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      in Soccer

      World Cup’s fastest ever goalscorer Hakan Sukur is now working as Uber driver in exile in USA

      by

      HE was Turkey’s most revered sportsman, recognised for his brilliance on the football field for Galatasaray and the national team.The legendary forward also holds the record for fastest ever goal in a World Cup finals.
      Hakan Sukur parks his convertible Volkswagen outside his bakery in CaliforniaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Inside Hakan Sukur’s cafe in California near the famous Stanford University
      But now, if Hakan Sukur, 50, steps foot in his own country, it’s likely he’ll face the death penalty or a life in prison, which is why he lives in exile in the US.
      Hakan now lives in California, in the wealthy area of Palo Alto in Silicon Valley, on the outskirts of San Francisco.
      But he isn’t a programmer and doesn’t work for a hi-tech app company. Instead, he’s an Uber driver and formerly ran a cafe.
      “I moved to the United States, initially running a cafe in California, but strange people kept coming into the bar,” he told German outlet, Welt am Sonntag.
      He used to run a popular bakery called Tuts, where the house specials were dishes like Turkish sausage and eggs, and Greek-style pancakes.
      It received rave reviews on rating website Yelp, with comments such as: “Oh my gosh. This is the best place in the Bay Area to eat delicious food with your friends.
      “The staff is so kind and friendly.”
      But none of the customers mentioned that one of the men behind the cafe is Turkish football legend Hakan Sukur.
      Turkey’s most famous footballer sold pastries and muffins to get byCredit: Instagram @tutsbakery
      Hakan Sukur’s former cafe got rave reviews on the internetCredit: Instagram @tutsbakery
      Back in the 1990s, the prolific striker WAS the idol of Istanbul.
      Kids playing around the local bazaars all had Gala shirts with his famed number nine on the back and he could do no wrong.
      Hakan scored 295 goals in three spells with the Turkish giants, played Premier League football with Blackburn for a season and had a spell in Serie A for Torino.
      But even though it didn’t work out for him in Italy and England, he was welcomed back to his own country with open arms.
      Hakan Sukur is Turkey’s most famous footballer everCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Due to his links to alleged terrorist group FETO, a warrant was issued for Hakan Sukur’s arrest in August 2016Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      He was always a hero, a role model and to this day, is still the best striker Turkey have ever produced.
      His record 51 international goals back that statement up, and nothing in Turkish football indicates it will be broken any time soon.
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      However, when Hakan retired in 2008 he sought out a life in politics.
      In 2011, he was elected as an Istanbul MP for the Justice Development Party, a conservative political group that has ruled over Turkey since 2002.
      In three spells at Galatasary Hakan Sukur found the net 295 timesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Galatasary legend Hakan Sukur was nicknamed The Bull of the BosphorusCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      The Bull of the Bosphorus was making strides and friends in government.
      He aligned himself with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, as well as maintained a friendship with cleric Fethullah Gulen.
      In 2013 an alliance between Erdogan and Gulen, who was keen for Turkey to become an Islamic state was destroyed when a government corruption scandal erupted.
      Erdogan blamed Gulen for the disruption, and given Hakan was seen as a disciple of the Gulen movement, it all started to go wrong.
      That same year, the government closed all schools run by Gulenists and Hakan resigned from the governing party in protest to run as an independent.
      In 2011, Hakan Sukur was elected as an Istanbul MP for the Justice Development PartyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Hakan Sukur resigned from the Justice Development Party to run as an independent in 2013Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      During a controversial speech at a Turkish university Hakan Sukur spoke proudly of his Albanian rootsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Shortly after, Hakan gave a university speech where he told an audience of bemused students: “I am Albanian, as such I am not a Turk.”
      Given the political climate in a country that was aiming to regain its national identity, those comments weren’t well-received.
      In 2016, Hakan was charged with insulting President Erdogan on Twitter.
      That summer, a trial began in absentia. Hakan claimed it wasn’t his intention to insult Erdogan, but prosecutors disagreed.
      In 2016, Hakan Sukur was charged with insulting Presideny Erdogan on TwitterCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Blackburn Rovers signed Hakan Sukur in 2002
      In July that year, hell broke loose when a coup, organised by Gulen with the aid of a small fraction of the Turkish Armed Forces, attempted to overthrow Erdogan.
      The coup was defeated, but more than 300 people had lost their lives, 120,000 people lost their jobs and 50,000 were arrested.
      Anyone who had Gulen links was deemed a terrorist and labelled a member of FETO (Fethullah Gulen Terrorist Organisation).
      A warrant was issued for Hakan’s arrest and he was charged with being a member of an armed terrorist group.
      Hakan Sukur was a hero for the national team of TurkeyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Hakan was given the opportunity to renounce his beliefs and love for the Gulen movement, but passed on the chance.
      His father, Selmet wasn’t so lucky. The authorities arrested him at a mosque in Adapazar and he was charged with financial coup support.
      Somehow, Hakan managed to flee to America, but it was reported his father passed away in prison after battling cancer.
      Since relocating to the US, Hakan Sukur first opened a cafe and bakery called TutsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The cafe opened in Palo Alto in 2016 but has since closed downCredit: Instagram @tutsbakery
      Hakan resurfaced in San Francisco County, in the wealthy surroundings of Palo Alto.
      It’s been reported that he lives in a £3million home in the area, has three luxury cars and is enjoying the high-life.
      The fallen icon may never be able to return home, but it could’ve been a whole lot worse. More

    • 200 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      90s Wags, from Louise Redknapp, Dani Behr, Ulrika Jonsson and more glamorous stars who dated footballers

      by

      MOVE aside Coleen Rooney, Rebekah Vardy and Abbey Clancy, these ladies were the original Wags of their time. The term Wag was first coined in 2006 when Victoria Beckham, Louise Owen and Elen Rives strutted their stuff in Baden-Baden during England’s 2006 World Cup campaign.
      The term Wag was first coined during England’s 2006 World Cup campaignCredit: Associated Newspapers
      But, it was in the 1990s with the birth of the Premier League, that footballers in England were becoming a catch.
      The likes of Ryan Giggs, Liverpool’s ‘Spice Boys’ and many others enjoyed mixing playing on the field with playing off it with these fine beauties.
      But who stepped out with who?
      Join SunSport in taking a trip down memory lane to revisit the Wags that were ahead of the game… but what do they look now?
      Dani Behr
      Dani Behr was famous for presenting 1990s TV show The WordCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Ryan Giggs and Dani Behr dated in 1994Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Now living in LA, Dani Behr works in real estate and still looks glamorous todayCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Earning notoriety on 1990s show The Word put the gorgeous presenter well and truly in the spotlight.
      But it’s her relationships with footballers that made her a tabloid name.
      Dani, now 51, was once engaged to former QPR and Newcastle striker Les Ferdinand, who she dated between 1995-98.
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      Before that, she famously had a fling with Man United legend Ryan Giggs. Then, in 2001 Dani had a one-year romance with Aussie goalie Mark Bosnich.
      She now works in luxury real estate in LA.
      Louise Redknapp
      Louise Redknapp sang in pop group Eternal before she met Jamie RedknappCredit: Rex Features
      After nearly 20 years of marriage, Louise and Jamie Redknapp split in 2017Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Before Jamie, Louise, 47, was a singer in pop group Eternal, who debuted in 1993.
      She was one of the hottest performers around, which saw her embark on an ill-fated solo career after leaving the group.
      In 1997, she met Jamie and they married a year later following a whirlwind romance.
      However, in 2017 she announced her marriage to the former Liverpool star had come to an end.
      Suzi Walker
      Suzi and Ian Walker embraced celebrity culture by doing fancy photoshootsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      When her marriage came to an end, Suzi Walker dated former Crystal Palace chairman Simon JordanCredit: Louis Hollingsbee
      Synonymous with the term ‘Footballers Wives’, Suzi was believed to be one of the inspirations behind the ITV show of the same name.
      She was married to Tottenham goalie Ian Walker and they regularly posed together in fancy magazine shoots at their home.
      But their marriage came to a sticky end when the former England international fessed up that he had an affair.
      Suzi, 49, went on to date Simon Jordan in the late 2000s and they had one child together, a girl called Cameron.
      Leslie Ash
      Leslie Ash and Lee Chapman enjoyed celebrity couple status in the 90sCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      At 61, Leslie Ash still looks great and is a regular on the red carpetCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Alongside her footballing husband Lee Chapman, Leslie was the epitome of what a Wag was.
      She attended all the celeb parties with her Leeds United beau and became a household name thanks to TV comedy Men Behaving Badly.
      They married in 1988 and their marriage has lasted the test of time.
      Both Ash, 61, and Chapman are still occasionally seen on the party scene, spotted in 2017 at an Ibiza Rocks party.
      Davinia Taylor
      Davinia Taylor was one of the ‘It’ girls of the 90sCredit: Rex Features
      Hollyoaks beauty Davinia Taylor dated footballers including Ryan Giggs, Robbie Fowler and Jamie RedknappCredit: PA:Press Association
      Davinia Taylor returned to the soap that made her famous in 2016Credit: Nick Obank – The Sun
      One of the famous “It” girls of the 90s, the former Hollyoaks beauty was universally loved by the Premier League’s elite.
      The soap star, now 44, had flings with Robbie Fowler, Jamie Redknapp and Ryan Giggs through the 90s.
      Famously, she married David Beckham’s best mate Dave Gardner in 2003, but they divorced in 2009.
      Part of the Primrose Hill set, with besties being Kate Moss and Sadie Frost, she returned to the Cheshire based TV show in 2016.
      Davina McCall
      Davina McCall and Stan Collymore had a romance in 1998Credit: PA:Empics Entertainment
      Now healthier than ever, Davina McCall embraced exercise and changed her dietCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Davina McCall was labelled a ‘Ladette’ in the 1990sCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      One of the “Ladettes” of the 90s, Davina was a feisty MTV presenter back in the day.
      Another one who embraced party scene, 54-year-old Davina got together with Stan Collymore shortly after he moved from Liverpool to Aston Villa in 1998.
      However, their relationship didn’t last, which is one of Collymore’s biggest regrets, according to his book.
      He believes she was the one that got away.Ulrika Jonsson
      Ulrika Jonsson had relationships with Stan Collymore, Les Ferdinand and Sven Goran ErikssonCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      TV star Ulrika Jonsson always had an eye for a footballerCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Now 54, Ulrika Jonsson appeared on Celebrity Masterchef in 2017
      Which moves us swiftly on to the Swedish bombshell, Ulrika.
      She too had a fling with Stan the man, but there was one problem… he was said to be seeing Davina at the time.
      Ulrika also reportedly had an affair with Les Ferdinand after they met at a charity event in 1998.
      And who can forget when Ulrika, 54, had a romance with former England boss Sven Goran Eriksson. That’s right, no one.Mandy Smith
      Mandy Smith married former Spurs hardman Pat Van Den Hauwe in 1993Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Now enjoying life out of the spotlight, Mandy Smith teaches youngsters how to prepare for their first Holy CommunionCredit: Rex Features
      A former singer and model in her heyday, Mandy, 51, married former Spurs hardman Pat Van Den Hauwe in 1993.
      It didn’t last long, it was just two years before they parted ways.
      Before that, self-confessed wild-child Mandy dated former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman when she was just 13-years-old.
      She now lives in Manchester, is teetotal and is a church-goer teaching youngsters how to prepare for their first Holy Communion.
      Michelle Gayle
      Michelle Gayle married footballer and TV pundit Mark Bright in 1996Credit: PA:Press Association
      Arsenal fan Michelle Gayle starred in Eastenders and released pop songs in the 90sCredit: PA:Press Association
      In 2011 Michelle Gayle wrote a fictional book about WagsCredit: PA:Press Association
      The British singer and actress was famous for singing hits “Sweetness” and “Do You Know”, as well as starring in Eastenders in the 1990s.
      But the London-born Arsenal fan also married footballer Mark Bright in 1996, before they split ten years later.
      Since then, Michelle, 50, has starred in US TV series Wolfblood and appeared on Loose Women as a guest.
      She showed she was a true Wag in 2011 by penning a book called “Pride and Premiership” which was about two girls who aspire to get married to footballers.Victoria Beckham
      Victoria Beckham was called the ‘Queen of the Wags’ in 2006Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Now a fully fledged fashion designer, Victoria Beckham is far removed from the world of WagsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      It wouldn’t be a Wag round-up if we didn’t mention Posh Spice.
      Since marrying England legend David Beckham in 1999, it’s fair to say Victoria has moved away from Wag status.
      Now working in the realms of high-end fashion, Vic, 47, was dubbed “Queen of the Wags” in 2006.
      She spent most of her time at the World Cup in Germany hanging out with Cheryl Cole, but she reportedly wasn’t very social with the other Wags.
      Emily Symons
      Matt Le Tissier dated Emily Symons in 1999 after meeting her in Southampton when she was starring in pantoCredit: Solent News
      Emily Symons played Marilyn Chambers in Aussie soap Home and AwayCredit: PA:Press Association
      In 2000, Matt Le Tissier dumped Emily Symons a year before they were supposed to marryCredit: ITV
      The Aussie actress was lauded for her work on Aussie soap Home and Away playing the role of Marilyn Chambers.
      After starring as Goldilocks in a panto at a Southampton theatre, she soon began dating Matt Le Tissier in 1999.
      The couple got engaged after just six months, but it wasn’t to be.
      Le Tiss reportedly dumped Symons, now 52, in 2000 – a year before their planned wedding.
      Emma Bunton
      Emma ‘Baby Spice’ Bunton briefly dated footballer Rio FerdinandCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Emma Bunton, now 45, is a radio DJ on Heart FMCredit: Splash News
      When Emma was just a ‘Baby’ in the Spice Girls, she was also getting notable glances from footballers on the party circuit.
      Fresh from the success of Victoria dating David, Emma thought she would dip her toe into the football pool.
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      She began dating Rio Ferdinand in 1999, when he was plying his trade at West Ham.
      It didn’t last long though and she reportedly began seeing actor John Simm soon after.Caprice
      American model Caprice burst onto the scene in the mid-90sCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      After a fling with Tony Adams, Caprice dated George Best’s son Calum Best and cricketer Kevin PietersenCredit: Splash News
      The American cover model got close to ex Arsenal captain Tony Adams after they met in 1999.
      She originally burst onto the scene, rather literally, in 1996 in an infamous Wonderbra advert.
      And her relationship with sports stars, or those related to sports stars, continued.
      The 50-year-old also dated George Best’s son Calum and was also seen on the arm of cricketer Kevin Pietersen.
      Lizzie Cundy
      Lizzie Cundy was once married to former Chelsea footballer Jason CundyCredit: Rex Features
      Now a radio presenter on FUBAR Radio, Lizzie Cundy hosts a show called Access All AreasCredit: Splash News
      Formerly married to TalkSport host Jason Cundy, Lizzie, 53, has taken full advantage of her WAG status since their split.
      She hosts a TV show called WAGS World on Wedding TV, as well as its spin-off Sporting Icon WAGS.
      The notorious socialite is also a presenter on FUBAR Radio, hosting weekly chat show Access All Areas.
      In 2014, Lizzie showed she was still a catch when she was linked to Hollywood actor Gerard Butler. More

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      in Soccer

      Patrice Evra is football’s king of social media, including kissing a chimp, licking a chicken and taunting England fans

      by

      HE’S game for a laugh. Patrice Evra, 40, has had us in stitches over the years sharing some hilarious social media posts. Patrice Evra always entertains his nine million followers on Instagram
      The French defender has done everything from getting off with a monkey to feeding a lion. In honour of the funniest footballer on Instagram, SunSport celebrates the veteran star’s best social media moments.
      Keeping it festive
      For Evra the spirit of Christmas is perfectly captured by a dancing reindeer, well if his most recent Instagram post is to be believed!
      The hilarious star dresses up in a reindeer suit and shakes along to the Soca Boys hit Follow the Leader in a brilliant clip.
      He also insists: “If you don’t believe in Santa you must tell your kid mini black Santa is the real one” in the video.
      After getting ‘Rudolph’ dizzy he adds a comical trip to proceedings.

      That time he dressed up as a panda
      Patrice had a novel idea when it came to stamping out racism in football. He dressed up like a panda, danced and delivered a fine speech to his 3.7 million Instagram followers. Evra said: “Be like a panda. I am black, I am white, I am Asian and I am chubby. I am full of love. I love this game, say no to racism.”
      Patrice Evra dressed up like a panda and danced around to combat racismCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
      Patrice Evra dances in a Panda suit and encourages people to say no to racism
      Taunting England
      Singing into some fish and chips and wearing a Gallagher brother wig, Evra joked dinosaurs were alive the last time England won a major trophy ahead the Euro 2020 semi-final against Denmark in a hilarious clip back in the summer. He begins by singing along to Fatboy Slim’s 1999 hit Praise You before shouting, “It’s Monday,” down the camera. He continues: “Everyone’s been waiting for this for so long. “Last time England won a trophy, even the dinosaurs were still alive! “Come on chaps! You can do this! Come on!”

      Patrice Evra showed his support for England by singing into some fish and chips

      When he got the seal of approval
      Over the years Patrice’s “I love this game” catchphrase has come in handy for his social media posts. None more so when he bellowed out his mantra as a huge seal was being fed behind him. Cue said seal resting his head on top of Evra’s in the ultimate act of comic timing that couldn’t have been done better than Morecambe and Wise.

      Patrice Evra loved hanging around with a sealCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
      Patrice Evra makes friends with a seal in heartwarming new video
      One Love
      That’s exactly how we felt when we saw Evra’s incredible Bob Marley impression. Wearing the reggae star’s trademark beanie hat with dreadlocks attached, he belted out the Jamaican’s hit, One Love. He definitely left us feeling together and alright after seeing this splashed on social.
      Patrice Evra sang Bob Marley’s One Love on InstagramCredit: instagram
      Patrick Evra sings Bob Marley classic, One Love
      Jeep thrills
      Is there a better way to prove you’ll come back stronger and fitter than ever? We don’t think so. After having his contract terminated by Marseille, Evra took to social media to tell fans he’ll be back. He did it in the most extravagant way with a video that saw him pulling a Jeep.
      Patrice Evra pulled a Jeep to show he would return stronger than ever after his contract was terminated by MarseilleCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
      Patrice Evra vows to come back ‘stronger than ever’ as he pulls JEEP with man on top
      Doing some home chores
      There could be nothing more boring than ironing. But if you do it the way Evra does it, then you’re likely to have a right laugh. The left back treated us to a video of him ironing his Juventus Champions League shirt, while singing along to Barry White. For the record, he sang Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe brilliantly.
      Patrice Evra even made boring ironing look entertainingCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
      Patrice Evra posts clip of himself doing the ironing to Barry White!
      Feeding a lion
      He’s so flamboyant, he feeds lions. And he showed his love for his feline friend by giving the cub some milk from a bottle in a video uploaded last year. Evra captioned the vid: “Good night my little friend need some milk. I love this game. #ilovethisgame #goodnight #lion #babywhitelion #positivevibes #milk.” He debuted the lion in 2018, but we haven’t seen it for a while.
      Patrice Evra feeds milk to a baby lionCredit: Instagram @patrice.evra
      Boxer Amir Khan and footballer Patrice Evra feed milk to baby lions
      Evra’s Bank Holiday song
      The former Man United star showed us the way on May 1, 2017 on a Bank Holiday by bursting into song. He chose The Temptations hit My Girl and displayed signs that he could have a future as a pop star. If you’re watching, Simon Cowell look no further than signing this man up.
      Patrice Evra has a talent for singingCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
      Patrice Evra gets into the Bank Holiday spirit as he sings My Girl in his car
      His love of Marvin Gaye
      There’s no doubt about it, Evra is a huge fan of the soul legend. Only last month, he treated us to a bizarre impression of Gaye, wearing a bathrobe, sunglasses and a curly wig. Even more strange was the fact he seemed to have lost one of his £825 shoes while performing Sexual Healing.
      Patrice Evra has a bizarre obsession with Marvin Gaye and dressed up as the singerCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
      Patrice Evra does Marvin Gaye impression in his bathrobe – and one shoe
      Kissing a chimpanzee
      In probably the greatest video any footballer has uploaded to social media, Evra’s kissing chimp moment will live on forever. The full-back can be seen puckering up next to the chimp as he asks the monkey: “You love my game or not? Then kiss me.” Evra jokes: “No tongues,” as the chimp leans in and obliges. It’s comedy gold.
      Patrice Evra loves to monkey around with his chimp pal
      Ex-Man Utd star Patrice Evra puckers up and kisses a chimpanzee More

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      in Soccer

      Finland team FC Santa Claus play in red and white, and have the most famous coach in the world

      by

      IT’S not like playing on a rainy day at Stoke, but it must be chilly.In 1992, FC Santa Claus – who play their games at Lapland – were formed when Finish teams Rovaniemen Reipas and Rovaniemen Lappi combined.
      FC Santa Claus are a team in FinlandCredit: Instagram @fcsantaclausofficial
      Santa Claus, the club’s boss, shows off his football skillsCredit: Instagram @fcsantaclausofficial
      And they can officially lay claim to being the most Christmassy football club EVER.
      Their honorary boss is Saint Nick, better known as Santa Claus to children around the globe.
      Often, he’s seen at matches and the club’s crest features his image checking his naughty or nice list.
      While their club colours are in honour of their Santa’s famous attire, with red and white home kits and white and green away designs too.
      PART-TIMERS
      FC Santa Claus played their first professional match in 1993, and once reached the heady heights of the Finnish third division.
      Not bad for a side that’s made primarily of part-timers – that’s students and locals who work at the Christmas market or at the post office that receives letters for Santa Claus.
      The club, themselves, realise their status and have gained popularity all around the world.
      And they do their bit for charity – teaming up with UNICEF to donate proceeds from their kits to the organisation renowned for their work for children in danger.
      @font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}Most read in Football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
      The club crest features Santa checking his naughty or nice listCredit: Instagram @fcsantaclausofficial
      FC Santa Claus are made up of students and locals who work at the Christmas market or at the post officeCredit: Instagram @fcsantaclausofficial
      In 1997, they even played against Premier League side Crystal Palace in a friendly that drew 5,000 fans.
      IN THE DARK
      FC Santa Claus play games in Rovaniemi – Lapland’s capital, in an area surrounded by forest, reindeer and the sight of the Northern Lights.
      It could be seen as daunting place to go – football in Lapland is at the mercy of the winter elements, and from October to April it snows, while daylight hours are limited.
      Temperatures can average between 16°C to -3°C.
      Ralf Wunderlich, who runs things on the pitch, revealed his job satisfaction to BBC Sport.
      “If you like Christmas, and I do, then this place is very good – it’s all about Christmas here,” he said.
      “You have some kind of Christmas feeling the whole year without being too much – a whole year of positive feelings.
      “Of course, Santa is not officially in charge, but in the background everyone knows he runs this club.”
      The team plays in Rovaniemi – Lapland’s capitalCredit: Instagram @fcsantaclausofficial

      Temperatures can average between 16°C to -3°C for FC Santa Claus games
      HARD TIMES
      Despite their good intentions, FC Santa Claus have battled on amid financial tribulations.
      In 2012 they were saved from bankruptcy with a last-ditch fundraiser, as well as sponsorship deals with EA Sports and Puma.
      They have since been sponsored by Nike, as they continue to toil.
      But fortunes on the pitch haven’t been as kind as Santa’s present giving.
      The main team in Rovaniemi has always been RoPS – but they suffered relegation from the first division back in November.
      FC Santa Claus are the locals’ second team, and the players who represent them are often those who aren’t good enough to play at a higher level and enjoy the spirit of Christmas.
      After a number of relegations, they played in Finland’s fifth tier last year. This term, they only have a team featuring in an eight-a-side league.
      Wunderlich, however, isn’t deterred. His job is to kickstart a youth set-up and restart the men’s team in the new year.
      The club have run into financial difficulties after a number of relegationsCredit: Instagram @fcsantaclausofficial
      Now FC Santa Claus are an eight-a-side team
      But FC Santa Claus hope to rise againCredit: Instagram @fcsantaclausofficial
      “I like the idea of being Santa Claus’ official club – such a big potential to be cheerful and spread positive messages,” he said.
      “For me it is very important people realise it is not just FC Santa Claus in name but the whole spirit of Santa and values around Christmas.
      “I will do my best to make the whole world understand there is this positive small football club in north Finland representing Santa.” More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd wanted Ronaldo to go to Barcelona instead of Real Madrid in 2009 – meaning he could’ve played with Lionel Messi

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED almost managed to get Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to link-up… for Barcelona.Portuguese superstar Ronaldo shattered football’s transfer record in 2009 when he left Old Trafford to join Real Madrid for £80million.

      Los Blancos had already splashed out on Karim Benzema, Xabi Alonso and Ballon d’Or winner Kaka in response to Pep Guardiola’s all-conquering debut season as Nou Camp chief the year before.
      But they were almost denied the jewel in returning president’s Florentino Perez’s masterplan if Sir Alex Ferguson had got his way.
      The legendary Scot was desperate to avoid losing Ronaldo to Real once he’d accepted that the former Sporting Lisbon winger was set to leave.
      Fergie had even said back in 2008 that he wouldn’t sell Madrid a ‘virus’ let alone his best player.
      And according to Spanish newspaper AS, the United boss realised at the time that Barcelona were the only other club who could afford Ronaldo.

      The 79-year-old apparently contacted the Catalans to encourage a bid but the Portugal captain had already set his mind on a move to the Bernabeu.
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      Guardiola’s most notable signing that summer involved an infamous swap deal with Inter Milan involving Samuel Eto’o and Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
      But the acquisition of Ronaldo would have not only ushered in an era of pure dominance for Barcelona, but also have cancelled out his famed rivalry with Messi.
      Whether Manchester City chief Pep could have managed to get the two to play together is up for debate, as he boasted an embarrassment of attacking riches while in charge of Barca.
      While Arsenal legend Thierry Henry flourished for Barca on the left wing, Ronaldo could have occupied the opposite flank to leave Messi in the hole behind Ibra.
      Yaya Toure and Sergio Busquets may have had to share a spot on the substitutes bench, with Spanish duo Xavi and Iniesta holding down the two spots in the middle.
      Messi was asked by Mundo Deportivo last year whether he would pass to Ronaldo if the two were on the same team.
      The Argentine joked: “I guess so, in the end, yes.”
      Cristiano Ronaldo sealed a then-world record transfer from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2009Credit: PA:Empics Sport
      The Portuguese superstar was also offered to Barcelona which would have made him teammates with Lionel MessiCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea star N’Golo Kante could have joined Middlesbrough after supporter spotted him while playing on holiday in 2013

      by

      N’GOLO KANTE could have signed for Middlesbrough in 2013 had the Teesside outfit listened to the advice of one eagle-eyed fan.Boro supporter Dennis Abbott called on the club to make a move for the Frenchman while he was on holiday in Normandy.
      A Boro fan called on the club to sign K’Golo Kante eight years agoCredit: AP:Associated Press

      Abbott watched Kante play for Caen in 2013 – two years before Leicester poached him from Ligue 1 in a £5.6million deal.
      And, having recognised his enormous talent, he immediately brought the midfielder to Boro’s attention.
      The fan labelled the Frenchman ‘an outstanding creative player’ in a tweet sent to the Teesside club.
      Abbott wrote: “Boro scouts, tell Tony Mowbray to check out Caen midfielder N’Golo Kante before Wenger gets him. Top top player.”
      The club acknowledged Abbott’s comment, saying it had been ‘passed on to scouts’.
      The fan continued: “That’s great. He’s an outstanding creative player, winning plaudits from media & players alike.”
      Rather dismissively, Boro replied: “Thanks Dennis – they’re going to look.”
      Fast forward to the present and Kante has won the 2018 World Cup and is a two-time Premier League winner – while also winning the Champions League last season at Chelsea.
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      He played the key role in Leicester’s miraculous Premier League triumph in 2016 – before moving to Chelsea for £30m later that summer.
      The Frenchman has since then won the Premier League again, the FA Cup and the Europa League title – cementing his reputation as one of the world’s best midfielders.
      And Boro fans are fuming they missed out on such a gem, with one joking: “Dodged a bullet here lads, I’m glad we ended up with Lee Tomlin instead.”
      Another tweeted: “Hey Boro, have ya fired the scouts yet?”
      A third wrote: “Can we get Tony Mowbray’s evaluation at the time?”
      Meanwhile one simply said: “This is mental to be honest.” More

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      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo naps five times a day BEFORE bedtime and lies in foetal position, says superstar’s sleep guru

      by

      CRISTIANO RONALDO’S secret weapon is that he sleeps five times a day BEFORE bed and snoozes in the foetal position.Sleep guru Nick Littlehales has lifted the lid on the amazing routines behind the Portuguese superstar’s success.
      Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo is said to go for a lie-down five times every dayCredit: Splash News
      Sleep guru Nick Littlehales has revealed all about the five-time Ballon d’Or winners sleep secretsCredit: Reuters
      Littlehales landed one of his first gigs in football when he wrote to Sir Alex Ferguson and offered his services.
      The Manchester United chief enlisted the help of the former bed company director to help with Gary Pallister’s back problem.
      Twenty years on and Littlehales is now helping advise some of the biggest names in world sport.
      Red Devils ace Ronaldo used to need a decent rest after Fergie let United’s stars kick the forward to toughen him up.
      And the 36-year-old proved a sponge for sleep advice when then Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti invited Littlehales to come and work with Los Blancos.
      The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was told to take five 90-minute sleeps a day and sleep on fresh sheets in the foetal position.
      During his Madrid days, he was the only player awarded access to their customised sleeping pod at their training centre, meaning that the forward napped alone.
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      Ronaldo also stops staring at screens an hour and a half before bed.
      Research shows the blue light emitted keeps your brain ticking during sleep by suppressing sleep hormone melatonin.
      Speaking to the Independent, Littlehales said: “Anyone who has ever worked with Ronaldo knows that if you have a discussion in the corner of the room, he will come over and ask what you are talking about.
      “I was invited to Real Madrid when Carlo Ancelotti became manager.
      “I was standing on the edge of the training pitch, talking to the Madrid staff, when Ronaldo ran over.
      “He had been training all day and you would have expected him to run straight to the dressing room for a shower but he asked what we were discussing.
      “He was interested in what I was trying to do because as an athlete he has always invested in himself.
      The only thing he is concerned with is: does it work for him?Nick Littlehales
      “From what I have learned from working with him, Ronaldo is not interested in fad diets, he is not interested in copying others.
      “The only thing he is concerned with is: does it work for him?”
      Former Chelsea ace Michael Essien once claimed he needed 14 hours of sleep a day to ensure he was at his powerful and energetic best in games.
      And 15-time tennis Grand Slam winner Pete Sampras would insist on pristine new sheets every night and banned his wife from even touching him once he got into bed.
      But Littlehales says the key to a good night is sleeping in a mattress with just TEN CENTIMETRES of foam. Aside from his work with football and rugby league clubs, Littlehales has also advised golden British cycling couple Laura and Jason Kenny.
      He added: “Why, when you go camping and start sleeping on a thinner mattress, do you wake up feeling fantastic?
      “I’ve been working with Team Sky for a number of years and during every Tour de France, Giro d’Italia or Vuelta a Espana, we go ahead to the hotels making sure the cyclists sleep on exactly the same mattress every night.
      “All you need is ten centimetres of foam.”
      FREE BETS: GET OVER £2,000 IN NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
      Littlehales was previously employed by Sir Alex Ferguson at Man UtdCredit: Getty
      Olympic heroes Jason and Laura Trott are two of his clientsCredit: Getty Images More

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      in Soccer

      14 Man Utd legends as managers who have been sacked 17 times, and the ONE ex-star who has been a major success

      by

      PARK JI-SUNG is taking his first steps into management – but he might want to rethink his plans.The Manchester United legend has taken steps into coaching in England, by taking on a role with QPR’s Under-16s.
      Ole Gunnar Solskjaer isn’t the first ex-Man Utd star to be given his marching orders as a boss
      Park Ji-sung is the latest former Red Devil to go down the coaching routeCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The Times
      Many who played under legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson made a foray into management, however most ended up flopping.
      Although, there’s one who was a major success…
      OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER
      THE super-sub was brought off the bench once again when things went wrong under Jose Mourinho.
      After a great start, he was given the job permanently.
      But a lack of trophies and with the side in dire straits earlier this season, he was regretfully given the boot.
      He didn’t fare much better when he was manager of Cardiff, although did enjoy some success in his native Norway with Molde where he won the league twice and the cup.
      VERDICT: A FLOP ON THESE SHORES
      GARY NEVILLE
      ASTONISHINGLY, after working mostly as a TV pundit and co-owner of Salford City, the ex-right-back was handed the reigns at Valencia in 2015.
      It was an appointment that lasted a meagre 28 games.
      The biggest low including a 7-0 drubbing to rivals Barcelona.
      “I never should have said yes to the job,” Neville said in 2019. “I wasn’t qualified for the job and didn’t wake up every morning and think about coaching.
      “There was already far too much going on with the Sky stuff, writing articles for a newspaper and doing all the stuff in Manchester with Salford.”
      VERDICT: FLOP DEBUT BUT TIME TO PROVE US WRONG
      Gary Neville famously flopped as Valencia boss
      STEVE BRUCE
      A FORMER United captain, Bruce is now somewhat of a journeyman manager.
      He’s managed 10 clubs, including Wigan Athletic twice. Major honours have escaped him though, with FA Cup runner-up at Hull City in 2014 perhaps a highlight.
      Most recently, he was the brunt of Newcastle fans who lambasted his tactics.
      His first sacking came at Huddersfield in 2000. Since then, he’s been fired from jobs at Aston Villa and the Toon.
      VERDICT: FLOP – MOST OF THE TIME
      Steve Bruce was recently sacked by Newcastle
      PHIL NEVILLE
      NEVILLE’S first taste of being boss came with England’s lionesses.
      In 2018, he led the women’s team to glory in the SheBelievesCup.
      However, a year later finishing fourth in the World Cup seemed to be a bit of a disappointment.
      After stepping down from his role with the Three Lions, he was appointed as boss of David Beckham’s Inter Miami.
      However, they finished fourth from bottom in the MLS Eastern Conference and failed to make the play offs.
      VERDICT: FLOP SO FAR
      Phil Neville is proving to be a dismal appointment for Inter Miami
      RYAN GIGGS
      IN 2014, after David Moyes was fired, Welsh legend Giggs was hired as United’s interim manager – winning two of his four games in charge.
      Following a stint as Louis Van Gaal’s assistant, he took on the Wales national job in 2018 – leading his country to qualify for Euro 2020.
      But in 2020, he was forced to take gardening leave.
      VERDICT: TOO EARLY TO CALL
      Jury’s out on Ryan Giggs’ career as a manager
      ROY KEANE
      AS a leader on the pitch, Keane appeared to be management material.
      And things seemed to get off to a good start with Sunderland, who he helped gain promotion to the Premier League.
      However, he stepped down in 2008 amidst a player mutiny and a dismal run of form.
      Worse was to follow at Ipswich Town, where Keane was sacked when The Tractor Boys dropped to 21st in the Championship in 2011.
      VERDICT: FLOP
      Roy Keane was sacked by Ipswich Town in 2011
      JAAP STAM
      STAM played in the same sides as Keane, and himself was a tough competitor.
      Most recently, he was dismissed as boss of MLS team FC Cincinnati having won four of just 25 games.
      Before that, he handed in his resignation with Feyenoord bosses after 4-0 thrashing to rivals Ajax.
      On our shores, Stam is remembered for his time at Reading. He enjoyed a successful first season, leading the Royals to the play offs.
      However, it went downhill the following year. One win in 18 league matches was enough for Stam to be given his marching orders.
      VERDICT: FLOP
      At Reading Jaap Stam was given the bullet following a dismal run
      BRYAN ROBSON
      CAPTAIN Marvel has had a 17-year career as a manager, taking in jobs with the likes of Middlesbrough, Bradford City, West Brom, Sheffield United, Thailand, and then Thailand’s U23s.
      His most successful period came at Boro, who he helped gain promotion. Between 1994-2001, Robson also led the club to three Wembley cup final appearances, although they lost each one.
      A stint at Bradford City saw Robson officially sacked for the first time after just 28 games in charge and a winning percentage of just 25 per cent.
      At West Brom he pulled off the great escape, with his side bottom of the Premier League at Christmas.
      The following year, though, they were relegated and Robson left by mutual consent.
      He also sacked by Sheffield United in 2008. He hasn’t managed anyone since the Thailand job ended in 2011.
      VERDICT: FLOP
      Captain Marvel Bryan Robson endured 17 years in management but hasn’t been in a job since 2011
      MARK HUGHES
      LIKE Robson, Hughes appeared to be tailor-made to be boss – doing decent jobs with Wales and Blackburn.
      That scored him a big job at Manchester City in 2008, who were then taken over by Sheikh Mansour two months after he arrived.
      However, after spending a fortune, including signing the disastrous Robinho for £32million, he was sacked after 18 months with nothing to show but a 10th place finish.
      After a bust-up with Mohamed Al-Fayed, he resigned as Fulham boss 11 months after his appointment – with Al-Fayed labelling the Welshman a ‘strange man’.
      Sackings at QPR, Stoke and Southampton then followed.
      Officially, he’s the most sacked out of the United legends.
      VERDICT: BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT AFTER WALES AND BLACKBURN JOBS
      Mark Hughes has been sacked four times – more than any other ex-Man Utd star
      PAUL INCE
      ‘THE GUVNOR’ has been out of a job since 2014, since leaving Blackpool, where he was once handed a five game ban for berating an official in the tunnel.
      In the lower leagues, Ince did a stellar jobs at Macclesfield Town in a player-manager role, before then getting Milton Keynes Dons promoted to League Two and winning the FA Trophy.
      In 2008, however, when Blackburn Rovers asked him to make the step up to the Premier League, Ince proved to be out of his depth.
      After three wins in 17 games, he was given the bullet.
      VERDICT: FLOP
      Paul Ince couldn’t hack it in the Premier League as a boss
      PAUL SCHOLES
      WITH one of the greatest football brains in the modern era, Scholes was surely going to make a decent coach?
      Maybe too soon to tell. He spent just 31 days at crisis club Oldham between February and March 2019, until walking away following a disagreement with the owners.
      “In the last week there was a couple of issues with a couple of players,” Scholes revealed in a chat with BT Sport in 2019.
      “Experienced pros that I felt didn’t deserve to be treated the way the club wanted to treat them.
      “I didn’t need the hassle of that. I really like the players, really respected them and would have done anything for them. But once I get told ‘don’t play him’, that’s when it is time for me to go…
      “That only happened once, but that was the end of it. There were subtle hints along the way, but that was the end of it.”
      VERDICT: TOO EARLY TO CALL
      Paul Scholes spent just 31 days at crisis club Oldham
      GORDON STRACHAN
      THE Scot spent five years at Coventry City, mostly doing his best to avoid relegation.
      Eventually, his luck would run out in 2001 when the club were demoted from the Premier League.
      He was sacked the following season after a poor start in the First Division.
      Within weeks, Strachan was back – this time in the Southampton hot seat. He resigned as Saints boss in 2004, after wanting to take a break from football
      At Celtic he was victorious – winning three league titles in a row. But in his fourth season, the Hoops lost out Rangers and he handed in his resignation in 2009.
      His time at Middlesbrough was forgettable. With the club languishing in 20th position, he commendably tore up his contract and refused compensation.
      For his last act, Strachan walked away from the Scotland job after failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.
      VERDICT: MIXED BAG
      On our shores, Gordon Strachan struggled at Coventry City and Middlesbrough
      WAYNE ROONEY
      Manchester United’s all-time top scorer, Rooney is the most recent former Red Devil star to try his hand at managing after being hired in 2020 by Derby County.
      But it’s been a tumultuous time for the club, who are in dire financial trouble.
      They narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of last season, but it looks highly unlikely they will be able to repeat that feat – after they were docked 21 points for financial irregularities and sit rock bottom of the Championship with four points and 22 games played.
      Hard to judge Rooney on this though, given his hands are tied.
      VERDICT: TOO EARLY TO TELL
      Wayne Rooney’s first foray into management at cash-strapped Derby can’t be judged
      LAURENT BLANC
      The exception to the rule, Laurent Blanc is one of the world’s leading managers and has been linked with the Old Trafford job.
      Currently in Qatar with Al-Rayyan, the France World Cup winner has won all his trophies in his homeland.
      He landed the title with Bordeaux in 2009, then won three successive championships with PSG, as well as two French Cups and three French league cups with the latter in just three years.
      The only blot on his copybook, perhaps, was his time as France boss, who he could only lead to a quarter-final of Euro 2012 before standing down.
      But, he’s never been sacked.
      VERDICT: HIT
      Laurent Blanc is the exception to the rule, enjoying success as a boss More