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    ‘So incredibly welcoming’ – Laura Woods pays personal tribute to Rio Ferdinand as Man Utd legend, 46, leaves TNT Sports

    LAURA WOODS has issued a heartfelt farewell to Rio Ferdinand on his final TNT Sports appearance. The Manchester United legend is stepping away from the broadcaster after 10 years as a pundit. Laura Woods (left) has paid tribute to Rio Ferdinand (centre) on his final TNT broadcastCredit: PAThe former Man Utd star has spent a decade as a pundit for the networkCredit: PAFerdinand was on the TNT panel for Saturday’s Champions League final in Munich. He was joined by host Woods, Steven Gerrard and Owen Hargreaves for his last broadcast. Following PSG’s emphatic 5-0 win, Rio said: “I just want to say thank you to everybody that I’ve worked with.”My job was made a lot easier by the great people and friends that I have worked with and will remain friends for many years.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe ex-England centre-back joined TNT back in 2015 as a pundit.He was drafted onto co-commentary duty shortly after and claimed his decision to leave was “difficult”.Woods had one “final goodbye” for Ferdinand as Saturday’s broadcast from Munich wound down. The presenter said: “Rio, before we leave, just one final goodbye. Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”From us here at TNT Sport, to you. That is it for your career here, for now.”Can I just say on behalf of all of us – including everyone behind the camera – you’ve been an absolute pleasure.PSG crowned Champions League winners after smashing Inter Milan 5-0″And personally since I joined, you’ve been so incredibly welcoming.”You’ll be sorely, sorely missed.”Despite being incredibly busy with TNT for the last decade, Ferdinand has managed to launch a hugely successful podcast.His ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ pod, which was previously called ‘Vibe with Five’, has over 1.3 MILLION subscribers on YouTube.He has also been linked with a potential move to the BBC in the wake of Gary Lineker’s departure on Match of the Day. Ferdinand’s final game as a pundit proved to be a cracker, with PSG stunning Inter Milan 5-0 in Munich.Champions League final REACTION – PSG 5-0 InterLuis Enrique’s side ended the Parisian’s Champions League drought in style, overpowering the Italians thanks to standout performance from Desire Doue.Read More on The SunAn emotional Enrique said: “Since day one, I said I wanted to win important trophies, and Paris had never won the Champions League.”We did it for the first time. It’s a great feeling to make many people happy.” More

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    Laura Woods wears bold outfit for Champions League final as fans say she’s single-handedly saved TNT Sports coverage

    LAURA WOODS stunned in a bold outfit as viewers declared she had single-handedly saved TNT Sports’ coverage of the Champions League final.All eyes were on Munich as giants Paris Saint-Germain thrashed Inter Milan 5-0 to win Europe’s greatest prize.Laura Woods stunned as she presented TNT Sports’ Champions League final coverageCredit: TNT SportsThe ace wore a bold sleeveless cream outfit as fans sang her praisesCredit: TNT SportsWoods was joined on the box by Rio Ferdinand and Steven GerrardCredit: TNT SportsStars including Desire Doue lit up the pitch with some amazing performances.But off it, it was Woods who caught the eye in a striking ensemble.The popular presenter, who returned to screens earlier this month after giving birth to first child Leo with fiance Adam Collard, bowled fans over as she opted for an amazing all-cream outfit.Woods bared her arms as she also went sleeveless in the warm German evening.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLChampions League final 24-25 LIVEShe was joined by Rio Ferdinand and Steven Gerrard on the sideline as the icons, who have both won the Champions League, delivered their pre-match thoughts.For Ferdinand, it was a poignant moment after the Manchester United legend declared it would be his final appearance on TNT Sports.Meanwhile, Gerrard dug deep for his best analysis after being strongly linked with a return to Rangers.But as far as viewers were concerned, it was Woods who was the star of the show.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSOne said: “Thank f**k for Laura Woods.”Another declared: “Great to see Laura Woods presenting the final.”Laura Woods gives Adam Collard a telling off as they watch Newcastle vs Arsenal and reveal who their baby is supportingThere was also praise for fellow TNT Sports presenter Jules Breach.She dazzled in a green dress while going behind the scenes.And one fan had plenty to say.They boomed: “Jules Breach showing levels this evening.”Jules Breach was also hailed by supportersCredit: TNT SportsShe wore a stunning green outfitCredit: TNT Sports More

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    TNT Sports presenter Miroslava Montemayor stuns in see-through top as she gets ready to host Champions League final

    MEXICAN TV host Miroslava Montemayor has turned heads with a stunning look ahead of the Champions League final. The 35-year-old presents TNT Sports’ coverage of the tournament in Mexico. Miroslava Montemayor has stunned with a plunging see-through outfitCredit: INSTAGRAM @tntsportsmex and @miroslavamontThe Mexican is TNT’s Champions League hostCredit: Instagram @miroslavamontMiroslava is a former model and represented Mexico at Miss International 2013Credit: Instagram @miroslavamontThe 35-year-old has fronted TNT’s coverage of the CL since 2019Credit: Instagram @miroslavamontMiroslava is known for her daring on-air fashion choices. And her latest wardrobe choice has sent her 884,000 followers into a frenzy. Miroslava previewed PSG’s showdown against Inter Milan on Saturday night. She picked her best XI of the tournament – controversially leaving out Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut fans admitted they “forgive her” as she dazzled in a gorgeous see-through black dress. One fan gasped: “You are a queen.”Another commented: “Simply stunning.”Miroslava also gave her followers a glimpse into TNT’s halftime show for the final in Munich. Most read in FootballRocking a traditional German dirndl, she wrote: “Behind the scenes of rehearsals for the Champions League halftime show… Munich, here we come!”One lovestruck fan replied: “I need to watch this.”Champions League places CONFIRMED after Aston Villa VAR controversy as Newcastle have to be saved by Man UtdAnd a second said: “The look is EVERYTHING.”Miroslava represented her country at Miss International 2013 in Japan.She began her foray into TV over a decade ago after leaving modelling behind. Miroslava rocked traditional German dress as the TNT team prepare to head to MunichCredit: INSTAGRAM @lareimers and @miroslavamontHer first TV gig was on Azteca Noreste sports show ADN.She joined up with ESPN in 2015, fronting a number of their Spanish-language shows.The presenter turns her hand to everything from American football to tennis.Miroslava left ESPN in 2019 to join TNT, where she has since fronted the network’s Champions League coverage in Mexico. More

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    Steven Gerrard lands new job aged 44 as Rangers prepare to name next manager

    STEVEN GERRARD has landed a new job amid links to Rangers.The Liverpool legend has been out of management and out of work since leaving Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq in January.Steven Gerrard will appear as a pundit for TNT Sports at the Champions League finalCredit: GettyBut he has now been hired for a new role at TNT Sports.Gerrard will appear as a pundit for Saturday’s Champions League final on Saturday between Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.He has appeared as a pundit for the broadcaster on multiple occasions since hanging up his boots in 2016, including for Liverpool’s 5-2 defeat to Real Madrid in 2023.Gerrard has also covered England matches for Channel 4.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe will return to Champions League final action alongside old foe Rio Ferdinand, Karen Carney, and Owen Hargreaves, with Laura Woods and Reshmin Chowdhury to host.Gerrard, 44, is reportedly on the shortlist to return to Rangers as their next manager.He is one of a number of candidates of interest, alongside former Southampton manager Russell Martin and Davide Ancelotti, son of Carlo.Gerrard is understood to be the preferred option after leading Gers to the Scottish Premiership title in 2021, finishing the league campaign unbeaten.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSAn unsuccessful stint at Aston Villa followed and he was axed less than a year after joining the club.He was then appointed manager of Al-Ettifaq but left by mutual consent earlier this year with the club just above the relegation zone.Robert Grieve & Bill Leckie have the very latest on the Rangers manager situation as Steven Gerrard & Russell Martin emerge as front-runnersThe former England midfielder waived £10million in order to avoid getting a relegation on his managerial record. More

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    Reece James overheard by TNT Sports presenter rollocking Chelsea team-mates at half-time of Conference League final

    REECE JAMES was overheard delivering a passionate half-time speech that inspired Chelsea’s Conference League final comeback.The Blues came from 1-0 down at the break to beat Real Betis 4-1 in Wroclaw, Poland.Reece James rallied the Chelsea team at half-time before coming onCredit: TNT SPORTSJames demanded a ‘reaction’ in the second-halfCredit: GettyCaptain James was named on the bench but come on at the interval to replace Malo Gusto.TNT Sports reporter Becky Ives claimed she could hear the right-back rallying the troops inside the changing room at half-time.She told him: “I heard you in the dressing room really geeing up the team.”And it made all the difference as Chelsea put in a stunning second-half performance to clinch glory.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAsked by Ives about his battle cry, James replied: “I thought in the first-half we were very flat.”The game did not go our way early on and it looked like it took a lot out of us.”We needed a reaction in the second-half and we got it.”On not being named in the starting XI, James said: “It’s devastating to know you’re not playing in the final or not starting.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUS”I want to play every game but it was the manager’s decision and once he made the decision, I need to accept it and move on and be ready to come in if I’m needed.”Enzo Maresca revealed after the game that he did not start James amid fears of him suffering another injury.Moment Chelsea & Real Betis fans CLASH in Poland launching bottles & smoke grenades hours before Europa Conference finalHe explained: “I promise you, I will start always with Reece, but I’m trying to protect him.”He plays more games this season than the last two or three. He knows that.”But he is a top player for us, he is like Cole [Palmer], but the problem is we need to manage him.”When we change him he said, ‘boss don’t worry, we are going to win the game’.”Enzo Maresca said James did not start due to injury worriesCredit: Alamy More

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    Rio Ferdinand potential career moves after leaving TNT Sports as Man Utd legend looks to ‘next chapter’

    RIO FERDINAND is officially a free agent having left his role at TNT Sports.The former Manchester United and England defender was part of the broadcaster’s commentary and punditry team for a DECADE.Rio Ferdinand has left his role at TNT SportsCredit: ALAMYThe former Manchester United and England star has revealed his next moveCredit: GETTYBut the 46-year-old has decided to move on to pastures new by not renewing his contract.An emotional social media post read: “After 10 incredible years, I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT Sports after the Champions League final.“Since retiring from football, it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sports and TNT Sports.“I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen, but has been essential to our success.READ MORE ON RIO FERDINAND“To everyone at TNT Sports, we have a brilliant end to the season to look forward to on Saturday, and for now all focus will be on what I think could go down as one of the great European finals.“The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever, and I look forward to following its progress and the exciting future that lies ahead.“Lastly, I would like to thank my family and my management company New Era for their ongoing support.“They have supported me to travel all over Europe, following the best players and watching the best matches. For a football fan like me, it’s been a dream come true.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSRio Ferdinand is looking forward to the ‘next chapter’ of his lifeCredit: ALAMY“As I turn the page to the next chapter. I carry with me countless memories.”Ferdinand will have plenty of time on his hands now that he’s no longer bound to TNT Sport’s hectic schedule.Rio Ferdinand calls out Roy Keane and Gary Neville’s takes on Man Utd vs Man City The pundit plans to spend his free time with his family, as well as focusing on his podcast and other “interests”.So what will Rio be up to now..?Full-time podcastingDespite being incredibly busy with TNT for the last decade, Ferdinand has managed to cultivate a massive podcast.His ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ podcast, which was previously called ‘Vibe with Five’, has over 1.3 MILLION subscribers on YouTube and thousands of listeners on Apple and Spotify.The podcasting world is an extremely lucrative one, so Ferdinand would be foolish not to use his massive platform and standing in the game to cash in on a potential post-career goldmine.The Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast has over 1.3 million subscribers on YouTubeCredit: RIO FERDINAND PRESENTSPunditryAlthough Ferdinand plans to focus on his other interests, an immediate move to one of TNT’s rivals isn’t off the cards.Sky Sports have just freed up a boatload of cash by culling multiple presenters and reporters in a wave of redundancies.And it could be used to finance a potential swoop for Ferdinand, who would draw huge numbers along with former England team-mates Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher.A move to the BBC could also be on the cards following Gary Lineker’s departure from Match of the Day.Ferdinand is no stranger to a bit of Beeb punditry having worked for the national broadcaster during multiple international tournaments, including Euro 2024.Rio Ferdinand was part of the BBC’s coverage of Euro 2024Credit: BBCCharity workFerdinand could use his downtime to focus on the ‘Rio Ferdinand Foundation’, which he set up back in 2012.The foundation was set up with the goal of creating opportunities for young people in impoverished areas and has been a huge success.RestaurantsFerdinand entered the restaurant world in 2009, opening Rosso Restaurant & Bar in Manchester’s city centre.But Rosso, which was visited by A-listers galore, closed its doors after 15 years of service back in September 2023.Ferdinand could look to revive the defunct restaurant or open a new one.Although given the volatile nature of the culinary world, he may decide against returning to the industry.BoxingFerdinand tried to become a professional boxer following his retirement in 2015 but was denied a license by the British Boxing Board of Control.Ferdinand immediately gave up on his dreams of becoming a pugilist after the BBBofC’s huge knockdown, although he could reignite them now that he has plenty of time on his hands.Read More on The SunInfluencer boxing promotion Misfits Boxing would no doubt jump at the opportunity to get Ferdinand in the ring as they recently did with his former United and QPR team-mate Danny Simpson.But they would likely have to break the bank to get him to lace up his gloves so late into his forties.Rio Ferdinand could give boxing a go following his departureCredit: INSTAGRAM@RIOFERDY5 More

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    Rio Ferdinand QUITTING TNT Sports after 10 years as Man Utd icon releases emotional statement about ‘difficult decision’

    RIO Ferdinand has announced he is quitting his pundit role with TNT Sports.Former Manchester United and England defender Ferdinand, 46, has been one of the faces of the channel since joining its predecessor BT Sport in 2015.Rio Ferdinand has announced he’s quitting TNT Sports after ten yearsFerdinand has become a popular pundit since ending his playing career in 2015Ferdinand has acted as both a pundit and co-commentator for domestic and European football, including last week’s Europa League Final between United and Spurs in Bilbao.But the ex-Three Lions skipper will step away from the TNT microphone after Saturday’s Champions League Final between Inter Milan and PSG in Munich.Ferdinand explained in a lengthy social media post: “After 10 incredible years. I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT Sports after the Champions League final.“Since retiring from football it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sports and TNT Sports.READ MORE ON MAN UTD“I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen, but has been essential to our success. “To everyone at TNT Sports, we have a brilliant end to the season to look forward to on Saturday, and for now all focus will be on what I think could go down as one of the great European finals.“The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever, and I look forward to following its progress and the exciting future that lies ahead. “Lastly, I would like to thank my family and my management company New Era for their ongoing support. Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Man Utd Files every Thursday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Old Trafford“They have supported me to travel all over the Europe following the best players and watching the best matches. For a football fan like me, it’s been a dream come true. “As I turn the page to the next chapter. I carry with me countless memories.Rio Ferdinand calls out Roy Keane and Gary Neville’s takes on Man Utd vs Man City “I’m excited about what the future holds, spending more time with my family, focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents and my other business interests.“I hope to stay connected with all of you in different capacities. Thank you once again for everything.”Sources at TNT suggested Ferdinand could return to the channel in the future, whether on a guest or permanent basis and that it was entirely his decision.The decision not to renew his deal allows Ferdinand to concentrate on his own online channels, which have become increasingly popular.Ferdinand was hospitalised after a health scare at the start of the monthFerdinand was recently off work after suffering from a health scare, forcing him to miss Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final second leg clash against Paris Saint-Germain.He was hospitalised with a serious virus, which he later called a “crazy illness” that left him vomiting.Ferdinand can now juggle his time better between family life and work commitments.Read More on The SunHe is married to wife Kate, who he shares two biological children with.The couple also raise three kids from Ferdinand’s first marriage to late partner Rebecca, who tragically died from cancer in 2015.Ferdinand is married to former Towie star Kate More

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    TNT Sports forced to apologise as two Arsenal stars swear on live TV after Alessia Russo broke down in interview

    TNT SPORTS were forced to apologise twice as Arsenal’s stars got lost in the emotions of winning the Women’s Champions League.Katie McCabe and Leah Williamson both swore on live TV as they let out their emotions following a 1-0 victory over Barcelona, while Alessia Russo was reduced to tears by the incredible victory.Arsenal won the Women’s Champions LeagueCredit: ReutersThe Gunners lifted the trophy for the first time in 18 yearsCredit: AFPKatie McCabe accidentally swore live on TNT Sports as she was overcome with emotionCredit: TNT SportsMcCabe, who was overcome with emotion after 10 years with the Gunners, couldn’t help but drop the f-bomb when she was describing just how hard she and her teammates worked for the win.In her interview on TNT she said: “I’m just in disbelief to be honest. Well no, actually, I believe it.”Because we suffered together today. Barcelona threw absolutely everything at us and we f*****g – sorry – we kept it together. We rode it out and we rode the storm.”TNT’s hosts didn’t let the impassioned x-rated answer sit for long without an apology, as the lead presenter said: “Apologies for the language there”.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd it wasn’t long before another apology was issued as captain Leah Williamson suffered a similar faux pas during her chat to the broadcaster.She said: “I don’t believe it, I’m going to f*****g cry. Sorry, I’m crying. “This team has been together for a really long time and we’ve been working really, really hard to get to the next level. “And to do it on the biggest stage, and I think some people just had the game of their lives and that’s what you need, and we did it. I’m just so happy.”Most read in FootballLeah Williamson was close to tears as she swore live on TNT SportsCredit: TNT SportsCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSIt wasn’t just a few accidental foul-mouthed slip-ups that showed how much this win meant for Arsenal though, as England star Alessia Russo showed with her pitch-side tears.Crying after helping Arsenal end a near 20-year wait for European glory, Russo said: “It feels surreal. We knew we could [win]. We believed since the moment our Champions League journey started.”We knew that we had the capabilities, we knew that we could be good enough. It was just about going and doing it, and we’ve done it.”It was all thanks to the brilliance of substitute Stina Blackstenius who scored just seven minutes after being introduced as a second-half substitute to grab the only goal of the game.Arsenal had dug deep to defend well against a Barcelona side that are widely considered as the best team in the world on paper.While, like Williamson said, every Gunners star seemed to put in the best performance they possibly could to ensure European glory would be returning to North London for the first time since 2007.Alessia Russo was left in tears after the victoryCredit: TNT SportsStina Blackstenius scored the game’s only goal as a second-half substituteCredit: APThe Gunners pulled off a massive underdog victoryCredit: Reuters More