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      in Boxing

      Who is Barry McGuigan’s wife Sandra Mealiff and how many children do they have?

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      BARRY McGuigan, the renowned Irish former professional boxer and current boxing trainer and promoter, is married to Sandra Mealiff.He’s taking on the challenge of surviving in the Australian jungle on I’m A Celebrity 2024 — here’s everything we know about his wife and family.Barry McGuigan, his wife Sandra Mealiff and their late daughter DanikaCredit: Getty Images – GettyWho is Barry McGuigan’s wife Sandra Mealiff?Sandra Mealiff comes from a Protestant background, while Barry McGuigan is Catholic, which is significant in the context of Northern Ireland’s religious divisions.Their interfaith marriage held symbolic importance during the tumultuous period of The Troubles in Northern Ireland, as it represented unity and love transcending sectarian divides.Speaking about this period in 2008, Barry told the Times: “I remember feeling a responsibility to create a harmonious situation: I wasn’t going to cause any more trouble and strife.”I was a Catholic Irishman fighting for the British title; my wife was a Protestant.read more on barry mcguigan”For the British title fight in 1983 [when Barry defeated Vernon Penprase for the featherweight belt], I wanted to wear neutral colours, so I decided on the UN flag colours of peace.”My dad sang Danny Boy, which became a unifying song.”It was crucial that people who came to see me fight didn’t feel threatened. I had amazing partisan support.”From childhood sweethearts to spousesThe couple’s relationship began in their youth.Most read in BoxingBarry said: “[Sandra and I] grew up together, buddies from kids.”They tied the knot on December 14, 1981 — however no details about their big day have been reported.Barry McGuigan’s actress daughter Danika dies aged 30 after ‘brief but brave’ battle with cancerThe marriage took place when Barry was 20 years old, showing the couple’s deep commitment to each other from a young age.First homeIn 1982, at the age of 21, Barry took out a mortgage on his first home with Sandra. The house had a unique location, straddling the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.Barry said: “In 1982, I was in the embryonic stages of my career, so for a 21-year-old to take out a mortgage on his own house was really something.”It was a lovely bungalow in the border area of the Republic of Ireland — next to a lake in Clones, Co Monaghan, where I had lived my whole life.”KidsBarry and Sandra McGuigan have four children: Danika, Shane, Jake, and Blain.Barry Mcguigan pictured with his wife Sandra and children Danika, Shane, Jake and Blaine at their Kent home in 1987Credit: Rex FeaturesDanikaDanika, also known as Nika, was the couple’s only daughter.Born in 1986, she pursued a career in acting and appeared in several films and TV shows including Wildfire (2020), Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope (2016), Traders (2015) and Philomena (2013).Danika tragically passed away on July 23, 2019 at the age of 33, following a brief battle with cancer.She had previously overcome leukemia as a child, but succumbed to a more aggressive form of cancer later in life.On August 2, 2019, Barry shared an old photo of himself and his daughter, paying an emotional tribute to Danika.He wrote: “The most difficult thing I’ve ever had to do was to say goodbye to my amazing daughter Nika earlier this week.Barry McGuigan received an MBE in 1994 for services to boxingCredit: PA:Press Association”She has been a shining light in our family’s lives for the past 33 years.”Nika was an extremely talented and inspirational young lady who radiated kindness and love.”Our hearts are broken and we know that life will never be the same again for us.”However, Nika lives on in so many parts of our lives which we are grateful for.”I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the people who sent flowers, cards, Mass cards, Instagram messages, Facebook, Twitter, texts and email messages of condolences and support.”There are simply too many to answer individually so I want to use this opportunity to say a huge thank you to each and every one of you, the family greatly appreciate them.”Barry’s heartbreaking tribute to his late daughter DanikaCredit: Social mediaShaneShane, born on November 8, 1988, has followed in his father’s footsteps in the boxing world.He has become a renowned boxing trainer, working with high-profile fighters including Carl Frampton, David Haye and George Groves. Shane’s success as a trainer has earned him recognition in the boxing community, continuing the McGuigan legacy in the sport.Following the heartbreaking passing of his sister, Shane wrote on Instagram: “My beautiful sister Danika lost her battle with cancer. She overcame it once with a two-year fight.”We were privileged to have another 20 years with our amazing Nika.”The McGuigan family pictured in 2003Credit: PA:Press AssociationJake and BlainWhile less is publicly known about Jake and Blain, they are also part of the close-knit McGuigan family.The family has generally maintained privacy regarding their personal lives.Jake reportedly studied business in London, while Blain is a politics graduate who is involved with music.Current residenceThe McGuigan family left their border home in Clones and moved to Kent, England in 1987.In 2008, Barry said: “It was in 1987, after I had lost my title [against Stevie Cruz] in Las Vegas, the year my father died, that I decided to move the family to England. It was a bit of a wrench.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’ve been back to see the [Clones] house several times. The roads are no longer barricaded, and now I’m involved in integrated eduction, which is the way forward.”It’s important to me that there is harmony and bonding between people.” More

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      in Soccer

      European giants selling off part of iconic stadium after incredible £1billion renovation

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      REAL MADRID’S first-team locker room from the iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium will be auctioned off.Real’s historic dressing room will be sold by Sotheby’s, who will open the bidding online from 12 November for two weeks.Real Madrid’s first-team locker room from Santiago Bernabeu will be auctioned.This comes after the most extensive renovation of the Bernabeu, which cost £1billionCredit: GettyBidders will be offered 24 individual lockers used by legends of the gameCredit: GettyThe auction is being held in partnership with Pursuit 3 Marketing Group S.L., which is the club’s official memorabilia partner.It comes after the massive renovation of the Bernabeu, which cost a staggering £1billion.Bidders will be offered 24 individual lockers used by legends, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham. Zinedine Zidane, Sergio Ramos and Luis Figo.Bidding starts at £10,000 and each locker will be presented as it appeared during the 2022 season.Read More on FootballThat means that the lockers could be sold for at least £250,000.And each will be accompanied by a letter certifying its authenticity, listing each of the players who once called the locker their own.The sale will also include the Real Madrid Santiago Bernabeu Stadium Mosaic measuring approximately three metres wide with bids starting at £12,000.Also up for grabs are the stadium’s metal doors, which will go for at least £8,000.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA portion of the proceeds will go to the Real Madrid Foundation, which is committed to encouraging the education of children.The foundation also promotes social inclusion of the most vulnerable members of society and builds a world-class memorabilia programme for the club as well as its fans.Headline Legendary stadium looks unrecognisable with football pitch in underground greenhouse and amazing 360-degree big screenReal are currently second in LaLiga with nine points separating them from leaders Barcelona.Bidding will be taking place at sothebys.com. More

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      in Soccer

      There’s something wrong with refereeing after Martinez dodged red for career-threatening Palmer foul, says ex-Prem ref

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      LISANDRO MARTINEZ avoiding a red card for his shocking challenge on Cole Palmer signals something could be wrong with refereeing, according to Mark Halsey.The former Premier League referee believes the Manchester United defender was “very lucky” to escape a red card.Lisandro Martinez escaped a red card for his high tackle on Cole PalmerCredit: PAThe challenge could gave caused a serious injuryCredit: PAMark Halsey questioned why VAR did not intervene to send off MartinezCredit: AFPMartinez caught Palmer high on his knee with a reckless lunge that could have led to a serious injury.Ref Rob Jones booked Martinez for the tackle but VAR did not recommend a review, so there was no opportunity to increase the Argentine’s punishment.Halsey cannot understand why VAR did not intervene and he believes Martinez would have walked if the ref took a second look at the incident.Halsey told SunSport’s Whistleblower: “I was surprised that VAR didn’t recommend a review because I don’t think Martinez could have any complaints had he seen red card for that offence. READ MORE ON MAN UTD”Because it was for me, it was serious foul play. It was a challenge that endangered the player’s safety because he was so high. Okay, the force wasn’t there.”But it’s a career threatening challenge when you’re going that high on someone’s knee.”If officials do not think that’s a red card. Then there’s something seriously wrong. It’s not about knowing the laws of the game.”I think Martinez was very, very lucky that he didn’t see red.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFans were also shocked Martinez did not walk, as was Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca.He said after the match: “I think there is not intention to take the ball and the foul is quite dangerous.”Manchester United vs Chelsea: Player Ratings Breakdown (2)”It is quite clear it is a red.”While Gary Neville said in commentary: “When you go that high I think you’re asking for a red card. I think he’s lucky.”When you go knee-high and the ball’s gone, I think it’s a red.” More

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      in Boxing

      Jake Paul’s own coach admitted he CAN’T beat Mike Tyson in newly emerged footage ahead of mega Netflix fight

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      JAKE PAUL’S own boxing coach told him that he had no chance of beating Mike Tyson.Paul takes to the ring with Iron Mike next week as the pair battle it out live on Netflix.Jake Paul’s own team told him he couldn’t beat Mike TysonCredit: GettyThe fight has garnered plenty of attention, not least because of the shock of a 58-year-old Tyson is coming out of retirement.But one person who isn’t shocked is Jake Paul, who seemingly manifested this fight back in 2021 – albeit without the support of one of his coaches.In a video posted on Paul’s social media, the 27-year-old internet personality seemingly came up with the “crazy idea” to take on Mike Tyson over three years ago.Ahead of his third ever pro fight, a win over Ben Askren, Paul said to his coaches: “I just came up with a crazy idea. Do you think I can beat Mike Tyson?”READ MORE ON BOXINGBut it was clear that back then his team had little confidence that he could get the better of the former undisputed world heavyweight champion.Paul was greeted with a blunt response from one coach, who simply laughed and said: “F*** no!”But Paul even showed ambition for the fight all those years ago, asking: “Not even in a year from now?”His team were firm that they didn’t fancy his chances, explaining: “Mike Tyson just got s*** he knows how to do bro that’s just… he’s just a dog.”Most read in BoxingJake Paul asked his coach if he thought he could beat Mike Tyson in 2021Credit: instagram @jakepaulPaul’s coaching staff were clear that he wouldn’t be able toCredit: instagram @jakepaulCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSPaul’s team certainly seem to have faith in him now with the mega-money fight now just a matter of days away.Since that day, Paul has won a further eight fights – losing just once at the hands of Tommy Fury.Jake Paul makes training decision for Mike Tyson fight after dramatically losing TWO STONE for last fightWhile Tyson hasn’t stepped into the pro ring since 2005, and hasn’t won since 2003.Paul certainly appears confident ahead of the Texas dance, posting the clip alongside a caption that read: “The Gods always knew, 12 days to destiny.”Three and a half years ago my team laughed at my idea to fight Mike Tyson. “My own coach told me I had no chance to beat the man. They say impossible, I say let’s find out.”Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will come to blows on November 15Credit: GettyJake Paul vs Mike Tyson’s lifestyles comparedONE is a notorious YouTuber-turned-boxer who has taken the sport by storm.The other terrorised all in the ring in the 1980s and 1990s, famously biting the ear off an opponent in one fight.Iron Mike has rebuilt his life after squandering a £300m fortune with a cannabis empire, and is a huge advocate of the drug.And as Paul has continued to rise up the ranks, he has splashed the cash on a fleet of amazing cars.Whereas Tyson had more money than sense until a £15m debt saw him part with his cherished car collection.Paul now lives in a plush mansion worth £13m in Puerto Rico, after escaping his hectic life in LA.But these days, Tyson lounges in his Vegas property he paid £2.5m for with wife Lakiha, who he married in 2009. Paul is not yet married but is smitten with his speed skater girlfriend  Jutta Leerdam. She will be by his side when her man puts his 9-1 boxing record on the line against two-time heavyweight champ Tyson on July 20.Read more: Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson’s lifestyles compared, from The Problem Child’s £13m mansion to Iron Mike’s huge cannabis empire. More

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      in Motorsport

      Lewis Hamilton hints he could QUIT Mercedes before end of F1 season on team radio after blasting ‘worst car ever’

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      LEWIS HAMILTON sensationally hinted he could leave Mercedes early after a “disastrous” weekend at the Brazil Grand Prix.The seven-time world champion finished 10th on Sunday following an action-packed race at Interlagos.Lewis Hamilton was left dejected following the Brazil GP on SundayCredit: RexThe Mercedes man gave a brutally honest message to his team after the raceCredit: Sky SportsHe struggled with car issues throughout the weekend – which were not helped by a series of heavy rain showers.And by the time he reached the chequered flag, the Mercedes man was left completely deflated.With his blockbuster move to Ferrari on the horizon, Hamilton gave a brutally honest message to his team in the garage.He even suggested it could be the “last time” he drives for the Silver Arrows.Read More in F1He said: “That was a disaster of a weekend guys. That is the worst the car has ever been.”But thank you for continuing to try. Great job from the guys at the pitstop.”If this is the last time that I get to perform, its a shame it wasn’t great, but grateful for you.”Speaking after the race, Hamilton even suggested that he would “happily” take the rest of the year off despite three races remaining.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe told Sky Sports: “We were just slow. The car was really, really tough.”The team could have won also today, so at least one car was behaving a lot better.F1 Driver Salaries in 2024: How Much Do They Make? “It’s like a plank of wood. It’s like, no suspension.”It’s bouncing on the tyres everywhere and you can’t get on the power anywhere.”It’s just the worst ride, I think the worst ride that we’ve definitely ever had, particularly through corners. It’s just so stiff.”But hopefully we won’t have any more bumpy tracks. I think the last three aren’t so bumpy. But yeah, I could happily go and take a holiday.”Hamilton has just three races remaining with Mercedes before joining Ferrari – in Las Vegas, Qatar and Abu Dhabi.Kimi Antonelli will replace Hamilton at Mercedes next year.The 18-year-old will drive alongside George Russell next season having impressed in F2 having come through Mercedes’ junior programme..🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 More

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      in Soccer

      Tottenham star Pedro Porro will donate part of wages to help clean up flood-hit Valencia

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      TOTTENHAM star Pedro Porro will donate part of his salary to help with the clean-up of flood-hit Valencia.Spain is in mourning after more than 200 people were killed in the catastrophe, which began on Tuesday following a period of intense rainfall.Pedro Porro will donate part of his salary to the Valencia relief fundCredit: AlamyFloods have devastated ValenciaCredit: AFPThe horrific weather conditions have caused a huge amount of damage to the areaCredit: EPAIt was the worst flood to hit the country for decades which saw bridges collapse and nearby towns covered in thick mud.Spanish international Porro, who comes from humble beginnings himself, said he would be back in his homeland now helping with the tidy-up if his football schedule allowed.Instead the 25-year-old is offering up some of his wages to go towards any resources needed to restore the area.Porro, speaking after playing in Spurs’ 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday, said: “First of all, I just want to say that, well, for a Spaniard, today, for all Spaniards, it’s a sad day.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I think we’ve had three, four, five days of terrible suffering. I can’t even imagine what it’s like for everyone involved in Valencia.“And, as I posted on social media, I want to dedicate this victory to them.”Porro wrote a message on Instagram after the thumping win over top-four rivals Aston Villa that read: “Big result. I want to dedicate today’s win to all those who are currently suffering in Valencia at this extremely difficult time. You are in all of our prayers”, together with a black-coloured heart emoji.Spurs and Villa’s players all wore black armbands during the game in tribute to the victims of the flood, which totalled a tragic 217.Most read in FootballAsked what it has been like for him watching on from England: “There’s a sense of helplessness.“Helplessness about not being there, because I know what it’s like to be ‘in the mud’.Mum sobs as she begs for help to find daughter missing for 4 days in Valencia floods as 10k troops deployed & 213 dead“I’d be the first one there to help, to show up, but I’m in London, I have competitions, I can’t.“I’d say it’s helplessness because I’d like to help.“But I’ve already spoken to my agents, and I’m going to donate part of my salary to cover whatever they need, to buy shovels, food, especially anything they need.”Porro joined Spurs from Sporting Lisbon for £40million, after an initial loan spell, in 2023.He arrived from Sporting Lisbon, where he worked under incoming Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim.Porro praised Amorim for how he boosted his confidence after he joined the Portuguese side from Manchester City – and for how the 39-year-old’s 3-4-3 system suited his skillset.The five-cap La Roja full-back said: “He’s a great coach. I worked with him for three years.“He’s coming to one of the best stages in the world, which is the Premier League. I wish him the best and hope things go as well as possible for him.“He helped me a lot with confidence. I think the confidence he gave me was fundamental for me, and that’s why, when I arrived at Sporting, things went well for me.“The style of play also suited me well.”Several players shared their condolences and sent well-wishes to those affected by the floods in Spain over the weekend.Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti claimed on Monday that fixtures around the country should not have taken place.He explained: “I think the whole football world has been quite clear on this.”Nobody wanted to play and that seemed to me to be the right decision. We are not the ones in charge and we have to respect the decision of those in charge.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It’s very difficult to prepare for a match like this because you have it in your head all the time. What happened was unbelievable and terrible.”It’s been a difficult week — it’s a difficult week because the atmosphere is not normal, but nothing to do with the Ballon d’Or, which has already happened and we congratulate the winners… The sadness is not there, but in what is happening here in Spain.”A red warning is in place for Valencia with orange and yellow warnings along the east coast More

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      in Soccer

      Supercomputer predicts final Premier League table after shock slip-ups for Arsenal and Man City

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      THE WEEKEND’S Premier League action saw shock defeats for Arsenal and Manchester City as Liverpool returned to the top of the table.And with both of last season’s title challengers slipping up, a supercomputer has predicted how the league table could look come the end of the season.Arsenal lost 1-0 to Newcastle on Saturday in a huge blow to their title hopesCredit: GettyManchester City fell to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of BournemouthCredit: AlamyLiverpool returned to the top of the table as Mohamed Salah helped them beat Brighton 2-1Credit: GettyArsenal’s toothless defeat to Newcastle was their second loss of the season already, while City tasted defeat for the first time this term at the hands of Bournemouth.The boffins at Bettingexpert.com have enlisted their supercomputer BETSiE to find out what those dropped points could mean in May.The tech whizzes simulated the league season 100,000 times, taking into account team form, results, financial data and xG to take a swing at the likely table at the end of the season.It doesn’t make good reading Arsenal fans, who are set to see their team fail to lift the league title for a third year running.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd this time they’re in line to finish in third place with both Liverpool and Man City above them.But despite Arne Slot’s Reds flying high on top of the tree at the moment, the supercomputer is predicting Man City to win an unprecedented FIFTH consecutive title.City have got a 47.9% chance of retaining their crown as champions of England, and are predicted to do so with their lowest ever points tally at just 83 POINTS.Liverpool are predicted to sit in second on 79 points, just four points ahead of Arsenal in third on 76.Most read in FootballChelsea are expected to return to the top fourCredit: GettyNottingham Forest’s electric start looks like it might lose steamCredit: ReutersFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSLiverpool still have a 38.7% chance of lifting the trophy, while Arsenal’s chances are dwindling at just 9.4%.Chelsea’s impressive start to the season is expected to continue with the Blues earning the final spot in the top four under Ezno Maresca.Every Premier League stadium ranked by the number of pubs nearby with one boasting over 130 local boozersNottingham Forest currently sit above Arsenal in the table after a start to the season that has been nothing short of sensational.But the Tricky Trees are expected to trip up with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side predicted to finish 10th come May.The Supercomputer reckons it’ll be Tottenham who finish fifth, Aston Villa in sixth and Newcastle in seventh spot.While Ruben Amorim will be unable to better Erik ten Hag’s eighth place finish, with BETSiE expecting United to come eighth once again.As for the bottom of the table, it’s grim reading for the newly promoted clubs.It’s predicted that all three of the Championship arrivals will be heading straight back down with Leicester finishing 18th, Southampton in 19th and Ipswich Town rock bottom of the pile.Wolves are expected to make a great escape and come in 17th, but still face a 36.5% chance of heading down.Wolves are predicted to make a great escapeCredit: ReutersIpswich Town are set to finish bottom of the pileCredit: Alamy More

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      in Soccer

      How Edu made Arsenal great again from culling toxic flops and backing Arteta to becoming major transfer force again

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      EDU GASPAR has been a MAGA man from the start.Make Arsenal Great Again has been his mantra since returning to the club he played for 2019 – and his shock departure will hit the club hard, especially with Premier League clubs already in for him.Edu is credited with Arsenal’s rise back to the top and his presence will be missedCredit: GettyEdu stood by Mikel Arteta even after a tough few years early in his reignCredit: GettyAfter a few wobbles early on – signing Nicolas Pepe will never reflect well – the Brazilian has, alongside Mikel Arteta, been crucial in the club’s transformation.Without his contributions the Gunners may not be competing back at the top table of English and European football.Arteta was brought in as the new manager within months of Edu’s return to North London and the former midfielder stuck by the boss when the pressure was on two years into the job.Instead of making the knee-jerk decision to change manager again, the former Brazil international, joined forces with Arteta to institute a huge change of culture at The Emirates.READ MORE SPORT STORIESOverpaid toxic influences such as Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang were purged from the dressing room and Arsenal set about adding strong characters.Edu may not be the man waving a lightbulb around London Colney or setting pick-pockets on his players but he has been a significant supporter of Arteta’s slightly unhinged ideas.But after years of Arsenal having to carefully balance the books, it is in the transfer market where Edu has battled to get the club competing again – signing no fewer than 35 players.After the questionable early signings, Edu quickly grew into the role.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe signing of Declan Rice, tipped to join Man City, proved Arsenal were right back in the mix for signing the world’s top talentCredit: GettyMartin Odegaard has been an outstanding capture for the club while the Gunners’ trio of Brazilian Gabriels: Magalhaes, Martinelli and Jesus have all made big contributions.In landing Declan Rice ahead of Manchester City last year Arsenal showed they could compete for and sign some of Europe’s biggest talents once more.Arsenal vs Newcastle: Player RatingsArsenal have become one of the most attractive clubs in the Premier League and one of the most efficient in the market.At the end of the summer window, after signing Riccardo Calafiori, Mikel Merino, Neto and Raheem Sterling, Edu said: “We as a club have to be proud once again. The way we are working together, the way we did all the deals.”We are in a very good situation when see all the loan players in the right clubs.”You see the signings we have like Riccardo and like Merino, so the players that we planned to sign, our targets, they are here.”Also the players that we decided to sell, I think we sold them for the right price, to the right clubs, in the right way also which is important.”Edu’s 35 signings rankedEDU oversaw the arrival of 35 players during his time at the club.Some worked out better than others.Here, SunSport ranks them from worst to best…35. Nicolas Pepe (£72m)34. Willian (Free)33. David Luiz (£8m)32. Runar Alex Runarsson (£2m)31. Mat Ryan (Loan)30. Fabio Vieira (£34m)29. Neto (Loan)28. Marquinhos (£3m)27. Nuno Tavares (£8m)26. Matt Turner (£5m)25. Cedric Soares (Free)24. Albert Sambi Lokonga (£17m)23. Pablo Mari (£5m)22. Dani Ceballos (Loan)21. Raheem Sterling (Loan)20. Jakub Kiwior (£17m)19. Jorginho (£12m)18. Riccardo Calafiori (£42m)17. Kieran Tierney (£25m)16. Takehiro Tomiyasu (£20m)15. Mikel Merino (£28m)14. Aaron Ramsdale (£24m)13. Oleksandr Zinchenko (£30m)12. Gabriel Jesus (£45m)11. Kai Havertz (£65m)10. Jurrien Timber (£38m)9. Gabriel Martinelli (£6m)8. David Raya (£27m)7. Leandro Trossard (£20m)6. Thomas Partey (£45m)5. Ben White (£50m)4. Gabriel Magalhaes (£27m)3. Declan Rice (£105m)2. William Saliba (£27m)1. Martin Odegaard (£30m)Click here to read more Arsenal stories.While there have been big deals for the likes of Rice and Calafiori, there have been smart ones too – picking out value where others have lost hope.Kai Havertz appeared as a surprising signing after a dreadful season at Chelsea. But after Edu gave the German space and support to rebuild his confidence he has developed into a fine asset for Arteta.Edu does not only have a tight relationship with Arteta – who many fans will be glad signed a new deal before the sporting director’s departure – but the players too.READ MORE SUN STORIESThroughout injury troubles or losses of form the former midfielder is always ready and waiting to check in, keep them going.London Colney and The Emirates will feel a very different place for all of them without Edu – the closest support for players and manager in the boardroom.Arsenal player ratings vs NewcastleARSENAL fell to defeat to Newcastle in a fresh blow to their title ambitions.The Magpies won 1-0 thanks to a fine header from Alexander Isak.Here, SunSport’s Jordan Davies rates the players…DAVID RAYA – 6/10Great early distribution to go long over the Newcastle press but nothing he could do with Isak’s pin-point header.Was barely troubled in the second half but was forced to watch a lacklustre Arsenal dawdle to another defeat.THOMAS PARTEY – 7Looks really comfortable in that role, even if it is only temporary, but obviously lacks an attacking threat of a full-back which hindered Saka slightly.Moved back into midfield on the hour mark with Arsenal chasing the game.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7A welcome presence back in the defensive line following suspension. Covered his defensive partner well and kept his cool amid Arsenal’s frustration.GABRIEL – 5Lost Isak in the box for Newcastle’s opener and nearly handed the hosts another chance with a sloppy pass out.Normally a rock, this was one of those rare jittery displays we thought were a thing of the past.JURRIEN TIMBER – 6Looked good in attack but arguably should have closed down Gordon’s cross before the hosts took the lead and struggled to contain the England winger in the first half.MIKEL MERINO – 5Unfortunate not to get on the score sheet against his former club from close range after a scramble from a corner.But as a whole, he currently looks lost in his position, unsure of when to go and when to sit deep, meaning Newcastle were able to prize Arsenal’s midfield open.Feels like we are not seeing the best of him just yet.DECLAN RICE – 6On set-piece duty, his delivery was unusually poor, failing to beat the first man on numerous occasions and struggled to impose himself in open play too, even if he came close with a deflected effort in the second half before fluffing a great headed chance in injury time.If he is going to be the anchor of this team and dictate play, he has got to be a lot better.LEANDRO TROSSARD – 5Pretty anonymous other than a few surging runs. Another player that looks lost in a floating No.10 role behind the main striker.The Belgian is at his best cutting in and using his blistering pace. He can do neither through the middle against a compact opposition set-up.BUKAYO SAKA – 6Looked to be getting the better of Toon right-back Hall early on but his game faded after that, along with his team’s.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7Showed glimpses of being back to his buzzing best, taking on defenders and stretching the game for Arsenal, but only lasted an hour before being taken off.KAI HAVERTZ – 6Never got a sniff, but got to put that down to a complete lack of service from Arsenal’s wide players. He was desperate to attack a decent cross that never really came.SUBS:ETHAN NWANERI (MERINO, 61) – 6Given a nice welcome to Tyneside with a crunching tackle from Willock seconds after coming on.Found some nice pockets of space and look sharp as he blazed one over from range, but was always a big ask for him to be Arsenal’s saviour.OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO (MARTINELLI, 61) – 5Thrown on to bring tempo and control. Brought neither from an inverted left-back position.BEN WHITE (TIMBER, 71) – 6Had only completed half a session to prepare for this one having picked up a knock against Liverpool last weekend, so was a surprise to even see him at all.GABRIEL JESUS (TROSSARD) – 5Tasked with creating something special from out wide, but there is a reason the Brazilian is only a bit-part player nowadays.JORGINHO (PARTEY, 86) – N/AClick here to read more on Arsenal. More