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      Arsenal face fixture chaos with ‘no obvious date’ to play crunch Carabao Cup quarter-final vs Crystal Palace

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      ARSENAL are facing a nightmare fixture pile up in December after being drawn against Crystal Palace in the League Cup.Mikel Arteta’s side progressed into the quarter-finals of the competition after beating Preston 3-0 on Wednesday.Arsenal have been left with a huge fixture headache in DecemberCredit: GettyThey are due to host Crystal Palace in the League Cup quarter-final but the two day turnaround for Palace could mean the game changes dateCredit: RexHowever, that is set to cause club chiefs a huge headache due to a major scheduling issue involving them and the women’s team.The Emirates tie against Crystal Palace is due to be played on either Tuesday 17 or Wednesday 18 in December.It came with Palace being due to play Brighton on Monday, December 16, though this fixture has since been moved to Sunday at 2pm with Bournemouth v West Ham now filling the Monday evening slot.Holding the clash on Wednesday is not possible due to Arsenal Women facing Bayern Munich in the Champions League at the Emirates.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLogically this would leave Thursday as the obvious solution.However, the two-day turnaround is far from ideal, with Palace due to host Arsenal on Saturday, December 21 in the evening clash, also leaving Friday out of the question.It would be possible to host the Palace game on Wednesday, December 18 if the women’s game could be moved.Arsenal Women play all of their European home games and eight of their 11 home games in the Women’s Super League at the Emirates, with tickets for the Bayern game on sale since September 28.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Boreham Wood’s Meadow Park, where the women’s team used to play their home games, does not meet Uefa stadium regulations.However, one possible solution could be Arsenal agreeing to a stunning VENUE SWAP with Palace. ‘Watching Arsenal is like watching Netflix… you always have to wait for the next season’, says Man Utd legendThere has been a precedent in the League Cup this season to move fixtures to another stadium.Newcastle’s third round fixture with Wimbledon was switched from Plough Lane to St. James’ Park after floods caused a sinkhole to form in the middle of the pitch.Manchester City faced a similar problem to Arsenal earlier this season when they faced Watford in the third round.They were due to meet on the Wednesday, but local rivals Manchester United were already playing at home that night and the two teams can’t play at the same time.Pep Guardiola’s side were offered the chance to play away at Vicarage Road or switch dates to Tuesday or Thursday, which left them with less of a turnaround for either the League Cup game or Prem clash.They ultimately opted to play on the Tuesday just 48 hours after their 2-2 draw with Arsenal, and emerged with a 2-1 win over Watford at the Etihad.Speaking of the dilemma at the time, Guardiola said: “I prefer to play at home than go to London because this way our fans can watch this lovely, adorable team at home.“That’s why I decided to play on Tuesday. If we had said Thursday we wouldn’t have time to recover to go to Newcastle.“Hopefully we can select two teams and be fit and have no injuries but everyone knows the schedule will be tight this season.”On fixture congestion, he had previously said: “The week is seven days. We cannot create eight days a week or nine days a week.”It means the EFL could, based on precedent, offer Arteta’s side the chance to swap the venue of the League Cup clash from the Emirates to Selhurst Park to allow it to then be played on Wednesday and give Arsenal appropriate rest days between their league games.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe ultimate decision over the date of the game is in the hands of the EFL.It is understood the organisation are currently consulting all the relevant stakeholders on the timings and broadcast arrangements for each of the four quarter-finals.A Wednesday clash is not possible due to Arsenal women playing at the Emirates in the Champions LeagueCredit: AlamyArsenal ratings vs PrestonARSENAL cruised through their Carabao Cup tie at Preston.The Gunners won 3-0 to set up a home tie against Crystal Palace in the next round.Sun Sport’s Sam Dymond reveals who has done enough to feature in the quarter final – and who might be a bit worried.Tommy Setford – 6A clean sheet on debut for the teenager. After a quiet first half, he looked nervous when put under pressure by Preston’s forward.Jurrien Timber – 7Really looking the part in the Arsenal defence after injury. His crosses caused chaos before being replaced at half-timeWilliam Saliba – 7Settled back into the side after suspension, and was rarely troubled on a night where he continually swept up possession.Jakub Kiwior – 8Partnered Saliba admirably in defence, but showed his attacking worth by providing two assists.Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7A solid display before his removal on the hour, perhaps with one eye on the weekend.Jorginho – 7Kept things moving in midfield, and even showed off some sublime skill when the opportunity arose.Mikel Merino – 7A much more confident performance from the Spaniard following his goal on Sunday. Combined well with Martinelli and Nwaneri during the opening 45 minutes.Ethan Nwaneri – 9Serenaded by the Arsenal fans as ‘one of their own’, this talented teenager once again excited Gooners everywhere.The scorer of one sublime strike, he came so close to bagging a second goal too.Raheem Sterling – 7The Carabao Cup king did everything but score. Perhaps let down by his decision making, he’s looking more at home at Arsenal than he ever did at Chelsea.Gabriel Jesus – 8Constantly alive to the ball inside the box, he was rewarded with a first goal since January to get the scoring underway.Gabriel Martinelli – 8Often Arsenal’s biggest attacking threat with his direct running and ability to beat defenders. Replaced after taking a couple of heavy knocks.SubsThomas Partey – 6Replaced Timber at the break and once again did the job asked of him with few complaints.Kai Havertz – 8Scored a superb header shortly after his arrival as a half-time sub, and was an imposing figure in both penalty areas.Bukayo Saka – 6More minutes in the legs for the Arsenal star as he continues the recovery from his hamstring injury.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6Misplaced a couple of passes after his introduction, but fits in well among the first-team squad.Ayden Heaven – 6Offered a glimpse of genuine pace as he made his senior debut for the final ten minutes. More

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      Ian Holloway at centre of FA probe over possible breach of agent regulations just seven days after landing Swindon job

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      IAN HOLLOWAY and Swindon are facing an FA investigation over a  possible breach of agent regulations following his surprise appointment as manager last weekend.In an interview on Town’s YouTube channel on Sunday, Ollie revealed he took the job without signing a contract with the agent who brought him to the club.Ian Holloway – nicknamed Ollie – has taken charge of Swindon TownCredit: PAHe admitted: “It’s only late last night I decided to get an agent, arranged to meet him and before you know it I’m here.“It’s completely mental to me but I’m delighted.“I arranged to meet an agent I haven’t signed anything with yet because I wanted to get back on.“If it wasn’t for that fella I’d still be sat at home.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHis admission would appear to be a breach of rule 4.1 of the FA’s Football Agent Regulations.It states: “An FA Registered Football Agent may only perform Football Agent Services for a Player, Coach or Club after having entered into a Representation Agreement with that Player, Coach or Club.”Holloway’s first game as a manager in four years will be tomorrow’s FA Cup first-round home tie against Colchester.The 61-year-old watched last Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Gillingham from the stands after succeeding the sacked Mark Kennedy.Most read in EFLBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Ollie could not resist coming down to the touchline to shout instructions to his new players during the second half.Swindon had been reduced to 10 men in just the ninth minute when Grant Hall was sent off.Forgotten ex-Rangers star Nnamdi Ofoborth scores first goal since doctors said he was ‘lucky to still be here’Timothee Dieng subsequently gave Gills the lead, before Harry Smith’s 93rd minute equaliser earned a point for the home side.Holloway, Swindon and the agent could all face disciplinary action if the FA press charges.The FA declined to comment. More

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      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson, 58, reveals his kids’ reaction to accepting Jake Paul fight after admitting they are FANS of YouTube star

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      MIKE TYSON must put friendship and even his family’s love for Jake Paul aside for their £60million match.The heavyweight great returns to the ring on November 15 for a controversial clash against YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul. Tyson with son Morocco, far left, mother-in-law Rita Ali, wife Lakiha Spicer and daughter Milan, far rightCredit: Getty Images – GettyTyson with his daughters Mikey, far left, Milan middle, his wife and son Morocco, far rightCredit: WireImageIt comes after years of championing and hailing the social media star’s impact on the sport. But now Tyson has vowed to END the boxing career he helped start when professional records and reputations go on the line in Texas. He said: “This is business, this is just business, nothing personal.”Tyson, 58, once talked down ever fighting Paul, 27, revealing even his kids are fans of the former vlogger. READ MORE IN BOXINGHe said on the Nelk Boys’ podcast: “I mean my whole f***ing family, everybody loves this little white motherf***er!” Tyson might be the Baddest Man on The Planet to Paul and everyone else – but to his children he is just their old man. He said: “My kids don’t have too much involvement with my boxing career, I’m dad to them.“There’s so many other celebrities they enjoy better than me but I’m dad.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTyson has seven kids, Mikey, 34, Rayna, 28, Amir, 27, Miguel, 22, Milan, 16, and Morocco, 13, and Exodus, who sadly died aged four in 2009. Milan and Morocco were not even born when their famous father fought as a professional for the last time. ‘There’s nothing nice about me’ – Mike Tyson’s chilling warning after saying he needs 10% of his prime to beat Jake Paul That night in 2005 – almost 20 YEARS AGO – he quit on his stool against Kevin McBride and threw the towel in on his boxing career. But now two decades later and he is back and says just ten per cent of his brutal best is enough to beat 10-1 Paul. Tyson said: “I’m just doing really well. I’m doing really well.“I’m very grateful that I’m doing well. I’m just looking forward to the fight, really looking forward to it.“Like when you think about it regardless of how old I am, this guy only has ten fights.“He only has ten fights, if I can fight a little bit with my experience, he only has ten f***ing fights, okay?“If I can fight ten per cent of what I was, he only has ten fights, he couldn’t match that.“And that’s being sincere. If I’m 10 per cent, he can’t match it.”Tyson was initially forced out of the original July 20 fight date after suffering an ulcer flare-up in his stomach during a flight. He has since been passed medically fit to resume training but will undertake additional brain and heart tests due to his age. Both will also be subject to drug testing and they look to become the first boxers to headline an event on streaming giants Netflix. A huge $80MILLION (£60m) purse is being split down the middle but Tyson insists the fight for the ages is NOT money-motivated. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “The money from this fight is not going to change my lifestyle. This is not for financial reasons.“My life is not gonna change, not 1 per cent after this fight, I will always be able to live this way and I’m just doing it because I wanna test myself.”Tyson facing off with Jake PaulCredit: AFP More

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      Man Utd flops ‘congratulated and high-fived each other’ after losing crunch European clash leaving Ten Hag staff shocked

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      ERIK TEN HAG and his staff were left stunned after Manchester United players celebrated a Champions League LOSS last season. The Dutchman was relieved of his duties on Monday following a dismal start to the new campaign.Erik ten Hag was reportedly stunned by his Man Utd players’ reaction to a defeat last yearCredit: GettyUnited were beaten 4-3 by Bayern Munich in the Champions LeagueCredit: GettyAndre Onana had a game to forget, but the players were reportedly upbeat in the dressing room after the gameCredit: GettyRuben Amorim has been lined up to replace Ten Hag and start a rebuild at Old Trafford. But an incident following defeat to Bayern Munich last year suggests the incoming boss has a job on his hands to change the club’s mentality. The Red Devils were blown away 4-3 during a Champions League group stage clash at the Allianz Stadium in September 2023.Bayern raced into a two-goal lead thanks to Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sane.READ MORE ON MAN UTDGoalkeeper Andre Onana had a night to forget, making a series of clangers as United fell to a limp defeat. Harry Kane and Mathys Tel also got on the scoresheet, with Casemiro making the scoreline look respectable with two late goals. According to The Times, Ten Hag and his officials were “rubbing their eyes” after getting back to the dressing room.United players were reportedly high-fiving and congratulating each other on their performances.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe report claims the unexpected reaction “rang alarm bells” among the Dutchman and his coaching staff.Ten Hag could not steady the ship, leading United to an eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season.’Ruben Amorim feels like Erik ten Hag all over again – Man Utd missed out on the perfect coach who’s done it already’ says Paul Scholes It was their worst top-flight performance since 1990. An unexpected FA Cup final win over rivals Manchester City all but saved his job over the summer. But Ten Hag reportedly had to be talked out of his planned tactics for the Wembley showdown by concerned technical director Darren Fletcher.It is claimed Ten Hag wanted to go “toe-to-toe” against the league champions in a kamikaze plan.The 54-year-old has received a £15million pay-off after his sacking earlier this week.Amorim is poised to take over in Manchester, with the deal expected to be finalised before the weekend.The 39-year-old Sporting Lisbon boss said on Thursday: “It’s a negotiation between two clubs, which isn’t easy.”READ MORE SUN STORIES”After the game on Friday [against Estrela], we will have all these clarifications. Then the decision will be known.”Soon the soap opera will end.” More

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      Man Utd and Chelsea ‘line up stunning Vinicius Jr transfer swoop’ after Real Madrid star snubs talks over new contract

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      MANCHESTER UNITED and Chelsea are among several clubs eyeing a future move for Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr, according to reports.The Brazilian, 24, has had another stunning year in Spain, and was widely expected to win the Ballon d’Or before being pipped by Rodri.Vinicius Jr will have two years remaining on his contract at the end of the seasonCredit: RexVinicius Jr remains under contract in the Spanish capital until 2027.But according to Spanish outlet Relevo, the winger recently snubbed fresh contract talks – putting several clubs on alert.Among his potential suitors are claimed to be Premier League duo Man Utd and Chelsea.But both sides would face stiff competition, even if Real were to entertain selling their star man.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAlso interested are French champions Paris Saint-Germain.Real Madrid have a strained relationship with PSG chiefs, given their protracted pursuit of Kylian Mbappe over several years.The Ligue 1 side would love to get back at Real Madrid by prising away Vinicius Jr in similar circumstances.Real chiefs are said to be desperate to avoid this situation.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSVinicius Jr also has significant interest in Saudi Arabia.During the summer, the Public Investment Fund were claimed to have made an eye-watering proposal.Watch Jude Bellingham’s expletive-laden instructions to Mbappe and Co at half-time of Real Madrid drawThe deal would have seen Vinicius Jr sign for Al-Ahli, earning a staggering €1bn (£843.98m) across five seasons.Real Madrid are determined to hold onto their star man long-term and are eager to demonstrate how much they value him.But for now, contract talks remain on hold.Vinicius Jr has won three LaLiga titles, two Champions Leagues, a Copa del Rey and two Club World Cups with Real Madrid.Last season he scored 24 goals and laid on 11 assists in all competitions, with figures across his club preparing for him to win the Ballon d’Or.He was said to be “devastated” after missing out – cancelling a huge party, with Real Madrid also snubbing the entire bash in solidarity. More

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      Danny Welbeck lifts lid on ex-Man Utd players’ WhatsApp group including one huge star who just ‘chats and chats’

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      DANNY WELBECK has revealed he is part of a WhatsApp group of former Manchester United players.The Brighton striker came through the academy at United and played for the first team between 2008 and 2014.Danny Welbeck revealed he is part of a WhatsApp group of former Red DevilsCredit: Sky SportsThe striker shared who the chattiest member isCredit: GettyHe scored 29 goals in 142 appearances for the club before a switch to Arsenal, but he is still in touch with some of his former team-mates.Welbeck revealed he is a member of a WhatsApp group consisting of former United stars.Discussing the group, he told Sky Sports: “Everybody plays a part. It’s a lot of banter, chatting about football and a lot of banter.”Asked who the admin is, Welbeck replied: “I think it might be Rio [Ferdinand].READ MORE ON MAN UTD”He just chats doesn’t he. You know what he’s like he just chats and chats.”He loves it. He’s making a career out of talking now so…we give me a lot of stick too.”Welbeck is enjoying his most productive season to date with six goals in nine Premier League games.He is just four goals away from recording his best goalscoring season and has helped Brighton up to sixth place.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWelbeck has found the net in each of his last three games despite being stretchered off and requiring oxygen against Newcastle two weeks ago.Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler is getting the best out of Welbeck and he was full of praise for his striker.Ruud van Nistelrooy hints he wants to stay at Man Utd in plea to Ruben Amorim as interim vows to ‘serve’ clubHe said: “I don’t judge him just by goals and assists, honestly for me it’s more about how he works for the team.“He’s the perfect role model and you can only do it every week when you behave professionally.” More

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      Ex-Valencia player José Castillejo, 28, among 205 killed in Spain’s flash floods as club pays tribute to rising star

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      A FORMER Valencia CF player was tragically killed in the devastating flash floods that rocked Spain.The Spanish football club has paid tributes to José Castillejo, 28, a midfielder who also played for teams like Torre Levante, Paterna and Eldense.Ex-Valencia player José Castillejo was killed in the flash floods in SpainCredit: TwitterDozens of villages in Valencia have been covered in a murky brown sludgeCredit: ReutersCars have been piling up after being swept away in the torrential rainCredit: GettyIt said in a statement: “We regret the death of José Castillejo, a victim of the Dana disasters.”He was part of the club’s Academy until his youth stage and has played for several teams in the Valencian Community. RIP.” Eldense also paid tragic tribute to the rising star, saying, “Terrible news comes our way due to the catastrophic DANA.”We deeply regret José Castillejo’s passing at 28, a former blue-and-red player in the 2015/2016 season. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.” A young footie star, Castillejo was trained at the Valencia youth academy before playing for local Spanish clubs like Torre Levante, Paterna, Eldense, Buñol, Recambios Colón, CD Roda and Villamarxant. He also went on to play for CD Eldense during the 2015-2016 season. It comes as horror flash floods turned Valencia into an apocalyptic wasteland following Spain’s deadly floods.Officials say 202 people have been killed so far in Valencia with many fearing the casualties will continue to rise in the coming days as the army begins to be rolled out.Most read in FootballThree deaths were also reported in neighbouring regions – taking the death toll in Spain to 205. Images from Thursday afternoon show the aftermath of the country’s worst natural disaster in living history.Hundreds of abandoned cars and trucks can be seen trapped in murky brown sludge on the highway.Civilians were made to ditch their motors as the torrential rainfall and flash floods engulfed much of eastern Spain on Tuesday.Spain’s transport minister has been one of many officials scrambling to try and contain the crisis.More rain pounds flood-blitzed Spain TODAY after people drown ‘like rats’ as Brit killed & final toll feared to hit 100sValencia’s regional president has called on the Spanish military to help rescue and ultimately recover those still trapped in their homes and major flood zones.In a post on X Carlos Mazon said: “I have just requested the incorporation of the army and the available land, sea and air forces to reinforce the logistical tasks and the distribution of aid to the population.”There are already over 1,000 soldiers from Spain’s emergency rescue units in Valencia.Video captured the moment one man in a bright yellow top smashed through a glass door to save children from drowning.He was forced to wade through the murky water which had risen to waist height before saving several terrified locals.DEVASTATING FLOODSElsewhere, brave rescuers airlifted a baby and an elderly woman from the devastating Spanish floods.Footage showed how an elderly woman, who seemed to be unable to move, was airlifted in a metal cage.The roads below her were seen to be covered in mud and cars were piled up on debris.A separate video showed the heartbreaking moment a baby was saved and airlifted onto a plane in a rescuer’s arms, in the country’s worst-hit region of Valencia.Across the region, trees had been uprooted in the storms and cars had piled up on each other like dominoes.Powerlines were also brought down as the strength of the unexpected torrent even tore apart bridges sat in its way.A terrifying video caught the moment an entire bridge in Paiporta, Valencia, where at least 40 people have died, was wiped out in seconds.It comes as further rainfall is expected tomorrow and in the coming days.Spain’s prime minister Pedro Sanchez has declared Valencia a disaster zone as he warned the public about the incoming weather.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “The most important thing is that I know Spanish people are aware that this phenomenon has not finished.”All of those who have been affected, please stay at home.”The footie star also played for Eldense in the 2015-2016 seasonA supermarket in Valencia has been trashed in the floods as people frantically try to find food and drinkCredit: AP More

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      Alisha Lehmann stuns in tight black Halloween outfit… but fans left baffled as she tags Cristiano Ronaldo in picture

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      ALISHA LEHMANN left fans trying to piece together a jigsaw, after strangely tagging Cristiano Ronaldo in a Halloween post.The former Aston Villa women’s footballer moved to Juventus women in the summer as she followed boyfriend Douglas Luiz over to Turin.Alisha Lehmann wore a tight black outfit for HalloweenCredit: X @lishalehmannBut fans were left confused as she strangely tagged Cristiano RonaldoCredit: ReutersLehmann is one of the best followed women’s footballers in the world on social mediaCredit: Instagram @alishalehmann7The Swiss international joined Juventus from Aston Villa in the summerCredit: AFPThe Swiss international took is one of the best followed women’s footballers, with almost 17 million fans on Instagram and 380,000 on X, formerly known as Twitter.Her latest social media post saw her celebrating the spooky season.Lehmann, 25, was seen wearing a skin-tight black Halloween outfit, complete with a pair of high heels and black glasses.She captioned the post with a trio of bat, pumpkin and black heart emojis.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, fans were left confused by Lehmann tagging the official account of five-time Ballon d’Or winner and Al-Nassr ace Ronaldo.Reacting to the post, one fan said: “Why tagging Ronaldo.”A second said: “Tagging Ronaldo??”A third added: “Douglas Luiz seeing her tag Ronaldo instead of him,” with a picture of someone being rained on.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother said: “The question is why did she tag Ronaldo?”Lehmann has scored one goal in seven matches since joining Juventus.Watch awkward moment Alisha Lehmann’s mum meets YouTuber IShowSpeed and calls his fanbase ‘STUPID’The winger and Luiz, 26, became the first ever “couples transfer” this summer when they both made the switch from Aston Villa to Juventus.The pair had been dating on-and-off for a while in the UK but took their relationship and footballing talents to Italy.Speaking at the time, Lehmann said: “For Douglas and me to be together in the same club is a dream.”We have often played in different cities, so being able to have these great adventures in the same place is something wonderful.”Despite making the switch together, Lehmann has previously spoken out about the couple’s pay disparity at Juventus.Luiz, who swapped the Midlands for Turin in a £50million deal, reportedly signed a contract with Juve worth around £100,000-a-week.While Lehmann’s salary isn’t known, she was believed to be on £200,000-a-year at Villa Women.The Swiss international told of her dismay at the pay gap in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, she said: “Everyone would like to have the same salary.”I often speak to Douglas at home about this and tell him it’s not fair. We do the same job, but he gets paid a hundred times more than me.”It’s something that affects me because I’m a woman. Obviously, there’s still a long way to go on the path we’re on because there may never be equal pay.READ MORE SUN STORIES”There will have to be a very strong will to make a change in this direction.”Last month it was revealed the couple were the victims of a burgulary as thiefs made of with £416,000 worth of watches and jewellery. More