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    Former England star, 38, makes Coronation Street cameo as ‘chav’ and reveals major soap secret

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    Former England U20 star who’s dating Coronation Street actress wakes up unemployed after release from EFL club

    FORMER England U20 ace and Everton academy graduate Ryan Ledson has been released by Preston North End. Ledson, who is dating Coronation Street star Lucy Fallon, leaves Deepdale after seven years following the expiration of his contract.Ryan Ledson has been released by Preston North EndCredit: GettyLedson is dating Lucy FallonCredit: SplashFallon stars as Bethany Platt in ITV soap Coronation StreetCredit: Instagram/@lucyfallonxThe 27-year-old midfielder joined Preston back in 2018, having spent time at Cambridge United and Oxford United after graduating from Everton’s academy.And now he will be searching for the next step in his career after being included on Preston’s 2025 retained list as an “out of contract and released” player.It’s not a surprise to Preston fans, who were made aware of Ledson’s imminent exit earlier in the week.In a statement, the Liverpool-born star said: “I’ve had the best seven years that I could have asked for. This club means so much to me.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I want to thank everyone at the club, from the staff behind the scenes to the owner and Peter.“Thank you to the fans too for all the support you’ve given me over the years. I’m glad my last game for the club went as well as it did and I could have that moment with the fans at the end.“I’ve absolutely loved my time here and I wish everyone at the club nothing but the best for the future.”Ledson’s final game for the club was a 2-2 draw against Bristol City, a result that was just enough to keep the Lilywhites afloat in the Championship.Most read in FootballPreston North End full retained listHere’s a look at who is staying and going for Preston North End…Contracted ProfessionalsAli McCannAndrew HughesBen WhitemanBrad PottsDai CornellFelipe Rodriguez-GentileJack WhatmoughJames PradicJeppe OkkelsJordan StoreyKitt NelsonLewis GibsonLiam LindsayMads FrøkjærMax WilsonMilutin OsmajićNoah MaweneStefán ThórdarsonWill KeaneIn NegotiationsChed Evans (coaching role)Josh SearyKacper PasiekRobbie BradyOut of Contract and ReleasedEmil RiisFreddie WoodmanKian BestKian TaylorPatrick BauerRyan LedsonLoan Players Returning To Parent ClubsKaine Kesler-HaydenJayden MeghomaRyan PorteousSam GreenwoodCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHe leaves PNE having played 215 games, scoring seven goals and registering 14 assists.Ledson’s partner Lucy Fallon, who plays Bethany Platt on ITV soap Coronation Street, supported him by re-sharing his exit announcement on her Instagram.Former England star Trevor Sinclair facing bankruptcy battle over £36k unpaid tax bill after ‘hiding head in the sand’The pair, who have been dating since the Covid-19 lockdown, share two children together – a son named Sonny and a daughter called Nancy.Clubs up and down the country are now announcing their retained lists as the season comes to a close, meaning top stars are being released all over the place.Former Chelsea, Manchester City and Celtic star Scott Sinclair was another big name to wake up unemployed this week after his release from Bristol Rovers.Club captain Sinclair, who shares three children with his former Corrie star ex Helen Flanagan, was let go by Rovers following their relegation into League Two.Scott Sinclair has been released by Bristol RoversCredit: GettySinclair’s ex is former Corrie star Helen FlanaganCredit: Instagram More

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    My dad is Coronation Street legend Des Barnes – now I’ve swapped acting for pro boxing

    BOXER Alfie Middlemiss returns for his third professional fight in the ring – but he may already be a familiar face. And not because of his two points victories but due to his career as an actor. Alfie Middlemiss returns for his third professional fight in the ringCredit: GettyHe is the son to actor Phil MiddlemissCredit: GettyMiddlemiss played Des Barnes in CorrieCredit: PAHe is the son of Phil Middlemiss – who spent eights years playing Des Barnes in the hit ITV soap. His 21-year-old son is also an actor with TV credits for Emmerdale and Waterloo Road. But Middlemiss’ true calling has been in boxing, turning professional in 2024 with Eddie Hearn after a title winning amateur career. He returns tonight in Manchester on Joe Joyce’s undercard – but the bright lights are nothing new for the super-featherweight. READ MORE IN BOXINGMiddlemiss told BBC Sport: “I definitely think they’re transferable and should come in handy. “There are things I’ve learnt in that field that I can already see are going to be useful now.”They can help me sell a bout and, when I get a little bit further down the line, they’ll also help me in front of the television cameras.”A lot of people can freeze when they’re all pointed at them. I get it because it’s completely out of their comfort zone.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”But I’m used to having that spotlight on me so it’s nothing out of the ordinary.” Middlemiss still acts on the side but is ready to pursue boxing full-time. He said: “Acting can be tough but it’s a damn sight easier than boxing.”My family and friends know how competitive I am and my dad has always loved boxing so I don’t think they fell off their chairs when they found out what I wanted to do.”OK, they were probably a bit surprised. But not stunned or speechless, I don’t think, because of how I am.”There are more relaxing ways to make a living but there’s something about boxing which immediately grabbed me. “I think it’s the pressure you have to put yourself under because, in the ring, it’s just you and the other guy so you can’t rely on anyone else.But I’m used to having that spotlight on me so it’s nothing out of the ordinary. Alfie Middlemiss “You have to show focus and have a drive to keep improving. You can never let up.”From the first moment I walked into a gym it just appealed to me. Maybe because, in my eyes, it’s the ultimate and purest test you can ever experience.”Middlemiss won English and North West championships and has now turned pro under ex-boxer Jamie Moore – trainer also to Jack Catterall. He beat Jesus Gonzalez and Caine Singh in his first two bouts and faces Mexican Alexander Morales (6-11-5) in his third. Middlemiss said: “Boxing can be a lonely sport as everything is on you.”As an amateur, it can be a bit overwhelming when you get a loss or a setback.Read More on The Sun”There are injuries too. I’ve had a few minor niggles along the way but, fortunately, nothing serious.”It’s how you respond to all of that which defines you. The same as disappointments in acting or any other walk of life.”Middlemiss is trained by former pro boxer Jamie MooreCredit: Getty More

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    Former Premier League ace, 46, married to ex-soap star sacked by EFL club as 160-word statement released

    BARROW have sacked former Premier League ace Stephen Clemence as manager after eight months into the job.Clemence, 46, played for Tottenham, Birmingham and Leicester, where he hung up his boots in 2010 and crossed over to management nine years later.Barrow have sacked manager Stephen Clemence after just eight monthsCredit: RexClemence has been married to former Brookside soap star Suzanne Collins since 2017Credit: AlamyThe former midfielder took over Barrow in League Two back in May but a run of six defeats in his last 10 matches, of which he won only one, led to his dismissal.The ex-England youth international, who has been married to former Brookside soap star Suzanne Collins since 2017, oversaw a total of 10 wins and 15 losses in 32 games with the Bluebirds.The club issued a brief statement thanking Clemence for his contribution and explained that the recent poor form forced their hand.Barrow issued the following statement: “Barrow AFC can confirm that they have parted company with their First Team head coach, Stephen Clemence.”Read More on FootballChairman Paul Hornby said: ‘Stephen came in over the summer and we had high hopes to build on his considerable coaching ability and reputation.”‘We’ve built a strong squad of players together and enjoyed some memorable early success including our Carabao Cup exploits.”‘Stephen has always conducted himself with great dignity and professionalism but unfortunately our recent extended run of poor results has led us to the decision that it was time to make a change.”‘We would like to thank Stephen for his hard work and dedication to the club and wish him well for the future.’Most read in EFLBest new sign-up offersSunSport exclusives”The club can also confirm that Assistant Manager Robbie Stockdale will also leave his role, we would also like to thank Robbie for his contribution during his time with us.”We will provide updates on the search for a new Head Coach in due course.”Ruben Amorim warns Man Utd stars he’ll learn more about them vs Southampton than against Arsenal and LiverpoolClemence, whose dad was the late England, Liverpool and Spurs legend Ray, started out as caretaker boss at Sheffield Wednesday in 2019 before taking over Gillingham in 2023 for just five months. More

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    Helen Flanagan’s footballer ex Scott Sinclair moves on with new girlfriend two years after split from ex-Corrie star

    FORMER Corrie star Helen Flanagan’s footballer ex Scott Sinclair has moved on — with a family friend.Helen, 34, has admitted she still loves him but he has been dating Lauren Davies, 32, for several months.Lauren Davies is dating footballer Scott Sinclair, two years after his split from Helen FlanaganCredit: SuppliedScott and Helen were spotted on a date at Harrods and have been together for monthsCredit: Peter JordanOur exclusive picture shows Scott, 35, and Lauren holding hands after a date at the Prada Caffé at Harrods on Wednesday.Helen, currently appearing on E4’s Celebs Go Dating, split from him more than two years ago and she has recently started seeing former footballer Robbie Talbot, 44.Ex-Man City and Celtic winger Scott first met Lauren, who ­supports ADHD kids, six years ago through family. It is believed Helen has met her.READ MORE SCOTT SINCLAIRLauren is from his home city of Bath, close to where he is currently playing for League One side Bristol Rovers.A source said: “They’re getting on well and really enjoy each other’s company.“They met through family years back. Scott and Lauren just hit it off a few months ago and started dating.“At the moment, they just want to see where things go.”Most read in FootballHelen and Scott were together for 13 years before they broke up in 2022.They have three children and Helen previously told our Fabulous magazine: “I love Scott and I know that he loves me, but I ­suppose we just don’t like each other very much at the moment.”Emotional Helen Flanagan reveals she asked Scott Sinclair to get back together just months agoOn Celebs Go Dating this month, Helen dismissed rumours of a “throuple” with David Haye and his girlfriend Sian Osborne but admitted having a relationship with the ex-boxing champ, 43.She said: “It was quite something. It’s really hard for me to talk about it.“He had a girlfriend and an open relationship. I didn’t mean to fall in love with him but I did.”Lauren declined to comment.Former Coronation Street star Helen has moved on with former footballer Robbie TalbotCredit: GettyHelen and Scott have three children together and remain on good termsCredit: Instagram More

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    Helen Flanagan’s ex Scott Sinclair spotted with mystery woman on night out – as soap star strips off to a bikini

    HELEN Flanagan’s ex Scott Sinclair has been spotted out with a mystery woman after the Coronation Street star’s psychosis diagnosis.The Bristol Rovers footballer, 35, split from his fiancee Helen, 33, in 2022 after a 13-year relationship.Scott Sinclair has been linked with a mystery brunetteCredit: SplashBristol Rovers player Scott was on a night out in ManchesterCredit: SplashThe unnamed woman looked stunning for the night out at Sexy Fish in ManchesterCredit: SplashHelen Flanagan has put on a brave face amid struggles during her break-upCredit: Instagram/@Helen FlanaganHe’s now been seen out with a stunning brunette on a night out in Manchester.The pair were spotted leaving Sexy Fish in Manchester and then heading into MNKY HSE nightclub just after 1am.They kept their distance as they were pictured by photographers overnight.Scott was previously linked to model Kate Moss’s sister Lottie last year after sliding into her DMs.READ MORE ON HELEN FLANAGANLottie told pals Bristol Rovers footballer Scott had contacted her on social media after Coronation Street’s Helen called off their engagement.Meanwhile, Helen posed in a tiny bikini as she enjoyed a spa day.Last month, the mum-of-three revealed she was diagnosed with psychosis after struggling with the breakdown of her relationship to Scott.She had been due to make her acting comeback in a UK tour of murder mystery play Cluedo 2, but pulled out because of medical reasons.Most read in FootballThe Sun revealed how Helen, 33, had dumped Scott, 34, the father of her three children, last October.The pair had been together since 2009.Helen Skelton shows off her different outfitsShe admitted they still love each other – but don’t “like” each other anymore.Helen and Scott, 34, are both committed to co-parenting Matilda, eight, Delilah, five, and two-year-old Charlie. It’s not always practical, though, as he currently plays for Bristol Rovers, so lives nearly 200 miles away from Helen and the kids just north of Manchester.He sees the children regularly, but relations between Scott and Helen themselves are still healing, and for now, they communicate mainly through their parents.“I love Scott and I know that he loves me, but I suppose we just don’t like each other very much at the moment. “We don’t really speak and there’s no point in pretending that we’re the best of friends when we’re not.“What we had was really special, and because of that, the emotion between us is just too raw. “Luckily, I get on really well with his mum and he speaks to my parents, so I’m sure Scott and I will eventually have a better relationship. “Obviously, it’s not ideal, but we both adore the children and we’d never want any arguing in front of them.“He knows I’m always flexible about him seeing them. Whenever he wants to see them, I try to accommodate that.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe reasons behind the split were multi-layered, and Helen stresses that it would be impossible to pinpoint a cause or say exactly when things went wrong – by the end, they had drifted apart and were leading increasingly separate lives.She says some of the difficulties set in when she suffered severe postnatal depression after having their son Charlie in March 2021.Scott with his three childrenCredit: scotty__sinclair/Instagram More

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    My dad’s a former Premier League footballer and my brother plays for Chelsea – I’m making my own way on EastEnders

    EASTENDERS’ newest star Kitty Castledine is the daughter of an ex-Premier League star and the sister of a current Chelsea midfielder.Actress Kitty, 21, who was paralysed at the age of seven, made her debut on the soap on New Year’s Day as Penny Branning – daughter of Jack Branning and cousin of Lauren Branning.
    Kitty Castledine made her debut as Penny Branning on EastEnders on New Year’s DayCredit: BBC
    Former Wimbledon and Wycombe player Stewart Castledine is Kitty’s fatherCredit: Getty Images – Getty
    But what many EastEnders fans may not be aware of is her famous family.
    Not only is her mum Lucy Alexander a former host of Homes Under The Hammer, but her dad and brother have made names for themselves in football.
    Kitty’s father, Stewart Castledine, 50, spent nine years playing for Wimbledon.
    That included six seasons in the Premier League where he made 26 appearances, scoring four goals.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    He also featured in the second tier for Wycombe.
    And Kitty’s brother is Chelsea youngster Leo Castledine, 19.

    The teenager has played six times for the Blues’ U21 side since joining from Wimbledon in 2020.
    He has also earned three caps for England’s U19s.
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    Kitty, right, with her presenter mum Lucy AlexanderCredit: Instagram / @lucyalexandertv
    Kitty is set to become a regular on EastEndersCredit: Instagram / @kittycastledine
    Leo Castledine could make his first-team debut for Chelsea on SaturdayCredit: Alamy
    Leo has appeared as an unused substitute in four of Mauricio Pochettino’s squads so far this season.
    And he could be given his first-team debut when they host Championship side Preston in the FA Cup third round on Saturday.
    Before committing to football, Leo was also a part of the academy at Harlequins rugby.
    (L-R) Stewart, Kitty, Lucy and Leo have all made names for themselvesCredit: Instagram / @kittycastledine
    Lucy previously hosted Homes Under The HammerCredit: PA:Press Association More

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    Maddie McCann’s mum Kate joins mourners at funeral for late Everton chairman and Coronation Street star Bill Kenwright

    MADELEINE McCann’s mum Kate today joined mourners at Everton chairman Bill Kenwright’s funeral. The ex-Corrie star tragically died in October – just months after he went under the knife to remove a cancerous tumour.
    Kate McCann today donned her Everton gear as she and the masses farewelled late chairman Bill KenwrightCredit: PA
    Missing Madeleine sported one of the club’s shirts in one of the final known photos of herCredit: Handout
    The youngster’s parents Gerry and were spotted at matches with KenwrightCredit: Alamy
    Today the masses gathered to bid farewell to Kenwright – including missing Maddie’s mum.
    The McCann family have always been massive Everton fans, with Maddie pictured wearing a club shirt in one of her final known photos.
    And today Kate McCann was snapped making her way into Liverpool Cathedral for Kenwright’s memorial service.
    She donned a blue Everton scarf, with another the same colour underneath.

    The mum and husband Gerry appeared close to Kenwright, and had been snapped in the stands alongside the chairman at Goodison Park in 2014.
    In the days after three-year-old Maddie disappeared in Portugal in 2007, the club rallied behind the McCanns.
    Former captain Philip Neville put out a plea, begging for the safe return of the youngster.
    MEN reported Neville, who is now the coach of US team the Portland Timbers, said at the time: “As a parent it is so hard to imagine the terrible time Madeleine and her family must be going through at the moment.
    Most read in Football
    “I just want to appeal for Madeleine’s safe return. If anybody knows anything at all about the whereabouts of Madeleine, please contact the police.
    “My thoughts go out to Madeleine and her family at this extremely distressing time. I, like everyone across the country, just want Madeleine to be back safe in the arms of her parents.
    “Everton has fans all over the world and I know that they, along with everyone connected with the football club, are hoping and praying for Madeleine’s safe return.”
    Two years after the youngster vanished, the club launched an international campaign in the hopes of bringing Maddie back to the front of people’s minds.
    They printed thousands of T-shirts that bore the message: “We’re Still Looking For You.”
    The club printed 3,000 in English, and the same number in Portuguese.
    It was the late Kenwright who said at the time: “This is just our way of reminding people – not just in the UK and Portugal but across the globe – that this child is still out there somewhere.
    “If we can, perhaps, jog someone’s memory or breathe a little fresh life into the hunt for her then it will have been worth it. I know our supporters will wear these T-shirts with pride on Thursday night.”
    Read more on The Sun
    Kenwright’s partner Jenny Seagrove and daughter Lucy announced they were “devastated” by his death in recent weeks.
    They said he passed away “peacefully” surrounded by his loved ones after a “long battle with illness”. More