Sport Features

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Michail Antonio’s incredible rise from non-league and plans to go into showbiz as star recovers from car crash

      by

      MICHAIL ANTONIO is recovering in hospital following surgery to a broken leg after a horror car crash.The West Ham star, 34, had to be cut free from his £260,000 Ferrari FF which was ripped apart when it hit a tree in Theydon Bois, Essex, on Saturday.West Ham ace Michail Antonio has been candid about his struggles away from footballCredit: ReutersAntonio came through the ranks the hard way – playing non-league footballCredit: The Wimbledon GuardianAntonio had a miraculous escape after crashing his FerrariCredit: UKNIPAntonio had a miraculous escape from the incident, and his club have commented on his well-being.A club statement read: “West Ham United can confirm Michail Antonio has undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture following a road traffic accident on Saturday afternoon (7 December 2024).”Michail will continue to be monitored in hospital over the coming days.”Everyone at the Club wishes Michail a speedy recovery and wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the football family at large for the overwhelming support shown since yesterday’s news, as well as extending a heartfelt thank you to the emergency services and first responders who attended to Michail in the immediate aftermath of the incident, and the medical team who continue to aid him in his recovery.”Read more football news”The Club will provide further updates when appropriate.”The outpouring of love from the football community has been massive, with Antonio recognised as a big character in the game.The Wandsworth-born forward started from humble beginnings – playing for non-league Tooting & Mitcham United.Away from football, a game he’s not always liked, he has his own BBC podcast alongside fellow Premier League star Callum Wilson called The Footballer’s Football Podcast.Most read in FootballWhen he retires from the game, Antonio has ambitions to get into showbiz.I disliked football so much I prayed for injury, says West Ham hero Michail Antonio as he bravely opens up about therapyIncredible riseAntonio’s story in football began with Tooting & Mitcham United in 2008.Despite the team only competing in a regional league, Antonio went on to climb his way up the football pyramid.After impressing rather swiftly that year, he was offered a trial at Reading – some five divisions up – and Alan Pardew duly snapped him up.However, he later revealed he got kicked out by Tooting, after he refused to sign a contract. He then went to AFC Wimbledon who wouldn’t stump up his registration fee, so he returned to Tooting.Speaking to Gary Lineker and Micah Richards on the Rest Is Football podcast, he said: “Before I actually signed for Reading I got kicked out of Tooting and Mitcham.”They kicked me out because I refused to sign a contract.“I was like: ‘If someone comes in for me I don’t want to be tied down. I want to be able to go and not you out price me’.”“So they [Tooting] kicked me out of the club and I ended up going to AFC Wimbledon.”Then AFC Wimbledon refused to pay £7 for my registration fee, and told me to pay it. And I was like: ‘I ain’t paying seven quid!’Since 2015, Antonio has been a key figure for West HamCredit: GettyAntonio snubbed playing for England in favour of Jamaica, where his parents were bornCredit: GettyBehind his biggest success, Antonio was struggling with his divorceCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sunread more sport features“So I ended up going back to Tooting and Mitcham, signing the contract, getting paid, and within like five games of signing my contract, I signed for Reading.”Following spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Nottingham Forest, in 2015 he was plucked from the Championship in a £7million deal by West Ham who were then coached by Slaven Bilic.He’s been there ever since, winning a player of the year award, twice being named Premier League player of the month and lifting a European trophy.Mental health strugglesAntonio, who snubbed England to play for Jamaica where he’s been capped 21 times, has been very open with his struggles mentally in recent times.On the pitch, he scored success with the Hammers – lifting the Europa Conference League in 2023.However, off it his private life was in turmoil. He divorced wife Debbie, who has been by his bedside since his car crash, around the same time as the most glittering moment of his career.”I was going through my divorce and stuff, and I honestly couldn’t get my head around it,” he told the Original Penguin X Campaign Against Living Miserably Under The Surface podcast.”After we won, the whole team went out, the gaffer (David Moyes) went out, got steaming, a couple of boys didn’t sleep for two days, just got drunk for two days.”I was asleep on the coach and went back to the hotel. I was just mentally drained because of everything that was going on outside of my football and then I went back to the hotel and went to sleep while everyone was out partying.”It wasn’t until probably December where I was in a better place where I was like, ”Oh my God, I’ve won a European championship”.’Antonio struggled mentally after divorcing his ex-wife DebbieCredit: instagramThat moment might not have happenedBefore that, Antonio was struggling with being a footballer and contemplated quitting the game.He recalled a moment he laid in bed alongside Debbie, the mother of his four children, and began to weep.He said: “I don’t like showing emotion and I like dealing with things, but tears were just falling from my eyes in bed.”My Mrs was laying next to me in bed and I didn’t say anything, just tears falling – she looked up and said, ‘Are you alright?’ and I said ‘Yeah, I’m fine’, but she said ‘You can’t be fine, you’re crying’, and I just said ‘I don’t know if I want to play football anymore’.”Antonio continued: “Me talking to my Mrs, my brother and my agent took a bit of the weight off me, enough for me to keep going to training and stuff like that…”That’s entertainmentAntonio was recently asked by Gary Lineker on the Rest is Football podcast what he would like to do when he retires from the game.”I want your job!” he joked before revealing his future ideal role.He continued: “To be fair I don’t want to go into punditry, I want to go into entertainment.”So more on the basis of A League of Their Own, Play to the Whistle… I want Micah’s job!”READ MORE SUN STORIESWith that, he drew more laughter from Lineker and Richards.As such an infectious personality, it’s certainly a career path Antonio would be well suited to.Away from football, Antonio is interested in breaking into the world of entertainmentCredit: GettyAntonio has previously appeared on Sky’s A League of Their OwnAntonio also has his own podcast called Footballer’s Football Podcast with Callum Wilson More

    • 200 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      How Enzo Maresca’s obsession with chess has transformed Chelsea from ‘billion-pound bottle jobs’ to title contenders

      by

      ENZO MARESCA has strategically transformed Chelsea into Premier League title contenders.Cole Palmer might have rolled his eyes at the idea, while Noni Madueke has played down the Blues’ chances, but a 5-1 win over Southampton midweek has got pundits talking.Deep thinker Enzo Maresca’s love of chess could be linked to how he sees footballCredit: GettyMaresca wrote about the similarities between chess and football while studying at the Italian coaching centreCredit: GettyMaresca has transformed the Blues into title contendersCredit: GettyThey sit in second place, seven points behind leaders Liverpool, and are poised to challenge should the Reds falter.Much of their success is down to deep thinker Maresca, 44, who arrived at the club in the summer.In February, Gary Neville called Chelsea the ‘billion-pound bottle jobs’ after they lost to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.But only ten months later, they are title contenders under the impressive guidance of Maresca.Read more football newsThe Italian came through the legendary Italian coaching centre, Coverciano.It was there his love of chess was revealed, where he compared the beautiful game to the ancient board game.That encouraged the tactician to write his thesis comparing the two and their similarities.His dissertation was fittingly called, ‘Football and Chess’.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS“There are a lot of similarities,” Maresca revealed.“The most important is positional play and strategy. For a coach, it’s important to have the mentality of a chess player: develop a plan, study counter moves, choose the arrangement of the pieces.”Maresca’s philosopy’The arrangement of the pieces’ was evident in Maresca’s team selection at the St Mary’s.Enzo Maresca insists identity of Chelsea is starting to take shape Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku were drafted in, with a potentially overloaded Nicolas Jackson on the bench.With a large squad of talented stars at his disposal, Romeo Lavia, Enzo Fernandez, and Jadon Sancho are all rotated.It’s not uncommon to see a totally different side selected for Premier League or Europa Conference League.Maresca is not stuck to one philosophy. Quite often, he will pick a team suited to the opposition his team’s play.As a strategist, he makes subtle tweaks every week.One example saw Moises Caicedo, reborn in central midfield this term, playing at right-back against Aston Villa.That allowed the Ecuadorian to invert into midfield, when Chelsea were in possession, with Enzo Fernandez supporting the attack in a CAM position, and gave Cole Palmer more space.If you’ve played 5D chess, a game that becomes increasingly complex through a series of alternate timelines, it’s comparable to how Maresca’s thought-process when Chelsea are in action.Maresca has helped Chelsea find their identity againCredit: GettyVersatility and rotation of star players has been key to Maresca’s successCredit: Alamyread more sport features’We’ve got our Chelsea back’For a few years, they hadn’t under the Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali regime.But at Southampton, the away support were fully behind their club singing, ‘We’ve got our Chelsea back.’There was also a youthful exuberance about the team that played the Saints.The average age of the team selected was 24 years and 162 days old.Incredibly, that was the oldest first eleven Maresca has picked in this campaign – and the 14th youngest used by any Premier League club.However, given the club’s transfer activity in recent windows, it was telling there were no Cobham graduates in the starting line-up.Only Levi Colwill, who was tracked by Bayern Munich in the summer, was the only academy starlet in the squad.Of course, given their players ages, should the squad develop how Maresca wants it to, they should come into their prime in the years to come and mount consistent title challenges.Although, they won’t admit that yet.Chelsea average more than two goals per game in the Premier LeagueNoni Madueke has played down Chelsea’s title hopesCredit: GettyWith many players 24 and under, Chelsea’s young squad look primed to challenge for years to comeCredit: Rex”We are up for it but whether we are in it or not is a different question,” Madueke said.”We are taking every game as it comes.”Goals, goals, goalsChelsea have found a new lease of life under Maresca, thanks to a different style of play being implemented.Goaded in the past for being ‘Cole Palmer FC’, they are far from that. There are attacking threats all over the pitch now.When Sancho netted against Southampton, he became the 15h different player to score for the West London giants.Another mad stat is that they have already scored seven more goals (31) than they did in their entire 2022-23 season.READ MORE SUN STORIESCole Palmer is no longer Chelsea’s only threat on the pitchNicolas Jackson is one of 15 different goal scorers for Chelsea this seasonCredit: GettyBetter still, if it’s entertainment and ska favourite Harry J All-Stars’ Liquidator you want, head down to Stamford Bridge, where the home side is averaging a club record 2.6 goals per match.You never know. Come May, you might just see them lifting the Premier League trophy too. More

    • 188 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside the glamorous life in Shanghai Oscar will leave behind after his £25m-per-year contract expires

      by

      IT’S the end of an era for former Premier League winner, Oscar.The ex-Chelsea star bid farewell to the Chinese Super League, with his contract expiring at the end of this month.Former Chelsea footballer Oscar is saying goodbye to his life in ChinaCredit: InstagramOscar and his glam wife Ludy have lived in Shanghai since 2017Credit: InstagramOscar’s time in East Asia has been one of bliss that he will most certainly missCredit: InstagramNow 33, the Brazilian will seek a new start as a free agent – and is tipped to sign for Inter Milan or could return to his homeland with Internacional.Oscar joined Shanghai Port in 2017 for £60m and went on to win three league titles in the Far East.Astonishingly, he earned £175million during his time in East Asia – making him one of the richest footballers of all time.The playmaker was left in tears as he waved goodbye to the fans in his last game on Tuesday.Read more football newsHe’s leaving behind a life that will be sorely missed.Back in September, he told Brazil 247: “The quality of life here doesn’t exist anywhere else, I’ve never seen it.”It’s something out of this world, only those who are here, who live here, know what it’s like.”SunSport takes a look at his epic lifestyle.Most read in FootballLiving quartersOscar enjoyed a safe, comfortable, affluent life in China.Former Arsenal star Junichi Inamoto finally retires at 45 after 27-year career He, his wife Brazilian/Japanese wife Ludy and their three kids, Julia and Caio clearly loved being in the country’s biggest city.But his reasons for going back are tied to family.”I love Shanghai, but it’s just too far away from home for us. We can’t stay here forever,” he said.”My mom is getting older, my sisters are having babies. We want to be closer to home.””Wherever I go, it won’t be like here. There’s no way to change that,”The family live in a plush apartment that overlooks the scenic Huangpu River.Oscar has given his Instagram followers, over six million, a glimpse into his home.It boasts incredible views of the skyline of Shanghai, which comes alive at night with its lights.High ceilings, neutral interiors, marble floors and more are featured.The building also appears to have a private gym that Oscar used religiously.Wife Ludy and Oscar show off their stunning apartmentCredit: InstagramBrazil footballer Oscar plays with son CaioCredit: InstagramOscar revealed in an interview how safe China has been for his family growing upCredit: InstagramIn his downtime, Oscar often spares his time in the gymCredit: InstagramLudy and Oscar share a cocktail on a night out in ShanghaiCredit: InstagramThe loved-up couple share an intimate moment at the five-star Peninsula ShanghaiCredit: InstagramHis children are central to his life in Shanghai, and he often joins them on the school run.Oscar said: “My kids go to school and come back home by bus without worrying about safety. We can go out as much as we want at 2 am or 3 am, and go anywhere and nothing will happen.”Oscar and his wife have been known to take in the nightlife, enjoying cocktails and hanging out at the five-star hotel, Peninsula Shanghai.Life centres around the riverAlthough his life has been dedicated to playing for Shanghai Port, with countless pictures of his success, Huangpu River plays a massive part in his downtime.When he’s not playing with Lego – he enjoying showing off making the Camp Nou in one Instagram snap – he’s enjoying activities on the landmark of the city.The Huangpu River separates the city into two parts, Pudong and Pux.Plenty of the locals, as well as tourists, enjoy boat trips or other activities there.Oscar has taken his family on excursions, shared loving moments with wife Ludy, and canoeing with his son.Only a few months ago, Oscar admitted he didn’t know where he would go.In his spare time, Oscar loves to build Lego including a Camp Nou setCredit: InstagramChina life suits both Ludy and OscarCredit: InstagramOscar’s son Caio enjoys a spot of canoeing with his dadCredit: InstagramHe said: “My wife and I are anxious to know where we will go.READ MORE SUN STORIES”We’ve been here for seven or eight years. It’s a big change. The sooner we know, the better.”Wherever he goes, life will never clearly be as good. More

    • 238 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      How ex-Barcelona starlet Louie Barry, nicknamed ‘the little Jamie Vardy’, rebuilt his career to be League One top scorer

      by

      AS a talented teenager, Louie Barry had the football world watching his incredible talent.In 2018, he scored 10 goals in five games for England U15s at a tournament in Italy.Wonderkid Louie Barry was touted as a huge star when he was a teenagerCredit: https://www.wba.co.uk/Aged 16, Barry signed for BarcelonaCurrently on loan at Stockport, Barry is realising his potentialCredit: AlamyBefore that, he won the golden boot at the Val-de-Marne tournament, which England U16s won.After rejecting a contract with parent club West Brom, Barry embarked on a Spanish adventure – joining Barcelona to train at their famous La Masia academy.Aged just 16, he was the first English player to join La Masia.However, a squabble over his registration with Fifa meant settling in Catalonia proved harder than it should have been.Read more football newsThen, when Covid hit , Barry decided to leave to be with family.It meant starting again, at boyhood club Aston Villa, although his chances were few and far between.Barry, to his credit, has found his shooting boots in League One, where he plays for Stockport County on loan.With 13 goals, he’s the league’s top scorer and fulfilling the potential that led to former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp calling him ‘Little Jamie Vardy’.Most read in Football’I loved my time at Barcelona’After starring in West Brom’s youth side, helping them reach the FA Youth Cup semi-final and playing three age groups are, it was inevitable he would move to a bigger club.Meet Aston Villa wonderkid Lamare Bogarde who has a famous uncleLiverpool and Manchester City were linked with the forward domestically, while he was invited to Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig’s academies.PSG were the first in talks, when it appeared evident he wasn’t going to stay with the Baggies.Then, Barcelona stole a march on the French club, even after a medical was passed with the Ligue 1 giants.But, it wasn’t all rosy in Catalonia.Soon after Barry signed a three-year contract with the La Liga side, West Brom filed a complaint to Fifa claiming they hadn’t received the compensation they were due – £235,000.Barcelona said they had, and ultimately a judge ruled in their favour that no more compensation was due.That held up Barry’s international registration for three months, meaning he missed seven games of the U19 season.He lived in La Masia, while his family remained in the Midlands.In January, 2020 as Covid began to sweep the world, Barry decided to return to the UK because he wanted to see his family more.Immediately, boyhood club Aston Villa snapped him up for a fee that could rise to £3.5million.Barry has fond memories of his time at La MasiaCredit: Getty Images – GettyIn 2020, Barry returned to the UK to boyhood club Aston VillaCredit: PAread more sport features”I loved my time in Barcelona, ” he told The i.”I don’t have a bad word to say about it. But I decided to come back. Villa are 10 minutes away from my family home. I grew up there. I support Villa. I wouldn’t have gone anywhere else and I am so thankful they came in for me.”Klopp’s praiseChances were few and far between in Villa’s side.But when the club was decimated by Covid, forcing 10 players to miss out ahead of a FA Cup third round tie against Liverpool in 2021, Barry was thrust into the action.Incredibly, he would score the equaliser against the Reds, before they were beaten 4-1.That performance saw German manager Jurgen Klopp praise the youngster – comparing him to a Leicester City legend.After the game, he told talkSPORT: “The boys did really well. Little Jamie Vardy was a proper threat.”Admittedly, Barry has revealed in the past he has studied Vardy’s game and movement on and off the ball.Barry starred for Aston Villa against Liverpool in an FA Cup third round tie in 2021Credit: AFPAfter the game, Jurgen Klopp called Barry ‘Little Jamie Vardy’Credit: GettyHe revealed: “I do work hard out of possession, and ‘cheat’ isn’t the right word because I do track back and do my defensive work, but when I feel that the ball might be passed to me, or take a ricochet and come my way, I’ll come for the ball and then all I want to do is go forward.”Even if I lose the ball a few times, I want to be as direct as possible.”It’s working out for himWith Villa realising the now 21-year-old needs more first time experience, they sent him on various loans.While it didn’t work out at Ipswich Town and MK Dons, it’s all falling into place at Edgeley Park.Barry has rediscovered his goalscoring form under boss Dave Challinor – and has 13 goals in 17 matches already.In 17 games Barry has scored 13 goals – making him League One’s top scorerCredit: AlamyBarry has since been linked with a move to several Championship clubsCredit: RexHe’s top of the goalscoring charts, as Stockport County chase promotion to the Championship.READ MORE SUN STORIESNaturally, that has seen the youngster linked with moves to Middlesbrough, Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday.With Barry finding his feet, it would be hard to imagine Villa will let this asset go now. More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Meet Enzo Fernandez’s reported new Wag, Argentinian rapper Nicki Nicole who dated a F1 star and is loved by Barack Obama

      by

      MEET stunning rapper Nicki Nicole, who has reportedly caught Enzo Fernandez’s eye.It has been claimed the Chelsea midfield ace is dating the Argentinian singer, 24, as per La Nacion.24-year-old rapper Nicki Nicole is reportedly dating Enzo FernandezCredit: INSTAGRAMArgentinian pop star Nicole has over 22 million Instagram followersCredit: INSTAGRAMNicole made a name for herself in the rap world in MC battles on the streets of RosarioCredit: INSTAGRAMThey are believed to have met each other at the end of October in a Buenos Aires nightclub called Moby Dick.That same month, Enzo’s ex-wife Valentina Cervantes, who is the mother of his two children, confirmed she had split from the Argentina World Cup winner.It is believed Fernandez split from Valentina before he began a relationship with Nicole.Enzo and Nicole were filmed talking to one another in a video that went viral on TikTok.Read more football news But who is the girl that is said to have stolen the Stamford Bridge star’s heart?Let SunSport fill you in on a Barack Obama-endorsed music artist, who also had a reported fling with an F1 racer.Breaking boundariesAt 17, Nicole engaged in MC battles in the shape of competitions held in public squares in Rosario, where there’s a huge appetite for rap.In one, she stood up to a male opponent who aimed a sexist jibe at her.Most read in FootballShe drew an applause and cheer from the crowd, and quickly realised it was a world for her.Chelsea player ratings vs Aston Villa article (1)Eager to begin her career in music, Nicole launched a YouTube channel and showcased her skills.Soon, she was writing her own tunes and putting them out for the world to see.As well as her sound, Nicole is completely unapologetic when it comes to her fierce look.She sports a neck tattoo that adds to her ferocity – especially as it features a naughty English phrase.“It says ‘bulls***’ in English,” she told The Guardian in an interview in 2020.“Bull. S***. Women in Argentina are told how to act, how they should dress.”As soon as I turned 18 I got this tattoo to say: ‘F*** that – I’ll do what I want.’”Nicole went viral when she shared her rap content on YouTubeCredit: INSTAGRAMRap star Nicole boasts several tattoos including a swear word on her neckCredit: INSTAGRAMNicole is unapologetic about who she is and has a fierce reputation in her homelandCredit: INSTAGRAMread more sport featuresFamous fanSince making it, Nicole has travelled around the world.In Spanish speaking countries, including the US, she has earned a huge fanbase among the Latin community.She was the first Argentinian pop star to perform on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.Then in 2022, she performed at the Coachella music festival in California.But perhaps the greatest compliment of all came from a former US president.When Barack Obama revealed his summer playlist in 2021, it included her track Ella no es tuya as one of his recommendations.In his 2021 summer playlist, Barack Obama included one of Nicole’s songsCredit: INSTAGRAMThe US has taken to Nicole who has appeared at Coachella music festival and on Jimmy Fallon’s chat showCredit: INSTAGRAMExesA month before she reportedly began a romance with Enzo, Nicole was sharing flirty messages with F1 ace Franco Colapinto, who has been seen on a date with Wanda Icardi’s love rival.When the Williams racer pulled a prank on a social media, Nicole replied before he told her he would message her privately.That was after a flurry of messages between each other – sparking rumours that they were more than friends.READ MORE SUN STORIESNicole also used to date Mexican rapper, Peso Pluma.However, she announced they went their separate ways, not long after they made their red carpet debut at the Latin Grammy Awards.Nicole was the former girlfriend of Mexican rapper Peso PlumaCredit: GettyF1 ace Franco Colapinto and Nicole also flirted with each other onlineCredit: Getty More

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Ruud van Nistelrooy’s life away from football including his beautiful wife, bitter feud and photo row

      by

      RUUD van Nisterlrooy has his work cut out as new Leicester boss.The Man Utd legend, 48, took over the reins from the sacked Steve Cooper, and watched his side’s 4-1 defeat to Brentford from the stands.Ruud van Nistelrooy has his work cut out as Leicester City bossCredit: GettyIn the past, van Nistelrooy has been well liked by his playersCredit: ANP via Getty ImagesFormer PSV star Ibrahim Sangare famously threw an almighty strop when he learned van Nistelrooy was leavingCredit: GETTYAway from football, the former Dutch striker has an intriguing life.He recently celebrated his 20-year wedding anniversary with long-time sweetheart, Leontien Slaats.While, a feud with a former player just won’t go away.SunSport delves into van Nistelrooy’s life.Read more football newsPlayer supportAlthough some Leicester players might have been surprised by Cooper’s firing, we bet none took it to the extreme of Ibrahim Sangare when he learned Van Nistelrooy was leaving PSV.The Ivorian was reportedly livid with the news, so much so he stormed out of the training ground and locked himself in his car.According to ESPN journalist Milan von Dongen: “They had to get him out of there to get him back.”He was furious about Van Nistelrooy’s departure. So there will also be talk within the group of players.”Most read in FootballVan Nistelrooy was a success at PSV. During his brief stint, he delivered the Dutch Cup and finished second in the league.Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureHowever, he stepped down from his position in 2023 for “lack of support”.A club statement read: “Van Nistelrooy told the first-team squad and coaching staff that he would be stepping down with immediate effect, due to a lack of support within the club.”PSV regrets his decision and is grateful to him for winning the Johan Cruijff Shield and the Dutch Cup, and hopes to finish the season in second place.”The Martin Keown effectFamously, ex-Arsenal defender Martin Keown and van Nistelrooy don’t see eye-to-eye.Ever since Keown jumped into the van Nistelrooy’s face, goading him after missing a penalty, their relationship hasn’t been one of exchanging Christmas cards.And the talkSPORT pundit recently opened up old wounds when he questioned if his old foe was doing enough to help Erik Ten Hag.Appearing on White and Jordan, he said: “I’m looking at Van Nistelrooy. Is he giving everything to this manager? This manager looks very lonely on the sideline.”Is Van Nistelrooy waiting to take over? Because it looks as if there’s going to be change taking place there.”Stirring the pot further, Keown added: “Is everyone adding to the group? I’m not seeing that from Van Nistelrooy. Ten Hag is just sitting there, nothing going on, no conversation.Van Nistelrooy has a long-running feud with ex-Arsenal defender Martin KeownCredit: PAUL BARKER/AFP/Getty ImagesKeown was vocal about van Nistelrooy’s support for sacked boss Erik Ten Hag”Pep goes back and speaks to the gurus next to him. Is everybody looking in the mirror at themselves giving their best?”Love of his lifeIn 2002, van Nistelrooy met the love of his life, Leontien Slaats.Two years later, they walked down the aisle in a private ceremony at the Heesch town hall in Oss, where he is from.The pair have two children together, Moa Annette, 18, and Liam, 16.However, the van Nistelrooys prefer to keep their family life private.Van Nistelrooy and Leontien do dedicate their time to charity work.In the past, they have worked with SOS Children’s Villages, an organisation dedicated to protecting children’s rights all across the globe.Van Nistelrooy married Leontien Slaats in 2004Credit: AFPread more sport featuresBlackface picWhen van Nistelrooy became Man Utd interim boss, van Nistelrooy quickly moved to delete an old picture on social media that saw him wearing ‘Blackface’.Taken in 2013, the picture showed Van Nistelrooy dressed up as King Balthazar at the Parade of the Three Kings in Marbella, Spain – wearing black make-up.He captioned the snap: “In hospital with presents for the young and old.”In Netherlands, the topic of blackface is seen as something as culturally different.It particularly comes up around the festive period when images of ‘Zwarte Pete’ – or Black Pete appear, who is a companion to St Nicholas, and is often shown with a blackface, curly wig, red lipstick, and colourful attire.In the 2004 Euros, some Dutch fans came under fire for dressing up as Ruud Gullit in the stands – with some painting their faces black.However, according to Humberto Tan, a member of the committee set up to combat racism in football, it was seen as a compliment by the Dutch legend.Humberto told De Telegraaf: “Ruud said when he saw it: ‘I actually feel quite honoured’, because it’s a reminder of one of the biggest prizes he won as a footballer.”Blackface is an unattractive phenomenon, but in this specific case, where it’s meant as a tribute, I think that’s how you should see it.”Van Nistelrooy dressed up as King Balthazar at the Parade of the Three Kings in Marbella, SpainCredit: GettyA person dressed as Zwarten Piet with blackface greets spectators at a Christmas eventManagement styleDuring a distinguished career, van Nistelrooy played under managers including Fabio Capello and Louis van Gaal, although he wasn’t fond of the latter.His favourite managers though, and the ones who got the best out of him were Sir Alex Ferguson and Sir Bobby Robson.It’s a management style van Nistelrooy might take a lot of influence from.Van Nistelrooy wrote in The Guardian: “As a player, the most important thing I took from working with Sir Bobby Robson and Sir Alex Ferguson was their relationships with the individual.”It’s not a football player; it’s a person. When you reach that connection, you get the best out of people – and from there on you can help them build their careers.READ MORE SUN STORIESVan Nistelrooy’s controversial appointmentBy Neil Custis, Football writerRUUD VAN NISTELROOY walking into the Leicester job must have managers further down the leagues tearing their hair out.This week at the Northwest Football Awards, for example, Dave Challinor of Stockport was named manager of the year ahead of Pep Guardiola.Now that may be because organisers felt he would probably turn up to get his gong, unlike Guardiola.Still, two promotions in 2½ years to lift the area’s poor relation from the National League to League One — where they sit fourth — is incredible.Yet that and a managerial background at Colwyn Bay, AFC Fylde and Hartlepool would sadly never put him on a Premier League club’s radar.Van Nistelrooy was on that radar at the Foxes in the summer after one season managing at PSV Eindhoven before they went for Steve Cooper.Now after a further four games as interim Manchester United boss and he is in at the King Power and Cooper is out.Big names excite fans and Van Nistelrooy has one, literally.But he also comes with a red flag or two…Van Nistelrooy praised Sir Alex Ferguson for his management styleCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd”I never let that thought go out of my mind.”Leicester will be hoping van Nistelrooy’s as successful as his former bosses. More

    • 188 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      How Curtis Jones has blossomed into one of England’s best midfielders under Liverpool boss Arne Slot

      by

      IT’S been a breakout season for Liverpool star Curtis Jones in more ways than one.On the pitch, he has excelled for the Reds – leading the Arne Slot revolution to put them firmly at the top of the Premier League.In-form Curtis Jones has been one of Europe’s most impressive midfielders this seasonCredit: PAJones’ brilliant form has coincided with the Reds star becoming a dadCredit: InstagramIn the Champions League clash against Real Madrid on Wednesday, Jones, 23, earned rave reviews for his all-action performance.Not only did he help his side to a 2-0 win, he kept Jude Bellingham in his pocket for 90 minutes.And now, an incredible stat has come to light that shows perhaps his greatest characteristic.The England prospect is his country’s leading passer of the ball – having completed a higher percentage of passes than his rivals.Read more football newsInterim England boss Lee Carsley said: “Curtis Jones would be up there with the most talented players I’ve worked with.””He’s got everything you need as a midfielder. He can run, very fast, powerful, can score, can assist, he can defend, he can take the ball. All he needs is opportunity.”New Liverpool boss Slot has also purred about Jones’ ability this campaign.The Dutchman told the BBC: “He has a lot of qualities on the ball.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”He is never afraid to do something special with it, but sometimes he touches the ball a bit too much in my opinion because he is so confident.”But confidence is an important tool. He has an incredibly hard work rate and we trust him in defence. He is complete.”For him now, it is all about consistency. The best players turn up every three days and that is what he has got to show.”How Liverpool outsmarted Chelsea with Slot’s genius ‘traffic jam’ trick and Curtis Jones masterclassJones’ upturn in form has coincided with a personal milestone – becoming a father for the first time, in what is turning out to be a memorable campaign.Class distributorIn November, Jones made his England debut under Lee Carsley – soon after he welcomed daughter Giselle with partner Saffie Khan.He made his bow against Greece a night to remember, scoring with an audacious backheel flick.A few weeks before that he dominated Chelsea – scoring the opener and winning a penalty in a man-of-the-match display.However, despite that swashbuckling display – it’s his passing that has been highlighted.According to WhoScored.com, he is flying high when it comes to pass success rate data.Astonishingly, Jones has completed 94.8 per cent of his passes this season – and ranks sixth out of all players in Europe’s top five leagues.Compared to established stars Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice, whose pass success rate is at 90.1 per cent and 89 per cent respectively, Jones is out on top among his Three Lions competitors.Even the likes of pass masters Martin Odegaard (85.9 per cent) and Bruno Fernandes (81.5 per cent) are trailing in his wake in the Premier League.Jones scored on his England debut against Greece and was a standout performerCredit: GettyBut it’s his passing that is proving to be Jones’ best weaponCredit: AlamyJones has a higher passing completion rate than any other England midfieldersCredit: GettyLiverpool legend Steven Gerrard believes there’s still more to come from Jones, who has found a new lease of life under Slot.”Rafa [Benitez] had to grab me to take me to another level, and the exciting thing for me looking in is that Arne seems the man who can really get Curtis to the next level,” Gerrard said.”If he [Slot] can get him there we will have a top, top international player on our hands. I am really excited to see his next 18 months and beyond.”Before he burst onto the sceneJones’ recent success is no surprise to those who tipped him for the top as he came through Liverpool’s youth ranks.He joined the club with the Under-9s and progressed quickly, making his U18s debut as an U16 player in the 2016-17 season, and went on to captain both the U19s and U23s.Jones was born in the city centre, and honed his skills on the street. He’s a local boy and received as one of their own.“At the top of my street, there’s a primary school,” he told The Independent.”In the evenings, we’d climb over the fence and play on their pitch or take one of the goals and just play in the street all night – we’d always put it back afterwards though.“I grew up the way a lot of Scousers do, just being a street kid, not having the best facilities, and making the most out of everything you can.”Man City’s Phil Foden battles for the ball with Jones during a 2017 FA Youth Cup gameCredit: PAUnder Liverpool boss Arne Slot, Jones’ game has continued to blossomCredit: APIn 2017, Jones became one of the most talked about youngsters in English football, when he led Liverpool to the quarter-finals of the Uefa Youth League with four goals.They went out to Manchester City, with Jones being one of the Liverpool players to have their penalties saved in the 3-2 shootout.Despite that upset, it helped cement his reputation as one of the most promising players of his generation.Stevie G influenceFormer Under-23s manager Michael Beale described Jones as a player “who can outplay you one-on-one, can play centre midfield, play wide and as a deep midfielder”.However, it was icon Gerrard who had a huge influence on the youngster when he was aspiring to make the grade at Anfield.Before the now Al-Ettifaq gaffer took up a post as Rangers manager, he enjoyed a stint with Liverpool’s U18 team in 2017.There, he got to work with Jones who admitted he wouldn’t be where he is today without Gerrard’s help.Steven Gerrard has a huge influence on Jones when the Reds legend coached the U18sCredit: Getty – ContributorSince breaking into the team in 2019, Jones has made himself a mainstayCredit: PA“A lot of people didn’t see the work both of us put in to push me on to get into the first team,” Jones said.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Things weren’t always easy, but he was the perfect person at the perfect time to help me.”He was the main coach who really told me what I had to work on. It was my all-round game, but also my all-round person. He knew the talent I had and put the fine details to me.” More

    • 250 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      How Gary Lineker’s podcast empire’s taking over the world as Goalhanger tops the charts with four most popular UK shows

      by

      GARY Lineker may be giving up Match of the Day – but he is more than sorted with his podcast empire.Earlier this month, the England legend, 63, announced he was quitting the show after 25 years as host.Gary Lineker is conquering the podcast world on and off airCredit: The Rest is football podcastGary Lineker will step down from his Match of The Day job at the end of the seasonCredit: BBCA new four-year deal with the BBC to show Premier League highlights begins from next season.”I feel this is now the right time,” Lineker revealed.”I think [with] the next [highlights] contract, they’re looking to do Match of the Day slightly differently, so I think it makes sense for someone else to take the helm.”He later said on his The Rest Is Football podcast: “I always thought my next thing would be the end. I’ve been thinking about it for a long time. I’ve done Match of Day for 25 years. It’s been an absolute joy and a privilege to present such an iconic show for the BBC.read. more football news”But all things have to come to an end.”Lineker is far from done, though.Despite walking away from a £1.35million-per-year pay day with the Beeb, he will still rake it in – thanks to his company, Goalhanger Podcasts.They produce 13 podcasts in total, encompassing the worlds of politics, history, entertainment, and football.Most read in FootballAstonishingly, they collectively achieve more than 40million downloads a month.Watch Alan Shearer’s cheeky pitch to be new Match of the Day host in first show since Gary Lineker exit confirmedBetter still, a look at the British podcast charts – via Podwatch, who get their data from iTunes and Spotify – reveals that Goalhanger Podcasts occupy the top four spots in the UK.Their latest hit, spy story The Rest Is Classified, has jumped straight to the top of the charts.While, the Rest Is History, The Rest Is Politics and The Rest Is Entertainment, in that order, make up the top four.Incredibly, The Rest Is Football props up the No8 spot – making Goalhanger Podcasts the biggest independent podcast group and the largest outside the United States.Thinking aheadIn 2014, Lineker and business partner Tony Pastor set up Goalhanger Films Ltd.Originally, they set it up to produce documentaries, and they did it well.Football, Prince William and Our Mental Health was taken by the BBC, while Keane & Vieira – Best of Enemies appeared on ITV.However, earlier this month Pastor revealed that they focusing their attentions on podcasts.Therefore, Goalhanger Films Ltd was closing.“We effectively mothballed Films and set up a bespoke company concentrating on podcasts,” he told Deadline.Jack Davenport, Gary Lineker and Tony Pastor set up Goalhanger Podcasts in 2018Credit: GoalhangerBeforehand, Pastor and Lineker had a film company that produced documentaries, including a film on Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane’s rivalryCredit: ITVread more sport features“There was a period in which I ran them in tandem, but the growth of podcasts was so explosive and television is challenged, so we’ve now done some housekeeping.”He added: “We’ve gone from a production company being entirely beholden to commissioners and the budgets of broadcasters to having a degree of self-control, whereby we are self-commissioning.”Stellar cast listGoalhanger’s podcasts, which began to take shape in 2018 with former radio exec Jack Davenport joining the party, bring together stellar hosts.Although sports readers will be familiar with Lineker, Micah Richards and Alan Shearer on The Rest Is Football, it’s The Rest Is History that draws Hollywood movie stars in as guests.Hosted by Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook, both popular historians and bestselling authors, the subjects of their podcasts are varied.One six-part series was produced to debunk Hollywood’s story-telling of the sinking of The Titanic.While another saw Oscar-winner Tom Hanks offer his views on NASA’s lunar missions.The Rest Is Politics features ex-New Labour spin doctor Alastair Campbell and former Conservative minister Rory Stewart.Last year, The Rest Is Entertainment was launched, featuring Pointless star Richard Osman and journalist Marina Hyde, where they discuss contemporary entertainment stories, in the world of film, television, stage, books and more.Goalhanger produced The Rest Is History is the most popular podcast in the UKCredit: The Rest Is HistoryThe Rest is Entertainment, launched in 2023, features Richard Osman and Marina HydeCredit: The Rest is EntertainmentTom Holland, left, and Dominic Sandbrook, right, had Tom Hanks on an episode of The Rest Is HistoryIt’s a formula that works, and can keep Lineker earning well after he’s left the MOTD hotseat.Nice pay dayDue to the astronomical figures of downloads that Goalhanger podcasts receive, they will certainly generate a lot of cash.While the podcasts also appear on YouTube, where the content has been viewed more than 80million times so far.According to reports, Goalhanger are paid £45 by advertisers for every 1,000 listens to an advert.It is believed that during the Euros this summer, Lineker made an additional £125,000, alongside his BBC duties at the tournament.Incredibly, one episode of The Rest Is Football was viewed over 530,000 times on YouTube.The Rest Is History, their regular best seller, generates 11 million downloads per month, alongside 1.2 million YouTube views, and 45,000 subscribers – paying up to £25-per-month.It has been estimated that show makes as much as £500,000-per-month for spoken ads from its presenters.Who could replace Gary Lineker as MOTD host?GARY LINEKER dropped the shock news that he is QUITTING Match of the Day.The popular presenter, 63, took over hosting duties on the flagship BBC programme from Des Lynam in 1999.But after more than 25 years in the studio hotseat, he has called time on his MOTD gig.But as part of a huge shake-up, the BBC is considering rotating the presenters on a weekly basis.So with Lineker vacating the chair, new names will step into his giant boots. But who could they be?MARK CHAPMANChapman, 51, is the obvious early favourite to follow on from Lineker as MOTD presenter.He already has the gig as MOTD2 host on a Sunday night plus landed the presenting job for the new BBC Champions League highlights show.ALEX SCOTTScott gets the nod from the Beeb bosses when Lineker is away.The former right-back, 40, is used to presenting the Saturday night show as well as live match coverage – plus ticks the box as a former England international.GABBY LOGANLike Scott, Logan, 51, is one of the understudies to step in when Lineker is not available.She has done most gigs since joining the BBC in 2007, including Olympics, Sports Personality of the Year and Final Score.MICAH RICHARDSLineker’s top pick to replace him is exuberant former Man City defender Richards.The departing host told his close pal, 36, on their Stick to Football podcast: “I’d love to see you take over Micah, I think you’d be brilliant in the chair.”JASON MOHAMMADMohammad could earn the “promotion” from Final Score to Match of the Day.The 51-year-old Welshman – who took over from Logan in 2013 – is one of the BBC’s top earners already and is more senior than fellow Final Score and BBC Sport broadcaster Kelly Somers, who could in theory become the main live host for the afternoon slot.JEFF STELLINGHe couldn’t, could he? While Lineker has been the face of Saturday night TV for football fans for years, the face of the afternoons was Stelling in his role as Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday presenter.He would bring plenty of on-screen charisma, wit and legendary TV expertise – but at nearly 70 and currently with talkSPORT, the Hartlepool fan would not be a cheap or long-term appointment.Gary Lineker and Micah Richards appear on The Rest Is FootballCredit: The Rest Is FootbalDuring election years in the UK and US, The Rest is Politics thrived with hosts Alastair Campbell and Rory StewartCredit: The Rest is PoliticsThis year, The Rest Is Politics podcast has become the most popular on our shores, drawing 700,000 downloads per episode during election years in both the UK and US.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile Lineker is not a director of Goalhanger Podcasts, he is its largest shareholder – owning 50 of its 150 shares.Forget TV, the ex-Three Lions ace has found a new lease of life – and it should be lucrative for years to come. More