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

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

    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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    Sky Sports presenter Anna Woolhouse undergoes surgery and shares pictures from hospital bed as she gives health update

    PRESENTER Anna Woolhouse has revealed that she underwent surgery for her endometriosis last week.The Sky Sports star, 41, uploaded a selfie taken in her hospital bed, in addition to a heartfelt message.Anne Woolhouse posted a health update on social mediaCredit: INSTAGRAM / @woolyanna1The Sky Sports presenter shared a picture of herself post-opCredit: INSTAGRAM / @woolyanna1Woolhouse also uploaded a picture of her patched up stomach post-surgery.Updating fans, the popular presenter wrote: “The comeback is always greater than the setback.”It’s been quite the ride the past 7 days. Last week I had my second laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis in 7 years, it was done by the surgeon controlling a robot which blows my mind (avoid slide 2 if you’re squeamish!) it ended up being a slightly chunkier op than I’d bargained for but all ok in the end.”March was endometriosis awareness month, I know I’m a couple of days late, but it’s important to still shine a light on condition that still isn’t known or spoken about nearly enough.READ MORE IN SPORT”It is a condition that affects 1 in 10 women and for so many even getting a diagnosis is a long, emotional and painful process and can be incredibly debilitating to live with.”I was first diagnosed back in 2017 after years of endless GP appointments.”I had my first surgery in 2018 and for a couple of years my symptoms did improve, but alas it came back and in recent years has resulted in some heartbreaking blows and ultimately meant having another surgery, really hoping this will be it.”Woolhouse is primarily known for presenting Sky Sports’ boxing coverage.Most read in BoxingWoolhouse, 41, is a popular Sky Sports presenterCredit: GettyShe has worked at several Anthony Joshua fights for the broadcaster.Just last month she presented coverage of Lauren Price’s victory over Natasha Jonas at the Royal Albert Hall.In Woolhouse’s latest Instagram post, she also thanked staff at Cromwell Hospital in London, while also admitting that watching Married at First Sight on her iPad helped get her through.The Sky Sports star then added: “Sending love to anyone who has endometriosis or if you are on the long path to a diagnosis don’t give up.”For me it’s time to rest and recoup & take some steady walks in the sunshine, so grateful for that.”I might be ‘off games’ for a couple of weeks but I’ll be back wearing dodgy odd socks and trainers in no time.”Woolhouse has also covered darts for Sky SportsCredit: Instagram / @woolyanna1 More

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    Deontay Wilder in secret surgery before announcing boxing return as ‘enormous’ Anthony Joshua fight at Wembley targeted

    DEONTAY WILDER had secret shoulder surgery before announcing his boxing return – with the hopes of reviving a fight with Anthony Joshua. Wilder was twice lined up to face AJ by Saudi boxing supremo Turki Alsheikh – but the American was beaten before both occasions. Deontay Wilder has had shoulder surgeryCredit: GettyThe former WBC champion lost on points to Joseph Parker in December 2023 and then knocked out by Zhilei Zhang last June. But what Wilder did not know was he had a severely busted right shoulder – which he went under the knife to fix four months ago. His manager Shelly Finkel told SunSport: “It may have been there with the Parker fight, but it was before the Zhang fight. “Not making excuses for the result, but it’s just the reality he had it.READ MORE IN BOXING”And when the doctor pressed down on his wrist and said extend your arm and push down, he said it’s amazing you could hold your arm up and fight at all.”He’s been now working out and his flexibility is back and he’s punching harder than ever.”Wilder, 39, now returns on June 27 against Tyrrell Herndon, 37, who has a 24-5 record with three wins on the bounce. The Bronze Bomber had a period of radio silence after his loss in Riyadh to Zhang, 41, but retirement was never even a whisper. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFinkel revealed: “No, he never wanted to call it a day because he never wanted his career to end the way that was.” Wilder plans to also fight around September time before teeing himself up for a blockbuster around Christmas or New Year. Inder Singh Bassi: Sikh Boxing Trailblazer on the Path to becoming World Champion | Contender DocumentaryAnd his camp refuse to give up on the overdue clash with AJ. Finkel said: “It would be a big, big fight still. Maybe not quite as big as it was, you know, five years ago, but it’s still enormous.”It’s like in a way, Mayweather and Pacquiao wasn’t the same when they fought, but it was pretty damn big.”Ex-UFC champ Francis Ngannou – who lost to Tyson Fury and Joshua – was also a name in discussions to face Wilder. But Finkel said: “It’s just timing wasn’t right on any of them and that could still be a major fight in the lead up to Joshua.”Or Deontay fights again this year after June and goes right into Joshua for the end of the year or next year.”I believe that’s a Wembley card, so we’ll see.”Anthony Joshua is still lined up to fight WilderCredit: REUTERS More

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    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

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    ‘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

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    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

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    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