More stories

  • in

    Anthony Joshua shows his caring side as he hands out gifts at children’s hospital and hails ‘hero’ NHS staff

    ANTHONY Joshua dished out Christmas presents during a surprise visit to a children’s hospital.The two-time heavyweight boxing champion stunned poorly children on the Kids Starfish ward at Watford General Hospital and hailed “hero” NHS staff.Anthony Joshua posed up for pictures with happy patientsCredit: SuppliedThe boxing star visited Watford General Starfish WardCredit: SuppliedHe hailed the NHS staff as heroesCredit: SuppliedThe heavyweight boxing champion gave out giftsCredit: SuppliedAnthony beams alongside NHS staffCredit: SuppliedDuring his moving visit, Joshua chatted with youngsters about sport and posed for selfies with patients and staff.The boxing star was seen handing out gifts to beaming children as he spent hours touring the specialist ward.He also spent time chatting to parents and West Hertfordshire NHS staff who help keep the ward operational during the festive period.On the visit the world champ said: “Today was all about trying to put smiles on a few faces and to acknowledge the tireless work of all NHS staff across the entire nation.Read More in Boxing”I met some amazing kids and some inspirational parents. I waslucky Santa was available to help me hand out a few small gifts.”Christmas can be a really tough time of year so it is important to do your bit, especially in your own local community.”Joshua’s association to the hospital goes back years – as he was born there in 1989.As a teenager he visited the A&E department a few times too many for his mothers liking.Most read in BoxingThen following his Olympic triumph in 2012 he returned to open the Leigh Warman Mural in the Children’s A&E Department.Paediatric Consultant Lynn Sinitsky said: “The joy that Anthony has spread today is truly healing. Anthony Joshua attends surprise birthday party for coach who ‘saved his life’ and shares incredible throwback snap”The smiles on the faces, especially from one ten year old who woke up to see Anthony was incredible.”Meanwhile, Ward Manager Kerry Beasley said: “Its a great thing he has done, its amazing for the staff and the patients. “It really boosts morale and spreads Christmas spirit. We couldn’t get him out!”During the Coronavirus Pandemic Joshua led a program to gift NHS staff members at the hospital with 2,000 pieces of Under Armour kit.The idea was to give a little bit back to the tireless efforts from staff, including medical professionals, cleaning and kitchen staff.Clean Herts Community’s mission is to provide aid and opportunities for people of various demographics across Anthony’s home town of Watford, with a focus on young people.The Olympic Gold Medallist has always been very passionate about providing opportunity to specifically the younger generation in his local area. This year CHC has launched both physical and educational programs from football camps to cooking and science classes.They also teamed up with Hollywood legend Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson in November to give some Watford-based kids the opportunity of a life time.And they took part in the launch of his blockbuster Christmas film Red One.It comes as Joshua attended the surprise birthday party for the boxing coach he credited for saving his life.AJ first walked into the Finchley Amateur Boxing club aged 18 in a bid to get himself out of trouble on the streets of London.And head trainer Sean Murphy guided Joshua to elite national championships before setting up an Olympic gold victory.The two have remained close over the years and AJ was a guest at Murphy’s surprise bash – organised by Finchley ABC.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe posed alongside Murphy and posted a throwback snap of his amateur days with the caption: “Ride Or Die.”In Joshua’s last three bouts, he has been cornered by British coach Ben Davison.Joshua playing with a childCredit: SuppliedJoshua set up the Clean Hearts Community, a community-interest company dedicated to uplifting the local communityCredit: SuppliedThe boxer looked very happy speaking with NHS staff and parentsCredit: SuppliedJoshua showed off his caring side in the visitCredit: Supplied More

  • in

    Player suffers suspected heart attack during FA Trophy before leaving pitch in ambulance as game abandoned

    A PLAYER suffered a suspected heart attack during the Third Round FA Trophy match between Gateshead and Farsley Celtic.Tuesday night’s match was abandoned as Celts’ captain Lewis Turner, 32, was rushed to hospital via ambulance after collapsing on the pitch.National League North captain Lewis Turner has been rushed to hospital following a medical emergencyGateshead’s FA Trophy clash with Farsley Celtic has since been abandonedCredit: Getty – ContributorFarsley Celtic later released an update on his health saying Turner was “conscious and talking”.Play was stopped in the 28th minute as medical staff rushed onto the pitch to attend to the right-back.National League side Gateshead were 1-0 up at the time, with the ref sending both sets of players to the changing rooms in the 31st minute.Turner was taken away via ambulance to be treated in hospital.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSReports state that Turner’s team-mates were reduced to tears and desperately called for help.Gateshead FC wrote on X: “Following discussions between both clubs, the decision has been taken to abandon tonight’s game.”Our thoughts go out to Lewis Turner & all involved with @FarsleyCelticFC at this time.”While the visitors, who are in the National League North, wrote: “We will update supporters on Lewis’ condition when possible.”Most read in FootballThe club were able to do so later on, writing in a statement: “In tonight’s FA Trophy match with Gateshead, our captain Lewis Turner suffered a suspected cardiac arrest.”Thanks to the superb professional work by the medical staff and paramedics Lewis was resuscitated and was taken to hospital.Non-league stars go SWIMMING on their pitch as entire stadium covered in water as Storm Bert wreaks havoc”It is with great relief and happiness that we can report that Lewis is conscious and talking.”We will provide further updates as and when it is appropriate to do so.”We have been in contact with the relevant governing bodies, and in conjunction with them we will be offering all the support possible to Lewis, his family, and the other players and staff.”Incidents like this put life into context and we hope you will all join us in wishing Lewis and his family all the very best and we look forward to seeing him again soon.”Leeds United’s official X account wrote: “The thoughts of everyone at #LUFC are with Lewis at this time and we’re all wishing him a speedy recovery.”Turner came through the youth ranks at Leeds, before being loaned out between Harrogate Town and Chester.Both sets of supporters took to X to show their support for Turner.One fan inside the ground wrote: “Really wish for the best to him that was absolutely horrifying to see ❤.”A second said: “Praying for a full recovery 🙏.”While another praised: “Excellent work from the paramedics.”A fourth added: “It was so scary to watch. Hope and pray he recovers well and hope all the players are OK.”One more wrote: “That was one of the hardest things I’ve witnessed.”Gateshead striker Luke Hannant scored the opener around seven minutes before the horrifying incident.Whether the match will be replayed remains to be seen, but whichever team advances will host Boston United in the fourth round of the FA Trophy.READ MORE SUN STORIESGateshead are currently fourth in the National League, while Step Six West Yorkshire outfit Farsley sit 20th in the league below.Turner signed a contract extension with Farsley Celtic in May 2022 after making more than 100 appearances the club. More

  • in

    West Ham will wait to discuss Michail Antonio’s future as they offer him full support after horror car crash

    WEST HAM will wait to make a decision on extending Michail Antonio’s contract until he has left hospital.The Hammers are offering full medical and personal support to the striker after he was airlifted to hospital following a shocking car crash on Saturday.West Ham are offering full medical and personal support to striker Michail AntonioAntonio had a miraculous escape from his horrific supercar smash — suffering just a fractured legAntonio has four children with ex-wife Debbie, who came to his bedside this weekendAntonio, 34, is out of contract next summer and will not play again this season following surgery on a broken leg.But the club will hold talks about extending his deal in order to support him throughout his recovery.West Ham have form for sticking by their players in these situations, having extended long-serving defender Angelo Ogbonna’s deal after he suffered an ACL injury in 2021.For now, however, it is considered far too soon to be making decisions on Antonio, with the club focusing on his well-being following the traumatic incident.READ MORE FOOTBALLOnce the former Nottingham Forest man, who is still being monitored in a London hospital, has begun his recovery, discussions will be held over an extension.The Jamaica international, who has 83 goals in 323 West Ham appearances, had to be cut out of his Ferrari near Theydon Bois by firefighters and was trapped inside for just under 45 minutes.The Hammers squad are planning to show their support for the club’s all-time Premier League goalscorer ahead of tonight’s game against Wolves.Essex Police have appealed for information or dash cam footage and added their Road Policing Unit will carry out an investigation.Most read in FootballAntonio’s Hammers teammates will show their support for him ahead of their game against Wolves.The West Ham squad will warm-up in specially made shirts bearing “Antonio, 9”.They will also walk out of the tunnel ahead of kick-off in tops with his name on.All warm-up shirts and match-worn West Ham shirts will be signed by the squad, including Antonio, and auctioned off for charity.The proceeds will be split between the NHS and Air Ambulances UK Charity – with the West Ham board matching the proceeds.West Ham said: “Everyone at the Club would like to reiterate their heartfelt thanks to the first responders, emergency services, air ambulance staff and the NHS for the incredible support given to Michail in the wake of the accident.”He was trapped for almost an hour in the mangled wreckage before being airlifted from the scene in Theydon Bois, EssexAntonio has scored 83 goals for West Ham and won the club’ first European trophy in 2023 More

  • in

    Ex-Premier League ace Tommy Widdrington, 53, suffers two strokes as Strictly star son Kai thanks fans for support

    FORMER Prem star-turned-manager Tommy Widdrington is recovering well after suffering two strokes last week.The 53-year-old has been supported by his loving family, including his Strictly star son Kai, after being rushed to hospital with a sudden illness on November 27.Tommy Widdrington was rushed to hospital after suffering from two stokesWiddrington has been undergoing scans and tests since as part of treatment for an ischaemic stroke at Southend General hospital.He is now manager of National League side Aldershot Town, having overseen 82 matches since joining them in April last year.His eldest son Kai is a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, while the youngest, Theo, plays for Aldershot.Kai took to Instagram to send a touching message, writing: “Thank you to everyone who has sent their messages of love and support.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSA club statement, on behalf of his family, read: “Being of good health prior to Wednesday, and historically in general, his response to this episode and the initial treatment has been very encouraging.”He has made very good progress and is feeling and looking a lot better already.”He returned home late Tuesday afternoon to begin further rehabilitation.”He is very appreciative of all the messages of encouragement he’s received from all corners of the football world.”Most read in FootballIt is not yet known when Widdrington will be well enough to return to the dugout.Kai thanked fans on his Instagram storyTommy Widdrington spent four years playing in the Premier League with SouthamptonHis family added: “He also wants The Shots fans to know he has total faith in the staff and the players in his absence and looks forward to being back in the dugout when he’s deemed fit enough to do so.”The statement continued: “Tommy’s wife, Sharon, and immediate family have of course rallied and will continue to support his recovery and hope and have made this statement in the hope that it will quash any possibility of misinformation being circulated.”Widdrington’s illness came just four days after his side’s 2-2 draw with Dagenham & Redbridge.Aldershot host Wealdstone in the third round of the FA Trophy on Saturday.And in his place, the club will be led by assistants Hugo Langton and Richard Dryden.What is an ischemic stroke? An ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, cutting off blood flow and damaging brain cells. Common symptoms of a transient ischaemic attack include your face dropping on one side, not being able to lift your arms, and speech problems.It can also change how you think, feel and communicate. It’s the most common type of stroke.It accounts for about 87 per cent of all strokes.Newcastle-born Widdrington made his name as a midfielder with Southampton, who he joined as a kid in 1987.After making his First Division debut in 1991, Widdrington become a big player for the Saints following their promotion to the Premier League a year later.In total, he netted three goals in 90 games at St Mary’s.Widdrington went on to star at other clubs including Grimsby, Port Vale, Hartlepool and Macclesfield.He retired from playing in 2005 after a second spell at Port Vale.But four years later, Widdrington returned to the beautiful as a manager with Salisbury City.He has since taken charge of Hemel Hempstead, Eastbourne Borough and King’s Lynn – as well as two interim stints at Bristol Rovers.Widdrington has been at current club Aldershot for 21 months, winning 32 of his 82 matches at the helm.The Hampshire-based outfit currently sit 17th in the National League, with just one win in their last five games.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd they’ve conceded the second most goals in the league this season (33), three less than Boston United (36).Son Theo, 25, currently plays for Aldershot, scoring one goal and providing one assist this term.Widdrington scored three goals in his 90 Saints appearances More

  • in

    Ex-Premier League ace and dad of Strictly star Kai Widdrington suffers two strokes as shocked family rallies round

    FORMER Prem star-turned-manager Tommy Widdrington is recovering well after suffering two strokes last week.The 53-year-old has been supported by his loving family, including his Strictly Come Dancing star son Kai, after being rushed to hospital with a sudden illness on November 27.Tommy Widdrington was rushed to hospital after having two stokesWiddrington’s son Kai is a pro dancer on Strictly Come DancingHelen Skelton and Kai Widdrington pose during Strictly Come DancingCredit: GettyHis wife Sharon has been at his bedside as she spoke via a club statementWiddrington has been undergoing scans and tests since as part of treatment for two ischaemic strokes at Southend General hospital.He is now manager of National League side Aldershot Town, having overseen 82 matches since joining them in April last year.His eldest son Kai is a professional dancer on Strictly, while the youngest, Theo, plays for Aldershot.Kai took to Instagram to send a touching message, writing: “Thank you to everyone who has sent their messages of love and support.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSDespite his dad’s ongoing health battle, Kai was strong enough to bag himself a Guinness World Records certificate following an intense showdown in the annual Pro Challenge this week.He beat Neil Jones to the most Cha Cha Cha Time Steps executed in half a minute.Meanwhile, Widdrington’s family have promised to “rally around” the patriarch. An Aldershot club statement, on behalf of the family, read: “Being of good health prior to Wednesday, and historically in general, his response to this episode and the initial treatment has been very encouraging.Most read in FootballKai thanked fans on his Instagram storyTommy Widdrington spent four years playing in the Premier League with Southampton”He has made very good progress and is feeling and looking a lot better already.”He returned home late Tuesday afternoon to begin further rehabilitation.”He is very appreciative of all the messages of encouragement he’s received from all corners of the football world.”It is not yet known when Widdrington will be well enough to return to the dugout.His family added: “He also wants The Shots fans to know he has total faith in the staff and the players in his absence and looks forward to being back in the dugout when he’s deemed fit enough to do so.”The statement continued: “Tommy’s wife, Sharon, and immediate family have of course rallied and will continue to support his recovery and hope and have made this statement in the hope that it will quash any possibility of misinformation being circulated.”Kai finished eighth in Strictly last yearMeanwhile, son Kai was not paired with a celebrity contestant for the current 2024 series of Strictly and has only appeared in group performances. Speaking to the Daily Star, Kai shared: “Everyone wants to get a celebrity. Unfortunately it wasn’t my time this series.“Two boys couldn’t have one this series and sadly I am one of them. Some of us don’t get partners and that’s the way it is.”He added: “Let’s see what happens next year. Hopefully I’ll get one then.”He was partnered up with Angela Rippon in 2023The Strictly curse struck again when Kai and ex-girlfriend and fellow show dancer Nadiya Bychkova called time on their relationship in July.The ex-couple are being plagued by rumours that things are frosty after reportedly refusing to stand next to each other on screen.A source told The Sun: ‘It’s painfully obvious Nadiya and Kai are in the awkward post-break up phase and struggling to be near one another.”When the pair are in the Clauditorium, they’re always on opposite sides. Although they may have big smiles on their faces when the cameras are running, it’s been very tense between them.”Following Nadiya and Kai’s split it was reported bosses at Strictly were considering banning workplace romances due the tension backstage between the exes.Strictly dancers Nadiya and Kai called it quits in JulyMeanwhile, dad Widdrington’s illness came just four days after his side’s 2-2 draw with Dagenham & Redbridge.Aldershot host Wealdstone in the third round of the FA Trophy on Saturday.And in his place, the club will be led by assistants Hugo Langton and Richard Dryden.Newcastle-born Widdrington made his name as a midfielder with Southampton, who he joined as a kid in 1987.After making his First Division debut in 1991, Widdrington become a big player for the Saints following their promotion to the Premier League a year later.What is an ischemic stroke? An ischemic stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked, cutting off blood flow and damaging brain cells. Common symptoms of a transient ischaemic attack include your face dropping on one side, not being able to lift your arms, and speech problems.It can also change how you think, feel and communicate. It’s the most common type of stroke.It accounts for about 87 per cent of all strokes.In total, he netted three goals in 90 games at St Mary’s.Widdrington went on to star at other clubs including Grimsby, Port Vale, Hartlepool and Macclesfield.He retired from playing in 2005 after a second spell at Port Vale.But four years later, Widdrington returned to the beautiful game as a manager with Salisbury City.He has since taken charge of Hemel Hempstead, Eastbourne Borough and King’s Lynn – as well as two interim stints at Bristol Rovers.Widdrington has been at current club Aldershot for 21 months, winning 32 of his 82 matches at the helm.The Hampshire-based outfit currently sit 17th in the National League, with just one win in their last five games.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd they’ve conceded the second most goals in the league this season (33), three less than Boston United (36).Son Theo, 25, currently plays for Aldershot, scoring one goal and providing one assist this term.Widdrington scored three goals in his 90 Saints appearances More

  • in

    Edoardo Bove given incredible show of support in first Serie A match since collapse as Roma wear special t-shirts

    ROMA players wore T-shirts in support of stricken Fiorentina ace Edoardo Bove.The 22-year-old — on loan from the Stadio Olimpico — is “awake” and “alert” in hospital after collapsing against Inter Milan on Sunday.Roma players wore T-shirts in support of Fiorentina ace Edoardo BoveCredit: RexRoma stars sported jerseys ahead of the Serie A clash with AtalantaCredit: RexBove’s horrible ordeal has led to tributes across the boardCredit: RexBove is no longer in danger after undergoing medical treatmentCredit: RexBove was seen bending down and tying his laces before standing up and after taking a few steps forward, he suddenly collapsed.The horrible incident took place during the 15th minute of the match as players and staff formed a wall around the midfielder while medical staff tended to him.Team-mates and opponents alike were seen crying and with their hands on their heads as the terrifying ordeal played out.The Italian was then taken off by stretcher before being placed in an ambulance and taken to Careggi hospital.Read More on FootballReferee Daniele Doveri later told players to leave the pitch, with the match suspended due to the medical emergency.According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bove’s mother Tanya fainted inside the stadium after the traumatic incident.Reports suggest his dad Giovanni and girlfriend Martina attended the hospital straight away.But his devastated mum attended the emergency room after regaining consciousness, along with the mayor of Florence Sara Funaro.Most read in FootballBove has since regained consciousness and doctors have assured that his “life was not in danger” as they plan to re-evaluate him.Fiorentina said: “Edoardo Bove has spoken with family, the club, the coach and team-mates. Further tests will be carried out in the coming days.”Roma superstar Paulo Dybala shows off his skills in training The Italian’s awful ordeal has led to immense tribute all across the board.That includes his parent club as pals sported jerseys ahead of Roma’s clash with Atalanta on Monday.The Giallorossi went on to lose 2-0 to the reigning Europa League winners at the Olimpico.Bove plays for Fiorentina on loan from RomaCredit: GettyBove has received support across footballCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Ally McCoist reveals he’s suffering from incurable condition dubbed ‘Viking’s disease’ that two operations failed to fix

    RANGERS legend Ally McCoist has revealed he suffers from an incurable condition called Dupuytren’s contracture.McCoist, who is now one of the nation’s most popular football broadcasters, opened up about the inherited condition during a recent appearance on talkSPORT.Ally McCoist has opened up about his incurable condition dubbed ‘Viking’s disease’Credit: GettyThe condition can cause one or more fingers to curl towards the palm or pull sidewaysCredit: NHSHe revealed that both his parents had suffered from it.The former striker has undergone two operations on his hands over the years but the issue has returned.McCoist explained: “I have got Dupuytren’s. It’s a hereditary thing where your fingers close in.”I have had them done twice. I went to see the doctor and he said to me ‘Did your grandfather have it?’. I said ‘I don’t know’ because I never met any of my grandfathers, sadly they passed before I was born.Read More in Football”I said to him ‘But my dad had it’. He lifted his head up and said ‘You’re unlucky because it normally skips a generation’. I said ‘That’s good news because I have got five boys’.”My wee mum had it as well. My mum had it, my dad had it, it’s a hereditary thing.”The bizarre thing with Dupuytren’s is when I went to see the doctor he said ‘I will operate on it but it will come back in roughly nine years’. And I swear to God nine years later it came back.He added: “I have seen myself sending a text message which takes me five minutes to text with one finger when I should just dial the number.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSDupuytren’s contracture – also known as ‘Viking disease’ – is an inherited condition that causes an abnormal thickening of the skin in the palm of your hand at the base of your fingers.It can cause one or more fingers to curl towards the palm or pull sideways.Ally McCoist on Rangers ‘really, really concerning’ finances It is estimated that two million people in Britain have some degree of Dupuytren’s.The cause is unknown but it runs in families and worsens with age.McCoist is one of the UK’s most beloved football pundits and commentators.He currently works for talkSPORT, ITV and Sky Sports.What is Dupuytren’s DiseaseDupuytren’s contracture mainly affects the ring and little fingers. It’s common to have it in both hands at the same time.It tends to get slowly worse over many months or years.It’s not usually painful, but it can affect how you use your hand.It starts with lumps, dimples or ridges on your palm.Eventually, 1 or more of your fingers may get stuck in a bent position.There are 3 main types of treatment:surgery to remove the affected tissue in the hand (fasciectomy)using a needle to make small cuts in the affected tissue (needle fasciotomy)surgery to remove the affected tissue and skin (dermofasciectomy) More

  • in

    Alvaro Morata rushed to hospital after ex-Chelsea star suffers horror injury during AC Milan training session

    ALVARO MORATA was reportedly rushed to the hospital following a nasty clash of heads in training.The AC Milan hitman is said to have clashed heads with one of his team-mates in an aerial collision on Thursday.Alvaro Morata reportedly suffered a head injury in trainingCredit: GETTYThe striker, 32, is said to have been rushed to hospital to undergo emergency scansCredit: GettyAnd according to reports, the 32-year-old was promptly taken to a hospital in the Legnano district of Milan to undergo scans on his head.But ESPN claims the former Chelsea and Real Madrid striker hasn’t suffered “a serious injury.”He will, however, undergo further tests before giving the all-clear to return to action.Morata is expected to remain in hospital this evening and is set to miss the Rossoneiri’s trip to Cagliari on Sunday.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Spaniard joined Milan from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid in July for a fee of £10.9million.Morata – who inked a four-year contract at the San Siro – has struggled this campaign, finding the back of the net a mere three times in 12 appearances in all competitions.The veteran striker skippered Spain to Euro 2024 glory this past summer.But he went into the tournament fresh off a battle with depression, which was the result of heavy criticism from Spanish fans and journalists in the build-up to the tournament.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAlvaro Morata skippered Spain to Euro 2024 glory in JulyCredit: GETTYHe bravely revealed to El Partidazo: “When you have really tough times, depression, panic attacks, it doesn’t matter what job you do. “What situation you have in life, you have another person inside that you have to fight against every day and every night.”Alvaro Morata throws cup at fan during Spainb’s trophy parade after Euro 2024 winHe added: “For me, leaving Spain was the best option; I couldn’t stand it.”I had a really bad time. I thought I wouldn’t be able to put my boots on and go out on the pitch again.”But hey, thanks to a lot of people, from [Diego] Simeone, Koke, Miguel Angel Gil last year, my psychiatrist, my coach.”We are what you see on TV and on social media but often it’s not real.”You have to give an image because it’s your job. “I had a really bad time, I exploded and there came a time when I couldn’t lace up my boots.”And when I did I would run home because my throat would close up and my vision would start to blur.Alvaro Morata was dealing with depression before Euro 2024Credit: GETTY”Three months before the Euros I was wondering if I would be able to play another match. “I didn’t know what was happening to me but it’s very complicated and delicate.”At that moment you realise that what you like most in the world is what you hate the most, it’s complicated.”Every time I went out with them I always had some episode, sometimes without malice, with people about something that had happened in previous games. “And, in the end, they didn’t want to go shopping either, things that a normal father does with his children. READ MORE SUN STORIES”There came a time when they said so many things to me in front of them that I was embarrassed to be with them. “I was an easy joke, a joke to make the person next to you laugh.” More