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      in Soccer

      David Beckham bags £150million to be face of the 2022 Qatar World Cup

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      DAVID Beckham will be unveiled as the face of the Qatar World Cup next month — netting £150million. The former England captain, 46, nicknamed Goldenballs, signed a deal worth £15million a year over the next decade to become the country’s ambassador.
      Former England captain David Captain will be unveiled as the face of the Qatar World Cup next monthCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The football star will net £150million after signing a deal worth £15million a year over the next decade, here with its Qatari chief Nasser al-KhelaifiCredit: AFP
      Earlier this month he flew into the capital Doha for a week touring ­stadiums and meeting dignitaries ahead of next year’s tournament.
      The country has faced huge controversy over its human rights record, particularly its attitude towards women and gay people.
      However David was assured fans would be safe and allowed to display rainbow flags in stadiums – the symbol of the LGBTQ community.
      Homosexuality is illegal but application of the law — identical in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi — has become progressively more liberal. David was also informed about a growing female presence in government.
      He consulted with wife Victoria, 47, whose pop band The Spice Girls famously sung about “girl power”, before signing.
      Yesterday a source said: “David believes in Qatar’s commitment to progress and that the World Cup — the first to be held in the Arab world — can effect significant positive change.

      “He strongly believes in the power of football to bridge differences but, crucially, has seen the progress on issues that matter.”
      David, who has had links with the Qataris since he played for Paris St-Germain, will also promote tourism and culture.
      The source went on: “By signing David, the hope is more westerners will be encouraged to see its beautiful beaches, vast expanses of sand dunes and incredible skyscrapers.”
      A spokeswoman for David said: “David has always talked about the power of football as a force for good on many levels.
      “As we reach the one year to go point he will join the wider football community that is coming together for the World Cup 2022 and he’s looking forward to what he thinks will be a great tournament.”
      Nicknamed Goldenballs, 46-year-old Beckham will become the country’s ambassador, pictured the Doha stadiumCredit: AFP
      It comes as the country faced huge controversy over its human rights record
      A source said ‘David believes in Qatar’s commitment to progress and that the World Cup — the first to be held in the Arab world — can effect significant positive change’Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Watch incredible new FIFA 22 trailer featuring Beckham, Rooney, Mbappe and Ryan Reynolds to celebrate launch day More

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      in Soccer

      Two teams set UK record for longest penalty shootout at 44 kicks

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      TWO teams set a UK record for the longest penalty shootout — with 44 needed to split them.Every player for non-league sides Old Wulfrunians and Lane Head had to take two each.
      Old Wulfs and Lane Head have set the UK record for the longest penalty shootout

      Old Wulfs left-back Jack Marsh, 27, a schoolteacher, slotted home the winning penalty after around 35 minutes of drama.
      After his side won the shootout 19-18, Jack said: “The overwhelming feeling was one of relief that it was over.
      “No one had a clue it was a record at the time and everyone was just glad we could finally go home.”
      The West Midlands teams met on Tuesday night in the JW Hunt Cup.
      Lane Head, from Bloxwich, were 3-2 up with ten minutes to go when Wolverhampton side Old Wulfs equalised.
      The shootout started at 9.30pm in front of 60 fans — and finished at around 10.05pm. Jack’s dad Simon, Old Wulfs’ chairman, said: “After the 22nd penalty I went to get the team’s fish and chips. When I got back it was still going.”

      Ref Jamie Howe, 42, said: “When one of the keepers walked up for his penalty one of his team-mates shouted, ‘Just miss, we want to go home’.”
      He scored but others missed. The 44 kicks beat the UK record of 34, but was shy of the world’s longest, 48, in Namibia.
      Lane Head secretary Martin Davies said: “It was great to be involved in such a memorable match that has gone into the record books. But we are gutted.”
      After 35 minutes of drama, Jack Marsh (front row, second from left) scored the winning goal More

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      in Soccer

      David Beckham bags £150million to be the face of the Qatar World Cup

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      DAVID Beckham will be unveiled as the face of the Qatar World Cup next month — netting £150million. The former England captain, 46, nicknamed Goldenballs, signed a deal worth £15million a year over the next decade to become the country’s ambassador.
      Former England captain David Captain will be unveiled as the face of the Qatar World Cup next monthCredit: Getty – Contributor
      The football star will net £150million after signing a deal worth £15million a year over the next decade, here with its Qatari chief Nasser al-KhelaifiCredit: AFP
      Earlier this month he flew into the capital Doha for a week touring ­stadiums and meeting dignitaries ahead of next year’s tournament.
      The country has faced huge controversy over its human rights record, particularly its attitude towards women and gay people.
      However David was assured fans would be safe and allowed to display rainbow flags in stadiums – the symbol of the LGBTQ community.
      Homosexuality is illegal but application of the law — identical in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi — has become progressively more liberal. David was also informed about a growing female presence in government.
      He consulted with wife Victoria, 47, whose pop band The Spice Girls famously sung about “girl power”, before signing.
      Yesterday a source said: “David believes in Qatar’s commitment to progress and that the World Cup — the first to be held in the Arab world — can effect significant positive change.

      “He strongly believes in the power of football to bridge differences but, crucially, has seen the progress on issues that matter.”
      David, who has had links with the Qataris since he played for Paris St-Germain, will also promote tourism and culture.
      The source went on: “By signing David, the hope is more westerners will be encouraged to see its beautiful beaches, vast expanses of sand dunes and incredible skyscrapers.”
      A spokeswoman for David said: “David has always talked about the power of football as a force for good on many levels.
      “As we reach the one year to go point he will join the wider football community that is coming together for the World Cup 2022 and he’s looking forward to what he thinks will be a great tournament.”
      Nicknamed Goldenballs, 46-year-old Beckham will become the country’s ambassador, pictured the Doha stadiumCredit: AFP
      It comes as the country faced huge controversy over its human rights record
      A source said ‘David believes in Qatar’s commitment to progress and that the World Cup — the first to be held in the Arab world — can effect significant positive change’Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Watch incredible new FIFA 22 trailer featuring Beckham, Rooney, Mbappe and Ryan Reynolds to celebrate launch day More

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      in Soccer

      Tottenham ace Dele Alli enjoys date with Made In Chelsea star Nicole Berry after kissing Pep Guardiola’s daughter

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      ENGLAND’S Dele Alli has switched to Chelsea in his quest for love.The Spurs ace had been seen smooching Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s 20- year-old daughter Maria.
      Dele Alli and Nicole Berry link fingers while she rests her head on his shoulder
      Canadian Nicole Berry recently joined the cast of Made In Chelsea
      But now Dele, 25, has subbed her for dates with Made In Chelsea newcomer Nicole Berry.
      Pics shared with The Sun show them linking fingers and with her head on his shoulder.
      They were joined by Chelsea FC star Ben Chilwell, 24, and Nicole’s model pal Sofia Cretaro at Sexy Fish restaurant in London’s Mayfair — before heading to Chiltern Firehouse.
      Dele is said to have first contacted Canadian Nicole, 24, via social media.
      A source said: “She made him go the extra mile by ignoring four of his messages. But she finally said ‘yes’ to a date and had fun. But after a photographer spotted them Nicole has taken a step back.
      “She doesn’t want Made In Chelsea fans to think she’s dating a footballer when she’s being paid to raise blood levels of the men on the show.
      “Nicole is hoping her TV exposure will see her model career take off. Seeing the odd Premier League footballer won’t stop that in a hurry.”

      Friends said Chilwell and Sofia “had fun” but did not gel in the same way.
      The Sun told how Dele split from Ruby Mae, 23, in February after she got fed up of him playing video game Fortnite.
      Dele’s spokeswoman last night said he is single and he has never dated Nicole but they were “in a group of people at a dinner in London”
      Dele is said to have first contacted Nicole, 24, via social media
      The Spurs ace had been seen smooching Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s 20-year-old daughter MariaCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Dele Alli’s spokeswoman insists he’s singleCredit: Getty
      Tottenham star Dele Alli shows off impressive physique as he starts training for new Premier League season early More

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      in Soccer

      Premier League star and terrified girlfriend tied up at home by machete wielding thugs

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      A PREMIER League star was attacked by masked thugs with machetes in his own home, then tied up along with his terrified partner.The player — who we are not naming — was dragged around the house by the balaclava-clad raiders who smashed their way into his £1.5million property.
      Raiders ransacked the home while the terrified couple were tied up
      The gang broke into the secluded mansion during the recent international fixture period believing he had travelled abroad. But the player had been released from the squad.
      As he was watching his team-mates on TV, four men smashed their way in through a glass door.
      His partner was taking a bath at the time.
      Both were grabbed and tied up and the home was ransacked.
      A source said: “It’s everyone’s worst nightmare. He was pretty brave and did his best, but he was outnumbered and they were pretty aggressive.”
      The raiders made off with watches, jewellery and electrical items.
      The robbery has sent shock waves through his club and left officials deeply upset.
      The source added: “The player lives a pretty low-profile life off the pitch, so he was shocked to be targeted. He doesn’t flash his wealth and enjoys being as normal as possible.”
      Police said: “Entry was forced to the property and jewellery, along with other household items, were stolen. Inquiries are ongoing.”

      Footballers are being targeted by burglary gangs dubbed “away day robbers”, as they raid their homes when they are playing matches.
      But larger squads and complicated fixture lists have seen some stars’ properties burgled when they are at home.
      In March, The Sun told how then Everton FC goalkeeper Robin Olsen and his terrified family were confronted by a balaclava-clad gang wielding machetes in Hale, Cheshire.
      Man Utd ace Paul Pogba launches world’s first vegan and gender neutral football boot through adidas and Stella McCartney More

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      in Soccer

      Spurs ace Dele Alli enjoys date with Made In Chelsea newcomer Nicole Berry after kissing Pep Guardiola’s daughter

      by

      ENGLAND’S Dele Alli has switched to Chelsea in his quest for love.The Spurs ace had been seen smooching Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s 20- year-old daughter Maria.
      Dele Alli and Nicole Berry link fingers while she rests her head on his shoulder
      Canadian Nicole Berry recently joined the cast of Made In Chelsea
      But now Dele, 25, has subbed her for dates with Made In Chelsea newcomer Nicole Berry.
      Pics shared with The Sun show them linking fingers and with her head on his shoulder.
      They were joined by Chelsea FC star Ben Chilwell, 24, and Nicole’s model pal Sofia Cretaro at Sexy Fish restaurant in London’s Mayfair — before heading to Chiltern Firehouse.
      Dele is said to have first contacted Canadian Nicole, 24, via social media.
      A source said: “She made him go the extra mile by ignoring four of his messages. But she finally said ‘yes’ to a date and had fun. But after a photographer spotted them Nicole has taken a step back.
      “She doesn’t want Made In Chelsea fans to think she’s dating a footballer when she’s being paid to raise blood levels of the men on the show.
      “Nicole is hoping her TV exposure will see her model career take off. Seeing the odd Premier League footballer won’t stop that in a hurry.”

      Friends said Chilwell and Sofia “had fun” but did not gel in the same way.
      The Sun told how Dele split from Ruby Mae, 23, in February after she got fed up of him playing video game Fortnite.
      Dele’s spokeswoman last night said he is single and he has never dated Nicole but they were “in a group of people at a dinner in London”
      Dele is said to have first contacted Nicole, 24, via social media
      The Spurs ace had been seen smooching Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s 20-year-old daughter MariaCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Dele Alli’s spokeswoman insists he’s singleCredit: Getty
      Tottenham star Dele Alli shows off impressive physique as he starts training for new Premier League season early More

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      in Soccer

      Man Utd predecessors Moyes, Van Gaal and Mourinho show under-fire Solskjaer the dangers of big loss to Liverpool

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      THE heat is on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer again and he could do without a clash with bitter rivals Liverpool.But as his predecessors have shown, after Kopping big defeats, the writing is on the wall.
      Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is under huge pressure going into Sunday’s clash against LiverpoolCredit: Getty
      Solskjaer is under huge pressure at Old Trafford with the Red Devils failing to win any of their last three Premier League games.
      Last week’s 4-2 defeat against Leicester has left the club in sixth spot after eight games played.
      And should United lose against Jurgen Klopp’s side, they will trail the Merseyside outfit by seven points.
      Here SunSport takes a look at how David Moyes, Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho’s fared against the Reds in their last season in charge of United.

      DAVID MOYES – Man Utd 0 Liverpool 3 – March 16, 2014
      Steven Gerrard hit two penalties, missed a third, and United had Nemanja Vidic sent off as David Moyes’ side fell well short.
      Luis Suarez added another in the 84th minute to hand Liverpool a first win at Old Trafford since 2009.
      Moyes was axed a month later.
      LOUIS VAN GAAL – Liverpool 2 Man Utd 0 – March 10, 2016
      A penalty from Daniel Sturridge and a Roberto Firmino strike put Jurgen Klopp’s side in control of the Europa League last-16 tie.
      Philippe Coutinho’s effort ensured a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture — and saw United crash out 3-1 on aggregate to turn up the heat on chief Louis van Gaal.
      A month later, after winning the FA Cup but finishing fifth in the Premier League, Van Gaal was gone.

      Jose Mourinho was sacked by the Red Devils after losing against the Reds at Anfield in 2018Credit: Reuters
      BETTING SPECIAL – GET £50 IN FREE BETS WITH WILLIAM HILL
      JOSE MOURINHO – Liverpool 3 Man Utd 1 – December 16, 2018
      Two goals from sub Xherdan Shaqiri helped usher manager Jose Mourinho closer to the Manchester United exit.
      The Portuguese boss was fired just two days after the Swiss star sent Liverpool top, adding to Sadio Mane’s opener.
      Paul Scholes says that Man Utd ‘were all over the place’ in the first half against Atalanta More

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      in Boxing

      ‘Grab him, rough him up, push and shove him’ – How Anthony Joshua can beat classy Oleksandr Usyk and win titles back

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      ANTHONY JOSHUA, a month after losing his three heavyweight titles, is now in California attempting to find out how he can beat Oleksandr Usyk in their return fight next year.Joshua has been on a tour of selected gyms picking the brains of some of America’s top trainers and fighters in the hope they can advise him on how he can win back his WBA, IBF and WBO belts from the outstandingly brilliant Usyk.
      Anthony Joshua was completely outclassed by Oleksandr Usyk last monthCredit: Richard Pelham / The Sun
      He has already visited Canelo Alvarez and his trainer Eddy Reynoso, as well as Virgil Hunter, who masterminded double world champion Andre Ward’s immaculate unbeaten career.
      And if those exceptionally talented guys cannot work out the best strategy for him on how to get the better of Usyk, nobody can.
      We must give AJ credit for swallowing his pride and publicly accepting he was tactically brain-dead when comprehensively outpointed by Usyk on that disastrous night at Spurs’ ground.
      Boxing trainers are rather like Premier League football managers — they are constantly under pressure and face the sack as soon as things start to go wrong.
      Robert McCracken, who has trained Joshua from day one, has quite rightly been fiercely criticised for not having a Plan B when Usyk took control in the early rounds.
      At the moment there is no suggestion that Joshua is about to part-company from the man who helped him win Olympic gold and turned a novice into a multi-millionaire champion of the world.

      BETTING SPECIAL – GET £50 IN FREE BETS WITH WILLIAM HILL
      But there is a distinct possibility of major changes to the personnel who will be working in his corner.
      Eddie Hearn does not try to hide that Joshua’s performance last month was woeful and said: “The tactics weren’t right and he underperformed — but why?
      “AJ will always look at his preparation and see how he can improve. If that means bringing people in he will do it.”
      Joshua is 32 and not even the legendary Eddie Futch, who trained five world heavyweight champions  — Smokin’ Joe Frazier, Ken Norton, Larry Holmes, Riddick Bowe and Trevor Berbick — would have been able to significantly change his style before he clashes again with Usyk in March or April.
      Malik Scott tried to turn Deontay Wilder into a smooth fighting machine before his trilogy battle with Tyson Fury.
      Wilder worked beautifully behind his jab for the first two rounds but as soon as Fury floored him in the third he reverted to type — swinging and missing wildly with his dynamite right and leaving himself wide open.
      The legendary Eddie Futch trained five world heavyweight champions during his careerCredit: Getty
      You do not have to be a Futch or a Manny Steward to know exactly what it would take for Joshua to restore his reputation and gain revenge over Usyk.
      He simply has to fight ugly and jump on the Ukrainian from the start — grab him, rough him up, push and shove him around to eliminate his  superior skills and tire him out.
      Ray Arcel, the New Yorker considered the greatest trainer of all time, coached a total of 20 world champions, including Roberto Duran.
      He died at 94, 27 years ago — but his philosophy lives on.
      Arcel once said: “The secret of being a boxing trainer is to know and understand the individual you are working with.
      “I don’t care how much ability  you’ve got as a fighter, if you can’t think you are just another bum in the park.”
      I have no idea what Joshua was thinking on September 25, but his mind seemed to be many miles away from White Hart Lane.
      The late Ray Arcel is considered the greatest trainer of all time and coached 20 world championsCredit: Getty More