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      Cesc Fabregas’ wife Daniella Semaan is 12-years older, a mother of five and has been called Queen of the Wags

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      SHE is the gorgeous Lebanese-born mother of five who is married to ex-Chelsea star Cesc Fabregas.Daniella Semaan is one hell of Wag, turning heads wherever she goes with her sultry looks and enviable figure.
      Stunning Daniella Semaan turns heads wherever she goesCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Age is nothing but a number for Daniella Semaan and Cesc FabregasCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      The glamorous Wag was dating the Chelsea star for seven years before he popped the question back in 2017.
      But Daniella also has a feisty side that would appeal to any red-blooded male. So, what is it that charmed the Blues star?
      She’s 12-years Cesc’s senior…
      EITHER Cesc is a big fan of Dustin Hoffman in The Graduate or he has a penchant for the older lady.
      Beautiful Daniella is 46-years-old, but she certainly doesn’t look it at all with a body to die for.
      It’s easy to see how Cesc, 34, fell for her charms and she’s definitely a sophisticated gal, who likes to be wined and dined.
      And if you’re into star signs, she was born on June 4 which makes her a Gemini.
      Geminis are famed for being talkative, passionate, witty and independent, so Cesc certainly has his hands full.
      Daniella Semaan loves the luxurious things in lifeCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Daniella Semaan is one of the most fashionable Wags aroundCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      A mother-of-five…
      DANIELLA and Cesc began their love affair in 2011 and since then they’ve had three children.
      First to come along was their daughter Lea, who is now 8-years-old.
      They added Capri, 2, to their brood in 2015, and Daniella gave birth to their third kid, Leonardo back in 2017.
      Daniella also has two children from a previous relationship with ex-husband Elie Taktouk, called Maria and Joseph.
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan have had 3 kids togetherCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Controversially met…
      DANIELLA and Cesc first set eyes on each other in Japanese restaurant Nozomi in London’s super-wealthy Knightsbridge area.
      She revealed how she approached his table to ask for an autograph for her football-mad son, Joseph. The pair soon swapped numbers.
      However, according to reports and who you believe, Barcelona’s wags have a different story to tell.
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan met in a fancy Knightsbridge restaurantCredit: GC Images – Getty
      Daniella Semaan has a body to die forCredit: Fame Flynet
      They said that Daniella hip-swayed towards Cesc’s table with a hand-written note with her number on it, left the piece of paper on his table and sashayed away.
      But, according to her millionaire London-based businessman ex-husband Taktouk, she was still married at the time.
      Taktouk also alleged that he and Daniella were trying for a baby.
      It was alleged that Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan had an affairCredit: Splash News

      There was a legal battle…
      IT ALL got a bit messy for Daniella, Cesc and her ex-husband.
      Taktouk suggested Cesc and Daniella had an affair in a court battle over the proceeds of their 13-year marriage.
      He also said Daniella lied to a judge by claiming Cesc didn’t fund her extravagant lifestyle.
      Things got messy for Daniella Semaan and Cesc Fabregas in a legal divorce battleCredit: Reuters
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan show their love for one another at the Nou CampCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Taktouk wanted a reversal on an order that said he must sell the home they shared.
      He was left further furious when he listed the home and a bid of £5.4m was made on the property by a company belonging to Cesc, which he rejected.
      Cesc and Daniella won their legal battle in the end, the Belgravia flat was sold and she was awarded £1.4 million.
      Ex-husband Elie Taktouk was forced to sell the pair’s Belgravia flat after acrimonious court case
      Cesc Fabregas and Daniella Semaan are one of football’s most glamorous couplesCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Don’t mess with her…
      SUPERMODEL, and former squeeze of Leo DiCaprio, Bar Refaeli felt Daniella’s wrath back in 2012.
      The Israeli stunner was hanging around Barcelona’s star players, attending the Nou Camp regularly and tweeting about it.
      Bar even posed with players including Fabregas, Pique, Messi and Xavi in snaps she shared online.
      Barcelona’s famed Wags were in uproar, but only Daniella spoke out to save the day.
      She tweeted: “Some models obsession about certain player is becoming ridiculous… some respects please !”
      And Daniella had the support of then Barca midfielder Thiago’s girlfriend Julia Vigas, who shared Daniella’s tweet.
      Now, if that isn’t girl power we don’t know what is.
      Daniella Semaan stood up for wag Antonella Roccuzzo against Bar RefaeliCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan
      Daniella Semaan shows off her enviable figure in a stunning bikiniCredit: Instagram @daniellasemaan

      Queen of the Wags…

      WELL, we’re calling her that because she’s certainly use to life’s luxuries.
      Back in Barcelona, when she first began dating Cesc, Daniella was often seen zooming around the most prestigious streets of the city in his Ferrari.
      She was a well-known shopper and all the designer stores in the Passeig de Gracia, Barcelona’s answer to Bond Street, knew her.
      Her particular favourite shop was Chopard, where she would often buy expensive jewellery.
      Daniella Semaan knows how to live like a WagCredit: Instagram @cescf4bregas
      Lady in red… Daniella Semaan is fiery and feistyCredit: Dan Kennedy – The Sun
      However, it wasn’t all plain-sailing with the wags… just ask Andres Iniesta’s missus, Anna Ortiz.
      At their 2012 wedding, Daniella turned heads in a cleavage-revealing purple silk dress that was slashed to the hip.
      There were whispers that she had tried to steal the limelight from the bride, but it all blew over quickly.
      Daniella Semaan and Cesc Fabregas got engaged after 7 years togetherCredit: Reuters
      And finally…
      DANIELLA isn’t popular online. In fact, she was once a target for a hate campaign in her native Lebanon.
      In a spiteful war she’s had on Twitter with someone calling themselves Doctor Lebanon, she’s been labelled a “gold-digger” as well as a “soulless cougar” in several nasty attacks.
      Daniella Semaan is a hate-figure for cyber trolls in LebanonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Daniella Semaan landed the man of her dreams in Cesc FabregasCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The cyber troll appears to have intimate knowledge of Daniella, having grown up near her in the small village of Miziara.
      Whoever Doctor Lebanon is, it takes a brave mortal to take on this tough chick.
      And they’d certainly have Fabregas to answer to too.
      Cesc Fabregas claims only two players were on his level at end of Arsenal career and reveals he cried after losses More

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      in Soccer

      Teams that imploded in tournaments, from John Terry locking horns with Capello in 2012 to the Dutch rowing at Euro ’96

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      WITH all the pressure and egos that make up squads in major tournaments, it’s no wonder they don’t fall out more often.The latest national team to suffer mutiny in the camp is France – with forwards Olivier Giroud and Kylian Mbappe at each other’s throats before a ball has even been kicked ahead of Euro 2020.
      Olivier Giroud and Kylian Mbappe have reportedly fallen out before Euro 2020Credit: Getty
      First, Giroud suggested that Mbappe didn’t pass to him on the pitch in an interview after a warm-up match against Bulgaria.
      Sensationally, Mbappe then reportedly wanted to hold his own press conference to address Giroud’s remarks.
      They’d be best shaking each other’s hands and moving on because in-house fighting can only go one way.
      These teams all imploded at World Cups, Euros and Copa Americas – failing miserably in the process.
      France, 2010 World Cup
      It’s not the first time the French haven’t seen eye-to-eye.
      At the 2010 World Cup, Les Bleus capitulated spectacularly – first when Patrice Evra squared up to manager Raymond Domenech after a training ground disagreement.
      Then, after being hauled off at half-time in France’s second game against Mexico, Nicolas Anelka flew into a rage at Domenech and was sent home.
      The players mutinied against the decision – which translated to the poor performance on the pitch with the French failing to win a single group game and left packing their bags.
      Patrice Evra and manager Raymond Domenech rowed on the training ground in 2010Credit: AFP
      Ex-France boss Domenech had a strained relationship with some of his starsCredit: Getty
      The 2010 World Cup was a disaster – with France falling at the first hurdleCredit: AFP
      Holland, Euro 1996
      Two years prior, Ruud Gullit walked out of the Dutch squad in 1994 before the World Cup started.
      But he wasn’t to blame for this particular unrest. Alleged rows over pay, claims of racism, and even inadequate catering services divided the squad.
      Star midfielder Edgar Davids was sent home after saying manager Guus Hidding “should stop putting his head in some players’ asses.”
      While Clarence Seedorf criticised the manager’s team selection publicly.
      After scraping through the group stages – losing 4-1 to England along the way – they bombed out at the quarter-final stage to France on penalties.
      Clarence Seedorf criticised manager Guus Hiddink’s team selection at Euro ’96Credit: Reuters
      Edgar Davids was sent home from the squad after an explosive radio interviewCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Argentina, 2015 Copa America
      The Argies were already in turmoil – thanks in part to the lack of leadership in their own FA.
      They hadn’t yet appointed a successor to president Julio Humberto Grondona, who died in 2014.
      And when they lost in a tense final to Chile on penalties in 2015, feelings hit fever pitch.
      Messi, Mascherano, Higuaín, Di María, Banega, Biglia, Aguero and Lavezzi all threatened to quit the national team over the disorganised state of affairs.
      Argentina’s stars threatened to quit after their Copa America defeat in 2015Credit: Reuters
      Many were irked by the disarray of the Argentine FA, who had failed to appoint a successor to Julio Humberto Grondona (pictured here)Credit: AFP
      England, 2010 World Cup
      When you have a strict disciplinarian in charge like Fabio Capello, player fallout is bound to happen.
      And when it’s with your captain, John Terry, then it’s certain to rub off on the other players.
      Terry admitted that he challenged the Italian’s authority at the 2010 World Cup by insisting the players should be able to have a beer after a dismal draw against Algeria, which players had reportedly gotten wind of.
      The Three Lions ended crashing out in the last-16 to Germany in a humiliating 4-1 loss.
      John Terry took on strict disciplinarian Fabio Capello at the 2010 World CupCredit: PA:Press Association
      West Germany, 1974 World Cup
      Trust the Germans to buck the trend and use a fallout as a catalyst for success.
      At the 1974 World Cup, several players were left disappointed by a £5,000 win bonus and wanted somewhere close to £17,000, which was in line with rivals Italy and Holland.
      “You boys are greedy and if people find out what you’re doing, they will spit on you in the street,” manager Helmut Schon told his players at the time.
      Franz Beckenbauer rallied the troops, after Schon said he would pick a second-string side, and incredibly they ended up winning the tournament, despite tales of late-night drinking and smoking until dawn.
      West Germany manager Helmut Schon, pictured with captain Franz Beckenbauer, labelled his players greedy for wanting bigger win bonusesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Holland, Euro 2012
      16 years later and the Dutch hadn’t learnt from past-experience.
      Oranje failed to live up to their billing as one of the tournament’s favourites and lost every game in the group stage at Euro 2012.
      A rumoured rivalry between Robin van Persie and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar meant the two couldn’t play upfront together.
      Van Persie and Ibrahim Afellay had allegedly angered team-mates with their egos due to their club status, while Gregory van der Wiel was accused of lacking focus and caring more about his fashion label.
      Robin Van Persie allegedly angered Dutch team-mates with his egoCredit: AFP
      Forwards Van Persie and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar were said to hate each other and couldn’t play upfront togetherCredit: AP:Associated Press
      Italy, 1974 World Cup
      The late Italian striker Giorgio Chinaglia was often a notoriously difficult figure to manage.
      And after he was substituted against Haiti after missing several chances to score, he let rip at manager Ferruccio Valcareggi.
      As he made his way to the sideline, Chinaglia told Valcareggi to “f*** off” before smashing up the changing room.
      The team was already divided between the old and new guard, as well as the northern and southern players – this was just the icing on the cake.
      Italian forward Giorgio Chinaglia proved to be disruptive at the 1974 World CupCredit: Rex Features
      USA, 1998 World Cup
      After Steve Sampson led the team to the Copa America semi-final in 1995, he was promoted from interim boss to full-time coach.
      But in 1998, that all came to a head – thanks, in part, to Sampson booting captain John Harkes out of the team after a disagreement of team tactics.

      The manager then upset his squad by including players who had hardly featured in qualifiers for his 1998 World Cup squad.
      The USA imploded, losing all three games in France.
      Harkes later said: “The more (Sampson) coached, the worse we got.”
      USA captain was dropped from the squad after a disagreement with manager Steve Sampson and the team flopped at the 1998 World CupCredit: Allsport
      Spain in Covid-19 chaos days before Euro 2020 opener as second player to tests positive More

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      England boss Gareth Southgate was too shy to ask wife of 23 years Alison out then went on secret dates in Tesco car park

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      AS the saying goes, behind every great man is a great woman.And in Alison, England boss Gareth Southgate has his rock that has stood by him since his days as a professional footballer to the man leading our charge at Euro 2020.
      Gareth and Alison Southgate have been married for 23 yearsCredit: BackGrid
      Alison Southgate has been Gareth’s rockCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      She has been married to Gareth, 50, for 23 years – and his commitment to her and his family seemed to have rubbed onto the team.
      Indeed, during the 2018 World Cup Rebekah Vardy praised the boss’s “family first” protocol for the World Cup by allowing players to spend time with their loved ones after matches.
      He even lifted the sex ban before games, as we saw the likes of Harry Maguire and Jordan Pickford cuddle up to their partners in the stands.
      This time round, due to strict coronavirus protocols and the team having to remain in a bio-secure bubble, the Wags have been banned from England’s Hilton Hotel base at St George’s Park.
      But, if we weren’t in these times, you can bet Southgate would’ve put family first.
      Gareth and Alison stole the nation’s heart at the 2018 World CupCredit: supplied by Pixel8000
      Daughter Mia and son Flynn pose for a snap with dad in the dressing room
      SHY GARETH
      Gareth’s commitment to his own family values and those of his players are thought to be all down to Alison, 54.
      The couple met while she worked as a shop assistant in a clothing boutique, while Gareth was playing for South London side Crystal Palace in his early twenties.
      The footballer, who was often mocked for his big nose, used to pretend to be visiting the shop to add to his wardrobe – but it was really the pretty blonde behind the till he was there to see.
      And it took him two long years to pluck up the courage to actually ask her out.
      But unfortunately for Gareth, she was living with a boyfriend at the time. So it would be even longer until they got together.
      Amusingly, after his first attempt failed, the former Middlesbrough boss came across Alison and her then boyfriend at a restaurant a week later.
      The couple first met in a South London clothing boutiqueCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      It took Southgate two years to pluck up the courage to ask Alison outCredit: Paul Edwards – The Sun
      Having heard rumours that they were on the verge of splitting up, Gareth gave her his number when her ex wasn’t looking.
      Incredibly, his bold move paid off and she called him that evening.
      In his 2003 autobiography, Gareth revealed in the early days they used to sneak to a Tesco car park for dates to keep their new relationship secret from her ex.
      The couple went on to move in together in Birmingham when the defender was playing for Aston Villa and they were married in the Parish Church of St Nicholas, Crawley, in 1997.
      TILL DEATH DO US PART
      Alison has been by Gareth’s side through thick and thin.
      She was there to console him after his infamous missed penalty against Germany in the Euro 96 championships, which saw England booted out of the competition.
      Alison, seen driving Southgate shortly after his penalty miss at Euro 96, supported her man through his career upsetCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Gareth and Alison seen on their wedding day in 1997Credit: Rex Features
      She was also sidled up to him when he was offered the £3m a year job as England boss in 2017.
      Today, the couple live in the very grand six-bedroom Elizabethan manor house, built in the 16th century and set in beautiful grounds in North Yorkshire.
      They reportedly splashed £3.75million on it and it’s home to their two children, Mia, 22, and Flynn, 18
      In his book, Southgate revealed family life has kept him sane from the stresses of football.
      “On Saturday evening, our children are not too bothered whether Dad’s team have won or lost,” he wrote.
      “Neither does Alison fret too much about football, and this is how I like it.
      “Regardless of the result, it is up to me to ensure that no one’s evening is ruined because of things that happened on a football field.
      “The agonising waits until Alison and the kids are asleep.”
      Alison with her children Mia and Flynn
      Alison posts a few holiday photos of herself with the kids but never of her husband
      PRIVATE FAMILY
      Alison lives discreetly and prefers to avoid the headlines.
      She has managed to keep her personal life private, which has been very difficult when your husband is manager of the country’s national football team.
      While of course they’re wealthy, Alison shares few holiday snaps on social media, that suggest they live a more modest life.
      Mia is in her final year at the University of Edinburgh studying Social Anthropology, while Flynn goes to school in Yorkshire.
      And Gareth has talked about the importance of maintaining a normal parent-child relationship, despite his time-sapping and full-on job.
      He told the Standard in 2017: “You do have to try to find a balance because my focus inevitably gets drawn towards making this team as successful as we can and driving them to be the best team in the world.”
      Family time is important for GarethCredit: Instagram
      Despite Southgates high-profile, the family have managed to maintain a private lifeCredit: Instagram

      “But I’m also a dad and a husband.”
      He also told the paper that while his family are big fans of Love Island, he can’t stomach it.
      Luckily for him this summer, he will be missing it this year as he’s otherwise occupied trying to turn the
      Three Lions into Euro champions. You can bet if he does, he will dedicate it to his wife.
      Gareth Southgate hits out at fans who booed England players taking a knee More

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      England best and worst football songs, from Baddiel and Skinner’s Three Lions to Ant & Dec’s We’re on the Ball

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      FOOTBALL songs don’t often work.But when they do, they have the power to rouse a nation into getting behind a football team, which is what rapper Krept and Konan will want to do with this year’s tune – which will be featured in BBC Three doc, Krept and Konan: We Are England already available on BBC iPlayer.
      Rappers Krept and Konan have recorded England’s official Euro 2020 songCredit: PA
      And over the years, as England have made us proud or shed a tear by their performances in major tournaments, we’ve been treated to pop songs designed to make us feel nationalistic in support of our boys.
      From bands like The Lightning Seeds and Embrace to the all-conquering Spice Girls, they’ve all had a go at producing a pop hit.
      THE BEST
      Baddiel & Skinner and The Lightning Seeds, Three Lions
      It’s testament to this song’s longevity and timeless appeal that it’s still sung today by England fans – some who weren’t even born when it was originally released.
      At Euro ’96, it was the accompaniment to a great tournament – thanks in part to its brilliant lyrics written by Fantasy Football hosts David Baddiel and Frank Skinner that managed to capture the hurt and hope we all have as England fans.
      Add a catchy chorus and tune by Ian Broudie of The Lightning Seeds and you have a winner.
      David Baddiel, Ian Broudie of the Lightning Seeds and Frank Skinner penned the definitive football song that’s still sung todayCredit: Alamy
      [embedded content]
      Fat Les, Vindaloo
      Simplicity is the key to making a song sing-along worthy — and Vindaloo has that to a tee.
      Fat Les, made up of actor Keith Allen, Blur guitarist Alex James and shark slaying artist Damien Hirst, made their anthemic song ahead of the 1998 World Cup that’s led by a simple marching drum beat.
      The video, a mickey-take of The Verve’s Bittersweet Symphony, had actor Paul Kaye getting a bit of a buffeting too.
      Fat Les captured the zeitgeist of the nation in 1998Credit: Rex
      Vindaloo reached No2 in the pop chartsCredit: Rex
      [embedded content]
      New Order, World In Motion
      Hipsters in London’s East End or Manchester’s Northern Quarter will consistently argue this to be the greatest football song EVER written.
      Originally called ‘E is for England’, the FA vetoed the title because they thought it sounded like a drug reference to ecstacy.
      Famously, the 1990 hit featured a John Barnes rap – which we all know the lyrics to. Again, Keith Allen was involved in this one too.
      New Order’s World In Motion featured an infamous John Barnes rap
      [embedded content]
      England United, (How Does it Feel to Be) On Top of the World
      To be fair, England United didn’t stand a chance coming up against Fat Les and Vindaloo – even though their’s was supposed to be the official anthem of the France ’98.
      The supergroup were formed by Echo and the Bunnymen, Ocean Colour Scene, Space and the Spice Girls.
      The song, co-written by The Smiths legend Johnny Marr, peaked at No9 in the charts, and on reflection doesn’t sound as bad as others we’ve heard since.
      The Spice Girls formed part of the England United supergroupCredit: PA:Press Association
      [embedded content]
      Embrace, World At Your Feet
      Released in 2006, Embrace’s World At Your Feet is somewhat of an underrated football anthem, in our eyes.
      It’s the McNamara brothers Danny and Richard at their finest – belting out a big chorus for the masses to enjoy.
      There’s even a tease to Three Lions, with the stirring “It’s coming…” lyric.
      Embrace’s World At Your Feet is an underrated football anthem from 2006Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      [embedded content]
      THE REST
      Ant & Dec, We’re On the Ball
      Perhaps the purveyors of light TV entertainment Ant & Dec should have stayed in their lane.
      They were charged with singing the official England song for the 2002 World Cup – and boy did they do an questionable job.
      Frank Skinner called it right in an interview the same year it was released. “Terrible,” was his one-word to describe it.
      Ant & Dec’s forgettable We’re On The Ball never caught anyone’s imagination in 2002Credit: PA:Press Association
      [embedded content]
      Bell & Spurling, Sven Sven Sven
      Clearly English comedy music duo Bell & Spurling were trying to have a laugh.
      However, their Sven Sven Sven ditty called then England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson a “lovely geezer” and said goalie David Seaman should own a Mark one Escort and sovereign ring because of his pony-tail and moustache.
      There’s even a Jimmy Saville haircut reference in this ill-timed effort from 2002.
      English comedy music duo Bell & Spurling’s Sven Sven Sven just wasn’t funnyCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      [embedded content]
      Chris Kamara, Sing 4 England
      Kammy has always fancied himself as a bit of a crooner.
      But, perhaps, he should’ve left it to the professionals with his 2012 tune Sing 4 England.
      Hindered by terrible lyrics, it tried to be catchy… we say tried faintly.
      Chris Kamara’s Sing 4 England was hindered by some dreadful lyrics
      [embedded content]
      England ’82 World Cup Squad, This Time (We’ll Get It Right)
      Now this is an absolute stinker. And we didn’t either, getting eliminated from the 1982 World Cup at the second group stage.

      Featuring the likes of Kevin Keegan, Peter Shilton and Viv Anderson, This Time (We’ll Get It Right) incredibly charted at No2.
      Beats us how, it’s as tuneless as Shilts’ vocals and instantly forgettable.
      Will Krept and Konan get it right with their rap song? They’ll need the team to capture the nation’s attention to.
      Kevin Keegan was one of many England stars from the 1982 World Cup squad who sang This Time (We’ll Get It Right) but they didn’t
      [embedded content]
      The England team arrive at basecamp for EURO 2020 More

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      in Soccer

      Best and worst England kits, from Moore’s iconic 1966 shirt to Seaman’s garish Euro 96 goalie jersey

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      THROUGH the years the likes of Umbro, Admiral and Nike have encouraged us to reach deep into our pockets to buy an England jersey.Some of those kits have been memorable, often linked to the team’s performance, and have become collector’s items.
      England, wearing the jersey they’ll wear for Euro 2020, have sported a variety of shirts over the yearsCredit: Getty
      Others, however, have been simply forgettable – mainly because they were rarely worn or their design was simply too garish.
      SunSport has delved into its wardrobe to pull out the best and worst kits we’ve ever seen England perform in. There are some crackers… but there are some true stinkers too.THE BEST
      5. 2010-11 HOME KIT
      This special kit was one for the hipsters.
      Designed by Peter Saville, the graphic designer responsible for creating album artwork for Joy Division, Pulp, Suede and more, it was produced by Umbro.
      The cross of St George was carefully stitched onto the shirt and socks to give it that extra patriotic feel.
      While the shorts were a royal blue colour – that certainly suited Chelsea legend John Terry.
      In 2010 iconic graphic designer Peter Saville created this England top
      One for the hipsters, the flag of St George was stitched into the jersey and socks
      4. 1990-92 THIRD KIT
      One for the purists.
      Designed for Italia 90, it only ever got one outing – and that wasn’t just from Bernard Sumner in New Order’s World In Motion video.
      Dennis Wise and Co wore it for a game against Turkey in 1991, and it never appeared again.
      It did look very similar to Manchester City’s shirt of the same era though, that also featured a diamond pattern running through it.

      1990-92 Replica Third Shirt, £35 from Pro Direct Soccer – buy here

      England’s third kit looked like Man CityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The Umbro kit was only worn once in a friendly against Turkey before it was shelvedCredit: Getty – Contributor
      3. 1990-93 HOME SHIRT
      A jersey linked with special memories.
      From David Platt hammering home a last-minute volley against Belgium to Gazza’s tears and Lineker’s goals, it was worn infamously during the 1990 World Cup, where England reached the semi-finals.
      Its design is steeped in the 90s, with subtle zig-zags adorning a slightly flammable material.

      1990-93 Replica HOME Shirt, £30 form Pro Direct soccer – buy here

      Paul Gascoigne made England’s 1990-93 home jersey iconicCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Gary Lineker and England reached the semi-finals in Italia 90Credit: Getty – Contributor
      2. 1980-83 HOME KIT
      While England didn’t lose a game at the 1982 World Cup, where they wore this number created by Admiral, they failed to make it past the second group round.
      Two frustrating draws against West Germany and Spain, the latter in which an unfit Kevin Keegan missed a sitter of a header saw the Three Lions crash out.
      But in the style stakes, we definitely had the best kit – with a stonking v-neck flanked by a blue and red pattern either side of it.

      1980-83 Replica HOME shirt, £30 from Pro Direct Select – buy here

      Admiral’s England kit is recognised as one of their coolestCredit: Mark Leech Sports
      From 1980-83 England wore a v-neck collar
      1. 1966 AWAY SHIRT
      It had to be.
      Worn expertly by Bobby Moore and Sir Geoff Hurst as we marched to World Cup glory at Wembley defeating West Germany 4-2, it was only worn because (strangely) our opponents were the designated home team that day.
      But its simple design and round collar screams the 1960s, and it’s still a jersey you see fans wearing in the stands today.
      The question is; would it be number one if we hadn’t won the World Cup? Who cares, we did and that’s history.

      1966 Replica AWAY shirt, £25 from Pro Direct Soccer – buy here

      Bobby Moore wears the iconic red 1966 World Cup jerseyCredit: Getty – Contributor
      England only wore red that day because West Germany were the designated home teamCredit: Hulton Archive – Getty

      THE WORST
      5. 1999-2000 HOME KIT
      Desperate to recreate the feel of England’s 1966 shirt, Umbro introduced a round collar for this effort in time for Euro 2000.
      But even David Beckham couldn’t pull it off – as we fell to a last minute goal against Romania in a 3-2 loss in our last group game and were eliminated.
      The fact the shirt only retailed for a year showed you what the FA thought of it.
      Umbro brought back the round neck collar for this design in 1999Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      In 2000 after a dismal Euros the shirt was in the binCredit: Getty – Contributor
      4. 1997-1998 HOME KIT
      Ironically, it’s predecessor wasn’t much better.
      Another Umbro effort, it did have an iconic moment attached to it when an 18-year-old Michael Owen waltzed past several Argie defenders to slam home one of the best World Cup goals.
      But in terms of design, it was all over the place – with a bulky trophy neck collar and strange stripes on the side not adding to its glory.
      The centralised badge was a bit too radical too.

      1997-98 Replica HOME shirt, £30 from Pro Direct Soccer – buy here

      Michael Owen’s iconic goal against Argentina made the 1998 jersey memorableCredit: AFP – Getty
      But placing the badge in the centre of the kit went against traditionCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      3. 2016 AWAY SHIRT
      When an England legend speaks out about a kit, it must be bad.
      In 2016, Gary Lineker tweeted: “Can’t think of a worse England strip” when the red away jersey was unveiled for the first time.
      And he wasn’t the only one, as fans online lambasted its design.
      For some reason it came with bright blue socks too. Just, no.

      2016 AWAY shirt, from £45, at Vintage Football Shirts – buy here

      England legend Gary Lineker was one of the first to criticise England’s 2016 away jerseyCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      For some reason Umbro paired bright blue socks with the red away kitCredit: PA:Press Association
      2. 1995-1996 AWAY SHIRT
      Sorry, Umbro.
      But when a company designs a shirt they hope looks good with jeans, is grey, and is said to be ‘indigo blue’ you know you’re in trouble.
      The strip was only worn three times, against Bulgaria, then against Georgia and finally against Germany in the Euro 96 semi-final.
      That defeat certainly put the nail in the coffin for it, and the kit was shelved soon after.

      1996-97 AWAY shirt, from £60, at Vintage Football Shirts – buy here

      England’s indigo blue shirt was created by Umbro with the idea it would look good with jeansCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      After England’s Euro 96 heartbreak against Germany the kid was never seen againCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      1. POOR DAVID SEAMAN
      The Arsenal goalie had a momentous tournament at Euro 96.
      A penalty save against Scotland that inspired the Three Lions to victory, the hero in a penalty shootout win over Spain, he became renowned as one of the world’s best keepers soon after.

      But this kit he wore did him absolutely no favours, even if he did stand out from the crowd.
      A bright red colour, mixed with a splash of green, yellow, purple made it look like something someone who had indulged in too many Skittles might’ve thrown up.
      And why was the E backwards on it? We’ll never know.
      David Seamans goalie jersey from Euro 96 was a monstrosityCredit: Getty – Contributor
      For some reason the E was backwards on the jersey

      Ranking every England manager More

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      10 best Euro 2020 kits ranked, from England’s blue Nike away shirt to Germany’s clean Adidas black top

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      FOOTBALL fans across Europe will repping their countries by wearing their teams’ jerseys this summer.As is customary with brands like Nike, Adidas and Puma, some national sides will be sporting new unseen tops for the tournament.
      Cristiano Ronaldo will be sporting a stylish Portugal jersey at the Euros, but where does that rank in our top 10?Credit: EPA
      SunSport has seen them all – and donning our best fashion cap ranks them from 10-1.
      But which one is your favourite?
      10. England, away
      When Nike released the Three Lions’ two jerseys for the Euros back in September, opinion was divided online.
      But the blue away top definitely works better with the logo traditionally to the side and not in the middle like the home one.
      While the two-button collar looks like a smart polo top.
      England’s away jersey features a Lions pattern and a smart polo shirt-like collar
      9. Germany, away
      Pipping us to the post are the Germans… how that never changes.
      Their away Adidas top is a menacing black number – painting them as a sort of Darth Vader-like figure of international football – with a lovely red and gold trim on the sleeves.
      Of course, it has those familiar Adidas stripes on the shoulders.
      Germany’s blackout kit will have them looking menacing at the Euros
      8. Holland, home
      There’s something about this brilliant orange Dutch jersey that stirs memories of Marco Van Basten and Ruud Gullit ripping sides to shreds at Euro ’88.
      And there’s also a sniff of the same pattern used in Manchester City’s home top, although that one was designed by Puma.
      Does that mean Holland might be crowned champions at the end of the tournament?
      Holland’s orange kit is iconic at major tournaments and this new design is impressive
      7. Turkey, home
      The Turks have got it right with both kits this summer, but their home one just shades it for us.
      It does away with tradition to allow the flag wrapped across the centre of the top.
      The Nike emblem sits above that, in what is a simple design but definitely effective.
      The Turkish national team goes against tradition with its design
      6. Scotland, away
      Playing in their first Euros since 1996, the Scots needed a decent kit to remember their tournament fondly – which will only be more iconic should Steve Clarke’s men have a good run this time round.
      And it’s a little bit of a throwback to early-90s kits in its design, with a hint of Argentina about it with its colours and pattern.
      Scotland’s badge really pops out at you as well on that shade, so Adidas have done them proud.
      Scotland’s away top looks like something Argentina would wear
      5. Portugal, home
      Nike’s Portugal jersey is all red – and looks like something Tiger Woods would wear on the final day of the Masters.
      But it’s a clean design with a beautiful red, black and green trim down the sides and on the sleeves, as well as a brilliant collar.
      To be fair, Cristiano Ronaldo will be modelling it, so the kit will only look better on his chiselled torso, especially in HD.
      Portugal’s top boasts a beautiful red, black and green trim down the sides
      4. Russia, away
      We can’t imagine Putin wearing it, but there’s something incredibly retro about what Russia will be wearing in these Euros.
      We love the blue and red stripe through the middle of it, as well the trim on the sleeves.
      However, with Russia’s odds to win Euro 2020 as high as 75-1 with Paddy Power – chances are we might not get to see it much.
      Russia’s retro kit features a blue and red stripe through the middle of it
      3. Wales, home
      It definitely looks like Adidas were inspired by Admiral’s Wales kits of the late 1970s for this one.
      The yellow, green, red, and white trim on the sleeves is the giveaway, and is different to anything else we’ve seen.
      Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale will certainly enjoy wearing it.
      The trim on the sleeves of the Wales jersey is a throwback to Admiral’s kits from the 70s
      2. France, away
      Narrowly beaten as shirt of the tournament, perhaps they’ll make up for it by winning the whole thing, is the French.
      Their away jersey features mod-like colours, is white with a blue and red stripe down the sides.
      With a cockerel on the top left and the Nike logo on the right, it’s certainly a classic cut.
      Simplicity is key to France’s away top
      1. Italy, home
      With Milan being the fashion capital of the world, of course the Italians would have the best shirt for the Euros.
      And perhaps this makes up for the formal clobber Giorgio Armani has designed for the Italy national side – which looks something like a chef’s attire.

      The pattern etched into the jersey is a dedication to the country’s historic art and architecture culture.
      It “reinterprets the luxurious Renaissance patterns of the past into a modern geometric graphic”, as the blurb supporting its design claims.
      They’ve won us over.
      The Italians boast the best shirt at the Euros for us
      Ukraine’s Euro 2020 kit includes Crimea in map of country on front of shirt More

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      Meet Man Utd and France star Anthony Martial’s gorgeous reality TV star Wag Melanie Da Cruz, who is mother to son Swan

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      SIMPLY irresistible…Melanie Da Cruz, 30, is the gorgeous wife of Manchester United and France forward Anthony Martial.
      Melanie Da Cruz is the gorgeous wife of Anthony MartialCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      The blonde bombshell made her name on French TV and has been dating the Red Devils star since 2016.
      However, their romance began in controversial circumstances when Martial dumped his then girlfriend Samantha Jacquelinet in 2016 and soon shacked up with Da Cruz.
      In 2018, they welcomed their first child together – a boy called Swan.
      However, just months after Da Cruz gave birth Martial was alleged to have cheated on her with a French model.
      It forced Martial to admit he made mistakes and beg for forgiveness from his family and Da Cruz.
      She made her name on reality TV…
      Before she met Anthony Martial, Melanie Da Cruz was a French reality TV starCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff

      In 2015, Da Cruz appeared on Secret Story – loosely based on our own Big Brother.
      She didn’t exactly win over the public’s affection and was voted out on day 78.
      The show came to a premature end on day 85 when the Paris attacks happened in November that year.
      Incidentally, Zinedine Zidane’s cousin Jonathan appeared in the series and was runner-up.
      In 2015, Melanie Da Cruz appeared on the French equivalent of Big Brother called Secret StoryCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      Social media loves her…
      Well, her fans do.
      Da Cruz is showered with attention on Instagram and has amassed an insane amount of fans.
      Currently, she’s adored by three million followers who follow her every move, whether she’s filling up her car with petrol or posing in a bikini on the boat.
      With three million followers on Instagram, Melanie Da Cruz is a social media hitCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      She supports her man…
      Give her an opportunity and she’ll wear a Man United shirt with pride.
      Da Cruz often poses in a Red Devils jersey, wearing very little else, and posts the saucy snaps on her Instagram.
      Not only does she guarantee herself millions of likes all over the world, she must also score points with her man.
      Melanie Da Cruz loves wearing a Man United shirt and posting snaps on social mediaCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      Anthony Martial and Melanie Da Cruz have been dating since 2016Credit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      When Da Cruz and Martial began dating, it wasn’t best received…
      Certainly if you’re his ex girlfriend, Samantha.
      Back in 2016, Sun on Sunday reported that Martial cheated with singer Emily Wademan in 2016.
      They tried to work through their problems, but months later Martial dumped Samantha for Da Cruz.
      The woman scorned blasted her love rival, insisting Da Cruz was a “prostitute” after their relationship fell apart.
      Melanie Da Cruz was branded a “prostitute” by Anthony Martial’s ex girlfriendCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      With a body to die for, Melanie Da Cruz isn’t afraid of baring all to her fansCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      In recent years, Melanie Da Cruz has shared pictures of her holidays in Santorini, Mauritius and DubaiCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff

      Survived alleged cheating…
      In 2019, Martial was forced to apologise to his then-fiancee amid cheating allegations.
      The Daily Star claimed the former Monaco striker slept with French model Malika while Da Cruz was eight months pregnant.
      Soon after, Martial took to Instagram to address the story.
      “I would like to apologise to my relatives, my beautiful family and especially my fiancée for the harm I have done in recent months,” he posted.
      “I made mistakes and I’m sorry it will not happen again.”
      Martial with Wag Melanie and their son Swan
      Martial was forced to issue an apology for allegedly cheating on Melanie
      Malika Semichi was alleged to have had an affair with Martial
      But they’ve proved their doubters wrong…
      Almost five years later the pair are as loved up as they were when they first met.
      They often share selfies together enjoying holidays in Santorini, Mauritius and Dubai.
      Even adopting a slightly nerdy look, Melanie Da Cruz looks stunningCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      Melanie Da Cruz shows off her enviable figureCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff
      Melanie Da Cruz became Mrs. MartialCredit: Instagram @melaniedacruzzoff

      Samantha Jacquelinet was Martial’s previous girlfriend and has a daughter called Peyton by him
      And the two are proud parents to son Swan, who is coming up to his second birthday.
      Martial already has a five-year-old daughter called Peyton from his relationship with Samantha.
      After missing out on selection for France’s Euro 2020 squad, at least he will get to spend this summer winding down with his family.
      Manchester United’s Anthony Martial and model girlfriend Melanie Da Cruz go bowling More

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      Why Brazil stars like Neymar should boycott Copa America in coronavirus protest at fixture chaos

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      The answer will not come until late Tuesday night – the early hours of Wednesday morning UK time – after the final whistle has blown on their World Cup qualifier away to Paraguay.Then, Brazil’s players will issue a statement on the Copa America, which is set to kick off in their country on Sunday.
      Brazil’s stars will reveal later today if they are going to pull out of the Copa AmericaCredit: AFP
      There is no doubt that they are unhappy that Brazil has stepped in at the last minute to host the tournament.
      Discontent is rife both about the decision and by the way it was handled – like the rest of us, they heard about it via social media last Monday.
      The players have two options – either they play the competition under protest, or they boycott the thing.
      The second option has the potential to torpedo the entire competition. With less than five days to go before the kick off it would leave the hosts without a team or a coach – boss Tite seems solidly behind the players in any decision they take.
      And it would almost certainly lead to the withdrawal of big name stars in other national teams.
      Last Friday sources close to the team were suggesting that the players would take the historic decision to boycott the Copa.
      By Monday the position appeared to have changed, with almost all sources predicting with confidence that the players will reluctantly take part in the competition.
      There are plenty of reasons for their discontent.
      Brazil is set to host the Copa America, which begins on FridayCredit: Rex
      At the last Copa America in 2019 Brazil were victoriousCredit: AFP
      The obvious one is the coronavirus pandemic, which forced Argentina to pull out as host at the end of May.
      The virus has now claimed more than 470,000 lives in Brazil, the death toll is going up at more than 1500 a day and the gruesome half a million mark will certainly be reached during the tournament.
      Local specialists and the World Health Organisation are advising that it would be better if the Copa did not go ahead.
      It is true that domestic football is being played in Brazil – and may well be true that this presents a greater health risk than the Copa.
      But things brings us to the next point – is it worthwhile to run the risk presented by the Copa? Does the competition have enough sporting merit to go ahead?
      On this point the players would seem to be convinced that it does not – indeed, the European based stars (the vast majority of the squad) are casting doubts on whether it is worthwhile giving up their holidays to take part in such a tournament.
      This is an extra Copa – squeezed in, ironically enough, to take advantage of a shift from odd years to even.
      The Copa has been held every four years – 2007, 11, 15 and 19 – with another extra one in 2016 to celebrate its centenary.
      The mayor of Rio de Janeiro Eduardo Paes revealed he would cancel Copa America football fixtures planned in the city if the COVID-19 pandemic worsenedCredit: AFP

      This extra Copa, originally planned for 2020, was going to be staged in two countries – Argentina and Colombia.
      This explains the format – two groups of five. And the ludicrous aspect of the format – a group phase that stretches for more than two weeks, only to eliminate the bottom team of each group.
      The final week of the competition, from the quarter finals onwards, will be exciting. Up until then the Copa will be a drag.
      The players recognise a key defect in all of this – because of the pandemic South America is well behind in its World Cup qualifiers.
      Tuesday’s is the sixth round of eighteen. Twelve more rounds have to be crammed in before the end of March.
      Even with an additional set of FIFA dates being made available at the end of January, it is still not clear how this can be done.
      There is space for five double headers – ten games. And twelve games to play. 
      A possible solution is to try and squeeze three games into a couple of the FIFA dates. This is happening in Europe.
      Will Neymar be one of many Brazil stars boycotting the Copa America?Credit: Rex

      In South America the distances involved make this much more problematic. The common sense solution, then, would be to use the next couple of weeks to catch up with the qualifiers.
      It would probably be best if the players dug in their heels to make this point, using their influence to force the adoption of a more rational calendar.
      At the moment, though, it seems more likely that they will agree to play the Copa under protest – a gesture that might be forgotten all too quickly.
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