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      in Soccer

      Meet Germany’s stunning Wags at the Euros, from a glam architect to a leading equestrian and a fashion model

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      GERMANY kick off the Euros desperate for success in their own country.But, they have to settle for being the third favourites according to the bookies behind England and France.Germany’s Wags like Dani ter Stegen will be cheering on the home nation at the EurosCredit: InstagramGorgeous Dani studied architecture at universityMarc-Andre and Dani began dating in 2012 and moved to Barcelona in 2014Still, they boast plenty of talent in their ranks – from a reborn Kai Havertz, who has starred at Arsenal this past campaign, to Germany’s new golden boy, Florian Wirtz.Cheering on Die Mannschaft will be their glorious Wags.From a stunning architect to a glam fashion model and a leading equestrian, these are the German stars’ beautiful partners.Dani ter StegenWith almost 600,000 followers, blonde beauty Dani is one of Germany’s most popular Wags.Read more football newsShe moved to Barcelona with her famous goalie other half Marc-Andre ter Stegen in 2014, and immediately enrolled herself into college to complete her studies in architecture.The pair began dating in 2012, and they announced their engagement in a Facebook Live video in 2017, before walking down the aisle months later.They have two sons together – Ben, born in 2019, and recent arrival Tom.Sara GundoganGorgeous Italian model Sara met ex-Man City star Ilkay Gundogan in 2021.Most read in FootballA year later, he popped the question before they married each other in a private ceremony in 2022.Sara was born in France but moved to Italy when she was young, where she worked as a TV presenter.How hosts Germany look to return to their best for Euro 2024She once sparked fury when she called the Manchester restaurant scene “horrible”.But she has since changed her tune, revealing she now misses the Rainy City after moving to Barcelona.Gorgeous model Sara Gundogan was originally born in FranceStunning Sara made her career in Italy as a TV presenter and modelCredit: Instagram @sarabenamiraIlkay Gundogan and wife Sara cut glam figures at the Ballon D’or ceremonyCredit: ReutersJessica KroosJessica and Toni tied the know in 2015, after several years together.She revealed: Toni was 18, I was 20. I wouldn’t say it was love at first sight, but he is a wonderful man. Shortly afterwards, we met in Germany and began to be together.”Kroos retired from club football after Real Madrid won the Champions League last week.But if it wasn’t for Jessica, he may have left the Bernabeu several years before.According to reports, she convinced him to sign a new deal when he was wavering on staying.Jessica Kroos met husband Toni when he was just a teenagerCredit: GettyJessica has been instrumental in advising Toni Kroos during his football careerCredit: GettyCandice BrookAmerican model Candice moved to Munich with Leroy Sane, when he signed from Man City.Initial reports of her struggling to settle in Bavaria were soon quashed.Instead, she reportedly helped Harry Kane acclimatise in Germany and conquer the language barrier.Her and Sane were able to communicate in English in Kane’s first few months at the Allianz Arena, as the winger and forward built a telepathic understanding on the pitch together.American model Candice Brook moved to Munich with Leroy SanaCredit: instagram @leroysaneCandice reportedly had a hand in helping Harry Kane settle in Bavaria with the language barrierCredit: Instagram @leroysaneSophia WeberGorgeous Sophia has been with Arsenal’s in-form Kai Havertz since they were lovestruck teenagers.She joined Instagram at the end of 2020 and already boasts over 390,000 followers.In recent months, she has become close to Martin Odegaard’s partner, Helene Spilling and they go to games together.She also loves to travel and took in a break to Paris recently.Sophia Weber joined Instagram in 2020 and now boasts almost 400,000 followersCredit: Instagram @sophia.weber__Glam Sophie dates Arsenal star Kai HavertzCredit: Instagram @sophiaaemeliaBrunette Sophia is a regular at the Emirates StadiumCredit: Instagram @sophiaaemeliaread more sport featuresLisa MullerThe wife of Germany and Bayern Munich legend Thomas Muller, Lisa is a famous dressage rider in her homeland.Famously, Lisa blocked her husband from moving to Man Utd, according to former manager Louis Van Gaal.She, reportedly, did not fancy living in Manchester.And she also once slammed ex-Bayern coach Niko Kovac after Muller was dropped in 2018.Julian Nagelsmann, you have been warned.Lisa Muller is a famous dressage rider in her homelandLisa famously blocked Thomas Muller’s move to Man Utd because she didn’t want to live in ManchesterCredit: Instagram @esmuellertKatharina RaumKatharina is the gorgeous wife of RB Leipzig left-back David Raum.The brunette stunner regularly shows off her incredible lifestyle, including five-star holidays in Ibiza, Maldives and Mykonos, to name a few.READ MORE SUN STORIESDespite sharing some intimate moments on social media, not much is known about Katharina.But she is a regular in the stands, wearing a Germany top and chanting her man’s name when he plays.Kathi Raum loves showing off her glam lifestyle on InstagramCredit: Instagram @katharina.raumGlam trips to the Maldives and Mykonos are the norm for KathiCredit: Instagram @katharina.raum More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Serbia’s stunning Wags, from the Serb Dua Lipa to a glam model who walked the catwalk for Versace

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      ENGLAND kick off their Euros campaign with a tough game against Serbia.The team from the Balkans boast a number of star players plying their trade in the top leagues.Sofia Milosevic will be cheering Serbia on against EnglandStunning Sofija has walked the catwalks of Milan fashion weekLuka Jovic and Sofija are one of Serbia’s glam couplesJuventus striker Dusan Vlahovic is one England will have to wary of, while livewire Luka Jovic could also pose a threat.Cheering on our rivals will be their stunning Wags.From a singer who is the Dua Lipa of her homeland to a leggy supermodel who has walked the catwalk for Versace, here’s Serbia’s partners in all their glory.Sofija MilosevicGorgeous Sofija is the leggy model who stole the heart of Jovic.Read more football newsThe blonde stunner is, unsurprisingly, a model who has walked the catwalks at fashion week.Most recently, she rocked up at Versace show in Milan.Before she met Luka, she dated Adem Ljajic – a midfielder who starred at Fiorentina, Roma and Torino.Sofija and Luka share a son together.Most read in Euro 2024Vanja BogdanovicBelgrade native Vanja is shacked up with in-demand striker Vlahovic in Turin.Back in April he celebrated her birthday with a loving message on he stroke of midnight.Why teams should fear ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ SerbiaHe shared a snap of the pair in a loving clinch on a romantic trip to Paris and captioned the photo on Instagram: “I love you.”It is believed the pair have known each other since they were teenagers, but briefly broke up before reuniting.Vanja Bogdanovic is Dusan Vlahovic’s longtime girlfriendVlahovic recently revealed his love for the gorgeous brunetteNatalija IlicLong-term Manchester United target Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has the perfect solution to any medical emergency.The driving force in Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal’s midfield, he just celebrated beating Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr to the title, where he is supported by wife Natalija.Natalija is a qualified doctor who studied at University in Novi Sad.She and the midfielder first met in 2017 and were engaged soon after – concluding a five-year engagement by finally tying the knot in 2022.Natalija Ilic has built a life for herself in Saudi Arabia alongside her beauQualified doctor Natalija is married to ex-Man Utd target Sergej Milinkovic-SavicAnastasija GudeljSerbian singer Anastasia Gudelj (nee Raznatovic) is the daughter of a Serbian power couple.Her mum is singer Ceca, while dad is warlord Arkan who was assassinated by a hitman who had ties to the criminal underworld in 2000.She married legendary Sevilla midfielder, Nemanja Gudelj in a secret ceremony in 2023.There have been reports from her homeland that the pair’s relationship has struggled due to family fallout, but Anastasija is expected to attend Euro 2024 to support her man.Serbian singer Anastasija Gudelj has interesting parentsAnastasija’s mum is a singer while her dad was an assassinated warlordAnastasija married Nemanja Gudelj in a secret ceremony in 2023read more sport featuresAnja PopovicNikola Milenkovic and Anja have been an item since at 2015, when they posted images together on social media when he played for Partizan.But since 2017, the giant 6ft5in centre back has featured 265 for Italian outfit Fiorentina.Anja keeps a fairly low profile and boasts just over 1,500 followers on Instagram.However, she is keen to share the life she leads as a Wag, including holidays in Dubai and supporting her man from the stands.Anja Popovic shows off her amazing bikini bodyBeautiful Anja keeps a low-profile but enjoys the Wag lifestyleCredit: Instagram @anjaapopAnja lives in Florence with giant Fiorentina defender Nikola MilenkovicCredit: Instagram @anjaapopTea TairovicTea is the most famous of the group with almost 800,000 followers on Instagram.A singer, she is Serbia’s equivalent to Dua Lipa.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe was linked to Uros Racic in 2023, after he was spotted showering her with attention and kisses.However, she played down the encounter to a national newspaper insisting they were friends.Tea Tairovic is the Serbian Dua LipaPop star Tea, left, was linked to Uros Racic in 2023 More

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      in Soccer

      Meet prospective Everton owner who is world’s 10th richest man, tech mastermind and owns 33,000 square foot mansion

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      EVERTON’S takeover has taken a new twist.According to reports, Michael Dell, 59, has joined a consortium that includes lifelong Toffees fans Andy Bell and George Downing in trying to buy the club from majority shareholder Farhad Moshiri.American billionaire Michael Dell is reportedly interested in buying a stake in EvertonThe Mail claims Dell, who owns the computer brand of the same name, has strengthened the belief that business could be resolved before the start of the new season.Some have described talks as being at an “advanced” stage, while others remain more cautious over a potential deal.Other interested parties include venture capital firm MSP Sports Capital.At the age of 19, Dell founded Dell Technologies with just $1,000 in the bank. Read more football newsHe famously said at the time, “technology is about enabling human potential” which proved to be prophetic in the world we live in today.Some 30 years later, his wealth has rocketed to around £95billion, according to Forbes, making him the 10th richest man in the world.In a pinned tweet on his X account from 2021, he wrote: “I started Dell Technologies 37 years ago with $1000. Revenues in 1984 were $6million. Last year’s revenues were $94.2billion. Impossible is nothing.”Such a huge wealth has enabled Dell to become a huge player in the property market.Most read in FootballHomes to die forUnsurprisingly, Dell, who married wife Susan Liebermann in 1989 and has four kids, has a number of homes dotted around the States.Famously, Susan designed the inaugural ball gowns for Jenna and Barbara Bush in 2001, according to Business Insider.Premier League sides deducted points and others at riskThey reportedly reside in Austin, Texas in a super mansion that boasts eight bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, a tennis court, indoor and outdoor pools.The 33,000-square-foot home is surrounded by a total of 119 acres, and features insane views of Lake Austin.The property is 20 miles from Round Rock, where Dell Technologies is based.Just a few miles away, Dell has another mansion dubbed the 6D ranch.The grounds are used by family and friends for recreational hunting, which allowed Dell to receive a $1million agricultural tax break.Fashion designer Susan Dell married Michael Dell in 1989The Dells called Austin, Texas their homeEast Coast digsNot content with his luxury digs in the Lone Star State, Dell has expanded his property portfolio to the East Coast.In 2014, he paid £100.47million for a Manhattan penthouse on Billionaire’s Row.The purchase made it the city’s most costliest home at the time.Found in One57, a 1,005 feet tower on West 57th Street, it has six bedrooms.There are also multiple smart kitchens built within its 11,000-square-feet.Sitting on top of the Park Hyatt New York, residents can also take advantage of the five-star hotel’s dining and catering services, as well as get a birds-eye view of Central Park.Three years after splashing the cash in the Big Apple, Dell turned his attentions to Boston.He paid £32million for a 7,200 square-foot unit in the exclusive Four Seasons Private Residences One Dalton Street.The tallest residential building in New England, it’s just over an hour away by plane.In 2014, Dell paid £80m for the penthouse in the One57 buildingOverlooking Central Park, Dell’s property purchase was the most costliest in New York at the timeread more sport featuresIncidentally, Dell can get there in his own $50million Gulfstream V jet.Typically, they accommodate 12 passengers and four crew.American billionaire Mark Cuban also owns one, while Steve Jobs was given a Gulfstream V as compensation from Apple in 2000.Holiday homeLike many Americans, Dell loves to take his holidays in the US.For that, he can rely on his astonishing Hawaii compound.Nicknamed the ‘Raptor Residence’ because it looks like something out of Jurassic Park, it’s not known how much he paid for the home,But it is placed on the oceanfront, spanning 4.3 acres in the exclusive gated community of Kukio, found on the Big Island’s Kona Coast.Dell’s next door neighbour is reportedly former Wells Fargo chairman Paul Hazen.READ MORE SUN STORIESRecent reports have suggested that Dell could become a trillionaire by 2033.Expect more lavish property buys, alongside that Everton takeover.Premier League sides deducted points and others at risk
      Nottingham Forest
      Deducted four points during the 2023-24 season for breaching Premier League spending limit by £34.563m. Failed in their appeal with decision upheld.
      Everton
      Initial 10-point deduction for 2021-22 Premier League breaches reduced to six points on appeal. Were deducted a further two points later in the 2023-24 season. Appealed, but since withdrawn following Prem survival.
      Sheffield United
      Hit with a two-point deduction for their finances during the 2022-23 EFL season. Will begin the 2024-25 Championship season on -2 points following their relegation from the Prem.
      OTHERS WHO COULD FACE PUNISHMENT…
      Manchester City
      Etihad club emphatically denies the 115 allegations laid against them in February 2023. The lengthy Commission case has been scheduled to start in October or November but a final decision is not expected until March or April 2025.
      Chelsea
      Blues chiefs flagged up illicit payments made to agents and others during the Roman Abramovich era. Fined £8.6m by Uefa but still to be formally charged by the Prem despite an ongoing investigation.
      Leicester
      Foxes breached Prem PSR loss limits last season but did not have to report their 2022-23 accounts until this month because of their relegation. That puts the timetable back and means that they will probably face a Prem points deduction for the 2024-25 season following their return to the top flight.
      Everton (again)
      The Toffees are again at risk of breaking PSR rules and are in a race against time to raise funds and balance the books. Not only could that lead to another charge but also administration. That would lead to an automatic nine-point deduction for the 2024/25 season.

      Dell can travel anywhere in the US he wants in his Gulfstream V jet worth $50mIn 2017, Dell added a 7,200 square-foot unit in the exclusive Four Seasons Private Residences One Dalton Street in Boston to his property porfolio More

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      in Boxing

      My grandad is a Rolling Stones legend, but I hope to be a Team GB Olympic gold medallist with the help of Prince Naseem

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      ROLLING STONES axeman Ronnie Wood might have had plenty of fights over the years, but it’s his grandson who is showing pedigree as a real fighter.At just 18, Leo Wood – who is the son of Ronnie’s adopted son, Jamie – is winning the plaudits because of his boxing ability.Leo Wood’s blossoming boxing career has hit new heightsAmateur champ Leo is the grandson of Rolling Stones axeman Ronnie WoodBack in April, Leo won a title at the prestigious England Boxing National Amateur ChampionshipsBack in April, the ambitious teenager won the under 57kg weight class at the prestigious England Boxing National Amateur Championships, previously known as the ABA Championships, in Derby.That success saw him invited for assessment by Team GB, who could offer Wood a shot at the Olympics when the Games heads to Los Angeles in 2028.Leo has come a long way since he was introduced to the sport by Prince Naseem’s brother, Morade.A member of Ropes and Glory Club in Chatham, Kent – his skills are honed by the gym’s owners, a father and son duo who share the same name, Dan Woledge.Read more boxing newsHe told SunSport how a chance meeting with Naz’s sibling on holiday kick-started a love-affair with combat sport.”I went out to Dubai and I met Prince Naseem’s brother out there,” he said.”He introduced to boxing on the beach and had me practicing all week.”When I got home, he set me up with a trainer and from then I fell in love with it.Most read in Boxing”I joined a club and it began from there.”In a clip shared with SunSport, a 10-year-old Leo can be seen throwing haymakers at Morade Hamed (below).Leo Wood, aged 10, sparring with Prince Naseem’s brother, MoradeAlthough refinement was necessary, a natural talent for boxing was evident even then.”I realised I had a natural talent when I practiced on the beach,” Wood told us.”I remember this boy who was a few years older than me wanting to box with me and I clocked him.”In a controlled environment, in a ring, it was the best course of action for Leo, who had his troubles at school.Full of energy, he admitted he got into scraps in the playground that got him in bother with his teachers.Boxing gave Leo the remedy to channel his aggression elsewhere.”I was always getting into trouble at school and fighting,” he revealed.”I got kicked out a few times, it was how I was. I turned to sport to keep myself out of trouble.”I played football, but that was more of a team sport and I had to rely on everybody else.”I decided to take on boxing and it was much more exciting.”Soon, Wood began to earn the accolades. In 2022, he won the Southern Area under 54kg Youth Title Belt.Boxing legend Prince Naseem Hamed has aided Leo’s developmentLeo Wood already has a number of accolades to show offHe got a Team GB call up for the first time at 16 for assessment, and things began to snowball.While Prince Naseem Hamed has lent his expertise and wisdom to aid Leo’s development.”After I won my first championships, it was unreal. I knew I was good enough then,” he said.”I beat the best boys that everyone was talking about, when I didn’t really expect to win it.”That got me selection for Team GB, which was amazing but Covid hit and that affected my training.”For the past six months, Wood has been fighting out of the Ropes and Glory stable.He trains four days a week, religiously, and spars with other exciting prospects.Amazingly, in such a short space of time, he was able to land an ABA title – defeating boxers years older than him.”Entering the competition at jut 18, you don’t expect to beat all these guys who are older than you – with some even being 25-year-olds,” Wood divulged.”To have seven fights in the competition and come out on top against the top adults in the country, it didn’t even feel real.”Wood was again invited for Team GB assessment, while he is gearing up for the GB Three Nations, where he will take on fighters from Scotland and Wales.At the prestigious England Boxing National Amateur Championships, Wood won the title in the 57kg weight classWood saw off seven boxers, including some seven years his senior to win the titleBen Whittaker presented Wood with his beltREAD MORE SPORT FEATURESHe’s already had 50 fights as an amateur, and admitted he is targeting an Olympic appearance. “It would be a dream to go to the Olympics,” Wood beamed.”If not, the pro-game is always still available. They are both great achievements to have.”When Wood received his ABA belt, it was presented by Olympic silver medallist Ben Whittaker.The Surgeon is a boxer the aspiring Wood admires and hopes to emulate.He said: “I really like Ben Whittaker, especially the journey he’s made from the Olympics to now smashing it in the pro game.”He’s got an amazing style, and I think as a pro you have to entertain the crowd which is what he does. I respect that.”If I go pro, I’d have to do something like that!”Grandad hasn’t seen me box yet, but he’s really supportive.
      “He’s always texting me to say ‘Well done'”.Whatever Wood achieves, inevitably his famous grandad Ronnie Wood will come up in conversation.But, as Leo put it, “At the end of the day, I am my own person. I am me for me. We do different things.”Has Ronnie passed on any fighting tips? “Grandad hasn’t seen me box yet, but he’s really supportive,” Wood added.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He’s always texting me to say ‘Well done'”.Judging by Leo’s rapid trajectory, maybe both grandson and grandad will be stadium fillers in the years to come.Ronnie Wood shows off his art skills to grandson LeoRonnie Wood hasn’t seen Leo box yetLeo poses with proud parents, mum Jodie and dad Jamie WoodRolling Stones star Ronnie, currently on tour, sends Leo messages of support More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd outcast Sancho can level the field for Dortmund’s underdogs but boy wonder Bellingham makes Real big favourites

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      TWO English aces are set to play pivotal roles for their teams at Wembley as Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund contest the Champions League final.Those players, Jude Bellingham and Jadon Sancho, have had very different routes to get to this stage of the season.Jude Bellingham is poised to be a key player for Real Madrid once again at WembleyCredit: AlamyJadon Sancho will be equally as crucial for Borussia Dortmund’s hopesCredit: RexBellingham signed for Real Madrid at the start of this season from Borussia Dortmund and plays as the most advanced and attacking midfielder and as one of the leaders of this new look side. At age 20, Bellingham has already established himself as a key player for club and country and he has enjoyed an incredible debut season in Spain with 23 goals and 12 assists in 41 games in all competitons.Meanwhile, Sancho has endured a bizarre season that has ultimately ended in him flourishing at Borussia Dortmund.The 24-year-old moved away from Dortmund in 2021 as he joined Manchester United for £73m, but fell out with the manager EriK ten Hag. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLDortmund struck a loan deal to bring Sancho back to Germany in January and while that loan spell will end after this match, he has scored three goals and added three assists in 20 games.Here, we take a look at how each of them can make their impact felt in the final and see which of these lions will come out on top.Jude BellinghamIt is a mark of the quality of Bellingham and his self belief that he has been able to become a key player at the Spanish giants.They tend to play in a loose 4-2-3-1 system with a lot of movement and rotations from their attack minded players. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBellingham typically starts as the most advanced midfielder or the 10 just behind the striker, in the same role we can expect to see from him this summer for England at the Euros.He is a threat driving at the opposition in transition and his ability to move in possession and play with his head sees him create chances for team-mates who break the last line of the opposition defence. Jadon Sancho belts out Adele as he leads Dortmund’s Champions League dressing room celebrations Here Bellingham drives forward with Vinicius Junior just ahead of him, with the winger suddenly cutting inside with Bellingham shifting the angle to find the runBellingham has the ability to operate all over the attackDortmund’s problem will be whether they defend deep and compact or look to press up and defend in a higher block, though we are likely to see Bellingham breaking through and carrying the ball in dangerous areas.Bellingham has a very high technical level and his ability to play with his head up and to bring others into the game as he moves in possession will create real threat in this game.Here Bellingham’s position between the lines sees him receive the ball and drive at the box once he receives itEven in games where he does not have may touches he can make effective playsPlaying as the attacking midfielder or 10 with the mobility and dynamism of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo may see the positioning and intelligence of Bellingham really hurt Dortmund in this match. Smart movement and an ability to find pockets of space in the opposition half and final third will enable him to find areas where he can receive the ball.This time we see Bellingham taking possession of the ball in a tight space against BarcelonaPlaying in pockets of space between the lines of the midfield and the defence will see Bellingham helping his team to move the ball forward into dangerous areas as they are in the attacking phase.His high technical ability and ability to find space to receive the ball make him effective when having to play in tight spaces in either half of the pitch. The former Birmingham star will be the key player for his side this coming weekend. As he receives the ball in the positions he likes he does not panic and he can turn under pressure before finding longer through passes to release runners in and behind the opposition defensive line.READ MORE sport FEATURESJadon SanchoSancho has hit form at the perfect time for DortmundSancho is likely line up on the right-side of Dortmund’s 4-3-3 system. Crucially, however, we are still likely to see Sancho swap sides or even come inside to play in the channels or the central areas as Dortmund are in the attacking phase.Sancho is another player with a high technical level.And he has the ability to get on the ball in the wide areas of channels and to show composure and clinical passes to break through the last line.Here, we see Sancho on the ball as he keeps his head up and identifies the run being made from the wide areaWhen receiving the ball in the final third Sancho is also a threat to carry the ball dynamically.  Sancho is not a player blessed with top pace.Sancho is effective both attacking the outside and inside of the defensive lineHowever, he is quick with the ball at his feet and keeps the ball close, manipulating and shifting the ball through channels as he drives towards the opposition goal. In this match, Real Madrid will have to find a way to double up against Sancho to prevent him from breaking through their defence with the ball.Here Sancho takes possession of the ball wide on the left and immediately looks to attack the opposition on the outsideHe is comfortable collecting the ball from deepAs he attracts and beats one defensive player another is coming around to cover but Sancho also can outplay that player.Sancho is an attacking player who provides a threat whether he is driving in possession of the ball or linking the attack through clever passes. There is little doubt in this upcoming match that Sancho will be a key attacking player for Dortmund.And consequently Real Madrid will have to come up with a plan to stop him from driving at them in possession.Here, Sancho gets the ball and then lifts the ball into the path of his team-mate who is making a run to break into the penalty areaSancho can also act as a key creator for Dortmund, while only four players with significant minutes this season have more fouls drawn per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga.Dortmund come into this match as clear underdogs but a player with the technical level of Sancho could help them to even the field.READ MORE SUN STORIESConclusionWith this game being played in England at the national stadium there is a nice sense of symmetry to the fact both sides have English players in key attacking roles. While Sancho has started to find some form as the season has drawn to an end in Germany, it is Bellingham who comes into the final as the player to watch. More

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      in Soccer

      Marco Reus wanted career as a PILOT and was inspired by Arsenal cult hero as Borussia Dortmund legend eyes fairytale end

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      MARCO REUS is getting ready to play the final big game of his career when he steps out at Wembley on Saturday.The Borussia Dortmund legend will bid farewell to his boyhood club in what promises to be an emotional night.Marco Reus is bidding farewell to Borussia DortmundCredit: APHis final game is the Champions League final at Wembley – 11 years on from heartache in the same matchCredit: GettyReus lifted two DFB-Pokals but never the BundesligaCredit: GettyAnd very few outside the Real Madrid fanbase could begrudge him bowing out in style.Even former team-mate Jude Bellingham, one of the men trying to stop him, would deep down be delighted for Reus. For a win in the Champions League final the day after his 35th birthday would be the crowning moment for Dortmund’s local-boy-done-good – and one who has endured his fair share of heartache over the years.Make no mistake about it, Reus is a living legend in the German city. READ MORE ON MARCO REUSHe secured that status a long time ago – thanks to a mutual love, connection and loyalty between the player, the club, the fans and the city. But the adoration has been clear to see in recent weeks during Reus’ goodbye.He announced earlier this month that his expiring contract would not be renewed so after 12 years back at Signal Iduna Park, the popular star is leaving at the end of the season.Reus received a resounding reception as he was subbed off late on in Dortmund’s final home game of the season – a 4-0 thrashing of Darmstadt.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe club legend marked his departure with his 170th goal for the club – second on the all-time club list – after treating all 81,000 fans to a free beer, accompanied with hand-written notes in the concourse reading: “Thanks for everything! The farewell beer is on me. Yours, Marco.”After blowing kisses to the partizan crowd, including the iconic Yellow Wall, he was given a guard of honour by his team-mates who sent him off in style. Watch emotional moment Marco Reus says goodbye to Dortmund as stadium and players all give him incredible send-offJadon Sancho, back on loan at Dortmund from Manchester United, said: “He’s the GOAT, the legend, he is him… love you Marco.” And that leaves one final game in the famous yellow and black… the biggest one of all against the 14-time European champions. And it presents Reus with the chance to secure the most significant trophy of his career. BAYERN’S BRILLIANCERemarkably, he has been limited to just two DFB-Pokals and three German Supercups – with no Bundesliga title or Champions League crown… yet.Borussia Dortmund finished second to Bayern Munich in seven of Reus’ 12 seasons – with both the 2018-19 and 2022-23 seasons going down to the final day.In 2023, Edin Terzic’s side came within a whisker of ending their long wait to be national champions.Reus scored in his final home game for DortmundCredit: GettyFormer team-mate Jude Bellingham will try and deny Reus the dream finaleCredit: GettyKnowing a win at home to Mainz would be enough to secure the title, they could only manage a 2-2 draw allowing Bayern to pip them thanks to Jamal Musiala’s 89th-minute winner.Then there was the 2013 Champions League final as Dortmund lost to their bitter rivals at Wembley.Oh how sweet it would be for Reus to bury those demons for good against Los Blancos on the very same pitch 11 years later.INTERNATIONAL HEARTACHEBut while his Dortmund career has been a series of near misses, for superstitious Reus – who always puts his right sock, shin pad and boot on first but steps on to the pitch with his left – his international one is more about sheer bad luck.His superb 2011-12 form not only earned him Bundesliga Player of the Season and his move back to Borussia Dortmund from Borussia Monchengladbach – six years after he was released by Dortmund aged 16 for being too small.But it also earned him a spot in Joachim Low’s Euro 2012 squad, scoring in the 4-2 quarter-final win over Greece.Two years later, he looked on course to be a key man at the 2014 World Cup.However, heartbreakingly, Reus injured his ankle in a 6-1 warm-up friendly win over Armenia on June 6, just seven days before Germany’s opening game in Brazil. It forced him to withdraw from the squad and he watched on from home as best-mate Mario Gotze scored the dramatic extra-time winner in the final – before holding up a ‘Reus 21’ Germany shirt on the pitch amid the trophy celebrations.Reus injured his ankle against Armenia a week before the 2014 World CupCredit: AFPMario Gotze paid tribute to his close friend after his heroics in BrazilCredit: X @woodyinhoThe forward got his one and only World Cup goal in 2018 against SwedenCredit: GettyThen to make matters worse, Reus suffered a groin problem just before Euro 2016 so missed that tournament, too.He was fit to play at the 2018 World Cup – grabbing a goal and an assist in the 2-1 win over Sweden – but it was a nightmare tournament for the defending champions who were booted out in the group stages.Reus needed time for his body to recover from another injury-hit campaign and that saw him left out of the delayed Euro 2020 then an ankle problem ruled him out of the 2022 World Cup in further devastation. WOODY YOU BELIEVE ITIronically, that solo World Cup goal means Reus has one more than the man he was named after: Marco van Basten.Born in May 1989, Thomas and Manuela Reus were planning to call their baby son Dennis – but Dutchman Van Basten’s sensational volley in the Euro 1988 final convinced them otherwise. But Marco is not his only name with a story behind it. Plenty of his friends dub him Woody – after Woody Woodpecker thanks to his spikey hair – while Prince of Dortmund is another of his nicknames. DORT-MAN OF THE PEOPLEBorn in the city in western Germany and a stalwart for their football club, Reus is a hero in Dortmund.He has only added to his glowing reputation by regularly visiting children in the city’s hospitals, donating the profits of his own MRXI clothing brand to charity and donating a staggering €500,000 to local small businesses during Covid to help keep them afloat. Reus is cheered on by his doting wife Scarlett GartmannCredit: Getty – ContributorMarco and Scarlett married in 2019Credit: GettyScarlett is a glamorous supermodelCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannShe has racked up more than 273,000 followersCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannGartmann was in Russia in 2018 with the Germany Wags to cheer on her then-boyfriendCredit: Getty – ContributorHe did that alongside his stunning supermodel wife and YouTuber Scarlett Gartmann.The couple got together in 2015 and married in 2019 – the same year they welcomed their first child before No2 came along in January 2024. Glamorous Scarlett has modelled for various big-name brands including car manufacturers Hyundai and Volkswagen.But away from her work, she adores horses and regularly posts on Instagram to her 273,000 followers videos of her riding or tending to the animals – as well as workout videos, photoshoots, holiday snaps and dog content. Reus remains close to his parents and siblings – literally.TATT’S AMAZINGThat is because he has each of their initials tattooed on his arm – just four of the various inkings across his body.Just in case he forgets, Reus has “Marco 31.05.1989” as well as various illustrations including a lion, a flower and half a clock.Scarlett loves horse riding and is often in the saddleCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannShe posts plenty of content with their dogCredit: Instagram @scarlettgartmannThe couple keep their children’s faces private on social mediaCredit: Instagram @marcinho11They gave €500,000 to local small businesses in Dortmund during CovidCredit: Instagram @marcinho11He also has Opray Winfrey’s quote “the biggest adventure you can take is to live out your dreams” permanently etched on his skin.Asked about the artwork, Reus said: “I just love tattoos and I have a good tattoo artist. There’ll probably be some more in the future. It might even become an obsession.”A DIFFERENT FLIGHT PATH?However, Reus’ life could all have turned out very differently indeed had he pursued his first passion.Because before he wanted to become a footballer, young Marco dreamed of being a pilot.He told Bild in 2012: “I’ve been fascinated by flying since my early childhood.“Back then I always wanted to become a pilot. I loved flying as a child and still do today.”CZECH HIM OUTInstead, though, the flying forward soared in the Dortmund academy – taking flight through the age groups, inspired by a certain Czech midfielder who went on to star for Arsenal.Reus explained: “My idol was always Tomas Rosicky. “He used to be phenomenal. He had such a good eye for an opening and knew where his teammates were, and he was so quick.Reus has a load of tattoos including his name and date of birth on his left armCredit: GettyReus shone at Rot Weiss Ahlen and Borussia Monchengladbach before his Dortmund returnCredit: AP:Associated PressReus partially tore his cruciate ligament in 2017Credit: Instagram @marcinho11A young Reus idolised Tomas Rosicky and was desperate to emulate the Czech aceCredit: EPA“Rosicky had great technique and was so intelligent and mature even though he was still young at Dortmund. I copied everything about him, right down to his sweatbands.”Both Rosicky and Reus left Dortmund in 2006 in very different circumstances – Arsene Wenger snapped up the former while the latter headed to Rot Weiss Ahlen’s second team.BORUSSIA GLAD-TO-BE-BACHBut his strong performances quickly saw him promoted to the first team and then in 2009, Reus signed for Monchengladbach and three years later made his homecoming.The past 12 years have seen plenty of accolades including two further Bundesliga Player of the Year awards, two German Footballer of the Year gongs and a place in the Champions League Team of the Season. He was the third player to reach 100 goals and 100 assists in Germany’s top flight and captained Dortmund for five years, forging a special bond with plenty of team-mates over the years marked by his famous custom handshakes.Reus even beat the likes of Eden Hazard, James Rodriguez and Anthony Martial to be the face of EA Sports’ FIFA 17 cover.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut would the self-confessed Justin Bieber superfan trade that all in for the chance to lead Borussia Dortmund, his beloved Borussia Dortmund, to Champions League glory in his 429th and final appearance?What do you mean? Of course he would. He has been named Bundesliga Player of the Season three timesCredit: AFPInjuries have plagued the star’s careerCredit: REUTERS/Michael DalderReus played with the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Erling Haaland and Robert LewandowskiCredit: Getty – PoolJadon Sancho declared his love for Reus and labelled his team-mate as the ‘GOAT’Credit: EPAReus was the cover star for FIFA 17The Dortmund fans showed their appreciation for a true club legendCredit: GettyReus was given a wonderful send off with a guard of honour in his final home gameCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd cult hero who saved Sir Alex Ferguson from sack told his tragic story in lost tapes found years after his death

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      LES SEALEY helped save Sir Alex Ferguson from the Manchester United sack.But it came at a cost when a shocking Wembley injury nearly proved fatal.Les Sealey came in for the FA Cup final replay to beat Crystal PalaceCredit: Action ImagesSealey tragically died aged 43 in 2001 following a heart attackCredit: RexSealey got into a furious row with the United physio after suffering a horror knee injuryCredit: RexNow his story has been unearthed thanks to lost tapes found 23 years after his death.Sealey joined United on loan from Luton in 1990 and had played just twice under Ferguson – with Jim Leighton the clear No1.However, Fergie decided to drop his Scottish compatriot for the FA Cup final replay after he shipped three in the initial 3-3 draw.Ferguson said: “Sealey was cocky and sometimes downright arrogant, so I did not foresee a failure of his nerve at Wembley.”READ MORE ON MAN UTDThat decision permanently wrecked Leighton’s relationship with the boss but proved to be a smart call as United ran out 1-0 winners, in turn landing Ferguson his long-awaited first trophy since taking over at Old Trafford in 1986. His heroics earned Sealey a permanent transfer to Manchester United and he became first choice in 1991.But another Wembley appearance 11 months later would change his life forever. United faced Sheffield Wednesday – led by captain Nigel Pearson – in the 1991 League Cup final.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSJohn Sheridan gave the Owls a half-time lead but it was an incident in the 78th minute that had a far greater impact.Sealey was caught in a challenge with Wednesday striker Paul Williams which “sliced right through to the bone” of his knee.Fans say ‘this man breathes Man Utd’ as emotional footage of Sir Alex Ferguson at full-time of FA Cup win emergesHe revealed: “You could actually see the workings of my knee inside the skin.”The animated shot-stopper got into a furious row on the pitch with the United physio, as skipper Bryan Robson tried to calm him down, while blood poured from the joint.Incredibly, though, Sealey CARRIED ON – because there was no sub goalkeeper on Fergie’s two-man bench to call upon and replace him.He was treated after full-time but his condition deteriorated on his way to hospital as an ambulance was called.And that quick intervention may have saved his life.Sealey went under the knife but woke up in the early hours of the morning and recalled in the tapes dug out by his family: “I always remember him saying, ‘Who’s a lucky boy then?’”But it then transpired that the wound had been stitched up with dirt inside and subsequently got infected.Any further delay getting to hospital could have been life-changing – by virtue of needing his leg amputating – or even life-ending if he contracted blood poisoning.The FA Cup success was Sir Alex Ferguson’s first trophy as United bossCredit: AlamySealey started in the European Cup Winners’ Cup 24 days after his horror injuryCredit: GettyWithin 24 DAYS, though, Sealey made a dramatic and extraordinary comeback and started in the European Cup Winners’ Cup final against Barcelona in Rotterdam – with Leighton exiled by Fergie.So the East Ender began between the sticks despite no training sessions and not “handling a ball” since his Wembley ordeal.Mark Hughes scored twice for United in the second half before Ronald Koeman curled home a free-kick 11 minutes from time – but the Red Devils held on for Ferguson’s second major honour. On Koeman’s free-kick, Sealey said in his memoirs: “I’d have saved it with my nose if I’d have been fit, but I just couldn’t get across the goal.”The pair were reunited after the game when they were called in by drugs testers and Koeman saw the extent of the damage to the goalkeeper’s knee, prompting a “total look of amazement” from the Dutchman. Another voice recording from Sealey said: “He just said to me, ‘Les, I don’t know how you played with it.’”A cult hero at Old Trafford, then-33-year-old Sealey rejected a one-year contract extension because he wanted two more years and ending up leaving United for Aston Villa at the end of the 1990-91 season.Two years later, though, he returned as Peter Schmeichel’s understudy and was drafted into the starting XI for the 1994 League Cup final against Villa as the Great Dane served his red-card suspension. Jim Leighton on FA Cup final snub
      SIR ALEX FERGUSON ditched his regular No1, Jim Leighton, for the FA Cup final replay in 1990.
      Leighton was in goal for the 3-3 draw at Wembley – but was ditched for loanee Les Sealey for the replay.
      It was a big call – but one that proved to be the right call as Ferguson ended his long wait for his first United silverware.
      But it came at the cost of his relationship with Leighton.
      The former goalkeeper told the BBC in 2018: “It got pretty frosty over the period, sort of about the last six months I was in the team.
      “And then it went to zero about a couple of weeks after the final.
      “And we’ve never spoke since and never will do again.”
      Asked why, he said: “I didn’t like a lot of the things that he said and he done.”
      Ferguson later explained: “Sealey was cocky and sometimes downright arrogant, so I did not foresee a failure of his nerve at Wembley.”

      It turned out to be his final United appearance – meaning three of his last four United games were cup finals – and again ended up on the losing side, just like three years earlier.Sealey had stints with Blackpool, West Ham and Leyton Orient but continued to be plagued by his knee never fully recovering – even revealing in his tapes he visited a faith healer recommended by his United team-mate Robson.The goalkeeper said: “Robson swears blind that he had a small, hairline fracture on his shinbone.“She’d put her hands on his shinbone and he had an X-ray the following day and the fracture had gone.” He added that it felt “like a red-hot iron” when she touched his knee. Fittingly, Sealey made the last appearance of his career for the Hammers away at United on the final day of the 1996-97 season.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was kept on the West Ham playing squad all the way until 1999-2000, by which time he was working as a goalkeeper coach for the club. And Sealey remained in that role until his tragic death in August 2001, passing away following a heart attack aged just 43. Sealey collided with Wednesday striker Paul WilliamsCredit: YOUTUBE / officialswfcBryan Robson tried to calm the goalkeeper downCredit: YOUTUBE / officialswfcBlood was pouring out of the gash and he could see the boneCredit: YOUTUBE / officialswfcSealey somehow carried on to play the remaining 12 minutesCredit: YOUTUBE / officialswfcSealey, pictured with Shaka Hislop, was still coaching at West Ham when he diedCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      Meet the play-off final Wags of Leeds and Southampton, from a Polish beauty to a former star of PSV

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      FOR Leeds and Southampton it’s the biggest game of the season.The two titans of the Championship go head-to-head at Wembley Stadium on Sunday – with a place in the Premier League at stake.Michaela Ireland will be keeping a close eye on the Championship play-off finalGorgeous Michaela has modelled for Pretty Little Thing and Missy EmpirePatrick Bamford and Michaela got engaged in 2022 and live the jet-set lifestyleBoth clubs are looking to go straight back up at the first time of asking.The Whites and the Saints were heartbreakingly relegated last season, but were aided by the Prem’s parachute payment to keep hold of most of their stars.Cheering the sides on will be the player’s Wags.From a former PSV star to a Polish beauty who supported her beau at the World Cup in Qatar, here are Leeds and Southampton’s glam partners.Read more football newsMichaela IrelandStunning Michaela is a model and long-term partner of Patrick Bamford.They got engaged in 2022, after Bamford dropped down on one knee to propose.The loved-up pair were already proud parents to baby daughter, Emilia before announcing they were set to wed.It is believed they met in 2018, when he was on loan at Chelsea.Most read in FootballShe has appeared in campaigns for Pretty Little Thing and Missy Empire.Julia BednarekJan and Julia Bednarek’s love affair was a very modern one. The pair first got chatting on social media.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024″Janek and I met on the Internet. He wrote to me on Snapchat and that’s how it started,” she told Super Express.”We started texting each other every day, then we talked on FaceTime, because Janek was in England and I was in Poland. It was hard to meet.”And the first time I saw him live was at the Poland-Kazakhstan match, where I first met his managers, then Janek’s parents and then him!”There was an immediate spark and we knew we were made for each other. There is no greater love.”Glam Julia Bednarek met her footballer beau on social media after they Snapchatted each otherPolish beauty Julia cheered on her husband at the World Cup in QatarJan Bednarek married Julia in 2022 after they met in a very modern circumstance onlineCredit: Instagram @juuulencjaNaomi PattiwaellFor Joel Piroe and missus Naomi football must be the hot topic of the household.Because even though Piroe is doing his best to fire Leeds back to the Premier League, his missus can always give him a few pointers on his game.She is a former PSV women’s footballer, who starred as a forward for the Dutch club from 2018-2022.After moving to Twente, she took time out to have a baby in 2023.Joel Piroe and his partner Naomi Pattiwaell must talk a lot about footballCredit: Instagram @naomipattiwaellPattiwael is a women’s pro in her homeland and played for PSV and the NetherlandsPattiwael has taken time out of the game to have a baby with Leeds goal-getter Piroeread more sport featuresSofia LeporeItalian stunner Sofia is the girlfriend of Saints midfielder Will Smallbone.She graduated from Birmingham University in 2022 with a Batchelor of Arts degree in Political Science & International Relations.But since then her life has been a whirlwind of fun, with her Instagram account offering a hint of the lifestyle she leads.Fancy holidays in Ibiza, Santorini, Dubai and the South of France feature among many.While in Saint-Tropez, she also dined at the exclusive Dior restaurant.Will Smallbone’s Italian partner Sofia Lepore is a Political Science & International Relations gradCredit: Instagram @sofia_leporeWill Smallbone’s partner Sofia enjoys glam holidays to luxurious destinationsWhen in Saint-Tropez, gorgeous Sofia dined at the exclusive Dior restaurantSummer GodboldGorgeous blonde Summer jumped onto the pitch at St Mary’s to celebrate beau, Flynn Downes’ achievements at getting to Wembley.She posted the moment online revealing how proud she was off him.Summer welcomes the Wag lifestyle with open arms – showing off her fancy breaks away to places including Dubai, Paris and Rhodes on her social media.And she isn’t afraid to share snaps of her amazing bikini body to her followers online, regularly posing in designer swimwear for the camera.Summer Godbold has welcomed the Wag lifestyle with open arms and is decked out in designer wearCredit: Instagram @summerjadegodboldBlonde stunner Summer helped boyfriend Flynn Downes celebrate Southampton’s win over WBARia HughesLeeds ace Dan James whisked Ria off to Mykonos in the summer of 2022 to pop the question.The Welsh winger pulled out at the stops to make the occasion special with an all-white ceremony behind the backdrop of ‘MARRY ME’ in large letters.The surrounding ocean and hedonistic hilltops only added to the romance of the occasion.They welcomed a son together in 2021, soon after James completed a £25m move to Man Utd.She is reportedly a fitness instructor.Welsh Wag Ria Hughes is believed to be a fitness instructorCredit: FacebookDan James whisked Ria Hughes off to Mykonos in 2022, where he popped the questionFlora JonesFlora is the rock who supported Southampton winger David Brooks through his cancer battle.She was with him every step of the way as he received treatment for stage-two Hodgkin lymphoma, taking him to his appointments and sitting by his bedside as he received chemotherapy.Brooks even labelled her his “24-hour nurse” as he began his recovery journey.READ MORE SUN STORIESLast year, the pair got engaged in Mauritius – a moment he shared on Instagram.He wrote: “Special night with a very special girl ❤️ fiancé and wife to be 💍❤️”David Brooks is indebted to missus Flora Jones, who supported him through his cancer battle
      Brooks and Flora got engaged in Mauritius – with their romance enjoying a happy endingCredit: Instagram @db_36 More