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      in Soccer

      Three reasons defences find it so hard to stop Chelsea sensation Cole Palmer who could be England’s star at Euro 2024

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      THE performances of the 21-year-old Cole Palmer so far this season have been nothing short of sensational. The young attacking midfielder moved to Chelsea from Manchester City at the very end of last summer’s transfer window for £47m and he has not looked back.Mauricio Pochettino has found a gem in Cole PalmerCredit: ReutersPalmer has scored 20 goals, and created 52 chances for team-matesOften in transfers of this type there is not one clear winner from the deal but in this instance it is fair to say that Chelsea have struck gold. At the time of writing, Palmer has scored 20 goals with nine assists in 29 Premier League matches for his new side. A hat-trick in the 4-3 victory over Man Utd was followed a week later by a four-goal haul in the 6-0 win over Everton.Even accounting for the penalties he has scored, this is still an extremely impressive output. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWhile Chelsea have spent more than £1billion in recent seasons building their current squad it would be fair to say that Palmer has emerged this season as one of the key players and as a real leader in the squad. One of the most interesting aspects of his performances this season has actually been his versatility and ability to be outstanding in a range of different positions. He has played wide, as a 10 from the central positions, as an 8 from deeper midfield positions and actually as a central striker.In this article we will take a closer look at three important aspects of the way that Palmer plays and examine why he is so difficult for opposition defences to stop.Most read in FootballCole Palmer is fighting Erling Haaland for the Golden BootMovement around the penalty areaPalmer can play in numerous different positions or roles for Chelsea – but wherever he lines up his profile and traits as a player remain constant. This means that no matter where he is positioned on the pitch we can still expect to see the same kind of movements and runs from the young England star. Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024This is especially true in the final third and around the opposition penalty box.  In these areas Palmer displays a real feel for space and he constantly looks to make runs and movements to find and occupy pockets of space in dangerous spaces.This is particularly effective for Palmer when he is able to make these runs from slightly deeper positions in order to arrive and attack space to receive passes from teammates.Palmer makes the first pass into a teammate from a deeper position. As he does so he then makes a secondary run to move forward and when he receives the ball back he can burst through the defensive line for a chance on goalCole Palmer has been Chelsea’s most potent playerPalmer was exceptional in the 6-0 win over EvertonChelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has essentially come to the conclusion that Palmer has to be given freedom around the final third.The younster tends to be allowed to drift and move in and out of positions as he sees fit. Ironically in this regard he is very similar to his former Man City teammate Phil Foden. This means that Palmer will often make moves off the ball to occupy space to give his teammates passing options and help break down stubborn opposition defensive blocks.Palmer drifts forward to the edge of the opposition penalty area. He scans and sees the space in the opposition defence and the player in possession finds a pass to release Palmer into that spacePalmer has developed into an extremely dangerous goalscorer and the fact that he is able to score consistently regardless of his starting position in the Chelsea system is extremely impressive. Is this something that England coach Gareth Southgate can afford to ignore when picking his squad for the upcoming European Championships?Breaking the last lineWhile Palmer provides a significant threat for Chelsea with his goals he has also emerged as a significant creative talent.The fact that the midfielder has nine assists in 29 league matches is extremely impressive and he has emerged as one of the key link players for Chelsea in the final third.We have already touched upon his ability to find pockets of space and the fact that when he does this he provides a direct goal threat. He also, however, has the vision and creativity to find ways to play passes around the corners or through the lines to create chances for others. It is a mark of his quality on the ball that when he is in possession around the final third teammates will automatically look to trigger runs as they trust Palmer to find them.There’s more to Palmer’s game than just scoring goalsPalmer takes the ball as the wide player continues his run. Palmer is composed, holds on to the ball and allows the run to develop before playing a perfect through ballRead more sport featuresWhile we have already drawn some comparisons between Palmer and his former City teammate Phil Foden he also has some similarities to Kevin de Bruyne in terms of his ability on the ball and vision when passing the ball to create chances for teammates. Indeed, the similarities that Palmer has to these two key players for City must sting Pep Guardiola when he sees Palmer performing so well.While Palmer is excellent when looking to play short and intricate passes in the final third to release teammates and link the play, he also has the range and vision to play longer passes to find attacking runs from teammates.Palmer is in possession outside the opposition area and teammates make runs to provide options.Palmer spots the run from a deeper position into the area and plays a perfect pass to release this teammate into spaceWhile Palmer’s goal and assist output has been superb so far this season the reality is that it could have been so much better. He has provided chances for teammates consistently which have not been finished but as Chelsea continue to develop this should resolve itself.Helping his side to progress the ballWhile so far we have concentrated on the ways that Cole Palmer contributes for his team in the final third he has also emerged as a key player for Chelsea in terms of helping them to progress the ball through the thirds. While he does not necessarily play a large volume of progressive passes in his own right, mainly because he is typically in possession in the final third, he takes up positions and drops into space to receive progressive passes and to help his teammates to move the ball forward into dangerous spaces.Palmer is always looking for to receive the ball as Chelsea build from the back, through their double pivot of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.In order for these passes to be effective, however, there has to be a player positioning themselves to receive the ball and this is where Palmer thrives.Earlier this season Palmer was tried as a false nine, but was less effectivePalmer now generally plays on the right of the attacking midfield, with the freedom to get into dangerous areasPalmer drops from a higher position towards the ball to receive the ball and allow his team to progress the ballAs well as having the tactical awareness to recognise when his team need him to make these movements to occupy spaces Palmer also has the ability to receive cleanly when under pressure with his back to goal. He is extremely press resistant and opposition defenders find it difficult to get around him to challenge for the ball. For a technically gifted attacking midfielder Palmer also has the physical strength to receive in these positions effectively.Palmer sees his teammate in possession needs a passing option to allow him to progress the ball through the press. As he drops into his own half he receives facing his own goal but turns to attack the oppositionPalmer is extremely dangerous for opposition defences with his ability in the final third.But his ability to help Chelsea to break through into the final third while progressing the ball forward is also outstanding.ConclusionPalmer is now firmly established as one of the leaders of this Chelsea side and we expect him to continue to go from strength to strength as the team is built around him. READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the short term there can be no doubt that his performances this season will make it very difficult for Gareth Southgate to leave him out of the England squad for the EurosThe problems he causes for Premier League defences means he is likely to be a real headache on the international stage too. More

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      in Motorsport

      The sky-high cost of an F1 car, from the £15million engine to a £2million hybrid system and £500,000 gearbox

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      TO own a F1 team, you have to be minted.So, it’s no surprise teams like Mercedes-AMG Petronas, Ferrari, Red Bull and more are owned by billionaires.Inside the amazing cost of an F1 carBuilding a F1 car is an expensive task costing millionsCredit: PAAn engine can cost as much as £15mCredit: GettyThe power unit is the most important part of the jigsaw of the building of an F1 carCredit: mercedesamgf1.comTo make a successful team, you need a great racing car. And that means having to spend millions assembling it.Figures for how much a Formula One car vary, with some saying a ballpark figure could be around the £16million mark.But with the budget cap set at around £106million-per-team each season, there’s plenty of wiggle room to spend even more money perfecting your car.With the help of experts at ALA Insurance, we look at the most expensive components of a F1 car, starting off with the most expensive.Read more F1 newsIt’s worth noting, though, these costs are estimates.Power unit (Engine) – £5m-£15mObviously, the engine is the most important piece of the jigsaw.Therefore, it’s no surprise they cost a pretty penny – and can set manufacturers back as much as £15million.The power unit consists of a combustion engine and the associated hybrid systems.Most read in MotorsportThey are tasked with recovering and deploying energy.Lewis Hamilton reveals why he turned down Top Gun 2 role despite begging Tom Cruise for a part in movie It is a highly advanced and meticulously engineered piece of machinery.The extensive research, development, and manufacturing processes, along with the utilisation of cutting-edge materials and technologies, contribute to its high cost.Carbon fiber monocoque – £200k- £500kA car’s frame is vitally important to its success.The monocoque serves as the structural chassis of an F1 car, and it is usually constructed using carbon fibre composites.Carbon fibre is used because of its strength and is very light, meaning it won’t take away any speed.Again, complex manufacturing techniques, meticulous quality control, and high-grade carbon fibre materials mean it’s not a cheap process.Up to half a million pounds could be spent on the monocoque.The monocoque serves as the structural chassis of an F1 carCredit: Gettyread more sport featuresAerodynamic components – £50k – £200kWhen it comes to optimising performance and handling, aerodynamics play a vital role.This covers the design and development of intricate aerodynamic components, such as wings, diffusers, and bargeboards.It also involves extensive wind tunnel testing, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, and continuous refinement.The complexity of these components, along with the costs associated with research and development, contribute to their higher price tags.The aerodynamic components of a race car are crucialCredit: GettyWings, diffusers, and bargeboards cost serious moneyCredit: APGearbox – £200k- £500kThe gearbox in an F1 car it’s an extremely complex component.Its job is to withstand immense force and transmit power efficiently for the best drive.F1 gearboxes are typically built to withstand rapid gear changes and extreme torque, requiring high-performance materials, precision machining, and stringent quality control.With a minimum figure of £200,000 spent, it’s a little pricier than fixing up your souped up Supra.The engine, gearbox and electronic system in the garage in all its gloryCredit: RexHybrid systems – £500k – £2mF1 cars employ advanced hybrid systems to capture and deploy energy for improved performance.Such systems include the Energy Recovery System (ERS) and associated electronics, incorporate cutting-edge technology and components.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe development and integration of these complex hybrid systems, along with the necessary research and testing, contribute to them costing as much as £2m.If you had the money, would you launch an F1 team and pay this much for a car?The Hybrid Energy System can cost up to £2mCredit: Formula1.comThe rough estimate for the cost of an F1 car is as much as £16mCredit: AFP More

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      in Soccer

      Dele Alli’s ex Ruby Mae reveals her first thought as armed raiders stole £35k at England ace’s £2m London mansion

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      DELE Alli’s ex has revealed what first crossed her mind when armed raiders broke into their £2million London mansion. The thugs took off with £35,000 worth of the England ace’s watches and gems – including a Rolex.Traumatised Ruby Mae, right, speaks of the horrific experience of encountering armed robbers at ex Dele Alli’s homeCredit: Tom Horton / REXDele, who played for Spurs at the time of the crime, was badly shaken by the incidentCredit: Peter Byrne / PA WireWhile the attackers remain at large, Ruby says the police were very helpful when they turned upCredit: Paul Edwards – The SunA view of Dele’s gated property in North London where the incident took placeBut Dele’s ex Ruby Mae has now told all to The Sun about how the horror unfolded – and the fact the attackers are still at large. The 29-year-old said she had been up in the bedroom while the footballer and his pals were downstairs playing pool. Ruby said she had just taken their poodle Uno outside to go toilet before the two masked men broke in.They roughed up Dele, before trying to rip the models rings and bracelets off. Read more on footballTalking for the first time about her ordeal in London, she said: “I thought I was going to be killed.“It was terrifying. I was just hoping for it all to be over and for us to be safe.”Desperate Ruby said her instant reaction was to shield Uno at the £2million North London home. The model bravely said: “When the burglar came in, my first instinct was to protect the dog.Most read in Football“I wasn’t answering any of their questions as I was in shock and didn’t know, at this point, that there were two of them — and that one was already taking the jewellery with Dele.“I couldn’t get the jewellery off as I was panicking and holding the dog behind me.Beaming Dele Alli left speechless as Pochettino delivers heartwarming message live on Sky Sports“I wasn’t answering his requests and I was terrified they were going to hurt Uno.“I didn’t know whether to tell them or not, and I didn’t even know where everything was. I wasn’t thinking straight.”The traumatised model was laying in the dark as the men with concealed weapons burst into the bedroom.She said that the thugs roughed up Dele and made him hand over three watches, including a Rolex.Ruby was in bed with the lights off and as the men grabbed her arms for her rings and bracelets.They failed to take them before panicking and fleeing with the goods.Ruby and Dele’s relationship
      Ruby and Dele split in 2021 — less than a year after the raid — with Ruby saying they “drifted” and lost their spark.
      They had met in a London bar in 2016 and for five years were one of the most photographed young couples in Britain.
      Ex-Tottenham midfielder Dele won PFA Young Player of the Year two years running, and made his Three Lions debut aged 19 in 2015.
      He scored in a 2-0 win over Sweden in the quarter-finals of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, with Ruby, from Wigston, Leics, cheering him on with other Wags.
      But Dele lost his place in the England squad for the Euro 2020 qualifiers and has yet to be recalled.
      He left Spurs for Everton in January 2022, but failed to impress and went on loan to Turkish side Besiktas.
      He returned early and has yet to play for Everton this season.
      Last year Dele revealed that one of his mum’s friends had abused him as a child.
      He also spent six weeks in rehab in the United States for an addiction to sleeping pills.
      Last Monday Dele appeared on Sky Sports as an analyst as his side were hammered 6-0 by Chelsea.
      He revealed his ambitions to play for England again saying: “You know you can set reminders on your phone. I have a reminder at 11 o’clock every day that says ‘World Cup 2026’. That’s my aim for now.
      “I know how good I can be when my head is in the right place, and I’m feeling good.”
      Ruby remains a successful model and said: “People think it’s a glamorous life but it’s quite cut-throat with a lot of pressure to look a certain way.
      “The good things are that you get to meet amazing people, work with different brands daily and travel.”

      Ruby recalled: “It was like a movie. I feared all sorts of things were going to happen.“I honestly didn’t know what was going to come next.”She had been watching Netflix thriller Dead To Me, and Dele and pals were playing pool downstairs when the burglars evaded security to get in through the back door.Ruby said: “They roughed up Dele and forced him upstairs with them into the wardrobe area, which is separated from the bedroom.“I couldn’t see the door from the bed but Dele’s friend came up first. “They came to me in a panic and I instantly realised something was wrong. His friend wouldn’t have usually come into the bedroom.When the burglar came in, my first instinct was to protect the dog.Ruby MaeDele Alli’s ex “Behind the friend, towards the door was what looked like a silhouette. I was confused and said, ‘Dele?’ and the guy didn’t answer.“I realised this guy was not the same height or body structure as Dele. He came over to me and was very intimidating.“He started asking me where everything was while trying to take off my bracelets and rings.”Ruby said the raiders began to panic when they realised how long they had been in the house.She added: “They jumped the fence out the front and ran away with whatever they had both managed to find. I don’t have a clue how they got past the security and into the house.“The police turned up a few minutes later. They were very helpful and made sure we were OK.”Met Police’s statement at the time
      Police were called at approximately 00:35hrs on Wednesday, May 13 to reports of a robbery at a residential address.
      Two males gained entry to the property and stole items of jewellery, including watches, before fleeing.
      Two male occupants at the property suffered minor facial injuries after being assaulted.
      They did not require hospital treatment. There have been no arrests. Enquiries into the circumstances continue.

      Dele, 27, his adoptive brother Harry Hickford, 27, and the pal were badly shaken.Ruby added: “It affected all of us. To get burgled is one thing, but to get burgled when you’re in is so scary. All of us were speechless.“We were all just like, ‘What the hell has happened?’ We didn’t even know what to say to each other.“We were all very emotional and up and down. We were tired and had to do the police interviews. It was all very traumatic.“Psychologically, it has had an impact. Being home alone is scarier than it once was.“Every now and then I still think about it. I can’t believe it happened. It was awful.”A watch is a watch, who cares. As long as you’re safe, that’s the most important thing.Ruby MaeDele Alli’s ex After the raid in May 2020’s Covid lockdown, police gave Dele and Ruby alarms to activate if they were in danger which signalled directly through to cops.Ruby said they randomly sounded weeks later and police turned up with a dog unit within moments.The alarms were on top of the 24-hour security they already had in place before the break-in.No arrests have been made and the attackers remain at large.Ruby said: “It’s a pretty weird feeling knowing the people who did it never got caught and are still out there.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But they took stuff that can be replaced, so I’m just glad we all got through it without something really serious happening.“A watch is a watch, who cares. As long as you’re safe, that’s the most important thing.”The pair a year after the 2020 incident, with Ruby saying that they ‘lost their spark’Credit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Ex-footballer dubbed Mosquito, 42, had trial with Treble-winning Man Utd only to KO them from cup with Coventry goals

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      MICHAEL MIFSUD has a long history with Manchester United.The former striker went from being on trial at Old Trafford to scoring twice against them in a famous Coventry victory within eight years.Michael Mifsud celebrates the first of his memorable goals in Coventry’s 2-0 League Cup win at Old Trafford 17 years agoCredit: GettyMifsud trained with Paul Scholes and David BeckhamCredit: PA:Press AssociationIn 1999, as one of the hottest prospects in Maltese football, the teenager was invited to train alongside United’s Treble-winning stars at The Cliff — their old complex.And while he was unable to sign a permanent contract with Malta not in the European Union at the time, those two weeks helped shape his career.Mifsud, 42, told SunSport: “I trained with the first-team. Gary Neville, David Beckham, Paul Scholes and Roy Keane were all there, the legends.“Just entering the dressing room, seeing all the kits, you’re getting changed with Beckham’s boots next to you, it was surreal. It was a dream come true.READ MORE TOP STORIES“I spoke to Sir Alex Ferguson a little bit, even though everyone was scared of him.“It showed me what real football was like and made me even hungrier. I wanted to be like Beckham and to be scoring goals like Andy Cole.”Mifsud, famously nicknamed The Mosquito by a rival, did eventually make his way to English football — via spells in Norway and Germany — when he joined Coventry in January 2007.And he could hardly believe his luck eight months later when the Sky Blues drew United away in the League Cup third round.Most read in FA CupAgainst a Red Devils team that included the likes of Gerard Pique, Anderson and Nani, he wrote his name into Coventry folklore.Having scored the opener, Mifsud sealed the tie 20 minutes from time with a memorable second.Shocking moment Coventry boss wildly celebrates in ball boy’s FACE after FA Cup winner – then accuses him of ‘smirking’In front of the 11,000 travelling Coventry fans, he left the great Pique on his backside before rifling home.He said: “I’m getting goosebumps thinking about it.“You never get sick of something nice. I was so grateful and lucky to achieve what I did. We were like a family, so it was a real team effort.“The game and my performance was fantastic. I could have scored a hat-trick with my backheel hitting the post, but my second goal was so nice.“I went to celebrate with our fans, they were behind the goal and it was a really special feeling.“All of Malta were behind me. Half of Malta supports United but on the day they were supporting me. I received so many messages, my phone was like ping, ping, ping.”Among those United fans were Mifsud’s mum, although she was not at the game.Early on in his career, he banned her from coming.The-then Coventry hero tangled with Man Utd’s Danny SimpsonCredit: Getty – ContributorMifsud is ‘buzzing’ along with the fans to see if the Sky Blues repeat his gloryCredit: PA:Press AssociationHe explained: “Sometimes as a striker you have to dive to win a foul and my mum would go nuts and say, ‘Is he hurt, is he hurt?’.“So, I said mum, ‘Please don’t come and watch, I do it on purpose’. So, she always watched games on TV.”Mifsud smiles when asked about making a mockery of Pique.At the time, the Spaniard was a rookie but he went on to enjoy a trophy-laden career — one the striker takes responsibility for.He said: “My friends sometimes joke about what I did to him, and I say to them, ‘I pushed his career up, he won the league, the Champions League and the World Cup after that’.”The ex-hitman has flown over for the semi-final at Wembley.But does he think the current Cov crop can replicate the Class of 2007? Mifsud said: “Yes, I believe they can.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It is a good time to play them. Manchester United are not enjoying a good spell, so it’s a good time to achieve and win the game.“I’m buzzing to be there with the fans. I’m so grateful for them, it’s like going back in time.” More

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      in Boxing

      I swapped £60k hotel rooms and training A-list celebs to reignite British title bid and coach influencer boxers

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      DAN MORLEY is aiming to win titles as he prepares to make his return to boxing after two years out of the ring.The Epsom-based fighter has had a rollercoaster career which saw him defeat Louis Isaacs in a fight of the year contender in 2021.Dan Morley is preparing to return to professional boxing after quitting two years agoCredit: RexHe coached Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown during his time thereThe Epsom-based fighter boasts an 8-0 recordCredit: PROVIDED BY DANIEL MORLEYMorley called a halt to his pro career to teach boxing in the MaldivesFast forward a few more months and Morley faced Ivan Njegac, which proved to be his last fight after the 27-year-old quit amid growing pressures and rising costs.Morley suffered a broken nose and broken hand which derailed his progress while fights that earned him £500 did little to cover the £1500 medical tests needed for each fight.He told SunSport: “I was looking at the next five years of my life when I was 25-26 thinking ‘how quickly can I get through these?’ Which is not a way to live your life.”So the Chelsea fan hung up his gloves and set off around the world for coaching opportunities which saw him train clients in Switzerland and the Maldives.READ MORE IN BOXINGHe brushed shoulders with ex-England rugby stars Jason Robinson and Ben Cohen, as well as fitness guru Joe Wicks.Morley even trained members of the Qatar royal family and a then 15-year-old Millie Bobby Brown of Stranger Things fame on the Maldives island of Huvafen Fushi where he stayed in hotel rooms costing £60,000 a night.Time away from the spotlight gave Morley a much-needed break both physically and mentally and he got his love back for boxing, sharing his knowledge first-hand and online.He quickly began to build his fanbase and now boasts 400,000 fans across his social media platforms, including Snoop Dogg, Sugar Ray Leonard and Johnny Knoxville, who recently appeared on his podcast.Most read in BoxingAnthony Joshua gets grilled by a nine year old in interviewMorley is hopeful his new-found following will boost his profile when he makes his return to the ring, which he anticipates could be in the summer.The 8-0 boxer aims to fight at British level but is happy to have discovered balance in his life, which has rid him of the pressures that pro boxing put on him previously.He added: “I’m very optimistic and excited. Before I took the break I was looking at those five years with dread. Now in the ring I’m excited to get back, I can see myself winning titles, going up to British level and beyond.”I’m looking at stuff outside too. Continue training abroad and I can get more opportunities like that. I would love to break through as a pundit, have a book published, travel the world with boxing. And build experiences in and out of the ring.”It’s been a much better balance. Before I was obsessive about it to the point where its being fuelled by fear and paranoia. Just like the pressure of having to do it because it was my identity.”Whereas taking a step away from it has given me the clarity to say ‘you know what, there are so many other things I can do – I do this simply because I love it’ and that’s the thing that always drove me, the love, but the pressure was killing me.”Book plansAlong with his return to the ring, Morley wants to publish a book and is still keen to continue coaching.He trained TikTok sensation and world champion football freestyler Andrew Henderson, who boasts two million followers, for a few months and is open to training other influencers – or even fighting one himself.Morley said: “I’m more than willing to help people within the influencer scene. I’m not massively fussed about fighting in it myself unless they offered me a load of money to beat one of them up.”These influencer guys are going in with no experience and earning 50,60 times – even the lower level ones – the amount pro boxers will be earning in hard fights.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It is frustrating to a certain degree but I looked at it and thought ‘how can I learn from what they’ve done?’ And do that in my own way without selling my soul.”Morley is yet to decide on his next opponent but is hopeful of having a fight lined up for July – so watch this space.Morley’s clash with Louis Isaacs was nominated for 2021 fight of the yearMorley has amassed 400,000 followers across his social media platforms More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd legend, 67, who grew up on council estate now financial advisor after getting sick of watching pals go bankrupt

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      WHEN Bryan Robson was the elder statesman of the Manchester United squad in the early 1990s, Sir Alex Ferguson set him a task with the Class of ’92.The England legend was asked by the iconic boss to help the incredible youngsters coming through at Old Trafford with their financial matters.Man Utd ambassador Bryan Robson has co-founded a business offering financial adviceRobson played 465 times for the Red Devils during a storied careerSir Alex Ferguson leaned on Bryan Robson to help the Class of ’92 with their contractsHe told SunSport: “Sir Alex always wanted to protect the Class of ’92 when they were coming through.”On occasions, he would pull me in his office and just say, ‘I can’t keep up with all these young lads. Try and give them good advice, because they may be getting new contracts with the club’.”The boss didn’t want them tying themselves up with agents who were going to take big fees.”I went in and negotiated for a few of the boys, which they were really happy with.”Read more on Man UtdFast forward 30-plus years, Robson, now 67, is embarking on a new business venture that could be crucial in today’s world, and echoes back to that experience.He has co-founded High-Performance Individuals alongside former Manchester United apprentice Simon Andrews – with the aim to give high earning sports, media, music and entertainment stars financial and investment advice.You get fed up of seeing teammates going bankrupt or losing a lot of money in investments.”In recent times, footballers Wes Brown and Chris Smalling have spoken about being badly advised with their money.While TV personality Katie Price is bankrupt again, after reportedly blowing a £45million fortune.Most read in FootballRobson admitted it’s heartbreaking seeing former teammates suffering, which prompted him and friend Andrews into action.He explained: “Simon Andrews, who was in the financial world and a former apprentice at Manchester United, approached me with the idea.Robbo talks about Man Utd’s current woes and situation”You get fed up of seeing teammates going bankrupt or losing a lot of money in investments.”I just thought someone’s got to do something about it because it’s just not right that the education system doesn’t get to some of the lads.”That’s why we have set this company up. We don’t want to be an agent. All we want to do is do reports for people who are in financial difficulties or people who might just want a report to see if everything’s in place.”We have professional people in every walk of the financial system, so really it’s like a financial plan.”We aren’t telling them what they have got to do. It’s up to the individual person what they want in life, and whether they want to invest in anything.”And it’s also about educating people about knowing about tax, are they getting the right mortgage, or the right lease for their car – all these sort of things we want to cover.”HPI won’t take commission, nor will they take money from their clients in the future.They provide a report, work alongside agents or mum’s and dad’s of the talent, depending on who works as the advisor.”They have to be educated as well to make sure they are doing the right thing for the individual,” Robson added.Alongside his incredible football career, Captain Marvel launched several business interests.In the past Robson has been successful in businessSimon Andrews has co-founded High Performance Individuals alongside RobsonAndrews is a former Man Utd apprentice and now works in financeHe scored success with greeting cards, but lost money investing in schemes which aimed to take advantage of tax breaks for film productions.Today he manages various properties with his wife, Denise.He continued: “When I got into the England team, then I signed for Manchester United everybody wants to chat to you.”Everybody is a millionaire and tells you this is how they made their money… you’ve got to be wary of that person.”I’m not saying I was perfect. I came from a council estate, went to a decent school, my mum and dad were good parents, but I lost money on the film schemes, like many other footballers did in the 1980s and 1990s.”My advice is, if you are going to invest in something make sure you can afford to. If it goes pear-shaped, you’re not then missing that money and it’s not affecting your life.”I was lucky with another business which I went into with my best mate for greeting cards when I was with Manchester United.”What it did was take me away from other things, I just wanted to concentrate on the business doing really well. Fortunately for me it was successful.”The pitfalls were definitely there when I was playing, the players have just got to be aware of that.”Explaining how the reports work, Robson admitted “trust” was a key part of the process.All we want to do is try to help and advise, what to stay away from, what is a good investment.”Robson admitted there are plenty of pitfalls footballers have to be wary ofCredit: GettyFootball legend Robson revealed he was sick of seeing former teammates struggles financiallyread more sport features”All we want to do is try to help and advise, what to stay away from, what is a good investment,” he told us.”When we do this report, we ask the individuals if they want to stay in football, if they want to be a coach or work in the media world.”It’s really just a matter of finding out what the individual wants to achieve when they wrap up their playing days.”Even in my days there was a lot of players that went bankrupt, and their financial situation caused divorce. You just don’t want to see that, and if you can help them that’s what myself and the company want to do.”Wes Brown breaks silence on bankruptcyBy Dylan Terry
      FORMER Manchester United defender Wes Brown has opened up about going bankrupt.
      The ex-Red Devils defender, 44, was earning £50,000 a week at one stage during his 15-year stay at Old Trafford.
      He also once had a property in Cheshire up for sale for £4.5million.
      Yet the five-time Premier League winner still managed to lose all his money, with the HMRC filing a bankruptcy petition in February 2023, before it was signed off at the High Court two months later.
      It came after he split from Real Housewives of Cheshire star Leanne in 2022 following 20 years of marriage.
      Now the father-of-three has spoken about how his financial crisis occurred.
      He told the Ben Heath podcast: “I think the main thing is when you are making a lot of money, you need the right people, don’t you? And I would say that’s one of the things I didn’t have.
      “It was a little bit different. It wasn’t lots of people you go and speak to and you maybe meet people and do this do that. I wasn’t interested in any of that. You said yes and got on with it.
      “It’s a long story and I won’t go into the detail, but it’s stuff that happened a long time ago with certain investments and getting into stuff that as a young kid, a lot of people go into, [but] don’t really understand it.
      “It’s what a lot of people are doing and then it came to a head last year, and that’s how it went.
      “It’s happened and I’m just getting on with it but it’s one of those things where you hope people, especially this generation, don’t get involved in.”
      Brown’s ex-wife Leanne spoke about their financial situation a few years ago when they were still together.
      She said: “Yes we’ve got a lovely life and all this money and I’m not saying the money isn’t great but when you’re in it you’re living in this bubble.
      “Although the fans can be amazing they can also be very cruel.
      “It must be hard [for footballers] to deal with to be on top one minute and hated the next for a bad kick or missing the goal.
      “We are the ones that are left to pick up the pieces and bear the brunt of whatever is left at the end of their careers.”
      Brown, who won the Champions League with Man Utd in 1999 and 2008, earned 23 England caps.
      He also had spells with Sunderland, Blackburn and Kerala Blasters.

      But, despite many suffering with financial woes, plenty are also switched on when it comes to their finances. Robson explained: “Recently, we did a report for one player who was very honest with us and told us everything about his family and what he’s got in place.”To be fair, we went away, we spoke about it, and there wasn’t really anything we could do.”We told the player, ‘you’ve done really well, you’ve got everything in place and it looks good.’READ MORE SUN STORIES”He said, ‘this is fantastic, all players should have this because it’s like an audit.”They might have something wrong, but it’s great to hear everything is in place too.”Former Man Utd star West Brown recently revealed all about his spiralling debtsCredit: PAKatie Price has also declared bankruptcy More

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      in Soccer

      Spare a thought for long-suffering Coventry fans like ‘Simon’ who should have whole country backing them against Man Utd

      by

      THE NEXT time Simon from ­Surrey pours out his heart to talkSPORT about the woes of supporting Manchester United, spare a thought for ‘Steven’ from Coventry.‘Steven’ is not his real name. We are keeping his identity secret to spare the shame and indignity of being outed as a Coventry City supporter.Long-suffering Coventry fans should have the majority of other clubs backing them at WembleyCredit: PABecause unlike United in recent years who may have been a bit crap, the Sky Blues really have been to s***ville and back.Which is why there should be no debate about who I and the rest of the country should be rooting for on Sunday when the two teams meet at Wembley in their FA Cup semi-final.Being ‘sent to Coventry’ is a metaphorical punishment. But being temporarily ghosted by pals is nowhere near as extreme as having to stay there and support the city’s football team.‘Steven’ is just one of hundreds if not thousands of helpless victims unable to escape this miserable addiction — like eating toilet paper (yes, people do do it).READ MORE ON FOOTBALL‘Steven’ moved away and found a new life with a successful career but still couldn’t shake the drug of watching the Sky Blues.One day in 2016 he took a mate with him to see City play at Cambridge, appropriately in the FA Cup.‘Steven’ was hoping to turn his pal into a fan like him and imagined them enjoying memorable boy time together on road trips to and from games. Firming up their friendship by celebrating famous victories in the pub and on long car journeys with a mix tape blaring away.But things went wrong when League Two Cambridge stuck four goals past League One Cov, with Luke Berry scoring them all.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS‘Steven’ noticed a change in his mate, who seemed more distant, ­different somehow. Finally the ‘friend’ came clean and confessed that he would prefer to support Cambridge instead — and he still does.‘Steven’ also got done for speeding on the way home (three points is still three points, son) and Coventry were relegated to League Two at the end of the season.Shocking moment Coventry boss wildly celebrates in ball boy’s FACE after FA Cup winner – then accuses him of ‘smirking’Still the nightmare went on. The ­following season ‘Steven’ went with his dad to see City play Yeovil in League Two.He told me (in a disguised voice): “We were outclassed and outplayed. I had now seen City lose in the Premier League, Championship, League One and League Two.  I made a point of going to the home game later that ­season as we had finally picked up form — we lost 6-2.”Coventry went 51 years without a promotion season between 1967 and 2018.Since winning the 1987 FA Cup courtesy of Gary Mabbutt’s knee, there have been three relegations, one administration, countless humiliations and years of frustration.Home games played in entirely ­different cities, ownership strife, fan ­protests and being forced to groundshare with London rugby club Wasps.After plummeting out of the Premier League in 2001, there have been 13 different full-time managers — but even Sky Blue diehards lose count when you ask.Coventry lifted the FA Cup at Wembley back in 1987Credit: GettyIn that same period Manchester United have won six Premier Leagues, two FA Cups, five League Cups, the Champions League, Europa League and Club World Cup.But they haven’t won the league for 11 years and have American owners they don’t particularly like. Heartbreaking.There are more like ‘Steven’. ‘Mark’ drove from home to Oldham one night and broke down on the M6 en route. He arrived at half-time with City 1-0 up. They lost 2-1.One of ‘David’s’ first dates with his new girlfriend was to see Coventry at home to non-league Worcester City in the FA Cup first round. What a way to impress a girl.City were knocked out by the Conference North side 2-1. ‘David’ and his new beau were two lovebirds among 8,000 devotees on a blustery Sunday in November 2014.There is at least a happy ending. ‘David’ is soon to wed that loyal lady who can see beyond his obvious weakness and will dedicate her life to ­caring for the man of her dreams.‘David’ tells me he will be at ­Wembley on Sunday cheering on the love of his life in full kit.Why FA Cup changes are GOOD NEWSBy Martin Lipton
      THE FA and Premier League should have done the deal to scrap FA Cup replays years ago.
      No doubt traditionalists will moan but it is right that the competition has finally been brought into the 21st century.
      Ending replays will bring extra sharpness and excitement to the ties, with the knowledge that there will be a winner, whether in 90 minutes, extra-time or penalties.
      If big guns have a bad day, they are more likely to pay the price. Replays after draws give them a fall-back they do not deserve.
      Giving the FA Cup total and absolute priority over four weekends – and ensuring there is no competing match on the day of the Final – will enhance the profile of a competition that was in danger of falling out of the spotlight.
      And as long as the FA ensures a better split of the prize money fund, weighting it more towards the earlier rounds, and potentially a similar move with  TV match money, there should be few losers.
      Read more on the FA Cup by clicking here.

      THE END OF THE MAGICTHE dear old FA Cup is being forced to make room for boring group stage European matches.Sorry, that should read, boring ‘Swiss-style format’ European matches.There’s a difference apparently.I love the third-round replays because I am a bit of a dinosaur and watching the big clubs cock it up at home then lose away is cracking entertainment. But that’s not the issue.Bringing forward the FA Cup final to the penultimate weekend of the domestic season means the oldest cup competition in the world is now robbed of its grand finale place in the calendar.Yes, it has happened before but that doesn’t mean it’s OK.Even though the Cup is normally dominated by the elite teams, the likes of Crystal Palace and Hull can enjoy a huge day out and a puncher’s chance of victory.The Premier League is scrapping games the night before to allow build-up to the big occasion next season. But there might be some the day after.Thus making the FA Cup final merely a bridging tournament as the title race hots up.RIP FA CUP.Gabriel Jesus is shown a yellow card by referee Danny Makkelie against Bayern MunichCredit: ReutersCLOCK UPWATCHING Gabriel Jesus petulantly toss the ball away and mouth off to the referee in the final, frantic few minutes of Arsenal’s 1-0 Champions League defeat at Bayern Munich, something struck me.Instead of booking tetchy footballers for such unsportsmanlike acts, why don’t refs just knock 30 seconds off whatever stoppage time is left?The Gunners were desperate for an equaliser on Wednesday night and every second was precious.If the losing team knows that any outburst like that will cost them on the clock, it will soon put an end to it.ALL DUN?THE goalless draw for Rangers at Dundee means they are now without a win in three games.It has blown the Scottish title race wide open.READ MORE SUN STORIESSuch drama north of the border.Who on earth do you think might win the Premiership instead of them? More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Jack Fincham’s stunning THREE STONE body transformation as Love Island star reveals healthy boxing diet

      by

      JACK FINCHAM has shed a stunning THREE STONE after ditching junk food for a healthy boxing diet. The 2018 Love Island winner returns to the ring on Friday in Dubai against trader and martial artist Ahmed Mousa at Crypto Fight Night. Jack Fincham has lost a stunning three stone ahead of his boxing returnCredit: @cryptofightweekFincham returns to the boxing ring in DubaiCredit: @cryptofightweekThe Love Islander ditched junk food for a healthy boxing dietFincham has whipped himself into sensational shape for the bout with the help of nutritionist David Stache. He told SunSport: “My Uber Eats account, I must’ve spent all my money on it!”I was eating anything and everything, even when I wasn’t hungry just eating out of boredom sometimes. “Obviously working and being around mates that don’t eat how I eat now.READ MORE IN BOXING”My nutritionist now is David Stache and he’s worked with 20+ world champions so you ain’t getting better than that.”The pair met through Anthony Joshua’s coach Ben Davison – who Fincham trained with in the past. And Stache has Fincham on a diet of four eggs in the morning, chicken and salmon for lunch and a steak dinner. And when all is said and done the reality TV star is looking at the equivalent of a three stone weight loss. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFincham said: “I would’ve lost nearly 20kilos. “It’s hard work, hard work and applying yourself and dedication and consistency. No like, ‘Oh, I could just do this today.'”It’s hard work and consistency, always.”Fincham, 31, boxed as an amateur before walking away from the sport as a teenager to enjoy a party lifestyle. But after returning for an exhibition on Floyd Mayweather’s undercard in November 2022, he is ready to give it his all in boxing. Fincham said: “I’m 31 now, I’m in my last roll of the dice in boxing. “So I’m giving my all this year, I’m going to fight a few times this year and probably for the next couple of years.”I’m going to make this a massive, huge part of my life and keep it going, see how far I can take it.”Fincham has a wishlist of opponents, including Geordie Shore’s Aaron Chalmers and pro boxers-turned Love Island pair Tommy Fury and Idris Virgo. He said: “I know the route I wanna go. I do wanna fight Aaron Chalmers, me and Aaron are friends.”Idris Virgo keeps calling me out but look, I’m not ready for him yet he’s a great pro and I’d never sit here and slag him off.”But Aaron Chalmers, I’m hoping for early next year and Tommy Fury, maybe in the next couple of years.”And for me, I think they are very beatable.”Joey Essex – famed for his run on The Only Way is Essex – is also teasing a boxing debut. And despite being the nephew to esteemed British trainer Tony Sims, Fincham warned his friend of ever fighting him. He said: “Listen, I’ve seen little bits of Joey Essex. If he ever wants to do it I’d beat him without a shadow of a doubt, hands down.”Look, Joey’s got a boxing family but he’s never had a fight. He might have had a couple of amateurs, a couple of spars.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But there’d be no point in fighting me. And, by the way, me and Joey are friends, I love Joey, but boxing-wise it would be a pointless fight, I’d beat him.”
      Crypto Fight Night 4 takes place on 19th April at Al Habtoor City, Dubai and will be streaming live on Triller TV and Myco More