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      in Soccer

      ‘Criticism is par for the course’ – Todd Boehly breaks silence with defiant statement after Chelsea fans’ protest

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      CHELSEA owner Todd Boehly vowed he cannot afford to be waylaid by fan protests at Stamford Bridge.Blues boss Boehly was in the firing line along with boss Enzo Maresca in a public show of supporter unrest before Tuesday’s win over Southampton.Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly has spoken out following protestsCredit: PAFans railed against the Americans’ ownership ahead of a win over SouthamptonCredit: EPABut American Boehly, who will celebrate three years in charge at SW6 in the summer, launched a strong defence of his reign as he insisted he still believes he can oversee a Chelsea “dynasty” of success.And if that means ignoring the complaint of the fans, then that is what he will have to do.Boehly said: “The fans are the lifeblood of any sports team. “You realise how important the team is to them and how important the fans are to the team. It’s hugely important. READ MORE ON CHELSEA”But the fact is that people say different things, change their minds all the time.”The criticism is just par for the course. The sooner you learn you won’t keep all the people happy all the time that brings freedom.”So you don’t have to live with their words. You can’t turn left and then right every three minutes, which is some of the advice we get, if you boil it down.”Boehly, speaking at the FT Business of Football Summit, has come under pressure for the state of Maresca’s squad, with fans bemoaning the lack of a genuine striking option in the absence of injured Nicolas Jackson.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut the US businessman, who also owns the World Series champions LA Dodgers baseball side in California, dismissed those frustrations with a withering put-down – as he publicly explained the club’s controversial transfer strategy.Chelsea’s decision to offer new signings contracts of up to eight years saw Uefa and Prem chiefs forced to draw up new rules to ensure transfer deals for signings can now only be “amortised” over five years for FFP purposes.Inside Chelsea’s new £1.6BILLION stadium plans with Stamford Bridge project set to rival Tottenham’sUkrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk’s potential £88m arrival on an eight and a half year deal looked a mistake even before he was left facing a lengthy drugs ban.While eyebrows were raised over the contracts for Wesley Fofana, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo and others.He insisted: “Strikers are hard to find. You can’t get one from the grocery store. “It’s an amazing skillset and you have to have a fantastic mentality.The criticism is just par for the course. The sooner you learn you won’t keep all the people happy all the time that brings freedom.Todd Boehly”The most misunderstood thing is that we’re thinking about it measured in years, not months. “You have to think both short and long-term. We’re focused on a combination of both and seeking the best possible way to execute that. It’s a balancing act to figure that out.”You have to have a plan and exercise it, accept that things are not linear and that the thing that matters is that the trend is in the right direction.”Yes, it’s been a steep learning curve. We’ve been here for less than three years and that’s been a whirling dervish of activity. Nothing is a straight line, ever and sport is so humbling.Chelsea ratings vs Southampton as Cole Palmer STILL can’t score or assist… and gets a horror grade”If you look at contracts in football, a seven year contract is really a five-year contract. “The reality that 95 per cent of the time by then you have to make a decision or you’ll shoot yourself in the foot”At that point, you either agree an extension with the player or that greener pastures are out there for both sides.”If you deny that you are kidding yourself.”We felt the longer contracts meant we could amortoise but it was also about how we put together a team with the ability to stay together.”Teams that are dynasties over the years had superstar captains that were able to lead. But how do you find those superstar captains?”And in football, the market is obviously across multiple countries – so you’re thinking France, Germany, Brazil, Latin America – basically everywhere around the world.”Strikers are hard to find. You can’t get one from the grocery store.Todd BoehlyBoehly declined to expand on his strained relationship with co-owner Behdad Eghbali other than saying: “We’ve agreed on a strategy and the way forward and stuff’s getting done.”That includes, longer term, “building a self-sustaining, very competitive club, figuring how to increase revenues” – in other words a likely new home away from the Bridge.But while he admits he is still coming to terms with a very different sports world from the one he grew up with in the US, Boehly suggested Prem club chiefs will have to be prepared to sacrifice some of their sacred cows to really monetise their product.Sky have been the Prem’s main broadcaster since its inception more than 30 years ago, with a new four-year deal – alongside a smaller one for TNT Sports – beginning next season.But Boehly claims the idea of selling TV broadcast rights territory by territory is out of date – and that Prem bosses should be looking for one mega-money global deal with a streaming giant like Netflix, Amazon Prime or Apple.He said: “The Premier League is one of the few truly global properties. “It has unbelievable content with more people engaged than anyone else in the world.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’m not saying that bundling all the rights to package them globally is the direct answer at this minute but that’s where we are headed. “The owners have to be willing to take that risk.” More

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      in Soccer

      I experienced the poshest, most exclusive stand in Premier League and it was like no other – just ignore the football

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      IT’S the poshest, most exclusive and expensive stand in the Premier League.Bring your Speedos for a half-time dip in an open-air swimming pool, indulge your taste buds with a spot of lobster in a high-class restaurant, enjoy a drink on a roof-top bar overlooking the Thames.Dave Kidd visited Fulham’s new exclusive standThe Sun’s Chief Sports Writer paid £105 for his ticket with his son’s priced at £85 More

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      in Motorsport

      Brad Pitt ‘clawed at window’ in terror and ‘begged to get out’ of F1 car driven by Lewis Hamilton

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      LEWIS Hamilton left Hollywood actor Brad Pitt fearing for his life while helping to produce a new F1 film. Pitt reportedly “clawed at the window” and “begged to get out of Hamilton’s vehicle” when the pair went for a drive around an LA track.Lewis Hamilton helped Hollywood actor Brad Pitt with his new F1 filmHamilton left Pitt frightened while driving around a track near LAHamilton has been working as a consultant to Pitt and his colleagues, who have been shooting a racing-themed movie – aptly called ‘F1’.The Brit has provided the directors and writers with all sorts of knowledge about what happens inside an F1 car, on the track, and in the pit lanes.The movie’s director, Joseph Kosinski, offered an insight into Hamilton’s influence in an interview with Time Magazine.He hilariously revealed that the seven-time world champion gave two-time Academy Award winner Pitt the fright of his life.READ MORE F1 NEWSKosinski said: “Lewis gave Brad the scare of a lifetime in a lap.”Brad was clawing at the windows, begging to get out.” Hamilton was also part of the casting process and offered instructive feedback for the film.Movie producer Joseph Bruckheimer said: “Hamilton’s notes were so detailed.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”‘When you’re going into that next turn, you have the car in second gear, it should be in third. I can hear it. I can hear the sound of it.'”The film, which comes out in June could deliver a jolt to the sport’s popularity, especially in the US.Lewis Hamilton models new Ferrari gear but fans notice ‘hideous’ issue Pitt plays the role of F1 driver Sonny Hayes and was spotted in Las Vegas filming a new scene at the track last year.The legendary actor will play a character who finds himself back in action when he returns to F1 to take on the sport’s top competition.Hamilton told Sports Illustrated last year: “We [Hamilton and Pitt] went to a track in LA.”I took him out and sat in the passenger seat, and he drove. I used to be a driving coach when I was younger.”It was a way of making some money part-time whilst I was racing. So I’ve sat with God knows how many non-racing drivers. “You can tell immediately the good ones, the bad ones. Straight away, he was on it. You could tell he has it—it’s in his DNA. “He’s just not been able to hone in on it like we have, but he’s got big potential.”Hamilton, 40, will race for the iconic Italian team for the 2025 and 2026 seasons.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Brit will be working to end Ferrari’s agony, while breaking the individual title record he shares with Michael Schumacher.The 2025 F1 season kicks off in Australia on March 16.F1 2025 gridHere are the confirmed driver line ups for the F1 2025 season:Red Bull: Max Verstappen and Liam LawsonFerrari: Charles Leclerc and Lewis HamiltonMercedes: George Russell and Kimi AntonelliMcLaren: Lando Norris and Oscar PiastriAston Martin: Fernando Alonso and Lance StrollWilliams: Alex Albon and Carlos SainzSauber: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel BortoletoAlpine: Pierre Gasly and Jack DoohanRB: Yuki Tsunoda and Isack HadjarHaas: Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon More

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      in Boxing

      Meet Oscar de la Lawyer, UK’s first boxer and solicitor who’s named after ring icon and wows clients with his black eyes

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      OSCAR McCRACKEN is the country’s first solicitor by day and fighter by night – and the owner of arguably boxing’s greatest nickname.The 25-year-old’s uncle Rob used to train Anthony Joshua and still works as Team GB’s head amateur coach.Oscar McCracken is a solicitor by day and fighter by nightCredit: Blanche Canvas Official
      He was actually named after boxing legend Oscar de la HoyaHis boxing nickname is amazingly Oscar de la LawyerCredit: Blanche Canvas Official
      His father Spencer was also a welterweight fighter – so it was only a matter of time till his son, Oscar, entered the family business. But Oscar tells us: “My dad never wanted me to box.” So instead he played football, captaining his county and even having trials with Birmingham City – his boyhood club.But Oscar was always in the boxing gym – from as far back as he can remember – sparring pro fighters by his teenage years.READ MORE SPORTBy his 18th birthday, Oscar decided he too wanted to be a boxer, like his uncle, dad and brother Spencer Jr before him.But his old man – who had 19 wins, four losses and one draw – had just one rule – study for another career at the same time. So Oscar enrolled into the University of Worcester and achieved a First Class LLB Law with Honours degree in 2022. He was also gearing up for his pro debut when his dad came up with quite possibly boxing’s most ingenious monikerMost read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt all started when Oscar travelled to the Cayman Islands to help corner Matt Windle – a former Commonwealth champion.An argument broke out with a promoter when a cocksure lawyer – who thought he could talk his way out of the dispute – chimed in. Usyk spotted ‘giving Anthony Joshua tips on how to beat Tyson Fury’ in ringside footage at Beterbiev vs Bivol 2.mp4But he was not the only man of the law in the building that day. Oscar said: “An issue cropped up between the promoter and a couple of others. “Then a lawyer came in and thought he was going to just start telling everybody what was what. “But obviously he didn’t know that I’ve got a legal background as well, so we ended up in a bit of an argument – well, discussion.“And after it was fully rectified after quite an intense hour or so. My dad just said, ‘See, I told you Oscar de la Lawyer would sort it.’“The whole room just went up, all the fighters, all the managers, promoters everything, and I thought, ‘Oh, you’ve just thought of the name.’ It’s perfect.” Oscar was actually named after American great De La Hoya too – such was his dad’s love for the Golden Boy. He said: “My dad was a big fan of him back in the day, so that’s what I’m named after.’I didn’t expect any of this’“So it’s just mad how it’s come around now that it just fits perfectly off Oscar de la Hoya, but I can’t believe how much it’s picked.”I didn’t expect any of this.”His dad revealed the amazing nickname to millions on social media – and it also received an extra push thanks to the People’s Paper.Oscar revealed: “The Sun actually did an article! My phone was going, I was playing football because I still play football – I play Saturdays. “I got off the pitch and my phone was going insane. I was like, what’s going on there? ‘Have you seen in this? You’re in The Sun! “I didn’t know anything about this. And from then on it’s just been all about the name, yeah, people love it.” Oscar is a year away from becoming a fully-qualified solicitor and is currently working in the corporate and commercial sector.But Oscar wants to one day mix his two passions to protect young up-and-coming fighters from boxing’s shady, fame-hungry characters.McCracken is a trainee solicitorCredit: Blanche Canvas Official
      And he is also 3-0 as a boxerCredit: Blanche Canvas Official
      McCracken was named after American legend Oscar de la HoyaCredit: Getty Images – GettyHe said: “Would you want to go and get a manager who’s sticking his face on TV every five seconds, never boxed a day in his life? “But you know, he gets on with the big promoters because he’s got a big mouth, but he can’t guide you.“He’d put you in the wrong fights. That’s why so many prospects are getting beat now. “Or would you want to go with a manager who one had the balls to fight? “I don’t need to fight, but I’ve done it myself because I’ve got respect for fighters and I know how hard it is, and you can see that I’ve done that as well.”Oscar – who welcomed baby son Arthur into the world in November – lives next door to dad and coach Spencer. He is up by 6am for his runs, in the office by 9am, then back into the gym by the evening for more exhausting training. Oscar said: “Sometimes I get in there, my dad’s got like two lads from a different gym waiting to spar me. I didn’t even know I’d be sparring. I’ve had a couple of like little marks and black eyes and that and gone in the office and everyone’s had a look, but what do you expect it’s boxing?“I’m walking into a gym, I could be absolutely knackered and then I’ve got two people waiting. They’re thinking, ‘I don’t care about the law thing.’ “They’re thinking, ‘I’ve got a McCracken here I can smash up and I can go and tell everybody I’ve battered one.’“So then it’s about you’ve got to find the dog in you then of getting through, getting through the session and seeing how much you want it.“If I didn’t want it, there’s no way I would have gotten to my third fight because of how hard it is.” Oscar only just begins winding down by 8.30pm when he eats dinner and puts his son to bed – but it’s now baby Arthur who inspires his long hard days. He said: “Before I had my son, it was all about history but now, I want to lead by example. “I want him to grow up and think, ‘Bloody hell, my dad became a lawyer, which was hard enough from being from a proper working class background anyway, and then being a pro boxer at the same time.’’Like any boxer, Oscar wears his battle scars as a badge of honour – and his clients are big fans.McCracken with brother and trainer Spencer JrCredit: Blanche Canvas Official
      McCracken turned pro without amateur experienceCredit: Blanche Canvas Official
      Oscar’s uncle Rob formerly trained Anthony JoshuaCredit: Getty Images – GettyHe said: “The firm that I’m with now are fully behind me and clients love it as well.“It’s a talking point, isn’t it? ‘Do you know your solicitor’s also a pro boxer? Then, they’re Googling you and you’re coming up and everything – they love it.“Obviously, I’ve had a couple of like little marks and black eyes and that and gone in the office and everyone’s had a look, but what do you expect, it’s boxing?”Oscar – like his family before him – does not want his son to be a boxer – but if history is anything to go by it will be hard to stop. He laughed: “I hope he don’t box. But listen, it’s like an illness in this family.“You just end up getting sucked into it somehow or the other, and people expect you to be able to fight as well.”Oscar has been rubbing shoulders with Britain’s best since he can remember with uncle Rob having coached Joshua and Carl Froch among others.Whatever you do today, make sure you get a picture with him because he’s gonna be a heavyweight world champion, 100 per cent. He remembers heading up to Team GB’s Sheffield training HQ to watch Carl Froch spar Tony Bellew in 2011.It was there he met a hulking 6ft 6in super-heavyweight known as AJ – who was a year away from winning Olympic gold.Oscar said: “Robbie was like, ‘Mate, whatever you do today, make sure you get a picture with him because he’s gonna be a heavyweight world champion 100 per cent. “I was like, Really?’ He was one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. He was super friendly, put his arm around you, just so down to earth and humble.“Obviously he hadn’t achieved anything then in terms of what he’s done now, but I took a picture with Joshua and yeah, I’ve been to virtually all his fights.”Oscar is now 3-0 having most recently beat Shane Smith and now looks ahead to another year juggling life as a lawyer by day and being a boxer by night.He said: “Three fights in my first year, I think that’s quite good considering how much I’ve got going on.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’ll sit down with my dad and and see what he says and we’ll start putting a bit of a bit of a plan together. “There’s definitely scope to go and do something, but obviously it’s just about managing it correctly and not taking it on too much because obviously I’ve got a lot, a hell of a lot going on in my life, but I’m committed to boxing 100 per cent.” McCracken welcomed baby son Arthur into the world in NovemberCredit: @mccracken1 More

    • 238 Shares169 Views

      in Boxing

      Inside Conor Benn’s amazing life, from epic car collection to ‘words’ with Neymar and loving wife of seven years

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      BRACE yourself for a fierce battle when Conor Benn and Chris Eubank Jr finally take each other on.Already there’s been bad blood – with the pair meeting face-to-face at a press conference and coming to blows.Conor Benn boasts an epic lifestyle outside of boxingBenn has an amazing car collection, including a £260k Rolls-RoyceCredit: instagramBenn is also lucky in love with wife of seven years, VictoriaCredit: INSTAGRAM/CONOR BENNEubank Jr slapped Benn’s face with an egg and called him a “dirty little omelette” as they brawled on stage in Manchester.Benn’s rival was, of course, referencing The Destroyer’s claim that he failed a drug test because of excessive egg intake.Outside the ring, Benn lives a lifestyle to envy.His epic car collection is spearheaded by a £260,000 Rolls-Royce Wraith.Read more boxing newsWhile, he amusingly shared ‘words’ with footballer Neymar, and flies in private jets.He’s also winning in his personal life – married to children’s emotional well-being author Victoria.SunSport takes a look at Benn’s life of luxury.Car collectionBack in 2022, the same year he was banned from boxing for failing two drugs tests conducted by the VADA, Benn was estimated to be worth around £1.5million.Most read in BoxingOver the years, he has splashed his cash on an amazing set of motors, including his pride and joy – a Rolls-Royce Wraith worth £260,000.After beating former WBO world champion Chris Algieri, he was spotted with a £125,000 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG wrapped in gold.Conor Benn pulled apart from Chris Eubank Jr after SLAP at Battle of Britain press conferenceAlso in 2022, Benn added a stunning £110,000 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S – copying his dad who bought a Porsche 911 in the 1990s.It has a personalised licence plate – ‘K013ENN’ – and Benn calls it his “weekend car.”Expect Benn to add to his fleet, if he’s victorious against Eubank Jr.Boxer Benn shows off his incredible Rolls-Royce worth £260kA gold-wrapped Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG worth £125k is part of Benn’s fleetBenn also splashed the cash on a beautiful Porsche 911Bringing Neymar into itBack in 2024, Benn entered the ring after Eubank Jr defeated Kamil Szeremeta.The pair went face-to-face as they vowed to settle their differences one day in the ring.Lurking behind them was Brazilian football legend, Neymar, who seemingly found the conversation hilarious.It threatened to escalate then, forcing security and the ex-Barcelona forward to break the pair up.As it turned out, Neymar was there in support of Eubank Jr.Afterwards, Benn revealed: “I’m a big fan of Neymar. He’s a GOAT.”I just said to him, ‘your boys getting a beating.'”Incredibly, Benn also dropped a bombshell claim at Tuesday’s presser that Eubank Jr owed Neymar a serious amount of money as a poker debt.Benn said: “He owes Neymar four million quid – that’s why he’s taken this fight. So don’t talk s***.Neymar hung out with Benn at his pal Eubank Jr’s fight last yearCredit: instagram @conorbennofficialBenn had words with Neymar – saying was going to beat up Eubank JrCredit: instagram @conorbennofficialNeymar was sandwiched between Eubank Jr and Benn last NovemberCredit: Gettyread more sport features”I said he owes Neymar four million quid have you not heard? So don’t come talk to me about bollocks. This is why you have taken this fight.”And you are about to get rendered unconscious for it. You’re money hungry that’s the only reason.” Family lifeBenn has been lucky in love with wife, Victoria.The pair began dating in 2017, before walking down the aisle a year later in a private ceremony.She is an author, having penned the book Feeling It All which helps kids cope with their emotions.She also shares big brand deals on her Instagram page, where she has over 26,000 followers.Fans may also recognise her from her YouTube channel which has just over 1000 followers.In her videos, she take viewers behind the scenes of her boxing champion husband’s career.In her bio, she references her famous husband with the line “Married to CB”.Victoria and Conor welcomed their first child together in 2021, when Victoria gave birth to Eli.Victoria Benn met the boxer in 2017 and they married a year laterCredit: PAConor and Victoria pose with son EliCredit: INSTAGRAM/CONOR BENNA second son the couple called Idony was born last yearGlam Victoria is a children’s book authorConor admitted that he phoned his mum afterwards to ask her for permission to get a face tattoo honouring his son.His mum agreed and Conor get “Eli Clay” tattooed by his ear.Last year, the happy couple welcomed their second daughter they called Idony.Flying privateWhen Eddie Hearn’s your promoter, you can expect to live the high-life.Should Benn need to travel with Hearn and his pals for business trips, he’ll fly private.The son of legend Nigel showed off a private jet that took him and a crew to Philadelphia for a DAZN fight night.They then headed to Miami on the US trip.Benn enjoys the use of a private jet when he’s workingCredit: instagram @conorbennofficialBenn was joined by Eddie Hearn on board flights to Philadelphia and MiamiCredit: instagram @conorbennofficialHe captioned the snap: “PHILLY nights with the team, now on to MIA.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBack home the photos of his trip left a sour tase in wife Victoria’s mouth who was left at home with the kids.Amusingly, she commented on the snap: “Meanwhile, Idony just threw up on me 🤣”. More

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      in Soccer

      How Jesse Lingard has bounced back with move to South Korea by embracing Asian culture and releasing a rap song

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      MANY British footballers keep to themselves and refuse to embrace local culture when they move abroad.But not Jesse Lingard. The former Man Utd midfielder was released by Nottingham Forest in 2023, after an underwhelming time at the City Ground.Jesse Lingard is living his best life in South Korea playing for FC SeoulCredit: RexEx-Man Utd star Lingard shares his culinary experiences like eating Korean BBQ onlineCredit: InstagramBy embracing local culture, Lingard has made himself a fan favouriteCredit: InstagramHe was stuck in a football free agent’s abyss, until he surprisingly moved to South Korean side FC Seoul in February 2024 on a two-year deal – taking a huge pay cut on £17,500-per-week. At Forest, he was was earning a whopping £180,000-per-week.Although it was a tough start professionally, with coach Kim Gi-dong publicly criticising him for his fitness and a subsequent knee injury ruling him of action early on in his career, he soon won over the fans.However, it isn’t just Lingard’s football skills that have scored him admirers in The Land of Han.The midfielder has immersed himself in Asian culture – not just indulging in Korean BBQ – but also releasing music.read more football newsWhile, his epic social media posts – in partnership with CGI firm Vertex – have made him and the K League appear cool, as well as drawn millions of eyes through social media to his experience.Asian football expert and author John Duerden has seen first hand the impact Lingard has had from his home in Seoul.He told SunSport: “Not many foreign players make the national news in South Korea for actions on and off the pitch but Jesse Lingard has not been any normal signing.”For a start, he is the biggest name import to play in the 42-year-old K League and, therefore, has had more expectations and pressure than others.Most read in Football”In the early days, it looked as if it wasn’t going to happen at FC Seoul, one of the country’s big clubs that has struggled a little in recent years.Watch Jesse Lingard score screamer as former Man Utd star proves he’s still got it in South Korean league “He took time to settle, leading to a rebuke, of sorts, from the coach but most don’t appreciate how big a cultural difference there is between South Korea and the UK both on and off the pitch.”Just take the weather, absolutely freezing in winter and very hot and very humid in the summer and then there is the rainy season.”Culture clubLingard adapted. After all, he would have been use to a rainy day or two in Manchester, so that wouldn’t have hurt.But, he seemed particularly enamoured with the local culture and has brought cool to a country that is producing award-winning TV in shows like Squid Game.No sooner had he made the move to the Far East, he was sharing his dining experiences on Instagram to his nine million followers.Lingard then realised there was a market for a video diary of his career in South Korea, and he rebooted his YouTube channel last year.On there, and on his Instagram, he has shared his epic lifestyle. From cruising on a boat to making music and creating epic CGI clips.One of those clips dropped in December shows ‘J Lingz’ performing some kick ups, before volleying a ball into the sky towards a ribbon that drops a sheet to reveal a gold statue of his famous J-L hand celebration.Another sees the ex-Three Lions winger show off his dance moves, before Moonwalking out of shot.Before the end of the year, Lingard revealed his single KamsahamnidaA CGI viral video Lingard uploaded to Instagram in December has been watch 4.5 million timesIn another clip, Lingard can be seen showing off his dance movesread more sport featuresThe former has been liked almost 4.5 million times, while the latter has drawn almost 240,000 likes since it was uploaded in November.Lingard even found time to release his first rap single before the end of last year.Kamsahamnida, which means ‘thank you’ in Korean, was well received by his fans and is incredibly catchy.Duerden explained: “It is off the pitch though that Lingard has been different to any signing in the past.”His music single Kamsahamnida was a surprise but his CGI video, released in December, attracted hundreds of millions of clicks, went down very well in Korea and made national news.”Usual interactions with foreign players have usually not progressed much past questions such as ‘do you like kimchi?’ Or ‘how good is Son Heung-min?’ and comments about chopstick wielding competence. “This is not something that has happened in the K-League before, it is a competition that is solid but seen by many, at home and abroad, as lacking a little in the excitement and coolness stakes.”Officials at Seoul and at league headquarters were delighted. Lingard may not rival some of the megastars in Saudi Arabia in terms of talent and achievements, but he has brought a certain coolness and street cred that wasn’t really thought about when Seoul decided to try and sign him.”It helps that he is here at a time when there is huge global interest in Korean music, food, television, beauty products, fashion, technology and movies and getting involved in that culture is always going to go down well.”Too many foreign players stay in their bubbles and rarely experience, let alone embrace, the culture. Lingard has shown what can be done. Like anywhere, the more you put in, the more you get out.”Lingard has been credited with bringing cool to the K LeagueWhile on his YouTube channel, Lingard has shown he’s not afraid to try new experiencesPlaying in the K LeagueIn terms of his football, Lingard is clearly loving life on and off the pitch.After scoring his first goal of the season, with the K-League running from February to November, he performed FIVE goal celebrations in the 2-1 win over Anyang.Lingard’s popularity is bigger than ever, but it’s a tough league to adapt to.Duerden explained: “Few coaches speak English and they have historically tended to be quite conservative tactically, liking to counter-attack and players who work hard, run hard and listen well.”The league is of a good standard, physical and fast but you have to work for goals and games often only open up in the latter stages. “The average league attendance was 11,000 last season but with Lingard Seoul attracted over 27,000.”The K League does not have the same central place in Korean culture as the Premier League in England but those that go are often hugely passionate and will support their players through thick and thin, if they give their all on the pitch.Lingard arrived in Asia to much fan fare and took a pay cutCredit: APEx-England star Lingard suffered a set back when he required knee surgery last yearCredit: https://www.instagram.com/p/C57gyVmtuXw/?img_index=2Lingard scored his first goal of the season last weekendCredit: Rex”There is no doubt that Lingard has done this and his performances have improved. Being made captain in June and then officially getting the nod ahead of his second season was a reflection of that. Seoul coach Kim Gi-dong is not the type to hand out the armband on a whim.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The new season has started well with a goal in the first home game in front of 40,000 fans.  “It looks as if there is more to come.” More

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      in Soccer

      I was abandoned by my parents in an orphanage at two, now they ask me for money for life, says former Arsenal star

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      FORMER Arsenal striker Lucas Perez has opened up about his difficult upbringing and strained relationship with his parents.Perez kicked off his professional playing career with Rayo Vallecano in 2010 and went on to play across Europe with the likes of Karpaty Lviv and PAOK.Lucas Perez has revealed why his strained relationship with his parents contributed to his Deportivo exit last monthCredit: GettyPerez made 21 appearances for Arsenal after joining in 2016Credit: AFP AFP or Licensors AFP or LicensorsHe spent another year in Spain with Deportivo La Coruna before sealing a huge move to Arsenal, where he scored seven goals in 21 appearances.The striker then joined West Ham and spent another season in London before returning to his homeland with Alaves.Following short spells with Elche and Cadiz, Perez eventually found his way back to Deportivo.However, he was forced to leave last month due to personal reasons.Read More in FootballIn a recent interview with El Partidazo de Cope, Perez revealed that his strained relationship with his dad, who abandoned him as a child, was a key factor behind his shock exit.He also opened up about his difficult childhood and explained that both of his parents now demand money from him.The 36-year-old divulged: “I was raised by my grandparents, my father’s parents.”When I was two, my parents left me in an orphanage because they couldn’t or didn’t want to take care of me.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”This season, I received a complaint from my father demanding that I pay maintenance for the rest of his life.”From then on, I spent several months until I left Deportivo with a lot of stress and a lot of anxiety because I had to relive very difficult moments in my life.Mikel Arteta lays into Arsenal flops after defeat to West Ham derails Premier League title bid”When I signed for Arsenal, my mother also sent me a burofax demanding money… but she can’t claim it because she’s not listed in the joint custody.”My grandparents asked for custody and, later, my grandmother allowed my father to take over. I was lucky to have my grandparents, but they couldn’t last as long as they should have.”Discussing his recent exit from Deportivo and move to PSV Eindhoven, he continued: “I’m leaving now because the issue with my father continues. I’ve met him several times this Christmas and it’s not a pleasant experience.”Given that the situation at the club wasn’t right, because I didn’t feel valued or supported, I decided to be honest and tell them that I’m having a hard time stepping aside.”The club and I spoke… There were two games left to reach the 20-year mark with which I was going to renew and I didn’t want to.”Two days later, after saying that we were going to take a break, I received a letter from the club asking me to sign a written commitment with them.”I consider that they don’t know what Deportivo means to me and when there is doubt like that, the best thing to do is to step aside.”Perez also disputed claims that he left Deportivo for financial reasons, insisting he actually stepped away due to his personal situation.”What father doesn’t want to be close to his son? Obviously I want to be close, but if my job doesn’t allow it… I was already far away from him,” he added.”What happened is that they (the media) have echoed a lie and I am partly to blame for having allowed them to buy that lie. The person who released that information did so to hurt me.”Perez signed a short-term deal upon his arrival at PSV earlier this week.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe is set to remain at the club until June unless his contract is extended.But the striker will NOT be eligible to play against Arsenal in the Champions League round-of-16 because PSV are unable to add him to their already-submitted squad list.Perez signed for PSV earlier this weekCredit: Instagram / psv More

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      Josh Padley ready to quit day job as an electrician after fighting world champion Shakur Stevenson at four days’ notice

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      JOSH PADLEY has admitted he is ready to give up his day job after fighting lightweight world champion Shakur Stevenson.The Doncaster bruiser took on Stevenson at just four days’ notice after Floyd Schofield dropped out after being allegedly ‘poisoned’.Josh Padley took on lightweight world champion Shakur StevensonCredit: GettyHe is ready to go full-time in boxingCredit: GettyPadley, 29, may have lost the bout, but last nine rounds and earned plenty of plaudits for his performance.He has now insisted that he is ready to box full-time and give up his part-time job as an electrician.He had been managing the load by training alongside the part-time role.He had even been working on a construction site on the Tuesday morning before he got the call to see if he could fight StevensonREAD MORE ON SPORTHe told Sky Sports: “Luckily I am in a position now where I can probably pack that in and fully dedicate my life to boxing.”I’m grateful for that, thank you to [Turki Alalshikh] for giving me that opportunity, we’ll be back.”There’s more of that to come.”That was four days’ notice. Eight-week camp and I know I’ll be better.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSPadley was presented with a medal by the WBC after the fight with Stevenson.He joked: “Not quite the hardware I had in mind to come back with.I was meant to be doing DIY in Doncaster this weekend, now I’m on a world title fight – my boss isn’t best pleased”But the rebuild will be on and very good possibility of being a full-time athlete.”Padley also admitted that he left the ring after the defeat to Stevenson without any regrets.He added: “I would have loved to have got the win and there would have been some back story to it, but didn’t get it.”I tried my hardest, no regrets, I gave it everything I could but the body wasn’t conditioned to take them shots.”He made a name for himself after beating Alalshikh favourite Mark Chamberlain in September 2024.Stevenson spoke about the fight after being named the win and insisted he could have finished it earlier.He said: “I barely got touched. Yeah, I probably could have got the stoppage a little bit earlier, but there’s always going to be something to critique.”As long as I enjoyed what I did, that’s all that matters.”I was knocking out the ring rust. I fought in July. If I can stay active and stay locked in, I’m good.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He was supposed to come in here and give it his all, make sure he can make it to the 12th round.”That’s what he was trying to do. So, I succeeded at my job and he was trying to do his job.”Who is Josh Padley and what is his boxing record?Josh Padley is a British Lightweight boxer who has recently rose to fame after fans have found out that he is a part-time electrician.Before his most recent fight, Padley was seen fighting on small fight events against much lesser-known boxers, forcing the electrician to keep his part-time job for the much-needed income.His last fight held at Wembley Stadium truly put him on the map with a huge upset after beating Turki Alalshikh’s favourite fighter, Mark Chamberlain.Padley has been a professional boxer for just six years now and with a record of 15 wins and zero losses he now takes a huge step in his career as he takes on Shakur Stevenson for the WBC World Lightweight title.With a win on Saturday night, it would be one of the biggest upsets in boxing history and one of the greatest underdog stories we have seen in recent British boxing. More