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    Ex-Man City women’s star probed for ‘conning fuming parents out of £45k in coaching sessions that NEVER happened’

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    AN international women’s footballer is being investigated for allegedly conning parents out of thousands of pounds for coaching sessions that never took place.Welsh star Natasha Harding, who played for Manchester City, Liverpool and Aston Villa, is accused of taking hundreds of pounds for one-to-one training with youngsters – but never carrying out the classes.Natasha Harding in action for Manchester City in 2015Credit: GettyHarding was capped 103 times by WalesCredit: GettyAngry parents claim Harding, capped 103 times by Wales in a star-studded career, owes them £45,000 in refunds.Harding has apologised for the cancelled sessions but said it was “unavoidable” and “beyond my control”.She said she is “devastated” over the situation and has agreed to pay refunds.There are 27 “victims” including whole teams of young girls, who are said to have handed over as much as £1,200 each without getting anything in return.Read More SportIndividual sessions for kids aged between eight and 15 cost £30 an hour, but many parents were buying multiple classes and some included whole squads of hopefuls.Now the South Wales football community, where Harding began her career, fear the ex-striker has deliberately taken their money and has no intention of giving it back or holding any of the coaching sessions.A WhatsApp group was created by outraged parents, after they realised more and more alleged victims were owed hundreds of pounds by Harding.A source, whose 12-year-old daughter was due to train with the ex-pro, told The Sun: “She promises a lot to the kids, my friend’s daughter is autistic and she kept asking when she was going to see Natasha.Most read in Football“She spent £900, she would add on dietician and gym plans but never actually got anything.“She has repaid small amounts now that she knows we are putting up a fight to get our money back.“But the parents who are owed more than £1,000 have got nothing back.”After retiring from professional football last year Harding, 35, started offering out days where children could participate in private sessions.According to sources, the sessions grew in popularity and Harding started block booking for up to £360.OUT OF POCKETA lot of the children who booked onto the sessions play for academies in Gwent, South East Wales, or The South Girls’ Development Centre.Their parents are fearful that speaking out could affect their children’s future football careers.The anonymous source added: “She is putting fear into us because she is perceived to control the football world, she’s got contacts everywhere.“My daughter ended up having zero sessions, I couldn’t get her to commit to a date and it took me weeks to chase her for a refund.“People are realising she has purposefully taken money with no intention of giving it back.”The promised sessions were supposed to start in June 2023 and when they began to be cancelled many gave Harding “the benefit of the doubt”.But now parents are exchanging up to 90 messages a day on a specially set-up WhatsApp group as the missed thirty-pound sessions have begun piling up.Reported excuses include Harding telling parents she had two car crashes in three weeks, alongside two car breakdowns and one car “blow out”.Harding, Welsh Footballer of the Year in 2016, has been reported to Action Fraud, and the National Fraud and Cyber Crime Reporting Centre.It is understood parents have also reported her to Gwent Police and Gloucestershire Police.STAR’S APOLOGYHarding, 35, who lives in Stroud, Glos, has apologised and blames circumstances beyond her control for the missed coaching sessions.She told The Sun: “I offer my apologies to those affected whose sessions I could not complete. “This was unavoidable, and it was never the intention not to fulfil the sessions.”Because of circumstances beyond my control, which was always made clear to parents, I had to cancel some sessions after initiating and completing others.”Harding, now a TV commentator on the women’s game, added: “I’ve been trying to expand my small academy and was unfortunately let down by additional coaches, my car being written off and the second car breaking down.“When without a car I caught a two-hour train to sessions to avoid cancellations, lugging my equipment with me and needing taxis.”However, this was not sustainable.”The academy’s purpose is to provide detailed technical coaching to young boys and girls and provide them with opportunities I never had, with the cost below alternative coaches to give equal opportunity without barriers, prejudices, or preferences.”I’m devastated that I haven’t been able to finish the session blocks, and I’ve always been upfront about the problems I’ve faced that are beyond my control.”We agreed on refunds for those sessions and I have paid them.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The majority of parents have been incredibly understanding and I have received a huge amount of positive references and I continue to work hard, delivering local sessions.”A spokeswoman for Action Fraud confirmed a complaint had been made about Harding. 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      Ex-Premier League prodigy jailed for stabbing teen with Rambo knife after turning to crime when footie career flopped

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      A FORMER Premier League prodigy has been jailed for stabbing a teen with a Rambo knife after turning to crime when his career flopped.Causso Darame left 19-year-old Ronnie Evans partially paralysed with “life-changing injuries” after attacking him in a “vicious” robbery.Causso Darame stabbed a teen in a violent robberyCredit: SolentDarame slipped into a life of crime when his contract was terminatedCredit: GettyThe 25-year-old, who was signed by Swansea City FC when they were in the Premier League, stole the teen’s neck chain and bracelet.Darame has now been jailed for four years and four months after he admitted robbery and possession of a knife.Portsmouth Crown Court heard the horror unfolded in the early hours of May 12 last year near Ken’s Fried Chicken restaurant.Ronnie was with a pal when he clocked Darame, who had a large, Rambo-style hunting knife.Read more newsThe court was told the pair “became aware” of the failed winger behind them.As they began to run, Darame yelled after them: “I’m going to catch you, and when I catch you, I’m going to kill you.”The thug then knifed Ronnie in the leg and snatched his jewellery before fleeing.Ronnie suffered a huge amount of blood loss after two of his major nerves were severed.Most read in FootballProsecutor Paul Fairley said: “Luckily, as far as everyone in the case was concerned, the knife missed by a few millimetres the major blood vessels in his leg.”In a victim impact statement, Ronnie said he has been left with paralysis from the knee down – meaning he cannot walk without a splint on his foot.As a result, he has been unable to continue his work as an apprentice electrician and can no longer play tennis to a high level like he used to.The court was told Darame was given a youth contract with Swansea City FC from the age of 15.The footballer, who once compared himself to Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo, was then handed two-year professional contract when he turned 18.His lawyer Daniel Reilly said he felt like a failure when his contract was terminated and began mixing with drug dealers after “struggling to cope”.Sentencing, Judge Daniel Neill said Darame’s actions had changed the life of a man “in the prime of his youth”.He added: “You had hoped to become a professional footballer, it didn’t work out.”Many dreams don’t work out, many ambitions.”By the time that your professional football contract sponsorship came to an end, you had a partner and a newborn child you felt you were failing.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIn August last year, Darame was sentenced to 28 months in prison after police found him with £1,000 worth of heroin and cocaine.At the time, the court heard he turned to drug-dealing to make money because he refused to accept unemployment benefits. More

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      Coote’s language is warm air in thunderstorm of disgraceful behaviour… what about the poor ref PUNCHED by club chief?

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      QUESTION of the week — who would be a referee?One faces the sack after using a naughty word about Jurgen Klopp.David Coote’s outburst was as nothing compared to other incidentsCredit: APCoote was captured sniffing white powder at Euro 2024His future in officiating is clearly in doubtCredit: XAnother in Turkey at least got some justice after being whacked in the face by a club president.We can dispense quickly with ref David Coote’s angry little outburst against the former Liverpool manager.His addition of “German” to a part of a woman’s anatomy is not going down well with the FA,  which ordered an investigation.Coote failed to prevent the release of a private video which recorded his comment and this particular coot was out of the bag and flying at Klopp.READ MORE TOP STORIESIt wasn’t much of an insult really, one heard all the time on the field and in the stands — without the “German” bit.No doubt even the full curse has been heard by Klopp himself.Even so, with the subsequent other videos which have surfaced in this newspaper to add to the first, you can expect Coote’s sacking to be confirmed.If you require something rather more painful, try MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca’s right-hander that broke the eye socket of Halil Umut Meler.Most read in FootballEx-Liverpool chief Jurgen Klopp was the subject of Coote’s little rantCredit: APFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKoca was furious after Ankaragucu conceded an equaliser to ten-man Caykur in the 97th minute of a game in December 2023. Who blew the final whistle — if it was ever blown — has been lost in translation.Snorting ref David Coote set up drugs party in Travelodge before Man City game – & even sent half time text about itShocking David Coote Klopp video in fullFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.“Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.“So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.“Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”As Meler collapsed to the floor,  other men started kicking him.He was taken to hospital for emergency surgery as politicians and football gentry queued to say how appalling the incident was.That incident led to all Turkish Super Lig football being suspended for a week.Yet last week, that self-anointed sage of world football Jose Mourinho suggested officiating in the country’s top flight “smells bad”.Mourinho — Fenerbahce boss since June — questioned why fans from other countries would watch the game there.The former Chelsea manager has complained about refs wherever he has coached.But his views have forceful support, even if many people in football see his criticism as an application for a job elsewhere.However, Meler has a good reputation as a top Fifa and Uefa ref and officiated West Ham in the Conference League last season.Meler recalled: “Faruk Koca punched me under my left eye.Faruk Koca is appealing against a jail term for punching a refereeCredit: GettyJose Mourinho blasted refereeing in the Turkish top flightCredit: Getty“I fell. While I was on the ground, other people kicked me in the face and other parts of my body many times.”Koca was this week sentenced to 3½ years in jail. But he is yet to start that term pending an appeal, with Ankaragucu chairman Ismail Mert Firat arguing “no disgraceful crime” was committed.There isn’t a football-playing country in the world without conflict between fans and referees — and Turkey isn’t alone in featuring furious club officers.In Brazil, a fourth-division president punched a referee last year and was banned for 30 days.In DR Congo, a referee was chased from the field by women players and supporters for failing to award a penalty. Women! I thought better of us.Verbal attacks and match violence all over the world.In Spain, they count offences in the hundreds. In the UK, too.Ivan Savvidis, the gun-carrying owner of Greek side Thessaloniki and his bodyguards marched on to the pitch after the ref disallowed a last-minute goal during a game with AEK Athens in 2018.And in the United States, a player was jailed for a minimum eight years in 2015 after punching a ref — who died two days after.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe world  seems to be suffering from a social disease and at the centre of it is the poor old ref.By comparison, Coote’s language is warm air in a thunderstorm of disgraceful behaviour.No referees have EVER been tested for drugs as David Coote faces end of Premier League careerEXCLUSIVE by Martin LiptonNO referees or match officials have ever been tested for drugs – as David Coote’s apparent “cocaine shame” is set to end his career.While all players and other athletes in British sport are subject to drug testing rules, including post-match and out of competition action, the regulations do not apply to match officials.That is the case globally across not just football and throughout the world rather than only in the UK.All sports follow the World Anti-Doping Authority code, aimed at preventing athletes gaining an advantage by using performance-enhancing substances.The Wada banned list also includes recreational drugs.But the Wada provisions, also followed by UK Anti Doping, which conducts tests across British sport, makes no reference to match officials.UKAD explains: “Any UK athlete subject to the anti-doping rules of their sport and non-UK athlete staying, training, residing, entering a competition,”Or named as a member of a team participating in a competition at any level within the UK is eligible for testing as part of UKAD’s national anti-doping programme.“Any athlete eligible for testing can be tested anytime, anywhere.”But the regulations do not apply to match officials – because of the “performance enhancing” provision of the world code.The PGMOL have revealed they are aware of the video of him sniffing a white powder.They told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.” More

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      England fans tear gassed & shoved against fences by ‘heavy handed’ riot cops before Greece clash as FA launch probe

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      ENGLAND fans were tear gassed and shoved against fences by riot cops before last night’s clash with Greece.The FA is now launching a probe into the Nations League match in Athens with officers accused of being heavy handed with Three Lions supporters.The Football Supporters Association accused Greek police of creating a ‘dangerous’ situationCredit: PARiot cops met England fans outside Athens Olympic Stadium on Thursday nightCredit: PAEngland fans eventually made it inside to watch the team win 3-0Credit: GettyAround 3,000 supporters had tickets for the game, but some were not inside Olympic Stadium by kickoff. The travelling crowd were held up by the officers wearing helmets, gas masks, and holding shields.England fan Jack Loftus said: “They [police] went to adjust the queue at the front to make it narrower and longer, and just did it with force.”They were pushing the crowd amongst the fence.”Read more on footballThe FA said: “We are aware that some of our fans had a difficult experience outside the ground and are obtaining more information on exactly what happened.”The Football Supporters’ Association accused Greek officers of of creating an “unjustifiably dangerous” situation.They said: “Unfortunately, once again, we are having to ask England supporters to send in their witness accounts to ourselves regarding the situation outside of the Athens Olympic Stadium.”To see the treatment of our fans by local police using shields and tear gas to do something as simple as rearrange a queue, is so incredibly frustrating.Most read in Football”On a night where we had a great result on the pitch, there is still clearly so much needed to do off it to ensure our supporters aren’t put in unjustifiably dangerous situations.”England trounced Greece 3-0 moving the Three Lions to the top of group B2 and avenging the shock 2-1 loss to the side back in October.ITV ‘do England stars dirty’ as live footage of national anthem singing leaves fans in hystericsBut the players faced a hostile atmosphere on the pitch with lasers shone in their face during the clash.Jude Bellingham and Jordan Pickford were hit in the face by the green lights, which plagued England throughout the first half.Despite Greek fans’ crooked efforts, England were able to keep their focus and earn an important win in Athens.An own goal from keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos, followed by Curtis Jones’ stunning backheel flick, in the second half saw the Three Lions win 3-0.England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money.One fan said a queue was forcibly shoved to the sideCredit: PAEngland players like Jude Bellingham were hit with lasers during the matchCredit: RexMore to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun OnlineThesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSun. 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      Paris braced for night of anti-Semitic carnage at France v Israel as 2,500 elite cops to patrol ‘double ring of steel’

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      FRANCE and Israel are set to clash in a crunch Nations League tie in just hours amid growing fears of a night of anti-Semitic carnage.Over 6,500 special forces and armed cops have been readied for the game with a number of extensive security measures already in place as Paris gears up for the international fixture.The Israel national side training in Paris amid growing fears of a night of anti-Semitic carnageCredit: AFPThousands of anti-Israel protesters took to the streets of Paris on Wednesday nightCredit: ReutersParis’ police chief has already labelled it as a “high-risk event” with officials announcing there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capital tonight.Chief Laurent Nuñez said today that 4,000 officers will be on patrol around the game with 2,500 inside the Stade de France and the rest around the capital.This protective double ring of steel will also be flagged by Israeli security forces, including agents from the Mossad intelligence agency.Another few hundred cops will be deployed across transport networks leading to Paris’ northern suburbs.read more in France vs IsraelFears of violence have drastically ramped up in recent days after thousands marched through the streets of Paris in protest.Footage shows Palestine flags being waved as anti-Israeli marchers voiced their anger towards a controversial far-right gala taking place in the capital.It even promoted anti-demonstrations which led to chaos for the cops. Just a week ago, disturbing footage also showed Israeli football fans being chased through the streets of Amsterdam by an anti-Semitic mob.Most read in FootballMaccabi Tel Aviv supporters were ambushed by masked rioters in the Dutch city as they left the Johan Cruyff stadium last Thursday.This has prompted international concerns over the safety of Jewish fans particularly those watching Israeli-based teams.Israeli football fans attacked by mob of rioters who chased them through streets of Amsterdam in disturbing clashOrganisers have told The Sun that they are even struggling to sell tickets due to issues around Israel with the Middle Eastern conflict – with less than 15,000 seats reserved so far.The Israeli government even told travelling supporters to “categorically avoid attending” the France match.Just 100 tickets have been sold for the away side with many fearing a night of chaos could ensue.And events in the Netherlands have only ramped up the need for special measures further in wake of rising anti-Semitic hate in Europe.One of these precautions saw the Israel team being confined to their undisclosed hotel in the Val d’Oise region to the north of the capital.Constant armed guards were at the base and accompanied the players and staff to their training site on Tuesday.Authorities demanded the location be kept under wraps and all media activities were cancelled.Manager Ran Ben Shimon has revealed to the press that he and the team feel safe despite the major precautions in place.Officials have announced there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capitalCredit: GettyRioters run through the streets amid disturbing clashes in Amsterdam between Israelis and an anti-Semitic mobCredit: RexA match between Mali and Israel at the Parc des Princes in July 24 saw brawls up in the standsCredit: The Mega AgencyThe team and staff are expected to be under constant police supervision as they make their way to the stadium later on today.Bars and restaurants in the area have also been told to close from the early afternoon to avoid any disruption. Many called on the French government to move the match away from Paris – even before the issues in Amsterdam kicked off.Experts said the panic and potential issues of rival fans and the public clashing wasn’t worth the international game.Swaths of opposition sides have decided to move their games against Israel to neutral venues since the Middle Eastern conflict reached boiling point. After playing France away in Paris, the team will travel to play against Belgium on Sunday.This match has already faced intense scrutiny with it being moved to a neutral venue in Hungary due to safety fears.France’s elite RAID tactical unit are believed to be the first line of defence at the game and have been deployed across the nation following the violence in the Netherlands. Police chief Nuñez said security at the game was of extreme concern for the authorities.He said: “There’s a context, tensions that make that match a high-risk event for us.”There will be an anti-terrorist security perimeter around the stadium.”RAID – which stands for Search, Assistance, Intervenion, Deterrence – will be in the stadium, he confirmed.The RAID was one of the first special forces units rushed to the scene when ISIS suicide bombers attacked Paris in November 2015.There will be an anti-terrorist security perimeter around the stadiumLaurent NuñezParis police chiefTerrorist thugs killed 130 people on a single night with chilling eruptions even being heard from the Stade de France on the harrowing night.French President Emmanuel Macron and his prime minister, Michel Barnier, will also attend the match.Macron and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu have been at logger heads in recent months over the Middle East.Macron accused the PM of “spreading barbarism” across Gaza and Lebanon with his continued assaults on Hamas and Hezbollah.France has already answered calls for tightened security around Israeli athletes after the 2024 Paris Olympics earlier this year.They deployed a widely successful “ring of steel” around the Games to ensure safety after several declarations of violence from terror group ISIS and anti-Israel parties.It became the most guarded Games ever with over 60,000 cops and soldiers, drones, helicopters and a huge increase in AI surveillance all deployed.The rise of antisemitism in EuropeSince the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, antisemitic violence has surged globally.It has been fuelled by heightened geopolitical tensions and polarising public discourse around the war.This escalation is marked by an alarming rise in physical attacks, threats, and hate speech targeting Jewish communities.In Europe, reports of antisemitism have spiked, with attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools, and individuals intensifying.Countries like Germany and France have seen notable incidents of physical violence and vandalism.In Germany, synagogues were firebombed, and Jewish youth sports teams have reported attacks, reflecting a growing climate of fear.Public spaces associated with Jewish identity, including schools and cemeteries, have also required heightened police protection.Across this week a number of pro-Palestinian marches and counter demonstrations have taken place in Paris. Over 10,000 took to the streets on Wednesday to protest against a controversial pro-Israel gala.The “Israel is Forever” gala was originally set to be attended by Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich but he has since pulled out and agreed to speak over video call.Several controversial far-Right figures also showed – making life difficult for patrolling cops.An open letter by seven civil rights groups to the French media said allowing the gala to go ahead was an “insult to international law”.Earlier this month, a Jewish football team was placed under police protection after it was “attacked” by a knife-wielding pro-Palestinian mob in Berlin.Teens from Makkabi Berlin’s youth team claim they were “hunted down” by a group of Arab youngsters after a game against local rivals.READ MORE SUN STORIESOne player’s dad claimed that his son was “deeply shaken” when he came back home from the game.The boy was allegedly spat at and later harassed by a mob of kids and adults who followed the squad off the pitch with sticks and knives.People flocked to Paris to protest against the ‘Israel is Forever’ galaCredit: APIsrael fans have been targeted at sporting events such as in the Paris OlympicsCredit: GettyRAID officers will join 6,000 cops to help protect Paris after the police chief labelled the game as a ‘high-risk event’ More

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      Serial burglar who forced Raheem Sterling to quit World Cup after robbing his mansion is jailed for 13 years

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      A BURGLAR who broke into Raheem Sterling’s mansion forcing him to fly home from the World Cup has been jailed.Emiliano Krosi, 24, carried out 33 burglaries, including the raid on the England star’s home on December 3, 2022.Emiliano Krosi who carried out 33 burglaries has been jailedCredit: Hyde News & PicturesKrosi broke into Raheem Sterling’s mansion forcing him to fly home from the World CupCredit: GettyHe was part of a gang that used a ladder in the rear garden to climb through Arsenal ace Sterling’s bedroom window and steal ten of his Rolex watches.An estimated £300,000 of designer gear was taken from the footballer’s £7million home in Oxshott, Surrey.Albanian Krosi, who travelled illegally to the UK in the back of a lorry, previously admitted to being involved in 15 of the burglaries. But yesterday at Guilford crown court Judge Catherine Hartley ruled he was involved in the remaining 18 break-ins.read more on footballShe sentenced him to a total of 12 years and ten months in prison.She said: “You are a dishonest and greedy man who willingly and enthusiastically took part in what was a familial, criminal gang.“Your greed and your criminality has resulted in a huge toll of human misery.”His offending took place while on bail after being caught with cocaine and cannabis on a train from London Euston to Coventry.Most read in FootballKrosi, from Southend, Essex, was sentenced to 19 months for possession with intent to supply which will run consecutively to the ­sentence for burglary.Surrey Police continue to hunt for his dad Alfred Isufi, 48, uncle Henri Osman, 44, and 22-year-old cousin ­Gerard Kalaja, who are all believed to have fled the UK.Newcastle’s £100m striker Alexander Isak’s mansion hit by gang of robbers in latest raid on Prem aces’ homesThey are suspected of being part of the gang which raided houses across the Home Counties from November 2022 to March 2023.Other victims included ex-Crystal Palace player Scott Dann and Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella, whose home was targeted days before his then team-mate Sterling’s.PC Katherine Stevens, from Surrey Police, said: “Krosi was extremely methodical and organised in his targeting of homes, with the sole aim to make as much money as possible off the back of other people.”Ex-Crystal Palace player Scott Dann was also targetedCredit: Getty More

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      Israeli football team forced to train in SECRET ahead of France clash amid fears of anti-Semitic bloodshed in Paris

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      ISRAEL have been forced to train in a secret location ahead of their controversial Nations League clash with France this week.Some 4,000 police, many of them armed, have been drafted in to provide security for a Stade de France crowd of barely 20,000 in Paris.The Israel national team has been forced to train in a secret hotel in France due to safety concernsCredit: RexFrench police stand outside the Stade de France stadium prior to Israel’s behind closed doors training sessionCredit: EPASAS-style special force RAID officers and up to 6,000 other cops are all scheduled to be on duty for the high-risk game – representing one officer for every three fans inside the ground.The high-alert security approach was already planned even before last week’s shocking scenes in Amsterdam around Maccabi Tel Aviv’s Europa League game at Ajax.Disturbing footage showed Israeli football fans being chased through the streets of the Dutch capital by an anti-Semitic mob last Thursday. This has prompted international concerns over the safety of Jewish fans particularly those watching Israeli-based teams.read more in footballAnd events in the Netherlands have only ramped up the need for special measures further in wake of rising anti-Semitic bloodshed in Europe. One of these precautions saw the Israel team being confined to their undisclosed hotel in the Val d’Oise region to the north of the capital.Constant armed guards were at the base and accompanied the players and staff to their training site on Tuesday.Authorities demanded the location be kept under wraps and all media activities were cancelled.Most read in FootballParis police chief Laurent Nuñez said security around the game was of extreme concern for the authorities.He said: “There’s a context, tensions that make that match a high-risk event for us.”There will be an anti-terrorist security perimeter around the stadium.”Inside Paris’ ‘patchwork of steel’ security op with AI surveillance, 45,000 cops & drones for most guarded Olympics everIsraeli security forces, including agents from the Mossad intelligence agency, will also be inside the stadium on Thursday.Many fans have stayed away with the Israeli government telling supporters to “categorically avoid attending” the match.Addressing the anticipated low attendance, Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano said: “I can understand why people do not want to come. It’s their choice. “We will fight on the pitch and aim to win this match. “This week we saw November 11. I love peace and hope that someday we will achieve it in every country. “Regardless of our religion or where we come from, we all want peace.”French President Emmanuel Macron and his prime minister, Michel Barnier, will also attend the match.Specialist RAID officers will join 6,000 cops to help protect Paris after the police chief labelled the game as a ‘high-risk eventOfficials have announced there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capitalCredit: GettyRioters run through the streets amid disturbing clashes in Amsterdam between Israelis and an anti-Semitic mobCredit: REXMany people have called for the game to be moved to a neutral venue but Bruno Retailleau, France’s Interior Minister, said it was hugely important that the game went ahead in Paris.He said: “I think that for a symbolic reason we must not yield, we must not give up.”The RAID has been active since the Israeli team set foot on French soil, and they will be in the stadium.”The French government say they are determined to push ahead with the match as it will mark the two year anniversary of the 2015 terror attacks.ISIS thugs killed 130 people on a single night with chilling eruptions even being heard from the Stade de France on the harrowing evening. French FA chief Philippe Diallo insisted it would have been “unthinkable” for the match to be cancelled.Israel’s manager Ran Ben Shimon has told the press he and the team feel safe.France has already answered calls for tightened security around Israeli athletes after the 2024 Paris Olympics earlier this year.They deployed a widely successful “ring of steel” around the Games to ensure safety after several declarations of violence from terror group ISIS and anti-Israel parties.It became the most guarded Games ever with over 60,000 cops and soldiers, drones, helicopters and a huge increase in AI surveillance all deployed.Israel’s sporting calendar has been thrown into chaos since the war kicked off last October.Many of their games have been played at neutral venues due to fears over public safety.SAS-style RAID special forces are being deployed across Paris ahead of the France vs Israel matchCredit: AFPFrench cops surrounded the stadium ahead of Thursday’s clashCredit: EPAIsrael fans have been targeted at sporting events such as in the Paris OlympicsCredit: GettyBelgium, who are scheduled to play Israel on Sunday following the France clash, have already made the match be moved to Hungary.Israeli FA chief Shino Moshe Zuares added: “This is a very complex period for us. But we know what we represent, and we are proud to represent our country. “The events in Amsterdam only strengthen us, and we will not let hate and ignorance defeat us. “I am concerned and worried but we will face the situation and emerge stronger.”Away from the football, another Israeli-linked security fear comes in the form of a pro-Palestinian march.Thousands are expected to take to the streets of Paris on Wednesday – a day before the football clash – to demonstrate against a controversial pro-Israel gala.The “Israel is Forever” gala was originally set to be attended by Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich but he has since pulled out.Several controversial figures linked to Israel’s far-Right are expected to show – making life difficult for cops.Police chief Nuñez spoke on the gala and said: “A gala in a closed place is not a demonstration on the public road, so it is more complicated for a prefect to ban it.”I considered that there was no risk of disturbing public order but we will be attentive to the comments made and I can potentially take legal action.”An open letter by seven civil rights groups to the French media reads: “Holding this gala in the French capital constitutes an insult to international law and contempt for the United Nations and for the orders issued by the highest international court.”A counter-demonstration has also been announced and is expected to attract up to 8,000 people.Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, antisemitic violence has surged globally.It has been fuelled by heightened geopolitical tensions and polarising public discourse around the war.This escalation is marked by an alarming rise in physical attacks, threats, and hate speech targeting Jewish communities.In Europe, reports of antisemitism have spiked, with attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools, and individuals intensifying.Countries like Germany and France have seen notable incidents of physical violence and vandalism.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn Germany, synagogues were firebombed, and Jewish youth sports teams have reported attacks, reflecting a growing climate of fear.Public spaces associated with Jewish identity, including schools and cemeteries, have also required heightened police protection.Members of the RAID deescalating a situation in FranceCredit: AFPA match between Mali and Israel at the Parc des Princes in July 24 saw brawls up in the standsCredit: The Mega Agency More

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      Paris braces for France v Israel with SAS-style special forces & ‘1 cop per 3 fans’ as anti-Semitic chaos sweeps Europe

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      FRANCE are set to take on Israel in a huge Nations League clash this week with Paris bracing for dangerous anti-Semitic chaos. SAS-style special forces are being deployed across the city ahead of Thursday’s game with officials announcing there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capital.SAS-style RAID special forces are being deployed across Paris ahead of the France vs Israel matchCredit: AFPOfficials have announced there will be at least one cop per three football fans in the capitalCredit: GettySecurity concerns ahead of the match are already mounting with Paris’ police chief labelling it as a “high-risk event”.The fears have drastically ramped up in recent days after disturbing footage showed Israeli football fans being chased through the streets of Amsterdam by an anti-Semitic mob.Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters were ambushed by masked rioters in the Dutch city as they left the Johan Cruyff stadium last Thursday.This has prompted international concerns over the safety of Jewish fans particularly those watching Israeli-based teams.read more in football fearsWith the international break now underway, Israel’s national side are due to play France away in Paris before travelling to play against Belgium on Sunday.The match against Belgium has already faced intense scrutiny with it being moved to a neutral venue in Hungary due to safety fears.Despite France agreeing to host the 81st ranked international side in their capital a number of security measures have been put in place.SAS-style special forces and up to 6,000 other officers are all scheduled to be on duty for the high-risk game at the Stade de France.Most read in FootballOrganisers have told The Sun that they are struggling to sell tickets due to issues around Israel with the Middle Eastern conflict – with less than 15,000 seats reserved so far.France’s elite RAID tactical unit are believed to be the first line of defence at the game and have been deployed following the violence in Amsterdam.Inside Paris’ ‘patchwork of steel’ security op with AI surveillance, 45,000 cops & drones for most guarded Olympics everParis police chief Laurent Nuñez said security at the game was of extreme concern for the authorities. He said: “There’s a context, tensions that make that match a high-risk event for us.”There will be an anti-terrorist security perimeter around the stadium.”RAID – which stands for Search, Assistance, Intervenion, Deterrence – will be in the stadium, he confirmed.The RAID was one of the first special forces units rushed to the scene when ISIS suicide bombers attacked Paris in November 2015.Terrorist thugs killed 130 people on a single night with chilling eruptions even being heard from the Stade de France on the harrowing night.Israeli security forces, including agents from the Mossad intelligence agency, will also be inside the stadium.French President Emmanuel Macron and his prime minister, Michel Barnier, will also attend the match.Many people have called for the game to be moved to a neutral venue but Bruno Retailleau, France’s Interior Minister, said it was hugely important that the game went ahead in Paris.Rioters run through the streets amid disturbing clashes in Amsterdam between Israelis and an anti-Semitic mobCredit: RexRAID officers will join 6,000 cops to help protect Paris after the police chief labelled the game as a ‘high-risk event’Credit: AFPIsrael fans have been targeted at sporting events such as in the Paris OlympicsCredit: GettyHe said: “I think that for a symbolic reason we must not yield, we must not give up.”The RAID has been active since the Israeli team set foot on French soil, and they will be in the stadium.”The Israel team arrived in France on Wednesday but have been forced to train and stay at secret locations on the outskirts of Paris.Manager Ran Ben Shimon has told the press he and the team feel safe.France has already answered calls for tightened security around Israeli athletes after the 2024 Paris Olympics earlier this year.They deployed a widely successful “ring of steel” around the Games to ensure safety after several declarations of violence from terror group ISIS and anti-Israel parties.It became the most guarded Games ever with over 60,000 cops and soldiers, drones, helicopters and a huge increase in AI surveillance all deployed.Just this week, a Jewish football team was placed under police protection after it was “attacked” by a knife-wielding pro-Palestinian mob in Berlin.Teens from Makkabi Berlin’s youth team claim they were “hunted down” by a group of Arab youngsters after a game against local rivals.One player’s dad claimed that his son was “deeply shaken” when he came back home from the game.The boy was allegedly spat at and later harassed by a mob of kids and adults who followed the squad off the pitch with sticks and knives. There’s a context, tensions that make that match a high-risk event for usLaurent NuñezParis police chief Away from the football, another Israeli-linked security fear comes in the form of a pro-Palestinian march.Thousands are expected to take to the streets of Paris on Wednesday – a day before the football clash – to demonstrate against a controversial pro-Israel gala.The “Israel is Forever” gala was originally set to be attended by Israeli finance minister Bezalel Smotrich but he has since pulled out.Several controversial figures linked to Israel’s far-Right are expected to show – making life difficult for cops.Police chief Nuñez spoke on the gala and said: “A gala in a closed place is not a demonstration on the public road, so it is more complicated for a prefect to ban it.”I considered that there was no risk of disturbing public order but we will be attentive to the comments made and I can potentially take legal action.”An open letter by seven civil rights groups to the French media reads: “Holding this gala in the French capital constitutes an insult to international law and contempt for the United Nations and for the orders issued by the highest international court.”A counter-demonstration has also been announced and is expected to attract up to 8,000 people.Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, antisemitic violence has surged globally.It has been fuelled by heightened geopolitical tensions and polarising public discourse around the war.This escalation is marked by an alarming rise in physical attacks, threats, and hate speech targeting Jewish communities.In Europe, reports of antisemitism have spiked, with attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools, and individuals intensifying.Countries like Germany and France have seen notable incidents of physical violence and vandalism.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn Germany, synagogues were firebombed, and Jewish youth sports teams have reported attacks, reflecting a growing climate of fear.Public spaces associated with Jewish identity, including schools and cemeteries, have also required heightened police protection.A match between Mali and Israel at the Parc des Princes in July 24 saw brawls up in the standsCredit: The Mega AgencySoldiers patrolling the River Seine at the OlympicsCredit: APMembers of the RAID deescalating a situation in FranceCredit: AFP More

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      Premier League star quizzed by cops after allegedly ‘raping two women and committing sexual offence against a third’

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      A PREMIER League star was reportedly questioned by police following multiple allegations of sex offences.The man, in his 30s, is under investigation for alleged rapes of two women and a sexual offence relating to a third woman, reports MailOnline.A Premier League star was reportedly quizzed again by police over alleged sex offencesCredit: GettyCops first arrested him at an address in London in July 2022 on suspicion of rape and he has continued to play for his club since. The Mail said the football star attended a station last Thursday and was interviewed under caution.A Met Police spokesperson told the outlet: “Met officers are investigating following a number of reports of alleged sexual offences between 2021 and 2023.”A man in his 30s was arrested in July 2022. “He has since been interviewed by police on two further occasions while under caution.”The investigation remains ongoing and detectives are continuing with in-depth and detailed enquiries. “Those who have come forward to police continue to receive support from Met officers.”The man was arrested after a report of an alleged rape in June 2022 and, while in custody, further arrested on suspicion of two incidents of rape in April and June 2021.Most read in FootballNo further action is being taken regarding the incident in June 2021 given relevant legislation had not yet come into effect at the time it is alleged to have occurred.Police arrested the player again in February last year on suspicion of a sexual offence having taken place in London in February 2022. More