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      Where Man Utd’s 2008 Champions League heroes are now after amazing Chelsea shootout win including Anderson

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      IN 2008, Manchester United edged out Chelsea in Moscow on a night of elation, heartbreak and pure drama at the Luzhniki Stadium.English football was in rude health, with both Champions League finalists coming from the Premier League, as well as a further semi-finalist in Arsenal.
      Man Utd’s Moscow XI would go down in club folklore
      And practically on the banks of the Moskva River, both sides played their part in a night that supporters will never forget.
      Cristiano Ronaldo gave the Red Devils a first-half lead, producing a mind-bending leap to meet Wes Brown’s cross and turn it past goalkeeper Petr Cech.
      Avram Grant’s Blues didn’t lie down, however, and Frank Lampard equalised on the stroke of half-time.
      Tension grew as the game went to extra time, and then penalties – but not before Didier Drogba had gotten himself sent off for slapping Nemanja Vidic late on.
      This robbed Chelsea of one of their best penalty takers – but things were going well for them with Ronaldo having missed… and John Terry would step up to win it for the Blues.
      His subsequent slip and miss – followed by tears of anguish – would go down in football folklore… and prove costly – with United going on to snatch victory 6-5 in the shoot-out.
      Sir Alex Ferguson’s incredible Double winners of 2007/08 have now been voted by fans as the greatest team in Premier League history.
      But what has become of the Red Devils’ Moscow heroes? 14 years on, SunSport are on hand to take a look.
      EDWIN VAN DER SAR
      The legendary goalkeeper was a pillar for the Red DevilsCredit: PA:Press Association
      He now works as CEO for AjaxCredit: REUTERS
      The legendary Dutch keeper, who crucially saved Nicolas Anelka’s penalty that night, played on for three further years at United.
      He retired after another Champions League final in 2011, but this time was helpless as Messi and Co ran riot at Wembley in one of the most accomplished performances of all time.
      At 51, he has now returned to his first professional club Ajax as CEO, a position he has held since 2016.
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      WES BROWN
      Brown delivered the cross for Ronaldo to score that night in MoscowCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Brown has done off-pitch work for UnitedCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Like van der Sar, Brown, 43, also left Old Trafford in 2011 – but saw the remainder of his career dogged by injuries.
      He managed only 76 league appearances in five years at Sunderland – with the majority of them at centre-half rather than right-back.
      He called time on his career in 2018 after brief spells with Blackburn Rovers and Kerala Blasters in India – and is now mostly seen doing punditry work – including for MUTV.
      Brown also holds a Uefa ‘A’ coaching licence after working with the Irish Football Association.
      RIO FERDINAND
      Ferdinand was a rock at the back alongside VidicCredit: AFP – Getty
      He now does regular punditry work for BT SportCredit: PA:Press Association
      A legendary figure at the back alongside Vidic, Ferdinand would captain United and England following this historic night.
      The rangy defender, 43, scored the final winning goal of Sir Alex Ferguson’s illustrious reign against Swansea in 2013, before departing for Queens Park Rangers a year later.
      He couldn’t prevent relegation for the West Londoners and retired in 2015 – he is now seen regularly as a pundit for BT Sport.
      Ferdinand also hosts his own YouTube talk show and podcast called ‘Vibe with Five’, which discusses all things football.
      NEMANJA VIDIC
      Vidic departed Old Trafford in 2014Credit: PA:Press Association
      He has since returned to watch United on occasionsCredit: Reuters
      The Serbian became a bona fide legend at Old Trafford, but like Ferdinand called time on his United career after David Moyes’ ill-fated tenure.
      He would then play a season at Inter Milan, but with his best days behind him he retired in January 2016.
      Now 41 and father of three children, Vidic stayed in Milan.
      But he still performs occasional ambassadorial duties for the Red Devils – and completed his coaching badges ahead of a potential day-to-day return to the game.
      United revealed last year that Vidic is now studying for UEFA’s Executive Master for International Players course, a 20-month programme that is held in Nyon, Switzerland.
      PATRICE EVRA
      Evra was routinely excellent for UnitedCredit: AFP
      He has recently been getting in pristine shape… and he certainly loves this gameCredit: Instagram / @patrice.evra
      Yet another member of this side to leave in 2014 after the defence began to creak under Moyes, Evra would still have a few years left in the game.
      He won titles with Juventus before being sacked by Marseille for an altercation with a fan.
      Evra then had a brief spell at West Ham in 2018 before retiring and now 41, he is most often seen bellowing “I love this game” to anyone who will listen, or working on his coaching badges.
      And Evra almost began a shock career change in BOXING against Adam Saleh, athough was postponed at the last moment.
      OWEN HARGREAVES
      Hargreaves was later labelled a ‘disaster’ by Sir AlexCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      He regularly provides punditry on BT Sport, particularly on Bundesliga sidesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Having impressed in his first year at Old Trafford culminating in this match, unfortunately the rest of Hargreaves’ career would be plagued by injuries – featuring just five more times in three further years at United.
      He was later scathingly described in Ferguson’s book, with the Scot writing: “When I signed him there was something about him I didn’t like. It turned out to be a disaster.”
      Bizarrely he crossed the Manchester divide to play four times for City in the 2011-12 season before retiring, and now aged 41 regularly covers the Bundesliga for BT Sport.
      PAUL SCHOLES
      Scholes won his second Champions League medal that nightCredit: AFP
      He later had a brief spell managing OldhamCredit: PA:Press Association
      Another true Red Devils legend, he became even more revered in the tail end of his career after the role of deep-lying playmaker became popularised by Andrea Pirlo.
      He initially retired in 2011, before reconsidering and returning to action in January 2012 – eventually calling it a day for good in 2013 at the same time as Ferguson.
      Now 47 he has business interests with Gary Neville – including at Salford City FC – and even briefly managed boyhood club Oldham Athletic. Scholes is another that regularly provides analysis for BT Sport.
      But he was left red-faced last year when bizarre video emerged of Scholes chewing on his daughter’s toe-nails.
      MICHAEL CARRICK
      Carrick was Mr Dependable for UnitedCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Carrick went on to work as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s assistantCredit: Reuters
      Always understated, Carrick appeared to belatedly gain more and more appreciation as his career began to wind down – eventually retiring in 2018.
      The Englishman, 41, was made United captain in his late Old Trafford career, but managed only five appearances in his final season after requiring a medical procedure for an irregular heart rhythm.
      He then worked as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s right-hand man as part of United’s coaching staff and even managed a few games as caretaker boss following the Norwegian’s exit in November.
      However, Carrick quit United when Ralf Rangnick was appointed interim manager until the summer and has just been appointed as boss of Middlesbrough.
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      Cristiano Ronaldo would win the first of many European crowns that night in MoscowCredit: PA:Press Association
      Ronnie rejoined United from JuventusCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      This match was the culmination of a season in which Ronaldo became untouchable.
      The 37-year-old would scoop his first Ballon d’Or later in 2008, before breaking United hearts and transferring to Real Madrid the following year.
      After nine astonishing seasons at the Bernabeu in which he scored 450 goals in 438 games, he moved to Juventus in 2018.
      Then in 2021 he made a sensational return to Old Trafford and has scored 14 times in 24 games during his second spell.
      However, it looks like he’s on borrowed time with new manager Erik ten Hag, after reportedly refusing to come on as a substitute in the 2-0 defeat of Tottenham.
      CARLOS TEVEZ
      Tevez donned an Argentina shirt as he lifted the famous trophy in MoscowCredit: EPA
      Tevez won the league with Boca aged 36Credit: AFP or licensors
      Carlos Tevez, 38, was a favourite at Old Trafford for his blend of dogged determination and rich skill… but would do the dirty on them a year later.
      In 2009 he controversially switched red for blue and signed for Manchester City – prompting the infamous “Welcome to Manchester” billboard.
      He left English football for a successful period at Juventus in 2013, but after a dreadful spell at Shanghai Shenhua, Tevez returned for a third stint at boyhood club Boca Juniors – where he helped scooped a league title last year.
      But he left the club in the summer of 2021, retired in 2022, and is now manager of Rosario Central.
      WAYNE ROONEY
      Rooney was on his way to becoming United’s all-time leading goalscorerCredit: PA:Press Association
      Wayne Rooney managed Derby CountyCredit: PA
      A modern day Manchester United legend, Rooney is undoubtedly one of the finest players to ever pull on the red shirt.
      There were a few bumps along the way, however, having seemingly agitated for moves to City and Chelsea before becoming United’s all-time leading goalscorer.
      He left in 2017 for a return to boyhood club Everton – before moving stateside for a popular spell at DC United. Wazza then managed Derby County in the Championship aged 36 through adversity.
      This season he’s returned to the MLS – where he is coaching DC United.
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      SUBSTITUTES
      Among the replacements that night in Moscow, Giggs went on to manage WalesCredit: EPA
      The first replacement Ferguson drew upon was Ryan Giggs, with the Welshman going on to score the winning spot-kick. The Red Devils’ all-time leading appearance holder, 48, then managed his country after a stint on United’s coaching staff.
      He is now awaiting a second trial after being accused of assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
      Nani, 35, also appeared in extra time, and would represent United until 2015 – although he faded after Ferguson’s departure. After a nomadic spell since, he then played for Orlando City in MLS, in Italy with Venezia and now stars for A-League Men club Melbourne Victory.
      Ferguson drew upon Anderson, 33, deep into extra-time purely to take a penalty – which he duly scored. Injuries curtailed his promising career and he retired in September 2019 at 31 after a spell in Turkey’s second tier.
      But he was charged last year with alleged involvement in a £4.7million cryptocurrency fraud ring in Brazil.
      ⚽ Read our Man United live blog for the latest news and transfer gossip from Old Trafford
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      in Soccer

      Ex-Real Madrid doctor revealed Gareth Bale is best athlete he’s ever seen over legend Cristiano Ronaldo

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      GARETH BALE is a better athlete than Cristiano Ronaldo, according to ex-Real Madrid doctor Jesus Olmo.Manchester United star Ronaldo is famed for his physique and even maintains it at the age of 37 but Olmo reckons Bale is the best athlete he has ever seen.
      Gareth Bale is a better athlete than Cristiano Ronaldo, according to a former Real Madrid doctor
      Jesus Olmo claimed Bale is the best athlete he has ever seen despite Ronaldo being famed for his impressive physique
      Ronaldo is no stranger to showing off his physiqueCredit: Getty
      Having been team-mates during Olmo’s time at the Bernabeu, Bale and CR7 probably have their own ideas about who keeps in better shape but the Portuguese doc was in no doubt.
      The ex-Los Blancos doctor previously told Ideal in 2020: “Perhaps the best athlete I’ve ever seen is Bale.
      “Gareth Bale is a natural athlete who can excel in practically any sport.
      “He has incredible athletic skills, and I would also say technical skills.
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      “He is the one who impressed me most in all aspects.”
      The medical expert also said Real Madrid fans did not see the best of the Welsh wizard during his time in Spain, because he was suffering from several injuries.
      Bale, 33, played just seven games for Los Blancos last season and left to play in the MLS with Los Angeles FC.
      After Ronaldo leapt 8ft 5ins into the air to score a header against Sampdoria in 2019 he revealed his fitness secrets that keep him going and claimed he could play on until he was 41.
      His mum Dolores also backed up his claim earlier this year.
      The Madeira-based mum-of-four told presenter and comedian Guilherme Geirinhas: “I’ve already asked him if he wants to be a coach when he stops playing.
      “He told me he wants to enjoy life. He’ll play until he’s 40.” More

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      How Man Utd star Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner Georgina Rodriguez went from £250-a-week shop girl to Netflix superstar

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      SHE’S one of the most famous Wags on the planet – but Cristiano Ronaldo’s partner Georgina Rodriguez hasn’t always lived a life of riches and luxury. The 28-year-old Spanish model lived in a cramped, shared house and worked as a £250-a-week ($275) shop girl before a chance encounter with football legend Ronaldo transformed her life.
      Georgina has gone from a £250-a-week shop girl to one of the world’s most famous WagsCredit: Instagram
      A chance encounter with football legend Ronaldo transformed Georgina’s lifeCredit: Instagram
      Now she is enjoying life on our shores, and on the big screen with her hit Netflix documentary, after the five-time Ballon d’Or winner agreed to rejoin Manchester United in a blockbuster move.
      In a candid interview with ITV in 2019, Ronaldo, now 37, described finding “true love” with Georgina after the pair met for the first time at a Gucci store, where she was a sales assistant.
      The Juventus star told Piers Morgan: “She helped me so much. Of course, I’m in love with her.”
      Ronaldo, thought to be worth around £300million ($333m), added that it would be his mum Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro’s dream to see him and Georgina walk down the aisle.
      “We’ll be [married] one day, for sure,” he said.
      “It’s my mum’s dream as well. So, one day. Why not? It’s great. She’s my friend. We have conversations. I open the heart for her and she opens the heart for me.”
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      Ronaldo becomes emotional during his candid interview with Piers Morgan
      He described Georgina as his “true love”Credit: Refer to Caption
      The footballer also says he’ll marry Georgina one day ‘for sure’Credit: The Mega Agency
      Georgina lives a life most of us can only dream of – holidaying in Ibiza and Iceland, wearing head-to-foot Chanel and Gucci, and enjoying her boyfriend’s mega yacht and fleet of luxury cars.
      She also stood by Ronaldo after he was accused of raping a model in a Las Vegas hotel room – claims he has emphatically denied and which he will not face any criminal charges over.
      But while Georgina could soon become Mrs Ronaldo, the Wag’s life used to be very different…
      Georgina kisses Ronaldo after a Real Madrid victory – but her life used to be very differentCredit: Getty – Contributor

      Grafting for goals
      The beauty hails from a very humble background, growing up in the tiny village of Jaca, northern Spain, with her Argentine former footballer father, Jorge, and Spanish mother, Ana.
      As a child, she longed to be a ballet dancer. But because her parents couldn’t afford to send her to dance school, Georgina set her sights on a career in fashion retail instead.
      It was clear from a young age that she was ambitious and like Ronaldo – who grew up in a tin-roofed house in Madeira – she did everything in her power to chase her dreams.
      Georgina grew up in a tiny village, Jaca, in the Spanish mountainsCredit: Alamy
      She was desperate to get out of her small town and achieve her dreamsCredit: Instagram
      Living in a cramped house share
      As soon as she was old enough, Georgina moved to Huesca, a small town an hour away, where she got her first job as a waitress.
      However, she soon got bored of the town, and became fed up of living in a tiny home with several other young people.
      Tired of her impoverished lifestyle,  Georgina moved again – this time three hours away to the seaside town of San Sebastian, where she got a job in mid-range shop, Massimo Dutti.
      But despite earning more money, the draw of living the high life saw her make her next big move.
      “I wanted to work in luxury and I understood that for that I had to speak English,” Georgina told XLSemanal. 

      Georgina poses for a typical tourist snap near the London EyeCredit: Instagram
      Nanny in Bristol
      In 2012, aged just 17, Georgina flew to England and got a job as an au pair for a family in Bristol.
      Here, she focused on learning English, earning around £9.50 an hour.
      Once her language skills were up to scratch, she headed back to Spain to pursue her dreams of working in high-end retail in Madrid.
      Georgina lived in Bristol but visited Bath in her free timeCredit: Instagram
      “Love at first sight”
      Georgina finally got her dream job as a saleswoman at Gucci in 2016 – and it was while she was working here that she caught former Real Madrid star Ronaldo’s eye.
      Days later, the pair met again at another brand’s event, where they were able to “talk in a relaxed atmosphere”, outside of a work environment.
      “It was love at first sight for both,” Georgina previously told the Sun on Sunday.
      Georgina finally got her dream job in a designer store in Madrid in 2016Credit: Instagram
      It was “love at first sight” for the coupleCredit: AFP or licensors
      Hounded by fans
      The couple kept their relationship under wraps for the first few months, but once people found out they were dating, football fans started turning up at Georgina’s shop.
      Bosses feared the fans, who were trying to take pictures, would put off their rich clientele, and Georgina was dismissed from her dream job in December 2016 after just eight months.
      Ronaldo’s contacts got her another job in Prada in El Corte Ingles, the famous Spanish department store, where she earned about £1,000 a month plus commission.

      But once again, her relationship cost her a job. Customers kept coming into the shop in the hope of spotting Ronaldo – and begged Georgina for selfies.
      It wasn’t long before management and Georgina mutually agreed it was best if she left and stopped working for good.
      Speaking about her experience, she told Spanish outlet, XLSemanal: “I was hiding, but fans were looking for me at the store. They used to call up and ask about me, pretending to be clients.
      “There were always photographers waiting for me. The director told me to go down to the basement because he did not want to see me in the store. I started to be very uncomfortable and then I left.”
      Georgina’s high-profile relationship has cost her a number of jobsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      From selling Gucci to wearing it
      While Georgina used to sell designer clothes to the rich and famous, she’s now wearing them herself – from £1,400 Balmain jackets and £5,000 Chanel handbags to a priceless vintage fur coat.
      They were living in a gated mansion in Turin – similar to the £5 million mansion she and Ronaldo used to share in Madrid (but a far cry from the flat she once lived in with pals).
      Now, they will mostly likely be house-hunting in Cheshire’s Golden Triangle for an abode fit for a king and queen.
      Of course, Georgina is used to travelling in style too – jetting off in an £18 million private plane, sailing on a luxury yacht and driving sports cars like Ronaldo’s flashy Bugatti Veyron.
      Since she began dating Ronaldo, Georgina has become a star in her own right, gracing the cover of various fashion magazines while amassing 27 million Instagram followers.
      Georgina is often pictured wearing the most expensive designer clothesCredit: Rex Features
      Credit: Refer to Caption

      The Ronaldo clan enjoy their luxury £5.5m Azimut Grande yacht bought in 2020
      A lavish wedding
      If Ronaldo does fulfil his dream to wed Georgina “one day”, it will likely be a very grand affair.
      Wedding expert and founder of Wedding Ideas Magazine Rachel Southwood told Sun Online: “She’ll probably wear a fit and flare dress that hugs her curves and kicks out at the bottom.
      “It will be slinky and sexy but demure all at the same time – probably in lace, but possibly with some extra bling.
      Georgina loves designer clothingCredit: Rex Features
      “I think she will wear a long lace, scallop-edged veil. Something by a designer like Riki Dalal although I suspect it will be completely bespoke, from the head designer at one of the design houses she has worked with.
      “Their wedding will be lavish and include a church service and a huge feast. It will be family-focused with a few big names thrown in for good measure.”
      Rodriguez sparked engagement rumours last year when she showed off a huge ring in an Instagram post.
      They have so far remain tight-lipped over plans but are expected to tie the knot in the near future.
      Georgina Rodriguez showed off a huge ring on her finger during a holidayCredit: Instagram
      Running Ronaldo’s empire
      But Georgina is very keen not to be perceived as a typical WAG.
      She has previously said she has no interest in just shopping and spending Ronaldo’s money – in fact she might take a more active role in managing his vast fortune.
      Georgina and Ronaldo now have four children between them
      Georgina sparked engagement rumours when she was seen sporting a new ring during the 2018 World CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
      While most women spend their pregnancies decorating the nursery, Georgina spent hers studying financial accounting at the Centre for Financial Studies in Madrid.
      Her course, which started in October 2017 and finished the following March, cost her £780 and saw her attend three-hour long classes twice a week.
      According to El Mundo, it included modules on tax matters, legal obligations and wealth management.
      “I loved earning money for myself and I never let myself be helped when someone offered to lend me a hand,” Georgina previously said.
      “I am realistic and if I see that I can buy something not too expensive I do. If I can’t wear a Chanel, I buy a Zara. Why brag about something that does not belong to you?”
      Ronaldo and his family were living in Turin, northern Italy before returning to Manchester United
      Tens of millions in a divorce
      When Georgina and Ronaldo eventually tie the knot, it’s unlikely the model will ever have to return to her shop girl job – even if they divorce.
      Experts say all her financial worries would be taken care of in a pre-nup.
      Head of Family Law in leading Manchester firm, JMW, Elspeth Kinder told Sun Online: “A prenup would make sure it provides fairly for Georgina’s needs and that of their child in the event of a divorce. It would be tens of millions – but it won’t be a half share of everything he’s got- that’s the point of the pre-nup.
      “The Spanish jurisdiction in divorce is very different to here and tends to be less favourable to somebody like Georgina who comes to a marriage with less money than the other.”
      Yet there’s no sign of trouble on the horizon for Ronaldo and Georgina.
      “Being the partner of someone so famous is not easy but I wouldn’t change it for the world,” Georgina said. “What I feel for him is stronger than anything, any kind of pressure.” More

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      Liverpool missed out on signing Man Utd star Cristiano Ronaldo just a week before move after ‘fee trebled’ overnight

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      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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      Graham Potter is ‘obvious long-term successor’ to England manager Gareth Southgate when his deal runs out in 2024

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      CHELSEA boss Graham Potter is seen as “the obvious long-term successor” to England manager Gareth Southgate, according to reports.Potter, 47, was given the Chelsea job after working wonders with Brighton in the last three years.
      Gareth Southgate led England to the Euros 2020 finals last yearCredit: AFP
      Graham Potter was tipped for the England hot seat earlier this yearCredit: AP
      Respected journalist Henry Winter claimed before Potter’s Stamford Bridge appointment that he was in pole position to replace Southgate, 52, in the England hot seat.
      Earlier this year Winter wrote in The Times: “The Brighton and Hove Albion head coach is viewed by some around the England camp as Gareth Southgate’s obvious long-term successor and his popularity at the FA will have been enhanced by the way he set up his team tactically to negate Tottenham Hotspur’s strengths.”
      Newcastle boss Eddie Howe has also been tipped for the role in the past.
      Potter, who has a Master’s degree in leadership and emotional intelligence, began his managerial career at Swedish minnows Ostersunds.
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      He won three promotions in five seasons, followed by a first major trophy and a spot in the Europa League.
      Potter then spent two years at Swansea before taking over at Brighton in 2019, leading the Seagulls to a ninth-place Premier League finish last season.
      His steady progression caught the eye of Blues owner Todd Boehly, who swooper for Potter last month after sacking Thomas Tuchel.
      While Potter’s eyes are now on a long-term project with Chelsea, last November he spoke about his England ambitions.
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      Potter admitted: “If you’re looking at international football and you’re an Englishman, then of course it’s the pinnacle.
      “You can see the Champions League and club football is also a pinnacle.”
      Southgate meanwhile recently admitted he will face the sack if England struggle at the World Cup, which gets underway next month.
      His current deal runs until after Euro 2024, but Southgate confessed a disastrous campaign in Qatar could be the end for him.
      Southgate said last month: “Ultimately, I will be judged on what happens at the World Cup.
      “Contracts are irrelevant as managers can have three, four or five-year deals but you accept that if results are not good enough, it is time to go your separate ways.
      “Why would I be any different? I am not arrogant enough to think my contract is going to protect me in any way.” More

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      in Boxing

      Watch Mike Tyson’s ice-cool reaction as crazed fan pulls out gun during comedy show he was attending

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      MIKE TYSON remained the coolest man in the room after a crazed fan pulled out a gun during a Hollywood comedy gig.Iron Mike, 56, was taking in an evening of laughs with friends when things turned sour at a packed rooftop bar in March.
      Mike Tyson (black jacket) sat motionless as a fan approached him in a Hollywood barCredit: BackGrid
      The reportedly tried to goad Iron Mike, who remained motionless throughoutCredit: BackGrid
      A man reported as being the gig MC tried to intervene, before a gun was pulledCredit: BackGrid
      The man reportedly challenged Tyson to a fightCredit: BackGrid
      Tyson and a number of his entourage were in attendance at the gig, with the former heavyweight champion seated front and center.
      But in a shocking video obtained by TMZ, a random member of the audience is seen approaching Tyson and reportedly asking for a rumble.
      Witnesses report the man said he wanted to ‘upgrade his status’ by challenging the champ, who recorded 44 knockouts during his glittering career.
      The Baddest Man on the Planet remained calm and collected throughout, even as things escalated further.

      After being asked to leave Tyson alone by the gig MC, the fan reportedly threatened to shoot the stunned host and pulled a gun from his waistband.
      The MC is heard shouting: “What the f*** are you doing? Get the f*** out of here.
      “I’m not playing with you, get out of here.”
      Revelers ducked under tables as the gun was cocked, but Tyson refused to get confrontational and continued to sit unmoved at his table.
      The gun was never fired and the man returned to conversation with the boxing legend, who heard him out despite the unfolding chaos.
      ‘GET THE F*** OUT OF HERE!’
      And in a bizarre twist, after exchanging words the pair HUGGED before the man left without further incident.
      An onlooker shouted “there you go” as the boxing legend rose from his seat for the embrace.
      TMZ report LAPD were never called to the incident and Tyson left safely with his friends shortly after the man.
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      It’s not the first time Tyson has been threatened with a firearm, with former coach Teddy Atlas allegedly pointing a gun to his head when the former boxer was just 15.
      Tyson is still in training at the age of 56 and showed off his blistering skills in a viral video.
      And he was recently embroiled in a shocking altercation with a fan on a plane.
      Iron Mike repeatedly punched Melvin George Townsend III on a JetBlue flight last month but escaped criminal charges.
      Revelers ducked for cover as the man produced a gun but didn’t fireCredit: BackGrid
      Heavyweight champ Tyson remained motionless throughout the commotionCredit: BackGrid
      After putting away his weapon, the man returned to talk to Iron MikeCredit: BackGrid
      Tyson embraces the man before leaving the clubCredit: BackGrid More

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      Ex-Tottenham ace looks almost unrecognisable aged 39 as retired star poses topless on a yacht

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      A MIDDLESBROUGH cult hero looks unrecognisable aged 39 as the retired striker posed topless on a yacht.The Egyptian spent six seasons in total in England.
      The ex-striker has ditched the long hair for a shorter lookCredit: Instagram
      The 39-year-old is living the good life in retirementCredit: Instagram
      He joined Tottenham from Roma in 2005 on an initial loan before the move was made permanent the following summer.
      After netting 19 goals in 61 appearances for Spurs, the ex-striker was bought by Middlesbrough.
      His spell at the Riverside Stadium didn’t exactly go to plan in the goals department, but was still held in high regard.
      He went on four loan spells during his time at the club.
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      His last spell in England came at Barnsley, but he retired after making just one appearance.
      The mystery footballer can be revealed as… Mido.
      He looks completely unrecognisable, ditching the long hair for a shorter look and a sharp beard.
      Mido was pictured living the high life on a yacht with pals.
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      He posted to his Instagram a picture of him kissing the shirt of Zamalek, the team he first managed post-retirement.
      Mido has also managed to maintain his incredible physique after shifting more than 50kg of weight.
      Mido revealed he was inspired to lose weight after relentlessly being mocked for piling on the pounds following his retirement in 2013.
      Hitting rock bottom was Mido’s inspiration to return to his former glory.
      Mido spent six seasons in total in EnglandCredit: PA:Press Association
      The Egyptian was well known for his flowing brown hairCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea wonderkid Omari Hutchinson, 18, has been compared to new team mate Raheem Sterling and is a viral sensation

      by

      CHELSEA moved quickly to re-sign talented teen Omari Hutchinson from Arsenal last season and got a glimpse of his brilliance last night.The wing-wizard, 18, was highly-rated by Gunners boss Mikel Arteta and regularly featured in first team training last season.
      Omari Hutchinson, pictured with head of youth recruitment Jim Fraser, rejoined Chelsea last summerCredit: Chelsea
      Omari Hutchinson celebrates after scoring a scorcher against Leyton OrientCredit: Getty
      Omari Hutchinson was highly-rated at their Hale End academyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Mikel Arteta was impressed by Hutchinson and included him in first team training
      But, after seven years at Hale End – Cobham will be is now where he his football career is growing.
      And he scored a brilliant solo goal to help their Under-21s beat Leyton Orient 3-2 yesterday which sent Twitter into meltdown.
      On a weekly basis last campaign, it was Arsenal fans that were left purring by the attacker and a piece of magnificent skill he had performed during an Under-23 game.
      Back in October 2021, Hutchinson produced a stunning backheel assist in a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth.
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      While in January, it was the Blues who were left stunned by Hutchinson’s incredible solo goal in a 4-1 loss in the Papa John’s Trophy.
      His form excited boss Arteta and sporting director Edu, who believed they may have found the next Bukayo Saka.
      Like Miguel Azeez, Charlie Patino and Nikolaj Moller, Hutchinson was on the fringes of a first team call-up, earning rave reviews among the Arsenal coaching staff. However, he never did get that first team call up.
      An attacking midfielder with quick feet and bags of pace, Hutchinson was spied listening attentively to his ex-Spanish boss during coaching sessions in the past few seasons.
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      Former Arsenal star David Luiz was also impressed by his efforts – and embraced the youngster with a high-five.
      FULL OF POTENTIAL AND BELIEF
      Back in 2020, Hutchinson signed his first pro contract with Arsenal, who he had been with since the age of 11 after a previous spell in Chelsea and Charlton’s youth ranks.
      “A proud day for me and my family and I look forward to pushing on and continuing to work hard,” he wrote on his Instagram as a caption for a photo that showed him inking his deal.
      Cheekily, he added: “Debut soon to come.”
      The confidence he has in his ability translates to the swagger he plays with on the pitch.
      An attacking midfielder who has drawn comparisons with Raheem Sterling, Hutchinson boasts fine dribbling skills and an eye for a goal playing on the right wing.
      Ironically, Sterling is now his team mate at Stamford Bridge – so he will able to learn first hand from his hero.
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      Hutchinson signed his first pro contract with Arsenal in 2020
      Hutchinson, pictured with Pele, had been with Arsenal since he was 11
      A quick midfielder, Hutchinson can play out wide or as a No10Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Big Performance from the boys in a 4-1 Win against Tottenham 👌🏾 Good to get back on the scoresheet plus and assist ⚽️ 🅰️ We go again 🦍 pic.twitter.com/RIZld1a2wM— Omari Hutchinson (@omarihutch7) January 24, 2021

      And Hutchinson knows a thing or two about performing against London teams. Last season, he was the star performer in the 4-1 rout of Tottenham for the U18’s – scoring another brilliant individual goal and grabbing an assist.
      And he is equally as adept playing in a No10 role, while he was also used at left-back.
      ARTETA WAS IMPRESSED
      A few months before Hutchinson penned his deal with Arsenal, he was drafted into a first team training session with Arteta and Arsenal’s main stars.
      Immediately, he impressed his boss with his passing, skill on the ball, movement and his determination.
      Of course, Arteta had heard from Hutchinson’s youth coaches that he was one of the most exciting players in the academy.
      That is now all academic now.
      But there’s still some way to go before we know he can do it with the big boys.
      Last season, he was raved about – scoring a goal in a 4-3 win away at Newport County in the Football League Trophy.
      Fans raved that he was Arsenal’s standout performer.
      His outstanding season was rewarded with an international call-up by Jamaica, which he accepted with glee even though he was capped at England youth level.
      In the Football League Trophy win over Newport County, Hutchinson was Arsenal’s standout playerCredit: Getty
      Ex-Arsenal first team star David Luiz was impressed by HutchinsonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Hutchinson takes the ball past Alex RunarssonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Big things are expected of HutchinsonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      So it’s no wonder Chelsea are happy to have nabbed a Gunners youth star. “We are delighted that Omari has agreed to sign for Chelsea,” head of youth recruitment Jim Fraser revealed.
      “He is a brilliant addition who joins us as an exciting emerging talent hoping to make a quick impression in the senior game.” More