language here shows high levels of trust between them plus the powerful trait of each intensifying and complimenting the happiness and the fun of the other. 
      “Jess seems to balance a more serious side to Alex by bringing signals of rebellion and spontaneity that might border on the reckless, while Alex appears to produce signals of strong affection and empathy in Jess.”
      MIRRORED AFFECTION
       “Their body language is full of subliminal mirroring, even in this short clip,” Judi adds.
      “When Alex turns her head away from Jess they both produce almost identical smiles to suggest like-minded thinking and emotions and when Alex turns to look back at Jess both of them get the rounded cheeks that suggest authentic happiness.”
       EMOTIONAL GENEROSITY
      “Alex’s eyes seem to gleam here, but as Jess prompts an open-mouthed laugh from Alex there are clues in the way that Jess then gazes at Alex’s face that she is made happy by prompting that laugh and watching the results, suggesting emotional generosity,” Judi explains.
      “Jess licks her lips as Alex looks away but then she performs the big tongue-poke gesture to the camera to show off her more rebellious side after the cute moment of subtle emotional reveal with Alex.”
      Most read in Football
      The video captures the couple’s interaction on a moped ride during their fun-filled holiday.
      In the video, Scott says: “You know what we are? Brits abroad.”
      Glynne, 34, laughed and replied: “Brits abroad with chin straps.”
      A beaming Scott then added: “Safety first.”
      Glynne said: “Mexico, I’m ready,” before the traffic began to move and Scott set off.
      The couple sparked dating rumours earlier this year when they were spotted at Wimbledon together before attending an awards show.
      Their relationship was later confirmed with a public kiss and they have been inseparable ever since, with both seen at BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.
      However, there have been a variety of clues that they were dating one another.
      As far back as May, they were snapped at an event called Advertising Week Europe.
      A few months later, the pair were spotted side-by-side watching Wimbledon.
      They wore matching white ensembles as they cheered on England’s Katie Boulter against Daria Saville. Their outfit choice suggested they were already in sync.
      Right before Scott took on her presenting duties at the Women’s World Cup, the pair enjoyed a pub lunch together in North West London.
      Alex and Jess enjoyed pints at the time and appeared in high spirits as they drank and chatted.
      That same month, in August, the famous two both attended a Coco Der Mer party.
      Alex looked stunning as she donned a black top and her hair slicked back at the collection launch.
      Jess was also in attendance and oozed glam in a black leather top, with the songstress posing next to Alex for photos at the event hosted by Helena Christensen and Charli Howard. Matching dress code once again.
      The pair’s relationship was confirmed when they were spotted sharing a kiss in November ending all speculation.
      Work commitments meant Alex and Jess were a ‘slow burn’. Their romance was formed organically over time.
      A friend told The Sun: “Alex and Jess have been a slow burn and they didn’t want to rush things or go public too soon.
      “But they’re officially an item now and seem really happy. They are both strong, independent women with a shared passion and respect of their respective careers, supporting one another from the sidelines.
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      “It’s still early days for them, but they’ve met one another’s mates and everyone is super-happy for them.”
      The couple have been enjoying a sun-soaked holiday in MexicoCredit: @alexscott2
      Alex Scott has been sharing their holiday snaps with her Instagram followersCredit: @alexscott2 More

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      in Soccer

      What happened to the 16 former Sir Alex Ferguson players who went on to become managers including Carabao Cup hero

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      SIR ALEX FERGUSON’S 26-year tenure of Manchester United made him one of the greatest managers of all time.The Scot racked up a stunning 13 Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues, five FA Cups and four League Cups.
      Sir Alex Ferguson has many disciples in the gameCredit: Getty
      So it’s no wonder that his leadership inspired many of his former players to go into management.
      Michael Carrick is the latest of his ex-players to catch the eye in the dugout as Middlesbrough boss.
      His side are just one match from Wembley after a 1-0 win over Chelsea in their Carabao Cup semi-final first leg on Tuesday.
      Here’s we take a look at those who tried to following in his footsteps – to varying degrees of success…
      READ MORE ON MAN UTD
      Wayne Rooney
      Wayne Rooney was sacked by Birmingham earlier this monthCredit: Getty
      MANCHESTER UNITED’s all time record goalscorer is currently out of work after his disastrous spell with Birmingham.
      He was controversially given the job in October when the club’s new American owners sacked John Eustace despite being in the play-off places.
      However, after winning just two of 15 matches in charge, and the Blues dropping to 20th, Rooney was sacked following the New Year’s Day loss to Leeds.
      Michael Carrick
      While Michael Carrick is enjoying cup success at MiddlesbroughCredit: Getty
      ANOTHER one of Fergie’s disciples managing in the Championship at Middlesbrough – Carrick is known for his brand of attacking football.
      Most read in Football
      He narrowly missed out on guiding Middlesbrough to the Premier League last season when he took them to the play-offs despite the club being 21st when he took over in late October.
      This season, he has overseen a fairytale Carabao Cup run that has left Boro on the brink of a first final in 20 years.
      His side take a 1-0 advantage to Stamford Bridge for the second leg on January 23 as they eye a place at Wembley next month.
      Ruud van Nistelrooy
      Van Nistelrooy is out of work despite a successful spell as PSV managerCredit: Getty
      VAN NISTELROOY had an excellent spell in charge of PSV last season, guiding them to a Dutch Cup victory and finishing second in the league.
      But he resigned in the summer, citing a lack of support from the board over transfers.
      Prior to that he’d worked as an assistant for the Dutch national team having retired from playing back in 2012.
      Gabriel Heinze
      Heinze most recently managed Newell’s Old BoysCredit: AFP
      THE former left-back is something of a cult legend on the United terraces.
      He was most recently the manager of Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina, where he started his career and has previously managed in the MLS for Atlanta United.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
      Solskjaer hasn’t worked since his spell in charge of UnitedCredit: Getty
      ENJOYED three years in charge of United from 2018 until 2021 when he was sacked following a poor run of form.
      Guided United to a Europa League final as well as a second placed finish – their joint highest finish in the league since Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
      History is beginning to look back more kindly on Solskjaer’s tenure given the club’s current struggles under Erik ten Hag.
      Gary Neville
      Neville had an ill-fated spell in charge of ValenciaCredit: Getty
      A STALWART of Fergue’s defence, Neville’s foray into management was less fruitful.
      He won just three of his sixteen league games after surprisingly being made Valencia manager in the 2015-16 season.
      He made a rapid return to punditry following his dismissal.
      Phil Neville
      Phil Neville is back in management at Portland TimbersCredit: Twitter @SkySportsNews
      HAD a semi-successful spell in charge of England’s women team between 2018 and 2021 which ended in dismissal following a run of seven defeats in 11 games.
      His successor Sarina Wiegman took the side to Euro 2022 glory and the 2023 World Cup final.
      Was sacked by David Beckham’s Inter Miami in June but now has another MLS management role as the coach of the Portland Timbers.
      Ryan Giggs
      Giggs is currently out of managementCredit: Reuters
      HAD a spell as player-manager of Manchester United following David Moyes’ dismissal in 2014.
      Took over Wales in 2018 but stepped down in June 2022 after he faced trial over allegations of using controlling behaviour and assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
      Giggs was cleared of domestic abuse allegations.
      He was also cleared of attacking her sister Emma Greville on the same date and controlling or coercive behaviour against Kate over a three-year period.
      The 50-year-old was recently linked with the vacant Salford job before Karl Robinson’s appointment as manager.
      David Healy
      Healy has found success at LinfieldCredit: Pacemaker
      MADE just one league appearance under Fergie after coming through the academy.
      Healy has won five Northern Irish championships and two Northern Irish cups with Linfield.
      Michael Appleton
      Appleton is the current manager of CharltonCredit: Getty
      APPLETON came through the United academy and was limited to cup appearances for the Red Devils between 1994 and 1997.
      He is currently in charge of Charlton Athletic in League One.
      Has also enjoyed spells at Portsmouth, Blackpool, Blackburn, Oxford, Leicester and Lincoln.
      Mark Robins
      Robins narrowly missed out on Premier League promotion last seasonCredit: PA
      ROBINS is widely credited with the goal that saved Fergie’s job in a 1-0 FA Cup victory over Nottingham Forest in 1990.
      Led Coventry to the brink of the Premier League last season, where they lost in the play-off final to Luton on penalties.
      Also been in charge of Rotherham, Barnsley, Huddersfield and Scunthorpe.
      Laurent Blanc
      Blanc recently lost his job as Lyon managerCredit: Getty
      ARRIVED as a 35-year old veteran at United in 2001 having won the World Cup and Euros with France.
      Had a decent start to life as a manager with spells in charge of France and PSG, winning the league three times with the latter.
      But the manager has lost his way recently, and was most recently sacked by Lyon in September.
      Mark Hughes
      Mark Hughes was sacked by Bradford in OctoberCredit: Alamy
      A STALWART of mid-2000s Barclays, Hughes enjoyed good spells in charge of Wales, Blackburn and Fulham.
      He was Manchester City boss in 2008 when the club were taken over by Sheikh Mansour but was dispatched soon after.
      His career has dwindled over the last decade and he was most recently sacked by League Two Bradford City.
      Steve Bruce
      Bruce wants the Ireland jobCredit: PA
      ANOTHER manager who suffered at the hands of a takeover – Bruce was sacked by Newcastle shortly after they were bought by Saudi Arabia.
      An unhappy period as West Brom manager followed on from that.
      Has gone on record saying he would be interested in taking the Ireland job.
      Darren Ferguson
      Ferguson is in his fourth stint as Peterborough managerCredit: Getty
      FOLLOWED his father’s footsteps into management after spending four years in the United first-team.
      Currently on his fourth stint as Peterborough manager.
      Read more on The Sun
      Jaap Stam
      Jaap Stam is currently out of workCredit: Alamy
      CURRENTLY out of work after most recently managing Cincinnati in the MLS in 2021.
      The former defensive colossus, who famously had a huge fall-out with Fergie and was sold to Lazio, previously managed Reading in the Championship. More

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      OnlyFans and football star Madelene Wright stuns in low-cut top as followers hail her as ‘absolutely incredible’

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      MADELENE WRIGHT must be dreaming of racking up goals as fast as she does compliments after a gushing response to her new crop-top shots.Fans called the Leyton Orient footballer and OnlyFans star the “cutest angel” and a “beautiful princess”.
      Madelene Wright was described as ‘gorgeous’ in these picsCredit: https://www.instagram.com/madelene_wright/
      Madelene’s new images drew more than 5,000 likes in the first five hoursCredit: https://www.instagram.com/madelene_wright/
      The footballer is posing more indoors now that’s it’s got chillyCredit: INSTAGRAM @madelene_wright
      Madelene can reflect on growing success onlineCredit: INSTAGRAM @madelene_wright
      Madelene, 25, labelled herself “sweet as honey” as she posed in a mini-skirt and high heels.
      And her 331,000 Instagram followers made a bee-line for the “like” button – at a rate of more than one thousand an hour.
      Praise came in from far and wide, including: “Without a doubt, she is very pretty, a top model, greetings from Chile.”
      Typical verdicts sandwiched between declarations of love for the ex-Charlton ace were: “Absolutely incredible” and “You’re just amazing Maddie”.
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      The model remains a sizzling hit online – after scorching back into action on the pitch.
      Charlton sacked her in December 2020 over X-rated content on Snapchat.
      Madelene finally launched a playing comeback last September with Orient.
      And on her debut she took just nine minutes after coming off the bench to net a brilliant goal.
      Most read in Football
      Madelene’s magical moment clinched a 4-2 FA Cup victory over Cheshunt.
      Since then she’s continued to blend football with her desire to keep earning big from exotic images online.
      The influencer believes she’s picked up more than £500,000, mainly from OnlyFans.
      Inside Madelene’s life as influencer, footballer and OnlyFans star…
      She has a huge following across social mediaCredit: Instagram @madelene_wright
      The Orient player lives a glamorous lifestyle
      She often wows her fans with raunchy picturesCredit: Instagram
      She celebrated her 25th birthday last SeptemberCredit: Instagram / @madelene_wright
      The football also has an OnlyFans accountCredit: Instagram / @madelene_wright
      She claimed to have made over £500,000 from the platformCredit: Instagram @madelene_wright
      She often dresses in revealing outfitsCredit: Instagram
      The footballer has recently signed for Leyton OrientCredit: Instagram/@madelene_wright
      Madelene used to play for CharltonCredit: Instagram @Madelene_Wright
      She has continued her OnlyFansCredit: twitter @MaddieMadelene More