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      in Soccer

      BT Sport pundit Rio Ferdinand believed Three Lions team would be killed on World Cup flight as players wept and prayed

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      FORMER England captain Rio Ferdinand has revealed he once feared the Three Lions team would be wiped out during a terrifying World Cup flight.The ex-Man U, 43, defender has told how players including Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard were crying and praying for their lives as their plane hit severe turbulence.
      The Three Lions squad jet off to World Cup 2006 in GermanyCredit: PA:Press Association
      The drama followed our elimination from the 2006 World Cup in Germany and has never before been revealed.
      Opening up for the first time, Rio said: “We’d just been knocked out of the competition by Portugal in the quarter finals and we had the worst flight back you can imagine. We got caught up in some terrible weather and everybody thought we were going to crash. We were all crying.
      “I was sat near Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard and their wives and everyone was screaming. It was turbulence on another level. It was mental and people and luggage were all over the place and no one knew what was going on.
      “I definitely thought, ‘This is it,’ especially when I looked at the air stewardesses. You can always gauge how serious things are by their expressions and I looked at them and they were all sat down in their seats stony faced and clearly thinking, ‘F***, we’re in trouble.’
      Ex-Man U defender Rio Ferdinand has revealed for the first time that he feared the England team would be wiped out on a terrifying flightCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The Three Lions at World Cup 2006: L-R (back) Paul Robinson, John Terry, Jamie Carragher, Rio Ferdinand, Peter Crouch, Frank Lampard; (front) Steven Gerrard, David Beckham, Joe Cole, Ashley Cole and Michael OwenCredit: EPA
      Former England captain Rio said stars like Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard were crying and praying for their lives during turbulenceCredit: EPA
      “I’m usually quite calm but then I looked at them and I was properly scared.”
      If the private jet had crashed it would have wiped out what has been branded a golden generation of footballers that included Rooney, Gerrard, Frank Lampard,  John Terry, and David Beckham.
      Famous Wags including Coleen Rooney, and Liverpool star Gerrard’s then girlfriend Alex Curran that had set tongues wagging with their glamorous antics at the Baden-Baden base would also have met a shocking end.
      English hopes were high ahead of the 2006 World Cup but the team was eliminated after losing the penalty shoot out with Portugal after the game was tied 0-0 at full time.

      Coleen Rooney would also have met a shocking end as she was on the plane with WayneCredit: AFP
      Rio, who won 81 caps for his country, believes former Chelsea midfielder Lampard’s toilet habits were another reason the Three Lions were not more successful – as they ruined his sleep.
      The widower and father-of-three said: “When I got called up for England I used to share with Frank Lampard.
      “He didn’t snore or anything and he was mostly good but the only thing that was a bit of a bummer was that at midnight he would go to the toilet and it was quite loud.
      “In fact it was really loud. So loud that it used to wake me up. This long, loud p*ss.”
      Wayne Rooney looks towards Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo after being sent off during the Quarter Final matchCredit: PA:Press Association
      Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand slashes the price of his house by £2.5million More

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      in Soccer

      England star Harry Kane’s very British car collection, as he favours driving a Range Rover, Jaguar and Bentley

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      TRUST our Harry.England captain and Spurs star Kane, 28, really does wear his heart on his sleeve when it comes to his country, putting in some inspired performances on the pitch for the Three Lions.
      Harry Kane believes in the best of British when it comes to his car collectionCredit: The Sun
      And if you look closely at his car collection, you’ll see he likes to keep it British too.
      The Spurs striker believes the best is ‘Made in England’, preferring to ride in cars made by Range Rover, Bentley and Jaguar – all made on our shores.
      Family man Harry loves to travel in comfort and style in a sporty Autobiography from Land Rover worth around £99k, and also drives a roomy F-PACE which starts at a modest £35k.
      But when he feels the need for speed, his Continental GT Supersports costing around £212k is just the ticket to get him to and from training at the blink of an eye.
      Three Lions hero Kane drives a Jaguar F-PACE which starts at a modest £35kCredit: The Sun
      “Just to be associated with that British stamp is something that I’m proud of,” Kane said.
      “I pretty much love that Jag. It’s not too big, not too small, it fits our little daughter and the dogs.
      “It’s a family car with a sporty edge. It’s not like you’re embarrassed to drive it as a dad. You’re happy to drive it. It looks nice and it’s not too expensive. It’s been great for me so far.”
      After a hard session on the training ground, most footballers prefer to stretch their legs in a comfy SUV.
      Harry confessed he was no different and the extra space is crucial.
      After a game or training, Kane loves to ride in a spacious SUV
      “After a game or training, you just want to get in a nice car and chill.
      “I had a Range Rover Sport before that. Loved that. I just wanted the bigger version. And I’ve just bought a Bentley Supersports.
      “I thought I’d treat myself to a sports car. I was looking at most of them really, but because I play golf I wanted something with a bit of room, nothing too low, something a bit different.
      “They are only making 710 of them. I’ve gone for white with black wheels. It’s a beautiful, beautiful car. It’s my first real sports car.
      Harry Kane also rides a £212k Bentley Supersports like his teammate Dele AlliCredit: James Lipman
      “Down the line, maybe if I win a few trophies, I can treat myself to a Ferrari or a Lamborghini.”
      For club and country, Harry formed a formidable relationship with Dele Alli.
      The pair have starred for Spurs and England over the years, with their play often telepathic at times.
      That might explain why they both bought the same car!
      Family man Harry Kane loves taking his family for a spin in his F-PACECredit: Instagram @HarryKane
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      “Dele’s just bought a Supersports as well,” Kane revealed.
      “I’ve come in with my Supersports and he’s said, ‘I don’t believe it. I’ve just ordered that as well’. He’s got a black one and I’ve got a white one. It keeps the partnership going!”
      On the pitch, Harry is often getting clattered by opposition defenders, who target him for a kicking. Off it, he’s had a couple of car collisions in his time.
      “On the day of my first Premier League start for Spurs, I crashed in the car park at Costco,” he admitted.
      “I knew I was starting and I was nervous and I wanted to get out of the house. So I took the missus to Costco and did a bit of shopping.
      Kane traded his Range Rover Sport for a bigger Range Rover Autobiography worth £99kCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At the World Cup in Russia, Harry Kane won the Golden BootCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Kane’s superb form over the years has made him one of the world’s leading strikersCredit: AP:Associated Press
      “You know what those places are like, manic, cars everywhere, and it was raining.
      “I was reversing out just as someone was coming out of the space behind me and we bumped. That was embarrassing.
      “But we went on to beat Sunderland 5-1 that night and I scored. It was a fantastic night. The day didn’t start so well but it’s one I’ll always remember.”
      Ryan Mason is unsure Tottenham star Harry Kane will be fit for Carabao Cup Final More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Gareth Southgate’s Yorkshire mansion worth £3.75m that has six bedrooms, a cinema and its own resident ghost

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      ENGLAND boss Gareth Southgate is known for being a man of impeccable taste.So it is little wonder that his 16th Century manor house – located in a quaint village in North Yorkshire – is as swish as they come, boasting six plush bedrooms, a wine cellar, sprawling grounds – and even a resident ghost.
      Gareth has lived in the mansion with wife Alison for over a decadeCredit: Getty – Contributor
      England hero Gareth Southgate lives in this stunning mansion
      Bouquets of white roses adorn the antique tables, with crystal lamps hanging from the ceiling and standing on bedside chests.
      Aged beams line the vaulted ceilings, and racks of candles cast a warm glow over the wood-panelling in the living room.
      Over its four floors, the £3.75million mansion has six massive bedrooms, four bathrooms, a dressing room, a wood-panelled drawing room for entertaining celeb guests and study, as well as a rustic kitchen.
      As you’d expect from Gareth’s old-school gentleman style, the interiors are classy, with marble worktops, purple velour soft furnishings, wooded beams and a baronial hall fireplace on display.
      He also has a fine antiques collection – from tall golden goblets and black marble statues to vintage fireplace tools and splendid chandeliers.
      And if Gareth and wife of 25 years Alison fancy a cosy date night in they can do so in their private cinema.
      Located at the very top of the home, the room features electric reclining seats and a home cinema system, where Gareth will undoubtedly be watching the highlights from his best games in charge of the Three Lions.
      The walls and carpet are a soothing purple, and a cosy nook is built into the side of the high-ceilinged room.
      Gareth and wife Alison (pictured on their wedding day) bought the home in 2006Credit: PA:Press Association
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      And our beloved manager will surely be toasting any England victories with a bottle of fine wine from the cellar that runs on the lower ground floor.
      Former Middlesborough manager Gareth and his wife Alison bought his Grade 1-listed family home back in 2006 for £3.25m.
      The pair then spent thousands of pounds decking out the mega-mansion, which dates back to the 1500s.
      You may also be surprised to hear that the mansion isn’t the only home on Gareth’s land.
      It also boasts a two-bedroom detached cottage in the sprawling grounds – ideal if his captain Harry Kane and wife Katie Goodland ever come to stay.
      There is also a barn that is currently used as a storage area, but could be turned into another room – or be used to house an entire 11-man footy squad.
      Gareth and his wife have two adult children, Mia and Flynn, who still live there.
      The beautiful 8,000-square ft home – described by estate agents as a ‘family home of distinction’ is set in 4.5 acres of formal grounds, with its own woodland copse and views of the local reservoir.
      Gareth’s home is allegedly haunted by a former ownerCredit: Alamy
      Gareth lives in the mansion with his wife and two childrenCredit: Facebook
      It was previously owned by developer Chris Taylor, who spent three years restoring it as his own family home with the help of English Heritage.
      Since the house dates back 400 years, it’s no surprise that it has a chequered history – and even its own resident spook.
      Gareth’s home is reportedly haunted by the ghost of a twisted thief called Robinson, who used the wealth he stole from people to build the manor.
      According to Yorkshire-based historian and author William Grainge, Robinson grew up in a humble cottage not far from where the hall stands and worked as a weaver, before travelling to London to seek his fortune.
      The 1665 Great Plague hit the capital, killing 200,000 people there – and this was an opportunity for Robinson to get rich.
      He looted the houses of the dead, nicking their gold and valuables and returning to North Yorkshire where he bought the estate where Southgate would eventually live.
      However, he was plagued by visions of those he stole from, so tried to wash the gold in a nearby spring to cleanse it of bad vibes.
      The spring is still there today and legend has it that at certain times his ghostly apparition can be seen stood by it while frantically rubbing the gold coins – or floating around the grounds itself.
      The England boss has led his country since replacing Sam Allardyce in 2016Credit: Getty
      He has proved to be a popular figure with his players and the general publicCredit: Getty
      Other historians argue the truth could be more mundane – that in fact a family called Wood owned the estates.
      Head of the house Francis Wood wanted to erect a new hall on the estate, and loaned money from a Henry Robinson, who took charge of the estate when Francis was unable to repay the debt.
      Gareth has struggled to sell the house both times he’s listed it – first in 2016 for £3.75m and in 2018 for the sum his family initially bought it for.
      It came up on the market five years ago while he was caught up in a tax row over dodgy investments.
      There was a surge of interest in the home following the news that former footballer Gareth would be made interim manager after Sam Allardyce quit.
      But to deter nosy fans, all potential buyers had to prove they could afford the home before they were allowed to tour the property.
      When it failed to sell, Gareth decided to leave it in order to focus his efforts on the England team. More

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      in Boxing

      Ring Magazine’s Top ten heavyweight rankings with Usyk above Anthony Joshua into second and Tyson Fury top

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      OLEKSANDR USYK shot up the world heavyweight leaderboard after his stunning victory over Anthony Joshua last year.Ring Magazine’s rankings of the world’s top fighters now has the Ukrainian second to only Tyson Fury.

      Both stars hold world title belts, with Fury putting keeping WBC crown after defeating Deontay Wilder last time out.
      The respected rankings have the Gypsy King ahead of Usyk, owing to his ownership of The Ring’s official belt.
      Fury, 33, also boasts a 31-0-1 record and a more extensive history of heavyweight fights, with only Wilder battling to a draw in the original match-up of their trilogy series.
      While Usyk, 35, has only fought three times in this category having dominated at cruiserweight.
      His storming performance against Joshua in Tottenham launched the southpaw from tenth in rankings to the position of top challenger to Fury’s throne.
      Joshua maintains his status over Wilder, after the Bronze Bomber lost in Las Vegas.
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      Dillian Whyte, who is staking his claim to become the mandatory WBC challenger, is fourth ahead of Joseph Parker.
      Former champ Andy Ruiz Jr, Luis Ortiz, Michael Hunter, Oscar Rivas and Britain’s Joe Joyce complete the list.

      Fans may soon be calling for Fury and Usyk to square up, if the Gypsy King gets past Whyte, who he is facing next.
      However, they have been warned by Roy Jones Jr to expect a boring fight.
      He told DAZN: “I hope it doesn’t happen. Two boxers who don’t make for the most entertaining fight.
      Anthony Joshua has dropped down The Ring’s heavyweight rankings
      “We gotta keep Usyk and Fury away from each other by any means necessary. We do not want to see that.
      “There should be a clause right now put into any contract: ‘Do not allow Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury to have a fight.’
      “We do not need that for boxing.”

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      Roy Jones Jr wants Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk kept apart by any means necessary as he fears borefest More

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      in Soccer

      Best XI who could have played for England chose someone else, including Erling Haaland, Gareth Bale and McTominay

      by

      ENGLAND are back in rebuild mode after failing to end 55 years of hurt in the most heartbreaking of ways last summer.Gareth Southgate’s young stars can hold their heads high after reaching the Euro 2020 final – three years after reaching the 2018 World Cup semis.

      There’s a sense of excitement surrounding the current, youthful squad as they prepare for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
      For decades, England supporters have been forced to put up with uninspiring, humdrum squads – particularly since the so-called ‘Golden Generation’ called time on their careers.
      During those years, a host of big-name, foreign Premier League players were being tipped to swap allegiances and represent England.
      Even more recently, some superstars – including Erling Haaland – have been linked with playing for the Three Lions.
      Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Giovanni Reyna was the latest player to be rumoured to play for England, having been born in Sunderland during dad Claudio’s spell in the Premier League.
      Reyna has now represented the USA nine times to put an end to those rumours.
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      But he was by no means the first foreign player to be considered by England.
      Check out our best XI of those who got away…
      GK – Carlo Cudicini
      Carlo Cudicini was once in the crosshairs of England during his Chelsea daysCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      THE Italian spent 12 years in England playing for Chelsea and then Tottenham.
      In 2003, Cudicini was on the radar of the FA but a Fifa rule-change scuppered their plans.
      Cudicini never earned a senior cap for Italy, stuck behind Gianluigi Buffon.
      RB – Victor Moses
      Victor Moses played for England’s youth teams but never made a senior appearance before choosing NigeriaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      BORN in Lagos, Nigeria, Moses spent five years working his way through England’s youth ranks – playing 29 matches in total.
      However, the Chelsea man opted for Nigeria in 2012, two years after earning his sole cap for England’s Under-21s.
      Moses had initially opted to play for England and saw his Nigeria debut delayed as his application to Fifa to switch nationalities was submitted late.
      CB – Wes Morgan
      Wes Morgan chose to play for Jamaica in 2013 despite being born and raised in Nottingham
      BORN and raised in Nottingham, Morgan spent a decade at Forest before joining Leicester in 2012.
      Morgan would have been in contention for a spot in the England team during Leicester’s incredible 2015-16 title success.
      But in 2013, the centre-back switched allegiances to Jamaica – for whom he played 30 times until his final game in 2016.
      LB – Sylvain Distin
      England had hoped to pinch Distin – who never played for France – but saw their plan foiledCredit: Bradley Ormesher – The Times
      SNUBBED time and time again by France, the former Manchester City, Portsmouth and Everton star popped up on England’s radar in the 2000s and early 2010s.
      Distin played more Premier League games than any other foreign outfield player in history.
      But the defender never earned a cap for France – having also failed to feature in any of their youth squads.
      England were believed to be interested but saw their plans scuppered by the Home Nations Agreement.
      CM – Mikel Arteta
      Mikel Arteta never played for Spain but would have been a shoo-in for England but for eligibility rules scuppering the switchCredit: EPA
      THRIVING during his time at Everton, Arteta failed to break into the Spain squad, stuck behind Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Xabi Alonso, Sergio Busquets and Cesc Fabregas in the pecking order.
      That piqued England’s interest under Fabio Capello but a Fifa rule change in 2010 scuppered any plans of calling up the now-Arsenal boss.
      The FA believed Arteta to be eligible due to the five-year residency rule, but Fifa rejected the claim.
      The player himself threatened to ‘go to war’ but decided against a battle with Fifa.
      CM – Scott McTominay
      McTominay opted to play for Scotland after a trip from McLeish and some words from FergieCredit: AP
      BORN in Lancaster, England, the Man Utd star would go on to reveal he had always wanted to play for Scotland, having Scottish blood on his father’s side.
      But before that admission, both England and Scotland were chasing the midfielder.
      Alex McLeish battled horrific weather to reach Carrington to speak with McTominay about his allegiance, while Southgate ‘just sent a text’.
      That – and a nudge from Sir Alex Ferguson – convinced McTominay to opt for Scotland.
      CM – Edu
      Edu contemplating switching allegiance to England after being granted a British passportCredit: AFP
      EDU was close to picking England as his national team after being granted a British passport during his five years at Arsenal.
      The midfielder seriously considered the Three Lions, believing his chance of earning a place in the Brazil squad was limited.
      However, Edu was called up by Brazil in 2004, ending the debate.
      He would go on to play 15 times for the South American giants.
      RW – Adnan Januzaj
      England hoped to convince Januzaj to play for them but the winger fell short of eligibility rulesCredit: Reuters
      IN 2013, then bursting onto the scene at Man Utd, Roy Hodgson revealed he was looking into the possibility of Januzaj playing for the Three Lions.
      Hodgson believed the winger fulfilled the requirements to qualify for England – which he didn’t.
      Januzaj would go on to play for Belgium and even scored the winner against England in their 2018 World Cup group game.
      LW – Wilfried Zaha
      Wilfried Zaha swapped England for Ivory Coast in 2017 after four years in the wildernessCredit: Alamy
      HAVING moved to England from Ivory Coast at the age of four, Zaha appeared fully committed to the Three Lions.
      Zaha played 13 times for England’s Under-21s and even played twice for the SENIOR team.
      However, as both games were friendlies the winger was still eligible to switch to Ivory Coast.
      After failing to be called up for four years, Zaha did turn to the African nation in search of international football in 2017 and has gone on to play 20 times.
      ST – Gareth Bale
      Gareth bale never had any intention of playing for England but was eligibleCredit: Reuters
      BALE was always eligible to play for England through his grandmother.
      Having spent all of his youth career from the age of 10 at Southampton, the Three Lions had hoped he’d play for them.
      However, he was quick to snub England and would go on to play for Wales.
      In 2016, Bale even said: “I wouldn’t care if I never qualified – I would never play for England.”
      ST – Erling Haaland
      Erling Haaland was eligible to play for England before he made his Norway debutCredit: AFP
      BORN in Leeds during dad Alf-Inge’s time in the Premier League, Haaland was incredibly eligible to play for England.
      However, there was never any doubt in Haaland’s mind he would play for Norway like his old man.
      He has since played 15 times, scoring 12 goals – making himself ineligible to play for England.
      Erling Haaland tells Jude Bellingham to ‘get back to training’ in Yorkshire accent More

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      Man Utd wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho is training alongside Messi for Argentina, and is obsessed by Cristiano Ronaldo

      by

      IN two years, Alejandro Garnacho has gone from promising youth star at Manchester United to getting picked by Argentina.The rapid left winger, 17, was handed a surprise call-up to Lionel Scaloni’s 44-man squad ahead of World Cup qualifying games against Venezuela and Ecuador.
      Alejandro Garnacho has been selected by Argentina and is now training alongside Lionel MessiCredit: Instagram
      Garnacho was a surprise inclusion in Lionel Scaloni’s 44-man squadCredit: AP

      It means, even though he hasn’t appeared in the first team, he will be training alongside legend Lionel Messi.
      The wonderkid has starred for United’s U18s this campaign, excelling in the FA Youth Cup with four goals
      One of those strikes saw the talent run from his own half down the left flank to score against Everton with an astonishing solo goal.
      The fleet-footed forward was the third La Liga starlet join the club in 2020 signing from Atletico Madrid, after the arrivals of Marc Jurado from Barcelona and Alvaro Fernandez from Real Madrid.
      Garnacho was called the ‘jewel’ of Atletico’s academy, and is working hard to emulate his idol growing up.
      He is obsessed by Cristiano Ronaldo, and even wore the same shirt number – No7 as his idol, although he’s had to accept No11 with the Red Devils.
      Still, that didn’t stop him celebrating that goal against Everton with CR7’s famous ‘SIUUU!’ roar.
      STIFF COMPETITION
      The Red Devils were said to have fought off Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund to secure Garnacho’s signature.
      Described as a ‘goalscoring machine’, the Madrid-born teenager was highly rated by Atletico, who were devastated he left.
      He joined the club in 2015, impressing all with his killer instinct in front of goal.
      In 2016, whilst playing for Atletico’s Infantil B, he was Spain’s top scorer – destroying opposition defences with his natural knack for finding the back of the net.
      Manchester United ace Garnacho is excelling in the club’s academyCredit: Getty
      Garnacho, who had been with Atletico since 2015, was said to be the ‘jewel’ of the club’s academyCredit: La Liga promises
      Talented Garnacho is said to be a goalscoring machineCredit: La Liga promises
      Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund were also reportedly interested in GarnachoCredit: Instagram / @garnacho7
      QUICK AND NIMBLE
      Blessed with a flawless technique, Garnacho boasts attributes including close ball control that make it difficult for defenders to rob the ball off him.
      In the penalty area he’s intuitive and clinical, preferring to shift the ball onto his right foot before calmly slotting the ball home.
      A real predator in front of goal, Garnacho is also adept at finding space in the penalty box, and is an instinctive poacher.
      Moving to Old Trafford was said to be an easy decision for him, because it has allowed him to follow in the footsteps of his Portuguese hero.
      READY FOR STARDOM
      From a young age Garnacho’s potential has seen him primed for the top.
      At 15, he already found himself enjoying run-outs for Atletico’s U19 team.
      Garnacho wants to emulate his idol Cristiano RonaldoCredit: La Liga promises
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      This campaign he has thrived with United’s academy, playing for both the U18 and U23 sides.
      In all competitions, Garnacho has managed 11 goals in 28 matches – as well as six assists.
      And now, internationally recognised, surely it won’t be long before he finds himself in the United first team. More

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      Man Utd legend Wayne Rooney is best centre forward I’ve seen at club, says Neville after Hall of Fame induction

      by

      WAYNE ROONEY is the greatest centre forward Gary Neville has seen at Manchester United.Rooney was this morning inducted into the Premier League Hall of Fame alongside Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira for his achievements as a player.
      Gary Neville hailed Wayne Rooney as the best striker he has seen at Manchester UnitedCredit: Reuters
      The pair played together at Old Trafford for seven years, winning ten trophies as Sir Alex Ferguson’s side were crowned English, European and world champions.
      When asked whether he was the best English player of all time back in August, Neville was reluctant to compare his former team-mate to the likes of Stanley Matthews and Bobby Charlton who played in different eras.
      But he did say on Sky Sports: “For me he was the best centre forward I ever saw at Manchester United and ever played with.
      “I have him number one, up front, Cristiano Ronaldo alongside him in every single one of the best Manchester United teams that I played alongside.
      .css-16e4f55{margin:16px 0;}.css-1546w7m{background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);margin:16px 0;}.css-1tapza8{padding:20px 15px;}.css-1bk4jdt{padding:20px 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Utd.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-gmec1d{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;height:auto;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-align-content:center;-ms-flex-line-pack:center;align-content:center;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;margin-left:calc(-20px/2);margin-right:calc(-20px/2);}.css-fh9577{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-left:calc(20px/2);margin-right:calc(20px/2);}.css-65fvqt{max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-1exhbll{box-sizing:border-box;overflow:hidden;background-color:rgba(237,245,242,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;position:relative;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;max-width:302px;max-height:294px;}.css-bk55po{box-sizing:border-box;display:block;position:relative;margin-bottom:0;}.css-1shocxe{box-sizing:border-box;}.css-1a2irou{box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;}.css-1a2irou 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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}FAME GAME .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Rooney and Vieira inducted into Prem Hall of Fame after amazing careers
      “Rooney would be my number one.”
      “That’s the highest compliment I can pay him, because I played with [Eric] Cantona, [Mark] Hughes, [Dwight] Yorke, [Andy] Cole, [Teddy] Sheringham, [Ole Gunnar] Solskjaer, [Dimitar] Berbatov, [Carlos] Tevez, great strikers from all over the world, not just in England.
      Neville added: “The contribution to the team at all points of every game was unbelievable.
      “In and out of possession, in the dressing room, the energy every single morning. He was an absolute livewire, street fighter, tough, score goals, assist goals, the best defender, never give in.
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      “Everything you would want in a football player he was there, and to me the best striker I played with because he did everything.”
      Rooney made 559 Manchester United appearances, scoring a record 253 goals to surpass Charlton’s tally.
      He also overtook his fellow Old Trafford legend on the international stage with 53 England goals.
      Rooney, who also played for Everton, DC United and Derby, hung up his boots last year to take over as the Rams’ manager.
      And Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher heaped praise on his fellow Scouser.
      Carragher said: “It was tough playing against him.
      “I’ve always said Bobby Charlton will be the best England player – he won the World Cup and look what he did for Manchester United.
      “I think there’s a group of ten players behind Charlton and Rooney is right in that list, maybe at the top.

      “He was an absolute superstar – and yes, a nightmare to play against.
      “I love seeing lads from my area doing really well. You can only admire what he did for Manchester United and England, caps-wise, goals-wise.
      “He was a brilliant player and – I’ve felt this with Ryan Giggs and Michael Owen too – he was that good so young, we automatically think they’re going to become the best player in the world.
      “Some people think Rooney never achieved what he should have done or never did what Ronaldo did – Ronaldo’s a freak.
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      “Rooney’s career is unbelievable: top scorer for Manchester United, one of the biggest clubs in the world, top scorer for his country, won the Champions League.
      “The only thing he hasn’t done is win something with his country and become the best player in the world. When he was in his peak, he was there or there abouts in the top ten.” More

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      in Soccer

      Footballers who made stunning retirement U-turns including Scholes and Robben after Denilson returns aged 44

      by

      THEY just didn’t want to hang up their boots.These footballing stars were initially happy to retire, but performed a sensational U-turn when they were either needed to play, or simply missed the action.
      Brazilian legend Denilson is the latest star to come out of retirementCredit: EPA
      The star, once the world’s most-expensive player, is pulling on the boots again aged 44Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Brazilian legend Denilson de Oliveira, once the world’s most expensive player, has just announced his sensational return to football aged 44.
      Simply known as Denilson, the winger has penned a deal with Brazilian lower league side Ibis Sport Club – 12 YEARS after initially hanging up his boots.
      The star played 61 times for Brazil between 1996 and 2003, and lifted the World Cup in 2002.
      His £21.5million move from Sao Paulo in his homeland to Spanish outfit Real Betis in 1998 made him the world’s most expensive player at the time.
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      Denilson initially retired in 2010 after spells with Greek second-tier side Kavala and Vietnamese outfit Hai Phong.
      But he is now readying himself for a return to the pitch.
      He is not the first, and unlikely to be the last, to make a comeback.
      From a Manchester United legend to one of the Premier League’s all-time greatest goalies, SunSport gives you the definitive names of players who came out of retirement to relive their glory days.
      .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-1x7hydu{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-1x7hydu::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -0.5px);}.css-1x7hydu::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);}
      PETR CECH
      The Chelsea legend was last seen pulling on the Arsenal keeper’s jersey in 2019, hanging up his gloves after four years at the Emirates at the end of the 2018-19 season.
      But it was with the Blues he was a cult hero, winning four Premier League titles in 11 years, which is why he returned to Stamford Bridge last year to take up a new role as technical and performance advisor.
      In 2020, Cech, now 39, was added to Chelsea’s Premier League squad as an emergency goalkeeper.
      Fortunately neither Edouard Mendy or Kepa Arrizabalaga got injured, preventing Cech from an on-pitch comeback.
      Petr Cech pictured working with Chelsea No1 Edouard MendyCredit: Getty
      PAUL SCHOLES
      Six months after he quit Old Trafford, Scholes decided he should pull on the Red Devils jersey once again in 2012.
      It was a no-brainer for the midfield dynamo, with Sir Alex Ferguson’s side having an injury crisis in the middle of the park having to play Phil Jones and Fabio Silva as a pair.
      Incredibly, no one knew he was returning when he was named on the bench for the Manchester derby, not even his team-mates who would’ve been shocked to see his shirt hanging up in the dressing room.
      United finished runners-up to their noisy neighbours that season, with Scholes playing 21 games.
      He returned the following year to help United win back the Premier League, and retired again – this time for good.
      Scholes retired for a second time after helping United win back the titleCredit: Getty
      JOHAN CRUYFF
      The late Dutch master returned to the game out of a sense of necessity.
      Cruyff was 31, but was skint after an investment that was supposed to set him up for life after football went wrong.
      “I had lost millions in pig-farming and that was the reason I decided to become a footballer again,” he revealed.
      He returned the same year he retired – 1978 – with the Los Angeles Aztecs for an admitted pay day.
      Cruyff later returned to Holland and was successful with both Ajax and Feyenoord, before finally giving up the game in 1984.
      Johan Cruyff signed for Los Angeles Aztecs due to financial problemsCredit: Getty
      ARJEN ROBBEN
      Another flying Dutch winger, former Chelsea star Robben was the most recent addition to the list before Denilson’s stunning announcement.
      And his reason was more sentimental.
      Robben signed on a free transfer for boyhood club FC Groningen in 2020 at the age of 36 after retiring following his incredible spell at Bayern Munich.
      But the romantic return was ruined by a long-term injury, restricting him to just six league outings, before he hung up his boots again for the second and last time in 2021.
      Robben has rejoined boyhood club FC GroningenCredit: Getty
      JENS LEHMANN
      After leaving the Gunners in 2008, the legendary German goalie was back for a second stint between the sticks for Arsenal in 2011 – a year after he put away his gloves.
      Initially he was signed as a back-up to Manuel Almunia, after Arsene Wenger’s team suffered with injuries.
      At 42, Lehmann was called upon for a game against Blackpool, after Almunia got injured in the warm-up.
      His team were victorious – winning 3-1. But you can bet the competitive Jens would’ve been furious he didn’t keep a clean sheet.
      Jens Lehmann appears for Arsenal against Blackpool age 42Credit: Action Images – Reuters
      ROBBIE ROGERS
      After he was released by Leeds at the age of just 25, Rogers wasn’t sure if his future belonged in the game.
      He then bravely came out as gay, revealing he felt like a coward for not doing it sooner.
      In 2013, Rogers joined MLS giants Los Angeles Galaxy to become the first openly gay American athlete to play in a major sport.
      Four years later, he announced his retirement because of persistent injuries.
      Robbie Rogers became the first openly gay American sports starCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      CARLOS ROA
      Still one of the most bizarre moments in football EVER.
      Roa was an outstanding goalkeeper for the Argentinian national team, as well as La Liga giants.
      He starred for the Argies in the 1998 World Cup, and reached the final of the Copa Del Rey and Cup Winners’ Cup, as well as won the Spanish Supercup.
      But he believed that the world was going to end in 2000, so wouldn’t renew his contract beyond then.
      When it didn’t, he came back with his tail between his legs because he still had a contract to fulfil.
      Carlos Roa returned to Mallorca with his family after quitting football thinking the world was going to endCredit: EPA
      STEPHEN CARR
      When the former Spurs full-back was released by Newcastle in 2008, he had had enough of chasing wingers up and down the park.
      With no takers wanting him as a free agent, Carr decided to call it a day.
      A year later, he returned to the Premier League with Birmingham City.
      In 2011, he captained the side to a famous League Cup final victory over Arsenal.
      He hung up his boots in 2013 to begin his coaching career.
      Stephen Carr celebrates winning the League Cup against ArsenalCredit: Jamie McPhilimey – The Sun
      ROGER MILLA
      The Cameroon legend is best remembered for his star turn at the 1990 World Cup, where he couldn’t stop scoring, not to mention that brilliant dance celebration at the corner flag for every goal.
      However, a year before Milla had decided he wasn’t fit for purpose and moved to the Indian Ocean island of Reunion.
      It wasn’t until Cameroon’s president Paul Biya pleaded with him to return that he came back at 38.
      He then returned four years later to become the oldest player to appear at the World Cup, a record which was beaten by Faryd Mondragon.
      Roger Milla was a star at Italia ’90Credit: Bongarts – Getty
      LANDON DONOVAN
      Recognised as the greatest player to ever play for the States, Donovan had initially left the LA Galaxy in 2014 as a champion.
      But in 2016, he was asked to return to MLS action because of an injury crisis by the Galaxy.
      Ironically enough, Donovan was working as a pundit on his former club’s game where they suffered three injuries during the match.
      However, he couldn’t repeat his past success and the club ended up without a trophy and Donovan retired again.
      Landon Donovan returned to LA Galaxy in 2016 after an injury crisisCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      MARC OVERMARS
      Although he had lost that electric pace that made him such a threat in the past, Overmars wasn’t going to give up the ghost of playing.
      After a brilliant career at Ajax, Arsenal and Barcelona, he retired in 2004.
      Then he starred in a testimonial for Jaap Stam some four years later, and was offered a route back into football.
      He initially declined, believing his best days were past him.
      However, he had a a change of heart when Go Ahead Eagles, his first ever club, offered him a deal.
      He played 24 games in one season before finally retiring for good.
      Four years after retiring Overmars came back with Go Ahead EaglesCredit: Rex Features More