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      in Boxing

      Ryan Garcia says his one-year-old son is already a champion in the making… and has his famous left hook

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      RYAN GARCIA says his one-year-old son is already a boxing champion in the making – having inherited his famous left hook. The father-of-three has two daughters, sharing Rylie with ex-girlfriend Catherine Gamez and Bela with his former wife Andrea Celina. Ryan Garcia with his son HenryCredit: InstagramGarcia, famed for his left hook, says his son is a naturalCredit: GettyAnd in December 2023, he welcomed his son Henry into the world with Andrea, who he remains close with as they parent together.The American superstar named his youngest after his dad – who introduced Garcia and brother Sean to boxing aged just seven.Henry still helps train and corner his sons – and Garcia will be there for his boy should he choose to enter the family business. He told SunSport: “If I see him really wanting it, I’ll have no other choice but to support him like my dad supported me, so I can’t take that away from him.READ MORE IN BOXING”If that’s in his heart, like it was in my heart, I gotta be like what my dad did for me. “I have a great example of what it means to believe in your son, so I think that I’m gonna just carry that forward to my son.”If he believes in himself, truly, I believe in him and I know all the ins and outs of of the game now, so it could be that much easier for him.”Despite baby Henry not turning two for another six months, he is already practising his boxing skills with his famous fighting father.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSGarcia revealed: “He already has the left hook though, which is crazy.”I’m not kidding. I do mitts and I didn’t even teach him that, I guess it’s in his blood.”Ryan Garcia opens up on failed drug test after having Devin Haney win stripped away from himGarcia, 26, returns to the ring on Friday night against former sparring rival Rolando Romero, 29, to headline an historic card in Times Square.It comes having served a 12-month ban for testing positive for ostarine – known to boost muscle growth – after fighting Devin Haney. Garcia had dropped Haney three times before winning a shock decision – only to have the victory overturned to a no-contest. He had returned clean tests with VADA in the build-up to the bout and his team blamed contemplated supplements for the positive result.But the positive tests were taken on the day of and 24 hours before the bout at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.Garcia, who was also fined nearly £1million, said: “At the end of the day, I know I didn’t cheat.”I’ll take the ban for a year and that keeps it moving fast. Everybody knows that I didn’t take it.”I know my team, we know we didn’t take anything, so honestly it doesn’t really matter to me at the end of the day.”People are gonna believe whatever they want to believe, they’re gonna believe I’m innocent, the large majority do believe that, so who cares?”I cannot be making those type of mistakes and I take responsibility and I’m ready to show them how great their daddy really is.Ryan Garcia Garcia suffered a public mental health breakdown both before and after his fight with Haney.He was even arrested last June and charged with one misdemeanour count of vandalism after causing £11,000 worth of damage in an LA hotel room.But thankfully, Garcia turned it around and has got back on track both mentally and physically after fearing he could lose his children. He said: “I mean, as a father you’ve always got to be thinking about what examples you’re giving to your children.”And I think as a mature man, you have to realise your mistakes and make changes, no matter how they come about.”And I think that’s important. I love my kids and I love my family and making sure that I’m a great example for them is a huge priority for me.”So, I cannot be making those type of mistakes and I take responsibility and I’m ready to show them how great their daddy really is.”Garcia tops the stunning three-fight card outside New York’s famous Times Square. Rival Haney, 26, also returns after a year lay-off to face Jose Ramriez, 32, with a rematch against Garcia planned for later this year. Both have to first win and rejuvenated Garcia added: “I’m feeling good. I mean, I’m just ready to go.Read More on The Sun”I may have been acting crazy last time around but I was still feeling good physically, but for me this time around I feel good both, mentally and physically.”So, you know, I’ve done this before. I’ve fought many fights in my life and I’m ready, I’m in shape, ready to go 12 rounds and ready to do my job.”Garcia’s son Henry was born in December 2023Credit: INSTAGRAMGarcia shares daughter Bela and son Henry with ex Andrea CelinaCredit: INSTAGRAMGarcia returns against Rolando RomeroCredit: Rex More

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      in Soccer

      Four stars Chelsea could sign in transfer from sister club Strasbourg – including PSG Champions League hero’s brother

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      CHELSEA owners Todd Boehly and his BlueCo consortium are no stranger to a loophole in the world of football, and their acquisition of RC Strasbourg might be one of their smartest business moves yet.The Ligue 1 side are having a campaign to remember as they sit seventh, just four points short of SECOND place and still battling in the hunt for Champions League football next season.Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos is thriving on loan for StrasbourgCredit: GettyKeeper Djordje Petrovic is also shining in his stint at the Ligue 1 sideCredit: AFPA matter of weeks ago I travelled to Eastern France to watch the team in person in their 2-2 draw vs INEOS-owned OGC Nice, and I was pretty blown away by the quality of some of their players, not least those on loan from Chelsea, Andrey Santos and Djordje Petrovic.Their fans are rightly concerned that any major talent they produce or buy will be sniffed around by the Stamford Bridge outfit and lured into the heart of South West London in a transaction similar to when I move money from my current account to my savings.It’s no secret that Chelsea have spent obscene amounts of money in recent windows, but many fans will tell you that there are still problem positions in Enzo Maresca’s side.Nicolas Jackson is good, but there are concerns over his ability to be a Premier League winning number nine. READ MORE CHELSEA NEWSWesley Fofana is a (sometimes) walking injury concern, and it remains to be seen if Reece James can keep his recurring injuries away for good this time.So, which players from Strasbourg will the BlueCo ownership no doubt be keeping an eye on, who could be moving to London sooner than you think?1) Emanuel EmeghaAged 22, Striker. Market Value: £17mEmanuel Emegha has great stats and the all-round game to matchCredit: AFPBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKHe dons the number 10 shirt as a striker, but this guy is a serious number nine.Most read in FootballThe Dutch forward joined RCSA in 2023 in a four-year deal worth slightly over £11m, and has scored 21 goals in 52 games since his arrival.How Enzo Maresca can transform Chelsea to challenge for Premier League titleThat said, this campaign he’s got 14 goals and 3 assists in 26 league matches, and impressed me with his all-round play in their game vs Nice.One of the criticisms of Jackson this season has been his threat inside the box, the Senegalese striker is great in build up and has shown technical ability on the ball, but doesn’t pose a huge threat inside the box or in the air.Emegha provides exactly that.At 6’5 feet tall, he is a danger in the air and has been clinical when he gets the chance to shoot too, I sat and watched on as he shrugged off Nice’s Moises Bombito before calmly dispatching the ball at the near post into the back of the net.He may not be the superstar name of Viktor Gyokeres or be Premier League proven like Liam Delap, but he is certainly one to keep an eye on.Expect plenty of people to be talking about him for a big move soon, especially if Strasbourg do end up playing in Europe next year.2) Guela DoueAged 22, Right back/Centre Back. Market Value: £10.1mWhen speaking to Strasbourg fans, Guela Doue was one name that kept cropping up over and over again.His brother is one of the most exciting talents in world football right now, lighting up the Champions League and Ligue 1 this season with PSG – Desire Doue if you haven’t yet put 2+2 together.Guela is the older of the two, and is far less flashy on the pitch, rather establishing himself as one of the French top flight’s best full-backs this season.Guela Doue is a steady performer who slots in perfectlyCredit: GettyAs previously mentioned, Reece James fitness concerns have had Chelsea fans at times calling for a new right-back.However, what makes Doue such a good fit is the style of how he plays for Strasbourg.Against Nice he was very solid defensively, playing as a right sided centre back and allowing the left-sided defender to push much further up the pitch, which for Liam Rosenior’s side is familiar face Diego Moreira, but in Chelsea’s case would be Marc Cucurella.When James is fit, there is no doubt he is Chelsea’s starting right-back, but Guela Doue would be a more than capable deputy for him and would allow Reece to be rested somewhat with the Blues hoping to be competing on all fronts next season.The stumbling block for this move however, could be Josh Acheampong.Chelsea’s Cobham academy has almost certainly produced another gem in him, and most fans will hope that he can go onto be James’ deputy himself.3) Dilane BakwaAged 22, Right wing, Market Value £15.2mI know what you’re thinking, Chelsea aren’t short of right-wingers.Noni Madueke and Pedro Neto have both joined the club in recent seasons, and they have a supposed generational talent joining in the summer in the form of Willian Estevao.Dilane Bakwa has similarities to Noni Madueke but needs time to developCredit: AFPSo I’m not saying the Blues need to sign him immediately, I’m just saying he is one to keep an eye on.Ligue 1 has served as something of a proving ground for tricky and exciting wingers this season such as Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele, Rayan Cherki and this man, Dilane Bakwa.Outside of Santos and Petrovic, the French forward has been the club’s best player for me this campaign, and has potential to be lighting up the Champions League sooner than you may expect.He is relatively similar stylistically to Madueke, with his stop-start dribbling causing chaos for defenders and his ability to create chances and shots reminiscent of Chelsea’s current number 11.With five goals and eight assists in 27 games so far this season he has shown that he possesses the talent to be one of the best wide players in the division, but may just need a bit more time to really compound those numbers next year.He has also played on the left and at times centrally for Strasbourg, which is something Maresca will like, but he may need to refine his end product before making a move away from France.4) Valentin BarcoAged 20, Left back/Central midfield, Market Value £6mBrighton thought they had hit the jackpot once again with their ridiculously good scouting methods when they picked up Valentin Barco from Boca Juniors.He joined the Seagulls in 2024, but was quickly loaned out to Sevilla in a move that didn’t really work out for him, before being loaned to Strasbourg, who have an obligation to buy him after his spell in France.Valentin Barco plays a role like that of Chelsea’s Marc CucurellaCredit: GettyHe plays primarily as a left back, but this season under Rosenior has been inverting into midfield in a similar mould to how Cucurella does at Chelsea – and he has been sensational at doing so.He’s got two assists in 11 games so far, but lately had his gaffer raving about him after a stunning performance vs Lyon in which he was rewarded with three days off having become a father for the first time ahead of the match.With Cucurella being one of the best left-backs in Europe as it stands, it is unlikely that Barco would come in and displace him, but Chelsea have no real back-up for the curly headed Spaniard either – something that could become a problem should the Blues be competing on all fronts in the next few seasons.Read More on The SunIn his absence this season, we’ve seen the likes of Levi Colwill, Reece James and Malo Gusto fill in there – all experiments that haven’t exactly been ideal.  For now, it doesn’t make sense to take Valentin out of an environment where he is doing so well, but if Cucurella’s form drops or he faces an injury lay-off, don’t be surprised to hear Barco’s name branded about Stamford Bridge before long.  More

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      in Boxing

      ‘Beautiful young man’ – Proud David Haye reveals son is now competing full-time in very different sport as he turns 17

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      DAVID HAYE’s son Cassius isn’t following his dad into boxing – but is targeting sporting greatness of his own. The 17-year-old currently competes full-time on the Spanish junior tennis circuit.David Haye has wished his son Cassius (left) a happy birthdayCredit: Instagram @davidhayeThe 17-year-old is not following his dad into boxingCredit: Instagram @davidhayeCassius is a budding tennis player and currently competes on the ITF junior tourCredit: Instagram @mrcassiushayeThe teenager has lived in Spain full time since last AugustCredit: Instagram @mrcassiushayeCassius, who is named after Muhammad Ali, has pursued his tennis dream from a young age.And Haye originally predicted his son would become a tennis star almost a decade ago. He is now based in Spain full-time and began competing on the ITF junior tour last August. Haye is a two-weight world champion at both cruiserweight and heavyweight.READ MORE ON BOXINGHe memorably won the WBA heavyweight belt in 2009 when he beat the giant 7ft Russian Nikolai Valuev.And the former boxer is proud as punch to see his son chasing his sporting dream. Haye wrote in a birthday message on Instagram: “My eldest son Cassius just turned 17… and I honestly can’t believe how fast the years have flown. “From a fearless little boy to a focused young man, he’s now living on his own and competing full-time on the Spanish tennis circuit since last August. Most read in BoxingBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”I’m incredibly proud of the way he’s chasing his sporting dreams with discipline and maturity beyond his years. “He’s grown into a beautiful young man — inside and out.David Haye’s former boxing rival is now Putin-backing Russian MP who spoke about ‘sinking British Isles'”And at 6’4, he’s now officially taller than me (not that I’m bitter about it!). Big things ahead. Watch this space.”Despite not being interested in stepping into the squared circle, Cassius is happy to pump some iron with his famous dad.Haye has shared snaps of the pair lifting together at the gym. And a recent video showed Cassius has fast hands on the punching bag just like his old man.Cassius’ mum Natasha, a former makeup artist, married Haye in 2008. Haye was married to Cassius’ mum Natasha from 2008 to 2016Credit: PA:Press AssociationThe pair “grew apart” as Haye’s boxing career saw him jet-setting around the world. And Natasha filed for divorce from the boxer in 2016. Haye – known as The Hayemaker during his career – won 28 of his 32 professional fights. The 44-year-old hung up his gloves in 2018 after losing a rematch to Tony Bellew. Read More on The SunHe returned to the ring in 2021 for a lucrative exhibition against businessman Joe Fournier.And the ex-heavyweight has also worked as a pundit for big fight nights on Sky Sports. More

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      in Boxing

      Canelo Alvarez, 34, reveals why his own WIFE is trying to wreck his boxing retirement plans

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      CANELO ALVAREZ is no closer to retiring from boxing – if his wife Fernanda gets her way.The Mexican icon turned professional aged just 15 and now prepares for his 67th bout against William Scull on the weekend. Canelo Alvarez with wife FernandaCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzCanelo revealed Fernanda is trying to wreck his retirement plansCredit: GettyFernanda married Canelo in 2021Credit: Social Media – Refer to SourceCanelo has always maintained he will look to hang up his legendary gloves at 37 – vowing not to fight on for too long. But boxing fans could get the all-time great for a further three years – thanks to his model partner Fernanda. Canelo, 34, told SunSport: “Actually, my wife wants me to retire at 40! “Imagine that, and I say ‘No, I don’t, I don’t think so.’ She likes to see me fighting and all that kind of stuff. READ MORE IN BOXING”And obviously she wants to have more kids and she wants the other kids to see me in training and seeing what I do in the training camps and this and that.”But I say to her, you know, they’re gonna see me in another areas of my life, in my business and that kind of stuff, but we’ll see.”Canelo married Fernanda in 2021 but they met almost ten years beforehand – dating on and off until they fully reconciled and wed.The boxing champion has two daughters, Emily and Maria and a son named Saul Adiel – all with different women. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe shares youngest Maria with Fernanda and had his eldest Emily when he was just 16-years-old himself. Canelo’s kids are his biggest fans and watch every one of his fights from ringside – but only after being reassured by their super-dad.Canelo Alvarez warns he’s ready to bash more Brit rivals with boxing icon ‘dreaming’ of UK debut He said: “They get a little bit nervous, you know, they get a little bit nervous but they like it. They scream, they support me with all they have.”I think Maria is the one with more nervous on herself because she says that she don’t want somebody to hurt me or something like that.”And I say, ‘Don’t worry, that’s why I’m here training for and doing my best here in training camp so that doesn’t happen.'”Eldest Emily is the only of his children to truly understand Canelo’s superstardom. He said: “I think they realise a little bit, but not the magnitude of what I do or what I am in boxing.”Maybe my older daughter, obviously she’s 17, so she already realised how big I am. But my other kids Adel and Maria, maybe they realise a little bit.”The couple first started dating in 2016Credit: Instagram / @fernandagmtzThe couple share a luxurious lifeCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzFernanda is a model herselfCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzShe has 1.5m followers on InstagramCredit: instagram @fernandagmtzCanelo returns in an undisputed super-middleweight title decider against Scull in Riyadh – airing on DAZN in the early hours of Sunday morning.It marks his first ever fight outside of North America – with Canelo in love with boxing as much now as he was for his pro debut 20 YEARS ago.He said: “I enjoy it a lot. Believe me, it’s not that I don’t be here anymore. “So I still enjoy this kind of thing, I’m gonna fight outside of United States and Mexico.”So for me, it’s something I really want in my career for many years. So that motivates myself a lot.”Canelo also has the chance to regain the IBF title he had to vacate last July – with Scull inheriting the belt to set up the unification. A super-fight against Terence Crawford, 37, is also expected to follow in September in Las Vegas as part of a four-bout deal with Saudi’s Turki Alalshikh. Canelo’s eldest Emily, far right, with his son Adel and youngest daughter MariaCredit: GettyCanelo with his wife Fernanda and daughter MariaCredit: @fernandagmtzCanelo in the gym with his sonCredit: @caneloCanelo with his eldest EmilyCredit: @emilyc.alvarezCanelo only penned the bumper contract after walking away from a shock fight with 28-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in May. Talks were advanced for a May 3 bout in Vegas – with news even getting back to Canelo’s youngest daughter Maria. He said: “Maybe her friends told her about the fight.”Because the fathers of her friends told them and everything talking about it – because they don’t know anything about boxing.”That kind of people don’t know anything about boxing and they think Jake Paul is really good fighter. Which he is a fighter, but it’s levels in boxing. “And that’s why my daughter told me, ‘You’re gonna fight with Jake Paul?’ And I said, ‘He’s not on my level my love, don’t worry!'”I think it’s for that fact that people don’t how boxing works.” Read More on The SunCanelo still leaves the door open to the spectacle bout – but reveals he is glad the fiasco is now put behind him. He said: “I’m very happy. Things happen for a reason and I’m happy with this and I’m gonna enjoy it as much as I can.”Canelo fights William Scull in RiyadhCredit: GettyTerence Crawford is set to fight Canelo in SeptemberCredit: Getty Images – GettyCanelo had to walk away from fighting Jake PaulCredit: Rex More

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      in Boxing

      ‘I know I didn’t cheat’ – Ryan Garcia opens up on failed drug test after having Devin Haney win stripped away from him

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      RYAN GARCIA has opened up on his failed drug test to insist: “I know I didn’t cheat.” The American star dropped Devin Haney three times on the way to a shock decision victory in April 2024.Devin Haney had his loss taken away after Ryan Garcia’s failed drug testCredit: GettyBut the result was soon overturned when it emerged Garcia tested positive for ostarine – a banned substance known to boost muscle growth. Garcia protested his innocence but accepted a one-year ban – opposed to fighting it like Britain’s Conor Benn. Benn tested positive for clomiphene – which can boost testosterone – and refused a suspension and instead battled the case. Eventually, UK Anti-Doping dropped the case against him – allowing him to fight on home soil again in defeat to Chris Eubank Jr. READ MORE IN BOXINGBut Garcia told SunSport: “What did he get out of that? People still think he cheated, so at the end of the day, I know I didn’t cheat.”I’ll take the ban for a year and that keeps it moving fast. Everybody knows that I didn’t take it.”I know my team, we know we didn’t take anything, so honestly it doesn’t really matter to me at the end of the day.”People are gonna believe whatever they want to believe, they’re gonna believe I’m innocent, the large majority do believe that, so who cares?”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBenn, 28, never shared the evidence that got his case dropped against him, opting to instead keep it confidential. And Garcia – whose team blamed contaminated supplements for his failed test – has not explained why ostarine was in his system. Ryan Garcia ready to fight Conor Benn and settle feud after rival’s ‘war’ with Chris Eubank JrHe added: “What we did find out is that it was at the lowest amount you could possibly find trace amount.”So again, it’s proven that there was such low dosage in my system that has no effect on my body, so that’s just the truth. It is what it is.”Garcia returned clean Voluntary Anti-Doping Association tests in the build-up to his bout with Haney. And the positive tests for ostarine were taken from tests on the day of and 24 hours following the fight at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.Garcia suffered a public mental health breakdown after his fight with Haney.He was even arrested last June and charged with one misdemeanour count of vandalism after causing £11,000 worth of damage in an LA hotel room.But thankfully, Garcia turned it around and has got back on track both mentally and physically.The boxer now returns against former sparring partner Rolando Romero, 29, on Friday night in a historic event staged outside in Times Square.I know I didn’t cheat. I’ll take the ban for a year and that keeps it moving fast. Everybody knows that I didn’t take it.Ryan Garcia on his failed drug test Haney, 26, is also on the same card against Jose Ramirez, 32, with a rematch planned if both are victorious. Garcia said: “I think that he has a great chance to beat Ramirez. Ramirez is a little past his prime. So I expect both of us to win, for sure.”Despite Haney regaining his unbeaten record in the aftermath of Garcia’s doping scandal – the beatdown still sticks in the memory of fans. And Garcia goaded: “I have no idea how he’s gonna go about himself. I just know that I was in his head the first time.”It’s hard to look past getting dropped three times, I mean, you have to address that within yourself.”So I don’t know how he’s gonna handle that.”Garcia decided against heading into an immediate rematch with Haney after his lay-off. He learned the hard way for mistakes made before his 2023 loss to Gervonta Davis, 30, which came off the back of a nine-month absence. Garcia said: “I learned my lesson with the Tank fight on not taking a tune-up. You gotta be active. Read More on The Sun”I don’t think taking a year off and going straight into the Haney fight makes sense for either one of us. A year off is a long time.”You need to get your timing back, everything back, real fights are much different than sparring, so it’s good that we both took a fight, I think.”Garcia returns against Rolando RomeroCredit: GettyHaney facing off with Jose RamirezCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea files: Blues caught in furious ‘s***ty pitch’ row as Maresca’s seven-goalkeeper dilemma sees him target Trafford

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      CHELSEA head to Sweden this week and straight into a bizarre ‘s****y’ pitch battle involving European opponents Djurgarden.Their hosts for the Conference League semi-final first leg are furious with the state of their OWN surface as they prepare for their biggest game in years. Chelsea take on Swedish side Djurgardens in the Conference League semi-finalCredit: EPADjurgardens striker August Priske admitted their pitch is ‘s****y’Credit: GettyThe pitch is an artificial one and the Djurgardens players and coaches are not happy with it. Usually it is the visiting opposition that kick up a fuss when they arrive and find it uncomfortable on an alien surface. Djurgardens overcame Austrians Rapid Vienna in the previous round but they lost the home leg and then came back in the away game to secure a dream date with Chelsea on Thursday. Striker August Priske said: “I don’t want to blame the pitch of course, but it’s a s****y pitch.”Djurgardens play at the multi-use 3Arena in Stockholm and share the multi-use stadium with rivals Hammerby.The Rolling Stones, Harry Styles and Celine Dion have all played there.Djurgardens’ coach Jani Honkavaara says: “Our training pitch is so different to the one at the stadium, it’s like night and day. The stadium pitches feel different from day to day.“It’s really tough for both us and our opponents. We get nothing extra from it.“The pitch is horrible. I have thought of letting us train more on the stadium pitch to get used to it.”Modern pitches often contain part man-made materials combined with grass. But there are fears that certain artificial surfaces can raise the risk of injuries to players.The stadium is owned by the authorities in the Swedish capital and it’s believed cost issues prevent the surface being changed.Cole Palmer spotted running away from Stamford Bridge as baffled Chelsea fans ask ‘where is he going’Win a trip to the UEFA Conference League Final in Wroclaw with HankookChelsea are fifth in the Premier League as they prepare for Thursday’s game and boss Enzo Maresca needs everyone fit for the run to have their best shot at qualifying for next season’s Champions League.Winger Tokmak Nguen said: “The ball just slides away from your foot all the time. In deciding situations when you have decided what to do suddenly the ball has moved for no reason. We have told the club that something has to be done.”Better late than neverLATE KICK-OFFS have always been part of football – but never like this.Chelsea’s Conference League clash with Djurgardens is the first meeting between the two sides and has finally arrived 70 years late.In 1955 The Blues were celebrating winning the old First Division and as such were invited to compete in the newly formed European Champions’ Clubs Cup.They were drawn against Djurgardens and then Chelsea manager Ted Drake was hugely interested.However, in order to play, competing teams needed the permission of their respective national associations and at the time, Football League assistant secretary Alan Hardaker allegedly asked Chelsea to ‘reconsider’ because of the crowded domestic season.How times have changed – European football now rules the roost and the domestic calendar is taking a battering to make way for it.Chelsea are playing in the semi-finals of a competition in only its fourth year of existence as Uefa’s third-tier competition behind the 36-team Champions League and Europa League.KEEPING UP APPEARANCESCHELSEA’S goalkeeper dilemma shows no sign of slowing.The Blues have asked about Burnley keeper James Trafford, who is expected to leave Turf Moor this summer – despite their promotion back to the Premier League.Newcastle look likely to beat the west Londoners to his signing, having failed in a move for the England Under-21 international last summer.But Chelsea have asked the question in the hope they may be able to pull something off.Maresca is in a bind over what to do between the posts, with EIGHT stoppers on the club’s books.Borussia Dortmund keeper Gregor Kobel is also being eyed.Swiss star Kobel, 27, has established himself as first choice over his four years since arriving from Stuttgart in a £13m move.But Kobel, who has just one year left on his Dortmund contract, is ready for a change of scenery.Dortmund are steeling themselves for his departure, having already signed Diant Ramaj, currently on loan at Copenhagen from Ajax, on a four-year deal that starts this summer.That indicates Dortmund, who took midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka on loan from Chelsea in January, will be willing to do a £15m-plus deal.Robert Sanchez has spent most of this season as first choice at the Bridge and pulled off two vital stops in the weekend win over Everton.The former Brighton man has still to convince the Blues faithful, who are equally uncertain about Filip Jorgensen, who has made six Prem starts.Former Spain keeper Kepa is due to return from his loan spell at Bournemouth, Marcus Bettinelli has been the unused third choice this term.Another loanee due back is Djordje Petrovic, who has impressed at Strasbourg, while the Blues also have Lucas Bergstrom and Eddie Beach and have signed Genk teenager Mike Penders for next season.Chelsea want to sign Burnley goalkeeper James TraffordRobert Sanchez is still yet to win over the Blues faithfulTHE U-turn over Trevoh Chalobah has been completed – without even a flush of embarrassment.Central defender Chalobah was told he was surplus to requirements in August after being put in the Blues’ “bomb squad”.The home-grown 25-year-old had his preferred No 14 shirt stripped and handed to Portuguese flop Joao Felix before he was snapped up on loan by Crystal Palace.An injury crisis at the Bridge saw Maresca exercise a break clause in the deal to bring the defender back to SW6 in January, handing him the No 23 shirt.But Chalobah has now made himself first choice alongside Levi Colwill, despite the return to fitness of Benoit Badiashile.Maresca said: “Since Trev came back to us in January he’s done very, very well.“He’s playing games and helping us, defending when he needs to defend and also building from the back when we need him.“We’re very happy with Trev. Honestly, he hasn’t played a bigger role than I expected.“I knew he could help us. We never had any doubts about that.”Trevoh Chalobah has impressed Enzo Maresca since returning from loanCredit: GettyTROPHY HUNTERChelsea face the toughest run-in of the top five contenders, with clashes against champions Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.Maresca, whose decision to field a strong side for the home second leg of the Conference League quarter-final with Legia Warsaw backfired with a dreadful display in the 2-1 defeat, put Reece James on the bench against Everton.But some feel the Blues boss, aware of Mauricio Pochettino’s fate last summer, may value winning a trophy over qualifying for Europe’s main competition to secure his own managerial reputation.That could see him prioritising the two semi-final games against Djurgarden and then the potential final against Fiorentina or Real Betis in Wroclaw three days after the Prem finale.Moving the goalpostsChelsea fans may have to steel themselves for a FIVE-YEAR absence from Stamford Bridge if the club’s alternative stadium options fall through.Their neighbours in nearby Twickenham are on the front foot trying to lure the Premier League club to the newly renamed Allianz Stadium HQ of England’s rugby union team.RFU boss Bill Sweeney declared: “If Chelsea came, it would be a big financial number.”The 82,000 capacity is almost double that of Stamford Bridge currently and geographically is a much better fit than Wembley.The national stadium in North West London is regarded as an atmospheric graveyard for club games – as Tottenham found to their cost when they occupied the place for almost three years on a part-time and permanent basis while their new ground was built.There has been no update on the potential move to Earls Court with local Hammersmith and Fulham Council chiefs due to rule soon on a stadium-free mixed use plan by developers that could effectively determine the site’s future.If so, then a rebuild of Chelsea’s home since 1905 – which would likely be the fans’ preferred choice – might be left as the only option to expand the current 44,000 capacity.But complications caused by the Tube line running beside the ground and the nearby Brompton Cemetery mean club insiders fear a stand-by-stand rebuild is unlikely to be feasible.That would leave the Blues looking for a short-term let for between four and five seasons while the club’s new home was constructed.Twickenham’s restrictive Covenant agreement on staging events suggests the home of English rugby would be a non-runner even though the RFU seem interested in an arrangement, while Craven Cottage, Loftus Road and Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium would all be too small.That appears to leave Wembley as the best, if probably unpopular option, as the gate attendances would help make up a financial shortfall from the limits on other stadium income.Chelsea could play at Twickenham if Stamford Bridge is rebuiltCredit: AlamyO Romeo O RomeoCHELSEA fans were delighted to see Romeo Lavia back in action at the weekend.But the Belgian midfielder’s return left Maresca pondering what might have been.Lavia, 21, has made just NINE Prem starts, all this season, since his £58m move from Southampton in 2023, after a seemingly endless series of ankle, thigh and hamstring problems.When Lavia looked to be limping towards the end of the first half of the win over Everton, there were fears of another issue, although he was able to play until mid-way through the second period before being rested.Maresca said: “You could see the difference he made, particularly playing through the lines.“I spent one entire season with Romeo at City, actually, so I know him very well.“Like with James, he is a top player. The only shame for us is that unfortunately we need to manage and protect them.“There’s no doubt that with Reece and Romeo, Chelsea are a better team. He is a unique player.“When he is fit he’s one of the best midfielders around because he can defend very well and attack as well and his passes between the lines are unbelievable.”Injury-hit Romeo Lavia returned against EvertonCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Why Gabriel Martinelli is crucial vs PSG in semi-final as Arsenal star continues his amazing goalscoring record

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      ASK Paris Saint-Germain stars which Arsenal player they most fear and they are unlikely to come up with the name Gabriel Martinelli.After knocking out 15-time winners Real Madrid, Mikel Arteta’s men host PSG in a blockbuster semi-final first leg tonight.Gabriel Martinelli smiles as he speaks to the mediaMartinelli was a key man for Arsenal in the win over Real MadridCredit: EPAMartinelli scored a memorable goal in the BernabeuCredit: GettyAnd if Martinelli gets on the scoresheet, history suggests the Gunners will have one foot in the final next month in Munich.The Brazilian winger has hardly been in scintillating form this season, with just nine goals — and only two in his last 15 games heading into a mammoth Champions League semi-final first-leg tie against PSG.But beneath that patchy form lies a remarkable record.In the club’s 139-year history, Martinelli has the record for most games scored in without being on the losing side.READ MORE ON ARSENALIn the 44 games he has found the net, across his six years in North London, the Gunners have NEVER been beaten.Fifty goals – the last in the 4-0 Premier League win at Ipswich earlier this month – with 37 wins and seven draws.It must be pointed out that in one of those draws – a 5-5 Anfield thriller in the Carabao Cup in October 2019 – Martinelli netted twice but Arsenal lost on penalties — a result that is conveniently not included in his incredible perfect run.Martinelli is happy for that to be the case too. Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The EmiratesWhen reminded of the record, he gave a cheeky smile and said: “Yeah I’ve heard that.”So, how do you explain it? He shrugged: “It’s what we do, you know? We try to score and assist to help the team win games.”But, if I need to run 15 kilometres and win games when I’m not scoring goals and win the Champions League, I’m going to be the happiest man in the world.Gabriel Martinelli’s amazing run of not losing a game when he scoresMikel Arteta accidentally photobombs Sky Sports report as he takes Arsenal dog Win for a walk”It’s really good to have these stats next to me but I try to give my best as I can for the team with goals or just doing the work in defensive work as well.”You would not blame Martinelli for already dreaming of the Champions League final in Munich on May 31 if he does find the net at some point over the two legs of this semi.He laughed: “No, I don’t think that, I just try to play and win the game.”Whether it is from the footballing gods or a sprinkling of pixie dust that does the trick, what the statistic does show is Martinelli has become an essential and game-changing cog in Mikel Arteta’s machine that is now competing for major titles at home and abroad.It is important to remember that Martinelli is still just 23, having joined from Brazilian side Ituano in July 2019 for around £6million under ex-boss Unai Emery.Back then, he was a fresh-faced 18-year-old with a slight, child-like frame, but his talent was on show from the very beginning, netting ten times in his debut campaign.Martinelli has become a key player in Europe this seasonIt led to then-Kop boss Jurgen Klopp – following that 5-5 draw – describing the teenager as the “talent of the century”.Six years later and Martinelli is a senior figure of this side in everything but age, having come through the dark times of Arteta’s early reign.He survived mass squad upheavals to become an Emirates favourite and a reliable grafter as one of the club’s longest-serving players, even if his numbers – 17 goals in his last 89 appearances – are not exactly eye-catching.But when he does score, it always seems to matter, a prime example being his stunning solo goal – running from the halfway line – to beat Real Madrid in the quarter-final second-leg 2-1 victory at the Bernabeu.Martinelli reminded reporters “I’m not that old”, before explaining: “We have improved a lot. It’s been an amazing journey for me. I was just an 18-year-old boy.”When I got here we were playing in the Europa League, now we are in the semi-final of the Champions League.The past is irrelevant. We can learn things from that but live the now, the present. It’s a beautiful moment. Let’s live it and let’s enjoy it. We want to do something specialMikel Arteta”Since I started to play football, I had this dream to play in the Champions League and to be in a semi-final, it’s amazing.”It is the biggest game of my life. I’m really happy to be here and to have lived these moments. Everyone that loves football would love to be playing these kinds of games.”I’m really proud of the team, of the club, we deserve to be playing in this competition and win it. It’s a dream and we are ready.”This could also be a chance for Martinelli to cement himself into the thoughts of Arteta, with the club looking to strengthen his position on the left wing this off-season, while his contract is also up in the summer of 2027.Leading Arsenal to a Champions League final would confirm the ink on that contract. He said: “I have always said I am really happy here. This is my home – I love the club.”But we play for Arsenal, it’s a competition every day. The club wants to have the best players in the world, because it is one of the biggest in the world as well.Brazil star Martinelli put in a remarkable shift in the away leg against Real Madrid”We need to have the best players. I will be really happy when we have big players coming to the team.”Arsenal’s last European triumph came in the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1994 with George Graham – when they also beat the French champions at this stage.But their Champions League record is dire, reaching the final just once in 2006 under Arsene Wenger before losing 2-1 to Barcelona in Paris.Asked if he feels the weight of expectation to finally win the trophy, Arteta said: “You feel it. We have a lot of people that have worked here for many years and never been in this position.”That tells you how unique and beautiful it is. We’ve never done it so we need to earn the right to be in that final ? and everything is going to start against PSG.”I look at the players in the eyes and they can’t wait to play. That’s the feeling.”Arteta added: “The past is irrelevant. We can learn things from that but live the now, the present. It’s a beautiful moment.”Let’s live it and let’s enjoy it. We want to do something special.”The Emirates has to be something special, something that we haven’t seen before.”Asked if Arsenal were favourites with PSG, Inter Milan and Barca left, he added: “No, as we have never done it, so there is so much to do.”Thomas Partey is banned after a yellow card against Real at the Bernabeu, meaning makeshift striker Mikel Merino will be in midfield and Leandro Trossard likely up front.But Arteta can take positives from beating Luis Enrique’s PSG this term – winning 2-0 at the Emirates in the league phase back in October.Arteta added: “I loved our presence, how we went out there, our body language, the intensity, how aggressive we were.Read More on The SunBukayo Saka is Arsenal’s top scorer in the Champions League this season”It was good preparation for what is now coming.”The way we approached the game against Real and way we approached the game when we played them before, the way we approach every week … that won’t change.”Arsenal ratings v Real MadridARSENAL’S heroes dumped the Kings of Europe out of the Champions League in dramatic fashion. 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      in Boxing

      Moment Daniel Dubois FLINCHES after tiny feint from Oleksandr Usyk has fans convinced they already know who wins

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      DANIEL DUBOIS shoved Oleksandr Usyk in an early effort to get inside the brain of the unbeaten mastermind.The 27-year-old IBF heavyweight champion again came face to face with Ukraine’s WBC, WBO and WBA boss on the Wembley turf yesterday ahead of their July 19 rematch at the national football stadium.Daniel Dubois shoved Oleksandr Usyk on the Wembley pitchCredit: QueensberryIt led to an awkward momentCredit: QueensberryAnd, after posing for photos and staring into each other’s eyes, Dubois lashed out, forcing Usyk to step backwards into his boxing stance and security to rush in to split them up.Usyk even faked a punch of his own, forcing Dubois to flinch and convincing fans the fight has already been decided.One said: “See how Dubois flinches straight after pushing him , Usyk inside 8.”Another added: “That flinch after the push from Dubois is everything you need to know about the mental state of Dubois leading into this. Usyk late stoppage.”READ MORE IN BOXINGBut ice-cool 38-year-old Usyk — who has beaten both Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury twice and is now preparing for a Dynamite Dan rerun — said the barge was all for the cameras.He said: “It was all for show. It doesn’t matter. I’ve prepared 22 years for this business. I love life, and boxing is part of my life.”DDD made a great start to their first meeting in Poland in 2023 but was undone in the ninth round by one too many of Usyk’s pinpoint jabs. The most controversial moment was a fifth-round beltline blow that floored Usyk but was ruled an illegal punch.Most read in BoxingUsyk found Tyson Fury was his toughest opponentCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSUsyk was given four minutes to recover and the break cost Dubois his focus and self-belief.But he has rebuilt his career with a hat-trick of stunning wins, the most recent and sensational being the September knockout of Joshua at London’s Wembley Stadium in front of a record crowd of 96,000.Daniel Dubois gatecrashes Usyk’s post-fight celebrations to call on their own rematch And deadeye Dubois warned his Ukrainian rival that fireworks can be expected every time they cross paths.The Londoner said: “It’s a fight. So anytime we’re in each other’s faces, it could kick off.“This is the fight I wanted and demanded, and now I get my chance for revenge against Oleksandr Usyk.“I should have won the first fight and was denied by the judgment of the referee, so I will make no mistake this time around in front of my people at the national stadium in my home city.“I am a superior and more dangerous fighter now and Usyk will find this out for himself on July 19.“I would like to thank my promoter, Frank Warren, for making this happen for me and I intend to repay him by becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world.”Usyk became the four-belt undisputed heavyweight ruler when he toppled Fury for the first time in May.But infuriating boxing bureaucracy meant he lost the red IBF belt without ever having tasted defeat.Read More on The SunAnd he warned red-hot Dubois that he has just been babysitting his baby and keeping it warm for him.The Ukrainian added: “Thank you, Daniel, for taking care of my IBF belt — but now I want it back.”Usyk and Dubois face off ahead of their July 19 rematchCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun More