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    Bitter 50-year feud between two football clubs 200 miles apart with ‘lockdown’ youths fuelling new wave of hooliganism

    TWO Football League clubs have formed an unlikely bitter feud stretching back 50 years – despite being 200 miles apart.Geography is the usually the predominant cause of a rivalry, with hatred instilled within fans from a young age.Cops broke up a brawl between youths ahead of the Coventry and Sunderland gameCredit: Channel 4A pitch invader is tackled by stewards after running onto the field with a flareCredit: Channel 4Sunderland fans clashing with police following their match with CoventryCredit: Channel 4Cops patrolling the Coventry and Sunderland gameBased hundreds of miles apart, Sunderland and Coventry City had an indifferent opinion of each other for much of their respective existences.But the two Football League clubs have maintained a deep hatred for each other since the final day of the 1976/77 season.The teams were not playing against each other, but were vying for safety in the top-flight of English football.As is customary on the final day, the games had been scheduled to kick off at the same time.Read more footballBut owing to traffic congestion outside Coventry’s Highfield Stadium, then director Jimmy Hill delayed the start of his club’s game by 15 minutes to allow fans of the home side time to make into the ground.Sunderland ultimately lost to Everton 2-0 on the day, with the result being broadcast mid-game for all to hear at Coventry.Coventry’s encounter with Bristol City subsequently petered out into a 2-2 draw with both sides knowing a point was enough to keep them up – and so little effort was made to score.It meant Sunderland were relegated out of the top-flight and would remain in the second division for three years.Most read in FootballFifty years later, the rivalry between the clubs remains just as intense.New Channel 4 documentary Football Cops follows police as they work to prevent outbreaks of violence at matches across England.Watch footballer punch rival in furious fit of rage as fans demand lifetime ban for moment of madnessThe series opener on Monday night showed Dedicated Football Officers (DFOs) fighting an uphill battle while patrolling Coventry and Sunderland fans during the 2022/23 season.But many leading the chaos weren’t born when the infamous incident occurred.Instead, police found themselves breaking up a group of youths brawling in a car park in close proximity to the ground.It comes as an expert warned a “lockdown generation” of youngsters are fuelling a return of hooliganism across Britain.Geoff Pearson, professor of law at the University of Manchester, has suggested older family members would usually set boundaries for acceptable behaviour when attending games.But he said boys stuck in lockdown had missed out on this step and are now rushing to stadiums together.He told MailOnline: “If you think of how fan communities work when you don’t have lockdowns, young fans go with family members, who at points will make interventions and draw the line about what is acceptable. “During lockdown these young fans were set at home. So you had a sudden rush of young, new fans rushing into stadiums at the same time.”Ahead of the fixture, DFOs had positioned themselves around local pubs to prevent away fans from entering.One officer told the show that away fans outnumbering home supporters in a pub is seen as “a big thing”.Cops also followed a group of 70 youths as they chanted expletive-filled songs before the match.Once inside the stadium, DFOs spotted a fan with a blue flare, who then sprinted onto the pitch waving it around.The man was subsequently arrested and handed a four-year football banning order.But the violence continued after the game as Sunderland fans became enraged and knocked down a barrier as they were taunted by Coventry supporters.It comes as football-related arrests have reached their highest level for nine years.The latest data shows there were 2,264 football-related arrests across the 2022/23 season.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere was also the highest number of new football banning orders for a decade, with 682 issued.The majority of banning orders were handed to men aged between 18 and 34, figures show.Then Coventry City manager Jimmy Hill signing autographs for young fans in August 1967Credit: GettyAmad Diallo of Sunderland scores the only goal during the match between Coventry and Sunderland at the Coventry Building Society Arena on February 25, 2023Credit: GettyPolice officers on the pitch during the disorder at West Brom vs Wolves in the FA Cup in JanuaryCredit: PAJonny Sunley (DFO Carlisle United), Stu Spencer “Cardio” (DFO Coventry City), Wayne Mitchell (National DFO UK Football Policing Unit), Jessy Sorrell (Operational Football Officer or “Spotter” Ipswich Town) and Rickie Wallbank (DFO Brrow AFC)Credit: Patch Dolan / Channel 4 More

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    Jude Bellingham owes superstardom to mum he calls his ‘queen’ & ‘hero’ ex-cop dad – as Jose Mourinho praises family

    GRATEFUL Jude Bellingham made mum Denise the centre of attention after his Wembley triumph as thanks for helping his dreams of glory come true.The Champions League winner, 20, credits the woman he calls his Queen with getting him within touching distance of Euros greatness.Jude Bellingham owes a lot to his family following his Champions League victory with Real MadridCredit: AFPJude has won the coveted trophy in his first season at the Spanish clubCredit: GettyReal Madrid star Jude took Denise, dad Mark and younger brother Jobe from the crowd and later fought back tears as he thanked his family for their support.He said: “This is the best night of my life. I was all right until I saw my mum and dad’s faces.“The amount of nights where they could be at home by seven o’clock and they’re doing trips at 11 and 12 at night to take me to football.“And my little brother there who I’m trying to be a role model for. Yeah, it’s the best night of my life.”READ MORE ON JUDE BELLINGHAMEngland fans were now urging Jude to save his strength for the upcoming Euros in Germany, after playing 42 games for Real in a debut season which saw him La Liga Player of the Year.Chelsea fan Richard Wilson, 36, from Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, said: “Jude has played twice as much football as most top professionals at his age — he must be knackered.“But he has the ability to become a true England great.”On Saturday night Jude celebrated the 2-0 win over former club Borussia Dortmund by taking Denise to the sidelines to meet former Madrid manager and TV pundit Jose Mourinho, dubbed The Special One.Most read in FootballJude snapped the pair together, telling smiling Mourinho: “Sorry about that, my mum’s fancied you for years!”Mourinho later told TNT Sports: “Special player, special family. To see that family, the way they are there, they are not looking for cameras, they are not looking for the VIP seats, they are just there to support their kid in the most humble way.Gareth Evans recalls playing against ‘exceptional’ 16-year-old Jude Bellingham on his debut“For me, it’s really beautiful. Family, we play for them, especially in these moments, we play for them.”Mum Denise, 54, had accompanied former Birmingham City player Jude when he was sold to Dortmund in 2020 for £21million — then stayed by his side as he moved to Madrid last year for an initial £88million.Retired cop Mark, 48, remained at home with 18-year-old Jobe, currently playing for Sunderland.Denise made sure to celebrate her birthday, in December, back in the UK.Jude wrote online: “Happy Birthday to my Queen! Love you more than life.”He has admitted: “Without my mum, sometimes I’d get too low with the lows or too high with the highs and I stay pretty humble because I’ve got her around.“She’s a great laugh as well. We get on so well, and we’re always doing stuff together. The role my mum is playing is massive.“It’s probably the biggest role of anyone, more than my coaches and managers, to be honest.”Denise, a former human resources manager, looks after all of Jude’s financial affairs, while Mark is his manager.Jude said: “It leads to great conversations at the table. It can be anything from a discussion about a movie or something that happened to, ‘By the way, Real Madrid is interested . . . ’.”Jude has said he only has “good memories” about his childhood in Hagley, West Midlands.He was not obsessed with football as a young child, despite Mark being a prolific striker in the non-league game.When taken along to his dad’s training sessions, he opted to make a daisy bouquet for his mum or play hide and seek.Jude took a photo of his mum with her crush Jose MourinhoCredit: Pixel8000But he became hooked. He recalled: “We talk about footballing heroes, and my dad was like my first.”“Seeing the way he played and the atmosphere, it made me fall in love with football.”The family’s unwavering support let him focus on simply being a “good footballer” and not getting caught up in the trappings of attention and fame.But The Sun revealed he has found time for romance with Dutch model Laura Celia Valk, 25.Yesterday he flew back to Madrid ahead of a huge parade in the city to mark the club’s 15th European Cup win.That means he will not be available for England’s friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina at St James Park, Newcastle, tonight.But he will join team-mates in time for our final friendly before the Euros against Iceland at Wembley on Friday night.An England source told The Sun: “He’ll probably join in light training with the squad on Wednesday or Thursday but Gareth Southgate will want him to take a well-earned break.“He might be on the substitutes’ bench against Iceland but is unlikely to get any game time.”Supporter Paul Taylor, a 46-year-old building firm director from Birmingham, said: “We have our best chance in my lifetime with this squad and Jude is our stand-out player. He needs to take a break before the Euros.”And events organiser Jemma Swift, 39, from West London said: “We have our best chance of finally winning a trophy.“If he stays fit and fired up it’ll be an incredible summer!”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe England source added: “I’m sure Jude will be raring to go once the Euros kick off and will be fired up when the time comes.“He has tasted success and now he will be wanting more in an England shirt.”Bellingham has found romance with Dutch model Laura Celia ValkCredit: Instagram/lauraceliavBaby Jude with mother DeniseCredit: Twitter More

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    Alex Scott reveals struggles of dating Jess Glynne after her dad ‘banned her from “showing emotion”‘

    ALEX SCOTT has revealed her struggles dating Jess Glynne after her dad banned her from showing emotion.The BBC presenter shared her life story in her autobiography, in which she describes the abuse her mum Carol suffered at the hands of her dad, Tony.Alex Scott struggled to show affection in her relationship with Jess GlynneCredit: SplashPast traumas have affected the presenter’s emotionsCredit: GettyScott revealed she was even unable to hug Glynne at firstCredit: SplashThe couple were hesitant about going public despite being spotted at Wimbledon togetherCredit: GettyThe pair went official earlier this yearCredit: InstagramThey now feel comfortable expressing their love publiclyCredit: GettyScott still finds it difficult to show emotion after being warned not to by her father, who has denied allegations of domestic violence.Tony left the home when Scott was eight years old but his lessons stuck with her, and to this day she struggles to express emotion.Scott told The Times: “We weren’t allowed to express emotion. “Dad didn’t allow us to hug each other or say ‘I love you’. It had a huge impact on us all. To this day, if I want to show people love, I’ll do it by taking them out to dinner and paying.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo when she first got with Glynne, Scott was even unable to reciprocate a hug.She recalled the story, saying: “I remember one of the first times Jess hugged me. I was like… [rigid]”“She was like, ‘Are you not going to put your arms around me?’ But I didn’t know how to do that. We laugh about it to this day.”Scott is not the only one in her family who finds affection difficult, with her mum and brother, Ronnie, also unable to hug.Most read in FootballShe added: “I’ve worked through it all, but for them there’s still that awkwardness. The love’s absolutely there but it doesn’t come naturally to them.”Scott’s relationship with Glynne has likely helped in her development, though the couple were cautious about going public.Alex Scott looks incredible in bold see-through dress as she holds hands with Jess Glynne at amfAR Gala in CannesThey were spotted together for months including at Wimbledon and awards shows, before going official earlier this year.Scott explained: “It took us a while because we knew what we have is so special, so it has been about trying to protect that and keep that for us in such a way that it continues to be beautiful.”The pundit no longer keeps in contact with her father, who denied allegations he “bullied and abused” Scott during her childhood.Tony said: “I have no idea why she’s saying all this stuff. I was raised in a strict but loving Jamaican family and Alex should know what they are like. I taught her discipline, I did a lot to help her.”Perhaps she is judging me by today’s standards, I don’t know. “Parents were a lot tougher back then. But I was never violent, that’s just not me. I never beat Alex or anyone else in the family or did anything like that.” More

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    I thought I was the next Wayne Rooney but was forced to retire – what happened to me can’t happen to other players

    A FORMER Premier League prospect is calling for more support to be given to young athletes.Matthew Briggs was once a promising rising star in England. He made his debut in the top flight for Fulham in 2007.Matthew Briggs came through the Fulham academyCredit: GettyHe wants more support to be made for young playersCredit: Instagram @matthewbriggs_12Briggs, 33, became the Premier League’s youngest-ever player as he replaced Mortiz Volz in the 3-1 defeat to Middlesborough.The left-back held the record of 16 years and 65 days old until Harvey Elliot made his Prem debut 12 years later at 16 years and 30 days old.However, Briggs failed to make the grade at Craven Cottage and spent four spells away from the club on loan.In 2014 he left the club for Millwall but only made 12 appearances for the club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe joined Colchester and enjoyed a decent spell in which he made 65 appearances in three seasons.Briggs then bounced around non-league sides which included stints in Denmark before his last club in Horsham.He has now claimed that there was not enough support for young athletes.He told the BBC: “You know for me I didn’t know I wasn’t as a kid that was academic.Most read in Football”So I didn’t apply myself in school and because I started so young.”I just assumed, I’m the next Wayne Rooney, I’m the next Theo Walcott.Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024″I’ve made it, I don’t need school.”So and the way my career kind of went, I didn’t do anything else.”When I got told I had to retire and it was not on my own terms I panicked.”I’m like ‘Well, if I can’t play football, what am I going to do? How am I going to support myself? How am I going to look after my family?'”And I literally had a panic up and that’s all.”I spoke to a close friend who is a life coach, I spoke to a therapist, the counsellor to try and work out these things.”Working out my next options. I want to stop that happening to other young people.”I needed to realise that stuff a lot sooner.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBriggs retired from football in 2023 having also won 15 caps for Guyana.He was also part of the team that played in the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup.Who are these famous footballers? More

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    Miss Universe, glam rapper and an ex army recruit… meet Real Madrid & Dortmund WAGs ahead of Champions League final

    AS the world tunes in to watch Dortmund take on Real Madrid at Wembley, eyes will also be on the glamorous spectators cheering on the players. The wives and girlfriends of the two Champions League teams will be keenly watching the match, hoping their significant others will lift the trophy.The wives and girlfriends of the Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund players will be cheering on their menCredit: Instagram/lauraceliavStunning Israeli model Mishel Gerzig, who is dating Real Madrid goalie Thibaut Courtois, served in the IDFCredit: Capture Media AgencyAfter meeting on Instagram, the pair married in June of last yearCredit: Instagram / @mishelgerzigFrom a Miss Universe and a journalist to a dressage rider and rapper, they have proved that they are the ultimate combination of beauty and brains. Here, we look at the WAGs of Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, who are set to battle it out for the title on Saturday.Real MadridMishel Gerzig The stunning Israeli model captured the heart of former Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after meeting through Instagram in 2021. READ MORE FEATURESThe pair enjoyed a whirlwind romance before tying the knot in June 2023. She’s the proud stepmother to Courtois’ two children from a previous relationship, lovingly describing them as “amazing.”Her grid is full of bikini-clad pics on sun-soaked beaches. But she’s more than just a pretty face, the 27-year-old model has even served in the Israel Defense Forces.Mina Bonino Most read in Champions LeagueMina Bonino and Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde have two sons togetherCredit: Social Media – Refer to SourceFederico Valverde has shown that he’s not afraid to defend his wife’s honourCredit: Instagram / @minaboninoThe Argentine journalist boasts both brains and beauty and is happily married to midfielder Fede Valverde, 25.Last April, Mina, 30, released an emotional statement after her husband allegedly punched Villarreal’s Alex Baena following a comment about Mina’s pregnancy scare with her second son.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024The incident occurred after Real Madrid’s 3-2 defeat at the Santiago Bernabeu. Valverde reportedly confronted Baena as he boarded the team bus and punched him in the face.Mina and Valverde have two sons, Benicio, born in 2020, and Bautista, born in 2023. Andrea Martinez Andrea Martinez is a former basketball player and was crowned Miss Universe Spain in 2020Credit: Instagram/andrea.martinezfKepa Arrizabalaga and Andrea Martinez have been married for three yearsCredit: Instagram @kepaarrizabalagaAndrea Martinez is a multi-talented Spanish star. Known for her impressive career as a former basketball player and her work as a model, the 31-year-old is a true powerhouse.In 2020, she was crowned Miss Universe Spain in her homeland. Three years later, she tied the knot with Real Madrid keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga at a stunning wedding in Marbella.Several of Kepa’s former Chelsea teammates attended. Laura Celia ValkLaura Celia Valk is Jude Bellingham’s gorgeous new girlfriendCredit: Gooseberry IntimatesIt has been reported that the model is ‘completely smitten’ with JudeCredit: GettyJude Bellingham and his new girlfriend, Laura Celia Valk, have enjoyed a series of luxurious dates.The 20-year-old midfielder has moved on from his split with Asantewa Chitty last year and is reportedly dating the 25-year-old Dutch model, who seems to be ‘completely smitten’ with him.The stunning blonde boasts nearly 500k followers on Instagram and has modelled for a string of brands, including PrettyLittleThing.Shalimar Heppner Shalimar Heppner is a PR manager whose family owns restaurants across the worldCredit: Instagram/shaliimaarThe married couple often show off their luxurious lifestyle on their social mediaCredit: Instagram/shaliimaarThe wife of Real Madrid star David Alaba, 31, is a multifaceted talent in her own right. At 29 years old, she’s a German model, social media personality, and PR manager known for her glamorous presence both online and offline.Her father, Frank Heppner, is a renowned restaurateur and hotelier with establishments across the globe. The couple’s love story began in 2017, and since then, they have built a beautiful family together, raising two children.Anastasia TamazovaAnastasia Tamazova got married to goalie Andriy Lunin after six years of datingCredit: Instagram/a.nastasicaThe pair broke the internet with their wedding pictures, which showed the goalie in a tracksuitCredit: Instagram/a.nastasicaAfter six years of dating, goalkeeper Andriy Lunin married Anastasia in a tracksuit in 2021.The stopper revealed the news during the low-key civil ceremony in the Spanish capital.The Ukrainian, 25, wrote: “A very special and important day in our life. I love you.”Dressed in all white, Anastasia, also 25, posted: “Husband, love you. The best day of my life.”She is an influencer who shares glimpses of her luxury lifestyle on TikTok and Instagram. Dortmund Lisa Marie StraubeThe stunning WAGs will be there to provide some moral supportCredit: twitter/lisamsatrubeLisa Staube is the rumoured of Mats Hummel after his shocking divorceMats shares a son with his ex-wife, Cathy FisherCredit: GettyThe 23-year-old Instagram model is rumoured to be dating central defender Mats Hummels, 35, after his shock divorce from his ex-wife Cathy Fischer. Cathy, a former playboy model, gained recognition when she was named Germany’s WAG of the Year in 2013. She and Mats tied the knot in June 2015 but sadly parted ways in 2022, with Cathy confirming the separation via Instagram. The former couple share a son Ludwig.Scarlett Gartmann Scarlett married Marco Reus after four years of datingCredit: Instagram/scarlettgartmannThe pair welcomed their first child in 2019Credit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannThe 30-year-old beauty was born in Hagen, Germany, just 13 miles from Dortmund’s Marco Reus’ hometown. They began dating in December 2015, welcomed their first child four years later, and married in the same year. She is passionate about dressage riding and is dedicated to fitness, often sharing workout videos on her Instagram account.LoredanaLoredena is an Albanian rapper with a huge following on social mediaCredit: Instagram/loredanaKarim has been forced to deny claims that his poor form has been due to his relationship with LoredenaCredit: Instagram/loredanaThe Albanian rapper, 28, boasts a massive Instagram following of over 3m fans and is currently in a relationship with Karim Adeyemi. They were first seen together last summer. He found himself defending her when critics blamed his relationship for his poor performance last season. He expressed his frustration, stating: “I understood the scrutiny that comes with being in a public relationship, but I was taken aback by the backlash following a bad game.”It’s not unfair to me because of my performance, but it’s unfair to my girlfriend.”Lisa FüllkrugLisa is a regular face in the stands whenever Niclas is playingCredit: GettyThe couple share a 5-year-old daughter called EmiliaCredit: GettyShe’s the loyal wife of Niclas Füllkrug, 31, who’s always seen cheering on her hubby from the stands. The couple share an adorable 5-year-old daughter, Emilia. Despite being married for years, their bond remains strong and unwavering.The pair often give fans a glimpse into their happy life by uploading loved-up family snaps together. Katja Kuhne Katja Kuhne is nine years older than her beau, Marcel SabitzerCredit: https://www.instagram.com/katjakuehne_/?hl=enKatja first gained fame by starring in Germany’s version of The BachelorCredit: INSTAGRAMAt 38, the Ukrainian model is nine years older than midfielder Marcel Sabitzer.Katja rose to fame starring in the German version of the reality TV show The Bachelor.The pair met in 2017 and Sabitzer popped the question on a romantic getaway to MaldivesThe Austrian dropped to one knee to ask for her hand in marriage. They share a daughter, Mary Lou, who has changed their lives.Priscilla HallerUnlike many other WAGS, Priscilla Haller likes to keep a low profileCredit: Instagram/priscilla.hallerSebastian has credited her for her support during his cancer battleCredit: https://www.instagram.com/priscilla.haller/?hl=enSebastian Haller has revealed that the hardest part of his cancer fight was telling his children about his illness. The 29-year-old Borussia Dortmund – who used to play for West Ham – received his diagnosis of a testicular tumour merely two weeks after joining the club as a replacement for Erling Haaland.READ MORE SUN STORIESThroughout his cancer battle, he praised his wife, Priscilla, for her unwavering support. Although details on her are scant, she is consistently seen by his side and is a dedicated mother to their cherished two children. More

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    Jude Bellingham tipped to play in shock position for England at Euro 2024 by former Three Lions manager

    FABIO CAPELLO has watched, managed and screamed at some of the best footballers in the world over the past 30 years.Franco Baresi, Marco van Basten, David Beckham, Cafu, Roberto Carlos, Paolo Maldini, Ronaldo and Clarence Seedorf are just some of the legends who have come under his expert guidance.Jude Bellingham received the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year AwardOn Saturday night Bellingham will hope to lead Real Madrid to Champions League gloryCredit: GettyBellingham was watched at training at Wembley by parents Denise and MarkCredit: GettyThe Italian, 77, may have his detractors, particularly for his time in charge of England, but he knows a good player when he sees one.And he has been left mighty impressed by Jude Bellingham’s inaugural season with Real Madrid.The former Three Lions boss gushed: “He is really from a different world!“Because he has quality but also competitive strength. And this is a plus that he brings to the team.”Read more football newsCapello, known as a strict disciplinarian, had two successful spells at the Bernabeu – he won the La Liga title in 1997 and 2007 – and fully understands the pressure, expectation and chaos that surrounds that club.Bellingham wore a hefty price tag when he came over to Spain from Borussia Dortmund last year for £88.5million.Yet the 20-year-old wooed the home crowd by scoring 19 goals in 28 league appearances as Madrid clinched the Championship – excellent numbers for a midfielder.Three of those goals came in three clashes with rivals Barcelona, including a stoppage-time winner in a 3-2 victory last month in the Spanish capital.Most read in FootballCapello, who also managed AC Milan, Roma and Juventus, said: “Bellingham has surprised me.“Because normally the English have difficulty making an impact in the Spanish or Italian leagues when they’re away from home.England footie star Jude Bellingham’s new girlfriend is a lads’ mag pin-up in her native Netherlands“Probably because he was coming straight from Germany, Bellingham already understood a bit of the European mentality.“But he really impressed me with his will-to-win and how much he’s loved by Madrid fans.“At El Clásico, he lifted Madrid. There were two or three times when he won the ball by sliding and the whole stadium rose to applaud him.“This means true devotion to the team and being a leader. One can tell a leader by how they behave on the field.”Bellingham can announce him to a worldwide audience if he guides Madrid to Champions League glory on the Wembley turf against his former club on Saturday.Capello reckons the Stourbridge-born star could easily transform into a second striker in the coming years.And in terms of a comparison to someone he has coached in the past, a certain German World Cup-winning captain immediately springs to mind.Capello said: “Bellingham’s position is hybrid. And that’s why it’s difficult to compare him with other players.“But I think of Lothar Matthaus a long time ago, who was more or less like that.“When he’d get close to the penalty area he was good but he wasn’t as good within the penalty area.“And Bellingham – that’s the difference he makes. He’s good both in midfield, as he immediately gets where the match is headed to, and also inside the penalty area.“I think that’s the position he needs to play in. As a second forward.“He can inflict a lot of damage in that position because he has this ability to just penetrate the defence and find the right spots.“And he’s someone who also helps the team out. In my opinion, he can really inflict a lot of damage in that position. As a manager, that’s how I’d use him.”It is 30 years since Capello’s famous AC Milan team crushed Barcelona 4-0 in the Champions League Final in Athens – the pinnacle of his managerial career.His four-year tenure with England was a flop as they were humbled 4–1 by Germany in the last 16 of the 2010 World Cup finals in South Africa.Since then he has worked closely with the Laureus Foundation, a global sports-based charity that works to improve the lives of young people.He said: “The most important thing, as ambassadors and sportspeople, is we have to help.“We should do it with such great joy, because seeing children, people in need, playing sports and being involved, being united is a beautiful thing.“We are an example to children and young people. And by engaging with them, talking to them and listening to them, they can be a part of this solution.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s impactful and can make a difference, now and in the future.”Fabio Capello was speaking to the Laureus Spirit of Sport in Madrid as Jude Bellingham received the World Breakthrough of the Year AwardFabio Capello saw Bellingham on the red carpet of the Laureus Sports Awards in Madrid last monthCredit: EPA More

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    Fears Fifa want to reduce Premier League to 18 TEAMS as row over Club World Cup rages on and stars threaten to strike

    FOOTBALL chiefs fear Fifa wants to impose 18-team leagues around the world including the Premier League.The war of words between leagues and player representatives and the governing body is exploding over the planned expanded Club World Cup.There are fears the Premier League could be reduced to 18 teamsCredit: PAThat could see teams that survived the drop last season at risk of relegation if the league is streamlinedCredit: RexBut the big worry for the Prem, Spain’s La Liga and other domestic leagues is that Fifa will try to bring in rules restricting the number of club games in any country by limiting top divisions to 18 clubs and 34 games.La Liga boss Javier Tebas outlined the fears when he said: “If we don’t take action the industry is in danger, right now. Fifa’s solution is just to create new competitions.“But for that to happen and for us to be able to fit these competitions in, we would have to lose two clubs from La Liga.“That would mean we’d have to make 70 players unemployed at those clubs and it would lose thousands of jobs related to those clubs.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“We need to fix the current problems before creating new competitions that will destroy the industry, clubs, jobs, the dreams of fans – and football.”Tebas’ comments in London came after Sun Sport reported threats of a boycott over the 32-club tournament due to be played in the USA next summer.PFA chief Maheta Molango then revealed Prem stars had told him they were ready to go on strike rather than play against their will.The Spaniard’s worries are shared by Prem bosses, with a genuine concern that Fifa might wish to mandate a reduction in top flight sizes.Most read in FootballLaLiga boss Javier Tebas has said LaLiga could be forced to reduce to 18 teams and Europe’s top leagues would have to follow suitCredit: AFPAn organisation headed up by Prem Chief Richard Masters are convinced that a decision has been madeCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWorld chiefs have already established a “working group on player welfare” which the World League Association – the umbrella group for major leagues, headed by Prem chief executive Richard Masters – is convinced has already decided on its recommendations.One source said: “We all think that this is the ultimate aim from Fifa, to find a way of making us drop to 18.Premier League sides deducted points and others at riskMichail Antonio’s strike should be the wake up call football chiefs need… frazzled stars need a restBy Andrew Dillon

    WHEN highly paid footballers moan about their workload, most people roll their eyes, mutter about having a ‘real job’ then get on with their day.
    But there is something about Michail Antonio’s concerning revelations about his mental health that strike a different chord.
    Charismatic, engaging, outwardly confident and built like a prize bull, surely nothing can touch such a successful athlete with a life most young men dream of?
    So for West Ham’s 67-goal, all-time leading Premier League scorer, a veteran of more than 16 seasons in the game, to admit he has cracked, is a big deal.
    One of the drivers behind the 34-year-old striker’s reluctant advance into therapy is the now relentless football calendar, coupled with the similarly incessant levels of scrutiny.
    Trying to put the ball in the net for a top-flight team is a minor part of the job.
    Simply wondering where your passport is, or feeling secure enough to turn on your phone without receiving 50 gigabytes of abuse, is taking over from the role you have been hired to do.
    Antonio revealed he is now divorced, and what’s behind it is his business.
    But one of his old team-mates, Robert Snodgrass, once told me how he spent an entire season commuting from Essex to Aston Villa while on loan, forcing him to eat at motorway service stations en route.
    His reward for trying to be a good husband and dad by being at home each night?
    To be singled out for putting on weight by then Hammers manager Manuel Pellegrini.
    It’s ironic that Jamaica international Antonio chose to air his deepest-held secrets on the High Performance podcast, because his struggle to cope with the “constant” of football has significantly harmed his game.Yes, top footballers are paid vast amounts but are we getting to a situation where that is not really the point?
    The latest cry for help from someone who should be enjoying every waking moment could not be better timed.
    Just 24 hours earlier, Fifa’s announcement that the spectre of the dreaded ‘39th game’ is being revived must send a shudder through every Premier League dressing room.
    To read more from Andrew Dillon, click here.

    “What you can put your money on is the working group saying there is too much domestic football, that we should all go down from 20 clubs to 18 and that the least impact on players comes from international matches.“We wouldn’t be shocked if they have already written their conclusions.”La Liga, the Prem and Italy’s Serie A all have 20 clubs and while Belgium’s Pro League comprises just 16 teams, they all play 10 matches in the end of season play-off stage to add up to 40 games.When the Prem was initially set up as a 22-club division in 1993-94 it was envisaged to go down to 18 eventually but that idea was canned after the reduction to 20 in 1995-96.Fifa declined to respond directly to the claims although senior figures insist the world body has not “directed” leagues to reduce to 18 teams.Sources suggest such a move is not under consideration at the moment and that competitions and national associations have the autonomy to act as they see fit.However, it was pointed out that the majority of major leagues do have fewer than 20 clubs.Premier League sides deducted points and others at risk
    Nottingham Forest
    Deducted four points during the 2023-24 season for breaching Premier League spending limit by £34.563m. Failed in their appeal with decision upheld.
    Everton
    Initial 10-point deduction for 2021-22 Premier League breaches reduced to six points on appeal. Were deducted a further two points later in the 2023-24 season. Appealed, but since withdrawn following Prem survival.
    Sheffield United
    Hit with a two-point deduction for their finances during the 2022-23 EFL season. Will begin the 2024-25 Championship season on -2 points following their relegation from the Prem.
    OTHERS WHO COULD FACE PUNISHMENT…
    Manchester City
    Etihad club emphatically denies the 115 allegations laid against them in February 2023. The lengthy Commission case has been scheduled to start in October or November but a final decision is not expected until March or April 2025.
    Chelsea
    Blues chiefs flagged up illicit payments made to agents and others during the Roman Abramovich era. Fined £8.6m by Uefa but still to be formally charged by the Prem despite an ongoing investigation.
    Leicester
    Foxes breached Prem PSR loss limits last season but did not have to report their 2022-23 accounts until this month because of their relegation. That puts the timetable back and means that they will probably face a Prem points deduction for the 2024-25 season following their return to the top flight.
    Everton (again)
    The Toffees are again at risk of breaking PSR rules and are in a race against time to raise funds and balance the books. Not only could that lead to another charge but also administration. That would lead to an automatic nine-point deduction for the 2024/25 season. More

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    Jurgen Klopp opens up on new life in £3m Majorca villa but ex-Liverpool boss admits retirement is ‘out of the question’

    JURGEN KLOPP is slowly but surely getting used to life without football.The German manager is currently unemployed after his nine-year love affair with Liverpool came to an end following the culmination of the 2023-24 season.Jurgen Klopp is a free agent after leaving Liverpool at the end of the seasonCredit: GETTYKlopp will now have plenty of time to spend with his wife Ulla SandrockCredit: REXThe couple are now spending the days at a plush villa in MajorcaCredit: PRP REAL ESTATETheir new digs cost a whopping £3.4millionCredit: PRP REAL ESTATEKlopp, however, won’t be immediately jumping back into a dugout as he plans to take a break from management to spend some time with his wife Ulla Sandrock.But he’ll soon be jumping into a plush pool at his stunning villa in Majorca.The 56-year-old spent £3.4million on the amazing mansion, where he’ll spend his days relaxing after “running out energy” in his final years at Anfield.He told BILD: “I’ve dreamed of having a house in the south all my life.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I like the weather, the climate, I like the people.”There are lots of things I like here and also people I already know. It’s not like I’m looking for new friends.”I already have friends for life, and if some of them are here too, that’s cool.”As much as he loves the Balearic island, Klopp won’t permanently up sticks to the Spanish hotspot.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKlopp’s stunning new home is spectacular, to say the leastCredit: PRP REAL ESTATE”I don’t want to emigrate,” he revealed. “We go on holiday here every now and then.”But when I’m here, I want everything to be as I know it.Ex Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp dances with club legend John Barnes”That’s totally boring but the point is that I want to get to know a different life, but not somewhere in the jungle or on the mountain.”Part of the attraction of having a home away from home in Majorca for Klopp was the facilities in place for when he eventually calls it a day.He admitted: “We’re getting older and the medical care here is great.”There are many German doctors and I would like to be able to understand every word, how I feel and so on, when the problems become bigger.”Although he admits he’s no longer a spring chicken, retirement couldn’t be any further from Klopp’s mind.He said: “It’s out of the question that I’ll stop working altogether.”But I don’t see myself continuing at the same pace as before at the moment.”Klopp has botched his Liverpool exit… and it’s cost him his legacy, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
    NOW we know Jurgen Klopp’s final major trophy haul at Liverpool — one Champions League, one Premier League, one FA Cup, two League Cups and (if you must) a World Club Cup.
    But where does his reign stand among the greatest of the Premier League era?
    In black-and-white terms, Klopp is way behind Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, the only two men to have won multiple Premier Leagues and a Champions League at the same club.
    Those two sit alongside Brian Clough, Bob Paisley and Sir Matt Busby as the undoubted all-time managerial greats of the English game.
    But Klopp ranks in the next tier down — with Arsene Wenger, Jose Mourinho (the Chelsea version), Bill Shankly and Don Revie.
    These were all men with the strength of character to transform their clubs in their own image and enjoy success but who did not win as much as they might have done.
    Had Klopp managed to keep his intentions under wraps and ended up with another title, perhaps even a treble or quadruple, he’d have edged himself up into that highest echelon with Ferguson, Guardiola, Clough, Paisley and Busby.
    But deciding the timing and the manner of your exit is one of the toughest calls for any manager or sportsman.
    Klopp got it wrong.
    Read Dave Kidd’s take on Klopp’s demise in full here.
    Or click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More