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      in Soccer

      Inside Ruben Dias’ love life including dating Love Island beauty as Man City star spotted on ‘night out with Maya Jama’

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      RUBEN Dias is continuing to attract the most glamorous women.The Man City defender, 27, and stunning presenter Maya Jama have sparked romance rumours, after they were spotted together on New Year’s Eve.Man City star Ruben Dias, pictured with ex-girlfriend April Ivy, has dated a string of beautiful womenCredit: Instagram @aprilivymusicTV presenter Maya Jama and Ruben Dias were recently spotted together at dinnerCredit: InstagramWhile Dias also briefly dated Love Island contestant Arabella ChiCredit: instagramThe pair were seen dining at Ibiza hotspot Sa Capella on the same table – with a blurry image shared on social media.This is not the first time romance rumours have circulated around the pair.Back in November, they began following each other on social media shortly after they both attended the MTV EMAs in ManchesterIn the past, Dias has been linked to Love Island beauty Arabella Chi.Read more football newsWhile when he arrived on our shores, he dated Portuguese pop star April Ivy.SunSport takes a look at the Premier League defender’s love life.Pop princessDias arrived at the Etihad in 2020, when he was already firmly in a romance with a Portuguese pop princess.Dias began a romance with April Ivy, real name Mariana Gonçalves, at the end of 2018.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIn 2019, they finally went public with their relationship on New Year’s Day.However, the two reportedly split in 2021 over “lifestyle differences”.Heartbroken Love Island star Arabella Chi slams ex Ruben Dias after he suddenly dumped her following New Year’s breakPortuguese magazine Flash! claimed that Dias wanted a ‘more discreet’ life while his former love wanted something more exuberant.A source revealed: “The now ex-couple already shared a house in Manchester, where the singer had moved in order to be close to Ruben and at the same time bet on her musical career in London. “The lifestyles, more discreet on the part of the footballer contrasting with the more exuberant side of the artist, ended up becoming irreconcilable…”April Ivy and Dias began a romance in 2018Credit: Instagram @aprilivymusicGorgeous Ivy moved to Manchester with Dias before they split in 2021Credit: Instagram @aprilivymusic’Lifestyle differences’ were said to be the reason for their break-upCredit: Instagram @aprilivymusicread more sport featuresLove Island beautyDias soon moved on from April with a former Love Island contestant.Gorgeous Arabella Chi began dating the centre back in September 2023.We exclusively reported how Arabella was regularly flying from her Ibiza base to visit Dias in Manchester, who in turn was “showering” his new belle with gifts.A source said: “They went to Paris for their first romantic mini-break, where he wined and dined her at all the best restaurants.“Ruben and Arabella are trying to keep their relationship under wraps because it’s early days.“But they had the best time together in Paris and seem to be really falling for each other.”They were then spotted weeks later arriving at Manchester airport, before jetting off a romantic getaway on New Year’s Day.However, after three months it was said that Dias called an end to their love affair.Arabella told The Sun on Sunday: “Last year was probably my unluckiest when it came to finding the one. I’ve been so unlucky in love.Blonde bombshell Arabella Chi began dating Dias in September 2023Credit: GettyThe two were soon seen heading on a romantic getaway from Manchester airportCredit: ClickHowever, after three months Dias reportedly dumped ChiCredit: Getty”I’ve dated people I thought at the time were the one, which was a mistake I’ve since learnt from.”What I’ve learnt from dating last year is that you think you know someone but you don’t really know them at all. I dated people that perhaps, looking back, weren’t best suited to me.”Soon after breaking up with Chi, Dias was spotted in Ibiza with a mystery blonde.She was identified as London-based receptionist Taylor Flight. However, nothing seemingly came of that.Dias was also reportedly sending flirty messages to actress Daniela Melchior, who starred in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.Again, nothing seemed to develop there.Dias was then linked to London-based receptionist Taylor FlightCredit: https://www.instagram.com/taylorflight?igsh=bHFwaWVncjJsaWpkMarvel actress Daniela Malchior was also rumoured to have caught Dias’ eyeCredit: GettyOn to JamaWhile nothing has been confirmed between Dias and Jama, the pretty host is single.She split from rapper Stormzy last summer – announcing their break-up on Instagram.They wrote in a joint statement: “We fell madly in love in 2014, broke up in 2019, and the spent five years manoeuvring life apart.”The message added: “We decided to try for the final time in August 2023, and we’ve spent this past year trying our best to make it work; however, we recently decided to call it quits.”It had been claimed that they broke up because Jama wanted to focus on her career, while Stormzy wanted to settle down.However, when the Vossi Bop singer was seen with new girlfriend Victoria Monet – Jama addressed those claims.READ MORE SUN STORIESMaya Jama is now the latest beauty to be rumoured to be attracting DiasCredit: The Mega AgencyJama split from Stormzy last summer after they tried to make their romance workCredit: GettyJama denied rumours they split because she didn’t want to settle downCredit: InstagramShe wrote on Instagram the narrative “that I don’t want to settle down and have kids is a lieeeee.”Perhaps now Dias and Jama have found each other at the right moment in their lives. More

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      in Soccer

      What Trent Alexander-Arnold’s life in Madrid could look like, from sponsored £155k BMW to Beverly Hills-style mansion

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      TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD could live like a king in Madrid, should he complete a transfer to their famous football team, Los Blancos.The Liverpool star, 26, has been highly coveted by the European champions.Trent Alexander-Arnold could swap Liverpool for MadridCredit: GETTYIf TAA does move, he could live in a swanky mansion in the ‘Beverly Hills of Madrid’Credit: Solar PixAlexander-Arnold would also get a company car in the form of a top-of-the-range BMW like pal Jude BellinghamCredit: Instagram @realmadridIt has been reported that the Reds have rejected an offer for the England defender, who is out of contract in the summer.But, TAA could still sign a contract this month to join Real Madrid on a free transfer in the summer – opening up the opportunity to hook up with close pal Jude Bellingham.That could mean Alexander-Arnold would live in a Beverly Hills style mansion in the same neighbourhood as his Three Lions team-mate.He would be offered a company car in the shape of a fancy BMW.read more football newsAnd Calle de Serrano, a luxury shopping district that’s home to boutiques for Prada and Louis Vuitton, would keep the full-back looking sharp.SunSport looks at what Alexander-Arnold’s life in Madrid could look like…Where he’d liveLa Finca, the exclusive private development in the upscale suburb of Pozuelo de Alarcón, is the area where Real Madrid’s elite mostly live.It’s where Gareth Bale made his home for many years – living in a £6.5million Beverly Hills style mansion.Most read in FootballLegends including Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema were also high-profile residents.Fans hail ‘agent Jude Bellingham’ as England star is spotted with Real Madrid transfer target in nightclubAlong with current superstar, Kylian Mbappe.Bale’s property featured a swimming pool and cost over £10,000-per-month to rent.It also had its own luxury gym and a six-car garage, so expect TAA to want something similar.Alexander-Arnold’s salary, given he would be available on a free transfer, could certainly be north of £400,000, so he would have plenty of money to play with choosing a home.He’d link up with…Joining Real Madrid would see TAA link up with some of the world’s best footballers, including Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.However, it would be a reunion with Bellingham that would be more satisfying.The pair have become firm friends since playing for their country together.They’ve been spotted partying together and eating at expensive restaurants together. Bellingham even surprised Alexander-Arnold with a giant card and a prank on his 26th birthdayMidfielder Bellingham has been full of praise of Alexander-Arnold’s ability.It’s also been reported that Alexander-Arnold has been discussing life in Madrid with his pal.Bellingham and Alexander-Arnold have become firm friends as international teammatesCredit: GettyBellingham is said to have discussed life in Madrid with his close palCredit: GettyCompany carIn Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold drives a top of the range Range Rover worth £75,000.While he’s also said to have a £82,000 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 AMG Coupe.Should he move to Madrid, he would certainly get the option of driving a company car.The club used to have a deal with Audi, but have since signed an exclusive contract with BMW.The German car giants provided Bellingham with a stunning electric BMW XM worth £155,000.Real Madrid players picked up their electric BMWs as part of a new initiative to make their journeys to training more environmentally friendly last year.A club statement read: “The football first team received the official BMW cars at an event which took place at Real Madrid City.”This season, the team will use vehicles classified as ‘0 emissions’ in order to be able to make their daily journeys in 100% electric mode.Alexander-Arnold could get his hands on a £155k BMW XMReal Madrid have a huge sponsorship deal with BMW who provide their players with fancy motorsCredit: Instagram @realmadridAlexander-Arnold’s current ride is a stunning Range Roverread more sport features”The players have opted for models such as the BMW i4 M50, the new BMW i4 eDrive35, the first BMW XM, the BMW iX M60 and the BMW IX xDrive50.”These are high-performance, sustainable models featuring state-of-the-art technology, all geared towards dynamism, precision and aesthetics, without neglecting electrification.”Fashion is coveredAlexander-Arnold has made no secret of his love of designer wear.Not only has he been spotted eyeing up the latest trends at Milan Fashion Week, he’s also a model in his own right.The right-back is the face of Guess Jeans and appeared in a glossy photoshoot in the summer, alongside ex-girlfriend Iris Law – the daughter of Hollywood star Jude and actress Sadie Frost.For his love of fashion, expect Alexander-Arnold to shun the busy, pedestrian Calle de Preciados.Instead, he would most likely be seen visiting the upscale boutiques on offer at Calle de Serrano.The likes of Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton all have stores there.With Alexander-Arnold on some serious wedge, he will certainly be a cherished customer.Calle De Serrano is the premier shopping district for fashionistasCredit: TripadvisorDesigners like Gucci have boutiques thereCredit: TRIPADVISORFashionista TAA was spotted at Milan Fashion WeekCredit: InstagramAlexander-Arnold is the face of Guess Jeans with brand ambassador Iris LawCredit: Guess JeansWill the missus join him?Alexander-Arnold has recently fallen for the charms of model Estelle Behnke.They were spotted together on a date in Cheshire last month.Now, they’ve been taking in the sights of Venice, where TAA has whisked the beauty off to for a quick break away.Trent and Estelle enjoyed a meal at the Italian restaurant Regina Corner on Monday.They reportedly stayed at the £1,500-a-night Aman hotel during their time in the city.Estelle Behnke and Alexander-Arnold have recently started datingCredit: instagram/Estelle BehnkeStunning Estelle is a model who once lived in MonacoCredit: instagram/Estelle BehnkeBeauty Estelle could join Alexander-Arnold in MadridCredit: instagram/Estelle BehnkeEstelle is a former business studies student who once lived in Monaco.READ MORE SUN STORIESEven tough it’s early days in their relationship, the well-travelled beauty could join Alexander-Arnold in the Spanish capital.They could tackle the new adventure together. More

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      Inside Alisha Lehmann’s winter Maldives break with best pal Amira Arfaoui, from playing beach football to bikini photos

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      WHAT a way to spend the Christmas period.Stunning women’s footballer Alisha Lehmann jetted off to the Maldives, where she has been sunning her amazing bikini body.Alisha Lehmann is enjoying a winter break in the MaldivesCredit: InstagramLehmann is enjoying her downtime – sunning her incredible bikini body during the festive periodCredit: InstagramAlisha is with best pal Amira Arfaoui on the dream holiday, where they have enjoyed a kickabout on the beachCredit: InstagramThe Swiss forward, 25, was joined by her best pal and international team-mate, Amira Arfaoui.But, there was no sign of boyfriend Douglas Luiz who has had to stay in Turin and play for Juventus during the festive holidays.However, Lehmann was able to take advantage of the Serie A Femminile winter break to let her hair down.And she’s even managed to keep herself match-fit by playing a bit of beach football.Read more football news SunSport takes a look inside Lehmann’s dream getaway to a ‘lost island’.Staying activeHolidays are, essentially, for letting your hair down.But when you’re a super-fit athlete like Alisha, there’s absolutely no reason for downtime.She’s made full use of the facilities available at her Maldives resort.Most read in FootballMaking sure they don’t lose their touch, Alisha and bestie Arfaoui, who plays for Werder Bremen, enjoyed a kickabout on the beach in their modified training session.Glam footballer Alisha Lehmann looks stunning as she shows off skills in a bikini leaving fans ‘jealous of Douglas Luiz’Both women showed off their skills by performing kick-ups.While Alisha enjoyed showing off her dribbling talents as she bamboozled Arfaoui on the sand.Alisha captioned a video on social media: “POV: Celebrating so many years of friendship on a lost island.”The Blonde beauty also took to her Instagram stories to share a picture of some tennis balls and padel rackets, as she and Arfaoui continued to enjoy their time away.And when they weren’t on the beach, the pair took some bicycles out to cycle around the island, which Arfaoui shared a clip of.In her downtime, Alisha showed off her keepy uppy skillsCredit: InstagramAlisha dazzled onlookers with her football jugglingCredit: InstagramAmira Arfaoui also showed off her amazing skillsCredit: InstagramAlisha showed off some padel rackets, as well as tennis balls and drinksCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresShowing off her amazing bikini bodyAlisha is no stranger to flaunting her incredible curves in revealing swimwear.And with current temperatures in the Maldives at 27 degrees, the Juventus Women’s star has been eager to show off her range of bikinis.In one snap, which sees Alisha beaming for the camera, she is wearing a black and white ensemble – matched with a Santa hat – in fitting with the season.In another series of photos, we see her in a gorgeous pink bikini – performing a number of poses.From looking into the horizon to letting the sea touch her toes, Alisha appears perfectly relaxed.Her mate Arfaoui looks equally as chilled – resting against a palm tree while taking a selfie.Alisha enjoyed soaking up the sun and showing off her amazing bikini bodiesCredit: InstagramIn a series of photos shared on social media, Alisha dipped her toes into the seaArfaoui looked equally rested as she chilled against a palm tree and took a selfieGlam lookNoticeably missing from her Maldives getaway was boyfriend, Douglas Luiz.Unlike Alisha, the Brazilian midfielder didn’t get a winter break this year.He has been in action for his club, Juventus – who drew with Fiorentina 2-2 over the weekend.They did spend Christmas Day together – sharing a romantic snap in front of their tree in the home in Northern Italy.The loved-up duo wore matching pyjamas as they posed for pictures with a number of presents behind them.Despite being without her beau in the Maldives, Alisha has enjoyed dressing up.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere was no sign of boyfriend Douglas Luiz after the pair spent Christmas Day togetherCredit: InstagramAlisha enjoyed dressing up in a glam black dressCredit: InstagramIn one outfit, she can be seen wearing a figure-hugging black dress – complete with pink ribbons.She certainly looks like she’s having the time of her life. More

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      in Soccer

      How Liam Delap has blossomed into ‘best young English striker’ and has superfans in Enzo Maresca and Ed Sheeran

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      LIAM Delay continued his epic rise in the Premier League with a demolition job of Chelsea.The 21-year-old was instrumental in leading Ipswich Town to a much-needed win over the Blues.Liam Delap has been scoring goals for fun at Ipswich Town this seasonCredit: GettyDelap blasted home a penalty against Chelsea in a 2-0 win for the Tractor BoysCredit: RexIpswich Town minority owner Ed Sheeran helped bring Delap to the clubCredit: GettyDelap got the Tractor Boys on their way by smashing home a first-half penalty.The centre forward, who has been linked with a move to the West Londoners, then provided the assist for Omari Hutchinson to put the seal on a surprise 2-0 win.That prompted Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca – who he saw first-hand playing for Man City’s youth side – to wax lyrical about Delap after the game.He hailed the man of the match, saying: “Liam is a fantastic player, and also for his age.read more football news “I think we spent one year together and he scored [about] 22 to 24 goals. He is a very good striker.”England have many good players, many good strikers [but] he’s working hard off the ball and on the ball, understands the game and can score goals.”I think he can be an important player for England.”Ipswich Town parted with £20million to bring the ex-Cityzen youngster to Suffolk.Most read in FootballBut that will be money well spent if his goals keep Kieran McKenna’s side in the top flight.Delap has already managed seven goals in 18 league games, and was a handful for Ruben Amorim’s Man Utd side last month.Ipswich Town Football Club announce plans to redevelop 53-year-old stand in ‘exciting project’ with hotel and aquatics centre The 6ft1in centre forward, who was handed a Premier League debut by Pep Guardiola in 2020, was in two minds over joining Ipswich in the summer.That was until minority owner Ed Sheeran got involved to get the transfer over the line.And now Delap is being touted as Harry Kane’s successor for the striker role for England.BBC Sport pundit Danny Murphy said: “I’ve seen him a bit quite a lot this season and I’d probably go as far as I say, for me, he the obvious long-term successor to Kane.”I think he’s the best young English striker out there.”I know he’s got a bit to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league.”But he’s got all the attributes to be a top international player.”Sheer brillianceIt’s not often one of the biggest pop stars in the world has a hand in getting a transfer deal over the line.However, when it’s Ipswich Town superfan Ed Sheeran, then it becomes more understandable.Delap came through the ranks at Man CityCredit: GettyDelap has been touted as Harry Kane’s successor for EnglandCredit: Rexread more sport featuresWhen he’s not gatecrashing Sky Sports interviews with new Man Utd boss Amorim, the singer/songwriter is asking players to join the club he has shares in.Back in the summer, Sheeran got on a Zoom call with Liam Delap and convinced the him his future belonged in East Anglia.In a story told by the club’s CEO Mark Ashton at a Soccerex event, we learned: “A local man, global superstar, sponsor of the football club, now a shareholder and now officially part of our recruitment team.”In the summer we were trying to persuade one particular player to join the football club and realised very quickly that he was an Ed Sheeran fan.”Ed jumped on a Zoom call with him at the training ground, hopefully that was a key part of getting the player across the line.”While Ashton remained coy on who the player was, he let the cat out of the bag when asked how the footballer was getting on this season.He replied: “Certainly scoring a few goals!”It’s in the genesFootball is in Delap’s blood. His dad Rory played for Stoke City, and Delap Jr appeared on the set of Soccer AM in 2014 alongside his father.The former Stoke City and Ireland midfielder is best remembered for his insanely long throw-ins.Former Stoke City hero Rory Delap is Liam’s dadCredit: AFPLiam seen on the set of Soccer AM in 2014Credit: Twitter / @RoryJDelapLike his dad, Liam Delap has an aggressive streakCredit: GettyAs a youth player, that was something that Liam also had in his arsenal.However, when one parent took exception to the youngster’s long-throws he refused to take another throw again.“I think he was put off when he was about an under-10!” Delap Sr. revealed in an interview with Radio Stoke.“One of the parents shouted that he was ruining the game when he took a throw and he hasn’t taken one since.”I don’t think that will be part of his game.”However, one thing he has inherited from his dad’s game is aggression.”(Aggression) always been a part of my game. I need it in my game,” he said in an interview with  the Manchester Evening News.”When I’m on that edge it’s when I’m at my best, it’s just not tipping over that edge and everyone has told me that they’d never want to take it out of me, it’s just controlling that final tipping point of what is acceptable and what’s not.”You can’t really teach it, it’s just something I have and I’m so grateful that I’ve got it but it’s just now working a mechanism that I can control it to keep myself on the pitch.”I’ve got a lot better. I was a lot worse when I was younger so I think it’s just maturing and understanding what’s right.”Inspired by RonaldoA different type of player to his dad, blessed with power and pace, Liam is inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo.In the past Delap has revealed he is a fan of Cristiano RonaldoCredit: GettyDelap knows he has to continue to work at his game to reach the topCredit: Getty”I’ve always looked up to Cristiano Ronaldo. Just the way he plays, the pace and the power.”For me, he’s the best in the world so aspiring to someone who is the best in the world, your dreams just have to be high.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Listening to people that he’s worked with, the extras and lengths that he goes to look after his body and get better every day just shows why he’s at the top level.”You can have talent but talent on its own doesn’t work without effort.” More

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      in Boxing

      Oleksandr Usyk’s tattoos explained, from his children’s names to Olympic rings, as he gets ready to fight Tyson Fury

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      OLEKSANDR Usyk is gearing up for the biggest fight of his life.The WBA, WBO and WBC belts are on the line as he faces Tyson Fury at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday.Oleksandr Usyk shows off his impressive tattoos and chiselled torsoCredit: GettyUsyk’s tattoos will be on display when he fights Tyson Fury this weekendCredit: Mark Robinson Matchroom BoxingUsyk will have three belts on the line when he faces off against Fury for a second timeCredit: ReutersBoxing fans will be praying it is as eventful as the first bout between the pair, which ended in the Ukrainian winning by split decision.Amusingly, whoever wins, the pair could end up going for a pint together.Usyk joked about it in a recent TV interview where he said he would entertain having a beer with his rival.The trash talk has ramped up in recent weeks but there remains a healthy respect between the pair, so much so that Usyk is willing to put all the Gypsy King’s “rabbit” jokes aside and visit the boozer with him.Read more boxing newsDuring a chat with Sky Sports, Usyk said: “Listen I can go to the pub, drinking beer.”After, we go to play golf and then we go to play football. Then we go horse racing.”As he fought back fits of laughter, the fan favourite added: “Yes [a few beers]. No problem.”The Cat and Fury could even talk about his incredible tattoos that decorate his chiselled torso.Most read in BoxingSunSport wades through his ink to explain what some of them mean below.Oleksandr Usyk puts Tyson Fury rivalry aside and invites Gypsy King to the pub to ‘drink beer’ and cheer on Man Utd Family manUsyk is one of sport’s great characters.Loveable, goofy at times, and certainly a lot smarter than people realise.However, beneath his joker in the pack exterior is a proud man whose roots firmly belong to Ukraine.He is also a father, which he takes great joy in being.Usyk’s dedication to his children is obvious, as he has their names, Yelizaveta and Kyrylo, etched on to his skin in Ukrainian script.These names roughly translate to Elizabeth and Kyrill in English.Usyk married Yekaterina in 2009.They have four children in total, including Mykhalio and a daughter who was born this year.Usyk’s children’s names appear on his biceps in Ukrainian scriptCredit: EPA/ALI HAIDERUsyk is married to Yekaterina and they share four kidsCredit: Instagramread more sport featuresA true UkrainianIt was little wonder Usyk returned to his native country to fight the ongoing war against Russia.But, he’s best served representing his country on the global stage as one of the world’s most popular sportsman.When he’s in the ring, fans will get to see his right shoulder inked with the Simferopol, the national coat of arms of Ukraine.Known as the tryzub, it wasn’t until 1979 that it was considered a national symbol.Usyk’s tributes to his homeland don’t end there.On his left lower-back, he has an angel tattooed that looks like the iconic statue of Archangel Michael atop Lach Gates at the Independence Square in Kyiv.It is holding a sword, which signifies its role in protecting the country from invasion or danger.Famously, after defeating Anthony Joshua, Usyk dedicated his victory to the soldiers of Kyiv’s territorial defence forces.“They (injured soldiers) were asking me to go, to fight, to fight for the country, fight for your pride and if you’re going to go there, you’re even going to help more for our country,” he said.On his lower left back, Usyk has an angel tattoo , while Ukraine’s national coat of arms is on his right shoulderCredit: InstagramAfter beating Anthony Joshua, Usyk dedicated his victory to Kyiv’s territorial defence forcesCredit: Mark Robinson Matchroom BoxingOlympic heroUsyk rose through the ranks by competing at the Olympics.Famously, he won gold at London 2012 in the heavyweight class.On both of his arms he has Olympic rings, with one of those labelled ‘London 2012’.They symbolise how far Usyk has come as he has conquered the professional boxing world, as both cruiserweight an heavyweight king.READ MORE SUN STORIESNext, it’s time to conquer Tyson Fury again.Maybe there will another tattoo designed already for that honour.Usyk’s Olympic success features on his arms with the Olympic ringsCredit: Reuters More

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      Meet ‘new Match of the Day host’ Kelly Cates, who is the daughter of a Liverpool icon and studied maths at university

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      KELLY CATES is reportedly set to quit Sky Sports and move to the BBC.The 49-year-old, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman will reportedly share hosting duties of Match of the Day and MOTD 2 next season, when Gary Lineker stands down.Kelly Cates has built a stellar career in the media over the past 20 yearsCredit: HandoutCates is familiar to Sky Sports viewers as the host for Super SundayLiverpool legend Kelly Dalglish poses with his familyCredit: PA:Press AssociationCates has worked for the BBC on and off since 2013, for Radio 5 Live.She presented iconic fan phone-in show 606 alongside Ian Wright on Sunday’s between 2013 and 2018.After joining Sky Sports her role was reduced, but Cates returned to host midweek sports show, 5 Live Sport, mostly on Tuesday’s, while she also provided coverage of the 2022 World Cup.The daughter of Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish became a TV presenter at Sky Sports, working on several Premier League shows including Friday Night Live.Read more football newsSky Sports bosses are reportedly sad to see her leave – but she was understood to be the BBC’s leading external candidate to take over from icon Lineker.It completes a remarkable journey for Cates, who has had an impressive rise in sports broadcasting.It was a role she had no intention of taking when she was at university studying maths!She comes from footballing royaltyKelly grew up with football around her.Most read in FootballIt was mum, Marina who would take her to games dad Kenny was playing in.”When I was a baby my mum took me to matches to watch my dad play,” she said in an interview with magazine When Saturday Comes.Kelly Cates on Super Sunday amid reports she’s leaving for BBC”I don’t remember a time when I didn’t go to football games – my earliest memories are of being in the players’ lounge with the other players’ children.”However, that didn’t make Kelly a Liverpool fan.When her father moved to clubs, including Blackburn and Newcastle United as a manager, she hoped they did well – even against the Reds.Despite football being in her blood, she revealed she didn’t have as much of a flair for it as her famous father.She laughed: “I ran down the wing thinking ‘Oh, this will be easy’, tripped over and knocked myself out!”That was the end of my football career.”Thought of a different lifeAlthough she has become football broadcasting royalty, Cates nearly snubbed a chance to work in the game.At university being a sports TV presenter was far from her mind.She said: “I did a degree in maths but after I left university I wanted to do something different.When she was at university Cates studied mathsCredit: GettyHowever, when Sky Sports News launched she decided to give presenting a goCredit: PA:Press AssociationFather and daughter share a laugh during Sky Sports’ coverageCredit: PAread more sport features”The Sky Sports News channel was being launched and they were looking for young people who loved football.”It was new and no one was watching so they pretty much said to us: ‘Go and play at being on the telly!”‘Family came firstSince the Millennium, Cates’ career rise has followed a steep trajectory.She initially left Sky Sports in 2016, after wanting to start a family with then fiancé Tom Cates, who she shares two children with.”I left Sky Sports News in 2006, after the Germany World Cup,” she told The Overlap’s ‘Not Just Football’ podcast back in October.”I’d been there for eight years and I had just turned 30, or I was just turning 31. I was engaged, but not yet married. I knew I wanted to have children quite soon at that point.”It had just been, for a long time, kind of filtering away and running in the back of my head. I came to the end of my contract and was working under my new contract and within the space of about three days, made the decision.Kelly got married to Tom Cates in 2007, although they divorced in 2021Credit: Luke InmanCates has worked at ESPN, ITV, Setanta Sports and more through the years tooCredit: Getty”I was driving into work one day, I walked in and I said, ‘I don’t want to sign this new contract, I want to go!’ I had nothing to go to.”I just walked away, but I was so sure that I had to go and make that change. I did it when I left university to go to Sky, which is different, because then you get something that’s really exciting, shiny and new, dangled in front of you and you think, ‘I’m going to take this jump'”.Cates got married in 2007, although they sadly divorced in 2021.That same year she began a job at the now defunct Setanta Sports – bouncing around jobs at ESPN, ITV, and STV.However, in 2016 she made her return back to Sky Sports – feeling she had unfinished business.Initially, she fronted their EFL coverage before becoming the main anchor for the Premier League.Cates has been a huge success for the channel, alongside Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher.Who can forget when she hilariously turned her back on them, after they turned their back on her during a segment that went wrong.READ MORE SUN STORIESSky’s loss is BBC’s gain, as Kelly will divide her time between MOTD and her role working for Radio 5 Live.It could be a match made in heaven.Kelly will divide her time between MOTD and BBC Radio 5 LiveCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSky’s loss will be BBC’s gain – as Super Sunday will need a new hostCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      in Soccer

      Football team-mates’ best fights, from Le Saux punching Batty, Hartson kicking Benayoun to brutal Bowyer vs Dyer scrap

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      WHEN tensions run high and the pressure is on, these footballers could not help but fall out with one another.Man Utd were the latest club to see two of their stars get in a barney on the pitch.Rasmus Hojlund and Amad Diallo got into a row after Man Utd’s Europa League clashCredit: TNT SPORTSTeammates stepped in to break it up but it’s not the first time footballers have foughtCredit: TNT SPORTSTeam-mates Rasmus Hojlund and Amad Diallo were involved in a furious row after full-time in Plzen after their Europa League clash.Substitute Hojlund, 21, was United’s game-winning hero but was left raging as he accused Amad of wrecking his chance at a first club hat-trick by refusing to pass to him when in front of goal deep into injury time.While Amad was also angry that Hojlund did something similar moments before.However, United boss Amorim could only see positives in their actions. Read more football newsAmorim said: “It’s a positive thing, a healthy thing, perfect. In this moment, we need to feel something, if we need to fight each other it’s like a family, for me it’s a very, very good sign.“When you don’t care, you do nothing, when you care, you fight with your brother, with your father, with your mother.“It’s a normal thing, so I leave it to the players and captain to calm things down.“If it’s too much I will go inside the dressing room. But it’s their space, they have to talk, to fight — it’s very important.Most read in Football“I am happy we win the game and still fight each other, that is a very good thing.Club mascot provokes opposition players, starts a fight, gets sent off and then does Ronaldo’s siu celebration“When you win and you fight with your team-mate because you want to score one more. It’s a very good day for us.”While Hojlund and Amad’s row was just a squabble, there have been times when things have got further out of hand, as SunSport explains.White and ZinchenkoBack in January, Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko had to be held back by set-piece coach Nicolas Jover following Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest.Gunners boss Mikel Arteta revealed why they fell out after the match.Taking the Amorim approach, Arteta said: “I love it. They are demanding more from each other. They are not happy with the way they conceded and they are just trying to resolve it.”It got a bit heated. But that means that it’s enough. Playing the way we played the result has to be bigger and the clean sheet has to be there.”Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko are separated by Arsenal coach Nicolas JoverCredit: TNT SPORTSMings and El-GhaziAt the beginning of the 2019-2020 season, Aston Villa’s Tyrone Mings and Anwar El-Ghazi locked horns during a game against West Ham.The Aston Villa bad-boys’ disagreement was put to bed at half-time, according to then captain Jack Grealish.Ming was said to be livid with El-Ghazi for not tracking back, and shouted at him on the pitch.The Dutchman retaliated by pushing his head into the face of Mings.Anwar El Ghazi feels Tyrone Mings’ wrath after not tracking backCredit: Getty – ContributorEl Ghazi leans his head towards Mings after their war of wordsCredit: AFP or licensorsBatty and Le SauxOne of the infamous, and most shocking, saw a Blackburn Rovers Champions League game momentarily halted.David and Graeme Le Saux accidentally collided when going for the same ball in a match against Spartak Moscow in 1995.The game was just four minutes in when Le Saux aimed a punch at the tigerish midfielder.Tim Sherwood stepped in to separate them, but Le Saux had already broken his hand at that point.Tim Sherwood has to step in to stop David Batty and Graeme Le Saux scrappingCredit: PAThe pair made up pretty quickly after their fisticuffsCredit: PA:Press AssociationMitrovic and KamaraYou could say it all started when Aboubakar Kamara snatched the ball off regular Fulham penalty taker Aleksandar Mitrovic and missed a vital spot-kick against Huddersfield in a 2019 Premier League match.Then, just two weeks later during a supposedly calming yoga session, the pair got into a heated row as boss Claudio Ranieri looked on.Mitrovic believed Kamara had insulted the yoga teacher, and he let Kamara know about it.Talk about holding a grudge.Fulham’s Aboubakar Kamara and Aleksandar Mitrovic’s argument began over a squabble over a penaltyCredit: PA:Press Associationread more sport featuresHartson and BerkovicWhile a lot happens during in the heat of a game, this astonishing fight happened in a training session!John Hartson and Eyal Berkovic, as centre forward and playmaker respectively, are supposed to tee each other up for goals.However, that seemed far-fetched when Hartson lost his temper with Berkovic and kicked his West Ham team-mate in the head in 1998.The training ground outburst was caught on film and Hartson, who was fined £20,000, called it his “biggest regret”.John Hartson’s infamous kick to Eyal Berkovic’s face was caught on cameraCredit: SkyBerkovic and Hartson soon made up after their bust-upCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdBowyer and DyerAnother to be filed under the Batty and Le Saux category, Lee Bowyer’s scrap with Kieron Dyer also escalated to punches being landed.In a match their Newcastle team would lose to Aston Villa 3-0, Dyer reportedly called Bowyer “s***”.The outrageous melee saw players from both sides try to intervene as they ripped each other to shreds.They were sent off and tried to get at each other in the changing rooms but stopped when boss Graeme Souness allegedly offered to fight them both!Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer have to be held back by players after a furious fightCredit: GettyBellamy and Arne RiiseCraig Bellamy often lost his cool.While, John Arne Riise was an uncompromising defender who didn’t suffer fools.But, they were supposed to be letting their hair down on a team bonding trip with Liverpool to the Algarve in 2007.A row over Riise’s refusal to take part in karaoke led to Bellamy attacking the Norwegian in his hotel room with a golf club. Bellamy later used it in his goal celebration.Craig Bellamy made fun out of his incident with a golf celebrationCredit: GettyAdebayor and BendtnerAdebayor wasn’t going to let Arsenal’s departure out of the Carling Cup go without growling at a team-mate in 2008.And it was Danish star Bendtner who was on the receiving end of the Togo-born striker’s frustrations.Arsenal had a corner, but rather than concentrate on making space Adebayor and Bendtner began shoving each other.Bendtner was left with a cut above his nose, and they had to be separated by club captain William Gallas.Allegedly, Adebayor – a second half substitute – told the starting Bendtner, “I’m on because you’re s***.”Emmanuel Adebayor confronts Nicklas Bendtner and slams his performanceCredit: MARC ASPLANDSon and LlorisFormer team-mates Hugo Lloris and Son Heung-min got particularly aggy at half-time in Spurs’ 1-0 loss to Everton in a match in 2020.The two were spotted on Sky Sports’ cameras in an angry exchange – shouting and pushing each other,READ MORE SUN STORIESIt was later revealed the Frenchman was livid that the Korean wasn’t tracking back.They made up during the interval, but didn’t face the wrath of boss Jose Mourinho who applauded their passion, even calling the moment “beautiful.”Hugo Lloris and Son Heung-Min argued over the Korean allegedly not tracking backCredit: Sky Sports More

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      Inside Eddie Jordan’s fast paced life from owning F1 team, to presenting on Top Gear and circling globe on a £32m yacht

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      EDDIE JORDAN has revealed he’s been battling an “aggressive cancer”.The F1 legend, 76, was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer earlier this year which then spread.Eddie Jordan has revealed his cancer battleCredit: GettyKeen musician Jordan also plays drums in a rock and roll bandCredit: GettyEddie Jordan had a successful career as a team owner in F1 with Jordan Grand PrixCredit: GettyHe said he’s had some “dark days” and urged people to go out and get tested and spoke about the importance of looking after one’s body.In an appearance on his Formula For Success podcast, which he hosts alongside David Coulthard, Jordan said: “We’ve kind of alluded to it David, over the shows. Way back in March and April, I was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer.”And then it spread into the spine and the pelvis, so it was quite aggressive. And we’ve all heard about our wonderful friend Sir Chris Hoy, who is an absolute megastar, and he [was] coming out and talking about illness such as like what I’ve got, but he’s a far younger man.”But this is a little message for all the anchors and everybody listening to this: don’t wait or put it off.Read more motosport news”Go and get tested, because in life you’ve got chances and there is so much medical advice out there and so many things that you can do to extend your lifetime. Go and do it.”Don’t be stupid, don’t be shy. It’s not a shy thing – look after your body, guys.“We’ll move on, but yes, some very dark days in there – but we pulled out of it, thankfully.”Jordan has enjoyed an epic life in racing, from launching his own career to owning F1 teams, and becoming a pundit and TV host.Most read in MotorsportAway from the sport, he’s a keen sailor and boating enthusiast – who once splashed the cash on a boat formerly owned by a US politician, and has circumnavigated the world.Max Verstappen claims he has ‘lost all respect’ for F1 star George Russell in X-rated rantRock and roll fan Jordan, who’s understood to be worth around £470million, also loves music and plays drums in a band, while his art collection is mint.Racing careerAge 15, Jordan contemplated becoming a priest. Then, he toyed with the idea of accountancy, taking a course, before getting a job at a bank in Ireland.During a work trip in Jersey, he discovered go-karting – returning to his native country and buying a go-kart.He had a natural flair for the sport.Jordan entered the Irish Kart Championship in 1971 – winning it.In ’74, he moved to Formula Ford, the Irish Formula Ford Championship and, in 1975, to Formula Three.However, he was forced to sit out the entire ’76 season after shattering his leg in a crash.Jordan soon switched to Formula Atlantic, where he won three races in the 1977 season.In ’78 he won the Irish Formula Atlantic Championship – racing in British Formula Three a year later for Team Ireland.Jordan had his own racing career in the 70’s after discovering a love of motorsportCredit: GettySoon, Jordan, a former accountant, would want to be a team owner himself.Credit: GettyIn the late 70s Jordan raced once in Formula Two and did some test driving for McLaren.But, soon his thoughts began drifting towards life away from behind the wheel.Team ownerCome 1979, he founded his own team – Eddie Jordan Racing.Touring car drivers David Leslie and David Sears ran for him, as did James Weaver in European F3.Jordan also hired Martin Brundle, now famed for his celebrity grid walk interviews, who finished second to Ayrton Senna in British F3.In 1987, Johnny Herbert won the team the British Formula Three Championship.In 1991, Jordan had grander plans. After hiring Reynard chief designer Gary Anderson, he founded Jordan Grand Prix and entered Formula 1.They quickly punched above their weight thanks to the quality of drivers that drove for the team.Jordan memorably gave Michael Schumacher his first start in F1 in the team’s debut season.Jordan famously launched the career of Michael SchumacherCredit: GettyEddie Jordan celebrates success at the Belgian Grand PrixCredit: Gettyread more sport featuresAfter one start, the German was lured to Benetton.However, in 1998 the team achieved its best ever result when Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finished first and second at the Belgian Grand Prix.A year later, they had Heinz-Harald Frentzen as a genuine contender for the world championship, until he fell away.In 2005, Jordan finally sold up – Midland Group, financed by wealthy Russian-Canadian businessman Alex Shnaider, bought the team and renamed it MF1 Racing.Following a hiatus from motor racing, Jordan returned to F1 as a pundit and has worked for BBC Sport, Channel 4, and is a regular now on Sky Sports.Yacht ownerAway from racing, Jordan loves sailing.He has owned several boats, including the biggest Sunseeker Yacht ever built.Sailing enthusiast has circumnavigated the world thanks his love of boatsCredit: Rex FeaturesBlush eddie jordan yachtCredit: BLUEI PRODUCTIONSIt featured a nightclub and a parking garage for jet skis as well as opulent dining rooms, lounges, bars, viewing decks, jacuzzis, bedrooms and ensuite bathroomsIt reportedly set him back £32million, but he decided to sell it in 2017.He revealed to Boat International that his busy schedule only allowed him to enjoy two weeks a year on it, and it wasn’t worth the £1.2m running costs, including fuel, dockage, maintenance, insurance and crew salaries.Jordan also owned a 45-metre sailing boat called Blush, which he recently sold for around £9m.His passion for sailing allowed him to tick off a dream on his bucket list.“I was very lucky to circumnavigate the world so that’s no longer on the bucket list,” Jordan revealed.Back in the paddockFor all his love of the ocean, motorsport is still clearly his biggest love.In 2016, he became a presenter for the revamped Top Gear, alongside Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc.But he’s at home when he’s in the paddock – working as an analyst.In recent years, he’s been a regular on Sky Sports – delivering his expert opinion.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile he remains outspoken on his podcast Formula For Success, alongside David Coulthard.Long may we continue hearing Jordan’s expertise on the world of F1.Jordan starred opposite Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc on the revamped Top GearCredit: BBCIn recent years, Jordan has worked as a punditCredit: GettyJordan was diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer earlier this yearCredit: Getty More