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      in Soccer

      Sol Bamba’s touching final tweet as former Leicester and Cardiff star tragically dies at 39 after health battle

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      SOL BAMBA’S final tweet was a heartfelt tribute to former manager Sven Goran Eriksson.The retired defender tragically passed away aged 39 after falling ill on Friday following a brave fight with cancer.Sol Bamba passed away this week after a brave fight against cancerCredit: Instagram @solbambaThe defender played for Leicester from 2011-2012Credit: GettyHe paid tribute to former Foxes boss Sven-Goran Eriksson in his final post on XCredit: GettySol Bamba had three children with wife ChloeCredit: Instagram @solbambaTributes have flooded in from former clubs, as well as Bamba’s heartbroken wife Chloe.Eriksson’s tragic death aged 76 after his own battle with cancer was confirmed by his family on Monday.Bamba played under the Swede with Leicester and the Ivory Coast and paid a moving tribute to the manager.He wrote: “Deeply devastated by the news of Sven’s passing today.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”He was not just an exquisite person, but he was also the best coach I’ve ever had, inspiring my journey as a player but also as a manager.”My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Sven.”A fan later replied under the post: “Quite fitting your own final message was one of such respect and sincerity. Incredibly sad news. RIP Sol.”Bamba was working as a technical director for Turkish club Adanaspor when he was taken ill before a game against Manisa BBSK on Friday.Most read in FootballA statement from Adanaspor posted on Saturday night read: “Our Technical Director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the Manisa Football Club match played yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences to his family and our community.”Bamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff but managed to return to the field for the Bluebirds after being declared cancer-free following chemotherapy.Sol Bamba is a Cardiff legend after helping the Bluebirds to promotionCredit: Instagram @solbambaHe will be sorely missed by many fansCredit: Instagram @solbambaHe had three children – Roonea, Lily and Amy – with wife Chloe, who paid tribute to the popular former defender.She wrote: “For the last few years I have watched Sol fight his cancer head on with an astounding mental and physical strength and stoicism.”Unfortunately, it was never a fair fight and just when things were looking up he took a downturn and finally succumbed on 31st August.”These years have been indescribably difficult but we still managed to find joy and laughter in it.”I’ve experienced my worst days but also some of my best.”Sol accepted his fate as God’s will and left this earth knowing, without a shadow of a doubt, that he was loved wholeheartedly. I made sure of that.”It was an honour to have loved and been loved by Sol. I learnt so much from him. He is my hero. My heart is breaking.”What a gift, what a gift, what a gift to have been loved by him.”BAMBA’S HEALTH BATTLESSol Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Christmas Eve 2020 before undergoing four months of chemo.He told Mail Sport in 2022: “After the first chemo I was down for four days.”I could not get out of bed. I lost weight. After that, I told my missus, ‘I’m not going for the second round’. The way I was, in that moment, it was awful.” But the defender quickly rose to the occasion and was lauded for raising awareness of the disease as he battled it head on.Speaking to the Guardian in November last year he said: “The way I went about it, people gave me praise … it was too much.”That’s just what I’m like. I understand some people prefer to shy away from it, but I’m different. I’m just being myself.“Even clubs now are being careful now when they do medical checks, all the way from Premier League to League Two, which is massive. In our game we talk about injuries but you never think about cancer.”Bamba was given the all-clear in May 2021, but said he still had to be “careful”, paying regular visits to the doctor.“Unfortunately when you’ve had cancer once, you always have to double check and make sure it doesn’t come back,” he continued. “Is it behind me 100%? Well, I wish but you never know.”Incredibly, he returned to playing football just five months after his diagnosis.At the time of his comeback, he said: “When I was going through chemo, I never thought for one minute I would come back and play. And I never thought about scoring penalties at Old Trafford – nights like that seemed a million miles away.”Cardiff said Bamba was a “club legend” and his death brought them the “deepest sadness”.The club wrote: “As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable. He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman.”Leeds said in a post on X: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away.”Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”READ MORE SUN STORIESMiddlesbrough said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39.”Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.” More

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      in Soccer

      Sol Bamba’s wife releases heartbreaking statement saying he ‘left earth knowing he was loved’ as ex-Prem star, 39, dies

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      SOL BAMBA’S wife Chloe has released a heartbreaking statement after he tragically lost his battle with cancer.The father-of-three’s death aged 39 was confirmed yesterday after he was taken ill while working for Turkish side Adanaspor on Friday.Sol Bamba’s wife Chloe has payed tribute to the gentle giantChloe and Sol have three children togetherCredit: Instagram @cebambaSol Bamba returned to the field after being diagnosed with cancerCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoThe defender is an icon in the Welsh capital after he time with CardiffCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoBamba was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2021 while at Cardiff but managed to return to the field for the Bluebirds after being declared cancer-free following chemotherapy.He had three children – Roonea, Lily and Amy – with wife Chloe, who paid tribute to the popular former defender.She wrote: “For the last few years I have watched Sol fight his cancer head on with an astounding mental and physical strength and stoicism.”Unfortunately, it was never a fair fight and just when things were looking up he took a downturn and finally succumbed on 31st August.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”These years have been indescribably difficult but we still managed to find joy and laughter in it. “I’ve experienced my worst days but also some of my best. “Sol accepted his fate as God’s will and left this earth knowing, without a shadow of a doubt, that he was loved wholeheartedly. I made sure of that.”It was an honour to have loved and been loved by Sol. I learnt so much from him. He is my hero. My heart is breaking. Most read in Football”What a gift, what a gift, what a gift to have been loved by him.”Bamba became ill before a game against Manisa BBSK and later died in hospital.A statement from Adanaspor posted on Saturday night read: “Our Technical Director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the Manisa Football Club match played yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there. Our condolences to his family and our community.”Bamba’s health battlesSol Bamba was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma on Christmas Eve 2020 before undergoing four months of chemo.He told Mail Sport in 2022: “After the first chemo I was down for four days.”I could not get out of bed. I lost weight. After that, I told my missus, ‘I’m not going for the second round’. The way I was, in that moment, it was awful.” But the defender quickly rose to the occasion and was lauded for raising awareness of the disease as he battled it head on.Speaking to the Guardian in November last year he said: “The way I went about it, people gave me praise … it was too much.”That’s just what I’m like. I understand some people prefer to shy away from it, but I’m different. I’m just being myself.“Even clubs now are being careful now when they do medical checks, all the way from Premier League to League Two, which is massive. In our game we talk about injuries but you never think about cancer.”Bamba was given the all-clear in May 2021, but said he still had to be “careful”, paying regular visits to the doctor.“Unfortunately when you’ve had cancer once, you always have to double check and make sure it doesn’t come back,” he continued. “Is it behind me 100%? Well, I wish but you never know.”Incredibly, he returned to playing football just five months after his diagnosis.At the time of his comeback, he said: “When I was going through chemo, I never thought for one minute I would come back and play. And I never thought about scoring penalties at Old Trafford – nights like that seemed a million miles away.”Bamba was a beloved figure in English football after spells with` Leeds, Middlesbrough and Leicester.He played in the Premier League with Cardiff in the 2018-2019 season after winning the Championship runner-up trophy with the club.Cardiff said Bamba was a “club legend” and his death brought them the “deepest sadness”.The club wrote: “As a player and coach, Sol’s impact on our football club was immeasurable. He was a hero to all of us, a leader in every dressing room and a true gentleman.”Sol Bamba was working in Turkey when he fell ill and passed awayCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoHe bravely battled cancer and leaves behind three childrenCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoSol and Chloe Bamba enjoy a touching moment togetherCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoSol was known for his generous personalityCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoChloe Bamba issued a heartbreaking statement after Sol’s deathCredit: Instagram @ch1ojoLeeds said in a post on X: “Everyone at #LUFC is devastated to learn of the news that former #LUFC captain Sol Bamba has passed away.”Our thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends at this tragic time. Rest in peace, Sol, you will be forever in our hearts.”Middlesbrough said: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of Sol Bamba at the age of 39.”Our thoughts are with Sol’s family and friends at this time.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBamba was born in France but made 46 appearances for the Ivory Coast – the country of his parents’ birth.After playing he stayed with football and moved into management as an assistant manager with Cardiff in 2023. More

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      in Soccer

      Brighton star Joao Pedro ‘sends Bukayo Saka into another dimension’ with ‘nasty move’ in Arsenal clash

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      JOAO PEDRO went viral thanks to some incredible footwork during Brighton’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal.Pedro, 22, started for the Seagulls against the Gunners in their Premier League clash at the Emirates.Brighton ace Joao Pedro dominated Arsenal star Bukayo SakaCredit: TNT SportsBrighton star Pedro also scored the equaliser against ArsenalCredit: GettyAnd the versatile forward was in top form as he gave the North Londoners a very tough afternoon with some stunning dribbling skills.The Brazil international dominated Thomas Partey in several encounters.But Pedro got the world talking when he showcased some excellent dribbling skills against Bukayo Saka.Brighton fans went ballistic as they stormed social media to praise their star forward.Read More on FootballOne fan tweeted: “Joao Pedro sent Saka to the shops ! Nasty move.”Another commented: “Joao Pedro with the body feints sending Saka into another dimension.”A third wrote: “Joao Pedro has made Saka and Partey dance now.”This one said: “Saka shuffling as well, Joao Pedro is ice cold [in] his last season at Brighton.”Most read in FootballAnd that one stated: “Joao Pedro has rinsed Partey & Saka this half.”Things got even better for Brighton as well as Pedro – and worse for Arsenal.Emotional Matt O’Riley opens up on Celtic transfer exit as he leaves ‘family club’ for new challenge at BrightonThe Brazilian cancelled out Kai Havertz’s opener with a fine strike on 58 minutes to seal a point against their 10-men opponents who lost Declan Rice to a second yellow card. More

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      We’re fuming over ‘dangerous’ 4ft fence that popped up overnight – it’s disgraceful & has to come down

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      FURIOUS Newcastle United fans have urged a landowner to tear down a fence they constructed next to St James’ Park.The structure has been built close to the East Stand of the stadium on Leazes Terrace and supporters are warning it could be a fire hazard.A fence has been built close to the East Stand of St James’ ParkCredit: x.com/@nufctrustThe wooden structure was erected on Leazes Terrace in Newcastle upon TyneCredit: Google MapsThe landowner is not associated with or affiliated to Newcastle UnitedCredit: x.com/@nufctrustMatchgoers claim the fence poses ‘serious health and safety concerns’Credit: GettyPictures shared on X by Newcastle United Supporters Trust reveal how the barrier is just yards away from the doors.Matchgoers claim the fence poses “serious health and safety concerns” and could have “dangerous consequences” in the event of overcrowding.It is not known when the wooden fence was erected.One fan took to social media to comment: “That’s restricting egress in the event of a fire.”Read more Sports NewsAnother penned: “I can’t see the fans allowing that to stay up long.”A third said: “Health and Safety risk for supporters absolutely stupid putting that there.”Adam Stoker, co vice-chair of Newcastle United Supporters Trust, said: “We have raised the concerns of our board and our members with the club directly.”Naturally we are concerned about the serious health and safety concerns that the structure poses, given the impact this would have on queues when accessing and departing the East Stand.Most read in Football”The area of the ground right by where this has been constructed is a very busy area on matchdays and putting obstacles in the way of supporters could have dangerous consequences and result in significant overcrowding.”We have been contacted by a number of our members on this issue who are concerned about the risks it could potentially cause.SunSport’s Latest Transfer Headlines”We strongly urge the land owner to remove the current structure and to stop putting structures in place which could compromise the safety of our supporters on matchdays.”It’s disgraceful to display such openly petty behaviour, while showing blatant disregard for the potential of their actions to put the safety of our fans at risk.”It’s disgraceful to display such openly petty behaviour.Adam StokerCo vice-chair of Newcastle United Supporters TrustA Newcastle United spokesperson added: “We are aware that one of our neighbouring landowner’s, St James Terrace Land Ltd, has chosen to erect a timber fence on land which abuts the exterior of the East Stand of St. James’ Park.”The landowner is not associated with or affiliated to the Club in any way whatsoever.”In the interests of continuing to provide uninterrupted access for our fans and others using St. James’ Park, particularly on matchdays, we have offered alternative nearby sites to the landowner for the safe storage of their items and will continue to seek to engage in constructive dialogue with the landowner on this matter.”We will monitor the situation and will work closely with our partners to find a sensible way forward.READ MORE SUN STORIES”The Club has this week reached out to its season ticket holders to understand their views on how the recent usage of the land by St James Terrace Land Ltd has impacted them.”The landowner was not available for comment. More

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      in Boxing

      Danny Simpson reveals football rival DM’d him to set up fight… and backs ex-Man Utd team-mate to make boxing switch

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      DANNY SIMPSON is already being called out to an all-footie fight ahead of his boxing debut. The 2016 Premier League winner with Leicester faces YouTuber Danny Aarons on Saturday night in Dublin.Danny Simpson is already being called out to an all-footie fight ahead of his boxing debutCredit: Getty – ContributorMisfits Boxing – headed up by YouTuber KSI and his manager Mams Taylor – welcome stars from the social media, celebrity and sports world to fight in crossover-style bouts. But Simpson – a former team-mate of Cristiano Ronaldo’s at Manchester United – becomes the first footballer to cross over. And he expects several others to follow his lead having already been challenged behind-the-scenes by Prem rival James McLean. Simpson told SunSport: “I think if anything you’ve got to be quite brave in in general. But to be the first…READ MORE IN boxing “I hope so, because I said a lot of lads watch love boxing.They go, you always see the footballers at the boxing events ringside and stuff.”So yeah, I think they’re probably waiting to see what happens first! “I’ve had James McLean, I mentioned him in an interview and he DM’d me saying when he finishes, he’ll come down, spar and get in the ring.”So I think a few lads will probably get into it.”Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSimpson – during his time with Newcastle – infamously clashed with then-Sunderland forward McLean. And he has had his fair share of online feuds too, including one he recently put to bed with Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher. Simpson said: “Me and James McLean had some beef when we played and he’s DM’d me. “I think I had beef with Carra in the past but that we sorted that out. Obviously, everyone knows Wazza is a good boxer. “So, yeah there’s names that are popping up so we’ll we’ll see if you know any of them in the future fancy it.”Wayne Rooney – nicknamed Wazza – was once knocked out in a drunken kitchen spar by Phil Bardsley. And Simpson – who came up the United ranks with Bardsley – backed the hardman full-back to have the makings of a boxer. He said: “I think my mate Phil Bardsley. I was with him last week and he’s grew up boxing and around boxing.”I’d back him to beat anyone I think on on on these cards. So I’d throw him in the mix and and put pressure on him.”James McLean clashing with Simpson in a 2012 matchCredit: Getty Images – GettyPhil Bardsley had a hardman reputationCredit: Visionhaus More

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      in Soccer

      Conference League clash suspended as police evacuate entire away stand after shameful scenes

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      POLICE have evacuated away yobs after a Conference League clash was suspended.The tie between NK Olimpija Ljubljana and HNK Rijeka was brought to a halt after flares were thrown into the home stands.A Conference League clash was suspendedCredit: xFlares were thrown into one of the standsCredit: xThe Rijeka hooligans were escorted out by policeCredit: xThe match was stopped in the 65th minute, and the players were taken into the dressing rooms.Reports online have claimed that the Rijeka hooligans started to fight with police who were confronting them.The yobs were then escorted out of the Stožice Stadium in Slovenia.The suspension of the match lasted 26 minutes and was restarted with the away stand empty of fans.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSFans slammed the actions of the away hooligans as they reacted on social media.One posted: “Just call off the game.”A second wrote: “This is the biggest disaster in Croatian football since I can remember. Shame.”A third commented: “Croatia should be banned from football.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA fourth said: “Those idiots have acted shamefully.”Another added: “I hope those supporters that were near the flares are okay.”The Sun’s Shaun Custis and Martin Lipton break down the new changes for the UEFA Champions League format for 2024/25The yobs were slammed by fans onlineThe match was suspended for nearly half an hourThe incident did little to dampen the joy of the Olimpija supporters.Their team has romped into a 5-0 lead inside the first half with the score 6-1 on aggregate.Raul Florucz opened the scoring in the 2nd minute before goals from Thalisson Charles Alves Moreira (x2), Dino Kojic and Perdo Lucas put the result to bed.Elsewhere in the competition, Chelsea took on Swiss side Servette in the second leg of their play-off tie.The Blues were forced to stream the match for free for their supporters due to a website error.New Champions League formatEach club will play eight matches in the opening phase – against seeded opposition, in a system designed to ensure that teams play opponents of similar difficulty.The top eight teams in the “final” table will automatically go through to the last 16, where they will be joined by the eight play-off winners of ties between the sides placed ninth to 24th in the table.Despite there being just eight matches in the opening phase, European matches will be spread over 10 midweek slots.The new Champions League format also sees the implication of two additional qualifying spots.They will be awarded to the nations that are top of the “country coefficient” chart each season. More

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      in Soccer

      Ex-England star Carlton Palmer reveals heartbreaking death of his dad on same day as friend Craig Shakespeare’s funeral

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      CARLTON PALMER has revealed that his father died on the same day as he attended Craig Shakespeare’s funeral.The former England star shared the heartbreaking news on social media.Carlton Palmer’s dad has passed awayCredit: Action ImagesPalmer, 58, was with his mother and sister as his father died aged 89 in the early hours of the morning.The retired midfielder posted on X, revealing the news along with a picture of him and his dad.He wrote: “My dad passed at 3.17am this morning.”I love you and I will miss you. I was with him, my mother and my sister, and he passed peacefully in his sleep.READ MORE IN SPORT”God bless you Dad.”Palmer also admitted that he had been at the funeral of Craig Shakespeare today.Shakespeare passed away at the age of 60 earlier this month.He was diagnosed with cancer in October 2023 and received many tributes from the footballing world.Most read in FootballPalmer earned 18 caps for EnglandCredit: RexPalmer was one of the attendees at the Premeir League-winning former Leicester City’s coach’s funeral.He added: “It’s been a tough day.”My Dad passing this morning and burying my very good friend this afternoon.”Heartbroken.”Palmer received plenty of support from his followers on social media.One posted: “So sorry for your loss Carlton, thinking of you.”A second wrote: “I’m sorry to hear this, Carlton. I knew you two were so very close.”A third commented: “Through it all, remember the good times.”A fourth said: “Sorry for your loss. Big respect to even still go.”Another added: “Very sorry to hear that Carlton. My deepest condolences to you and your family.”Palmer starred for the likes of West Brom, Sheffield Wednesday and Leeds United during his career.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also played for the likes of Southampton, Nottingham Forest and Coventry City.He earned 18 caps for England and scored one goal against San Marino in 1993.Craig Shakespeare won the Premier League at Leicester CityCredit: Getty – ContributorWho are these famous footballers? More

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      Ex-Chelsea star Conor Gallagher already has his own song at Atletico Madrid as he’s serenaded by packed stadium on debut

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      CONOR GALLAGHER appears to already be a fan favourite at Atletico Madrid after being serenaded with his own song.Gallagher, 24, made his Atletico bow on Sunday evening in the club’s 3-0 win over Girona in La Liga.Conor Gallagher was named on the bench for his first Atletico Madrid gameCredit: SplashAnd he was serenaded by fans after coming on in the 58th minute for his debutCredit: GettyGallagher was given 32 minutes by new boss Diego Simeone as he replaced Rodrigo Riquelme down the left flank.He completed a £34million move to Spain from Chelsea and was presented to fans for the first time last Wednesday.Gallagher got to work almost immediately after his introduction at the Wanda Metropolitano as he showed his work rate by putting the opposition under pressure.And while the English midfielder admitted in his presentation that he did not speak much Spanish, he would not have needed a translator to understand the chant the Atletico faithful sang for him.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIn a viral social media clip from inside the stadium, the fans could be heard singing: “Conor Gallagher duh duh duh duh duh duh.”Gallagher – who is being tutored by former Blues team-mate Cesar Azpilicueta – also came away from the match winning two tackles and three duels.On his debut, Simeone said: “[Gallagher] came on with a lot of energy. “That’s what we’ll get from him. He needs a bit of time to get used to opponents and to his team-mates. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”With his enthusiasm and passion, we have to help him so that adrenaline is positive for the team.”The Argentine boss heaped praise on Gallagher before the game, suggesting his versatility was a big reason why he was signed as he hinted at Gallagher possibly playing as a “second striker”.Conor Gallagher sends packed Atletico Madrid stadium wild at unveiling by speaking SPANISH after Chelsea exitGallagher’s warm reception will have been a nice change from the cold way he was dealt with at Chelsea.The Cobham graduate was effectively pushed out of the door following 18 years at the club after being banished to training with the Under-21s before his departure.The England international’s debut also came alongside former Manchester City star Julian Alvarez, who made his full debut in front of the home crowd as he started up front with Antoine Griezmann.Atletico Madrid’s next game is against Espanyol on Wednesday before a visit to Athletic Bilbao on Saturday evening. More