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Liverpool missed out on Man Utd star Cristiano Ronaldo just a week before transfer after ‘fee trebled’ overnight
by Philippa Kaur 15 January 2022, 07:00
LIVERPOOL failed to sign Cristiano Ronaldo only a week before he joined Manchester United after Sir Alex Ferguson gazumped his rivals, according to Phil Thompson.The then-Reds assistant boss has revealed that his team were one of many English clubs interested in the Portuguese forward.
Ronaldo went on to become a mega star at Old TraffordCredit: PA:Press Association
Ronaldo had already declared that a move to Anfield was “a dream” with agents Paul Stretford, Jorge Mendes and Tony Henry negotiating his exit from Sporting CP.
In recalling the 2003 transfer to The Athletic, Thompson states that a £4million fee was required.
He noted: “I asked what kind of salary he would want and they said it was £1 million per year after tax. That was a lot for an 18-year-old kid but they said that was negotiable.
“It was a Sunday and I explained to them that I needed to go back to Liverpool and speak to Gerard Houllier and see what we could do. I fed all the information back to Gerard, who said he would speak to [chief executive] Rick Parry.
“Lo and behold, the following week I’m at Melwood when the yellow ticker on Sky Sports News says: Manchester United sign Cristiano Ronaldo from Sporting for £12.2m.
“I couldn’t believe my eyes.”
As Thompson says, United had not paid the £4m fee earlier touted and he was left shocked at how the figure changed overnight.
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The former defender continued: “Tony told me that when he’d got off the plane on the Monday he had got a call to say he was off the deal. It was down to Stretford and Mendes instead.
“It was astonishing that the fee trebled.
“He was clearly a big talent but no one could have predicted back then how great he was going to be.”
Ronaldo went on to win a treble of Premier League titles in Manchester with 118 goals in almost 300 appearances in his first spell with the club.
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Spurs owner Joe Lewis lives on a £112m boat, is friends with Tiger Woods and gave The Nolans their first ever gig
by Philippa Kaur 15 January 2022, 06:00
JOE LEWIS owns Tottenham Hotspur, but you’ve probably hardly ever seen him. The East End-born self-made billionaire rarely visits the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to cheer on Harry Kane and Co, preferring life on a superyacht in the Caribbean to trips to North London.
Billionaire Joe Lewis is the very private owner of Tottenham HotspurCredit: Action Images – Reuters
Spurs owner Joe Lewis has an estimated worth of £4bnCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Residing mostly in the Bahamas on his £112m boat called Aviva III, he also has a home next door to Sean Connery’s former estate and is friends with Tiger Woods.
Over the years, he launched the careers of Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock founder Robert Earl and 70s pop sensations The Nolans.
And according to the Forbes rich list, he has an estimated fortune of a whopping £4.3bn.
Let SunSport take you through the world of the man nicknamed “The Boxer” because of his sporting namesake.
Who is Joe Lewis?
Joe is true cockney who was born within the sound of the St. Mary-le-Bow church bells in 1937, which makes him 84 years old. He is thought to have been raised in a flat above the Roman Arms pub in East London.
Roman Road in Bow, East London, where Lewis was reportedly raisedCredit: Google Streetview
Credit: Alamy
Joe Lewis was born within the sound of the St. Mary-le-Bow church bells
He left school at 15 to work in his family’s cafe as a waiter, earning £6 a week.
He later established more businesses in London’s West End under the name Tavistock Banqueting.
Joe opened restaurants including the Northumberland Grand, which was the first fancy dress-themed eaterie in London aimed at tourists.
From there he developed the Beefeater, the Cockney, the Caledonian and the Hanover Grand.
He managed his first super club called The Talk of the Town in the 60s, where the likes of Frank Sinatra, Diana Ross and Tom Jones performed.
At the Hanover Grand, Joe granted The Nolans their first ever live show and he gave Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock founder Robert Earl his first job.
The Talk of the Town was London’s super club of the 60sCredit: Alamy
Joe Lewis launched the career of The Nolans handing them their first gigCredit: Getty – Contributor
Joe Lewis gave Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock boss Robert Earl his first jobCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
Joe even delved into the world of tourist shops, selling souvenirs and laying on bus tours of London for foreigners and dropping them off at his restaurants.
He sold the business in 1979 for an incredible £30m and moved to the Bahamas as a tax exile.How he turned his millions to billions…
After moving to Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas, Joe entered the world of currency trading.
It’s there he made tens of millions, gambling on stock, as he looked to continue accumulating his massive wealth.
And it was in September, 1992 when he became a billionaire, thanks in part to one shrewd investment on a day called Black Wednesday.
Joe teamed up with investor George Soros believing the Pound was overvalued and would collapse as Britain attempted to align it with other Euro countries.
He bet on the Pound crashing out of the European Exchange Rate Mechanism and as it did he became a billionaire overnight.
Joe repeated the trick many years later betting against the Mexican peso and landed himself even more dough.
After selling his business Joe Lewis moved to the BahamasCredit: Getty – Contributor
Joe Lewis made his first billion on Black Wednesday in 1992Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
Joe Lewis gambled on the pound crashing out of the European Exchange Rate MechanismCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
He lives on one of the most luxurious boats in the world…
Well, for most months of the year… and it’s not just any old boat.
The Aviva III, built in 2007, is Joe’s mobile private office and it’s 223ft in size with an estimated value of £112m.
It was crafted by German builders Abeking and Rasmussen and designed by Reymond Langton.
The large yacht can host up to 16 people and in sea trials reached up to 20 knots (23mph).
Joe is a keen sportsman, with the ship boasting a full-sized tennis court.
Joe Lewis owns the Aviva III which is worth £112mCredit: Jeremy Young – The Sunday Times
The mega yacht has a full-sized tennis court and can reach 23mphCredit: Alamy Live News
In May 2013, Spurs went on a trip to the Bahamas and were welcomed on board the vessel by host Joe.
Michael Dawson, who was skipper at the time, said: “I had never met him before, so it was nice to go over there and a great experience.
“What a really nice guy. And that yacht is unreal! But he’s just a normal guy.
“You could chat to him about anything. He tunes into all the games, he loves it.
“We just sat there chatting. He made us feel so welcome over there. It was relaxed. A lot of team-bonding together.
“It helps to be able to put a face to the person investing so much in this club he wants to be successful.
“He’s always watching. He knows what goes on. He would remember every game, every little thing.”
Joe Lewis welcomed Spurs players onboard his boat in 2013Credit: PA:Press Association
Michael Dawson waxed lyrical about meeting Joe LewisCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Joe has friends in high places…
Of course, when you’re as wealthy as Joe you’re going to attract the creme de la creme of society.
His best mate is Tiger Woods, who has called Joe “my business mentor” in the past.
Each year, when he’s not injured, Tiger takes part in Joe’s Tavistock Cup competition in Florida.
It’s held on two of Joe’s developments in Orlando called the Isleworth and Lake Nona.
Tiger Woods has called Joe Lewis “my business mentor”Credit: Getty Images – Getty
Joe Lewis and Tiger Woods regularly play golf together in FloridaCredit: Getty – Contributor
Incidentally, when Tiger Woods had his infamous 2009 low-speed car accident it was at Joe’s Isleworth complex, where the golfer has a home.
Joe, who also owns property in Argentina and Bulgaria, boasts Ernie Els is another pal, and the pair are said to regularly dine together.
Being mates with golfers gives you the hint that Joe is a keen golfer himself.
He is believed to play off a 14 handicap and has practised with Woods and Els in the past.
Joe Lewis and Ernie Els often have dinner togetherCredit: PA:Press Association
Pablo Picasso is one of the artists Joe Lewis lovesCredit: AFP – Getty
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He has an epic art collection…When you’re a wealthy man, you need hobbies aside from golf and relaxing on yachts.
That’s why Joe has an art collection that’s the envy of every Premier League owner.
Said to be worth around £1bn, he owns works by post-expressionists Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, and Miros.
However, in 2008 Joe made headline news, at least in the art world, with one extravagant purchase.
The businessman splashed £26.3 million on Francis Bacon’s Triptych 1974-1977 painting.
And you’d never guess where he keeps all his art? Yeah, that’s right.. the paintings adorn the walls of his mega yacht.
Joe Lewis spent £26.3 million on Francis Bacon painting Triptych 1974-1977Credit: Christie’s
Joe Lewis keeps most of his art collection on his luxury yachtCredit: Reuters
And now for something personal…
Joe has been married twice, his first wife was Esther Browne who he met at his greasy spoon.
She now lives in Ireland.
They had two children, Vivienne and Charlie, before they divorced.
Joe then married his former assistant Jane, however they don’t have any kids.
But before you go thinking life has been all rosy for Joe, he has been touched by loss.
He lost his dad to cancer, so he wanted to give something back.
Joe set up a foundation to help fund research, and the charity is run by daughter Vivienne.
Joe Lewis has been called a regular guy by anyone who meets himCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More
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Ronaldinho reveals why he chose Barcelona over Manchester United and how close he really got to Blackburn
by Philippa Kaur 14 January 2022, 12:00
RONALDINHO came incredibly close to signing for Manchester United – but eventually snubbed them in favour of Barcelona.The Brazilian is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of the last two decades after a stunning career in the game.
Ronaldinho has revealed just how close he came to joining Manchester United instead of BarcelonaCredit: AP:Associated Press
And he admitted in 2018 that he was all set to become a United player as he approached the peak of his career, only to pull out at the last minute when Barca came calling.
Ronaldinho had become one of the hottest properties in world football in two dazzling years proving himself in Europe with Paris Saint-Germain.
And Sir Alex Ferguson looked to have won the race for his services in 2003 when a fee and personal terms had been agreed to take the winger to Old Trafford.
But that move collapsed at the last minute when elections at Barcelona saw Sandro Rosell become the club’s president.
Ronaldinho opted to make the move to the Nou Camp instead of Old Trafford in 2003Credit: AP:Associated Press
United just missed out on signing one of the greatest footballers in the history of the gameCredit: Getty – Contributor
Speaking to FourFourTwo three years ago, Ronaldinho said: “It almost happened with United.
“It was a matter of 48 hours, but Sandro Rosell had told me way before I got the offer: ‘If I become Barca president, will you come?’ I said yes.
SECURITY SHOCKER England fan mistaken for hairdresser taken to Jesse Lingard’s hotel room in cock-up
“It was only a matter of details with United when Rosell called to say he was going to win the elections there.
“And I had promised to him that I’d play for Barça… It was a quick negotiation.
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“I told the English I had chosen Barca. It was the right choice.
“Brazilians have always loved Barca. We have a history there. Off the pitch it is like nowhere else in Europe, so we are always happy playing there.”
Ronaldinho’s late change of heart meant Ferguson just missed out on the chance to unleash what could have been one of the most destructive attacking forces in Europe on the game.
For the same summer he forked out £12million to sign promising youngster Cristiano Ronaldo from Sporting, who then went on to become a footballing great.
When Ronaldinho left AC Milan he had the chance to join Blackburn, but decided on a return to BrazilCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
Ronaldinho, now 41, also had another chance to move to the Premier League when he left AC Milan in 2011 as Blackburn made a bid for his services.
But despite holding talks about a move to Ewood Park, he opted to make a return to Brazil to join Flamengo.
He added: “About Blackburn: we talked to them, but I wanted to come back home to Brazil.”
Take a look back at the stunning career of Brazilian legend Ronaldinho as he announces his retirement More
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Footballers who have taken London Tube, from ex-Arsenal star Mesut Ozil to the German national team and Peter Crouch
by Philippa Kaur 11 January 2022, 18:50
FOOTBALLERS… sometimes they’re just like us.Former Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil showed what a regular guy he was by taking the Tube for a sightseeing tour before he left our shores for Turkey.
Mesut Ozil isn’t the only footballer to take the TubeCredit: Instagram @m10_official
But the German star isn’t the first footballer to brave the rush hour crowd and take a trip on the London Underground.
Messrs Dier, Eriksen and Zaha have all charged up their Oyster cards and got on a train.
And there’s an honourable mention for former Spurs manager Christian Gross who bragged about getting the Tube to his first press conference as Tottenham boss.
A pioneer in these circles.
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The German national team
Per Mertesacker looks thrilled to be on the London UndergroundCredit: Handout – Getty
Before they played England in an international friendly at Wembley back in 2013, Per Mertesacker, Mats Hummels and manager Joachim Low tried the underground.
They ventured on the Bakerloo Line, talking to other commuters and did their best to fit in with the locals.
They said they did it to escape the congested streets of London, and the German FA were delighted it was their first time on the Tube
Apparently, they changed at Baker Street, had a nosey at the Sherlock Holmes museum before heading to the Metropolitan Line to get to Wembley Park.
The German national team went to Wembley Park for a friendly against EnglandCredit: Handout
The German national team changed at Baker Street to take in the Sherlock Holmes museumCredit: Handout – Getty
Christian Eriksen and Eric Dier
Because it’s always best for footballing team-mates to travel in pairs.
Former Spurs star Eriksen and his pal Dier were snapped a day after celebrating a 4-1 win over Sunderland in 2016 on the Tube.
They seemed in jovial spirits as they joked with each other and passengers, happily posing for snaps.
No word on where they got off, but they were enjoying some downtime before a crucial game against Leicester.
Eric Dier and Christian Eriksen share a laugh on the London UndergroundCredit: Twitter
Wilfried Zaha
The Palace winger uses his dazzling feet to good effect on the pitch, so he definitely should’ve paid attention to those ‘Mind the Gap’ announcements.
After a game against Manchester City in 2016 at the Etihad, Zaha was seen completing the final leg of his journey home on the Tube.
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Better still, he even wore his full kit – just so he couldn’t be missed.
And like a seasoned traveller, he had some headphones on and wasn’t ready to talk to any other commuters, preferring to keep to himself.
Wilfried Zaha kept his headphones on during his London Underground rideCredit: Twitter
Juan Mata
You would’ve thought they’d lay on a car…
Before Spanish international Mata joined Man Utd, he was snapped getting on the Tube to get a connecting train to Manchester in 2014.
But he clearly wasn’t a Tube regular, oh no, no, no, because he was wrapped up far too warm. Everyone knows how sweaty you can get underground. He should’ve ditched the hat!
Juan Mata took the Tube before heading to Manchester to sign for UnitedCredit: Twitter
Joey Barton
He’s just a regular Joe now…
The former Man City midfielder turned manager showed he’s just like one of us when he was pictured getting on the train back in 2014.
One keen fan decided to share his snap on Twitter, telling the world Joey was ‘slumming it’ but we think it’s commendable.
However, not too sure of the John Lennon-style breton cap though.
Joey Barton tried to go inconspicuous on the Tube by wearing a hatCredit: Twitter
Peter Crouch
There would definitely be far more comfortable ways for the big man to travel!
‘Crouchy’ was spied squeezing his 6’7″ frame into a carriage shortly after announcing his missus Abbey Clancy was expecting their third child.
Trying to go as incognito as possible, Peter wore a baseball cap over his face and a white shirt to seem like an every man.
It was a busy Friday night, but that didn’t stop Peter enjoying his ride though on the Northern Line.
Peter Crouch stood out like a sore thumb when he took the trainCredit: Splash News
Hatem Ben Arfa
When the Frenchman was plying his trade at Newcastle United in 2014, he thought he’d give the Tube a go.
Shortly after wearing the black and white of the Toon, he topped up his Oyster card and touched into the Underground.
One eager fan managed to get a snap with his hero, even calling the midfielder a ‘#toplad’ for his efforts. Ben Arfa doesn’t look that thrilled to have been spotted though.
Hatem Ben Arfa looked thrilled to be recognised by a fan on the London UndergroundCredit: Twitter
Marc Albrighton
When the Leicester City wide man was at Aston Villa, he made one young fan’s day by posing for a snap.
Albrighton was travelling on the Tube, presumably the District and Hammersmith and City lines, after a game against West Ham United.
Good on Albrighton for happily smiling for a photo, as well as taking the Tube like a normal fan in 2012.
Marc Albrighton made a young fan’s request a dream on the TubeCredit: Twitter
Joe Ledley and Martin Kelly
Palace full-back Kelly and former Eagle Joe Ledley took on the commoners route by going underground.
The pair were tickled pink when they were spotted and snapped sat down on the Tube in 2015.
But by the looks of Kelly attentively gazing at the Underground map, he needed to have a good look to see where he was going.
Martin Kelly and Joe Ledley found something to laugh about on the TubeCredit: Twitter
Vlad Chiriches
You would never recognise him…
The former Spurs centre-half could’ve gone completely unnoticed on the Tube if one eagle-eyed fan hadn’t sneaked this picture.
Casually dressed in a hoodie and jeans, with his earphones plugged into his ears, Chiriches seemed at ease on the train in 2014.
In fact, we’ve never seen him look so comfortable in North London.
Vlad Chiriches blended in on the TubeCredit: Twitter
Lewis Holtby
While on loan at Fulham, the German midfielder endeared himself to The Cottagers faithful by taking the Tube home after a game.
After all, he just starred in a 1-0 win over Newcastle back in 2014 and wanted to share a snap of himself being a regular punter.
Lewis Holtby gave Fulham fans cheer by taking the Tube home after a winCredit: Twitter
Christian Gross
The modern day Tube pioneer.
When Christian Gross took up his post at Tottenham Hotspur in 1997 he decided he would take the Tube to his press conference.
Proud of his efforts, he then told a pack of journalists (proudly flashing his travelcard) and calling it ‘the ticket of his dreams’.
A year later he was sacked, but we’ll never forget that moment.
Christian Gross flashed his travelcard as the ‘ticket of his dreams’Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Oriol Romeu
A cheeky pretender to the crown…
The Southampton midfielder had a pop at Mesut Ozil’s Tube snap by posting his own on Instagram.
Romeu even slyly captioned the pic, where he looked moody, “Doing Ozil’s things” with a winking face emoji, as well as a train emoji.
Maybe Romeu had the hump because no one recognised him?
Oriol Romeu poked fun at Mesut Ozil when he took the TubeCredit: Instagram
Roberto Mancini
When our SunSport reporter Gary Stonehouse spotted Italy boss Roberto Mancini on the Tube, he couldn’t wait to get a snap.
We spied the Italian don heading to Wembley for his former club Man City’s semi-final clash with Arsenal.
Mancini posted for pictures with fans, telling one he wanted to be Arsenal manager next season. He also gave our Gary some great Tube banter.
SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse poses with Roberto Mancini on the TubeCredit: Twitter More
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Man Utd wonderkid Anthony Elanga idolises Thierry Henry, has already scored his first senior goal and signed bumper deal
by Philippa Kaur 11 January 2022, 10:43
BRILLIANT Anthony Elanga is well on his way to becoming Manchester United’s next youth success story.The Swedish winger, 19, has been tipped to join a Championship side on loan in the January transfer window, with first team experience the goal.
Anthony Elanga, 19, scored his first senior Man Utd goal against WolvesCredit: Paul Marriott – The Sun
The Swedish winger scored a bullet header any target man would be proud ofCredit: Getty
Of course, Red Devils fans will already know about his prowess from last season.
The flying youngster scored his first senior goal for United with a bullet header against Wolves on the final day of the campaign.
The youth star has impressed for the Under-23’s again this season, but has found game-time limited.
However, some fans are calling for him to start ahead of England international Marcus Rashford.
Elanga made his senior debut against LeicesterCredit: AP
Elanga has four goals in eight games for the Under-23s this seasonCredit: Getty
Football is something that is very much in his blood.
His dad Joseph Elanga was a professional footballer, who earned 17 caps for Cameroon and was called up to the 1998 World Cup squad.
Anthony was previously handed the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award, which has been won by first-teamers Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood in the past.
While back in March, Elanga was rewarded for his rapid progress with a new long-term deal at Old Trafford.
Anthony Elanga is the latest promising talent coming through the Man Utd ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
19-year-old forward and Swedish youth star Elanga won the prestigious Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award last seasonCredit: Sportsfile
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
Anthony’s father Joseph could say he taught him everything he knew.
But the elder Elanga, now 42, wasn’t a forward like his son. He was a defender, who made a career for himself in Europe – in countries including Greece, Sweden and Denmark, before retiring in 2012.
His best years were with Malmo from 2000-2005, who he won the Swedish championship with in 2004. He would join the club for one season again in 2010 and win a second league title.
Joseph was a member of the Cameroon 1998 World Cup squad, but didn’t play a game.
During his career, however, he did manage to gain 17 caps for his country.
Joseph Elanga played in Europe for clubs including Malmo and Brondby (pictured here)Credit: Getty
Elanga Sr played 17 times for Cameroon and was picked for their 1998 World Cup squadCredit: Alamy
A THREAT UPFRONT
United’s youth sides are blessed with promising forwards, with the likes of Shola Shoretire, Charlie McNeill and Dillon Hoogewerf all showing they have a bright future in the game.
Like them, Elanga has the ability to play out wide or though the middle as a No9.
Predominantly right-footed, he uses his pace and skill to beat his man, often cutting in before unleashing a shot on goal.
His solo runs are reminiscent of a young Ryan Giggs, who could take three or four players out of a game in one swashbuckling gallop.
Elanga has been with the Red Devils since the U12s, joining the academy from Sunday League side Hattersley FC.
In 2019-20, after a prolific season with the U18 side with who he scored seven times in nine games, he was the recipient of the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award
In March Elanga signed a long-term deal with the Red DevilsCredit: Getty
Elanga has an eye for goal and was previously named Utd academy player of the yearCredit: Getty
Predominantly right-footed, Elanga likes to drift to the left and cut in towards goalCredit: Getty
HOPEFUL FOR THE FUTURE
Elanga – who scored two goals in five matches for Sweden’s U17s – had excited Solskjaer in training before his first-team debut.
“He’s got an X factor, some attributes, it’s not like a gift, but he’s got the acceleration, pace, speed, that’s a given for wingers and he’s got qualities I like,” the Norwegian explained.
“He’s a goalscoring winger, he’s confident, he likes to beat men, right foot, left foot, he’s got a great attitude.”
Humble Elanga understands he has to work hard to achieve regular first team footballCredit: Instagram anthonyelanga
Elanga can see a pathway to the United first team after seeing the likes of Marcus Rashford and Mason Greenwood flourishCredit: Getty
Elanga is equally as positive for his future, and knows what he has to do to impress his boss.
Back in November he told PA, “You look at the likes of Mason and Rashy, there is a pathway there.
“It just shows you that if you’re willing to put the work into it and continue to work hard day in, day out in training there’s a pathway for you there.”
HEROES IN THE GAME
In an interview with The Athletic last year, Elanga revealed who he models his game on.
“Thierry Henry was my idol and I tried to match my game with his,” he said.
“He was quick. He could play anywhere across the front three – striker, left wing, right wing – and that’s how I want to replicate my game.”
Solskjaer said Elanga has an X-Factor about him and a promising futureCredit: Getty
Elanga idolises Thierry Henry and tries to copy his hero’s gameCredit: Getty
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Manchester United legend Gary Neville caught a glimpse of Elanga in full flight, when he co-commentated on United Under-21s 6-0 win over Salford City in the EFL Trophy last year.
He said the youngster was a “nightmare to play against” and called his goal “Thierry Henry-esque.”
If he’s half the player Henry was, United have got themselves a real talent.
Solskjaer says Man Utd striker Marcus Rashford in doubt for Granada match More
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Footballers who have taken the Tube, from ex-Arsenal star Mesut Ozil to the German national team and Peter Crouch
by Philippa Kaur 11 January 2022, 10:15
FOOTBALLERS… sometimes they’re just like us.Former Arsenal playmaker Mesut Ozil showed what a regular guy he was by taking the Tube for a sightseeing tour before he left our shores for Turkey.
Mesut Ozil isn’t the only footballer to take the TubeCredit: Instagram @m10_official
But the German star isn’t the first footballer to brave the rush hour crowd and take a trip on the London Underground.
Messrs Dier, Eriksen and Zaha have all charged up their Oyster cards and got on a train.
And there’s an honourable mention for former Spurs manager Christian Gross who bragged about getting the Tube to his first press conference as Tottenham boss.
A pioneer in these circles.
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The German national team
Per Mertesacker looks thrilled to be on the London UndergroundCredit: Handout – Getty
Before they played England in an international friendly at Wembley back in 2013, Per Mertesacker, Mats Hummels and manager Joachim Low tried the underground.
They ventured on the Bakerloo Line, talking to other commuters and did their best to fit in with the locals.
They said they did it to escape the congested streets of London, and the German FA were delighted it was their first time on the Tube
Apparently, they changed at Baker Street, had a nosey at the Sherlock Holmes museum before heading to the Metropolitan Line to get to Wembley Park.
The German national team went to Wembley Park for a friendly against EnglandCredit: Handout
The German national team changed at Baker Street to take in the Sherlock Holmes museumCredit: Handout – Getty
Christian Eriksen and Eric Dier
Because it’s always best for footballing team-mates to travel in pairs.
Former Spurs star Eriksen and his pal Dier were snapped a day after celebrating a 4-1 win over Sunderland in 2016 on the Tube.
They seemed in jovial spirits as they joked with each other and passengers, happily posing for snaps.
No word on where they got off, but they were enjoying some downtime before a crucial game against Leicester.
Eric Dier and Christian Eriksen share a laugh on the London UndergroundCredit: Twitter
Wilfried Zaha
The Palace winger uses his dazzling feet to good effect on the pitch, so he definitely should’ve paid attention to those ‘Mind the Gap’ announcements.
After a game against Manchester City in 2016 at the Etihad, Zaha was seen completing the final leg of his journey home on the Tube.
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Better still, he even wore his full kit – just so he couldn’t be missed.
And like a seasoned traveller, he had some headphones on and wasn’t ready to talk to any other commuters, preferring to keep to himself.
Wilfried Zaha kept his headphones on during his London Underground rideCredit: Twitter
Juan Mata
You would’ve thought they’d lay on a car…
Before Spanish international Mata joined Man Utd, he was snapped getting on the Tube to get a connecting train to Manchester in 2014.
But he clearly wasn’t a Tube regular, oh no, no, no, because he was wrapped up far too warm. Everyone knows how sweaty you can get underground. He should’ve ditched the hat!
Juan Mata took the Tube before heading to Manchester to sign for UnitedCredit: Twitter
Joey Barton
He’s just a regular Joe now…
The former Man City midfielder turned manager showed he’s just like one of us when he was pictured getting on the train back in 2014.
One keen fan decided to share his snap on Twitter, telling the world Joey was ‘slumming it’ but we think it’s commendable.
However, not too sure of the John Lennon-style breton cap though.
Joey Barton tried to go inconspicuous on the Tube by wearing a hatCredit: Twitter
Peter Crouch
There would definitely be far more comfortable ways for the big man to travel!
‘Crouchy’ was spied squeezing his 6’7″ frame into a carriage shortly after announcing his missus Abbey Clancy was expecting their third child.
Trying to go as incognito as possible, Peter wore a baseball cap over his face and a white shirt to seem like an every man.
It was a busy Friday night, but that didn’t stop Peter enjoying his ride though on the Northern Line.
Peter Crouch stood out like a sore thumb when he took the trainCredit: Splash News
Hatem Ben Arfa
When the Frenchman was plying his trade at Newcastle United in 2014, he thought he’d give the Tube a go.
Shortly after wearing the black and white of the Toon, he topped up his Oyster card and touched into the Underground.
One eager fan managed to get a snap with his hero, even calling the midfielder a ‘#toplad’ for his efforts. Ben Arfa doesn’t look that thrilled to have been spotted though.
Hatem Ben Arfa looked thrilled to be recognised by a fan on the London UndergroundCredit: Twitter
Marc Albrighton
When the Leicester City wide man was at Aston Villa, he made one young fan’s day by posing for a snap.
Albrighton was travelling on the Tube, presumably the District and Hammersmith and City lines, after a game against West Ham United.
Good on Albrighton for happily smiling for a photo, as well as taking the Tube like a normal fan in 2012.
Marc Albrighton made a young fan’s request a dream on the TubeCredit: Twitter
Joe Ledley and Martin Kelly
Palace full-back Kelly and former Eagle Joe Ledley took on the commoners route by going underground.
The pair were tickled pink when they were spotted and snapped sat down on the Tube in 2015.
But by the looks of Kelly attentively gazing at the Underground map, he needed to have a good look to see where he was going.
Martin Kelly and Joe Ledley found something to laugh about on the TubeCredit: Twitter
Vlad Chiriches
You would never recognise him…
The former Spurs centre-half could’ve gone completely unnoticed on the Tube if one eagle-eyed fan hadn’t sneaked this picture.
Casually dressed in a hoodie and jeans, with his earphones plugged into his ears, Chiriches seemed at ease on the train in 2014.
In fact, we’ve never seen him look so comfortable in North London.
Vlad Chiriches blended in on the TubeCredit: Twitter
Lewis Holtby
While on loan at Fulham, the German midfielder endeared himself to The Cottagers faithful by taking the Tube home after a game.
After all, he just starred in a 1-0 win over Newcastle back in 2014 and wanted to share a snap of himself being a regular punter.
Lewis Holtby gave Fulham fans cheer by taking the Tube home after a winCredit: Twitter
Christian Gross
The modern day Tube pioneer.
When Christian Gross took up his post at Tottenham Hotspur in 1997 he decided he would take the Tube to his press conference.
Proud of his efforts, he then told a pack of journalists (proudly flashing his travelcard) and calling it ‘the ticket of his dreams’.
A year later he was sacked, but we’ll never forget that moment.
Christian Gross flashed his travelcard as the ‘ticket of his dreams’Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Oriol Romeu
A cheeky pretender to the crown…
The Southampton midfielder had a pop at Mesut Ozil’s Tube snap by posting his own on Instagram.
Romeu even slyly captioned the pic, where he looked moody, “Doing Ozil’s things” with a winking face emoji, as well as a train emoji.
Maybe Romeu had the hump because no one recognised him?
Oriol Romeu poked fun at Mesut Ozil when he took the TubeCredit: Instagram
Roberto Mancini
When our SunSport reporter Gary Stonehouse spotted Italy boss Roberto Mancini on the Tube, he couldn’t wait to get a snap.
We spied the Italian don heading to Wembley for his former club Man City’s semi-final clash with Arsenal.
Mancini posted for pictures with fans, telling one he wanted to be Arsenal manager next season. He also gave our Gary some great Tube banter.
SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse poses with Roberto Mancini on the TubeCredit: Twitter More
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Man Utd stars laughed at Scholes for ‘snide’ £50 boots when he returned as he couldn’t ask Nike due to secret comeback
by Philippa Kaur 10 January 2022, 10:40
PAUL SCHOLES was laughed at for wearing £50 boots when he returned to Manchester United – as he couldn’t ask Nike for a brand new pair in order to keep his comeback a secret.The ex-England star, 46, revealed he was forced to buy a cheap pair of boots from JJB Sports for his 2012 comeback because he couldn’t let Nike know he was back.
Paul Scholes was mocked for his £50 plastic boots when making his surprise 2012 comeback
And Scholes revealed he got plenty of stick from old team-mate Jonny Evans for his choice of footwear ahead of his comeback game against rivals Manchester City.
Scholes told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I bought a pair of boots, I think they were about £50.
“They were all the ones the lads were wearing, obviously. Same colours and stuff, same patterns.
“But I believe I bought the cheap ones. It wasn’t until I was actually warming up on the pitch [that I realised]. I couldn’t get a pair of boots off Nike, they couldn’t send me a pair because we couldn’t tell them.
“Nobody knew, it was a big secret and it didn’t get announced until the teams were announced at City in the FA Cup.
“So I pulled these boots out and I thought they were good’uns. I paid £50 for these boots, they must be belters, these.
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“I started warming up and Jonny Evans looks around and says, ‘Are they the snide ones you’ve bought of these?’
“[Scholes replied], ‘What do you mean snide, what’s wrong with them?’ Apparently I had plastic ones. They were alright.”
But Scholes admitted his comeback game was a ‘disaster’ after Man Utd nearly threw away a 3-0 lead against rivals City.
He continued: “Actually that game was a bit of a disaster for me. I came on in the game, I think we were 3-0 up against City.
“They had a man sent off, Vincent Kompany got sent off, I come on and after five minutes it was 3-2.
‘BRICKING IT’
“I was absolutely bricking it. I thought, ‘What am I doing, why have I come back here, what am I thinking of?’
“The rest of the season ended up OK. We didn’t win the league but we managed to win it the year after.”
In 2018, Scholes revealed even more details about his comeback – including the real reason he retired for good.
Scholes said: “I remember the game itself. We were 3-0 up when I came on and we were against ten men, and then it went back to 3-2.
“I was taking my gear off ready to come on and [City coach] David Platt said to me, ‘What the hell are you doing?’ and I went, ‘No idea’.
“At that time I wished I hadn’t done it. I think I gave a bad pass for a throw-in, and Sergio Aguero nipped on to it and scored.
Paul Scholes has won the most trophies of any English players
“The manager gave me another year, but I was gone. I remember playing Tottenham at home, we got beat 3-2.
“I played alright in possession, but I remember [Mousa] Dembele and Gareth Bale cruising past me.
“I wanted to retire early again that season, but I thought it’d be embarrassing so I stayed on.”
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Arsenal missed Juan Mata transfer in 2011 because of ‘Wenger’s dithering’ over fee, before he signed for Chelsea
by Philippa Kaur 9 January 2022, 09:00
ARSENAL missed out on signing Juan Mata from Valencia in 2011 according to the club’s former transfer negotiator Dick Law.The Spanish playmaker had agreed personal terms with the Gunners about making the switch to North London, but the club dithered over the price tag set by the LaLiga outfit.
Arsenal missed out on signing Juan Mata from Valenica in 2011 to Chelsea
This led rivals Chelsea to swoop in and secure the services of Mata, who had chipped in with nine goals and 188 assists in 43 games during the 2010-11 season.
Arsenal were crying out for a creative midfielder as they looked to replace Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri, who were seeking an exit from the club.
But Arsene Wenger and the club were put off by the combined value of the transfer fee for Mata as well as his contract, which would have totalled £37million.
Law had travelled to Spain to meet with Mata’s father, and he has stated that the player was keen to make the move to the Emirates.
Speaking to The Athletic, he said: “Then we waited. Juan definitely wanted to come to Arsenal, there was no question about that.”
When asked if Arsenal ever considered paying above their valuation of a player, Law declared that it was never spoken about.
He added: “I don’t think that calculation ever entered our equation.
“We didn’t have the money to say, ‘We’ll spend a bit more’.”
Arsenal have missed out on some of the world’s biggest stars
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Arsenal eventually managed to lure Mikel Arteta to the club on deadline day, while Mata enjoyed a stunning season at Stamford Bridge.
Mata recorded 12 goals and 20 assists in 54 games in all competitions, helping the club to Champions League and FA Cup glory.
His performances led him to winning Chelsea’s Player of the Year in his first two seasons, before he was sold to Manchester United in January 2014 after falling out of favour under Jose Mourinho.
Mata is part of a long list of stars who came close to joining Arsenal, with Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paul Pogba all linked with moves.
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