More stories

  • in

    Meet Jake Paul’s secret weapon in training to fight Mike Tyson with sparring so good he is paying DOUBLE

    JAKE PAUL has found himself a secret sparring weapon so valuable he is paying DOUBLE the rate. The YouTuber-turned-boxer brings heavyweight great Tyson back to the ring after TWO DECADES away for a controversial clash on Friday in Texas.Jake Paul with sparring partner Dacarree ScottAnd to prepare for the former Baddest Man on The Planet, Paul recruited the services of 19st 7lb Dacarree Scott. Nicknamed Mac Truck, he stands the same 5ft 10in frame as Tyson and has been tasked with mimicking the famously ferocious Iron Mike. And he did such a convincing job that Paul doubled his day rate. Scott, 26, told SunSport: “One day we sparred and just he came to me and it was like, ‘Yo, I’m gonna pay you double.’ READ MORE IN BOXING”And I just was like, ‘Yo, appreciate it.’ It was unexpected. I’m just doing my job and for him to say that, it was perfect just helping him win. “So now it just made me get more confidence that he’s gonna win because I really push him. Tyson’s not going to fight him how I fought him.” Scott watched back vintage Tyson in a bid to replicate his brilliant best for sparring with Paul. He said: “I had to work on just watching film. Most read in BoxingJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”But I was watching young Tyson fighting back in the day. I suppose I was just trying to give him that look.”Tyson is 58 years old, he’s not moving like that. Like people say, I’m a bigger guy but I move fast. “Don’t let the size fool you. I give him that look and Jake just like, ‘It was perfect look.'” Paul, 27, was due to fight Tyson, 58, in July but the boxing icon was forced to pull out after suffering an ulcer flare-up during a flight. He instead knocked out replacement opponent Mike Perry, 33, with Scott remaining part of the camp. And after spending almost a year training alongside Paul, he has watched sparring partners come and go after being kicked to the curb. Scott revealed: “Power-wise, he got power, he got crack, he trains hard. “We go to track. He works out two or three times a day like a real fighter. It shocked me at times because you hear everybody, you hear it. “And then when I first came here, you see him split somebody’s eye. Boom, drops him. Boom, drops him.”And the coaches be like, ‘Get up out of here.’ And then, ‘Mac, get in there.’ And I’m getting in there and Jake’s trying to drop me! READ MORE SUN STORIES”He wants to make a highlight real. I’m just giving him a look. I did my part so he can go out there and shine.” Tyson returns for his first professionally-sanctioned fight since 2005, this time over eight two-minute rounds and in bigger 14oz gloves. Mike Tyson facing off with Jake PaulCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Mike Tyson lined up for Last Dance-style Netflix doc after Jake Paul fight with legend involved in multiple TV projects

    MIKE TYSON is ready to bash Jake Paul – and then become a TV smash-hit.Iron Mike, 58, aims to roll back the years this Friday when he takes on the YouTuber-turned-fighter in Texas.Mike Tyson is gearing up to face Youtuber Jake Paul this FridayCredit: ReutersThe former world champ has already got his eyes set on expanding his TV and film careerCredit: GettyThe wrecking ball, once dubbed the baddest man on the planet, couldn’t resist another battle in the ring – a whopping 19 years from his last proper fight against journeyman Kevin McBride.A tasty pay packet edging close to £30 million helped with the decision-making, although Andrew Ruf, Tyson’s manager for the last four years, isn’t ruling out further bouts.”I thought it would be one and done,” Ruf told SunSport about possibly more fights. “But I’ve learned not to put limitations on Mike Tyson. He has very little to prove, but he wants to keep competing at a high level.”READ MORE BOXING NEWSHowever, if this is the last time Tyson dons the gloves, the former world heavyweight champ will still produce the goods.Ruf revealed to SunSport several exciting TV and film projects the legendary boxer is involved in, some of which will be released “within the next year.”The Los Angeles-based entertainment veteran says Tyson is working on a Last Dance-style documentary for Netflix that will chronicle his incredible career, including all the turbulent ups and downs and current training footage.He’s also working on a “Boardwalk Empire kind of show” set in the 1920s, with the fight legend, obsessed with boxing’s rich history, helping shape the storyline.Most read in BoxingTyson is working on a Michael Jordan Last Dance-style documentary on NetflixCredit: NetflixJake Paul has won 10 of his 11 fightsCredit: GettyTyson took a chunk out of Evander Holyfield’s ear in 1997Credit: AFPFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSRuf says Tyson blew away the producers with the depth of his knowledge, which went from boxing to politics while incorporating the crime families involved.”I had him on with the two very talented showrunners nominated for an Academy Award, and they were pitching him the show,” he revealed.Mike Tyson knocking TEETH out in sparring for Jake Paul fight as training partner sends out brutal warning”It was like watching a master class light up when Mike started talking about the history, characters, and politics.”Tyson’s legendary mentor, Cuss D’Amato, found him as a raw 13-year-old before turning him into one of the most feared—and youngest—heavyweight champs in history. D’Amato sowed the seed of discovery that morphed into his “encyclopedic” knowledge.”Mike ended up giving all of us the lecture on what New York was like at the turn of the century,” Ruff added.There are also ongoing plans for another documentary centered on Brownsville, Brooklyn, where he grew up in his hometown, and a potential live show centred around the 2013 autobiography Undisputed Truth.Tyson may have blown a reported £300 million since his glorious, power-packed heyday – with drug addictions and prison terms threatening to dilute his sporting legacy –  but his recovery has been equally startling.With business manager Adam Wilkes pulling the strings of their Tyson 2.0 company, he has enjoyed massive success with a cannabis company and invested in vegetarian, fast food company Mr. Charlie. A now legendary cameo in the 2009 classic The Hangover set the stall out for this latest foray into TV and film.”I’ve been honoured to be a part of seeing Mike’s resurgence, redefinition, and what he’s been able to do on the business venture side,” admitted Ruf.Tyson may want to shove Paul’s bravado back down his throat, but his opponent’s ability to create a multi-million dollar business empire from scratch while raking in the dollars by showing the bravery to step into the ring has to be respected.Mike Tyson appeared in The Hangover which won a Golden Globe in 2010Credit: GettyJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTRuf agrees and admits: “I’m incredibly impressed with Jake’s self-promotion and impact on the sport. “Part of Mike’s appeal for this fight is how his presence spans five generations, from my 86-year-old father to my 11-year-old son. “Jake brings younger audiences, which opens up new business and sports opportunities.”Netflix has only just started to explore sports coverage—they screened a tennis match between Rafa Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz earlier this year and enjoyed huge success with their F1 Drive to Survive series.Ruf, however, predicts that following their work on a “perfect storm” of a clash between Tyson and the 27-year-old Paul, there will be a distinct “blurring of the lines between sporting events and streaming.””They’re ahead of the curve,” he said.He was known as the ‘baddest man on the planet’ after becoming the youngest heavyweight world champ aged 20Credit: Getty”We negotiated with Netflix, which has been a great partner on other projects we’ve worked on, like Stranger Things and Outer Banks,” Ruf added. “We could have chosen pay-per-view, but this Netflix deal will likely set records. The only event it might rival is the Super Bowl.”Tyson may be approaching 60, yet the fascination remains.The AT&T Stadium in Arlington, the stunning home of the Dallas Cowboys, will be jam-packed while millions around the globe tune in to see if Paul’s punching power really matches the size of his mouth.Whatever happens, according to Ruf, Iron Mike’s status as a sporting great – whether you like him or not – will never be in doubt.”Mike Tyson is in a category of one as a performer, as an athlete,” he said. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think what’s incredible about him is not just his star power or the fact that he’s 58 years old and looks invincible.”His story – the rise of Mike Tyson, the fall of Mike Tyson, and his persistence as a human being- define him. That’s why people are so drawn to him.”Counting down to Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson…READ MORE on all the build-up to the massive clash in Texas on Netflix…All the info:Latest news and features: More

  • in

    Evander Holyfield’s shocking boxing return aged 58 should act as danger warning to Mike Tyson for Jake Paul fight

    MIKE TYSON should be wary of history repeating itself when he steps into the ring against Jake Paul.That is the view of some fans, who are concerned the boxing great could be outmatched when he returns to the ring against a much younger opponent this Friday.Mike Tyson has been warned history could repeat itself against Jake PaulCredit: GettyTyson is taking on his first fight for four years against Jake Paul on November 15Credit: ReutersEvander Holyfield returned to the ring aged 58 in 2021 but was floored inside one round without landing a single punchCredit: X @ESPNRingsideIt comes after fans recalled how Tyson’s former rival Evander Holyfield fared in his own comeback fight against Vitor Belfort in 2021.The former two-weight champion, then 58 years old, returned to the ring to fight the former UFC light-heavyweight champion in an exhibition match.It was highly anticipated, raking in 150,000 Pay-Per-View buyers.In the build-up to the fight, many were impressed at how powerful and fit Holyfield looked, despite his ageing years, much like those currently talking up Tyson.READ MORE IN BOXINGHowever, Holyfield was wobbled by the first meaningful shot of the fight before he was knocked down with a left-hand moments later.Belfort won the Florida fight by a TKO at 1:49 in the first round, with Holyfield failing to land a SINGLE punch.And fans believe this should serve as a warning to Iron Mike as he fights for the first time in four years. Reacting to a video of Holyfield’s bruising defeat three years ago, one fan said on social media: “Once upon a time, 58-year-old Evander Holyfield attempted a comeback and got dealt with in a single round by an already over-the-hill Vitor Belfort. I pray Friday isn’t similar #PaulTyson.”Most read in BoxingSeeing Holyfield beaten to easily was a sad sight for boxing fansCredit: AFPMany fancied his chances in the build-upCredit: AFPBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA second said: “A reminder to everyone. A 58-year-old Evander Holyfield attempted a comeback and got dealt with in a round by an over-the-hill Vitor Belfort. “I hope this Friday isn’t similar #PaulTyson.”Mike Tyson almost KOs his coach in open workout for Jake Paul fightThe weigh-in for the bout commences at midnight tonight UK time or 7pm ET.Anything over 200lbs will be allowed due to the fight being set at heavyweight.The fight itself will be available to Netflix customers at NO EXTRA COST.A current ads-supported subscription will set you back £4.99 a month (or $6.99 in the US), while a standard one, which allows you to watch on two devices at once, is £10.99 a month ($15.49).The main card will start at 8pm ET / 1am UK (Saturday) with the main event expected for 12am ET / 4am UK.Special rules for the fight include softer gloves and shorter rounds.JAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUT More

  • in

    EFL club owner gives update on new £2bn ‘spaceship’ stadium included in mega plans for state-of-the-art complex

    BIRMINGHAM CITY chairman Tom Wagner has given an update on the club’s plans to build a new stadium for the League One outfit.Wagner has claimed that Knightshead Capital Management – the club’s ownership – remain “unwavering” in their commitment to build a new ground.Birmingham City chairman Tom Wagner has given fans an update on plans to build a state-of-the-art complex for the League One clubCredit: GettyThe club are planning to build a new stadium as part of the complexFans have been given a glimpse of what the food and drink options could look like in the new stadiumSupporters will have plenty of choices when it comes to having a drinkBirmingham City have already acquired 60 acres of land in the east side of Birmingham with plans to build an incredible Sports Quarter, containing a state-of-the-art stadium, new training facilities and more.But Wagner has called on the government to support his plans for the city by helping speed the process along.Speaking to fans at the club’s latest Open House event, he said: “We are deeply involved in complex planning and negotiations that will lay the groundwork for the development of the Sports Quarter. “Our heads are down and we remain fully committed to doing the work needed to make this vision a reality.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”While we’re not yet at a point where we can share every detail, please know that we are making progress.”Our commitment remains unwavering and we ask for your continued confidence as we navigate the process.“Try not to hang on every word we say, or every press we read, or every tweet we see from across town. “Your trust and belief in our vision mean everything to us and we hope that you have faith that there is a well conceived plan driving every action, utterance and strategic decision.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWagner is joined by NFL legend Tom Brady at the Knightshead Capital ManagementCredit: GettyPlans revealed that there will be a polo club open to fansThere will also be a fan parkThe project is expected to create 3,000 jobs for the areaKnightshead, who are backed by the investment of Birmingham co-owner Tom Brady, have already pumped in big money to the club with ambitions of taking the Blues back to the Premier League.And the Sports Quarter is their most ambitious project, a project Wagner has claimed he wants to see completed in five years time. Tom Brady in hilarious reaction after getting X-rated welcome from Wrexham fans for Birmingham clashThe focal point of the development would be a 62,000 capacity stadium that has been likened to a “spaceship” by Wagner himself.Alongside the huge new ground, which would dwarf St Andrews’ current 29,409 capacity, would be office spaces, social hubs and restaurants for the surrounding community.While a hotel and a new fan park are also expected to be part of the ambitious plans.Chief executive Garry Cook has had to temper expectations on opening the stadium in time for Wagner’s five-year plans.Speaking on the same call, Cook said: “Tom and his ambition is well documented at local and national level, particularly at Government level. “One of the reasons we can’t share much information is because there are so many moving parts.“This is not just looking for planning permission to put an extension on your house, this is mind-blowing and as we go through this period there’s a lot of things that have to be done, and you can’t really predict at any point in time.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I know Tom and if Tom had his choice it would be as soon as we had the space for the ground we would open and it would be kicking off in five years’ time at that stadium. “The goal is set, the ambition is set, the reality is there are so many moving parts that will impact that timeline.”Wagner likened the possible design of the stadium to a ‘spaceship’Fans will have incredible dining experiences on offer inside the ground More

  • in

    When I met Mike Tyson his hands looked like BRICKS… I don’t see how he can lose to Jake Paul 

    THE SHEER size of Mike Tyson’s hands left YouTube boxing star Slim Albaher convinced the heavyweight legend will beat Jake Paul. Tyson makes a controversial comeback on Friday to face social media sensation-turned-fighter Paul in Texas. YouTube boxer Slim Albaher with Mike TysonCredit: @SlimmySlim94Jake Paul with SlimCredit: @SlimmySlim94And despite almost 20 YEARS out of the boxing ring, Iron Mike is adamant he will be too experienced for Paul. Albaher – a 7-0 boxer himself from the influencer scene – is celebrity friends with Paul but hails from Brooklyn like Tyson. And when he finally got the chance to meet his hero last year – before Paul’s fight with Tommy Fury – he was stunned by the size of his fists.Albaher told SunSport: “I was fangirling and I was like, ‘Oh Mike, uncle Mike, I just went and shook his hand.READ MORE TYSON VS PAUL“His hand is like bricks. Like he has a giant fist man. Honestly, he’s just so chill. Everybody was chasing Mike Tyson, he’s a megastar.“I didn’t get to really speak to him, but I was so happy I got that picture. I got that one picture and I had a cheesy smile on my face.“It was so cool to meet him honestly because he’s an OG man. Everybody loves Mike. “I feel like Mike is probably one of the most known names in the world. Most read in SportJAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUTCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”There’s Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, like the most known figures in the world. He’s an icon from my city, Brooklyn.”Tyson’s last professional fight came in 2005 when he quit on his stool and threw the towel in on his boxing career. ‘Can you imagine Jake Paul’s face,’ says Mike Tyson trainer as he breaks boxing pad with brutal power in training video He did return in 2020 for an exhibition with fellow icon Roy Jones Jr – drawn over eight rounds. But against Paul records are on the line with the bout to be officially sanctioned over eight two-minute rounds – opposed to the usual three. And Albaher is backing Tyson to roll back the clock against Paul – but warned he must get the job done early. He said:  “I respect Jake Paul, I love Mike Tyson, but I just can’t see Mike Tyson losing. Honestly, I can’t. I don’t know why, man.“Like, we saw him fight a few years ago and he looked very explosive, very fast against Roy Jones and he was going very easy.JAKE PAUL VS MIKE TYSON: ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED AHEAD OF HUGE BOUT“I feel like the first couple of rounds, it’s gonna be very scary for Jake Paul. “But if it gets past the first couple of rounds, Jake Paul, I think Jake Paul will have it.” Albaher, 30, himself is on the verge of a big fight against online rival AnEsonGib, 28, with the pair headlining a Misfits Boxing card in Qatar. He said: “Gib’s been trying his best to try to avoid me. READ MORE SUN STORIES”He even said he’s gonna retire. He tried to go to MMA, all this stuff because he always avoids fighting me.“But now he has no other choice and now he’s gonna fight me, November 28th and I’m gonna show the world why he’s been avoiding me.” AnEsonGib facing off with Slim AlbaherCredit: Misfits Boxing Counting down to Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson…READ MORE on all the build-up to the massive clash in Texas on Netflix…All the info:Latest news and features: More

  • in

    Madelene Wright posts risque photo without any pants on leaving fans stunned at ‘damn gorgeous’ football star

    MADELENE WRIGHT posts a risque photo without any pants on to leave fans stunned.The football star is now at Chesham United Women after finding fame with Leyton Orient and Charlton.Madelene Wright left little to the imagination with a risque photoCredit: X @WrightMadelene_The football star loves posting saucy content onlineCredit: Instagram / @madelene_wrightHowever, Madelene has also ventured into the world of OnlyFans.She regularly posts saucy content online.And fans are often treated to glimpses on social media.But Madelene gave supporters an early Christmas present with a very raunchy new snap.READ MORE ON MADELENE WRIGHTTaking a mirror selfie, she sat on a couch in just a red bra.While her matching underwear could be seen lying askew to the side.Madelene protected her modesty with a blanket.And she struck a sultry pose as she held her camera up for the picture.Most read in FootballMadelene even appeared to reference pop star Kelis’ 2003 hit song Milkshake in the caption.She said, alongside a milk bottle emoji: “Damn right it’s better than yours.”Ten Times Footballer Star and OnlyFans model Madelene Wright Stunned on InstagramFans could not resist singing Madelene’s praises in the comments section.One said: “So damn gorgeous.”Another declared: “Looks so hot.”One noted: “I’m supporting whatever team you play for.”Another added: “My goodness wow, absolutely gorgeous.”Inside Madelene’s glamorous life as influencer, footballer and OnlyFans star…Wright lives a glamourous lifestyleShe often wows her fans with raunchy picturesCredit: InstagramMadelene has over 300k followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @madelene_wrightShe recently celebrated her 25th birthdayCredit: Instagram / @madelene_wrightThe football also has an OnlyFans accountCredit: Instagram / @madelene_wrightShe claimed to have made over £500,000 from the platformCredit: Instagram @madelene_wrightThe footballer has recently signed for Leyton OrientCredit: Instagram/@madelene_wrightShe has continued her OnlyFansCredit: twitter @MaddieMadeleneShe often dresses in revealing outfitsCredit: InstagramMadelene used to play for CharltonCredit: Instagram @Madelene_Wright More

  • in

    UEFA opens investigation into Premier League ref David Coote over video of him snorting white powder during Euro 2024

    UEFA have opened an investigation into suspended Premier League referee David Coote after he was filmed snorting white powder in a shocking video taken while he was on duty at Euro 2024.In the eight second Whatsapp film the under-fire VAR specialist is wide-eyed as he uses a rolled up US bank note to snort a four inch line of what appears to be cocaine.David Coote was filmed snorting the white powderThe video was filmed during Euro 2024Coote is expected to quit as a referee before he’s sackedCredit: GettyCoote, 42, was suspended by the PGMOL, governing body for professional referees, this week after a separate video emerged of him, again wide-eyed,  calling former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp a “German c**t”.The Sun’s exclusive new video was taken on July 6 – a day after the Euro 2024 quarter final clash between France and Portugal, where he acted  as a support VAR official.UEFA confirmed in a statement today they have now opened an investigation into the ref for a potential violation of its regulations.It read: “A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations by the referee, Mr. David Coote.”Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course.”UEFA have already taken action against the Prem ref by removing him from their list of officials for the upcoming international fixtures.In the viral video, the bedside table alongside the white powder are seen scattered with packets of prescription drugs, a credit card, and the Terry Hayes novel The Year of The Locust.He sent the clip to a pal and it’s believed he filmed himself in his Uefa-funded hotel room he used during the tournament.Most read in FootballNo referees have EVER been tested for drugs as David Coote faces end of Premier League careerEXCLUSIVE by Martin LiptonNO referees or match officials have ever been tested for drugs – as David Coote’s apparent “cocaine shame” is set to end his career.While all players and other athletes in British sport are subject to drug testing rules, including post-match and out of competition action, the regulations do not apply to match officials.That is the case globally across not just football and throughout the world rather than only in the UK.All sports follow the World Anti-Doping Authority code, aimed at preventing athletes gaining an advantage by using performance-enhancing substances.The Wada banned list also includes recreational drugs.But the Wada provisions, also followed by UK Anti Doping, which conducts tests across British sport, makes no reference to match officials.UKAD explains: “Any UK athlete subject to the anti-doping rules of their sport and non-UK athlete staying, training, residing, entering a competition,”Or named as a member of a team participating in a competition at any level within the UK is eligible for testing as part of UKAD’s national anti-doping programme.“Any athlete eligible for testing can be tested anytime, anywhere.”But the regulations do not apply to match officials – because of the “performance enhancing” provision of the world code.The PGMOL have revealed they are aware of the video of him sniffing a white powder.They told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.”The ref sent another photo from Frankfurt on July 1 which showed his credit cards on a saucer either side of six chopped-up lines of suspicious white powder. He was staying in hotel rooms appointed by tournament organiser UEFA.The pal, who wishes to remain anonymous, also reveals that the referee made other remarks about Everton football club and Liverpool player Andy Robertson.Coote’s previous comments about Klopp are now at the centre of both a PGMOL and FA investigation into his conduct.As the scandal grew this week, Uefa also took him off their roster for games during this weekend’s international break.Other videos were sent over the summer from France, where Coote officiated at three football matches at the Paris Olympics. They included the Israel versus Japan clash on July 30, where he was in charge of VAR.Coote also branded Goodison Park – the ground of Liverpool’s rivals Everton – as the worst place to referee due to the fans “shouting abuse so close to the pitch”.He hates officiating at Bournemouth games because it’s “too far away” and moaned he was “too big” to have to ref at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena for their Championship clash against Oxford United on August 16.The pal is speaking out to highlight Coote apparently bragging of taking drugs repeatedly during tournaments and big Prem matches.Shocking David Coote video in fullFirst videoFirst man: “What did you think of the Liverpool game earlier when you were fourth official?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm Liverpool were s***.”First man: “What did you think of Jurgen Klopp?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “C***, absolute c***.”First man: “Why would you say that Jurgen Klopp is a c***?”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Erm, aside from having a right pop at me when I reffed them against Burnley in lockdown.”Then, he accused me of lying and then just had a right f***ing pop at me – and I’ve got no interest in speaking to somebody whose f***ing arrogant.”So I do my best not to speak to him. [James] Milner is alright, I get on with Milner.”First man: “James Milner, he gets on with James Milner.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “You can see me there with mask on.”First man: “Mask on, obviously.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yea Covid, got to be done. Social distancing right? We’re two meters apart.”First man: “We have to social distance.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “Yep, so but [exhales] my God. German c***, f*** me.”First man: “Long story short, Jurgen Klopp’s a c***, Liverpool are all f***ing b******s, we hate Scousers.”Second videoSecond man (allegedly Coote): “Right just to be clear, that f***ing last video cant go anywhere, seriously.”First man: He’s a Premier League referee, let’s not f***ing ruin his career.”Like let’s face we’re good blokes but we can’t ruin a bloke’s career. We’re not that bad. Also he’s a f***ing legend.”Second man (allegedly Coote): “So, yeah.”First man: “So lets not ruin his career.”A PGMOL spokesperson told The Sun: “We aware of the allegations and are taking them very seriously. David Coote remains suspended pending a full investigation.”David’s welfare continues to be of utmost importance to us and we are committed to providing him with the ongoing necessary support he needs through this period.”We are not in a position to comment further at this stage.”Coote was suspended by PGMOL bosses earlier this week after a leaked video showed the ref abusing Liverpool and their ex manager Jurgen Klopp.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe footage was said to have been taken during the Covid-19 pandemic.An investigation is now taking place and the FA are also initiating their own probe, as Coote could be charged with an aggravated breach of FA rules after mentioning Klopp’s nationality in the initial leaked video. More

  • in

    Greece hero reveals why England clash is far more important for his country – but insists they won’t play for a draw

    GREECE legend Giorgos Karagounis insists tonight’s clash is far more important for his country than it is for England.The Greeks haven’t been at a major tournament since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil where Euro 2004 winner Karagounis was pulling the strings in midfield.Euro 2004 winner Giorgios Karagounis believes Greece can do the double over EnglandCredit: GettyKaragounis inspired Greece to an historic triumph 20 years agoCredit: AFPGreece will host England at the Athens Olympic Stadium where there is sure to be a raucous atmosphereCredit: ReutersBut they would be thrown a lifeline in their bid to reach the 2026 showpiece if they top their Nations B group all while missing out on the top two berths in qualifying.Ex-Fulham star Karagounis told SunSport: “The game will be more important for Greece because topping the group would boost our chances for the World Cup.”Statistics tell us that it’s harder for Greece to qualify for a World Cup while England shouldn’t have too many difficulties getting there.”Beating England is always prestigious especially in front of your own public. Winning would also be massive in terms of confidence heading into the ‘real’ games, the World Cup qualifiers.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Success in the Nations League is nice but after 12 years have to qualify again for a major tournament.”But now there’s more pressure on Greece after their great performance at Wembley. People’s expectations have risen and they now expect a similar result. The enthusiasm is back and there will be 70,000 fans in the stadium.”A draw will do but we have to try and win because settling for a stalemate is dangerous as it heightens the risk of losing.”You should always go into every game to win, never mind if you play a top team like England.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMore of the same as in their shock 2-1 two fortnights ago and the Greece should be home and dry.Asked if Greece can do the double over England like his legendary crop gloriously did over hosts Portugal 20 years ago, Karagounis said: “Yes, why not? My prediction is a Greece win or a draw.Lee Carsley insists focus is on players available for England after eight drop-outs”But we need to have the same game plan as in England and show the same level of concentration, grinta and mentality. The players need to believe in themselves, show respect but not be scared.”It won’t be easy for Greece because maybe England underestimated us and won’t make the same mistake twice. But likewise it will be difficult for them to win in Greece, many of their players are missing…” The team is confident now and there are a couple of young players who have elevated the quality of the team. Winning at Wembley does a lot for the morale and confidence.”Yet times have changed. While Otto Rehhagel parked the bus before trying to nick one on the break or on set-pieces, now Greece go for the jugular.Ex-midfielder Karagounis said: “Greece are now playing really well and have a propensity for attacking football. They go for it, create goal chances and don’t just try to defend like in 2004.”Against England we scored five goals but only two counted.That proves that we didn’t just defend, it was a “super-attacking” display.”Karagounis banks on talisman Christos Tzolis and Pavlidis, who scored twice in the reverse fixture, to do the job again.He said: “Tzolis is one of a new wave of players who have given the squad that X-factor. He also has a good shot from distance and can replicate my goal against Portugal at Euro 2004. Bagasetas too has shown that he can score from outside the box.”Pavlidis has proven that he’s a great footballer and plays at Benfica. But we shouldn’t compare him to Charisteas. They are different players with different characteristics. Pavlidis is an orthodox centre-forward while Angelos played as a winger at times and also defended.”Karagounis’ life has never been the same since he netted the opening goal of Euro 2004.He said: “That goal changed my life as it came in the first game against Portugal at their home. Everybody was saying that it was impossible for us to win as they were packed with superstars and had the fans behind them.”The pressure was on Portugal because they were expected to beat Greece. My goal after seven minutes was a shot in the arm. There and then our dream started to gather pace.”Those three points were invaluable as they set us on our way to the quarterfinals where we knocked out France, the reigning European champions and team to beat at that time with players like Zidane and Henry.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Once we got over the France hurdle, we were confident that we could go all the way and win the trophy. At home and abroad I’ve never had to buy a drink again when I met Greeks.”We gave the whole country belief, showing that if you’re united you can win even if you’re not the best. Greece can now surely draw inspiration from us for.” More