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    Boxing legend Jeff Fenech, 59, rushed to hospital with mystery illness before undergoing SIX-HOUR open heart surgery

    BOXING legend Jeff Fenech has undergone lengthy open heart surgery after being rushed to hospital with a mystery illness.The 59-year-old, who was a world champion at three weights and later trained Mike Tyson, is regarded as Australia’s greatest-ever fighter.Boxing legend Jeff Fenech is facing the fight of his lifeCredit: GettyThe icon underwent six-hour open heart surgery this weekCredit: XNow he is in the biggest battle of his life after being hospitalised this week.Fenech, who won 28 of his 33 fights, underwent urgent tests on his heart at a private hospital in Sydney.That was after his body temperature reached almost 40 degrees.He then underwent open heart surgery that lasted almost SIX HOURS.READ MORE ON SPORTFenech was forced out of his punditry role on Main Event’s broadcast for Curtis Scott’s professional boxing debut last night.However, his colleague on the Aussie channel Ben Damon has since confirmed that the icon is recovering after doctors replaced a leaking infected heart valve.He tweeted: “Great news! The legendary Jeff Fenech has had successful open heart surgery to replace a leaking infected heart valve and is now recovering in hospital.“The surgeon is happy with how the six hour operation went.”Most read in BoxingThis is the second time that Fenech has undergone open heart surgery. Surgeons in Thailand replaced another infected valve while he was holidaying there back in 2019.Mike Tyson looks sharp ahead of bout against Jake Paul in fresh clip posted to his InstagramAmazingly, the ex-boxer was able to speaking to News Corp on Wednesday, saying: “I feel s***house.“I’m as sick as a dog. I have a mystery infection. I’m sick of it. “They think it has something to do with my heart and valves. They have done heaps of tests. I don’t yet know what the results are.”Fenech revealed he had been battling a fever for nearly two weeks and had hoped to avoid surgery.He added: “I hope I don’t need surgery but I don’t know. I hope not, I hope not.“I also have a really bad infection in my wrist and they think it could be heart related. If you see my wrist you’d die, it’s massive. It’s red, inflamed, swollen and sore.“It could be an infection coming from the valves which has spread through my body. They don’t know yet.Jeff Fenech (L) trained Mike Tyson back in 2005Credit: Reuters“Of course I’m worried, of course I am. I don’t want another operation. F*** that.”The ‘Marrickville Mauler’ firstly needed the open heart surgery almost five years ago while battling pneumonia, and that forced him to miss his daughter Jess get married.He then began coughing up blood and had a shaking fit prior to going to hospital in Bangkok.Fenech was then cut open as surgeons performed a five-hour operation and drained fluid from his lungs and replaced his heart valve.Speaking in 2019, he said: “I’ve got some pretty bad news, I’ve got an infected valve that’s connected to my heart.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Which means over the next few days they’ll try to get rid of the infection and then I’ll have to have surgery.”Fenech, who trained the legendary Mike Tyson in 2005, won the final fight of his career in 2008 courtesy of a majority decision win over Azumah Nelson.The Australian boxing legend pictured alongside Iron MikeCredit: Reuters More

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    Callum Wilson faces missing rest of season after being forced to undergo surgery with Euro 2024 dream in doubt

    CALLUM WILSON is reportedly facing missing the remainder of the season with injury.The Newcastle star has been in good form for the Magpies this season, scoring seven goals in 16 Premier League appearances.
    Callum Wilson could miss the rest of the seasonCredit: PA
    Wilson, 31, could not be set for a spell on the sidelines following surgery.
    The Daily Mail have claimed that he will go under the knife on his pectoral tendon.
    The report has suggested that he will be out of Eddie Howe’s side for between nine to 12 weeks.
    This length of time could see the striker’s season come to a premature end.
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    Wilson suffered the injury against Nottingham Forest where he was making his first start since before Christmas.
    After tangling with a defender he had to leave the pitch with his arm in his shirt which was formed into a temporary sling.
    The blow could also see Wilson miss out on Euro 2024.
    Wilson had been hoping to make it on the plane with Gareth Southgate’s side.
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    The England manager only has a few spaces in his squad for a striker.
    Harry Kane is expected to be named in the squad, while the likes of Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney and Dominic Calvert-Lewin could earn spots in Wilson’s absence.
    Aston Villa quickly cut Gareth Southgate from big screen during Man Utd clash as England manager is BOOED by fans
    Wilson had been linked with a move away from Newcastle in the January transfer window.
    Manchester United Chelsea and West Ham were among the clubs reportedly keen on signing the striker ahead of his contract expiring in the summer of 2025. More

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    Grimsby star Callum Ainley, 26, undergoes surgery after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer

    GRIMSBY TOWN have announced that star Callum Ainley is recovering from surgery after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer.The League Two club revealed the shock news this afternoon and stated that the midfielder will be out of action until at least the end of next month.
    Grimsby Town star Callum Ainley has undergone surgery for thyroid cancerCredit: Rex
    The League Two side say they hope to have the midfielder back in training at the end of FebruaryCredit: Getty
    A statement from the Mariners said: “Grimsby Town Football Club is saddened to announce that midfielder Callum Ainley was recently diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
    “The 26 year-old, who joined the Mariners from Crewe Alexandra in the summer, has undergone surgery and will now take some time at home to recover with a view to returning to training mid-late February.”
    Grimsby’s statement then added: “Callum has shown great strength of character since he received the news and he is currently being supported by the club to ensure he has everything he needs.
    “We would like to ask supporters and the media to respect his privacy at this time.
    READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
    “We wish Callum a speedy recovery. We hope to see him back in a black and white shirt very soon.”
    Ainley last appeared for Grimsby on December 16 in their 1-1 draw at Newport County in League Two.
    He made his debut for the Mariners on September 16 in a 3-0 loss against the Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney owned Wrexham.
    He has made seven appearances so far before David Artell’s side, who currently sit 19th in the fourth tier.
    Most read in Football
    Ainley came through the academy ranks at Crewe after joining them in 2011.
    The ace made his professional debut at the age of 17 in September 2015 and went on to make nearly 250 EFL appearances for them.
    He was also part of the promotion-winning squad in 2020 that finished second in League One.
    Thyroid cancer is quite rare in the UK with around 3,400 diagnoses made each year, with it more common in women than in men.
    The thyroid gland is found at the base of your neck at the front and is just behind the hollow where your collarbones meet.
    The gland, which is made up of two lobes connected by a bridge of tissue, is butterfly-shaped and makes and releases hormones that regulate your heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and weight.
    The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped hormone producing glandCredit: Getty
    Thyroid cancer mainly affects women as is not that common in the UKCredit: Getty More

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    Dwight McNeil’s partner ‘loses an organ or two in urgent open surgery’ with Everton ace sleeping at her hospital bedside

    EVERTON star Dwight McNeil has been sleeping at his partner’s hospital bedside after she lost “an organ or two in urgent open surgery”.The 24-year-old winger has been in action for the Toffees throughout their hectic festive period.
    Megan Sharpley says she has ‘lost an organ or two’ in her health battleCredit: Instagram
    She revealed all in an emotional Instagram postCredit: Instagram
    The winger slept at her hospital bedside throughout her ordealCredit: Instagram
    McNeil played the full game as Everton lost 2-1 at Tottenham on December 23, and repeated that in last Wednesday’s 3-1 home loss to Manchester City.
    The ex-Burnley ace, who moved to Goodison Park from Turf Moor for £20m in July 2022, then managed 74 minutes of action in Saturday’s 3-0 setback at Wolves.
    However, remarkably, he has managed to continue lining-up for Sean Dyche’s strugglers despite his partner Megan Sharpley undergoing a health battle.
    Megan revealed her struggles in an emotional New Year’s Instagram post that was accompanied with a snap of herself laid in a hospital bed.
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    She explained that she has recently “undergone urgent open surgery and lost an organ or two”.
    But she hailed “amazing human being” McNeil for being by her side every step of the way and looking after her.
    Megan wrote: “Dwight, you held my hand every time the bad news came, you reminded me how strong I was and how it was all going to be okay.
    “You dressed me, you washed me, you carried me, you fed me, you injected me, you juggled all your commitments whilst supporting me and never complained.
    Most read in Football
    “You slept by my hospital bed and kept me giggling even when the world felt like it was ending. You are the most amazing human being.
    “Now let’s leave the super tough times in 2023 and let’s go and take on forever. Another year utterly in love – I am blessed.”
    McNeil then shared the heartwarming post on his own Instagram account and commented: “we a team, I love you little one.”
    Megan had made another emotional post on New Year’s Eve, writing: “As a New Year is within sight, I pray for all the two things I’ve learnt to appreciate the most – health and happiness.
    “From start to finish this year has been mentally and physically exhausting. Ending the year this last week, undergoing urgent open surgery and losing an organ or two only seems fitting.
    “I know people have questions, which I’ll share in time, most I don’t have the answers to just yet, only that I’m not on the journey to recovery (take 2) and hoping for a result of full health.
    “But know this, I stand in faith that whatever 2024 has in store for me I know I will be strong enough to own it, overcome it and hopefully… enjoy it.”
    McNeil also replied to that post with a message that said: “Proud of you mooster.”
    McNeil and Everton will be back on the pitch on Thursday when they travel to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup.
    Everton star Dwight McNeil has been hailed for his support by his partnerCredit: Rex More

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    Reece James’ surgeon predicts whether Chelsea star will be fit for England’s Euro 2024 campaign after latest setback

    REECE JAMES will be in “top shape” for Euro 2024, according to his surgeon.The Chelsea full-back suffered a hamstring injury two weeks ago and is now set to be unavailable for at least three months.
    Reece James is set to be fit in time for Euro 2024Credit: PA
    The full-back suffered a hamstring injury earlier this monthCredit: Getty
    Dr Lempainen has revealed that James will be unavailable for three to four monthsCredit: Instagram @lasselempainen
    He underwent surgery on Thursday in Finland following several assessments.
    And his surgeon, Dr Lempainen, has assured him that he will be fully fit in time for next summer’s European Championship.
    In an interview with the Telegraph, Dr Lempainen was very optimistic about James’ road to recovery.
    He said: “I am very convinced that Reece will be in top shape before the European Championship.
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    “Chelsea will decide on how long he takes, but more likely we are talking about that kind of period [three to four months].”
    James has suffered several hamstring injuries in recent years.
    However, Dr Lempainen believes the 24-year-old’s recent operation will increase the chances of him staying fit.
    He added: “The surgery gives Reece a better chance of staying fit and not having a recurring problem.
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    “We will try to do our best during the rehab process to assess the risk factors in Reece’s left hamstring and try to help his strength, mobility and sprinting technique, so Reece can enjoy high-level football again.”
    After undergoing surgery this week, James took to Instagram to reveal that he had received more hate than support from football fans.
    He wrote: “The footballing world knew I got injured but the procedure I would go down this time took slightly longer to figure out the best solution.
    “I had surgery today to try fix my recurring hamstring issue, the recovery has started, both physically and mentally.
    “Since this injury I’ve had a good amount of support but significantly more hate and negativity.
    “Believe me I don’t wanna be injured, I’m happiest when I’m playing football.
    “Thanks to the understanding people that support me despite the highs or the lows, it goes a long way. Stay well, Reece.”
    Should his recovery go to plan, the Chelsea star could return to action in March.
    However, the chances of him being fit for England’s spring friendlies against Brazil and Belgium are slim. More

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    My son lost a leg to cancer but now he’s playing football for England after a remarkable operation

    TEENAGER Charlie Hewson plays football for England — after docs performed incredible surgery to save his leg.Charlie was just nine months old when he was diagnosed with a rare cancer called Ewing sarcoma in his left thigh bone.
    Charlie Hewson, 13, was diagnosed with Ewings Sarcoma bone cancer when he was just nine months old but that hasn’t stopped him from becoming a football prodigyCredit: Dan Charity
    Charlie plays for the England amputee teamCredit: Dan Charity
    In a remarkable op, surgeons removed the upper part of his leg, then reattached and swivelled the lower section, so his foot became his knee joint.
    Charlie, now 13, then adapted so well to his new prosthetic leg, he fulfilled his dream of playing football.
    Mum Kate, 46, who lives in Lindfield, West Sussex, with husband Chris, 47, and their daughter Martha, ten, said: “He plays for the amputee England team and also Chelsea and Brighton amputee teams too, and he loves it.
    “We are so proud watching him play after everything he’s been through.”
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    Kate and Chris first thought Charlie’s swollen leg was from an insect bite and were stunned to be told it was cancer.
    He had six rounds of chemo before becoming one of the first patients in the UK to have a “rotationplasty”, where his lower leg was moved into his hip joint and rotated.
    More chemo followed at London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital when the cancer spread — but six months after surgery, the Charlton ­Athletic fan had a prosthetic leg fitted.
    Kate added: “Charlie has always been mad about football, and over the years he’s had prosthetic limbs painted in his favourite team colours.”
    Most read in Football
    She said he is an “inspiration”, adding: “It was amazing they managed to carry out this surgery.
    “If they’d had to take his whole leg away, it would have been a whole different ball game for Charlie.”
    In a remarkable operation, surgeons removed the upper part of his leg, then reattached and swivelled the lower section, so his foot became his knee jointCredit: Dan Charity
    Charlie’s mum Kate added: ‘Charlie has always been mad about football’Credit: Dan Charity More

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    Everton chief Bill Kenwright recovering from emergency surgery on cancerous tumour and faces lengthy recovery

    EVERTON chairman Bill Kenwright was forced to undergo emergency surgery earlier this year, the club have announced.The Liverpudlian went under the knife in August to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver.
    Bill Kenwright underwent emergency surgery in AugustCredit: GETTY
    Bill Kenwright had a cancerous tumour on his liverCredit: PA:Press Association
    But complications during the procedure led to a prolonged stay in an intensive care unit.
    The 78-year-old’s condition, thankfully, has improved to the point where he can continue his recovery at home.
    A club statement read: “Everton would like to provide a short update on the health of our Chairman, Bill Kenwright.
    “Following a diagnosis at the beginning of August, Mr Kenwright underwent a major medical procedure six weeks ago to remove a cancerous tumour from his liver. 
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    “The procedure was completely successful, but complications during surgery necessitated a prolonged period in an intensive care unit. 
    “Mr Kenwright is now out of intensive care and has left hospital.
    “He has returned home to continue his recovery which is expected to be lengthy, but complete.
    “Right up until the day of the procedure the Chairman had continued to carry out all his club duties, working hard alongside Mr Moshiri to facilitate the proposed takeover by 777 Partners and supporting Kevin Thelwell with the Club’s summer transfer activity.
    Most read in Football
    Toffees chairman Bill Kenwright is finally at home recovering from his surgeryCredit: PA
    “Mr Kenwright has always been fiercely protective of his private life and is grateful that his privacy has been respected during this difficult time.
    “He hopes this will continue following this update.”
    Scores of Toffees fans flooded the club’s official X account with messages of support after learning of Kenwright’s health battle.
    One said: “Prayers with him and his family.”
    Another said: “Hope he gets better soon, wouldn’t wish cancer on me worse enemy, rest up and take it easy Bill.”
    And another said: “Thoughts are with Bill Kenwright in wishing him a full recovery from cancer, now that his illness has been made public.”
    One remarked: “Wishing him a speedy recovery and good health after his operation and hope he’s cancer-free.”
    Another chimed in: “Get well soon BK.”
    Read More on The Sun
    Kenwright has been at the helm of the Goodison Park ship since 2004.
    Everton will be back in action on Saturday afternoon, welcoming bitter rivals Liverpool to Goodison for the first Merseyside Derby of the season. More