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      Five best pubs near Stamford Bridge including boozer where Chelsea were founded and bar owned by singer James Blunt

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      A TRIP to Stamford Bridge is a special one for any football fan.Some 40,000 fans packed into one of London’s oldest stadiums, with excellent views throughout, and a belting atmosphere in store for both home and away supporters.Cole Palmer in action during Chelsea’s opening fixture of the 2023/24 season against Man CitySitting in a prime location near the River Thames and just a short walk from Fulham Broadway tube station, fans are spoilt for choice with options for a pre-match pint or a quick bite to eat near Chelsea’s stadium.Yet, with so many options to choose from, it can almost be overwhelming – and that’s where SunSport can step in to help.We took a trip to west London to check out some of the best boozers on offer, guided by Thomas J Vosper, author of Historic Pub Crawls Through London and the man behind Instagram and YouTube pages Historic Pub Crawls.So, with no further ado, here are the five best pubs for supporters to head to for a pre-match tipple on their next visit to Stamford Bridge – including an iconic boozer where the Blues were founded.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL1. The Butcher’s HookSituated directly opposite Stamford Bridge, on the corner with Holmead Road, the Butcher’s Hook is about as close to Chelsea’s ground as physically possible.Previously named the Rising Sun, the Blues were founded inside this classic London boozer on March 10th 1905.Thomas tells SunSport that the other names considered for the club were Kensington FC, Stamford Bridge and London FC.Most read in FootballThe Butcher’s Hook is quite literally just a stone’s throw away from the Stamford Bridge turnstilesWith plenty of space inside, the Butcher’s Hook is often packed to the rafters on matchdays, with a host of nods to the club throughout – including the Chelsea Pilsner on tap.When SunSport visited, there was a wide range of beers on draught, including Guinness, Amstel, Peroni and a Level Head Session IPA.2. The Chelsea Gate Barely a minute away from the turnstiles lies this stripped back, quintessential British pub. The Chelsea Gate boasts a delightful ‘secret’ garden for punters to enjoyOnce named the Chelsea Pensioner as a nod to the residents of the Old Soldiers Retirement Home just around the corner, the Chelsea Gate is just a short walk away from Fulham Broadway, West Brompton and Imperial Wharf stations.With a wide array of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks on offer, Thomas picked a Madri while I picked a Peroni, desperately trying to fit in with the billionaires living on every street in this cosmopolitan part of West London.The best bit about the Chelsea Gate? The delightful ‘secret’ beer garden tucked away in the basement, and for anyone who feels like singing the Blues before taking their seat in the stands, there’s even a karaoke bar!3. The White HorseThis one’s for the away fans!The White Horse is a stunning pub both inside and out.Visiting supporters typically gather a bit further afield, usually opting for the Parson’s Green area where the majority of pubs will accommodate away fans.Still only a 10-15 minute walk away, or one stop on the District Line along to Fulham Broadway, the White Horse is a relaxed family friendly pub.The owners pride themselves on an ever-changing range of beers on tap, brewed across the UK and with a selection from further afield too. The food options aren’t to be sniffed at either, with the handmade scotch egg going down a treat on our visit, and a number of other mouth-watering options on the menu too.With a large outdoor terrace and plenty more space on the street to gather and chat, the White Horse absolutely needs to be considered for any visiting supporters making the trip to the capital.4. The Fox and PheasantThe Fox and Pheasant boasts its own glorious lager in an extensive list of drinks for punters to choose from.James Blunt saved this iconic pub from bankruptcy seven years ago.This discreetly tucked away 17th Century gem was bought by English singer-songwriter James Blunt in 2017.Located just off Fulham Road, it’s a three or four minute walk from the turnstiles, and just a short walk further to Fulham Broadway tube station.The ‘You’re Beautiful’ singer saved the pub from oblivion some seven years ago, and has been known to do the occasional shift behind the bar.Thomas describes the pub as “feeling like an English country pub in busy West London”, with much of the interior remaining largely untouched from renovations in 1930.Boasting their own Fox ‘n’ Fez Lager on tap, plus a host of other both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, there’s something for everyone in here.Despite being tucked away in a picturesque Chelsea mews, the Fox and Pheasant boasts an elegant beer garden and an impressive dining room too for those feeling a quick pre-match bite to eat.Inside The Fox and Pheasant, stunning pub near Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge that was saved by James Blunt 5. The King’s ArmsClaiming to be ‘Chelsea’s best sports pub’, this stylish boozer on Fulham Road is a favourite among locals, and the perfect place for a pre-match pint.Just a short walk from Gloucester Road station, the King’s Arms shows both Sky Sports and TNT Sports, and shows anything and everything.When SunSport visited in early August on a warm Friday night, punters were treated to showings of both Man Utd vs Fulham and Coventry City vs Oxford United – with the pub opening early the following morning to show Australia vs South Africa in the rugby too!READ MORE SUN STORIESWith a huge selection of draught beers and cocktails, plus some delightful-looking pub grub, this cosy spot is a traditional English boozer with a modern twist.Visiting supporters should be aware, however, that this is a home fans only pub – with security manning the door too. More

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      Paul Pogba puts mansion back on sale for £4m following four-year footie ban

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      PAUL Pogba has put his mansion back on the market for £4million to try to claw back earnings following his four-year footie ban.The ex-Man Utd ace, who failed a drugs test a year ago, bought the home, featuring an indoor football pitch, for £3million in 2016.Paul Pogba has put his mansion back on the market for £4millionCredit: GettyPogba’s Cheshire home was bought for almost £3millionCredit: MercuryHe tried to let out the home in Hale Barns, Cheshire, but had to drop the rent from £27,500 a month to £18,000 when he failed to find a tenant.The sprawling 7,400sq ft mansion is now back on the market.The property boasts an open plan living area, landscaped gardens, a games room, gym, and an indoor footie pitch dubbed the P.P Arena by Pogba.It also has a gated entrance after the midfielder was targeted by burglars in 2022, who broke in while his children were sleeping upstairs.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSPogba had been playing a Champions League game at Old Trafford against Atlético Madrid when he had to rush home, saying it was the family’s “worst nightmare”.The Juventus player was banned from football in February for four years after failing a drugs test.The substance found in his system last August was DHEA, which can naturally boost levels of testosterone.Juventus are terminating his contract, with the incident casting doubt over whether he’ll ever step foot onto a pitch again.Most read in FootballWhile awaiting the verdict over his footie ban, Pogba’s earnings were slashed to just £1,700-a-month – a far cry from the £6.8million-a-season he’d expected.He also faces losing his lucrative sponsorship deals, such as a £31million contract with Adidas.Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand tells Paul Pogba he ‘needs to speak’ after four-year ban for doping Pogba, who denies wrongdoing, is currently living with his wife Zulay in Italy in a mansion owned by Cristiano Ronaldo. More

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      Karren Brady: Lopetegui is already a breath of fresh air at West Ham… but under-appreciated Moyes deserves high praise

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      ON the first day of every season I am always full of optimism and hope  that West Ham can win the Premier League.You’ve signed new players, things are coming together, and you think, ‘This may be our year’.Ex-Wolves chief Julen Lopetegui has made an instant impression at West HamCredit: RexDavid Moyes was an ‘absolute pleasure’ to work withCredit: GettyEven if we don’t wrestle the trophy off Manchester City,  getting back into Europe is an absolute priority for us — and for our new manager.We made an exciting appointment in Julen Lopetegui, having said goodbye to David Moyes in May after a remarkable period of success.Julen has been a breath of fresh air.He’s an experienced individual we believe can build on David’s great work, get us back into Europe and deliver the wins the fans want. We are giving him every penny we can in the transfer market to do just that, with our eight signings so far.READ MORE TOP STORIESBut I must pay tribute to David again.I had an excellent working relationship with him. His work ethic, attention to detail, passion, drive and energy were all second to none and he was an absolute pleasure to work with.He left for several reasons. Firstly, a bit of inconsistency had crept into results.And without putting words into his mouth, I think he felt very unappreciated by the supporters.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe delivered a first major trophy since 1980, a consistent period of domestic success — including three consecutive European qualifications for the first time in the club’s history — and reached the semis and quarter-finals in Europe either side of the Conference League triumph.As a result, he found it quite difficult to be turned on so quickly last season when things dipped — especially after gaining the most Premier League points West Ham had ever had at the halfway point of a campaign.Jhon Duran ’causes chaos with s—housery’ as Aston Villa ace performs controversial gesture amid West Ham transfer linkNot that he was boo-hooing about it, that’s not his style. He  rolled up his sleeves and got on with it.But things can go a bit stale and both club and manager need a change, and that’s the conclusion we came to together.It’s very sad when a relationship comes to an end with someone you have worked with very closely and admire and like.But parting ways is the easier bit. Getting a better replacement is where the real work begins.It’s a very close relationship so you have to have a bit of chemistry and feel they are someone you can work with who isn’t emotionally draining or  demanding.But I cannot tell you how good it felt being in Europe and winning that trophy.Karren BradyAnd that’s exactly what David Sullivan, Tim Steidten and I felt when we met with Julen. We liked him straight away.We felt he was genuine, hard-working, passionate, enthusiastic, had clear ideas of what he wanted to do and understood the West Ham way.But I cannot tell you how good it felt being in Europe and winning that trophy.To be part of a West Ham that created that memory for hundreds of thousands of our supporters was very special.And we believe we can do that again with Julen.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.Overseas Prem not for meTHE prospect of playing  Premier League games abroad hasn’t been officially raised — YET — but it has been mooted among some owners.But it would be unforgivable to deny season-ticket holders a game and West Ham would definitely vote against any proposal that meant doing that.With foreign investment in the Premier League increasing, some say its global appeal means taking the show on the road is the right thing to do. I understand the logic. But I’m English, I live here and believe all games should be played in this country.We have pre-season tours to let overseas fans watch us play.We would not be the only club to vote against a proposal if every team had to play a match outside the UK every year.Karren BradyWest Ham have just come back from the US where some of the American Prem owners are pushing for a Stateside league game.The idea was floated years ago and shot down immediately.But there weren’t as many  foreign owners then. We would obviously look at the detail of any proposal and, handled right, it could be workable.Particularly if teams have the ability to opt out.And if two other clubs wanted to do it and the League felt it was in its best interest, I wouldn’t stop them.But we would not be the only club to vote against a proposal if every team had to play a match outside the UK every year.Full of hope for new NicHammers’ newcomer Niclas Fullkrug has shown a brilliant attitudeCredit: RexI was really impressed with Niclas Fullkrug — our new striker signed from Borussia Dortmund.As soon as he stepped off the plane from Germany he asked: “Where can I train? Because I don’t like to miss a single day.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThat’s the kind of attitude that you want. He’s a big personality, incredibly professional, a strong individual and a real grown up.He’s going to have a hugely positive impact. We’re all really excited. More

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      Charlton wonderkid Karoy Anderson only made his senior debut a year ago but is already an international football star

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      KAROY ANDERSON had a remarkable first year in senior football.The Charlton midfield wonderkid made his league debut, within two months was playing for Jamaica, racked up 24 league starts and played at the Copa America.Charlton wonderkid Karoy Anderson has had an incredible first year in senior footballCredit: JUSTIN ALLENAll this and he is still only 19.The academy-graduate though is keeping his feet firmly on the ground.He told SunSport: “If you look far ahead, you get lost in the future. If you look into the past you can get stuck there.“It was a great opportunity and experience to go to the Copa America, to participate in a tournament that size. I didn’t think about the magnitude of it until I got there.“The atmosphere was unbelievable. It was the nature of the games and what it meant, especially for my family and the people of Jamaica. It was humbling. read more football“It was exciting – the fans, stadiums and being able to travel to see difference places but also take business seriously.”Anderson came on as a late sub against Ecuador and played the last 22 minutes of the final group match with Venezuela.In the Jamaica squad he played and trained alongside the likes of West Ham star Michail Antonio, ex-Leicester, Everton and Birmingham ace Demari Gray and Brentford’s Ethan Pinnock.And, also in the group, was his Charlton team-mate Michael Hector.Most read in SportAnderson said: “I learned so much. I saw how they carried themselves and their application to training every day. They’re at a high level and been there for a while. You see what habits have ultimately kept them there, their mindset and preparation.“I got on with the majority of the team. I was room-mates with Dexter Lembikisa from Wolves. He’s been on loan at Hearts in Scotland.EFL goalkeeper sends fans into meltdown with utterly ridiculous ‘skill of the season’ in pre-season clash”It was a good experience to speak to someone like that and learn things from someone who is a similar age to me and who is at a Premier League club.”And in the Venezuela game, the Charlton kid faced former Newcastle, Everton and West Brom ace Salomon Rondon.But Anderson said while he was out there he was so zoned into the game he did not take notice who he was up against.And he said: “I didn’t think about other players in the moment. After the game you think, “Oh, I played against him” but in the moment I see it as football.”We’re all on the same pitch and on the same level. I don’t look at players and think, ‘wow.’ Of course, it was nice to share the pitch with big names.”Anderson’s mum is Jamaican while his dad also descends from there.And while he did once harbour ambition to play for England in recent years his heart was set on playing for the Caribbean island.The midfielder said: “Because I was born and raised in South London, when I was younger I was thinking about playing for England but as I got older I spent a lot of time going with my mum to different places and interacting with Jamaican people.”Also with my brother too. We spoke about what it would be like to play for Jamaica, what it means to everyone back home and how proud they would be. For that reason, it wasn’t a question who I’d play for.”And there was never a question that Anderson would not play for his local club.READ MORE SUN STORIESCharlton boss Nathan Jones can use the vast experience he gained at Luton to plot a way up to the ChampionshipKaroy Anderson is hoping to help Charlton win promotion this seasonCredit: JUSTIN ALLENThroughout his journey through the academy he often played a year, two years, even three years above his age-group as his coaches constantly challenged him to step up in class.Anderson may not have been star-struck while playing in the Copa America but certainly was when he used to be a ball-boy at The Valley.He said: “I was a scholar at Charlton and we’d be ballboys at the games. As a kid, that was so exciting and I loved watching players like Joe Gomez. Even though we don’t play in the same position, seeing his journey has been really inspiring.”One of the midfielder’s middle names is Zidane — due to his mum’s admiration for Zinedine — but his idol growing up was another French superstar, Paul Pogba.He said: “I loved him when he was at Juventus, how exciting he was. I look up to those sort of players.”Anderson is hoping to help the Addicks climb out of League One at the fifth attempt.And in Nathan Jones they have a manager who has been there and done it – as he was instrumental in Luton’s climb from League Two to the brink of the Premier League.The rookie midfield ace added: “Everyone trusts him and knows he knows what it takes to get out of his league and will do his best to bring this group to where the club can be. There is complete trust and we follow him.“Our aim is to get promoted – it’s as simple as that.” More

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      Premier League’s biggest opening weekend shocks including Man Utd’s horror defeat and Arsenal stunned by Aston Villa

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      THE day we’ve all been waiting for is finally here.Premier League football returns TONIGHT as Manchester United host Fulham at Old Trafford.There have been some huge opening day shocks over the years, including Brentford’s win over Arsenal in 2021Credit: Richard Pelham / The SunIpswich boss Kieran McKenna will be backing his side to cause an upset against LiverpoolCredit: PAUnited are favourites to win the opening fixture, but Marco Silva’s side should not be underestimated.The Cottagers won two of three pre-season games – against Benfica and Hoffenheim – and could cause quite an upset against the reigning FA Cup champions.Prem new boys Ipswich face Liverpool at home on Saturday in the hope of giving new manager Arne Slot a huge shock.And Championship winners Leicester City will be looking to spoil Tottenham’s start to the season when they kick off their campaign at the King Power on Monday night.Read More in FootballWe have seen several opening day upsets over the years, and SunSport have looked back at some of the most memorable.Brentford 2-0 Arsenal (2021/22)A day that all Arsenal fans wish they could permanently erase from their memory.The Gunners suffered a shock defeat to newly-promoted Brentford on the opening day of the 2021-22 season.It was a dismal defensive display from Arsenal as Sergi Canos and Christian Norgaard fired the hosts to a 2-0 win.Most read in FootballBrentford beat Arsenal 2-0 on the opening day of the 2021-22 season after earning promotionCredit: GettyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe result led Gary Neville to infamously question the North London side’s transfer strategy.Chelsea 2-3 Burnley (2017/18)Stamford Bridge was stunned into silence when Burnley earned a 3-2 win over reigning Premier League champions Chelsea.Goals from Sam Vokes and Stephen Ward fired the Clarets to a 3-0 lead before half-time.Chelsea managed to claw two goals back after the break but ultimately came away from the match with nothing.Sam Vokes scored twice as Burnley beat ChelseaCredit: PA:Empics SportPremier League sides deducted points and others at riskArsenal 1-3 Aston Villa (2013/14)Sorry, Arsenal fans.The Gunners suffered another unexpected opening day defeat in 2013, this time to Aston Villa.Olivier Giroud opened the scoring, but Christian Benteke turned the match on its head before Antonio Luna sealed the win for Villa at the Emirates.Arsene Wenger’s side still managed to sneak into the top four at the end of the campaign.The Gunners suffered a 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa in 2013Credit: Jamie McPhilimey – The SunArsenal 0-2 West Ham (2015-16)Once again, I’m really sorry, Arsenal fans!The Gunners suffered another shock opening day defeat two years after the Aston Villa disappointment.Slaven Bilic had just been appointed as West Ham manager and academy star Reece Oxford put on a stellar display to help the East London side to a 2-0 win.Cheikhou Kouyate and Mauro Zarate were on the scoresheet for the Hammers on a memorable day at the Emirates.Arsenal also lost to West Ham on the opening day in 2015Credit: Getty Images – GettyHull 2-1 Leicester (2016/17)Just months after Leicester City were crowned Premier League champions, they started the 2016/17 campaign with a shock 2-1 defeat to Hull.It was the first time in the Premier League era the reigning champions began their title defence with a defeat.Hull beat Leicester after the Foxes won the Premier LeagueCredit: AFP or licensorsMan Utd 1-2 Swansea (2014-15)United suffered a shock 2-1 defeat to Swansea on the opening day of the 2014-15 season following goals from Ki Sung-yueng and Gylfi Sigurdsson.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was the club’s first opening day defeat at home since 1972.Wayne Rooney hoped to get his side back into the game after scoring in the second half, but the Red Devils walked away with nothing.Swansea beat Man Utd at Old Trafford in 2014/15Credit: PA:Press Association More

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      Chelsea star Raheem Sterling reveals brilliant reason why he’s eaten exact same breakfast every day for eight years

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      RAHEEM STERLING believes the ‘eventful journey’ of being a Chelsea player will ultimately pay dividends.The experienced winger is about to kick off his third season under his fifth manager at the volatile club which has also signed 35 players in barely two years.Raheem Sterling played a key role in Chelsea’s pre-season gamesCredit: GettySterling is back in favour under latest head coach Enzo Maresca and in line to start Sunday’s Premier League opener against his old club Manchester City.He said: “It’s been, again, an eventful two years. But one that I’m super committed to, that will get the results that I was expecting.“It’s been an eventful journey, but I do see the vision and I do see us taking our next step and now really challenging for stuff – slowly but surely.“Sometimes you have to pinch yourself and you hear yourself moaning sometimes, or being disappointed sometimes, and I always go back to the moments I was a kid in my bedroom and praying to God that one day, hopefully, this could be me.READ MORE ON CHELSEA“I’m very fortunate to be living that dream and just continue enjoying it and loving every minute of it.”Chelsea finished sixth last season but are aiming higher this term with demands from the board to qualify for the Champions League consistently – which means fourth place minimum.Sterling, 29, is all about routine and says former boss Pep Gaurdiola taught him how to use monotony to his advantage when they were together at Premier League champions City.The £47million winger has eaten eggs on toast for breakfast every day for the past eight years.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “It was just the messaging of sleep, eat, breathe football,” he recounts Guardiola telling him.“And as you can see from how he is and how successful he’s been, that’s the motto – not just football, any aspect of your life. If you want something and you’re doing it, you gotta be all in and have all your energy and thought process on that.Pedro Neto joins Chelsea for £54million in transfer from Wolves “The most beautiful thing in football is you’re the one in control. So when you’re on that football field, it’s you that’s in control. So I think that’s definitely something I’ve learned in the later years of my career that, you know, don’t focus on what you can’t control.”Sterling has been boosted by playing a large part in Chelsea’s pre-season games, learning to understand Maresca’s possession-based approach to the game and the new tactics under the Italian.He turns 30 in four months and has become a senior figure in the Chelsea dressing room – especially to emerging star Cole Palmer, eight years younger than him. They are previous team-mates from City too.Sterling also has two sons and is enjoying the responsibilities of bringing them up and sees a future in football for himself once he retires from playing.He said: “If I can have some part in football, it will definitely be something along those lines, helping younger individuals to seek their pathway in the game. That’s something that brings me joy.“I’ve got my boys, so I think my main focus, even now, is getting them as much information as I can with my experiences in life and football, to get them ready for the real world.” More

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      Sven-Göran Eriksson gave me blank cheque after romp but I never cashed it even when he left me high & dry, says Ulrika

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      WHEN I look at Sven-Goran Eriksson now, I see a much diminished man. A man reduced by terminal illness, but also a man who, by his own admission, has had a good life.As The Sun told yesterday, he talks about his private life on his Amazon Prime film Sven, including his affair with me.Ulrika Jonsson opens up on her time with Sven-Göran ErikssonCredit: Scope FeaturesUlrika says: ‘I was single at the time and he confided that he wanted to end his relationship with Nancy Dell’Olio because it was sapping him of energy’Credit: Rex FeaturesAfter a night together, Sven popped a blank check in Ulrika’s pocket when she was not lookingWe first met in 2002, when I asked him for his autograph at a party held by Alastair Campbell, Tony Blair’s spin doctor.He replied to me in our native language, Swedish, asking for my telephone number so he could call me. I was single at the time and 34. He was 54 and confided that he wanted to end his relationship with Nancy Dell’Olio because it was sapping him of energy.He then proceeded to call me every day when he went on holiday with Nancy, telling me I was beautiful and how much he wanted to see me.READ MORE ON SVENWhen he returned, the day after his 54th birthday, he visited me and we slept together.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.During our dalliance he was heading to his place in Portugal for the night between England games and asked me to join him.He said I should book myself on his flight and he would reimburse me. I said no way, I pay my own way — I’ve never taken money from a man.Most read in Football‘Pawns in a game’It was a point of principle.We met in the Club Lounge at Heathrow, pretending we had just met, and sat next to each other on the flight, almost giggling all the way.Legendary ex-England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson kept terminal pancreas cancer secret for a year to enjoy time with familyThen we spent the night at his place, where his housekeepers cooked us a meal.The following morning we left for the airport together and, in the car, he put a blank cheque from Coutts in my pocket when I wasn’t looking.He presented me with a blank cheque which he put in my pocket when I wasn’t lookingI keep it for posterity. But it might have been nice to fill it out at some point for all the hassle he brought me!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.I was an independent, working woman who did not voluntarily need to create a drama around my life for attention.He says in his documentary that he didn’t commit a crime, and he’s right about that.But he did do wrong.And he simply didn’t really care about much of life.As far as I could tell, he cared only about three things: His two children, who he adored. And football.Even when we were in Portugal, I asked him about his ex, the mother of his children.He said he had moved the wedding day in fav- our of a football match and she wasn’t happy.And I wondered if he was romantic and asked him how he proposed.I was surprised when he confided that she had proposed to him, which confirmed to me that I don’t think he had a romantic bone in his body. I know people didn’t understand why we were seeing each other, as it was an odd connection.Initially it was the Swedish thing that united us — and football.We talked about football a lot. But he was chivalrous and, in his heart, he was a kind man.He brought a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne — without fail — every time he came to my house.No ‘words of affection’For me, he showed me kindness and I’d just been going through the most horrendous time with being abandoned by my sick daughter’s biological father and worrying if she was going to get through her operations.When someone shows you kindness, it grabs your attention. In the film, he says he does have feelings, but he doesn’t show them. I think that’s honest and true. We never exchanged words of affection — it wasn’t that kind of set-up.I just saw him when he could get away from Nancy or was on the way to football games.She should be grateful for me raising her profile, she made a career out of ‘refusing to accept that she had been cheated on’Ulrika on Nancy Dell’OlioNancy admits in the film that she only stuck with him because she could get something out of it, which strongly suggests that she only really was with him because of the fame and the glory.She should be grateful for me raising her profile. She seemingly made a career out of “refusing to accept that she had been cheated on”.Before news of the affair between me and Sven broke, she was just the Italian girlfriend of the England manager. When it hit the headlines Nancy was suddenly famous. And she used that to her advantage. She’d have never been on Strictly Come Dancing if it wasn’t for me.Sven told me she was very fiery — it was a volatile relationship and I felt it was clear that he didn’t really, truly care about her.But he never promised me he would leave her, because I never asked him to.I sensed he feared her. And he confirms that in the film.He says he was afraid (of leaving 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.And obviously, apart from women attacking each other, there is the problem that misogyny is still verymuch alive and kicking in the world of football. Women continue to be viewed as pawns in a game of utmost importance, ruled over by men who show little but disdain for the opposite sex.I’ve never in my life fought over a man. I know Nancy was clinging to Sven, but she really needn’t have worried.She threw insults at me because she didn’t believe the brief affair was true. Surely her beef should have been with him?In the film, Sven’s son says how his dad doesn’t stress about things, and that was my experience, too.He never got concerned about things and said to me, “Why worry about something which might not happen?”.’Thinker perhaps more than a doer’He’s bright and studied philosophy, which is probably what brought a new and different approach to being England boss.Many didn’t like that he wasn’t demonstrably expressive, but that was just the way he was.Nancy says in the film that Sven is a narcissist, but I think that might be unfair. I just think he’s a very simple-minded person. And by that I mean he only puts energy into the things that are important to him. He’s pragmatic. Not a practical man, however.He proudly showed me his hands and said “these have never done a day’s hard work”.Sven is right, of course, about his outlook on life now. Life is short and I believe he has certainly made the most of itSven is certainly a thinker, perhaps more than a doer.I extracted myself from the situation when he clearly wasn’t going to ’fess up and carried on going out publicly with Nancy.I certainly didn’t become a Princess Di character, where there were “three of us” in that relationship.For a while he kept phoning me to speak to me or ask me to see him. He even got his agent to phone my agent to ask if I would wait for him after the World Cup. I declined.Sven is right, of course, about his outlook on life now.Life is short and I believe he has certainly made the most of it.He has led a life according to his own wills and desires.I’m sure he has regrets over some of his actions, but what good are regrets when the clock is ticking?We can but do our best.I bear him no ill will.READ MORE SUN STORIESI hope he squeezes the best out of whatever life he has left and that, on reflection, he realises that to err is to be human.He didn’t get it all right. But then, who does?Ulrika also says of Sven: ‘He had all this power and money yet he was the weakest man I have ever met’Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe ex-England boss has been diagnosed with terminal cancerCredit: Getty More

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      Tyson Fury makes heartfelt retirement admission ahead of Usyk rematch and admits he has ‘toxic relationship’ with boxing

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      TYSON FURY admits he doesn’t know if his “toxic relationship” with boxing will allow him to walk away from the sport.The Gypsy King, 36, has “retired” several times in recent years only to reverse his decision and return to the squared circle.Tyson Fury has won every belt going in the heavyweight divisionCredit: GETTYHis dream of becoming undisputed heavyweight champ was shattered by Oleksandr Usyk in MayCredit: GettyFury is out of his physical prime and his punch resistance isn’t what it once wasCredit: PAFury admits he’ll find it hard to walk away from the sport he loves so dearlyCredit: PABut with his physical prime well behind him and his punch resistance no longer what it once was, it’s clear and evident that Fury’s days in the sport are numbered.Hanging up his gloves and fully dedicating himself to his family of nine, however, will be just as difficult as any fight the Wythenshawe warrior has had in his professional career.He told Queensberry Promotions: “I’ve been in love with boxing for such a long time – from being a little boy.”And I’m probably at the end of my career in the next few years.READ MORE BOXING NEWS“It’s been a love-hate relationship. It’s been toxic at times. When it’s good, it’s very good, and when it’s bad, it’s very toxic.“So I’m in that relationship and I don’t just abandon things. “I try and make things work and that’s where we are at the minute.”We’ve been in this romantic relationship since I can remember, since I was a child, and now I am a fully grown adult with a family of my own.Most read in SportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFusy vs Usyk: Round by round verdictHERE’S how SunSport’s Chisanga Malata saw the fight as Oleksandr Usyk was crowned undisputed king of the world against Tyson Fury.ROUND 1Here we go. Both men look to establish dominance early by taking the centre of the ring.Fury marches down the Ukrainian, who opens up with a stiff body shot.The Gypsy King looks massive in comparison to Usyk, who is no dwarf whatsoever.Usyk is happy to operate on the outside, although the early jab he’s eaten will have given him some food for thought.Fury is trying to draw out attacks from Usyk, who is not putting too much into his punches.Fury gets backed into the corner and channels his inner Muhammad Ali by doing the rope-a-dope.Usyk lands a big overhand left just seconds before backing Fury into the corner.Fury dodges the ensuing flurry and gestures to the crowd as if demanding them to acknowledge his head movement. USYK 10-9ROUND 2Usyk opens up the round with a big one-two that snaps back the head of Fury.Fury tries to make light of it but that combo clearly stunned him.Usyk is setting the stone and the pressure as he advances forward.A big uppercut narrowly misses for Fury, who knows all too well that’s the shot to deploy on a shorter opponent.Fury is throwing more punches but isn’t being as accurate as Usyk.Usyk backs up Fury into the corner and lands a good three-punch combo.But Fury comes roaring back with a hard body shot after circling away from danger.Fury finally lands an uppercut, albeit to the body of the former cruiserweight king. FURY 10-9ROUND 3Fury is on his bike after the restart and lands a stiff straight right from range.Usyk has decided to close the distance after eating that shot and is going to work on Fury’s trimmed-down torso.A solid overhand left snaps back the head of Fury with just over a minute of the stanza remaining.Fury lands a good combo with thirty seconds remaining. But he gets pushed back against the ring again and eats another flurry before the bell. USYK 10-9Round 4Fury goes to work to the body with two hard shots after the restart.He’s absolutely loving this, dancing around after landing his shots.But he’s still allowing himself to get backed up and invite the pressure from Usyk.Fury lands a beautiful counter right as Usyk comes forward.Usyk has his head snapped back by another hellacious uppercut.Both men nearly land hard back hands before the bell, with Fury narrowly missing an uppercut and Usyk an overhand left. FURY 10-9Round 5Usyk takes the centre of the ring after the restart and looks to feint his way into range.Fury is doing a good job of keeping the Ukrainian at bay when he looks to close the distance.A rasping uppercut snaps back the head of Usyk.Fury is hurting Usyk to the body with relentless hooks to the midriff. FURY 10-9Round 6Usyk is on the front foot straight after the restart and is looking to put Fury on the back foot again.A hard body shot to the solar plexus gives Usyk more food for thought.Fury almost closed the show with a huge uppercut with a minute and a half of the round remaining.But he finds a home for it 20 seconds later and Usyk is in retreat mode.Fury closes out the round with a bit of showboating, put his hands behind his back before resting his arms on the ropes.A huge round for the Wythenshawe warrior. FURY 10-9Round 7Usyk once again closes the distance after the restart but he’s getting picked off at range.And when he does take a step back, his body is getting blasted by nasty hooks.Usyk finds a home for his straight left but Fury eats it like a packed lunch made by his loving wife Paris.Another straight left snaps back the head of Fury, who circles back out of range to try to create space for a body shotUsyk manages to close the distance with seconds remaining ad finds a home for a two-punch combo.But Fury manages to circle away to hear the bell. FURY 10-9Round 8Fury is happy to operate on the back foot in the eighth and pick his shots.But he gets his dome rattled by back-to-back straight left hands – which he brushes off before going back to feinting and trying to create space for a body shot.Usyk briefly finds himself dealing with Fury’s weight in the clinch after landing a good straight left.Fury is bleeding profusely from his nose. I’m not what caused the damage. Big round that for Usyk. USYK 10-9Round 9Fury is doing a good job of bamboozling Usyk with feints, but the Ukrainian continues to come forward.But he’s slowly but surely allowing the gap to be closed, which leads to him eating a big left hand flush in the corner.Fury gets hurt and is stumbling around the ring. It was a left hand that did the damage.Fury doesn’t know where he is and is eating a barrage of crisp follow-up shots. He beats the count and the bell thankfully saves him. USYK 10-8Round 10Usyk – like the Big Cat he is – senses blood and isn’t giving Fury any respite.Fury is barely throwing anything and what he is throwing is telegraphed and slow.Usyk looks tired, but he needs to keep his foot on the gas pedal if he’s to have any chance of becoming a two-weight undisputed champion. USYK 10-9Round 11A desperate Usyk, spurred on by the plight of his fellow Ukrainians back home, immediately goes to work after the restart.Fury tries to keep him at bay with the jab but is struggling to pump it out with the stiffness it had in the early rounds.Usyk briefly traps the WBC king in the corner and lands a rasping left hand.Usyk doubles up with two left hands that briefly back Fury against the ropes.The round ends with yet another big overhand left from Usyk. USYK 10-9Round 12The fans in attendance at the Kingdom Arena cheer both warriors on after the final restart of the fight.Fury is playing matador as Usyk looks to step into range to land his left hand.And he finds a home for it with a minute and a half of the stanza remaining.A chopping right hand sends Fury backwards, but he returns fire with a booking shot of his own that backs up the southpaw.Fury puts his hands behind his back in a bid to goad Usyk to making a sloppy mistake in the closing seconds.But he stays sharp as he looks to close the distance, which Fury times to initiate a clinch. FURY 10-9TOTAL Fury 113 Usyk 114″It’s like, ‘Do I abandon it, or do I not?’ I wanted to walk away a lot of times but it always drags me back.”Bar becoming the undisputed king of the heavyweights, which he failed to do in his Saudi showdown with Oleksandr Usyk in May, Fury has achieved it all. Oleksandr Usyk brutally calls out ‘Greedy Belly’ Tyson Fury after Gypsy King fires warning to Ukrainian ahead of rematchFighting keeps the dad-of-eight on the mental straight and narrow, although it’s become somewhat of a double-edged sword.“It’s like a massive drug and an addiction,” Fury admitted. “I know it’s an addiction and I’m an addictive person.”Boxing is an addiction; it’s not my best friend. It abuses me. When I come in this gym, it abuses my body, my mind [and] my soul.”But afterwards I feel like it takes me to ecstasy. The rush is unbelievable.”It gives me the biggest highs ever, but it also gives me the lowest lows as well.”Boxing is more addictive than any drug ever. Ever. You can’t let it go.”Fury’s dream of becoming the first undisputed heavyweight king since Lennox Lewis in 1999 was shattered in his Riyadh rumble with Usyk.The former unified champion suffered a split decision loss to the slick southpaw, whom he’ll renew his rivalry with on December 21.And to say he’s champing at the bit to exact his revenge on the undefeated Ukrainian would be an understatement.He said of the desert dust-up: “[I’m] counting down the days until I can get my redemption on Usyk.”December 21 is going to be my time. I’ve done everything in boxing, but I ain’t come back from a loss.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And I relish it, the chance to redeem myself GET UP.”December 21 is all me – undisputed heavyweight here I come.”Tyson Fury will bid to exact revenge on Oleksandr Usyk on December 21Credit: Getty More