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    Inside Cristiano Ronaldo’s amazing £19m car collection which features a rare £9m Bugatti and two luxury Rolls-Royces

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    CRISTIANO RONALDO’S car collection is the most formidable we’ve ever seen.The Portugal star, still going strong at 39, is raking in millions and loves adding cars to his garage.Cristiano Ronaldo boasts a car collection worth £19millionRonaldo’s £9m Bugatti Centodieci has appeared in Saudi ArabiaThe £400k Ferrari Purosangue was unveiled by Ronaldo earlier this yearCredit: Instagram @cristianoRonaldo was also gifted a BMW XM worth £164k by Al Nassr’s latest sponsorCredit: Instagram @cristianoIncredibly, he is now believed to be worth over £500million thanks to his bumper contracts over the years at clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and now Al Nassr.Ronaldo has made no secret of his love of cars, splashing an astonishing amount on them over the years.It is believed he has amassed a fleet worth over £19million, and that includes a new BMW XM Red Label that carries a £164,000 price tag – thanks to the German car giants now sponsoring Saudi club.Earlier this year, he showed off a dark blue Ferrari Purosangue worth £400,000 from his lavish home.Read more car collectionsBut the pick of his cars has to be a £9million Bugatti, that is one of only 10 ever made.While he also loves a Range Rover as his family car.SunSport takes a look at some motors decorating his amazing garage.Bugatti Centodieci, £9mBack in 2021, CR7 added the most extravagant and expensive car to his collection.Most read in FootballThe £9million Centodieci boasts an 8 litre W16 engine, with special models having 1600hp – some 100hp more than the Chiron and, overall, three times the price of that model. Inside Cristiano Ronaldo’s former Cheshire home on sale for £5m with seven bedrooms, padel courts, pool and guest barnIt can do 0-62mph in just 2.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 236mph.His Centodieci has been spotted in Saudi.Ronaldo was recently seen in Riyadh behind the wheel of Range Rover’s new SUV.Bigger than the Evoque, but smaller than the Sport, it’s the perfect family car for the forward.It’s electric, so it’s good for the environment.It’s acceleration is quite slouchy though, measuring 0-62mph from 5.4 seconds.This stunning Range Rover Velar is now part of Ronaldo’s Middle East fleetAston Martin DBS, £200kWhen Ronaldo played for Manchester United, he turned heads at Carrington as he rocked up to the gates in an amazing Aston Martin DBS Superleggera convertible.The Aston Martin DBS Superleggera boasts a 5.2 litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, providing a mind-boggling 715 hp.It has a top speed of 211mph, and can also go from 0-60mph in just 3.4 seconds.The car was certainly a worthy addition to Ronaldo’s stunning motor collection.When Ronaldo played for Man Utd, he had a Aston Martin DBSCredit: AlamyMercedes G-Wagon Brabus, £600What do you buy your boyfriend if he has everything?Well, if you’re Georgina Rodriguez you get a massive, gift-wrapped Mercedes-Benz G-Class.The gorgeous former shop assistant made sure CR7’s had the best birthday ever for his 35th – gifting him a stunning Mercedes G Wagon Brabus that can cost as much £600,000.And the brilliant SUV can reach top speeds of 137mph.This customised Mercedes G-Wagon was gifted to Ronaldo by Wag Georgina RodriguezBugatti Chiron, £2.15mIn 2017, Ronaldo’s need for speed saw the mercurial forward splash the cash on a stunning silver Bugatti Chiron.Incredibly, it can reach speeds of 260 mph, and does 0-60 in just under 2.5 seconds.As we said, he likes two of everything – and this was the second Bugatti he bought, although he denied buying a third  – the Bugatti La Voiture Noire.That was reckoned to be the most expensive car in the world EVER at £9.49million, and was snapped up by a mystery buyer.In 2017, Ronaldo bought a Bugatti Chiron – now worth over £2mBugatti Veyron, £1.7mOnly 450 Veyron 16.4 Grand Sports were built, so of course Ronaldo wanted a slice of that rarity pie.It cost him £1.7m, and the Portuguese legend bought the car as a treat after winning Euro 2016 with his country.Though the car was involved in a crash in 2022 in Majorca. The driver, who was reportedly not Ronaldo, lost control and the car skidded into a wall.The front of the Bugatti was believed to have been wrecked with investigators revealed no other vehicle was involved.The driver of the car did not suffer any injuries and signed an accident report.In 2022, Ronaldo’s Bugatti Veyron was involved in a crashLamborghini Aventador, £260kSimply because a Bugatti Veyron won’t fulfil Ronaldo’s love of fast cars, in the same year he bought that motor he splashed on a Lamborghini Aventador.Made in 2011, it’s the most celebrated model by the Italian car designer – and owned by footballers all over the world, not scared of the outlandish price.Ronaldo celebrated his purchase on Instagram in 2016, with a picture with the caption: “Bom dia (good morning)”.Ronaldo poses with his £260k Lamborghini AventadorCredit: Instagram @CristanoRolls-Royce Cullinan, £330kIn 2020, Ronaldo added a Cullinan to his collection, having previously owned a Rolls Royce Phantom worth around £363,000.Showing his loyalty to his new employers, CR7 even personalised the interior with black and white leather.Standing at five metres long, the Cullinan boasts a V12 engine and a horse power of 571.It is the only SUV Rolls Royce have ever produced.CR7 is a huge fan of Rolls-Royce and has a stunning CullinanFerrari F12 TDF, £350KIn 2017, Ronaldo bought an F12 TDF – another collector’s item with only 799 made in the world.It is certainly one of the favourites he owns, and is zippy with a top speed of 211 mph, and capable of doing 0-62 in 2.9 seconds.Needless to say, pet-friendly Ronaldo won’t let his pooches in though.A lover of supercars, this amazing Ferrari costs £350kChevrolet Camaro, £35kMaybe he learned something from Sir Alex Ferguson about American cars, after all the former Manchester United boss drove a Chevrolet to training when he was Red Devils manager.A more economic motor than others in his garage, the Camaro has a 6.2-litre V8 engine that delivers 453 horsepower.It’s cheaper than anything else he owns, and was bought in 2016 as a family car.Showing that he doesn’t have to always drive flashy cars, Ronaldo was seen in an affordable ChevroletMORE sport featuresMcLaren Senna, £1mA car made as a dedication to the legendary Brazilian racing driver Ayrton Senna, it would’ve set Ronaldo back around £1million – with only 500 models ever made.So enamoured by its performance on Top Gear, former presenter Jeremy Clarkson said of the McLaren Senna it has ‘rewritten the supercar rule book’.READ MORE SUN STORIESPowered by a twin-turbo charged V8 engine that produces 800 horse power, it can hit 0-62 mph in just 2.8 seconds.Mika Hakkinen is another sports star who owns one of these beauties.This McLaren Senna, worth £1m, was another Ronaldo’s favourite toys More

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      How David Beckham turned Inter Miami into a success story, with A-list pals like Leo DiCaprio wanting to see Leo Messi

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      INTER MIAMI are well on their way now.The MLS team, owned by David Beckham, won the MLS Supporters’ Shield for the first time with a 3-2 win over Columbus Crew.David Beckham has made Inter Miami the hottest ticket in the States and a success thanks to Lionel MessiLeo DiCaprio has been spotted watching Inter Miami this seasonLionel Messi and his teammates celebrate winning the Leagues Cup in 2023Messi scores against Columbus Crew on Wednesday to seal the MLS Supporters’ ShieldIt’s a massive turnaround in the fortunes of Inter Miami, who won the Leagues Cup last season and are most certainly on an upwards trajectory.The star power of Lionel Messi – who scored twice in Wednesday evening’s historic win – and Beckham is bringing in the crowds at the DRV PNK Stadium, as well as the trophies.Pitchside at the Fort Lauderdale arena has become the MLS equivalent of courtside at the Crypto.com ArenaThose two have made Inter Miami the must-see sports team in the States.Read more Inter Miami newsSo it’s no wonder A-listers including Leo DiCaprio, Selena Gomez and more are flocking to watch the team.And they were only get bigger when they move into the new £750million Miami Freedom Park in 2026, that’ll boast a 25,000 capacity.SunSport looks at the phenomenon Becks created, starting from scratch.Beforehand…The excitement around Beckham, 49, owning a sports team was enough to attract his celeb pals who offered their support.Most read in FootballHis product might have been lacking in pizzazz, with early recruits Gonzalo Higuain and Blaise Matuidi not exactly setting the world on fire.Tom Brady joins David Beckham and Lionel Messi at MLS game & gets gift from soccer icon after celebrating his team’s winBut, Becks is an extremely well-connected man.Curious as to see what all the fuss was about, the rich and famous took in an Inter Miami game.Perhaps, they were passing through Florida, or on holiday, but they can say they were there.This goes for Jay-Z, Jennifer Lopez, Will Smith and Olympic legend Usain Bolt.Maybe the latter was seeking a contract.Pitchside at the DRV PNK Stadium is a huge a celebrity affairThe fanfare was set.A star-studded debutWhile his lightning-delayed unveiling in 2023 was a damp squib, Messi’s debut against Cruz Azul was the equivalent of an Oscars red carpet that ended with a dramatic Hollywood movie plot twist.The star attraction entered the fray in the second half, admittedly very short of match-fitness.That didn’t matter. Not for a man of Messi’s class who had to entertain his new fans, with some paying over £1,000 for a ticket.Inter Miami owners Jorge Mas, Jose Mas, and David Beckham pose alongside Lionel Messi at his unveilingCredit: GettyThe Kardashians dropped in to offer the Beckhams their support,Credit: InstagramFor Kim Kardashian and tennis legend Serena Williams, they had to be there to see Messi’s debutSports pals LeBron James and David Beckham pose for a snap in Fort LauderdaleCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresDeep into stoppage time, he stood over a free-kick some 30-yards from goal.A trademark free-kick followed, driving the fans into ecstasy, Messi’s team-mates wild and securing a win for his new club.Right before he made his appearance, Kim Kardashian, LeBron James, Serena Williams, DJ Khaled, Camila Cabello, Rick Ross, Derek Jeter, Diddy, Becky G, and Marc Anthony all watched in expectation of the spectacular.Even they were in awe of the Barcelona legend, with some of those whipping their camera phones out to film the moment.And it wasn’t a fadWhile his debut was something of make-believe, that enticed the A-listers furthermore.You could be fooled into thinking a match against Atlanta United isn’t exactly a glamour tie.Tell that to Diddy (again), DJ Khaled (again), Camila Cabello (again), and Puerto Rican singer Rauw Alejandro.DJ Khaled and rapper Diddy were seen enjoying Messi’s second gameDJ Khaled’s son Asahd was overcome with emotion stood next to Lionel MessiCamila Cabello snatches a chat with Lionel MessiBefore the action kicked off, Messi led out his team alongside Khaled’s son, Asahd.It was an occasion that was even too much for the boy, who weeped tears of joy to be stood next to his hero.Still, those tears would have been wiped as Messi’s second coming inspired a 4-0 demolition of an MLS rival.Messi was the architect again, scoring twice inside the opening 22 minutes.And he seemingly appeared to be enjoying his new-found status, sharing a chat with singer Cabello during proceedings.READ MORE SUN STORIESBecks’ close pal NFL legend and Birmingham City investor, Tom Brady and producer/rapper Pharrell Williams have also shown their love for Inter Miami.While Hollywood movie star Leo DiCaprio was spotted in a posh box enjoying an ice lolly, and Prince Harry dropped in to see Inter face off against Los Angeles FC.NFL legend Tom Brady and Pharrell Williams are more A-listers who have have joined the Inter Miami celebrity fan clubCredit: GettyLionel Messi has transformed Inter Miami’s fortunesCredit: GettyPrince Harry reacts during a match between Inter Miami and LA FC More

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      Footballers who appeared in TV and film like David Beckham and Pele as Harry Kane makes his acting debut in porridge ad

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      FOOTBALLERS continue to swap the pitch for a TV and film screen.We’ve seen some who have wrapped up their careers and begun a new chapter in acting.Harry Kane appears in a German advert for 3Bears porridgeKane recently signed up to be the face of the cereal brandWhile others, during the pinnacle of their careers, have starred in TV ads. John Barnes, Lucozade springs immediately to mind.The most recent to make the transition is England legend Harry Kane.The 31-year-old striker recently agreed to become the face of 3Bear, a German-British porridge company based in Munich.In his first campaign for the brand, which is shot like hit TV series The Office, he stars as the “new boy” at the firm.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe 90-second mockumentary advert features Kane as a confused colleague on his first day at the office.He arrives at the 3Bears headquarters and introduces himself to co-owners Tim Nichols and Caroline Nichols.The Bayern Munich star attempts to speak to baffled workers, but they do not respond.Kane then puts a football-shaped mug on the table before asking: “So I guess breakfast is included?”Most read in FootballThe ex-Tottenham striker joins a number of football luminaries who have channelled their Robert De Niro.Vinnie Jones bags huge sum for Netflix doc about Wimbledon footie career – featuring iconic on pitch moment (1)Join SunSport in going through them.Vinnie JonesIt was British filmmaker Guy Ritchie who saw a future for the ex-Wimbledon hardman in films.He cast Vinnie as ‘Big Chris’ in 90s flick Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, in which he worked as a heavy for ‘Hatchet Harry’.A role in Snatch as ‘Bullet Tooth Tony’ followed, and he has since appeared in 109 productions, according to IMDB.He played Juggernaut in X-Men: The Last Stand in 2006 alongside Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart.And he is gearing up to star in The Gentleman – another Guy Ritchie film – that’s been turned into a TV series.Vinnie Jones first appeared on film in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking BarrelsCredit: AlamyVinnie Jones, right, later appeared in Guy Ritchie’s SnatchCredit: AlamyEric CantonaMan Utd legend Cantona is another 90s footballer who caught the acting bug.He unexpectedly retired in his prime at the age of 30 in his prime to pursue his dream.The Frenchman scored his first Hollywood role opposite Cate Blanchett in Elizabeth – playing an ambassador, unsurprisingly from France.He went on to star in plenty of French films, but it was in his star turn in indie film Looking for Eric that he showed a penchant for humour. Eric Cantona appeared as a French ambassador in Elizabeth in 1998Credit: AlamyCantona’s comic turn in Looking for Eric was even betterCredit: AlamyZlatan IbrahimovicIf ever there was a man built for action movies, it has to be Zlatan.The Swedish legend has made his film debut in new Netflix film, Asterix & Obelix: The Middle Kingdom.Of course he plays a Roman centurion and gets to show off his fighting skills in one scene – flicking up a helmet with his feet, before delivering a devastating uppercut blow to a villain and knocking his opponent off his feet.Oscar-winner Marion Cotillard also appears, proving Zlatan is in great company.Zlatan Ibrahimovic stars as a Roman centurion in the new Asterix movieCredit: PatheIbrahimovic attended the film’s premiere this monthCredit: RexRonaldoYou know you’ve made it in life when you appear in The Simpsons.Brazil legend Ronaldo played himself in a 2007 episode of the hit American cartoon.Incredibly, he voiced himself in English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Dutch.Amusingly, he turns up at a football match Lisa is playing – labelling her “a flopper” after she goes down too easy following a sturdy challenge. Ronaldo appeared as himself in The SimpsonsCredit: Fox BroadcastingAlly McCoistUnbeknownst to many, Rangers and talksSPORT legend McCoist was in a movie opposite Robert Duvall in A Shot at Glory in 2000.He had to play a fictional legendary ex-Celtic player called Jackie McQuillan, which would have hurt.However, McCoist confessed he wore a Rangers jersey underneath a Celtic one while filming.Ally McCoist opposite movie legend Robert Duvall in A Shot at GloryCredit: AlamyDavid BeckhamWith his movie star looks, it’s no wonder Beckham made it in the movies.Pal Guy Ritchie cast him in two of his films, as a projectionist in 2014’s The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and then as Trigger in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword in 2017.In the latter, he starred with Charlie Hunnam.Hunnam told Becks on set: “I said ‘listen pal, this is my movie and I want to be the most handsome man on screen!'”David Beckham appeared in King Arthur: Legend of the Sword in 2017Credit: AlamyBeckham spotted on the set of the Guy Ritchie movieCredit: AlamyFrank LeboeufEx-Chelsea defender Leboeuf made a bizarre cameo in Oscar-nominated movie The Theory of Everything, based on the life of Stephen Hawking.The French World Cup winner popped up as a doctor in one scene, although it wasn’t his acting debut.Previously he appearedin 2001’s Taking Sides, and has also acted in several theatres as well as World War II film Allies.“Journalists have asked me what is the common point between football and theatre, but they are completely different. We are both live — that’s it,” he told The Times.Frank Leboeuf seen in The Theory of EverythingCredit: TM & © Universalread more sport featuresPeleWith his status as the best footballer on the planet in the 1960s and 70s, it was no surprise Hollywood came calling.The late Pele played the role of Corporal Luis Fernandez, a captured POW during the Second World War in the classic Escape to Victory – with Michael Caine and Sylvester Stallone in starring roles too.The 1981 movie featured several footballers, including Bobby Moore and Ossie Ardiles – who are famously pitted against a German team in an exhibition match for their freedom.Pele shares a chat with Sylvester Stallone on set of 1981 film Escape to VictoryCredit: GettyPele was one of a number of footballers who appearedCredit: AlamyCarlo AncelottiIt’s a blink and you’ll miss it moment. But, the Real Madrid legend showed off his inner trekkie – appearing in Star Trek Beyond in 2016.Ancelotti’s brief cameo came at Starbase Yorktown as a doctor, kitted out in a Starfleet outfit as he examined an alien.Ancelotti said to Four Four Two: “I am a terrible actor.“I loved Star Trek as a child, so it is wonderful to be in the film now.”Carlo Ancelotti is a self-confessed Star Trek fanAncelotti appears in a blink and you’ll miss it moment in Star Trek Beyond in 2016Chris KamaraKamara turned out for Leeds, Bradford and Sheffield United – so it was only right that he would turn up on Yorkshire’s famous soap.Kammy appeared in a small role for an episode that was shown in 2019.He played a football coach and was labelled a “gobby manager” in a clash with Bear Wolf.READ MORE SUN STORIESEmmerdale viewers took to Twitter after watching the hilarious cameo.One fan said: “It’s Chris Kamara the Legend!!!! Unbelievable Jeff!!”Chris Kamara played a ‘Gobby manager’ in Emmerdale and ruffled Bear Wolf’s feathers in the soapCredit: ITV More

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      Inside Man Utd star Marcus Rashford’s incredible car collection that now includes chauffeur-driven Bentley worth £200k

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      MARCUS Rashford has got around his driving ban by buying a £200,000 Bentley to be chauffeured around in.The Man Utd forward, who owns a fleet of Rolls Royce motors worth around £2.5million, splashed the cash on the new Flying Spur Azure.Banned driver Marcus Rashford has added another car to his epic garageRashford has bought a £200k Bentley Flying Spur Azure to be driven around inThe luxury motor boasts a V8, four-litre, twin-turbo engine with 550 horsepower and “unrivalled comfort and elegance”.The leather interior features three-dimensional diamond-shaped embossing in the door panels and its longer wheelbase means the car has more space inside for Rash to kick back.The rear seats are equipped with actual pillows for ultimate comfort, and Rashford can watch Netflix on matte monitors mounted on the front seat backs .The car also features a glass-to-glass panoramic sunroof and electric blinds.Read more sports stars’ carsHis new purchase comes a year after he added a £560,000 Cullinan Blue Shadow to his stunning car collection.SunSport wades through his epic garage.Cullinan Blue Shadow, £560,000The bespoke limited edition motor is one of only 62 made.Each one is sprayed “Stardust Blue” to mimic the halo of the Earth’s upper atmosphere — 62 miles from the planet’s surface.Most read in FootballThe 6.75-litre, twin-turbo charged V12 SUV has a luxury interior and an audio system that features 18 speakers.I rebuilt Rashford’s wrecked Rolls-RoyceMan United striker Marcus, 26, also has a £390,000 Black Badge Cullinan and a 700,000 Black Badge Wraith.Rolls-Royce released the Cullinan — named after the famed diamond — in 2018.Car fan Marcus’ Man United team-mate Luke Shaw, 29, and Man City’s Erling Haaland, 24, are other stars to have Cullinans.And those Rolls-Royce motors, worth a combined £2.5million, are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Rashford’s amazing garage.The ace added a £560,000 Cullinan Blue Shadow to his set last yearMarcus in his Black Badge CullinanCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe star gets into his Black Badge WraithCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeMcLaren 765 Long Tail, £280,000Rashford bought a McLaren 765 Long Tail worth £280,000.He was pictured jumping into the supercar, after a shopping trip in Cheshire at a jewellers.The McLaren is a seriously speedy car, able to to reach a top speed of 205 mph.It reaches 0-60 mph in a staggering 2.7 seconds.Marcus Rashford boasts a McLaren 765 Long Tail in his collectionCredit: Internet UnknownLamborghini Urus Performante, £350,000The footballer’s choice nowadays.Every Premier League star worth their weight in salt has been seen behind the wheel of one.Powered by 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, the Urus is a beast of a car.Astonishingly for an SUV, it can hit 0-62 mph in just 3.3 seconds.A Lamborghini Urus costs £350,000Audi RS4, £60,000This was Rashford’s very first car.Not bad for an 18-year-old, eh? Who had just broken into United’s first team.He opted for the super-reliable Audi RS4, which used to be the Real Madrid stars’ choice of car, thanks to a sponsorship deal the Spanish club had.It’s where Rashford’s love of cars started.Rashford’s first car was an Audi when he was 18Credit: Cavendish Press (Manchester) LTD M1 3HZread more sport featuresMercedes CLA 45 Coupe, £60,000After emerging from the shadows to become one of the most talked about youngsters in English football, he got himself a fancy Merc.Sadly, he wasn’t in it for every long.Back in 2017, when Rashford was driving home from training, a motorist careered into the right hand side and it was written off.Rashford wrote off his CLA 45 CoupeCredit: 07971 879251Mercedes S Class Coupe, £103,000If one Mercedes isn’t enough, try two.Rashford expanded on his German fleet, introducing a S Class Coupe to his car roster, wrapping it from white to silver.It’s was most luxurious saloon car the motor company produced, which is why it came with such a hefty price tag when he was spotted in it around 2017.Utd forward Rashford then added a S Class Coupe worth £103,000Range Rover Sport, £70,000Continuing to follow in the trend of footballers around the globe, Rashford had a Range Rover Sport too.He went with the Velar from Urban Automotive, a modifier of luxury vehicles.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt would have come souped up, with no luxury or expense spared.His good pal Jesse Lingard also had the same Range Rover, when they played at United together.Rashford spotted driving his souped up Range Rover to CarringtonCredit: Cavendish Press More

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      England’s best players who missed out on playing in major tournaments including Le Tissier, Gazza and Grealish

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE isn’t the first England manager to have made some brutal selection decisions.The Three Lions boss, 53, raised eyebrows last week by leaving the likes of Jack Grealish and Harry Maguire out of his final Euro 2024 squad.Jack Grealish was surprisingly cut from the England squadCredit: GettyWhenever a major tournament comes around, fans eagerly pick over which stars should and shouldn’t get the nod from the powers that be.Last time out in Qatar, Fikayo Tomori, Jarrod Bowen and James Ward-Prowse suffered the heartache of falling at the final hurdle.While at Euro 2020, it was Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard who received the last-minute chop.Along with Grealish and Maguire, Jarell Quansah, Jarrad Branthwaite, James Maddison, Curtis Jones and James Trafford also missed out on this summer’s tournament.Read More on FootballWith Euro 2024 kicking off, let’s take a walk down memory lane to consider seven previous stars who surprisingly missed out.RIO FERDINANDIn 2012, aged 33, it’s fair to say Rio was past the peak of his powers.However, he did still offer a wise and experienced head at the back, and had come off a decent season for Manchester United.But Ferdinand was left “gutted” to have been left out of England’s Euro 2012 squad.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSManager Roy Hodgson explained the decision was made for footballing reasons, but Ferdinand’s omission did avoid any potential conflict with the selected John Terry, who months later faced allegations in court that he racially abused Rio’s brother, Anton.”I admire Rio Ferdinand as a player,” Hodgson explained. “I think he’s a fine footballer and I respect him, but I had to pick a squad with defenders I wanted to take to the Euros.”Phil Jones and Joleon Lescott got nods ahead of Ferdinand.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024Rio Ferdinand was snubbed from the Euro 2012 squadCredit: Getty Images – GettyPAUL GASCOIGNEEx-England boss Glenn Hoddle once described it as the “saddest thing he ever had to do.”After Gazza was instrumental in helping his country in the qualifiers, he was told he wouldn’t be going to France ’98.The hero two years earlier at Euro ’96, Gascoigne was given an ultimatum about his fitness. But Hoddle felt he just wasn’t up to it.According to reports, Gazza smashed up Hoddle’s hotel room when he was told the news.The mercurial midfielder was never picked for England again.Gazza was reportedly furious when Glenn Hoddle told him he wouldn’t be picked for the 1998 World CupCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdEURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTPAUL MERSONAlthough Merse got the nod ahead of Gazza for France ’98, he could count himself unlucky not to have gone to Italia ’90.In fine fine form at Arsenal, and only 22, the ‘Magic Man’ won the PFA Young Player of the Year Award in 1989.But Bobby Robson only picked three forwards for the World Cup, with the striking positions being taken by Gary Lineker, Peter Beardsley and Steve Bull.Nine midfielders were selected, including Bryan Robson, who struggled with injury and missed the majority of the competition. and a relatively unknown Gazza.England Euro 2024 guideGARETH SOUTHGATE is under no illusions coming into this competition – it is win or bust.
      The Three Lions have never had a better opportunity to end their 58-year wait for a major international trophy given the talent and experience they have in their armoury.
      MANAGER: Gareth Southgate
      The former England star has come closer than anyone since Sir Alf Ramsey to ending the Three Lions’ trophy hoodoo.
      Southgate is aware that the nations expects, and has even suggested he will quit if he doesn’t deliver the European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Jude Bellingham
      The Real Madrid star is arguably the world’s best player at the moment and gives England the platform they need to dominate big games.
      How England attack
      England will look to dominate the ball against almost everybody.
      Declan Rice is crucial in progressing the ball, Bellingham, Saka and Foden will rotate to pull defenders out of position and Kane can both score and drop deep to provide chances for others.
      How England defend
      England press man-to-man with the midfield pushing up to support Kane when the ball is lost and look to win it as close to the opposition goal as possible.
      However, the left-back spot could be a cause for concern, particularly with Luke Shaw entering the tournament with fitness worries.
      Read the full England Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.

      In 1989 Paul Merson was the best young player in the country, but that didn’t get him an England call-up a year later for Italia ’90Credit: GettyPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.

      MATT LE TISSIERArguably the most talented footballer of his generation, it’s criminal Matt Le Tissier didn’t get the international recognition he deserved.Possibly because he played for an unfashionable club in Southampton at the time – that might’ve been why he was overlooked.But the Saints legend only managed eight caps in his career, despite scoring 209 goals for his club.Had England qualified for the 1994 World Cup, he might’ve had a chance of being selected.He was also overlooked for the 1998 World Cup, even after impressing in an England B game against Russia – scoring a hat-trick.A hat-trick playing England B against Russia wasn’t enough to earn Matt Le Tissier a place in the squad for the 1998 World CupCredit: Times Newspapers LtdTONY ADAMSExperience, perhaps, wasn’t on Mr Arsenal’s side when Bobby Robson was selecting his Italia ’90 squad.And the formation wouldn’t have been to the Gunners legend’s strengths – playing in a back three, when he was used to a flat back four in North London.Adams’ spot went to Mark Wright, a more cultured sweeper who could bring the ball out of defence better than his counterpart.At Euro ’92, Martin Keown and Des Walker were the preferred two. However, Adams was restored to the first team before Euro ’96, where he had an outstanding tournament.Tony Adams wasn’t selected for Italia ’90 or Euro ’92, but was picked in subsequent tournaments afterCredit: GettyJERMAIN DEFOEIn 2014, it was a close call in the striking positions for a partner for Wayne Rooney.In fairness to Roy Hodgson, Jermain Defoe didn’t do himself any favours by moving to the MLS to play for Toronto months before the squad was decided.Rickie Lambert, Danny Welbeck and Daniel Sturridge were picked instead, leaving Defoe devastated.”I don’t think I’ll ever be at peace [with the decision],” the striker said at the time.Jermain Defoe was omitted from the 2014 World Cup squad by Roy Hodgson in favour of Rickie LambertCredit: Getty Images – GettyLAURIE CUNNINGHAMGood enough for Real Madrid, but not for England.Winger Laurie Cunningham, whose life was tragically cut short at 33 in a car crash, joined Los Blancos after starring at West Brom for £950,000 in 1979.In doing so, he became the first British footballer to move to the LaLiga giants.However, Ron Greenwood completely snubbed him from his Euro 1980 squad.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe following season, Cunningham made the squad for the qualifiers, after bitter negotiations with Real Madrid.But after appearing as a sub in a 2-1 defeat to Romania, he would never wear an England jersey again.The late Laurie Cunningham found himself on the periphery of the England squad, despite starring for Real MadridCredit: PAJack Wilshere’s England XI vs SerbiaSunSport columnist Jack Wilshere wants Engand to start with just one holding midfielder – Declan Rice.

      That means playing Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham in attacking midfield roles, with Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka on the wings, either side of Harry Kane up top.
      Wilshere said: “In the group stage against teams we should beat, we can  afford to be more expansive, let’s attack.
      “It wasn’t that long ago we were saying we didn’t have the Spanish-type of players who can dominate the ball, now we have.
      “So let’s try to utilise that, dominate the ball and go for goals.”
      And the ex-England midfielder wants Trent Alexander-Arnold to get the nod at right-back, with Kyle Walker centre-back.
      He added: “If you play Trent at right-back and he drifts in midfield, he can switch the play at speed. Walker’s pace will get you out of trouble.”
      Read more from Jack Wilshere during Euro 2024. More

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      in Boxing

      Tyson Fury and UFC legend Conor McGregor compared, with one living in Morecambe and another splashing cash around world

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      TYSON FURY and Conor McGregor are two of the highest-ever paid fighters in combat sports.The duo, both 35, have raked in millions of pounds thanks to their exploits inside the boxing ring and the UFC octagon.Brit boxing champion Tyson Fury is one of the richest athletes on the planetCredit: REXUFC and MMA superstar Conor McGregor is right up there with Fury on the rich listCredit: INSTAGRAM@THENOTORIOUSMMAFury lives a relatively modest life with his wife Paris and their seven kidsCredit: SPLASHMcGregor, on the other hand, loves to splash the cashCredit: GETTYFury, who faces Oleksandr Usyk for all the heavyweight marbles on Saturday night, pocketed close to £50million for his crossover clash with Francis Ngannou last October.And McGregor memorably took home a whopping £100m for his 2017 venture into the boxing world to take on Floyd Mayweather Jr.It’s no secret that the pair – who have watched one another fight in person – are equally as loaded as each other.But when it comes to how they spend their riches, they couldn’t be any more different.READ MORE ON FURY VS USYkUFC icon McGregor lives perhaps one of the most lavish lifestyles of all athletes.The Notorious has dropped millions on plush homes in Marbella, Lamborghini yachts and an incredible car and watch collection.WBC heavyweight champion Fury, however, lives a far more modest life in the sleepy town of Morecambe.Despite boasting an impressive fleet of motors, Fury and his family lived in a modest home worth a mere £550,000 up until 2021.Most read in BoxingBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE UNDISPUTED HEAVYWEIGHT BOUTHere’s how the two compare in the lifestyle stakes.PROPERTYThe sleepy seaside resort Morecambe is home for Tyson Fury and has been for over 13 years.Boxing legend Colin Hart has his say on Fury vs Usyk – and reveals who he thinks will winIn the last few years, he spent £1.7million on a new Lancashire home but beforehand was happy to live with wife Paris and their children in a five bedroom, £550,000 property.Speaking on a three-part ITV documentary in 2020, he said: “People say to me, ‘Why don’t you live in California or America?’ – why would I?”Why would I abandon my own country for a bit of money and some fame?”I love it. I would never leave Morecambe. It’s true beauty. If the weather was better, every house here would be a million quid.”The same can’t be said for former plumber’s apprentice Conor, who loves spending money. He told US TV host Jimmy Kimmel as much.”I mean you’ve got to enjoy it [money], right? It’s only paper,” McGregor told Kimmel on his chat show.Fury did live in a £550,000 five-bedroom home in MorecambeIn 2019 McGregor splashed £2m on this stunning home in IrelandMcGregor also spent around £1.3m on a holiday pad in Marbella in 2018Credit: The HeightsThe house is in The Heights, a luxury development that boasts wonderful views of the MediterraneanCredit: The HeightsHe added: “I need to stop fantasising about the materialistic things but I do enjoy them. I have to be honest with myself.”That’s why, when McGregor does retire, he has the pick of three homes – in Ireland, Spain and the USA.In 2019, he paid £2m for a beautiful five bedroom mansion in The Paddocks near Straffan, Co Kildare, that sits behind an elite gated Ladycastle community at the K Club, famed for being host to the Ryder Cup in 2006.The MMA star also has a £1.3million holiday home in the exclusive Marbella development called The Heights, where Cristiano Ronaldo is a neighbour.CARSWhen it comes to fast cars, McGregor has some of the best around.It is believed he has a garage worth around £3million and has been seen behind the wheel of a number of flashy motors.In the past, he’s shown off two Lamborghinis, including a £280,000 Aventador.McGregor’s also got a fleet of Rolls-Royces, like a £300,000 Phantom, a £250,000 Wraith and a £280,000 Dawn.And least we not forget McGregor’s £2.7million Lamborghini yacht, and he’s believed to own a private jet.Notorious loves luxury cars and owns a fleet of Rolls-RoycesCredit: Instagram @thenotoriousmmaMcGregor is also known to drive a Lamborghini AventadorCredit: INSTAGRAM@THENOTORIOUSMMAFury has been seen behind the wheel of a £250,000 Ferrari GTC4LussoCredit: BackGridAlthough Fury has admittedly scaled down on his car collectionFury has also been seen squeezing his 6ft 9in his frame into a £10,000 1993 Mini CooperCredit: Refer to CaptionInside the Gypsy King’s royal courtTYSON FURY is one of the biggest characters in sport.

      Fury has scaled down his car collection of late. He was seen behind the wheel of a £250,000 Ferrari GTC4Lusso, but seems to have ditched the Italian supercar.He also sold his Rolls-Royces when he suffered with depression and his life spiralled out of control.The Wythenshawe boxer even posted an emotional video on YouTube waving goodbye to a £300,000 Cullinan as it left his drive.He claimed to have swapped it for a used Volkswagen Passat that cost him £500.Fury has also been spied cruising around Morecambe Bay in a tiny Mini Cooper valued at £10,000.FASHIONWhere Fury catches up with McGregor is in the clobber he wears.The pair share a love of a bespoke statement suit. Tyson favours a Claudio Lugli number, often with a message that he shows off at press conferences before a big fight.McGregor too isn’t afraid of saying something with his whistle, once donning a suit that had ‘F*** you’ written in very small writing on it.He regularly teams up with tailor David August, who he has a fashion label with, for a new look.Fury is not afraid to wear a statement suitCredit: The Mega AgencyTyson showed off his £590 slippers and a £375 bathrobeCredit: Twitter @Tyson_FuryDapper Conor McGregor says a good suit is like wearing a plate of armourCredit: Splash NewsFamously, McGregor had a message for Floyd Mayweather on his suit before they foughtCredit: Getty”A good suit is like a plate of armour,” he once told fashion mag GQ.Amusingly, before Fury likes to go into battle, and when he’s in training camps, he lives in swanky robes.He was seen wearing a £375 Versace dressing gown before fighting Deontay Wilder in Las Vegas, matching them with £595 Gucci slippers.JEWELLERYDiamonds can also be a man’s best friend.Although he’s not as bling as McGregor, Fury has been spotted wearing a £500,000 Richard Mille Rose Gold watch, as well as a Rolex.And matching that Versace robe, wrapped around his neck, he wears a diamond-encrusted necklace.McGregor has a thing for watches too. Astonishingly, he has amassed a watch collection worth £2.2million.He has a Jacob & Co’s Astronomia Tourbillon Baguette, which is valued at a jaw-dropping £730,000.However, it’s another Jacob & Co timepiece that is his rudest. The Rasputin boasts blue hands and a naughty secret.Tyson flaunts his Richard Mille Felipe Massa Ivory Rose Gold Chronograph, which costs a staggering £500,000Credit: Instagram/gypsyking101Tyson also showed off a rainbow-themed Rolex on social mediaCredit: Twitter, @Tyson_FuryThe diamond-encrusted watch hides a naughty secret behind a shimmering doorMcGregor showed off his £730k Jacob & Co Astronomia Tourbillon Baguette watch on social mediaBehind a shimmering door of his Rasputin Jacob & Co watch that cost £1.5m is a saucy imageInside McGregor’s Notorious lifestyleWith more sides to his personality than an Octagon, Conor McGregor’s rise has been an enthralling watch.
      With the touch of a button, a hidden sex scene emerges from behind a shimmering door.How much did it cost, you ask? £1.5million.THEIR WAGSFury and McGregor were in long-term romances before they became household names.Dee Devlin met the Irishman in 2008 in a nightclub, just as he decided to go into MMA.And she’s always been supportive of him before a big fight – once revealing she prepares his meals to keep an eye on the calories he’s consuming.She also loves her designer clothing like her fiancé. When McGregor stepped into the ring to face off against Floyd Mayweather, she was spotted in the crowd wearing a £1,750 D&G leopard print dress.And like Conor, jewellery is important to Dee – who has been seen wearing Cartier, including a £31,000 watch and £40,000 bracelet.With her flowing blond locks and taste for expensive clothes, Paris Fury is glam, as well. The fashionable mum-of-six has a particular soft spot for Chanel, flashing a pair of stylish gold metallic trainers, £750, on Instagram.Paris Fury cuts a glam figure and loves designer wearCredit: InstagramParis owns SEVEN of these stylish Chanel 2.55 bags, worth £4,362 eachCredit: InstagramDee Devlin was McGregor’s side before his epic riseDevlin was snapped at the Floyd Mayweather fight wearing a £1,750 D&G leopard print dressCredit: Getty Images – GettyShe has previously dazzled followers with a £180 Moschino belt and Fendi Mama Baguette bag, worth £1,850.READ MORE SUN STORIESHer enviable handbag collection includes seven Chanel 2.55 bags in black, white, green, pink, yellow, blue and red, each of which retail for around £4,362.Clearly, it’s the Wags who are more comparable than their sporting partners. More

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      in Soccer

      Legendary manager Neil Warnock’s funniest moments, from foul-mouthed teamtalk to eyeballing a camera, as boss retires

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      WITH 43 years of experience in the dugout, Neil Warnock provided plenty of laughs as a boss.Often controversial, the Sheffield-born gaffer stepped down as Aberdeen boss last month, after just eight games in charge.Neil Warnock has provided plenty of laughs during his 43 years in the dugoutCredit: GettyBefore that, though, he managed to save Huddersfield Town from relegation last season.Warnock fancied the job at the vacant job at Plymouth, but Argyle have now put director of football Neil Dewsnip and first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell in charge until the end of the season instead.Appearing on talkSPORT, the legendary manager was asked about a return to management.”Oh I’m retired now,” he said.Read more football news”I would have [gone to Plymouth], but not now.”It’s all done and dusted now, and I’m looking forward to going round some of the Scottish islands.”Warnick is also fondly remembered by Sheffield United, Cardiff City and QPR fans for guiding them to the Premier League.He began his career all the way back in 1980 with Gainsborough Trinity.Most read in FootballBut, he is also known for outspoken personality and eccentric behaviour on the touchline,SunSport takes a look at Warnock’s funniest moments.Neil Warnock stars in hilarious Sky Sports Christmas advert with former players as fans brand him a ‘national treasure’The epic rantWhen it comes to team talks, Warnock is a chief motivator.And at Sheffield United he delivered his most powerful sermon ever, although thankfully he wasn’t at church with the amount of F bombs dropped.Questioning his players’ attitudes and ambition, he launched into his powerful tirade, insisting his players won’t care when they go off on their holidays to “Majorca” during pre-season.Outrageously, he encourages his players to “s***” their partners in the front seat of their cars.He screams: “You’re picking up a wage… that’s a load of b*******! You’ve got to f***ing die to get three points!”It was all captured, eloquently and beautifully, by a fly-on-the-wall documentary called Warnock.[embedded content]She had a dreamWhat the wife says goes in Warnock’s book, and that includes playing a defender upfront.Ex-Crystal Palace star Darren Ambrose revealed the coach’s missus Sharon dreamed that right-back Danny Butterfield scored the winner before an FA Cup replay against Wolves.So, in real life, Warnock decided to play him as a forward.Ambrose told talkSPORT: “We were playing Wolves.”He said, ‘My wife Sharon, she had a dream last night. She dreamt that my right back scores the winning goal today. So Danny Butterfield – you’re playing up front’. We all started laughing then and he was like, ‘no, I’m serious’.”Unbelievably, Palace won 3-1 – with Butterfield scoring the perfect hat-trick, left foot, right foot, and a header.Warnock snapped clapping the fans at Crystal Palace’s replay with WolvesCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWarnock picked his team based on a dream wife Sharon hadEyeballing the cameraChannelling his inner Liam Gallagher, Warnock played up to the camera for his next trick.As manager of Cardiff City, who he was desperate to keep up during the 2018/19 season, he had some run-ins.Famously, he stared out manager Craig Pawson following a late defeat to Chelsea.However, the funniest moment came before a match with Crystal Palace as he was filmed in the dugout before kick-off.Walking towards the camera, with his hands behind his back, he pushed his face in the direction of the cameraman.Part bird pecking, part ex-Oasis lead-singer – it had a more comical effect then threatening. Forget Liam Gallagher, Neil Warnock leans towards the camera in intimidating fashionBristol City requestAs manager of Cardiff City, Warnock was somewhat of a hate-figure for their rivals Bristol City.During one memorable appearance on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday, he let it be known how he wants them to remember him when he passes away.“I joke with their fans that, when I do pass away, I hope they all have a minute’s applause for me at Ashton Gate and remember the good times I’ve given them,” Warnock explained.”I don’t want silence. I want them all to be chanting ‘Warnock’s a w*****’ over and over again. For a whole minute. That would be my ideal.”As a former boss of Cardiff City, Warnock has one request for rival Bristol City fansCredit: PA:Press AssociationTelling Lineker to f*** offWhen Match of the Day requested to interview Warnock after he oversaw a 2-0 win for his Cardiff team over Bournemouth, the manager was less than enamoured.Unaware the camera was rolling, he was caught telling MOTD host Gary Lineker to “f*** off”.It all began with Warnock annoyed by Lineker calling him an anagram of his first name, ‘Colin W*****”, as was coined by Wolves fans.”Match of the Day? Tell Gary Lineker to f*ck off,” Warnock was heard saying on BBC television in Canada when he was unaware the camera was rolling.”He calls me Colin. Can I say, ‘Colin here’?”Needless to say, the segment where Lineker spoke directly to managers was shelved for Warnock.Match of the Day host Gary Lineker is particularly disliked by WarnockCredit: BBC[embedded content]Even Thommo wasn’t safeOn the touchline, Warnock would come alive with the passion of the game.Worse was at Anfield, when temperatures were already heated on the touchline.In the 2002-2003 season, he guided Sheffield United to the semi-final of the league cup.The Blades lost the tie 3-2 on aggregate, and in his autobiography Warnock revealed a spat he had with Reds assistant Phil Thompson.During the fracas, he said: “You can f*** off Pinocchio, get back in your f***ing cupboard.”read MORE SPORT FEATURESWarnock’s frustration on the touchline often boiled overCredit: PA:Press AssociationSpot of bowlingThe art of the con was well mustered by Warnock.He used to be a bowling coach as a teenager, which is how he got his break in football when he coached a Sheffield United player’s wife, leading to a trial at Chesterfield.Amusingly, he used bowling as a team bonding exercise for his players, but took all their cash.Paul Peschisolido told the story of Warnock taking Sheffield United players bowling to SunSport.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He convinced us all to put £10 in the pot, winner take all,” he said.”We agreed for some fun, then he pulled out his own bowling shoes and custom ball, shot 250 and took all our money.”Neil Warnock’s team bonding exercises including taking his team bowlingCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      in Soccer

      Players who swapped football for fighting, including Wayne Bridge, as Wayne Rooney is ‘offered’ Misfits Boxing switch

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      FOOTBALLERS are always encouraged to think about what career path they will take when they hang up their boots.Some choose to go into coaching, others invest in property… and some decide to knock lumps out of one another.
      Wayne Rooney is a huge boxing fan and his considering switching sports
      Rooney was last seen as the boss of Birmingham City
      Marcin Wasilewski is set to begin a career in cage fightingCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Wayne Rooney is considering a shock career change, and is in talks to star in Misfits Boxing.
      According to the Mirror, the 38-year-old has held talks with the promoter of KSI’s influencer boxing series, Kalle Sauerland.
      While former Leicester defender Marcin Wasilewski was one ex-pro tipped to swap shin pads for mouth guards.
      The Pole, now 43, retired from football in November 2020 and was expected to enter the world of cage fighting.
      Read more football news
      A bout with ex-Bolton and Hearts defender Blazej Augustyn was even suggested, however he is yet to fight.
      Here, SunSport details the fighting careers of five other footballers who have turned to the ring.
      Rio Ferdinand
      England legend Ferdinand’s football career brought several glittering moments but his boxing days were over before they really started.
      Sponsored by a betting company to step into the ring in September 2017, the former defender was jarringly denied a licence.
      Most read in Football
      The British Boxing Board of Control deemed it ‘not beneficial’ to allow Ferdinand his second career.
      Marcin Wasilewski scores amazing free kick in Leicester training
      And the Manchester United hero quickly called time on his boxing comeback.
      He said: “It is with a heavy heart that I am hanging up my gloves.
      “To not be given the chance to demonstrate my ability to the BBBofC through the standard assessment afforded to others is hard to take.”
      That didn’t stop Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn revealing his desire to stage an Old Trafford showdown between Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney.
      Rio Ferdinand won a shedload of trophies as a footballerCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The ex-defender was unsuccessful in his attempt at a boxing careerCredit: OnEdition
      Katie Taylor
      Arguably the world’s top female boxer, Taylor is also a former Republic of Ireland international footballer.
      The ex-winger starred for Peamount United in the late 2000s yet missed her side’s FAI Women’s Cup final in 2009 to be crowned Europe’s best amateur fighter.
      Taylor won 11 caps for her country, scoring twice, before choosing to focus on boxing a decade ago.
      Former team-mate Marie Curtin would later tell the Mirror that Taylor ‘would have excelled to the highest level’ had she stayed in football.
      Curtin added: “There were no barriers. Her mindset is so strong and you need leaders like that on your team to win.”
      And Taylor fondly remembers her playing days, even recalling a crunching tackle that was posted on Twitter a couple of years ago.
      I remember it well Derek, it was intentional haha! Thanks for sharing!!— Katie Taylor (@KatieTaylor) January 5, 2018

      Katie Taylor played a number of times for the Republic of Ireland women’s teamCredit: Sportsfile – Subscription
      Wayne Bridge
      Hardly the most aggressive left-back of his day, ex-Chelsea man Bridge showed the fire in his belly with a stint in boxing two years ago.
      A Sport Relief clash with Made In Chelsea star Spencer Matthews saw the defender take on a man nine years his junior.
      The three-round affair started tightly before Bridge unleashed a barrage of blows.
      Matthews hit the deck twice and yet made it to the final bell, at which Bridge won on points.
      The former England international, who has also appeared on I’m A Celeb, retired from football aged 33 in 2014.
      His boxing career ended with that one charity fight and he is now said to refer to himself as a ‘stay-at-home dad’ for the two kids he shares with wife Frankie.
      Wayne Bridge retired from football aged 33 due to an injury nightmareCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      He agreed to a charity contest for BBC Sport ReliefCredit: BBC
      Leon McKenzie
      A star forward for the likes of Norwich, Peterborough and Coventry on the pitch, McKenzie would later forge a decent super-middleweight career.
      Having hung up his boots in January 2013, he pulled on the gloves just six months later.
      A debut win over John Mason at Bethnal Green’s historic York Hall set him on a string of nine fights without defeat.
      An English title fight with Jahmaine Smyle saw McKenzie suffer a first defeat before he rounded off an 11-fight career with a nine-round loss to Cello Renda.
      The ex-striker also joined forces with former England cricketer Steve Harmison for a talkSPORT podcast on sports stars’ post-retirement plans.
      He said: “For a while I was trying to hold on to ‘former professional boxer and footballer’. That was my identity. I’ve accepted my position now.”
      Leon McKenzie helped Norwich win promotion to the Premier League in 2004Credit: PA:Press Association
      The 42-year-old put together an impressive 11-fight boxing careerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Curtis Woodhouse
      Few footballers have made the switch to boxing as convincingly as Woodhouse.
      Birmingham paid £1million to sign the midfielder from Sheffield United in 2001 before spells with Peterborough, Hull and more.
      Disenchanted with the game, he quit aged 26 to spark a long career in the ring.
      An assault conviction halted Woodhouse’s rise but he soon began teaming both of his sports.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Over 31 fights, he claimed 24 wins and went 12 rounds with Frankie Gavin for the WBO Intercontinental welterweight belt in 2011.
      The Driffield Destroyer won English and British level titles before retiring in 2017, and can now be found managing non-league Gainsborough Trinity.
      Birmingham once paid a seven-figure fee to sign Curtis WoodhouseCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The midfielder teamed a non-league career with a number of boxing boutsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Woodhouse lost six stone in weight when returning from a spell away from the ring More

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      in Soccer

      Weird football transfers from Jesse Lingard’s FC Seoul deal and Alves’ €1 salary… to Bendtner joining Juventus

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      NEVER underestimate football’s ability to shock.Over the years, we have witnessed some weird transfers. Players swapping their glamour days for a runout at Barnet, for example, and more.
      Andy Carroll signed for Reading in a short-term deal last year a surprising moveCredit: JASONPIX
      Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano shocked the world when they signed for West Ham in 2006Credit: PA:Press Association
      Former Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard is unveiled by FC SeoulCredit: AP
      Jesse Lingard struggled to find a Premier League club that matched his ambitions, and ended up at FC Seoul in this year.
      Back in 2021, Dani Alves returned to Barcelona at the age of 38, and will reportedly be paid just ONE EURO a month.
      And who can forget that same year, Andy Carroll coming out of the wilderness to sign for Reading on a two-month contract.
      Here are some of the weirdest transfers we’ve ever come across.
      Read more football news
      JESSE LINGARD
      In the summer of 2023, Lingard’s spell at Nottingham Forest came to an end.
      He trained with West Ham, who he previously enjoyed a loan spell with, after his City Ground departure but then decided to join up with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq.
      However, he was unable to sign a contract with them because they had a limit on foreign players in the Saudi League.
      The former Man Utd ace was then linked with a move to Everton and allegedly offered himself to Barcelona but neither move failed to materialise.
      Instead, he penned a two-year deal with FC Seoul reportedly worth £17,500-per-week.
      Ex-Arsenal ace Bendtner opens up on boozy parties, depression and fallout with dad after ‘letting the black wolf rule’
      It is claimed he snubbed 26 clubs to sign for the South Korean outfit.
      NICKLAS BENDTNER
      On the final day of the transfer window in August 2012, Juventus were short of a centre forward.
      But even Arsenal fans, who had grown tired of Nicklas Bendtner’s off-the-field antics, were shocked the Italian giants went for their Danish striker.
      Especially since the previous season he had failed to pull up any trees at Sunderland.
      That didn’t deter Juve gambling on the forward, but injury problems restricted him to just 11 appearances – and he failed to score.
      Unsurprisingly, the Serie A side didn’t take up an option of buying him permanently.
      Arsenal fans were left stunned when Serie A giants Juventus took troubled striker Nicklas Bendtner off their handsCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Bendtner failed to score in 11 games for the club and a permanent move was quashedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      BOJAN KRKIC
      The former Barcelona man was the epitome of the question; can he do it on a rainy Tuesday night at Stoke?
      The simple answer was no, despite Bojan having the benefit of playing for the home side too.
      Mark Hughes concluded the surprise deal for the man labelled the next Messi in 2014 for just £1.8million.
      “Anyone who knows European football will be aware of him as a player and the fact that he sees his future at Stoke City is really exciting,” Hughes beamed at the time.
      16 goals in 85 games later he was sold to MLS side Montreal Impact in 2019.
      Bojan Krcic swapped Barcelona for StokeCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      read more sport features
      STEVEN CAULKER
      Although it was only a loan move, Jurgen Klopp bringing in Caulker at Liverpool from QPR in a January transfer window in 2016 was one no-one saw coming.
      A centre-back who came through the ranks at Tottenham, the one-time England cap managed to play four games for the reds.
      What was even more unbelievable was he was asked to play upfront.
      Sadly, his Liverpool was cut short before a deal could be thrashed out, when Caulker was admitted into rehab with addictions to alcohol and gambling threatening his career.
      Steven Caulker was asked to play upfront for LiverpoolCredit: Reuters
      TEVEZ AND MASCHERANO
      Probably one of the most audacious double-signings in Premier League history.
      No wonder then West Ham boss Alan Pardew had a smile like a Cheshire cat at their unveiling back in 2006.
      The Argentinian duo were plucked from Corinthians, and only stayed with the Hammers for a season with Tevez joining Manchester United and Mascherano signing for Liverpool.
      Tevez would write his name in the history books by scoring the goal that secured the club’s Premier League safety in a 1-0 win over Man Utd.
      Later, Pardew revealed he had only asked his chief executive to buy James Milner and that his Christmas came early.
      Carlos Tevez helped save West Ham from relegationCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      LUTHER BLISSETT
      Cruelly called Luther ‘Miss it’ by away fans, Blissett is a Watford legend and their all-time top goalscorer.
      After winning the First Division Golden Boot in 1983, AC Milan paid £1million to bring him to Italy.
      But Blissett struggled to settle in Italy, scoring just five times in 30 appearances in the club.
      His dietary requirements were also unfulfilled.
      “No matter how much money you have here, you can’t seem to get Rice Krispies,” he said.
      AC Milan gambled on Watford legend Luther Blissett, who failed to settle in ItalyCredit: AP:Associated Press
      EDGAR DAVIDS
      One of the finest midfielders of his generation, it was a shock to see Edgar Davids end up at Barnet.
      After all, this was a former Dutch international who had won the Champions League with Ajax, and played for AC Milan, Juventus, Inter Milan and Barcelona in a star-studded career.
      Still, in 2012 – still living in North London after a spell at Spurs and then Crystal Palace – he became player manager of League Two Barnet.
      However, he struggled to keep his discipline on the pitch – getting sent off three times in his first eight games of the 2013-14 season and picking up a booking in every one of those matches.
      His bizarre managerial career took a new turn when he decided to wear the No1 jersey normally worn by goalkeepers, insisting he was setting a trend for midfielders to don that number. He resigned in 2014.
      After starring at Ajax, Juventus, AC Milan and Tottenham, Edgar Davids opted to end his career at League Two BarnetCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      FERNANDO HIERRO, YOURI DJORKAEFF AND JAY-JAY OKOCHA
      There was no doubt Sam Allardyce had big plans for Bolton Wanderers.
      Although they were in their twilight years, between 2002-2005 Real Madrid legend Fernando Hierro, France World Cup winner Youri Djorkaeff and the remarkably gifted Jay-Jay Okocha all played for the club at the same time.
      Okocha joined from PSG on a free transfer, and soon became a fans’ favourite.
      Djorkaeff scored an impressive 21 goals from 87 games from midfield, initially snubbing interest from Manchester United and Liverpool for three years with the Trotters.
      While Hierro finished his illustrious career playing for Wanderers aged 37, launching long balls from the back.
      Youri Djorkaeff and Jay-Jay Okocha were part of a dream team of foreign signings at BoltonCredit: Reuters
      Real Madrid legend Fernardo Hierro enjoyed his final year as a pro with the TrottersCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      ROBERTO MANCINI
      Mancini enjoyed a stellar career at Sampdoria, where he helped the club win Serie A, four Coppa Italia titles, as well the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
      Three years followed at Lazio, but no one could’ve envisaged what was going to happen next.
      Most read in Football
      Mancini joined Peter Taylor’s Leicester City on loan – making his debut against Arsenal in 2001 at the grand old age of 36.
      However, he failed to complete 90 minutes in his five games for the club.
      His contract was torn up in February, when Mancini decided he wanted to manage Fiorentina.
      Roberto Mancini joined Leicester City at 36 from Lazio, but failed to reach previous heightsCredit: PA:Press Association
      PHILIPPE COUTINHO
      The Villans shocked everyone when they announced the loan signing of Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona in 2022.
      The third most-expensive player of all time uprooted his life in Spain to link up with former Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard in the Midlands.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      And he made an instant impact on his debut as he came off the bench against Manchester United to score a late equaliser in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
      However, over time he looked a shadow of himself and when Unai Emery came to the club he was frozen out of the first team.
      Aston Villa signed Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho on loan from Barcelona in 2022Credit: Getty More