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      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson had an amazing 52-room mansion, sold to 50 Cent for £3.3million, that has two pools and a nightclub

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      WHEN Mike Tyson was declared bankrupt in 2003, he was forced to sell up.With reported debts of £17million, his prized home in Connecticut was one of his first possessions to be sacrificed.
      Mike Tyson’s former home in ConnecticutCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      In 2003, Tyson was forced to sell the property for £3.3m after declaring bankruptcyCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      And it would’ve been a bitter pill for the 56-year-old to swallow, looking at this mega mansion.
      Boasting 52 rooms, including 21 bedrooms, as well as its own nightclub the property is as lavish as Tyson has ever owned.
      But it was needs must for the heavyweight boxing legend and in came rapper 50 Cent who bought it from him for £3.3m the same year it was revealed he blew his fortune.
      PROPERTY DEETS
      When the In Da Club singer bought the house from Tyson, it set a record for the most expensive home ever sold in the area of Farmington – and it’s easy to see why.
      MOST READ IN BOXING
      Along with those 21 bedrooms we mentioned earlier, the 50,000-square-foot abode has a 25 bathrooms, an indoor pool and hot tub, an indoor court, multiple game rooms, a green-screen room, and a recording studio.
      And the opulence doesn’t end there.
      Entering the property through a stately front gate, you’re greeted by a lion statue.
      Walking into the home on the marble floor, a duelling wood-panelled staircase leads you to another level of the property.
      At the entrance of the property you’re faced with opulent gates and a statue of a lionCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      Two staircases lead you to the first floorCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The ground floor features marble floorsCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The master bedroom offers incredible views of the gardensCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      As can be seen, the decor is as lavish as it gets throughout the property.
      The master bedroom has a scenic view of the garden landscape.
      From there, you have your own steel staircase that leads to another floor that features a massive walk-in closet with glass doors, so you can see your designer wardrobe.
      One of the many en-suites has a huge bathtub that overlooks the gardens, and it also features a glass door shower.
      MOST READ IN SPORT
      A steel staircase in the master bedroom leads to another floorCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The walk-in closets are glass frontedCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      Astonishingly, there are 25 bathroomsCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      This bathroom features a huge bathtub overlooking the gardensCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The master bedroom has a scenic view of the garden landscape.
      From there, you have your own steel staircase that leads to another floor that features a massive walk-in closet with glass doors, so you can see your designer wardrobe.
      One of the many en-suites has a huge bathtub that overlooks the gardens, and it also features a glass door shower.
      The bathroom has a glass showerCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The reception room features a Weber grand pianoCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The property also boasts its own nightclubCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT
      The home is fit for someone who loves having friends round.
      There are outdoor and indoor basketball courts that complete the recreational feel to the property.
      There’s a room with pool tables, and another games room with poker and roulette tables – meaning you’ll never have to go to Las Vegas again.
      Next to the outdoor basketball court is a pond that has an elaborate water feature spouting out and a guesthouse.
      However, this property does have a chequered history in sales.
      50 Cent had the outdoor basketball court personalised with his group’s name onCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      A second basketball court can be found indoorsCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The indoor swimming pool is one of two at the homeCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The outdoor pool features its own grottoCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      It’s the perfect spot to top up your tanCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The kitchen has enough space for the most avid chefCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      One games room features pool tablesCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      Another games room has poker and roulette tablesCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      TOO EXPENSIVE
      Over the years, the property has dropped in value rapidly – mostly because of its running costs that 50 Cent complained cost him around £50,000 per month.
      In fact, it was on the market for 12 years – starting at £14m before it was finally sold in 2019 for just £2.3m – an 84 per cent price drop.
      “It’s just oversized for the market,” estate agent Jonathan Miller told Realtor.com.
      “When you have a property that is well outside the norm, it takes a lot longer to sell.”
      In the end, it was reportedly snapped up by US businessman Casey Askar, who owns several fast-food businesses.
      Another of Mike Tyson’s amazing homes, complete with cages for his tigers, was left abandoned before it was converted into a church.
      A cinema room adds to the lavish offerings this property hasCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      The property also has a pond next to the basketball courtCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      There’s a guest house overlooking the pondCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      A water feature spouts into the pondCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      Over the years the property has struggled to sell and was on the market for 12 yearsCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate
      Eventually it sold in 2019 for just £2.3m – decreasing 84 per cent in valueCredit: Douglas Elliman Real Estate More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea boss Graham Potter’s inner circle, from wife Rachel who has a pilates business to loyal assistant Billy Reid

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      GRAHAM POTTER is the new manager of Chelsea.The English boss, 47, has taken over the reigns from sacked Thomas Tuchel, following successful talks with the club’s owner Todd Boehly.
      Graham Potter is the new man at Chelsea – and has a backroom team to support him
      In the past, Potter has been a hit coaching Swedish minnows Ostersund, Swansea and most recently Brighton.
      During that period, he has developed his own inner circle of people he considers confidantes.
      From his wife who runs a pilates business to assistant manager Billy Reid, these are who he trusts the most as he takes control at Stamford Bridge.
      Billy Reid
      Making the move to Stamford Bridge with Potter, like he has at Ostersund, Swansea and Brighton, is the ex-Hamilton Academical boss.
      Reid has been Potter’s trusted assistant – a man he can lean on for advice in training sessions and during games, as well as encourage to perform ballet Swan Lake with his players.
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      He was a No1 for eight years in Scotland, before opting to be Potter’s No2.
      Of Potter, Reid has said: “He lets me get on with my job. He is easy going, with a temper. When he turns he turns and the players will know that.
      Brighton assistant manager Billy Reid has joined Potter at Stamford Bridge
      “He is very clear in his mind of the idea he puts across to his players. That’s why he’s had the success he’s had and he knows how to delegate really well.”
      Bjorn Hamberg
      When he was just 20, Hamberg showed his love of football by setting up his own team, BK Bjorner with pals.
      Before he got his break at Ostersund, the Swede was a supermarket manager.
      But at 26 he’s been with Potter – focusing mostly on match analysis.
      He too has made the move to the Blues.
      Bjorn Hamberg worked at a supermarket until he got his break under Potter
      Most read in Football
      Kyle Macaulay
      Recruitment analyst Macaulay has also joined Potter’s Chelsea revolution.
      He has been credited with finding gems at Brighton, from Yves Bissouma to Moises Caicedo.
      Macaulay will be tasked with looking at the current squad and drawing a list of potential targets to correct any weaknesses.
      Any potential talents that could be sold on for profit would also be part of his remit.
      Kyle Macaulay, right, has been Potter’s talent spotter through the years
      Rachel Potter
      Potter is married to Rachel, a Pilates enthusiast and the mother of his three children.
      They began dating when he was a player in the 1990s.
      She has her own successful business and has been the football manager’s rock through the years.
      In fact, Rachel ditched her first business in the UK to start all over in Sweden when he landed the Ostersund job in 2011.
      Rachel Potter is a Pilate enthusiastCredit: Instagram
      Ben Roberts
      A former Middlesbrough favourite, Roberts will be joining Chelsea as a goalkeeping coach.
      In fact, he was in goal for Boro when Roberto di Matteo scored for Chelsea after just 43 seconds in the 1997 FA Cup final
      He holds a degree in sports science and coaching and worked with Potter at Brighton from 2015.
      Most notably, he helped the careers of Matt Ryan and now Robert Sanchez blossom.
      Could be just the tonic Edouard Mendy needs to regain his form and confidence.
      Ex-Middlesbrough keeper Ben Roberts will be joining the Blues as keeper coach
      Ben Roberts conceded one of the most famous goals in Chelsea historyCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Bruno Saltor Grau
      Known simply as Bruno, the Spanish coach had an impressive career in LaLiga – playing right back for Espanyol, Almeria and Valencia.
      He also played over 200 games for Brighton – so was a firm fans’ favourite.
      In 2019, he became senior player development coach with the Seagulls.
      He once told Sky Sports: “I never thought I was going to get into coaching this quickly,.
      “The manager’s leadership is amazing as he allows every one of us the freedom to contribute whatever knowledge and experience we have.”
      Coach Bruno has praised boss Potter and his approach
      John Morris
      The man at the centre of Potter’s negotiations with Chelsea and Brighton is Morris.
      An agent for Wasserman, he famously also has Jamie Vardy, Brendan Rodgers, Tyrone Mings, and many more as clients.
      He began working with fellow Solihull-born Potter in 2017, after flying to Sweden to meet him.
      Instantly, he understood his qualities as a coach and has beaten his drum for top jobs in the Premier League ever since.
      John Morris is Potter’s longstanding agent More

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      in Boxing

      Tyson Fury’s amazing £1.7million Morecambe mansion – with gold curtains and radiators and a red marble kitchen

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      IT is a home fit for the Gypsy King.Back in 2020, Tyson Fury upgraded from his £550,000 abode to a stunning £1.7million home in Morecambe.
      Tyson and Paris Fury live in a £1.7m home in Morecambe
      The elaborate property cost the boxer a reported £1.7m
      And the heavyweight champ, 33, known for his love of flashy cars, has given glam wife Paris free rein to decorate.
      Clearly crafted with an open cheque book, the mansion has gold curtains and radiators throughout.
      There are huge chandeliers dangling from the ceilings, and the kitchen is decked out in red marble.
      It’s no wonder Fury, who has amassed a net worth believed to be over £100million, says he’s retiring and wants to put his feet up in his huge house.

      Sneak peek
      It’s missus Paris, 32, who often gives us a glimpse into her fab property.
      On Instagram, she regularly shares snaps in different rooms – dressed head-to-toe in designer clobber.
      One photo showed the blonde clutching a Chanel handbag while stood in front of a set of ornate gold curtains.
      Most read in Boxing
      In another, the beauty is surrounded by family in her kitchen – sipping a coffee and laughing.
      Behind her, red-topped marble decorates the surfaces. And there’s also a silver chandelier, fit for a queen, hanging from the ceiling.
      In the hallway, Paris – wearing a patterned blouse – leans on a gold radiator that’s clearly a statement piece. Next to her is an outstanding floor to ceiling mirror.
      For the musical, underneath the wood staircase is a grand black piano that sits on marble flooring.
      Height of luxury
      The Furys don’t skimp when it comes to high-end luxury.
      Tyson practically lives in a set of £390 Versace gowns, while Paris is a huge fan of the Italian fashion brand.
      Paris told us her favourite part of the house was her walk-in wardrobe.
      Paris Fury regularly shares images of the home on social media
      Sweeping gold curtains adorn the property
      A lavish gold radiator and and grand piano can be seen in the hallway
      “Having this walk-in wardrobe was a big dream of mine. I got it and I do appreciate it,” she said.
      Incredibly, it houses her mega shoe collection that’s worth an estimated £50,000.
      And they are certainly proud of their digs – keeping on top of housekeeping in-between looking after their six children.
      Paris once described Tyson as ‘a bit of a clean freak’, so you can bet you won’t find a spec of dust anywhere.
      Plot twist
      According to land registry records, Fury bought the property for £1.695million in December 2020.
      It was paid for by their firm Tyson Fury Ltd, and is mortage-free.
      The kitchen boasts hanging chandeliers and red-topped marble kitchen counters
      One of the kids’ rooms has a pink and blue themeCredit: instagram
      The Furys have six children
      They used to live in a £550,000 house that overlooked Morecambe Bay, before moving to a new plot that was once home to a static caravan-style.
      However, the previous owner had it demolished and replaced it with a stone-clad palace – complete with a water fountain on the driveway.
      In terms of security, the property has a castellated front wall, and a wrought-iron black and gold fence. Of course, that boasts its own lavish decor – with lion motifs and four eagle sculptures on the gate posts.
      Unwanted burglars are warned off by signs that reveal the home is guarded by CCTV.
      Tyson Fury has previously boasted about having an expensive property portfolio.
      He once revealed he had bought a mansion in Marbella for £6million, although that was never confirmed.
      While last year, he claimed to have splashed the cash on a home in Las Vegas, which again was never substantiated.
      But Fury’s love affair with Morecambe knows no bounds.
      He recently agreed to sponsor League One side Morecambe FC. And he appeared at the nearby Sultan of Lancaster Experience restaurant where he cut the red ribbon to open the establishment.
      Glam Paris is the height of fashion and the decor in her home reflects that
      For Fury there’s no place like home More

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      in Soccer

      Graham Potter’s new-look Chelsea will be dynamic and full of energy but it’s bad news for several key players

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      IT’S good to see the new Chelsea ownership are at least keeping some tradition at the club – the manager only ever being two bad results away from the sack.A 1-0 defeat away to Dinamo Zagreb on the opening matchday of the Champions League group stage signalled the end of the line for Thomas Tuchel at Chelsea.
      Graham Potter faces a massive job at Chelsea
      Next coach Graham Potter has to come into an environment where Chelsea are already five points off the pace in the Premier League and off to a losing start in the Champions League.
      Add to that the fact that there will be no possibility of adding players to change the dynamic of the squad.
      Potter is an incredibly modern coach and it certainly feels as though his work at Brighton has earned him the right to a chance at a top-six club but what would Chelsea be getting in the Englishman?
      He is flexible in his approach from a tactical perspective but how exactly would this fit with this Chelsea squad?
      Read more on Chelsea
      Progressive passing out from the back
      For all that Chelsea were relatively possession based under Thomas Tuchel, you would not have said that any of their central defenders were particularly progressive in their approach.
      They did not typically have an approach that saw their central defenders taking responsibility for moving the ball through the thirds.
      Instead, the Italian international midfielder Jorginho tended to take the role as the main ball progressor for Chelsea.
      Under Graham Potter, however, this would likely change. Potter is very flexible from a tactical perspective although he does tend to prefer to play with a back three system as opposed to a back four.
      We believe that this would be the case at Chelsea where he would have the players needed to make this system a success already at the club.
      Adam Webster in possession, ironically against Chelsea, as the first line of the attack. As he is pressed Webster has the composure to drive through the press and carry the ball into the final third.
      Most read in Football
      At Brighton the central defenders play an important role when it comes to building the attack with the likes of Adam Webster and, when he was still at the club, Ben White playing progressively with the ability to step out towards the midfield areas in possession of the ball and find ways to break a line with passes into advanced areas.
      This summer saw Chelsea invest £34m in the signing of the Senegalese international central defender Kalidou Koulibaly from Napoli.
      He is the type of central defender who would thrive under Potter’s management with his willingness to be aggressive in possession and move the ball forward and through the thirds.
      Indeed, while he was at Napoli he took the responsibility on a regular basis to move the ball forward and through lines.
      Kalidou Koulibaly has been played on the left of defence by Tuchel
      Pass maps for Adam Webster and Kalidou Koulibaly from their 2021/22 seasons. They were both very active and progressive with their passing
      With Thiago Silva less inclined to pass aggressively and new signing Wesley Fofana more comfortable in the defensive phase of the game, it is entirely likely that we would see Koulibaly take on an important role in the build-up.
      Dynamic wingbacks
      One of the biggest criticisms of Tuchel at the start of this season was the way that the English international right-back Reece James was being used.
      James, when at his best, is a real force down the right-hand side with a blend of technical skill and physicality that not many players can match.
      At times this season, however, he has been used as a right-sided central defender in a role that does not necessarily meet his strengths.
      Leandro Trossard has stayed out wide and when he receives the ball he can drive into space with the entire flank to drive forward
      Reece James spent most of the game v Zagreb in the opposition half
      At Brighton one of the most striking aspects of Graham Potter’s time has been his ability to get the most out of wingbacks.
      Brighton’s most recent game, the 5-2 demolition of Leicester City, is a case in point as they played with Solly March as the right wingback and Leandro Trossard as the left wingback.
      Neither of these players are natural wingbacks but Potter trusts himself to be able to work on the training ground to teach players how to play in these areas in his system.
      At Chelsea, he would immediately come into a situation where he would have two players ideally suited to his style of play with the ability to play as wingbacks in Reece James and Marc Cucurella, the Spanish international who has recently been signed by Chelsea from Brighton.
      These heatmaps show the average positions in which Cucurella and James touched the ball last season. Both are all action wingbacks who not only control the wide areas but come into the channels and effectively combine the play as well.
      James is a wingback who can control the entire right side of the pitch on his own and this creates the opportunity for the midfielders within the system to stay centrally and to look for opportunities to overload the centre of the pitch.
      On the opposite side, Potter will be able to choose between Cucurella, who he already knows inside and out, and the England international Ben Chilwell. 
      The smart money would be on Potter turning to Cucurella, a player who played several different positions under Potter as the English coach changed the system seamlessly within matches, as his first choice.
      Crucially the role of the wingbacks under Potter are designed to control entire sides of the pitch both in the attacking and defensive phases of the game.
      This means that Potter can concentrate his resources in the central areas of the pitch.
      Energy is king in the midfield
      With the main ball progression coming from the wide central defenders and the wingbacks controlling the wide areas we then see Brighton’s central midfielders play in a dynamic all-purpose role. 
      Indeed, this season you could easily make the argument that the midfield unit at Brighton has been the key to their strong performances in the Premier League with Moises Caicedo, Enock Mwepu and Alexis Mac Allister all performing exceptionally well.
      The key for the Brighton midfield and the way that Potter likes to play in these areas is that all players are capable of performing in all phases of the game.
      Under Potter the central midfielders are expected to be active in all phases of the play. The exception is Moses Caicedo who is positioned to engage the ball carrier in order to regain possession
      They do not have midfield players that we would typically classify as only attacking or defensive midfielders and instead they rotate and cover ground across the central areas.
      For us, this is the biggest challenge that Potter would face when taking over this Chelsea squad.
      Other than N’Golo Kante, who has significant injury issues, there are no midfielders at Chelsea who fit the profile of the Brighton midfield.
      Jorginho is too static and Mateo Kovacic flatters to deceive. How would the Chelsea midfield look under Potter and how would it function?
      Would the Englishman be able to pull off his preferred style of play with a midfield that does not function the way that he would want it to?
      Jorginho is one of the star names under threat by Potter’s appointment
      The midfielders also have to be able to drive through the centre of the pitch. Enock Mwepu has runners ahead of the ball and he times his pass to break the opposition defensive line and find the advanced player
      If Potter is not able to create a midfield structure with the players that Chelsea already have at the club then we may see Chelsea struggle to perform effectively going forward.
      While at Brighton we see Potter typically look for his strikers to play high and tight against the opposition defender it is the role of the midfielders to then work up and down the centre and the channels of the pitch in order to fully connect all parts of the team.
      What does all this mean?
      If Potter does decide that the temptation of Chelsea is too big to turn down, fans of the Blues can be quite excited.
      Expect plenty of clever build-up from the back, the wingbacks being fully utilised and lots of energy needed in the middle of the park.
      Read More on The Sun
      Hang on, that does sound very like Thomas Tuchel doesn’t it?
      Get the latest Total Football Analysis Digital Magazine for more tactical insight on the Premier League and more. More

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      in Soccer

      Chelsea target Graham Potter once got his players to perform ballet Swan Lake, and his assistant Billy Reid to rap

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      PRAY for Kalidou Koulibaly that they have a pair of pointed shoes that fit.Chelsea are sensationally locked in talks with Graham Potter to take over as their new boss, after disposing of Thomas Tuchel.
      Brighton manager Graham Potter is in talks to become the next Chelsea managerCredit: Andrew Hasson – The
      Should that happen Potter could turn the Blues in a ‘Culture Club’ like he did in Sweden with Ostersunds.
      Well before the English coach, 47, arrived on our shores with Swansea and then Brighton, he was making waves in Scandinavia.
      But his management style was a little bit different to others.
      He encouraged the arts on his players and staff – and in his time with the Allsvenskan club they wrote a book, put on an open-air rock concert and, most memorably, staged their own version of ballet Swan Lake.
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      Better still, his trusted assistant Billy Reid – who has loyally followed him on this journey – penned a self-written rap which he also performed live.
      Embracing culture
      From 2011-18, Potter was a hero with Ostersunds.
      He led the Swedish minnows from the fourth tier all the way to the top flight in just six years.
      Most read in Football
      They even enjoyed a miraculous run in the Europa League, beating Hertha Berlin and, more famously, Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in 2018.
      Behind-the-scenes, they worked with local artist Kevin Wahlen to create ‘culture academy’ to bring players and staff out of their comfort zones and challenge them outside of football.
      Wahlen, in effect, became the world’s first culture coach.
      “The players hated it at first,” Wahlen told Sky Sports in 2020.
      “But we ended up having a lot of fun and life time memories. And it gave them courage, too. It’s not always the one who is the bravest on the pitch that is bravest on stage.
      “It was controversial having a football club in the Swedish top-flight working with culture.
      “People assumed that men can’t or won’t have the possibility to think about anything besides football, or perhaps FIFA when they get home.
      “There was something exciting about getting a group of men to do ballet. The risk is that if we assume that men don’t have the capacity to do anything besides play football or video games, then it can becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy.
      “Graham was a true inspiration to work with – and he always took a lead role, even if he thought it was scary.”
      From 2011 to 2018, Potter managed Swedish minnows OstersundsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Alongisde trusted assistant Billy Reid, Potter led the club to Europa League success against ArsenalCredit: Reuters
      From Swan Lake to spitting lyrics
      Back in 2013, Scottish coach Billy Reid joined Potter in Sweden following a long stint with Hamilton Academical.
      Two years later, he found himself performing a dance routine to world-renown ballet Swan Lake.
      A month later, Reid found himself channelling his inner Eminem.
      Reid told Inside Sport in 2017: “The culture aspect is a massive part of what we are doing at Ostersunds.”
      He added: “It’s different but it is tremendous for team bonding. It takes people out of their comfort zone and puts them in different places.
      “But it’s really helped us on the pitch too, and what we are doing is big news in Sweden.”
      Potter, too, understood the values in what they were creating.
      “It was about being open to new things, stripping away the barriers which sometimes exist in a team, all the hierarchies, and developing players as people,” he recalled in 2020.
      Under Potter, Ostersunds became a club that embraced cultureCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The side stepped out of their comfort zone to perform Swan LakeCredit: Pressteam
      “You get to see people at a human level.
      “It would be wrong for me to pick up that and copy and paste it here. I’ve kept the theoretical reasons why we would do that and tried to apply them in a different way.
      “It’s fundamentally about whether you can build an environment which is empathic, where players can appreciate the differences amongst us, sometimes we want everyone to think how we think. Teams and groups can be better when there’s a difference.
      “We’ve got a multicultural environment here, which is a gift, something we should cherish and appreciate. Just because we see the world one way doesn’t mean the guy sitting next to us does, and we talk about that a lot.”
      Build him a statue
      Although it never quite happened, Potter’s success in Sweden led to an Ostersunds resident writing to his council to build a statue of the Solihull-born tactician.
      Potter modestly said when it was proposed five years ago, “I’m hoping they can spend their money somewhere else – it is very embarrassing.”
      What isn’t embarrassing is Potter’s epic rise.
      Although a Swedish Cup is all he has to show in terms of silverware in his management career, his teams have always won admirers for the way they play the game.
      When he was coming up in the game, he studied Roberto Martinez’s training methods at Swansea and became inspired by his possession-based approach, along with the “holistic” training principles he observed during his travels to Spain.
      A student of the game, Potter has studied the philosophies of Roberto Martinez, Pep Guardiola and Raymond VerheijenCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Over the years, Potter’s sides have earned much acclaim for the way they’ve played the gameCredit: Getty
      Read More on The Sun
      Potter also cites the philosophy of Pep Guardiola and Raymond Verheijen’s periodisation model among his influences.
      Should Todd Boehly make him his next appointment, expect Blues stars to be put through a different approach. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Kylian Mbappe and Neymar’s PSG feud, from penalty row to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle jibes

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      IT’S a feud that’s threatening to blow PSG apart.Superstars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar’s frosty relationship came to a head when they clashed during a 5-2 win over Montpellier – with Mbappe demanding Neymar hand over penalty duties to him last month.
      The disconnect between PSG superstars Kylian Mbappe and Neymar is realCredit: AFP
      When the French World Cup winner didn’t get what he wanted, he seemingly threw a strop on the pitch.
      To top it all off, Mbappe missed a penalty before Neymar stepped up and converted another later in the game, despite Mbappe’s pleas to take the second spot kick as well.
      After the game, Neymar appeared to like a pair of tweets criticising Mbappe’s apparent role in the team as the main penalty taker.
      And that’s not the first time we’ve heard of unrest in the PSG camp. In the past, Neymar has been accused of comparing his strike partner in looks to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cartoon character Donatello.
      Read more in sport
      Mbappe has admitted all is not well between the pair – and said because they are strong characters they won’t always see eye-to-eye.
      Mbappe said: “This is the sixth year with Neymar.

      “We have always had a relationship like this, based on respect, but sometimes with warmer and colder moments.
      “It is the nature of our relationship. I have a lot of respect for the player that he is.
      Most read in Football
      “When you have two players with such a strong character, you have moments like that, but always with respect and in the interest of PSG.”
      Talk of a rivalry began almost immediately following Mbappe’s permanent £162million move from Monaco.
      In 2018, Mbappe was fuming that Neymar didn’t pass the ball to him during a 1-0 win over Toulouse.
      It reportedly escalated into a dressing room bust-up – where shocked team-mates had to separate them.
      Heroes in a half shell
      Behind-the-scenes, Mbappe was also said to be on the receiving end of mickey-taking from PSG’s Brazilian contingent – with Neymar the ringleader.
      After a Champions League game against Celtic a year earlier, when Mbappe was on loan with the Ligue 1 giants, Neymar and Dani Alves attempted to goad him into eating some pizza on the team bus.
      “Donatello, have some pizza! Eat some!” Neymar and Alves joked as they laughed at their gag.
      Neymar once tried to get Kylian Mbappe to eat pizza – a favourite meal of the Teenage Mutant Ninja TurtlesCredit: Instagram
      Donatello of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fame and Mbappe have been likened to in appearanceCredit: Getty
      Thiago Silva gave Mbappe a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle mask as an early Christmas presentCredit: @Layvin Kurzawa
      El Pais later claimed Mbappe’s mum Fayza was uncomfortable at the way the teen striker is persistently teased and compared to Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Donatello.
      Ex-PSG defender Alves also posted a photo of Donatello after Mbappe scored twice in France’s 4-3 win over Argentina in the last-16 at the 2018 World Cup.
      While, the same year now Chelsea centre-back Thiago Silva gave the forward a mask of the character as an early Christmas present.
      Fayza felt the joke had gone too far, and in essence it does feel like a school bullies in the playground like situation.
      Mbappe was believed to have been fed up at being the butt of the joke too, understandably.
      Boiling point
      This season, new PSG manager Christophe Galtier made it clear.
      Mbappe was to be the No1 penalty taker, while Neymar would be No2 – in the case of Mbappe not being on the pitch.
      Clearly, Neymar wasn’t happy with that decision. After Mbappe missed a 21st minute against Montpellier in the first few weeks of the season – they were awarded another 20 minutes later.
      Neymar immediately grabbed the ball, much to his team-mate’s surprise, and wouldn’t let Mbappe have the ball.
      Mbappe argues with Neymar over who should take a penalty against MontpellierCredit: Getty
      Neymar refused to give Mbappe the ball, who stormed off in a huff on the pitchCredit: Getty
      They had words right before Neymar stepped up and scored, but the ex-Barcelona ace wasn’t listening.
      Mbappe sulked on the pitch for the rest of the match. It wasn’t pretty.
      PSG chiefs took action the next week. Both were hauled in for showdown talks to iron out their differences.
      Astonishingly, Neymar was then reportedly offered out to clubs for a last-minute summer transfer.
      Manchester City turned down the opportunity to sign the Brazilian.
      Isolation and empty promises
      And Chelsea also opted against bringing him to the Premier League.
      It’s no secret Mbappe wants Neymar out of PSG.
      All in all, Mbappe feels let down and “isolated”.
      In the summer, with his future up in the air, he committed himself to PSG and was awarded with a mega £300million deal.
      Neymar was offered to clubs before the transfer window closed this summerCredit: AFP
      Somehow, if PSG want to succeed, they need Mbappe and Neymar to sign from the same hymn sheetCredit: Getty
      With that came some assurances. Mbappe would be able to have his say on elements of how the club is run.
      AS claimed Mbappe would be given the opportunity to take all of the team’s penalties and have power over club decision-making in transfers and appointments.
      The report added Mbappe’s new-found power has caused a rift between him and some of his team-mates, leaving him feeling “isolated.”
      Mbappe has also been left “disappointed” with the club failing to sell Neymar, a move he did not object to.
      Read More on The Sun
      Of course, that didn’t happen. Now they have to find a way to make it work.
      If they do, they should – on paper at least – be the most fearsome forward line in world football. More

    • 213 Shares169 Views

      in Boxing

      Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua, from their expensive cars, jewellery, stunning luxury mansions and generous charity work

      by

      IT’S the fight that all boxing fans want to see – and it might be with us after all.Despite losing to Oleksandr Usyk in his rematch, Anthony Joshua has sensationally been offered the opportunity to fight Tyson Fury by the Gypsy King himself in December.
      Tyson Fury is WBC heavyweight champion of the worldCredit: Reuters

      Anthony Joshua was beaten for a second time by Oleksandr Usyk
      Fury took to social media and said: “I think you’ve all heard I’m going to be fighting soon, in the next few months. I think before I announce an opponent, I need to do this just in case.
      “Anthony Joshua, I know you’ve just lost a fight to Usyk and you’re boutless at the moment.
      “I’d like to give you an opportunity to fight me for the WBC heavyweight championship of the world and the lineal championship in the next few months. You’re coming off a 12-round fight so you’re match fit, you’re ready.
      “I’m giving you a few months’ notice. If you’re interested, I’ll send you a date over and we can rumble. A battle of Britain for the WBC championship of the world; if you’re not interested, let me know and I’ll select another opponent.”
      Seeing Fury’s call out – AJ posted his reply on Twitter. He wrote: “Yea calm. I don’t do the online discussions just for clout, so if you really about it shout 258 Management. I’ll be ready in December.”
      Outside the ring, Joshua and Fury are contrasting personalities that live fairly modest lives.
      Joshua, who has amassed a reported £107million fortune, lives in a North London home with his mum.
      While Fury, believed to have been worth around £30million prior to his last fight, has a base in Morecambe and plenty of impressive motors. But how do they compare?

      After suffering with depression, Tyson decided it was best to scale down his lifestyle. He did own a Rolls Royce Phantom, worth around £360k, but decided to sell that when he hit an all-time low.
      Instead, he bought himself a 15-year-old Mercedes S-Class for £2,000. A shrewd investment from the big man.
      He did own a £160k Ferrari California, before he sold it to one of his friends.
      And Fury has also been seen around town in a £150,000 camo-wrapped Range Rover.
      Fury decided to sell his £360k Rolls-Royce PhantomCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Fury was a fan of Rolls-Royce before depression hitCredit: Instagram
      Paris Fury poses with their Ferrari Enzo before they sold it to a mateCredit: Instagram
      Fury’s camo-wrapped Range Rover in all its glory
      Fury washes his Land Rover DefenderCredit: Instagram gypsyking101
      A £300,000 Ferrari GTC supercar sits in Fury’s driveCredit: Instagram gypsyking101
      Fury shows off his £250,000 Rolls-Royce Cullinan
      “I used to love leading the flash life, like most red-blooded young men,” Tyson admitted. “No longer. I’m not interested in material possessions. Not any more. They mean nothing.”
      However, he has slightly contradicted himself at times.
      Tyson splashed around £300,000 on a Ferrari GTC supercar. While he also has a Land Rover Defender worth around £38,000, that he takes great joy in keeping clean.
      After beating Dillian Whyte at Wembley, Fury splashed out on more motors.
      He added a £250,000 Rolls-Royce Cullinan to his fleet, as well as a £250,000 Porsche Taycan.
      Meanwhile, Anthony did have his very own bespoke Range Rover –  the SVAutobiography-Dynamic through a sponsorship deal with Jaguar.
      Worth around £150k, the vehicle is so elaborate diamonds are stitched into the seating. There’s also a huge sports equipment storage unit in the boot for trophies, gloves, pads and a punchbag.
      AJ loved his bespoke Range Rover which is worth £150kCredit: Instagram, @anthony_Joshua
      Anthony Joshua poses with his custom-made Range RoverCredit: Instagram, @anthony_Joshua
      Anthony Joshua is sponsored by car giants JaguarCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      AJ’s signature is marked on a chrome B-pillar badge, while the door handles are engraved with boxing gloves.
      Showmanship is taken to the next level with Anthony’s signature on aluminium letterbox finishers on door cards. It’s certainly AJ’s pride and joy because he’s always happy to be snapped with his motor on Instagram,
      However, weeks before a title fight it was stolen by thieves as he trained for the world heavyweight title fight. Still, he had it replaced with a new model.
      Sun scorecard calls round 1: Joshua 9 Fury 10
      THE JEWELS
      Although he’s a bit more frugal than your average boxer when it comes to jewellery, Anthony does own a £350k watch. Custom-designed for the 6ft 6in superstar by Audemars Piguet, it’s made of gold and studded with diamonds.
      Anthony Joshua flashes his £350k watch from Audemars PiguetCredit: Instagram, @anthony_joshua
      Tyson Fury has put his Rolex on the line for anyone who knocks him outCredit: Twitter, @Tyson_Fury
      In the past, Joshua has spoken before about how it’s the most lavish thing he owns.
      As for Tyson, we’ve seen him show off his taste in bizarre high-end fashion but he doesn’t tend to overly accessorise at all. However, he does have a vintage Rolex wrapped around his wrist that he still wears.
      When Anthony and Tyson sparred against each other in their amateur days, AJ revealed that Tyson offered anyone who could knock him out that same watch.
      “I didn’t even know who he was because I wasn’t a boxing fan at all,” Anthony said back in 2015.
      Anthony Joshua shows off his stunning watch squaring up to Charles MartinCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Anthony Joshua would love to get Tyson Fury’s Rolex watchCredit: Twitter, @Tyson_Fury
      “I just heard this big guy from Manchester had said that anyone who knocks him out can have his Rolex. “He said it in the Boxing News. So my coach said ‘if you want that Rolex, take it to him’ – so I went to war.
      “It wasn’t technical – he was holding on with one hand and trying to hit with the other, low blowing me and all sorts.
      “I’ll remind him of that promise. If we fight down the line I want the watch on the line again. I’ve only got a rubber G-Shock now and I want that Rolly.” Sun scorecard calls round 2: Joshua 10 Fury 9
      HOMES
      He may be worth a mint, but Anthony doesn’t have a flash home. Instead, he bought his mum, Yeta Odusanya her council flat in north London for a mere £185,000 in 2013.
      AJ did spend a portion of his hard-earned winnings on a rented property in a north London mansion while he was training for the Wladimir Klitschko fight.
      Anthony Joshua rented this mansion when he was training for the Wladimir Klitschko fightCredit: The Mega Agency
      Anthony Joshua was able to relax after a hard day of training in this London homeCredit: The Mega Agency
      Anthony Joshua moved back in with his mum after defeating Wladimir KlitschkoCredit: The Mega Agency
      Anthony Joshua bought a council estate flat for his mumCredit: Instagram, @anthony_Joshua
      When AJ trained in Sheffield he lived in a tiny two bedroom flat
      According to a report, the mansion near Lord’s Cricket Ground was worth £27 million. It belonged to South African diamond trader Walter Hennig, and cost AJ around £20,000 per month.
      Needless to say, after the fight was done AJ reportedly moved back into his mum’s council flat once again. And when he trained in the UK, he retreated to a humble two-bedroom flat in Sheffield he once showed off on YouTube. Not one to forget his gypsy roots, Tyson restored his 1958 Westmorland Star caravan. But he upgraded his £550,000 Morecambe to a more stellar £1.7million mansion down the road.

      Tyson and Paris Fury live in a mansion in Morecambe

      The elaborate property cost the boxer a reported £1.7m

      He’s the celebrity of the area, regularly spotted running along the sea front, and he even threatened to run as an MP for Morecambe in 2015. During lockdown, Fury and his wife Paris staged their own workouts for fans live on Instagram. Tyson once said: “Whatever happens I won’t end up one of those boxers whose 20-room mansion gets repossessed and suddenly discovers his friends were just hangers-on who were sucking him dry.” Sun scorecard calls round 3: Joshua 8 Fury 10 
      CLOTHES
      Often seen modelling their gear on his Instagram, AJ has a huge sponsorship deal with Under Armour, who are second only to Nike when it comes to shifting sportswear.
      He was first seen wearing the brand in the ring before fighting Eric Molina in 2016, alongside footballer Memphis Depay.
      Anthony Joshua always looks sharp when he attends private eventsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Anthony Joshua stays cool thanks to his sponsor Lynx
      AJ said: “It is a partnership that has been incredibly successful to date, the brand has helped me increase performance with custom products and new technologies.” Out of the ring, Anthony can often be seen looking suited and booted at award ceremonies, but given his focus on training he isn’t out much. He’s also sponsored by Lynx, so he’ll always stay fresh in the ring. This is why the British heavyweight champ is tipped to become the first billionaire boxer. Tyson, on the other hand, went full out when he became heavyweight champion. Before he was stripped of his belt after testing positive for drugs, Tyson flaunted his new-found wealth in some choice gear.
      Tyson Fury fashion has always been out thereCredit: Reuters
      Tyson Fury models his £9,000 chinchilla fur coatCredit: Eamonn and James Clarke
      Tyson Fury shows his love for his expensive designer man-bag from Louis VuittonCredit: Instagram
      Tyson Fury’s suits are designed by tailor Nav SalimianCredit: Splash News
      One particular chinchilla fur coat looked straight off the set of Boogie Nights, and it set Fury back a cool £9,000. He’s possibly the only man who could pull it off, and we’re not going to argue with him either. The gentle giant also tried out a Louis Vuitton man-bag, and again who are we to argue that he didn’t pull it off. While ahead of a big fight, Fury always make sure he looks spot-on for a press conference. He’s taken to wearing elaborate bespoke suits by tailor Nav Salimian – some that even feature his own image. Sun scorecard calls round 4: Joshua 10 Fury 9
      WAGS
      Being the consummate professional is important to AJ. That’s why he regularly says he doesn’t have time for girlfriends and is currently single. Although that didn’t stop him getting a lot of attention from the ladies at Encore Beach Club in Las Vegas one time in 2016.
      Handsome Anthony Joshua has many female admirersCredit: Splash News
      Despite being a hit with the ladies Anthony Joshua says he wants to remain singleCredit: Fame Flynet
      His ex was pole dancer, Nicole Osbourne and they have one son together called Joshua. In an interview in 2017, Joshua outlined his relationship plans. “My time training means there is not much time for girlfriends,” he revealed. “If people can ride with me for the next 10 to 12 years I would really appreciate it, but if they can’t foresee the future I’d rather they jump off the boat because I can’t stop for no one right now.” As for Tyson, he’s been with his childhood sweetheart Paris since they were both 15-years-old when they met at a mutual friend’s wedding. They have six children and Tyson has revealed he would love to have 10 kids. Sun scorecard card calls round 5: Joshua 9 Fury 10
      Tyson Fury and his wife Paris Fury have been together since they were 15Credit: Instagram, @parisfury1
      Paris and Tyson have become household namesCredit: Rex Features
      CHARITY
      Both Joshua and Fury do their bit for charity. Alongside StubHub, Joshua helped raise £10,000 for the Key4Life in 2019. And in 2018, he began working with anti-knife charity Steel Warriors to help tackle knife crime in London. “I like to give, for sure, to help people. That’s important. I want to invest because I like business,” he once revealed. In 2018, it was reported that Tyson donated his entire purse (£7million) to a charity helping the homeless and needy. He is an ambassador for the Frank Bruno Foundation, an organisation that exists to provide a safe environment with the aim to improve the mental wellbeing of participants who are facing or recovering from mental ill health. Fury also sold Gypsy King branded coronavirus masks for £12.99, donating the profits to the NHS.
      Anthony Joshua educates youths about knife crimeCredit: PA:Press Association
      Tyson Fury flogged face masks and donated money to the NHSCredit: Instagram @gypsyking101 More

    • 263 Shares159 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea stars Reece and Lauren James become the first brother and sister pair to play for England and are ‘living dream’

      by

      IN the case of the James clan, it’s very much about keeping it in the family.This weekend, Lauren James earned her first cap for England – coming as a substitute against Austria as Sarina Wiegman’s European Champions booked their place at the World Cup with a 2-0 win.
      Chelsea stars Reece and Lauren James are the first brother and sister to play for EnglandCredit: EPA
      Reece and Lauren James have become professional footballers with the help of dad NigelCredit: Instagram / @rjames
      James made her debut for the Three Lions against Austria over the weekend
      In doing so, she joined her famous brother Reece in becoming a full England international. They are now the first brother and sister to play for the Three Lions, in what is a remarkable achievement.
      While Reece has just signed a new five-year deal with the Blues

      It’s astounding that two talented footballers of the men’s and women’s game are even playing professionally, not to mention representing their country.
      But the London-born pair are living the dream. Part of their success is due to their incredible father, Nigel.
      Read more in sport
      A motorbike accident halted his promising career, after spells at Luton Town and Southampton.
      Nigel found his true calling through mentoring youngsters and later set up Nigel James Elite Coaching programme.
      It’s testament to him, his son and his daughter would eventually become pros.
      PARKLIFE
      Reece, 22, and Lauren, 20, grew up in London with football an ongoing backdrop in their lives.
      Most read in Football
      As well as a father with footballing aspirations, their elder brother Joshua was on the books of Fulham and Reading. Their mother Emma worked admirably for the NHS.
      If the three siblings weren’t kicking a ball against a wall, they would be down the park honing their skills.
      Often, their dad who would pass on his knowledge and put the three through training drills and exercises.
      Lauren and Reece have always shared a tight bond together
      The siblings grew up in London with football as their backdrop
      Reece and Lauren enjoy a kickabout togetherCredit: Instagram @laurennjjames
      Dad Nigel coached Reece, Lauren and their brother Joshua in the local park
      “We grew up as a three,” Reece of Chelsea proudly told the Blues official website.
      “Obviously, Josh learned from my dad and then it just passed its way down. I started playing because my brother played, and my sister played because I played.
      “We all used to play every day together at the park and over time we all gradually got better. There was a field behind my house, with two pitches, and every day I’d be playing football, either in the field or in the street.”
      Lauren, who joined her brother at Chelsea this summer, echoes the sentiment that the beautiful game dominated their lives.
      “All I ever knew was football, football and football,” she told The Telegraph.
      “My brothers got me into football. Whether it was when Josh was at Fulham or when Reece was at the Chelsea academy, I was there kicking the ball against the fence.
      “I’ve always had a football and it has just taken me to where I am now.”
      PATHWAY TO SUCCESS
      Reece was an early bloomer when it came to his footballing talent.
      By the age of six he joined Chelsea’s impressive development academy, where he progressed through the ranks.
      James joined Chelsea’s youth set-up aged six
      James progressed through Chelsea’s youth teams and won a FA Youth CupCredit: Getty – Contributor
      However, it took him some time to find his best position. He started off as a striker, moved into midfield and then had to learn the art of defending.
      Once he cemented the right-back as his own, there was no stopping him. In the 2017-18 season, he appeared for England at U18, U19 and U20 level.
      A loan at Wigan Athletic the following campaign saw Reece named as their Player of the Year.
      Once he made his debut against Grimsby in the EFL Cup in 2019, scoring one and assisting two, he could no longer be ignored for a first team spot.
      Lauren might be slightly younger than Reece, but her achievements are just as impressive.
      At 13 she joined Arsenal, and because of her experience with playing with her brothers was encouraged to train with the boys’ team.
      Two years later, the prolific forward made her first team debut for the Gunners women’s team – beating Reece to the punch there.
      She created history in the process becoming the youngest player in Arsenal’s history male or female to make their bow for the club.
      In 2017, she moved to the newly reformed Manchester United women’s team to take on a new challenge in a city she never knew.
      In 2017, Lauren James joined Manchester United’s newly formed women’s teamCredit: Getty
      Since joining the Red Devils, James has thrived scoring 27 goals in 54 gamesCredit: Getty
      But that didn’t deter the brave teen, who scored 14 goals in 18 league games as the Red Devils won promotion from the Championship at the first time of asking to the Women’s Super League.
      This summer, Lauren joined Reece at Chelsea – where she has scored once in her five games so far this campaign.
      BATTLING RACISM TOGETHER
      As is a sad indictment of our times, both Reece and Lauren have been targeted with online racist abuse.
      They are united in their efforts to encourage social media companies to do more with their platforms in stopping racism.
      “When we both get messages like that, we turn to each other and discuss it,” Reece said.
      “I think everyone agrees and knows that what’s happening with social media and racism is wrong. Everyone says they want to change, but not many things are changing.”
      MUTUAL RESPECT
      Although they share a competitive nature on the pitch, Reece and Lauren only have a mutual respect for each other’s achievements.
      But Lauren knew she had to emulate her brother by following his footsteps into the England squad.
      “We are not usually competitive,” she revealed.
      “When he got his senior England call-up, it was like, “Right, he got his, I’ve got to get mine now. That’s probably the only time and I laugh about it now.”
      Reece earned his first cap against Wales last October, while a month later Lauren received a senior national team call-up as part of a 29-player training camp at St George’s Park.
      Despite their careers mirroring one another, Reece is adamant they can’t be compared.
      Reece James has become a regular in the England squad since his first call-up last OctoberCredit: Marc Aspland – The Times
      His sister Lauren James celebrated an England call-up last November when she was included in a 29-man squadCredit: Getty
      “I wouldn’t say there’s competition,” he said.
      “You know, she is my sister. Our games are the same, our professions are the same, but it’s still different. I play men’s football when she plays women’s football, you can’t compare them.”
      No. But you can applaud their success. They are, after all, living the dream. More