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      in Soccer

      Biggest feet in football from Ibrahimovic’s size 12s to Maguire and his gigantic boots with Arsenal Invincible top dog

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      FOOTBALL players and fans alike are obsessed with the boots worn on the field.From Jack Grealish’s record-breaking boot sponsorship deal with Puma to the arms race between Nike and Adidas that has spanned decades, football boots are no laughing matter.
      The global football boot industry is estimated to be worth nearly £20billion by 2028Credit: Getty – Contributor
      Jack Grealish signed a record breaking boot deal with Puma earlier this yearCredit: Puma
      Juan Mata poked fun at a former Man Utd team-mates gargantuan bootsCredit: Instagram
      In fact, it is estimated the global industry for football boots will be worth almost £20billion by 2028, with each year seeing an average market growth of 5.4 per cent from 2022.
      There are all type of boots from hard ground to artificial turf as well as no end to variations in style.
      Weight is also a huge factor for many elite athletes who try to maximise marginal gains. So what about the size of the boot itself?
      Some of the world’s best players such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are famous cases of using small boots, with Ronaldo going for a fit SMALLER than his actual foot size.
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      Liverpool star Dominik Szoboszlai revealed how his dad made him wear smaller boots to stop his feet from growing in an effort to mould them into the perfect shape.
      However, what about the top end of the scale?
      You may expect a behemoth such as Erling Haaland to feature on a list of footballers with the largest size feet, but you will be shocked to learn he only uses a 9.5 size boot.
      Fear not though, for we have compiled a list of football stars with some of the largest boot sizes in the world.
      Most read in Football
      Paul Pogba – size 10.5
      Paul Pogba often used his size 10.5 boots as a reflection of his playstyleCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Former Manchester United star Paul Pogba stands at 6ft 3″ tall and wears a size 10.5 Adidas boot. He was always something of a showman when it came to his boots.
      In 2017 he was seen wearing a boot with his face stitched on, while his 2022/23 boots after returning to Juventus featured a stunning blue and pink design.
      Thibaut Courtois – size 11
      Thibaut Courtois is often seen making stunning saves with his size 11 bootsCredit: The Times
      It should be no surprise to see a goalkeeper on this list and ex-Chelsea Thibaut Courtois is a prime example.
      On more than occasion his size 11 boots have saved Real Madrid from conceding, with a notable performance in the 2022 Champions League final against Liverpool coming to mind.
      Sol Campbell is another star who possibly wore size 11 boots after donating a pair of his size 11 Puma boots to the Small Steps Project.
      However, according to The Independent Campbell was brought a size 14 pair of trainers by a senior conservative aide while he was visiting a constituency for the party in 2015.
      Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Peter Crouch, Virgil van Dijk and Fraser Forster – size 12
      Zlatan Ibrahimovic was always a star who used acrobatic flicks to his advantageCredit: AFP or licensors
      Peter Crouch’s long frame managed to get him a number of goalsCredit: —
      There are a number of high profile footballers past and present who have worn size 12.
      It is not that surprising either considering each of these stars would not look out of place in the NBA.
      Standing between 6ft 4″ and 6ft 7″, these stars have all used height as a deadly weapon for their teams.
      Martial arts expert Zlatan Ibrahimovic was never one to shy away from an acrobatic goal, while Peter Crouch had a knack for getting his toe to the ball.
      READ SPORT FEATURES
      Virgil van Dijk established himself as one of the Premier League’s best defenders with a cultured ball-playing ability and defensive prowess boosted by his physicality.
      Messi praised Fraser Forster as having “the best goalkeeping performance I have seen” against him when Barcelona lost to Celtic in 2012, with the Tottenham reserve making 13 saves in that game.
      Manuel Neuer – size 12.5
      Manuel Neuer pioneered the modern style of goalkeepingCredit: AFP
      A player who pioneered the position of goalkeeper as we know it today, Bayern Munich star Manuel Neuer is the first name that comes for mind when saying the term sweeper-keeper.
      Cool as a cucumber playing out from the back and equally adept at shot-stopping, the German was helped in his acts by his huge frame underpinned by size 12.5 boots.
      Harry Maguire – size 13
      Harry Maguire wears size 13 bootsCredit: Getty
      Harry Maguire will be hoping to book a spot at Euro 2024 amid his struggles in the last couple of seasons at Man Utd.
      To do that he will need to ensure his size 13 boots are getting action on the pitch.
      Romelu Lukaku – size 13.5
      Romelu Lukaku was mocked by Man Utd team-mates for his size 13.5 bootsCredit: Rex
      Romelu Lukaku came in to replace Ibrahimovic at Man Utd and had no problem filling the Swede’s boots in his first season, considering his feet are a full size-and-a-half larger.
      While the size 13.5 boots have helped the Belgian’s keen eye for goal, it was also the butt of a few jokes with team-mates, with Juan Mata sharing a picture with the boots comically misplaced on his own feet.
      Nwankwo Kanu – size 15
      Arsenal Invincible Nwankwo Kanu wore size 15 bootsCredit: Getty
      But it did not stop him getting a reputation for having excellent ball controlCredit: PA
      But none of the previous names come close to the king of the football boot world – Arsenal Invincible Nwankwo Kanu – who wore a stunning size 15.
      The Nigerian forward starred for Arsenal in both their 2002 and 2004 title winning sides, scoring 44 goals across five and a half seasons with the Gunners.
      Read More on The Sun
      And the size of his feet did not stop him from possessing silky ball control.
      Former team-mate Lee Dixon told The Athletic on Kanu: “He’d just control the whole training session. You literally couldn’t get the ball off him.” More

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      in Soccer

      I earned £6,500 a week at just 13 and should have won the Ballon d’Or but women, cars and drugs wrecked my career

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      FABIO PAIM is the ultimate story of a football career ruined by money.The child prodigy left his four younger siblings and mother aged eight to live at the Sporting academy.
      Fabio Paim was on £10,000 per week plus a £130,000 annual bonus when on loan at Chelsea aged 20Credit: Chelsea FC – Getty
      The footballer’s career was ruined by fame and money at such a young age
      He was so good that the club paid him £4,400 per week when he was just 13, plus a staggering £130,000 annual bonus. 
      That weekly wage increased through his teenage years to £5,000, £6,000 and £8,000 before he joined Chelsea on loan aged 20 earning £10,000 per week as well as that mammoth bumper pay packet. 
      Many believed Paim would become one of if not the best players to ever grace a football field, including the man himself and his childhood friend Cristiano Ronaldo.
      Ronaldo famously said upon joining Manchester United in 2003: “If you think I’m good, wait until you see Fabio Paim.”
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      But these days, Paim’s tale is one of regrets and mistakes and the sad narrative of someone who failed to realise his potential.
      Asked if he could have won Ballons d’Or, Champions League and even the World Cup for Portugal, Paim told SunSport: “Yes. I believe so. Cristiano did and I could too.
      “Until today, there has been no one like me that young. 
      “At that time I was better than Cristiano. 
      Most read in Football
      “I didn’t work the same as them [Ronaldo and Lionel Messi].
      “I started earning lots of money and had fame way earlier. That led me to a different path, that’s why I’m not among them and I don’t deserve it.
      “I was born with talent. As I was earning lots of money, I got the illusion I didn’t need the effort.
      “When I was 13, my monthly wage was €19,000 plus a €150,000 bonus per year. It was always going up. It was too fast. 
      “I always looked after my family because I had the biggest income at home by 12. My mother was a domestic worker in other people’s houses.
      “I could spend the money on my stuff and even when I was doing wrong, I was never called to attention. 
      “No one said anything because I was so good. Sporting wanted me to play so they let me do whatever I wanted as long as I kept playing at that level.”
      Paim, who actually dreamed of being a pop star, embraced his fame at an early age and dived headfirst into an indulgent lifestyle of partying, women and cars.
      DRIVEN TO DESTRUCTION
      He bought his first motor, a high-end convertible Mercedes, before obtaining a driving licence and owned a whole fleet of supercars… and a Fiat Punto. 
      But now as drives his BMW around the Algarve, he recognises his spending was reckless because he wasn’t taught how to budget his finances wisely. 
      Paim added: “To be honest, I regret some of the choices I’ve made.
      “I believe I should have been taught better because I was earning a lot of money and didn’t know how to deal with that.
      “I wanted everything at the same time. I shouldn’t have rushed things. I should have been more humble and paid attention to what people were telling me.
      “I liked a lot of things, things I couldn’t have as a child. But I was also robbed and people took advantage of me several times. People in the bank, the guy that sold me the cars. 

      “I bought all kinds of cars. Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Porsches, Audis because it was my dream as a child and I had no one telling me it wasn’t right. 
      “The worst investment you can make is cars. But my head couldn’t think that way and no one taught me better.
      Many tipped the talented youngster to win countless trophies and awardsCredit: Fabio Paim
      Paim left home aged eight to live at the Sporting academyCredit: Fabio Paim
      His mother cleaned other people’s houses while Fabio and his siblings were growing upCredit: Fabio Paim
      By the age of 12, Paim was the biggest earner in his familyCredit: Fabio Paim
      After a difficult childhood, he could not resist treating himself to flash carsCredit: Fabio Paim
      “I started drinking when I was 18 or 19 then started going to parties. It became a routine, more partying, more and more things. I got to know a different lifestyle. 
      “As a footballer, I performed the same. I was scoring, playing well in games but after that, I was partying and making bad decisions.”
      Despite his immense potential, Paim never broke into the Sporting first team and joined a host of other Portuguese players at Chelsea with a season-long loan in 2008-09.
      The lack of Premier League 2 in those days, though, meant he did not play regular matches under reserve team managers Brendan Rodgers or Paul Clement.
      After another two loans in the 2009-10 season, Paim was released by Sporting in 2010, embarking on a career that took him around the world simply chasing more money to fuel his expensive, lavish lifestyle. 
      But he got a major wake-up call when, in 2019, he was arrested and put in prison for a year on suspicion of drug trafficking. 
      Paim was acquitted when the case collapsed then had a brief stint in Poland’s third tier before realising he must use his experiences to help others.
      The ex-winger, therefore, now travels around Portugal visiting schools, universities and football clubs giving talks and presentations.
      The message is close to home, too, with his 11-year-old son Jaden now in the Sporting academy. 
      Parents don’t want their kids to end up like meFabio Paim
      He added: “I feel it’s mandatory for me to give back to the kids and teach them what I didn’t have anyone to teach me because I can’t give the gift or talent I was born with to anyone. I can’t teach that. 
      “But if I can teach what I have learnt from my experience and what I see has changed in football because of me and because of my story that will be enough for me.
      “Although I don’t have money now, I use myself as an example so they can avoid the mistakes I made in getting overwhelmed by money and fame.
      “The parents don’t want their kids to end up like me.
      “Not everybody is going to be like Cristiano but if they choose the right path, they have better chances to become football players.
      “My son has a dream like all other kids have to be a big player but most important for me without any pressure is that he’s happy. 
      “If he can be half the player I was, the family will be more than happy!”
      But Paim, despite his rollercoaster journey, lacks sympathy for those who still repeat his mistakes.
      Sat in his barber’s chair getting his biweekly trim, he concluded: “Now it doesn’t get me so upset.
      Read More on The Sun
      “Those mistakes are only going to happen if they want to because they have loads of information. 
      “In my time it wasn’t that way. So it’s like a choice to them. If that happens, it’s their fault.”
      The owner of Paim’s barbershop is a Lionel Messi fanCredit: SunSport
      The former star needed better financial education when he burst throughCredit: SunSport
      Paim now drives a relatively-modest BMW after Lamborghinis and Ferraris in the pastCredit: SunSport
      Paim does not want other young footballers to make the same mistakes as himCredit: Fabio Paim
      The star got involved in a lavish life of alcohol, parting and big spendingCredit: Getty
      Paim spent 12 months behind bars after his arrest on suspicion of drug traffickingCredit: Fabio Paim
      Paim still has a special bond with his mother, who he describes as his ‘best friend’Credit: Fabio Paim
      Ronaldo has collected five Ballons d’Or but Paim thinks he was good enough to win oneCredit: AFP or licensors
      Brendan Rodgers was Chelsea reserves boss when Paim arrived on loan in 2008Credit: Getty – Contributor More

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      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo said I was the only player better than him but I ended up watching him train through my prison window

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      FABIO PAIM was supposed to become the best footballer in the world.He is the only player Cristiano Ronaldo has publicly stated is better than him.
      Fabio Paim broke down in tears as he remembered going to prisonCredit: SunSport
      Cristiano Ronaldo’s hard work and determination saw him rise to the topCredit: AFP
      Paim spent 12 months behind bars after his arrest on suspicion of drug traffickingCredit: Fabio Paim
      Portugal train at their Cidade do Futebol base – just across the road from Paim’s prison
      And he earned an incredible £327,000 aged just 13 as fans and players travelled across Portugal to watch him.
      But while his childhood friend became one of football’s GOATs, Paim’s career spiralled into obscurity due to the fame, money and partying lifestyle.
      Then it hit rock bottom when Paim spent a year in the infamous Caxias prison and literally watched Ronaldo training with Portugal through the window. 
      The winger was snapped up by Sporting’s academy at eight, leaving home to live in Lisbon and the hype quickly gained momentum.
      READ MORE ON RONALDO
      Paim’s scintillating talent seemed destined to propel him to greatness – and exceed fellow Sporting academy prodigy Ronaldo who is three years older. 
      So much so that when Ronaldo signed for Manchester United in 2003, he said: “If you think I’m good, wait until you see Fabio Paim.”
      But just how good was Paim? And was he really better than Ronaldo?
      Speaking to SunSport where he resides in the Algarve, Paim said: “I was really special. I must be humble but this is the truth.
      Most read in Football
      “Unfortunately back then there was not Instagram or Facebook, nothing was recorded like nowadays but I strongly and honestly believe that until today there was no other like me with the same quality I had.
      “Cristiano, for all his effort and hard work, went to a level he deserves. 
      “But when I was playing, if I had the same effort and commitment, I would be better than him.
      “If I speak about technique, I was better. I was a small Ronaldinho. But as we can see, it’s not the technique that leads us to wherever.
      “But yes at that time I was better than Cristiano. I believe he should give me one of his Ballons d’Or!” 
      Asked if technically he would have been the world’s best and won the Ballon d’Or, Paim replied: “Yes, no doubt.”
      Ronaldo amassed countless trophies, including leading Portugal to Euro 2016 glory, but Paim did not fulfil his dream of making a single competitive first-team appearance for Sporting. 
      The Portuguese youth international joined Chelsea on loan in 2008. 
      While compatriots including Deco and Ricardo Carvalho were first-team stars, the then-20-year-old lived alone and “didn’t enjoy” his year in London despite earning nearly £50,000 per month plus Sporting’s £130,000 annual bonus in Brendan Rodgers and Paul Clement’s reserves. 
      FABIO’S FALL FROM FOOTBALL
      Paim admitted he was “overwhelmed” by money and fame as he splashed his incredible wealth on cars, women, alcohol and partying because he was never taught how to use his cash wisely. 
      He retired “mentally” at 22 while with Portuguese minnows Real Massama but continued a journeyman career in China, Angola, Lithuania, Qatar, Malta and Brazil, simply to fund his lavish lifestyle.
      Paim, whose mother was a domestic worker, explained: “Unfortunately for me, I was born with talent.
      “As I was earning lots of money, I got the illusion I didn’t need the effort. It is impossible for a person like me to be a millionaire. 
      “I regret some of my choices. Now I’m at a different age so can see the picture differently. 
      “The talent was there but my mind wasn’t. My head was on women and partying, everywhere else apart from football.
      “I played some matches but my body was not in its best shape and didn’t respond to what people were demanding from me because if I could, I would have been at Barcelona or Real Madrid.”
      But in 2019, Paim’s life took its worst turn when he was arrested for being in possession of 5g of cocaine. 
      He was held in a cell for a year a stone’s throw from the Portuguese FA’s Cidade do Futebol HQ on suspicion of drug trafficking before being acquitted when the case collapsed. 
      The prison is a former fort more than 150 years old, and the cells are notoriously dark, wet and airless.
      It was, though, a transformative time for the dad-of-two, who realised the damage his mistakes had on his family and saw first-hand how differently his life could have played out instead.
      Paim sat down with SunSport overlooking Vilamoura MarinaCredit: SunSport
      Fabio Paim had the talent to become the best footballer on the planetCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Ronaldo captained Portugal as they were crowned Euro 2016 championsCredit: AP:Associated Press
      The jail Paim was held in overlooked the training pitchesCredit: Google
      Paim, whose last club was Polish third-tier team LZS Starowice in late 2020, said: “The prison I was in is next to the field where the Portugal national team performs so I could watch them training every day for the Euro 2020 qualifiers.
      “I was there for a reason and I never thought, ‘Ah, Cristiano is there. I should be there too.’”
      An emotional Paim wiped away tears as he added: “Prison was really hard and difficult for me and my family. But it was good for me. 
      “I learned what comes easy is not good for you. And I couldn’t have that lifestyle anymore so I need to work and have dignity.
      “My life is calmer now. I’m sure I will make some more mistakes because I am human.
      “Prison was not a place for a boy like me. 
      “I don’t want anyone to feel sorry for me. It was my choice, it was my mistake. But I needed the comfort and support that only family can give you.
      “Family is the most important thing.  
      When I had the fame, money and parties, I thought that was happiness… now I am happier with lessFabio Paim
      “I had to be honest with my children. I just asked them to be there for me, to visit me.
      “My mother was always my big support and she still is.
      “What hurts me so much is how much I have hurt them with my errors because they didn’t deserve that. I did too much to them. I apologise for being emotional – I can’t help it.”
      Fabio Paim appeared to have the perfect life and the world at his feet as a teenager, literally, with either a football or a dancefloor or the pedal of a Lamborghini or Ferrari. 
      But ironically with all that gone, the flamboyant, larger-than-life character insists he is happier now. 
      Overlooking Vilamoura Marina, where he is often stopped by adoring locals, Paim reflected: “When I had the fame, the money, the parties, I thought that was happiness. 
      Read More on The Sun
      “But I didn’t know what happiness meant. I had the money but I didn’t know what it was to eat good food and travel.
      “Nowadays, I know what it is to be happy and I am happier with less.”
      Paim struggled to contain his emotion as he discussed the impact of his mistakes on his familyCredit: SunSport
      Paim was paid huge sums of money as a youngster but never made a competitive first-team appearance for SportingCredit: Fabio Paim
      Brendan Rodgers was the reserve-team boss when Paim was at ChelseaCredit: PA:Press Association
      Paim played in the Portugal youth teams but never earned a senior capCredit: Fabio Paim
      Paim is the oldest sibling and was the family’s biggest earner by 12Credit: Fabio Paim
      The ‘special’ talent was picked up by Sporting aged eightCredit: Fabio Paim
      The prodigy enjoyed waterskiing during his teenage yearsCredit: Fabio Paim
      The young prodigy was never taught how to handle money wellCredit: Fabio Paim
      The tricky winger dubbed himself a ‘small Ronaldinho’Credit: Fabio Paim
      Paim spent the 2008-09 season on loan with ChelseaCredit: Chelsea FC – Getty
      He still has a special bond with his motherCredit: Fabio Paim More

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      in Soccer

      I’m an ex-Premier League star – now I own a luxury holiday resort in a tropical jungle with my former MTV presenter wife

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      ANDY HUNT has swapped scoring goals for swimming pools after a dramatic career change.The former Newcastle striker may have been forced to retire aged just 30 after being diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome. 
      Andy Hunt andhis wife Simone moved to BelizeCredit: Instagram / @simoneangel_mtv
      They run the Belize Jungle Dome in the tropical rainforestCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The luxury complex is complete with a swimming poolCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      But he is certainly living his best life as he runs a luxury holiday resort in the Belize tropical jungle with his former MTV presenter wife.
      Andy and Simone swapped South London for Belize in 2001, months after Hunt’s final game for Charlton.
      They sold their Greenwich home and purchased a property – then in 2005 decided to open the Belize Jungle Dome to the public.
      Now more than 20 years from first touching down on that first visit, the couple are still based in Central America, more than 5,200 miles from Hunt’s Essex hometown of West Thurrock and where temperatures average mid-20s all year round.
      READ MORE ON FOOTBALL
      The ex-forward said: “I’d had enough of football and to be honest I’d had enough of the British weather.
      “Me and my girlfriend at the time started looking around and we really liked Belize.
      “We visited the country and spent some time there. We found a property, bought it, sold the house in England and came out.
      “We decided to set up our own business over here in 2005.
      Most read in Football
      “It’s the most idyllic place and tourists can come out here and explore the ancient mines and the caves.
      “There’s horseback riding, zip-lining along with waterfalls and wildlife rehabilitation centres.
      “On the coast there are so many beautiful islands where you can go scuba diving and snorkelling.
      “We bought a big property, which we turned into rooms, we also built a four-bedroom villa next to it then another three-bedroom place next to that, as well as three acres of land.
      “It’s going great.
      “Our lodge is about an hour and a half inland, so we organise things for tourists and we take them here, there and everywhere.”
      The Hunts’ stunning complex is described as a “true tropical paradise” for couples, families and individuals alike – and promises the holiday of a lifetime. 
      Guests can make the most of the stunning tree-top cafe, beautiful swimming pool, river-side BBQs, football facilities and even a nearby zoo before retreating to their colourful rooms.
      The bedrooms are bright and full of colourCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Visitors can stay for up to 14 daysCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The patio terrace provides the perfect escapeCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Ingredients are grown in the garden on site for the restaurantCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      And the in-house chef rustles up plenty of gorgeous dishes, including a host of local Belizean dishes using ingredients grown in the on-site garden. 
      The hotel also has links with local companies that provide tours and day trips, including along the Belize River through the rainforest. 
      Prices for an all-inclusive package range from £736pp for a three-night stay to a whopping £3,325pp for the 14-night reefs and rainforest trip. 
      But visitors are clearly delighted with the Belize Jungle Dome, with the Hunts’ holiday resort earning rave reviews on Tripadvisor.
      It is ranked the No1 B&B in Belmopan, with a stunning five-star rating from 339 reviews. 
      One guest said: “Our stay at the Jungle Dome was absolutely fabulous. Simone and Andy are simply the best hosts. The riverside location also offers a substantial-sized pool and an immersive experience of nature at its finest.”
      Another commented: “Everything about the stay was perfect. They always made sure we had everything we needed. I have travelled extensively around the world and have rarely been treated so well.”
      And a third added: “We could not have been more pleased with the whole experience! Truly, staying here, is like visiting the friends in Belize that you didn’t know you had.”
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      It really has been a whirlwind journey for Andy and Simone and their two sons Lucas and Aidan – but one that the family have learnt to embrace. 
      Writing on their hotel website, the Dutch former TV host said: “We often get asked, ‘How did a professional footballer player and a former MTV VJ end up owning a jungle lodge in Belize?’
      “Well, it wasn’t a conscious plan, we were simply looking for an adventure. So in 2001 we moved to the tropics without knowing what we were going to do once we got there. 
      “For a while we soaked up the sun, developed our property and did a lot of soul-searching and head-scratching. 
      “Then Andy came with the idea of turning the Dome into a small resort. 
      “I thought that sharing our personal space with strangers was a terrible idea. But, as in all things, I have learned to trust my crazy husband and so went with it.
      “It turned out that his vision was a great one! Instead of ‘strangers’ invading our space, our guests became friends. 
      “It felt like being visited by family we never knew we had. Our staff become family too, and it is a continued pleasure working alongside them.”
      The site attracts plenty of visitors, especially from the USA and CanadaCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      It is a beautiful complex bursting with natureCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The bathrooms give guests the perfect place to freshen upCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Andy and Simone married in 2005Credit: Andy Hunt
      She worked as a broadcaster with MTVCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      Hunt retired aged 30 after his chronic fatigue syndrome diagnosisCredit: Twitter @WBA
      But despite seemingly living the dream in Belize, Hunt joked there is one main problem of swapping England for the Belizean jungle.
      He said: “I spend a lot of my time repairing my cars because the roads aren’t great over here!”
      But despite scoring ten goals in 42 Premier League appearances, the major transfer into running a holiday resort did not come completely out of the blue for Hunt.
      While playing in non-league at King’s Lynn and Kettering Town, he studied a business and tourism management course.
      The striker signed for the Magpies in 1991, playing under Jim Smith, Ossie Ardiles and Kevin Keegan in two years before joining West Brom, initially on loan as he scored a hat-trick on his home debut against Aston Villa.
      Hunt made the switch permanent and chipped in with 67 goals in 202 games before finishing his playing career at Charlton.
      The Addicks suffered relegation in his first season but helped them go straight back up in 1999-2000.
      Hunt started the next season with four goals before the end of September – but then had to step away amid his health struggles.
      Read More on The Sun
      Simone, meanwhile, moved from the Netherlands to London aged 18 as she became the youngest video jockey at MTV Europe. 
      On top of her broadcast career, she even released four of her own singles and was a judge on German TV show Popstars – but left it all behind when she traded pop songs for birdsongs. 
      The lodge is located beside the Belize RiverCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      Temperatures average in the mid-20s throughout the yearCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Visitors can expect a warm welcome from the hostsCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The Belize Jungle Dome has stunning five-star reviews onlineCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The all-inclusive three-night packages start from £736ppCredit: https://www.belizejungledome.com/photo_gallery.html
      It is the ideal getaway for individuals, couples and families alikeCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      The Hunts bought the property before opening it up to the publicCredit: Belize Jungle Dome
      Hunt spent five years at The Hawthorns with West BromCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      He helped fire Charlton back into the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      in Boxing

      I’m a ring girl but don’t mind getting punched in the face, says Carla Jade after her Misfits boxing debut

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      BEAUTIFUL Carla Jade is used to turning heads as a ring girl.Now she has fans sitting up and paying attention to her boxing skills.
      Beautiful Carla Jade is now turning heads as a boxerCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Jade has starred as a ring girl at Misfit Boxing and Bare Knuckle Championship eventsCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Jade celebrates victory over Tash Kiran of Ibiza Weekender fameCredit: Instagram @misfitsboxing
      The glam 33-year-old is a regular on the circuit, often showing off her enviable figure at a Misfits Boxing and Bare Knuckle Championship events.
      While she also runs her own stable of promo models with her own agency ‘Finesse Ring Girls.’
      Last month, Carla made her long-awaited Misfits Boxing debut – defeating Tasha Kiran of Ibiza Weekender fame on points in a bruising battle.
      It was the culmination of patience and hard work that allowed her to enter a world where cattiness scores your brownie points, foes and potentially huge pay day.
      Read more Misfits Boxing news
      Speaking to SunSport, Carla revealed why she wanted to get involved with Misfits.
      “I have always been an active person and I like the gym,” the fierce brunette said.
      “I used to do some pad punching. I always wanted to fight, but I knew I didn’t have the time to commit myself to it or the skill to try it professionally.
      “So when the YouTube stuff started picking up and people were getting really well paid for it, I thought I should dedicate some serious time to it.
      Most read in Boxing
      “Being a ring girl, I obviously fall into the category. It was my calling – I just had to do it.”
      Carla was approached to fight against Tash Weekender at the eleventh hour as a replacement.
      She had three weeks to get herself into shape, and didn’t hesitate when Misfits Boxing co-founder Mams Taylor gave her a call.
      Carla said: “Mams got in touch and asked if I want to take a fight, and I said ‘yeah, sure!’ I didn’t even know who I was up against. I was just so eager to get in the ring.”
      A tough training camp then began. She continued: “You think you know what it’s all about and then you start properly training and realise how hard it is.
      “I had three weeks to get ready before I had to fight. At that point I had stopped boxing completely.
      “I was running my agency, and I wasn’t ready. I didn’t even have a gym membership!”
      “I sparred at Shootfighters gym in London, but had to cram in so much. I absolutely loved it though.”
      Honest Carla admitted there was some trepidation when it came to her preparations.
      “The first time I ever had any fear for what I was about to do was when I drove to my first sparring session,” she confessed.
      Glam Jade is now working hard in the gym to perfect her boxing skillsCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Although stunner Carla admitted she had some fear when it came to getting punched in the faceCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Sparring sessions are fun for CarlaCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla shows off her ripped figure after training hard for her first boutCredit: Instagram @misfitsboxing
      READ MORE SPORT FEATURES
      “I didn’t know what sparring was and where I train is like a proper gym. For about 20 seconds I started to think, ‘I am driving somewhere to get my face punched in. Do I want to do this?”
      Carla came to the peace with the idea when she realised getting hit in a sparring session made her feel more savage.
      “I remember I got hit hard once and thought that wasn’t very nice, but it sort of egged me on a bit.
      “From that point, I knew I didn’t mind getting punched in the face.”
      As was proven by the latest Misfits Boxing card, with KSI and Tommy Fury going head-to-head, influencer fights are to be taken seriously and they are big business.
      For that reason, the events need to be a spectacle, which Carla believes the Misfits Boxing organisation understands and is proving to excel in.
      “For me it is about being able to put on a great production,” she said.
      “We’ve had leagues like this before, but not at the same level. Being able to provide the fighters with such a massive platform, great experience, treat them like actual professionals, and pay us well – it’s really amazing what Misfits Boxing is doing.
      “I know it gets a lot of stick from other people, and some people don’t like it but eight of 10 of the fighters you see at these events really take it seriously.
      “There are some that may be there for the pay cheque, but everyone I’ve seen just loves it.
      Carla, posing with Eddie Hearn and fellow ring girl Layla Shellby, runs her own promo agency called Finesse Ring GirlsCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla believes Misfits Boxing should be taken seriouslyCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla shows off her amazing bikini bodyCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      “Even when some of the girls get beaten, they’re back and they want to defend their reputation.
      “I think it’s there to be respected and people should give it some credit.”
      Carla is new to the Misfits Boxing world, and although there are naysayers who will complain that she is only in the position because she’s a ring girl, she hopes to silence those doubters.
      She has also had plenty of offers for fights already.
      She said: “I’m putting in the work like everyone else to get into that position. It’s really hard.
      “It’s funny because I know I am not that well known. But as soon as I won my last fight all these random girls started offering me out.
      “The best one was I had one girl wait outside my hotel room, screaming she wanted to fight me.
      “I didn’t think it would be that easy to get another opponent or this fun!”
      The bitchiness that exists in the women’s game at Misfits Boxing begins on social media, where rivals bash each other, and escalates into full blown rows at press conferences and more.
      “It’s sort of like TV. In the normal world, if someone barges me in a shop I’m not going to start on them!” Carla joked.
      Read More on The Sun
      The bitchiness that exists within the Misfits Boxing world is a part and parcel of the women’s gameCredit: Instagram @misfitsboxing
      Carla steps up her training and wants to prove she is an able boxerCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Although she’s just starting out, Carla sees a big future for her in Misfits BoxingCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      Carla can’t wait for her next fightCredit: Instagram @carla_jjade
      “But in this world everyone is ripping me. I’m like, ‘why are you so aggressive towards me? What’s that all about?’
      “It takes a lot to irritate me, but at the same time I do enjoy it. So, if I am allowed to gob off, and get paid to do it let’s go!” More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Italy’s stunning Wags, including a Neapolitan fashion influencer who was chased by Neymar and a glam psychologist

      by

      THE Italians come to Wembley with a point to prove.England have already taken three points off the Azzurri in the qualifying stages in Euro 2024, following a 2-1 win in a subdued Naples.
      Chiara Nasti is Italy’s most famous WagCredit: Instagram / @nastilove
      Nasti was courted by Neymar and dated Italy international Nicolo ZanioloCredit: Instagram / @nastilove
      Now Armani model Nasti is engaged to Mattia ZaccagniCredit: Instagram / @nastilove
      So Luciano Spalletti’s men will be out for revenge when the two sides meet on Tuesday.
      And they will be ably supported by their glamorous Wags.
      From a stunning fashion influencer who Neymar was desperate to date to a beautiful psychologist, meet the partners and wives of Italy’s finest.
      Chiara Nasti
      Gorgeous Chiara, 25, has modelled for Armani and is a renowned fashion influencer with two million followers online.

      She is engaged to Mattia Zaccagni, and they welcomed their first son together in 2022 called Thiago.
      Awkwardly, Chiara used to date Italy teammate Nicola Zaniolo which delighted rival fans who taunted Zaccagni.
      Neymar also tried to woo the blonde stunner on social media, but she wasn’t swayed.
      Lucy Bramini
      The 23-year-old model has been described by football fans as the ‘most beautiful woman in the world’.
      Most read in Football
      She has amassed over 150,000 followers on Instagram, where she shares her glam lifestyle.
      But in the past, she has admitted to not being a football fan.
      Lucy also has a degree in psychology at Università Cattolica.
      Lucy Bramani has been described by football fans as the most beautiful woman in the worldCredit: Instagram / @kucybramini
      Bramani has amassed over 150,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram / @kucybramini
      Despite dating Federico Chiesa, Bramini is not a football fanCredit: Instagram / @kucybramini
      Juliette Pastore
      Juliette, 23, is the girlfriend of Newcastle’s playmaker Sandro Tonali.
      She is an Instagram model, and owns her own clothing brand, Juliette.24 Club.
      They began dating in 2019, after meeting in Brescia.
      Juliette has appeared on the front cover of various fashion magazines and is an absolute pin up.
      Instagram model Juliette Pastore is from BresciaCredit: Instagram / @juliette_pastore
      Juliette runs her fashion labelCredit: Instagram / @juliette_pastore
      Sandro Tonali and Juliette have settled into Newcastle lifeCredit: Instagram / @juliette_pastore
      Alessia Elefante
      Being Gianluigi Donnarumma’s fiancee Alessia is certainly in safe hands with the Italian No1.
      The 24-year-old has dated the talented keeper since his breakthrough at AC Milan as a 16-year-old, following him since to Paris where he stars for PSG.
      The Naples beauty is fan of shopping, with Gucci being her favourite designer.
      She is also an interior designer.
      Alessia Elefante is originally from Naples
      Gorgeous Alessia is an interior designerCredit: Instagram / @alessiaelefante
      Gianluigi Donnarumma and Alessia are datingCredit: Instagram / @alessiaelefante
      Flaminia Appoloni
      Italy hot shot Gianluca Scamacca and gorgeous Flaminia keep their private lives to themselves.
      She did divide her time between her homeland and London, when he played for West Ham, but their romance will be going from strength to strength now he’s back at Atalanta.
      Not much is known about her profession.
      However, she’s a huge fan of the beach, showing off her bikini body on luxury holidays.
      Flaminia Appollonia shows off her amazing bikini bodyCredit: Instagram / @flaminiaappolloni
      Appolloni keeps her personal life privateCredit: Instagram / @flaminiaappolloni
      Gianluca Scamacca and Appollonia share an intimate momentCredit: Instagram / @flaminiaappolloni
      Camilla Bresciani
      Camilla is the wife of Italy’s defensive stalwart, Alessandro Bastoni.
      The pair said their ‘I do’s’ in Cascina dei Filagni, a dream location in Bergamo last year.
      And she penned an emotional message to him on Instagram, with accompanying pictures of their big day.
      She wrote: “I have watched you become what I never thought possible. I have watched you mature and transform into something different and better. I have seen you become a man.
      “And when I look back the only thing I see is my victory in choosing you. You are the truest and most sincere love I have ever felt”.
      Camilla Bresciani cuts a fashionable figureCredit: Instagram / @camilla_bresciani
      Camilla shows off her stunning curvesCredit: Instagram / @camilla_bresciani
      Alessandro Bastoni and Camilla Bresciani got married last year
      Thessa Lacovich
      Thessa married Italian midfielder Manuel Locatelli, who was linked with Arsenal, in 2022.
      They have since welcomed a son into their lives.
      Read More on The Sun
      The supportive Wag, with Costa Rican roots, shared a snap of the family taking a stroll in the woods, before enjoying a picnic.
      The 25-year-old boasts a Masters degree in digital communication strategy, and also owns a jewellery brand named Madam.
      Thessa Lacovich boasts a Masters degree in digital communication strategyCredit: Instagram / @thessalacovich
      Lacovich also runs her own jewellery companyCredit: Instagram / @thessalacovich
      Manuel Locatelli married Thessa Lacovich last yearCredit: Instagram / @thessalacovich More

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      in Soccer

      Alex Scott vs Laura Woods tale of the tape: How BBC and TNT Sports presenters’ amazing careers compare

      by

      ALEX SCOTT and Laura Woods share the crown as the current queens of sports presenting.The pair have dominated the media landscape in recent years, landing top jobs while becoming celebrities in their own right.
      Laura Woods is dominating the TV presenting landscape in sport
      Rival Alex Scott is the darling of BBC Sport
      Scott, 38, is the ace up the BBC’s sleeve, presenting Football Focus and heading up their recent Women’s World Cup programming.
      But in the other corner, Woods, 36, fronted a brilliant breakfast show on talkSPORT alongside pal Ally McCoist and is now the face of ITV Football and TNT’s new look Champions League coverage.
      Off the screen, they’re personal lives are well-documented.
      The pair appear to have found love – with Scott dating singer Jess Glynne and Woods going Instagram official with Love Island alumni Adam Collard.
      Read more football news
      Here’s how the pair compare…
      Rise to the top
      The two Londoners have both enjoyed meteoric rises to the top, with a leg up from Sky Sports.
      Laura scored a gig on Soccer AM for their online team, after she began as a runner and covered the darts.
      By 2018, she was working as a pitchside reporter, occasionally working with Gary Neville.
      Most read in Football
      In 2020, her career exploded when she took a hosting job on talkSPORT’s breakfast show – dividing the honours with Alan Brazil.
      She became a firm fans’ favourite, branched out to DAZN with their boxing and Women’s Champion League shows.
      ITV then utilised her skills as she presented both World Cups in the men’s and women’s game, as well as a NFL hightlights show.
      Most recently, TNT Sports made Laura their lead presenter for Champions League and boxing.
      Alex has had plenty of crossover with Laura. She began her media career on Soccer AM while she was still playing professional football for Arsenal.
      After completing a degree in Professional Sports Writing and Broadcasting, she scored columns for The Independent during the 2014 World Cup.
      When she retired in 2017, Alex got a job on cBeebies show Match of the Day Kickabout.
      A year later, she made history as the first female pundit for the BBC at the 2018 World Cup.
      In 2019, she was announced as co-host of Goals on Sunday on Sky Sports alongside Chris Kamara.
      This year, Woods became the lead presenter for TNS Sports’ Champions League coverageCredit: Getty
      AT ITV Sport, Woods is a jack of all trades – presenting their NFL coverageCredit: Instagram
      Scott’s expertise is as a pundit and presenter, which was seen on the BBC’s Women’s World Cup coverageCredit: BBC
      Scott has transcended sport, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2019Credit: Getty
      Since 2020, the MBE has hosted BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year Awards.
      Alex has also transcended sport, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing and is a frequent guest presenter of the One Show.
      Net worth
      Both Scott and Woods have amassed a small fortune from their TV gigs.
      Although figures vary, there’s not much between them.
      According to Apumone, Woods has a net worth of around £1.64million.
      On the BBC pay list for the season of 2022-23, Scott was said to earn somewhere between £185,000 – £189,999.
      Add to that her other gigs, as well as past TV credits, and her fortune is estimated to be around £1.6million too.
      Both are killing it.
      Woods has an enviable lifestyleCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy
      Scott is believed to be worth around £1.6millionCredit: Getty
      Scott enjoys a holiday in IbizaCredit: Instagram / @alexscott2
      Woods enjoys a private yacht during some rare time off
      Best mates
      When it comes to pals in football, Laura and Ally McCoist were thick as thieves.
      The rapport they had between one another was radio gold on talkSPORT.
      Built over a mutual respect, they cracked jokes, shared banter and were a staple for morning radio.
      When Woods decided to quit, Ally had to fight back tears as he paid tribute to his pal in what was an incredibly emotional moment.
      Scott is close with fellow Arsenal icon Leah Williamson.
      They are known to be inseparable, when they are not bound by work committments.
      The two reportedly met on the football circuit over two years ago, and have become best mates.
      In the summer, Alex and Leah went on holiday with fellow Lionesses star Keira Walsh and spent time on a yacht in Ibiza.
      And they make time to attend swanky events together.
      Woods is close with fellow presenter and pundit Ally McCoistCredit: Instagram @laurawoodsy
      Woods said an emotional goodbye to talkSPORT – leaving her pal close to tearsCredit: talkSPORT
      Arsenal star Leah Williamson and Alex are firm palsCredit: Rex
      Scott celebrated England’s Euros triumph with Williamson in 2022Credit: Getty
      They turned heads at the recent Virgin Atlantic Attitude Awards this week.
      Previously they were spotted at the Brit Awards and GQ Awards hanging out together.
      Love life
      Despite their incredibly busy lives, Laura and Alex have time for romance.
      And they’ve both gone public with their relationships.
      As The Sun told you. Alex has been dating pop star Jesse Glynne.
      They were first spotted together before the Women’s World Cup, and have since gone public at the premiere of David and Victoria Beckham’s Netflix documentary premiere after-party in London.
      A friend said: “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.”
      Woods has also got a new boyfriend.
      Earlier this week, she went Instagram official with ex-Love Island contestant Adam Collard.
      Laura Woods went Instagram official with her romance with Adam CollardCredit: Instagram
      Woods soon deleted the images onlineCredit: Instagram
      Scott went public with her romance with singer Jess Glynne at a Netflix eventCredit: Rex
      Jesse and Alex have been dating for a few months, and were seen sat next to each other at Wimbledon in the summerCredit: Getty
      Very intimate pictures were uploaded to her account, before she swiftly removed them.
      The Sun first told how they were seeing each other last month as they enjoyed a series of low key dates together.
      They then headed for a romantic break in Cornwall, giving away the biggest clue they’re an item.
      Read More on The Sun
      Laura even gave at sneaky look at Adam in one photo, writing:  “Great company recommended too.” More

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      in Soccer

      Meet Australia’s football Wags, from a mental health nurse to a vodka company co-founder and a tattoo artist

      by

      AUSTRALIA take on England at Wembley, as the two sporting nations renew their sporting rivalry.In the summer, it was the cricket teams that battled it out for the Ashes.
      Meet Australia football team’s stunning WagsCredit: INSTAGRAM @liblitch
      Scottish beauty Liberty Litchfield is a mental health nurseCredit: INSTAGRAM @liblitch
      Harry Souttar and Liberty LitchfieldCredit: INSTAGRAM @liblitch
      While in rugby union, we’ve been getting the better of our Southern Hemisphere opponents in recent years.
      Now it’s the turn of Harry Kane and Co to ensure the Three Lions are a more dominant force than the Socceroos.
      But, cheering on the Aussies will be their stunning partners.
      From a stunning mental health nurse to a vodka company co-founder, let SunSport introduce you to Australia’s Wags.
      Read more football news
      Liberty Litchfield
      Beautiful Scottish mental health nurse Liberty is the missus of Leicester City star Harry Souttar.
      She lives the life of a typical Wag – and enjoys travelling to exotic locations, supporting her beau in Qatar when he played in the World Cup and enjoying Thailand the summer just gone.
      Liberty is also a music fan and goes to festivals, including dance haven Creamfields.
      Like any self-respecting Wag, fashion is important to the brunette who loves dressing in Dior.
      Most read in Football
      Isabella Arduca
      Gorgeous Isabella, 22, completed a degree in business marketing in 2022.
      And already she’s set up her own vodka drinks company called Fondi.
      When she’s not conquering the alcoholic beverages world, Isabella can be seen cosying up to Hearts defender Nathaniel Atkinson.
      She also likes to travel, enjoying a summer break in Positano, Italy and on the Greek Island Paros.
      Isabella Arduca completed a degree in business marketingCredit: INSTAGRAM @isabellaarduca
      Most recently, Isabella launched her own vodka brandCredit: INSTAGRAM @isabellaarduca
      Isabella dates Nathaniel AtkinsonCredit: INSTAGRAM @isabellaarduca
      Rose Behich
      Instagram model Rose met Aziz Behich in 2014, when they both lived in Melbourne.
      She has since followed him around the globe, to Turkey, Scotland and back to Australia, where he plays for Melbourne City.
      But, 2023 has been a tough year for Rose who was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
      She has undergone chemotherapy, bravely chronicling her journey on Instagram and receiving support from her husband and fellow Wags.
      Rose Behich is an Instagram modelCredit: INSTAGRAM @rosebehich
      Rose is married to Aziz BehichCredit: INSTAGRAM @rosebehich
      Brave Rose has chronicled her cancer battle on social mediaCredit: INSTAGRAM @rosebehich
      Aleksandra Degenek
      Beauty Aleksandra originally hails from Serbia and is currently studying to be a doctor.
      The 29-year-old also boasts a modelling career, all while juggling motherhood.
      She and husband Miloš Degenek share two children together.
      Despite leading a busy life, she still makes time to live a glam lifestyle, including holidays in Miami and Dubai.
      Aleksandra Degenek is currently training to be a doctorCredit: INSTAGRAM @ aleksandradegenek
      Serbian beauty Aleksandra juggles her studies with being a modelCredit: INSTAGRAM @ aleksandradegenek
      Despite leading a busy life, Aleksandra loves to travelCredit: INSTAGRAM @ aleksandradegenek
      Jemilla Per
      As football Wags go, Jemilla could not be more different.
      She is a tattoo artist from Yorkshire, so her loyalties might be split with who she is cheering.
      Jemilla lives in Hamburg with beau Jackson Irvine, who currently plays for second division Bundesliga side FC St. Pauli.
      She also sells artwork and tattoos Jackson, as well as gives him piercings.
      Jemilla Pir is far from your average WagCredit: INSTAGRAM @jemilla91
      Jemilla is a tattoo artistCredit: INSTAGRAM @jemilla91
      Jackson Irvine and Jemilla live in GermanyCredit: INSTAGRAM @jemilla91
      Jordy Boyce
      Sadly for Riley McGree, an injury has meant he has had to withdraw from the squad.
      But you can bet the Middlesbrough midfielder will be watching his teammates in action with his Wag, Jordy.
      The pair are teenage sweethearts, having met when he starred for Adelaide City.
      She has since followed him to the US, where he played for Charlotte and now Teeside.
      Jordy Boyce is the stunning Wag of Riley McGreeCredit: INSTAGRAM @jordyboyce
      Riley McGree is missing from the Australia squadCredit: INSTAGRAM @jordyboyce
      Sienna Perruzza
      Sienna boasts an impressive 13,000 followers on Instagram.
      She uses it as a personal blog, sharing her lifestyle from glam trips abroad to hard workouts in the gym.
      Read More on The Sun
      Her other half is Alessandro Circati, who plays for Parma in Italy.
      Last year she competed in the Miss Universe Australia beauty pageant.
      Sienna Perruzza boasts 13,000 followers on InstagramCredit: INSTAGRAM @siennaperruzza
      Stunning Sienna competed in Miss Universe AustraliaCredit: INSTAGRAM @siennaperruzza
      Sienna dates Alessandro CircatiCredit: INSTAGRAM @siennaperruzza More