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      Jamie Vardy top target for LaLiga giants in shock free transfer after legend’s Leicester exit aged 38

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      JAMIE VARDY could be lining up against Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid next season in LaLiga.SunSport can reveal Vardy is a top summer target for Valencia boss Carlos Corberan, who is keen to sign the 38-year-old Leicester City legend.Valencia want to sign Jamie Vardy in a free transferCredit: GettyVardy bid farewell to Leicester on Sunday after 13 years at the clubCredit: GettyThe former West Brom boss wants to use Vardy’s experience and believes he is still capable of scoring goals in Spain’s top flight.Vardy scored 10 goals for relegated Leicester last season – nine of them in the Premier League.Corberan believes Vardy still has pace to burn and is ideally suited to his side’s counter-attacking game.The Foxes icon bowed out at the top last Sunday when he scored his 200th goal for Leicester City on his 500th club appearance – 13 years to the day since he signed for £1million from Fleetwood Town.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLVardy has made it clear he wants to stay in the Premier League but would also consider a lifestyle change, with Major League Soccer and a move to Saudi Arabia also under consideration.However Corberan has made his move early and hopes to persuade Vardy to give Spanish football a try before hanging up his boots.Corberan has worked miracles this season to transform the fortunes of the fallen Spanish giants.Valencia were joint bottom of La Liga on 12 points, four points from safety, when Corberan took over on Christmas Eve.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSBut since being thrashed 7-1 by Barcelona on January 26, Corberan has turned their season around.He steered them to safety after putting together a run of eight wins, five draws and only one defeat in their next 14 games – with their only loss coming at the hands of Atletico Madrid.Emotional Leicester fans say ‘delete this’ as club share pics of Jamie Vardy packing his things into a cardboard boxAnd if they beat Europa Conference League finalists Real Betis tomorrow night, they could move up to 10th in the 20-team league.Corberan has already sounded Vardy out about a move to La Mestalla as he looks for bargains to bolster his squad.Valencia are short on cash and signing Vardy on a free transfer represents good value for their money. More

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      Man Utd files: Club’s value drops staggering 60% under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s reign as decision on Amorim’s future is made

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      MAN UNITED’s board remain firmly behind Ruben Amorim – despite their Europa League nightmare.The Red Devils are staring at a £10million financial blackhole with no European football at Old Trafford next season following their defeat to Tottenham.Ruben Amorim suffered Europa League heartache in BilbaoCredit: GettySir Jim Ratcliffe consoles his manager AmorimCredit: AlamyAnd Amorim said after the game in Bilbao he will walk away with no compensation if the owners have lost belief in him.The former Sporting Lisbon coach has won just six of 26 Premier League matches since taking charge back in November.The Europa League was the chance to save the season with the Champions League place on offer to the winners – but they blew that too.However SunSport understands Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazers remain firmly behind the 40-year-old boss they appointed.And sources at the club say the Old Trafford board have no issues over his position as preparations for next season begin.The Ineos magnate was seen hugging his manager after the players had collected their runners-up medals in the San Mames.United return to England today to prepare for their final match on this disastrous campaign – against Aston Villa on Sunday.Straight after that, Amorim will take his players on a week long post season tour of the Far East – where they will play matches in Malaysia and Hong Kong.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIn late July their pre season tour will be to the USA before the new season starts in mid-August.While his job is not under threat, Amorim admitted last week that failure to win the Europa League would turn the heat up on him.Ruben Amorim offers to quit Man Utd ‘without any conversation about compensation’ if board want him goneAsked if failing to win the trophy would increase the pressure on him, he said: “Yeah for sure if we don’t win. But I’m not concerned about that.“I don’t want to use that as an excuse, it’s going to be really tough.“The patience of the fans and you guys (media) the patience for next season will be at the limit – we will have to be perfect.”TAKING STOCKSIR JIM Ratcliffe’s uncomfortable glower as he stood alongside Daniel Levy in Bilbao might have got deeper if he had glanced at the reaction of the REAL money men to United’s Europa League debacle.Ratcliffe paid £26 per share for his 27.5 per cent stake in the club in February last year, adding up to £1.25bn, with a further £237.7m invested in shares subsequently.That investment effectively valued the club at £4.54bn. But the value of United shares on the New York Stock Exchange, which has already fallen dramatically amid financial uncertainty in the USA this year, plunged further in the immediate aftermath of the final whistle in San Mames.After market trading saw each United share fall to less than £10 before recovering slightly to £10.18 each. It left the club with a market capitalisation of just £1.87bn for the ENTIRE club – an amazing £2.67bn less than in February 2024.It means Ratcliffe’s shares have more than halved in value in 15 months. The figures are hardly an inducement for him to splash even more cash over the coming seasons, especially with those £2bn stadium plans looming. And with no Champions League next season – or any European football for that matter – there’s a £100m-size hole in the budget.The defeat to Tottenham alone sent United’s market value plunging by £125m.Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Daniel Levy’s expressions could hardly be differentCredit: AlamyLEGEND’S FRUSTRATIONNORMAN Whiteside’s wife Dee has revealed that she and her husband will not be renewing their season tickets at Man Utd.The Northern Irishman, 60, played for the Red Devils between 1982 and 1989, winning two FA Cups along the way.Whiteside has remained a huge fan of the club since hanging up his boots, but he won’t be a season ticket holder next year amid changes made under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ownership.The United icon’s wife Dee wrote on X: “So, I’ve waited for a while to write this.”It is with unbelievable sadness, that after more than 28 years of having season tickets at Old Trafford, @NormanWhiteside and I are not renewing next year.”Having been forcibly relocated last season, “red carded” for not attending enough games, unable to give my “paid for” seat to my children… enough is enough.”And to cap it all, we’ve seen it all, we’ve won the lot, we’re Man United and we’re never gonna stop… except for so many seasons now, my match going loyalty to my club has ended so sadly.”I’ll still be at games, I’m MUFC until I die, and I’ve seen worse times than now, but I’m not sure I’ve seen players less interested in pulling on our shirt for very many years.”Times must change.”Last year, Dee revealed that United had relocated their season tickets in order to add further corporate seating.She wrote at the time: “So, it doesn’t matter how long you’ve been a loyal supporter, doesn’t matter if you played for your club, @ManUtd can just dump you from your seat when they feel like it, so they can expand exec seating! Absolute disgrace!”Norman Whiteside has been married to wife Dee for decadesCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdWhiteside played for Man Utd with distinction between 1982 and 1989Credit: Getty – ContributorHE’S A KEEPERMANCHESTER United should not give up on Andre Onana, according to a man who knows all about the pressures of playing in goal for them.Champions League winner Tomasz Kuszczak, who spent six years at Old Trafford, believes Onana’s team-mates should take a lot of the blame for his dismal performances this season.Speaking before the Europa League final, where the Cameroonian hardly covered himself in glory, Kuszczak said: “It’s not about a goalkeeper in this case. The whole team needs to take responsibility.”There’s fantastic players, but they need to perform better, simple as that.”So if the rest of the team was playing better, then it would be OK.”The Pole, 43, who also won three league titles under Sir Alex Ferguson, added: “I’ve been playing in teams like United for example, we’ve been in very good form and everyone is looking good, including the goalkeeper.”If the team doesn’t perform the right way, and the goalkeeper is tested every game, it’s difficult for him as well.”The more saves you do, the more chance you’ll make some small mistakes, and this is very normal in football.”I think Onana is doing well, he doesn’t make so many errors.”As I say, it’s all about the team. They all need to play better next season.”Tomasz Kuszczak played for Man Utd between 2006 and 2012Credit: PA:Press AssociationNAN THE WISERAFTER the less than celebrated managerial careers of Gary Neville, Roy Keane and – so far – Ruud van Nistelrooy, one ex-United player who won’t be rushing into the dugout is Nani.The 112-cap Portugal icon, who hung up his boots at the age of 38 in December, is happy to have a break and to stay away from top level football for now.Speaking after starring in a game of legends in Bilbao before the Europa League final, Nani said: “I’m enjoying retirement. I’m taking some time to learn a little bit more about it, how we have to behave.”Lucky I have my own academy (in Portugal).”I’m doing it with my kids, train them, so sometimes I travel with them, with the legends games.”So I’m enjoying it so far.”Pressed on his long-term dreams, the former winger, who won four titles and the Champions League with United, added: “I’m doing a lot of things, so the most important thing is I’m enjoying it, and the future we will know.Nani retired from professional football last DecemberCredit: GettyNani starred for Man Utd alongside Cristiano RonaldoCredit: GettyNO WAY BACKDESPITE the feeble end to United’s season there will be no way back for three big name stars who have spent the last few months away from the club.Marcus Rashford and Antony were both sent out on loan in January with the blessing of Ruben Amorim.Both have got themselves back on track at Aston Villa and Real Betis respectively – but have no future at Old Trafford.The same goes for Jadon Sancho who is unlikely to win a permanent move to Chelsea despite a fee being agreed when he moved to Stamford Bridge on loan in the summer.Finding a new home for those three – ideally permanent ones – will be the top priority for Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada this summer.THE DIE IS CASTMAN United staff and their families gathered for a special screening of the Europa League final at Diecast – a converted warehouse in Ancoats on Wednesday night. The mood around the club has been low in recent months but even so around 1000 people attended the event.The result and a lack of European football next season will have done nothing to raise spirits among the rank and file who have seen so many of their colleagues lose their jobs over the last 16 months. Not surprisingly the mood was described as sombre as people made their way out soon after the final whistle.OLD BOYS CLUBPLENTY of United old boys were spotted in Bilbao carrying out various media and ambassadorial duties around the final.Among them were Rio Ferdinand, Denis Irwin, Wes Brown, Paul Scholes, Peter Schmeichel, Wayne Rooney, Nani, Andy Cole and Dimitar Berbatov.Plenty of medals there then. How the fans – and Ruben Amorim – must have wished they had some of those to call on during a miserable night for their team.SHAW THINGLUKE Shaw has been at United for 11 years now – although he has spent most of the last few seasons on the treatment table.Odd then that he referred to the club as ‘Manchester’ in various television interviews. Probably not the best way to win back the supporters.The England defender also admitted he is not sure if he is good enough for United anymore – there are plenty who believe he isn’t.  More

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      ‘I remember my first trophy’ – John Terry destroys James Maddison in savage response after Tottenham star’s antics

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      JOHN TERRY has broken his silence on James Maddison’s Europa League final dig at him.Maddison channelled his inner JT after Spurs beat Manchester United 1-0 in Bilbao last night, donning a FULL KIT despite not playing due to injury. James Maddison channelled his inner John Terry by wearing his full kit after Spurs won the Europa LeagueCredit: ALAMYTerry did the same thing after Chelsea won the 2012/13 Champions LeagueCredit: GETTYTerry responded to Maddison’s taunt with a brutal dig on his Instagram storyCredit: INSTAGRAM@JOHNTERRY.26His changing from a suit to a matchday kit for the celebrations was instantly compared to Terry’s wearing of a full Chelsea strip after their 2012/13 Champions League final win over Bayern Munich. Poking fun at his wardrobe change, Maddison wrote on his Instagram story along with a picture of goalscorer Brennan Johnson: “From suit to full kit.”Full @johnterry.26 mode. Anything to say tonight, John?”It didn’t take long for Terry to see Maddison’s story, which he responded to with a brutal dig. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe wrote on his own story: “I remember my first trophy. Ah bless them. “Get the tequila out. Great season from you boys, you should all be proud. 16 go go. “After that performance, I think you have a chance. You just have to live for 900 years.” Maddison, 28, claimed he only wore the full kit so he could get his hands on a winners’ medal, something Spurs skipper Son Heung-Min initially MISSED OUT on.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSTottenham ratings: Bissouma dominates Europa League final as occasion gets to UdogieBRENNAN JOHNSON was Tottenham’s hero as they finally ended their 17-year trophy drought in the Europa League final.Despite being without James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski for the clash in Bilbao, Spurs came up with a massive win against Manchester United.Johnson scored the goal as he helped bundle in from a corner in a tussle with Luke Shaw to send fans into dreamland.But Spurs also owe a huge thanks to Yves Bissouma who was totally dominant in midfield.At the other end, Destiny Udogie struggled to get up to the pace of the match as he was up against Manchester United’s Amad Diallo.Spurs had just three shots, only 27 per cent of the ball, and completed a mere 115 passes over 90 minutes.But it didn’t matter, as United never really looked like finding a leveller to take it to extra time.SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson gave his ratings for the Tottenham players…He told CBS Sports: “They said I had to put the kit on to get a medal! I didn’t want to do a John Terry!”What a special feeling. Winning makes [the season] all alright – the pain of not being able to play is not being able to help the team.Richarlison bangs on drum and celebrates with Tottenham fans following Spurs Europa League triumph “It is a brilliant achievement and a way to qualify for the Champions League but it is more winning for the fans. “They have had years of pain.” More

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      in Boxing

      How Tyson Fury’s popular Netflix reality show can be unlikely key to finally securing Anthony Joshua fight

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      TYSON FURY’S popular Netflix reality show could be the unlikely key to securing a fight with Anthony Joshua. The father-of-seven and childhood sweetheart wife Paris starred in a nine-part fly-on-the-wall series called At Home with the Furys.At Home with the Furys aired on NetflixCredit: Courtesy of NetflixAnthony Joshua remains linked with fighting FuryCredit: GettyIt culminated in Fury’s December 2022 victory over Derek Chisora – but much has happened since then. Fury faced ex-UFC champion Francis Ngannou in October 2023 – surviving a knockdown to win a controversial split-decision. He then twice lost to Oleksandr Usyk on points before announcing his retirement in January, a month after defeat in the rematch. Fury was spotted filming with Netflix in March, meaning the next series could document his two losses to Usyk and subsequent retirement. READ MORE IN BOXINGThe Gypsy King also looks set to walk away from a huge Battle of Britain bout against Joshua. But, Fury has started to tease a comeback with glimpses of his return to training while the success of his series could factor into his decision to fight again.Netflix bosses will be keen to centre a series around Fury’s preparation for what would be the nation’s biggest-ever fight. And with the streaming service now in the boxing business – they could even make a play to broadcast the mega-bout. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSYouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul had 100 MILLION watch his fight in November with Mike Tyson – who controversially made a return aged 58. The stream crashed amid the demand and Netflix also home to Katie Taylor’s July 11 trilogy against Amanda Serrano. Eddie Hearn teases Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury in 2025?! + Allen KOs Fisher | Split Decision | Sun SportJoshua, 35, and Fury, 36, are both exclusive to DAZN per the deals their promoters Eddie Hearn and Frank Warren signed. But DAZN gave permission for Irish star Taylor, 38, to rematch and beat Serrano, 36, on Paul’s undercard. It would take quite some convincing for DAZN to allow a similar pass for AJ and Fury but the streaming giants are making an aggressive push in live sports. They have exclusive UK rights to the WWE and Monday Night Raw in America while also pushing to take over UFC coverage from ESPN. In March, Chris Mannix reported that Netflix were “aggressively” targeting the rights for Joshua vs Fury. Another was Canelo Alvarez’s September undisputed fight against unbeaten American Terence Crawford. Netflix were on board for the super-fight, planned for the Las Vegas Raiders’ 65,000-seat, £1.5BILLION stadium with UFC boss Dana White to promote.But Saudi boxing supremo Turki Alalshikh has since revealed the fight is set for September 13 – the date of UFC 320. Read More on The SunAnd Alalshikh said it will be on pay-per-view with Riyadh Season – who have an exclusive deal with DAZN. It suggests White and Netflix are now out of the fight. Terence Crawford facing off with Canelo AlvarezCredit: Getty More

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      New footage emerges of two Man Utd stars in heated row in middle of Europa League final defeat

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      CASEMIRO and Andre Onana clashed during Manchester United’s miserable Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.Footage has emerged of the Brazilian ranting and raving at the blunder goalkeeper in the first few minutes of the game.Andre Onana and Casemiro came to blows during Man Utd’s Europa League final defeat to SpursThe pair were locked in heated row in the early stages of Man Utd’s 1-0 loss to Spurs on Wednesday night in Bilbao. It came when Onana appeared to tell Luke Shaw off for kicking the ball out for a corner, after trying to deflect it off Brennan Johnson.Man Utd players, including Casemiro, unsuccessfully appealed to referee Felix Zwayer for a goal-kick.Onana was spotted shouting towards his team-mates, before Casemiro waved him off several times with a gesture.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe former Inter Milan goalkeeper did the same waving arm motion back at the Real Madrid legend.Casemiro, 33, then clearly gave Onana a mouthful to put him in his place, before skipper Bruno Fernandes arrived to calm things down.Onana and Shaw would later be at fault for Johnson’s scrappy winner in the 42nd minute.The goal was fitting for what’s become the worst European final ever.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSPape Sarr sent in a good cross, with Shaw the wrong side of Johnson at the front post.The ball pinged between the two before coming off Shaw’s arm, sending it goalwards to a flapping Onana.Brennan Johnson’s scrappy goal just before half-time broke the deadlockDave Courtnadge reactions as Tottenham beat Man United in Europa League finalThe Spurs forward got the lightest of final touches at the near post, sending the sea of white shirts inside the San Mames into raptures.It marked the first time Casemiro has lost a European final, winning five Champions Leagues and three European Super Cups with Madrid.The embarrassing defeat means Man Utd will not play European football next season, as they sit 16th in the Prem.Having failed to earn a place in the Champions League, United are expected to miss out on around £100million worth of revenue.Consequently, they will not be able to attract or sign their priority targets for this summer’s transfer window.The Red Devils are actively seeking to offload Onana, who they bought for £52m, in the summer.Man Utd ratings: Diallo best player in Europa League final but Hojlund out of his depthAMAD DIALLO’S fizzing first-half display was little consolation for Manchester United in a dismal 1-0 Europa League final loss to Tottenham.Rasmus Hojlund’s plight up front continued in one of the worst European showpieces for many years – as both sides showed why they will finish in the Premier League lower reaches.Spurs clinched it from virtually their first opportunity – on 42 minutes.Brennan Johnson bundled in Pape Sarr’s inswinging cross, with United left-back Luke Shaw also getting a touch on the way.The Red Devils dictated possession more and more after the break, with Leny Yoro stretching to test Guglielmo Vicario from a free-kick.But United’s chances only arrived regularly in the final quarter of a patchy contest.The Red Devils belatedly piled on the pressure in the seven minutes of stoppage time, but Spurs just held on.Here’s how SunSport’s Dave Courtnadge rated United on a miserable night individually and collectively for Ruben Amorim’s men… More

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      How Man Utd could line up with Plan B targets and no Bruno Fernandes next season after major overhaul to transfer plans

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      MANCHESTER UNITED face missing out on some key targets this summer – and risk losing some crucial first team players.The Red Devils suffered a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final on Wednesday.Ruben Amorim risks missing out on his top targets this summerCredit: GettyAlejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes are among the players who could leaveCredit: GettyAs a result, they will not play European football next season.And to make matters worse, United will therefore miss out on £100million worth of revenue from a cut in sponsorship income, TV earnings and gate receipts.The reduction of revenue likely means that head coach Ruben Amorim will have to adjust his transfer plans.Following the Europa League final, he admitted: “We have two plans for the market.READ MORE ON MAN UTD”We need to understand that it is tough for a club like ours not to be the in the Champions League.”But we have to use the other side.”If we have more time to think and to work during the week and to be better in the Premier League, that will be our focus.”Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko and Liam Delap are currently understood to be the club’s preferred targets.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old TraffordBut SunSport revealed earlier this week that officials have earmarked some ‘Plan B’ options in case the budget is reduced.Lorenzo Lucca, Mateo Retegui, Moise Kean and Jean-Philippe Mateta could all be considered by the Red Devils.Fans can’t believe who Sir Alex Ferguson sat next to at Europa League final for Man Utd vs TottenhamUnited could move for Jean-Philippe MatetaCredit: GettyUnited are already on the verge of completing a deal for Wolves forward Matheus Cunha.They are expected to pay his £62.5million release clause when the Premier League season concludes.Despite having one player already lined up for the summer window, Amorim and Co may also have to consider potential departures.After Wednesday’s defeat, club captain Bruno Fernandes admitted that he would be willing to leave if United have to cash-in on him this summer.Alejandro Garnacho also hinted that he could decide to quit before the 2025-26 season.Should both players depart, it will leave two significant gaps in the squad.Amorim will then have to find a solution already within his ranks or search elsewhere.Mason Mount could drop into midfield to replace Fernandes should he leave.Cunha may then step in to replace Garnacho in attack.Read More on The SunAs things stand, the defence will likely remain the same.Man Utd should receive a boost when Lisandro Martinez returns from his injury later this year.The Red Devils are already on the verge of signing Matheus CunhaCredit: GettyMan Utd ratings: Diallo best player in Europa League final but Hojlund out of his depthAMAD DIALLO’S fizzing first-half display was little consolation for Manchester United in a dismal 1-0 Europa League final loss to Tottenham.Rasmus Hojlund’s plight up front continued in one of the worst European showpieces for many years – as both sides showed why they will finish in the Premier League lower reaches.Spurs clinched it from virtually their first opportunity – on 42 minutes.Brennan Johnson bundled in Pape Sarr’s inswinging cross, with United left-back Luke Shaw also getting a touch on the way.The Red Devils dictated possession more and more after the break, with Leny Yoro stretching to test Guglielmo Vicario from a free-kick.But United’s chances only arrived regularly in the final quarter of a patchy contest.The Red Devils belatedly piled on the pressure in the seven minutes of stoppage time, but Spurs just held on.Here’s how SunSport’s Dave Courtnadge rated United on a miserable night individually and collectively for Ruben Amorim’s men… More

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      Declan Rice & Lauren Fryer’s pals reveal toll of online abuse on relationship & truth about THOSE X-Factor star rumours

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      IT started out as an innocent TikTok video – posted on a fan account – showing Declan Rice canoodling with his long-term partner Lauren Fryer.But days later, unfounded accusations linking Rice to an X Factor popstar began appearing in the suggested search bar below it – vicious rumours fuelled by a greedy social media algorithm.Midfielder Declan Rice and girlfriend Lauren Fryer have been together since 2017Credit: Instagram @laurenfryer_Declan pictured on a luxury yacht with girlfriend Lauren while holidaying in Formentera in 2021Credit: BackGridLauren, the mother of Declan’s toddler son, has rarely been seen in public since being bullied off social mediaVicious, unfounded accusations linking Rice to an X Factor popstar began appearing on TikTokCredit: GettyWhile many of the bonkers headlines that appear on the app – including ‘Tom Cruise dead’ and ‘Katie Price confirms pregnancy’ – are obviously fabricated by clickbait-hungry AI machines built to increase engagement on the Chinese social media site, this one gained unwanted – and unwarranted – traction.A year has passed since Lauren was forced off social media after being fat-shamed by vile online trolls who cruelly told the Arsenal star to dump her in favour of an “upgrade”.Lauren, the mother of Declan’s toddler son, has rarely been seen in public since.Perhaps bots – knowing the furore that ensued following the horrific incident last year – are smart enough to know spinning a web of lies about her clearly besotted partner would get football fans clicking.Lauren was briefly seen in the stands at the Euros in Germany last year, when Declan ran to hug her after England’s victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals.It was a rare occurrence, as friends say Lauren will never put herself in a position where she can be hung out to dry in the court of public opinion.Meanwhile, Declan has been seen letting his hair down following the Euros at Wayne Lineker’s Ocean Beach in Ibiza – and contacts tell me he mingled with the A list at You Me Bum Bum Train in February.These two outings were enough to fuel the fires amongst the cesspit of social media bullies.“The torment Lauren endured because of those pathetic people was horrific,” one confidante tells me.“She had never lived a public life, so to be torn apart on social media felt even more unfair.Inside Declan Rice and Lauren Fryer’s romance“Lauren wasn’t the kind of WAG you saw out and about, or going to big events or fashion shows. That wasn’t her style.“She virtually lived in the shadows anyway. To then be attacked so viciously and with such fury left a lasting mark.”Lauren is expected to be among the guests at Dani Dyer and Jarrod Bowen’s huge wedding later this month – but it’s unlikely she’ll be pictured on the WAG social channels afterwards.“Lauren has managed to carefully navigate life now where she is present at events but isn’t seen,” the friend continues.“Those close to her know she doesn’t want to be shared in pictures unless they are on totally private accounts.“She has her own private account which is just for her friends and family but she’d never share things publicly again.“It’s not because she’s scared, it’s because she just wants a quiet life doing what she loves with Declan and their family.”Relationship timelineRice and Lauren have been together for eight years:2016 – Rice and childhood sweetheart Lauren get together as teenagersMay, 2017 – Rice makes his West Ham debut in a clash with BurnleyMarch, 2019 – The Hammers ace makes his England debut after switching allegiances from the Republic of IrelandAugust, 2022 – Rice confirms the birth of his son, JudeNovember, 2022 – Lauren heads to Qatar to support her man at the World CupJuly, 2023 – Rice leaves West Ham to join Arsenal, with Lauren regularly supporting him at games at the EmiratesApril, 2024 – Lauren wipes her Instagram account after vile bullying by trollsA quick glance at social media this morning shows the trolls have still not abated when it comes to stirring up egregious and unsubstantiated rumours about Lauren and her relationship with Declan – who she started dating as a teenager in 2017.On TikTok, the completely false allegations he “cheated” with a former X Factor star are rife, while the no-marks who use gossip cesspit Tattle Life continue to stir up rubbish about their nine-year relationship.“It’s pathetic,” a friend says. “But it’s all nonsense.“Don’t these people have something better to do? Get a life and stop typing out b*****ks on your iPhone.”Lauren’s private Instagram account has 295 followers, showing just how tightly she keeps her inner circle.Arsenal star Bukayo Saka’s girlfriend Tolami Benson is among those who keep up to date with the account, along with Kennedy Alexa – the partner of Spurs star James Madison – and, of course, Jarrod’s fiancée Dani.By contrast, Lauren’s old public account has almost 100,000 followers, but features no photographs.Previously, Lauren liked to share posts – glamorous selfies and snaps of her and Declan with their beloved cockapoo Raffa covered her grid.Previously Lauren liked to share posts, glamorous selfies and snaps of her and Declan with their beloved cockapoo RaffaCredit: Instagram @laurenfryer_Declan would regularly comment underneath her photographs with love heart emojisCredit: Instagram @laurenfryer_Declan would regularly comment underneath her photographs with fire and love heart emojis.Underneath one picture, he wrote: “Your support has been incredible, couldn’t ask for better.”But a year ago, Lauren deleted all the photographs and memories she had shared.The decision was a reaction to the brutal and downright disgusting barrage of hate aimed at her after snaps of her and Declan on holiday four months prior.The comments on Instagram were far worse, and from behind their anonymous usernames, the lowlife keyboard warriors went on the attack.But while Lauren and Declan ignored the barrage of hate, it changed after quotes – purporting to be from Declan – started to circulate online with ferocity.The hate and the awful comments was one thing. But this whole saga meant the conversation just kept rolling on and people started picking apart Lauren and Declan’s relationship.At the time, thousands believed the quotes – allegedly given by Declan at a press conference – were real.During the work of fictional nonsense, an internet idiot claimed Declan had hit back and said: “My woman is the love of my life, and there is no upgrade that exists for me.”In truth, the press conference never happened. Declan never addressed what was being said and everything shared or written about it is completely false.It didn’t stop the quotes from being shared thousands of times online – fuelling what had already become a painful and incessant barrage of nonsense.Just three days after this rumour first started, Lauren deleted her entire account.INCESSANT BARRAGE“It all got too much,” a friend explains.“The hate and the awful comments was one thing. But this whole saga meant the conversation just kept rolling on and people started picking apart Lauren and Declan’s relationship.“Bloggers started picking up the quotes as fact which meant it was being shared even more widely, even though the wider media ignored it because it was totally untrue.“The sheer scale of it all became too ridiculous for words.”The deletion saw an outpouring of love and support for Lauren, from the tens of thousands of people who genuinely took an interest in Lauren’s life and her posts.“Lauren Fryer you are a beautiful young woman,” one wrote online. “Stay strong.”Arsenal’s Declan Rice has had a good woman behind him in Lauren throughout his careerCredit: PALauren’s private Instagram account has 295 followers, showing just how tightly she keeps her inner circleCredit: Lauren Fryer InstagramAnother added: “Appreciation post for this beautiful woman Lauren Fryer.“We’re sorry to see that in 2024 women are still subject to so many disgusting comments.”It was so hard for her [Lauren], the trolling, as she doesn’t put herself out there.Dani DyerThe damage was done however, and while Lauren is still occasionally active on the account – she only comments and posts within her private domain.Her good friend Dani, who bonded with Lauren at last year’s Euros, spoke out in her defence after the competition and told us: “It was so hard for her, the trolling, as she doesn’t put herself out there.“I think it’s harder when you are not in [the celebrity world] and you are being personally attacked. I found that hard.“She is a really good mum, who keeps to herself. No one deserves to be criticised like that.“It was so cruel.“Attacking a girl because of what she looks like, in this day and age, I don’t agree with it.“She got a lot of support from all of us, which she definitely needed.”Those close to Lauren say she has no interest in ever putting herself into the public domain again – and after all of this, who could blame her? More

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      Manchester United boss Marc Skinner enjoying ‘carnage and chaos’ of World Sevens Football seven-a-side test

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      MARC SKINNER reckons claiming the top prize at the World Sevens Football contest could be huge for Manchester United financially. Along with Man City his Red Devils got off to a winning starts on the first day of the women’s seven-a-side tournament yesterday. Celin Bizet was among Man United’s scorers yesterday on the first day of the inaugural World Sevens Football tournamentUnited and Man City are among eight sides battling it out for the contest’s top prize with the winning team set to claim around £1.8million from a £3.76 prize potKerolin, who scored twice for Man City in their 4-0 defeat of FC Rosengard, reckons the style of play of the tournament felt “a little bit Brazilian”In the coastal town of Estoril in Portugal, the two WSL rivals are battling it out with six other European teams competing for the chance to be the contest’s overall victors. The winning side of the inaugural three-day seven-a-side tournament will earn around £1.8million ($2.5m) from a £3.76m ($5m) prize pot. And total prize money for this competition is more than what the victors of this year’s Women Champions League final will win with holders Barcelona up against Arsenal on May 23. Skinner said: “For any team who wins it would do a lot. First and foremost the players are enjoying it and having a good time. Read More Football Stories”If we then get to the point where we can win the prize money then of course that can be huge for us as well.” “But more importantly, the players have to enjoy it and that’s exactly why we were here.”It’s carnage, chaos. You have to allow the players to make decisions themselves. We will learn. The ball is fast, light and the pitch is quick.”Along with Ajax, Roma, Benfica, Bayern Munich, FC Rosengard and Paris Saint-Germain, United and Man City competed in 30 minute matches played two halves of 15 minutes. Most read in FootballTeams are permitted to use unlimited substitutions from the 14 players allowed to be part of their squad for each game. United, who take on Benfica and Paris Saint-Germain today, defeated Roma 3-2 following Man City’s 4-0 triumph over Swedish side FC Rosengard. Aside from being in a seven-a-side format, the pacy, goal-laden matches played at the home of Primera Liga side Estoril Praia, featured a DJ playing live music during the action. And fans being permitted to drink alcohol in the stands during games was another departure from the norms of a Women’s Super League match day.Brazil star Kerolin, who scored twice for City side in their win, reckons the style of play and atmosphere felt a little bit Brazilian. The City forward said: “I think it’s a good opportunity to be myself, especially after I came back from my ACL injury.”I tried to go one-v-one all the time. It’s hard to do that when it’s 11-aside as there’s too much to think (about). “Here I just want to enjoy that and be aggressive. “I liked the music a lot. In Portugal the weather is really nice so everyone is like ‘OK, we like these vibes.’ “Let’s just see how the tournament goes. “Harder games will come. We prepare for that and we just need to wait to see how we perform.”We try. It’s a little bit Brazilian I think. I like the ginga. I just think about getting back those things and being a little bit brave.”The Man City squad selected by interim boss Nick Cushing for the World Sevens features a few of the club’s promising young prospects including Codie Thomas, 18, Poppy Pritchard 19, and Lily Murphy, 19. Anita Asante, who is a member of the tournament’s Players Advisory Council, sees the contest as another platform on which younger players can make their mark. The ex-Lioness, Arsenal and Aston Villa ace said: “There’s room to be creative. Ayemu Oyama, who scored for Man City in their opener, is likely to be in action when her team play Ajax and Bayern Munich today”It also gives players an opportunity to showcase their talent at an elite level that could be unique to the women’s game sport.Read More on The Sun“It’s a fantastic opportunity for clubs to utilise the tournament to give further development and playing opportunities including their younger players.””It might provide the platform for showcasing emerging talent in general.” More