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      in Soccer

      15 bizarre football injuries after Barcelona star Frenkie De Jong is seen with a swollen hand from a nasty bee sting

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      THEY don’t just get injured on the football pitch.
      Frenkie De Jong is the latest footballer to suffer from a bizarre injury.

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      Frenkie De Jong shows off horrific bee stingCredit: Instagram / @mikkykiemeney

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      De Jong wore a bandage during Barcelona’s Champions League tie with NapoliCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      The swelling can be seen clearly on De Jong’s hand in trainingCredit: FC Barcelona
      The Barcelona midfielder showed off a swollen hand in his side’s 3-1 win over Napoli in the Champions League.
      According to reports, the ailment was the result of a nasty bee sting that caused the severe reaction.
      That’s prompted SunSport to look back at some of the weird and wacky injuries to befall other footballers over the years.
      CHRIS SMALLING
      Manchester United defender Chris Smalling was on holiday in Bali, when disaster struck.

      After local reports claimed he was stung by a jellyfish while out surfing – the truth eventually came out, and it wasn’t as exciting.
      He fainted in the hot heat and banged his head, hence the bandages.

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      Chris Smalling pictured in hospital in Bali
      DAVE BEASANT
      The Wimbledon FA Cup hero was at Chelsea when he suffered a hilarious foot injury. The keeper had dropped a bottle of salad cream in his kitchen and tried to control it with his bare foot.
      The bottle ended up breaking and tearing a tendon in his big toe, causing Beasant to miss two months of football.

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      Dave Beasant attempted to control a bottle of salad
      RIO FERDINAND
      The former Manchester United and England captain managed to strain his knee while at Leeds.
      Ferdinand rested his leg for too long while playing a game of Pro Evolution Soccer on his PlayStation.
      We’ve all done it.

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      Rio Ferdinand suffered a leg injury while playing a video game

      DAVID BATTY
      The Leeds United enforcer had been out injured with a knee problem.
      Then, his two-year-old daughter ran over him while on her tricycle – causing a setback to his ankle.
      Leeds’ hardman was crocked by a two-year-old.

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      David Batty’s daughter ran into him on her tricyle
      BRYAN ROBSON
      Captain Dynamo was given the task of trying to wake mecurial star Paul Gascoigne from his slumber ahead of the 1990 World Cup.
      Robson tried but couldn’t wake the midfielder, instead tipping the bed to push Gascoigne out.
      Robson then dropped the bed onto his toe, breaking it.

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      Bryan Robson broke a toe trying to wake up Paul Gascoigne
      ENNER VALENCIA
      The former West Ham forward didn’t impress Sam Allardyce with this injury.
      Somehow, Enner Valencia managed to badly cut his toe after stepping on a broken cup.
      it left ‘Big Sam’ striker-less for his next match.

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      Enner Valencia seriously cut his toe stepping on a broken cup
      SANTIAGO CANIZARES
      The former Valencia NO1 had waited an age to take over in the sticks of the Spanish national team.
      He was given an opportunity in 2002, but just before the World Cup was about to start he dropped a bottle of aftershave on his foot.
      Like Beasant, he severed a tendon and missed the tournament.

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      Santiago Canizares missed out on the 2002 World Cup because of a bottle of aftershave
      ALAN WRIGHT
      The former Aston Villa left-back was a cult hero in the Midlands.
      But the 5ft 4in Wright once missed a spell after injuring his knee.
      He did it trying to reach the pedals on his Ferrari.

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      Former Aston Villa defender Alan Wright got injured driving his Ferrari
      KEVIN KYLE
      While at Sunderland, the former Scotland international was once seen ‘walking a bit like John Wayne’.
      It was all because his eight-month-old son knocked a bowl of boiling water onto his crotch.
      Ouch.

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      Kevin Kyle’s son dropped hot water on his crotch
      LEROY LITA
      At Reading, the striker managed to hurt his back by stretching too vigorously.
      But this wasn’t done on the training pitch, no.
      It happened while laying in bed.
      Steve Coppell said at the time: “It’s not an injury that should be ridiculed or made light of.”

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      Leroy Lita injured himself by stretching too far in bed
      DARIUS VASSELL
      We’d definitely avoid recreating this one.
      The ex-Aston Villa and England striker tried to get rid of a blood blister on his toe by using an electric drill.
      It didn’t go well.

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      Darius Vassell tried to pop a blister with an electric drill
      ADAM CHAPMAN
      Former Oxford midfielder Chapman was heating some milk for his baby, a normally harmless job.
      But as he went to shake it the lid flew off, burning his chest and nipple.
      He had to go to hospital but was passed fit to play the next day.

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      Adam Chapman burnt his nipple trying to heat baby milk
      DAVID JAMES
      The former England shotstopper has two entries.
      He once pulled a muscle in his back while trying to reach for a remote control.
      Another time, James hurt his shoulder while fishing for carp.

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      David James should stay away from remote controls… and carp
      CHARLIE GEORGE
      Arsenal legend George didn’t let this injury stop him. The 1971 FA Cup hero once cut off a finger with his lawnmower.
      Thankfully, it wasn’t a leg.

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      Charlie George managed to cut off a finger while mowing the lawn
      KIERON DYER
      When at Newcastle the England man damaged his left eye – because he ran into a stationary training pole.
      It wasn’t an eye-for-an-eye in this case, leaving Dyer with a nasty shiner.

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      Kieron Dyer ran into a training pole

      Gareth Bale urged to quit Real Madrid as Rio Ferdinand bemoans ‘generational talent’ being wasted on sidelines More

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      in Boxing

      ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson’s most terrifying ring entrance ever STILL has fans and other fighters terrified 21 years on

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      MIKE Tyson has left fans quivering in their boots again – 21 years after embarking on boxing’s most terrifying ring-walk ever.
      In 1999, Iron Mike took on South Africa’s Francois Botha at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

      Mike Tyson is terrifying fans 21 years on from his ring-walk for his Botha fight

      Mike Tyson divided the crowd in his first fight back from biting Holyfield’s ear

      Mike Tyson beat Francois Botha in Las Vegas in 1999 via fifth-round KOCredit: Action Images
      Not only was it Tyson’s return to the ring after biting a chunk out of Evander Holyfield’s ear – it was a return to the very same arena.
      That alone would be enough to create a tense, chilling atmosphere.
      But add in Tyson’s ring-walk and fans have been left running scared watching it back ever since… all of 21 years.
      The American boxer powerfully strode to the ring to the sound of DMX’s “Intro – It’s Dark And Hell Is Hot” looking terrifyingly determined, to a mixed chorus of cheers and boos.

      The video has racked up nearly three million views and has enjoyed a huge influx of hits lately as fans look to fill the void with no live sport to follow.
      SCARIEST EVER
      And one viewer commented: “If I was Botha I would have just took my gloves off, left them in the ring, and got the next flight back to South Africa.”
      Another said: “Never seen a more intimidating fighter of all combats sport combined in 25 years than Tyson. He’s a myth.”
      A third joked: “He could walk out to the song ‘row, row, row your boat’ and it would scare people.”

      Tyson went on to win the fight, via a fifth-round KO – but he later admitted he wasn’t at his best.

      Mike Tyson’s ring-walk in 1999 is arguably the scariest of all time

      A WHYTE MESS
      Fury vs Joshua to be delayed AGAIN as WBC demand Gypsy King faces Whyte first

      HEAVEN’S ABOVE
      Mike Tyson says he’s ‘greatest fighter since conception of God’

      NICE LITTLE HEARNER
      Eddie Hearn accepts Frank Warren’s Matchroom v Queensbury challenge

      HALL OF SHAME
      Wilder’s astonishing rant about Mike Tyson’s record against Hall of Famers

      Pictured

      LEG UP
      Mike Tyson looks in frightening shape in training with bulging muscles in his legs

      GLOVE STORY
      WBC demand Tyson vs Jones Jr rule change to allow headgear and 18oz gloves

      BAG OF TRICKS
      Watch gigantic Joshua tear into punchbag as he ramps up training before Pulev

      GORY DAYS
      Harper and Jonas in brutal draw in historic all-Brit women’s world title bout

      TRASH TALK
      Tyson Fury belts out Don’t Look Back In Anger with busker performing in a BIN

      NO MANN
      Pacquiao REFUSES to step up and fight Golovkin as middleweight ‘too big’ for him

      After the fight, he claimed: “I’m a little embarrassed. I wanted to shine tonight. It takes time. It takes time.
      “Rome wasn’t built in a day… I’ve got to improve a lot more. I’ve got a long way to go.
      “I wasn’t worried. I knew I was going to knock him out. It was just a matter of time.”

      Watch Mike Tyson show off blistering boxing skill and speed at 53 which would still give top heavyweights problems now More

    • 238 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal’s star Maitland-Niles, up for sale for £30m, joined Gunners at six but could leave on verge of breakthrough

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      IT looks like it’s all over for Ainsley Maitland-Niles at Arsenal.
      The midfielder-turned-defender endured a torrid time with the Gunners when Mikel Arteta first arrived at the club.

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      Ainsley Maitland-Niles is reportedly up for saleCredit: Alamy Live News

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      Arsenal star Maitland-Niles had appeared to have won manager Mikel Arteta overCredit: Reuters
      Out of favour, he was left out the team for reportedly turning up late to training on a number of occasions.
      But it appeared he had won back his manager’s faith, earning a spot in the Fa Cup final startling line-up against Chelsea, and starring in a 2-1 win.
      Now, the 22-year-old is said to be surplus to requirements at the Emirates, with a £30million price tag on his head.
      And that has alerted Tottenham to his availability, who could swoop to pinch the speedy star.

      His career so far has had its ups and downs.
      ARSENAL ACADEMY PRODUCT
      Born in Ilford, Maitland-Niles was mostly raised by single mother, Jules.
      “There were times their dad would help out, like playing with the kids,” she later told ViralRealLife.
      “There were also times when he wasn’t helping out in the right ways – like providing food.

      “Obviously, you can’t eat a pair of football boots.”

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      Ainsley, right, grew up in Ilford with older brother CordiCredit: Triangle News

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      He has been with Arsenal since the age of sixCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Ainsley’s passion for football took centre stage, and he soon joined Arsenal’s academy aged six.
      He dedicated his whole time to the club, slowly rising through the ranks and was called the best player in his age group by his youth coaches, according to his mum.
      In December, 2014 Maitland-Niles signed his first professional contract, but there was drama around the corner.
      JULES GET BANNED
      Jules became synonymous to Arsenal staff, but for all the wrong reasons.
      In 2015, she allegedly got into a furious bust-up with Arsenal’s former chief negotiator Dick Law at their London Colney training ground, and was said to have acted violent towards him after seeking reassurances about his future.
      She was arrested and later released without charge.
      Another time, while watching a then 17-year-old Maitland Niles in an Under-23 game, she grew animated on the sidelines and threatened to drag her son off the pitch.
      The club had seen enough, and she was banned from the training ground.

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      At 17 Maitland-Niles was playing for Arsenal’s Under-23 teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Jules Niles was banned from Arsenal’s training groundCredit: Triangle News
      MEANWHILE…
      On the pitch, things were starting to look up for Maitland-Niles.
      After making his debut aged 17 against Galatasaray in a Champions League match, a promising future beckoned.
      He was the second youngest player to appear in the competition for the Gunners, behind Jack Wilshere, and was left beaming with pride at his breakthrough.
      “I want to thank my family and God mostly for putting me here,” he told Arsenal’s website.
      When he was asked what he would do with his shirt from his first game, he revealed: “I think I’ll frame it and give it to my mum.”

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      After working his way through the youth ranks, Maitland-Niles was handed his Arsenal debut at 17Credit: Getty Images – Getty

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      Mick McCarthy called Maitland-Niles “outstanding” during his loan spell at Ipswich TownCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      ‘OUTSTANDING’
      In his early days at youth team level, and during a loan spell at Ipswich Town during the 2015-16 season, Maitland-Niles played as a winger.
      Then Town manager Mick McCarthy raved about the exciting talent.
      He said: “He’s an outstanding player. If he doesn’t end up being outstanding for Arsenal I’ll be very surprised.”
      But manager Arsene Wenger saw his attributes differently.
      “His best position is central defensive midfielder,” the legendary French boss said.
      “He has great quality, he can steal the ball without making fouls… I think he is ready to play.”
      MAKESHIFT FULL-BACK
      Versatility, most probably, ended up becoming a hindrance for Maitland-Niles.
      When injuries forced Wenger and then Unai Emery to field Maitland-Niles at both left-back and right-back, his development in midfield was put on hold.

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      Arsene Wenger converted Maitland-Niles to a full-back, but believed he had potential as a central midfield playerCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      Maitland-Niles believes he’s not a defenderCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      “I’m not a defender.” he said before the Premier League encounter against Aston Villa last year.
      “It’s not where I would choose to put myself in the team.”
      Stepping in for Hector Bellerin, he had his worst game in an Arsenal shirt, was run ragged, until he was dismissed for a second yellow card four minutes before half-time.
      FROZEN OUT
      When Arteta took over the reigns at Arsenal, Maitland-Niles found himself warming up the bench with Bellerin’s return.
      His manager threw down the gauntlet to him.
      “(He has to) Show me every day in training that he wants it more than anyone else; he wants to play for this club and fight for his place,” Arteta said.
      But that brought an adverse reaction to the star, who was reportedly late for training one too many times for the strict boss, who demands a professional attitude from his players.
      When lockdown ended, it appeared that Maitland-Niles’ days at the club were numbered.
      However, as football often does, a reprieve was around the corner.

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      Mikel Arteta handed Maitland-Niles a reprieve and he starred in the FA Cup finalCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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      After a starring role Maitland-Niles looks set to leave ArsenalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      A brilliant performance against Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final win followed by another solid display against Watford meant he played himself into the FA Cup final starting eleven.
      And his swashbuckling runs, getting in-behind the Blues defence, were a constant threat for Frank Lampard’s team.

      Now, back in favour, the decision to sell Maitland-Niles is a strange one.
      But with 55 non-playing staff cut as the coronavirus pandemic hits Arsenal’s revenue, it’s needs-must for the Premier League giants.
      And Maitland-Niles, it appears, is the sacrifice.

      Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles reveals he was racially abused as a 12 year old during his youth career More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Footballers on holiday, from Alli, Maddison, Grealish and Sancho in Ibiza to Ronaldo in Portofino and Rooney in Barbados

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      AFTER a long, hard season footballers love to unwind – just like the rest of us.
      With their mega salaries they are able to jet off to some of the most glamorous locations in the world.

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      The likes of Wayne Rooney, Dele Alli, Cristiano Ronaldo and more have shared snaps on social media soaking up the sun in these dream destinations.
      But where did they all go?
      ALLI, GREALISH, SANCHO AND MADDISON
      While some holidaymakers are shunning Spain after a spike in coronavirus cases, Dele Alli, Jack Grealish, Jadon Sancho and James Maddison are lapping up the attention in Ibiza.
      Spurs star Alli and Aston Villa hero Grealish were seen enjoying a couple of cold drinks with their female companions.

      While Alli and Maddison were spied hanging out at O Beach Club a previous evening.
      Separately, Sancho was seen enjoying time on a yacht with a mystery brunette.
      The Manchester United target also wasn’t slacking on his fitness, running shirtless and pumping some iron during his trip.

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      Dele Alli and James Maddison have been hanging about in IbizaCredit: Instagram

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      Jadon Sancho poses with Chuba Akpom on his way to IbizaCredit: Instagram / @cakpom
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      The Juventus forward might still be smarting from missing out on winning the Serie A Golden Boot, but at least he’s having a lovely holiday.

      Ronaldo is topping up his tan in beautiful Portofino, Italy, with his family and gorgeous missus Georgina Rodriguez.
      They’ve taken their new super-yacht for a spin in the Mediterranean Sea.
      And they also enjoyed a lavish dinner with friends at the expensive Langosteria Paraggi restaurant.
      Missing out on that Golden Boot doesn’t seem so bad now.

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      Cristiano Ronaldo and family are enjoying the sights of Med on a new luxury yachtCredit: Instagram / @cristiano

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      The Ronaldo clan have been relaxing on board their yacht
      ROONEY AND MINGS
      Wayne Rooney has whisked off wife Coleen after her ‘Wagatha Christie’ worries to Barbados.
      The pair are staying in a luxury £25,000-per-week five-bedroom mansion complete with an infinity pool.
      And they’ve found time to enjoy a romantic boat ride too.
      Aston Villa star Tyrone Mings has been toasting saving his side from Premier League relegation enjoying some time in Barbados.
      The towering defender, another Manchester United target, even showed his love for watersports – hopping on a jet ski.

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      Coleen and Wayne Rooney spent the day on board a luxury boat in Barbados Credit: Instagram
      RONALDO
      The Brazilian legend has been soaking up the sun with his girlfriend Celina Locks on a yacht in Spain.
      They are enjoying the delights of Formentera, the smallest of the Balearic islands.
      And Ronaldo, who hung up his boots in 2011 after suffering with hypothyroidism, looked healthier than ever in his swimming shorts thanks to a new fitness regime.
      He even took time to make a splash in the sea.

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      Ronaldo is enjoying his holiday off the Balearic islands
      JOHN TERRY
      With his favourite holiday destination Dubai probably being too hot right now, JT and his missus Toni jetted off to Portugal.
      And they did it in some style, evading the travel ban by taking a private jet to the Algarve with a glass of champagne in hand.
      They romantically drank wine and enjoyed the sunset at Maria’s Restaurant & Beach.
      Terry will be dining out on helping Aston Villa maintain their Premier League status, no doubt.

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      John Terry and wife Toni travelled in styleCredit: Instagram / @toniterry26

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      The Terrys took a private jet to PortugalCredit: Instagram / @johnterry.26

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      They have rented a stunning villa in the AlgarveCredit: Instagram / @johnterry.26

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      Terry is the captain of his own boat
      WILFRIED ZAHA
      The in-demand Crystal Palace forward will be checking his phone constantly on his holiday.
      Linked to Arsenal and Manchester United, his agent might have some trouble getting through to him in Dubai.
      Zaha is braving the sweltering heat of the Middle East, where it can reach 45C this time of year, and rented a boat with girlfriend Paige Bannister.
      They were pictured on a yacht in front of the Burj Al Arab hotel.

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      Wilfried Zaha is on holiday with girlfriend Paige Bannister
      CHILWELL AND DRINKWATER
      Chelsea midfielder Danny Drinkwater has been lapping up the hot weather in Mykonos, Greece.
      And he’s found himself a travel buddy in former Leicester City team-mate Ben Chilwell.
      The Foxes left-back has been linked with a summer move to the Blues, and hanging out with a Blues star just adds fuel to the fire.

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      Danny Drinkwater and Ben Chilwell have been hanging out in MykonosCredit: Instagram @dannydrinkwater
      DANNY INGS
      The Southampton striker enjoyed his best season in front of goal, netting 22 times last term to finish behind leading scorer Jamie Vardy.
      So, he treated himself to a trip to the Amalfi Coast, Italy, where he seems to be living his best life.
      Brilliant meals, check, a glass of wine, check, and lots of snazzy summer shirts.

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      Danny Ings shows off his tan on the Amalfi CoastCredit: Instagram
      MANUEL LANZINI
      Another footballer who has taken a short flight to Portugal is West Ham’s Argie star.
      Lanzini is enjoying Faro in the Algarve, Portugal, with his beautiful missus Jennifer Reina.
      The pair relaxed on a boat, before the midfielder proposed to the make-up artist and photographer on a cliff overlooking the sea.
      They’ve also enjoyed some time in Positano, like Cristiano Ronaldo and family.
      And they aren’t the only couple to have got engaged this summer.

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      Manuel Lanzini and fiancee Jennifer Reina pose for a snap in PositanoCredit: Instagram

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      The loved-up pair got engaged in Faro, PortugalCredit: Instagram

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      Jennifer Reina shows off her sparkling diamond ring
      NATHAN AKE
      The Manchester City-bound Dutch defender and his beautiful Wag Kaylee Ramman also got engaged.
      Ake, 25, got down on one knee in the Nice in the South of France – sharing the romantic snaps on social media.
      Immediately, they were congratulated by Premier League stars, including Jermaine Defoe, Diego Rico, Jack Wilshere, and Jamal Blackman.
      They’ll soon be celebrating a move north – to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City

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      Nathan Ake proposed to Kaylee Ramman on their holidayCredit: https://www.instagram.com/nathanake/

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      Kaylee has been lapping up the sun in Nice, France with AkeCredit: Instagram @kayleerm_
      JAMIE VARDY
      Vardy and his missus Rebekah, the other half of the Wagatha Christie chronicles, are also enjoying some sun away.
      They’re in Ibiza, well they’ve been seen cuddling in the sea and putting their troubles behind them.
      The Vardy family later enjoyed a trip on a speed boat, as they explored the island.

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      The Vardys have been tucking into the local cuisine in Ibiza

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      Rebekah Vardy shared an image of the pair enjoying sunset
      CHAMBERS AND HOLDING
      The Arsenal defensive pair will be celebrating the club’s recent FA Cup success.
      And they’ve picked the best place to do it, on the Greek island of Mykonos.
      They’ve hung out together, while Chambers has been stepping up his recovery from injury.
      The former Southampton man was seen doing some weight-lifting with a stunning backdrop behind him.

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      Rob Holding is in Mykonos, GreeceCredit: Instagram / @rholding95

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      Callum Chambers has met up with Holding in Mykonos when he’s not been pumping iron
      LAMELA, LO CELSO AND DIER
      Like the Arsenal duo, Spurs pair Lamela and Lo Celso are also on holiday together.
      The trio have chosen Ibiza, like Vardy, but will have to adhere to the strict quarantine rules
      For 14 days they’ll have to remain in quarantine, when they return.
      But they don’t look like they mind that.

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      Spurs Argie pair Lo Celso and Lamela cook some meat on a barbecue in Ibiza
      FRED
      Manchester United midfielder Fred has taken wife Monique Salum to Turkey for the pre-season break.
      The 27-year-old took to social media to upload a sweet image of the family, with their son Benjamin at The Land of Legends hotel in Belek.
      There they can enjoy sandy beaches, thermal spas and a host of golf courses.

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      Fred is enjoying his downtime in TurkeyCredit: Instagram / @moniquesalum
      JOSE MOURINHO
      The Tottenham manager is back in his homeland.
      Mourinho is in the Algarve with his family, including daughter Matilde, who was in Marbella last week without ‘The Special One’.
      He has a house in Ferragudo, Lagoa, where they regularly take their holidays.
      So far on their trip they’ve been dolphin watching.

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      Jose Mourinho is dolphin watching in his native PortugalCredit: Instagram matildefmf

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      Matilde Mourinho joined her dad in Portugal after spending time in MarbellaCredit: Instagram matildefmf
      ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN
      What a season it’s been for the former Arsenal midfielder.
      Now a Premier League winner, he and his Little Mix missus Perrie Edwards are in Ibiza.
      They were spotted eating out at the lavish Cala Bassa Beach Club with a convoy of pals.
      Will the Ox follow in Ake and Lanzini’s footsteps by popping the question? Watch this space.
      XHERDAN SHAQIRI
      The Swiss international and Liverpool star is another who swears by Spain.
      Winger Shaqiri is also in Formentera with pals, where he’s hired a boat.

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      Liverpool Premier League-winner Shaqiri is in Formentera

      And the Premier League-winner might want to invest in some suntan lotion.
      Pictures showed the former Bayern Munich star sporting a rather lobster-like colour.
      Some might say, it matches the shirt he wears.

      Leicester star James Maddison tries to kiss a girl on Ibiza holiday More

    • 213 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Meet Europe’s top goalscorer Ciro Immobile’s stunning Wag Jessica Melena who studied criminology and always plays pranks

      by

      CIRO Immobile certainly has much to cheer about.
      The Lazio hitman beat Cristiano Ronaldo to the European Golden Shoe – netting an incredible 36 goals in Serie A this season.

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      Meet glamorous Italian Wag Jessica MelenaCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica is married to Europe’s top scorer Ciro Immobile Credit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      A complete prankster, Melena has been with Immobile since 2012Credit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      And off the pitch, he’s one half Italy’s most glamorous couple with Wag Jessica Melena.
      The pair met in 2012 when Immobile, 30, was plying his trade at lowly Pescara on-loan from Juventus.
      They married a few years later, and now have three children together.
      Like Immobile, Jessica is nimble with her feet – once showing off her beach football skills with her husband.

      She’s also a complete prankster.
      LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
      Ciro and Jessica met at a restaurant and immediately fell in love.
      Within a week, they were living together and the striker made his intentions clear.
      Jessica revealed: “On the third day [after meeting] he wrote to me in a message: ‘You will be the mother of my children…’

      “I said that I thought it was a bit strong, but then soon after he kept his promise. His were true words.”

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      It was love at first sight for Immobile when he met Jessica at a restaurantCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Within a week Melena and Immobile were living togetherCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica had dreams of becoming a forensic scientistCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Melena fell pregnant after six months dating Immobile and gave up her studiesCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica is Immobile’s NO1 supporterCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      DREAMS OF CSI
      When Jessica met Immobile, she had aspirations of working in crime scene investigations.
      Fascinated by the US CSI TV shows, she studied criminology and forensic sciences at the University of L’Aquila.
      However, when she met Immobile things changed.
      She fell pregnant within six months, quit her studies and moved with him to Genoa.
      They married in 2014 in Buccianico, Jessica’s hometown in the province of Chieti.
      GREAT FEET
      Back in 2018, holidaymakers in the Maldives were treated to a skills exhibition from Jessica and Ciro enjoying a kickabout on the beach.
      The loved-up pair indulged in a spot of keepie uppies, thrilling the locals.
      A bronzed Jessica used her knee and feet, knocking the ball towards her footballer beau.

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      Like her husband, Melena is nimble with her feetCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Melena boasts some cracking football skillsCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Travelling is one of Melena’s favourite hobbiesCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      She even pulled of Zinedine Zidane’s signature ‘roulette’ move – showing she has great feet.
      TOTAL PRANKSTER
      Football loves its jokers.
      And at home, Immobile has one in his missus.
      Jessica teamed up with Italian TV show Scherzi a Parte, which translates to Jokes Aside, to pull the wool over Immobile’s eyes.
      In the skit, she took delivery of a dozen heart-shaped balloons and pretended they were from him.
      But soon the pair got into an argument, with Ciro demanding to know who sent them.
      So incensed, he rang his mum to tell her about it all.
      After that, Jessica revealed all causing Ciro all sorts of embarrassment.

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      Jessica pranked Immobile on an Italian TV showCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      On Instagram Melena has over 945,000 followersCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Fans are drawn to Jessica’s Wag lifestyleCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena
      BEACH SCARE
      Being one of Italy’s glamour romances has its drawbacks, and can leave you open to getting robbed.
      While Ciro and Jessica were enjoying some time at the beach in Pescara with their family, they were approached by a man wielding a knife.
      Jessica said: “Ciro remained impassive, but I was very scared.
      “Fortunately, the little girls were asleep… it was clear from his eyes that he was under something.
      “At one point, he pulled out a small knife. He [sparked] a bit of panic.
      “I think that gentleman was not well.”
      PLAY WITH ME, INSTEAD
      If there’s one thing Jessica doesn’t like about Ciro it’s his love of gaming.
      The Italian beauty often shares pics of herself on Instagram lurking in the background while her husband is clutching onto his PlayStation controller.

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      When Immobile is on his PlayStation, Jessica plays second fiddleCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Jessica jokingly plays along with Immobile’s PlayStation obsessionCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

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      Melina will be toasting Immobile’s success as Europe’s top scorerCredit: Instagram / @jessicamelena

      Appearing bored, she just hates being ignored while he plays another game on FIFA.
      Even a silly dance won’t distract him from his screen.
      But at least she sees the funny side.

      Lazio striker Ciro Immobile’s hot WAG performs a sexy dance around him to get his attention More

    • 175 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      The craziest contract demands revealed, including no space travel, weight clauses and cooking lessons

      by

      PLAYERS are valuable commodities.
      So when they thrash out contracts with the world’s biggest clubs, it’s important to get everything right and nothing’s left to chance.

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      SunSport looks back at seven of the wackiest stipulations requested to and by players.
      But there are times when stipulations are put in place by player and club to protect their interests, to let them fulfil their hobbies, or managers just don’t trust them.
      SunSport looks back at the wackiest requested to and by players.
      Robert Lewandowski the outdoor adventurer
      When the Polish forward was at Borussia Dortmund in the last year of his contract Bayern Munich and Real Madrid were jostling for his signature.
      And in leaked documents, Real Madrid’s offer seemed lucrative.

      Alongside a £166,000-per-week deal and a £10million signing-on fee were several requests they didn’t want daredevil Lewandowski to do while he was their property.
      Skiing, paragliding, climbing, going on a motorboat and even riding a motorbike were big ‘no-nos’ for Real Madrid’s hierarchy… so that’s why signed for Bayern.

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      Robert Lewandowski couldn’t ski, paraglide or doing anything daring if he signed for Real MadridCredit: AFP
      Giuseppe Reina toyed with

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      Giuseppe Reina in action for Arminia Bielefeld, who only joined under strict circumstances
      WHEN negotiating a contract, it’s important to be 100 per cent clear about what is being stipulated.
      When German forward Reina moved to Arminia Bielefeld in 1996, he demanded the club build him a house for every year of his contract.

      The club accepted.
      However, Reina didn’t specify what size he required.
      And Arminia provided him with a house made of Lego for the next three years.
      Fernando Redondo gets locked out

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      Fernando Redondo’s long hair cost him his international career
      FORMER Real Madrid and AC Milan midfielder was excluded from Argentina’s 1998 World Cup squad for a bizarre reason.
      Manager Daniel Passarella had refused to pick homosexuals or players with earrings and long hair.
      Redondo was ‘guilty’ of the latter.
      He said: “I was in great form. But Passarella had particular ideas about discipline and wanted me to have my hair cut.
      “I didn’t see what that had to do with playing football so I said no.”
      Rolf-Christel Guie-Mien cooks up a treat

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      Rolf-Christel Guie-Mien made it very clear to his wife he kitchen skills needed improvement
      CONGOLESE midfielder moved from Karlsruher to Eintracht Frankfurt in 1999.
      However, he had one simple request: that his new club pay for his wife to have cooking lessons.
      We’re not sure Mrs Guie-Mien took too kindly to this demand.
      Though, she was not available for comment at the time.
      Stefan Schwarz brought down to Earth

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      Stefan Schwarz is presented as a Sunderland player, alongside Peter Reid
      THE SWEDE moved to Sunderland in 1999 — but the Wearsiders had one stipulation the former Arsenal man had to adhere to.
      Schwarz was told that any potential flights into space would not be tolerated.
      The Black Cats chief exec John Flicking said at the time: “One of Schwarz’s advisers has, indeed, got one of the places on the commercial flights [into space, due to take place in 2002].
      “And we were worried that he may wish to take Stefan along with him. So we thought we’d better get things tied up now rather than at the time of the flight.”
      In fact, rather than managing to go up, his career ended when Sunderland went down in 2003.
      Neil Ruddock weighed down

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      Neil Ruddock has never been one of the slimmest footballer
      THE former defender once admitted to eating 212 steak and kidney pies every year.
      And Crystal Palace were advised Ruddock did come with some extra baggage when they signed him on a free in 2000.
      Ex-Eagles chairman Simon Jordan wrote in his autobiography: “On approaching West Ham I discovered he was a free transfer, although he did have a weighty salary — which was not the only weighty thing about him.
      “Harry Redknapp, the West Ham manager at the time, told me to put in a weight clause.
      “So I decided to put a 10 per cent penalty on the contract we were proposing to offer him if he was over the recommended weight of 99.8kg, which by the way was still frigging huge.”
      Ruddock’s Palace debut was allegedly delayed because the club couldn’t find a pair of shorts big enough for him.
      Driving a Honda

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      Keisuke Honda signed for Brazilian side Botafogo – but only after an unusual request was grantedCredit: AFP or licensors
      MORE recently Japanese legend Keisuke Honda joined Botafogo.
      But moving to Brazil’s crime-ridden city of Rio de Janeiro had the midfielder fearing for his safety.
      So he stipulated he would need an ARMOURED VEHICLE as part of the deal.
      More incredibly, Botafogo agreed. More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Hulk is bodybuilder footballer who ditched his wife to be with her gorgeous niece and now wants Premier League transfer

      by

      HE really is incredible.
      Brazilian star Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, better known as Hulk because of his bodybuilder appearance and being a Lou Ferrigno lookalike, has enjoyed a well-travelled career.

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      Hulk is attracting interest from the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      The Brazilian international is now married to his ex-wife’s niece

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      The Brazilian got his nickname because of his resemblance to bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, who played The Incredible HulkCredit: Getty – Contributor
      After beginning his career in his homeland, the well-built forward has played in Japan, Portugal, Russia, and is now making a mint in China.
      At Shanghai SIPG he earned a whopping £16.6million-per-year, and was one of the Chinese Super League’s marquee signings in 2016.
      But now, with his contract coming to an end, Hulk is ready to come to the Premier League and reportedly has several offers to show off his talents in England.
      At 34 he’s never looked better, and after lockdown he showed off a remarkable body transformation with a more defined look.

      And back in March, Hulk caused controversy when he ditched his wife and married her stunning niece.
      KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY
      Last year, the burly striker ended his 12-year relationship with ex-missus Iran Angelo.
      Five months later, reports linked Hulk to her beautiful niece Camila Angelo, 31.
      That relationship is now said to have started in October of 2019, and in March the former Porto striker wrote on his social media bio he was “married” again.

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      Hulk divorced his wife of 12 years Iran Angelo, left, and began dating her beautiful niece Camila Angelo months later

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      The pair have posted several pictures wearing what looks like wedding rings

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      Angelo and Hulk have never confirmed their nuptials

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      According to reports, Hulk married Angelo so she could get a visa to stay in China
      The couple have posted several pictures together since wearing what appear to be wedding rings, but never confirmed their nuptials.
      Argentine newspaper Infobae later revealed “sudden marriage was also due to” the fact Camila “needed a visa to stay in the country (China)”.

      Brazil star Hulk ‘marries his ex-wife’s stunning niece in whirlwind ceremony to get visa and stay together in China’
      THE BIG MAN
      When Hulk first emerged on the scene in Europe with Porto, his staggering size always stood out on the football pitch.
      He was renowned for being built like an ox, and it was impossible to shrug him off the ball because of his strength.
      In China, especially during the lockdown period, he seems to have become supersized.
      Fans were left agasp when he returned to training with Shanghai SIPG somehow looking even more muscular.
      Hulk shared video and pics of himself staying fit by hitting his home gym.
      And the benefits were there for all to see.

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      Hulk was always renowned for his huge physiqueCredit: Getty – Contributor

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      The beefy forward was a hulking presence

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      Today’s Hulk is more defined
      HE’S GOT GOALS
      The misconception of Hulk is that he’s a novelty footballer, because of his gargantuan size.
      However, as they say, never judge a book by its cover.
      Capped 47 times by Brazil, he’s scored 11 international goals – playing mostly as a winger.
      His career took off in Japan’s second division with Tokyo Verdy in 2007, before he moved to Porto in 2008.
      It took him two seasons to find his feet in Portugal, and there was bother along the way.
      Following a tunnel brawl during a 1-0 league loss to fierce rivals Benfica, Hulk was suspended for four games.
      But in the 2010-11 season he began to push on. 35 goals in 53 games during Porto’s treble year, in which they also lifted the Europa League, elevated him to new heights.
      Trouble still followed him wherever he went, in 2014 he was forced to pay £42,000 fine for assaulting two stewards.

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      Hulk made his name in Europe at PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

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      Hulk went to Russia to play with Zenit Saint Petersburg after PortoCredit: PA:Empics Sport

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      In 2016 he became one of the world’s highest paid players joining Shanghai SIPGCredit: Rex Features
      PREMIER LEAGUE INTEREST
      It’s not a surprise that Hulk has been linked to a move to the Premier League, with his status as a free agent approaching soon.
      Before he moved to Zenit Saint Petersburg, he revealed Chelsea were interested in adding him to their squad.
      “In my first season at Porto, I started well and remember hearing some talk about Manchester United, but I never received anything concrete on that,” he told FourFourTwo.
      “At the time, I was too young and left those things for other people to sort out, so I didn’t get to know which offers arrived.
      “Only after I signed for Zenit was I told Chelsea had been interested, but I can’t tell you how serious they were.”
      HE’LL COST MEGA WAGES
      Although clubs will be enticed by the fact there’s no transfer fee for Hulk, he won’t come cheap.
      His salary is said to be in the region of £320,000-per-week – making him the second highest paid player in China. The first is former Chelsea star Oscar on an astonishing £400,000-per-week.

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      Hulk stands outside his private jet, which bears the striker’s signature on the outsideCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

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      Inside the aircraft there are sketches of the Brazilian scoring goals throughout his careerCredit: Instagram @hulkparaiba

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      At 34 Hulk still has lots to offer amid Premier League interest
      And he lives some life off the pitch, as you can imagine.
      In 2018, he was pictured on board his own private jet, which featured his signature on the side.

      Inside, the cabin was decorated with his own image.
      Hulk is also a keen art collector, spending his wages on rare paintings by renowned artists.
      The runway is clear for his arrival on our shores. More

    • 238 Shares109 Views

      in Boxing

      Lucky Tyson Fury should have lost his unbeaten fight record to railway worker John McDermott in his early years

      by

      TYSON FURY is back on top in heavyweight boxing – but it could have been very different.
      The Gypsy King completed a sensational comeback in the sport when he battered Deontay Wilder back in February to win the WBC world title.

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      Tyson Fury had a tough night against John McDermott back in 2009 – but somehow managed to get a wide points winCredit: Rex Features
      [embedded content]
      It handed the American his first professional defeat, and also maintained his own unbeaten record.
      But back in 2009 Fury managed to keep that 0 in his losses column when he came up against slugger John McDermott.
      Fury was heralded as one of British boxing’s best talents having blitzed seven opponents in quick time.
      His team decided to step things up against ‘Big Bad’ McDermott, with the English title on the line.

      McDermott went in to the bout on the back of two losses against Danny Williams, but his 30-fight record included many KOs that would test out the new golden boy’s chin.
      And while no stoppage came for either boxer, McDermott had seemingly put the skids on Fury’s blossoming career with a messy points win.

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      Tyson Fury was the 1/6 favourite against John McDermott – but the fight didnt play out like thatCredit: Rex Features

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      Going into the later rounds Team McDermott were in confident moodCredit: Rex Features
      It was far from a spectacular performance. But McDermott snaffled and bullied the younger man, with Fury, the 1/6 favourite on the night, left relying on distance flurries.
      Going into the final round Fury’s corner were heard telling their man that he was behind on points and needed a grandstand finish – that never came.

      Referee Terry O’Connor saw things differently and somehow scored it 98-92 to Fury.
      It led to McDermott’s promoter at the time, Frank Maloney, now Kellie Maloney, slamming O’Connor as a “disgrace to boxing”.
      Guardian writer Kevin Mitchell pulled no punches in his assessment of the result, saying at the time that he “cannot remember a worse decision in the sport”.
      He wrote that Fury “got away with a robbery of the highway variety” and that the boxing community “were left outraged by the decision”.

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      It was Tyson Fury and his team who were left celebrating at the end of the 10-rounderCredit: Rex Features

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      Tyson Fury said after the controversial points win that he would have retired if he had lostCredit: Rex Features

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      Basildon boxer McDermott could barely believe the referee’s decisionCredit: Rex Features
      Boxing legend Jim Watt was commentating for Sky Sports, and his scorecard gave it to McDermott by two rounds, 96-94 with Fury only coming close after winning the final two.
      McDermott was crestfallen as he gave his post-fight interview ringside.
      He said: “What have I got to do to win it? I’m a nice gentle guy, he’s the one with the big mouth and I’ve been penalised for it.”
      Fury, 21 at the time, said that he thought he had won it, and admitted that he “would have retired” if he had lost the fight.
      The rematch was inevitable, and as luck would have it Fury came in a year later a different beast and knocked McDermott down three times on the way to a ninth-round stoppage.
      But the controversy of that first clash still lingers, with McDermott even claiming Tyson’s dad John admitted to him that his son had “lost the fight”.

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      John McDermott and his then-promoter Frank, now Kellie, Maloney could not believe the decisionCredit: Sky Sports

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      Basildon boxer McDermott believed his ‘face did not fit’ and thats why Fury got the points winCredit: Sky Sports
      Speaking to Sky Sports, the Basildon ex-boxer, who now works on the railways fixing overhead cables, admits the result still “annoys” him.
      He said: “I’m not saying I would have gone on to fight for the world title but it would have helped me, at the time.
      “A bit more money when there wasn’t much money in boxing. He’s a millionaire now and I’m struggling.
      “They thought I’d be an easy fight. They didn’t think I could dig deep.
      “I remember walking up to the punch bag and my trainer drew a line at 6’9” and said: ‘This is how tall Tyson Fury is’. I remember thinking: ‘How am I going to hit the bloke?’
      “I thought the judges were scoring it. But people were booing and I saw the referee holding Fury’s hand up. It’s just madness, I don’t know what happened. How can he score it 8-2?”

      CHEESE GREATER
      Cheeseman beats Eggington in brilliant, brutal war at Hearn’s Fight Camp

      IT’S ALL IN THE HEAD
      Mike Tyson claims ‘ego is f***ing with him’ ahead of comeback fight

      Revealed

      TY-ME IS UP
      Tyson Fury named ahead of Anthony Joshua in Ring Magazine’s top 10 heavyweights

      IRON MAN
      Roy Jones Jr thinks Mike Tyson, 54, is ‘still just as dangerous as ever’

      FOUGHT KNOX
      Inside Wilder’s £1m Alabama mansion with lake view, hot tub & iconic panic room

      After the rematch McDermott, now 40 , only had four more fights before retiring on a victory against Matt Skelton in 2013.
      Fury, 31, meanwhile has completed a real fairytale by dethroning Wilder and putting himself in a prime position to become undisputed heavyweight king.
      But things could have panned out very differently had the contentious result of 2009 been reversed.

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      Tyson Fury is on top of the heavyweight boxing world while John McDermott is fixing up the railwaysCredit: Reuters

      Tyson Fury says ‘you never get bored of beating Deontay Wilder up’ as he longs for trilogy after coronavirus crisis ends More