Longtail

Subterms

    More stories

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Why Mikel Arteta’s new deal is brilliant for fans in the short-term but Arsenal should start looking for successor now

      by

      ARSENAL fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief.Mikel Arteta is here to stay, for now at least.Mikel Arteta has penned a new deal with Arsenal, keeping him at the club until 2027Credit: GettyThe Spaniard is determined to win the Premier LeagueCredit: PAArsenal narrowly missed out last seasonCredit: AlamyThe Spaniard has committed his future to the Gunners by penning a new three-year deal that will keep him in North London until 2027 and make him one of the highest-paid managers in England.He said: “I feel extremely proud, very excited and am looking forward to what is coming next. I’m proud to be where I am and have the relationships that I have with everyone at the club.”I feel extremely lucky to work every single day with good people and the ambition we have here. I feel very inspired, I feel challenged, I feel supported and I want to do much more than what we’ve already done together.”It is a statement of intent from sporting director Edu Gaspar and Co, with several clubs allegedly having considered poaching Arteta.Read More in FootballReports in Spain earlier this year claimed the 42-year-old was Barcelona’s top managerial target following the announcement of Xavi’s departure.They also suggested he was planning to LEAVE before the end of his contract.However, Arteta swiftly put the rumours to bed and insisted he still has “a lot to do” at Arsenal.In other words, he is determined to win the Premier League.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Gunners have come agonisingly close to lifting the trophy twice in the last two years.They ended the 2023-24 campaign just two points adrift of champions Manchester City following a dramatic final day.How Raheem Sterling can make huge difference to Arsenal’s seasonAnd it was a similar story the previous season.But Arteta has gradually built one of the best squads in Europe and established himself as a top coach.He now wants the accolades to match.Should he add to Arsenal’s trophy cabinet in the next three years, whether that be a Premier League trophy or even the Champions League gong, the Spaniard could see that as his job done.He came to the Emirates Stadium following a disastrous term under Unai Emery and, although it took some time, transformed the Gunners back into formidable challengers.But if he manages to achieve everything he initially set out to, what’s to stop him moving on?Although he dismissed rumours linking him to Barcelona, Arteta has admitted he would love to manage in Spain – his home country – one day.Back in May, he said: “I have always thought that one day I will return. “My home draws me a lot, our way of living, of getting together, the culture – and that means I always have it in my head.”But I am happy here, happy with how they treat me, and I really enjoy my job.”Someday I suppose it will come, I’m not going to be away for my whole life.”Arteta was Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Man CityCredit: Getty – ContributorIf he is able to maintain his impressive record, it would be no surprise to see the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid attempt to lure him back to Spain.A return to Manchester City may even be on the cards, even though that would be a nightmare scenario for Arsenal fans.It would be the perfect example of the master passing the baton over to his apprentice.Arteta spent three years as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at the Etihad, winning two Premier League titles.With the 53-year-old’s City contract running down and concerns over his next move arising, Arteta could emerge as a strong target.After all, he would more than likely have Pep’s blessing.But on the other end of the spectrum, there is the risk – however small it may seem right now – that he perhaps outstays his welcome at the Emirates if things start to head south.Although he made history during his time at Arsenal by becoming the first – and only – manager to lead a team through a Premier League season undefeated, Arsene Wenger found himself almost forced out by the end of his 22-year tenure.The Gunners struggled to compete with their rivals in his last few seasons at the club, sparking a huge divide among fans.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhen Arteta does eventually step away, he will likely want to do it at the right time – especially if a lucrative offer comes in.Whether that be in 2027 or the years that follow, Edu may want to start earmarking future candidates now.Arsenal have a tricky start to the season More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Former Premier League captain cuts all ties with his father as he says ‘he did horrible things to people I love’

      by

      SHEFFIELD UNITED star Anel Ahmedhodzic has cut all ties with his father – claiming he has done “horrible things to people I love”.The defender’s allegations are the latest twist in a sad saga which also saw him withdraw from duty with Bosnia and quit international football.Anel Ahmedhodzic’s exit from Bosnia duty spilled into allegationsCredit: RexAhmedhodzic has won 24 Bosnia caps but suggested he’s had enoughCredit: GettyAhmedhodzic says he has reluctantly gone public after dad Mirsad alleged he was “under the influence of his wife and mother-in-law”.His father had earlier revealed he “did not consider” the 25-year-old his son “anymore” – suggesting he had been turned off his country by “bad people”.The former Blades’ skipper, whose club lost their Premier League spot last season, responded by accusing his dad of “manipulation, lies, scams and almost daily bullying”.The ex-Nottingham Forest man was “insulted” too by a claim his wife had “cast black magic” on him.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAhmedhodzic explained he’d received hundreds of messages abusing him and his family after he pulled out of Nations League action.He blamed an injury, poor medical treatment and misinformation for his latest problems on international duty.Now Ahmedhodzic has spoken out on issues with his dad as “things can no longer be ignored”.In a statement shared by Balkan cable TV station N1, he said: “The only thing anyone wants from their father as a son is support and pride. Unfortunately, I got very little of that.Most read in Football”What I got most of the time was manipulation, lies, scams and almost daily bullying. “This is the type of man who shows his ‘power’ over women, but has never had the guts to stand up to another man.”Inside Angel Gomes’ rise from Man Utd wonderkid to England starAhmedhodzic added he had a “very good relationship with my mother” and supports her “financially”.He continued: “So when he [his father] says that I don’t care about my parents, it’s a complete lie. That’s not a man. “He goes after people I care about every time there’s a problem.  “He did horrible things to people I love but I don’t want to talk about that here. “There are so many reasons why I cut off contact with him. You will say ‘but he is your father, life is short’.”Trust me, I’ve tried many times to fix things, to forget what he did and every time I fix things, we end up back at the beginning and he doesn’t change at all, not even a little bit.”There have been many occasions when he has publicly insulted me since I married my wife, which he only does to make me angry and get a reaction from me.”Ahmedhodzic also reckoned his dad had “spoiled my reputation in England” with “completely untrue” statements that he “wanted to leave” the Blades. He insisted: “This is the city and the club that gave me the best memories of my life, including the birth of my son.”The Sweden-born ace, who joined United from Malmo two years later, also fiercely defended his partner.He said: “Saying my wife cast black magic on me is very insulting to me and especially to my wife because she is awesome.”It is very hard to find a woman who will take care of you like she does and I am very lucky that my son has such an amazing mother. Ahmedhodzic saw the Blades drop to the Championship this seasonCredit: Alamy”And then say that he doesn’t let me go to national team matches? It’s ridiculous.””She never missed a match, even when she was nine months’ pregnant… She is my biggest supporter and to say she won’t let me go is stupid, but what do you expect from a narcissist?”I am very disappointed, but not surprised that it has come to this. “I never wanted it to be public, but when you have a father who is actively trying to control you, push you down, and hurt your reputation, I had to do it.”Ahmedhodzic’s dad had earlier said: “No one is a better friend to my son than his parents, but when he listens to the wrong people, what happens to him happens.”That’s not my son anymore, I don’t consider him my son anymore. I wish him well. The best. “I fought the whole war, I was wounded three times. I wanted my son to play for the country that I created with my own blood, but he was turned away by bad people who think only of self-interest.” Ahmedhodzic Senior also suggested his son’s wife and her family had tried to separate Anel from his parents.He added: “I hid my feelings when they asked me how Anela was doing, I hid everything inside me.”It was difficult for me to answer the truth, I always said ‘he’s doing well, we talk to each other, etc.. I defended him. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I thought he would understand, forgive himself, but nothing works. They have it under control.”Ahmedhodzic Junior won a single cap for Sweden in 2020 before switching his allegiance the same year to Bosnia, for whom he played 24 times until apparently now having enough. More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Harry Kane’s diet and fitness regime as the England star vows to follow in Cristiano Ronaldo’s footsteps

      by

      WITH two lethal strikes with his trusted right foot, Harry Kane scored his 67th and 68th goals for England against Finland.The goals reaffirmed his place among the game’s most feared strikers on his 100th appearance for his country.Harry Kane celebrates scoring against Finland for the Three LionsKane has admitted he’s inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo’s longevity in the gameBefore his masterclass in finishing, Kane, 31, revealed his plan is to wear the Three Lions on his chest for as long as possible.Inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, he is doing everything in his power to make sure his career twilight is as successful as those of his contemporaries.”I feel in really good shape, both physically and mentally, at a peak in my career,” Kane said.”Watching other players, [Cristiano] Ronaldo scoring his 901st goal, seeing him compete at 39 years old inspires me to play for as long as possible.Read more football news”I love this game, I love representing England – more than anything and I don’t want it to end any time soon.”For me, personally, now it’s about continuing to improve and being consistent both in an England shirt and at club level.”I’m hungry for more. I’m determined to keep pushing the boundaries.”The levels of those boundaries are continuously altered by Kane’s desire, which is supported by a strict diet and fitness regime.Most read in FootballAlongside his personal chef Dan Sargeant, who has crafted him a food plan, the former Tottenham striker is also teetotal.While when it comes to training, the marksman is always one of the first out for a session.How Harry Kane got even better at BayernDietSince around 2016, Kane has worked with Sargeant – who counts Conor Benn and Jack Grealish as some of the athletes he helps with their performance goals.”I think, over the last year or so now, I’ve changed a lot off the pitch with the nutrition side of it,” Kane told the Telegraph in 2017.”It kind of clicked in my head that a football career is so short. It goes so quickly, you have to make every day count.”So, I have a chef at home to eat the right food, helping recovery.”You can’t train as hard as you’d like when you have so many games, so you have to make the little gains elsewhere, like with food. That will help me going into a tournament year, with my body and my recovery.”He added: “I appreciate good players,.”Messi and Ronaldo, they’re doing it every week consistently.”That’s what I aspire to do. It’s good to have the appreciation, but I have to focus on what I want to do.”Ronaldo, at 39, shows no sign of ageing having scored his 901st career goal against Scotland.He too follows a strict diet, chowing down on plenty of fish, chicken and salad. Incredibly, he can eat up to SIX TIMES a day, with braised cod, swordfish and tuna his go-tos. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 901st career goal against Scotland at 39Kane follows a strict diet off the pitchHot shot Kane swears by lean meats and salad, as this meal shared on his Instagram account showsMeals like this are prepared for Kane by performance chef Dan SargeantWhat’s on the menu?In a chat with the England Football website, Kane spoke about what he eats and how it transformed his career.”For breakfast, I vary it. I might have a slice of brown bread, avocado, and a two or three egg omelette with some spinach,” he said.”Sometimes I have coconut yoghurt with berries, homemade granola and a bit of honey.”For lunch, Kane divulged: “I love salmon, rice and veg. I will have salad and veg with every meal. I try to get as many nutrients as I can from food. I balance protein and carbs, leaning more towards carbs before a game.”On lighter training days, I might cut out carbs for a meal and go for protein and veg. The aim is to remain lean but also ensure you aren’t missing out and I have enough energy.”He concluded he varies lunch and dinner with, more or less, the same meals.”It’s mostly the same for dinner. I tend to eat fish or chicken, sometimes beef. I eat white fish, and salmon. I vary it for lunch and dinner,” he admitted.Top performance chef Daniel Sargeant has worked with Kane since around 2016Over the years, Kane has worked hard on his strapping 6ft2in physiqueHarry Kane reveals his favourite England goalsHARRY KANE is already England’s all-time record goalscorer.But the Three Lions skipper will NOT be stopping there.To mark his 100th cap for his country, Kane spoke to SunSport’s CHARLIE WYETT about some of his special England goals….FIRST ENGLAND GOAL“My debut v Lithuania. March 2015.”There was a lot of talk in the build-up to that camp because I was playing well for Spurs.“I got a great reception and within a couple of minutes I scored a goal.“I don’t think I could have dreamed it any better.“My friends and family were there. That was a really special night.”FAVOURITE ENGLAND GOAL“It’s between two, for me.“Against Germany, the one at Wembley in Euro 2020.“Also, the header against Tunisia at the World Cup in 2018.“That moment of scoring a last-minute winner at my first World Cup was special.”BEST ENGLAND GOAL“The one I scored in Poland away in a World Cup qualifier in 2021. It was from 25 yards.”(Kane picked up the ball from Kyle Walker, advanced towards goal and put his foot through it.)“It kind of drifted away and it was a good strike, probably my furthest-out goal for England.”TrainingIn terms of his training schedule, Kane has said in the past his “happy place” is when he’s practising finishing in sessions.Of those, he said: “I try and do realistic training where it’s game scenarios, bobbly ball, half a second to swivel and hit, crosses that have been whipped in at fast tempo.”It helps separate the good players and the top players.”But under Mauricio Pochettino at Tottenham, the Argentinian’s staff prepared a power programme for the hotshot striker to improve other areas of his game.As Men’s Health revealed in 2021, that consisted of hamstring, glute and single-leg exercises to enhance his acceleration and pace, as well as core work for strength and stability.Kane also worked with a sports scientist to work on the mechanics of sprinting, which focused on his arm movement.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the past, Kane has admitted his favourite aspect of training is shooting practiceSpeed training has also been consistent with Kane’ improvementGolden Shoe award winner Kane hopes to play at the top for years to comeContinuously working on himself has made Kane the player he is today.That dedication separates the wheat from the chaff, so it will be no surprise to see Kane spearheading England’s attack at the World Cup in 2026. More

    • 263 Shares199 Views

      in Boxing

      I’m a former world champ who KOd Brit boxing legend… but my rap star twin sisters are more famous than me

      by

      DANNY GARCIA is the former world champion boxer bidding to win another belt – but he is not the most famous face in his family. Garcia – who knocked out British legend Amir Khan in 2012 – was coached to titles in two divisions by his eccentric dad Angel. Danny Garcia with his twin sistersCredit: Instagram @siangietwinsGarcia is trained by dad AngelCredit: PBC Amir Khan was knocked out by Garcia in 2012Credit: Action Images – ReutersBut neither are as popular as Angel’s twin daughters Sianney and Angelise Garcia – known as the rap duo SiAngie Twins. Garcia, 36, told SunSport with a chuckle: “They’re more famous than me!”We come from a family of talent, even my daughter is very talented, my daughter Philly, she has so much character, so much charisma. One day somebody’s gonna see her talent also.”Believe it or not, my sisters and I, we do have mutual fans but they have a different fan base than me.READ MORE IN BOXING”So, like some of their fans don’t even know who I am. Some of my fans don’t even know who they are.”But a lot of people do know we’re a family so people know us as a family business and that’s why we kinda like all intertwined.”We all kinda like book our family together because we promote us being a successful family.”But for the most part, their fans are younger than me. They don’t even know who I am.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSGarcia helps promote his sisters’ music and has even featured on tracks with them. The family also had their own reality TV show – documenting the ups and down of mixing family with business. Garcia said: “Sometimes it’s tough. Sometimes it’s tough because my sisters are younger than me, 13 years younger than me. “So they’re not fully gonna see life how I see life. So sometimes we bump heads because we have different visions. “Even my father, we bump heads a lot we’re always bumping heads because we have different visions and different outlooks.”But we always sit down as a family, you know, figure it out and just try not to always hold grudges and be mad at each other. “So we just kinda learn how to work together and things like that.”Garcia is 13 years older than the twinsCredit: Instagram @siangietwinsThey are rappers from PhiladelphiaCredit: Instagram @siangietwinsGarcia says his twins are ‘more famous’ than himCredit: Instagram @siangietwinsThe SiAngie Twins have songs out with brother DannyCredit: Instagram @siangietwinsGarcia’s father Angel has become a star of his own, known for riling up his son’s opponents, with the two reuniting once again in the gym. Garcia beamed: “You know, my dad is full of energy. He’s the reason why I love boxing so much.”He’s so passionate about it and when I’m doing, I know I’m making him happy because that’s all he really loves is boxing.”I tell them, look, we can’t fight forever. So you gotta learn how to be happy outside the ring too.”I love my dad, you know, that’s my best friend.”Garcia held unified light-welterweight world titles before moving up to welterweight to once again become champion. But now he challenges Erislandy Lara, 41, for the WBA middleweight belt over the weekend in Las Vegas. It is well over a STONE heavier then when he sucked down to 10st to KO Khan – a weight cut even Garcia is stunned he managed. Garcia has always had dad Angel in his cornerThey have won world titles togetherCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe two are best friendsCredit: Amanda Westcott/SHOWTIMEHe admitted: “I’m fighting 17 pounds heavier, but yeah, I definitely don’t miss miss making 140. I don’t even know how I made 140 to be honest.”Sometimes I sit back and I look, and I’m like, how did I make that weight?”I won titles at 140, 147. I feel like all the great fighters go up in weight and try to do something great.Try to do something for her legacy.”So I feel like this right here is a fight that I’m jumping up a couple of weight classes to try make big history and just try to put myself in the category of all the great champions who’ve done it for me.”Garcia returns after over two years out, last beating Jose Benavidez Jr, 32, in July 2020 when he broke down in tears following the win. The American bravely spoke about his mental health struggles outside the ring and battling back to victory. Garcia admits he is in the final chapter of his career now but vowed to close it out as a three-division champ. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “I’m just taking it one fight at a time.”I wanna win this WBA middleweight title and then after I’ll just go from there one fight at a time.” Erislandy Lara defends his WBA middleweight title against Danny GarciaCredit: Esther Lin/

      Premier Boxing Champions More

    • 188 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Ex-Crystal Palace star banned from football for life for match fixing admits supplying crystal meth

      by

      A FORMER pro footballer banned for life for match fixing has admitted supplying crystal meth.Michael Boateng, 33, once a youth player at Crystal Palace, was arrested when 19.6kg of the drug was found at his flat.Former pro footballer Michael Boateng, who was banned for life for match fixing, has admitted supplying crystal methCredit: Wikipedia/@OneovaFormer Crystal Palace and Bristol Rovers ace Boateng, seen leaving an earlier hearing, admitted possessing crystal meth, cocaine and MDMA with intent to supplyCredit: AlamyThe raid in Croydon, South London, on February 14 was one of the biggest ever seizures in the UK.The class A drugs were worth up to £1.5million on the streets, Croydon crown court was told. Boateng’s senior career included spells with Bristol Rovers, Sutton United and Newport County.In December 2013, he was sacked by non-league Whitehawk after being charged following a match-fixing probe.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe right-back was sentenced to 16 months in prison in June 2014 and the following January got a lifetime ban from football. He was jailed again in June 2015 for drug dealing.Yesterday, Boateng — a personal trainer with clients reportedly including footie ace Jadon Sancho — admitted possessing crystal meth, cocaine and MDMA with intent to supply.He was remanded in custody ahead of a hearing on October 18 when a judge is expected to hear evidence about his role in a drug dealing ring. He will then be sentenced in November.Most read in Football More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Meet Arsenal and Tottenham’s stunning Wags ahead of the North London derby, from Jude Law’s ex to a mother of twins

      by

      ARSENAL travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the North London derby on Sunday with all to play for.The Gunners lost their 100 per cent record after a 1-1 draw at home to Brighton.Tatiana Trouboul will be cheering on the Gunners in the North London derbyCredit: Instagram / @t.trouboulGorgeous Tatiana’s partner is Arsenal’s No1 David RayaCredit: Instagram @t.trouboul @d.raya1It was a game Mikel Arteta’s side could easily have lost after Declan Rice’s controversial second-half red card.While Spurs would have been equally as disappointed with their last outing – beaten by Newcastle at St James’ Park 2-1.Watching matters closely will be the player’s Wags.Let SunSport introduce you to the beauties, including one who had a romance with Hollywood star Jude Law.Read more football newsTatiana TrouboulTatiana used to work in a nightclub before she met Spain goalkeeper David Raya.The Kim Kardashian lookalike also scored paid jobs as a model.But, she has kept her personal life private in regards to her romance with Raya, although they have matching tattoos.They reportedly began dating in 2021. However, they didn’t go public with their relationship until June 2022.Most read in FootballKennedy AlexaStunner Kennedy lived in Los Angeles before she was swept off her feet by Tottenham’s James Maddison.They have since had three children together – Leo Cruz in 2021, and twins Rome and Delilah.Top ten Premier League managers’ WagsThe model was championed on social media by mums for showing off her stretch marks from her last pregnancy, admitting they were tough to embrace but how proud she was to give birth to three healthy children.Kennedy has since returned to fashion photoshoots and is more in demand than ever.Kennedy Alexa is a stunning model who lived in Los AngelesKennedy was praised by mums on social media for addressing her body insecurities after giving birthJames Maddison and Kennedy pose for a loved-up snap togetherClaudia KiwiorStunning blonde Claudia is the flamboyant twerking wife of Arsenal’s Polish defender Jakub Kiwior.She goes under the stage name Redheaded and has her own clothing label aimed at dancers.Claudia is a competitive twerker –  and won the Queen of Twerking Competition in Germany in 2017, and was a semi-finalist in the European Twerk Champions in 2018.She is a regular in the stands at the Emirates – cheering her beau on.Claudia Kiwior is a world famous twerker who has won competitionsClaudia goes under the stage name ‘Claude Redheaded’Poland defender Jakub Kiwior is married to ClaudiaPaula LenseBlonde Paula has been with Timo Werner since 2017, when he played for RB Leipzig.But, they reveal very little about their personal life and keep their romance private.The pair did get engaged, and is not known if they married or not.However, she did recently share images of the pair enjoying a glam trip to Los Angeles.Beautiful Paula Lense keeps her personal life very privateGerman beauty Paula has been with Timo Werner since 2017Credit: GettyCatherine HardingBrunette beauty Catherine was one of the stars of Amazon Prime’s Married to the Game docu series.The Irish beauty, who is married to Jorginho, has previous with reality TV.She famous appeared as a contestant on The Voice – and was mentored Ollie Murs.Harding also had a romance with Jude Law, fathering a daughter called Ada with the Hollywood star.Catherine Harding fathered a child with Hollywood superstar Jude LawHowever, since around 2020 Catherine has been with JorginhoKaren RomeroKaren is the wife of Tottenham hard man Cristian Romero.However, she likes to remain out of the limelight and prefers to keep her Instagram account private.They reportedly began dating in 2018, when Romero was playing in Serie A.Cristian and Karen said their ‘I do’s’ in 2020, before welcoming a son a year later.Back in May, they revealed a second child is on the way.Cristian and Karen Romero got together in 2018 and were hitched two years laterCredit: Instagram @cutiromero2The Romeros recently revealed they are expecting their second childCredit: Instagram @cutiromero2Milly WhiteMilly and Ben White have enjoyed a whirlwind romance.The Gunners right-back got together with the Instagram model in 2022.White wasted very little time before popping the question on a luxury holidayThe happy couple shared pictures of their engagement, including one of their matching ‘I love you’ wrist tattoos.Then, in May 2023 the pair were married at a private ceremony at the Old Marylebone Town Hall in London.Milly White has enjoyed a whirlwind romance with Ben WhiteMilly and White got married in 2023 at a private ceremony in LondonCredit: SplashIoana StanIoana joined boyfriend Radu Dragusin in London, after signing from Genoa in the winter transfer window in 2024.And she settled into life in North London by playing Tottenham Monopoly.She’s an aspiring architect who has been studying the skill at university.The beauty has been appearing on Dragusin’s Instagram since 2021 .Ioana Stan settled into North London life by playing Tottenham MonopolyGlam Ioana poses with partner Romanian defender Radusin DragusinTolami BensonTolami works in public relations and is the Senior Planning Executive of Zenith.According to her LinkedIn, Tolami studied at Birmingham City University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Public Relations and Media Public Relations.She was spotted supporting beau Bukayo Saka at the Euros in Germany.While the PR is also a regular at the Emirates.Beautiful Tolami Benson has been seen cheering on her beau on England dutyCredit: GettyTolami is, of course, the girlfriend of Arsenal’s star boy Bukayo SakaCredit: PAEldina AhmicBosnian beauty Eldina began dating Dejan Kulusevski in 2020, when the Spurs ace played for Serie A giants Parma.Football must have been a hot topic for the pair, because at the time she played for Swedish side, IF Brommapojkarna.Last December, Kulusevksi scored in the 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest and dedicated the goal to his wife and future child.READ MORE SUN STORIESStuffing the ball underneath his jersey, he then proceeded to make the heart sign with his hands.Their first child was born back in April.Bosnian beauty Eldina is a former professional footballerCredit: Instagram @eldinaahmicEldina has been together with Dejan Kulusevski since 2020Credit: Instagram @dejan.k10 More

    • 300 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      I snubbed Man Utd because I didn’t like the atmosphere and once fled a BEAR – now I’m out to beat England for Finland

      by

      DOWNING a fan’s beer, running for his life from a bear and singing Sweet Caroline on live TV – Finland captain Lukas Hradecky ticks all the boxes for a typically madcap goalkeeper. But the player England must try to score past tomorrow at Wembley is also a history maker.Lukas Hradecky will be in Finland’s goal for their Nations League clash with EnglandThe 34-year-old is the goalkeeper at Bayer LeverkusenHradecky led Finland to their first and only major tournament at Euro 2020. And earlier this year he became the first Finnish footballer to win a title in any of the big five European leagues when he skippered Bayer Leverkusen’s Invincibles to glory.No wonder Slovak-born Hradecky, 34, is one of Finland’s most beloved athletes.He moved to the country from Bratislava before he was two because dad Vladimir had a contract to play semi-pro volleyball in the city of Turku.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHradecky came through the academy of eight-time Finnish champions Turun Palloseura but never played a league game before moving to second-tier Danish side Esbjerg.He earned a week’s trial at Manchester United and was offered the chance to stay on and fight for a permanent deal.But he explained: “I didn’t like the way British clubs worked with their academy teams. And I didn’t really like that atmosphere there.“I don’t mean it in any bad way, but I just didn’t see myself playing at United. So I ended up rejecting the offer.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAfter an impressive spell at Danish giants Brondby, Hradecky joined Eintracht Frankfurt in 2015. He was named Bundesliga goalkeeper of the year in 2017/8 and was the hero of Eintracht’s German cup triumph, saving four penalties across three shootouts on the way to a 3-1 win over Bayern Munich in the final.West Ham vs Bayer Leverkusen descends into chaos with huge brawls on pitch and touchline with COACH sent off Leverkusen snapped Hradecky up on a free transfer and a few weeks later he enjoyed a cheeky drink while on international duty.As he thanked fans after a friendly win over Belarus, he noticed a supporter had a pint, grabbed it – and downed it.But Hradecky tracked down the man he had left thirsty and gave him a full crate of beer, commenting on social media: “The debt is paid.”Finland certainly owe him and his team-mates a lot. For the best part of a 100 years, the country had tried and failed to reach the finals of a major tournament.But a 3-0 win over Liechtenstein in Helsinki in November 2019 broke the curse – and captain Hradecky made good on his vow to sing Sweet Caroline, his go-to karaoke song, in celebration.Ahead of Finland’s opening Euro 2020 game, Hradecky said it would be the most emotional match of his career, especially because he knew the Parken Stadium in Copenhagen so well after making his name in Denmark.But in the first half those emotions changed when Denmark’s Christian Eriksen collapsed after suffering a cardiac arrest.Hradecky managed to keep his composure and saved a penalty after the game resumed as Finland won 1-0.Hradecky knows how to interact with fansGreece beat Finland 3-0 on SaturdayHe represented Finland at Euro 2020Hradecky waved as he wore a T-shirt referring to Denmark’s Christian EriksenBut his greatest achievement is surely last season’s Double with Xabi Alonso’s Leverkusen.Although if Hradecky had not been quick on his feet during pre-season in the summer of 2019, he might not have been around to lead the club to glory.The keeper was back in Slovakia visiting relatives and went for a jog wearing a heart monitor provided by Leverkusen – only to run into a bear.He told leading German tabloid Bild: “I saw a movement in the distance. I didn’t stay there to see if it was a bear or a big dog.”I wouldn’t try to play dead if a bear was chasing me. I trusted my feet and, thank God, everything ended happily – it was actually a bear.“Our physical department can confirm that I had the highest pulse in all runs this summer.”After escaping a grisly fate, Bundesliga strikers hold a little fear for Hradecky.He kept 15 clean sheets in 33 appearances in Leverkusen’s unbeaten league campaign, but just as important was his leadership on and off the field that made him so popular in the dressing room and in the stands.After a 3-0 home win in February over Bayern, who had won 11 titles in a row, Hradecky climbed into the north end of the BayArena to conduct the ultras in celebration chants.And after lifting the Bundesliga trophy a few months later, Hradecky repeated the stunt and let the fans touch the precious metal.Leverkusen also won the German Cup and completed a 2024 Treble by claiming the Super Cup last month.Phillip Arens, who covers Leverkusen for Bild, describes Hradecky as “normal but special”, a thoroughly down-to-earth bloke with a sparkling personality as well as a great sporting talent.Arens added: “Lukas always says what he thinks, he’s open-minded, he can be funny and he can be serious.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He is a true original, one of a dying breed like Thomas Muller.”Goalkeepers are renowned for being characters. But Hradecky is a class apart.Lukas Hradecky with the Super Cup trophy last monthHe skippered a star-studded Leverkusen team to their first Bundesliga title More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd were STUPID to back Erik ten Hag before Liverpool shambles… it was another masterclass in mayhem

      by

      IT is the club once dubbed the benchmark for brilliance — yet now mocked as a masterclass in mayhem.Maybe not in the stubborn, self-assured world of Erik ten Hag, but most definitely in the wider one of just about everybody else.Erik ten Hag saw Man Utd flounder against Arne Slot’s LiverpoolCredit: AlamyLisandro Martinez, Bruno Fernandes and Co were humbledCredit: AFPFor two decades, Manchester United was a byword for sparkle and style. Now, it has become a guarantee of clangers and cock-ups.No shortage in the opener against Fulham, for all it was a win. Even more in the defeat at Brighton — and an absolute hatful when Liverpool spanked their backsides a week ago.How ironic, then, that for all the on-field howlers, the most baffling blunder of all came from the club’s boardroom.If timing is indeed everything, this was the finest example of getting it wrong. One that brought another adage to mind 24 hours later — about hindsight being 20-20 vision.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAlthough sometimes it doesn’t need a crystal ball. Not when common sense is staring you in the face from the off.A summer that began with United hunting high and low for a new manager ended with Ten Hag still in the  hotseat when the search proved fruitless.Just hours before bitter rivals Liverpool were in town, chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth wanted to hammer home their belief in the Dutchman.He is, insisted Berrada, “absolutely the right coach for us”. Of course he is — definitely there through faith, not default.Most read in FootballSir Jim Ratcliffe looked gutted by Utd’s display vs LiverpoolCredit: AFPFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSOf course they back Erik because they are convinced he will lead United back to the top, not because saying anything else would be a confession of failure on their part. That was never going to happen, was it? Admitting mistakes clearly isn’t on the agenda at Old Trafford.Erik ten Hag warns Manuel Ugarte could take MONTHS to get fit in further blow to Man Utd fans after Liverpool hammeringWhich is why none of the suits would accept that the timing of their public show of confidence in Ten Hag was so woeful either.Before they faced their fiercest rival? One hell-bent on avenging the two Old Trafford slips of last season? What were they thinking?Given United’s tendency to turn mountains into molehills, it would have been risky against Southampton or Ipswich. But Liverpool?While some will argue one result was never going to change anything, the only thing unjust about Liverpool’s 3-0 win was that it should have been by more. So an intended vow of conviction in the manager instead became a vote of confidence three games in.Not that confidence is something Ten Hag has ever lacked. To him, those who criticise and question do  so through ignorance.He railed when asked if there was now no margin for error. Bragged there had been more trophies at Old Trafford than Anfield in his two years as boss.There was more at Wigan Athletic than Merseyside in Brendan Rodgers’ first two at Liverpool as well.Ten Hag can shout as loud and long as he likes about progress and embarrassingly claim that he feels sorry for those who point fingers at United mistakes.When so many are doing so, perhaps it’s time to stop being arrogant and admit that they have a point.It’s too early to judge his five summer signings. But the previous 16, costing more than £600m, have not exactly been a roaring success.Phil ThomasWhile Ten Hag barely hides his  contempt for media opinions, are  ex-United players such as Roy Keane, Teddy Sheringham and Paul Scholes naive know-nothings, too?Do you feel sorry for them, too, Erik? Do you feel sorry for the  thousands and thousands of fans who cannot see or share your belief?Obviously he has to stay upbeat. After all, if the manager doesn’t keep his head up, there’s no chance the players will.And it is still too early to judge his five summer signings. But the previous 16 — costing more than £600million — have not exactly been a roaring success.Ten Hag, though, remains defiant, insisting: “There are many games to play and I know where we will be at the end of the season.”But as someone who has followed the club for over half a century, that’s the fear — once again United will be as far from the top as the  day he arrived.The question is, will Ten Hag still be around to see it?Not many would put their  house on it — whatever Berrada and Ashworth are saying right now.Mitch’s blame shamePAUL MITCHELL says the transfer strategy he walked into at Newcastle was a mess, pointing out he only had a supporting role this summer.Whether he would have been so quick to say the same if the Toon had pulled a rabbit out of the hat, instead of the shocking window they endured, only he knows.Paul Mitchell might have been better off not speaking outCredit: PAThat aside, whatever grievances he had with the previous regime, did he really have to air them in public?Almost like the kid at school who, when the teacher wants to know the one responsible for the dirty picture on the blackboard, points the finger and says: “It’s him, not me miss.”Was having a pop at Dan Ashworth and those who’d gone before him really the wisest move?I’d suggest not. Any more than his dig at manager Eddie Howe for not having alternatives to top target Marc Guehi.Sometimes you can see a head-on collision coming long before it happens. And this has all the makings . . . Lee gets bookedFRANCIS LEE was a player where the middle ground was never an option.To fans of Manchester City and Derby, he was a hero. To most others, he was a horror.Francis Lee was a legendary Man City player and ownerCredit: Times Newspapers LtdYet whatever your camp, he was a character. As a player, as a racehorse trainer and then the owner of his beloved City.He’s also the man who got me a job on the Racing Post 40 years ago after a word to the wise on one of his nags when I had to do a tipping piece as part of the interview.READ MORE SUN STORIESFranny passed away last year but tomorrow sees the publication of his autobiography. It’s a great read, believe me. Whoever you support…Triumphs, Treachery and Toilet Rolls: The Francis Lee Autobiography, by Pitch Publishing. More