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      My son’s a Premier League champion – Tesco called security on me after unusual purchase because I was so proud of him

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      THE FATHER of a Manchester City title-winner has revealed how Tesco called security on him hours after his son’s historic first goal.Rico Lewis incredibly won a Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup treble before his 19th birthday.Rico Lewis is already a two-time Premier League champion at just 19Credit: AFPThe star’s father has recalled a hilarious incident in Tesco after his boy’s first goalCredit: Every Second MediaThe full-back scored on his first Champions League start against SevillaCredit: EPARico showed his fighting spirit under his dad’s tutelage from the age of twoCredit: .He helped the Cityzens to claim a record-breaking fourth-straight title on Sunday.And now the star is hoping to celebrate a double this weekend in the all-Manchester FA Cup final showdown with United.Full-back Lewis made his international debut for England in the 1-1 draw in North Macedonia last November.Despite all of that success, there was one moment in particular that left his father Rick Lewis incredibly proud.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAlthough it almost led to an interesting moment with a security guard.When Rico became the youngest player to score on his first Champions League start at age 17 in a 3-1 win over Sevilla last year, Rick brought every newspaper he could. He told Sun Sport: “I bought every newspaper in Bury Tesco. I spent 45 quid on papers!“A woman that worked there rang security because they thought I was up to something.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“They thought there was a protest or something going on.”Although tackling the former two-time British Muay Thai champion and his pile of newspapers might not have been the wisest move.Dream Team’s Nick Elliott previews this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament gameRick, who now owns Phoenix Muay Thai in Whitefield, Manchester, originally set up a gym in Bury back in 2001.Three years later, on the day Rico was born on 21 November 2004, he hung up his fighting gloves.Rick said: “Something went out of me instantly when he was born.“I looked at him and thought it’s too selfish getting in the ring and getting hit. I don’t know how people do it.”However, that did not stop Rico and his 16-year-old sister Sacha, who is in City’s academy, following in their father’s footsteps.Rico started training aged just two and had his first fight at THREE with a boy twice his age and size – something the 5ft 7in ace would go on to do on the pitch. A workout with Rick LewisSUNSPORT’S Isabelle Barker was put through her paces by former British Muay Thai champion Rick Lewis, the dad of Manchester City star Rico. Here is her gruelling workout…

      We started off using what looked like medieval torture contraption to stretch the legs to help with flexibility when kicking. 

      Rick started off practising roundhouse kicks with me as kicking is an integral part of Muay Thai and scores more than punches in a fight. 

      We then moved on to setting up the kicks up with punches like jab, cross and a hook as well as fakes. 

      Rick even managed to get me to do a Question Mark Kick, which is a deceptive technique used to fool the opponent into thinking you’re attacking low but really your intended target is high. 
      We finished off with some combinations involving punches, low kicks, switch kicks and head kicks. 

      Rico, who joined City’s academy aged eight and holds a whopping 30-fight unbeaten streak, still trains Muay Thai with his dad.He does it most during pre season, hitting pads and taking part in fitness drills like the bleep test.And it is easy to see the fighter within him when he brushes off being clattered to the floor by players double his stature and height.Rick added: “He is only 19, people don’t remember that. They criticise him but to me he is still a baby.“He gets kicked to the floor but jumps straight up again and wins the ball back.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I think Muay Thai made him prepared and ready to be coachable to Pep. He is so disciplined.“It’s only ever been him in the ring when he’s fought and that has helped him so much.”Man City’s five key moments this seasonA look at the five key moments in Man City’s title winning campaign…

      Luton 1 – 2 Man City: City bounce back from a run of four games without a win to kick-start their unbeaten run.
      Newcastle 2 – 3 Man City: Kevin De Bruyne returns from injury to come off the bench and inspire a late turnaround against the Magpies.
      Man City 3 – 1 Man Utd: Phil Foden puts on a masterclass as City lay down a marker on their title ambitions and breeze past their local rivals in the process.
      Man City 0 – 0 Arsenal: A goalless draw that, although disappointing, meant City were still keeping pace with the teams around them and could maintain their spot in the title race. A loss could have put Arsenal out of sight of the Cityzens.
      Man City 4 – 1 Aston Villa: Following consecutive draws against title rivals Arsenal and Liverpool, City bounce back with a thumping of Unai Emery’s high-flying Villa to keep the pressure on the Gunners. More

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      Arsenal fans mock new Gunners kit for resembling Tesco’s Value range

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      ARSENAL have been mocked online after their new home kit appeared to resemble Tesco’s cut-price Value range.The title-hunters, whose league hopes will be decided today, launched next season’s kit last week.Arsenal have been mocked online for their new home kitCredit: TwitterFans are saying the kit looks like the Tesco Value logoCredit: TwitterBut Gunners fans claimed the Adidas home kit’s blue-striped sleeves reminded them of the discount product line.Posting online, @RipleyAWFC said: “I really can’t look at the new Arsenal kit with the blue stripes and not think of Tesco Value.”But Mattie Powell backed the club, joking: “Love the new shirt.“Purchased it then read comment about sleeves looking like Tesco Value. Love it even more now!”READ MORE ON ARSENALOthers criticised the club for the £85 price tag, claiming it was anything but good value.Tesco Value was a range of everyday products sold by the retailer from 1993 until 2012.It was rebranded as Everyday Value.Its blue-and-white striped design earned the products a cult following.Most read in FootballThe supermarket also released socks and an oversized blue “oodie” jumper inspired by the Value line.The new Arsenal kit features a new change to the club’s crest.Arsenal’s 2024/24 home kit with new badge released as fans say ‘we have unprecedented amounts of sauce’ The Gunners will need every little help from West Ham, who face title rivals Man City, as they bid to win the Premier League for the first time in 20 years this afternoon. More

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      Celebrity Big Brother star Nicola McLean backs our Footie For All Campaign to give clubs £1k funding boost

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      NICOLA McLean praises The Sun for ensuring every child can play football as we relaunch our Footie For All funding. In partnership with Tesco’s Stronger Starts campaign, we have another 150 grants to hand out to youth grass root football clubs across the UK. The reality star is delighted to see more girls playing football thanks to our grantCredit: Olivia WestNicola’s son Rocky, 13, had played for the boys devision of the clubCredit: Olivia WestWAG and Celebrity Big Brother star Nicola said: “Playing sport is something every child deserves to have access to, no matter what life is like at home. “Seeing the work of this grant from The Sun and Tesco in action is amazing, as all the girls here clearly love playing football. This cash makes sure they can keep getting training despite money being tight for everyone.  “I’m excited that women’s football is getting so much attention, and who knows, maybe one of the players here will represent England one day.”Her backing follows the support of Jarrod Bowen, Eric Dier, Raheem Sterling, and Gary Lineker. READ MORE ON FOOTIE FOR ALLLast year, we launched our Footie For All campaign to shine a light on how financial struggles were forcing kids to give up football.Figures showed that 94 per cent of grassroots clubs were concerned about the impact soaring costs were having on their membership, according to charity Sported.Our last round of funding saw £150,000 given to remarkable clubs, and we’ve been blown away by how much they do to help their community while ensuring everyone keeps playing the beautiful game. From starting up new teams, providing free places for low-income families children to replacing old and out of date equipment, the cash has been put to good use.Most read in FootballSo today we urge YOU to apply for one of our fantastic 150 Footie For All grants.The cash can be used in any way that encourages more children to take up the sport or improves access to the game.How to apply
      WE want to hear about YOUR club and the huge difference you make for kids in your community.
      If you are a not-for-profit grassroots football club in England, Wales or Scotland, working with youngsters under the age of 18, you could be eligible for one of our 150 grants.
      Funds can be used for anything that gets kids into the sport.
      Your club might need help with pitch fees or want to sponsor places for kids from low-income families.

      Entries close at midnight, April 30.

      Nicola has spent years ferrying her boys to grassroots training and knows how important it isCredit: Olivia WestIan Wright confirms plans for when season ends on Sky Sports after Carragher jokes ‘You’re on a Bosman this summer’Perhaps you are a local team that wants to offer parents help with membership fees.Maybe you need new kits or more pitch space to play on. Grants can also be used to help with transport or general running costs.Nicola, 42, has had first-hand experience of grassroots as both her boys have played for local clubs since they were four years old. She went to visit the girls division of Flackwell Heath Minors team to see how they are putting their grant to use getting more girls involved. During her visit to the Buckinghamshire club, she said: “I’ve loved seeing how this club has embraced the girls and made them feel as welcome and as good as the boys teams. They’re all amazing.”Footie favourites back Sun campaignPREM stars have queued up to praise our grassroots drive….
      PHIL FODEN
      Reddish Vulcans, Manchester City, England
      “Grass roots football is where it began for all of us. It brings happiness for so many people and it’s so important nothing gets in the way of everyone having that opportunity.”
      HARRY MAGUIRE
      Brunsmeer Athletic, Barnsley, Sheffield United, Hull City, Leicester City, Manchester United, England 
       “I SPENT my childhood with a ball at my feet. Playing with a team gives kids an outlet and a chance to learn discipline and to make friends with people they might not have met.”
      RAHEEM STERLING
      Alpha & Omega FC, QPR, Liverpool, Man City, Chelsea & England 
       “MY mentor got me into football to correct my behaviour. I found something I wanted to put my energy into. I fell in love with it – and I made friends for life.”
      JARROD BOWEN
      Leominster Miners, Hereford Utd, Hull City, West Ham & England
       “WE can’t let kids see their dream die simply because Mum or Dad can’t afford to pay for the subs, kit and travel. Football is for everyone.”
      JOHN STONES
      Penistone Church FC, Barnsley, Everton, Man City & England
      “PLAYING grassroots football as a kid with my friends for my local team was the first step into football for me, and I never looked back.
      “It played such an important part of my childhood and I’ll always be so grateful for the opportunity it provided for me and so many other children.
      “Grassroots football often provides a happy and safe environment for children to play, meet friends and learn new skills. If it wasn’t for that start I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to learn important life skills on and off the pitch while having fun with my mates.
      “It can give children something to look forward to, even when things may be difficult, and make such a positive impact for both parents and kids.”
      ERIC DIER
      “FOOTBALL is a lifeline for many. It encourages teamwork, discipline, friendship, improved health and wellbeing and a sense of community. I know kids will benefit from the game and all that comes with it.”

      She’s used to ferrying her boys to training sessions, as both Rocky, 13, and Striker, 18, have played football at a grassroots level.  Nicola said: “My youngest son Rocky played for Flackwell Heath. Grassroots football is majorly important. Both of my boys have done it, and it’s given them a sense of community, and it’s been a great way to make friends. “Kids also learn how to win and how to lose. They need to be taught both of those.“It’s a great thing to do and as many people who can be involved in grassroots football should be. It really shouldn’t come down to finances as to if a kid can play or not. All I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing football.Declan Breen, club chairman“It needs to be open to as many people as possible, and that is what The Sun’s grant ensures.”Nicola, who is married to former West Ham player Tom Williams, was told by coaches that the girls had improved in confidence and skills since playing with their own gender. Rocky now plays for Slough, and Striker is honing his skills at Beaconsfield. Thanks to our grant, the club has been able to rent more pitch spaces and boy more goals to see as many girls as possible playing with them.Flackwell Heath Minors chairman Declan Breen said: “The grant means we’re not restricted by money when it comes to provisions. “We’ve been able to rent more pitches and get goals, allowing more girls to play with us. READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s also helped cover the costs of one of our teams, too.“It’s been fantastic, so all I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing football.”Declan Breen told Nicola how much of a difference the grant is making to the clubCredit: Olivia WestShe reguarly watches her son Striker play matches with his local clubShe even took a turn at showing off her fancy footwork with the girlsCredit: Olivia West More

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      Olly Murs hails The Sun’s £150k grants to grassroots football, saying ‘now no kids gets left behind’

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      OLLY MURS has hailed The Sun’s Footie For All campaign – as we help grassroots clubs net a share of a new £150,000 cashpot.In partnership with Tesco’s Stronger Starts initiative, we have a further 150 grants of £1,000 each to hand out to youth clubs across the UK.Olly Murs has hailed The Sun’s Footie For All campaign, which funds grassroots clubs across the countryCredit: Paul EdwardsPopstar Murs, who played semi-professionally before hitting the big time, represented England at Soccer Aid 2012 in aid of Unicef at Old TraffordCredit: Getty – ContributorThe bumper fund matches our first round of grants dished out last year.Visiting the Crown & Manor club in Hackney, East London — one of the recipients of our initial awards — Olly, 39, said: “In 2024 the cost of ­living is so high for so many families.“For the kids to suffer and not be able to come and play football because their ­parents cannot afford it would be such a tragedy.“So the fact The Sun and Tesco are doing this will help families to get their children playing football.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“That’s the good thing about this campaign. The grants are there to ensure no kid gets left behind.”We launched our Footie For All campaign last year to shine a light on how financial struggles were forcing children to give up football.A safe spaceFigures from charity Sported showed 94 per cent of grassroots clubs were worried about the impact soaring costs were having on membership.Our first batch of grants saw £150,000 given out thanks to support from Tesco Stronger Starts, which funds healthy food and activities for kids across the UK.Most read in FootballWe were inundated with applications for help, along with stories of local teams making a huge difference in their communities.So we wanted to offer clubs more assistance.Erling Haaland reveals secret talent after childhood vid goes viralFrom starting up new teams and providing free places for kids of low-income families, to replacing old and out-of-date equipment, the cash has gone to good use.So today we urge YOU to apply for one of our fantastic new Footie For All grants.They can be used in any way that encourages kids to take up the sport or aids access to the game.Perhaps you are a local team that wants to offer parents help with membership fees.Maybe you need new kits or more pitch space to play on.Grants can also be used to help with transport or general running costs.Before shooting to fame on The X Factor in 2009, Olly played semi-professionally for Witham Town in Essex until 2008, when injury ended his career.It’s great to see the impact this grant is having on the kidsOlly MursThe singer — soon to become a dad for the first time with bodybuilder wife Amelia Tank — was delighted to see kids benefit from our campaign.The chart-topper and Soccer Aid regular said: “It’s an honour to be at Crown & Manor and to see where the money is going that The Sun and Tesco have put together.“I’m sure playing here helps them with communication as they interact across different age groups and it brings them together. There are ­different ages, cultures, ­languages, and they all just love ­playing football.“It doesn’t matter who you are off the pitch. It all comes down to who is going to win that ball first.“It’s great to see the impact this grant is having on the kids at Crown & Manor.”The club’s youngsters come mainly from low income families.Organisers aim to provide a safe space and positive role models for every child.For just £1, kids have access to sport, homework help and a chance to socialise with their peers.Olly started his playing career with Valley Green, near his home in Witton, Essex, where his dad coached.Life changing opportunity He says it gave him confidence and taught him how to chat with anyone.“For me, at 13 years of age, playing grassroots football was where my social network began,” he said.“It’s where I got all my friends. It was my escapism from all my other worries, like school or experiences as a teenager. It gave me the confidence to chat with people and I had team-mates I could lean on if I ever got in any trouble.“When I get back to Essex, I still see the people I used to play with. That friendship has never been forgotten. Grassroots was a big part of my life and I think every kid should get involved in something team related. I know my life would have been different without it.”During his visit to the 100-year-old Crown & Manor club, Olly had a kickaround with the 13, 14 and 15-year-olds, who had no problem trying to steal the ball from him.Olly enjoyed a kickabout with young players from Crown and Manor football club in HackneyCredit: Paul EdwardsReality star and mum-of-two Nicola McLean, 42, visited Flackwell Heath Minors girls’ team to see how the money we awarded is being put to useCredit: Olivia WestAs well as posing for selfies, he even took a turn in goal.But thanks to his squad’s defenders, he didn’t have to make any saves.Former West Ham Academy player and team coach Jason Mason, 39, was impressed with Olly’s skills on the pitch.And he is glad The Sun has been able to provide each of Crown & Manor’s teams with a new strip.“The £1,000 grant means our four teams have a new kit,” he said.“Some of them were getting very old. It’s helped us a lot with making that possible.”Having Olly down to play some games also really boosted the boys.‘Sense of community’Jason said: “It’s great for them to see that Olly is just a normal person like them. They’ve really enjoyed the ­session, and how many people can say they’ve played football with Olly Murs?”Mum Tyler, whose son Artie, 12, plays football at Crown & Manor, said of her lad: “He’s been coming to the club since he was about six.“It’s amazing what they do for the kids. Everyone is so lovely and it’s a really nice place for him to be. It’s built his confidence 100 per cent. He started secondary school and knowing the older kids from football made it so much easier.“I’d never let my son out on the streets, so if he wasn’t here he’d be in his bedroom on a PlayStation or something. Every youth worker, regardless of their age, helps our children in different ways.”Meanwhile, reality star and mum-of-two Nicola McLean, 42, visited Flackwell Heath Minors girls’ team to see how the money we awarded is being put to use.On her trip to the Bucks club, she said: “I’ve loved seeing how this club has embraced the girls and made them feel as welcome as the boys’ teams. They’re all amazing.”Nicola is used to ferrying her boys — Rocky, 18, and 13-year-old Striker — to training sessions as both played football at this level.The star, married to former West Ham player Tom Williams, 43, said: “My eldest son Rocky played for Flackwell Heath. Grassroots football is majorly important. Both my boys have done it. It’s given them a sense of ­community and it’s been a great way to make friends.“Kids also learn how to win and lose. They need to be taught both of those. It’s a great thing and as many people as possible should be involved in grassroots football.All I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing ­footballDeclan Breen “It shouldn’t come down to finances whether a kid can play or not. That is what The Sun’s grant ensures.”Nicola was told by coaches at Flackwell Heath Minors that the girls had improved in confidence and skills since playing with their own gender.Thanks to our Footie For All grant, the club has been able to rent and buy more of the things it needs to open up the game to as many girls as possible.Club chairman Declan Breen said: “The grant means we’re not restricted by money when it comes to provisions.“We’ve been able to rent more pitches and get goals, allowing more girls to play with us.“It’s also helped cover the costs of one of our teams.“It’s been fantastic, so all I can say to The Sun is thank you for helping us get girls playing ­football.”Olly, soon to become a father with wife Amelia Tank, was delighted to see kids benefit from The Sun’s football campaignCredit: GettyCurzon Ashton FC Community FoundationDESPITE there being a high number of low-income families locally, this club is ensuring that money is not a barrier to kids joining its ranks.Ashton-under-Lyme is a deprived part of Greater Manchester, but Curzon Ashton FC charges just £3 a session and has players aged six to 80, some with disabilities.Curzon Ashton FC has many projects including weekly after-school girls’ football sessionsFoundation manager Mike Smith, 54, from Gateshead, says: “Everything we do is virtually free or for a small subscription. Football is a powerful tool for engaging with the community and keeping people socialised, fit and active.” Their many projects include weekly after-school girls’ football sessions, with 21 youngsters participating so far. Mike says: “It gives parents the chance to let the children do something free.”Our £1,000 grant has helped pay for this, plus new equipment.Mike adds: “Thanks to the funding from The Sun and Tesco we’re able to give girls the opportunity to play and learn new skills.”Northwich Victoria Juniors FCTHIS busy club has a mighty 22 teams, with players starting as young as six, and ensures everyone has the opportunity to access football.“That’s our ethos,” says chairman Robert Walsh, 50, who has worked at the Cheshire club for a decade, starting as a coach. Football is an amazing way for young kids to make friends and gives confidence as well as being a great way of keeping fit and active.”Northwich Victoria Juniors FC has 22 teams to joinThe club used its £1,000 Sun grant to buy new equipment, including goals, corner flags and “respect barriers” to ensure players are kept safe.Like other clubs, Northwich has seen a huge rise in the numbers of girls wanting to play, and the grant is helping to launch two new female teams.Robert adds: “We have enough demand to create even more teams than that, but our problem is finding volunteers to coach as we’re not paid.”Cheadle And Gatley JFCFORMER club member Holly Deering, 18, recently broke into the Manchester United ladies’ first team, alongside England stars Ella Toone and Mary Earps.So there is much to be proud of for this Stockport side, marking its 50th birthday, which has 750 members and 15 girls’ teams.Cheadle And Gatley JFC has a whopping 750 membersIt has put a lot of cash, including its £1,000 grant, into a Girls’ Development Centre, and seen huge results.For the past seven years the club has been producing one or two new girls’ teams a year.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut demand has rocketed since the Lionesses’ success and there are plans for four or five new teams for girls aged seven to ten.Club treasurer Richard Hubbard, 52, says almost half a dozen members have turned pro in the last couple of years, adding: “The club is open-access sports for all. If there are parents who are financially challenged, we offer discounted membership.”How to apply
      WE want to hear about YOUR club and the huge difference you make for kids in your community.
      If you are a not-for-profit grassroots football club in England, Wales or Scotland, working with youngsters under the age of 18, you could be eligible for one of our 150 grants.
      Funds can be used for anything that gets kids into the sport.
      Your club might need help with pitch fees or want to sponsor places for kids from low-income families.

      To apply and for full terms and conditions, see tescostronger starts.org.uk/footiefund

      Entries close at midnight, April 30. More

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      Jose Mourinho told me I’d work in Tesco in shock rollicking after match I didn’t play in – I went on to play for England

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      CARLTON COLE revealed how Jose Mourinho told him he would work in Tesco after a match he did not even play in. The former Chelsea boy went on to prove The Special One wrong and ended up playing for England.
      Carlton Cole revealed how Jose Mourinho told him he would work at ‘Tesco’Credit: Getty
      Cole opened up about his frosty relationship with MourinhoCredit: Getty
      The ex-Chelsea striker went on to play for EnglandCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Cole, 40, has opened up about a brutal rollicking from Mourinho after a defeat he didn’t even play in.
      The ex-Blues star told Des Kelly on Hayters TV’s new Football Lives podcast: “We always had a meeting before we went out to train.
      “But this one particular meeting wasn’t great for me. I just went in. I knew I was good that weekend, I hadn’t gone out and done anything untoward.
      “There’s this whole conversation of what happened at the game the day before usually – that was non-existent! 
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      “It was all about Carlton Cole not being good enough, and his performance, and ‘you’re going to work in Tesco if you don’t get your finger out’.
      “I don’t know why I said Tesco, it might have been Sainsbury’s, there was no Co-op back then.
      “Definitely not Waitrose, that was too much glam! Definitely not M&S, that was too much. There were no Aldis back then.
      “It was a shock. It was just on me. He was just caning me for at least 10 minutes.
      Most read in Football
      “I was just like, ‘wow, this is a bit much,’ because I wasn’t even involved in the squad! I didn’t even travel, so why am I involved in this conversation?
      Jose Mourinho opens up on Cristiano Ronaldo, Man Utd, Chelsea and job offers in interview with Rio Ferdinand
      “‘Talk to your players that you took! I always remember that. Even the other players were like, ‘wow, he is gunning for you.”
      ‘I hadn’t even done anything wrong!”
      Cole made nine Premier League appearances as Chelsea stormed to a second consecutive title in the 2005-06 season.
      Mourinho denied the star a chance to secure a Premier League medal that term as he only played one game from February to the end of April.
      Even though he played in the two games after they won the title, he fell a game short of a medal. 
      And when the Portuguese boss chucked one medal into the crowd Cole was prepared to jump and grab it.
      He continued: “That one he threw into the crowd, I saw it going in the crowd in slow motion, mate.
      “I was gonna be Michael Jordan and just jump and get that. I wanted to jump, I’d have jumped into the crowd and got that. 
      “I remember we were up at Newcastle for one of the last games. We’d won the league three games before or something like that.
      “And I was thinking, ‘Just give me one minute, two minutes, just give me something so I can get some times’.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      “And I knew why he didn’t do it. He didn’t want me to be involved in that. I took it on the chin and I grew from it.”
      Cole would go on to join West Ham that summer and win seven caps for England. More

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      Enzo Fernandez ‘sends Crystal Palace defender to Sainsbury’s and Tesco’ as £107m Chelsea ace scores stunning goal

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      CHELSEA fans might normally want to keep quiet about shopping.At the very least, spending around £850million in three transfer windows to produce a mid-table Premier League team is nothing to shout about.

      Enzo Fernandez finally put grounded Daniel Munoz out of his agonyCredit: Alamy
      Fernandez roars his delight at his cheeky goalCredit: Getty
      So perhaps that’s why, in the words of one viewer, a Blues’ star instead dispatched a rival Crystal Palace player to the shops – with a delightful, delayed finish.
      “Enzo Fernandez just sent Munoz to Sainsbury’s and then to Tesco, what a goal,” posted one fan.
      First, Fernandez cut back to leave Munoz tumbling onto his backside.
      Then just as the Colombian scrambled up, the Argentine dummied to shoot – sending him to the ground once more. 
      READ MORE CHELSEA NEWS
      It confirmed Chelsea’s 13th straight Prem victory over Palace.
      The Eagles had led through Jefferson Lerma’s stunning opener.
      But Conor Gallagher struck a double against his old loan club ahead of Fernandez’s cheeky 94th-minute clincher.
      The midfielder had Palace defender Daniel Munoz  sliding to the floor TWICE before firing home to in the 3-1 away win.
      Most read in Football
      FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
      Chelsea’s costliest buy, £115m Moises Caicedo, again struggled to justify his place alongside their second most expensive – £107m Fernandez.
      But their fans lapped up the late treat from their World Cup winner, even if it was so painful for Munoz.
      Chelsea scouting Athletic Bilbao star with fans convinced ‘this will be the end of Mudryk or Sterling’
      “Let’s stand up for Enzo Fernandez,” taunted one viewer.
      “Enzo is in the form of his life,” claimed another – although some observers accused Chelsea of “over-celebrating” their late joy. More

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      Football clubs get £1,000 grant to help keep players on the pitch thanks to The Sun’s grant

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      FOOTBALL clubs across the country got an extra-special Christmas gift this year – a £1,000 grant to help keep their players on the pitch.The Sun has funded 150 clubs with the cash injection to make sure no child misses out on footie because finances are tight at home.
      Sevenoaks Powerchair Club gives teens and adults the chance to play football in adapted chairsCredit: Oliver Dixon
      Getting this grant to make sure our chairs’ batteries are powered properly is brilliant, said head coach AdamCredit: Oliver Dixon
      Our Footie For All campaign highlighted how kids were being forced to drop out of clubs because of the cost-of-living crisis.
      We then teamed up with Tesco Stronger Starts, which provides healthy food and activities for Children, to give away £150,000 to grassroots clubs across the country.
      We invited teams who work with kids under the age of 18 to apply for one of the 150 £1,000 grants.
      One very special team, who are celebrating being awarded a grant, is Sevenoaks Powerchair Club which gives teens and adults a chance to play the sport in specialist chairs.
      READ MORE ON FOOTIE FOR ALL
      Head coach Adam McEvoy, 36, said: “Our players have a high level of disability so can’t access any other form of football.
      “Getting this grant to make sure our chairs’ batteries are powered properly is brilliant. Each chair costs around £6,000 and we need them to last as long as possible, so our players don’t miss out.”
      The Kent-based team has 15 players, aged between 10 and 25, who spend their Sunday mornings enjoying their version of a kickabout.
      It also allows their parents a bit of respite from providing constant care, as they trust the coaches to look after their young ones.
      Most read in Football
      The team asks for a £15 contribution each month to help cover some of the sessions’ costs.
      “Football, in a way, is a by-product of what we do,” Adam said.
      “They love that when they come to football, they’re treated as a footballer. Nothing else matters for those few hours.
      “We see these kids grow into polite, confident young people. It gives them so much more than just a game.”
      Another club that has been awarded a grant is Coity Chiefs Girls FC in Coity, Bridgend, South Wales.
      Little Lionesses in Bridgend, WalesCredit: Adrian Sherratt
      Gornal Community Football ClubCredit: Supplied
      Under the guidance of LeeAnn Baker and her husband, the team has grown from 75 girls to 110 training every week.
      LeeAnn said: “We’re so grateful for the money because it means we can expand the pitch space we rent to make sure all the girls who want to play football can be involved.
      “Every week, we see the joy on the faces of all our players, who are having a chance to enjoy playing without getting comments from boys about how they shouldn’t play.
      “It’s such a supportive environment — when a player gets injured, the others rally round to help. It’s so important girls have a space to play and develop their talent.”
      In a bid to keep everyone involved, the club has a kit swap-shop, which keeps parents’ costs to a minimum as the girls grow.
      Each player pays £14 a month to cover some of the costs and receive top-flight training.
      Another girls’ team making sure women’s football has a bright future is Gornal Community Football club in the West Midlands. Coach Alan Moore, 62, has been running girls’ sessions for decades and is using our £1,000 grant to open up two new squads.
      He said: “The two new sessions are for girls who have completed the free FA wildcat session and want to start playing competitively.
      “It’s amazing to see their confidence grow — it’s so important girls have somewhere to play football.”
      The club started the girls’ team five years ago and it has proved incredibly popular, especially in the wake of the Lionesses’ success.
      The club, which has 18 teams of both genders, charges just £20 a month to play. If finances are tight, they allow kids to come for free.
      Alan said: “Thank you to The Sun and Tesco for helping us get two extra teams — it means 24 more girls are playing in a squad.”
      Read more on The Sun
      Christine Heffernan, Tesco group communications director, said: “It’s clear that football clubs up and down the country need the support more than ever, and that we’re reaching hundreds more children as a result of this funding.
      “The Tesco Stronger Starts and Footie For All partnership is getting children into doing what they love — playing footie more often.” More

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      in Soccer

      The South Tyneside girls’ club where Jill Scott’s football journey began – and future stars are getting their chance

      by

      WHEN youth worker Paul Smith founded a girls’ football team in South Tyneside in 1992, he little realised the small number who showed an interest would develop into a thriving club and produce two trophy-winning England players. When the FA took over the women’s game a year later, there were still just 183 teams around the country.
      Boldon Community Association Girls continually punches above its weight
      Today there are over 12,000 and the game is enjoying a boom, largely thanks to the success of the Lionesses and superstars like Manchester City captain Steph Houghton and former England midfielder Jill Scott.
      Amazingly, both Houghton and Scott were graduates of Boldon Community Association Girls in its early years.
      “There’s a lot of pride in Jill here and she’s definitely somebody for the girls to look up to and aspire to be,” says club treasurer Adam Kennedy. “We hope to produce more Jill Scotts.”
      Last year, the BBC took Scott back to the club that nurtured her. She told them, “Football was literally our life when we played here. I always class it as home.
      “I don’t think I’d have gone on to play for England without Paul. Grassroots football here gave me my happiest memories.”
      Boldon, a community club in a former mining area north of Sunderland (denoted by a colliery wheel on its crest), continually punches above its weight, regularly competing and winning in top-level competitions.
      Several of its girls’ team play in boys’ leagues; one girls’ team famously went undefeated all season.
      “There are not so many girls teams in the region, so the decision was made to enter some of the girls into the boys’ league, and they’ve gone from strength to strength ever since,” says Kennedy, an electrical technician.
      Most read in Football
      Parents do their best to fundraise, but having a big lump sum like that makes a huge difference
      “It’s made them a lot tougher and a lot more confident. The boys always know they’re in for a game with us.”
      Boldon has six teams through the age ranges, plus a women’s side.
      Last year, its U-10s applied for funds through the local Tesco Community Grants scheme.
      Working in partnership with charity Groundwork, the supermarket has awarded over £100million to more than 50,000 local projects through its funding programmes across the country, including 6,000 schools, over 2,000 sports teams and 2,300 other youth organisations.
      Customers can participate by voting in their local stores to support projects or even nominate them.
      An allocation of £1,000 to Boldon was used to buy training equipment.
      This helped set the team up for an impressive season in which it reached two national finals, including one played at St George’s Park, a match they only lost on penalties. They also reached the final of the National Futsal championship.
      £1,000 helped Boldon to buy training equipment
      “The money was vital. It allowed our coaches to carry out more technical training drills and refresh tired equipment,” says Kennedy.
      “Parents do their best to fundraise, but having a big lump sum like that makes a huge difference.”
      This summer Tesco launched a grant programme, Stronger Starts, committed to giving £5.3million to schools and children’s groups to fund healthy food and activities.
      “It’s clubs like Boldon who see first hand the difference these opportunities can make to young people’s lives when they’re moving, motivated and mentally energised,” says Christine Heffernan, Tesco group communications director.
      “That’s why it felt right to extend the reach of our Stronger Starts funding to grants to ensure any child can play football and take away the worry about paying for subs or kit.”
      The supermarket has also teamed up with The Sun’s Footie For All to help it find local clubs in need.
      The Sun launched the campaign in September after charity Sported revealed that a worrying 94 per cent of clubs nationwide are struggling. It also found that young players were dropping out because parents could not cover subs.
      “Obviously you can’t ignore the problem at a community-based club like ours,” says Kennedy.
      “We made a decision at the beginning of the season not to raise subs because of the cost of living.
      “We even made sure we spent the Tesco money at a local sports shop rather than with an online chain. We’re proud of the role we play in the community.”

      Stronger Starts is open to any local club or charitable scheme. Add your support by voting for local groups using the blue tokens in your Tesco branch.
      To find out more, head to tescoplc.com/strongerstarts More