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      Lauryn Goodman WILL take son Kairo to see dad Kyle Walker play at Euros with camera crew despite feud with wife Annie

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      KYLE Walker’s ex-girlfriend Lauryn Goodman has tickets and flights booked to Germany to take his son Kairo to England’s third Euros group game.But influencer influencer Lauryn, who shares Kairo, four, and a daughter, who is nearly one, with the married defender, has ditched plans to attend tonight’s game against Serbia.Lauryn Goodman has tickets and flights booked to Germany to take Kyle Walker’s son Kairo to England’s third group game in the EurosCredit: SplashLauryn is also mum to the Man City fullback’s daughterCredit: SplashShe changed her mind to avoid a backlash and will now fly out for the game against Slovenia, in Cologne, on June 25.Meanwhile, Kyle’s wife Annie Kilner, 31, is scheduled to depart on a £30,000 private jet this morning to attend tonight’s game.She is expected to travel with three of their four sons but not to stay for more than a day.When Lauryn, 33, arrives, Kairo will be wearing a ­football top at the Slovenia match with “Daddy and Kyle’s number 2 on the back.read more on Lauryn GoodmanA source said a camera crew could be there to capture her every move as Lauryn has signed up for a new docu-ality series lifting the lid on life as a Wag.The source told The Sun on Sunday: “Lauryn truly believes that Kyle will want his son there. “She has been given ­tickets and the flights have been sorted out for her to go. “Kyle and Lauryn aren’t speaking since Annie found out they have a daughter together too.Most read in Football“But when they were, during the World Cup, it was Kyle who ­actually asked for Kairo to be at the Euros.“Since that day, Kairo has been excited. What little lad wouldn’t be?Kyle Walker risks explosive showdown between wife Annie and Lauryn Goodman after ‘inviting’ ex and two kids to Euros”Kairo shouldn’t have to watch his daddy playing for his country from a TV set in England — he deserves to be there.“Kairo has been filling in a chart with football-shaped stickers. “It is in his bedroom and he fills it in every night.“Lauryn doesn’t encourage it — Kairo has been football mad since he was tiny. “He has football goal nets in the living room too. “He plays every morning before nursery and gets Lauryn to tackle him.”Lauryn had been due to fly out with her son and her grandfather today to England’s opening game.The source added: “She was offered tickets for the first match and was planning to go but turned them down at the last minute.“She knew the focus would turn to her and she would be blamed by fans if they didn’t win, or if Kyle played badly.“She doesn’t want that pressure on her or Kairo. “Going to ­Germany is not about some daft WAG war, it is about being a good parent.Kyle’s wife Annie Kilner is scheduled to depart on a £30,000 private jet this morning to attend today’s gameCredit: BackGridLauryn became pregnant while Kyle, 33, was on a break from Annie in 2019. Son Kairo was born the following year.Despite fathering a child with Lauryn, the Man City star and Annie rekindled their relationship and got married in 2021.But Kyle stayed in touch with the influencer and they started to have time together including days out with Kairo and then rekindled their relationship, too.Their daughter was conceived in October 2022 while he was in London for treatment for a groin injury.In December, Lauryn broke the news about her baby girl to Annie, who was herself pregnant with her fourth child.Annie announced she was separating from the £160,000-a-week footballer.He moved out of the home they shared with sons Roman, 11, Riaan, seven, and Reign, five, in Prestbury, Cheshire, to a rented property nearby.Annie gave birth to Rezon in April with Kyle at her side. The boy’s arrival was announced the day before Kairo’s fourth birthday.Last night, a spokesman for Kyle said: “Kyle is laser-focused on the games ahead so as to give the team the best possible chance of bringing home the trophy for the millions of England fans watching, including his wife and their children.“He will not be distracted by any off-pitch activity.”Kyle did not invite Lauryn to the Euros.”Two other Wags arrived at Manchester Airport last night to jet off to Germany.READ MORE SUN STORIESLuke Shaw’s long-term partner, Anouska Santos, 34, was set for a flight to Dusseldorf, and said: “I’m really excited to be going.”She was joined by Megan Davison, 28, wife of goalie Jordan Pickford, 30,, who was wearing a necklace adorned with her husband’s name.Lauryn fell pregnant with Kairo while Kyle was on a marriage break from Annie in 2019Credit: GettyLuke Shaw’s partner Anouska Santos and Jordan Pickford’s wife Megan leave for GermanyCredit: Zenpix More

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      England WAGS are no fun compared to Germany 2006 line up – they knew how to party & were unafraid to splash stars’ cash

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      AS starting line-ups go, it’s the equivalent of pitching a Panini All-Star Legends XI against Accrington Stanley.In the former first 11, clad in a dazzling kit of Hermes, Roberto Cavalli and a lick of caramel hair extension, we have Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, nee McLoughlin, Cheryl Tweedy, Abbey Clancy and flamboyant journeywoman Nancy Dell’Olio.Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, Louise Bonsall, Elen Rives and a pal hit the townCredit: RexThe glam squad, Cheryl, Coleen and Posh, at an England gameCredit: AlamyElen Rives and Carly Zucker on a night outCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe latter, a team of identikit smooth-foreheaded influencers, names available on Google.Yep, on the eve of the Euros, the question remains: Where have all the good Wags gone?What we all wouldn’t do to bring back the glory days of BadenBaden, Germany, 2006, when England was awash with first-team talent.Eighteen years on from that memorable World Cup — probably less memorable for the £140-a-pop bottle of Moet-swigging wives and girlfriends — the glory days are long gone.read more on eurosToday’s generation are a bunch of camera-ready, media-wary young women who’ve grown-up on TikTok.And where’s the fun in that?As a cub reporter of 24, my first foreign assignment for a national newspaper was in Baden-Baden.It was a baptism of fire. And pear bellinis. Sooo many pear bellinis.Most read in FootballAfter being dispatched to the Black Forest, I decided to invite my German housemate: The Bavarian Batman to my Robin. Initially, it proved a masterstroke.England Wags Instagram Rich ListOn night one ­— after the Wags went to the quiet spa town’s local bar, Garibaldis — German Martin and I followed and I made him charm the local barman . . . and get a copy of the girls’ astonishing £3,300 bar tab.Meine damen und herren, we were up and running.This first night quickly set the tone for the most exhausting two weeks of my hitherto relatively sheltered young life.Each night, Martin and I would traipse to Garibaldis and watch the Wags in action. (Soon joined by the rest of the media “pack”).They were a glorious, life-affirming, carefree sight to behold — and provided thous- ands and thousands of words of copy. Or “content”, as their 2024 counterparts might say.Unquestionably, Head Wag was Mrs Beckham. Unlike the rest of the squad, the Spice Girl was accompanied by a shaven-headed, ex-Forces body- guard at all times.Unfortunately, he clocked Martin and I (pretending to be a couple) early doors, during a quiet family dinner in the Wags’ Michelin-starred hotel restaurant, Wintergarten.’META-FEMINISM’He pointed me out to Victoria, who veritably swivelled in her chair and stared me menacingly in the eye.She audibly tutted in disgust over her steamed broccoli. My card was marked.From here, I became enemy No1 with Coleen and co.“You’re scum and you know you are,” chanted the late Neville Neville, Gary’s dad, and quite the character.He was swiftly joined by a 40-strong contingency of family and friends, their voices ringing loud and clear — certainly louder than any of the muffled, on-pitch national anthem renditions of their loved ones — in the Brenners Park Fritz and Felix bar.Unembarrassable, because I was 24 and on a crucial work assignment, fearing instant dismissal if I failed in my 007 Wag mission, I resolutely stayed put, smiling gormlessly and cheerfully sipping my champagne.(Many of these would later appear on my newspaper’s expenses tab).These ladies knew how to party, and they were staunchly, admirably, unafraid to spend their partners’ cash however they saw fit. Which is meta-feminism, I suppose.Starting with some shopping-shopping in Baden-Baden.Clemmie and her friend Martin covered the action on her first big assignmentCredit: SuppliedCheryl and Victoria out on the townCredit: MatrixThey were up at around 9am for a spot of breakfast (and caffeine) before a busy morning hitting the designer stores.While the men dribbled and tackled, their womenfolk dribbled with excitement and tackled Gucci and Prada and Co with the enthusiasm of Goldenballs eyeing a free kick.While they shopped, I trailed.On June 19, the eve of England’s final group game, £57,000 was spunked in an hour. A Spanish paper dubbed them “hooligans with credit cards”.“Everywhere I go, there’s that annoying little blonde,” hissed “hooligan” Coleen, in her new £900 shades, pointing at me in my sensible M&S ensemble, total cost approx 50 quid.She had a point, to be fair.I was one of the few reporters based at the Wags’ hotel, and by the end of the stay even I was sick of me. Fleet Street’s assortment of high-brow, knowledgeable football reporters also loathed my presence.My esteemed colleague actually rang our news editor at one point pleading for me to get sent home (sent off?) as my constant Wag coverage was “undermining the credibility of the game”.The Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of themClemmie MoodieHe said he was losing the trust of the families because I was writing about the ladies’ karaoke habits. (More on these later.) But the Wags were selling papers. I stayed.Afternoons saw the gang hitting up the hotel spa for various facials and manicures.Naturally, I booked in and spoke to a lovely therapist, who praised Mrs Beckham’s tan and gave me an identical treatment.When not utilising the hotel’s five-star facilities, or getting papped — one memorable shot saw Posh, Coleen and her mate, Claire, Louise Bonsall (Michael Owen’s missus) and Elen Rives (Frank Lampard’s partner) confidently strutting into town like the line-up scene from The Usual Suspects — the gang were making the most of their in-room entertainment.Honourable mentions here to Ms Rives and Alex Curran, Stevie G’s other half, who racked up hotel bills of £28,607 and £25,321 respectively. The latter’s included 60 bottles of pink champagne.The 22-strong contingent’s cumula-tive hotel spend was just shy of a reported £600,000. Their total spend, including alcohol, almost £1million.’RAUCOUS NIGHTS’As I wrote at the time, “the Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of them”.Elsewhere, the genteel Black Forest town’s nightclub, Maxi’s, soon became the extra-time venue of choice.While management refused to give the girls freebie drinks, they were allowed off the £7 entry fee.A 3am finish became the norm. While the women slept it all off, I filed copy, by now a shell of a creature.“More, more, more,” came the newsdesk cry, at a time when tabloids were at their peak and social media was but a twinkle in Joe Cole’s eye.On the subject of the former Chelsea midfielder, his beautiful, athletic girlfriend Carly Zucker briefly became a star of the show.A ripped personal trainer before abs on women were a “thing”, she would go jogging most mornings. Martin and I, especially, had a vested interest in making her a star.She worked for £22 an hour as a personal trainer at the Virgin Active gym opposite my then office.Obviously, weeks before the tournament kicked off, I made hapless Martin sign up for a course of PT sessions with her, hoping we’d have a ready-made friend out there.Posh shopping in some denim hotpantsCredit: GettyCarly Zucker had abs before they were trendyCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdAlas, when she saw us both, her look was not one of unconfined joy.Anyway, karaoke became a big theme of those halcyon few weeks — We Are The Champions, I Will Survive and The Black Eyed Peas’ 2005 classic My Humps were regularly requested.Victoria was largely absent from these raucous singing nights.Perhaps she was missing Ginger.When we weren’t working 19-hour days we angered the women even more by setting up camp outside the hotel and playing raucous games of football beside the gently flowing river.It’s safe to say manager Sven-Goran Eriksson’s squad had little to fear in the way of last-minute selections. By the end of my stint in the salubrious town there was no amount of health-giving spa water that could heal my broken body.But my heart was full.These women, superstars one and all, partied like it was the apocalypse and did it, on the whole, with good grace.They knew we had a job to do and were savvy enough to know such exposure could prove hugely lucrative in the coming months. And, undoubtedly, it did.WORLDS AWAYAnd the husbands? Lost on penalties in the quarters, naturally. (Mrs Beckham’s husband was crocked and Mrs Rooney’s husband got sent off).So what of today’s Wag world? While the tournament bases are only 475 miles away, the Wag fun possibilities seem worlds away.Well, I suppose there will be some drama. England’s star defender Kyle Walker will have not one, but two Wags in attendance as he hopes to score purely on the pitch for once.Five of the six children he has fathered with both are also expected to be there to cheer on daddy-o. Wife Annie Kilner — perhaps the most famous of this generation of Wags — and her four children will be sitting among the rest of the players’ families in pitchside seats arranged by the FA.His ex-mistress, Lauryn Goodman, is also planning to support him, alongside son Kairo.The possibility of thuggery threatens to overshadow anything Serbia’s militant fans could possibly throw at the tournament.READ MORE SUN STORIESOtherwise though — with no Jack Grealish and his semi-famous gf Sasha Attwood — the pickings for mischief, madness and good old- fashioned front-page fun look decidedly limited.Looks like it’s down to the boys to bring it home, then.Sven-Goran Eriksson’s girlfriend Nancy Dell’Olio wearing a Number one capCredit: RexLisa Roughhead (left) girlfriend of Michael Carrick and Michaela Henderson-Thynne girlfriend of Stewart Downing at the Garibaldi restaurantCredit: RexDavid Beckham sits on the bench after his substitution at the quarter-final against PortugalCredit: ReutersWayne Rooney was sent off with a red cardCredit: Getty More

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      How Robbie Williams turned a mate’s charity football match into the £106m Soccer Aid – & why he still hasn’t got an OBE

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      TWO decades ago, Robbie Williams met football agent Kenneth Shepherd at a charity game his mate was playing in.After watching the match at Newcastle’s St James’ Park stadium, the pair wanted to create a similar event to raise cash and awareness for children suffering across the globe.Robbie Williams and Harry Redknapp at Stamford BridgeCredit: GettyJose Mourinho and Olly MursCredit: RexActor Woody Harrelson in 2010 taking the winning penaltyCredit: AFPA triumphant Robbie lifts the cup for EnglandCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSoccer Aid for Unicef was launched in 2006, originally as a one-off — but 18 years and 13 star-studded games later, it has generated an incredible £106million for kids suffering in some of the world’s most deprived countries.And Sunday’s spectacle in front of a packed crowd at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge was as popular as ever — with 3.6million people watching at home, topping the day’s ratings for ITV.England’s 6-3 victory over the World XI — their first win since 2018 — raised £15million for Unicef.Singer Robbie, 50, said yesterday: “Thank you for your kind messages about Soccer Aid. Un-f-ing-believable. Just absolutely incredible. So proud and so pleased.”Read More on SportWith so much money raised, some believe Robbie could finally be awarded an OBE — 12 years after his Take That pal Gary Barlow got one for services to music and charity.The dad of four began working with children’s charity Unicef in 1998 and two years later became an ambassador, travelling to countries including Haiti when it was devastated by an earthquake in 2010.In the first Soccer Aid, Robbie captained and played alongside his pal Jonathan Wilkes, 45 — who featured in the match that inspired the event.One source said: “Soccer Aid spiralled into something Robbie couldn’t have ever imagined.Most read in Football“It has teams in place to work all year round to organise the event and help distribute the funds with Unicef.“Robbie is so proud of Soccer Aid. They have helped so many people and raised awareness for Unicef and the work they do. It’s incredible.Watch moment Usain Bolt injures himself at Soccer Aid before athletics legend carried off on stretcher“The only thing standing in Robbie’s way for an OBE is the fact he spends much of the year abroad, but he’s now sold his US homes and is spending more time in the UK.“He’s a British icon and a thoroughly nice guy. It seems mad he hasn’t had Palace recognition yet.”Kenneth, boss of Triple S Sports Management and son of ex-Newcastle owner Freddy Shepherd, has said: “The idea was conceived when Dad and I met Robbie at The Match in 2004, which was a game between ex-pros and celebrities.“Suddenly Soccer Aid was born. Freddy and Robbie agreed to do it for Unicef and turn it into a global initiative for children around the world, and a lasting and fitting legacy for Dad.”As well as helping push the total raised above the £100million mile- stone, Sunday’s game also provided the light-hearted entertainment which has made the occasion so loved by so many.Ex-Love Islander and boxer Tommy Fury, 25 — the younger brother of champ Tyson — had onlookers in stitches when he produced the funniest moments of Sunday’s show while playing for the World XI.Thank you for your kind messages about Soccer Aid. Un-f-ing-believable. Just absolutely incredible. So proud and so pleasedRobbie WilliamsAfter coming off the bench to Rocky theme tune Eye Of The Tiger, he kicked thin air instead of the ball and took a throw-in underarm, leading fans to question whether he had actually seen a game before.It surely ranks among the best moments we have seen at the match, which has previously been played at Old Trafford and Wembley.Others highlights over the years include Hollywood actor Woody Harrelson scoring the winning penalty in the 2010 shootout — despite obviously not even knowing what a penalty was — and Kasabian rocker Serge Pizzorno channelling his inner Ronaldinho to lob ex-England goalie David Seaman.Jose Mourinho running on to the pitch to wipe out singer Olly Murs, and Inbetweeners actor Blake Harrison’s beaming pre-match grin are other honourable mentions.As well as wanting to back a good cause, there is a competitive streak among those who take part — from ex-footballers to other sporting icons like Sir Mo Farah, along with actors including Tom Hiddleston and singers such as Tom Grennan.I’m A Celeb’s Sam Thompson, 31, revealed heavyweight boxer Tony Bellew, 41, got angry after conceding penalties against him in training.‘Tony stormed out’He said: “He stormed out of goal and went, ‘Why don’t you put on the f****ing gloves, then?’. Then I put the gloves on and saved a couple from him.”Chelsea legend Frank Lampard, 45, took charge of the England team alongside his uncle, former Spurs boss Harry Redknapp, 77 — bringing professionalism and a desire to win.Speaking at a Soccer Aid training day last Friday, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, 45, told The Sun: “Paddy McGuinness took out Sam really quite badly yesterday — and they’re on the same team!“He’s lucky he’s flexible, because if that was me, I think it would’ve snapped both my legs.“When you go into the changing rooms and your kit’s in there, and Frank Lampard’s there giving a team talk — he played a six-minute motivational video about playing for England — and you’re like, ‘bloody hell, this is a bit serious’.“I haven’t really kicked a ball for 20 years, so yesterday I was actually better than I thought I’d be. Not good enough, but better than I thought I’d be.”Many of the stars made room for a tipple or two in the bar at Champneys spa resort in Tring, Herts, on Thursday night.But Eddie, perhaps wisely, gave it a miss and said: “I can’t do this and have a drink and not expect to do a hamstring.”Redknapp said at the training event: “Some of them had very late nights, but it’s being marked down.“Me and Frank, we’re aware of those that are having late nights. When the team’s picked, they may have to miss out.“Robbie Keane is leading our team astray. He was up singing at 10.30pm last night and he got them all at it. Tom Grennan gets up and started singing, which was worth listening to.“What we’re gonna do, we’re gonna lead them (the World XI) into the bar. We’ll be like that sheep that leads the sheep into the slaughterhouse.Theo Walcott, Mo Farah, actor Tom Hiddleston and Jack WilshereCredit: ReutersSir Mo Farah, Stuart Broad, right, and Tommy FuryCredit: RexThe World XI’s Kaylyn Kyle, left, and Jill ScottCredit: RexPaddy McGuinness with cricketer Stuart Broad and Alex BrookerCredit: Rex“My players are gonna lead their lot into the bar and then we’re gonna disappear and leave them in there, so they can start drinking and we’ll all be in bed.”He added: “Robbie loves it. He likes a bit of Danny Boy — the Irish, you know. Great fun.” Harry may well have followed through with his cunning plan, as his side breezed past their opponents — who included ex-Chelsea ace Eden Hazard and Olympics legend Usain Bolt, who was stretchered off after rupturing his Achilles.There were some sore heads yesterday as Strictly star Bobby Brazier, actor Danny Dyer and former Lioness Jill Scott led celebrations on the coach taking them to the after-party.Cheering from the Stamford Bridge sidelines was former Take That singer Robbie, along with wife Ayda Field, 45, and their children.Speaking previously about what the donations could be spent on, Robbie said: “It could help Unicef to get life-saving food supplies moving again. Cheering from sidelines”It could help ensure that children are still able to receive their routine vaccinations.“It could help get children back to school, back with their friends, back to just being kids again. The list goes on.”In a video he posted online thanking fans for their kind messages about the match, Robbie — who was on the coaching staff for Soccer Aid’s England side this year — was still in bed shortly after 1pm following a late night of partying.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe is now teetotal after years of drug and alcohol abuse, and has gone from one of this country’s best-loved hellraisers to best fundraisers.A non-alcoholic cheers to that, Robbie. More

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      Jude Bellingham owes superstardom to mum he calls his ‘queen’ & ‘hero’ ex-cop dad – as Jose Mourinho praises family

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      GRATEFUL Jude Bellingham made mum Denise the centre of attention after his Wembley triumph as thanks for helping his dreams of glory come true.The Champions League winner, 20, credits the woman he calls his Queen with getting him within touching distance of Euros greatness.Jude Bellingham owes a lot to his family following his Champions League victory with Real MadridCredit: AFPJude has won the coveted trophy in his first season at the Spanish clubCredit: GettyReal Madrid star Jude took Denise, dad Mark and younger brother Jobe from the crowd and later fought back tears as he thanked his family for their support.He said: “This is the best night of my life. I was all right until I saw my mum and dad’s faces.“The amount of nights where they could be at home by seven o’clock and they’re doing trips at 11 and 12 at night to take me to football.“And my little brother there who I’m trying to be a role model for. Yeah, it’s the best night of my life.”READ MORE ON JUDE BELLINGHAMEngland fans were now urging Jude to save his strength for the upcoming Euros in Germany, after playing 42 games for Real in a debut season which saw him La Liga Player of the Year.Chelsea fan Richard Wilson, 36, from Sunbury-on-Thames, Surrey, said: “Jude has played twice as much football as most top professionals at his age — he must be knackered.“But he has the ability to become a true England great.”On Saturday night Jude celebrated the 2-0 win over former club Borussia Dortmund by taking Denise to the sidelines to meet former Madrid manager and TV pundit Jose Mourinho, dubbed The Special One.Most read in FootballJude snapped the pair together, telling smiling Mourinho: “Sorry about that, my mum’s fancied you for years!”Mourinho later told TNT Sports: “Special player, special family. To see that family, the way they are there, they are not looking for cameras, they are not looking for the VIP seats, they are just there to support their kid in the most humble way.Gareth Evans recalls playing against ‘exceptional’ 16-year-old Jude Bellingham on his debut“For me, it’s really beautiful. Family, we play for them, especially in these moments, we play for them.”Mum Denise, 54, had accompanied former Birmingham City player Jude when he was sold to Dortmund in 2020 for £21million — then stayed by his side as he moved to Madrid last year for an initial £88million.Retired cop Mark, 48, remained at home with 18-year-old Jobe, currently playing for Sunderland.Denise made sure to celebrate her birthday, in December, back in the UK.Jude wrote online: “Happy Birthday to my Queen! Love you more than life.”He has admitted: “Without my mum, sometimes I’d get too low with the lows or too high with the highs and I stay pretty humble because I’ve got her around.“She’s a great laugh as well. We get on so well, and we’re always doing stuff together. The role my mum is playing is massive.“It’s probably the biggest role of anyone, more than my coaches and managers, to be honest.”Denise, a former human resources manager, looks after all of Jude’s financial affairs, while Mark is his manager.Jude said: “It leads to great conversations at the table. It can be anything from a discussion about a movie or something that happened to, ‘By the way, Real Madrid is interested . . . ’.”Jude has said he only has “good memories” about his childhood in Hagley, West Midlands.He was not obsessed with football as a young child, despite Mark being a prolific striker in the non-league game.When taken along to his dad’s training sessions, he opted to make a daisy bouquet for his mum or play hide and seek.Jude took a photo of his mum with her crush Jose MourinhoCredit: Pixel8000But he became hooked. He recalled: “We talk about footballing heroes, and my dad was like my first.”“Seeing the way he played and the atmosphere, it made me fall in love with football.”The family’s unwavering support let him focus on simply being a “good footballer” and not getting caught up in the trappings of attention and fame.But The Sun revealed he has found time for romance with Dutch model Laura Celia Valk, 25.Yesterday he flew back to Madrid ahead of a huge parade in the city to mark the club’s 15th European Cup win.That means he will not be available for England’s friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina at St James Park, Newcastle, tonight.But he will join team-mates in time for our final friendly before the Euros against Iceland at Wembley on Friday night.An England source told The Sun: “He’ll probably join in light training with the squad on Wednesday or Thursday but Gareth Southgate will want him to take a well-earned break.“He might be on the substitutes’ bench against Iceland but is unlikely to get any game time.”Supporter Paul Taylor, a 46-year-old building firm director from Birmingham, said: “We have our best chance in my lifetime with this squad and Jude is our stand-out player. He needs to take a break before the Euros.”And events organiser Jemma Swift, 39, from West London said: “We have our best chance of finally winning a trophy.“If he stays fit and fired up it’ll be an incredible summer!”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe England source added: “I’m sure Jude will be raring to go once the Euros kick off and will be fired up when the time comes.“He has tasted success and now he will be wanting more in an England shirt.”Bellingham has found romance with Dutch model Laura Celia ValkCredit: Instagram/lauraceliavBaby Jude with mother DeniseCredit: Twitter More

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      Ballon d’Or fave Jude Bellingham will take on Utd reject Jadon Sancho in Champions League final – who will take glory?

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      TWO of England’s most expensive football stars go head to head in tomorrow night’s Champions League final.One is considered to be the best footballer in the world and the other a trouble-maker on the pitch.We take a look at Jude Bellingham, now he’s become one of England’s most expensive starsCredit: GettyAnd we compare him to Jadon Sancho, who he’s set to go up against tomorrow night – and who has a much more complicated reputationCredit: GettyJude Bellingham, 20, more than justified the £88million transfer fee Real Madrid paid for him by scoring 23 goals this season and earning player of the year awards.But that was not the case for Jadon Sancho, who was banished to Manchester United’s youth set- up last autumn despite the club shelling out a whopping £73million for his services.But Jadon, who has been accused of being stroppy and not training properly, now has the opportunity for one of the greatest comeback stories in football history.The 24-year-old winger will step out at Wembley for underdogs Borussia Dortmund, where he is currently on loan and uncertain about where he will be next season.READ MORE BEAUTIFUL GAMEJust three years ago both talents were on the subs’ bench for England in the Euro 2020 final. But manager Gareth Southgate hasn’t selected Jadon for his squad in this summer’s Euros while Bellingham is certain to start in the tournament’s games.Here we look at how the two attackers took such different paths.JUDE BELLINGHAM – THE GOLDEN BOYON the face of it, this son of a policeman from Stourbridge in the West Midlands could not be more different to his big-match rival Jadon Sancho.Most read in FootballJude Bellingham’s Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti described him as “serious, professional and mature”.Jude Bellingham is the favourite to win the coveted Ballon d’Or prize, and has been named the top footballer in Spain this seasonCredit: GettyEven his private life seems to be perfect, as he’s reportedly together with Dutch model Laura Celia ValkCredit: InstagramHe is the favourite to win this year’s coveted Ballon d’Or prize for the best player in Europe, and has already been named the top footballer in Spain this season.Jude Bellingham explains why Real Madrid move was ‘no brainer’ despite holding transfer talks with European giants In his first campaign at Real, who have been crowned champions of Europe a record 14 times, he won the country’s league title and netted  23 times.That’s an incredible total for a 20-year-old midfielder.Even his private life seems to be perfect. Jude is reportedly dating 25-year-old Dutch model Laura Celia Valk, who has become a regular part of his Madrid lifestyle.The stunning blonde boasts nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram and has posed for a string of brands, including PrettyLittleThing and Lipsy. Their relationship follows his split from Instagram model Asantewa Chitty last year.It’s very special for me to play this game, but we have to try to put the emotions to one sideJude BellinghamBellingham owns a £156,000 black BMW SUV and lives in a luxurious gated estate in the upmarket La Finca area of Spain’s capital.The handsome star has been courted by the biggest brands, modelling for swanky fashion label Gucci and becoming a brand ambassador for Adidas’s Predator football boots.Undoubtedly, though, his focus remains on the beautiful game.Bellingham does not court attention, isn’t seen falling out of nightclubs and isn’t one to talk about his private life.Keeping his feet planted firmly on the lush green turf are his parents.Mum Denise, 55, moved with him to Madrid, sometimes acting as his chauffeur and also making his bed.Ex-cop dad Mark, 47, is his agent and has been helping manage his son’s career since he was a youth star at Birmingham.Bellingham displayed a mature approach when talking about tonight’s final, admitting: “It’s very special for me to play this game, but we have to try to put the emotions to one side.” Jude’s parents Denise and Mark are supporting him through this phase of his careerDad Mark has helped him manage his career since he was a youth star for BirminghamBut in a couple of ways, Jude and Jadon have some things in common.They both signed for Borussia Dortmund as teenagers rather than risk ending up on the bench of a moneybags Premier League side.Bellingham, who made his league debut for Birmingham City aged just 16 in 2019, was courted by Manchester City, Manchester United and Liverpool among others.Instead, the next year, just like Sancho, he joined the top German team.He has also been known to speak his mind rather than simply towing the party line.Bellingham was fined by the German Football Association in 2021 after criticising a referee in a big match between Dortmund and rivals Bayern Munich. He said: “You give a referee, that has match-fixed before, the biggest game in Germany. What do you expect?”Earlier this year, there were allegations that Bellingham had called ex-Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood a “rapist” during a game in the Spanish league.Greenwood’s side Getafe reportedly asked that the apparent dig — which referred to a charge against the striker which prosecutors later dropped — be placed in the referee’s official match report.Following a LaLiga probe into the alleged slur, the accusations were dismissed amid reports it could not be proven what Bellingham had said.JADON SANCHO – COMEBACK KIDIT was something of an understatement when Jadon Sancho said this week it is “crazy” that he will be playing in tomorrow night’s Champions League final.The South Londoner went from one of the game’s most sought-after footballers to exiled from his own squad last September.It’s been pretty tumultuous for Sancho recently, as he was exiled from his own squad not that long agoCredit: GettyStrict Man Utd manager Erik ten Hag said that he hadn’t been picked for the side that lost 3-1 to Arsenal due to his ‘performances in training’Credit: GettyBut it might not be completely fair to just say that he’s ‘lazy’Credit: GettyIt came after strict Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag said publicly that Sancho had not been picked for the side that lost 3-1 to Arsenal due to his “performances in training”.The forward was banished from the first team and made to train alone at the youth academy.He wasn’t even allowed into the canteen and had to eat his meals from a lunchbox.Earlier this year, he left Old ­Trafford on loan to return to former club Borussia Dortmund.The player had hit back at ten Hag’s “performance” accusation on social media, insisting that it was “completely untrue” and claiming he was being made a “scapegoat” by the struggling club.His gaffer demanded an apology but Sancho refused, preferring to spend four months in exile instead.This week, one of Man Utd’s coaching staff, Benni McCarthy, said Sancho, 24, had told him, “I ain’t apologising, because if I do I’m apologising for being lazy, always being late and not giving my best”.Which he didn’t think was true. Off the pitch, Sancho was filmed partying with Nigerian model and dancer Cocainna, 26. And it wasn’t the first time he had been accused of taking his eye off the ball.Sancho has been filmed partying with Nigerian model Cocainna off the pitchCredit: InstagramDuring his first spell at Dortmund, Sancho didn’t show up on time for a training session ahead of a key game, and was also suspended by the club for coming home late from international duty.As a 17-year-old youth player at Manchester City, he refused to return to training, reportedly in a bid to force a move away from the club.Benni thinks that Sancho didn’t give in to ten Hag’s demand because, “from the streets, no one wants to apologise”.The controversial player grew up on a housing estate in Kennington, raised by his hard-working parents.And he emphasised his attitude to the game ahead of tonight’s big match, revealing: “I grew up with cage football and it’s always been with me.“Every time I go on the pitch, I always try and do the skills I do in the cage.”Calling him lazy may be unfair as, when Jadon was still at school, he travelled from South London to ­Watford most days to train with their youth team. He then left home at 14 to be closer to the Hertfordshire club and, a year later, he joined Manchester City.I grew up with cage football and it’s always been with meJadon SanchoThe ambitious youngster wasn’t happy with a £30,000-a-week pay cheque just to play in City’s reserves.He’d been named player of the tournament at the under-17s Euros for England and decided to switch to Dortmund in the hope of getting first team game time.His stunning performances in Germany saw him picked for England, and he came off the bench as a sub in the Euro 2020 final against Italy.But his failure to convert a penalty, with Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka also missing, cost the national team the match.Even though he fell out with Man Utd, he has remained good pals with many England stars, including Jude Bellingham — who he described as a “friend.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhatever tonight’s result, the fact that Sancho is on the biggest stage in club football is a huge turnaround.As he said: “It’s kind of crazy . . .  me being in the Champions League final, especially where I came from. I’m just happy.” More

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      We had 5 hours of hell as Siena had life-saving op…but she’s fixed now. She’s our heart warrior, says Jack Wilshere

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      FORMER Arsenal and England star Jack Wilshere suffered “five hours of hell” as his five-year-old daughter Siena had life-saving cardiac surgery.And he said he had been “100 per cent” sure she would die during the operation to fix a hole in her heart in February.Retired football star Jack Wilshere suffered ‘five hours of hell’ as his five-year-old daughter Siena had life-saving cardiac surgery, pictured with wife Andriani, leftCredit: Eleven Miles.Siena had a rare kind of heart issue which required swift actionCredit: Eleven Miles.Jack, 32, also recalled how he and his wife Andriani spent 45 minutes crying as they were gripped by the fear of losing her.Only a month earlier, doctors had told the father-of-four that Siena — his second-youngest child — had the heart condition.While it can be fatal, it often does not need surgery — but Siena had a rare kind which required swift action.Arsenal ace Jack, who played 34 times for his country, told The Sun how he lost almost a stone due to stress during the month between her diagnosis and the surgery.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSEven worse was the moment when Siena, now six, was given an anaesthetic just before the op began.He said: “When I took Siena down to the surgery I had to drag my wife out of the anaesthetic room and we went to a room upstairs and we were just crying, both of us, for about 45 minutes.Heart murmur“It was five hours from hell, waiting for the phone to ring. It was a blur.”Jack and Andriani have now become ambassadors for the British Heart ­Foundation, and he praises the charity’s work in helping to keep poorly children like their daughter alive.Most read in FootballHe also hopes to alert other parents to the signs of heart problems.In Siena’s case the early symptoms for a congenital heart defect, which means it was present from birth, were not ­obvious.Four Arsenal stars confronted Arsene Wenger after huge stars sold to bitter rivals, reveals Jack Wilshere Jack said: “She was probably a bit more out of breath than her friends when she was on a trampoline, and chest infections hung around for longer.”Medics thought it may be due to asthma, because Andriani had ­it as a child.But it took two years for the real cause to be discovered, during a family holiday in Cyprus, where many of Andriani’s relatives live.Jack said: “My kids got ill — nothing serious — ear infections. The doctor listened to her heart and said, ‘I don’t want to worry you, but I can hear a bit of a murmur in her heart’, and said, ‘You should get it checked when you get back to the UK’.“That doctor saved my daughter’s life.”A cardiologist carried out a series of tests on Siena, and days later, rang Jack, who coaches Arsenal’s under-18s, just as he was about to go away with his squad.He recalled: “At the time I found out I was with my assistant.“I was at the training ground and I virtually broke down in his arms when I told him. All my staff were brilliant.”The hole in Siena’s heart was so serious that surgery was arranged for just a month later.Tests had revealed the gap in the muscle wall between the lower ­chambers of her heart meant it had to work much harder, which is why she was so out of breath.A tearful Andriani, 33, said: “I remember just falling to the floor and crying, I just couldn’t believe the news. It was shocking.”Siena after the life-saving February operationCredit: BBC SportOnly 40 per cent of people born with a heart defect need heart surgery.Often the issues are spotted while the child is in the womb.But the worst cases carry the chance of sudden death, and it is necessary to carry out the operations while patients are still young.Siena had a rare condition in which, Jack said, her veins had rerouted because they were leaking into her lungs.The wait for the day when she would be “fixed” was almost impossible for the doting dad to bear.And there was also the fear of his daughter undergoing a precarious operation.He said: “I remember the date she got diagnosed — the 27th of January — and she eventually had the surgery on the 27th of February, and that whole month I lost six kilos.Bag of nerves“I can’t even remember it, it was so stressful, because obviously there were risks involved in the surgery.”There was a one per cent chance she wouldn’t wake up.”His wife was equally anxious.Andriani said: “The night before, we were a bag of nerves. I remember having this feeling in the pit of my stomach.”A team of medics had to close the defect in Siena’s heart, which could have caused sudden death.She had surgery on Monday and we were back home on Friday. She was laughing, she’s really bubbly, she loves lifeJack WilshireAfter crying with his wife, Jack went for a coffee with his parents and took a walk around the block.Thankfully, they got the message that Siena had pulled through.Andriani recalled: “When we went down to the intensive care unit, it was all such a blur.“I heard Siena cry and it was then that I knew she was going to be OK.”Jack is in awe of the way his brave daughter had dealt with the terrible ordeal.He said: “I have been through surgery. I had a lot of injuries as a player, and it took me ages to recover.“She had the surgery on the Monday and we were back at home on the Friday and she was laughing.“She’s really bubbly, she loves life. It’s great to have her fixed.”And he added: “We call her our heart warrior. The bravery and strength she’s shown has been incredible.”Three months on, it seems that Siena is making a good recovery.Jack said: “The surgery has made all the difference and she has so much energy now.”Up against itThe breathlessness and coughing fits have relented.The couple are far from alone, because every day 13 babies in Britain are diagnosed with congenital heart disease.It was the British Heart Foundation which helped Jack and Andriani to understand what they were up against.Andriani said: “We didn’t know anything about congenital heart conditions and never thought our daughter would ever require open- heart surgery.“Turning to the BHF made us feel less alone and gave us the answers and support we needed.”The charity has been funding research into heart conditions for more than 60 years and put £99million into the field during 2022-2023.Wilshere and partner Andriani have become ambassadors for the British Heart FoundationCredit: BBC SportProud dad Jack says: ‘We call her our heart warrior’Credit: Eleven Miles.Jack said: “We’re supporting the British Heart Foundation because without life-saving research keeping children’s hearts beating, we might not have Siena here with us today.”It is not the first time the star has faced a health crisis with one of his children.His eldest son, Archie, 12, from his relationship with Lauren Neal, often had to be rushed to hospital in the middle of the night, suffering from seizures.Under controlJack, who also has daughter ­Delilah, ten, with Lauren and a four-year-old son, Jack Junior with Andriani, said in 2019: “My wife and I would sit up most nights because most of the seizures were happening at night.”Fortunately, doctors got the ­condition under control.Now Jack’s aim as a British Heart Foundation ambassador is to raise awareness of the charity’s important work and to encourage people to have any problems or concerns properly assessed.Many adults don’t even know they have a hole in the heart.Jack said: “There are people ­suffering cardiac arrests who have gone undiagnosed.”And he added: “You know your child better than anyone. If you think something isn’t quite right, don’t take no for an answer.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It is the most common defect you can be born with.”
      To donate £5 please text FIVE to 70507 and help British Heart Foundation fund more life-saving research.
      Jack played 34 times for EnglandCredit: Getty More

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      Forget Beckham, here’s proof that Gareth Southgate has always been the ultimate fashion icon

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      IF there is one thing footie boss Gareth Southgate does well besides managing the England team, it is being a dapper gaffer.He caused waistcoat sales to soar as he led the Three Lions to the World Cup semis in Russia in 2018, then sported a sharp suit and tie for Euro 2020 when England made the final at Wembley.Gareth Southgate is a real fashion iconCredit: PABut the unlikely style icon has since opted for more relaxed polo shirts and cardies, “to put players at ease”.Gareth, 53, told GQ mag: “When you’re working with young lads, you don’t want to be too stiff in what you’re doing or wearing.”Deputy Fashion Editor Abby McHale takes a look at Gareth’s gear over the years as player then manager . . . 1995Clean-shaven 25-year-old Gareth holds a Union Flag in full Nineties clobberCredit: GettyCELEBRATING in his playing days with a Union Jack flag after his first England call-up in 1995, the then clean-shaven 25-year-old Gareth is in full Nineties clobber.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe Aston Villa star was on trend for the time with a Calvin Klein jumper tucked into jeans, worn with a belt.With the average age of today’s England squad about the age he was here, the lads would be curious to check out the cut of his jib.1996In 1996 Southgate rocked this white sweatshirt by Japanese sportswear brand MizunoCredit: GettyTO be fair, there’s no points for fashion flair at the training ground – and Gareth looks more on the ball with his footie than his appearance.Back in the day, the Villa hotshot might just have got away with that white sweatshirt by Japanese sportswear brand Mizuno.Most read in FootballBut he teamed it with three-quarter-length tracksuit bottoms with natty side zips.Maybe best we don’t get too good a look at them here.Inside Gareth Southgate’s love life including secret Tesco car park meetings2006New Middlesbrough manager Gareth is bossing things in his roomy suitCredit: PA:Press AssociationSTARTING his managerial career at Middlesborough, after seeing out his playing career there, Gareth is working hard to look the part.But whatever his skills as an aspiring leader of men, at age 35 he is not bossing things sartorially.He is hardly playing a blinder with the roomy suit, stripey tie and checked blue shirt, although the whistle and flute do sort of match his hair.Time to raise his game.2014While managing the England U-21s Southgate wore an all-blue get-up with brown beltCredit: Getty Images – GettyNOW managing the England Under-21s, and into his forties, our man has a sharper, short haircut and is finally getting somewhere style-wise.The all-blue get-up, with brown belt, is nothing too offensive yet not the most trendy.He was clearly expecting a spot of rain, but the duffle coat on his arm does stray into “dad on a day out with the kids” territory.2018Southgate changed up his style for the 2018 World Cup and boosted sales of waistcoatsCredit: AFP or licensorsGRACING the big stage at the World Cup with a newly suave vibe, this is a total transformation.Our boys suffered semi-final heartbreak in a defeat to Croatia but it took nothing away from the gaffer’s suit.His Marks & Spencer three-piece catapulted him into the hall of football fashion fame.Waistcoat sales and online memes went wild, as brands copied the look.Some hailed it as the male corset, framing a fella’s body.2021A sharp Gareth at the last EurosCredit: GettyTHREE years on from that wondrous waistcoat and Gareth still looks sharp.But he’s done away with the three-piece suit, to keep it simple and not draw too much attention to himself – maybe a lesson learned?The navy suit and pocket square are jazzed up by a polka-dot tie, which was dubbed lucky by some until we lost in the delayed Euros final to Italy.Quite the sophisticate on the side-line is our Gareth.2022 The England coach debuted a knitted polo back in 2022 for the World CupCredit: GettyWHILE Southgate has said this year he is all about thin knits, it seems he has already been wearing the look for two years.Debuting a knitted polo back in 2022 for the World Cup, the £39.50 Merino wool blend zip neck was once again an instant hit with fans.And it seems the 2018 waistcoats may never see the light of day again after he told BBC Radio 4 that he hasn’t worn one sinc2024Gareth wore this posh cream cardy for GQ magTHIS year as England boss Gareth might be trying to fly under the radar with his outfits, but it seems to be having the opposite effect.READ MORE SUN STORIESPosing for GQ mag in a posh cream cashmere cardy, the 53-year-old looks more dapper than ever.Showing cardigans don’t just have to be for the older generation, let’s see if his new laid-back attitude for a younger England squad stands us in good stead for the Euros next month. More

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      Chelsea ace Raheem Sterling handing out tuition-fees to help more Black students get into university

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      FOOTIE ace Raheem Sterling is helping more Black, African, and Caribbean heritage students go to university.It will be the second year of the scholarship programme from the foundation named after him.Raheem Sterling is continuing his efforts to get more Black students into top universitiesCredit: GettyHe says that many students are put off applying due to the potential for financial strain on their familyCredit: The Raheem Sterling FoundationHis initiative comes as research found that from 2021-22 fewer than five per cent of UK students starting undergraduate degrees at Russell Group universities were black.The Chelsea and England player, 29, will give a financial boon to 14 successful applicants to get them through higher education without worrying about having enough cash.Raheem told The Sun: “You only have to look at the data to see that very few capable and talented students from minority backgrounds are applying for university.“A lot of that hesitation stems from the anxiety that the financial strain can place on not only the student but their family.READ MORE ON RAHEEM STERLING“There are plenty of young people from challenging backgrounds, from minority communities, that have the talent to really make a difference in this world, but they are hit by obstacle after obstacle.“I wanted the Foundation to take away some of that worry and allow young people to focus on maximising that talent, whether that be at university or other.”The grants are for students attending King’s College London and the University of Manchester.Potential students can only apply for the grants if they have accepted an offer to study at one of the universities.Most read in FootballIt covers tuition fees, accommodation expenses and other essential educational costs, allowing students to focus on their studies rather than affording to live.Research by the Department of Education found that worries about living costs and day-to-day finances are one of the top concerns of students.Inside England’s stunning five-star Euro 2024 base with robot waiters that will cost £800,000One previous grant recipient in London said: “It has helped me massively by taking away my financial burdens. “Having the financial means for transport, clothes, food and other expenses is costly, especially in London.“I had more time to focus on my studies, very useful in busy exam periods.”A law student at Manchester who was given the funding last year said: “The grant has given me the gift of time, allowing me to work on my professional development and craft a successful application to Rare Foundations: Law, a highly competitive programme for students interested in commercial law.”They also told how the foundation provided networking opportunities and specialist CV workshops.Another recipient told how it has “given me peace of mind” allowing them to focus on their university life.The scheme also provides three-years of mentorship for each of the beneficiaries, something Raheem credits with turning his life around.He said: “I’ve loved hearing from our first-year scholars and how they have benefitted not only from the financial support but the mentorship programme too.“To me, this is just as valuable as the education.“Mentorship played a huge role in me reaching the top levels of professional football, and I want other young ones to benefit from the guidance and support that a mentor can offer them.“We really want to build upon this scholarship programme. “This year we have made 14 places available across King’s College London and University of Manchester and I’m hoping, moving forward, that we can positively impact more lives in minority and underserved communities.”The Raheem Sterling Foundation is focused on helping improve social mobility, education, and employment opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.READ MORE SUN STORIESOther initiatives the charity supports include the #BoyFromBrent project, which has put amnesty knife bins across London’s Brent borough, and a broadcast academy linked to talkSPORT and News UK.
      The deadline to apply for the grants is May 30 and can be applied for on the websites of King’s College London and The University of Manchester. More