More stories

  • in

    Ruben Loftus-Cheek rushed to hospital for emergency surgery hours before AC Milan’s huge clash with Napoli

    AC MILAN star Ruben Loftus-Cheek has been rushed to hospital for emergency appendix surgery.The former England midfielder was expected to start in Milan’s crunch Serie A clash against second-placed Napoli at 7:45pm BST.Ruben Loftus-Cheek has been rushed to hospital for emergency appendix surgeryCredit: GettyLoftus-Cheek has struggled with a series of injury problems this seasonCredit: GettyLoftus-Cheek felt severe abdominal pains overnight while at the team hotel in Naples, according to Football Italia.Doctors sent him to the local hospital, where tests confirmed acute appendicitis with the need for emergency surgery.Appendicitis can be potentially fatal if left unchecked, as the appendix can become so inflamed that it bursts.The 29-year-old was slated for a start against his former Chelsea manager Antonio Conte’s side, with midfielder Yunus Musah suspended.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSHe travelled with the team from the north of Italy to the south before noticing something was wrong.Loftus-Cheek has struggled with a series of injury problems this season, making only 22 competitive appearances for Milan, in which he provided one assist.In fact, he had only just returned from a muscle injury to face Como in the Serie A on March 15.Before that, the former Chelsea star was out with a groin problem, leaving with only six starts from an available 14 league games this term.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut Loftus-Cheek was involved in late drama with his former England team-mate Dele Alli upon his return.Alli – who plays for Como under manager Cesc Fabregas – was sent off 10 minutes into his club debut for a late lunge on his fellow countryman.Former Chelsea star Ruben Loftus-Cheek roasts Micah Richards live on TV with hilarious quip about his haircutThe former Spurs star’s initial yellow was upgraded to a red after VAR sent referee Matteo Marchetti to the monitor.But Loftus-Cheek and Alli found the funny side of it later that evening, with the latter sharing their WhatsApp conversation.Writing at 11pm on Saturday night, Alli wrote: “Picture looks bad, I just tried to clip your heel.”When the ref went to VAR I didn’t even know it was for me 😫😂.”Loftus-Cheek then added: “I stayed down because I was blowing.”The pair were part of Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the 2018 Russia World Cup.Milan have endured a poor campaign in Serie A this season and sit ninth, 14 points behind second-placed Napoli.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey started the season with Paulo Fonseca in charge, but he was replaced by former Porto boss Sergio Conceicao in December.Loftus-Cheek has scored 10 goals and provided three assists in 62 appearances since joining from Chelsea for £18.5m in 2023. More

  • in

    ‘It had eaten away at me’ – Franck Ribery reveals he nearly lost his LEG after horrific infection left him in A&E

    FRANCK RIBERY feared losing his leg as he lay in hospital during the 12 “scariest” days of his career.Footballers often speak of painful moments in terms of missed chances, failed transfers or unfulfilled dreams.Franck Ribery ended his career at Salernitana in October 2022 after the most traumatic time of his 18-year careerCredit: GettyRibery’s peak years came at Bayern, including Champions League gloryCredit: PA:Empics SportAnd yes, they sometimes also speak of frustration over injuries when pondering their low points.But for French legend Ribery there is no doubt what counts as the worst time of his two decades at the very top. It came as he wound his career down at Salernitana, with a particularly unlucky finale to 13 months at the Italian club in 2022.Ribery had what should have been a pretty routine operation to insert a metal plate into his knee.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBut although it went well, he told L’Équipe his knee then “had no more cartilage”And after that his situation plunged perilously.The former Bayern Munich winger, 41, went back to have the plate taken out about five months after his initial surgery.But Ribery had picked up an infection and soon discovered how frightening the scenario had become.Most read in FootballThe ex-Marseille and Fiorentina hero explained: “I took tablets for two months, the plate was removed but the infection had eaten away at me.”It was so bad that I had holes in my leg. I had contracted Staphylococcus Aureus.Franck Ribery trains with Bayern Munich “I was in the emergency department in the hospital in Austria for twelve days. “I was really scared. They could have cut off my leg.”In the end, Ribery recovered well enough to continue life as normal.And the traumatic time surely put into perspective the fact it confirmed his playing days were over at the age of 39.In all, Ribery won a then-record nine Bundesliga titles in 12 years at Bayern, also lifting the Champions League crown in 2013.He picked up 81 caps and a runners-up medal at the 2006 World Cup.And how about these for individual stats – 176 goals and 211 assists in 784 matches. More

  • in

    Argentina legend Hugo Gatti, 80, in intensive care after contracting pneumonia following hip surgery

    ARGENTINA legend Hugo Gatti is being treated in intensive care after contracting pneumonia following hip surgery.The retired goalkeeper was operated on after injuring himself in a street fall while walking his dog.Argentina legend Hugo Gatti is being treated in intensive care after contracting pneumonia after hip surgeryCredit: GettyHugo won 18 caps for Argentina and traveled to England for the 1966 World CupCredit: AlamyThe 80-year-old’s surgery initially went well – but a virus he contracted in hospital caused post-op complications.The aftermath and breathing problems that occurred saw Gatti placed in a high-dependency care unit.One of his two sons was already in Argentina, but the other had to return to his homeland after being told Gatti was fighting for his life.The hospital where Gatti is being treated has not been named.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSNews of his latest health battle comes just less than a year after he lost his wife of more than 50 years, Nacha Nodar.They married in 1977 and one of the two children they had, Lucas, played as a midfielder for Argentinos Juniors, Dundee, and Badajoz. Lucas was appointed U23 manager at League Two side Bromley after hanging up his boots in 2022.The 47-year-old coach now manages Serie D side Olbia in Italy.Most read in FootballDad Hugo, capped 18 times by his country, was part of the Argentine squad that travelled to England for the 1966 World Cup.The iconic goalkeeper played for both River Plate and Boca Juniors in Argentina after turning professional with Buenos Aires club Atlanta.He holds the record for the most appearances in the Argentine league ever, with 765 games played.He has been described as the first goalkeeper to wear gloves and one of the first to regularly leave his penalty area.After retiring following 13 years at his last club Boca Juniors he became a controversial TV football pundit.He bizarrely claimed in 2019 Lionel Messi must quit Barcelona and join Real Madrid to prove he was truly the greatest of all time.He told El Chiringuito TV in Spain: “It seems as if I am anti-Argentine, but until Messi plays in the big games, he will continue to be a player of home games.”He has to have balls to go to Madrid and prove everything there like Cristiano. Otherwise he will be just one more.”Cristiano went to the best club in the world. Messi plays at home, on his pitch with everything that comes with that.”Let him play in the Champions League and the World Cup, otherwise he will always be one more.”When he plays there, he will fight with Johan Cruyff, Diego Maradona and Pele.”READ MORE SUN STORIESGatti was reportedly ill after contracting Covid in March 2020.He is nicknamed El Loco or ‘The Madman’ because of his outspoken character and eccentric style of play. More

  • in

    Diego Maradona homicide trial BEGINS as late football icon’s medical team accused of fatal negligence over 2021 death

    DIEGO Maradona’s medical team could face 25 years in prison as the football legends homicide trial starts today in Buenos Aires.The Argentinian star died after suffering a heart attack at his home in 2020 while recovering from brain surgery for a blood clot.Diego Maradona’s homicide trial has started todayCredit: ReutersDoctor Leopoldo Luque (C) during the trial for the death of Diego MaradonaCredit: APPsychologist Carlos Angel Diaz (C-R) during the trial at the San Isidro courtCredit: AFPEight members of the World Cup winner’s medical team have been accused of negligence that contributed to his death at 60 years old.Each defendant has denied wrongdoing but risks between eight and 25 years in prison if convicted of “homicide with possible intent”.His neurologist Leopoldo Luque, who performed the surgery, is one of the seven people facing trial.Psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, psychologist Carlos Diaz, doctor Nancy Forlini, clinical physician Pedro Pablo Di Spagna, and nurses Mariano Perroni and Ricardo Almiron, will also appear in court.read more on maradonaThe day nurse Gisela Dahiana Madrid, who found Maradona dead just two weeks after his surgery, has asked to be tried by jury separately.More than 100 witnesses, including members of Maradona’s family and his doctors over the years, are expected to take the stand in the long-delayed trial in the Buenos Aires suburb of San Isidro.Although the icon struggled with obesity, alcoholism and drug abuse, 20 medical experts stated in 2021 that his death could have been avoided with better treatment.Prosecutors have accused the medical team of pushing for Maradona to receive home care, which proved “reckless” and “totally deficient.”Most read in FootballThe night nurse said he had seen “warning signs” but had received orders “not to wake” Maradona.Prosecutors allege the footballer was abandoned to his fate for a “prolonged, agonizing period” before his death.Diego Maradona’s daughter fights back tears as she says family live in fear of mafia ahead of trial into his death The football legends’ family claimed that leaked audio and text messages show that the star’s health was in imminent danger, said Mario Baudry, a lawyer for Maradona’s son Dieguito.He said the messages showed the medical team’s strategy was to try and ensure that Diego’s daughters did not intervene “because if they did, they (the medical staff) would lose their money.”The expert 2021 report that ignited this trial questioned why the football legend was released from hospital so soon after his surgery, saying: “The home confinement did not comply with norms and protocols.”The rented home Maradona stayed in notably did not have a defibrillator.This huge trial is expected to last until July.Vadim Mischanchuk, lawyer for psychiatrist Agustina Cosachov, said he was “very optimistic” of an acquittal, arguing his client was in charge of Maradona’s mental, not physical health.The World Cup winner’s death plunged Argentina into mourning during the pandemic.Maradona shaking hands with his doctor Leopoldo Luque in Olivos in 2020Credit: AFPFans outside the courthouse on TuesdayCredit: GettyTens of thousands of people queued to bid farewell to the former Boca Juniors and Napoli striker as his body lay in state in the presidential palace.Mardona’s former partner Veronica Ojeda arrives at the courthouseCredit: GettyLocals have remained heartbroken over the World Cup winner’s tragic death.READ MORE SUN STORIESpensioner Hilda Pereira told AFP: “All society needs to know… what really happened, who abandoned him… and whoever is responsible must pay the price.”Maradona “did not deserve to die as he died, alone,” she added, her voice quavering.The star’s daughter Jana Maradona, arrives at courtCredit: ReutersEight people have been accused of ‘homicide with possible intent’Credit: AFP More

  • in

    Carson Jones dead at 38: Boxing champion who fought Kell Brook dies after surgery on oesophagus that ‘drove him insane’

    BOXER Carson Jones has passed away aged 38 as tributes poured in.Jones is well remembered for twice fighting and losing to Kell Brook during his 63-bout career. Carson Jones has passed away aged 38 as tributes poured inCredit: RexThe American – whose last fight was in 2023 – recently fell ill after complications during oesophagus surgery.And he has since sadly died – with former opponent Caleb Truax confirming the news.He posted a picture of them together and wrote: “Rest in paradise to my man. Boxing lost a good one, too early.” Jones had told his social media followers in January that he was struggling with gastrointestinal problems. READ MORE IN BOXINGIt affects the digestive tract, which is the passageway that food and liquids travel through from the mouth to the anus.At one point, Jones posted: “I finally have surgery on my esophagus on Monday. I cannot wait. This s*** is driving me insane.”I’ve had a max of three bites of food per day for the last few weeks, with a loss of 35 pounds. Some days, there is no food or drink at all.”Truax had previously posted: “Boxing community, we need some prayers for former world title challenger Carson Jones.Most read in Boxing”He had complications during a surgical procedure, and my friend can use all the good vibes he can get.” Jones lost to ex-welterweight world champion Brook on points in 2012 and then by stoppage in their rematch a year later. He also faced the likes of Antonio Margarito, Ted Cheeseman and Callum Walsh. Jones’ final fight came in October 2023 against James Warren at light-heavyweight – winning in two rounds. British boxing referee Mark Lyson posted: “Very sad to hear the news about the passing of Carson Jones at just 38. RIP Champ.”Manager Sam Jones said: “Such sad news about Carson Jones.” Kell Brook twice beat Jones, pictured here in their first 2012 fightCredit: Mark Robinson – The SunTed Cheeseman also fought JonesCredit: Rex Features More

  • in

    Adorable moment Lisandro Martinez’s mum helps Man Utd star with rehab after devastating injury KO’d season

    INJURED Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez warmed hearts after sharing snaps from his mum’s visit.Martinez is in post-surgery rehab after tearing his ACL in the closing stages of Man Utd’s 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace on February 2.Lisandro Martinez posted adorable snaps showing him hugging his mumMartinez is out for the season after tearing his ACL last monthSilvina helped her son with his rehab exercisesThe pair laughed as she urged Martinez to lift his leg higherThe Argentine is out for the rest of the season and is being supported by mum Silvina and his pregnant girlfriend.In his latest update after surgery, Martinez shared pictures from his mum’s visit to his Manchester home.The defender shared snaps of the pair hugging on his doorstep and a hilarious video of her helping him with exercises.His heartwarming Instagram post was captioned: “Thank you for hugging my heart and making me smile. 😁💖 I love you Ma!”READ MORE ON MAN UTDHis mum appeared to keeping his spirits up as she urged him to lift his injured right leg higher in the air.Martinez was wearing his Man Utd training kit and the clip showed him watching his team-mates lose 1-0 to Spurs last Sunday.The centre-back was laying on a rehab bed in his living room and his knee was covered in supportive tape.And fans praised the adorable moment, with one writing: “There’s nothing like a mother’s love and motivation.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWhile another said: “This is so adorable.”A third added: “You’ve got this warrior.”Man Utd ratings: Casemiro disappearing into irrelevance as Real Madrid legend saved again by Bruno Fernandes One more wrote: “Even football players need their mothers.”The 27-year-old was stretchered off at Old Trafford against Palace after injuring his knee.The World Cup winner tussled for the ball with Eagles star Ismaila Sarr late on.But he appeared to get his leg stuck in the turf and was in serious pain.United have not won in the Premier League since his injury, losing to Spurs and drawing 2-2 with Everton this weekend.Martinez underwent surgery this month and gave up an emotional update on social media.He wrote on Instagram last week: “Today, after going through several stormy days where I allowed myself to feel and accept my sadness, helplessness, insecurities, fears, and a deep emotional imbalance, I am reconnecting with my essence and my values, which help me see things from a kinder and more positive perspective.”Thanking his club and the Argentine national team, he added: “I feel immense gratitude for the incredible work and support of @manchesterunited , @afaseleccion , my family, friends, team-mates, and everyone who took the time to send me a message of encouragement.Martinez showed he had the support of long-term partner MuriMartinez showed he had the support of childhood sweetheart Muri Lopez Benitez and their much-anticipated first child.The couple went public with 26-year-old Muri’s pregnancy last October.Martinez and Muri posted a photo of them holding their baby scan, with the defender writing in a message alongside their snap: “We are so happy that you came into our lives. Thank you for choosing us.”They later revealed they were expecting a daughter and have decided to name her Aurora.READ MORE SUN STORIESSince his £56.7million move from Ajax, the defender has had two operations on his foot and damaged the medical ligament in his right knee, although that injury didn’t require surgery.The Red Devils are hoping Martinez will be back to fitness for the start of next season.Martinez has been ruled out for the rest of the seasonThe defender left the field in tears on a stretcher at the start of the month More

  • in

    ‘Stormy days’ – Man Utd star Lisandro Martinez shares emotional update from hospital bed after op on horror knee injury

    LISANDRO Martinez has revealed he is on the road to recovery thanks to the love of his stunning girlfriend and their unborn daughter in a moving post-op update from his hospital bed.The Manchester United star opened up on the emotional rollercoaster he experienced following the season-ending knee injury against Crystal Palace earlier this month after undergoing surgery.Lisandro Martinez posted an update from the hospital following knee surgeryCredit: instagram @lisandromartinezzzMartinez showed he had the support of long-term partner MuriCredit: instagram @lisandromartinezzzHe admitted to initial feelings of “sadness and helplessness” after tearing his cruciate ligaments and said he would put his heart and soul into his rehabilitation process after the “perfect” operation.In his first update after surgery, he gave the thumbs-up as he admitted: “Today, after going through several stormy days where I allowed myself to feel and accept my sadness, helplessness, insecurities, fears, and a deep emotional imbalance, I am reconnecting with my essence and my values, which help me see things from a kinder and more positive perspective.”Thanking his club and the Argentine national team, he added: “I feel immense gratitude for the incredible work and support of @manchesterunited , @afaseleccion , my family, friends, team-mates, and everyone who took the time to send me a message of encouragement.“The surgery went perfectly!! Now it’s time to give it my all, with heart and soul, in the rehabilitation process.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans responded by offering him more support.One wrote: “We’ll see you back soon.”Another added: “You’ve got this warrior.”The 27-year-old showed he had the support of childhood sweetheart Muri Lopez Benitez and their much-anticipated first child.Most read in FootballThe couple went public with 26-year-old Muri’s pregnancy last October.JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSMartinez and Muri posted a photo of them holding their baby scan, with the defender writing in a message alongside their snap: “We are so happy that you came into our lives. Thank you for choosing us.”They later revealed they were expecting a daughter they have decided to name Aurora.‘He’s perfect for Man Utd’ – Neville begs Amorim to re-sign flop strikerOvernight the footballer posted an adorable photo on his Instagram showing his girlfriend lying on his chest with her eyes closed as he embraced her in his hospital bed with his surgical gown still on.The brunette had written on the snap which she also posted online: “Getting better with lots of love” followed by a heart emoji.Martinez responded by referencing their unborn daughter and adding: “I love you both lots.”They met in their early teens in their home city of Gualeguay, and Muri has been at his side during his meteoric rise from Newell’s Old Boys to Ajax and his subsequent July 2022 move to Manchester.Muri was in Qatar to watch Martinez and his team-mates secure World Cup glory against France in December 2022.She’s known for her love of carnivals and often shows her glam side on social media.She showed off her baby belly a fortnight ago in a selfie photo with Martinez who had their French bulldog called Polo sat on his lap.Since his £56.7million move from Ajax the defender has had two operations on his foot and damaged the medical ligament in his right knee, although that injury didn’t require surgery.Man Utd are hoping Martinez will be back to fitness for the start of next season.This week the club have been plunged into crisis after FOUR stars were injured in training ahead of their clash at Tottenham to take them to 11 first-team stars in the treatment room.Kobbie Mainoo, Manuel Ugarte and Toby Collyer represent a triple blow to the Red Devils’ centre midfield options, while Amad Diallo was also announced to have suffered a potentially season-ending injury.Amad posted a heartfelt message on social media following the news of his injury.The Ivorian said: “Extremely disappointed to be writing this message in such a crucial time of the season.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Unfortunately, I will be out for some time with an injury. I will come back stronger than ever!! Time to support the boys from the outside. Still loads to play for.”This crisis has prompted manager Ruben Amorim to turn to the club’s Carrington Academy to bolster the ranks, with five youngsters – Sekou Kone, Harry Amass, Jack Moorhouse, Elyh Harrison and Chido Obi – being called up to travel to London with the senior squad. More

  • in

    Team GB legend and former Strictly star Roger Black undergoes open heart surgery on condition he’s had for 47 YEARS

    FORMER Olympian Roger Black has undergone open heart surgery on a condition he has lived with for 47 years.The Team GB legend is a two-time 4x400m relay world champion and he won two silver medals at the 1996 Atlanta Games.Roger Black has undergone open heart surgeryCredit: InstagramThe Team GB icon won two silver medals at the Olympics in 1996Credit: Times Newspapers LtdBlack, 58, battled a congenital heart condition throughout his glittering career.But the athlete underwent surgery last month after his health took a turn for the worse.Black said on Instagram: “Three weeks ago I had open heart surgery to replace my aortic valve and repair my aortic root.”My ‘incompetent’ bicuspid aortic valve was discovered when I was 11-years-old and for the last 47 years I have been looked after by the cardiac team at Southampton General Hospital.READ MORE SPORT NEWS”At my annual check-up last summer it was clear that things had deteriorated despite me having no obvious symptoms.’It was a shock but deep down I knew this day would come even though I never allowed my heart disease to define me and prevent me from pursuing my athletic career.”Thank you to Mr Tsang and all the medical team in Southampton who cared for me during what was a tough time in hospital. I am forever grateful.”Most of all thank you to my wife Jules who was there when I woke up in intensive care 11 hours after surgery and has cared for me every day in recovery.Most read in Athletics”Each day has been about small steps – yesterday was a big milestone as we walked to the top of St Martha’s Hill… our special place.”After retiring from athletics, Black worked as a pundit for the BBC as well as appearing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2004, where he partnered pro Camilla Dallerup.The former runner also reached the Masterchef final in 2006, losing to rugby hero Matt Dawson.Black is a father of three, having twin boys George and Max with wife Julia Burgess.He also has a daughter Isabelle from his previous marriage to Elsa Devassoigne.When Black was diagnosed with congenital heart disease aged 11, he was initially banned from playing sport.He eventually got back into playing rugby before switching to athletics aged 18.Black’s health has worsened in recent years and he no longer exercises intensely due to his condition.Roger Black with his wife JuliaCredit: instagram More