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      in Boxing

      My day with Amir Khan had me floored, what I saw is a million miles from the flash, cocky character fans think he is

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      TO some Amir Khan is just another flash, multimillionaire boxer… but I saw the real side of him only minutes after we met.Having raked in a whopping £60MILLION just from fighting, he’s been able to afford a life that few can even dream of.Amir Khan knows how to spend his well-earned cashCredit: Instagram / @amirkingkhanHe lives a life of luxuryCredit: Instagram / @amirkingkhanBut the father-of-three is a doting dad and family manCredit: Instagram / @amirkingkhanKhan earned £60m from his world title-winning careerCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdKhan’s been pictured behind the wheel of fast cars, welcomed cameras into homes as big as hotels and loves to wear expensive jewellery.On his rise to becoming one of British boxing’s greats he would also trash-talk opponents.With his beautiful, successful wife on his arm, it’s little wonder some boxing fans find it hard to relate to the cocky boy from Bolton.So I was floored when I met him.READ MORE IN BOXINGI spoke to the British legend in Dubai – where he now lives with his family – while he was supporting his protege Haider Khan – of no relation – in his MMA fight.The last time I interviewed Khan was in Saudi Arabia last February – albeit briefly – about a potential comeback and the legacy he’s left.A year on, and not much changed as I quizzed him on similar topics.But this time I got to see the kind-hearted nature fo Khan, who single-handedly revived Great Britain’s Olympic boxing hopes in 2004.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKhan agreed to leave his VIP cageside seat to speak to me, while I sprinted from the press area to ensure I didn’t miss my one-to-one opportunity.But as I tried to take Khan backstage to find a quieter place to talk – security stopped me in my tracks.Amir Khan reveals talks with KSI’s camp and opens door to shock fight after controversial Wayne Bridge bout collapsesThey failed to recognise who the former light-welterweight champion of the world was – refusing to let him backstage without a media pass.I feared my interview chances would be KO’d there and then – but Khan showed his humanity and laughed off the snub.The boxing great – one of the best and most recognisable to ever come out of our shores – was far too humble to tell the jobsworth security who he was.If I wasn’t in such a rush to get interviewing Khan, I would’ve explained to the staffer that he was talking to the man who won Olympic silver aged just 17.The legend who lifted world championships at 22 and retired with one of the best records of the modern era.But, we were against the clock so luckily a member of staff with security clearance brought Khan through.And just as I thought we could get the interview underway, a member of the Coca-Cola Arena team – originally from Manchester – recognised Khan.Khan won Olympic silver aged just 17Credit: PAHe was already a star by the time he turned proCredit: Kenny Ramsay – The Sun GlasgowKhan became world champ at just 22Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdAnd again, the down-to-earth 38-year-old was asking this super-fan all about her life, why she now lives in Dubai, why she left England.Sensing my precious time with Khan was slipping away, I did finally manage to get our chat underway.But still, I was left stunned with the lack of ego he had shown in just the short period we had rubbed shoulders.Khan helped keep funding for Team GB alive after medalling in Athens before turning pro a year later as an already household name.And before even winning his first world title in 2009, he was a pay-per-view star making huge amounts of money.Khan then took his career to America and that’s when he really made the big bucks.And outside of the ropes, Khan has made waves.Khan married Faryal Makhdoom in 2013Credit: ¥The couple’s relationship has been under the spotlightCredit: Instagram / @amirkingkhanBut they seem happier than everCredit: Instagram / @amirkingkhanHe married Faryal Makhdoom in 2013 and their relationship has been under the spotlight ever since.It’s something the couple at times courted, having taken part in three seasons of reality TV series Meet the Khans: Big in Bolton.Khan has been accused of cheating on Faryal several times over the years – causing them to almost split.But the boxer has hailed New York-born Faryal as “very forgiving” after admitting to doing “silly things” in his past.The couple now appear happier than ever and share three children, Lamaisah, ten, Alayna, six and Muhammad Zaviyar, four.They are also living in Dubai after leaving the UK in the wake of Khan’s horrifying gunpoint robbery.Khan had a £72,000 watch snatched off him by a masked gunman on the streets of East London in April 2022.Khan relocated to Dubai after leaving the UKCredit: Instagram / @amirkingkhanKhan and Faryal pose in their Dubai homeCredit: Doug SeeburgKhan with his kids Alayna, Zaviyar and LamaisahCredit: Doug SeeburgA gun was pointed at Khan’s face – in front of terrified wife Faryal – before robbers demanded his diamond-encrusted Franck Muller Vanguard Chronograph watch.Two men – Dante Campbell and Ahmed Bana – later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to rob and possession of an imitation firearm.Bana was jailed for nine years and eight months – while Campbell was locked up for seven years and nine months.The watch was also returned by police – but Khan was too fearful to remain living at home.He told us: “Look, I can walk around wearing anything, doing anything.”I can leave my car door open, it’s just so much safer here. I think the law is much more strict, I think people like us need that.”Khan still enjoys the finer things in life, posing in supercars, showing off his collection of luxury watches and settling down in a huge mansion.Khan runs his own humanitarian foundationCredit: Scott Hornby – The SunHe has helped construct schools and orphanages and provided disaster aidCredit: Scott Hornby – The SunKhan most recently helped victims of the Gaza attacksCredit: Instagram / @amirkingkhanHe also gives back.Khan runs his own humanitarian foundation, helping construct schools and orphanages in Africa and providing disaster relief in Pakistan, Nepal and England.More recently, Khan has been helping victims of the Gaza attacks, providing food and supplies to those affected.He also helps mentor young fighters, like Adam Azim and Tal Singh, which keeps him in the sport.But Khan is no longer a fighter – as of now anyway – having retired in 2022 after finally facing nemesis Kell Brook.It was a rivalry born from their amateur days and spanning nearly two decades by the time they shared the ring – admittedly past their primes.Khan was stopped in six rounds and hung up his gloves afterwards – doing so with no regrets and a new pal in Brook.This is the moment Kell Brook ended Khan’s careerCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunThe grudge match had been brewing for nearly 20 yearsCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunKhan retired with no regretsCredit: GettyHe said: “I had to do it for the UK fans, the British fans.”They wanted to see that fight and even though I knew I was done, I still had to give them that UK fight between me and Kell Book.”I mean we’re friends now, we were never friends. Sometimes it takes punching each other in the face to become friends.”Khan fought a who’s who across four different weights, from greats of the past and present.But it is only now in retirement that he gets the flowers he truly deserves.He said: “When you retire, that’s when you realise you was a great champion for Great Britain.”I put some great fights on television at home. I had great times, UK fans, I do love them and they were amazing.”The boxing legend is still the star of the show wherever he goesCredit: GettyKhan starred on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!Credit: Rex FeaturesKhan and Faryal had their own BBC reality showCredit: BBCYou’d think with his multiple charities, looking after the next crop of fighters and being such a family man, Khan would stay happily retired.But his name continues to be called out by the new-wave of celebrities-turned-boxers such as KSI.And he grinned: “Look we’re prize fighters, we talk numbers.  “If the numbers match then yeah, it’s a fight, but if not, then if it’s all just hype and talk, it’s not gonna work.  “But look, yeah there was talks about it and they asked me a question, if I’ll be up for it.”Yeah, I mean, I’m a fighter. Every fighter is up for a fight so yeah, let’s see.”Khan – who has boxed since the age of 11 – has achieved everything there is to win in boxing.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut while returning for just one more bout against a prankster-turned-prizefighter would earn him another handsome payday, it also comes at the risk of ruining his reputation.And as I found out first-hand, that is a well-deserved reputation of a legend inside and outside of the ring, who I will always thank for letting me meet up close and personal.Khan was all smiles talking to SunSport More

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      in Boxing

      Anthony Joshua called out by former UFC star and bare-knuckle boxer who went viral for brutal KO after just 36 SECONDS

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      ANTHONY JOSHUA has been called out by bare-knuckle boxer Ben Rothwell – following his 36 SECOND knockout. Rothwell had 53 MMA bouts – including an 11 year stint in the UFC. Anthony Joshua has been called out by bare-knuckle boxer Ben RothwellCredit: GettyRothwell is a bare-knuckle championCredit: GettyBut he signed for Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship in 2022 and has won all four of his bouts. Rothwell, 43, became BKFC champion after knocking out Mick Terrill, 41, in 36 seconds and now wants a run at regular boxing. He told Ariel Helwani: “Right now I’m a free agent, I very much love the BKFC, I love David Feldman and I would like to continue, even finish my career here.”How much time have I got? Maybe a year or so, it really depends. But Francis Ngannou, Anthony Joshua, guys who beat them guys. READ MORE IN BOXING”To put the gloves on and prove how good at boxing I am would very much be a bucket list. “I just don’t feel like I’ve ever gotten to show the boxing world how good of a boxer I am.”Ngannou, 38, walked out on the UFC to pursue boxing in 2023. He dropped Tyson Fury, 36, on his debut only to lose a controversial split-decision.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNgannou then faced Joshua, 35, last March but he was brutally knocked out in two rounds. The ex-UFC champ then returned to the MMA cage in October – beating Renan Fereira, 35, in the PFL. Tyson Fury WILL still fight Anthony Joshua and they’ll even be friends after, says British champ in shock predictionJoshua meanwhile was knocked out by Daniel Dubois, 27, in September and has not returned since. And Rothwell wants to showcase his skills in both the boxing and BKFC ring. He said: “Right now the BKFC and UFC fans just say I’m a brawler. “They don’t understand my precision, they don’t understand how capable I truly am but if I got to fight one of them that would be a huge opportunity for me to show the world how good I really am.”Before I am done fighting, I want to bring as much respect to this belt as possible. “If I have to step away for a fight I think the BKFC would back me. I believe we’re going to get something figured out and I will defend this belt.”Rothwell left the UFC for BKFCCredit: Getty – Contributor More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Justin Kluivert’s glamorous life, from travelling world on private jets to romantic engagement to fiancee

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      JUSTIN KLUIVERT has emerged as one of the most impressive players in the Premier League in recent weeks.The Bournemouth star has sprung into the limelight having found a golden touch in front of goal.Justin Kluivert is enjoying the form of his life at BournemouthCredit: GettyHe is dating stunning TikToker Shanna TaihuttuCredit: InstagramHe lives a glamorous lifestyle with his fianceeCredit: InstagramThey got engaged in the MaldivesCredit: InstagramKluivert, 25, has managed 11 goals in 25 league games this season but his best game came against Newcastle.The attacker netted a hat-trick at St James’ Park, his father’s, Patrick, old stomping ground.The Dutchman’s dad enjoyed a successful footballing career that saw him star for the likes of Newcastle, Barcelona and AC Milan.There was a lot of hope hype over Kluivert going on to replicate his father’s career.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe struggled at clubs such as Roma, RB Leipzig and Nice but has now found a new home on the South Coast.Kluivert has excelled under Andoni Iraola and is helping the Cherries push for European football.He enjoys a luxurious lifestyle off the pitch as well as he travels the world and is a hopeless romantic.He is dating TikToker Shanna Taihuttu, who regularly shares updates on her account.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThis includes posts of her baby bump and of the couple being intimate.They announced that they were expecting their first child in October last year.Milos Kerkez talks about his football career journey to join Bournemouth He also travels a lot when not playing footballCredit: InstagramHe went fishing with fellow footballer Lucas Da Cunha in CannesCredit: InstagramHe often shares updates on his Instagram pageCredit: InstagramKluivert makes sure to stay healthy when awayCredit: InstagramHe often travels in styleCredit: Instagram @justinkluivertOne recent video also revealed that they had got engaged as she filmed the setting of Kluivert’s proposal.On Kluivert’s Instagram, he regularly posts pictures from his matches as well as himself travelling.Last year, he visited the Maldives and went cycling and canoeing with Shanna before getting engaged. In 2023, he went to Ibiza and Amangiri, which is a Native American-themed luxury resort hotel in Canyon Point in the Lake Powell region of Utah.America is a popular spot for Kluivert to visit as he has also travelled to the Dodgers Stadium in LA to watch the Los Angeles Dodgers.He usually travels in style with pictures of a private jet shared on his social media with his French Bulldog also on the flight.He has visited the Dodgers Stadium in LACredit: Instagram @justinkluivertHe visited a Native American-themed luxury resort in 2023Credit: InstagramThe resort is in UtahCredit: InstagramHe cosied up to a fire while on the tripCredit: InstagramHe is the son of football legend PatrickCredit: Instagram @justinkluivertCan you name the famous fathers? More

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      in Boxing

      People started fights in cafes but terrifying gunpoint robbery was last straw, I had to leave UK, says Amir Khan

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      AMIR Khan’s gunpoint robbery was so horrifying he no longer lives in the UK.The 38-year-old – one of Britain’s best and most beloved boxers – had a £72,000 watch snatched off him by a masked gunman on the streets of East London in April 2022.This was the moment Amir Khan had his watched robbed at gunpointHe is now living with his wife and kids in DubaiKhan admits he no longer felt safe in the UKA gun was pointed at Khan’s face – in front of terrified wife Faryal – before robbers demanded his diamond-encrustedFranck Muller Vanguard Chronograph watch. Two men – Dante Campbell and Ahmed Bana – later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to rob and possession of an imitation firearm.Bana was jailed for nine years and eight months – while Campbell was locked up for seven years and nine months.The watch was also returned by police. READ MORE on amir KhanBut the attack was so frightening that Khan relocated to Dubai with his wife and three kids – Lamaisah, ten, Alayna, six and Muhammad Zaviyar, four.Khan told SunSport in the UAE: “Look, I can walk around wearing anything, doing anything.”I can leave my car door open, it’s just so much safer here. I think the law is much more strict, I think people like us need that.”Look, I’ve been to cafes, to places where people have started fights and they’ve said something and before you know it there’s a gang of people outside.Most read in Boxing”I don’t need that in my life – I’m a retired fighter. I’ve been fighting all my life, there’s no point starting fights on the streets or getting into problems.”Then the gun crime happened, I just wanted to give the watch away and said, ‘There you go, what do you want? Do you want the watch? There you go, take it.’Terrifying moment gunman robs former boxer Amir Khan “It’s no skin off my nose. I got the watch back and the poor guys got around 12 years each between four of them. Look, it is what it is, the law always catches up on you.”I think maybe it’s a message to people, don’t be stealing, don’t be carrying guns because you will get punished when you’re caught.”Khan – who formerly reigned as light-welterweight world champion – and his brother Haroon were attacked by six men in Birmingham in 2012. The pair are said to have fought off the would-be thieves who allegedly tried to steal Khan’s £125,000 Range Rover. Khan was involved in another street fight in 2017 in Manchester when a group attacked him during a road rage incident. And in the aftermath of the gunpoint robbery, Khan and his family were left too fearful to remain in the UK.He said: “Imagine if I had my kids with me that time. My wife was with me. Even she hates being around or going places.The boxing legend is happy living in DubaiKhan with his children, left to right, Alayna, Zaviyar and LamaisahCredit: Doug SeeburgKhan with wife Faryal Makhdoom at their Dubai homeCredit: Doug Seeburg”We get invited to UK events and stuff like that and I have to turn a lot down because I just don’t know what can happen.”It’s sad to say but look, I still love the UK. The safest I feel is Bolton, where I live, my hometown. I know everyone there and everyone knows me.”It’s just when you’ve go out of town it gets a little bit scary sometimes, you just don’t know what can happen, you don’t know the area that well, you don’t know the people there.”It just gets a bit scary and being recognised everywhere you go, people know you, you’ll always be the attention of the place wherever you go. It makes it a little tough and scary as well.”Despite Khan’s robbery ordeal, he remains one of Britain’s most celebrated fighters. He retired in 2022 following a defeat to Kell Brook – but only now gets shown the respect he rightfully deserves after hanging up his gloves.Khan said: “I thank all the fans, honestly. I’ve been boxing a very long time, literally all my life. READ MORE SUN STORIES”When you retire, that’s when you realise you was a great champion for Great Britain. I put some great fights on television at home. “I had great times, UK fans, I do love them and they were amazing.” Khan retired after losing to Kell BrookCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunKhan held light-welterweight titlesCredit: Reuters More

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      in Soccer

      Why Ange Postecoglou hasn’t been sacked by Tottenham – from player power to trophy boast and Daniel Levy relationship

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      WHEN the anti-Daniel Levy noise cranks up, it usually leads to change at Tottenham.The change that fans are demanding right now is in the boardroom — but usually that ends up coming in the dugout.Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou with boss Daniel LevyCredit: GettySpurs fans have voiced their angerCredit: RexAnd, yet, the chairman with one of the itchiest trigger-fingers in football appears to be bucking the trend of a lifetime by sticking by manager Ange Postecoglou.That is despite Spurs slumping to 15th and being in danger of getting sucked into a relegation battle.Although the Aussie reacted snappily to a fan accusing him of just that as he walked down the tunnel after Sunday’s 2-1 defeat to Leicester.And this despite the ‘Levy Out’ chants during, and after, that miserable home defeat to the Foxes — who had lost their previous seven on the spin — reaching new decibel levels.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAs well as the chants, banners were unfurled in the stands which included one saying: “24 years, 16 managers, 1 trophy . . . TIME FOR CHANGE.”The question is, why is Levy sticking by Postecoglou right now?It is baffling the football world and is multi-faceted in its answer.First of all, the dismissals Levy has presided over — and there have been 12 permanent ones during his near-quarter of a century at the helm — have normally been preceded by a relationship breakdown between himself and the manager.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat was the case with Harry Redknapp and later with Mauricio Pochettino, whose comments to the media towards the end of his reign irked Levy.­But that fracturing does not appear to have happened with Postecoglou, who has resisted every opportunity to criticise the Spurs higher-ups publicly.Ange Postecoglou gives Tottenham fan death stare in tense tunnel confrontation after Leicester defeatIn this painfully quiet transfer window, staggeringly, Spurs have recruited no outfield players despite their injury crisis.Yet the nearest that Postecoglou has come to a pointed comment has been to say the club would be “playing with fire” by not signing anyone.Player power has had an influence, too. Nuno Espirito Santo — now flying high with Nottingham Forest — was sacked after just ten Prem games in part after losing the dressing room.Italian firecracker Antonio Conte castigated his players to the point of no return in that amazing press-conference meltdown at Southampton in March 2023… and was gone soon after.The chairman with one of the itchiest trigger-fingers in football appears to be bucking the trend of a lifetime by sticking by manager Ange Postecoglou.Yet Postecoglou’s crocked squad, by all accounts, are just about still behind him.Then there is the fact Levy has tried chopping and changing managers before — the average tenure of a boss during his reign has been 23 months — to little effect.And Pochettino’s five-plus years in charge heavily skews that figure.So the supremo, who celebrates his 63rd birthday next month, has tried a different tack in recent years.Mauricio Pochettino left with no silverware won at SpursCredit: AFP or licensorsAntonio Conte castigated his players to the point of no returnCredit: RexNuno Espirito Santo was sacked after just ten Prem gamesCredit: PAIt used to be that he was involved in just about everything.Harry Kane would go on to become the greatest player in the club’s history but back when he was a teenager, you would not expect the chairman to be as heavily involved in an academy player’s contract negotiations as Levy was back then.Yet that has eased off of late, to a certain extent, with the likes of Rebecca Caplehorn — director of football administration and governance — technical director Johan Lange and Scott Munn, chief football officer and de facto No 2 to Levy, taking more prominent responsibilities.These are among the individuals Levy is understood to consult when weighing up big calls.Along with external individuals like Leon Angel, head of leading sports agency CAA Base, former managing director of football Fabio Paratici and, in years gone by, David Pleat.The new approach does not mean patience with Postecoglou will last forever at Spurs.But there is considerable sympathy for his crock crisis, with ten senior players out injured against Leicester.While there is also cause for hope from the cup competitions and Europe.Postecoglou has been hit with injury problemsCredit: AlamyVictory over Elfsborg on Thursday night will secure a last-16 spot in the Europa League.And winning the competition outright would not only end the club’s 17-year trophy drought but also get them back into the Champions League.Spurs are joint-favourites to win that competition and should have some senior players back for the knockout stages.And how easy would it be to hire a replacement for Postecoglou right now anyway?Consider the months-long pursuits of successors to Jose Mourinho and Conte, when Kane was still at the club and Tottenham’s position in the league was relatively strong (seventh and fourth respectively).Even if they managed to prise someone like Andoni Iraola away from high-flying Bournemouth, he would still have the same injury problems and the same inexperienced squad.But the other factor is, this time, changing the manager would not quell the anger from supporters towards Levy. If anything, it would increase it.It is questionable whether that deflection strategy even worked in the past but were Levy to do it now, all the heat would be on him and him alone.’The trust looks to have gone’That may be the case already, and certainly seemed to be on Sunday as enraged supporters called for his head.The trust looks to have gone with a number of fed-up fans, whose gripes include controversial change to season-ticket concessions and a reduction in wage-bill spending.Former Tottenham goalkeeper Michel Vorm, 41, reckons there could be a way to start fixing this seemingly-broken relationship between Levy and the fanbase.The Dutchman told SunSport: “He’s quite open. His office is always open to have a chat.“I know that his love for Tottenham is massive. He won’t approach players that quick — but he is far more approachable than people know.“Maybe if he would be a bit more open in public, people would then understand more what’s going on behind the scenes at the club.”A protest against Levy and the ownership is planned ahead of next month’s home game against Manchester United by activists Change for Tottenham.These calls-to-arms have not had the desired effect in the past.Michel Vorm reckons there could be a way to start fixing this seemingly-broken relationship between Levy and the fanbaseCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe ENIC Group even marginally increased their majority shareholding to 86.91 per cent in December, which does not hint at an imminent exit.Yet Jamie Coughlan, of Change for Tottenham, said: “The pressure the fans are cranking up will have an effect.“Whilst ultimately he is the chairman, the club is still owned by ENIC.“The bad press that we are creating may affect future sponsorship deals or partnerships, which could lead to the real ownership looking to sell.“What I think has changed is the fact it won’t be long before he has severe pressure placed on him elsewhere.”Those who have worked with Levy talk about his extraordinarily thick skin.But that last point could have some validity. Levy is on record as saying the club are looking for fresh investment.Should potential investors be put off by a toxic atmosphere in the ground, maybe that could affect Levy’s thought process. READ MORE SUN STORIESLikely it would far more than how he is perceived by supporters.But Levy does not appear to be going anywhere and, for now at least, the same can be said for his manager.Levy could stick with manager PostecoglouCredit: PA More

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      in Soccer

      I’m gay but hid my sexuality in macho football world…it led to behaviour I deeply regret, says shamed ex-ref David Coote

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      SACKED referee David Coote has revealed he turned to cocaine over fear of coming out in the “macho world” of the Premier League.Tearful Coote said he took coke to “escape” after being forced to hide being gay.David Coote says he felt unable to come out as gay as he feared the abuse he received for doing his job would get even worseCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers LtdThe Sun exclusively revealed film of him snorting powder at last summer’s Euros in GermanyCoote says he has been in an ‘incredibly dark place’ since news emerged of his drug-taking at Euro 2024Credit: PACoote also admitted he was “not sober” in his rant at ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, and got abuse and death threats as a ref.The sacked 42-year-old told how living a lie led him down paths that eventually torpedoed his career.Coote told The Sun: “I felt a deep sense of shame during my teenage years in particular.“I didn’t come out to my parents until I was 21. I didn’t come out to my friends until I was 25.READ MORE ON DAVID COOTE“My sexuality isn’t the only reason that led me to be in that position. But I’m not telling an authentic story if I don’t say that I’m gay, and that I’ve had real struggles dealing with hiding that.“I hid my emotions as a young ref and I hid my sexuality as well — a good quality as a referee but a terrible quality as a human being.“And that’s led me to a whole course of behaviours.”He says he has been in an “incredibly dark place” since news emerged of his drug-taking at Euro 2024. Without the support of family and colleagues, he added, “I’m not sure I’d be here today”.Most read in FootballGiving his first interview since the scandal broke, he said he hoped to help break down the “macho world” of Premier League football.He added: “I’ve had issues around my self-esteem — and that relates to my sexuality. I’m gay and I’ve struggled with feeling proud of being ‘me’ over a long period of time.Scandal-hit Premier League ref David Coote SACKED after videos emerged of anti-Klopp rant and snorting white powder“I have received deeply unpleasant abuse during my career as a ref and to add my sexuality to that would have been really difficult.“There’s a lot to be done throughout football and more widely in society with regard to discrimination.“I didn’t want to be that person that was putting their head above the parapet to be shot at, given the abuse we all get as a referee in any event.”Coote was suspended last October after footage showed him calling then-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a “c***”.The Sun then revealed a film of him snorting powder at last summer’s Euros in Germany.We also told how he tried to arrange a drugs party during Spurs’ Carabao Cup win over Man City on October 30.Coote was then the subject of a new FA probe over allegedly issuing a yellow card to order — before he was eventually fired.In an emotional interview, he says a “pressure cooker” of suppressed emotion, combined with a punishing work schedule, left him wanting to “escape” with cocaine.Coote was suspended last October after footage showed him calling then-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a ‘c***’Credit: XThe sacked 42-year-old said living a lie led him down paths which eventually torpedoed his careerCredit: Louis Wood News Group Newspapers LtdHe said: “It’s not something I was reliant on day by day, week by week, month by month.“I’ve had long periods where I’ve not used it — but it was one of the escape routes I had. Just getting away from the stresses, the relentlessness of the job. It fills me with a huge sense of shame to say that I took that route.”He recalled: “In 2023 I lost my mum very suddenly. At the same time my uncle was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. After Covid and the introduction of VAR, six officials were suddenly needed for each game.“I was selected by Fifa for the U17 World Cup in Indonesia, as well as the Euros and Olympics last year.“It meant that over the course of the 2023-24 season I was involved in more than 90 games — often back to back. At the end of last season I went straight into the Euros and that was incredibly pressurised. I had another tournament coming up immediately — heading to Paris for the Olympics.”The cocaine footage saw him inhale a 4in line up a US banknote. Another image showed his bank card next to six chopped-up lines.I’m gay and I have struggled with feeling proud of being ‘me’ over a long period of timeHe said: “I don’t recognise myself in the cocaine video. I can’t resonate with how I felt then, but that was me. I was struggling with the schedule and there was no opportunity to stop. And so I found myself in that position — escaping.”Coote is still being probed after a pal told him he was putting money on Leeds player Ezgjan Alioski getting booked before a 2019 clash against West Brom.Coote did caution the player and later messaged his friend: “I hope you backed as discussed.” However he told The Sun: “There was no agreement prior to the game. I went and did my job. The player committed a yellow card tackle.”He added: “I received nothing for it. I’m really disappointed that anything like this has come out because it tarnishes the integrity of the game. And whatever people think of me as a referee, as a human I have always gone out and done my best on the pitch.”Coote says he was merely trying to “deflect” the pal but admitted: “I wasn’t in a great place, and I was messaging people that in hindsight I shouldn’t have trusted. I was naive.” Coote says he “made some really poor choices and I really wish I could turn back the clock now and do things differently”.But he said he can instead take responsibility. After seeking therapy, he has kicked his drug habitCoote believes the dramatic turn of events which cost him his beloved job in football has helped him re-evaluate his lifeCredit: GettyCoote said: “I put on this hard exterior. Football became a place where I could go and referee and be engrossed in the game.“But then I’d come home and it would be more difficult because I’m living a double sense of being.“To other people who are in my situation, I’d say seek help and talk to somebody because if you bottle it up like I have done it has to come out in some way.”’POOR CHOICES’Coote believes the dramatic events which cost him his beloved job in football has helped him take stock.He said: “It’s been incredibly tough because I loved the game. I started refereeing when I was 14.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’ve found it easier since knowing my fate and being able to re-evaluate what’s important to me.“To spend some quality time with family and friends, and take time to make sure I’m in the best place to move forwards.”’IT’S A VERY BRAVE MOVE’By Amal Fashanu, niece of Justin who runs foundation in his name“IT is very brave for anyone to come out, but more so for someone in the public eye.“This will affect David Coote and is a big step but it should have less of an effect that in would on a player. It’s not the same level of fame.”Amal, whose former Norwich striker uncle killed himself in 1998 after becoming the first top-flight player to come out, added: “We’d love to chat to him at the foundation.“We’d be there to offer any support and counselling.“We also help people with mental health problems and would be there for him if that was an issue.“There’s still something very wrong at the top of football.“We’re in 2025, when everyone is supposedly liberal and accepting, yet something is stopping these men accepting who they are. Football is still failing in this regard.” More

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      in Boxing

      Amir Khan reveals talks with KSI’s camp and opens door to shock fight after controversial Wayne Bridge bout collapses 

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      AMIR KHAN is open to a shock fight against KSI – if the price is right. The British boxing legend retired in 2022 following defeat to long-time rival Kell Brook. Amir Khan is open to a shock fight against KSICredit: ReutersKSI is looking for his next opponentCredit: PABut he has been linked with a comeback ever since and last year became a surprise name in the running to face KSI. Khan revealed talks were ongoing only for no offer to be made – and he is keeping the door open if the money makes sense. He told SunSport in Dubai: “That’s the thing I don’t understand, they just call my name but they don’t wanna give an offer, you know what I mean?”How can you really take something seriously if there’s no offer given or they don’t want to talk?READ MORE IN BOXING”At the end of the day, look we’re prize fighters, we talk numbers. “If the numbers match then yeah, it’s a fight, but if not, then if it’s all just hype and talk, it’s not gonna work.”But look,yeah there was talks about it and they asked me a question, if I’ll be up for it. Yeah, I mean look, I’m a fighter.”Every fighter is up for a fight so yeah, let’s see.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSKhan, 38, was beaten in six rounds by Brook, also 38, in his last fight. And he served a two-year ban after testing positive for ostarine – a substance known to build muscle mass and increase stamina.An independent tribunal accepted Khan’s argument that he did not knowingly take the substance – ruling out “deliberate or reckless conduct”.KSI, 31, meanwhile is yet to return since suffering defeat for the first time, losing a disputed decision to Tommy Fury, 25, in October 2023. He was due to fight YouTuber Slim Albaher, 30, and former MMA fighter Anthony Taylor, 35, in a wild TWO-on-one bout. But he pulled out last summer due to a hand injury – which he has now recovered from. There was talks about it and they asked me a question, if I’ll be up for it. Yeah, I mean look, I’m a fighter. Every fighter is up for a fight so yeah, let’s see.Amir Khan on KSI fight The social media sensation-turned-boxer is in line to return to the ring in March – and ex-Chelsea star Wayne Bridge was due to be his opponent. They even faced off in the ring at Misfits 20 in January – where KSI controversially brought up Bridge’s infamous feud with John Terry. KSI referenced an alleged 2009 affair between Terry and Bridge’s ex-partner Vanessa Perroncel. Former model Vanessa – who shares a 18-year-old son Jayden with Bridge – has always denied the alleged affair with Terry. Bridge, 44, later pulled out of the bout due to KSI’s personal attack. It leaves the co-founder of Misfits Boxing – home to celebrity-style crossover bouts – in need of an opponent. And 34-6 Khan added: “It’s hard to motivate yourself for a fight like that because it’s not really a big, big fight.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And it’s obviously a fight that you’re gonna go into and probably just lace them guys up.”But they did say that they were interested in doing it – but like I said, let’s see.”KSI facing off with Wayne BridgeCredit: Misfits Boxing More

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      in Soccer

      Gary Neville tells Match of the Day legend ‘please stop putting me forward as Man Utd manager’

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      GARY NEVILLE has begged legendary football presenter Des Lynam to stop touting him for the Manchester United job.The former Red Devils defender, 49, briefly went into management after hanging up his boots in 2011. Gary Neville has responded to MOTD legend Des Lynam touting him for the Man Utd jobCredit: RexLynam believes Neville is the man to bring the good times back to Old TraffordCredit: GettyNeville played over 400 times for United, winning eight Premier League titles, two Champions Leagues, and three FA Cups.The 49-year-old joined Valencia in 2015 for his first foray into management but endured a dismal time in LaLiga.After winning just 10 games out of 28 at the Mestalla, Neville was sacked and has since carved out a career as a successful pundit. Ex-Match of the Day host Lynam was recently asked who he thought should “save” United from current boss Ruben Amorim’s reign.READ MORE ON MAN UTDLynam indicated Neville would be the best man for the Old Trafford hot-seat as he understands and “loves the club.”Neville responded on Saturday, telling Sky Sports: “Des Lynam was the doyen, the God of hosts and presenters in that era. “Someone with an unbelievable voice, great delivery, great humour. “I always got on with Des but if you could please stop putting me forward as the manager of Manchester United it would be quite helpful. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”I understand where you’re coming from – I do understand the club, I do love the club, I do believe I can communicate well. “However, I don’t want to go back into coaching number one. And number two, I don’t believe that I’m the best man for the job by a long way.”Gary Neville to make special request to broadcaster over future plans Neville also revealed his Sky Sports pundits had mocked him over Lynam’s claim.He continued: “It gives my friends and colleagues, particularly Mr Jamie Carragher, the opportunity to giggle quite a bit on a Thursday afternoon when he sees the headline. “I love Des to bits but I’m pretty sure he’s not right on that one. “I feel bad to tell him he’s not right because he’s someone with such vast experience.”Ultimate sports presenters rich listTV sports presenters make a mint.The biggest and best are signed up on yearly deals with the likes of the BBC, ITV and Sky for your viewing pleasure.Laura Woods is dominating the media landscape at the moment, leading TNT Sports’ coverage and ITV’s.Alex Scott and Jermaine Jenas are two of the fresher faces for the BBC’s sporting output.Then, it’s the old guard of Gary Lineker and Mark Chapman who also command hefty fees for their Match of the Day programmes.SunSport has taken a look at how those big names rank and compiled a list of the top 10 highest earning stars that grace our TV screens.With number one worth a whopping £29.4million more than number 10!Read the story and see the full list here.Despite not sharing Lynam’s view on his coaching credentials, Neville did credit the 82-year-old with helping him into punditry.Neville previously told The Overlap podcast: “I love Des Lynam. I met Des Lynam in 2002. “My first ever punditry gig was 22 years ago. I broke my foot before the World Cup in Japan and South Korea and ITV asked me to be a pundit. “I had the most incredible time, it was the moment that I recognised I wanted to go into punditry because of the people I was surrounded by.”The fellow pundits on that panel were Bobby Robson, Terry Venables and Paul Gascoigne. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I totally don’t belong in that panel from the point of view of football greatness and coaching. “What I could give them was the current understanding of what was happening in that [England] dressing room.” More