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      I was in Chelsea’s ‘bomb squad’ with £169m worth of exiled stars, we were laughing every day… it was a mess

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      PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG recalls laughing with the rest of Chelsea’s exiled “bomb squad” stars. The forward had been frozen out of the picture by April 2023 and left to train away from the first team. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has opened up on his disastrous Chelsea spellCredit: AFPBut he was not alone. Hakim Ziyech, Denis Zakaria, Kalidou Koulibaly and Romelu Lukaku all joined Aubameyang with £170million worth of talent on the sidelines. But Aubameyang told The Athletic: “They did a mess. It didn’t even look like a football dressing room, it was more like rugby. “Hakim Ziyech, Denis Zakaria, Kalidou Koulibaly, Romelu Lukaku… It was good I wasn’t alone. We were laughing every day, so it was okay.”READ MORE IN fAubameyang had signed in September 2022 from Barcelona – where he spent just seven months – to reunite with manager Thomas Tuchel.The two had worked together at Borussia Dortmund – winning the German cup together in 2017. But disaster struck when Tuchel was sacked by Chelsea just a week after Aubameyang joined following 1-0 defeat to Dinamo Zagreb. The player revealed: “I remember that day because I didn’t recognise him. It was not the guy I knew a few years ago. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”We had a close relationship. He was the only guy who really understood me in Dortmund. “At Chelsea, it was like something was wrong. I felt he was not enjoying his time.The one player Chelsea must sign this season“We lost and he was p**sed off. Usually, he would go crazy but he came to the dressing room and then left. “I was like, ‘This is not the guy I know. Very strange’. The next day, he was sacked.”Aubameyang admitted he only left Barcelona after armed robbers broke into his home in August 2022. And he had joined Chelsea – as a former Arsenal captain – just to work under Tuchel again. But Graham Potter took over at Stamford Bridge and Aubameyang was limited to game time – even being omitted from the Champions League squad. Aubameyang revealed: “That is when I started to say, ‘OK, this is very disrespectful’. They tried to send me on loan to America. I said: ‘No chance’.“I felt p***ed off. From that point, I said, ‘The season is done for me already’. “I just went to training to maintain fitness; I knew I was not going to play.”Hakim Ziyech, Denis Zakaria, Kalidou Koulibaly, Romelu Lukaku… It was good I wasn’t alone. We were laughing every day, so it was okayPierre-Emerick Aubameyang on being frozen out of Chelsea Potter was then sacked by April – following just seven months in charge at Chelsea – with Frank Lampard coming in as interim boss. And Aubameyang claimed Lampard initially wanted to recall the Gabon international – before being overruled by higher-ups. He said: “(Lampard) told me, ‘OK, I need you. I want to know how you feel, if you are ready to play again’. “I was like, ‘Yes. I’m waiting for this’.“Close to the end of the season, he spoke to me again and said, ‘What are your feelings? I’m sorry, Auba. I can’t really help you’. “I understood it’s not coming from him but upstairs.”Aubameyang later signed for Marseille after leaving Chelsea and scored 30 goals in 51 games last season – missing just one game. But in July the 35-year-old signed for Al-Qadsiah to become the latest high-profile name in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Qadsiah are on a six-game winning streak secured third spot in the SPL heading into its winter break. READ MORE SUN STORIESThey are below only Karim Benzema’s Al Ittihad and Neymar’s Al Hilal, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr fourth. Aubameyang added: “They want to be the best and I can help them grow.”Aubameyang now plays his football in Saudi for Al-QadisiyahCredit: Getty More

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      Reaching a final did not save Jose Mourinho from Tottenham axe – but Ange Postecoglou’s job could depend on Wembley

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      JOSE MOURINHO is living proof that reaching a cup final will not save you as Tottenham manager.But how Ange Postecoglou could do with replicating the Portuguese’s showpiece feat to dampen any doubts over his suitability to the Spurs hotseat.Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou may find job security if he makes the Carabao Cup finalCredit: RexJose Mourinho, though, was axed by Tottenham shortly after making it to a finalCredit: GettyThe Aussie has a chance to make up for what he admits is some “very poor league form” in the Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool, with the first leg at home on Wednesday.If he can somehow find a way past Arne Slot’s imperious Reds over the two ties, he will be the first Spurs boss to reach a cup final since Mourinho four years ago.That feat did not prevent the Special One from a shock axing just four days before the day out at Wembley, which Tottenham lost to Manchester City.Unlike with Mourinho back then, chairman Daniel Levy is understood NOT to have lost faith with Postecoglou despite him losing half of his league games this term.Read More on FootballThere is a hope that the ex-Celtic chief will turn things around once his horrific injury list eases up.Though Postecoglou is the last person who needs reminding that Levy’s trigger-happy history proves that goodwill will not last forever if results do not improve.Reminded of Levy’s ruthless sacking of Mourinho, the 59-year-old was asked if he felt seeing off Liverpool would offer him any extra job security.Postecoglou wittily replied: “So just drop out at the semi-final, you reckon? I don’t need greater security.Most read in Football“Look, all I see is I’ve got a group of players who are giving absolutely everything they can.“I see every person at this football club pushing hard every day, whether they are involved in football or not, to try and help us through this situation. I don’t need any more than that.Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou channels his inner Gladiator as he defends his gung-ho tactics“It’s my responsibility, the results are on me. It’s my responsibility to change that. And if it doesn’t change, then, of course, I’m the one who should take whatever ramifications there are to it.“But I don’t need any more security than seeing what I see every day that the club, everyone at the club is totally supportive of what we’re trying to do, trying to help me and trying to help us get through this.“That’s all any manager needs, I’m not interested in security.”In his first season, Postecoglou downplayed the significance of winning a one-off trophy as less important to his overall goal of turning Spurs into serial contenders.That remains his perspective, but he has conceded that in this difficult second campaign winning some silverware could breathe new life – and belief – into the project he is trying to build.His side are on an awful run of just two victories in their last 11 games in all competitions, while they have lost three of a winless last five in the league at home.Major absences vs LiverpoolInjuries, illness and suspension have taken their toll, with up to ten players expected to be missing on Wednesday.As a result, Postecoglou views the possibility of his absentee-hit, knackered team making the final as on a par with winning the competition itself.He added: “We’re having a tough season. Our league form is really poor, we need to improve.“But we are in a semi-final of a competition and with the group of players we’ve got at the moment, if we can achieve something where they are in their careers, I think it does set you up really well for what we’re trying to build here. I think it does.“If we get a final and happen to win a trophy, we’ll look back on this period of where we are, a small group of players having to rise above and beyond to get there, I think that will be as worthy of the achievement as actually winning it.”Liverpool won 6-3 at Spurs in the league just 17 days ago and at one point were 5-1 up.Sticking to his tacticsIt underlines the size of the task facing Postecoglou, who will not swerve from his attacking philosophy but has taken lessons from that battering.He added: “When we did our review, we did some things really well on the night but we did some things really poorly.“It was more about moments in the game that you can’t switch off against a team of that quality.READ MORE SUN STORIES“There were learnings from it. And because it was so recent, you certainly use that as a foundation for the kind of game we need tomorrow in terms of addressing it a bit differently.”Likely line-up: Kinsky; Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Spence; Bergvall, Bentancur, Kulusevski; Johnson, Solanke, Son. More

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      Tamworth boss reveals BEER is the secret weapon behind incredible FA Cup run as The Lambs eye Tottenham scalp

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      ANDY PEAKS will never forget his first match in charge of Tamworth.Instead of battling for points in a relegation dogfight, he was sinking PINTS with his Lambs squad after a trip to Leiston was postponed.Boss Andy Peaks and keeper Jasbir Singh celebrate beating BurtonCredit: GettySinking League One Burton has set up Tamworth’s biggest ever gameCredit: GettyBut Tamworth’s boss believes that boozy afternoon session in Suffolk was the springboard for their incredible turnaround in recent years.After beating the drop in 2021-22, Peaks led the Staffordshire minnows from the Southern Premier League to the National League with  stunning back-to-back title wins.Now, as the lowest-ranked team left in the FA Cup, the part-time manager is relishing a showdown with Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham on Sunday.It is without doubt the biggest game in Tamworth’s 92-year history.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLYet Peaks doubts they would have made it this far without that afternoon on the lash on his first full day in his new job.He revealed: “I’d just agreed to join Tamworth from Rushden & Diamonds and I took in  our first training session on Thursday night.“I could see we had some good players but I sensed there was a divide in the squad and I thought, ‘I’m not having that’.“We turned up in Suffolk for my first game against Leiston and discovered the pitch was waterlogged and the game was called off.Most read in FA CupFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“But Leiston had put on some food for us so I said to the lads, ‘Right, we’re going to have an hour in the bar and get to know each other’.”I had a gut feeling that the players never socialised together. One or two of them even said, ‘I’ve got to get home to the missus and the kids’.Spurs starlet forced to retire aged just 23 and more than two years after horror injury that ‘ultimately ruined career’“But I told them, ‘If we’d played the game, you’d be playing until 5pm and wouldn’t get home until 8.30pm. This way you’ll be home by 5.30pm!’“So that was effectively my second session with the team — an hour or so in the bar.“We had some food and some beers and everybody mingled.“Afterwards on the team bus, some of the lads were saying, ‘I haven’t really spoken to Jas [goalkeeper Jas Singh] before and didn’t realise he was a building surveyor’, stuff like that. “Before that it had just been a job to them and they came to the club, got changed, trained and went home.“I’m a great believer that if you have got friends beside you, you’ll try that bit harder for them. From that day on it just clicked.”Peaks became Tamworth manager in February 2022 with the club fighting relegation but kicked off  with a 6-0 win against Barwell.That sparked a 13-game unbeaten run until the end of the season.The 54-year-old added: “We trained again during the week and then we had a big, convincing win and we went on from there.“It’s easier to bond after a big win and the players think, ‘This guy must know what he’s on about’.Peaks says the Lambs will be ‘horrible and nasty’ against SpursCredit: PA“Success breeds success and we went on a bit of a run after that, the fans started turning up and everyone was happy.“I tried to bring the club together more, with no grievances and a lot of togetherness. Players used to rock up five minutes before training.“Now they turn up half an hour before because they enjoy each other’s company and have a laugh.“If not, we’d definitely be bottom of the league.”Instead, Tamworth are 16th in National League, seven points above the relegation zone.But it is Tottenham’s visit to The Lamb Ground in the third round  that has Peaks’ full attention now.He said: “We will give them the respect they deserve as a Premier League giant and Champions League-level club.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But when the game starts we’ll be horrible and nasty and in their faces because it’s the only way we can be to stand any chance.“Hopefully, they have a few players who don’t fancy it and we have 11 players who play out of their skin.” More

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      Inside Morgan Gibbs-White’s glam life with influencer girlfriend Britney, from fancy ski breaks to raising a son

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      MORGAN Gibbs-White’s life off the pitch is just as incredible on it.The Nottingham Forest midfielder, 24, is enjoying his best season in the Premier League and was the star of the show against Wolves on Monday night.Glam Morgan Gibbs-White and Britney De Villiers enjoy an epic lifestyleCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGorgeous Britney and Gibbs-White rang in the New Year on the slopesCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney are proud parents to son GraysenCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersHe helped his side go level with Arsenal on points in second spot, as their unlikely top four charge continues.Gibbs-White has scored four goals and provided three assists in a breakout campaign for the England star.Most recently, he was spotted enjoying a well-earned break on New Year’s Eve with girlfriend Britney De Villiers on a glam ski trip.They were joined by Anthony Elanga and his girlfriend China Navana for the break away.Read more in football South African beauty Britney is a social media influencer who boasts over 270,000 followers on Instagram.She shares her amazing lifestyle with Gibbs-White on social media, with the pair clearly living their best life.SunSport looks inside Gibbs-White and Britney’s epic existence.Fancy holidaysLast week, we saw the loved-up couple wrap up warm for a holiday on ice.Most read in FootballBut it wasn’t a kids’ show they were intent on enjoying – but a fancy ski break.Influencer Britney posted a snap of her with other half Gibbs-White as they jetted off to plush French ski resort Courchevel in a private jet.Why Nuno Espirito Santo was such a flop for Tottenham before leading Nottingham Forest on Leicester-like title chargeBritney posted a series of snaps of herself and Gibbs-White onboard the plane to her Instagram on New Year’s Eve.Her accompanying caption read: “NYE trip.”The couple looked the picture of happiness, as did De Villiers as she showed off a chic-looking jacket in individual snaps.Before sharing the post, Britney posted a series of photos of the plush resort they were calling home.The pair hit the slops with Gibbs-White’s teammate Elanga and his missus, China.Usually, Gibbs-White and his partner prefer hotter climates, as Britney’s Instagram suggests.There are many trips to luxurious destinations featured on her social media accounts.This includes jaunts to Dubai, Italy AND Portugal this summer.On the Amalfi Coast the pair hired a boat and showed off their love – sharing a kiss on board.They enjoyed another boat day in Dubai, as beautiful Britney showed off her amazing bikini body.Luxury destinations, including ski resorts are the norm for Gibbs-White and BritneyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney flew privately for their ski breakCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersIn the summer, Gibbs-White and Britney enjoyed a boat trip in the Amalfi CoastCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersSouth African beauty Britney showed off her amazing bikini body in DubaiCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersGibbs-White and Britney got together in 2019 and have been living the high-life sinceCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersread more sport featuresGibbs-White and Britney are seemingly very close to Elanga and his partner, China.They visited the Algarve as a group, sharing snaps together, before heading out for dinner.Britney juggles her travels with a busy life in the UK.She often appears in paid partnerships for a variety of beauty products.While she also modelled Gymshark wear in another clip.First time parentsGibbs-White and law graduate Britney began their romance in 2019.They reportedly met through a mutual friend, and he soon asked her out.They have since become inseparable – and welcomed baby Graysen into their lives in November 2023.On becoming a father, Gibbs-White told BBC Sport: “It’s the best feeling in the world. No feeling can describe it. It’s the hardest thing in the world as well.Gibbs White revealed how becoming a dad changed his life foreverCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersBaby Graysen joins his parents on many of their glam tripsCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersThe happy couple celebrate their son Graysen’s first birthdayCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliersBritney and Graysen cheer on Gibbs-White on England dutyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliers”It [life] has changed for the better, it’s calmed me down and chilled me out. It’s another purpose to do well in football and do well in life.”Ever since he’s been with us, everything I do is for him. Every decision I make now I think twice about. Now he’s getting to the age where he’s got personality and is starting to express himself. He has this belly laugh going, I’m loving it.”As seen on Instagram, Gibbs-White and Britney are devoted parents.They regularly share their adventures with Graysen, from celebrating his first birthday with balloons to walks in the park.Graysen also joined his mummy to cheer on daddy at the Aviva Stadium, when he played for England against Ireland.Britney shared the pic on social media, captioning it: “Memories to last a lifetime.”Defending her honourWhile she showed his support for him, Gibbs-White leapt to the defence of Britney when she came under fire at Molineux.The midfielder, a former Wolves player, was met with boos every time he touched the ball.Worse still, sections of the crowd were heard chanting: “Your girlfriend’s a s**g.”Gibbs-White was asked if the taunts fired him up, explaining why he put his fingers in his ears for his goal celebration.”I think it always has the same meaning,” Gibbs White told Optus Sport.Gibbs-White was on the receiving end of abuse from Wolves fans directed at BritneyAfter scoring, Gibbs-White put his fingers in his ears to drown out the noiseGibbs White is devoted to his stunning Wag BritneyCredit: Instagram @britneydevilliers'”Just block out whatever they say.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But I don’t mind it. It sort of gives me that edge and more motivation to do better and succeed. But I love it. I think this is what is part of football.”The fans really enjoying it, giving stick, and then us performing on the pitch. I’m just more than happy that the boys got the three points tonight.” More

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      Tottenham newbie Antonin Kinsky blew coaches away, is likened to Petr Cech and has famous ex-footballer father

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      ANTONIN KINSKY’S switch to Spurs happened so fast the young goalie had to make a late dash to pick up some boots and gloves.The ambidextrous Czech, 21, was so certain he was staying at Slavia Prague that he had arranged to receive some new mitts from his glove sponsor this past Sunday.Antonin Kinsky has signed for Spurs for £12m from Slavia PragueBut after turning his phone on on Friday evening after a relaxing sauna and massage, he discovered his Tottenham transfer was on – meaning he was in need of some fresh gear.Kinsky, whose qualities have been compared to the great Petr Cech, said: “I realised that if I was flying out on the Saturday morning, I’d need gloves and boots. I didn’t have either at home, so I started looking. “I drove to Plzen and then to (Prague district) Eden, where I would have gone anyway to say goodbye and take one last look at the stadium. “Now I’ve got everything I need, so I’ll pack up at home and head off.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSKinsky eventually sealed a move worth £12.5million plus add-ons, signing a six-and-a-half-year contract.But because he is still waiting on his work permit, which could take up to 48 hours to arrive, his chances of featuring against Liverpool are viewed as unlikely.That means Brandon Austin, who waited nearly 10 years for his first Spurs appearance against Newcastle on Saturday, is set to start the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg on what will be his 26th birthday, provided Fraser Forster is still ill.But after that, Kinsky will step in and look to make himself Ange Postecoglou’s go-to guy between the sticks.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThat is even when Guglielmo Vicario returns from a fractured foot in late February, with the Italian posting a video of himself out of his protective boot on Sunday.Because ambitious Kinsky, nicknamed ‘Toni’, has not just been brought in as a back-up to Vicario, but to challenge him.Chelsea fans beg Petr Cech to return to club after spotting what he did in Sky Sports studio during Crystal Palace clashHis move had been earmarked for the summer, when veteran Forster is out of contract, but got pushed forward following Vicario’s serious injury.Kinsky is likely to be the first of a few January signings for injury-hit Spurs, who are also keen on a defender and attacker.While Forster has struggled to play out from the back like Postecoglou wants, Kinsky’s footwork was a big attraction when he was identified by Spurs technical director Johan Lange.His passing success rate of 83.9 per cent is better than any other goalkeeper with five appearances or more in this season’s Europa League.Kinsky has been playing in that competition for Slavia, but due to a rule change, CAN also play in it for Spurs this term too.The blond-haired starlet, who has perfect English, constantly listens to Czech rap and idolises late basketball superstar Kobe Bryant, was an outfield player as a kid.But he moved in goal in a bid to follow in the footsteps of his dad, also called Antonin Kinsky who won five caps for the Czech national team and remains a huge influence on his son.Kinsky’s dad Antonin won five caps for the Czech national team as a keeperCredit: GettyKinsky Jnr’s 12 clean sheets in 19 league games has helped Slavia go seven points clear at the top of the Czech league.It was his first season as Slavia’s No1, but it was back-to-back loan spells to small-town club MFK Vyskov between 2021-23 which toughened him up for first-team football.Rostislav Horacek was Kinsky’s goalkeeping coach at Vyskov and remembers being blown away by the confident youngster’s potential after just “two or three training sessions”.The 57-year-old said: “The guys in the pub laughed at me when I said that I had an 18-year-old boy in the second league who would one day play for the national team.“But I was convinced of it. He has everything.“He always looked forward to tough matches like a little kid looking forward to ice cream.”Kinsky is comfortable with both feet and used to play outfield in his youthCredit: GettyChelsea legend Cech is the benchmark for Czech keepers, having won 124 caps for his country in a stellar career, but Horacek sees an obvious comparison.While he also gave an insight into the ability Kinsky – or ‘Tonda’ as he called him – has with both feet.Horacek told Flashscore: “I asked him in training which foot he prefers, but he said it doesn’t matter. He kicks with both equally.“At Slavia, he had a great defence in front of him. (It meant that) he often goes 40 minutes without a save and then has to quickly resolve a difficult situation. READ MORE SUN STORIES“That is exactly what Petr Cech used to do at Chelsea. He had a strong defence in front of him, led by John Terry, but then had to show off with one or two saves. Tonda is strong in this.”Petr Cech has been described as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all timeCredit: PA:Press AssociationTottenham’s top 10 biggest signings: Hit or miss?1) Tanguy Ndombele – £52.7mNdombele joined from Lyon in 2019 with huge expectations after shattering Tottenham’s transfer record.But he would go on to play just 91 times for the club, scoring 10 goals and is now set to leave one year before the end of his contract.2) Richarlison – £49.3mRicharlison almost broke the £50m mark when he arrived from Everton in 2022 as Harry Kane’s back-up.And while his tally of 12 goals this season was a significant increase on the three from his opening Spurs campaign, he is being linked with a departure this summer.3) Brennan Johnson – £46.8mJohnson was signed by Ange Postecoglou last summer and has impressed in patches during his first season in North London.He scored five goals and 10 assists in 38 games and will look to build on that in the 2024/25 campaign.4) Cristian Romero – £44.2mRomero initially joined on loan from Atalanta in 2021, before his impressive displays saw him secure a permanent deal the following year.He is two games shy of 100 for Spurs and, while he can be reckless with his tackling at times, is beginning to form a promising partnership with Micky van de Ven.5) James Maddison – £39.4mMaddison was handed Kane’s No10 shirt after arriving at Spurs and hit the ground running with three goals and five assists in his opening 11 matches.But after getting injured against Chelsea in October, he failed to return with the same sharpness – managing just five goal contributions in 15 league matches as he missed out on England’s final 26-man squad for the Euros.6) Davinson Sanchez – £35.7mSanchez joined Spurs from Ajax in 2017 and played more than 200 games across a six-year spell.But he was always considered a somewhat erratic defender who did not play more than 20 games in a Premier League season from 2020 onwards.7) Pedro Porro – £34mPorro was another signing who originally arrived on loan in January 2023, before he signed permanently last summer.He has 54 appearances for Spurs under his belt, scoring seven goals and impressing under Postecoglou this season.8) Micky van de Ven – £34mRapid Dutch centre-back Van de Ven was named Spurs Player of the Season in his first campaign at the club.His pace, athleticism, and technical ability on the ball have made him arguably Postecoglou’s best signing to date.9) Moussa Sissoko – £29.8mSissoko came to North London for a substantial fee after being relegated with Newcastle and went on to enjoy five years at Tottenham, playing more than 200 games.Unfortunately for the French midfielder, he is best-known for giving away a controversial penalty for handball in the first minute of Spurs’ 2-0 Champions League final defeat to Liverpool in 2019.10) Giovani Lo Celso – £27.2mLo Celso joined on loan from Real Betis in 2019 – a deal that was made permanent the following season.He has 10 goals and eight assists in 108 games, with some Spurs fans still unsure about the Argentine. More

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      Inside Lilly Gerrard’s glam life, from dressing in Chanel to VIP treatment at a Taylor Swift gig and Ibiza holidays

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      LILLY GERRARD is making her own waves in life.The eldest daughter of Liverpool legend Steven, the 20-year-old has revealed she is expecting her first baby.Lilly Gerrard boasts an envious lifestyleCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddBlonde beauty Lilly revealed she is expecting her first child at 20Credit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddLily is in a relationship with Liam Byrne – the son of an alleged mobsterCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddThe social media influencer has been in a longterm romance with Lee Byrne – the son of alleged mobster Liam Byrne, who reportedly has ties with the Kinahan gang.Lilly shared a photo of two positive pregnancy tests on social media.She captioned the snap: “Our little secret. The best news… mini us is on the way.”Dad Stevie G was quick to react to her happy news.Read more in footballHe replied: “We can’t wait, great news and congratulations we love you”.Lilly seemingly divides her time between the UK and Bahrain, where her family lives with Steven coaching in Saudi Arabia.And the blonde beauty boasts an enviable lifestyle, from dressing in Dior to fancy holidays in Ibiza and VIP treatment at a Taylor Swift gig.SunSport looks at how Lilly leads her life.Most read in FootballLucky in loveAs The Sun on Sunday revealed in 2022, Lilly started dating Lee in around April of that year.They were first linked when they enjoyed a holiday to Ibiza together and posted snaps kissing.Steven Gerrard mercilessly BOOED by Al-Ettifaq fans after losing local derby with Liverpool legend on brink of sackLee moved into a gated community in Freshfield, one of Merseyside’s more exclusive addresses, which is how he got to know Lilly.Lee has described former England Wag Alex as his second mum.While he also said Lilly is “the best person he’s ever met.”Lee is the son of criminal Liam Byrne, who was arrested in Spain in 2023 and was jailed in October 2024 for five years for weapons charges.However, Byrne Jr has never been involved in any criminal activity.Fashion forwardJust like her mother Alex Gerrard, Lilly is a massive fashionista.She has amassed over 200,000 followers on Instagram, and regularly shares her designer outfits online.Lilly is often seen wearing Chanel, and has handbags by Prada and more.On a trip to Los Angeles in 2022, she showed off her favourite boutiques in Beverly Hills.Social media influencer Lily boasts over 200,000 followersCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddLily shows off her love of ChanelCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddFashionista Lily loves Prada handbagsCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddRecently, Lilly showed off a paid partnership with Red Run activewearCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddLilly checks out the designer stores in IbizaCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddread more sport featuresThat included Valentino, Saint Laurent, and Bottega Veneta.While on a jaunt to London she shared an image of the Chanel store on Bond Street.Most recently, Lilly featured in a paid partnership with Red Run activewear.She captioned the picture: Perfect Monday morning, wearing @redrun_activewear new Founders’ club collection 🤍#redrun #newcollection #foundersclub.”Fancy holidaysAs mentioned, Lilly spent some time in California, where she stayed at the Beverly Hilton.However, it’s Ibiza that appeals to her most.She has been there several times, including this summer where she partied with boyfriend Lee.They went clubbing at hotspot Ushuaïa – posing for a snap together.And the pair also dined at Cipriani – as Lilly munched on pasta and cake.Lilly loves going for holidays in Ibiza and appears to rent luxury villasCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddLee and Lilly went clubbing at Ibiza hotspot UshuaïaCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddLily enjoyed eating at posh Italian restaurant CiprianiCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddForget travelling economy or first class, Lilly often flies privateCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddLilly hangs up with DJ Sonny Fodera at Amnesia nightclub in IbizaCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddOn a trip to Dubai, Lilly fed some monkeys at Fame Park zooCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddSeemingly, Lilly and Lee stayed in a huge mansion on the Balearic Island, which had its own swimming pool.How does she get there? By private jet, of course, which she shared in an Insta post back in 2023 on another visit to Ibiza.On that trip, she even got to meet DJ Sonny Fodera, who was playing at Amnesia.Lilly has also shared moments she’s had on family holidays to Dubai, including visiting the infamous Fame Park zoo owned by Dubai billionaire Dr. Saif Belhasa.She’s a SwiftieLast summer the hottest ticket in town was one for a Taylor Swift gig.Back in June, the songstress took her Eras tour to Anfield for two nights.Lilly was in attendance with Lee, watching all the action from a posh box.If your dad is a Liverpool legend, it must have been easy for her to get tickets.And she seemed delighted to be there.READ MORE SUN STORIESDressed in a fetching red cowboy hat, she smiled alongside Lee for a couple of photos.She said: “Taylor time ❤️ Best time with the best people #swifties.”Back in June, Lilly and Lee went to see Taylor Swift at AnfieldCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddThe pair of ‘Swifties’ were given VIP treatment in a private boxCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrarddSteven Gerrard poses with his three daughters, Lilly, left, Lourdes centre, and Lexie, rightCredit: Instagram / @lilly.gerrardd More

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      ‘I heard things that you should not hear as a footballer’ – Cult hero opens up on ‘uncomfortable’ transfer to Everton

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      EVERTON cult hero Royston Drenthe has revealed the bizarre circumstances behind his move to Goodison Park. The 37-year-old joined the Toffees on loan from Real Madrid in 2011.Royston Drenthe has opened up on his transfer to Everton in 2011Credit: GettyThe Dutchman became a cult figure at Goodison – but left under a cloudCredit: PA:Empics SportDrenthe found the net just three minutes into his debut against Fulham, immediately endearing himself to the home faithful. But his time on Merseyside fell apart after he was lambasted by manager David Moyes for being late to training.The Dutchman has revealed his agent wasn’t even able to attend the meeting as Real discussed terms with the Toffees.An assistant was sent in his place, leaving Drenthe to sit in on the negotiations. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDrenth told Soccernews.nl: “My agent at the time couldn’t be there, so one of his right-hand men came to fix the deal. “He had to do that together with me.”So now I was there myself, and with a stranger too.”Players usually leave negotiations to agents – and Drenthe admits he heard things “not meant for his ears.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe continued: “Practically speaking, I heard all the details, ins and outs that were probably not meant for my ears.”It was a bit uncomfortable. I also heard the management fee, that kind of thing.Royston Drenthe looks unrecognisable as he trains with Racing Murcia for first time since shock free transfer aged 33 “You could also see from his actions that he was not at ease because I also heard things that you should not hear as a footballer.”Look, agents do their job too. But they are often things that are not for our ears. “They do act very transparent, but in most cases they are not.””They have been able to eat well from this transfer, yes, I am convinced of that!”Drenthe’s career never fully recovered from his stint with the Toffees.He later played for both Sheffield Wednesday and Reading, but fell into obscurity before retiring in 2023.Lost millionsRenowned for his off-field antics, Drenthe spent five years at Madrid and won both the LaLiga title and Spanish Super Cup while being Cristiano Ronaldo’s team-mate.But he admits to losing millions on parties, holidays and fast cars.Drenthe recently told Dutch TV: “I felt like a god at Real Madrid, playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, and I am proud of it.”But I also liked to party hard in this world of glitter and glamour. I used to drink a lot even though I had to train the next day.”In my first year with them I earned £1.4million, and received another £430,000 as a signing-on bonus.”But I am not a rich man. I squandered the money on holidays and nice cars.”Drenthe’s life away from the pitch has often overshadowed his efforts on it.He has enjoyed work as a rapper, actor, TV pundit, healthcare worker and fashion shopkeeper.His on-field career included an initial retirement in 2016, before returning in 2018.The shock decision to retire came after spells in Turkey and Abu Dhabi which saw him go unpaid.He told SunSport in 2018: “The situation was repeating and repeating,” he tells SunSport.”No matter which country I was, which city, it didn’t change. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I was like ‘I’m leaving, I don’t want your money no more, I’m going’.”Then it would happen again. So after, I was just like ‘f*** it.'”Drenthe won the La Liga title during his time with Real MadridCredit: AFP More

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      What Trent Alexander-Arnold’s life in Madrid could look like, from sponsored £155k BMW to Beverly Hills-style mansion

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      TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD could live like a king in Madrid, should he complete a transfer to their famous football team, Los Blancos.The Liverpool star, 26, has been highly coveted by the European champions.Trent Alexander-Arnold could swap Liverpool for MadridCredit: GETTYIf TAA does move, he could live in a swanky mansion in the ‘Beverly Hills of Madrid’Credit: Solar PixAlexander-Arnold would also get a company car in the form of a top-of-the-range BMW like pal Jude BellinghamCredit: Instagram @realmadridIt has been reported that the Reds have rejected an offer for the England defender, who is out of contract in the summer.But, TAA could still sign a contract this month to join Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer – opening up the opportunity to hook up with close pal Jude Bellingham.That could mean Alexander-Arnold would live in a Beverly Hills style mansion in the same neighbourhood as his Three Lions team-mate.He would be offered a company car in the shape of a fancy BMW.read more football newsAnd Calle de Serrano, a luxury shopping district that’s home to boutiques for Prada and Louis Vuitton, would keep the full-back looking sharp.SunSport looks at what Alexander-Arnold’s life in Madrid could look like…Where he’d liveLa Finca, the exclusive private development in the upscale suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcón, is the area where Real Madrid’s elite mostly live.It’s where Gareth Bale made his home for many years – living in a £6.5million Beverly Hills style mansion.Most read in FootballLegends including Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema were also high-profile residents.Fans hail ‘agent Jude Bellingham’ as England star is spotted with Real Madrid transfer target in nightclubAlong with current superstar, Kylian Mbappe.Bale’s property featured a swimming pool and cost over £10,000-per-month to rent.It also had its own luxury gym and a six-car garage, so expect TAA to want something similar.Alexander-Arnold’s salary, given he would be available on a free transfer, could certainly be north of £400,000, so he would have plenty of money to play with choosing a home.He’d link up with…Joining Real Madrid would see TAA link up with some of the world’s best footballers, including Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.However, it would be a reunion with Bellingham that would be more satisfying.The pair have become firm friends since playing for their country together.They’ve been spotted partying together and eating at expensive restaurants together. Bellingham even surprised Alexander-Arnold with a giant card and a prank on his 26th birthdayMidfielder Bellingham has been full of praise of Alexander-Arnold’s ability.It’s also been reported that Alexander-Arnold has been discussing life in Madrid with his pal.Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold have become firm friends as international teammatesCredit: GettyBellingham is said to have discussed life in Madrid with his close palCredit: GettyCompany carIn Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold drives a top of the range Range Rover worth £75,000.While he’s also said to have a £82,000 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 AMG Coupe.Should he move to Madrid, he would certainly get the option of driving a company car.The club used to have a deal with Audi, but have since signed an exclusive contract with BMW.The German car giants provided Bellingham with a stunning electric BMW XM worth £155,000.Real Madrid players picked up their electric BMWs as part of a new initiative to make their journeys to training more environmentally friendly last year.A club statement read: “The football first team received the official BMW cars at an event which took place at Real Madrid City.”This season, the team will use vehicles classified as ‘0 emissions’ in order to be able to make their daily journeys in 100% electric mode.Alexander-Arnold could get his hands on a £155k BMW XMReal Madrid have a huge sponsorship deal with BMW who provide their players with fancy motorsCredit: Instagram @realmadridAlexander-Arnold’s current ride is a stunning Range Roverread more sport features”The players have opted for models such as the BMW i4 M50, the new BMW i4 eDrive35, the first BMW XM, the BMW iX M60 and the BMW IX xDrive50.”These are high-performance, sustainable models featuring state-of-the-art technology, all geared towards dynamism, precision and aesthetics, without neglecting electrification.”Fashion is coveredAlexander-Arnold has made no secret of his love of designer wear.Not only has he been spotted eyeing up the latest trends at Milan Fashion Week, he’s also a model in his own right.The right-back is the face of Guess Jeans and appeared in a glossy photoshoot in the summer, alongside ex-girlfriend Iris Law – the daughter of Hollywood star Jude and actress Sadie Frost.For his love of fashion, expect Alexander-Arnold to shun the busy, pedestrian Calle de Preciados.Instead, he would most likely be seen visiting the upscale boutiques on offer at Calle de Serrano.The likes of Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton all have stores there.With Alexander-Arnold on some serious wedge, he will certainly be a cherished customer.Calle De Serrano is the premier shopping district for fashionistasCredit: TripadvisorDesigners like Gucci have boutiques thereCredit: TRIPADVISORFashionista TAA was spotted at Milan Fashion WeekCredit: InstagramAlexander-Arnold is the face of Guess Jeans with brand ambassador Iris LawCredit: Guess JeansWill the missus join him?Alexander-Arnold has recently fallen for the charms of model Estelle Behnke.They were spotted together on a date in Cheshire last month.Now, they’ve been taking in the sights of Venice, where TAA has whisked the beauty off to for a quick break away.Trent and Estelle enjoyed a meal at the Italian restaurant Regina Corner on Monday.They reportedly stayed at the £1,500-a-night Aman hotel during their time in the city.Estelle Behnke and Alexander-Arnold have recently started datingCredit: instagram/Estelle BehnkeStunning Estelle is a model who once lived in MonacoCredit: instagram/Estelle BehnkeBeauty Estelle could join Alexander-Arnold in MadridCredit: instagram/Estelle BehnkeEstelle is a former business studies student who once lived in Monaco.READ MORE SUN STORIESEven tough it’s early days in their relationship, the well-travelled beauty could join Alexander-Arnold in the Spanish capital.They could tackle the new adventure together. 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