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      in Soccer

      Man Utd legend Ryan Giggs’ restaurant ‘suddenly CLOSES’ as devastated workers ‘told by text they’d been sacked’

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      A RESTAURANT co-owned by Premier League legend Ryan Giggs has closed with “immediate effect”, it is claimed.Staff of George’s Dining Room and Bar in Worsley, Manchester, were reportedly told by text they’d been sacked yesterday.Ryan Giggs at George’s with his two fellow co-ownersCredit: MEN MediaGeorge’s Dining Room in Worsley, ManchesterCredit: www.georgesworsley.co.ukThe note left at the restaurant on Friday nightCredit: MEN MediaThe ex-Reds midfielder, 51, opened the venue on Barton Road in 2014 with two old school pals.Signs on the door on Friday night said it was closed for the weekend “due to unforeseen circumstances”.However, texts sent to staff by bosses said the restaurant has closed for good, reports the Manchester Evening News.The messages reportedly stated they “regret to announce that with a heavy heart we have no alternative but to close George’s effective immediately”.READ MORE ON RYAN GIGGSThey added: “This is due to the obvious reduction in trade and business against the huge increases in costs of operating the business and the ongoing cost of living crisis.”Staff are said to have also been told they will be paid any outstanding wages in “due course”, as well as notice payment, as well as redundancy pay for “those to whom it applies”.One staff member told the news outlet: “It came totally out of the blue, we were all supposed to be working today and then we got the text messages through, we are all stunned.”When George’s opened over a decade ago, Giggs said it had been a lifelong dream of his to own a restaurant alongside childhood friends Kelvin Gregory and Bernie Taylor.Most read in FootballHe had described it as a “really different offering for the area”, with a launch event attended by former Manchester United teammates Bryan Robson, Nicky Butt, and Gary Neville.In 2015, a new terrace was added to the restaurant.Ryan Giggs helps with training session for Salford CityGiggs has also since teamed up with Sky Sports pundit Neville on the GG Hospitality Group, which launched Hotel Football at Old Trafford and the Stock Exchange Hotel in the city centre.The Sun has approached George’s and Giggs’ reps for comment.RETURN TO DUGOUTElsewhere, Giggs has helped to transform Salford City FC after returning to the dugout for the League Two outfit almost three years after stepping down as Wales head coach.He has taken a more hands-on role with the first team in recent months and has been spotted in the dugout alongside manager Karl Robinson during games.The Wales and Manchester United legend is a co-owner of the Ammies alongside his former Red Devils teammates Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and investor David Beckham.Giggs also began working as the club’s director of football last year.However, the former Welsh national team manager now seems to be lending his experience of coaching to the staff at Moor Lane too as he takes up a match day role on the touchline.The star became manager of his country in 2018, before being arrested on assault charges two years later.READ MORE SUN STORIESGiggs, who has always denied any wrongdoing, stepped down from the role in June 2022 ahead of his trial, where a jury failed to reach a verdict.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.Giggs in the dugout for Salford City this monthCredit: RexGiggs playing for Manchester United in 1991Credit: GettyGiggs with Manchester United’s Class of 92 who went on to dominate the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty More

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      Sir Alex Ferguson was left traumatised by tackle so bad that Gareth Southgate apologised and left Man Utd stars ‘numb’

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE had to apologise to Sir Alex Fergurson after one of his players injured a Manchester United star.The incident occurred while the former England manager was in charge of Middlesbrough in 2008.Sir Alex Ferguson was left fuming over the reaction to the red cardCredit: AFPGareth Southgate was forced to apologise to Sir Alex following the horror tackleCredit: PA:Press AssociationRodrigo Possebon was on the receiving end of wayward challenge by Emmanuel PogatetzCredit: GettySir Alex said he was ‘numb’ in fear for PossebonCredit: GettyUnited beat Boro 3-1 in a third round League Cup tie, but the win was overshadowed by the injury wonderkid Rodrigo Possebon sustained.The Brazilian midfielder, who was making his first start for the Red Devils, was on the receiving end of a horror tackle from Emmanuel Pogatetz.He was sent off but it did little to calm down a furious Sir Alex.Ferguson revealed after the game that “everyone was numb” in fear for Possebon.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the legendary boss was fuming over Boro players pleading it was not a red card, saying: “It was an absolutely terrible tackle. “What gets me about challenges like that is that the opponent always claims he has done nothing wrong.”Pogatetz should have just walked off the field.”You get their bench screaming that it wasn’t a sending off and there is nothing wrong with our player.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”At least Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate was very good about it. He apologised and understood the gravity.”Possebon was fortunate to avoid a broken leg and Pogatetz also later apologised. ‘Managers don’t get that now’ – Rio Ferdinand reveals Sir Alex Ferguson’s Man Utd ‘intel’ that wouldn’t happen todayHe said: “Firstly, I have to say that I went for the tackle because I thought I could win the ball. I now accept, however, that I misjudged the challenge.”But now I that I have had the chance to see the tackle on television, I know the ref was right to send me off.”I am going to speak to Rodrigo by telephone and I will apologise for hurting him. I hope that he will make a quick recovery and that he will not be out for long.”Possebon went on to make eight appearances for Man Utd before returning to play in his homeland of Brazil.He now works as a chief at Brazilian Serie A club Athletico Paranaense. More

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      in Soccer

      Jhon Duran’s new salary after £64m Al Nassr transfer revealed with ex-Aston Villa ace earning £1,900 PER HOUR

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      THE stunning breakdown of Jhon Duran’s multi-million-pound contract with Al-Nassr has been revealed.And it makes for truly incredible reading.Jhon Duran completed a stunning from Aston Villa to Al-Nassr on FridayCredit: REUTERSThe striker has signed a contract worth a whopping £16.7million per yearCredit: X@ALNASSRFC_ENThe details of the 21-year-old’s new contract are truly staggeringCredit: X@ALNASSRFC_ENThe Colombian completed a stunning £64million move to the Saudi Pro League side from Aston Villa on Friday night.Duran’s surprise move to The Kingdom has secured him an incredible pay rise that will set him up for life.The striker, who only signed a new contract with Villa last October, is set to earn a whopping TAX-FREE yearly salary of £16.7million.That equates to a staggering £1.4m per month, £46,000 per day and £1900 an hour.READ MORE SPORT NEWSThe now former Villa striker now also earns £31 a minute and 52 pence per second.Duran joined Villa from MLS side Chicago Fire in January 2023 for a fee of £18m.He leaves Villa Park having scored 20 goals in 78 appearances for Unai Emery’s side.Villa confirmed Duran’s departure in a brief statement thanking him for his efforts during his time in the Midlands.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSIt read: “Aston Villa can confirm that Jhon Durán has joined Al-Nassr for an undisclosed fee.”The striker moves to Saudi Arabia having scored 12 goals for Villa this term, including the winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.Aston Villa hothead Jhon Duran rages as he’s subbed moments after scoring and kicks back of team-mate’s chair “Everyone at Aston Villa would like to wish Jhon all the best in the next step of his professional career.”Duran could make his Al-Nassr debut next Friday when they welcome Al Feiha to Al-Awwal Park. More

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      in Soccer

      Kyle Walker’s football agent at centre of drugs raid after cops uncover over 90 cannabis plants DAYS after AC Milan deal

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      THE home of a top football agent who helped seal Kyle Walker’s move to AC Milan was last night at the centre of a drugs raid.Michael Rankine, 40, joined the former Manchester City skipper on his private jet last week as he flew out to sign for the Italian giants.Michael Rankine, above at at Kyle Walker’s unveiling in Milan, was at the centre of a drugs raidRankine also represents Chelsea and England ace Cole PalmerThe ex-footballer was even photographed with the England full-back as he was unveiled to the fans holding up his new number 32 shirt.But 48 hours after he returned to the UK, a police raid at his home was said to have uncovered more than 90 cannabis plants with a potential street value of £75,000.They also recovered equipment used to produce the Class B drug.A source said: “It was a huge shock to everyone after what should have been a ­triumphant return from Italy.”READ MORE IN SPORTSThey added: “Michael flew out with Kyle in his jet on Thursday. His uncle Mark, who is Kyle’s agent, was also on the flight.“They got the deal over the line and were jubilant. Michael posed with Kyle for pictures, returned to the UK over the weekend and then on Monday his home was raided by police.”Rankine, who played as a striker for Doncaster Rovers, Scunthorpe and Bournemouth during a 16-year career, is employed as a consultant for London firm CAA Base.It represents a host of Premier League footballers such as Tottenham’s Son Heung-min and James Maddison and manager Ange Postecoglu.Most read in FootballOn its website, CAA Base said Rankine joined the company in late 2018 after retiring from the game. It adds: “Based in Yorkshire, he helps recruit, manage and guide young professional footballers.” His ex-pro uncle, Mark, who played for Wolves and Sheffield United, also works for the company.Kyle Walker lands in Italy to complete AC Milan loan dealHe represents players including Chelsea and England ace Cole Palmer and New­castle and former Three Lions defender Kieran Trippier.Rankine is also a cousin of former Tottenham Hotspur and England star Danny Rose.South Yorkshire police ­confirmed in a statement that officers executed a warrant at an address in Doncaster.The raid happened on a busy residential street in full view of neighbouring families.Police added: “Following officers entering the property, we discovered a cannabis set-up.”The Sun contacted CAA for comment. Walker’s loan deal is tipped to lead to a full-time £4million summer move.Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.Rankine during his playing days for Scunthorpe in 2005Credit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      Cheapest Premier League club to support home and away revealed – how much do your team’s fans fork out?

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      BRENTFORD is the cheapest Premier League club to support home and away, analysis shows — and Newcastle the dearest.Diehard Bees fans typically spend £4,128 a year, with travel costs kept down as they play several London derbies.Brentford is the cheapest Premier League club to support home and awayCredit: GettyCrystal Palace is the second-cheapest Premier League club to follow — at £4,157 a year.Meanwhile, Toon fans living in the North East fork out £7,455 for their footballing passion — with long distances travelling to away games costing £5,440 alone.Second-biggest outlays come from Bournemouth supporters who spend £6,704 ­following their side, with several mammoth trips from the South Coast.Cherries fans cough up an average of £61.94 on merchandise, the most of any top-flight supporters.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIn terms of share of income, Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea are the most affordable, partly because of all the local derby matches in London.Fulham have the highest average season ticket cost at £1,869 while Manchester United’s home shirt is the most expensive at £110.Manchester City were the third most expensive club to support – £6,037 annually – while their fans spent 30p less than Bournemouth’s in club shops.Southampton have the cheapest full kit at £97.Most read in FootballUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.I’ve spent £10k travelling to 118 football grounds around the world… but tickets aren’t my only eye-watering expense More

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      Tottenham ‘make shock Alejandro Garnacho transfer enquiry’ after Mathys Tel rejected move from Bayern Munich

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      TOTTENHAM have made a shock enquiry for Manchester United star Alejandro Garnacho, according to reports.The North Londoners are determined to sign a forward player before Monday’s transfer deadline. Alejandro Garnacho has emerged as a shock Spurs targetCredit: RexYesterday they agreed a £50million deal for Bayern Munich star Mathys Tel, only for the Frenchman to snub a move to North London following a face-to-face meeting with Daniel Levy.According to the Mail, Spurs have now turned their attention towards Red Devils starlet Garnacho.The Argentine winger, 20, was left out of Ruben Amorim’s matchday squad for last month’s Manchester derby and has reportedly been made available by club chiefs in order to ease PSR burdens.Unlike Marcus Rashford, also omitted against City, Garnacho has not subsequently been frozen out – with Amorim having heaped praise upon him earlier today.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Portuguese, 40, said of Garnacho: “He changed right after that City game. He’s improving but it’s not from me — it’s the way he understands things.“I just want to help him. He understands sometimes I am a different coach.”That I’m demanding in my way and sometimes it is hard to make the first impact.”All the merit is for Garnacho. He understood the position, playing inside and outside. The connection with Mainoo.”Most read in FootballSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYUnited are claimed to have demanded £65m when Chelsea asked about Garnacho earlier this month.While Napoli have had multiple bids, including one of around £50m, turned down by the Red Devils.Which Manchester United stars should stay and go?Garnacho has made 22 Premier League appearances this season, scoring three times and laying on just one assist.In total he has played 121 matches for United, netting 23 goals and assisting a further 15.The Red Devils have also shown an interest in Bayern teenager Tel, in addition to Aston Villa, Arsenal and Chelsea.But it has not been ruled out that the Frenchman opts to stay at Bayern until the summer after snubbing Spurs.Ange Postecoglou’s side also missed out on Paris Saint-Germain star Randal Kolo Muani earlier this month.The French international instead joined Juventus on loan.Tottenham have been linked with Brentford ace Yoane Wissa in recent days.While Southampton starlet Tyler Dibling and England international Angel Gomes have also been mentioned.In addition to a more attacking player, Tottenham would like to bolster their defence before the transfer deadline, particularly following the injury suffered by Radu Dragusin during Thursday night’s 3-0 win over Elfsborg.READ MORE SUN STORIESClub chiefs are claimed to have agreed a deal for former Chelsea star Fikayo Tomori from AC Milan.The centre-back, 27, is said to be mulling over a potential switch.Tottenham have bid for AC Milan defender Fikayo TomoriCredit: AP More

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      in Boxing

      ‘It breaks the rules’ – Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn will NOT happen, says boxing legend dad

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      CHRIS EUBANK SR has again insisted that his son will NOT fight Conor Benn.Earlier this month it was announced that the pair are set to do battle on April 26 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.Chris Eubank has insisted that the controversial fight won’t happenCredit: YouTubeEubank Jr and Conor Benn are scheduled to fight on April 26Credit: GettyThe match-up had initially been set for October 2022, only to be KO’d just days out after Benn failed two Voluntary Anti-Doping Association tests.With UK Anti-Doping having lifted Benn’s ban last November, he is eligible to compete on home soil again.The match-up naturally evokes memories of the 1990s rivalry between their fathers Chris Eubank Sr and Nigel Benn.But the former refuses to throw his weight behind the nostalgic bout.READ MORE IN SPORTSpeaking on his Call Chris Eubank YouTube channel, he said: “My answer is no, the fight will not happen. Not because of anything other than it breaks the rules.”Rules is what we abide by. If we don’t abide by the rules then we are being reckless. We’re being reckless with what? With the lives of these fighters.”Not just Conor Benn and Christopher Livingstone Eubank Jr, but with the lives of all participants of combat sports.”Do not be distracted by re-hydration clauses.”Most read in BoxingSUN BINGO GET £50 BONUS & 50 FREE SPINS TODAYEubank Sr, 58, has long been unhappy with the catchweight bout.Benn typically fights at welterweight, with a 147lbs limit.Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn will be ‘TOXIC’ and ‘more like WWE than IBF’Eubank Jr, meanwhile, is two divisions up at middleweight, for which the limit is 160lbs.The fight is set to see Benn move up to middleweight, in contrast to the original 2022 bout which had been arranged for a 157lbs catchweight.Speaking exclusively to SunSport, Eubank Sr said: “My son, if he had taken that fight where they tried to boil him down to 157, would have lost his life.”The British boxing legend lost younger son Sebastian aged just 29 to a heart attack in 2023.He continued: “I lost Sebastian. What do I say about losing another one? Nothing, I just pray.”Eubank Sr then referenced American boxer Paul Bamba, who died aged 35 in December just six days after winning the WBA Gold Cruiserweight title by defeating Rogelio Medina, adding: “Paul said he gave himself brain damage by losing too much weight.“He lost 22lbs in a matter of days. What the promoters are doing now is looking at the names and looking at the money.“So, the names of the fathers Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank, they are looking at the names that draw an audience to a stadium or an arena.“This is trampling the rules. They are running amok.“It has become a world of ‘money first’. Like with the YouTube fighters, it’s the money they think about.READ MORE SUN STORIES“And for the boxers, when they are headstrong, they are not thinking about safety. I know what it is like to get in there and to have lost all that weight.“I know what it feels like when you are getting a hammering. It is dangerous. I know what it is like in training, when you are dehydrated.”Eubank twice fought Nigel Benn in the 1990sCredit: Getty More

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      Keira Walsh ready to ‘fight for badge’ and trophies with Chelsea after club confirm signing of ex-Barcelona star

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      KEIRA WALSH declared she is ready to fight for Chelsea’s badge after confirming her switch from Barcelona. The England midfielder has joined the WSL leaders on a four-and-a-half-year deal, for a fee thought to be around £400,000. Walsh will Chelsea’s number 30 shirt following her permanent transfer from BarcelonaCredit: GettyThe Blues midfielder has become the second England star to join the club from Barcelona following Lucy Bronze’s move in July last yearWalsh, who won eight trophies with Barcelona, sees her move to Chelsea as a “good fit” for her in terms of her ambitionsCredit: APIn doing so she sealed one of the biggest moves in the January transfer window with Chelsea boosting their squad to aid their quadruple trophy chase.Her arrival comes before the Blues’ trip to Aston Villa on Sunday with the team aiming to extend their WSL unbeaten run to 13 games this term. Of her move Walsh, who made 64 Barcelona appearances, said: “It’s unbelievable. I’m very happy to be here and very excited to get started.“You look at the history of the trophies Chelsea have won and I’m an ambitious player and person, so for me, it is a good fit.Read More Football Stories “Speaking to Paul Green (Chelsea’s head of women’s football), Sonia and Camille (Chelsea assistant manager), I just got such a good feeling from them. “It has been really positive. I want to play for this club and fight for the badge.”Walsh, who began her senior club career at Blackburn at 16, has spent the past two-and-half-years playing for Barcelona with whom she won eight trophies including two top-flight titles.Her transfer has seen the Blues strengthen their midfield options with the team hoping to go unbeaten in the top-flight this season. Most read in FootballShe is also the second England star to join the team from Spain’s title holders following Lucy Bronze’s transfer last July.Before her Chelsea switch and Barcelona stint, Walsh spent eight years at Manchester City, winning eight trophies including one WSL title. Her move to Spain came two months after she played an instrumental role in England’s European Championship triumph in July 2022. The midfielder provided an assist for Ella Toone’s goal in a 2-1 defeat of Germany at Wembley. And during her time with Barca the 80-capped Lioness helped them win two Champions League trophies in 2023 and last year.  In her first season at the helm Sonia Bompastor hopes to guide the London outfit to a Champions League tournament triumph.Today Chelsea also announced the signing of goalkeeper Femke Liefting who won the Golden Glove at last year’s Under-20s Women’s World CupCredit: GettyEurope’s biggest club prize is the one major trophy the Blues are yet to win. Walsh’s arrival comes five days after Chelsea’s swoop for USA international Naomi Girma, 24, the club forking out US$1.1million to sign the ex-San Diego Wave defender. And yesterday they also strengthened their goalkeeper ranks with 20-year-old Femke Liefting joining from Dutch club AZ Alkmaar. More