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      Ex-Premier League manager, 76, returns to dugout with National League side almost TWO DECADES after last permanent job

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      ONE of the Premier League’s first managers has returned to the dug-out after a near-20 year absence to take over Hartlepool United aged 76.Lennie Lawrence was Middlesbrough boss when the Prem kicked off way back in the 1992-93 campaign after previously managing Charlton.Lennie Lawrence has been confirmed as Hartlepool bossCredit: RexHe later had spells at Bradford, Luton, Grimsby and was in charge of over 1,000 matches but the last came at Cardiff before his sacking in 2005.Lawrence had previously worked on the board and then as assistant before becoming caretaker when Darren Sarll was sacked last month.Pools, who head to leaders York City on Saturday and who sit 15th, have now confirmed that the veteran will remain as manager until the summer.Lawrence will have ex-Woking boss Anthony Limbrick as head coach and Gavin Skelton as first-team coach.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLUpon taking charge, he said: “It’s been a very thorough and professional process that the board has conducted, and it’s a decision we’re very excited about.“A lot went into it and one of the priorities was a long-term plan, and the idea is to offer my experience where possible to develop the rest of the team.”Upon the announcement, a Hartlepool board spokesperson said: “We are really pleased to confirm our new management team following an extensive review and process.”Lennie has an incredible track record in management as well as with his mentorship roles of coaches and managers.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”He’s also proven on multiple caretaker occasions at Hartlepool United his ability and desire to step up and hold the manager position, which has been evident in his recent results and a reformed style of play.”As Board we were keen to see the trajectory and senior stewardship under Lennie continue, and with Anthony and Gavin we have also secured two outstanding pro licence technical coaches who are highly regarded within the game.Lincoln’s Ethan Erhahon reveals players STOLE the physio’s car and he was offered a ‘scrap’ with a fan – What the EFL”We believe their complementary attributes and desire to step up in due course will fit well with Lennie, to give the Club both the best opportunity in the immediate short term this season whilst also planning longer term.”Additionally we are looking longer term with the likes of Nicky Featherstone and supporting his development beyond playing career, and the full complement of first team support staff including medical, strength & conditioning, scouting and analysis will also remain at the management teams’ disposal.”Lawrence, 76, previously managed Middlesbrough in the PremCredit: PA:Press Association More

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      VAR has made just THREE mistakes in 100 games with TWO against Man Utd, but are Arsenal really victims of bad decisions?

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      VAR officials have made just THREE clear mistakes this term – after 100 Prem games.Going into the final weekend before the November international break, there have been 29 decisions overturned after the intervention of the Stockley Park video booth.VAR have made just three mistakes from the first 100 Premier League matches of the seasonCredit: PAErik ten Hag lost his job as Manchester United boss after one of the errorsCredit: AlamyLeandro Trossard was sent off in controversial circumstancesCredit: GettyThat has seen five goals awarded along with eight penalties.Ten goals have been ruled out and four initially-awarded spot-kicks annulled.There have been a swathe of conspiracy theories about fans and some clubs.None more so than at Arsenal, where supporters have bemoaned the PGMOL’s referees of their “agenda” against the Gunners.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey cited the inconsistency from officials that led to red cards for Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard and William Saliba – while players from other teams seemingly got away with similar offences. Add into the mix their frustrations following the 2-2 draw with Liverpool and they now have a full “laundry list” of examples – although their own manager Mikel Arteta debunked any suggestions of a conspiracy against his team.Elsewhere, Ipswich chief executive Mark Ashton is now suggesting he would vote to scrap VAR if there was another proposal on the table.But PGMOL bosses believe the reality is that they are getting it right.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Prem’s “Key Match Incident” panel of former players, managers and refs has determined that a handful of on-field calls might have been incorrect but did NOT meet the threshold for VAR to intervene.And that leaves just the three accepted mistakes – even if one of them directly contributed to the end of Erik ten Hag’s reign at Manchester United.Mikel Arteta debunks claims referees and VAR have conspiracy against Arsenal after flurry of controversial decisions Refs’ chief Howard Webb is expected to confirm during next week’s new episode of the “Mic’d Up” review show that VAR Michael Oliver was wrong to recommend David Coote award an injury-time penalty for Matthijs de Ligt’s challenge on West Ham striker Danny Ings.Jarrod Bowen converted the spot-kick – one of six successful penalties out of the eight awarded through VAR guidance – and Ten Hag got the boot the next day.United were also on the receiving end of one of the other two errors, with the FA subsequently rescinding the red card received by Bruno Fernandes for his challenge on James Maddison during the 3-0 home defeat by Spurs.The other mistake came in August, when Bournemouth’s Dango Ouattara wrongly had a late “winner” against Newcastle ruled out for handball.PGMOL insiders believe the change in emphasis to put greater weight on the “referee’s call” – requiring clear evidence that the on-field ruling was wrong – has improved consistency and acceptance of decisions.Matthijs de Ligt was judged to have fouled Danny Ings in the boxCredit: PADeclan Rice’s second yellow card against Brighton sparked fury among Gunners supportersCredit: GettyBruno Fernandes initially saw red for this foul on James Maddison but it was later overturnedCredit: GettyDango Ouattara had his ‘winner’ against Newcastle chalked off for handballCredit: YouTube/Sky Sports Premier LeagueMikel Arteta’s frustrations have been clear to seeCredit: GettyTV fixtures in DecemberHere are all the games that will be televised in December…Tuesday 3 December19:30 Ipswich v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Leicester v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)Wednesday 4 December19:30 Everton v Wolves (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Man City v Nott’m Forest (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Newcastle v Liverpool (Amazon Prime Video)19:30 Southampton v Chelsea (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Aston Villa v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)Thursday 5 December19:30 Fulham v Brighton (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 AFC Bournemouth v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)Saturday 7 December12:30 Everton v Liverpool (TNT Sports)17:30 Man Utd v Nott’m Forest (Sky Sports)Sunday 8 December14:00 Fulham v Arsenal (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Chelsea (Sky Sports)Monday 9 December20:00 West Ham v Wolves (Sky Sports)Saturday 14 December17:30 Nott’m Forest v Aston Villa (Sky Sports)Sunday 15 December14:00 AFC Bournemouth v West Ham (Sky Sports)16:30 Man City v Man Utd (Sky Sports)19:00 Southampton v Spurs (TNT Sports)Monday 16 December20:00 Brighton v Crystal Palace (Sky Sports)Saturday 21 December12:30 Aston Villa v Man City (TNT Sports)17:30 Crystal Palace v Arsenal (Sky Sports)Sunday 22 December14:00 Fulham v Southampton (Sky Sports)16:30 Spurs v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Thursday 26 December12:30 Man City v Everton (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 AFC Bournemouth v Crystal Palace (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Chelsea v Fulham (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Newcastle v Aston Villa (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Nott’m Forest v Spurs (Amazon Prime Video)15:00 Southampton v West Ham (Amazon Prime Video)17:30 Wolves v Man Utd (Amazon Prime Video)20:00 Liverpool v Leicester (Amazon Prime Video)Friday 27 December19:30 Brighton v Brentford (Amazon Prime Video)20:15 Arsenal v Ipswich (Amazon Prime Video)Sunday 29 December14:30 Leicester v Man City (Sky Sports)17:15 West Ham v Liverpool (Sky Sports)Monday 30 December20:00 Man Utd v Newcastle (Sky Sports) More

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      Brand new stadium AND indoor arena being built next to EFL club in multi-million-pound redevelopment of area

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      A CHAMPIONSHIP club is combining with two other top sports clubs in a huge redevelopment that includes a new stadium and arena.The High Court finally gave the go-ahead for the multi-million pound revamp after SEVEN YEARS of wrangling.AI images shows how the arena will expand the complexCredit: Bristol FlyersA hotel will also feature in the ‘exciting’ redevelopmentCredit: Bristol FlyersPlans for the costly revamp were first launched in 2018Credit: Bristol FlyersNow the organisation behind the scheme is promising facilities good enough for “major finals and European games”.Bristol Sport embraces three huge clubs as part of its remit to boost the city’s sporting facilities and credentials.Football wise, Ashton Gate Sporting Quarter hosts second-tier Bristol City.And for the past decade Premiership Rugby Club Bristol Bears have also played at the main stadium.READ MORE TOP STORIESNow it’s planned to move Super League Basketball side Bristol Flyers from South Gloucestershire and Stroud College to The Ashton Gate Sporting Quarter.The High Court has cleared the way for work to start next year.A new 5,000-seat stadium for the Flyers will grab the sporting spotlight.But a hotel is also part of the project, which organisers hope will see Bristol competing with cities like Cardiff and Birmingham.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSITV quote Flyers’ head Coach Andreas Kapoulas as saying the venue would “rank third largest amongst the other British Basketball League venues and ensure our ability to achieve long term financial sustainability”.He added: “Having our own home venue will mean we can compete at the highest possible level, attracting larger crowds and growing the sport.Lincoln’s Ethan Erhahon reveals players STOLE the physio’s car and he was offered a ‘scrap’ with a fan – What the EFL”It will have a positive impact on the city too as we will be able to host major finals and European games.”The scheme was held up after a nearby waste company objected to council plans.The development is connected to another application – for 510 new homes – which was approved.And ETM Recycling claimed noise from its plant would affect residents.But the Honourable Mr Justice Lavender has dismissed their case.He ruled there was no special reason ETM should be allowed to keep appealing.READ MORE SUN STORIESFlyers’ CEO Lisa Knights told the BBC: “This has been a long time coming… “With sell-out crowds consistently at SGS College Arena, having a bigger, purpose-built venue will ensure the financial sustainability of the Flyers and an exciting future for basketball in Bristol and the south west.” More

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      Inside Gary Neville’s FIVE failed restaurants including joint ventures with Ryan Giggs and ‘space age’ menus

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      GARY NEVILLE’S booming hospitality business empire has hit a rough patch.Not everything has gone to plan for the highly successful Manchester United legend after he was forced to close the doors on a FIFTH restaurant.Gary Neville has been forced to shut his restaurant with £1m debtsThe Man Behind the Curtain first opened in 2014Neville owned half of the Leeds dinerOne of the most unusual looking dishes was a denia red prawn served on a telephone – a play on the ‘Lobster Telephone’ object created by Salvador DaliThe Man Behind the Curtain had a reputation for artistic presentationThis comes after Neville’s Leeds restaurant went into liquidation last month with debts reported at £1million – including £519,000 owed in taxes.The Man Behind the Curtain was launched in 2014 and run by former Masterchef star Micheal O’Hare, with Neville owning half of it via Relentless Leisure.It received a Michelin star in 2015 along with three AA rosettes in 2016.The venue gained a reputation for its extravagant and highly priced dishes including denia red prawn served on a TELEPHONE – a play on Salvador Dali’s ‘Lobster Telephone’. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe filing also shows that Neville’s company Relentless Leisure is owed £366,848 by the restaurant.The accounts for 2023 are overdue but those for 2022 reported a £187,000 profit and reserves at £105,938.The closure of The Man Behind The Curtain isn’t the first time Neville has been forced to walk away from a restaurant.Here we take a look at his four other failed dining concepts…Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe Rabbit in the MoonNeville, 49, and former team-mate Ryan Giggs, 50, invested in The Rabbit in the Moon before it ceased in 2017.The Old Trafford duo would link up with O’Hare again after naming him the Creative Director of GG Hospitality in 2016.Bizarre ad sees Man Utd team up with tractor company Yanmar The idea was to run a successful space-age Asian restaurant in Manchester – but it only lasted a year.Diners were treated to fried calf brains, crispy rabbit ears and an octopus hot dog.The fine-dining venue was on the top two floors of Urbis, a six-story building on Exchange Square in Manchester.When O’Hare launched the concept, he hoped it would win the first Michelin star for Manchester in decades.But the bizarre space-themed diner served it’s last meal in 2018 after GG Hospitality announced significant losses to shareholders.The Rabbit in the Moon restaurant in Manchester was closed after two yearsChef Hare came up with the space-age Asian conceptCafé FootballMeanwhile, GG Hospitality endured a miserable 2019 as well after they were forced to close TWO Café Football sites after six years.Opening in 2013, Café Football initially occupied a big, echoey space in the Westfield shopping centre at Stratford in East London.There was a section of Fans’ Favourites including Karren Brady’s Match Day Classic – pie, mash and liquor, chilli vinegar for £13.95 – or Kirsty Gallacher’s Terrace Winter Warmer – chilli with steamed rice and soured cream.And Neville and Giggs decided to open one in Manchester city centre, but that closed in March 2019.The venues were axed after GG Hospitality said: “We have decided to shift our focus to our hotel business.”At the time Neville said: “They were decisions made by me while Ryan has been coaching…but we all learn don’t we?”Gary and former teammate Ryan Giggs shut Café Football in Manchester a week after they axed the diner’s branch in Stratford, East LondonA third branch remains open in Singapore, operating through a different company, but both UK restaurants closed in early 2019.Singaporean businessman Peter Lim is also a shareholder at GG Hospitality and owns the majority stake in Salford City.Class of 92 stars David Beckham, Paul Scholes and Roy Keane join Neville and Giggs in each owning 10 per cent of the League Two club.Lim also owns Valencia, the team Neville famously and miserably managed for 28 games in 2016.Nevertheless, a smaller version of Café Football has since opened inside Neville’s Hotel Football just metres away from Old Trafford.Valencia owner Peter Lim has been in business with Neville for many yearsThe Stock Market GrillThe swanky Stock Market Grill closed last July – after just four months of operation.It replaced Tom Kerridges’ The Bull & Bear restaurant at Neville’s and Giggs’ Stock Exchange Hotel, also co-owned by hotelier Winston Zahra.The British brasserie was the brainchild of brothers Joe and Daniel Schofield, who already operate bars in the city.A statement released by the hotel read: “We have taken the decision to close the doors to Stock Market Grill, as of July 3.”We want to focus on the hotel’s premium cocktail bar, Sterling, in the Vault.”The restaurant will, however, continue to serve breakfast and in-room dining to all overnight guests.”The Stock Market Grill was inside the Stock Exchange Hotel in ManchesterThe hotel is one of Neville’s greatest business achievementsNeville retired from professional football in 2011 and has gone on to build up a £100million empire.He has been listed as a director of 56 businesses on Companies House.While he has interests in media, hotels, pubs, restaurants and education, his most impressive work has been in property development. Among the most high-profile interests are his two hotels, which between them hold £32million in property assets – almost a third of his corporate net wealth.The star owns a 40 per cent share in the Stock Exchange development, which is close to Piccadilly Gardens, in Manchester, alongside Giggs – and he also co-runs the luxurious Hotel Football, which overlooks Old Trafford.Earlier this year he joined Dragon’s Den as an investor, alongside Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Touker Suleyman, Sara Davis, and Steven Bartlett.READ MORE SUN STORIESNeville also runs Tiger Sports Management – the residual image rights and sponsorship firm that he set up in 1996 when he was just 21 years old.And he does all of this while presenting and offering commentary for Sky Sports each week.Neville joined the cast of Dragon’s Den earlier this year More

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      New Man Utd boss Ruben Amorim to be without key coach for first 2 GAMES as Darren Fletcher slapped with massive ban

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      NEW Manchester United gaffer Ruben Amorim will be without assistant Darren Fletcher for his first two Premier League games.Fletcher has been handed an extended three-match ban and a hefty fine by the FA for kicking off with officials during Man Utd’s 2-1 win over Brentford last month.Darren Fletcher has been fined and banned for three Prem games by the FAMan Utd furiously protested Brentford’s goalThe incident occurred after Ethan Pinnock netted a controversial opener on the brink of half-time at Old Trafford on October 19.United staff complained as Matthijs de Ligt was forced off the pitch by referee Samuel Barrott after blood was leaking from a gash in his head.It meant The Red Devils were down a man when Pinnock freely headed in from a corner in the final minute of first half stoppage time.Fletcher has been charged with allegedly acting in an improper or confrontational manner as he criticised the officials.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe 40-year-old United legend’s ban starts on Sunday when Leicester visit for the second time in two weeks after United’s 5-2 Carabao Cup win. This means he will miss Amorim’s first two Premier League games, against Ipswich Town on November 24 and Everton on December 1.An FA statement read: “An Independent Regulatory Commission has imposed a three-match extended touchline ban and £7,500 fine on Darren Fletcher. “The FA alleged that the coach acted in an improper and/or confrontational manner and/or that he used abusive and/or insulting words towards the fourth official and the referee and/or assistant referees around the tunnel area at half time.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Fletcher admitted to this misconduct but denied that he was abusive. Ruud van Nistelrooy rejoins Man Utd as ex-team-mate Darren Fletcher gets completely different job and two coaches axed”However, the Regulatory Commission found this to be proven and imposed his sanctions. “The Regulatory Commission’s written reasons for its decisions will be published in due course.”United face FK Bodo/Glimt inbetween Fletcher’s Prem bans, so he won’t be limited to seat in the stands during Europa League games.Both former boss Erik ten Hag and his then assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy were booked for their reactions on the touchline.But emotions also got the better of Fletcher, who is said to have exploded at the officials inside the Old Trafford tunnel, which was included in Barrott’s referee report.Despite falling behind just before the break, United responded with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund sealing just the club’s third Prem win of the season.United are appealing the severity of Fletcher’s sanction.Man Utd ratings vs PAOKSUNSPORT’S Phil Thomas reveals which Man Utd players would have impressed incoming boss Ruben Amorim against PAOK.ANDRE ONANA – 6One great tipover to keep out a Camara half-volley.But any other stops were pretty routine.NOUSSAIR MAZRAOUI – 6Another solid, if unspectacular, display.An increasingly dependable presence by the week.VICTOR LINDELOF – 6Flat-footed once in the first half, but rarely flustered thereafter.Started a few attacks as well.JONNY EVANS – 6Wise old head at the back.But lucky to get away with going AWOL for one second half chance.DIOGO DALOT – 4Usually reliable, but shoddy with so much of what he did, and his delivery wasn’t great either.Surprising he wasn’t hooked earlier.CASEMIRO – 6Starting point for most of what United did going forward.Although that wasn’t a great deal to be honest.MANUEL UGARTE – 5Still far from the midfield general United hoped.Distribution disappointing too. No shock when subbed off.AMAD – 8 (STAR MAN)Livewire runs, impressive closing down, the crucial opening goal…and a stunning second.United’s best player by some distance.BRUNO FERNANDES – 7Knocked some marvellous passes, always looking to create.At least someone was!ALEJANDRO GARNACHO – 6Close with one header and a couple of decent runs, but all in all a quiet night.Hooked.RASMUS HOJLUND – 5One early header aside, little to work with apart from chasing hopeful balls.No clear sights of goal, either.SUBSRashford (for Garnacho 64) 6Eriksen (for Ugarte 64) 6Martinez (for Dalot 64) 6Mount (for Amad 81) 6Zirkzee (for Hojlund 90) N/A More

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      League One star reveals he stopped a stranger from ending his life in chance meeting by train tracks

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      JAMES BROPHY knows better than most that people can become so desperate they think life is no longer worth living.If the truth of that was ever brought home to him, it was on Easter Sunday morning this year — when he stopped a stranger from ending it all.James Brophy has opened up about the emotional moment with the strangerCredit: RexAnd while the Cambridge winger did not exactly start this season full of joy himself after a nightmare start, he declared: “One point from your first nine games? That’s just football.“What that man was going through that morning, that’s something very different all together.“People can find themselves in some very dark places and I’m afraid mental health issues are something I’m all too familiar with.“My grandfather suffered from depression and one of my brothers suffers from it too — so I know how really tough that can be.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“So if I would ever see someone considering what that man was considering, I would always stop.“I was speaking to him probably for about 20 to 30 minutes, just trying to talk to him about life, really.“I said to him: ‘Look, I can’t feel your pain, or I can’t compare what you’re feeling’.“But I told him about stuff that’s happened in my family and friends and shared stories with him.Most read in EFLMacauley Bonne also spoke to the stranger after arriving at the sceneCredit: Rex“Then the police arrived and about 30 minutes later, a police counsellor came and she was really good.“She took over the conversation from me and got him to a place where he was able to sit on the kerb.“When I got to him he was on the bridge with a railway track on it that takes you into Cambridge. He was on the other side of the barrier on the railway side, ready to jump.“In fairness to the policewoman, I couldn’t talk him into getting over the other side of the barrier.“My team-mate Macauley Bonne turned up too — he had seen my car and thought it had broken down. He was a big help through it all, talking to the bloke.“I’m just glad the police were able to get him safe and away — I just did what I thought needed to be done.“You can say what you like about that morning and my role in it.“But what else could I have done but stop? In my mind it was just the right thing do and I’d do it again.”The 30-year-old and Bonne, 29, later got a visit from Chief Superintendent Jon Hutchinson in praise of their actions — while the club called the pair “inspirational”.And things have lightened up on the pitch too after that terrible start.The U’s have won three games in a row without conceding a goal going into Saturday’s clash at Peterborough.Brophy even scored his first goal in three years to see off Woking in last week’s 1–0 FA Cup first-round win.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe added: “In football just like in life, you’ve got to just keep on going no matter the challenges — a bit like me not scoring for so long!“Garry Monk’s a top manager, we’ve got good players here — sometimes things can come down to the finest of margins. It’s how you deal with tough times and we’ve shown we can do that.”Help for mental healthIf you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support.The following are free to contact and confidential:Mind, www.mind.org, provide information about types of mental health problems and where to get help for them. Email info@mind.org.uk or call the infoline on 0300 123 3393 (UK landline calls are charged at local rates, and charges from mobile phones will vary).YoungMinds run a free, confidential parents helpline on 0808 802 5544 for parents or carers worried about how a child or young person is feeling or behaving. The website has a chat option too.Rethink Mental Illness, www.rethink.org, gives advice and information service offers practical advice on a wide range of topics such as The Mental Health Act, social care, welfare benefits, and carers rights. Use its website or call 0300 5000 927 (calls are charged at your local rate).Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk, is the a mental health initiative spearheaded by The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales. More

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      Inside Neymar’s luxury life with supermodel Wag, private jets and beach parties as £138m-a-year salary ‘under threat’

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      NEYMAR’S luxury lifestyle is under threat as his career at Al Hilal continues to be blighted by injury.Down the years, the Brazilian trickster has been impossible for defenders to stop on the pitch and irresistible to the opposite sex off it.Neymar has one daughter, Mavie, with girlfriend Bruna BiancardiCredit: Instagram @neymarjrSupermodel Bruna has 12 million Instagram followersCredit: Instagram @brunabiancardiThe Brazilian beauty often poses on beach holidays with NeymarCredit: Instagram @brunabiancardiBut in 2016 he celebrated New Year with 26 different womenCredit: Instagram @neymarjrThe former Barcelona star is now back with his model Wag and mother of his daughter Mavie, Bruna Biancardi.And he is raking in a stunning £138m-a-year salary in Saudi Arabia.But Al Hilal are now reported to be considering terminating his contract as his injury crisis continues.The Brazilian has played just seven times in 15 months since his move from PSG, as a result of a cruciate ligament injury.READ MORE ON NEYMARWhile his injury woes have been incredibly frustrating, at least it’s given him time to enjoy himself.And enjoy himself he does, living a life of luxury.Neymar and Bruna regularly post pics from private jets and glamorous beach holidays.Earlier this year he and his Wag enjoyed a getaway with a gang of pals.Most read in FootballHaving fun is nothing new to Neymar though, back in 2019 the footie ace rang in the New Year with 26 women at an exclusive resort in Brazil.Seemingly not content with simply going on holidays at exclusive beach resorts, the Brazilian is reportedly close to buying a £7m private island in his home country.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe exotic isle of Japao is found off the coast of Rio de Janeiro and is used as a 6.1 acre all-inclusive tropical escape for a group of between two and eight people.Someone of Neymar’s wealth and influence unsurprisingly has some famous friends.Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn square up as Neymar ‘acts like guest referee’ in baffling scenesHe is regularly seen with celebrities at Saudi Arabia’s biggest sporting events.Two weeks ago he posted an album with tennis’ most successful player Novak Djokovic after the Serb visited Al Hilal.And, like fellow Saudi resident Cristiano Ronaldo, he also frequently appears at Riyadh Season boxing events which are packed with A-list names.But while the five-time Ballon d’Or winner normally has a watching brief from a front row seat, Neymar has been seen getting more involved with the action.In bizarre scenes last month, the Brazilian was in the ring separating British fighters Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn with fans claiming he was acting like a “guest referee”.Neymar has three children, each with a different partner.Neymar has also become a keen golferCredit: Instagram @neymarjrHe often rubs shoulders with celebrities, such as tennis legend Novak DjokovicCredit: Instagram @neymarjrAnd he regularly travels on private jetsCredit: Instagram @neymarjrNeymar was bizarrely seen separating Chris Eubank Jr and Conor Benn last monthCredit: GettyThe attacker had son David Lucca with ex Carolina Dantas 12 years ago when he was still playing for Santos.Then last October he welcomed daughter Mavie with current girlfriend Bruna.However, a month after Mavie was born, Bruna announced the end of her relationship with Neymar.READ MORE SUN STORIESThen in July this year, influencer Amanda Kimberlly announced the birth of Neymar’s third child – daughter Helena.Nevertheless, Neymar and Bruna Biancardi announced last month that they were back together, shortly after Mavie’s first birthday.Neymar and Bruna broke up and got back togetherCredit: Instagram @brunabiancardiThe couple pose with US Open tennis champion Aryna SabalenkaCredit: Instagram @neymarjrNeymar is keen to buy a private island in BrazilCredit: Japao Private IslandsIts current owners promote it as an all-inclusive tropical escapeCredit: Japao Private IslandsThe luxury getaway is found just off the coast of Rio de JaneiroCredit: Japao Private IslandsThe view of the Brazilian coast from the islandCredit: Japao Private Islands More

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      Is there a rematch clause for Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson?

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      ALL-TIME great and former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson is stepping back into the ring to face YouTube pretender Jake Paul.The two go toe-to-toe on November 15, 2024 — but is there a rematch clause?Mike Tyson pushed Jake Paul when they faced offIs there a rematch clause for Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson?It’s a classic battle of age versus youth — Iron Mike’s experience and raw talent coming up against the Problem Child’s youth and self-belief.The fight was postponed in May 2024 when the former world champion suffered a medical emergency on board a flight this week as a result of an ulcer flare-up.As of November 8, 2024, details of the fighters’ contracts have not been fully disclosed.Neither the fighters nor their representatives have mentioned anything specific about a rematch clause.read more on Tyson vs PaulTherefore it is currently unknown whether one is in place for the eagerly anticipated showdown.While there’s no confirmed rematch clause, several factors could influence the possibility of a second fight:Outcome: If the fight is competitive or ends controversially, there might be public demand for a rematchFinancial success: Given the high-profile nature of this event, if it proves to be a significant financial success both parties might be interested in a rematch regardless of the outcomeFighters’ health: Tyson’s health and willingness to continue fighting at his age (he’ll be 58 at the time of the fight) could be a determining factor in any rematch discussionsContractual obligations: While no rematch clause has been mentioned, it’s not uncommon for such clauses to exist in high-profile boxing matches — they are typically announced or leaked before the fight, howeverNetflix’s influence: As the fight will be shown on the streaming platform, its interest in a potential rematch could play a role in any future negotiationsIt’s worth noting that rematch clauses are more common in title fights or fights between evenly matched opponents.Most read in BoxingShould Tyson fancy a rematch, he may have to wait a while.Paul told streamer Adin Ross: “I feel like I’m gonna take a little break. I’m gonna pull an Adin Ross and just disappear, man. I’m just gonna go off-grid.”I’m gonna keep fighting for sure. But I think my plan is to just get through November 15, have the best performance possible, knock Mike Tyson out and then just see how I’m feeling based off of that.”Mike Tyson smashed me to smithereens in front of his favourite fighter and left me crying… but we became best friendsWhat Mike Tyson has saidWhen the fight was first announced in March, Tyson said: “I’m very much looking forward to stepping into the ring with Jake Paul.“He’s grown significantly as a boxer over the years, so it will be a lot of fun to see what the will and ambition of a ‘kid’ can do with the experience and aptitude of a GOAT.”In relation to the prospect of another fight, Tyson told a press conference in May: “Hey, this has been pretty fun. Maybe we’ll do it again, yeah.”He didn’t mention any names in particular, adding: “Can I take care of Jake first, please?”What Jake Paul has saidIn March, Paul said: “The biggest fight of the 21st century, in the biggest NFL stadium in the US, broadcast live on the biggest streaming platform in the world…The bout between Paul and Tyson has been sanctioned as a professional contest by the Texas Department of Licensing and RegulationsCredit: AFP“My sights are set on becoming a world champion, and now I have a chance to prove myself against the greatest heavyweight champion of the world, the baddest man on the planet and the most dangerous boxer of all time.”Time to put Iron Mike to sleep.”In the documentary Countdown: Paul vs Tyson, The Problem Child said: “When I received the news that he was out and not able to fight, I was just numb.“I was just like, ‘f***…’ I’m the type of person who likes a schedule and likes to know what I’m doing.”This just threw a wrench in all of that. There was nothing I could do, it was out of my control.“Nobody can tell Mike Tyson what to do, and if he wants to fight me, of course I’m going to say yes.Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson fight posterCredit: Netflix”This is the opportunity of a lifetime to fight one of the two most famous boxers to ever live – Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson.“I look at Mike Tyson as a killer, so I never really expected something like this.”Big fight predictionsTyson Fury has every faith his namesake will shock the world and teach Paul a lesson.The Gypsy King said: “Listen, if Mike Tyson hits anybody, I don’t care if he’s 90, he’s gonna knock them out cold, in’t he?”Obviously I have to back Mike Tyson. I’m named after the legend and I’ll back him.”As he always backs me I’m backing Mike for the knockout. Come on, Mike!”Tyson Fury has tipped Tyson to roll back the years and KO The Problem ChildFormer WBC interim lightweight champ Ryan Garcia concurs.He said: “I love you, Mike.”You look good. I’m going to your fight, I’ll be there.”I’m with you in everything, remember that, always in spirit. I got you. Love you, Mike.”WWE legend Hulk Hogan is backing Tyson as well — he also believes it will be the ‘fight of the century’.He told TMZ: “When he gets focused, he will seek and destroy.”I see that bad dog look in his eye now. It’s like when you don’t trust a bad dog, it might bite ya at any time.Hulk Hogan predicts Mike Tyson will beat Jake PaulCredit: Getty”That’s the look he’s got. I remember that look from 25 years ago, it’s kind of scary.”Hogan added: “I’m excited about it. I’m kind of glad it’s rescheduled because I don’t want any excuses. I want both men at 100 per cent .”And I’ve got a feeling this is gonna be the fight of the century, brothers. This is gonna be a good one.”While former two-time unified heavyweight champ Antony Joshua disagrees.He told The Jonathan Ross Show: “He’s [Tyson] older now. I pray that he comes out healthy.”I think Jake Paul because of youth – that’s the only thing.”Anthony Joshua believes youth will overcome experienceCredit: RexIn April 2024, during a recent appearance on The MMA Hour, Tyson’s coach Rafael Cordeiro said: “I believe we don’t have to be concerned about it.”We’re talking about a two-time world champion. The guy didn’t have 20 fights in two years, he knows how to fight.”He’s fought against the best guys in the world. When he steps inside the ring he knows what to do.”It’s not something new for Mike, and this fight is no different.“He works hard every single day to go in there and try to knock Jake out from the beginning to the end.”This is his style, nobody has taught Mike Tyson how to fight. He’s going to prove that in July.”You can see fire in his eyes when he trains, and he will never give less than that.”I truly believe it is going to be a great show.”Fight night rulesThe bout between Paul and Tyson has been sanctioned as a professional contest by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR).This means that the fight will count on both boxers’ official records, a detail that was reportedly requested by Tyson himself.The fight is set to take place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, home of the Dallas Cowboys.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe fight will follow these rules:Eight two-minute rounds14-ounce gloves will be used (heavier than the standard 12-ounce gloves for heavyweight bouts)No headgear will be wornKnockouts are allowedA winner will be announced after eight rounds, unless there is a stoppage More