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    ‘I preferred to wait to publish this’ – Edu releases lengthy statement as Arsenal gardening leave finally expires

    EDU GASPAR has released an emotional tribute to Arsenal fans after his final day with the club.Having joined as technical director in 2019, Edu became the sporting director in 2022, working closely with Mikel Arteta to overhaul the culture at the Emirates.Edu Gaspar has paid an emotional tribute to Arsenal fans following his official exitCredit: GettyArsenal’s new sporting director is former Atletico Madrid chief Andrea BertaHe is widely credited with doing an excellent job and playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s rebuild into a title-chasing side.Edu, who was last month replaced by Andrea Berta, was on gardening leave until this week, and he has paid farewell to the Gunners. He posted on Instagram: “Thank you, Arsenal. Thank you, Gunners!”With a heart full of gratitude, today formally I close one of the most meaningful chapters of my professional life.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”After five and a half years, my journey officially as Sporting Director of Arsenal FC has come to the end.”I joined the club in July 2019 as Technical Director, with the challenge of bringing Arsenal with the mission of bringing Arsenal back where it belongs among football’s elite, driving a cultural shift, keep competing for trophies, and making Champions League qualification the minimum expectation for a club of Arsenal’s size. “Later, I had the honour of becoming the first-ever Sporting Director in the club’s history, a milestone I will always carry with great pride.”And throughout this process of rebuilding, you the fans were an essential part of everything! Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Arsenal Files every Friday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from The Emirates”To the supporters, my most sincere thank you! The support, the energy, and the connection we felt again in every match were simply special. “The Emirates became an amplified version of the old Highbury atmosphere! To have experienced this alongside you is something I will never forget.”Arsenal’s Kai Havertz hits the gym as he continues his recovery from injury The later added: “It was never easy, but our intense work, united by a true team spirit, made me feel fulfilled throughout all these years!”If I’m only now sharing this message, it’s because I’ve been on garden leave in recent months and, out of respect for the club and everyone involved, I preferred to wait until the final official day of my contract to publish this.”I wish Arsenal FC all the best and every success, and I also send my warmest wishes to the new Sporting Director Andrea, who now takes on this beautiful role.”I leave with a peaceful heart and immense pride in what we’ve built together!”Edu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories.Edu is expected to front Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis’s multi-club operation which includes the Premier League side, Olympiacos and Rio Ave. He won six trophies with Arsenal during his playing career, including two titles – in 2002 and the Invincible 2004 campaign.As a director, he witnessed one FA Cup triumph and two Community Shield triumphs.The Gunners have finished second in the Premier League in each of the past two seasons, having placed eighth, eighth and fifth in the three campaigns before that.Read More on The SunArteta’s men look set to miss out on the title once again this term as they sit second, 11 points behind leaders Liverpool. But Arsenal have on foot in the semi-finals of the Champions League after hammering 15-time Kings of Europe Real Madrid 3-0 on Tuesday.Arsenal ratings vs Real Madrid as Declan Rice’s free-kick thunderbolts earn him an ELEVEN out of 10BEND it like Beckham? More like bend it like Declan…It was a set-piece clinic from the Arsenal midfielder as he scored the first free-kicks of his career against Real Madrid – and the first player in Champions League history to score multiple direct free-kicks in the same knockout stage game.Thibaut Courtois was on hand to save Real Madrid in a fast paced first half as he pulled off a fine double save to deny a Rice header and a follow-up effort from Gabriel Martinelli.The deadlock was finally broken in the 58th minute as England star Rice whipped in a sensational free-kick.Rice then sent the Emirates into the stratosphere with as he added a second with an even better free-kick from the left side of the goal which he rifled into the top right corner.Mikel Merino then swept a devastating third into the bottom corner from a low cross to put the cherry on a remarkable night.Rice’s epic showing was enough to earn him an unprecedented ELEVEN in our player ratings.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the rest of the Gunners… More

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    ‘He doesn’t feel good’ – Pep Guardiola gives Jack Grealish update as Man City star ‘slapped’ after Manchester derby

    PEP GUARDIOLA says Phil Foden and Jack Grealish are just two of his stars living in a crazy world.The pair are still recovering from the abuse they suffered in the Manchester derby.Jack Grealish was slapped by a fan after the Manchester derbyCredit: ReutersFoden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United supportCredit: GettyMidfielder Foden’s mum Claire was repeatedly targeted by sections of the United support who chanted that she was “a s***g.After the final whistle winger Grealish was slapped around the face by a supporter near the entrance to the tunnel – an assault that produced a charge of assault on the elleged perpetrator.Guardiola described the insults hurled as Foden mother as having “no class” while City officials were understood to have been disgusted.But the City boss who will lead his team against Crystal Palace on Saturday fears there will only be more similar incidents in the future.READ MORE IN football Asked how Grealish and Foden have been, Guardiola declared: “He doesn’t feel good but move forward. It happens everywhere.” The City boss added: “It’s a crazy world, not just in sport. Nobody is away from that. it’s not about united.“It’s not a problem about a specific club or department in world football, it happens everywhere.”Guardiola faces the Eagles with a raft of injuries including Erling Haaland but is hopeful he can still steer City into a top five place – and the Champions League for next season.Most read in FootballHe stressed: “The injuries have been all season. So we adapt.“You can see it as a problem or a challenge or a disaster. it could be worse.  I’m really satisfied for the way we handle it.”New footage shows Phil Foden’s reaction to Man Utd fans’ sick chant aimed at his mum City lie a point behind fifth – placed Newcastle United with a game more played but he says: “We have a chance to qualify for the Champions League next season. “This is what we have to do, especially at home and tomorrow is a team who has been in incredible form in the last two months and they have always been difficult here. “I admire the manager, the talent they have. But at the same time, I’m optimistic to finish well this season.” More

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    ‘Unstable’ – F1 hit by shock resignation as FIA chief quits with blunt statement and George Russell slams leadership

    GEORGE RUSSELL slammed the FIA’s “unstable” leadership as the sport was thrown into turmoil yesterday.FIA executive Robert Reid resigned yesterday over what he described as a “fundamental breakdown in governance standards”.George Russell wants more trust placed in the teams to work with the FIACredit: EPACarlos Sainz was also scathing in his assessmentCredit: EPAScottish executive Reid was appointed in 2021 when current FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem was elected, but the pair have fallen out in recent years.When Mercedes ace Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, was asked about Reid’s resignation, he said: “Unfortunately, I think every time we hear some news from that side of the sport, it’s not a big surprise.”As we keep saying, it’s like, what’s next? It’s a shame to see, and hopefully we get more stability sooner rather than later.”It’s getting to a point now where these things are happening so often, and as drivers we’re trying to get involved, in the past, we didn’t really make much headway.RED MORE IN SPORT“Things seem to continuously be going in an unstable direction.“I’ve got to be honest, we’re getting to a point now where our actions are having little impact with those guys, and we’ve got to trust in the teams and Formula 1 to work with the FIA to come to a common ground.“If we can help, we want to be there, but often it just seems like things are going in their own direction.”Reid’s departure is the latest in a string of high-profile resignations at the FIA over the last 18 months.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBen Sulayem has been under fire in the last few years, following various controversies including the FIA’s swearing rules earlier this year.Reid said in his resignation letter: “When I took on this role, it was to serve the FIA’s members, not to serve power.Max Verstappen claims he has ‘lost all respect’ for F1 star George Russell in X-rated rant”Over time, I have witnessed a steady erosion of the principles we promised to uphold.“Decisions are being made behind closed doors, bypassing the very structures and people the FIA exists to represent.”My resignation is not about personalities. It is about principles.“Motorsport deserves leadership that is accountable, transparent and member-driven. I can no longer, in good faith, remain part of a system that does not reflect those values.”On the grid at Suzuka, Sainz reported to the FIA medical team with a stomach issue. After receiving treatment and using the toilet, the Williams driver was late to the national anthem ceremony – something all drivers must attend or risk a fine.The FIA punished Sainz with a €20,000 fine, half of which is suspended for 12 months providing he does not repeat the rules breach, while the fine is usually €60,000.He said: “I was five seconds late, and to be five seconds late and have to pay 10,000, it’s for me, out of the question that we’re having to pay this money.”“I don’t know if I’m gonna get a fine saying this but, s*** happens.”It is not yet known if Sainz will be fined for the swearing incident, with the ex-Ferrari driver in talks with the FIA over whether it will be referred to the stewards.Drivers like Lewis Hamilton have also come under fire for tattoos and piercings in recent years and Russell believes Sainz’s toilet punishment was over the top.He added: “It’s not quite as straightforward as people may think for us to be there on time. Read More on The Sun“We’re often running to the toilet, and there’s sometimes no toilets available between the time you jump out of the car and go into the anthem, and you’ve got people on the grid, or people asking for a quick interview.”He added: “It’s a pretty expensive poo!” More

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    Former Premier League star-turned-manager wears PINK TUXEDO on touchline as he’s compared to Simpsons character

    FORMER Premier League midfielder Segundo Castillo has combined coaching with the catwalk… by sporting a PINK TUXEDO during a game.The ex-Ecuador international star loan spells with Everton and Wolves between 2008 and 2010.Segundo Castillo explained why we wears such spectacular outfitsCredit: ReutersThe ex-midfielder likes to make his Barcelona SC players ‘smile’Castillo’s tuxedo couldn’t quite inspire his team to victoryCredit: AFPCastillo, nicknamed Sir Second Castle, now manages home-country club Barcelona SC.And the 42-year-old went the extra mile to produce a smile for their Copa Libertadores clash with Argentina’s River Plate in Buenos Aires on Tuesday.Castillo stunned onlookers by wearing a flamboyant pink dinner jacket as he saw his side earn a commendable 0-0 draw.The fashion-loving former footballer has previously donned black and white tuxes for Barcelona games.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut his latest sartorial statement drew plenty of derision online – including memes of Marge Simpson, a character from animated TV show The Simpsons, wearing a pink dress.Castillo said: “When I come out of my dressing-room and my players see me like this, it makes them smile and makes them feel more free for a moment.”The players can tell they are being well looked-after.  “There is a good atmosphere between them and the coaching staff.”Most read in FootballThe ex-Everton and Wolves loanee produced a smile as dazzling as his attireCredit: ReutersCastillo believes his outfit helps his players look on the bright sideCredit: GettyCastillo made nine Prem appearances for Everton, and scored a UEFA Cup goal against Standard Liege.The anchorman went on to play eight times for Wolves, this time on loan from Red Star Belgrade.Glamorous Ecuador fan in just bikini and fishnet stockings goes viral as fans ditch Euro 2024 for Copa AmericaHe later played for six clubs in South America, including Barcelona SC, plus Saudi team Al-Hilal.Castillo retired as a player in 2020, taking the permanent Barcelona boss job last year following two spells as interim chief. More

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    ‘People talk a lot of s***’ – KSI defended by his coach for being spotted at concert a week after pulling out of fight

    KSI has been defended by his boxing coach after being spotted at an Usher concert – one week after pulling out of his fight with Dillon Danis. The YouTuber was due to face MMA star Danis on March 29 in Manchester – but he withdrew with a week to go after falling ill. KSI was spotted at an Usher concert a week after pulling out of fighting Dillon DanisAlexis Demetriades is the coach of KSIBut Danis hit out at KSI after the British social media sensation was spotted at an Usher concert at the O2. Derek Chisora posted a video on his Instagram story showing KSI in attendance and Danis said: “You can’t make this s*** up. “@KSI faked the sniffles. He’s a scared little b***h. I was told he couldn’t get out of bed, and he’s out on the night of the fight? WTF.”KSI’s trainer Alexis Demetriades has since spoken out in defence of the Misfits Boxing co-founder. READ MORE IN BOXINGDemetriades said on Fred Talks Fighting: “It’s quite a strange one for people to jump on that because let’s say I’ve hurt my hand and it’s really hurt, doesn’t mean I can’t go to a concert.”I’m not fighting anymore, I can’t train and put my heart rate at max zones and do my VO2 Max and kill myself in sparring because I can’t fight.”It doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy my life and go out. I think because he’s a high-profile kid a lot of people talk a lot of s*** online like, ‘Why’s here there? What’s he doing?'”He’s been on antibiotics and he’s ill and he can’t fight – doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy his life. It’s a very different scenario.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”I think people read a bit too much into it. He’s a young man that needs to let off some steam. “If he wants to go out and go to a concert, I don’ think there’s an issue with that.KSI issues worrying statement on health battle and gives major update on boxing career after latest fight collapse “He’s been ill for a month off with two sets of antibiotics and a lot of pressure for him to make this work and it didn’t work out.”KSI, 31, is yet to return since suffering defeat for the first time, losing a controversial decision to Tommy Fury, 25, in October 2023. He was due to fight in August but pulled out with an injured hand before his most recent illness. And KSI – who founded Misfits to home to celebrity-style crossover bouts – even refused to confirm if he will fight again. But coach Demetriades does expect the Britain’s Got Talent judge to fight again and opened the door to a bout with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. He said: “We’d love that fight, I think stylistically it’s a great fight.”And also, because the fight everyone wants and we want is the Jake Paul fight and obviously he doesn’t necessarily want it at the moment.”That’s a great idea for people to see JJ fight somebody that orthodox, that’s 200+lb right now that’s got 56 wins and won a world title. It’s quite a good look for JJ.”He’s been on antibiotics and he’s ill and he can’t fight – doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy his life. KSI’s trainer Alexis DemetriadesChavez – son to the legendary Mexican Julio Cesar Sr – held the WBC middleweight world title from 2011-2012. And he went 12 rounds with Canelo Alvarez in 2017 but has suffered inconsistent form of late. Chavez, 39, was beaten by UFC great Anderson Silva, 49, in 2021 but did beat MMA middleweight Uriah Hall in a crossover boxing bout last summer. He was in talks to fight KSI earlier in the year and has also been linked with facing Paul, 28, in the past. Demetriades also talked down a tune-up fight – despite KSI’s inactivity in the ring. He said: “I’m not about warm-up fights, personally. “I don’t think we need warm-up fights. I think what you do is get a fight camp and go straight into a fight.Read More on The Sun”As far as I’m concerned the sparring that we have and the pressure we put on KSI, he’s a game day kid. He performs on game day.”When he comes out to fight he comes out to fight. I’m not worried about him performing, that’s what he does. He’s very, very good at that.”Julio Cesar Chavez Jr is linked with fighting KSICredit: Esther Lin/MVP More

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    ‘I’m doing your job’ – John Terry and Mark Clattenburg in furious bust-up as they reignite rivalry at Baller League

    CHELSEA legend John Terry and ex-Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg rolled back the years as they locked horns at Baller League.Terry, 44, and Clattenburg, 50, clashed numerous times during their peak years in the Prem.Chelsea legend John Terry clashed with iconic Premier League referee Mark ClattenburgCredit: X @SkyFootballTerry and Clattenburg rolled back the years at Baller LeagueCredit: Getty – ContributorTerry and Clattenburg’s most famous clash took place 10 years agoCredit: Getty Images – GettyAnd the pair gave fans a trip down memory lane on Monday at the Copper Box Arena in London.The ex-England international is among the Baller League’s celebrity managers as he’s coaching the 26ers.And the former centre-back saw his team pick up a thrilling 3-3 draw against RTW.However, tensions flared when former Manchester United player Josh Harrop was sent off for two minutes for a bad tackle on 26ers’ Sak Hassan, who was making a break down the left flank.Read More on ChelseaThat immediately led to a mini brawl between the two sides on the pitch. And minutes later, Terry lashed out at Clattenburg over what appears to be a decision involving the 26ers having to drop the ball and give their opponent possession.The Chelsea great was heard yelling, “I’ve got to do your job for you” towards the experienced match official.Baller League rules dictate that a manager can use one referee challenge during a match.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHowever, Terry opted against using one of those on this occasion.The two Premier League icons have had several confrontations in the past and perhaps their most famous clash took place 10 years ago.Chelsea legend John Terry goes on 5k run in preparation for London Marathon That was when Chelsea beat West Brom 3-2 at the Hawthorns in a heated match that saw Terry getting sent off with a direct red card.The legendary defender was penalised for denying Salomon Rondon a clear goalscoring opportunity.And Terry protested for a long time in front of Clattenburg until he finally walked down the tunnel. More

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    ‘You guys are my heroes’ – Emotional moment Michail Antonio meets paramedics who saved his life after horror car crash

    WEST HAM star Michail Antonio touchingly sat down with the “hero” paramedics who helped save his life after his terrifying car crash.The 35-year-old crashed his Ferrari FF into a tree in Epping, Essex on a stormy December 7 and was rushed to hospital.Michail Antonio met the paramedics that saved his lifeCredit: BBCAntonio sat down with first responders Rob Moon and Dr James MoloneyCredit: Essex & Herts Air Ambulance TeamThe West Ham striker went to Essex and Herts Air Ambulance HQAntonio crashed his Ferrari FF into a tree in December and broke his legThe striker required surgery on a shattered femurHe suffered a broken leg in the accident and underwent surgery the following day.And now the Hammers’ record Premier League goalscorer has personally shown his appreciation to the men who helped him cheat death.Antonio met with the two first responders Rob Moon and Dr James Moloney on the BBC’s Morning Live show.The striker cannot remember the crash so he met with the heroic Essex and Herts Air Ambulance crew to “fill in the blanks”.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAfter meeting them in an ambulance hangar, Antonio began: “I want to say thank you because I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you guys.”So you guys are basically my heroes.”Antonio’s accident happened during Storm Darragh, which meant the air ambulance helicopter couldn’t take off due to strong winds. Dr Moloney and Moon – who were dispatched to the scene in a rapid response car – said they thought they recognised the Premier League footballer straight away.Most read in FootballAntonio was shocked to learn that the medics found his lifeless body in the back seat after noticing his fractured femur bone.As football fans, the paramedics clocked that they were helping a Premier League striker.Michail Antonio given hero’s welcome as he returns to West Ham for 1st time since escaping death in horror Ferrari crashBut their suspicions were confirmed after spotting a clue – his No 9 ‘Antonio’ shirt in the foot-well. Dr Moloney said: “We treat everyone the same whatever happens. But not many people have a shirt with their name on the back.”To get Antonio talking, the medics spoke to him about football, including his different managers and career highlights.The pair revealed that he was talking a lot and speaking repetitively, which is common when people bump their heads. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you guys.Michail AntonioBBCThe medics put him on a trolley before boarding him onto the ambulance, and tried to keep him warm.Antonio added: “For me, personally, I could never do your job. “If I go there and see blood or people in trouble, I would just panic or faint. It’s definitely something I wouldn’t be able to do.”The seriousness of it hit home when the forward saw the remains of the car at a scrapyard a few weeks ago.The former Nottingham Forest star explained: “Being involved in a major accident can have life-changing physical and mental effects.”I’ve processed it to a certain degree, but I think the emotions are going to take a long time. Mentally, trauma lasts a long time.”Antonio was shocked to find out that the medics found his body in the back seatCredit: BBCThe West Ham striker signed merch for the crewAntonio said the medics were his heroesHe also revealed that it was harder for his loved ones to see him that way.He said: “My family probably experienced the incident more than I did. “They had to see how I was in the hospital. I don’t remember my face being cut or going down for surgery the next day. “They lived it. They have those memories.”While there was some initial doubt as to whether or not he would ever play football again, Antonio is determined to get back on the pitch.He previously told the BBC: “The most difficult part is that I almost wasn’t there for my children.”It’s just made me happy, positive about life, because I’ve got another chance at life.”During this, we kept it away from the kids. My eldest saw it, and he struggled with it.”Not many people have a shirt with their name on the back.Dr James MoloneyBBCAntonio would watch West Ham games weekly throughout the early stages of his recovery to motivate him.The Hammers icon admitted that hearing his name being sung by supporters “helped him massively”.Read More on The SunHe made an emotional return to the London Stadium for West Ham’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle last month.Antonio has also been able to return to light training. More

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    Frank Warren claims Joe Joyce ‘needs to have a serious think’ about retiring with risk of ‘consequences down the road’

    FRANK WARREN says Joe Joyce needs to consider retirement for the sake of his long-term health after another punishing loss.The 39-year-old Putney heavyweight lost a unanimous decision to Croatia’s Filip Hrgovic, 32, on Saturday night in Manchester.Frank Warren says Joe Joyce needs to consider retirementCredit: GettyJoyce was beaten over 12 rounds by Filip HrgovicCredit: ReutersThere was no shame in the defeat but it was another ten-round exhibition of Joyce’s steadfast determination to use his own face as his only defence.And promoter Warren — who guided The Juggernaut to excellent wins over Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker — is now concerned what permanent damage defeats to Zhilei Zhang, Derek Chisora and now Hrgovic has done.The Queensberry promoter said: “Joe needs to have a serious think about his future “There’s no rush but that is what he has to do now.“He will want to fight, I know he will, but he needs to sit down with his family and have a real serious think about the future, because it will not be an easy road back for him. Whatever he does, we will support him.READ MORE IN BOXING“But, in boxing, as you get older — and you fight the way Joe does — you have to think about what the consequences could be down the road. “He’s a lovely man, one of the best people I have ever worked with And I just want the best for him now.”Worryingly Joyce, who also did thousands of explosive and gruelling rounds with Anthony Joshua when they were on Team GB, is already thinking about his next fight.He said: “I am still enjoying what I am doing and I feel good. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“A lot of people want to see me fight Dillian Whyte, so I will reflect on this fight, with my team, and see what’s coming next. I will reflect and come back.”But ringside pundit and former British super-middleweight champion Paul Smith pleaded with Joyce to hang up his gloves. My dad is Coronation Street legend Des Barnes – now I’ve swapped acting for pro boxingHe said: “I hope I never see Joe Joyce in a boxing ring again.“I felt uncomfortable watching that because this is an unforgiving sport and it’s his health we are all worried about. “I am not being cruel to him but I didn’t like what I saw in there. It was an entertaining fight but only because of how many shots Joe takes and just keeps going.“In boxing you need people around you who care about you and love you, who will say ‘no more’ because you have got to think about your long-term health.”But he refused to retireCredit: PA More