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      I’m a former Premier League star – now I own a luxury hotel where guests experience one of nature’s most amazing sights

      by

      WHEN Hermann Hreidarsson thought about a retirement plan, there was only one thing he wanted to do.The former Portsmouth FA Cup winner and Iceland legend, now 49, wanted to break into hotels.
      Ex-Premier League ace Hermann Hreidarsson set up the Stracta Hotel in 2014Credit: www.stractahotels.is
      The stunning retreat in Iceland boasts views of the famous Northern Lights
      For his first foray, he teamed up with ex-Chelsea star Eidur Gudjohnsen to launch a hostel in Reykjavik in 2011.
      Then in 2014, the same year he hung up his boots after a stint at Fylkir in his homeland, came a bigger project.
      He launched the four-star Stracta Hotel, some 60 miles from the capital as a retreat for those looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
      Nearly 10 years later, it is still going strong and is seemingly the perfect spot to witness the Northern Lights, with punters rating it four of five on TripAdvisor.
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      Accommodation
      Hreidarsson was born in the remote Vestmannaey Islands, so his sense of adventure for the great outdoors knows no bounds.
      He and his father plan on building even more hotels in Iceland’s most scenic regions for guests to explore the country’s vast natural sights in the future.
      But it’s the Stracta Hotel that is currently drawing all the plaudits.
      It boasts a total of 148 rooms, including standard double/twin rooms and superior double/twin rooms.
      Most read in Football
      They also have studio rooms with their own kitchenette, two bedroom apartments with cooking facilities and a private hot tub, as well as deluxe suites that also come with their own private jacuzzis.
      Rooms start at around £127-per-night and can be as much as £500-per-night for the superior accommodations.
      On site, there are plenty of relaxing spa options as you would expect from a winter destination.
      Wander into the hotel gardens and you will discover the hotel saunas and communal hot tubs.
      On the ground floor, you’ll discover the reception desk imprinted with a reminder you are “Next Door to Nature”.
      A bar, as well as the Bistro restaurant which offers lunch and dinner is also conveniently close by.
      You can chow down on burgers costing around £20 or a hearty steak of the day that will set you back about £42.
      Ice cream, chocolate brownies, and traditional Icelandic skyr cake are also available for roughly £12 for dessert.
      Three-course meals are prepared at the Gardur restaurant, which are a reasonable £50-per-head and can feature lamb fillet.
      Rooms at the Stracta Hotel start at around £127-per-nightCredit: www.stractahotels.is
      In the gardens you will find saunasCredit: www.stractahotels.is
      The Stracta Hotel has plenty of dining spaceCredit: www.stractahotels.is
      Punters can enjoy excellent food at the Stracta HotelCredit: www.stractahotels.is
      Visitors can enjoy some gym time at the Stracta HotelCredit: www.stractahotels.is
      Guests are greeted at reception with a sign ‘Next Door to Nature’
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      But, although you can be well fed and rested, there’s just so much more to do and see.
      Looking for adventure
      The Stracta is perfectly placed to see the world’s greatest wonders.
      There’s the incredible Eyjafjallajökull ice cap, which you’ll get perfect views of..
      While it may be the volcano that no one can pronounce properly, it’s famous for bringing Europe to a standstill when it erupted in 2010 – sending ash cloud hurtling across the continent.
      In terms of activities, the hotels provides plenty to keep the most active happy.
      You can visit the man-made Caves of Hella, which are said to date back over a thousand years – with some believing they came before the settlement of the Nordic Vikings.
      The phenomenon that is the Northern Lights, which are best seen between the winter months of September- April, can also be seen from the gardens while relaxing in a hot tub.
      For those wanting to channel their inner Sir Ranulph Fiennes, there are glacier and ice cave tours to venture on, as well as buggy/ATV trips across the black sand beaches and over the sand dunes of south Iceland.
      Visiting the Caves of Hella is a must
      Activities including kayaking are available
      Nature’s beauty is close by to the Stracta Hotel
      Guests will be captivated by the sights, including the Skógafoss waterfall
      The Northern Lights are best seen between September to April
      Kayak tours are operated from nearby Stokkseyri, some 24 miles away which offer spectacular surroundings.
      Horseback riding is available, while helicopter tours are also a must.
      Football legend
      Before he became a hotelier, Hreidarsson starred in the Premier League for Crystal Palace, Wimbledon, Ipswich Town, Charlton Athletic and Portsmouth.
      The defender, who earned 89 international caps, played for 15 seasons in English football and managed 332 Premier League appearances.
      It was at Portsmouth where he became a cult hero in their 2006 FA Cup run.
      In recent years, Hreidarsson has turned to coaching. He teamed up with former team-mate David James as his assistant at Indian Premier League side Kerala Blasters in 2018.

      Hermann Hreidarsson became a cult hero for Portsmouth in their 2006 FA Cup runCredit: PA:Press Association
      Hreidarsson lifts the FA CupCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Then he joined up with another ex-team-mate Sol Campbell at Southend, but was relieved from his duties at the end of the 2019/20 season after the side’s relegation from League One.
      Since 2021, Hreidarsson has been head coach of top-tier side IBV Vestmannaeyjar. More

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      Chelsea wonderkids who never made the grade and what happened to them including Charly Musonda and Josh McEachran

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      CHELSEA have developed a reputation for bringing through top-quality youngsters over the years.Since Roman Abramovich’s takeover in the early 2000s, a host of superstars have been brought through their ranks.
      Chelsea have brought through some world class talent but also some forgotten starsCredit: Getty
      They have included the likes of John Terry, Reece James, Mason Mount, Conor Gallagher, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Fikayo Tomori and many more.
      But what about those that are forgotten about after just a short stint in the first team?
      Many Blues hopefuls promise a great deal but are barely given a sniff of action before being moved on.
      Here are some of the Chelsea wonderkids that failed to live up to expectations at Stamford Bridge.
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      GAEL KAKUTA
      Gael Kakuta eventually exited Stamford Bridge back in 2015Credit: Action Images – Reuters
      The name will remain synonymous with off-field controversy at Stamford Bridge, but Kakuta was once the brightest young thing at the club.
      Chelsea were hit with a 16-month transfer ban by Fifa in 2009 for allegedly inducing Kakuta to break his contract with French club Lens in 2007.
      The move appeared to be worth it as Kakuta won Academy Player of the Year, finished top scorer for the youth side and won the U19 European Championship with France.
      When he made his first-team debut in 2009 after a four-month ban from Fifa, a Mail on Sunday article was headlined: “Chelsea’s new wonder boy worth all the fuss.”
      Most read in Football
      A decade later, Kakuta signed with French club Amiens in what is the 13th professional club of his career and he returned to Lens after impressing on loan there.
      He went out on loan to six clubs during six years with Chelsea’s first-team before eventually moving on to Sevilla.
      There were a couple of years in China and a return to Spain before he switched to France.
      Embarrassingly, Kakuta was embroiled in a court case in 2014 when a broke former footballer masqueraded as him to fund a luxury lifestyle.
      Medi Abalimba was jailed after racking up huge bills in hotels and nightclubs pretending to be the ex-Chelsea star.
      JOSH MCEACHRAN
      Josh McEachran did not live up to the hype at Stamford BridgeCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Back in 2010, a 17-year-old McEachran emerged as the brightest young talent in the Chelsea academy.
      The Blues fought off the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United to sign the teenager.
      McEachran was expected to evolve from starlet to star at Chelsea and, in turn, be the successor to Frank Lampard’s crown in midfield.
      Then England U21s boss Stuart Pearce said: “He’s got a really outstanding talent, similar to Jack Wilshere, and it bodes well for England.
      “If Josh and Jack were wearing Spanish shirts, you would revere them.”
      The arrival of Andre Villas-Boas to Stamford Bridge in 2011 brought an end to McEachran’s progression and he sought opportunities on loan.
      He was sent out to five clubs in three years, from Watford to Wigan, but struggled to settle at any.
      In 2015, he broke free of Chelsea’s loan army and joined Brentford on a permanent deal, a move which had highs and lows until his release in the summer of 2019.
      McEachran went on to join Birmingham City but only played eight Championship matches before he signed for MK Dons and then Oxford.
      BERTRAND TRAORE
      Bertrand Traore left Chelsea for LyonCredit: AP:Associated Press
      The repercussions of Traore’s move to Chelsea in 2013 were felt at Stamford Bridge during Lampard’s reign.
      Lampard’s inability to make any signings upon taking over was due to the Blues being slapped with a transfer ban linked to Traore’s arrival back in 2013.
      His move to Chelsea was one of the key components in Fifa’s evidence as part of an investigation into the club’s signing of foreign players under the age of 18.
      Fifa said it found breaches in 29 cases out of the 92 investigated.
      In the end, Traore played just 16 times for Chelsea and departed for Lyon in an £8.8m move in 2017.
      And in France, he impressed scoring 21 goals in 87 games for the club.
      His return to form earned Traore a move back to the Premier League with Aston Villa in 2020.
      SLOBODAN RAJKOVIC
      Slobodan Rajkovic departed Chelsea back in 2011Credit: Getty
      When a 16-year-old Rajkovic signed for Chelsea in 2005, it was seen as a giant coup.
      The centre-back, tipped to succeed John Terry in defence, had spent the previous summer at Arsenal’s youth camp.
      The majority of Europe’s big beasts were looking to sign the talented defender, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus, Inter Milan and Monaco.
      A work permit stalled Rajkovic’s progression at Chelsea so he was sent to Holland on loan, to PSV, Twente and then Vitesse Arnhem.
      Villas-Boas gave the Serbian centre-back his first start for Chelsea, in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Wycombe Wanderers in 2011.
      The same year Rajkovic was sold to Hamburg in a £1.8m deal.
      His career never really ignited, making just 42 appearances for the German side in four years.
      Rajkovic spent three years with Italian club Palermo but was released after they finished bottom of Serie B.
      The boy once wanted by all briefly plied his trade in Russia with FC Lokomotiv Moscow but his contract was terminated by mutual consent.
      He then returned to his homeland to play for TSC Backa Topola, before he joined Hungarian side MTK Budapest.
      DOMINIC SOLANKE
      Dominic Solanke ended up finding success at BournemouthCredit: Action Images – Reuters
      Jose Mourinho made it clear how much potential Solanke had at Chelsea.
      Back in 2014, in his second stint as Stamford Bridge boss, Mourinho named Solanke in a list of players who would be representing their countries in a few years.
      The now-Roma boss said: “In this moment, we have players who will be Chelsea players. And when they become Chelsea players, they will become England players, almost for sure.”
      Quite understandable given Solanke’s success in the youth ranks.
      He was England’s Youth Player of the Year in 2014, Chelsea’s Academy Player of the Year the following season and earned his first-team debut aged just 17.
      Solanke was the prolific goalscorer who helped Chelsea to successive FA Youth Cups in 2014 and 2015, as well as a Uefa Youth League.
      But, at the age of 19, Solanke opted for a new beginning having not seen first-team opportunities come his way.
      He headed for Merseyside with Liverpool where he made 21 appearances in Jurgen Klopp’s first-team but only scored on the final day of the 2017-18 season.
      Bournemouth forked out a whopping £19m for him in 2019.
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      ISLAM FERUZ
      Islam Feruz left Chelsea in 2019Credit: PA:Empics Sport
      Liverpool star Andrew Robertson once described Feruz, his then team-mate at Celtic, as the ‘golden boy’ of Scottish youth football.
      Feruz was plucked away by Chelsea in 2011, aged 15, to be another star at the club’s Cobham academy.
      But such promise didn’t translate into success for the striker as he was sent out on loan to Crete, Blackpool, Hibernian, Royal Excel Mouscron and Swindon Town.
      And when his contract at Chelsea came to an end in 2017 he was released.
      Over five years as a Blues player, having been sent on as many loans, Feruz made just 20 professional appearances and scored no goals.
      Chelsea deemed the striker, once the darling of Scottish youth football, to have lost his potential.
      He joined Radnicki earlier this year after a six-year hiatus from the game.
      KENEDY
      Kenedy is now back in Brazil having failed to make it at Chelsea
      The winger arrived in West London as a teen from Fluminense in August 2015 and soon scored his first goal for the club in the League Cup at Walsall in a 4-1 win.
      Later that season in March he needed just 39 seconds to break the deadlock in another win at Norwich and ended up making 15 Premier League appearances for the club.
      Hopes were high that his development would continue with a loan spell at Watford but he only managed to make one league appearance in a dismal stint at Vicarage Road.
      Kenedy then headed to Newcastle in what turned out to be an 18-month loan in January 2018 and he did gain some top-flight experience with 38 Prem appearances.
      Unfortunately for him that spell also led to him making history during a poor display against Cardiff.
      He became the first player since 2010 to play a full Prem first half without completing a single pass before his stoppage time penalty was saved by Neil Etheridge.
      Toon failed to make that move permanent and he then spent two seasons in Spain on loan at Getafe and then Granada.
      The Brazilian returned to his homeland on loan at Flamengo, before he signed for Real Vallodolid in 2022.
      CHARLY MUSONDA
      Charly Musonda played just seven games for ChelseaCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Charly Musonda spent five years at Chelsea before he broke through and made his debut under Antonio Conte in the 2017 Community Shield against Arsenal – which the Gunners won on penalties.
      He went on to play seven times for the Blues – all of which came in the 2017/18 campaign.
      But Musonda departed Stamford Bridge in 2022 when he signed for Levante where he spent one season.
      He then joined Greek outfit Anorthosis on a three-year deal after Levante terminated his contract.
      BILLY GILMOUR
      Billy Gilmour won the Champions League at ChelseaCredit: PA
      Billy Gilmour was once tipped to be a star of the future in West London.
      He featured 22 times across the Blues’ two seasons between 2019 and 2021.
      And at the end of that spell he became a Champions League winner under Thomas Tuchel.
      However, he was then farmed out on loan the following season as he made 28 appearances for fellow Premier League side Norwich.
      Read More on The Sun
      And he departed Chelsea on a permanent basis in 2022 when Brighton signed him on a four-year deal.
      Gilmour went on to help Roberto De Zerbi’s men clinch European football for the first time in the club’s history. More

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      I’m a former Man Utd star – now I own a dog-themed B+B and won Channel 4’s Four in a Bed

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      JIM McCalliog achieved his dream of playing for Man Utd, after he became a Wolves legend.Southampton fans will remember his defence-splitting pass that set up Bobby Stokes to score the only goal in the 1976 FA Cup final win.
      Jim McCalliog and his wife Debbie run a successful B&B in Scotland
      The Langside Bed and Breakfast in Ayrshire earns five-star reviews
      Comfortable rooms, including the Cameron Suite are available to book
      While McCalliog, who released his autobiography Wembley Wins Wembley Woes in 2021, is also famous for a winning goal for Scotland against England in a 3-2 win at the Twin Towers.
      But, it could be argued his greatest accolade came after he retired from the game in 1991, following a stint as manager of Halifax Town.
      The Scottish midfielder, now 77, featured alongside his wife Debbie on Channel 4’s long-serving show, Four in a Bed.
      They were showing off their beautiful dog-themed B&B in Ayrshire to the viewing public in a competition against three other hopefuls.
      Read more football news
      Lo and behold, McCalliog’s Langside Bed and Breakfast was declared the best and won.
      Incredibly, that appearance on national TV got the ex-Red Devils star recognised by one of Scotland most famous celebrities.
      His missus Debbie revealed: “We were invited to a Scotland against England game and when we arrived, Sir Rod Stewart was in the room.
      “Jim went over to speak to him and Sir Rod said: ‘You’re the couple who have the B&B’.”
      Most read in Football
      Comfortable lodgings
      While Rod revealed himself as a Four in a Bed fan, he also would approve of the Langside which saw Hollywood actor Dougray Scott pay a visit once too.
      Originally an arable farm in the 18th century, Jim and Debbie have been running the lodgings since 2006.
      It boasts four charming rooms, including the Cameron Suite, McKellar Suite, Fulton Family Suite, and Woodhouse Room.
      Prices start at a very reasonable £110-per-night, which includes breakfast.
      McCalliog described the decor as “quirky”.
      They have opted for a canine theme with a giant dog statue outside the front door, pooch-printed wallpaper and other ornaments.
      McCalliog said: “Our key strengths are making sure the customer is okay.”
      Nearby attractions include the beaches at Troon, Dean Castle and Dundonald Castle which are a short drive away.
      And you can get your fashion fix at the Silverburn indoor shopping centre, which has shops including Zara, JD Sports, H&M and more.
      McCalliog appeared on Four in a Bed on Channel 4 and won in 2017
      The B&B boasts a dog theme throughout
      A first class breakfast is provided by the hosts, according to reviewers
      Actor Dougray Scott paid Jim a visit at the Langside
      McCalliog began running the B&B in 2006
      Debbie revealed that the couple never applied to be on the show.
      She told the Daily Record: “They kept phoning us asking if we could block a fortnight off to do it.
      “So I eventually made sure we were free for two weeks last September and we took part.”
      Their three groups of guests were pleased with their hosts, apart from one who described McCalliog as “wooden”.
      And feedback on TripAdvisor is equally as impressive.
      The reviews are in
      The travel advice website gives the Langside five stars from 150 reviews.
      One customer wrote: “Stayed here for two nights attending a local funeral. Very friendly hosts, Debbie & Jim, welcomed us on arrival. We had a great natter and they showed us to our well appointed room with en-suite. We took their recommendation for a local restaurant which was very good.
      “Breakfasts were excellent, Continental on Day 1 and cooked on Day 2. Ample parking and good free WiFi. Our second time staying here and we’ll definitely return.”
      A second posted: “One of the best places we’ve stayed. Lovely situation with plenty parking, Easy access to the M77. We’ve stayed in two different rooms ; the Cameron suite is our favourite.
      Rooms start at around £110-per-night
      There are four rooms available to book at the Langside in Kilmarnock
      The McKellar Suite comes with its own shower and bathroom
      Guests have given the B&B huge praise on TripAdvisor
      “Super hosts who are very helpful with luggage etc and cook a great breakfast!”
      Grateful Debbie and Jim happily respond and thank their customers for the kind words.
      Former life
      Although he’s now reinvented himself as a B&B owner, McCalliog enjoyed a stellar career in the game.
      The creative star scored one of the goals when Scotland beat World Cup winners England 3-2 at Wembley in 1967.
      A year earlier he netted in the FA Cup final for Sheffield Wednesday in their 3-2 defeat against Everton.
      McCalliog spent the longest spell of his career at Wolves, where he was a runner-up in the Uefa Cup, and had a season under Tommy Docherty at Man Utd in 1974-75.
      He added: “It was an ambition realised to play at Old Trafford.
      “I should have gone to Man Utd earlier in my career but for reasons out of my control it never happened.
      Read More on The Sun
      “In those days a lot of the time you were just told you were staying put even if you wanted a move.
      “There were no agents. But at least I had a season with United.”
      Scotland’s Jim McCalliog crushes England hopes by putting the ball past goalkeeper Gordon Banks (No1) and England captain Bobby Moore
      Jim McCalliog, second in line, helped Southampton win the 1976 FA Cup
      Today, McCalliog and his wife are happy running their B&B More

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      I was one of the Premier League’s original 13 foreign players in 1992 – I ‘discovered’ Cristiano Ronaldo in new career

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      TOTTENHAM’S history could have been vastly different – and possibly much more successful – had they listened to one of their former players. Ronny Rosenthal played for Spurs between 1994 and 1997 making just shy of a 100 appearances for the North London outfit.
      Ronny Rosenthal has said he discovered some outstanding talents during his time as a football consultantCredit: Getty
      Rosenthal spent three years with Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty
      He joined the club from Liverpool where he had enjoyed success helping the Reds win the league in 1990, the Community Shield in 1991 and the FA Cup in 1992.
      And perhaps you could say he lived up to his price tag as he had arrived on Merseyside from Standard Liege in 1990 as the first foreign player to move to England in a deal worth more than £1million.
      The Israel born star cost £1.1million which in today’s inflated market would be worth somewhere a lot closer to £40m.
      Rosenthal was an unusual case when he arrived in England not least because of his value, but also his nationality.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      When the Premier League began in 1992 he was one of just 13 non-UK players who were part of the inaugural season.
      Joining the likes of Eric Cantona, Anders Limpar and Peter Schmeichel he was part of an exclusive club.
      Some way away from the exceptional number of foreign players that call England’s top flight their home today.
      And it could be Rosenthal’s background and outsider view of the Premier League that helped him succeed in his new career.
      Most read in Football
      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
      Rosenthal spent four seasons with Liverpool before moving to TottenhamCredit: Getty
      After hanging up his boots at Watford in 1999, Rocket Ronny turned to life as a football consultant.
      Travelling around the world to identify young talent and contacting huge clubs to recommend the gems that he had unearthed.
      But the thing about a career of recommending talent is that the clubs you’re talking to have to listen to you too.
      In Rosenthal’s case that didn’t always happen and in an interview with The Athletic he revealed how different things could have been if they did.
      He said: “I could have been very rich… very rich! Where do I start There are hundreds of players that if the clubs had listened… [things would be different]”
      He has laid claim to discovering a number of hugely talented players before they made their big moves.
      Rosenthal claims to have tipped the likes of Samuel Eto’o, Gilberto Silva, Dimitar Berbatov and Nemanja Vidic for greatness.
      But perhaps the one he remembers the most is Cristiano Ronaldo.
      The former Spurs man recalled offering a young Ronaldo to both the white and red sides of North London.
      Rosenthal claims to have recommended a young Cristiano Ronaldo to Arsenal and TottenhamCredit: PA
      Ronaldo ultimately signed for Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United sideCredit: Getty
      He said: “One of the ones I’ll never forget is Cristiano Ronaldo, who I saw because I was going a lot to Portugal at that time.
      “Ronaldo made his debut for Sporting Lisbon in August 2002, and I started watching him a month or so after that.
      “I recommended him to Arsenal, Tottenham and others. But they didn’t follow it up.”
      The Portuguese powerhouse of course went on to have an outrageous career after he signed for Manchester United in 2003.
      The global superstar won the Ballon d’Or while with the Red Devils and left the club as a three time Premier League champion and a Champions League winner.
      The addition of a player like Ronaldo could have flipped the trajectory of Tottenham Hotspur on its head back in 2003 when they finished 14th in the league.
      Now Rosenthal still works as a consultant, but lets his son Dean do most of the travelling for him so he can stay back in the UK.
      And although he may look back on what could have been if certain clubs had entertained his phone calls, he is confident there’s more stars down the road.
      He told The Athletic: “There are always exciting players. They are like flowers, they’re always coming. They never end.”
      The ex-Maccabi Haifa star will also be able to look back on his time with Liverpool racking up three trophies with a team that contained the likes of Ian Rush and Kenny Dalglish.
      Although despite contributing with an astounding seven goals and two assists in eight appearances for the 1990 league title winners, he didn’t get a medal.
      Unfortunately for Rosenthal he didn’t reach the required number of games to be dished out an official medal.
      But speaking to The Telegraph he explained that it doesn’t bother him and he knows how much he contributed to The Reds’ success.
      He said: “I did not get a medal, I did not play enough games as there were only eight left when I made my debut.
      Read More on The Sun
      “It is not a problem. The performances stay in history. When you finish your career you do not need to look at a medal to know what you have achieved.
      “I did something important for Liverpool. I did not need a medal to tell me that.”
      Ronny Rosenthal didn’t get a winners medal for his role in Liverpool’s league success in 1990Credit: Getty More

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      Inside Alex Scott and Jess Glynne’s growing romance, from early secret dates to first public appearance and kiss

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      THEY have suitably become the hot celebrity couple of the moment.Alex Scott, 39, is a TV favourite for BBC Sport, and a pioneer for women offering football punditry.
      Alex Scott is a TV favourite and BBC Sport presenter
      Jess Glynne is a Brit Award-nominated pop star who has scored No1 hits
      Hot new couple Jess Glynne and Alex Scott spotted at Wimbledon together back in JulyCredit: Getty
      While Jess Glynne, 34, is Brit Award-nominated pop star who has scored multiple No1 records and played Glastonbury.
      Together, they are successful role models who preach strong feminine morals.
      It’s little wonder they are attracted to one another.
      But initially, they kept their romance private – enjoying secret dates, away from scrutiny and the public glare.
      Read more football news
      However, this week they were happy to share a kiss while out in London, confirming their fledgling relationship.
      It began on the Q.T.
      Early courtship
      It’s hard to pinpoint when Alex and Jess decided to get serious.
      It was said they began a courtship before and after the Women’s World Cup which ran from July to August.
      Most read in Football
      However, there have been a variety of clues that they were dating one another.
      As far back as May, they were snapped at an event called Advertising Week Europe.
      A few months later, the pair were spotted side-by-side watching Wimbledon.
      They wore matching white ensembles as they cheered on England’s Katie Boulter against Daria Saville. Their outfit choice suggested they were already in sync.
      Right before Scott took on her presenting duties at the Women’s World Cup, the pair enjoyed a pub lunch together in North West London.
      Alex and Jess enjoyed pints at the time and appeared in high spirits as they drank and chatted.
      That same month, in August, the famous two both attended a Coco Der Mer party.
      Alex looked stunning as she donned a black top and her hair slicked back at the collection launch.
      Jess was also in attendance and oozed glam in a black leather top, with the songstress posing next to Alex for photos at the event hosted by Helena Christensen and Charli Howard. Matching dress code once again.
      Alex Scott, Charli Howard and Jess Glynne attend the Coco de Mer 2023 Icons collection launch event hosted by Helena Christensen and Charli Howard
      At Netflix’s Beckham documentary event Scott was pictured separately
      Glynne poses for the pictures on the red carpet at the same Netflix event
      Then, most recently, Jess and Alex partied alongside David and Victoria Beckham at their exclusive Netflix documentary premiere after-party at The Twenty Two in West London.
      ‘Slow burn’
      Work commitments meant Alex and Jess were a ‘slow burn’. Their romance was formed organically over time.
      A friend told The Sun: “Alex and Jess have been a slow burn and they didn’t want to rush things or go public too soon.
      “But they’re officially an item now and seem really happy. They are both strong, independent women with a shared passion and respect of their respective careers, supporting one another from the sidelines.
      “It’s still early days for them, but they’ve met one another’s mates and everyone is super-happy for them.”
      Both have been coy on their sexuality
      Admittedly, Scott, who was once linked with Scottish actor Sam Robertson, has kept her relationships private.
      In her memoir How (Not) To Be Strong, she wrote about a long term romance with former Arsenal team-mate Kelly Smith, who she was “madly in love with”.
      Speaking about writing about their love for the first time during a FANE talk in East London, Alex said: “I went back and forth on whether I’d actually be writing the chapter.
      “But then it was one of those moments, I’m writing this book and I want to tell everything. I thought I’d be cheating you all if I didn’t put that in there. And for me, it’s like that first love story, I fell madly and deeply in love.
      “And yes, there’s that heartbreak and those things, but it’s a huge part of my life and I wouldn’t go back and change that.
      “Because that feeling of love and that excitement and what it gives you, it needed to be in there.”
      Glam Alex Scott, pictured at the Haunted House of Friends Halloween party presented by Casamigos Tequila, has kept her sexuality privateCredit: Getty
      Singer Jess revealed her first album was about a romance with a womanCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Glynne has also refused to put a label on her sexuality in the past. She said: “I’ve only ever been with one girl and that’s the girl from my album [2015’s I Cry When I Laugh]. I’m never going to put a label on my sexuality.
      “People should never feel uncomfortable about who they love.”
      In an interview with The Independent, she also revealed her first album was about a woman.
      She said: “The songs on this album are about a girl. I would never lie about a situation I’ve been in. I feel like with the album I’m putting my cards out on the table. 
      “I wouldn’t want it to be misconstrued and the fact of the matter is those songs are about a girl. I was heartbroken about a girl, it wasn’t a guy.”
      Sealed with a kiss
      Just a month after they were pictured sitting next to each other at the 2023 Attitude Awards at the Roundhouse in Camden, and less than a few weeks after they attended The Haunted House of Friends Halloween party presented by Casamigos Tequila in London, we had confirmation.
      Last week, photographers pictured them walking arm-in-arm with each other.
      Every so often, they would stop for a loving kiss.
      Eventually, they parted ways at Great Portland Street Station.
      Read More on The Sun
      Their smooch put an end to the months of speculation about the pair.
      They appeared comfortable and ready to show off their love. More importantly, their happiness was plain to see.
      Alex and Jess sat next to one another at the Attitude Awards last monhtCredit: Rex
      Last week, Scott and Glynne were spotted taking a romantic stroll in LondonCredit: Raw Image Ltd
      The couple confirmed their relationship with a kiss More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Wanda Nara’s glitzy adventure on Italy’s Strictly, from shocking health scare revelations to perfect scores joy

      by

      FIERCE, courageous, and entertaining – Wanda Nara’s journey on Italy’s version of Strictly Come Dancing has got people talking.Last weekend, the notorious Wag, 36, saw judges on Ballando con le Stelle flash 10s at her for her stunning samba routine.
      Argentinian bombshell Wanda Nara has got people talking about her performances on Italy’s Strictly Come Dancing
      Stunning Wanda in action on Ballando con le StelleCredit: Agi for RAI
      It’s been an emotional journey for Wanda
      Of course, it would have been criminal if the South American bombshell couldn’t nail a dance with Brazilian origins.
      But, Wanda has had a lot on her plate before she embarked on a mission to wow TV audiences.
      And, no doubt, she would have won a whole host of new fans.
      At the tail-end of last month, the wife of former Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi broke down in tears when she revealed she was battling a serious illness.
      Read more football news
      However, that hasn’t stopped her from dazzling alongside partner Pasquale La Rocca.
      It has been an emotional adventure for the brave beauty.
      She’s doing it for her kids
      Performing on Strictly is a hard slog.
      Previous contestants will tell you about the gruelling time spent in the studio getting your steps right with your dancer.
      Most read in Football
      It’s especially harder on Wanda, who divides her time between Turkey, where Icardi plays for Galatasaray, and Italy.
      The days are long, while the nerve-racking experience of the live show is enough to put a mere mortal off.
      One error and you are thrown to the dogs, with millions critical from their armchairs.
      Wanda, though, is on a mission.
      In an emotional segment in the early weeks of the series, Wanda made an astonishing revelation about a health scare she has had.
      Fighting back tears, she told viewers she wanted to take part to “show my children that I am fine”.
      Wanda explained how doctors had diagnosed her with a serious illness over the summer after she underwent a routine health check-up.
      Fortunately, it was discovered early and Wanda has been able to manage her condition.
      After wowing viewers with a rumba in the opening week, Wanda tearfully explained her motivation for joining the hit show as she opened up on her health problems.
      She said: “I had to travel to Milan. Whenever I go there I do some routine tests. The results were abnormal and the doctors began to see things.
      “I was crying without knowing what it even was. My children were so sad.
      Wanda, who is married to Mauro Icardi, confirmed she is fighting an illness
      The Argie beauty confessed she was dancing to show her kids that mummy was OK
      “When they invited me to be on ‘Dancing with the Stars’, obviously the situation was more stable.
      “Before signing the contract, I asked the doctors whether I could accept while receiving treatment. They told me ‘yes, 100 per cent, do it’.
      “I believe it is an example for my children and when they see this experience, especially the younger ones who did not understand what was happening to their mum. They will feel like everything is fine.
      “I’m dancing to show that I’m fine.”
      Medical condition
      Wanda first addressed issues with her health back in July, when she said on social media she wanted to keep her condition private while she awaited more test results.
      However, she explained to Corriere della Sera how she is coping with the illness.
      “I’m trying to live with the same strength as before, valuing life every day.
      “I have always thought that nothing matters more than health, now obviously more. And I want to be with the people I love, not worry about bulls***, that’s the most important thing.”
      Gruelling training sessions as well as constant travelling from Italy to Turkey are not too much for Wanda
      Wanda has won over a host of fans for her bravery
      On her diagnosis, she added: “Yes, yes, fortunately yes [it was detected early].
      “It makes everything more manageable. I was very tired and having to go on a trip I had some tests done, for no reason. After the result I stopped for a couple of days.
      “I had to understand the situation. Now I try to live it by valuing every moment of my life more.
      “I had the worst thoughts, especially as a mother. But it’s also the reason why she made me react quickly: I feel like I’m the driving force of my family, if I fall everyone falls, like dominoes.”
      Dancing her heart out
      You could be forgiven for thinking Wanda’s efforts in the ballroom were something she had trained to do in the past. She’s been that impressive.
      “People think that if you were born in Argentina you have dancing in your blood, but in my case it’s not like that,” she told La Repubblica.
      She added, “I’m not even strong in the tango” which she recalled practising as a five-year-old girl with her grandfather when she grew up in Buenos Aires.
      Wanda has been paired with dancer and choreographer Pasquale La RoccaCredit: Iwan Palombi for the Rai press office
      Already Wanda and Pasquale have wowed TV audiences
      On the eve of the show, Wanda promised: “I’m here to have fun and dance. The public will see another Wanda Nara.” She wasn’t wrong.
      Ballando con le Stelle kicked off on October 21 on RAI network, so we’re just over three weeks in.
      Already, Wanda has stolen the show – and that’s not only for her dancing.
      Quirky stories about odd habits like chewing ice, which was encouraged by husband Icardi who bought her an ice machine, have endeared her to the public.
      As for the dancing, she stunned with a tango and paso doble in the first few weeks.
      But in the recent show, where she performed three dances, it was her samba that had judges applauding her.
      Read More on The Sun
      She received five 10’s from them, achieving her first perfect score of the competition.
      Wanda is now the hot favourite, in more ways than one. It’s a fitting dedication to her children.
      Wanda is now the hot favourite
      Viewers have warmed to Wanda’s dance skills
      While judges gave a delighted Wanda a perfect score for her samba More

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      in Soccer

      Why top sports stars and Love Island contestants make ideal partners, it’s more than just a desire for fame and money

      by

      THE love connection between sports stars and Love Island contestants is stronger than ever.Man City ace Ruben Dias is the latest footballer to be enamoured by an alumni of Casa Amor.
      Man City ace Ruben Dias is the latest name linked to a Love Island star
      Stunning Arabella Chi is rumoured to be dating the Portugal defenderCredit: instagram
      Olivia Attwood also married a footballer
      The Portuguese defender is believed to be dating model Arabella Chi, who appeared on season five of the reality TV show.
      They sent tongues wagging by sharing identical snaps in Paris, although they are yet to be pictured as a couple, despite a reported two month courtship.
      While West Ham star Jarrod Bowen’s romance with Dani Dyer is continuing to go strong since hooking in 2021
      Back in May, she gave birth to their twin girls Summer and Star.
      Read more football news
      Then there’s Olivia Attwood, who is married to Sunderland star Bradley Dack.
      They soon got together after she split with Chris Hughes, who she met on the show.
      By 2019 she was engaged to the footballer, and the two have since become a reality TV power couple – appearing in a number of spin-off TV shows together.
      Amber Gill, who was once linked to Jack Grealish, himself a Love Island fan who liked season eight star Ekin-Su Cülcüloglu’s pictures on Instagram, is also now dating a footballer in Arsenal Women’s Jen Beattie.
      Most read in Football
      So, why are famous sports stars and Love Island stunners getting into relationships?
      Dating coach Hayley Quinn believes Love Island contestants could be attracted to sports stars, not only for their physical appearance, but are allured to their status and the chance of forming a celebrity relationship that could swell their bank accounts.
      She also feels others might click because they see a similarity in the way their social lives play out, as well as their values.
      “I think we can say with people that go on Love Island they aspire to celebrity on some level,” she told SunSport.
      Dani Dyer left Love Island and shacked up with a footballer
      West Ham star Jarrod Bowen and Dani are inseparable and welcomed twins together back in May
      “That is seemingly a huge value for them, something that is motivating for them, so seeing a sports star who is famous in their own right, acknowledged, and has all those accomplishments is going to be really attractive.
      “Aside from sports stars and Love Island stars being quite physically attractive, there is also the added attraction of together potentially forming the modern day equivalent of the Posh and Becks relationship.
      “There’s also an undoubted earning potential attached to forming a celebrity partnership as well.
      “It could also be just that someone has gone on Love Island, they have found themselves in the same social circles and network and celebrity status and they want to date other people they perceive to be on the same level.
      “They have more opportunity to do that, not only at events but thanks to the world of Instagram – both their platforms are going to be easily accessible.
      “They have an opportunity to interact because they are known and visible to one another.
      “It’s not different to a normal person, perhaps they look at someone’s fashion and dress and they make an assumption about whether they are working in the same social circles and values, and that’s partly what’s motivating it and not just a callous desire for more fame and money – it’s seeing similarity between them.”
      For every Jarrod and Dani, there’s a failed romance that hasn’t worked.
      Quinn explains that it can’t all be down to superficial level when it comes to sports stars and Love Island beauties connecting on deeper level.
      “There are a lot of ingredients to make a successful relationship work,” Quinn continued.
      “I think having stuff in common is helpful, but absolutely not essential.
      Olivia Attwood and Sunderland star Bradley Dack have been a success story
      Olivia Attwood has become a breakout TV star separately of Love Island
      Dating coach Hayley Quinn explains the connection between Love Island beauties and footballers
      Amber Gill was linked to Jack Grealish
      Amber Gill and Arsenal Women star Jen Beattie are now a celebrity coupleCredit: PA
      “It might be helpful to understand what it’s like to have lots of followers on social media and a degree of fame.
      “That’s going to create an emotional intimacy, that they can understand each other’s world and that might, on top of the physical attraction, be the point of connection.
      “Physical attraction might be what makes these relationships sizzle at the beginning.
      “However, to make a relationship work you as an individual have to be in the mindset where you’re ready to stick at and work at things and really wanting a relationship.
      “Also, it might support the romance if they enjoy going out to the same places, but again that doesn’t mean necessarily mean a successful relationship.
      “Factors that could encourage a successful relationship between them could come down to could be how much time they like to spend together, emotional intimacy, how much independence they like… it’s a whole laundry list of different factors you possibly don’t think about when you’re 22, which make up compatibility.
      Read More on The Sun
      “You can’t equate having things in common with a successful relationship. That’s going to depend on their personalities, the relationship styles and preferences.
      “While you could also say their stoicism is important and not to get swayed by the next exciting thing, which is a quality we improve as mature in life.” More

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      in Boxing

      I’ve been offered £100,000 to pose for nude photos, but I refuse to as I am not money-oriented, says Apollonia Llewellyn

      by

      BEAUTIFUL Apollonia Llewellyn has become the go-to for swimwear brands to model their bikinis thanks to her huge following online.The Instagram and TikTok queen, 24, is followed by millions of fans on social media, who tune into her glam lifestyle, sexy photoshoots and engaging personality.
      Apollonia Llewellyn has become hugely popular on social media
      Stunning beauty Apollonia has millions of followers across Instagram and TikTok
      Buxom blonde Apollonia was further catapulted to fame as a ring girl for Misfits Boxing
      She was further catapulted to fame when she appeared as a ring girl for KSI’s Misfits Boxing.
      Because of her looks, the Yorkshire stunner has been offered a staggering £100,000 to pose nude.
      However, Apollonia has turned down the proposals out of respect for her family, insisting she isn’t money-oriented.
      The buxom blonde, who was subjected to school bullying growing up, revealed to SunSport what inspired her to be a model.
      Read more influencer news
      She said: “When I was 14 I got bullied at school.
      “So my mum wanted to find a way to cheer me up. I was very down and I didn’t like anything about myself.
      “She booked a Mother’s Day photoshoot with a local studio and I really enjoyed it.
      “Afterwards, the photographer said I was really photogenic and I should try and sign for a model agency.”
      Most read in Boxing
      Apollonia went down the route of beauty pageants, appearing in contests in Blackpool with her new found confidence.
      The Daily Star soon signed her up as Page 3 girl, and she gradually started making a name for herself.
      But it was when the country was in lockdown in early 2020 when things really started blowing up.
      With many people throwing themselves into TikTok and Instagram to fill their time, Apollonia’s popularity went through the roof.
      “My Instagram blew up and TikTok was just starting,” she said.
      “I remember posting a video on TikTok and looking back a week later and I had 100,000 followers on there. I just knew I had to use that.”
      That led to Misfits Boxing co-founder Mams Taylor reaching out to her.
      “He asked me to be their exclusive ring girl, and I did three or four fights,” she said.
      “I got a lot of publicity from that, it was a good thing for me and really fun.”
      The secret to Apollonia’s success is the content she uploads.
      Apollonia’s Instagram blew up when the UK was in lockdown
      Her glam outfits have attracted plenty of followers to Apollonia’s social media accounts
      Various brands have approached Apollonia to work with them in paid partnerships
      Brands like Pretty Little Thing have aligned themselves with Apollonia
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      Bikini photos with sass taken all over the globe, she understands her market and has attracted brands including Pretty Little Thing, Shein and Fashion Nova.
      “The more I kept posting bikini content, the more fans I got. I became known for posting the bikini stuff, going on a lot of trips and holidays,” she admitted.
      But what’s more remarkable for someone so young is Apollonia did it all herself, without a social media manager.
      “I like to do it on my own,” she revealed. “Some brands tell you what to post, but I feel if I have control over a post I am more authentic for my followers.
      “It’s always me that has access to my social media and it’s always me that does the posts.”
      As lifestyles go, Apollonia’s is as luxurious as it gets. A glimpse at her Instagram shows she’s well travelled, from shoots in Santorini to work trips to Miami. It’s some life.
      “The year before lockdown I planned on going on 12 trips in 12 months with my mum,” she told us.
      “But then lockdown hit, so I couldn’t. So I promised myself I would go travelling as soon as it was possible.
      “As we came out of lockdown, I planned a trip for every different month.
      “I’ve stuck with that plan ever since so my content is always better. But now I’m getting invited on trips, and it’s ending up at more than 12 trips a year!
      Apollonia handles all her own social media personallly
      Last month, Apollonia attended New York Fashion Week
      Apollonia has been offered £100k to pose nude
      Stunning Apollonia has refused offers to take her clothes off in a photoshoot
      “I did New York Fashion Week and Miami Swim Week, which I was invited to by brands. And when I’ve been on those trips I’ve been invited to more by other brands.”
      Apollonia’s biggest influence on her life is her mum, who acts as a soundboard for her career.
      “I am lucky. I always travel with mum or my dad. I’ve got a good support system,” she said.
      “When I put up a post I check with mum, she’s really good at advising what I should and shouldn’t post.
      “I tend to keep my opinions off social media. However, if I feel I need to post about trolling and nasty comments towards young girls, I will try to share some nice advice that would benefit them.”
      Dad John and mum Paula approve of her modelling work. But she stops the line at nudity, despite being offered staggering six-figure sums. 
      “My mum takes pretty much 90 per cent of those pictures, and I’ve got two brothers who are all for it,” she said.
      “My family know I don’t do topless or nude photos. It would be a different story if I did.
      “But my dad is all for it, he says ‘the more publicity you get from a picture, the better so do the riskier stuff.’
      Read More on The Sun
      Life’s a beach for Apollonia
      Apollonia isn’t afraid to try out different fashion trends and hairstyles
      Apollonia enjoys a jet-set lifestyle
      Stylish Apollonia stuns in a black dress
      Apollonia’s parents approve of her glam snaps
      “I’ve been offered £100,000 for nude photos. As much as I support girls who do that, it’s just not for me.
      “People think I would and that I’m money-orientated, but I’m not. I consider what my family think, so those people who make offers like that perceive me in the wrong way.” More