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      in Soccer

      Tottenham wonderkids who flopped and couldn’t reach the heights expected, including Ceballos, Bostock, Lancaster & more

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      TOTTENHAM youngster Ryan Sessegnon was tipped to be the ‘next Gareth Bale’ in the past and has broken back into the first-teamHe quickly failed to live up to the hype in England following his move from Fulham and tried to kickstart his career at Hoffenheim last season.
      Ryan Sessegnon failed to live up to the hype at SpursCredit: Getty – Contributor
      But Sessegnon is back in Antonio Conte’s plans now and is making waves this campaign as Spurs aim to challenge for the title/
      Other wonderkids have struggled to make the grade, however.
      Here’s six Spurs youngsters who failed to set North London alight.JOHN BOSTOCK
      Bostock was tipped for greatness after becoming Crystal Palace’s youngest ever player when he made his debut aged 15 in 2007.
      A year later, Spurs fended off interest from Barcelona and Arsenal to sign the box-to-box midfielder, who seemingly had the world at his feet for £700,000.
      The move infuriated then-Palace chairman Simon Jordan, who revoked Bostock and his step-father’s season tickets.
      But, as fate would have it, Jordan need not have worried. Bostock’s development stunted after unsuccessful loans at Brentford, Hull, Sheffield Wednesday, Swindon, and then Toronto FC.
      A move to second division side Royal Antwerp reignited his passion for the game in 2013, and he then bounced to OH Leuven, Lens, Bursaspor and Toulouse.
      In 2019 Bostock returned to our shores, still only 30, on loan at Nottingham Forest. Last season, he was at Doncaster Rovers – but turned down a new contract in the summer and left.
      John Bostock infuriated Crystal Palace chairman Simon Jordan when he moved to Spurs in a £700k dealCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Now 30, Bostock was last seen playing for Doncaster RoversCredit: Getty – Contributor
      CAMERON LANCASTER
      In 2012 Lancaster was reckoned to be Spurs’ best youth player in a team that also had Harry Kane in.
      The centre-forward even got a debut before the England hotshot against Wigan that same year.
      However, it all turned sour for Lancaster after a series of injuries hampered his progress, including snapping his groin to the bone and tearing his ACL.
      In 2014, he was released by Spurs and signed by Stevenage. Then a move to St Albans City followed, where he continued to struggle.
      A year later, he was enjoying his football in America playing for Louisville City in the USL Championship.
      After rediscovering his scoring boots, finding the net 36 times in 79 games for them, he was signed by Nashville Soccer Club in 2019, who make their MLS debut in 2020.
      After a loan spell at Louisville City, Lancaster joined the club permanently at the end of last season, ready for the 2021 campaign.
      Cameron Lancaster was rated as a better prospect than Harry KaneCredit: Corbis – Getty
      Lancaster now plays his football in America after two serious injuriesCredit: Getty – Contributor
      CRISTIAN CEBALLOS
      Arsenal aren’t the first club in North London to have a Ceballos on their books, you know.
      Back in 2011 Tottenham took a punt on a Christian Ceballos, also an attacking midfielder, who was formerly at Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy.
      By the age of 15, Ceballos had become a YouTube sensation after a video of him ball-juggling with Ronaldinho went viral.
      But he was released by Barcelona, and after an unsuccessful trial with Chelsea was snapped up by Spurs.
      Ceballos failed to make a first-team appearance for the Premier League giants and was sold to Charlton where he flopped.
      After a three-year spell at Belgium team Sint-Truidense V.V., Ceballos moved to Qatari side Al-Wakrah in 2019. He is now at Azerbaijani club Sabah.
      Spanish midfield maestro Christian Ceballos came from BarcelonaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Ceballos flopped at Spurs and now plays for Azerbaijani club SabahCredit: Getty – Contributor
      MOST READ IN FOOTBALL
      DORIAN DERVITE
      In 2006, when Martin Jol was Tottenham boss, he added Dervite to his squad.
      Signed from Lille, the 6ft 4in defender was a France under-18 international and tipped to become one of the leading centre-halves of his generation.
      Sadly for Dervite, he only made one appearance – in a League Cup tie against Port Vale alongside Michael Dawson in the heart of Tottenham’s defence – before injury curtailed his career.
      Surgery on his knee kept him out of the game for several months, but a loan spell at Southend United gave him renewed hope when he was voted second in a player of the season poll by their fans.
      But top-level football alluded him, and spells at Villarreal B, Charlton, Bolton and Charleroi followed.
      He moved to Cypriot minnows Doxa Katokopias and then to Belgian side Renaissance Mons 44, who were reformed this summer after being declared bankrupt in 2015.
      Dorian Dervite was rated as one of the best young defenders of his generationCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Dervite played for NAC Breda in the Dutch second division before spells in Cyprus and BelgiumCredit: Getty – Contributor
      TERRY DIXON
      Between 2004-08, Tottenham had high hopes for Republic of Ireland forward Dixon.
      That’s why they stood by the youngster after he suffered three crippling knee injuries before the age of 18.
      But it wasn’t to be, and he was picked up by West Ham after Spurs released him.
      A year later his contract was terminated by the Hammers when he failed to break into their first team.
      Since 2011 Dixon has stopped at Stevenage, Ware, Tooting and Mitcham United, Bradford City, Halifax Town, Dover Athletic, Dunstable Town, and Berkhamsted without leaving his mark.
      He’s been at Aylesbury United since 2014, before moving to Tring – although it is unknown if he still plays today.
      Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Three serious knee injuries before the age of 18 saw Terry Dixon fail to live up to his hype
      JONATHAN BLONDEL
      In 2002, Belgium midfield schemer rejected Man Utd’s advances after Sir Alex Ferguson earmarked him as one for the future.
      A few months later, in came Spurs who swooped for the-then Belgium under-19 star who was one of the most coveted young footballers on the planet.
      A good passer of the ball with excellent vision, Blondel suffered with the physical rigours of the British football.
      At only 5ft 8in and of slight build, he was often bullied out of reserve games and was deemed surplus to requirements within two years, playing just twice.
      However, Blondel did kickstart his career back in Belgium with Club Brugge, and ended up making 266 games for the club. He retired at 31 in 2015, but didn’t quite achieve what was expected of him in the game.
      Jonathan Blondel snubbed Man Utd to go to Spurs insteadCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Blondel ended up playing 266 times for Club Brugge before retiring at the age of 31Credit: Getty Images – Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Newcastle new boy Garang Kuol came to Australia as a refugee, before becoming youngest international since Harry Kewell

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      NEWCASTLE fans might get their first glimpse of wonderkid Garang Kuol at the World Cup, if he makes Australia’s squad.Eddie Howe’s side moved quick to secure the signature of the 18-year-old talent – beating Barcelona to the punch – in a reported £300,000 deal with A-League side Central Coast Mariners.
      Explosive wonderkid Garang Kuol will link up with Newcastle in JanuaryCredit: Getty
      Kuol is lofted above his Central Coast Mariners team mates after scoring his first goal for the club against Wellington PhoenixCredit: Getty
      But before the transfer was struck, Kuol got his first taste of international football with his adopted country – becoming the youngest player since Harry Kewell to play for the Socceroos when he made his debut against New Zealand last weekend.
      It’s the icing on the cake for the dynamic forward’s remarkable journey.
      His family fled war-torn Sudan for Egypt, where he was born, finally arriving in Australia as refugees.
      Now, he could be heading to the World Cup as a wildcard in Qatar.
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      Early origins
      Not much is known about Garang’s upbringing.
      He is reportedly one of six siblings, including older brother Alou Kuol, who is on the books of VfB Stuttgart.
      It has been revealed his family moved from Khartoum to Egypt when Alou was just three – a year before Garang was born in 2004.
      Most read in Football
      After a year there, they moved again to Australia, where they settled as refugees.
      His father, Mawien, and mother, Antonita, worked as dry cleaners, while Antonita also had a job as a seasonal worker at a fruit factory.
      But football became the biggest passion for the boys.
      In their spare time, Garang and his brother would watch an old VHS tape of Australia’s World Cup highlights – dreaming to emulate their heroes.
      “It was basically a mash-up of one of the World Cups, the key moments put into one tape – some of the goals, big moments, some of the games,” he told the Sydney Morning Herald.
      “I can’t remember much about it, but I just remember players like [Mark] Bresciano, Tim Cahill and stuff. We used to watch that, legit, like every day, the same tape. It was one of the sickest things ever.”
      Garang Kuol, first from the left. poses with his brothers, including Alou Kuol in the yellow jerseyCredit: https://www.instagram.com/aloukuol/?hl=en
      The Kuol family fled from war-torn SudanCredit: https://www.instagram.com/aloukuol/?hl=en
      Following his dreams
      Garang’s route into football mirrored his older brother.
      He played youth team football for Goulburn Valley Suns, and then was snapped up by the Central Coast Mariners Academy in 2019.
      Just 11 months after signing his first deal with the club, Garang was thrust into first team action – scoring seven minutes into his first team debut against semi-pro side APIA Leichhardt in the Australian version of the FA Cup.
      The following year, Garang scored again – this time in the A-League in a cameo appearance from the bench in the 5-0 rout of Wellington Phoenix.
      His blistering start to life as a pro has continued – and in his nine games he has already scored four times, under the tutelage of Nick Montgomery, formerly of Sheffield United.
      Back in May, he was one of two “Commissioner’s picks” to play in the 2022 A-Leagues All Stars Game against Barcelona.
      70,000 fans crammed into Sydney’s Olympic Stadium to see Garang take centre stage.
      A highlight of his skills saw him waltz past four Barcelona stars, before narrowly missing the target. He also hit the post late on in the game the All Stars lost 3-2.
      Barça manager Xavi was impressed with what he saw.
      Under the tutelage of Nick Montgomery, Kuol has prospered at the MarinersCredit: Getty
      In the A-League All Stars game against Barcelona, Kuol stole the showCredit: Getty

      “It was a big surprise. Very fast, he created many chances,” the Spanish legend said in a press conference after the game.
      “We concede two or three chances because of him. So a great player and a great future. He’s a talent.”
      World Cup chance
      Earlier this month, the Australia national team called up Garang for their friendlies against New Zealand, as the Socceroos gear up for the 2022 World Cup.
      His appearance in the second game last weekend made him the youngest player to represent Australia since Harry Kewell.
      It was an eye-catching display from the bench, where his explosive speed and fearless attitude led to a late penalty awarded after he was hacked down in mid-flight in the box.
      The clamour for coach Graham Arnold to pick him now for Australia’s World Cup campaign has gathered pace.
      Kuol showcases his skills on his debut for Australia against New ZealandCredit: Getty
      Australian football fans are already pinning their hopes on KuolCredit: Getty
      It would be unreal,” Garang told Stan Sport FC.
      “I remember Tim Cahill’s goal in 2014 against Netherlands. Me and my brother (Alou) were re-making that in our backyard, breaking windows.”
      With Australia facing France in their opening match, Garang has a chance to announce himself on the biggest stage. Perhaps, should he score, there will be kids emulating him in years to come in their own gardens. More

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      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson’s former £1.5m Las Vegas mansion was used in The Hangover, boasts infinity pool, two spas and a waterfall

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      THIS is the house where Mike Tyson became a Hollywood star.In 2008, the now 56-year-old former heavyweight champion let movie director Todd Phillips and his cameras into a stunning mansion he lived in with wife No3 Lakiha.
      Inside Mike Tyson’s former £1.5m Las Vegas mansion used in The HangoverCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      The gorgeous property has an infinity pool with two spas and a waterfallCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      They filmed hilarious scenes for cult movie The Hangover, in a cameo that would go on to define him and rebuild his career after years of bankruptcy.
      Found in the beautiful gated community called Seven Hills in the suburb of Henderson, it boasts six bedrooms, six-and-a-half bathrooms and its own private balcony.
      And golf enthusiasts will enjoy the incredible 18-hole Rio Secco Golf Club, as well as four large private parks filled with basketball courts, tennis courts and football pitches.

      ITALIAN-STYLE
      Like many new builds in Las Vegas within gated communities, the 5,740-square-feet mansion was built in an Italian style in 2001.
      Two-storeys in size, the entrance opens to a grand reception room with a 25-foot-high lit waterfall, which connects to the great room that has a wet bar and fireplace.
      You can imagine the great room is perfect for lounging, and where cannabis-advocate Tyson may possibly enjoy an occasional smoke.
      Hit movie The Hangover starring Bradley Cooper was filmed in Tyson’s houseCredit: Warner Bros
      Mike Tyson in 2009 hit movie The HangoverCredit: Kobal Collection – Rex Features
      The living room has vaulted ceilings and walls of windows that offer plenty of natural light.
      Completing the look is a family room with a moon-shaped wet bar.
      While a centre-island kitchen has a another wet bar, and a wine cellar.
      For those chilly desert evenings, the home has four fireplaces.
      There’s also a garage for space for four cars.
      There are six-and-a-half bathroomsCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      The Italian-style property was built in 2001Credit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      A 25 foot waterfall awaits you in the front entranceCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      The kitchen boasts a centre islandCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      The mansion is two-storeys in sizeCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      The great room could be cannabis advocate Tyson’s smoking roomCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      OUTSIDE SPACE
      The sprawling property also has plenty of outside space.
      There’s a huge pool should ‘Iron Mike’ fancy taking a dip.
      In total, the garden boasts an infinity pool with two spas and a waterfall, as well as a large patio area, featuring a fire pit, BBQ area, bar area and pool bathroom.
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      Movie fans will remember Zach Galifianakis urinating in it in The Hangover.
      However, it’s the 18-hole golf course that’s shared with other residents in the private community, as well as four large parks that have basketball courts and football pitches that make it a scenic surrounding.
      Tyson and Lakiha have lived in Henderson, Nevada since 2008, moving to a property nearby in 2016. But she won’t be happy if the ‘Wolf Pack’ pop round, mind.

      The property boasts a total of four fireplacesCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      Large windows mean the property has plenty of natural lightCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      The wrought iron staircase runs through the homeCredit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      Tyson and his wife Lakiha have lived in Henderson, Nevada since 2008Credit: LUXURY HOMES of Las Vegas
      Mike Tyson reveals he is in boxing training ahead of shock return to the ring for four-round charity fight More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd target Benjamin Sesko, 19, is the ‘next Haaland’, recently signed for RB Leipzig and scored Van Basten-like goal

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      TEENAGE striker Benjamin Sesko was one of the hottest properties in the summer transfer window.But it was RB Leipzig who managed to steal the towering centre-forward’s signature ahead of Premier League giants Man Utd and Chelsea in a £20million deal.
      Benjamin Sesko celebrates scoring against Liverpool in a preseason friendlyCredit: Getty
      A goalscorer of some repute, the 19-year-old has been likened to Norwegian hotshot Erling Haaland.
      However, it was his goal on international duty with Slovenia that has fans screaming it was just like watching Marco Van Basten.
      The 6ft5in star’s sumptuous volley against Sweden brought back memories of the Dutch legend’s famous strike against the Soviet Union in Euro ’88.
      Currently lighting up the Austrian Bundesliga, Sesko has scored five goals already this term.
      And last season, when he exploded on the scene, Salzburg placed a £300million price tag on his head. In the next few years that transfer fee might become a reality.
      Liverpool know who he is
      Football fans might have already caught a glimpse of Sesko’s talents already.
      Back in July, all eyes were on Darwin Nunez as Salzburg entertained Liverpool in a preseason friendly.
      Read more in sport
      But it was Sesko who stole the show – scoring the winner and causing Liverpool’s backline all sorts of bother with his physicality and pace.
      He began his career at his hometown club Radeče, and then played for Rudar Trbovlje, before he was back at Radeče.
      In 2016, he moved to Krško and played for their 15s – scoring 59 goals in 23 matches.
      Domzale came knocking on his door, where he stayed for one season before he was signed on a three-year professional deal by Salzburg in 2019.
      Most read in Football

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      It didn’t take long for the 16-year-old to settle into his new surroundings.
      He impressed at their farm team, FC Liefering in the Austrian second tier.
      Across two seasons, he managed 22 goals in 44 games – convincing Salzburg that he was ready for their first team last summer.
      And he was given the role of impact sub – scoring 11 goals in just 12 starts (37 appearances in all competitions) as Salzburg won their ninth consecutive league title.
      Sesko has already started this season off with a bang – netting five times in 13 games.
      RB Salzburg striker Sekso is on his bike to RB LeipzigCredit: Getty
      The 6ft 5in striker has been compared to Erling HaalandCredit: Getty
      The new Haaland
      Because of his stature, comparisons with a certain Norway striker are inevitable.
      Sesko has been likened to Man City’s £51million signing, Erling Haaland, which has flattered the youngster.
      “Such comparisons motivate me and give me energy. They do not represent pressure. I will listen and learn so I can be even better than he is,” he told Slovenian journalists.
      “My team-mates at the club tell me that Haaland and I are very similar, especially in terms of speed. Most of them even tell me that I’m better than him!”
      On the international scene, Sesko is Slovenia’s youngest ever goalscorer at the age of 18 years, four months and eight days back in October when he found the net against Malta.
      He has four international goals to his name already, including the winner against Haaland’s Norway when the two came face-to-face
      Sesko is Slovenia’s youngest ever goalscorer at the age of just 18 years, four months and eight daysCredit: Getty
      Newcastle are sniffing around
      Although Man Utd and Chelsea appeared to be going head-to-head for Sesko in the summer, Saudi-backed Newcastle were also keeping tabs on the boy wonder.
      Amusingly, Toon supporters were whipped into a frenzy when his agent Elvis Basanovic shared snaps of a trip to Tyneside on Instagram, including photos of Newcastle Airport and the Quayside.
      They were certain he was there to discuss a deal with Eddie Howe’s side, which was not denied. But Basanovic then deleted the evidence of his jaunt on social media.
      Manchester United’s Erik ten Hag is also said to be a huge fan.
      After hearing of the Red Devil’s interest, Salzburg’s Twitter page hilariously tweeted that a deal could be struck if the Red Devils cough up £300million and give them Bruno Fernandes in a swap deal.
      Needless to say, his agent has spoken up about those Haaland comparisons and revealed a modest, hard-working pro.
      He told Zurnal 24: “Many compare him to Haaland, but I think they are different types of players.
      Sesko’s agent tweeted he was in Newcastle – and sent Toon fans into meltdownCredit: https://twitter.com/nufcblogcouk/status/1549690507558887425?s=27&t=1GlBpupHeM6EQPPQplaqyA
      Hotshot Sesko is already flying this campaign with five goals in 13 gamesCredit: Getty
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      “They are similar in physical construction and speed, but they are different players. Benjamin is more of a team player. 
      “He is maybe better technically with his skills, but Haaland is a bit more wild with his energy, in a positive sense. He remains a humble, hard-working boy.”
      German football awaits for the youngster next season. Like Haaland, he will look to take the Bundesliga by storm following the same career trajectory. More

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      in Soccer

      Christian Eriksen’s remarkable comeback from heart attack, starring for Man Utd against Arsenal and destroying France

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      AS comebacks go, this one could make a Hollywood movie.It was only 15 months ago that Christian Eriksen was fighting for his life after collapsing on the pitch at Euro 2020.
      Christian Eriksen has enjoyed a remarkable return to the game after his heart attackCredit: Getty
      Just 15 months ago, Eriksen fought for his life following a cardiac arrestCredit: AFP
      The Denmark playmaker, 30, then saw his contract at Inter Milan terminated, after he was fitted with a heart defibrillator and banned from playing in Italian football.
      Brentford gave him a second opportunity on a six-month contract in January, where he managed to impress.
      That prompted Manchester United to offer him a deal, and this season he starred in a 3-1 win over Arsenal.
      Now he appears ready for the World Cup – coming off an incredible performance against France over the weekend and breaking a Nations League record.
      Read more in football
      ‘I was gone for five whole minutes’
      Eriksen’s renaissance is even more remarkable considering his plight on the Parken Stadium pitch on June 12, 2021.
      Off the ball, he fell to the ground and immediately the game was stopped. Viewers around the world looked on in horror as the midfielder suffered a cardiac arrest.
      Captain Simon Kjaer rushed to his aid, before admirably organising his team to make a circle around the star who was fighting to stay alive and getting treatment.
      He was given CPR and an Automated External Defibrillator was used to get his heart working again.
      “I was gone for five whole minutes,” he told the BBC.
      Denmark’s stars famously surrounded team mate Eriksen as he was receiving treatmentCredit: AFP
      Eriksen revealed he was ‘gone for five whole minutes’ before an Automated External Defibrillator got his heart working againCredit: Reuters
      Ready for the challenge
      Three days later, Eriksen posted a picture giving the thumbs up from a Copenhagen hospital bed and reassuring fans he was doing “fine under the circumstances.”
      Most read in Sport
      He vowed not to give up. He promised it would not be the end.
      To give him a chance at playing in the future – Eriksen was fitted with a revolutionary Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator, which can reset the heart after a cardiac arrest.
      It’s a device half the size of a mobile phone that has wires leading to areas of the heart.
      But, Italian rules stipulate that players playing with heart starting devices are not allowed to play in the league again.
      It left Eriksen in a dilemma.
      A revolutionary Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator was fitted in Eriksen’s heart
      Contract termination
      Under the guidelines, Inter Milan had no option but to terminate Eriksen’s contract.
      They came to a mutual consent – with Inter apologetic over the circumstance.
      “The club and the entire Nerazzurri family wish Christian all the very best for his future,” Inter said in a statement.
      “Although Inter and Christian are now parting ways, the bond shall never be broken. The good times, the goals, the victories, those Scudetto celebrations with fans outside San Siro – all this will remain forever in Nerazzurri history.”
      It left Eriksen planning his future.
      Inter Milan were forced to terminate Eriksen’s contract after his ICD fitting broke Italian rulesCredit: Getty
      To Hounslow
      In January, Eriksen returned to our shores with Brentford.
      Thomas Frank, who worked with him at youth level with the Danes, revealed the former Spurs star was eager to impress and enjoyed being back in a football environment.
      “I must say he’s bubbling,” Frank told Sky Sports.
      “We are having him seven months after the incident so he missed badly being part of the group, being part of a club and hopefully we can add new chapters to the Brentford story.”
      27 days after it was announced the Bees had given him a short-term deal, Eriksen was back on a football pitch again.
      Replacing Mathias Jensen in 2-0 defeat to Newcastle, he was given a standing ovation as he ran onto the pitch.
      Just over two weeks later, he recorded his first assist in a 2-0 win over Burnley.
      Then in April, he was instrumental in Brentford stunning Chelsea 4-1 at Stamford Bridge – scoring his first goal since his return.
      Astonishingly, between the date of Eriksen’s Bees debut to the end of last campaign only Kevin De Bruyne and Martin Ødegaard created more chances in the Premier League.
      Back in January, Brentford offered Eriksen a route back to footballCredit: AFP
      Eriksen was instrumental in Brentford’s 4-1 win over ChelseaCredit: Getty
      The story continues
      After his heroic return, Eriksen was a reported target for old club Spurs, while Brentford were hopeful he would stay in West London.
      It was the opportunity to work under Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag, though, that swayed his decision to sign for the Red Devils.
      At first, the decision seemed to backfire. A humbling at home to Brighton was followed by a 4-0 thrashing against Brentford. Worse still, Eriksen was caught on the ball for one of the goals as United and their new boy struggled.
      They got their season back on track with a morale-boosting win over Liverpool, then narrow wins over Southampton and Leicester. Eriksen was beginning to find his feet.
      And that came just in time for the home visit of league leaders Arsenal, a game that Eriksen had a major say in deciding.
      His passing during a crucial moment in the match helped United restore their lead against the Gunners – earning him the man-of-the-match award from Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville.
      The opportunity to work with Erik ten Hag was too good to turn down for EriksenCredit: Reuters
      Eriksen was man of the match against Arsenal this seasonCredit: Reuters
      Taking his form onto international duty
      This week, on international duty, Eriksen has continued to show his resurgence is no fluke.
      Playing against world champions France, he dominated the midfield against the much-younger and dynamic Real Madrid pair Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni.
      His stats backed up his performance.
      Eriksen had 80 touches of the ball, completed eight key passes and over half of the crosses he attempted.
      He did not lose the ball while dribbling with it, came out on top in over half of the tackles he made, and his passes found their mark 84 per cent of the time.
      That is not to mention his raking ball forward in the build-up for Kasper Dolberg’s opening goal, or his corner which led to the second from Andreas Skov Olsen.
      Those eight key passes completed were a Nations League record, and his performance drew huge praise from France boss Didier Deschamps.
      “He has always been someone who has a remarkable technical ability,” Deschamps said.
      Eriksen bossed Aurelien Tchouameni off the park for Denmark against FranceCredit: Getty
      Eriksen celebrates a famous victory over the world championsCredit: Reuters
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      “But to play so frequently for his club in the midfield, to see the volume of games he plays, this ability to recover is impressive.”
      Impressive is an understatement. Let’s go with a miracle, instead. More

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      in Boxing

      Meet Joe Joyce’s stunning jet-setting girlfriend Nadine Davison who works as an A&E nurse in a London hospital

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      MORE than 21,000 fans cheered on Joe Joyce as he saw off Joseph Parker at the AO Arena in Manchester over the weekend.But there has been no bigger supporter than long-term girlfriend Nadine Davison through the years.
      Meet the stunning Wag of boxer Joe Joyce, Nadine DavisonCredit: Instagram
      Kind-hearted Nadine works as a nurse for the NHSCredit: Instagram
      Joyce and Nadine celebrate victory after the boxer defeated Joseph ParkerCredit: Instagram
      The gorgeous brunette, 29, has seen The Juggernaut’s rise to WBO interim heavyweight champ – disposing of foes in his wake.
      Nadine, herself, knows a thing or two about people getting hurt – being a Senior Sister at a London hospital.
      When she’s not ringside or working, the stunner loves to travel the globe.
      Channel hopping
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      Nadine is a Guernsey girl, born in the Channel Islands, where she has family there.
      She has shared snaps with Joyce visiting her hometown on Instagram to her 2,400 followers.
      It is not known how long the pair have dated.
      However, she has played the role of supportive partner – and is often seen watching him in action.
      Most read in Boxing
      After his victory against Parker, she was seen posing behind the scenes with Joyce and his WBO belt in an image shared on social media.
      Nadine captioned the snap: “What a fight, what a night, what a guy!!”
      Travel girl
      As the Wag of a leading British sport star, Nadine does get to live a life of luxury.
      Her Instagram is full of photos enjoying luxury breaks away.
      Nadine is originally from GuernseyCredit: Instagram
      Glam Nadine has become a favourite on InstagramCredit: Instagram
      Nadine loves to travel and shares her adventures on social mediaCredit: Instagram
      Last summer, Joyce and Nadine enjoyed some sun and sea in Turkey.
      Fitness fanatic Nadine also went to Norway recently on a short trip.
      In recent years, the beauty has also been seen showing off her amazing bikini body in Croatia and Dubai.
      Day job
      When Nadine isn’t watching boxing or topping up her tan, she works full-time as a nurse.
      She began as a medical practitioner at Guernsey Medical Department, before moving to London.
      Currently, she is a senior sister at King’s College Hospital, where she is team leader of the emergency department.
      Admirably, Nadine is working in the NHS and seemingly loves what she does.
      And her work was celebrated by fashion brand Boden in an ad over Christmas.
      She appeared alongside other nurses in a promotional campaign for the group.
      Her role could also come in handy in treating Joyce for any wounds he might need healing after a bout.
      Nadine appeared in a Boden ad over Christmas
      Nadine at Guernsey Medical DepartmentCredit: Instagram
      Over the summer Nadine visited TurkeyCredit: Instagram
      Nadine shows off her amazing bikini bodyCredit: Instagram
      Happy couple Joyce and Nadine lap up the sunshine in TurkeyCredit: Instagram
      Bikini babe Nadine is a senior sister at King’s College HospitalCredit: Instagram More

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      Meet Neymar’s entourage who earn $11k-per-month, go to exclusive celeb parties and mingle with stars

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      WHO needs a real job?PSG star Neymar transcends the world of football, enjoying the glitzy showbiz lifestyle of a true celebrity.
      Being in Neymar’s entourage means you live a life of luxuryCredit: Instagram
      From attending elite fashion parties to taking fancy holidays, the Brazilian superstar knows how to live.
      And if you’re lucky, you will be part of Neymar’s inner circle, called the ‘parcas’ in his homeland, who indulge in the high-life with him.
      Parcas is a slang term in Portuguese meaning ‘partners’, and just like Vinny Chase in US TV show Entourage, the footballer has a group of pals he trusts more than anyone else.
      Enter the world of one of the most famous sports stars on the planet…
      THE THREE AMIGOS
      There’s a popular joke in Brazil that if you’re Neymar’s friend, you won’t feel the current economic and unemployment crisis that’s sweeping the country.
      And these three live-in mates are reportedly all on the payroll, earning around $11k-per-month from the former Barcelona star.
      Gil Cebola, Jota Amancio and Carlos Henrique are key members of his entourage, each providing a different role within ‘Team Neymar’.
      Gil Cebola is Neymar’s personal photographerCredit: Instagram
      Carlos Henrique is the business brains of Neymar’s entourageCredit: Instagram
      They all live with him in the posh Paris suburb Bougival, in a mansion worth millions.
      Cebola worked briefly as his agent, before assuming his role as chief photographer, managing Neymar’s live broadcasts and videos on social media.
      Off the back of that, Cebola has launched a clothing brand, a tattoo shop and an events production company.
      He now has over 670,000 followers on Instagram, and was selected by Google to photograph an ad campaign in Brazil in recent years. It pays to know Neymar.
      Amancio, who calls himself Neymar’s personal adviser, is perhaps closest to the forward.
      Footballers like Neymar are stars on a completely different level. It’s insane. It’s like a huge cultNBA superstar Draymond Green
      The pair played together in the youth ranks at Santos, and he is akin to a “brother” to the footballer.
      “We met when we were only 13 years old and since then we have grown up together,” Amancio told Marca.
      “We lived in the same house for seven years, we studied together, and until 2010 we played in the same team,”
      While Henrique appears to be the brains of the trio, looking after his pal’s commercial and business interests off the pitch.
      Jota Amancio has known Neymar since they were 13 playing in Santos’ youth teamCredit: Instagram
      Neymar and his entourage live in a stunning mansion in the Bougival suburb of ParisCredit: EPA
      The three were seen partying with Neymar in Las Vegas, alongside Serena Williams, a host of stunning models and UFC Octagon Girls Jhenny Andrade and Camila Oliveira, while Brazil were playing in the Copa America in 2016.
      For Neymar’s 26th birthday his friends also helped him organise a party at the exclusive Pavillion Cambon in Paris, where guests included Lewis Hamilton, Brazilian Ronaldo, and Victoria’s Secret beauty Izabel Goulart.
      SHARE THE WEALTH
      With a net worth of around $121m, Neymar isn’t afraid to show his entourage a good time.
      After all, he believes the parcas are the reason he is where he is today.
      Before his record-breaking transfer to PSG, he flew them to the party island of Ibiza where the gang partied on yachts, in super clubs and rented a huge mansion.
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      It made NBA superstar Draymond Green take note.
      “We see stars in America and it’s amazing,” he said on ESPN.
      “But [footballers like Neymar] are stars on a completely different level over there. It’s insane. It’s like a huge cult.”
      And after his move to Paris, they all went straight to St Tropez, partying at a beach club.
      Club revellers saw 12 bottles of champagne delivered to his table, while a funk version of the Brazilian national anthem played as a backdrop.
      Neymar isn’t afraid of sharing his $121m fortune with his friendsCredit: Instagram
      Exclusive fashion parties thrown by Balmain are attended by Neymar and palsCredit: Instagram
      When Neymar sealed his move to PSG, he celebrated partying with his pals in St TropezCredit: Splash News
      A BAD INFLUENCE
      However, there are those that believe having such an entourage is detriment to Neymar’s career.
      Former Santos marketing director Eduardo Musa worked exclusively as Neymar’s personal adviser for six years.
      One of his many jobs involved looking after an unlimited credit card that paid for the expenses of Neymar’s friends.
      He quit working for the Brazil star after he grew tired of working for such a big name in the game.
      “I can’t complain about anything; it was an amazing experience—my goal as a professional,” Musa told Bleacher Report.
      “But inevitably, when you work with such a huge guy [as Neymar], you have no personal life. I don’t want to pay this price again.”
      Musa encouraged the entourage to become a support system for their pal, but Neymar’s father wasn’t fond of that idea.
      “I have no doubt they’re very important for Neymar, but I tried to turn them into a professional support for Neymar’s career as well.
      “One of them would become a photographer, the other would work as a manager.
      “But his father didn’t accept it [at that time].”
      Former Santos marketing director Eduardo Musa worked as Neymar’s personal advisor for six years
      Musa stopped working with Neymar after falling out with his dadCredit: AFP or licensors
      UNDER PRESSURE
      Being Neymar isn’t easy.
      The expectation on the shoulders of one of the world’s best footballers for club and country could make a mere mortal crumble.
      Gustavo Almeida, another close friend, explained what the entourage provides.
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      “He lives in a pressure-cooker and we are an escape [from it],” he told Brazilian outlet UOL Esporte.
      “We don’t talk about football. We’re a way for him to let go of the stress of his life. We’re together to chat, travel.”
      Every Brazilian kid dreams of becoming the next Ronaldo, Zico or Pele… but now just being friends with the new wonderkid on the scene seems to be just as lucrative.
      The pressure on Neymar’s shoulders for club and country is immenseCredit: Alamy Live News
      Gustavo Almeida says the entourage exists to relieve Neymar from the stresses of footballCredit: Instagram More

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      Jose Mourinho’s kids are branching out on their own, with daughter’s jewellery worn by Stormzy and son a budding coach

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      HE is not the only Special One in the family.For years Jose Mourinho has lived off that moniker, leading the likes of Porto, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Manchester United, Tottenham and now Roma to success.
      Jose Mourinho’s daughter is an award-winning jewellerCredit: Getty
      His son Jose Jr is an aspiring footballer and coachCredit: Getty
      Stormzy teamed up with Matilde Jewellery for a music video shootCredit: Instagram
      But daughter Matilde is showing her own unique talents as a jeweller.
      The 25-year-old’s brand Matilde Jewellery scooped the Emerging Brand of the Year gong at the Professional Jeweller Awards.
      It was also worn by Stormzy in his new video Mel Made Me Do It, which dad Jose makes an appearance in.
      While son Jose Jr, 21, is an aspiring footballer and coach who has been on the books of Fulham.
      MATILDE
      Back in December 2020, Jose’s ambitious offspring launched her own jewellery brand.
      What made it different from its competitors was her promise to make pieces from sustainable materials.
      Her passion for jewellery began in 2018, when she was gifted a gold bracelet for her 18th birthday by her parents.
      “I was so excited. It was my first piece of proper jewellery,” she told the Daily Mail.
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      She uses lab-grown diamonds because they “have the least impact on the environment.”
      Matilde studied her craft at the London College of Fashion before doing an MA in Entrepreneurship: Fashion and Creative Industries at Conde Nast College of Fashion and Design.
      It was on a shopping trip with her mum she learned that diamonds can be lab-grown.
      She said: “We walked into a shop where a jewellery brand was doing a pop-up. The founder came up and said: ‘Did you know all our jewellery uses lab-grown diamonds?’ I was like, ‘What?’ I was intrigued.
      Matilde’s jewellery line won a prestigious award at the Professional Jeweller AwardsCredit: Instagram @matildefmf
      Matilde Jewellery uses sustainable materials, including lab-grown diamondsCredit: Instagram @matilde.jewellery
      Pieces from Matilde’s range can cost up to £1,850Credit: Instagram @matilde.jewellery
      Dad Jose Mourinho has been seen wearing Matilde’s men’s jewellery collectionCredit: Instagram @josemourinho
      Jose Mourinho featured in Mel Made Me Do It
      “My mum was born in Angola, which is where a lot of the horrible impact from blood diamonds took place. She was always vocal about it. She thought it was amazing that lab-grown diamonds existed.”
      Matilde now has her own pop-up shop in the heart of London’s Soho that’s open until Christmas Eve.
      Inside, you’ll find pieces for men and women costing up to £1,850.
      Celebrity fans include actress Naomi Scott and film producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas.
      While dad Jose has worn a bracelet and ring made by his daughter at training with Roma.
      Most recently, Stormzy modelled some pieces for his latest music video, Mel Made Me Do It.
      Jose Sr shared images behind the scenes on his Instagram about his cameo.
      He captioned the image: “Was great fun doing this cameo for Stormzy’s new music video out today. I had a great time and it’s great to see him wearing @matilde.jewellery”
      JOSE JR
      Although he’s currently without a club, Mourinho’s son Jose Jr is an able goalkeeper.
      For three years he was on Fulham’s books before he was released in 2017.
      Now 21, he could consider a move into coaching.
      And, if his dad is to be believed, he could become a better coach than him.
      Back in 2018, the youngster was sat on the bench alongside his dad when Manchester United took on Swansea.
      For his work experience, he then delivered a tactical analysis of what was wrong with his father’s side.
      Jose revealed: “In a period of a few bad results one day, he comes up with some analysis on my team — obviously suffering because Dad wasn’t doing well.
      “We had lost to Watford and Manchester City, I think, and he came with the stats of the team. I showed them to my assistants and I told them, ‘Be careful as one day this boy will take one of your places’.
      Jose Jr was an able goalkeeper and was formerly on Fulham’s booksCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      When his father was at Manchester United, he Jose Jr sat in the dugout for work experienceCredit: Getty
      Jose Mourinho believes his son could one day become a great coachCredit: Getty Images – Getty
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      “But in fact I compare him with me at his age, where I would try to do the same sort of things for my dad — of course with different technology methods, but analysis from a kid aged 16 then.”
      The apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree, as Mourinho’s kids are making their own way in life.
      Clearly, the Special One has produced a couple of Special Ones.
      Generous Jose Mourinho give teen sensation Felix Afena-Gyan a £700 pair of shoes after netting first Roma goals More