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      Nations League star in horror Cristiano Ronaldo celebration fail after last gasp equaliser against rivals

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      SERBIA star Aleksa Terzic went from ecstasy to injury after a failed celebration left him in a heap on the floor.Terzic, 25, scored a last gasp equaliser for Serbia as the Eagles snatched a late point off rival nation Switzerland in the Nations League on Saturday.Serbia’s Aleksa Terzic west left looking injured on the floor after a failed celebrationCredit: EPATerzic had tried to recreate Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic Siuuu celebrationCredit: GettyThe star’s legs buckled underneath him and he fell to the groundCredit: Youtube/ViaplaySerbia players piled on top of Terzic to celebrate the late equaliserCredit: EPAThe Serbs were trailing 1-0 heading into the dying embers of the game after Zeki Amdouni had put Switzerland ahead in the 78th minute.But a misplaced late corner for the Swiss allowed visitors Serbia to launch a quick counter-attack that was finished off by Terzic.The versatile RB Salzburg wide-man neatly curled his effort past Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel to pull the scores level.Naturally, he wanted to soak in the moment and celebrate in front of the away fans, but his overexcitement left him laying on the floor seemingly in pain.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTerzic had tried to mimic Cristiano Ronaldo’s famous “SIUUU” celebration, but mistimed his leap into the air and crashed down to the floor in an uncomfortable position.The former Fiorentina man immediately took a tumble to the turf and lay by the corner flag as his teammates smothered him in the late celebrations.Fortunately, Terzic was able to get back to his feet after the mishap, seemingly shaking any concern over a serious injury from the celebration.However, the late goal did spell the end of his evening as Serbia boss Dragan Stojkovic immediately replaced him with Sasa Zdjelar.Most read in FootballCristiano Ronaldo’s iconic ‘Siuu’ celebration has become famous around the globeCredit: GettyTerzic delightfully curled the ball past Gregor KobelCredit: EPAHis goal secured a valuable point for SerbiaCredit: EPAFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe defensive switch helped Serbia see out the remainder of the match and earn their second point of the Nations League campaign.The point meant that the Serbs remain above Switzerland in League A, Group 4 – something that will be huge to the fans given the deep-rooted rivalry between the two nations.Fans call Granit Xhaka a ‘master of dark arts’ as they spot moment Arsenal star wound up WHOLE Serbia bench at World CupSerbia and Switzerland have some bad blood between them regarding the ethnic heritage of some of Swiss players.Granit Xhaka and Xherdan Shaqiri have previously celebrated using the Albanian Eagle – the nationalist symbol of their ethnic heritage.Shaqiri was born in Kosovo (a former Serbian province which declared independence in 2008).Serbia does not recognise Kosovo’s independence and relations remain tense with many families choosing to move to other European counties including Switzerland.The rivalry often throws up controversy with Xhaka involved in a few feisty moments down the years, including “rattling” the Serbia bench by grabbing his NUTS during the 2022 World Cup.Switzerland vs Serbia is a fixture with a history of needleCredit: Alamy More

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      in Boxing

      Mike Tyson, 58, appears to make retirement U-turn hours after calling out Logan Paul following loss to brother Jake

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      MIKE TYSON made a shock retirement U-turn just 12 hours after calling out Logan Paul following his one-sided defeat to younger brother Jake.Iron Mike, 58, also revealed that he came close to death when his bout with the Youtuber-turned-boxer was initially postponed in June.Mike Tyson has confirmed his retirement from boxing – againCredit: GettyPaul defeated Tyson by unanimous decisionCredit: ReutersTyson recovered to make it to the ring on Friday night and was beaten by the younger Paul brother in an underwhelming unanimous decision.After the result was announced, Tyson refused to retire.He was asked by Netflix host Ariel Helwani in the ring: “Do you want to do this again or are you officially done now?”Tyson replied: “I don’t know. It depends on the situation.” READ MORE ON MIKE TYSONPushed on who he would like to fight next, Tyson brilliantly hit back with a cheeky smile, saying: “Maybe his brother.”But he has since performed a U-turn on that stance and confirmed that Friday’s snooze-fest was the last time he’d perform in the ring.Tyson’s statement on X read: “This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. “No regrets to get in ring one last time. I almost died in June. Had eight blood transfusions. Most read in BoxingFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won. “To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for. Thank you.”Jake Paul beats Mike Tyson in unanimous decision as crowd boo fightWhen Logan was initially called out, the WWE star said: “F***, I would kill you, Mike.”Tyson’s health scare in June, which forced the postponement, almost cost him his life.The boxing legend thought his days were numbered in May when a two-and-a-half-inch-deep stomach ulcer left him vomiting blood as it wreaked havoc on his insides.Concerns for Tyson’s health were downplayed at the time as organisers insisted he would indeed be fit to fight on November 15.Paul was heavily criticised for taking the fight against a man 31 years his senior – the biggest age gap in a professional boxing match.However, he was praised for clearly stepping back at times and refusing to pursue a knockout when Tyson looked unsteady and tired after round three.The 27-year-old even bowed to the former heavyweight champion in the final round.Paul bowed before Tyson in the closing stagesJake Paul vs Mike Tyson round-by-roundMIKE TYSON’s long-awaited return to the ring didn’t have the fairytale ending fight fans dreamed of.SunSport’s boxing expert Wally Downes Jr recaps one of the drabbest and most forgettable nights in boxing history.And he didn’t hold back, issuing a scathing assessment of social media sensation Jake Paul.Round OnePaul says “I love you, Mike” just before the opening bell sounds. He quickly runs away and holds the boxing legend.Tyson draws a big reaction from the crowd as he lands a jab and a good right hand.Verdict: 10-9 TysonRound TwoPaul ran away in the opener and held – just like we thought he would.Tommy Fury had it first and now Mike Tyson. It’s clever because Tyson will tire. Paul tags Tyson’s body with a straight right.Tyson looks spent now. 180 seconds in and the fight looks over.Verdict: 10-9 TysonRound ThreeThe legend cannot even keep his gumshield in. As expected it’s a waste of time. Paul has run away until the 58-year-old has tired.Shooting ducks in a barrel now. Tyson might get hurt here. Paul lands a couple of clumsy shots and Tyson wobbles backwards.Tragic after three.Verdict: 10-9 PaulRound FourThis is proper rubbish. The crowd are bored and boos are being heard.This is just two tired big lumps going at it.  One a legend, one a promoter.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound FivePaul jabs the body and aims right for the head and another one-two clips the icon.Tyson cannot keep his mouthpiece in, he is gasping for air. Paul lands a left hook but then so does Tyson.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound SixThank God these weren’t three-minute rounds. We are getting about four punches per round.Tyson is gasping in the air but replays show a left hook did graze Paul’s beard.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound SevenTyson slips a jab and tries an uppercut. The commentator admits it has been a “sad” spectacle.The AT&T stadium has been utterly stunk out. Paul is looking just as tired as Tyson.Verdict 10-9 PaulRound EightGo back to YouTube, Jake. You’re an excellent conman. But you’ve never been a boxer.The Judges decide: 80-72, 79-73 and 79-73. I’m glad Tyson gets paid and has stayed safe.But what a laughable performance from Paul to add to his stinker with Tommy Fury.Verdict 10-9 PaulSunSport’s final scorecard – 78-74 for Jake PaulClick to read the full round-by-round breakdown. More

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      in Soccer

      Inside Wayne Rooney’s incredible trophy room as wife Coleen gives rare glimpse of Man Utd legend’s mansion

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      WAYNE ROONEY’S incredible trophy room was shown off by wife Coleen at the start of her new “Wagatha Christie” documentary.Coleen, 38, who is preparing to go into I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, has been with Manchester United and England legend Rooney, 39, since the pair were teenagers.Wayne and Coleen Rooney have been together for more than 20 yearsCredit: GettyColeen showed the ITV cameras inside Rooney’s incredible trophy roomCredit: ITVThey included mini replicas of Rooney’s five Premier League titlesCredit: ITVHe also has his England caps lined up as the most-capped outfield playerCredit: ITVRooney’s Manchester United shirt from the 2008 Champions League final is in the roomCredit: ITVSo is the golden boot he received for becoming England’s record goalscorerCredit: ITVIn recent years, Coleen has been embroiled in a legal dispute with Rebekah Vardy, the wife of Leicester striker Jamie, who she accused of leaking stories about her.And it was at the very start of the ITV programme about the spat – which first aired last year – where Coleen revealed Rooney’s extensive trophy room.The cameras show a variety of memorabilia including England caps, replica Premier League trophies, Manchester United shirts, match balls and accolades for his record-breaking goalscoring.There are also Man of the Match bottles of Champagne lined up on one shelf.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd a Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year award can also be seen rotating – a trophy he would have received in 2006 and 2010.Coleen walks down a long hallway into a room and turns the lights on to reveal the astonishing collection.Describing the room, she said: “So this is Wayne’s trophy room.”Everything he’s achieved over the years – his medals, his trophies, his hat-trick match balls.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSColeen walked around the room and pointed toCredit: ITVMan of the Match bottles are displayed on one of the shelvesCredit: ITVInside Wayne Rooney’s incredible trophy room as wife Coleen gives rare glimpse inside Man Utd legend’s mansionCredit: ITVWayne Rooney of England with his cap for 100 appearances (Photo by AMA/Corbis via Getty Images)Credit: GettyShe goes on to detail specific items such as a golden boot trophy he received in 2015 for becoming England’s top scorer.Rooney, who is also Man Utd’s record scorer, netted 53 goals in 120 appearances for the Three Lions – a tally that was later eclipsed by current skipper Harry Kane who has 68 in 102 games.Coleen Rooney’s sweet gesture for Wayne before she left for I’m A Celeb spotted by fans – did you see it?Coleen, who has four sons with her footballer partner, explained Rooney also has the most England caps of any outfield player – with only keeper Peter Shilton eclipsing him by five.The final piece of silverware she then describes is an England cap from their Euro 2016 clash with Wales.Roy Hodgson’s men won the match 2-1 in dramatic fashion thanks to a stoppage-time goal from Daniel Sturridge.Rebekah’s husband Vardy also scored in the game – and it was during that tournament where Coleen met the woman she would later face in court.Rooney spent 13 years of his career playing for Man UtdCredit: GettyRooney and Coleen have four sons together between the ages of six and 15Credit: Getty More

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      Gilberto Ramirez outboxes bloodied Chris Billam-Smith to earn unanimous decision win over brave Brit

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      CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH survived a bloody eye injury but lost his cruiserweight world title to Gilberto Ramirez.The 34-year-old Bournemouth hero achieved his boyhood dream by winning the WBO crown at the Cherries’ Vitality stadium last year.Chris Billam-Smith lands on Gilberto Ramirez during their WBO World Cruiserweight title fight in RiyadhBillam-Smith suffered a nasty eye injury during the title fightGilberto Ramirez was winner of the contest by unanimous decisionBut he dared to be too great, up against Mexico’s masterful southpaw WBA champ and lost a clear unanimous decision 116-112, 116-112 and 116-113.The Brit had been guilty of seriously slow starts in recent wins but got off to a flyer in Riyadh.The Dorset man landed a handful of stiff straight hands that a leftie like Ramirez always struggles to handle.And he showed confidence by walking the former super-middle champ down and landing a left hook.read more boxing newsRamirez, 33, made a perfect start to the second when he walked the Englishman onto a short and crisp left hook.The Mexican secured the second stanza by scoring again at the end of the session when CBS struggled to deal with his fast hands and got pinned in a corner and peppered.CBS made a strong start to the third, with long-range combinations. But Ramirez boxed his way back into the round with three more sweet left hooks.With 30 seconds of an even fourth round left, Ramirez landed a peach of a lead right hook that buzzed Billam-Smith and cut his nose, right on the inner corner of his left eye.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIt felt like a seminal moment that would let Ramirez run away with the fight or spark CBS into life.Six was another banker for Ramirez when clever digs scored with the officials. Eddie Hearn reacts wildy in the ring as Katie Taylor beats Amanda SerranoBillam-Smith smiled off one whack he suffered but it wasn’t a laughing matter with the scorecards mounting against him and the cut growing and gushing.The doctor checked the pulverised peeper before the seventh started and allowed the action to continue.Ramirez looked fleshy up at 14st 4lbs but his feet were superb as he changed angles and cut the ring down around the bleeding father-of-one.A left hook to the body made CBS gasp and tuck-up and then a right hand was plunged into his wounded face.CBS stumbled after a right hook clipped him in round eight but he shook his head in defiance and dug in again to land a few of his own choice right hooks.Ramirez raced away with the ninth with clinical punches that ghosted past Billam-Smith’s guard and popped his head backwards. But our boy never stopped marching forward and throwing shots in an effort to turn the Red Sea tide.Billam-Smith cuts a daunting figure as he makes his way to the ringBillam-Smith made Ramirez work hard for his victoryGutsy Billam-Smith went the distance but lost out to the judge’s scorecardsKnowing he needed a knockout, CBS threw everything in the 12th but he was a broken man and beaten fighter who can now race home to be a great dad to little Frank who he missed so much during camp.After the fight, CBS said: “Zurdo’s consistency tonight won it for him.”He was really good, he throws lots of shots and then moves.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The cut gave me problems, my sight was going blurry at times and I couldn’t see properly.”But his good work caused it and that’s the sport, no complaints.” More

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      Lee Carsley hands Thomas Tuchel final piece of England advice – watch out for service stations and WEST HAM fans

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      LEE CARSLEY told Thomas Tuchel to watch out for coffee-shop bores and West Ham fans talking up Jarrod Bowen.New England boss Tuchel is unlikely to spend as much time in motorway services as down-to-earth Carsley has during his reign as  head coach.Interim England boss Lee Carsley has given Thomas Tuchel two pieces of adviceCarsley revealed that he often gets approached at service stations with opinions on who he should pickBut the German will not be able to escape entirely from 50 million  wannabe England managers who all think they could do a better job.Carsley said: “It makes me laugh that everyone’s got an opinion on the team.“I’m on the road a lot, so service stations is where I seem to get the most advice.“Some of it is good, some of it is not so good. I seem to meet a lot of West Ham fans, very Jarrod-heavy.Read more England news“It’s mainly team selection . . . I was in a queue in a Starbucks and a fella was talking about the false nine and the tactics, after the Greece game. I just wanted a soy latte!”Carsley will finally sit down with Tuchel, who starts work in January, after he completes his six-game Nations League assignment on Sunday against the Republic of Ireland.He said: “I am not sure I will give Thomas a lot of advice.“He is in a better position than I am in terms of the experience he has had and the staff he has.Most read in Football“It will probably be more about the players, the personalities and the stuff you won’t see on the TV.Lee Carsley proud of England’s control in crucial Nations League win over Greece “I’m putting together a lot of thoughts, as are the rest of the staff.“I fully expect to catch up with him after the camp, and hopefully we can hand the team over in a good position.”FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSCarsley is not one to blow his own trumpet. But he clearly feels that if England win today, he will have fulfilled a brief that went beyond just winning promotion back to the top tier of the Nations League.Carsley, who has given debuts to six youngsters, said: “What we have tried to do is increase the amount of players available to Thomas.“It feels like the fans are really connected with the team. They like the fact that it looks younger, it looks energetic, it looks fresh.”And despite England reaching two Euros finals and a World Cup semi-final under Gareth Southgate,  something fresh was needed.Carsley accepts his ideas did not work in the 2-1 home defeat to Greece.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut he said: “It would have been quite easy to pick the squad that was at the Euros and go with the same players. But as close as we got, we still haven’t won yet.“To keep repeating the same thing and then expect something different, I think we would have missed a trick.” More

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      in Boxing

      Chris Billam Smith vs Gilberto Ramirez LIVE RESULTS: Main event on NOW as Brit looks to become unified champ – updates

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      CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH and Gilberto Ramirez are all set to put their respective titles on the line tonight – and the action will unfold VERY SOON!CBS pulled off a sensational 2023 win over two-weight champion Lawrence Okolie to secure the WBO crown.While Mexican star Ramirez holds the WBA title at 200lbs with only one loss on his record – to light-heavyweight icon Dmitry Bivol.Both men will be looking to become unified cruiserweight champion as the pair top a stacked Saudi bill.Main card start time: 5pm UK/12pm ETMain event ring-walk time: 10pm UK/5pm ETLive streams: NOW TV/DAZNTV channel: Sky Sports MixBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the action from The Venue with our live blog below…Gilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 11)You get to the point now in the fight where you feel Billam-Smith needs a knockout to win this.Ramirez keeps working those planned big right and left shots.CBS seems willing to take more of those punches to try and work an angle to get off that deciding punch that could turn the tide of the fight for him.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 10)Just when you think one person is edging the round, his opponent strikes with an equally as good punch.Billam-Smith lands some really good body shots than visibily hurt Ramirez.The Mexican is just not offloading the punches from previous rounds.CBS wins that round but will need to surely win the next two also if this is going to the scorecard.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 9)Ramirez catches Billam-Smith with a huge punch and it is just a wonder that he is still standing.The Mexican is not following up his shots and allowing his opponent to recover.CBS catches Ramirez with some good punches that do not seem to rock him at all.That round definitely went to the Mexican, CBS has it all to do.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 8)A much better round for Billam-Smith.It is Ramirez who seems to be running short of gas in this one.CBS lands some good head shots and Ramirez just tries to draw him in to unload that big right.This fight is still finely poised.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 7)The cut to the eye of CBS is a big problem right now.It was identified that it was caused by a headbutt so if the fight is stopped as a result of it, we will go to the judges’ scorecard.The medic has to give it the once over before the referee will allow him to continue boxing.Fortunately for the Billam-Smith camp he is allowed to carry on.You feell CBS needs to do more in these rounds now in case that eye causes an early stoppage.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 6)All too often Billam-Smith is walking onto Ramirez’s punches.The cut above his eye is streaming with blood and he is starting to look a little jaded.CBS lands a big punch himself to the head but it does not rock Ramirez like they did in the first round.He needs to come out of his shell more and land more telling hits.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 5)The big problem for Billam-Smith now is he is not getting enough punches away.Ramirez is having some joy with his left hook and has landed a number to the body and jaw.CBS need to start offloading more shots or he will quickly fall behind on the card.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 4)As the two fighters continue to come inside and exchange blows, both boxers land some big hits.Ramirez is starting to land those big left hands of his more now.One shot has caused some bruising to the eye of CBS.He is still getting head shots in as well but he needs to get the combinations working more.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 3)That was the best round so far for Gilberto Ramirez.He starts getting more into his tempo and starts unloading some good punches that land on their target.Billam-Smith puts some combos together which seem to hurt Ramirez.The Mexican probably just edges that round.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 2)Billam-Smith lands some early shots which are felt by his opponent.Ramirez looks to wear them and regroup and has some joy himself with the body shots.As he gets CBS on the ropes he lands some good punches.You can see it is in the interest of the Brit boxer to keep this one to the middle of the ring.This one was a more even round with both fighters letting their hands go.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-Smith (Round 1)That was a great round for Billam-Smith.His punches were doing some damage to Ramirez.He seemed to rock his opponent a few times in that round.Ramirez is looking flat-footed in the ring.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-SmithThis is the momennt we have all been waiting for.Champion versus champion.We can only have one unified winner at the end of this contest.Copy linkCopiedGilberto Ramirez vs Chris Billam-SmithNow we move to the co-main event of the evening.Ramirez comes into this fight as the heavy favourite.However, Billam-Smith will certainly fancy his chances in this unification fight.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza JrBarboza had to wait a long time for this fight.He has come to Saudi Arabia and done the job.It was a tight fight and if Ramirez had won the last round, we could have been looking at a draw.However, this seems the right result, Barboza boxed well and dealt with the Ramirez game plan.He also landed the most telling punches which played a major part in him getting this decision.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedArnold Barboza Jr wins by unanimous decisionCopy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 10)Barboza looks to end the fight strongly.He lands a lot of punches and feels he has down enough to win this fight.Ramirez still does not change his style but you have to question whether he landed enough telling punches.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 9)Both fighters are still very much in this fight.There is no need for a KO from either boxer as the only means to win, the card is very close.Ramirez is trying to impose his own style right now.He gets more clean jabs through the guard and into the face.This one is too close to call.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 8)This is going to be another tight one to call on the card.Ramirez comes forward more, looking to force his opponent onto the ropes and into the corner.He lands far more shots but towards the end of the round Barboza lands another clean hit.The unofficial scorecard has a single point between the pair.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 7)This may have been the game plan all along.Barboza is looking to let his hands go far more now.He catches Ramirez with an uppercut which he no doubt felt.It brings Ramirez on the front foot more and the pair exchange blows for the remainder of the round.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 6)Barboza starts to land a lot more punches.His combos seem to be having effect and it is resulting in him landing a lot more head shots.Ramirez sticks to his game plan but Barboza catches him with a heavy shot to the body.Towards the end of the round, Barboza lands some really good punches and no doubt takes that round with ease.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 5)Finally some telling punches are landed.Ramirez catches Barboza with a full blooded right but he wears it well.Later in the round Barboza lands a good right himself but neither boxer is showing any discomfort with the punches.With the low guard of Barboza, Ramirez continues to get jabs through that are landing.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 4)Neither fighter is really taking this fight to their opponent.They seem to be going through the motions to their game plan.Barboza is trying to stay away from the ropes and keep fighting in the middle of the ring.He starts to throw some combos to back up his jab more.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 3)Ramirez is continuing the keep the tempo going but his boxing style seems very predictable. Barboza is just staying back and trying to box behind the jab.You feel at some point he is going to have to go on the attack more as the card will be scored just on landed punches right now.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 2)Ramirez continues to land plenty of body shots.It is always his aim to wear his opponent down with them.He catches Barboza with a shot to the top of the head and it stuns him somewhat and takes him out of his stride.Barboza really needs to let his hands go more or with each round he is falling further behind on the card.Copy linkCopiedJose Ramirez vs Arnold Barboza Jr (Round 1)Ramirez starts on the front foot in the bout.Barboza seems content to box on the backfoot, waiting for his chance to step inside.There is plenty of bad blood between these two but neither boxer is allowing it to effect their approach to this one.Towards the end of the roound, Barboza lands some great combos which could have him edging that round.Copy linkCopied More

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      I felt sorry for England team-mates who toiled while I spent Christmas sipping cocktails on a beach, says Harry Kane

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      HARRY KANE has urged Premier League chiefs to bring back a ­winter break to boost England’s dreams of winning trophies.The Three Lions captain insists players need time off during the ­season to avoid burnout and be at their best for summer World Cup  and Euros tournaments.Harry Kane says he benefited hugely from having last Christmas offCredit: MegaKane’s England colleagues like Cole Palmer face another busy XmasCredit: SplashBayern Munich striker Kane admits he “felt sorry” for Prem stars who had to play over Christmas last year — while he sipped cocktails on a beach.Ahead of Sunday’s Wembley Nations League clash against the Republic of Ireland, Kane declared: “If we can get some sort of winter break for the Premier League boys it would have a big impact.“We had it for about two years in the Prem and it went down well with players.“It’s a shame they don’t get that break now. For a lot of the players it was important, even for a week to get away and recharge so they could finish their season and go into major tournaments. READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS”It’s going to be a hard one to change. But it’s a conversation that needs to be had.”Kane enjoyed  a ten-day family holiday during Bayern’s three-week winter break last season but would have played five games in that period at former club Tottenham.He will get similar time off next month, while Prem stars play four times.Kane’s plea comes after Manchester City’s Ballon d’Or winner Rodri threatened strike action over football’s “crazy” calendar — before an ACL injury ended his season.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSPlayers’ unions have also launched legal action against Fifa over next summer’s £600million 32-team Club World Cup in America which will involve City, Chelsea and Bayern.The Prem’s top stars face playing up to 85 GAMES for club and country this season but the PFA want a 60-match limit.England fans tear gassed by ‘heavy-handed’ riot cops as FA launch probeKane, 31, benefited from Germany’s winter break last season, ending up with 44 goals in 45 appearances in his debut campaign for Bayern.He  added: “In Germany, I get that winter break so I get a good block off in a tough period.“I did feel sorry for some of the guys when I was on the beach last year watching them play on Boxing Day and the 29th — and I am there with my cocktail.“It really helped me last year to recover.“Being in Germany gives you that luxury. I’ll have that next year as well.”England’s 68-goal record scorer wins his 103rd cap today after interim boss Lee Carsley dropped him to the bench in favour of Ollie Watkins for Thursday’s 3-0 Nations League win in Greece.Asked if that was a shock, Kane admitted: “A little bit. It was like, ‘OK’, getting my head around it.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But I wasn’t down about it, I wasn’t worried.“Lee wanted to give Ollie the experience in a tough away game we had to win and I understood his decision.”Ollie Watkins shone and scored when coming in for KaneCredit: Getty More

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      Harry Kane warns England stars ‘not every player is going to love the new manager’ when Thomas Tuchel takes over

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      HARRY KANE warned England’s players that Thomas Tuchel will not shy away from  confrontation in his bid to win the World Cup.The Three Lions skipper worked under Tuchel at Bayern Munich last season and says the German  will bring high energy, tactical brilliance and a straight-talking motivational style when he takes over in the new year.Harry Kane is preparing for England’s last game under interim chief Lee Carsley but gave an insight into incoming Thomas TuchelCredit: GettyTuchel officially takes charge of the Three Lions on January 1Credit: GettyTuchel, 51, lasted just over a year at the Allianz Arena,  falling out with some players and the club hierarchy as Bayern failed to win the Bundesliga for the first time in 11 seasons.And while Kane welcomed Tuchel’s  appointment, he admits some team-mates will not like the new England chief’s abrasive style.Kane said: “He’s really disciplined in what he wants and won’t shy away from confrontation if need be.“He is pretty straight in how he talks and maybe there were some players [at Bayern] who didn’t like  or agree with that.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS“But each coach has their own way of trying to talk to players, to criticise players, to motivate players, so not every player is going to love the new manager.  He will be very straight-talking in the media and won’t ever shy away from things.“Probably come March, there will be players who might disagree with some things.“In every team, every player has opinions — but ultimately the way he wants to get us playing will be exciting and I’m looking  forward to reuniting with him.”Most read in FootballKane reckons there are ‘many reasons’ Tuchel didn’t succeed at BayernCredit: APFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSKane, 31, says Tuchel loves working with English players and also believes they will appreciate the energy that the new manager brings.The Three Lions talisman said: “He really enjoys working with English players — well, he liked me and Eric Dier!Lee Carsley proud of England’s control in crucial Nations League win over Greece “But talking to the boys who worked with him at Chelsea, they got on well with him. He likes the mentality of English players.“He has a great balance of having a relaxed environment but when  it comes to work, he’s just really  passionate and energetic.“From my  experience last year, he did a lot around togetherness and motivational stuff.“Whether that’s videos or speeches, he’s just a really good motivator.  Tactically, he’s known for being one of the best — but it’s also the energy he brings.“It will be interesting for him because he will experience only having ten-day camps and then not seeing us for a few months.“In those ten days, he will want to bring as much energy as possible. “He gets that balance right of having a relaxed environment when you’re not training, with a bit of banter and a joke, but when you’re on the pitch it is full focus.“For international football, having that energy in short bursts is really important, especially when you get to major tournaments and you’re away for six weeks.”Kane says Tuchel’s personality will bring a significant change  to the calm approach of Gareth Southgate’s eight-year reign. The captain said: “We know  Gareth had a great way of keeping everyone together but he and Thomas are different in the way they approach training and tactics.“Everyone has their own stamp and I’m talking about working with Thomas every day at Bayern — so  it might be different when you’re seeing him every few months.“I’m hoping that, come March, it will be a real injection of energy to lead us up to the World Cup.”Kane admits  the announcement of Tuchel’s appointment last month came as a shock.England can expect a change in style from Gareth Southgate’s reignCredit: GettyForgotten England stars could benefit from Tuchel appointmentWITH Thomas Tuchel announced as the next England manager, a few forgotten stars might be hopeful of a return to the international set up.The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager usually uses a 3-4-3 formation.That could provide an opening for Mason Mount, who’s not been involved in the England set-up since the World Cup in 2022.The now Manchester United star enjoyed his most successful spell under Tuchel while the pair were at Stamford Bridge.Tuchel could also offer lifelines to other previously capped players such as Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Eric Dier.RLC has excelled since his move to AC Milan and with England struggling to find a partner for Rice, he could be the surprise answer.Meanwhile, Dier played for Tuchel at Bayern Munich as part of a back-three last season.The defender did enough to convince the club to make his loan move permanent after he had fallen out of favour at Tottenham.Click here to see the full England XI who could play under Tuchel.They exchanged texts back then but will wait until after today’s final Nations League fixture against Ireland to  discuss England together.The Bayern striker explained: “It was a surprise when it got announced. I didn’t know it was going to be him.“After he left Bayern I assumed he’d go back into another club — but it was a good surprise as I’ve worked closely with him and know how good he can be.”Asked why Tuchel had not succeeded at Bayern, Kane replied: “Many reasons. I think he found  it difficult from the moment he got to Bayern. Results weren’t terrible and we were very close to reaching a Champions League final. But there were  some bigger issues that  didn’t quite work out at Bayern.“It was a shame to see him go as he was a big reason I joined  Bayern. I had a great season personally and scored a lot of goals.”Kane was in straight-talking mode himself earlier this week when he slammed some England team-mates who have cried off from international duty.He returns to the starting line-up today after interim boss Lee  Carsley named him on the bench for Thursday’s 3-0 win in Greece.And Kane added: “It was just my opinion England is really important.“After a major championship, these September, October and November camps get forgotten a bit in terms of how important they are.“If we win against Ireland  it sets us up really well for the year ahead.READ MORE SUN STORIES“These camps build that culture and togetherness that leads  you into a World Cup. It was just a reminder  playing for England is really special.“It’s one of the greatest things that I do as a player — and  I always do it whenever I’m available.”England ratings vs Greece as Madueke and Jones steal the show after Kane benchedIT IS difficult to remember an England starting XI which, on paper at least, looked as totally underwhelming as this one.Yet manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel, presumably watching the game at his home in Bavaria, will have been hugely encouraged by this performance from what appeared to be a complete mish-mash of a team – and one which was awfully short of experience.Here’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay rated England’s stars…Jordan Pickford – 8Back in after being dropped for Finland last month – and showed a good response. Great stop to deny Kostas Tsimikas at the near post and alive to danger throughout.Earned his first-ever booking in 72 England caps for time wasting in the first half.Kyle Walker – 7Captain in Harry Kane’s absence and passionately conveyed his side’s frustration to ref Daniel Siebert when Pickford was booked.Moved to centre-back after the break when Ezri Konsa went off.Marc Guehi – 7Another solid performance from the Crystal Palace man who you would think would be a first-choice starter for Thomas Tuchel when the German begins work.Ezri Konsa – 7One of several players targeted by a laser in the crowd, along with Pickford and Belligham.Limped off just before half-time and was replaced by Lewis Hall at the break.Rico Lewis – 7Filled in at left-back over newbie Hall, before moving to the right when the Newcastle man came on.Almost had his first England goal early in the second half but was denied by a fine stop from Hall’s club-mate Odysseas Vlachodimos.Curtis Jones – 9Sparkled on debut in the heart of midfield, not looking overawed in the slightest. Played deeper than he does for Liverpool, but in the same position where he shone for Lee Carsley in England’s triumphant Under-21 Euros last summer.Gorgeous backheel to cap his bow with the third goal.Conor Gallagher – 7Started brightly next to Jones, though gave the ball away a few times after the break. Booked for stopping a quick free-kick early on.Arrived just too late to poke in the rebound from Bellingham’s strike as it had already crossed the line for an own goal.Noni Madueke – 9A blistering first start from the Chelsea man who put real pressure on Bukayo Saka’s place with this performance.He took on his man at every opportunity, at pace, and had excellent end product too, setting up Watkins’ opener and a header for Bellingham which hit the post.Jude Bellingham – 8Some sublime touches and passes from the talisman, including a wonderful ball round the corner to release Madueke in the build-up to the opener.Seemed to thrive with pace all around him and killed off the game with his late strike which hit the post and bounced in off the keeper.Anthony Gordon – 7Provided a threat down the left with his pace and trickery, even if he was outshone by Madueke. A decent display but not one that demanded he start at left wing every game.Ollie Watkins – 7The surprise starter over Harry Kane. He took his early chance well, converting from the edge of the six-yard box.Could have had another when sent clean through but the ball got stuck under his feet.SubsLewis Hall (for Ezri Konsa half-time) – 7Came on at half-time for his debut and did not put a foot wrong.Harry Kane (for Ollie Watkins, 66) – 6Had a curling effort well stopped after exchanging passes with fellow sub Morgan Rogers.Morgan Rogers (for Anthony Gordon, 66) – 8Some exciting touches from the Villa debutant, including one to release Bellingham in the lead-up to the second goal.Jarrod Bowen (for Noni Madueke, 66) – 7Clever nutmeg to free Morgan Gibbs-White, who then teed up Jones.Morgan Gibbs-White (for Gallagher, 79) – 7Cutback for Jones was on the money. More