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      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo said I was the only player better than him but I ended up watching him train through my prison window

      by

      FABIO PAIM was supposed to become the best footballer in the world.He is the only player Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly stated is better than him.
      Fabio Paim broke down in tears as he remembered going to prisonCredit: SunSport
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s hard work and determination saw him rise to the topCredit: AFP
      Paim spent 12 months behind bars after his arrest on suspicion of drug traffickingCredit: Fabio Paim
      Portugal train at their Cidade do Futebol base – just across the road from Paim’s prison
      And he earned an incredible £327,000 aged just 13 as fans and players travelled across Portugal to watch him.
      But while his childhood friend became one of football’s GOATs, Paim’s career spiralled into obscurity due to the fame, money and partying lifestyle.
      Then it hit rock bottom when Paim spent a year in the infamous Caxias prison and literally watched Ronaldo training with Portugal through the window. 
      The winger was snapped up by Sporting’s academy at eight, leaving home to live in Lisbon and the hype quickly gained momentum.
      READ MORE ON RONALDO
      Paim’s scintillating talent seemed destined to propel him to greatness – and exceed fellow Sporting academy prodigy Ronaldo who is three years older. 
      So much so that when Ronaldo signed for Manchester United in 2003, he said: “If you think I’m good, wait until you see Fabio Paim.”
      But just how good was Paim? And was he really better than Ronaldo?
      Speaking to SunSport where he resides in the Algarve, Paim said: “I was really special. I must be humble but this is the truth.
      Most read in Football
      “Unfortunately back then there was not Instagram or Facebook, nothing was recorded like nowadays but I strongly and honestly believe that until today there was no other like me with the same quality I had.
      “Cristiano, for all his effort and hard work, went to a level he deserves. 
      “But when I was playing, if I had the same effort and commitment, I would be better than him.
      “If I speak about technique, I was better. I was a small Ronaldinho. But as we can see, it’s not the technique that leads us to wherever.
      “But yes at that time I was better than Cristiano. I believe he should give me one of his Ballons d’Or!” 
      Asked if technically he would have been the world’s best and won the Ballon d’Or, Paim replied: “Yes, no doubt.”
      Ronaldo amassed countless trophies, including leading Portugal to Euro 2016 glory, but Paim did not fulfil his dream of making a single competitive first-team appearance for Sporting. 
      The Portuguese youth international joined Chelsea on loan in 2008. 
      While compatriots including Deco and Ricardo Carvalho were first-team stars, the then-20-year-old lived alone and “didn’t enjoy” his year in London despite earning nearly £50,000 per month plus Sporting’s £130,000 annual bonus in Brendan Rodgers and Paul Clement’s reserves. 
      FABIO’S FALL FROM FOOTBALL
      Paim admitted he was “overwhelmed” by money and fame as he splashed his incredible wealth on cars, women, alcohol and partying because he was never taught how to use his cash wisely. 
      He retired “mentally” at 22 while with Portuguese minnows Real Massama but continued a journeyman career in China, Angola, Lithuania, Qatar, Malta and Brazil, simply to fund his lavish lifestyle.
      Paim, whose mother was a domestic worker, explained: “Unfortunately for me, I was born with talent.
      “As I was earning lots of money, I got the illusion I didn’t need the effort. It is impossible for a person like me to be a millionaire. 
      “I regret some of my choices. Now I’m at a different age so can see the picture differently. 
      “The talent was there but my mind wasn’t. My head was on women and partying, everywhere else apart from football.
      “I played some matches but my body was not in its best shape and didn’t respond to what people were demanding from me because if I could, I would have been at Barcelona or Real Madrid.”
      But in 2019, Paim’s life took its worst turn when he was arrested for being in possession of 5g of cocaine. 
      He was held in a cell for a year a stone’s throw from the Portuguese FA’s Cidade do Futebol HQ on suspicion of drug trafficking before being acquitted when the case collapsed. 
      The prison is a former fort more than 150 years old, and the cells are notoriously dark, wet and airless.
      It was, though, a transformative time for the dad-of-two, who realised the damage his mistakes had on his family and saw first-hand how differently his life could have played out instead.
      Paim sat down with SunSport overlooking Vilamoura MarinaCredit: SunSport
      Fabio Paim had the talent to become the best footballer on the planetCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ronaldo captained Portugal as they were crowned Euro 2016 championsCredit: AP:Associated Press
      The jail Paim was held in overlooked the training pitchesCredit: Google
      Paim, whose last club was Polish third-tier team LZS Starowice in late 2020, said: “The prison I was in is next to the field where the Portugal national team performs so I could watch them training every day for the Euro 2020 qualifiers.
      “I was there for a reason and I never thought, ‘Ah, Cristiano is there. I should be there too.’”
      An emotional Paim wiped away tears as he added: “Prison was really hard and difficult for me and my family. But it was good for me. 
      “I learned what comes easy is not good for you. And I couldn’t have that lifestyle anymore so I need to work and have dignity.
      “My life is calmer now. I’m sure I will make some more mistakes because I am human.
      “Prison was not a place for a boy like me. 
      “I don’t want anyone to feel sorry for me. It was my choice, it was my mistake. But I needed the comfort and support that only family can give you.
      “Family is the most important thing.  
      When I had the fame, money and parties, I thought that was happiness… now I am happier with lessFabio Paim
      “I had to be honest with my children. I just asked them to be there for me, to visit me.
      “My mother was always my big support and she still is.
      “What hurts me so much is how much I have hurt them with my errors because they didn’t deserve that. I did too much to them. I apologise for being emotional – I can’t help it.”
      Fabio Paim appeared to have the perfect life and the world at his feet as a teenager, literally, with either a football or a dancefloor or the pedal of a Lamborghini or Ferrari. 
      But ironically with all that gone, the flamboyant, larger-than-life character insists he is happier now. 
      Overlooking Vilamoura Marina, where he is often stopped by adoring locals, Paim reflected: “When I had the fame, the money, the parties, I thought that was happiness. 
      Read More on The Sun
      “But I didn’t know what happiness meant. I had the money but I didn’t know what it was to eat good food and travel.
      “Nowadays, I know what it is to be happy and I am happier with less.”
      Paim struggled to contain his emotion as he discussed the impact of his mistakes on his familyCredit: SunSport
      Paim was paid huge sums of money as a youngster but never made a competitive first-team appearance for SportingCredit: Fabio Paim
      Brendan Rodgers was the reserve-team boss when Paim was at ChelseaCredit: PA:Press Association
      Paim played in the Portugal youth teams but never earned a senior capCredit: Fabio Paim
      Paim is the oldest sibling and was the family’s biggest earner by 12Credit: Fabio Paim
      The ‘special’ talent was picked up by Sporting aged eightCredit: Fabio Paim
      The prodigy enjoyed waterskiing during his teenage yearsCredit: Fabio Paim
      The young prodigy was never taught how to handle money wellCredit: Fabio Paim
      The tricky winger dubbed himself a ‘small Ronaldinho’Credit: Fabio Paim
      Paim spent the 2008-09 season on loan with ChelseaCredit: Chelsea FC – Getty
      He still has a special bond with his motherCredit: Fabio Paim More

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      in Soccer

      I’m an ex-Premier League star – now I own a luxury holiday resort in a tropical jungle with my former MTV presenter wife

      by

      ANDY HUNT has swapped scoring goals for swimming pools after a dramatic career change.The former Newcastle striker may have been forced to retire aged just 30 after being diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. 
      Andy Hunt andhis wife Simone moved to BelizeCredit: Instagram / @simoneangel_mtv
      They run the Belize Jungle Dome in the tropical rainforestCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The luxury complex is complete with a swimming poolCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      But he is certainly living his best life as he runs a luxury holiday resort in the Belize tropical jungle with his former MTV presenter wife.
      Andy and Simone swapped South London for Belize in 2001, months after Hunt’s final game for Charlton.
      They sold their Greenwich home and purchased a property – then in 2005 decided to open the Belize Jungle Dome to the public.
      Now more than 20 years from first touching down on that first visit, the couple are still based in Central America, more than 5,200 miles from Hunt’s Essex hometown of West Thurrock and where temperatures average mid-20s all year round.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      The ex-forward said: “I’d had enough of football and to be honest I’d had enough of the British weather.
      “Me and my girlfriend at the time started looking around and we really liked Belize.
      “We visited the country and spent some time there. We found a property, bought it, sold the house in England and came out.
      “We decided to set up our own business over here in 2005.
      Most read in Football
      “It’s the most idyllic place and tourists can come out here and explore the ancient mines and the caves.
      “There’s horseback riding, zip-lining along with waterfalls and wildlife rehabilitation centres.
      “On the coast there are so many beautiful islands where you can go scuba diving and snorkelling.
      “We bought a big property, which we turned into rooms, we also built a four-bedroom villa next to it then another three-bedroom place next to that, as well as three acres of land.
      “It’s going great.
      “Our lodge is about an hour and a half inland, so we organise things for tourists and we take them here, there and everywhere.”
      The Hunts’ stunning complex is described as a “true tropical paradise” for couples, families and individuals alike – and promises the holiday of a lifetime. 
      Guests can make the most of the stunning tree-top cafe, beautiful swimming pool, river-side BBQs, football facilities and even a nearby zoo before retreating to their colourful rooms.
      The bedrooms are bright and full of colourCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Visitors can stay for up to 14 daysCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The patio terrace provides the perfect escapeCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Ingredients are grown in the garden on site for the restaurantCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      And the in-house chef rustles up plenty of gorgeous dishes, including a host of local Belizean dishes using ingredients grown in the on-site garden. 
      The hotel also has links with local companies that provide tours and day trips, including along the Belize River through the rainforest. 
      Prices for an all-inclusive package range from £736pp for a three-night stay to a whopping £3,325pp for the 14-night reefs and rainforest trip. 
      But visitors are clearly delighted with the Belize Jungle Dome, with the Hunts’ holiday resort earning rave reviews on Tripadvisor.
      It is ranked the No1 B&B in Belmopan, with a stunning five-star rating from 339 reviews. 
      One guest said: “Our stay at the Jungle Dome was absolutely fabulous. Simone and Andy are simply the best hosts. The riverside location also offers a substantial-sized pool and an immersive experience of nature at its finest.”
      Another commented: “Everything about the stay was perfect. They always made sure we had everything we needed. I have travelled extensively around the world and have rarely been treated so well.”
      And a third added: “We could not have been more pleased with the whole experience! Truly, staying here, is like visiting the friends in Belize that you didn’t know you had.”
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      It really has been a whirlwind journey for Andy and Simone and their two sons Lucas and Aidan – but one that the family have learnt to embrace. 
      Writing on their hotel website, the Dutch former TV host said: “We often get asked, ‘How did a professional footballer player and a former MTV VJ end up owning a jungle lodge in Belize?’
      “Well, it wasn’t a conscious plan, we were simply looking for an adventure. So in 2001 we moved to the tropics without knowing what we were going to do once we got there. 
      “For a while we soaked up the sun, developed our property and did a lot of soul-searching and head-scratching. 
      “Then Andy came with the idea of turning the Dome into a small resort. 
      “I thought that sharing our personal space with strangers was a terrible idea. But, as in all things, I have learned to trust my crazy husband and so went with it.
      “It turned out that his vision was a great one! Instead of ‘strangers’ invading our space, our guests became friends. 
      “It felt like being visited by family we never knew we had. Our staff become family too, and it is a continued pleasure working alongside them.”
      The site attracts plenty of visitors, especially from the USA and CanadaCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      It is a beautiful complex bursting with natureCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The bathrooms give guests the perfect place to freshen upCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Andy and Simone married in 2005Credit: Andy Hunt
      She worked as a broadcaster with MTVCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      Hunt retired aged 30 after his chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosisCredit: Twitter @WBA
      But despite seemingly living the dream in Belize, Hunt joked there is one main problem of swapping England for the Belizean jungle.
      He said: “I spend a lot of my time repairing my cars because the roads aren’t great over here!”
      But despite scoring ten goals in 42 Premier League appearances, the major transfer into running a holiday resort did not come completely out of the blue for Hunt.
      While playing in non-league at King’s Lynn and Kettering Town, he studied a business and tourism management course.
      The striker signed for the Magpies in 1991, playing under Jim Smith, Ossie Ardiles and Kevin Keegan in two years before joining West Brom, initially on loan as he scored a hat-trick on his home debut against Aston Villa.
      Hunt made the switch permanent and chipped in with 67 goals in 202 games before finishing his playing career at Charlton.
      The Addicks suffered relegation in his first season but helped them go straight back up in 1999-2000.
      Hunt started the next season with four goals before the end of September – but then had to step away amid his health struggles.
      Read More on The Sun
      Simone, meanwhile, moved from the Netherlands to London aged 18 as she became the youngest video jockey at MTV Europe. 
      On top of her broadcast career, she even released four of her own singles and was a judge on German TV show Popstars – but left it all behind when she traded pop songs for birdsongs. 
      The lodge is located beside the Belize RiverCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      Temperatures average in the mid-20s throughout the yearCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Visitors can expect a warm welcome from the hostsCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The Belize Jungle Dome has stunning five-star reviews onlineCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The all-inclusive three-night packages start from £736ppCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      It is the ideal getaway for individuals, couples and families alikeCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The Hunts bought the property before opening it up to the publicCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Hunt spent five years at The Hawthorns with West BromCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      He helped fire Charlton back into the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      in Boxing

      I’m a ring girl but don’t mind getting punched in the face, says Carla Jade after her Misfits boxing debut

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      BEAUTIFUL Carla Jade is used to turning heads as a ring girl.Now she has fans sitting up and paying attention to her boxing skills.
      Beautiful Carla Jade is now turning heads as a boxerCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Jade has starred as a ring girl at Misfit Boxing and Bare Knuckle Championship eventsCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Jade celebrates victory over Tash Kiran of Ibiza Weekender fameCredit: Instagram @misfitsboxing
      The glam 33-year-old is a regular on the circuit, often showing off her enviable figure at a Misfits Boxing and Bare Knuckle Championship events.
      While she also runs her own stable of promo models with her own agency ‘Finesse Ring Girls.’
      Last month, Carla made her long-awaited Misfits Boxing debut – defeating Tasha Kiran of Ibiza Weekender fame on points in a bruising battle.
      It was the culmination of patience and hard work that allowed her to enter a world where cattiness scores your brownie points, foes and potentially huge pay day.
      Read more Misfits Boxing news
      Speaking to SunSport, Carla revealed why she wanted to get involved with Misfits.
      “I have always been an active person and I like the gym,” the fierce brunette said.
      “I used to do some pad punching. I always wanted to fight, but I knew I didn’t have the time to commit myself to it or the skill to try it professionally.
      “So when the YouTube stuff started picking up and people were getting really well paid for it, I thought I should dedicate some serious time to it.
      Most read in Boxing
      “Being a ring girl, I obviously fall into the category. It was my calling – I just had to do it.”
      Carla was approached to fight against Tash Weekender at the eleventh hour as a replacement.
      She had three weeks to get herself into shape, and didn’t hesitate when Misfits Boxing co-founder Mams Taylor gave her a call.
      Carla said: “Mams got in touch and asked if I want to take a fight, and I said ‘yeah, sure!’ I didn’t even know who I was up against. I was just so eager to get in the ring.”
      A tough training camp then began. She continued: “You think you know what it’s all about and then you start properly training and realise how hard it is.
      “I had three weeks to get ready before I had to fight. At that point I had stopped boxing completely.
      “I was running my agency, and I wasn’t ready. I didn’t even have a gym membership!”
      “I sparred at Shootfighters gym in London, but had to cram in so much. I absolutely loved it though.”
      Honest Carla admitted there was some trepidation when it came to her preparations.
      “The first time I ever had any fear for what I was about to do was when I drove to my first sparring session,” she confessed.
      Glam Jade is now working hard in the gym to perfect her boxing skillsCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Although stunner Carla admitted she had some fear when it came to getting punched in the faceCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Sparring sessions are fun for CarlaCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla shows off her ripped figure after training hard for her first boutCredit: Instagram @misfitsboxing
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      “I didn’t know what sparring was and where I train is like a proper gym. For about 20 seconds I started to think, ‘I am driving somewhere to get my face punched in. Do I want to do this?”
      Carla came to the peace with the idea when she realised getting hit in a sparring session made her feel more savage.
      “I remember I got hit hard once and thought that wasn’t very nice, but it sort of egged me on a bit.
      “From that point, I knew I didn’t mind getting punched in the face.”
      As was proven by the latest Misfits Boxing card, with KSI and Tommy Fury going head-to-head, influencer fights are to be taken seriously and they are big business.
      For that reason, the events need to be a spectacle, which Carla believes the Misfits Boxing organisation understands and is proving to excel in.
      “For me it is about being able to put on a great production,” she said.
      “We’ve had leagues like this before, but not at the same level. Being able to provide the fighters with such a massive platform, great experience, treat them like actual professionals, and pay us well – it’s really amazing what Misfits Boxing is doing.
      “I know it gets a lot of stick from other people, and some people don’t like it but eight of 10 of the fighters you see at these events really take it seriously.
      “There are some that may be there for the pay cheque, but everyone I’ve seen just loves it.
      Carla, posing with Eddie Hearn and fellow ring girl Layla Shellby, runs her own promo agency called Finesse Ring GirlsCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla believes Misfits Boxing should be taken seriouslyCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla shows off her amazing bikini bodyCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      “Even when some of the girls get beaten, they’re back and they want to defend their reputation.
      “I think it’s there to be respected and people should give it some credit.”
      Carla is new to the Misfits Boxing world, and although there are naysayers who will complain that she is only in the position because she’s a ring girl, she hopes to silence those doubters.
      She has also had plenty of offers for fights already.
      She said: “I’m putting in the work like everyone else to get into that position. It’s really hard.
      “It’s funny because I know I am not that well known. But as soon as I won my last fight all these random girls started offering me out.
      “The best one was I had one girl wait outside my hotel room, screaming she wanted to fight me.
      “I didn’t think it would be that easy to get another opponent or this fun!”
      The bitchiness that exists in the women’s game at Misfits Boxing begins on social media, where rivals bash each other, and escalates into full blown rows at press conferences and more.
      “It’s sort of like TV. In the normal world, if someone barges me in a shop I’m not going to start on them!” Carla joked.
      Read More on The Sun
      The bitchiness that exists within the Misfits Boxing world is a part and parcel of the women’s gameCredit: Instagram @misfitsboxing
      Carla steps up her training and wants to prove she is an able boxerCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Although she’s just starting out, Carla sees a big future for her in Misfits BoxingCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla can’t wait for her next fightCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      “But in this world everyone is ripping me. I’m like, ‘why are you so aggressive towards me? What’s that all about?’
      “It takes a lot to irritate me, but at the same time I do enjoy it. So, if I am allowed to gob off, and get paid to do it let’s go!” More

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      in Soccer

      Alex Scott vs Laura Woods tale of the tape: How BBC and TNT Sports presenters’ amazing careers compare

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      ALEX SCOTT and Laura Woods share the crown as the current queens of sports presenting.The pair have dominated the media landscape in recent years, landing top jobs while becoming celebrities in their own right.
      Laura Woods is dominating the TV presenting landscape in sport
      Rival Alex Scott is the darling of BBC Sport
      Scott, 38, is the ace up the BBC’s sleeve, presenting Football Focus and heading up their recent Women’s World Cup programming.
      But in the other corner, Woods, 36, fronted a brilliant breakfast show on talkSPORT alongside pal Ally McCoist and is now the face of ITV Football and TNT’s new look Champions League coverage.
      Off the screen, they’re personal lives are well-documented.
      The pair appear to have found love – with Scott dating singer Jess Glynne and Woods going Instagram official with Love Island alumni Adam Collard.
      Read more football news
      Here’s how the pair compare…
      Rise to the top
      The two Londoners have both enjoyed meteoric rises to the top, with a leg up from Sky Sports.
      Laura scored a gig on Soccer AM for their online team, after she began as a runner and covered the darts.
      By 2018, she was working as a pitchside reporter, occasionally working with Gary Neville.
      Most read in Football
      In 2020, her career exploded when she took a hosting job on talkSPORT’s breakfast show – dividing the honours with Alan Brazil.
      She became a firm fans’ favourite, branched out to DAZN with their boxing and Women’s Champion League shows.
      ITV then utilised her skills as she presented both World Cups in the men’s and women’s game, as well as a NFL hightlights show.
      Most recently, TNT Sports made Laura their lead presenter for Champions League and boxing.
      Alex has had plenty of crossover with Laura. She began her media career on Soccer AM while she was still playing professional football for Arsenal.
      After completing a degree in Professional Sports Writing and Broadcasting, she scored columns for The Independent during the 2014 World Cup.
      When she retired in 2017, Alex got a job on cBeebies show Match of the Day Kickabout.
      A year later, she made history as the first female pundit for the BBC at the 2018 World Cup.
      In 2019, she was announced as co-host of Goals on Sunday on Sky Sports alongside Chris Kamara.
      This year, Woods became the lead presenter for TNS Sports’ Champions League coverageCredit: Getty
      AT ITV Sport, Woods is a jack of all trades – presenting their NFL coverageCredit: Instagram
      Scott’s expertise is as a pundit and presenter, which was seen on the BBC’s Women’s World Cup coverageCredit: BBC
      Scott has transcended sport, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2019Credit: Getty
      Since 2020, the MBE has hosted BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year Awards.
      Alex has also transcended sport, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing and is a frequent guest presenter of the One Show.
      Net worth
      Both Scott and Woods have amassed a small fortune from their TV gigs.
      Although figures vary, there’s not much between them.
      According to Apumone, Woods has a net worth of around £1.64million.
      On the BBC pay list for the season of 2022-23, Scott was said to earn somewhere between £185,000 – £189,999.
      Add to that her other gigs, as well as past TV credits, and her fortune is estimated to be around £1.6million too.
      Both are killing it.
      Woods has an enviable lifestyleCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy
      Scott is believed to be worth around £1.6millionCredit: Getty
      Scott enjoys a holiday in IbizaCredit: Instagram / @alexscott2
      Woods enjoys a private yacht during some rare time off
      Best mates
      When it comes to pals in football, Laura and Ally McCoist were thick as thieves.
      The rapport they had between one another was radio gold on talkSPORT.
      Built over a mutual respect, they cracked jokes, shared banter and were a staple for morning radio.
      When Woods decided to quit, Ally had to fight back tears as he paid tribute to his pal in what was an incredibly emotional moment.
      Scott is close with fellow Arsenal icon Leah Williamson.
      They are known to be inseparable, when they are not bound by work committments.
      The two reportedly met on the football circuit over two years ago, and have become best mates.
      In the summer, Alex and Leah went on holiday with fellow Lionesses star Keira Walsh and spent time on a yacht in Ibiza.
      And they make time to attend swanky events together.
      Woods is close with fellow presenter and pundit Ally McCoistCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy
      Woods said an emotional goodbye to talkSPORT – leaving her pal close to tearsCredit: talkSPORT
      Arsenal star Leah Williamson and Alex are firm palsCredit: Rex
      Scott celebrated England’s Euros triumph with Williamson in 2022Credit: Getty
      They turned heads at the recent Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards this week.
      Previously they were spotted at the Brit Awards and GQ Awards hanging out together.
      Love life
      Despite their incredibly busy lives, Laura and Alex have time for romance.
      And they’ve both gone public with their relationships.
      As The Sun told you. Alex has been dating pop star Jesse Glynne.
      They were first spotted together before the Women’s World Cup, and have since gone public at the premiere of David and Victoria Beckham’s Netflix documentary premiere after-party in London.
      A friend said: “Alex and Jess have been a slow burn and they didn’t want to rush things or go public too soon.
      “But they’re officially an item now and seem really happy. They are both strong, independent women with a shared passion and respect of their respective careers, supporting one another from the sidelines.
      “It’s still early days for them, but they’ve met one another’s mates and everyone is super-happy for them.”
      Woods has also got a new boyfriend.
      Earlier this week, she went Instagram official with ex-Love Island contestant Adam Collard.
      Laura Woods went Instagram official with her romance with Adam CollardCredit: Instagram
      Woods soon deleted the images onlineCredit: Instagram
      Scott went public with her romance with singer Jess Glynne at a Netflix eventCredit: Rex
      Jesse and Alex have been dating for a few months, and were seen sat next to each other at Wimbledon in the summerCredit: Getty
      Very intimate pictures were uploaded to her account, before she swiftly removed them.
      The Sun first told how they were seeing each other last month as they enjoyed a series of low key dates together.
      They then headed for a romantic break in Cornwall, giving away the biggest clue they’re an item.
      Read More on The Sun
      Laura even gave at sneaky look at Adam in one photo, writing:  “Great company recommended too.” More

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      in Soccer

      Victor Osimhen is perfect fit for this Premier League team as Chelsea and Arsenal lead transfer fight for Napoli star

      by

      FIVE months is a very long time in football. Back in May, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen confirmed his place as a legend among fans of Napoli. 
      Victor Osimhen has become the superstar of Napoli but could be on the moveCredit: Getty
      The 24-year-old attacker scored 26 league goals and registered four assists as the team from the south of Italy won their first Serie A title for 33 years.
      His face appeared on walls and posters all throughout the city, alongside the eternal hero of Naples Diego Maradona.
      Now, eight games into the Serie A season we see Napoli sitting in 5th position, seven points behind league leaders AC Milan. 
      And things have started to unravel. 
      read more on football
      Last month Osimhen reacted with disbelief when substituted as his team chased a goal against Bolgna. 
      And he was outraged when the club’s official social media accounts appeared to mock the Nigerian forward for missing a penalty.All talk of a new deal has now stalled and now it appears that there is a strong chance that Osimhen will leave the club sooner rather than later.
      However Osimhen will not be cheap. 
      He is under contract until the end of the 24/25 season and De Laurentis is known as an owner who is not easy to negotiate with. 
      Most read in Football
      This will limit the potential destinations for Osimhen to either the Saudi Pro League or the Premier League.
      Even with the riches on offer in the Premier League though there are only a handful who are likely destinations for the Nigerian. 
      Manchester City have Erling Haaland leading the line while Manchester United have invested £72m in Rasmus Hojlund. 
      Osimhen does not fit the playing style of Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp and as such we are down to a choice between Arsenal and Chelsea.
      We take a look at which club would suit Osimhen better for a January transfer move.
      Ability to lead the line
      At the moment Arsenal have a choice between Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus to lead the line as the lone striker in their 4-3-3 system. 
      In the summer they spent a significant fee to take Kai Havertz from Chelsea but, despite playing as a centre forward for Chelsea, he has featured more as an advanced central midfielder so far for Arsenal.
      While there is no doubt that Nketiah and Jesus have huge amounts of ability neither of them really has the physical profile of an elite No9. 
      When you think about the likes of Haaland, Hojlund, Harry Kane or even Robert Lewandowski you start to notice that they all have size and a presence, along with great mobility. 
      Jesus is more comfortable when in the channels of even the wide areas and Nketiah is quick but less physically powerful.
      Napoli are on the counter-attack and the ball has been played towards the opposition half with Osimhen as the only player near the ball. He is up against two defenders but not only does he have the pace to reach the ball first he is powerful enough to outplay the first defender before driving towards goal
      This lack of a more powerful forward limits the tactical approach that Arsenal can take and given the way that they have developed under Mikel Arteta they would benefit from being able to play longer at times. 
      Having the option to play slightly longer and to launch a counterattack can make opposition teams play deeper and this would allow Arsenal to control games more.Too often we see Nketiah or Jesus either drop too deep or come out into the wide areas as Arsenal are looking to attack quickly.
      By not positioning themselves centrally they take an option away, as well as allowing the opposition central defenders to be more comfortable without a direct opponent looking to play tight to them.
      Here, as Arsenal look to transition to a counter attack we see the ball being won and played through the midfield. Nketiah, however, is far too deep and as such he is not in a position to instantly look to attack space behind the defensive line.
      Adding a forward with the profile of Osimhen would create more options in the attack for Arsenal. 
      His presence leading the attacking line would force opposition defenders to play further back as he is more comfortable positioning himself against the last man with his back to goal and he has the pace to threaten with runs behind. 
      This, in itself, would create space between the opposition midfield and defence that Arsenal could look to exploit.
      Presence in the area
      While both Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus are, relatively, good finishers, neither of them can be described as having a particularly strong presence in the opposition penalty area. 
      Nketiah is quick and has good movement when looking to attack the first ball in the area while Jesus is perhaps more likely to drop out of the area or stay towards the edge to look for a potential cut back opportunity.
      Osimhen would offer something completely different to the other two forwards for Arsenal as not only does he have real power and presence in the area but he displays intelligent movement in order to lose the defender. 
      Osimhen is very strong in the air and he will score more than his fair share of headed chances but this is a result of his ability to read the game and the flight of the ball as it comes into the area.
      Here, we see Osimhen isolated at the far side of the area against a single defender. As Kvaratskhelia cuts back to his right foot we see Osimhen pull off the blind side of the defender before making a strong movement towards goal to meet the ball
      Osimhen has great movement in the final third but crucially, and importantly for Arsenal, he displays a real willingness to play between the width of the goals. 
      His positioning and his ability to play with his back to goal or to spin and run behind the opposition defence means that the opposition central defenders have to be more disciplined in terms of holding their position and not allowing Osimhen to isolate on one of them. 
      By effectively pinning the central defenders deep in this manner Osimhen creates space for the central midfielders of Napoli to move into higher positions or for the wingers to come inside.
      Given the options that Arsenal have in midfield and on the wings, this could be extremely effective for Arteta’s side.
      With the ball on the near side we see Eddie Nketiah looking to make a long run to attack space in the penalty area. Nketiah tends to make straight-line movements that are explosive but he is less dominant in the area than Osimhen is
      Even when Osimhen is the only player in the area when the ball is played either from the wings or from deeper central areas he is capable of creating chances on his own and his dominance in the air can draw opposition defenders towards him in the area. 
      This kind of profile can create a huge threat for a team who play the way that Arsenal do.
      Linking with the midfield
      The presence that we have already discussed that Osimhen has in the area extends to his ability outside of the area to play with his back to goal. 
      His ability to pin opposition defenders and to receive in the final third allows Napoli to comfortably progress the ball forward and into dangerous areas. 
      Crucially, when receiving the ball in these areas he has the ability to either spin and attack space behind the defence or to play intelligent passes out or back to move the opposition defence and exploit space.
      This is something that Gabriel Jesus is also very strong at receiving back to goal and linking play but he displays a clear tendency and preference to do so either in the channels or even out in the wide areas.
      How Victor Osimhen and Gabriel Jesus compare this season
      Osimhen is in a central position, and as he receives the ball he has attracted two defensive players over to him. This creates space on the near side for the winger and Osimhen bounces the ball outside to create a chance
      For all that Arsenal, under Arteta, have impressed with the rate of their development from a tactical perspective there are still areas in which they need to develop. 
      While they attack well they lack a real focal point in the attack and a player who will provide the attacking platform that they can play into in order to move the attack forward.
      Osimhen is much better rounded in this regard than either Nketiah or Jesus and his strength and intelligence when it comes to receiving and linking the play would clearly add another dimension to the attack for Arsenal.
      Here, we see Arsenal building the attack from a deeper position. Nketiah has dropped so deep that he effectively receives the ball short from the player in possession. A more advanced position, as marked here, would allow Arsenal to play through the lines.
      While Arsenal have developed into a team that builds and creates the attack from a very specific base in the defensive and midfield lines, they are still missing a genuine platform in the attack that they can play into.
      Victor Osimhen would fit this profile for them perfectly.
      What about Chelsea?
      While it is true that Arsenal are better placed to ‘win now’ given their squad and the structures already in place around the first-team, Chelsea are likely to be very keen to sign the impressive Osimhen. 
      Chelsea also have the finances needed to pull off a deal for a player like him.
      There is no doubt that Osimhen would absolutely improve Chelsea, he would improve almost any team in the world.
      But even more so for Chelsea who are relying this season on two relatively inexperienced strikers in the 22-year-olds Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja.
      Chelsea are creating chances at a good rate and if their finishing success was better then they would be performing far better in the Premier League this season.
      Nicolas Jackson has two goals to Victor Osimhen’s six
      Chelsea are creating chances but are not taking them. Jackson takes up a good initial position though, central and between the centrebacks, this is exactly the kind of positioning that we would expect to see from Osimhen. However Jackson missed the chance.
      They are still producing good quality chances at a relatively high rate, they are just struggling to consistently finish those chances.
      The signing of a player like Osimhen would improve them immediately and given his consistent form in front of goal in recent seasons you have to think that he would be in a position to finish more of the chances that Chelsea are producing.
      With Enzo Fernandez in midfield Chelsea have one of the best creative passers in football and with the likes of Raheem Sterling in form on the wing we see Chelsea having the ability to dominate teams. 
      So far, however, they have lacked fluidity and a cutting edge
      Again we see Jackson with a shot on goal and a chance that you cannot help but feel that Osimhen would have taken. This time it is Raheem Sterling in possession in the area and as he pulls the ball back we see Jackson in space to receive centrally
      With a striker like Osimhen, who is capable of leading the line and playing as an isolated striker, Chelsea would be able to mix up the way that they look to attack. 
      They would be able to play longer to escape pressure with the knowledge that Osimhen can take the ball and hold it or drive at defenders when isolated and that the ball would not just come straight back.
      However in Broja and Jackson they already have two promising, if faw, young central strikers.
      And the addition of Osimhen would stifle their chances of ever making the grade at Stamford Bridge.
      Conclusion
      Make no mistake about it. Victor Osimhen is going to be expensive. 
      Napoli will not sell him cheaply and they will look to maximise value. The thing is though that he will almost undoubtedly prove to be worth the fee. 
      His profile and playing style feel perfectly suited to the Premier League and Arsenal are without a doubt the club that make the most sense for him.
      Read More on The Sun
      Signing Osimhen would take Arsenal to the next level and could lead to them becoming a truly dominant force.
      Do you want more than just a match report when it comes to your football content? Get the daily tactical analysis, data and scouting from Total Football Analysis for just £5.20 per month. You get 10+ articles per week, 2x digital magazines per month and access to our huge archive of articles, reports and more! More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Wayne Rooney’s £20m ‘Morrisons mansion’ that boasts full-size football pitch, two fishing lakes, cinema and pool

      by

      WAYNE ROONEY is returning home to England and his family – and will be living in his £20million “Morrisons mansion” that has a full-size football pitch, two fishing lakes, cinema and a pool.The Manchester United and England legend has just been named as the new manager of Birmingham City and replaces the axed John Eustace at St Andrews.
      Wayne, Coleen and the rest of the Rooney family moved into their dream home in 2021Credit: Instagram
      Their £20m Cheshire home was dubbed the ‘Morrisons mansion’ during constructionCredit: BackGrid
      The house sits on a whopping 40 acres of land and has two fishing lakes, a cinema and pool
      Rooney is believed to have paid over £4m to a Cheshire property developer to build the gated home
      He will be joined at Brum by Arsenal and Chelsea icon Ashley Cole and former United team-mate John O’Shea who will be working alongside him as coaches.
      Rooney left MLS side DC United at the weekend after they failed to make the play-offs.
      He had been living with his coaching staff in Washington while wife Coleen and their four sons, Kai, Klay, Kit and Cass remained in England.
      However, after joining the Tom Brady-backed Blues he will be getting all the support he needs from his family as he returns home to join them full-time at their lavish Cheshire mansion.
      READ MORE ON SPORT
      Rooney, 37, and Coleen, also 37, boast a sizeable property portfolio, including homes in Florida, USA, the Caribbean and across the UK.
      But the jewel in the crown is their six-bedroom £20m palatial house which sits on a 40-acre piece of land.
      Built from scratch, the family moved in in December 2021.
      It is said to be located in Cheshire and is named High Lake Manor.
      Most read in Championship
      Rooney and his partner could even technically call themselves the lord and lady of the manor.
      We revealed back in its development how United’s all-time top scorer had a full-size football pitch installed at the property and it comes complete with a seating area.
      The five-a-side pitch even boasts changing rooms with showers for his mates – although he was blocked from installing floodlights because of his mansion’s rural location.
      He also boasts a garage for his collection of cars, a cinema, swimming pool, and even two man-made fishing lakes.
      Rooney is thought to be a keen angler.
      The house had been previously mocked for looking like a Morrisons supermarket by neighbours due to its size and architecture.
      But, unlike a Morrisons, it now boasts an orangery, bar, TV room, snooker room, cinema and wine cellar.
      And the luxury Rooney pad also has a huge indoor swimming pool surrounded by a glass pavilion, a hot tub, plunge pool, steam room and “his” and “hers” changing rooms.
      But that is not all – it boasts an extensive patio, landscaped gardens and a luxury car garage.
      Rooney is believed to have paid over £4m to a Cheshire property developer to build the mansion, which also has a guest toilet and separate lifts.
      That second lift also connects the main space to the basement floor, which sports a sprawling gym, pool, Jacuzzi and cinema room.
      The decision to build their dream pad came after raiders tried to break into Rooney’s Cheshire home in 2016 before cops pounced.
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      The ex-striker grew up in a council house in Liverpool – but he has shown off his real estate skills with his sprawling Barbados villa, which he rents out for £25,000 a week.
      He snapped up a £320,000 waterfront apartment in the Sunshine State of Florida in 2007 and splashed out £450,000 on a detached home in Liverpool for his parents to live in.
      Now he and Coleen, who are believed to be worth around £115m, own properties across the globe after getting together aged 16.
      Rooney burst through the ranks at boyhood club Everton as a teenager and starred for England at Euro 2004 before a big-money move to Manchester United.
      Under Sir Alex Ferguson he went on to lift the Champions League and the Premier League title five times.
      Rooney surpassed Sir Bobby Charlton’s record for both United and England to become the record goalscorer for club and country – the latter now being overtaken by Harry Kane.
      He made an emotional return to Everton in 2017 and finished that season as their top scorer before moving to the MLS to sign for DC United.
      The then veteran bagged 23 goals in 48 matches for the American side but headed back to England to join Championship club Derby County in the 2020/21 season in a surprise move.
      The property has a full-size five-a-side pitch in it for the kids to play inCredit: INSTAGRAM
      Rooney had been living away from his family in America while managing DC UnitedCredit: Instagram / @waynerooney
      The mansion has a garage for his collection of cars, a cinema and a swimming pool
      Rooney then retired from playing to take over as manager when the Rams were rock bottom of the table.
      He guided them to safety but resigned at the end of the following campaign after Derby were relegated to League One following a huge points deduction and returned to become boss at DC United.
      Rooney was in charge for 52 games, racking up just 13 wins and 26 defeats, before his departure but will now be tasked with guiding Birmingham back to the big time under their new American owners.
      After being announced as manager, Rooney said: “I am absolutely delighted to be joining Birmingham City football club at such an exciting time.
      “It is very clear that they have a plan and are committed to realising their ambition for the club. We are fully aligned on what is expected.
      Read More on The Sun
      “I have been building my managerial career, putting myself in challenging environments, to get me ready for this opportunity.
      “It’s a project that gives me a sense of purpose and I can’t wait to get started.”
      The £20m mansion was dubbed a ‘Morrisons mansion’ when this snap emerged in constructionCredit: The Mega Agency
      Fans claimed it looked like the front of the supermarketCredit: Wikipedia
      The basement floor sports a sprawling gym, pool, Jacuzzi and cinema roomCredit: The Mega Agency More

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      in Boxing

      Inside Tommy Fury’s glam lifestyle including wife Molly-Mae Hague, living in £3.5m mansion and driving a £130k Mercedes

      by

      TOMMY Fury has built himself an enviable lifestyle by thinking outside of the boxing.The fighter took time out of his career to star on Love Island in 2019 and it was the best decision he ever made.
      Tommy Fury lives an enviable lifestyle
      Fury found fame alongside Molly-Mae Hague on Love IslandCredit: Rex
      First, he met the love of his life Molly-Mae Hague and the pair set up a dream life together.
      Then, they splashed out £3.5million on a stunning Cheshire home, which the Pretty Little Thing ambassador added her design chic too.
      To top it off, Fury has been seen driving a top of the range Mercedes G Wagon worth £130,000.
      And there’s the small matter of his amazing watch collection, including a £50,000 Rolex Day-Date.
      Read more sports news
      Love Island
      Almost overnight, Tommy – the brother of heavyweight champ Tyson Fury – became a millionaire.
      Despite building a promising boxing career, he decided to go on Love Island.
      First, to find love. Second, to raise his profile.
      Unlike many contestants on the ITV hit show, he achieved both – falling for Molly-Mae Hague.
      Most read in Boxing
      The pair were the darlings of the fifth series, although remarkably they finished as runners-up.
      But clearly they were not losers as their winning life together now suggests.
      Appearing on Love Island certainly made Tommy a household name outside of boxing.
      Amusingly, though, he said he never watched it before he went on as a contestant or after.
      In an interview with Tom Moore, he said: “I never watched Love Island before doing it and I’ve not watched it since, didn’t even watch my own series back.
      “But it was one of those things, Love Island has given me the platform of a world champion already.
      “It put me out there, it helped me step out the shoes of being Tyson’s little brother, which was all I was called growing up, which isn’t a bad thing.
      “It’s amazing to be related to the best fighter there’s ever been, in my opinion. So that was amazing but it helped born me.
      “Everybody knows me now for Tommy Fury and what I’m like and my own personality.”
      On Love Island Fury and Hague became fans’ favouritesCredit: Rex Features
      Fury and Hague finished as runners-up but they have since amassed an estimated £10m fortune togetherCredit: Rex
      Home
      After Love Island, they first set up home at a £325,000 two-bedroom flat in Manchester.
      The pair made the property their love nest, before they decided to move to bigger and better digs.
      They then splashed £3.5million on a beautiful Cheshire abode in 2022.
      It boasts a staggering six bedrooms, multiple bathrooms, 5,000 sq ft of land and tranquil grounds.
      Dubbed the Molly-Maison, Hague regularly gives eagle-eyed fans a tour of the property on YouTube.
      She explained that several bedrooms in the house were being converted – one into a filming room for her videos and another for a dressing room.
      The pretty social media influencer added that the couple had been searching for an ideal home for three years.
      Molly-Mae shared a clip online revealing the house’s spare bedroom – with a large Buddha portrait and elaborate hanging lights.
      Neighbours include Marcus Rashford and Jordan Pickford.
      Molly-Mae showed off their stunning Cheshire home on YouTubeCredit: YouTube
      Tommy Fury and Molly-Mae paid £3.5m for the propertyCredit: YouTube
      Molly-Mae revealed one of the bathrooms on her YouTube channelCredit: YouTube
      Cars
      Fury has a net worth of more than £4million thanks to several sponsorships and endorsements as well as his boxing pay cheques, according to reports.
      His biggest purse came through his fight against Jake Paul in 2023, when he received a guaranteed £1.6million.
      On top of that, Fury netted a 35 per cent of the pay-per-view share.
      He has more than 4.8million Instagram followers and makes thousands of pounds every day from social media.
      And like his famous brother, Tommy is a petrol head and has been seen behind the wheel of some luxury cars.
      He has a preference for Mercedes, with his pride and joy being a C43 AMG that has a £61,000 price tag.
      But the most expensive car in his garage is a Mercedes G-Class that costs £130,000.
      The G-Wagen is characterised by its boxy styling and body-on-frame construction.
      The 2022 Mercedes-Benz G-Class takes 5.5 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill and 13.3 seconds for the quarter-mile.
      Tommy has also been seen sharing a £32,000 Mercedes A-Class Saloon with Molly-Mae.
      The sportiest car we’ve seen him with is the BMW i8 that’s an expensive £106,000.
      Fury shows off his £130k Mercedes G-ClassCredit: Instagram
      A BMW sports car also features in Fury’s car collectionCredit: instagram
      It has all the characteristics of a full-blooded sports car with its long wheelbase, short overhangs and a solid posture.
      Unlike all-electric vehicles, the i8 features a synchronous electric motor and a 1.5-litre TwinPower Turbo engine – giving drivers the flexibility to select between gasoline, electric, or an efficient blend of both.
      Wife
      Tommy’s wife Molly-Mae is a force to be reckoned with.
      They say behind every great man is a greater woman, and you can certainly say this is the case here.
      She has become the ultimate role model for young women, appearing down-to-earth and incredibly likeable.
      And Molly-Mae has expanded her business portfolio wisely to amass her own fortune, said to be around the £6million mark.
      Alongside her tanning moisturiser Filter by MollyMae she was the creative director for Pretty Little Thing from 2021 until she stepped down from the role in 2023 to concentrate on motherhood.
      Molly-Mae Hague is a brand ambassador for Pretty Little ThingCredit: Getty
      Fury and Hague got engaged in 2023Credit: Instagram
      Molly-Mae quit her creative director role at Pretty Little Thing to concentrate on motherhoodCredit: Splash
      Fury is the proud dad to daughter BambiCredit: Instagram
      But she stayed on as brand ambassador, which she has done since 2018.
      Back in February, Tommy and Molly-Mae celebrated the birth of their daughter Bambi.
      Months later, the happy couple revealed they were engaged – with Tommy dropping down to one knee to pop the question while on a luxurious trip to Ibiza.
      Watches
      Over the years, Tommy has been spied wearing a variety of high-end watches.
      Although, he and Molly-Mae were the subject of a 2021 burglary that led to a reported £800,000 worth of jewellery being stolen.
      So, it’s not clear what watches Tommy has now.
      He did have an amazing Day-Date White Gold Rolex worth an astonishing £50,000.
      Fury is a fan of Rolex watches and had a Day-Date White gold timepiece worth £50k
      A £40k Rolex Submariner also featured in Fury’s collection
      His preference has always been Rolex, with a Submariner worth £40,000 also part of his collection.
      Read More on The Sun
      Finally, a classy Yacht Master II that retails at £18,000 completes his watch collection.
      And there’s still plenty of time to add to it. More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea star Conor Gallagher overcame worrying heart problem which left him ‘dizzy’ and threatened his career

      by

      CONOR GALLAGHER overcame a heart problem to become a Chelsea and England star. The midfielder begun his journey to stardom at local side Epsom Eagles before the Blues snapped him up aged eight.
      Conor Gallagher underwent heart surgery as a teenagerCredit: Getty
      There was a 3 per cent chance his condition would not be curedCredit: Instagram @conorgallagher92
      Conor Gallagher is going out with Aine May KennedyCredit: Instagram @ainemaykennedy
      Gallagher impressed in the club’s academy and eventually earned a call-up to the England Under-17s.
      He was part of the side that sealed World Cup glory for the Young Lions in 2017 alongside Phil Foden, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Morgan Gibbs-White and Jadon Sancho.
      Gallagher was rising through the ranks and pushing to make his first senior appearance when his career was nearly taken away from him.
      In the summer of 2018, while in pre-season training with Chelsea, the then 18-year-old felt his heart beating strangely fast.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Gallagher then fell ill in the subsequent days and went for checks amid concern something was seriously wrong, having suffered similar problems while with England.
      He explained to The Guardian in 2020: “It was quite a tough one-v-one session and it was too much for me.
      “I felt a bit dizzy and had to pull out of training and that’s when I got the checks, scans, and when they saw something was wrong.”
      It was revealed that Gallagher would require minor heart surgery to solve his irregular heartbeat.
      Most read in Football
      Gallagher dates Irish model Aine MayCredit: Instagram @ainemaykennedy
      Gallagher was in England’s 2022 World Cup squadCredit: Sunday Times
      He had to be put under general anaesthetic for 45 minutes and there was a three per cent chance the problem would not be solved, potentially endangering his footballing career.
      Gallagher said: “I just thought: ‘That can’t happen.’ 
      “I was a bit nervous but in my head I knew I would be fine and push on from that.”
      The heart issue was fortunately fixed and with added motivation to make the most of his career after almost losing it, he set about trying to force his way into the Chelsea XI.
      Gallagher explained: “I think it was good for me, because sometimes when you’re injured it gives you time to reflect and makes you even hungrier to come back and do well.
      “I remember saying to my mum before the surgery: ‘I just want to get it done so I can work as hard as I can again.’
      “Ever since then I think that’s when I really started to push on. I think it made me not take anything for granted.
      “I got physically stronger and quicker and my all-round game has improved since I came back from that.”
      Gallagher missed all of pre-season in 2018, needing two months to recover from the surgery.
      Chelsea showed their support by handing him a new contract after he recovered.
      And he rewarded their faith as he won the academy player of the year award that campaign and even picked up a Europa League winners medal after being named on the bench for the victory over Arsenal in the final.
      Gallagher went out on loan to Championship sides Charlton and Swansea for the 2019/20 season.
      He then got a chance to shine in the Premier League with West Brom and Crystal Palace.
      His good performances saw him earn a senior England call-up and he was in the squad for the 2022 World Cup.
      He finally returned to Chelsea and played 45 matches in a turbulent 2022/23 campaign under managers Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and Frank Lampard.
      Gallagher has also been trusted by boss Mauricio Pochettino, who handed him the captain’s armband for the first time in a Carabao Cup win over AFC Wimbledon in August 2023.
      Away from the pitch, he has found love in stunning girlfriend Aine May Kennedy.
      Read More on The Sun
      The Irish beauty is a professional dancer and model.
      She regularly shares her glam lifestyle on Instagram, where she has over 51,000 followers.
      The couple often holiday togetherCredit: Instagram @ainemaykennedy
      She is an influencer from CorkCredit: Instagram @ainemaykennedy More