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      What I’ve heard about Phil Foden makes he respect him and even more angry at sick chants about his mum

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      THE problem with teenagers, a headteacher told me this week, is that they are trying to live in two different moral universes.He says that there is the moral universe we all know, with its rules, conventions and niceties.Pep Guardiola embraced Phil Foden after he had endured Man Utd fans chanting ghastly things about his MumCredit: GettyIncredibly, to a significant number of fans such conduct is quite acceptableCredit: GettyDeclan Rice endures similar stuff as Foden, along with his long-time partner Lauren FryerCredit: RexAnd then there’s another universe, the internet’s moral universe, where there are next to no rules and precious few niceties.OK, every day’s a school day, so I’ll take that on board and, just for good measure, I’m going to throw a third moral universe into this mix — football’s moral universe.This one, while not all bad by any means, can be a very ugly place indeed.I’ve not met Phil Foden but from what I’ve seen and heard, as well as being a prodigiously gifted footballer he’s a decent guy.READ MORE FROM ADRIAN CHILESI was talking to one of his coaches at England youth level. Listing the attributes Foden showed as a kid — speed, awareness, bravery, command of the ball etc — the coach added another, one which has stuck in my mind. “He cared what his teammates thought about him,” said the coach.Interesting that. You’d think that caring what your teammates thought of you would be common enough among footballers to not even merit mention. It would seem this isn’t the case.Most read in FootballPhil cares though, and that’s another reason I hold him in high esteem.Perhaps that’s why I was more appalled than usual at the behaviour of football fans when I saw that photo of Pep Guardiola embracing him after he’d endured Man Utd fans chanting ghastly things about his Mum.‘They should be ashamed’ – Pep Guardiola slams Man Utd fans for sick chants aimed at City ace Phil Foden’s mumAwful. But incredibly, to a significant number of fans such conduct is quite acceptable. Because, you see, this is in football’s moral universe where, for some reason, there are those who think it’s OK to behave despicably.Declan Rice, double miracle-freekick scorer and another nice guy, endures similar stuff — along with his long-time partner, the equally appealing Lauren Fryer.Lauren, you see, doesn’t conform to some football fans’ idea of what a footballer’s wife should look like. So the poor woman gets abused on social media and, for Declan’s benefit, from the stands. Dreadful.This is what happens in football’s moral universe. We seem to forget that footballers are human beings with, you know, feelings. However thick their skins have to be, they still have feelings.I’ve been as guilty of forgetting this as anyone. Many years ago, when I was presenting Match Of The Day 2, I made a joking reference to Arjen Robben’s baldness. The following week I got a letter — yes, a letter, that’s how long ago it was — from someone who said I should be ashamed of myself as Robben could well be very sensitive about his hair loss.Initially I scoffed and was minded to reply that Chelsea’s multi-millionaire Dutch superstar could probably deal with a jibe from me.But when I had thought about it, even though the man himself probably couldn’t have cared less, I concluded that I had been very wrong to mock his appearance.That was on TV. I’m afraid I’ve said a lot worse as a fan at matches.I’m not without sinSo I don’t preach this sermon from any moral high ground, because I’m not without sin. I confess, I’ve yelled and chanted stuff at football matches that I would never, and I mean never, have yelled or chanted anywhere else.I shouted some dreadful things at Jack Grealish, for example, at a play-off semi-final when he was at Villa. I’m quite sure he couldn’t care less, but I can’t say it was my finest hour.I don’t excuse myself, but these things happen in football’s moral universe, where it’s not that there’s no right or wrong, but there is a big, bad grey area.There’s a line in there somewhere and we all know where it is.Bawling abuse at a footballer, calling them terrible names, isn’t a good look. But it probably, arguably, just about falls on the right side of the line.Abusing that footballer’s family is a different matter. That’s on the wrong side of the line.It’s bang out of order, and everyone guilty knows this.BOB’S A COMEDY GREATThere was no danger of anyone else but Bob Mortimer winning Last One LaughingCredit: RexSOME comedians you look at, and think there walks a genius, with a routine to die for.Others, often by means of cruelty or crudeness, shock you into laughter despite yourself.And then there’s Bob Mortimer, who just seems to have funny bones.Really funny bones.There was no danger of anyone else winning TV’s Last One Laughing.What chance did any of them have against a man who can make “have you got a kitchen island?” sound like the funniest question ever asked.And as for, “I like sausage dogs, with those tiny legs”, I will never again see a dachshund waddling past without thinking of Bob.DON AND ON AND ON AND ..The role journalists played in Donald Trump’s rise will one day be worthy of examinationCredit: GettyWHEN the history books about Donald Trump are written, the role of us journalists in his rise will be worthy of examination.We can take a lot of the blame/credit – delete according to your view of The Orange Man. Like him or loathe him, laugh at him or with him, we have found it quite impossible not to give him all the attention he craves because he provides us with all the material we crave.He fills pages of papers and hours of television, radio and podcasts. Where would we be without him.After his first term ended in ignominious defeat, we assumed we’d seen the last of him.Back then, the brilliant political commentator, comedian and excellent Trump mimic Matt Forde captured the mood of many of us when he tweeted, “Goodnight sweet prince”. And now it’s like he never went away.IT’S BOT TO BE A BONUSTHE march of artificial intelligence will, at worst, destroy humanity or, at best, just take a lot of our jobs.One thing pleases me, though, even if it means me being replaced by a machine – I’ve heard what’s about to happen described as the first technological step-change in history that’s going to hit middle-class jobs the hardest.Writers and radio presenters will be easy meat for the machines.But it’ll be a long time before AI can do proper jobs, requiring blood, sweat and tears as well as great skill.Plumbers, chippies, sparks, gardeners, scaffolders, bricklayers – your jobs are as safe as houses.Enjoy the ride, you’ve earned it.WHY do so many people sit on public transport looking at or listening to their phones without wearing headphones?Why should we all have to hear terrible music from those who look at their phones on public transport without wearing headphones?Credit: GettyWhy should we all have to hear their terrible music, boring conversations or mindless TikTok-ery. I’m genuinely interested.But I can’t come up with a way of asking the question in a way that’s not going to end with some kind of violence visited upon me.PAIN IN THE CHIP BUTTYA chip shop owner in Gloucestershire has apologised for putting up its price to fifteen quidCredit: GettyA CHIP shop owner in Gloucestershire has apologised for putting up the price of cod and chips to 15 quid.I can’t remember the last time I left a chippy having dropped anywhere near that little. I just get too excited.After a couple of pints with some mates in Stourbridge last month, I popped into the local chip shop on the way home.Before I knew it I’d bought large cod and chips, small cod and chips, mushy peas, two battered potato slices and some cod roe.And this was only for me and my Mum. We’re still not back to full health, financially or physically.AIMEE’S PEARLY QUEENAimee Lou Wood is just brilliant in the White Lotus, despite the show being absolutely indigestibleCredit: HBOEVERYONE I know is banging on about White Lotus being the best TV ever. I’ve heard it praised so many times that it must be true.Well, I’ve found it to be absolutely indigestible, veering wildly between rather silly and terribly boring.Read More on The SunBut I’m glad I saw the bits I managed to stay awake for because that was enough to confirm for me that Stockport’s Aimee Lou Wood is just brilliant.At first you can see nothing but her proudly prominent teeth. But before long all you’re seeing is a brilliant acting talent going from strength to strength. More

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      KSI, 31, issues worrying statement on health battle and gives major update on boxing career after latest fight collapse

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      KSI has thrown his boxing future into doubt by refusing to confirm whether he will retire or not.The YouTuber-turned-boxer was set to return to the ring on March 29 in Manchester against Dillon Danis. KSI has thrown his boxing future into doubtBut he pulled out due to illness with just a week to go and vowed to reschedule the Misfits Boxing bout. However, there has been no sign of a new date and KSI emotionally refused to rule out the idea of retiring from boxing. He said on his YouTube channel: “When I told Mams [Taylor] and everybody else that I wasn’t going to be able to do this fight, I broke down.”I was there crying in my room because I felt I let everybody down. I know how the internet works, I know how this game goes.READ MORE IN BOXING”If I tried to fight and got into the ring and had a s*** performance, no one would care that I was sick.”My boxing career since I have come back has been problem after problem, and just being unlucky over and over again.”And it is a shame. The amount of stress I have gone through over the last few years. Even with Misfits in general, it’s been stressful.“I feel like I’ve aged in these two and a half years of Misfits being created.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”So, where am I in terms of Boxing? I don’t know. Am I going to retire? I don’t know. Am I going to fight again? I don’t know.”It marks the second pay-per-view fight in a row that KSI has had to withdraw from. Watch the moment BGT’s terrified KSI discovers who tormented him in creepy audition – and it’s someone close to homeHe was due to face YouTuber Slim Albaher and MMA fighter Anthony Taylor in a two-on-one HANDICAP bout last August. But KSI pulled out with an injured hand before scheduling his return against Danis, who is 2-0 in MMA and lost his boxing debut to Logan Paul in 2023. KSI revealed he picked up a viral infection in training and was taking antibiotics. But Danis trolled his rival after footage appeared to show KSI at an Usher concert at the O2 on the night their fight was set to take place. Danis, 31, posted online: “KSI canceled the fight to go to an Usher concert. I’m done.”KSI, 31, is yet to return since suffering his first defeat in the ring, losing a controversial decision to Tommy Fury, 25, in October 2025. Meanwhile Danis now looks set to focus on his MMA return against Tony Ferguson in May. KSI was probed on his boxing future while commentating on Ballers League in a live stream. Read More on The SunAnd he said: “I don’t need to fight, if we’re being honest. Do I really need to fight? Is money low? “Is there a fight that really needs to happen? ‘But Jake Paul.’ Well, I don’t think that’s ever going to happen so besides that what else is there?” KSI has yet to reschedule his fight with Dillon DanisCredit: PA More

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      ‘You guys are my heroes’ – Emotional moment Michail Antonio meets paramedics who saved his life after horror car crash

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      WEST HAM star Michail Antonio touchingly sat down with the “hero” paramedics who helped save his life after his terrifying car crash.The 35-year-old crashed his Ferrari FF into a tree in Epping, Essex on a stormy December 7 and was rushed to hospital.Michail Antonio met the paramedics that saved his lifeCredit: BBCAntonio sat down with first responders Rob Moon and Dr James MoloneyCredit: Essex & Herts Air Ambulance TeamThe West Ham striker went to Essex and Herts Air Ambulance HQAntonio crashed his Ferrari FF into a tree in December and broke his legThe striker required surgery on a shattered femurHe suffered a broken leg in the accident and underwent surgery the following day.And now the Hammers’ record Premier League goalscorer has personally shown his appreciation to the men who helped him cheat death.Antonio met with the two first responders Rob Moon and Dr James Moloney on the BBC’s Morning Live show.The striker cannot remember the crash so he met with the heroic Essex and Herts Air Ambulance crew to “fill in the blanks”.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSAfter meeting them in an ambulance hangar, Antonio began: “I want to say thank you because I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you guys.”So you guys are basically my heroes.”Antonio’s accident happened during Storm Darragh, which meant the air ambulance helicopter couldn’t take off due to strong winds. Dr Moloney and Moon – who were dispatched to the scene in a rapid response car – said they thought they recognised the Premier League footballer straight away.Most read in FootballAntonio was shocked to learn that the medics found his lifeless body in the back seat after noticing his fractured femur bone.As football fans, the paramedics clocked that they were helping a Premier League striker.Michail Antonio given hero’s welcome as he returns to West Ham for 1st time since escaping death in horror Ferrari crashBut their suspicions were confirmed after spotting a clue – his No 9 ‘Antonio’ shirt in the foot-well. Dr Moloney said: “We treat everyone the same whatever happens. But not many people have a shirt with their name on the back.”To get Antonio talking, the medics spoke to him about football, including his different managers and career highlights.The pair revealed that he was talking a lot and speaking repetitively, which is common when people bump their heads. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you guys.Michail AntonioBBCThe medics put him on a trolley before boarding him onto the ambulance, and tried to keep him warm.Antonio added: “For me, personally, I could never do your job. “If I go there and see blood or people in trouble, I would just panic or faint. It’s definitely something I wouldn’t be able to do.”The seriousness of it hit home when the forward saw the remains of the car at a scrapyard a few weeks ago.The former Nottingham Forest star explained: “Being involved in a major accident can have life-changing physical and mental effects.”I’ve processed it to a certain degree, but I think the emotions are going to take a long time. Mentally, trauma lasts a long time.”Antonio was shocked to find out that the medics found his body in the back seatCredit: BBCThe West Ham striker signed merch for the crewAntonio said the medics were his heroesHe also revealed that it was harder for his loved ones to see him that way.He said: “My family probably experienced the incident more than I did. “They had to see how I was in the hospital. I don’t remember my face being cut or going down for surgery the next day. “They lived it. They have those memories.”While there was some initial doubt as to whether or not he would ever play football again, Antonio is determined to get back on the pitch.He previously told the BBC: “The most difficult part is that I almost wasn’t there for my children.”It’s just made me happy, positive about life, because I’ve got another chance at life.”During this, we kept it away from the kids. My eldest saw it, and he struggled with it.”Not many people have a shirt with their name on the back.Dr James MoloneyBBCAntonio would watch West Ham games weekly throughout the early stages of his recovery to motivate him.The Hammers icon admitted that hearing his name being sung by supporters “helped him massively”.Read More on The SunHe made an emotional return to the London Stadium for West Ham’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle last month.Antonio has also been able to return to light training. More

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      Frank Warren claims Joe Joyce ‘needs to have a serious think’ about retiring with risk of ‘consequences down the road’

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      FRANK WARREN says Joe Joyce needs to consider retirement for the sake of his long-term health after another punishing loss.The 39-year-old Putney heavyweight lost a unanimous decision to Croatia’s Filip Hrgovic, 32, on Saturday night in Manchester.Frank Warren says Joe Joyce needs to consider retirementCredit: GettyJoyce was beaten over 12 rounds by Filip HrgovicCredit: ReutersThere was no shame in the defeat but it was another ten-round exhibition of Joyce’s steadfast determination to use his own face as his only defence.And promoter Warren — who guided The Juggernaut to excellent wins over Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker — is now concerned what permanent damage defeats to Zhilei Zhang, Derek Chisora and now Hrgovic has done.The Queensberry promoter said: “Joe needs to have a serious think about his future “There’s no rush but that is what he has to do now.“He will want to fight, I know he will, but he needs to sit down with his family and have a real serious think about the future, because it will not be an easy road back for him. Whatever he does, we will support him.READ MORE IN BOXING“But, in boxing, as you get older — and you fight the way Joe does — you have to think about what the consequences could be down the road. “He’s a lovely man, one of the best people I have ever worked with And I just want the best for him now.”Worryingly Joyce, who also did thousands of explosive and gruelling rounds with Anthony Joshua when they were on Team GB, is already thinking about his next fight.He said: “I am still enjoying what I am doing and I feel good. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“A lot of people want to see me fight Dillian Whyte, so I will reflect on this fight, with my team, and see what’s coming next. I will reflect and come back.”But ringside pundit and former British super-middleweight champion Paul Smith pleaded with Joyce to hang up his gloves. My dad is Coronation Street legend Des Barnes – now I’ve swapped acting for pro boxingHe said: “I hope I never see Joe Joyce in a boxing ring again.“I felt uncomfortable watching that because this is an unforgiving sport and it’s his health we are all worried about. “I am not being cruel to him but I didn’t like what I saw in there. It was an entertaining fight but only because of how many shots Joe takes and just keeps going.“In boxing you need people around you who care about you and love you, who will say ‘no more’ because you have got to think about your long-term health.”But he refused to retireCredit: PA More

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      in Motorsport

      Tai Woffinden health update as wife Faye reveals stricken Speedway star is ‘fighting’ in medically induced coma

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      TAI WOFFINDEN’S wife Faye says he is “fighting” as he remains in a medically induced coma following a high-speed crash in Poland. Woffy, 34, was airlifted to hospital in Krosno on Sunday and underwent emergency surgery after suffering numerous fractures and a chest injury.Tai Woffinden’s wife Faye has thanked fans for their supportFaye says her husband’s spirit remains strong ‘and so does our hope’The speedway ace was airlifted to hospital following the crashCredit: XBritain’s most successful speedway star of all time got caught in a three-rider and bike pile-up and smashed into a protective airfence at high speed while racing for Rzeszow.Faye has flown in from Australia to Poland to be by her husband’s side alongside his mum Sue.She said: “Our brave boy is here with us! fighting, healing, and resting.“Tai has been through more than we can even begin to imagine. READ MORE ON TAI WOFFINDEN”Multiple broken bones, major surgeries, blood transfusions – his body has endured so much. “And yet, his spirit stays strong. So does our hope. We’re holding on tightly, believing that each day will bring more healing, more strength, and more of him back to us.“Anyone who knows Tai knows how open, honest, and full of life he is.”When he’s ready, he’ll share his story in his own way. But right now, his only job is to rest, to heal, and to find the strength to get through this.Most read in Motorsport“The love, kindness, and support we’ve received from all of you has been overwhelming in the most beautiful way. There truly aren’t words to express how deeply grateful we are.“While we hesitate to name individuals for fear of missing anyone, we want to extend our deepest thanks to those who played a part in saving Tai.Faye has praised all the help Tai is receivingHe is seen here celebrating his first title in 2013 with mum Sue, left, and Faye“To the special person we cannot name, whose quick actions arranged the helicopter to the track so promptly, and to the medical team inside who cared for Tai before he even reached the hospital—you gave him a fighting chance, and we will never forget that.“To Dr. Paweł Jasiński, for organizing every surgery and ensuring Tai has the best possible team. To Rafał Roger Piątek, who has not only been by Tai’s side but also ours through it all. To Basia Karczewska, for her constant support and kindness.“To the incredible doctors and medical team in Rzeszów. To the Stal Rzeszów team, especially Paweł Piskorz and Michał Drymajło your unwavering support means everything.“To our family, our friends, and every single person who has reached out, offered help, or simply held us in their thoughts – thank you. From the bottom of our hearts. “Your love has carried us through the darkest moments. We will never forget it. “Lots of love Faye & Sue.” Woffinden is a three-time world champion More

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      Who is Dan Garber? Boxing record and career so far for Hughie Fury’s next opponent

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      HUGHIE FURY returns to the ring on Friday night at the famous York Hall – and does so against Dan Garber.Fury had three comeback victories in 2024 after a three-year absence from boxing amid health issues. Dan Garber, left, faces Hughie FuryCredit: GettyHe looks to improve on his winning run at Bethnal Green in his first bout of the year – but standing in the way is Garber.The Bradford heavyweight is 9-4 in his career and no stranger to big fights. He turned professional in 2017 – at cruiserweight – and won his first four bouts while also moving up to heavyweight. Garber was beaten for the first time in 2023 against Lamah Griggs on points – with mixed results following. READ MORE IN BOXINGHe lost against the likes of Thomas Carty, Moses Itauma and Viddal Riley – but defeated his lesser-known opposition. But Garber, 39, rates Fury, 30, as possibly his toughest test of all. He told the Telegraph & Argus: “On paper, yes (toughest test yet), by a mile.“However, if you look at who I’ve been in with already then you might think different. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”On two days’ notice, I boxed Moses Itauma and look where he’s ranked now in the heavyweight division.“Technically, from a boxing point of view and skill-wise, I do think Hughie is the best heavyweight in the UK. David Adeleye and Jeamie TKV forced apart in explosive row ahead of Joe Joyce undercard fight “I’m not saying he beats everybody in the division, but technically I do believe he’s the best.“He’s very well-schooled and for me, I think Peter Fury (Hughie’s father and trainer) is one of the best trainers around, if not the best, and he doesn’t get the credit he deserves. “He’s the most knowledgeable man in the country when it comes to boxing, I think.”Hughie Fury with trainer and dad PeterCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      Inspirational boxer Michael Watson walking miracle mile for 60th birthday – 34 years after Chris Eubank fight tragedy

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      MICHAEL WATSON is walking another miracle mile to celebrate his 60th birthday.The British ring legend suffered catastrophic brain injuries in his 1991 super-middleweight world title loss to Chris Eubank Sr.Michael Watson (left) suffered serious brain injuries in a 1991 bout with Chris Eubank SrCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWatson, middle, pictured with his doctor Peter Hamlyn and SunSport’s Wally Downes Jr. (right)Credit: Wally Downes Jr.Dr Peter Hamlyn saved his life with emergency surgery that night and has remained by his side ever since.In 2003 the inspirational pair completed the 26-mile London marathon, over six hard days with a support bus to sleep on between shifts.Now, on Wednesday April 16, at the National Police Memorial in St James’ Park on the Mall, the pair will once again hit the streets at 1pm to raise money for The Brain and Spine Foundation.Watson – whose spirit and strength is staggering to spend a single second around – hopes his fans will help get him over the line again, especially after he hit 60 on March 15.READ MORE ON BOXINGHe told SunSport: “I am absolutely looking forward to the mile because I love a challenge.”It’s Peter’s fault I have been roped into it again, he challenged me to do it for the Brain and Spine foundation and, stupidly, I said ‘yes’.”I would do anything for him, because I class this man as my hero.”Seeing my fans, who have always supported me so much, will be a big push to get it done too.Most read in Boxing”That will be the energy and the will to keep pushing on, every little bit helps and hearing my fans cheering me, that will spur me on and get me over the line.”I never made it to world champion but my fans regard me as one.”Queensberry’s hall-of-fame promoter Frank Warren donates £25,000 to The Brain and Spine Foundation Eubank Sr was at the end of the line in 2003 to celebrate his friend’s unfathomable achievement.And he was at Watson’s recent milestone birthday party, where he gifted him a Rolex watch.It was another touching moment shared between the pair, after the tragedy that befell them both on that haunting night at Tottenham’s White Hart Lane stadium.Incredibly Watson – flanked by marvellous carer Haroun Topalak, devoted friend and PR star Geraldine Davies and Dr Hamlyn – feels happier now than he did when he was a prime prize fighter and he wants to thank British boxing fans for that.Watson said: “Chris has true love and respect for me.”Chris is a good soul, he is a very emotional man and he has a lot of respect for me.”I still feel like the boxing community is in my corner and I have great people around me.”I still feel like my fans are there for me, when I see anybody in the street, they still call me ‘Champ’.”I feel so privileged to be English because I feel so loved by my fans, the English people make me feel like the peoples’ champion and that I am in their hearts and that will never fade away.”British boxing fans make me feel so appreciated and it makes me feel overwhelmed and blessed to be who I am.”From where I have come from, I am a miracle. My life has been amazing because of the people I have around me.”I am living my purpose on this earth.”I have been through a grueling process but I believe in a higher power and that everything happens for a reason.”When I was in the limelight I was troubled and not at peace, I was lost.”But now I am at peace and I am happy and content, I am at peace.”I feel so privileged to be English because I feel so loved by my fansMichael WatsonIncredible neurosurgeon Dr Hamlyn operated on Watson after horrific delays in getting him medical attention.And he was by his bedside for the 40-day coma he faced and the six-years he spent in a wheelchair.The duo will walk the mile together again and Hamlyn continues to be amazed by the physical recovery and mental fortitude Watson continues to show.Dr Hamyln said: “Michael is truly amazing. I have never seen a man survive that type of injury.”He faced year after year of struggles and showed incredible determination.”What you see now is a laughing, walking, talking, laughing joking guy.”But he went through an appalling ordeal and he only got through it thanks to his own incredible determination.”And one day, when I asked him why he kept helping me do things for the charity, he said: ‘to help people less fortunate than me’.”And that blew me away, he is just different.”The Brain and Spine Foundation also have 50 runners doing the full 26-mile London Marathon, with Watson a team captain.READ MORE SUN STORIESQueensberry’s hall-of-fame promoter Frank Warren has generously donated £25,000 for the cause and more donations can be made here.Sponsor Michael Watson and the 50 runners doing the London Marathon for The Brain & Spine Foundation here… More

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      Former Arsenal star Lucas Perez ‘struck down by tuberculosis’ just weeks after joining new club

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      EX-ARSENAL star Lucas Perez has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis, according to a shocking report.The Spanish striker, who now plays for Dutch side PSV, is set to be sidelined for a long time with the illness.Lucas Perez has been struck down with active tuberculosisCredit: Instagram / psvPerez is an ex-Arsenal starCredit: GettyAccording to De Telegraaf, it is doubtful Perez will play again this season.In a statement on their website, PSV said: “One of the players of PSV 1 has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis. The player is doing well under the circumstances. “Although the chance of further infection is small, the situation is being closely monitored according to the standard protocols of the GGD.”The situation was reported to GGD Brabant-Zuidoost. The attending pulmonologist, the PSV medical staff and the GGD Brabant-Zuidoost immediately took all necessary measures. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Among other things, a source and contact investigation was started and those involved were informed. “Together with GGD Brabant-Zuidoost, the standard protocols will continue to be followed and implemented. “For now, there are no indications that people in the vicinity of the infected player have been infected.”As it stands, PSV’s high-profile clash with Ajax is still scheduled to go ahead this weekend, but there is a risk the game could be called off if more cases of TB are found within the PSV squad.Most read in FootballAn active TB infection usually affects the lungs and the person must be isolated for three to four weeks and undergo a course of antibiotics.It has a long period of incubation before symptoms manifest themselves, during which time the patient is also contagious.Lucas Perez signs for ArsenalCommon symptoms typically include a long-lasting cough, feelings of exhaustion, high temperatures, a loss of appetite, weight loss and generally feeling unwell.Perez, 36, joined PSV one month ago after terminating his contract at Deportivo La Coruna in January.He was not able to be registered to face his old club in the Champions League for PSV’s last-16 clash with Arsenal due to the registration window passing before he signed.He has played three times for the Eredivisie since joining.But his estimated five to six week absence means he faces a race against time to play again before the Dutch clubs final game of the season on May 18 when they play Sparta Rotterdam.Perez originally joined Arsenal in 2016 in a £17million transfer from Deportivo.But he never managed to truly settle in North London despite having a solid record when playing, with seven goals and five assists in 21 games in all competitions.Arsenal loaned Perez back to his hometown club, Deportivo in August 2017 before they sold him to West Ham the following summer.He scored six goals in 19 appearances for the Hammers before they sold him a summer later to Spanish side Alaves.Perez then bounced around from Elche to Cadiz and back to Deportivo for the fourth time in his career.After joining PSV, Perez opened up about his difficult upbringing and strained relationship with his parents.He told El Partidazo de Cope how his father had abandoned him as a child, saying: “I was raised by my grandparents, my father’s parents.”When I was two, my parents left me in an orphanage because they couldn’t or didn’t want to take care of me.”This season, I received a complaint from my father demanding that I pay maintenance for the rest of his life.”From then on, I spent several months until I left Deportivo with a lot of stress and a lot of anxiety because I had to relive very difficult moments in my life.Europe rocked by fresh tuberculosis (TB) casesEUROPE has been rocked by fresh tuberculosis (TB) fears after child cases jump by 10 per cent within a year.Global health chiefs warn that TB, dubbed the ‘world’s deadliest infection’, is surging due to treatment failures, calling it a “disturbing wake-up call”.Over 7,500 TB cases were recorded in children under 15 in the WHO European Region in 2023, the latest European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) report revealed.This marks an increase of more than 650 cases from the previous year.Kids under five now make up 4.3 per cent of new and relapsed cases, “signifying an increase for the third year in a row,” the health bodies said in a statement.Relapsed TB is when the infection comes back after treatment, usually because the medicine wasn’t finished.TB is a debilitating bacterial infection often linked to the Victorian era, when it was called “consumption” due to the way it seemed to slowly waste away the body.But even today, it persists, killing around 1.25 million people globally each year.Experts are sounding alarms over the rise, fearing that untreated cases could fuel the growth of drug-resistant strains, making the disease harder to combat.In the report, Dr Pamela Rendi-Wagner, Director of the ECDC, said: “The time to act to end TB is now.””When I signed for Arsenal, my mother also sent me a burofax demanding money… but she can’t claim it because she’s not listed in the joint custody.”My grandparents asked for custody and, later, my grandmother allowed my father to take over. I was lucky to have my grandparents, but they couldn’t last as long as they should have.”Discussing his recent exit from Deportivo and move to PSV Eindhoven, he continued: “I’m leaving now because the issue with my father continues. I’ve met him several times this Christmas and it’s not a pleasant experience.”Given that the situation at the club wasn’t right, because I didn’t feel valued or supported, I decided to be honest and tell them that I’m having a hard time stepping aside.”The club and I spoke… There were two games left to reach the 20-year mark with which I was going to renew and I didn’t want to.”Two days later, after saying that we were going to take a break, I received a letter from the club asking me to sign a written commitment with them.”I consider that they don’t know what Deportivo means to me and when there is doubt like that, the best thing to do is to step aside.”Perez also disputed claims that he left Deportivo for financial reasons, insisting he actually stepped away due to his personal situation.READ MORE SUN STORIES”What father doesn’t want to be close to his son? Obviously I want to be close, but if my job doesn’t allow it… I was already far away from him,” he added.”What happened is that they (the media) have echoed a lie and I am partly to blame for having allowed them to buy that lie. The person who released that information did so to hurt me.” More