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      in Soccer

      How former teacher Sven-Goran Eriksson became ice cool England hero and unlikely playboy – before tragic cancer battle  

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      THE scoreline still makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end: Germany 1, England 5.In the dugout, masterminding the demolition of the old sporting enemy that day, was a thoughtful Swede who stayed ice cool amid the pandemonium around him.Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has died aged 76Credit: ReutersSven with Italian former girlfriend Nancy Dell’OlioCredit: Rex FeaturesEngland’s first foreign manager, Sven-Goran Eriksson, seemed like nothing would ruffle him.Few would have guessed — from his owlish exterior at least — that away from the football pitch he led such a tumultuous personal life.That crazy night in Munich in 2001, now part of English footballing folklore, proved something of a high watermark for Sven and his Golden Generation of players.His three international tournaments with England all ended at the quarter-finals.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBroken metatarsals, bodged penalties and a Ronaldinho free kick that looked to be a mis-hit denied him sporting immortality.And his time as Three Lions coach will be remembered as much for his shenanigans off the pitch as his successes on it.With receding grey hair, rimless specs and a demeanour seemingly as chilly as a Scandinavian fjord, he didn’t seem like a ladies’ man.Yet appearances were very deceptive.Most read in FootballHis glam Italian former girlfriend Nancy Dell’Olio wrote breathlessly of their first meeting: “The attraction was electric before we touched — but one touch was all it took.”And there were affairs with Britain’s other famous Swede Ulrika Jonsson and FA secretary Faria Alam — both while he was still dating Nancy.Elk huntingSven, who has died of pancreatic cancer aged 76, landed the Three Lions job after Kevin Keegan quit the post after England lost 1-0 to Germany in October 2000. David Beckham shares heartbreaking tribute video after tragic death of former England manager Sven-Goran ErikssonTerry Venables — who had guided England to the Euro 96 semi-final — was overlooked. Instead, the FA chose Sven, who had won Italy’s Serie A with Lazio but was largely unknown in Britain.The elevation of a foreigner to the top job in the motherland of football was not welcomed by all.One leading sports writer complained that England had “sold our birthright” to a “nation of seven million skiers and hammer throwers who spend half their lives in darkness”.When Eriksson’s name was announced, I was dispatched by The Sun to his remote home village of Torsby, set in thick pine forest not far from Sweden’s border with Norway.Many of the 4,000-odd inhabitants of the village, where temperatures can drop to -30C, were as well versed in elk hunting as they were in football.Some said that, away from footie, Sven enjoyed Tibetan poetry and tennis — quite a departure from the usual lifestyle of the English game.Known as Svennis in Torsby, the truck driver’s son had worked as a sports teacher before a short-lived career as a pro footballer.A solid, right-footed defender for teams in Sweden’s lower leagues, Sven was forced to retire in 1975 after an injury, aged just 27.After the appointment of Tord Grip — one of his old managers and later his No2 at England — at part-timers Degerfors in Sweden’s third division, he asked Sven to be his assistant.The pair aped the English game, playing 4-4-2 formations.When Grip took over as boss of the Swedish national team, Sven was given the Degerfors top job.A boyhood Liverpool fan, he later said: “I was always drawn to the physical strength and commitment of the English game. It was my model in the early days in Sweden.”In March this year he achieved a life-long dream when he was invited to Liverpool’s Anfield ground to manage the club’s Legends veterans for a day, and led the side to a 4-2 win against Ajax Legends.At Degerfors he brought in a sports psychologist and the side won promotion.He was on his way.In 1979, when he was just 30, Swedish giants Gothenburg gave him the manager’s job, and three years later they won the Uefa Cup.In 1982 he left his homeland for successful stints at Benfica in Portugal — twice — plus Italian sides Roma, Fiorentina and Lazio, before securing the England job.In 1977 he had married Ann-Christine Pettersson, daughter of the principal of a teacher-training college where he had been a student.They had two children, Lina, now a charity worker, and Johan, a football agent.The couple divorced in 1994, then in 1998, while at Lazio, Sven was introduced to a raven-haired Italian with a taste in plunging necklines.The Swede was a boyhood Liverpool fanCredit: Sunday TimesA young Sven Goran Eriksson in uniformCredit: Nina PerssonMarried lawyer Nancy Dell’Olio later recalled her first impression when she met Sven at a Tuscan spa resort was that he appeared “quite distinguished but nothing special”.She added: “Later he told me that he was completely transfixed from the first moment he saw me.”Sven invited her to lunch and Nancy later said she had “hated” deceiving her husband Gianfranco, also a lawyer and a friend of Sven’s.Eventually Sven asked her to leave her husband, and they broke the news to Gianfranco together.At Christmas 1999 Sven produced “a beautiful diamond engagement ring” and they seemed set for a happy marriage.Yet Nancy later wrote in her life story My Beautiful Game: “Little did I know that even stormier waters were lying just ahead.”England had come calling for Sven in October 2000.He was one of world football’s sharpest and most decorated managers, with the BBC calling him “the man with the Midas touch”.Sven said of what has been called an impossible job: “All England managers have been declared idiots at some times in their career, even Sir Alf Ramsey.England’s ‘first lady’“I knew what to expect. I didn’t take the job for the money or the weather. I took it because it’s England.”He and Nancy moved into a luxury home overlooking London’s Regent’s Park and she later described herself as “the first lady of English football”.His first game in charge — a friendly against Spain at Villa Park in February 2001 — saw England win 3-0.Victories against Finland, Albania, Mexico and Greece followed, with Sven the first England manager to win his first five games.Then, on September 1, 2001, came a far greater challenge — the might of Germany in a World Cup qualifier at the Olympic Stadium in Munich.The Germans had only ever lost one World Cup qualifier at home.Since losing to England in the 1966 final, they had beaten the Three Lions at tournaments in 1970, 1990 and 1996.Yet Sven’s England destroyed them, with the fifth goal scored by Liverpool’s Emile Heskey, who had a reputation for being goal shy.To this day England fans still chant to the tune of the Village People’s Go West: “5-1 — even Heskey scored.”Then automatic qualification for the 2002 World Cup was secured ahead of Germany with a 2-2 draw with Greece at Old Trafford.Yet in April 2002, with the World Cup just weeks away, came news that left many flabbergasted.Sven had been having an affair behind Nancy’s back with Ulrika Jonsson, who was 19 years his junior.But the TV presenter later said: “This was no great passionate affair.“It was devoid of passion. He had all this power and money, yet he was the weakest man I have ever met.”The pair had met when she had asked for his autograph at a party thrown by Labour spin doctor Alastair Campbell.It was devoid of passion. He had all this power and money, yet he was the weakest man I have ever metUlrika on SvenUlrika added: “When news of our affair broke he didn’t confirm what went on between us.“This meant I was left high and dry, even to the point that people believed I had made it up to get Press attention. That really angered me.”Yet Nancy stayed with Sven, despite the affair.Ulrika added: “I sensed he feared her. He admitted to me that she loved the attention she was getting from the media, so it’s little wonder if she didn’t want to give that up.”In the group stage of the 2002 World Cup England beat Argentina — in one of international football’s biggest grudge matches.In the quarter final against Brazil England scored first, then Brazil equalised in injury time.SGE played for Swedish division III team SK SifhallaCredit: Pressens BildWhen Sven was just 30, Swedish giants Gothenburg offered him the manager’s jobCredit: EmpicsGareth Southgate — then a player — allegedly said of Sven’s half-time talk: “We needed Winston Churchill but got Iain Duncan Smith [referring to the “quiet man” former Tory leader].As Sven stood on impassively in the second half, Brazil won it with a fluke free kick from Ronaldinho that wrong-footed goalie David Seaman.It was best summed up with what became a Sven catchphrase: “First half good, second half not so good.”Perhaps the most glorious missed chance for Sven and English football was Euro 2004 in Portugal, when teen sensation Wayne Rooney limped off with a cracked metatarsal in the quarter-final with the host nation.England went on to lose on penalties.That year Sven had a fling with another far younger woman — ex-model Faria Alam, an FA secretary.She later said: “After he’d filled the dishwasher, he led me upstairs to his bedroom. He didn’t have the mindset of a super-rich man.“He was saying how he did yoga and things like that. And I just fell in love with him, I guess.”Sven with ex wife Ann-Christine and son Johan in 1980Credit: Pressens BildMatters were complicated by the fact that Faria had also had a fling with FA chief executive Mark Palios.Yet again, Nancy stayed with Sven, who later admitted there were other lovers, including a singer, a Romanian ex-gymnast and a Swedish employee of Scandinavian Airlines.In January 2006 it was announced he would leave his £4.5million-a-year job after that summer’s World Cup.The tournament again ended in failure at the quarter-finals and will largely be remembered for Sven perhaps wisely allowing the Wags to grab centre stage.But his record of 40 wins and 17 draws in 67 fixtures was not matched by his successors until Gareth Southgate’s reign.Don’t be sorry, smile. Thank you for everything – coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live itSven’s farewellLater management roles included stints with Manchester City, Notts County and Leicester City, as well as the Mexican, Ivory Coast and Philippines national teams.His turbulent relationship with Nancy also ended.Sven saw out his days back in Sweden with long-term partner Yaniseth Bravo Mendoza, a Panamanian former nightclub dancer 21 years his junior who he met outside a bar in Mexico City.In January he revealed he had terminal cancer.In a poignant Amazon documentary, he said of his impen-ding death: “Don’t be sorry, smile.“Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it.”A maxim he certainly abided by.Sven posing at the front of a motorbikeCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe coach had an affair with fellow Swede Ulrika JonssonCredit: PA:Press AssociationThe Swedish football manager with partner Yaniseth Alcides during the Sports Gala 2024Credit: RexThe footie icon had an affair with FA secretary Faria Alam while he was still dating NancyCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSven led England to a 5-1 win against Germany in 2001Credit: Getty Images – GettyMichael Owen scored a hattrick during Sven’s demolition of Germany in MunichShrewd Swede’s greatest gamesBy Thomas GodfreySVEN’S Three Lions teams left fans with some spine-tingling memories.5-1 vs Germany, 2001Boss recalled out-of-form Michael Owen who scored a hat-trick. Skipper Steven Gerrard and Liverpool’s Emile Heskey also netted to stun 60,000 home fans in Munich.Becks free kick, 2001Sven kept David Beckham on against Greece and was rewarded when he lashed home a 93rd-minute free kick for a 2-2 draw and 2002 World Cup qualification.Argentina KO’d, 2002Four years on from being sent off against our bitter rivals, Beckham’s penalty secured a 1-0 win and eliminated them.Argies encore, 2005Michael Owen scored two late goals in 3-2 friendly win in GenevaRooney rescue, 2004Wayne Rooney, then 18, scored twice in a comeback 4-2 Euros group stage win over Croatia. More

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      in Motorsport

      F1 ace Lando Norris splits from model girlfriend Margarida Corceiro after a year of dating before Dutch GP triumph

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      FORMULA One driver Lando Norris has split from his model girlfriend Margarida Corceiro.The pair had been linked for the past year, with the British racing ace seen spending time with the Portuguese model on a number of occasions.Formula One driver Lando Norris has split from supermodel Margarida CorceiroCredit: Capture Media AgencyLando and Margarida watching the final of the Monte-Carlo Tennis Masters in Monaco this AprilCredit: Sky SportsHowever pals said the pair are no longer dating, with Lando, 24, admitting over the weekend: “I don’t have a girlfriend.”A source said: “Lando and Margarida had a fun time together and hung out a lot.“But it wasn’t working out so they cooled off. He’s free and single and just wants to focus on his sport.”Maclaren driver Lando, who won the Dutch Grand Prix on Sunday, and Margarida were first spotted together in May last year.READ MORE ON LANDO NORRISShe was pictured riding in the back of his Fiat 500 Jolly.As well as enjoying dates in Monaco, where they attended the Monte Carlo Tennis Masters final in April, before she was seen supporting him at the Miami Grand Prix.Margarida started dating Lando following her split from footballer Joao Felix last year.Bristol born Lando stayed tight lipped about their relationship but in May said he had “many girlfriends” when asked whether he was dating her.Most read in MotorsportPrior to dating Margarida, Lando was in a relationship with another Portuguese model Luisinha Oliveira.The pair were together for a year before breaking up in late 2022.Lando Norris sheepishly admits he has ‘many girlfriends’ during lie detector test amid links to glam Portuguese modelLando confirmed their split and said in a post on Instagram: “After time and consideration, Luisa and myself have mutually decided to end our romantic relationship but remain good friends.“I wish her the world and have so much respect for her and all she does as such an amazing and strong woman with nothing but kindness.”Lando triumphed over his rivals at the Dutch Grand Prix, beating Max Verstappen into second place.Despite his dominance in the race, Lando said he had a long way to go to win the title over the remaining ten races.He said: “I’ve been fighting for the championship since the first race of the year.“There’s no sudden decision, now I need to do better.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’ve been working hard the whole year and I’m still 70 points behind Max. So it’s pretty stupid to think of anything at the minute.“I just take one race at a time and just keep doing what I’m doing now because there’s no point to think ahead and think of the rest.”Magarida is a Portuguese modelCredit: Capture Media AgencyStunning Margarida has also dated footballer Joao FelixNorris triumphed over his rivals at the recent Dutch Grand Prix, beating Max Verstappen into second placeCredit: Splash More

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      in Soccer

      Inside late Sven-Goran Eriksson’s tragic cancer battle after revealed he had terminal illness just months ago

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      AS Sven-Goran Eriksson bravely battled his tragic cancer battle he opened up about his struggles in heartbreaking confessions about family and treatment.The former England and Manchester City manager revealed his pancreatic cancer diagnosis in January and today sadly passed away aged 76.The former England and Manchester City manager revealed his diagnosis in JanuaryCredit: APSven-Goran Eriksson delivered a final goodbye message just months before his deathCredit: Amazon PrimeHe spoke about how scared he was but also told how he came to terms with cancerCredit: Amazon PrimeThe Swede’s family released a heartbreaking statement which read: “Sven-Goran Eriksson has passed away.”After a long illness, SGE died during the morning at home surrounded by family.”The medicine… we don’t know what’s going to happen. I’m sort of scared. It takes a little bit of time before we can accept it. I’m still hereSven-Goran Eriksson Amazon documentary A heart-wrenching tribute from his children Lina and Johan Eriksson added: “Our father Sven-Goran Eriksson fell asleep peacefully in his home at Björkefors outside Sunne this morning. He has for a long time fought bravely with his illness, but now it came to an end.”They continued: “We hope that you will remember Svennis as the good and positive person he always was both in public and at home with us.”Doctors initially gave Eriksson – who managed the Three Lions for five years and three tournaments – “about a year” to live.He received the crushing blow following tests after he woke up feeling dizzy.The former manager previously revealed: “I thought I was fully healthy but suddenly I had a small stroke so I fell and my children took me to the hospital. “After one day of examination they told me I had five small strokes, but said ‘no problem, you will recover 100 per cent from that’. Most read in Football”But worse is they said I have cancer which they can’t operate on.”They said they will give me treatment and medicine to try and live as long as possible. I have that diagnosis and they can’t operate, unfortunately.”Sven-Goran Eriksson filmed his heartbreaking final goodbye alone – and his emotional message left film crew in tearsIn the months before his death, the 76-year-old saw his life chronicled in a documentary for Amazon Prime Video.Sven gave a final message to former players, coaches and supporters after speaking openly about his affairs and life in the film. In a touching clip at the end of the documentary, Sven told viewers: “I had a good life. I think we are all scared of the day when we die, but life is about death as well.But you can trick your brain. See the positive in things, don’t wallow in adversity, because this is the biggest adversity of course, but make something good out of itSven-Goran Eriksson”You have to learn to accept it for what it is. Hopefully at the end people will say, yeah, he was a good man, but everyone will not say that.“I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do. Don’t be sorry, smile.In the film, Sven bravely opened up about his cancer battles and reveals his fearsCredit: Amazon PrimeLina and Johan Eriksson appeared in the documentary to speak about their dad’s devastating diagnosisCredit: Andrew TimmsSven and his kids reconnected while he spent most of his time in SwedenCredit: YouTube / Amazon Prime Video Sport”Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it.”The film then pans back to Sven in his home, with the former England manager concluding his message with “bye”.Since learning of his diagnosis, Sven spent most of his time in Sweden at his family home in Sunne.He revealed one of his favourite spots, Fryken lake, could be his final resting place. It comes as…“I always thought it’s a great place to sleep,” he said.”The ashes could be thrown into the water here. It feels like home.”Meanwhile, one of Eriksson’s close friends released a heartbreaking update just days before his death. The dear pal spoke of how the 76-year-old had been too ill to go on his favourite lakeside walk in his final days. Sven-Goran Eriksson’s managerial careerFOLLOWING Sven-Goran Eriksson’s death from his battle with cancer, SunSport takes a look at his remarkable managerial career…PROMISING STARTIt began in Sweden in 1977 where he won the third division with Degerfors, before he joined Gothenburg and won two Swedish Cups and the Uefa Cup.He then took over at Benfica in 1982 and spent two seasons with the Portuguese giants where he won back-to-back league titles.INCREDIBLE ITALIAN SUCCESSStints followed in Italy with Roma and Fiorentina, but he returned to Benfica in 1989 and reached the European Cup final before losing to AC Milan.Eriksson claimed a third league title with Benfica the following year, leaving in 1992 for Sampdoria.He spent five seasons with the Serie A side, winning the Copa Italia in 1994.Eriksson then added another two Coppa Italias to his trophy cabinet with Lazio across a four-year spell.ENGLAND APPOINTMENTThen came the England job in 2001 where he spent five years at the helm of the national side.He reached the quarter-finals of World Cup 2002, losing 2-1 to eventual winners Brazil.England then suffered back-to-back eliminations at the hands of Portugal at Euro 2004 and World Cup 2006.PREMIER LEAGUE SPELLSAfter leaving the Three Lions following his third major tournament, he spent one season at Manchester City.Spells followed at Mexico, Ivory Coast and Leicester, before he moved to China where he coached three clubs across a four-year period.His last managerial stint came for the Philippines national team, a position he held from October 2018 to January 2019.MAJOR HONOURSPortugal League title x 3 (Benfica 82/83, 83/84, 90/91)Copa Italia x 4 (Roma 85/86, Sampdoria 93/94, Lazio 97/98, 99/00)Serie A title (Lazio 99/00)Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup (Lazio 98/99)Uefa Super Cup (Lazio 99)BBC Sports Personality Coach of the Year (England 2001)Speaking to The Mirror, close friend Runebjer said: “I’ve seen Sven and how do I feel? I feel sad but I am happy to have known Sven and know that I can still see him. This is my reaction.”He is such a tremendous person.”Lake Fryken is beautiful. It is 90 kilometres long from south to north and it is a beautiful landscape. You can see that in the pictures. You can definitely fish in that lake too.”But sadly his condition does not allow Sven to do that any more. It is a hard time for him.”FAMILY BONDSDuring his gruelling battle with the disease, Eriksson opened up about how he healed his relationship with his children.When he was rushed to intensive care, his daughter Lina called her brother Johan to tell him: “Dad is in the emergency room. And he’s not in a good way.”The family went into “panic mode” when they discovered that Eriksson had suffered five strokes.Even doctors were left in tears when delivering the dire news.Son Johan, 45, who now works as a football agent and Lina, 37 both rallied behind him during his illness and appeared in the documentary.It’s only very recently that I’ve been able to reconnect with dad and to have a very different relationship with him than I had had as a teenagerLinda ErikssonAmazon documentaryIn the film, Eriksson was candid about his parenting choices during the breakdown of his marriage.He said: “When you get divorced, you feel bad – and I did. At that time I don’t think I was a great dad. But before that and after that I guess I was okay. “It’s good to see that the children found the right way and have a good life. I am proud of them. Extremely proud.”Lina also talked about reconnecting with her father and how difficult it was to see him struggle.She said: “He’s a very black-and-white person when it comes to how he’s feeling. Everything’s good, or it’s s**t.”Every time coming back to the house, I see the clear difference in deteriorating. That’s really, really hard to see.””I think it has taken time to process and I think he has come a long way now than initially”, Lina added.”It’s only very recently that I’ve been able to reconnect with dad and to have a very different relationship with him than I had had as a teenager.”You realise the value of life and that what you thought was important is really not that important.”Symptoms of pancreatic cancerPANCREATIC cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms in its early stages. As the cancer grows and you do begin to show signs, these may come and go and be unspecific, making it hard to diagnose, according to Pancreatic Cancer UK. Common symptoms include: Indigestion – a painful, burning feeling in your chest with an unpleasant taste in your mouth Tummy or back pain – it may start as general discomfort or tenderness in the tummy area and spread to the back, which get worse lying down and feel better is you sit forward Diarrhoea and constipation – see a GP if you have runny poos for more than seven days, especially if you’ve lost weight as wellSteatorrhoea – pale, oily poo that’s bulky, smells horrible and floats, making it hard to flush Losing a lot of weight without meaning toJaundice – yellow skin and eyes, as well as dark pee, pale poo and itchy skin Speaking of the diagnosis himself, Eriksson said: “It was a shock. It’s one of those which will not go away.”But you can slow them down hopefully. I have no pain but I know it’s there. One day it will take you. Before that day, live instead of sitting down thinking about what and when it will happen.”I always feel bad to plan the future.”I take it as it comes. I know what I have and I know life will not last forever. Far away from that but I’m okay.”Eriksson bravely undertook treatment that helped slow down the progression of his cancer.”The medicine… we don’t know what’s going to happen. I’m sort of scared. It takes a little bit of time before we can accept it. I’m still here,” he said.Daughter Lina also spoke about her father’s previous fears of his treatment being stopped.”He really wants to continue with the treatment to try and stop the growth of the cancer as much as possible”, she said.”So for him, any kind of side effect or challenge or anything like that, he just tries to fight it because he’s so scared that they will stop the treatment for him.”In a touching and emotional moment, she added: “It’s hard to imagine life without him.”Sven will be rightly recognised and forever remembered for his significant work with the England team, and for his wider contribution to the gameCurrent FA chief executive Mark BullinghamMeanwhile, his partner of the last 15 years, Yaniseth del Carmen Bravo Mendoza, also stood by his side in the final days. “I’m trying to be calm for his sake because he’s making such a huge effort”, she said in the documentary. “We’ve been together fifteen years and I’m hoping that we’ll be together for many years to come. I’ll never lose this hope. I can’t.”Due to his health issues, Eriksson was sadly forced to step down as sporting director at Swedish club Karlstad in February 2023.After bravely announcing his cancer diagnosis, he was granted his lifelong wish when he led out Liverpool Legends, as they played in a charity match against Ajax at Anfield in March.Revealing his illness in January, Eriksson told P1: “Everyone understands that I have an illness that is not good.”Everyone guesses it’s cancer and it is. But I have to fight as long as I can.”When asked about the prognosis, Eriksson said: “You can’t be absolutely sure. It is better not to think about it.”But you can trick your brain. See the positive in things, don’t wallow in adversity, because this is the biggest adversity of course, but make something good out of it.”Heartbreaking tribute in fullA statement from his children Lina and Johan Eriksson today read: “Our father Sven-Goran Eriksson fell asleep peacefully in his home at Björkefors outside Sunne this morning. He has for a long time fought bravely with his illness, but now it came to an end.”Our thoughts go out to Sven-Goran’s father Sven; girlfriend Yaniseth and her son Alcides; to his brother Lasse and wife Jumnong, as well as to all good friends and acquaintances in Sweden and around the world.”Dad told us at the beginning of this year about his serious illness and received an amazing response from friends and football fans around Europe. He was invited to several football teams in England, Italy, Portugal and Sweden.”They shared their love for football and for dad. It was unforgettable for both him and us. He expressed his appreciation and joy and stated that such beautiful words are usually only uttered when someone has died.”The children added: “We have shared his gratitude and got to experience the wonderful meetings between him, football and all his friends. We thank everyone for these positive memories and your support during his illness”We hope that you will remember Svennis as the good and positive person he always was both in public and at home with us.”‘TRUE GENTLEMAN’ During Eriksson’s time at the helm, England’s “Golden Generation” went from 17th in the world rankings to fifth.Football Association patron Prince William today paid tribute to him as a “true gentleman of the game”.The England fans’ group Free Lions also paid a touching tribute on X: “RIP Sven. For the night in Munich, amongst everything else, thank you for the memories.”This is honouring England’s glory after their 5-1 victory over Germany in Munich in a World Cup qualifier in September 2001.Current FA chief executive Mark Bullingham added today: “This is a very sad day. He gave all England fans such special memories. No one can ever forget the 5-1 victory in Munich against Germany under Sven’s guidance.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Sven will be rightly recognised and forever remembered for his significant work with the England team, and for his wider contribution to the game.”On behalf of my colleagues at the FA, past and present, our thoughts are with his friends and family today. He will be much missed, and we will pay tribute to him when we play Finland at Wembley next month.””Sven was a good coach… better than he seems, says SunSport experts”SunSport’s Shaun Custis and Martin Lipton discussed Sven-Goran Eriksson’s England legacy following his death aged 76.Custis: “He was the most polite, civil manager I’ve ever dealt with in my life.”Lipton: “There are many managers who are prone to paroxysms of aggravation and screaming matches.”You can’t imagine Sven ever raising his voice, let alone having a row with someone. He was a gentle man and a gentleman throughout his dealings with us certainly. And I think that always came across from the very outset.”He was clearly a quite calm, unflappable character and he wasn’t going to let anything perturb him no matter what it was. No matter what questions were thrown at him, no matter what stick he got. He had this veneer of utter tranquillity.”Custis: “There was a lot of mystery to him. You weren’t reading things about him every two minutes online as you would do now but he came in and he got off to a great start with that 3-0 win over Spain.”Lipton: “He just loved being around football, didn’t he that was the thing.”He didn’t want to give it up… He actually, genuinely loved being around football players, being a manager and all the trappings of that and just being important. Because he enjoyed being Sven-Goran Eriksson – football manager.”Lipton: “He brought back a belief in the England team in that period, he gave us a night we’ll never forget and oversaw the real change in the culture of English football in that it became more celebrity in many ways.”The players became bigger than they’d ever been and he managed to keep that under a degree of wraps… He was a better manager than I thought he was at the time.”Eriksson’s partner of the last 15 years, Yaniseth del Carmen Bravo Mendoza, stood by his side in the final daysCredit: AlamyDuring Eriksson’s time at the helm, England’s ‘Golden Generation’ went from 17th in the world rankings to fifthCredit: ReutersHe has won 18 trophies in an incredible career that has spanned decadesCredit: Reuters More

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      in Soccer

      Meet the glam partners of Man Utd’s stars, from the ‘Premier League’s hottest Wag’ to a JD Sports model

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      THEY are one of the most famous clubs in the world, which means they attract star names.Man Utd have a storied history and remain a big drawer for top talent.Blonde beauty Cam Reading is one of Man Utd’s famous WagsCredit: InstagramThe Scottish beauty is a regular at Old Trafford where she cheers on her beauCredit: instagram/Cam ReadingCam is the partner of Scott McTominayBut this doesn’t just extend to the playing staff.Watching in private boxes at Old Trafford are the player’s gorgeous Wags.From the ‘Premier League’s hottest Wag’ to a South American showgirl, meet the Wags of Man Utd’s stars.Cam ReadingBeauty Cam began dating Scott McTominay in about 2022.Read more Man Utd newsShe regularly shares their glamorous life together on Instagram, including stunning holidays in Dubai.There, the blonde dazzler shows off her amazing bikini body to her 27,000 Instagram followers.According to reports, she is an investment management director.However, she also appears to be a model too.Most read in FootballMaja Nilsson LindelofMaja has been crowned, unsurprisingly, the ‘Premier League’s hottest Wag’.The Swedish stunner was given that moniker following a survey last year by Betting Sites.co.uk, and it’s hard to argue with.Fans stunned by ‘insane’ giant screens in bar showing Man Utd game and ask ‘are you sure you’re not in Old Trafford’Aside from being absolutely beautiful, she is a marketing expert, blogger, writer and podcast host.In 2020, Maja became a UNICEF ambassador and uses her influence to raise money for charity.Her husband is centre half Victor Lindelof.Maja Nilsson Lindelof has been called the ‘Premier League’s hottest Wag’Credit: instagram @majanilssonlindelofMaja is the wife Sweden defender Victor LindelofCredit: Instagram @victorlindelofMuri LopezLisandro Martinez’s Wag Muri is a showgirl in regularly dresses up in outrageous outfits for carnivals in South America.They reportedly met when the Argentinian centre back was coming through the ranks at Newell’s Old Boys.As his career blossomed, she joined him in Amsterdam when he moved to Ajax, and Manchester in 2022.She often shares her glam life on social media, from fancy holidays to showing off her designer outfits and penchant for Balenciaga.Stunning Muri Lopez is a carnival showgirlArgentina World Cup winner Lisandro Martinez poses with missus MuriCelina KerrCelina is reportedly the girlfriend of Red Devils new Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee.The influencer and model is believed to have graduated in Berlin with a degree in Media and Communication Management.They have kept their personal lives private on social media, but they were once seen embracing on a Valentine’s Day video shoot with JD Sports.The couple wore unisex tracksuits sold by the sportswear giant in the digital ad campaign, which was shared by Celina on her Instagram feed to her followers.Celina Kerr reportedly dates Man Utd new boy Joshua ZirkzeeZirkzee and Celina posed for JD Sports together in an adFern HawkinsFern isn’t just a Man Utd Wag, she’s a season pro at international tournaments.The missus of Harry Maguire was in Russia for the 2018 World Cup, then saw England fall in the Euros in 2021 and, again, at Qatar 2022.They finally married in 2022 at a plush ceremony at the Chateau de Varennes in South Burgundy, France.Maguire and Fern share two daughters together. Fern Hawkins is one of the country’s most famous WagsCredit: InstagramHarry Maguire and Fern got married in 2022Ana PinhoAna and Bruno Fernandes have been together since they were teenagers.She supported the Man Utd playmaker during his lowest ebb when he was broke playing for Italian minnows Novara.Fernandes said: “Ana has been with me on this ride since we were 16, 17, 18 years old.“We met as teenagers, and when we first started dating, I wasn’t making any money as a footballer, and she had a nice job working as a futsal referee on the weekends.“She used to do three or four matches in a row on a Saturday, and then we would always go to the cinema on Sundays.“I personally didn’t have much money at the time so Ana was the one who had to pay for our movie tickets. Same with going out to dinner. Even at the pizza shop, she had to pay.”Ana Pinho is the wife of Man Utd captain Bruno FernandesFernandes has spoke of how Ana Pinho supported him when he was a struggling starread more sports featuresAnneKee MolenaarThe latest arrival in Man Utd’s posh boxes, and joining the prawn sandwich brigade, will be Dutch model, AnneKee.With nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram, the blonde stunner is hugely popular.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe will be even more popular if new signing and her beau Matthijs de Ligt is the key to shoring up United’s leaky backline.AnneKee has football in her blood. Her dad played for the Netherlands, while her brother plays in the amateur leagues.Annekee Molenaar is a model from the NetherlandsAnneKee poses with United’s latest centre back Matthijs de Ligt More

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      I was in net for two of the most iconic Premier League goals ever… but I’ve quit football to become a DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

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      WHEN it comes to stats it is still all about passing for ex-keeper Neil Sullivan — but it has NOTHING to do with football.It is because the 54-year-old has stepped away from the game and now works as a driving instructor.Neil Sullivan is now a driving instructorNeil Sullivan was between the sticks as Paolo Di Canio scored his stunning scissor kickCredit: Hulton Archive – GettyAnd he was lobbed by David Beckham in 1996Credit: Action Images – ReutersSullivan was in goal for Wimbledon when Becks beat him from the halfway lineCredit: RexHe quit playing in 2013 and worked on the coaching staff at Leeds and then looked after the Under-18s at Hull until 12 months ago.Sullivan said: “All I had ever known was football.“The only thing I had done successfully outside playing was teach my kids to drive, so it seemed the perfect thing to do.“I work for Learn Driving UK. I’ve been training for a year and I started properly last month.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“It’s a world away from what I have done in the past but it’s incredibly satisfying helping people pass and getting them out on the road.”Despite playing 665 games for six clubs over 25 years, he will always be remembered for his involvement in two of the Premier League’s most iconic goals.First, David Beckham’s halfway line stunner in 1996 at Selhurst Park and Paolo Di Canio’s astonishing off-the-ground volley at West Ham in 2000.He said: “That’s the life of a keeper. For all the games, match-winning saves, clean sheets and penalty stops I made, the two matches that always come up are Becks and Di Canio.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIronically, Beckham’s goal led to Sully’s international call-up for Scotland.He added: “I did an interview with FourFourTwo magazine a few months after that goal and talked about my grandfather being Scottish.Where are they now: The unusual careers of former footballers“Then I got a call from Scotland manager Craig Brown, who either read it or someone showed him. I ended up playing 28 times for Scotland and went to the 1998 World Cup in France.”Sullivan was first spotted as a 16-year-old playing for the Merton Borough team.He added: “It was a pretty good side and a lot of our games were at Plough Lane, where I ended up playing for Wimbledon.It’s a world away from what I have done in the past but it’s incredibly satisfying helping people pass and getting them out on the road.Neil Sullivan“We had a couple of players in that side that went on to enjoy careers in the game — Graham Stuart and Jason Cundy.”Joining the Dons at 16, he made his debut in April 1991 in a 2-1 victory at Aston Villa. But it was not until the 1994-95 season that he took over from Hans Segers as No 1.He linked up with Segers again in 2000 at Tottenham where his old team-mate was a coach. And Sully still laughs about his first game with his new club.Who are these famous footballers?Sullivan said: “When I turned up at White Hart Lane someone took my car and parked it. I genuinely thought it was being nicked. It was completely different to Wimbledon.”Then after one season at Chelsea, he joined Leeds in 2004 as they struggled financially.He recalled: “There were a lot of player changes but still a good spirit and we got to the 2006 Championship play-off final.”Sullivan also talks fondly about his final game in April 2013 when a clean sheet for Doncaster in a 1-0 win at Brentford clinched promotion from League One.It would have been even better had he been able to celebrate with his Rovers team-mates — instead of being asked to do a random drugs test.READ MORE SUN STORIESSullivan said: “The most frustrating part is I could hear all the boys celebrating at Bees’ old Griffin Park ground, and I was desperately trying to do a sample.“Of course, looking back, as it was my last game I could have refused and it wouldn’t have mattered if they had banned me for ten years.” More

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      How Sven Goran Eriksson’s tragic cancer battle helped him heal relationship with kids…as he admits he’s ‘scared to die’

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      WITH a legendary career as a football manager and famously colourful love life behind him, Sven Goran Eriksson was looking forward to a long and settled retirement.But England’s first foreign coach was left reeling when he was been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer – after waking up and feeling dizzy.In a new documentary, Sven gave football players, coaches and fans one final goodbyeCredit: PAThroughout his illustrious career, he has won the admiration of his peers and football criticsCredit: GettyIn the film, he talks about how he had a good life and where his final resting place could beCredit: Amazon PrimeHe made history when he became England’s first-ever foreign managerCredit: PA:Press AssociationAs he was rushed to intensive care, his daughter Lina called her brother Johan to tell him: “Dad is in the emergency room. And he’s not in a good way.”The family went into “panic mode” when they discovered that Sven had suffered five strokes. His situation was so dire that it left doctors in tears when delivering the news. In January, he stunned the world by revealing that he had “about a year to live”.And in a new heart-wrenching Amazon Prime documentary, set to premiere today, Sven opens up about his incredible life and career and coming to terms with having months to live.READ MORE FEATURES Reflecting on receiving the agonising diagnosis from his home in Sunne, Sweden, Sven says: “It was a shock. It’s one of those which will not go away. “But you can slow them down hopefully. I have no pain but I know it’s there. One day it will take you. Before that day, live instead of sitting down thinking about what and when it will happen.”Now, Sven is determined to take life one day at a time and tries not to think too much about what lies ahead. “I always feel bad to plan the future”, he says.”Most read in Football”I take it as it comes. I know what I have and I know life will not last forever. Far away from that but I’m okay.”Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, 75, reveals he has cancer and has ‘at best a year to live’In the film, Sven bravely opens up about his cancer battles and reveals his fearsCredit: Amazon PrimeHe talks about how scared he is but also reveals how he has come to terms with cancerCredit: Amazon PrimeIn the film, Sven revealed that he was still undergoing treatment that will help slow down the progress of the cancer. He solemnly says: “The medicine… we don’t know what’s going to happen. I’m sort of scared. It takes a little bit of time before we can accept it. I’m still here.”According to Cancer Research UK, there are around 9,600 pancreatic cancer deaths every year, which comes to 26 deaths a day.Researchers also say only five per cent of people diagnosed with the disease survive for ten years or more. Confronted with the horrific reality that the disease will eventually take his life, Sven explains how he has been able to process the harrowing situation. He says: “I had a good life, yes. I think we are all scared of the day it will finish – when you die. But life is about death as well. You have to learn to accept it for what it is.”The manager, who has won 18 cups also says: “I had a good life, maybe too good, you have to pay for it.”His positive outlook has been evident ever since he was diagnosed with the disease.In an emotional interview with Channel 4 in March, he said: “You appreciate waking up in the morning and feeling well and normally you don’t do that. “You take it for granted. In the beginning, when you get the diagnosis coming from nowhere, it’s like a shock, but after a while, you learn to live with it.”I had a good life, yes. I think we are all scared of the day it will finish – when you die. But life is about death as well. You have to learn to accept it for what it is.”Sven Goran ErikssonOne of the documentary’s most gut-wrenching moments is when Sven offers his last goodbye and thanks players, coaches, and fans.He says: “Today I have a normal life and I am not thinking about what’s going to happen tomorrow or the day after. Otherwise, you sit, do not, and think pity of yourself. No. Leave it. “I don’t talk about it very much. It is what it is. I can’t beat it, probably. Anyhow, life is beautiful.”Hopefully at the end people will say he was a good man but everyone will not say that. I hope you will remember me as [a] positive, getting to do everything he could.”Don’t be sorry. Smile. Thank you for everything. Coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life and live it. Bye.”Sven has even identified Fryken Lake, near his Swedish home, as a possible final resting place.Explaining his decision, he says: “I always thought it’s a great place to sleep,” he said. “The ashes could be thrown into the water here. It feels like home.”Reconnection with childrenLina with her dad and his partner YanisethCredit: RexLina and Johan Eriksson appear in the documentary to speak about their dad’s devastating diagnosisCredit: Andrew TimmsSven and his kids have now reconnected after his cancer diagnosisCredit: YouTube / Amazon Prime Video SportSven with his ex-wife and son Johan in 1988Credit: AlamyBefore Sven’s highly publicised relationship with Nancy Dell’Olio and his affairs with Ulrika Jonsson and Farria Alam, he was married to Ann-Christine Pettersson. The pair were married between 1977 and 1994. According to him, the relationship ended because he cheated on her with Graziella Mancinelli. They had two children together – son Johan, 45, who now works as a football agent and Lina, 37. They have both rallied behind him during his difficult times and appear in the documentary. But it wasn’t always a smooth ride for the family. In the film, Sven opens up about questioning his parenting during the breakdown of his marriage. He says: “When you get divorced, you feel bad – and I did. At that time I don’t think I was a great dad. But before that and after that I guess I was okay. “It’s good to see that the children found the right way and have a good life. I am proud of them. Extremely proud.”Lina also talks about reconnecting with her father and how difficult it has been to see him go through cancer. She says: “He’s a very black-and-white person when it comes to how he’s feeling. Everything’s good, or it’s s**t. “Every time coming back to the house, I see the clear difference in deteriorating. That’s really, really hard to see.””I think it has taken time to process and I think he has come a long way now than initially”, Lina adds. “It’s only very recently that I’ve been able to reconnect with dad and to have a very different relationship with him than I had had as a teenager. “You realise the value of life and that what you thought was important is really not that important.”He’s a very black-and-white person when it comes to how he’s feeling. Everything’s good, or it’s s**t. Every time coming back to the house, I see the clear difference in deteriorating. That’s really, really hard to see.”Lina ErikssonLina also spoke about her father’s fears of his treatment being stopped if he shows signs of the side effects he’s suffering. “He really wants to continue with the treatment to try and stop the growth of the cancer as much as possible”, she says. “So for him, any kind of side effect or challenge or anything like that, he just tries to fight it because he’s so scared that they will stop the treatment for him.”In a touching and emotional moment, she adds: “It’s hard to imagine life without him.”Partner’s ‘hope’Sven has been with his partner Yaniseth for the past 16 yearsCredit: RexIn his autobiography, Sven revealed how they met on a night out in Mexico CityCredit: AlamyThe happy couple with friends and family, including Yaniseth’s sonCredit: AlamyFollowing his divorce Sven has a nine-year relationship with lawyer and Strictly star Nancy Dell-Olio and well documented affairs with Ulrika Jonsson and FA secretary Faria Allam, who appears in the documentary.Talking candidly in the documentary, he says “sex is one of the good things in life for all of us” and Nancy, 62, reveals how much she loved being “the first lady of football.”But for the last 15 years, Sven has been in a relationship with Yaniseth del Carmen Bravo Mendoza, a former exotic dancer he met in a nightclub in Mexico City.Yaniseth mainly speaks Spanish. Thankfully, Sven is bilingual and had no problem communicating with her when they first met.In his autobiography he revealed that she approached him and “said her name was Yaniseth and that she worked as a dancer a a restaurant and nightclub not far away.”She invited me to come and watch her when she danced.”Sven’s ex Nancy appears in the documentaryCredit: Amazon PrimeThe pair had a stormy nine year romanceCredit: GettySymptoms of pancreatic cancerPANCREATIC cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms in its early stages.As the cancer grows and you do begin to show signs, these may come and go and be unspecific, making it hard to diagnose, according to Pancreatic Cancer UK.Common symptoms include:Indigestion – a painful, burning feeling in your chest with an unpleasant taste in your mouthTummy or back pain – it may start as general discomfort or tenderness in the tummy area and spread to the back, which get worse lying down and feel better is you sit forwardDiarrhoea and constipation – see a GP if you have runny poos for more than seven days, especially if you’ve lost weight as wellSteatorrhoea – pale, oily poo that’s bulky, smells horrible and floats, making it hard to flushLosing a lot of weight without meaning toJaundice – yellow skin and eyes, as well as dark pee, pale poo and itchy skin After chatting and swapping numbers, he invited her to dinner in his apartment the next day.The following year, Yaniseth, who had a five-year-old son then, visited Sweden for the first time and spent Christmas with him and his children.Friends describe his devotion to the 54-year-old as “second to none” and say his two children are “fond of her”.In the film, she tearfully speaks about how hopeful she is that Sven can still beat the disease. “I’m trying to be calm for his sake because he’s making such a huge effort”, she says. “We’ve been together fifteen years and I’m hoping that we’ll be together for many years to come. I’ll never lose this hope. I can’t.”Yaniseth has been a source of support for Sven and continues to stand by his side in his last days. We’ve been together fifteen years and I’m hoping that we’ll be together for many years to come. I’ll never lose this hope. I can’t.Yaniseth del Carmen Bravo MendozaEarlier this year, she was pictured next to him at a Swedish sports awards ceremony as he received a standing ovation from the audience.Afterwards, she gave a brief interview to Swedish media and gushed about her man. She said: “It feels good to be by Sven’s side. There are so many people who come forward and say nice things. Now I understand how big he is.”Sven appears to share Yaniseth’s hope. In January, he spoke about his determination to “fight as long as I can”. Wooed by yoga talkFARIA Alam has revealed that she fell for Sven-Goran Eriksson because he had charmed her by talking about art, poetry and yoga.She had a fling with the Swede after joining the FA as a secretary in 2003.Speaking about it in the Amazon Prime documentary Sven, Faria, now 58, said: “He didn’t have the mindset of a super-rich man. He talked to me about poetry, he talked to me about art.“He was saying how he did yoga and things like that.“And I just fell in love with him, I guess. And that lit the fuse for all this to explode.” But the lovers were found out. At first, the FA denied it but emails not only proved it but confirmed that she also had a relationship with the FA chief Mark Palios.Sven, 76, says: “I felt very sorry for her. She lost the job and two members of the FA lost the job.”Faria signed two deals to sell her story for £300,000 after she had resigned — on the advice of Sven.But she was hurt by being portrayed as a “disgusting gold digger person”. She says on the show: “I’m the person that’s the bad person, and I was the scapegoat for them to be relieved of any responsibility.”Incredible careerSven has had the life and career most football coaches can only dream ofCredit: GettySven has had a successful career as a manager with 18 trophies to his nameCredit: RexSven is one of the most respected coaches in all of the sport and has won the admiration of players such as David Beckham and Wayne Rooney. His management career began in Sweden, but his rise to prominence came when he found success with Benfica in Portugal.He then moved to Italy, where he managed multiple clubs. But his biggest success there came when he led Lazio to win several trophies. In 2001, he made history by becoming England’s first-ever foreign coach. He took the team to three major tournaments – the 2002 World Cup, Euro 2004, and the World Cup in 2006. He reached the quarterfinals in all three competitions. The penalties defeat at the hands of Portugal in the 2006 World Cup was his last game with England. Since then, he has managed other teams, including Premier League side Manchester City and the Mexican and Ivory Coast national teams. In his documentary, David Beckham said: “I loved him from day one. He made me captain. The confidence he had in me was so important.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The way he protected the players, the way he treated the players, it was a breath of fresh air.” SVEN is on Prime Video in the UK, Ireland and Nordics on August 23.Players such as David Beckham have sang the praises of Sven-Goran ErikssonCredit: ReutersHe has won 18 trophies in an incredible career that has spanned decadesCredit: Reuters More

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      Inside Jermanie Jenas’ rollercoaster career from England star to One Show, L’Oreal ambassador and Fifa Best Awards host

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      JERMAINE Jenas’ glittering career had been on a relentless rise before it all came crashing down.The 41-year-old was sacked by the BBC on Thursday, following accusations of inappropriate text messages to a female staff member on The One Show.Jermaine Jenas’ glittering career expanded into TV work with the BBCBefore his media work, Jenas played for EnglandJenas was touted to replace Gary Lineker as Match of the Day hostIt means the married ex-footballer has been taken off air from Match of the Day too, as his reputation lies in tatters.A giant mural, featuring Jenas alongside BBC Sport colleagues Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Alex Scott, has now been removed from Manchester’s Media City HQ.Jenas made a statement to The Sun, saying: “Right now I can’t talk about it.”I can tell you I’m not happy – there are two sides to every story – and I’m going to be speaking with my lawyers on the issue.”Read more football newsBefore he got to the top of the media tree, Jenas fulfilled a dream to play for his boyhood club, secure a big money move to a glamour club, and play for England.As he scored jobs on Match of the Day, hosted The One Show, and bagged a contract with L’Oreal as an ambassador – his star grew.SunSport takes a look through his expansive CV.Making a name in the gameNottingham-born Jenas came through the ranks at Forest.Most read in FootballHe made his debut for his boyhood club aged just 17, when they played in the First Division in 2001.The following season he became a regular in the team’s engine room, which secured him a blockbuster move to Newcastle for the remainder of the 2001-2002 campaign.Jermaine Jenas ‘not happy’ that BBC sacked him over ‘unsolicited texts’A £5million fee made him the second most expensive teenager at the time, behind Robbie Keane.After his first full season for the Toon, he won the PFA Young Player of the Year Award.He secured his first England cap in 2003, making his debut against Australia under Sven-Goran Eriksson.Jenas would add a further 20 caps until 2009, also playing under Fabio Capello, At club level, he moved to Tottenham for £7million in 2005, where he was said to have earned around £50,000-per-week.He would play 202 games for Spurs, although in his final years he was loaned out to both Aston Villa and his old club, Forest.Eventually, Jenas would finish his career at Queens Park Rangers – where he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during a training session in 2014.Admittedly, he never fully recovered and decided to hang up his boots in 2016 for a new chapter.Jenas was just 17 when he made his debut for boyhood club Nottingham ForestLegend Bobby Robson paid £5m for Jenas in 2002Jenas played the majority of his football at Tottenham but was forced to retire after a knee injuryMedia dutiesWith his boyish charm and straight-talking demeanour, Jenas scored plenty of media work after he left QPR.ITV Sport hired him first, as he provided analysis on their coverage of the Europa League for the 2014-2015 season.Then he joined BT Sport, where he regularly featured in the studio alongside other pundits.But it wasn’t just sports networks that were showing an interest in his work.He was a contestant on Channel 4’s Time Crashers – a reality TV show where celebrities were given the task of living in different historical eras – in 2015.By 2017, he moved into the documentary world – presenting Teenage Knife Wars for BBC Three, which focused on his hometown of Nottingham.He recalled an incident in his youth where he was the victim of a knife-point robbery.In 2020, Jenas secured his big break with The One Show, alongside Alex Jones.Within a year, after dazzling TV execs, he became a permanent host – and was touted to be Gary Lineker’s eventual replacement on Match of the Day.He even popped up, surprisingly, to host the Fifa Best Awards.In 2020, Jenas began hosting The One ShowJenas interviews Anthony Joshua as presenter for Formula ESurprisingly, Jenas was chosen to host the Fifa Best AwardsJenas also fronted the failed Match of the Day X spin off show on the BBCBecause he’s worth itJenas’ bank account has been padded by major endoresements.He was reportedly paid a six-figure sum for a collaboration with Jacamo, a men’s clothing range that has also been supported by Freddie Flintoff.Most recently, L’Oreal made Jenas an ambassador for their men’s products.He joined Jamie Redknapp and Peter Crouch for the skincare expert’s Be a Wingman campaign, which aimed to challenge the stigma of men discussing their mental health.Again, it was believed Jenas was paid handsomely by the French cosmetics giant.Harsh commentJenas’ latest indiscretion less than a year after he was forced to apologise for comments made towards a Premier League referee.Jenas joined forces with Peter Crouch and Jamie Redknapp for L’OrealLast year, Jenas seemingly forgot his responsibilities by slamming a ref on Xread more sport featuresHe aimed a barb at Robert Jones on X, who was officiating the North London derby between Arsenal and Spurs.Angered by some of the decision, he wrote: “Complete sh**house off [sic] a referee!” Adding: “They’re all ruining our game!”24 hours later, Jenas said he was sorry for his comments.”I hold my hands up, I got it wrong yesterday,” he wrote on social media.”I should know, more than most, the responsibility we have as fans, players and pundits and the impact our words online can have as it’s an area I’ve been vocal in.”My emotions got the better of me and I apologise to The FA and to all match officials.”His alleged misdemeanour this week, however, was too much for the Beeb who immediately dismissed him from his media duties.He joined talkSPORT to present their drivetime show, however after appearing yesterday when the news broke they have now distanced themselves from the former Premier League star.READ MORE SUN STORIESWife Ellie Penfold is reportedly standing by Jenas after the claimsJenas appeared on talkSPORT yesterday as the allegations came to lightThey confirmed in a statement: “There are no plans for Jermaine to broadcast as a presenter on talkSPORT in the immediate future.”TNT Sports, where Jenas hosts their Formula E coverage, have said he won’t be returning this month. More

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      Mafia handed me £100k in Sainsbury’s bag to fix football matches…I’m haunted by chilling warning to players who refused

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      SPEEDING through London with £100,000 in cash in the footwell of his car, footballer Moses Swaibu knew he had just crossed over into the dark side of the beautiful game.Moses had been paid by a foreign organised crime group to fix the match between his Conference side Bromley and Eastbourne.Moses Swaibu, a talented footballer, got engaged in match-fixing after getting paid thousands of poundsCredit: RexHe previously played for teams such as Crystal Palace, Lincoln City, and BromleyCredit: GettyHis Lincoln City teammate Delroy Facey was also involved in the schemeCredit: Newsteam – SWNSBusinessmen Chann Sankaran and Krishna Ganeshan were also convicted for match fixingAnd instead of feeling guilty, Moses was hungry for more. He was no longer a professional footballer, he was a professional match fixer.He had the power to control score lines and make millions for overseas betting cartels.Somehow he had gone from being named Crystal Palace’s Young Player of the year, to trusted lieutenant in an organised crime group rigging football matches and making vast sums of money by betting on the results.But his actions were going to send shockwaves through the English football league – and land Moses and other players in prison.READ MORE FEATURESSwaibu was jailed for 16 months in 2015 following an undercover newspaper investigation into match fixing.He and another player, Delroy Facey were convicted of conspiracy to commit bribery following a trial in Birmingham.Two businessmen – Chann Sankaran and Krisna Ganeshan – along with footballer Michael Boateng, were also convicted of attempting to fix football games at an earlier trial.Moses, 35, now works to help prevent young players getting involved in illegal betting and has shared his story for a new BBC Sounds podcast, Confessions of a Match Fixer.Most read in Football“I drove across London with piles of cash in my car and learned how to identify which footballers could be made to throw a match,” he says. “I betrayed the game I loved.”Experts say match-fixing is not a victimless crime. The organised crime gangs behind the scams are often involved in drugs, prostitution and other criminal activities which the money feeds into.Ex footballer Delroy Facey arrives in court on match-fixing chargesMoses Swaibu had a promising career as a footballer but got involved with dangerous people, he saysCredit: GettyMoses says he only realised the scale of what he had done when he went to prisonCredit: EyevineMoses adds: “I went from promising youth player to working with some pretty dangerous people. I got in deep not realising how dangerous this world could be.“The thing is. It was only when I was in prison when I realised what I had done.”Moses grew up in Croydon after his Ugandan refugee parents split and he moved in with his dad.But his super-strict dad would lock the door of the house if Moses wasn’t back from school at a certain time each day, which meant Moses would spend his nights riding night buses or sleeping on a neighbour’s sofa.€60,000 in duffel bagDelroy Facey was Moses’ teammate and best friend at Lincoln CityCredit: EmpicsMoses says he was shown €60,000 in Delroy’s room when he was first given an opportunity to fix a matchCredit: AlamyFootball saved him when he joined a local youth team and was scouted by Crystal Palace and offered a two year contract.But instead of fulfilling his early potential, changes of management and his slight physique meant Moses slipped down the leagues and ended up at Lincoln City.Delroy Facey was his teammate at Lincoln and best friend. But strange things started to happen. Moses explains: “People were turning up to the training ground wanting to know where he was. And there was another thing too. Delroy would go around asking players for loans.”The players were staying in a hotel for an away match against Northampton when Delroy called Moses and a couple of others down to his room.“There was a white guy standing up, tall well-built,” says Moses. Delroy was sitting on the bed. Then Del opened the duffle bag and there was 60k in Euros. I was thinking in that moment, what the hell is going on? €60,000 if we lose tomorrow we can split it.“In my eye line I was looking at this guy. He looked like something stereotypical you see in a film. He is like a scary Russian bad guy from a film. “He was like, don’t worry, no pressure. If you guys get the score right tomorrow everybody is happy and you can go away. Does anyone want to take it? Sleep with it and let me know how you feel.“I am looking at this guy and he is like who wants to sleep with the money? I’ve never seen that type of money in my life let alone in that moment.”But Moses and the others decided not to get involved and the money was returned to the Russian.However that was not going to be Moses’ last experience of match-fixing.’Any means necessary’ Moses says he became keen on match-fixing and was willing to take the money by ‘any means necessary’Credit: AlamyAt one point, Moses was driving around London with £100,000 in his possessionCredit: RexHe made another move to conference side Bromley. After an initial great start, the team started to struggle, Moses had disagreements with the manager and his girlfriend was pregnant. Money suddenly mattered much, much more to him.In August 2012, he was approached by a team-mate inviting him to a meeting with match fixers. Moses knew there could be £60k in it for him and he needed five players – and he knew he had to approach the vulnerable ones.He says: “I knew going into that meeting there could be £60k that I would be willing to take by any means necessary.”They met at the Mayfair Hotel – Moses, his team-mates, a recently retired player from another team and the foreign match fixer with a translator.“The translator was very specific with what he wanted,” he recalls. “We need you guys to lose 2-0 in the first half only. So whenever those goals come, just make sure it is 2-0 in the first half. After that, go and play normal. Whilst we were given instructions, he gave us the bag. “I remember at that time we were already getting brown paper bags from Bromley with our wages. I felt the weight and I was like ‘sh**.’ The translator said keep the money, if you don’t want to fix the game, keep the money. Thank you for coming to the meeting. We all took the bag and he was like tomorrow let us know whether you guys want to do it.”The guys had been given £5k each. And they were set to make much more – the players were set to pocket £100k between the five of them if they got the result.“For the fix to be successful we had to be 2-0 down by half time. I remember that game like it was yesterday. You know when you play some away games there is something in the air, floodlights are lit, pitch is flat, but all I can think about was that if this is actually true, there is still an element of this is too good to be true.”The team got the result the match fixers wanted and, after the match, Moses got a call from the syndicate’s middleman to go and get their money.“He looked like a student, and the money came in Sainsbury’s bags,” he says. “I remember as he handed it over the car windows, he just put it in the footwell. I’m driving through London with £100,000 in the footwell.“When I am driving back, obviously I have never had that amount of money in my possession ever. It wasn’t until I got back to the hotel and I saw the glint in everyone’s eyes. Remember they are thinking they are getting £20k, and I am like nah, I am taking a third of it.“I quickly realised these lot ain’t really my friends. So why am I treating them like an equal. So I gave them some money and they were pissed off, like nah man you are ripping us off. “I was like this is the way it is man. I asked them one question, I said if you want in, you have got to be 100, if not, this is going to happen with or without you.”Soon Moses and the syndicate had cut out the middleman and he was dealing directly with the bosses.They wanted to avoid the big higher league matches and concentrate on the lower leagues to avoid scrutiny, with high stakes bets being placed across Asia on matches between little-known English clubs.I remember as he handed it over the car windows, he just put it in the footwell. I’m driving through London with £100,000 in the footwell.Moses SwaibuThe syndicate recruited Moses to identify which players to approach to fix matches across the conference, and then to make payments to those players after they had done what they said they were going to do.And Moses was good at it. He estimates he was helping his criminal bosses earn up to £1m a match – and Moses was loving it, not just the money, but the power too.“It wasn’t a thrill, it was an addiction,” he says. “I was getting money fast and quick.”DownfallWhile Moses was riding high, he had no idea that cops were closing in on himCredit: AlamyFootballer Michael Boateng contacted Moses about a discussion about match-fixingCredit: PABut if Moses was in denial about the criminality of his actions, he was soon to get a stark reminder.In a chilling warning, some players who didn’t fix a game they were meant to were each given a bullet to take home.“It didn’t cross my mind once whether someone’s livelihood or life is going to be jeopardised because this is what I am doing, this is how I am going to execute, why am I going to care about anybody else? I just didn’t care,” he says.Moses was so focused on himself that he wasn’t paying attention to the fact that the authorities were closing in and scrutinising suspicious betting activity in his league.Changes to the Premier League for 2024/25NOTHING stays the same forever.And that includes the Premier League, which is making a number of tweaks this season.Team news will now be released 75 MINUTES before kick-off, 15 minutes earlier than had been the case before.Things could get crowded on the touchline, with the number of substitutes permitted to warm-up boosted from three players per team to FIVE.There’s also a change to how added time is calculated when a team scores a goal, an update to the ‘multiball’ system and the introduction of semi-automated offsides – but not straight away.Go here to read about all the changes to the Premier League for 2024/25.And it is hardly surprising, seeing as one lowly Conference South match, played in front of a handful of supporters, between Welling and Billericay, attracted more bets than Barcelona.He moved to Whitehawk before retiring from football in 2013. It was around this time he was caught up in the undercover investigation which led to his downfall. He got a phone call from Delroy Facey who said some “Singaporean guys” were new investors and were offering £60,000.He was also contacted by a player he knew from his days at Crystal Palace, Michael Boateng, whom Swaibu put in touch with Facey.Swaibu was suspicious when Boateng told him a “white guy” wanted to meet them to discuss the fix. They went to an Indian restaurant and the men handed over cash to Swaibu. He left the restaurant  only to be arrested by waiting police.On leaving prison Swaibu contacted the FA to provide information about the fixing syndicate and has visited clubs to talk about the dangers.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe now works with players to ensure that they can speak up if they are approached, saying: “The last thing you want to do is end up in the position I was in.”Confessions of a Match Fixer is available on BBC Sounds.Moses has now turned his life around and speaks about the impact of match-fixingCredit: APMoses, who refused to show his face while arriving at court, was sentenced to 16 months behind barsCredit: AlamyDelroy Facey was jailed for two and a half years for his role in match-fixingCredit: AlamyIn 2015, Michael was given a lifetime ban from football after admitting chargesCredit: PA More