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    Artificial ‘intelligence’ reveals the sexiest male football pundit on TV according to ‘golden ratio’

    ARTIFICIAL “intelligence” has named Peter Crouch the sexiest male football pundit on TV.The 6ft 7in ex-England forward, famed for his robot goal celebration, scored 17.39 out of 20 on the AI beauty tool.Pundit Peter Crouch scored 17.39 out of 20 on the AI beauty toolIt measured facial ­symmetry and structure, health, smile and eyes and social media feedback.Former Scotland striker Ally McCoist was second with a score of 16.12, ­followed by ex-Tottenham Hotspur player Michael Dawson on 14.63.BBC Match of the Day 2 presenter Mark Chapman was fourth on 14.42.Ex-Man United hardman Roy Keane was in last place with just 9.59.READ MORE ON PETER CROUCHGary Neville came twenty-fourth on 11.67 with Gary Lineker twenty-fifth on 11.21 and Rio Ferdinand twenty-seventh on 11.11.Betting tips and news site Footy Accumulators used the Golden Ratio Face app to measure the looks of 38 pundits.A spokesman said: “Crouch was the clear winner and is the most attractive male pundit on TV.”“As well as expert knowledge he brings sex appeal to punditry and gets female viewers hot under the collar.”Most read in FootballMy Premier League team-mate was catfishing fans… it really annoyed me and I can’t believe supporters fell for it’Peter Crouch – 17.39Ally McCoist – 16.12Michael Dawson – 14.63Mark Chapman – 14.42Shay Given – 14.41Dion Dublin – 13.94Don Hutchison – 13.45Glenn Hoddle – 13.1Joleon lescott – 13.06Ashley Williams – 13.04 More

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    West Ham ace Michail Antonio’s first words after horror car crash revealed by dog walker who found stricken star

    DAZED Prem star Michail Antonio asked a witness who rushed to help after his horror crash: “Where am I? What’s going on? What car am I in?”The West Ham striker, 34, was last night recovering from surgery to a broken leg.Michail Antonio asked a witness who rushed to help him moments after his horror supercar crash: ‘Where am I? What’s going on? What car am I in?’Credit: GettyMichail had a miraculous escape from his horrific supercar smash — suffering just a fractured legCredit: UKNIPMichail’s Ferrari FF hit a tree in Theydon Bois, Essex, on SaturdayCredit: GettyHe was trapped for almost an hour in the mangled wreckage before being airlifted from the scene in Theydon Bois, EssexCredit: UKNIPHe had to be cut free from his £260,000 Ferrari FF which was ripped apart when it hit a tree in Theydon Bois, Essex, on Saturday.Antonio had a miraculous escape from his horrific supercar smash.Witnesses told how the stricken West Ham ace was in a highly confused state.The driver’s side was ripped apart and the impact is believed to have sent Michail flying across to the passenger seat.Read More on SportHe was trapped for almost an hour in the mangled wreckage before being airlifted from the scene.Last night he was recovering from surgery on a lower limb fracture in a London hospital.Samuel Woods, 34, was driving home after walking his dog in Epping Forest when he saw what he thought was a dumped car by the roadside.He pulled over and rushed to help when he saw a man inside who looked “in big trouble”.Most read in FootballSamuel, a carer from Regent’s Park, told The Sun: “I said to him ‘hello’ to see if anyone was alive.“I heard sirens and told him that help was on its way.West Ham star Michail Antonio injured in horror crash in Ferrari as club reveals he’s ‘stable’ in hospital“He was so disorientated. He said, ‘Where am I? What’s going on? What car am I in?’“The paramedics got there really fast. I couldn’t believe what happened. The car smelt of petrol.”Samuel, who does not follow football and did not recognise the star, went on: “I looked at him and thought, ‘He’s in big trouble’.“I just said, ‘You’ve had an ­accident’. He didn’t reply. He was looking around trying to make sense of what I just said. He was sitting in the passenger side.”Witnesses told how the stricken West Ham ace was in a highly confused state after his £260,000 Ferrari FF hit a treeOther drivers also reported seeing smoke pouring from the wreckage — near to the home of West Ham owner David Sullivan.One motorist, who passed by the scene just minutes after it happened, told The Sun: “I could see the car was a total mess.“Because there was smoke coming out of the car people were too scared to approach it I think.”Thousands of fans sent prayers and good wishes after news of the crash emerged.I said to him ‘hello’ to see if anyone was alive. I heard sirens and told him that help was on its waySamuel WoodsA West Ham spokesman said yesterday: “Michail has undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture following a road traffic accident on Saturday afternoon. Michail will continue to be monitored in hospital over the coming days.“Everyone at the club wishes Michail a speedy recovery and wishes to express its sincere ­gratitude to the football family at large for the overwhelming support shown since yesterday’s news.” The club also extended a “heartfelt thank you to the emergency services and the medical team who continue to aid him in his recovery”.Michail’s ex-wife Debbie travelled from her home in Manchester to be by his bedside.Teammates past and present also sent goodwill messages to the popular star, including Declan Rice, who said: “Thinking of you and your family brother. Prayers to all of you.” Maxwel Cornet wrote: “With you brother.”He was so disorientated. He said, ‘Where am I? What’s going on? What car am I in?’ The paramedics got there really fast. I couldn’t believe what happened. The car smelt of petrolSamuel WoodsThe Ferrari FF was the fastest four-seat car in the world when released in 2011.It can reach 208mph and go from 0 to 62mph in 3.7 seconds. Michail crashed a £210,000 Lamborghini into a garden wall on an icy road on Christmas Day 2019.He joined West Ham from Nottingham Forest in 2015 for £7million and has become the East London club’s top Prem scorer, with 68 goals in 268 games.READ MORE SUN STORIESMichail, who also hosts BBC’s Footballer’s Football podcast alongside Newcastle’s Callum Wilson, was picked three times for England squads but never played.In 2021 he switched allegiance to Jamaica, where his parents are from, and has won 21 caps.West Ham issued a health updateCredit: XAntonio’s £260,000 Ferrari FF was the fastest four-seat car in the world when released in 2011Credit: Supplied More

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    West Ham’s Michail Antonio trapped in wrecked Ferrari for almost an HOUR before being airlifted to hospital after smash

    PREM star Michail Antonio had to be cut from the wreckage of his £260,000 Ferrari yesterday after a horrific road smash.West Ham star Michail was airlifted to hospital after fire crews took almost an hour to free him from the car crash.West Ham star Michail Antonio was said to be in a serious conditionCredit: GettyPrem ace Antonio had to be cut free from his Ferrari after crashing the £260,000 motor into treesThe smashed supercar at the side of the road after the horrific accidentMichail was said to be in a serious condition after hitting trees at Theydon Bois, Essex.Shocking images showed his £260,000 Ferrari FF smashed into trees after leaving the road at 12.50pm.Fire crews alerted by other drivers battled to release the 34-year-old striker by 1.45pm.Dad-of-four Antonio was flown to a central London hospital.READ MORE ON MICHAIL ANTONIOEx-wife Debbie travelled from her home in Manchester to be at his bedside.A source told The Sun on Sunday: “He is in a serious condition.“He is conscious and communicating but everyone at the club is very worried. We are all just praying he gets through this.”Onlookers reported grey smoke pouring from the car which crashed in Theydon Bois, Essex — close to the home of West Ham owner David Sullivan.Most read in FootballOne said: “There were other cars stopped and people were on their phones calling 999.“It was awful weather, rain, wind and very slippery on the road. It didn’t look like another car was involved. It looked like it had spun out of control.West Ham star Michail Antonio involved in horror car crash “I only found out later who he was. I hope he’s OK.”A motorist who passed the scene added: “The right wing was ripped off, as well as the right front wheel and driver’s door.“I could see firefighters had to cut away parts of the car to get him out.”Dad-of-four Antonio was flown to a central London hospitalMichail Antonio was unhurt in another smash in 2019Credit: Chris EadesThe Ferrari FF was the fastest four-seat car in the world when released in 2011Credit: SuppliedEssex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews were called at 1.02pm. Firefighters reported that a man was trapped in his car and worked to release him by 1.45pm.”The casualty was left in the care of the Ambulance Service.”The Ferrari FF was the fastest four-seat car in the world when released in 2011.It can reach 208mph and go from 0 to 62mph in 3.7 seconds.West Ham said in a statement: “We can confirm that Michail Antonio is in a stable condition following a road traffic accident in the Essex area.’Thoughts and prayers’“Michail is conscious and communicating and is currently under close supervision at a central London hospital.”The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michail, his family and friends.”“The club will make no further comment this evening but issue a further update in due course.”West Ham face Wolves in their next Premier League match tomorrow night.South London-born Antonio crashed a Lamborghini in 2019.He began his career with non-league Tooting & Mitcham.Emergency services attended and the driver has been taken to hospitalEssex PoliceHe joined the Hammers from Nottingham Forest in 2015 for £7million and is the London club’s all-time Premier League top scorer with 68 goals in 268 games.He was picked three times for England squads but never played. In 2021 he switched allegiance to Jamaica, where his parents are from.He is divorced from Debbie, who he married in 2017, and fronts the BBC’s Footballer’s Football podcast alongside Newcastle’s Callum Wilson.Essex Police are investigating and appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe force said: “We were called shortly after 12.50pm on Saturday December 7 to Coppice Row, Epping, following reports of what is believed to be a single vehicle collision involving a Ferrari.”Emergency services attended and the driver has been taken to hospital.”The crash happened close to the home of West Ham owner David SullivanCredit: Getty Images – GettyPrevious Christmas crash in LamboMICHAIL Antonio was previously involved in another supercar crash — in his £210,000 Lamborghini.He blamed an icy road when he hit a garden wall on Christmas Day 2019 — while dressed as a snowman.He said: “I’m going like 30, maybe 35, on a 30 road.“It holds corners so I’m thinking I don’t even need to brake, I’m just gonna go around the corner, sick car.“As I’m going round the corner, it skids. I s*** myself and slam on the brakes.“Worst thing you can do on ice, slam on the brakes ’cause you speed up. It’s a madness — and I’m in the snowman costume as well.”He walked away unscathed and played for West Ham on Boxing Day in a 2-1 London derby loss at Crystal Palace.By Len Read More

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    David Beckham secretly visited beloved Man Utd receptionist in ‘incredibly emotional moment’ before she died

    DAVID Beckham paid a secret visit to Man United’s beloved receptionist Kath Phipps before she died.He was among a host of club legends to pay heartfelt tribute to Kath, 85 — an Old Trafford employee for 56 years.David Beckham made a personal visit to see beloved Manchester United receptionist Kath PhippsCredit: Beckham/NetflixAfter her death was announced, Beckham shared a picture holding Kath Phipps’ hand as a tributeCredit: InstagramKath worked for United for 55 years and joined when Sir Matt Busby was managerCredit: ReutersAlongside a photo of them holding hands, Becks, 49, wrote: “I moved up to Manchester at 15 and Kath made a promise to my mum and dad, ‘I’ll look after your boy for you, don’t you worry’.“And from that first day till the last day I spent with her, that’s exactly what she did.”Becks added on Instagram: “Old Trafford will never be the same without your smile as we walk through those doors. We love you.”Becks travelled to her home two weeks before she passed away. READ MORE DAVID BECKHAMA source told The Sun: “David made it his mission to go to see Kath at home.“It was an incredibly emotional moment.”In Netflix series Beckham, she said she found bullets in letters sent to him after his 1998 World Cup red card.After Kath’s death was announced on Thursday, ex-Old Trafford star Wayne Rooney called her the club’s “heart and soul” while his team-mate Rio Ferdinand said she was “incredibly selfless”.Most read in FootballUnited fan Kath started out as a switchboard operator for the club in the 1960s. Latterly, she was receptionist at the Carrington training complex.Man Utd’s much-loved receptionist Kath Phipps dies aged 85 as tributes paid to ‘heartbeat of United’She said last year: “I don’t think I’ve had one cross word with anybody in all the years I’ve been here. “I look forward to coming in and having a smile on my face every day.”David Beckham posted an emotional farewell to Kath on social mediaCredit: InstagramKath was pictured welcoming billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe to Manchester United earlier this year More

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    Sir Mo Farah ‘hounded for money’ by man whose name he took when he came to UK as Olympian forced to take action

    SIR Mo Farah has allegedly been hounded for money by the man whose name he took.The Olympic hero, 41, offered to help the other Mo, after a 2022 TV show but it ended in emotional blackmail, it is claimed.Sir Mo, seeking the man whose name he took, in the BBC show The Real Mo Farah – who has now allegedly been hounding the star for moneyCredit: BBCThe four-time Olympic gold medallist took the name of Mo Farah, above, when he was illegally trafficked to the UK aged nineCredit: https://www.facebook.com/hamo11111111111/photosSir Mo winning 5,000m and 10,000m at Rio 2016Credit: PAA source said: “It’s so sad.”Sir Mo claims he has had to change his phone number after “incessant demands” for cash from his namesake.The four-time Olympic gold medallist took the name of a child called Mo Farah when he was illegally trafficked to the UK aged nine.Sir Mo promised to stay in touch, and it is understood he has sent up to £5,000 to his namesake.READ MORE ON SIR MO FARAHBut the other Mo, 40, and around ten others are alleged to have hassled him for money after getting hold of the long-distance star’s mobile number.Sources say Sir Mo sees it as emotional blackmail, and has not spoken to his namesake for months.A source said: “Sir Mo felt he was being harassed and hounded.“He has taken a step back. He didn’t want to make a big fuss but thought it better to not engage.Most read in Athletics“He has had to change his phone number. It’s unfair Sir Mo is having to deal with this.“He feels he’s the victim. He is just tired, and thinks it’s so sad.”I’ve been living a lie… my real name is not Mo Farah and I came here illegally after my dad was killed in Somali warThe pair were brought together in BBC’s The Real Mo Farah in which Sir Mo revealed he was trafficked to the UK after his dad died in Somalia’s civil war and his mum sent him and twin Hassan to live with family.The athlete revealed his name is actually Hussein Abdi Kahin and that he took “Mo Farah” from a child’s passport used to fly him to Heathrow in 1993.He has had to change his phone number. It’s unfair Sir Mo is having to deal with this. He feels he’s the victimSource close to Sir MoLater in the show, Sir Mo tracked his namesake to Istanbul, Turkey, where he was studying.But the real Mo now says they have not spoken since December 2023 and claims Sir Mo reneged on a promise to get him a visa.Speaking from his home in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, the other Mo said: “Mo got what he wanted and now he doesn’t care whether I live or die. He made a lot of promises and said he would stop using my name and give me my name back.“He told me he wanted to stop living a lie, but he is still living a lie.“He said he would help me get a tourist visa so I could visit my mum in England, but I’ve spent two years waiting and nothing has happened.” Sir Mo became the world’s greatest long-distance runner winning double golds in London 2012 and Rio 2016, and shares four children with wife Tania. But his namesake’s life has been beset with tragedy.The other Mo said: “My mother left, I was left with her older sister Amina in Nairobi, and when she died from kidney failure in 2005, my world fell apart.“I wanted to become a cricketer. I went for trials for Kenya under-19s and would have had much more opportunity if I’d taken the visa and moved to England.”The other Mo only discovered his link with Sir Mo after the 2012 Olympics.He said: “Some uncles were visiting from the UK, they said, ‘Do you know the athlete, Mo Farah? Do you know he is using your name?’ I couldn’t believe it.Sir Mo Farah, pictured with wife Tania, has allegedly been hounded for money by the man whose name he tookCredit: Getty – Contributor“I’d watched him on TV and clapped for him when he was heading to the finish saying, ‘Go, Mo’.“I was a big fan. But even then I didn’t try to get in touch with him.“The first time we spoke was when Sir Mo’s adopted aunt Kinsi contacted me on Facebook and said, ‘‘Mo is looking for you. He is going to give you everything. He’s going to give you back your name and take you abroad’.It is not Mo’s responsibility to be looking after the son of people who mistreated him and trafficked him to the UKSource close to Sir Mo“We kept in touch by phone after that and, after the documentary came out the TV crew kept me hidden in a hotel for six weeks to make sure no one could find me.“One BBC producer even discussed making a second documentary in which I would get to meet Sir Mo in London, but that didn’t happen.”Last night sources close to Sir Mo painted a different picture of why the relationship has broken down. An insider said: “Sir Mo has ­sympathy. This man was also a casualty of events out of his control as a child. But it is not Mo’s responsibility. The people who were adults and responsible for them clearly didn’t do their jobs properly.“But it certainly wouldn’t be appropriate for Mo to use his ­influence on any UK immigration policy or ­process. Quite the opposite.“This isn’t Mo’s job to sort out. That said, on a personal level, Mo has been in contact with Somali Mo for a number of years.“Communication ceased in the summer when Mo had to distance himself. Anytime there’s something on Mo’s socials, when it might look like he has had some kind of financial gain, a deal with Nike or whatever, they are demanding why has he not sent money.”Last night the other Mo insisted: “I’m not a bad person. There is no way I would tell anyone to hound him. I didn’t give anyone his number so I don’t know who has been doing this. It’s not anyone in my family.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The last time I messaged him I said, ‘If you don’t want to answer my call, it’s OK. You do what is best for you, I’ll do what’s best for me’.” Sir Mo was approached for comment.The legend’s victory pose after he secured a 3,000m win in London, 2015Credit: PAThe other Mo only discovered his link with Sir Mo after the 2012 OlympicsCredit: BBCCONFESSION SHOCKED UKBy Joe Morgan NATIONAL treasure Sir Mo Farah shocked the country when he admitted lying about his identity all his life, saying: “The truth is I’m not who you think I am.”He revealed on TV two years ago that his real name was Hussein Abdi Kahin and he was trafficked into the UK as a child after his dad was killed in Somalia’s civil war. The running great and father of three told BBC1 documentary The Real Mo Farah: “I want to feel normal and not feel like you’re holding on to something.”The Sun, right, reported Sir Mo feared being stripped of his citizenship for lying on his application but politicians joined celebrities in rallying round. More

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    Major blow to Wayne Rooney as big money TV project on brink of being cancelled due to failing managerial career

    WHILE his wife is Down Under on I’m A Celebrity, Wayne Rooney is in Plymouth fighting to save his career.But I can reveal there’s something almost as lucrative at stake for the footballing family — a big-money documentary which is supposed to be charting Wayne’s ascent in the world of managing.Coleen is set to leave the I’m A Celeb jungle this SundayCredit: RexUnfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be going too well, with fears that he could end up leaving Plymouth Argyle after a poor run of results.With the I’m A Celeb final taking place this Sunday, in a bit of bad timing, Wayne’s departure from the club might come shortly after Coleen exits the jungle.A TV insider said: “The whole point of the documentary was to celebrate his move from player to becoming a manager.“But obviously if that ends up being more of a horror show then the creators, or the Rooneys themselves, may pull the plug on the project.”read more on tvThe documentary is being made by Lorton Entertainment which also produced The Real Wagatha Story, the documentary about Coleen’s court battle with fellow Wag Rebekah Vardy, for Disney+, now available on ITVX.It was expected that the finished Plymouth Argyle show would end up with one of the big streamers too, though that also seems uncertain now.The first documentary Lorton made on Wayne, a feature-length 2022 programme simply called Rooney, dropped on Prime Video.The production company also made Prime Video mini-series We Are New­castle United and backed Boom! Boom!: The World Vs Boris Becker, a two-parter out on Apple TV+ last year.Most read in FootballFortunately for the family, matriarch Coleen is said to have telly execs lining up a few lucrative jobs for her on the back of having made an impression in the jungle.I also exclusively revealed in February there was talk of doing an At Home With The Rooneys show.Inside Wayne Rooney’s incredible trophy room as wife Coleen gives rare glimpse inside Man Utd legend’s house Here’s hoping they materialise at speed.Wayne Rooney’s upcoming documentary could be in jeopardyCredit: RexA PEAKY BLUNDER BY BEEB?TELLY tough guy Vinnie Jones says there is still one show he wishes he had been in – BBC drama Peaky Blinders.Vinnie is gearing up to play notorious gangster Danny Driscoll in the Only Fools And Horses musical at Hammersmith Eventim Apollo this Christmas.Vinnie Jones wishes he’d been in Peaky BlindersCredit: GettyHe told Chris Moyles on Radio X: “I mean, Fools And Horses, it’s one of them where you look at it same as that Peaky Blinders.“Obviously, I wish I would have done that, because I thought I was made for that as well. “Some things you think you’re made for, you know?”Vinnie, who featured in this year’s Netflix smash The Gentleman, added: “I grew up with Only Fools And Horses, and when I was playing foot­ball, it was every footballer’s favourite TV show.“And here we are, a few decades on, and I get asked to do it, and it’s an honour.”GAMBLE’S SAFE BET IS BACKTHERE are few sister shows I enjoy as much as The Traitors spin-off, Uncloaked, so I’m thrilled it is returning.Presenter Ed Gamble will be back with the visualised podcast on New Year’s Day, when season three of Claudia Winkleman’s BBC One show begins.The Beeb promises: “The podcast will take fans deeper with dissection of the episodes and exclusive access to the banished and murdered players.”The juicy section where bumped-off contestants find out which of their pals are the traitors will also return.Uncloaked will be available on BBC Two and iPlayer after every Traitors episode. An extended version will be on BBC Sounds, which will also have weekly playlists of all the music from the show.FORMER Top Gear and The Grand Tour host James May has launched a horseradish gin called Asian Parsnip Turbo. James said: “This is a limited edition, unless you really like it, in which case we may unlimit it.” See jamesgin.com.DUO TAKE PLUNGE?A “WILL they, won’t they” romantic drama has been commissioned by the BBC based on a multi award-winning novel.Open Water tells how keen photographer Marcus and dance student Effie feel an immediate connection when they meet.But Effie is dating Marcus’ friend Samuel.A shared project draws them together but can they resist the lure of love?The story is being adapted into an eight-part series from Caleb Azumah Nelson’s 2021 novel of the same name.Lindsay Salt of the BBC said: “Open Water is a tender, bold and dazzling story about the dance of early love and being seen for who you really are.”STARS from top TV shows have signed up for gritty new thriller Inheritance. The Sky drama will feature Wolf Hall’s Richard Dillane and Happy Valley’s Jack Bandeira.Set in Bristol, the UK and Jamaica, the story follows a mixed-race lawyer investigating an inheritance claim. SPLIT’S BRAVA BRAVOIT’S only a two-part special, but the ­latest helping of legal drama The Split packs in more drama than most ten-episode series.It sees central character Hannah (Nicola Walker) travel to Barcelona for her daughter Liv’s wedding to Spaniard Gael.The two-part special of The Split packs in more drama than most ten part seriesCredit: SISTERThe special sees Hannah Stern (Nicola Walker) travel to BarcelonaTagging along are ­Hannah’s sisters, Nina (Annabel Scholey) and Rose, (Fiona Button), plus her ex-husband Nathan (Stephen Mangan).Things get complicated when we’re introduced to lawyer Hannah’s new love interest, hunky Archie, played by Toby Stephens, son of the late Dame Maggie Smith. READ MORE SUN STORIESBut she isn’t the only family member caught up in complicated affairs of the heart – all of which is played out over one weekend.The Split: Barcelona airs on December 29 and 30 on BBC One. Both episodes are available on BBC iPlayer on December 29.Hannah’s new love interest Archie is played by Toby StephensHannah is joined in Barcelona by sisters Nina and Rose More

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    Dan Walker breaks silence on Match Of The Day talks after becoming new favourite to replace Gary Lineker

    THE race for Gary Lineker’s job presenting Match Of The Day is gathering pace.But his hotly tipped replacement, Dan Walker, who has returned to football programming for Prime Video, insists there’s only one of Gary’s jobs he fancies – being the face of Walkers crisps.Dan Walker has broken his silence on Match Of The Day talks after becoming a new favourite to replace Gary LinekerCredit: SplashGary, 63, revealed in November he will leave the programme at the end of the seasonCredit: X @BBCMOTDAsked about the rumours he’s in line for the BBC One’s flagship show at the TRIC Christmas lunch, former Football Focus host Dan said: “Match Of The Day is a brilliant programme and I love it and I’m going to cover football now.“But If there’s something Gary’s got that I would like, it’d be his crisp contract.“Because, you know, my surname, it couldn’t be any better, could it?”Gary, 63, revealed in November he will leave the programme at the end of the season after 25 years as host.READ MORE ON GARY LINEKERA number of names have been linked with the vacancy including Mark Chapman, Kelly Cates, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Kelly Somers.Regular Match of the Day pundits Alan Shearer and Micah Richards are also in the frame.Recent data showed Shearer to be the viewers’ preference to succeed Lineker.But it appears ex-Manchester City right-back Richards, 36, has been dismissed by Lineker.Most read in FootballSpeaking on The Rest Is Football, Richards attempted to rule himself out of the running.He said: “You know what, can I just get this out there, right.Dan Walker reveals snow disaster as he’s forced to abandon car”When people are saying Micah Richards is potentially going to take over a presenter, I think it’s a massive disrespect to all the presenters out there. There’s so many talented people.”Just because I’m a pundit, I can give insight to a player, I feel I know the game, I watch tactics.””But to take over presenting one of the most iconic shows, not just in sport, but that BBC’s ever had?”He then went on to add: “There’s so many others they can pick over me, I just can’t believe they would even put my name in the hat.”Lineker then playfully put Richards in his place by insisting there was no chance of him being chosen anyway.He said: “Micah, you can totally relax. I can assure you they won’t be asking you.”Chapman remains the favourite to replace Lineker.JILLY: I’M HOT FOR RIVALS 2IF THE raunchy action in Rutshire left you gagging for more Rivals, then Disney+ has an early Christmas present for you.Confirming my TV Biz exclusive, the streamer has said that a second series is on the way after the cliffhanger ending of the first.While it isn’t yet certain that David Tennant, Victoria Smurfit and Aidan Turner will return to their roles, writer Jilly Cooper, whose novel the series is based on, is thrilled at the news.Yesterday, she said: “Nearly 40 years after my novel Rivals was published, I’ve adored seeing the world fall in love with my beloved characters – Rutshire’s finest.“I’m orgasmic with excitement and cannot wait for the return of my superhero Rupert Campbell-Black and the rest of the characters in season two.”Well, that’s all just jolly super, isn’t it.IT’S WHO DARES WINGSThe nightclubs of London’s Soho in 1918 are brought alive to eye-popping effect in shots from upcoming BBC One drama Dope GirlsCredit: Sanne GaultThe series lifts the lid on a moment of sexual liberation, decadence and often intoxicating glamour as women took matters into their own handsCredit: © 2023 Sony Pictures TelevisionWHO would have thought you’d see such daring outfits just after World War One?The nightclubs of London’s Soho in 1918 are brought alive to eye-popping effect in these shots from upcoming BBC One drama Dope Girls.The series lifts the lid on a moment of sexual liberation, decadence and often intoxicating glamour as women took matters into their own hands to earn themselves a living.Single mother Kate Galloway, played by Julianne Nicholson, is at the centre of the capital’s exploding club scene as she sets up a nightspot to provide for her daughter Evie, and enters into a life of criminal activities under the nose of the police.Eliza Scanlen plays Violet Davies, one of the country’s first wave of female police officers, who is assigned to go undercover at the club and investigate the illicit goings-on.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe women she runs into include ballsy Billie Cassidy (Umi Myers), a dazzlingly bohemian dancer.Take your seats, ladies and gents, and tune in next year.MURDER IN ROYAL CIRCLESTHE makers of The Crown have landed their next royal project, The Lady.The four-part drama for ITV will tell the story of Jane Andrews, the Duchess of York’s former aide who was convicted of murder.With filming to begin next year in Grimsby and London, it will chart the rise and fall of Jane, who landed the plum role as the royal’s dresser after answering an advert in magazine The Lady.Her fall from grace began when she lost her job and fell in love with businessman Thomas Cressman, who she was later convicted of killing.Sian McWilliams, of production company Left Bank Pictures, said: “The Lady deftly explore the tragic series of events and poses the question – who is the real Jane Andrews?” More

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    How football’s new power couple Marcus Rashford and wag Grace Jackson could rake in millions as the next Posh and Becks

    SHE was the Love Island bombshell sent into the TV villa to shake up old flame Joey Essex and tipped to rake in millions, just like Molly-Mae Hague.And now Grace Rosa Jackson is the new beauty on the arm of England ace Marcus Rashford, 27, who she has been dating for several months.TV star Grace Rosa Jackson is dating England ace Marcus RashfordCredit: RexManchester United star Marcus has been on a series of dates with GraceCredit: GettyAn insider told The Sun the pair are “smitten” after the footballer “whisked her off on numerous dates around Cheshire” and they are said to “get on really well and have lots in common”.Marcus appears to have found the perfect blend of brains and beauty in Grace, 26, who is a savvy businesswoman as well as a fashion model and social media influencer.And brand expert Carla Speight thinks football’s latest power couple is a true “meeting of the minds” who could even become the new Posh and Becks.“Grace has got the potential to be the next Victoria Beckham — she’s already aware of the industry and she will do Marcus a lot of good, too,” Carla says.READ MORE ON GRACE Marcus is 27 now, so if he’s smart he will be looking beyond his football career.Carla Speight, brand expert“He had a taste of how far he could go with his successful school meals campaign during the pandemic, so he knows he can use his profile as a force for good.“It will be interesting to see what power move they will make together.“Marcus is 27 now, so if he’s smart he will be looking beyond his football career. He’s signed up to Jay-Z’s management company, Roc Nation.“He could follow in the footsteps of David Beckham. Marcus has already done the sportswear stuff, but has been otherwise low-key, so it will be interesting to see where this Love Island ­influence takes him.”Most read in Football‘Born for Love Island’Mancunian Grace was predicted to become the first millionaire from this year’s Love Island series — with brands queuing up to sign her, including retail giant PrettyLittleThing.In fact, immediately after leaving the villa in August, Grace signed a lucrative six-figure contract with fashion firm EGO, which her rep claimed was “a huge moment” because “no other islander has done anything like this for a first deal”.Love Island fans spot ‘clue’ that Grace’s head has already been turned by Casa hunkMany compared her to Molly-Mae Hague, the now ex-girlfriend of boxer Tommy Fury, who went from serving customers in Boots and working as a part-time lifeguard to raking in more than £6million as a model and ­influencer, with 8.3million followers.A source at the time told The Sun: “Grace is on course to be a millionaire already and a lot of brands are calling her the next Molly-Mae.”Even before heading into the Love Island villa, Grace had a blossoming career, having modelled for Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty line and online store Fashion Nova — as well as working alongside Conor McGregor to promote his Irish stout. She was also reported to have been a co-owner of Social Clubhouse, a social media management firm that launched in 2021, and events company Vamos, although she is no longer listed on the books of either at Companies House.This September, she set up her own media business, Grace Rosa Ltd. Grace’s Instagram page, which boasts 593,000 ­followers, showcases the sexiest, skimpiest and most ­stylish outfits of 2024 — which she seems to have cleverly monetised.The snaps, which she savvily signposts for fans to “shop the look”, are from enviable locations around the world and have led online ­commentators to say she was “born for Love Island”.She entertains fans with posts from stunning beaches in Marbella and Miami, Ibiza yacht parties, chic ­Parisian bars, red carpet premieres in ­London and, occasionally, from her home town of Manchester.To sit in and be single — I can’t understand why I would do that at my peak and in my mid-20s.Grace Rosa JacksonWith such a hectic schedule, it’s no surprise the aspiring star ­previously struggled to find love, once complaining: “They can’t keep up with my lifestyle!“I like to go out and go abroad a lot . . . it’s the life that I want and it helps with business. “To sit in and be single — I can’t understand why I would do that at my peak and in my mid-20s.”Grace hooked up with telly lothario Joey Essex in the Love Island villaCredit: ITVA brand expert says ‘Grace has got the potential to be the next Victoria Beckham’Credit: instagram/gracexrosaMarcus was engaged to childhood sweetheart Lucia Loi, who he met aged 15, but they split in 2023Credit: GettyIt’s that reason, and the chance of life-changing career opportunities from exposure, that led Grace to appear on Love Island in June.At the time, she said: “This is something that would push me out of my comfort zone — I don’t really date a lot. I get myself in situationships with people I know that I shouldn’t give my time to.”And producers were thrilled by the prospect of her entering as a bomb-shell, too. An insider dubbed Grace “the perfect contestant” due to her stunning looks and one other big ­ratings-puller — she was the ex of The Only Way Is Essex star Joey Essex. He was Love Island’s surprise contestant and the only islander this year who was already famous.As soon as Grace entered the villa on Day 12, the reality show veteran’s head was turned, despite him having already coupled up with Liverpudlian make-up artist Samantha Kenny.On the show, Grace revealed they’d “had a thing” after meeting in Ibiza the previous summer. The pair had also been pictured at a Halloween party in matching themed outfits as Batman villains Harley Quinn and The Joker.But she revealed their “intense” romance ended on “frosty terms”, which left her “hurt and confused”.Despite downplaying the relationship, the pair were soon making up for lost time. They had a series of steamy snogs, in spite of Samantha, before Grace chose to whisk Joey away for a night of passion in the separate Hideaway private villa.Footage of the couple’s antics was said to be so X-rated that sex-scene-loving Love Island bosses were “spoilt for choice” and had to leave footage on the cutting room floor.An insider explained at the time: “Because they knew each other before, their entire relationship is on fast forward and it’s steamy stuff — Joey can’t keep his hands off her.”They coupled up shortly after, with Grace believing they could go the distance outside the villa due to her being willing to move to Essex — said to be a hurdle during their previous fling. But within days, their romance had crumbled after new blonde bombshell Jessy Potts won over the reality hunk.While it didn’t work out for Joey and Grace, who also briefly dated fellow contestant Reuben Collins, she insisted there was no animosity and “no awkwardness” after they went “back to real life”. She also had plenty of distractions to keep her mind off the Towie star thanks to the raft of new opportunities boosting her career, as she continues to benefit from the ­exposure of such a high-profile reality romance.And now Grace’s star could be on the rise again since being linked to Three Lions wonderboy Marcus.The footie ace was previously engaged to childhood sweetheart Lucia Loi, who he met aged 15, but they split in the summer of 2023.The striker is now Man United’s second highest-paid star on £325,000 a week — but he could earn considerably more if their romance lasts and they join forces for deals.I can see Grace reviving Wag culture, which died a death after Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy. Grace could bring the spotlight back on to the ladies.Carla Speight, brand expertBut unlike Wags without careers, who are forced to depend upon their sports star partners, Grace is a force to be reckoned with away from Marcus’s millions. With his football fandom and her fashion following, they could be a top-tier power couple to rival any of the Premier League couplings.“I’m sure every girl dreams of dating a footballer and Marcus is definitely an upgrade from Joey Essex,” says Carla. “I can see Grace reviving Wag culture, which died a death after Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy. Grace could bring the spotlight back on to the ladies.“With her skillset, she could be very useful to the Wags of these footballers. READ MORE SUN STORIES”She could guide Marcus as well with the brand deals and future opportunities, because she has done that for herself. With his profile and her business head, this is a real meeting of minds.“She has enough profile to ­survive without Marcus, but it will help her level up. It will be interesting to see where they go next.”Grace found fame on ITV dating show Love IslandCredit: instagram/gracexrosaThe beauty has a large social media followingCredit: ITVMancunian Grace was predicted to become the first millionaire of this year’s Love Island seriesCredit: instagram/gracexrosaStriker Marcus is currently United’s second highest-paid player on £325,000-a-weekCredit: Getty More