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Inside Real Madrid’s luxury £340m private jet with beds, showers, personal sinks and tablets with 2,500 TV channels
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 15:00
REAL MADRID will be eyeing up Champions League glory once again, but have to hurdle PSG in the last-16.And with the first leg in Paris, it’ll mean flying in style in their luxury private jet..
Real Madrid’s pampered stars fly to away games in a Airbus A380
Each player has his own tablet, 2,500 channels to watch, an alcohol-free mini bar and a wash basin in front of their screenCredit: Getty Images – Getty
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Thanks to a hefty sponsorship deal, Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Co. get to fly on Emirates A380 jet worth a cool £340m on away days.
Not only does Carlo Ancelotti’s side pocket around £62m a year in that exchange, they’re treated like kings on their double-decker aircraft.
First off, inside the plane each player has got use of their own private shower – so there’s no need for communal showers for these stars.
Then, should they want, they have the option of resting in a fully-functioning bar area with plenty of room to swing a dozen cats in.
Players can get comfy in the private shower roomsCredit: Emirates
The Galacticos have had use of the most luxurious plane Fly Emirates offer since inking a sponsorship with the airline in 2013Credit: Emirates
Real Madrid’s plane is worth £340mCredit: Emirates
Marcelo can watch a “weepy movie” if he wants before a big gameCredit: Emirates
If that’s not enough for these pampered athletes, the Galacticos also have their own bed to sleep in, which comes with several other cool perks.
There’s a personalised tablet that allows you to access 2,500 channels, an alcohol-free mini bar, as well as a small wash cabinet.
Does that mean they’re the cleanest club in the world?
Who knows? But what else would you expect from the best team in the world at the moment? Of course they’re going to have their own bespoke plane.
The bar area has bags of space to socialise inCredit: Getty – Contributor
Real Madrid’s stars have no excuses for not looking their best on away daysCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And with comfy seats like these, they certainly wont suffer fatigueCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And when they land at any airport, they’ll hardly be inconspicuous on arrival with the players faces adorned on the aircraft’s paintwork.
Fly Emirates have sponsored Real since signing a sponsorship deal in 2013.
They’ve had their brand plastered across the famous white jerseys in three Champions League wins.
They have similar deals with Arsenal and PSG, who also have use of their Airbus A380.
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The Airbus A380 boasts capacity for 525 passengersCredit: Getty – Contributor
Fly Emirates also sponsor Arsenal and PSGCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Toni Kroos kicks back and relaxesCredit: Emirates
Ex-star Sergio Ramos appears relaxed on board thanks to Real’s Fly Emirates planeCredit: Emirates
And the plane itself is a four-engine jet that has become something of a staple since making its first flight in 2005.
It provides seating for 525 passengers, has a design range of 8,500 nautical miles and a cruising speed of around 559 miles per hour.
Simply put, they have no excuses for being late for a game.
While, they definitely won’t be able to blame fatigue if/when they suffer their next defeat. More
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Classic Football Shirts’ amazing collection, from England’s 1982 World Cup jersey to David Beckham’s underpants
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 14:00
CLASSIC FOOTBALL SHIRTS boast the largest collection of football shirts in the world.With over 500,000 items from the beautiful game stored in their Manchester warehouse, they are the go-to website to find that rare jersey you’ve always wanted.
Classic Football Shirts, co-founded by Doug Bierton, has the biggest collection of football shirts in the worldCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
Set up by Doug Bierton and Matthew Dale in their student digs when they were studying at Manchester University in 2006, the business has become a multi-million pound empire.
SunSport took a trip to the North to see for ourselves how the entrepreneurial pair operate from their base, just a stones throwaway from Man City’s Etihad Stadium.
Sitting down with Doug, we learned what the most valuable international shirts were, how much they’re worth and why, as well as how they got their hands on David Beckham’s pants.
And during a World Cup or Euros, thinks get very hectic.
A stones throwaway from the Etihad Stadium, Classic Football Shirts has around 500,000 football itemsCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
Man United fan Doug, 36, explained: “The World Cup sends everything crazy because football shirts evoke memories.
“You remember where you were when you watched your first World Cup match. You clips and reruns of old tournaments on the TV in the build-up to the tournament.
“Then, you see the shirts the players are wearing and you think, ‘I wouldn’t mind being like the Brazilian Ronaldo, scoring loads of goals and having that shirt he wore.’
“On a normal day, we’ll sell about a 1,000 items. But during a World Cup, that can go up to 2,000 items a day quite easily.
Doug Bierton set up Classic Football Shirts in 2006 from his student home in ManchesterCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“There’s 32 teams at the World Cup, so there’s plenty of shirts to choose from.
“But even the teams that aren’t in it this year, like Holland and Italy, they have their own magic World Cup moments and their shirts will still sell well.
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“Like (Roberto) Baggio with his distinctive ponytail and penalty miss or (Dennis) Bergkamp scoring against Argentina, the World Cup is really about everything.”
It was 15-years ago that Doug and Matthew discovered there was a market for classic football jerseys.
Classic Football Shirts are a website that sell rare, vintage and match-worn topsCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
The pair pooled their own shirts together, took out credit cards and bought some more retro tops.
“Classic Football Shirts was started in the summer of 2006 by myself and Matthew Dale.
“We were students at Manchester University, trying to avoid getting a real job.
“We spotted a gap in the market for a company to sell original and authentic football shirts from the past. Not reproductions or fakes, the real deal.
Doug Bierton pooled his shirts together with business partner Matthew Dale, got a few credit cards and built a business empire worth millionsCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“I really wanted a Germany shirt from Italia ’90 to walk around Manchester in and be a bit different.
“But I soon realised there was no such place in the world you could buy one from.
“We pulled together about 50 shirts between us, got a few credit cards and bought a load of football shirts with them.
“Classic Football Shirts has grown since then. So, what was two lads in a student house in Manchester is now a warehouse with a staff of over 40.”
Classic Football Shirts sell match-worn shirts, including this Gareth Southgate jerseyCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
Over the years, the company has built up a list of contacts who they buy their shirts from.
They work with a number of players and sell match-worn shirts that have been donated by pros or football clubs, including Gareth Southgate’s worn jersey.
A one stop shop, Classic Football Shirts also offer a printing service where you can add your favourite players’ name on a new or old jersey.
“I can’t tell you all the trade secrets, but sometimes sourcing shirts comes with great difficulty,” Doug revealed.
As well as selling kits, Classic Football Shirts offer a name printing serviceCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“We’ve been going for 15-years now, so we’ve got a lot of contacts in place to be able to find the items.
“We look in the clearance section, where you can get shirts from £9.99 that you can’t get on the high street, or we get them from clubs and manufacturers around the world.
“We also work with players to get very rare match-worn shirts and people get in touch with us and offer us their old shirts, which we do trades and valuations for.”
Football tops have become big business, with classic shirts often changing hands for five or six times their original price.
Doug Bierton revealed the most sought after football jersey is Germany’s 1990 World Cup effortCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
But what’s the most sought after?
“The most iconic and most desirable World Cup shirt is the Germany jersey from 1990,” Doug told us.
“The flag pattern across the chest was so different for the time. It really revolutionised football shirts from that moment on.
“Graphics and bold designs became much more prominent, which makes it a very important piece.
Germany’s Adidas kit from 1990 revolutionised football shirtsCredit: Action Images – Reuters
“Germany won the World Cup that year too, which helps because if shirts are tied to great moments that tends to increase the value of them.
“If you are serious about football collections, you need to own that one and the USA stars and stripes design from ’94.
“The German shirt is worth between £150-£200, depending on the condition. I’d say the USA shirt could go for around £250.”
There are some football shirts that are harder to get your hands on, Doug revealed. And there’s always a fascinating story why.
England shirts are a plenty at the Classic Football Shirts warehouseCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
Step-forward England’s rivals Argentina, who wore a blue strip in the 1986 encounter in Mexico – famous for the ‘Hand of God’ goal – because of a bizarre circumstance.
“One of the rarest to find is the Argentina blue shirt from 1986,” Doug revealed.
“They originally had a cotton away shirt, but the players complained it was too hot to be wearing it during games in the heat in Mexico.
“He sent the kit man into Mexico City to find something more lightweight.
Argentina’s blue 1986 jersey is one of the rarest football tops to findCredit: Getty – Contributor
“They found some Le Coq Sportif teamwear items that would probably of been worn by a college team.
“They brought them back to the kit room, stitched an old Argentina badge on them and printed some actual NFL numbers on the back.
“No replicas of that shirt actually exist. I think there’s only 18 of those shirts in the world.
“We’re lucky to own one of them.
“But the National Football Museum in Manchester has Maradona’s shirt, which actually belongs to Steve Hodge, who swapped shirts with him.
Doug Bierton revealed that only 18 Argentina 1986 jerseys exist in the worldCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“That’s probably worth hundred of thousands of pounds.”
Doug is full of stories where international teams have had to wear jerseys that are rare and worth serious money.
A man who takes football history seriously he continued: “Back in 1930 in Uruguay, each player playing for Bolivia wore an individual shirt with a letter on it.
“It all spelled out ‘Viva Uruguay’ which was to say thanks to the hosts.
Classic Football Shirts owner Doug Bierton has a vast knowledge of the history of jerseysCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“Then, you’ve got unique things happening like in 1958.
“Argentina played against Germany and they had to wear a shirt that belonged to IFK Malmo because they didn’t have a changed strip.
“France played in 1978 wearing an Argentinian club’s shirt called Kimberley – a green and white shirt – because they didn’t have an away kit with them too.
“There’s so many unique shirts from the history of the game that are very important museum pieces if you could unearth them.
Football shirts didn’t become a commercial entity until around 1978Credit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“But in terms of shirts you could actually buy in the shops, that’s when you go into the 80s and 90s because football shirts only really became a commercial thing from 1978 onwards.”
Last year, England’s 1966 World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst attempted to auction off his shirt from that famous day.
With a starting price at £500,000, there were no takers.
“You could buy a house or the England ’66 shirt,” Doug said. “But I think I’d rather have the ’66 shirt and live in a cardboard box,” he beamed.
Doug Bierton would love to own Geoff Hurst’s 1966 World Cup jerseyCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
Football is clearly Doug’s first love. He reminisced about his favourite World Cup.
“I was obsessed with the 1990 World Cup,” he told us.
“I was five, and I don’t really remember watching the games that much.
“But I had the highlights on VHS and me and my brother watched it so many times, we burnt the video out in the end.
“Moments like England taking on Cameroon and Lineker scoring the penalties, (Sergio) Goycochea becoming a hero against Italy with a gold chain hanging out his shirt.
Classic Football Shirts sell around 2,000 shirts when the World Cup is onCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“(Frank) Rijkaard spitting at (Rudi) Voller, Paul Gascoigne tears… it was the time before football was really commercialised.”
Doug’s favourite England shirt is the Umbro Italia ’90 number, worn by the likes of David Platt, Lineker, Terry Butcher and Gazza.
However, one design stands out most for the business owner.
“The one that’s voted for as the most popular is normally the 1982 shirt, with the design across the shoulders as worn by Kevin Keegan.
“If you think back to 1966 and before and beyond, it was just a plain white shirt for England.
“But Admiral were the ones who did something a bit more bold, which makes it cool.”
Back in 2010, Classic Football Shirts were the lucky recipients of AC Milan’s entire kit room.
Memories come flooding back of tournaments past when you spy a classic football shirtCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
That even included pants that the Italian giants supplied the players for game day.
After routing around in a box, Doug managed to find a pair numbered ’32’ as worn by “Golden Balls” himself.
“We work with clubs and manufacturers to take last season and beyond’s stock,” Doug divulged.
“Often we get items from clubs’ own kit rooms and in 2010 we managed to get AC Milan’s entire kit room.
“As part of that, we got shorts, jackets, shorts and even underpants!
Classic Football Shirts even managed to get their hands on a pair of David Beckham’s pantsCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“We have boxes full of first team pants, all numbered from players to the doctors.
“We’ve got David Beckham’s pants from when he played for them, they’re numbered ’32′”.
As we walked through Classic Football Shirt’s extensive warehouse full of football goodies, we felt like kids in a sweatshirt, grabbing at every item that lit up our eyes.
@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Regular.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Medium.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:500;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:400;font-stretch:semi-condensed;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-Bold.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:normal;font-display:swap;}@font-face{font-family:’The Sun’;src:url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff2’) format(‘woff2’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.woff’) format(‘woff’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.ttf’) format(‘truetype’),url(‘/assets/fonts/the-sun/TheSun-HeavyNarrow.svg#’) format(‘svg’);font-style:normal;font-weight:700;font-stretch:condensed;font-display:swap;}.css-qu9fel{border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-b9nmbi{margin-bottom:16px;border-top:1px solid #dcdddd;}.css-1qsre5o{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;}.css-q8gelu{margin-bottom:24px;}.css-7ysxcx{padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-7ysxcx:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;-webkit-box-pack:justify;-webkit-justify-content:space-between;justify-content:space-between;padding:0;text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-jkwlot:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}.css-zkaekv{font-family:The Sun;font-size:24px;line-height:1.1666666666666667;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:semi-condensed;padding:1px 0px;}.css-zkaekv::before{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-bottom:calc(-0.24520833333333342em + -1px);}.css-zkaekv::after{content:”;display:block;height:0;width:0;margin-top:-0.2333333333333334em;}.css-1lobn43{display:inline;font:inherit;margin:0;color:rgba(0,0,0,1);}.css-1lobn43 svg{fill:rgba(0,0,0,1);}most read in football.css-1gojmfd{margin-bottom:16px;}.css-zdjvqv{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;height:100%;-webkit-align-items:flex-start;-webkit-box-align:flex-start;-ms-flex-align:flex-start;align-items:flex-start;-webkit-align-content:flex-start;-ms-flex-line-pack:flex-start;align-content:flex-start;-webkit-box-flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-wrap:nowrap;-ms-flex-wrap:nowrap;flex-wrap:nowrap;-webkit-flex-direction:column;-ms-flex-direction:column;flex-direction:column;-webkit-box-pack:space-around;-ms-flex-pack:space-around;-webkit-justify-content:space-around;justify-content:space-around;margin-top:calc(-12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(-12px/2);}.css-zdjvqv:before,.css-zdjvqv:after{content:”;display:block;}.css-1meuhfk{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;margin-top:calc(12px/2);margin-bottom:calc(12px/2);}
And that’s exactly how Man United star Juan Mata reacted when he popped in to see the collection for himself.
“We had Juan Mata come and it completely blew his mind,” Doug revealed.
It’s impossible not to feel like a kid in a sweet shop when perusing the rails at the Classic Football Shirts officesCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
“He relived all his childhood memories of Oviedo, Valencia and the Spanish national team.
“Juan was the same as any other football fan that walks in here.
“I’ve reminisced with many players and people in this place – it just brings it all back.”
From the outside, the Classic Football Shirts warehouse doesn’t seem so bigCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication
But when you step inside, you see a sea of cardboard boxes full of merchandiseCredit: Matthew Pover/Matthew Pover Limited – Our lawyers are watching. Absolutely no syndication More
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Ex-Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri’s grandad was WWII hero who saved two American pilots shot down over Italy
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 13:00
EX-Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri didn’t quite get hero status at Stamford Bridge, but his grandfather definitely is one.Grandad Goffredo Sarri risked his own life in WWII to save two US pilots shot down by the Germans over occupied Italy, hiding them and leading them to safety in a daring rescue.
Ex-Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri grandad was a war hero
Maurizio’s grandfather Goffredo Sarri who was an Italian partisanCredit: Courtesy of Sarri Family
In 1944, Italy was under German occupation after the overthrow and arrest of fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.
Allied forces were pushing up from the South, but German forces were dug in around the mountains surrounding Florence.
Bill Lanza, from Revere, Massachusetts, was the gunner in a seven-man crew flying a B-25 Mitchell bomber on a mission to destroy a bridge when it was hit by German anti-aircraft fire.
He miraculously bailed out as the plane came down in flames, and as he landed in a field he was immediately embraced by two young Italian boys.
One of them was teenager Amerigo Sarri – Maurizio’s father.
Sergeant William ‘Bill’ Lanza who was shot down 200 miles into enemy territoryCredit: Courtesy of Lanza Family
An American B-25 Mitchell bomber similar to the one flown by Bill LanzaCredit: Getty – Contributor
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The pilot died in the crash, flying the bomber into a mountain as he tried to allow enough time for the rest of the crew to bail out.
Two men were captured, and four including Lanza managed to evade the Germans in the Val d’Arno countryside, 200 miles behind enemy lines.
Lanza and Todd were told to hide in woods by a farmer, where they covered themselves with leaves.
The farmer went to get Goffredo, Amerigo’s father who was a partisan, which meant he was opposed to the German occupation of the time.
Without introducing himself, Goffredo immediately brought Lanza a bottle of wine and some cheese and told his new friend to go back into the woods and hide again.
After sundown, Goffredo went to the spot where Lanza was hiding and walked him to the farm in civilian clothes.
The remarkable story was later told by John Lanza, nephew of Bill, in a book called Shot Down Over Italy, published in 2010.
Map of the doomed flight, showing where Lanza bailed out, 1, and the plane crashed, 7
The book Shot Down Over Italy written by John Lanza, Bill’s nephewCredit: Bright Spot Books
Lanza said, “In the afternoon, about four o’clock, I was hiding in the woods and feeling pretty good because the wine was strong and the cheese was delicious.
“He (Sarri) was carrying a bag of civilian clothes. I changed from my military clothes to my new white shirt and an oxford grey suit.
“I gave him my clothes, but kept my shoes.
“The partisan’s last name was Sarri. That’s all I ever called him.”
If caught, Lanza would’ve been likely viewed as a spy and could’ve been tortured and killed.
While Sarri’s granddad could have been shot dead on the spot for helping the enemy.
Lanza said: “After sundown, Sarri instructed me to follow him to his house.
“So, in my new civilian clothes, I followed him down a dirt road. He was walking about seventy yards ahead of me.
The Sarri family in 1968, with Maurizio’s father Amerigo kneeling at the frontCredit: Courtesy of Sarri Family
US World War II hero Bill Lanza, taken in 2010Credit: Handout
“While we were walking, two German trucks loaded with soldiers hurried past us.”
Sarri took him and Todd to a cave on his land, and Lanza lived there for the next 65 days, as the family brought them pasta, soup and bread.
The Germans knew the American airmen were being helped by the Italians, and flooded the area with troops.
Amazingly, the cave Lanza and Todd lived in was only 1oo yards from the Germans’ local HQ.
When people there got caught helping Americans – it was no questions asked. They killed about 200 that I heard ofBill LanzaShot Down Over Italy
Lanza said: “They never knew I was there, but I definitely knew they were there.
“I could see them doing calisthenics every morning from my cave.
“I could hear their machine guns going all night.
“They had a very fast sounding machine gun – much faster than the American ones – and it drove me crazy.
“We slept on straw mattresses in our cave, but we sometimes washed ourselves and our clothes at a rain basin on the farm.”
Lanza knew the risks Sarri was taking.
“When people there got caught helping Americans – it was no questions asked,” said Lanza.
“There were a lot of atrocities. They killed about 200 that I heard of.”
Young Amerigo would often drop-in to check on the two pilots.
Northern Italy in 1944, occupied by the Germans. Lanza was shot down south east of Florence, 200 miles behind enemy lines
Lanza said: “Amerigo was a frequent visitor to the cave.
“We liked Rigo and I think he liked us. We used to play games. One game was someone slapped your hand in the dark and you had to guess who slapped it.
“Sounds silly, but we tried to make the best of our circumstances, and had a good time playing games.”
Two months had passed since the pilots had hurled themselves from their burning plane, and the Germans began to give up their searched and started to pull their soldiers out of the Italian countryside.
That’s when Goffredo prepared Lanza and Todd’s escape plan.
He wrote a letter to the German commander telling him he was going to be escorting some miners through town.
But of course, these were no miners.
General Joseph McNarney sent a letter of gratitude to Goffredo Sarri
The toughest task between Lanza and Todd’s freedom was crossing a bridge outside the village that was surrounded by Nazis.
Lanza claimed: “The Germans were in foxholes and they were shooting at planes that were bombing the area.
“They must have thought we were nuts because bombs and bullets were flying everywhere as we walked by.
I put my trust in Sarri and he never let me down. Basically, we always trusted each otherBill LanzaShot Down Over Italy
“They couldn’t be bothered with civilians and we were in regular clothes and looked like refugees.
“We walked right past the Nazi trucks.”
Lanza continued: “It is mind- boggling to me that I was able to walk past German soldiers who were looking for me.
“You can imagine how nervous I was. I put my trust in Sarri and he never let me down. Basically, we always trusted each other.”
Italian Fascist leader Benito Mussolini meets Adolf Hitler in 1940Credit: Alamy
Nazi soldiers in a devastated Italian town during WW2 in 1944Credit: Hulton Archive – Getty
Goffredo had done his duty and taken Lanza and Todd as far as he could.
After staying in a sub-basement of a Silesian church with hiding Jewish families, the pilots managed to find safety with English soldiers.
Their ordeal was over, thanks to the Lazio boss’s grandfather, who later received a letter from the US General Joseph McNarney thanking him for his bravery.
In 2015, Sarri was asked by Italian newspaper Repubblica about Goffredo’s astonishing act of heroism.
He said: “He was called Goffredo, he was very proud of a recognition on a White House letterhead.
“As a partisan, he recovered the pilots of a US plane shot down in Val d’Arno, hid them, and at that time they shot you for less.
“One was called Bill Lanza, I know because his daughter and nephew wrote us a book.” More
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World Cup’s fastest ever goalscorer Hakan Sukur is now working as Uber driver in exile in USA
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 11:00
HE was Turkey’s most revered sportsman, recognised for his brilliance on the football field for Galatasaray and the national team.The legendary forward also holds the record for fastest ever goal in a World Cup finals.
Hakan Sukur parks his convertible Volkswagen outside his bakery in CaliforniaCredit: Getty – Contributor
Inside Hakan Sukur’s cafe in California near the famous Stanford University
But now, if Hakan Sukur, 50, steps foot in his own country, it’s likely he’ll face the death penalty or a life in prison, which is why he lives in exile in the US.
Hakan now lives in California, in the wealthy area of Palo Alto in Silicon Valley, on the outskirts of San Francisco.
But he isn’t a programmer and doesn’t work for a hi-tech app company. Instead, he’s an Uber driver and formerly ran a cafe.
“I moved to the United States, initially running a cafe in California, but strange people kept coming into the bar,” he told German outlet, Welt am Sonntag.
He used to run a popular bakery called Tuts, where the house specials were dishes like Turkish sausage and eggs, and Greek-style pancakes.
It received rave reviews on rating website Yelp, with comments such as: “Oh my gosh. This is the best place in the Bay Area to eat delicious food with your friends.
“The staff is so kind and friendly.”
But none of the customers mentioned that one of the men behind the cafe is Turkish football legend Hakan Sukur.
Turkey’s most famous footballer sold pastries and muffins to get byCredit: Instagram @tutsbakery
Hakan Sukur’s former cafe got rave reviews on the internetCredit: Instagram @tutsbakery
Back in the 1990s, the prolific striker WAS the idol of Istanbul.
Kids playing around the local bazaars all had Gala shirts with his famed number nine on the back and he could do no wrong.
Hakan scored 295 goals in three spells with the Turkish giants, played Premier League football with Blackburn for a season and had a spell in Serie A for Torino.
But even though it didn’t work out for him in Italy and England, he was welcomed back to his own country with open arms.
Hakan Sukur is Turkey’s most famous footballer everCredit: PA:Empics Sport
Due to his links to alleged terrorist group FETO, a warrant was issued for Hakan Sukur’s arrest in August 2016Credit: Getty Images – Getty
He was always a hero, a role model and to this day, is still the best striker Turkey have ever produced.
His record 51 international goals back that statement up, and nothing in Turkish football indicates it will be broken any time soon.
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However, when Hakan retired in 2008 he sought out a life in politics.
In 2011, he was elected as an Istanbul MP for the Justice Development Party, a conservative political group that has ruled over Turkey since 2002.
In three spells at Galatasary Hakan Sukur found the net 295 timesCredit: Getty – Contributor
Galatasary legend Hakan Sukur was nicknamed The Bull of the BosphorusCredit: PA:Empics Sport
The Bull of the Bosphorus was making strides and friends in government.
He aligned himself with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, as well as maintained a friendship with cleric Fethullah Gulen.
In 2013 an alliance between Erdogan and Gulen, who was keen for Turkey to become an Islamic state was destroyed when a government corruption scandal erupted.
Erdogan blamed Gulen for the disruption, and given Hakan was seen as a disciple of the Gulen movement, it all started to go wrong.
That same year, the government closed all schools run by Gulenists and Hakan resigned from the governing party in protest to run as an independent.
In 2011, Hakan Sukur was elected as an Istanbul MP for the Justice Development PartyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Hakan Sukur resigned from the Justice Development Party to run as an independent in 2013Credit: Getty Images – Getty
During a controversial speech at a Turkish university Hakan Sukur spoke proudly of his Albanian rootsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shortly after, Hakan gave a university speech where he told an audience of bemused students: “I am Albanian, as such I am not a Turk.”
Given the political climate in a country that was aiming to regain its national identity, those comments weren’t well-received.
In 2016, Hakan was charged with insulting President Erdogan on Twitter.
That summer, a trial began in absentia. Hakan claimed it wasn’t his intention to insult Erdogan, but prosecutors disagreed.
In 2016, Hakan Sukur was charged with insulting Presideny Erdogan on TwitterCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Blackburn Rovers signed Hakan Sukur in 2002
In July that year, hell broke loose when a coup, organised by Gulen with the aid of a small fraction of the Turkish Armed Forces, attempted to overthrow Erdogan.
The coup was defeated, but more than 300 people had lost their lives, 120,000 people lost their jobs and 50,000 were arrested.
Anyone who had Gulen links was deemed a terrorist and labelled a member of FETO (Fethullah Gulen Terrorist Organisation).
A warrant was issued for Hakan’s arrest and he was charged with being a member of an armed terrorist group.
Hakan Sukur was a hero for the national team of TurkeyCredit: Getty – Contributor
Hakan was given the opportunity to renounce his beliefs and love for the Gulen movement, but passed on the chance.
His father, Selmet wasn’t so lucky. The authorities arrested him at a mosque in Adapazar and he was charged with financial coup support.
Somehow, Hakan managed to flee to America, but it was reported his father passed away in prison after battling cancer.
Since relocating to the US, Hakan Sukur first opened a cafe and bakery called TutsCredit: Getty – Contributor
The cafe opened in Palo Alto in 2016 but has since closed downCredit: Instagram @tutsbakery
Hakan resurfaced in San Francisco County, in the wealthy surroundings of Palo Alto.
It’s been reported that he lives in a £3million home in the area, has three luxury cars and is enjoying the high-life.
The fallen icon may never be able to return home, but it could’ve been a whole lot worse. More
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90s Wags, from Louise Redknapp, Dani Behr, Ulrika Jonsson and more glamorous stars who dated footballers
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 09:00
MOVE aside Coleen Rooney, Rebekah Vardy and Abbey Clancy, these ladies were the original Wags of their time. The term Wag was first coined in 2006 when Victoria Beckham, Louise Owen and Elen Rives strutted their stuff in Baden-Baden during England’s 2006 World Cup campaign.
The term Wag was first coined during England’s 2006 World Cup campaignCredit: Associated Newspapers
But, it was in the 1990s with the birth of the Premier League, that footballers in England were becoming a catch.
The likes of Ryan Giggs, Liverpool’s ‘Spice Boys’ and many others enjoyed mixing playing on the field with playing off it with these fine beauties.
But who stepped out with who?
Join SunSport in taking a trip down memory lane to revisit the Wags that were ahead of the game… but what do they look now?
Dani Behr
Dani Behr was famous for presenting 1990s TV show The WordCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
Ryan Giggs and Dani Behr dated in 1994Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Now living in LA, Dani Behr works in real estate and still looks glamorous todayCredit: Getty – Contributor
Earning notoriety on 1990s show The Word put the gorgeous presenter well and truly in the spotlight.
But it’s her relationships with footballers that made her a tabloid name.
Dani, now 51, was once engaged to former QPR and Newcastle striker Les Ferdinand, who she dated between 1995-98.
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Before that, she famously had a fling with Man United legend Ryan Giggs. Then, in 2001 Dani had a one-year romance with Aussie goalie Mark Bosnich.
She now works in luxury real estate in LA.
Louise Redknapp
Louise Redknapp sang in pop group Eternal before she met Jamie RedknappCredit: Rex Features
After nearly 20 years of marriage, Louise and Jamie Redknapp split in 2017Credit: Getty – Contributor
Before Jamie, Louise, 47, was a singer in pop group Eternal, who debuted in 1993.
She was one of the hottest performers around, which saw her embark on an ill-fated solo career after leaving the group.
In 1997, she met Jamie and they married a year later following a whirlwind romance.
However, in 2017 she announced her marriage to the former Liverpool star had come to an end.
Suzi Walker
Suzi and Ian Walker embraced celebrity culture by doing fancy photoshootsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
When her marriage came to an end, Suzi Walker dated former Crystal Palace chairman Simon JordanCredit: Louis Hollingsbee
Synonymous with the term ‘Footballers Wives’, Suzi was believed to be one of the inspirations behind the ITV show of the same name.
She was married to Tottenham goalie Ian Walker and they regularly posed together in fancy magazine shoots at their home.
But their marriage came to a sticky end when the former England international fessed up that he had an affair.
Suzi, 49, went on to date Simon Jordan in the late 2000s and they had one child together, a girl called Cameron.
Leslie Ash
Leslie Ash and Lee Chapman enjoyed celebrity couple status in the 90sCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
At 61, Leslie Ash still looks great and is a regular on the red carpetCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Alongside her footballing husband Lee Chapman, Leslie was the epitome of what a Wag was.
She attended all the celeb parties with her Leeds United beau and became a household name thanks to TV comedy Men Behaving Badly.
They married in 1988 and their marriage has lasted the test of time.
Both Ash, 61, and Chapman are still occasionally seen on the party scene, spotted in 2017 at an Ibiza Rocks party.
Davinia Taylor
Davinia Taylor was one of the ‘It’ girls of the 90sCredit: Rex Features
Hollyoaks beauty Davinia Taylor dated footballers including Ryan Giggs, Robbie Fowler and Jamie RedknappCredit: PA:Press Association
Davinia Taylor returned to the soap that made her famous in 2016Credit: Nick Obank – The Sun
One of the famous “It” girls of the 90s, the former Hollyoaks beauty was universally loved by the Premier League’s elite.
The soap star, now 44, had flings with Robbie Fowler, Jamie Redknapp and Ryan Giggs through the 90s.
Famously, she married David Beckham’s best mate Dave Gardner in 2003, but they divorced in 2009.
Part of the Primrose Hill set, with besties being Kate Moss and Sadie Frost, she returned to the Cheshire based TV show in 2016.
Davina McCall
Davina McCall and Stan Collymore had a romance in 1998Credit: PA:Empics Entertainment
Now healthier than ever, Davina McCall embraced exercise and changed her dietCredit: Getty – Contributor
Davina McCall was labelled a ‘Ladette’ in the 1990sCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
One of the “Ladettes” of the 90s, Davina was a feisty MTV presenter back in the day.
Another one who embraced party scene, 54-year-old Davina got together with Stan Collymore shortly after he moved from Liverpool to Aston Villa in 1998.
However, their relationship didn’t last, which is one of Collymore’s biggest regrets, according to his book.
He believes she was the one that got away.Ulrika Jonsson
Ulrika Jonsson had relationships with Stan Collymore, Les Ferdinand and Sven Goran ErikssonCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
TV star Ulrika Jonsson always had an eye for a footballerCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Now 54, Ulrika Jonsson appeared on Celebrity Masterchef in 2017
Which moves us swiftly on to the Swedish bombshell, Ulrika.
She too had a fling with Stan the man, but there was one problem… he was said to be seeing Davina at the time.
Ulrika also reportedly had an affair with Les Ferdinand after they met at a charity event in 1998.
And who can forget when Ulrika, 54, had a romance with former England boss Sven Goran Eriksson. That’s right, no one.Mandy Smith
Mandy Smith married former Spurs hardman Pat Van Den Hauwe in 1993Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Now enjoying life out of the spotlight, Mandy Smith teaches youngsters how to prepare for their first Holy CommunionCredit: Rex Features
A former singer and model in her heyday, Mandy, 51, married former Spurs hardman Pat Van Den Hauwe in 1993.
It didn’t last long, it was just two years before they parted ways.
Before that, self-confessed wild-child Mandy dated former Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman when she was just 13-years-old.
She now lives in Manchester, is teetotal and is a church-goer teaching youngsters how to prepare for their first Holy Communion.
Michelle Gayle
Michelle Gayle married footballer and TV pundit Mark Bright in 1996Credit: PA:Press Association
Arsenal fan Michelle Gayle starred in Eastenders and released pop songs in the 90sCredit: PA:Press Association
In 2011 Michelle Gayle wrote a fictional book about WagsCredit: PA:Press Association
The British singer and actress was famous for singing hits “Sweetness” and “Do You Know”, as well as starring in Eastenders in the 1990s.
But the London-born Arsenal fan also married footballer Mark Bright in 1996, before they split ten years later.
Since then, Michelle, 50, has starred in US TV series Wolfblood and appeared on Loose Women as a guest.
She showed she was a true Wag in 2011 by penning a book called “Pride and Premiership” which was about two girls who aspire to get married to footballers.Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham was called the ‘Queen of the Wags’ in 2006Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Now a fully fledged fashion designer, Victoria Beckham is far removed from the world of WagsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
It wouldn’t be a Wag round-up if we didn’t mention Posh Spice.
Since marrying England legend David Beckham in 1999, it’s fair to say Victoria has moved away from Wag status.
Now working in the realms of high-end fashion, Vic, 47, was dubbed “Queen of the Wags” in 2006.
She spent most of her time at the World Cup in Germany hanging out with Cheryl Cole, but she reportedly wasn’t very social with the other Wags.
Emily Symons
Matt Le Tissier dated Emily Symons in 1999 after meeting her in Southampton when she was starring in pantoCredit: Solent News
Emily Symons played Marilyn Chambers in Aussie soap Home and AwayCredit: PA:Press Association
In 2000, Matt Le Tissier dumped Emily Symons a year before they were supposed to marryCredit: ITV
The Aussie actress was lauded for her work on Aussie soap Home and Away playing the role of Marilyn Chambers.
After starring as Goldilocks in a panto at a Southampton theatre, she soon began dating Matt Le Tissier in 1999.
The couple got engaged after just six months, but it wasn’t to be.
Le Tiss reportedly dumped Symons, now 52, in 2000 – a year before their planned wedding.
Emma Bunton
Emma ‘Baby Spice’ Bunton briefly dated footballer Rio FerdinandCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
Emma Bunton, now 45, is a radio DJ on Heart FMCredit: Splash News
When Emma was just a ‘Baby’ in the Spice Girls, she was also getting notable glances from footballers on the party circuit.
Fresh from the success of Victoria dating David, Emma thought she would dip her toe into the football pool.
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She began dating Rio Ferdinand in 1999, when he was plying his trade at West Ham.
It didn’t last long though and she reportedly began seeing actor John Simm soon after.Caprice
American model Caprice burst onto the scene in the mid-90sCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
After a fling with Tony Adams, Caprice dated George Best’s son Calum Best and cricketer Kevin PietersenCredit: Splash News
The American cover model got close to ex Arsenal captain Tony Adams after they met in 1999.
She originally burst onto the scene, rather literally, in 1996 in an infamous Wonderbra advert.
And her relationship with sports stars, or those related to sports stars, continued.
The 50-year-old also dated George Best’s son Calum and was also seen on the arm of cricketer Kevin Pietersen.
Lizzie Cundy
Lizzie Cundy was once married to former Chelsea footballer Jason CundyCredit: Rex Features
Now a radio presenter on FUBAR Radio, Lizzie Cundy hosts a show called Access All AreasCredit: Splash News
Formerly married to TalkSport host Jason Cundy, Lizzie, 53, has taken full advantage of her WAG status since their split.
She hosts a TV show called WAGS World on Wedding TV, as well as its spin-off Sporting Icon WAGS.
The notorious socialite is also a presenter on FUBAR Radio, hosting weekly chat show Access All Areas.
In 2014, Lizzie showed she was still a catch when she was linked to Hollywood actor Gerard Butler. More
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Football is played over the Christmas period in the UK because of medieval traditions and hard-fought workers rights
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 09:00
AFTER enjoying a Christmas day feast, Britain’s best footballers will be gearing up for a busy sporting calendar.Normally, teams will play twice in a week – once on Boxing Day and again on New Year’s Day.
Football fans are treated to a feast of the beautiful game over the Christmas periodCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Sure, it will irk the likes of Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola, who have both been critical of the tradition.
And with other European leagues taking a winter break and giving players a well-earned rest, you can see their point.
But why is football played over the Christmas period on our shores? Let SunSport explain.
MEDIEVAL TRADITION
Before football was officially created and the FA was formed in 1863, there were variations of the beautiful game.
In fact, historians can go back to as far as 1170 when medieval football or mob football was played in the streets.
Often, these games took place over Easter and during the Christmas period.
Today, because we are such a nostalgic country, you still get these events occurring.
One is The Kirkwall Ba game on New Year’s Day and another is The Royal Shrovetide village game in Ashbourne, Derbyshire.
Medieval football dates back to 1170 and took place over the Christmas holidayCredit: Alamy
The Kirkwall Ba game takes place still today on New Year’s DayCredit: Getty Images – Getty
FOOTBALL EVERY DAY
In the late 1800s there was a time when football was played nearly every day over the Christmas period, including Christmas day.
“Football was played on Christmas day because it was a day off and there was a tradition of public working-class events,” history professor Martin Johnes revealed.
“It was also at times played on Boxing Day meaning two games in two days.”
That also allowed the working class the opportunity to go to games on one of their few days off and get out of their crowded, cramped homes.
“For the working class, whose residences were often uncomfortable, overcrowded and unappealing, a rare day free from work was reason to take to the streets, not relax at home,” Johnes said.
Bank holiday legislation also played an important role.
“The 1871 Bank Holidays Act gave Boxing day this designation in England and Wales,” Johnes added.
A crowd of men and boys enjoy a match between Brighton and Crystal Palace on Christmas Day in 1920Credit: Popperfoto – Getty
Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-0 on Boxing Day in 1956Credit: Getty Images – Getty
“It had not done the same for Christmas day or Good Friday because they were established days of rest and worship.”
If Klopp is concerned about today’s crowded fixture list, lucky he wasn’t manager of the Reds in 1913.
Liverpool played Manchester City at home on Christmas Day, then the return game on Boxing Day, and another match at Anfield against Blackburn on December 27. That’s three games in three days.
INTEREST DWINDLED
Christmas day football became a thing of the past by the 1960s with families beginning to come together more.
The improvement of living conditions had a hand in that, with food, presents and decorations becoming more affordable to the masses.
“Communal entertainments were clearly on the decline as the festival took greater root in the home,” Johnes divulged.
Christmas day football became a thing of the past by the 1960sCredit: Popperfoto – Getty
Today, fans love the busy Christmas period of football Credit: Getty Images – Getty
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“Football shifts just to Boxing day, as Christmas Day becomes more family orientated and more importantly public transport becomes more and more limited.”
The last Christmas Day fixtures in England took place in 1965.
Blackburn Rovers beat Blackpool 1-0 in the first division, while Coventry recorded a thrilling 5-3 win over Wrexham in the third division. More
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The journeyman footballer who has played for 41 clubs in remarkable career, and is still going aged 42
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 08:00
HE just wants to be loved.In a football career that has spanned 24-years, Jefferson Louis has played for an astonishing 41 clubs, as well as the national team of Dominica.
Jefferson Louis has played for 41 different clubs in his careerCredit: Twitter @jlouislee9
The striker, who once lined up against Arsenal in an FA Cup third round tie, has bounced around the divisions playing for the likes of Wrexham, Oxford United and Lincoln City.
Louis, now 42, has already played for two sides this season, Beaconsfield Town and North Leigh.
It makes him the ultimate journeyman, usurping legendary goalkeeper John Burridge who played for 29 different clubs.
He told The Telegraph back in 2014: “It’s like I’m cursed.
Jefferson Louis once lined up against Arsenal in an FA Cup third round tieCredit: PA:Press Association
“When I signed for Wrexham, (Manager) Dean Saunders said: ‘I wish I had you when you was young. You’d be a Premiership player now.’
“For them to say this makes me think, wow. Something went wrong for me, innit?”
Louis considers himself a hard-working player, who gives his all. He believes if you show him the love, you’ll get the best out of him.
Jefferson Louis had his best years at Oxford UnitedCredit: PA:Empics Sport
However, he admitted that his journeyman tag has made it difficult for managers to trust him when it comes to giving him a fair crack.
He said: “People say he must be a rebel, Jefferson must have been rude.
“And it’s tarnished me. Some managers think I must be a bad apple.”
Louis was subject to controversy in 2002 when he was filmed nakedly celebrating Oxford United drawing Arsenal in the FA Cup.
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Jefferson Louis had a spell at WrexhamCredit: PA:Empics Sport
Moments earlier he was the hero, netting a winner against Swindon to earn his side a third round birth, but he was soon in hot water.
Around this time, Louis also claimed he was left in the dark when Premier League giants Aston Villa tried to sign him.
He didn’t have an agent to orchestrate any deals for him.
Jefferson then prospered under Ian Atkins at Bristol Rovers. However, when Graham Rix took over the reigns at the Memorial Stadium it turned sour.
Dean Saunders told Jefferson Louis he could have made him a Premier League striker if he was youngerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
“Graham Rix came in, and he destroyed me.
“He said if I didn’t play centre-back, I wouldn’t play for the club again. I said no.”
Jefferson claimed that other teams were interested in taking him, but he was forced to go into the Conference league with Forest Green.
Jefferson Louis biggest career highlight was playing against ArsenalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And the problems continued to mount for Louis. His new boss, Alan Lewer was close pals with Rix and the forward believes the pair had it in for him.
He was soon reunited with Atkins at Bristol Rovers in 2005 before the manager was fired and Louis was released.
He divulged: “It turned out the manager at Forest Green and the manager at Oxford were good friends.
Jefferson Louis had a spell at Mansfield Town in 2008Credit: PA:Empics Sport
“He was trying to ruin my reputation. I didn’t want to be at a team where a manager’s holding me back.”
Jefferson then went to Woking and was reunited with Atkins at Bristol Rovers.
However, when Atkins was fired, a clause in his contract saw him released from the club.
He told The Telegraph: “I wanted a clause in my contract: if he left, I could go with him.
Then they got rid of the manager, and released all the players with that clause in their contract.
“We couldn’t sign for anyone because the window was closed. The only thing we could do was go to lower-league teams to keep fit.
Jefferson Louis feels he never got the luck as a professional footballerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
“That’s why I ended up at Hemel Hempstead, Lewes, Worthing.”
Despite a career that has seen him struggle to find a settled home, Louis doesn’t have any regrets in the game.
Although, he wasn’t happy working with Steve Evans during his time at Crawley between 2009-2010.
He said: “I wouldn’t have a lot of regrets in football, but one was working for Steve Evans at Crawley.
“It was the worst thing I ever did. His man-management is terrible.
“We’re playing AFC Wimbledon on the Tuesday. After the game he asked my opinion. I said we went a bit too negative.
Jefferson Louis scored 4 goals in 18 games at Mansfield before he was moved onCredit: PA:Empics Sport
“He went mental at me. He started effing and blinding, spitting everywhere. But he asked my opinion.
“On the back of that he went: ‘Right, we’ve got a reserve game tomorrow, you’re effing playing.’
“Then he had me in for a week, every day at 7am. Eventually Rushden & Diamonds came in for me.
“We played against Crawley in a league match, and he was shouting from the touchline, ‘kill the b*****d!'”
Jefferson Louis played for non league Woking during the 2004-2005 seasonCredit: PA:Press Association
After his spell at Crawley, Jefferson moved to Rushden and Diamonds where he bagged 7 goals in 26 games.
He said he enjoyed some good times there and the manager Justin Edinburgh wanted to sign him but the club had no money.
He joined Brian Little at Gainsborough in 2010, but realised it was a mistake.
Jefferson revealed: “It was a bit of a s—hole.
“A lot of the players there were tossing it off. That’s when I went to Darlington.”
Brackley Town came calling for the services of Jefferson Louis in 2011Credit: Getty Images – Getty
While he was at The Quakers, Louis received some devastating news. His beloved mum was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Desperate to get back to north London, where he’s originally from, he admittedly nearly quit the game.
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But when his mum’s operation was a success, he returned with Lincoln City in 2012 thanks to David Holdsworth, who was the then Imps manager.
He said David Holdsworth was a blessing in disguise, but when it came to signing him again there wasn’t enough money in the pot.
In a brief spell at Brackley Town Jefferson Louis bagged 7 goals in 24 gamesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“So I went to Newport, and we were top of the league. I had to make two more appearances to get an extended deal.
“They never played me, innit? They said it was just business.
“At the end of the season, I found a new job working as a teaching assistant in a school, so I wanted to play for a team closer to work.
“So I was at Hendon until Margate came in for me.”
Louis laments the fact that he never got a chance in the Premier League, especially given the fact that his former teammates became top-flight regulars.
Jefferson Louis played at Wealdstone from 2014-2016Credit: Getty Images – Getty
After all, he played with Premier League players such as Dean Whitehead and Sam Rickets during his spell at Oxford.
He said: “They was in my team, and I was better than them. They’ve had good careers. And I’ve had a mediocre career, because of something not my doing.”
Louis represented the Dominica national team in 2008 in a 2010 World Cup qualifier against Barbados.
Jefferson Louis celebrates scoring one of his 18 goals he scored in 54 games for WealdstoneCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The 1-0 loss was to be his only cap, but Louis admitted he is happy with his lot.
He said: “I’m just happy with what I achieved.
“I played international football. I met my idol Thierry Henry. I’ve been back page in a newspaper. That’s what I try and drill into the kids at school. Don’t have no regrets.” More
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Patrice Evra is football’s king of social media, including kissing a chimp, licking a chicken and taunting England fans
by Philippa Kaur 25 December 2021, 07:00
HE’S game for a laugh. Patrice Evra, 40, has had us in stitches over the years sharing some hilarious social media posts. Patrice Evra always entertains his nine million followers on Instagram
The French defender has done everything from getting off with a monkey to feeding a lion. In honour of the funniest footballer on Instagram, SunSport celebrates the veteran star’s best social media moments.
Keeping it festive
For Evra the spirit of Christmas is perfectly captured by a dancing reindeer, well if his most recent Instagram post is to be believed!
The hilarious star dresses up in a reindeer suit and shakes along to the Soca Boys hit Follow the Leader in a brilliant clip.
He also insists: “If you don’t believe in Santa you must tell your kid mini black Santa is the real one” in the video.
After getting ‘Rudolph’ dizzy he adds a comical trip to proceedings.

That time he dressed up as a panda
Patrice had a novel idea when it came to stamping out racism in football. He dressed up like a panda, danced and delivered a fine speech to his 3.7 million Instagram followers. Evra said: “Be like a panda. I am black, I am white, I am Asian and I am chubby. I am full of love. I love this game, say no to racism.”
Patrice Evra dressed up like a panda and danced around to combat racismCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
Patrice Evra dances in a Panda suit and encourages people to say no to racism
Taunting England
Singing into some fish and chips and wearing a Gallagher brother wig, Evra joked dinosaurs were alive the last time England won a major trophy ahead the Euro 2020 semi-final against Denmark in a hilarious clip back in the summer. He begins by singing along to Fatboy Slim’s 1999 hit Praise You before shouting, “It’s Monday,” down the camera. He continues: “Everyone’s been waiting for this for so long. “Last time England won a trophy, even the dinosaurs were still alive! “Come on chaps! You can do this! Come on!”
Patrice Evra showed his support for England by singing into some fish and chips
When he got the seal of approval
Over the years Patrice’s “I love this game” catchphrase has come in handy for his social media posts. None more so when he bellowed out his mantra as a huge seal was being fed behind him. Cue said seal resting his head on top of Evra’s in the ultimate act of comic timing that couldn’t have been done better than Morecambe and Wise.
Patrice Evra loved hanging around with a sealCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
Patrice Evra makes friends with a seal in heartwarming new video
One Love
That’s exactly how we felt when we saw Evra’s incredible Bob Marley impression. Wearing the reggae star’s trademark beanie hat with dreadlocks attached, he belted out the Jamaican’s hit, One Love. He definitely left us feeling together and alright after seeing this splashed on social.
Patrice Evra sang Bob Marley’s One Love on InstagramCredit: instagram
Patrick Evra sings Bob Marley classic, One Love
Jeep thrills
Is there a better way to prove you’ll come back stronger and fitter than ever? We don’t think so. After having his contract terminated by Marseille, Evra took to social media to tell fans he’ll be back. He did it in the most extravagant way with a video that saw him pulling a Jeep.
Patrice Evra pulled a Jeep to show he would return stronger than ever after his contract was terminated by MarseilleCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
Patrice Evra vows to come back ‘stronger than ever’ as he pulls JEEP with man on top
Doing some home chores
There could be nothing more boring than ironing. But if you do it the way Evra does it, then you’re likely to have a right laugh. The left back treated us to a video of him ironing his Juventus Champions League shirt, while singing along to Barry White. For the record, he sang Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe brilliantly.
Patrice Evra even made boring ironing look entertainingCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
Patrice Evra posts clip of himself doing the ironing to Barry White!
Feeding a lion
He’s so flamboyant, he feeds lions. And he showed his love for his feline friend by giving the cub some milk from a bottle in a video uploaded last year. Evra captioned the vid: “Good night my little friend need some milk. I love this game. #ilovethisgame #goodnight #lion #babywhitelion #positivevibes #milk.” He debuted the lion in 2018, but we haven’t seen it for a while.
Patrice Evra feeds milk to a baby lionCredit: Instagram @patrice.evra
Boxer Amir Khan and footballer Patrice Evra feed milk to baby lions
Evra’s Bank Holiday song
The former Man United star showed us the way on May 1, 2017 on a Bank Holiday by bursting into song. He chose The Temptations hit My Girl and displayed signs that he could have a future as a pop star. If you’re watching, Simon Cowell look no further than signing this man up.
Patrice Evra has a talent for singingCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
Patrice Evra gets into the Bank Holiday spirit as he sings My Girl in his car
His love of Marvin Gaye
There’s no doubt about it, Evra is a huge fan of the soul legend. Only last month, he treated us to a bizarre impression of Gaye, wearing a bathrobe, sunglasses and a curly wig. Even more strange was the fact he seemed to have lost one of his £825 shoes while performing Sexual Healing.
Patrice Evra has a bizarre obsession with Marvin Gaye and dressed up as the singerCredit: Instagram @Patrice.Evra
Patrice Evra does Marvin Gaye impression in his bathrobe – and one shoe
Kissing a chimpanzee
In probably the greatest video any footballer has uploaded to social media, Evra’s kissing chimp moment will live on forever. The full-back can be seen puckering up next to the chimp as he asks the monkey: “You love my game or not? Then kiss me.” Evra jokes: “No tongues,” as the chimp leans in and obliges. It’s comedy gold.
Patrice Evra loves to monkey around with his chimp pal
Ex-Man Utd star Patrice Evra puckers up and kisses a chimpanzee More

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