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    Next time Jude Bellingham wants to launch X-rated rant at referee he should copy former Wimbledon champion instead

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    FIERCE criticism of referees is practically a national habit, either in stadiums or at the TV.And why not? If we wish to send hot air at such targets and without much chance of reprisal, well, good luck to us.Jude Bellingham was sent off and handed a two-match suspension for his outburst towards the referee last weekendCredit: ReutersPity the poor ref, though, because it is as certain as thunder following lightning that some people will go too far.That is what the brain-dead do when they utter death threats at referees or spit out racial slurs.The question is what is the difference between fair criticism and a blurted insult.Did Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham stray too far when he muttered “f*** off” or f*** you” in the direction of referee Jose Luis Munuera Montero? The hugely talented 21-year-old says it was directed at himself.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe ref said it was aimed at him and he had the red card!A Spanish Football Federation panel could have banned him for up to 12 weeks — it ended up being just two.Bellingham is no innocent Brummie abroad. He has been sent off as a Real player once before and should know that while “f*** off” is often aimed at someone’s own failings, it can easily be misunderstood.There is a much bigger aspect to this. On-field reaction to rulings might be generally overlooked. In the real world, not so much.Most read in FootballOfficials are given a tough task to deal with the complaints of playersCredit: ReutersCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSNo one expects going to a match to be like attending church, but some of the bile delivered at refs and players is gruesome.Racial abuse must be eradicated, not only is it a short cut to hatred on a major scale but also to violence, mass murder and even war.Jude Bellingham caught ‘humbling’ LaLiga rival who threatened to knock Real Madrid team-mate out ‘in 10 seconds’Football is a physical and highly competitive sport. Surely that should be enough for supporters who like it for those reasons as well as for its immense skill, character and mental toughness.The crucial part of any competition is good refereeing which in many ways is like policing.In football, the job is no 90-minute picnic and there’s never been a ref, copper or judge who got everything right.Most of them understand this and quickly grow a thick skin. But no skin is thick enough to resist threats of physical harm to close relatives or themselves.We all need protection and no one more so than the man or woman who is, as the saying goes, “in the middle”.Key to good order is that at a certain level there must be rights of appeal. High-level football in general does this well and efficiently.Though I must add that what and how a comment was made is definitely an area of contention.Self-blaming language is a part of every sport: There’ll be plenty of it in a rugby scrum and inevitably after a dropped catch at cricket.Nowadays umpires at big matches are blessed with instant access to incidents so errors are as rare as six overthrows.But football is emotional and action never stops: No wonder, then, that VAR can be so controversial.But one sport had an appeal of its own — tennis with John McEnroe v Umpire. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe pleaded “you cannot be serious”. Perfect.It is what Bellingham could say and then get on with the game.John McEnroe would plead ‘you cannot be serious’ when decisions didn’t go his wayCredit: Getty More

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      Sky Sports presenter leaving after 43 years on TV as he gives ‘final goodbye’ in emotional statement

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      LEGENDARY Sky Sports presenter Nick Powell is rolling credits on a glittering 43-year broadcasting career.Powell, 65, spent 29 years with Sky and will be retiring later this week on his 66th birthday.Sky Sports presenter Nick Powell is retiring after a glittering 43-year broadcasting careerPowell puts his mic down after 29 years with SkyCredit: GettyThe popular broadcaster has covered some of the greatest sporting events, such as England’s Ashes triumph in 2005, London 2012 and Andy Murray’s Wimbledon win in 2013.The journalist issued a long farewell message on Sky Sports’ website where he also looked back at unforgettable interviews with the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Muhammad Ali and Princess Anne.Powell wrote: “And there you have my job in a nutshell: holiday irrelevant; knowledge, authority and quick reactions essential.”I have built all that up over 43 years of live broadcasting, good and bad.Read More on Sport”The good – being there for England men’s first Ashes win in 20 years at The Oval in 2005, Super Saturday at the 2012 London Olympics and Andy Murray’s 2013 Wimbledon triumph.”The bad – the Bradford fire, the Hillsborough disaster and the premature loss of sportspeople like Gary Speed.”And the surreal – interviewing Archbishop Desmond Tutu and covering a Bruce Springsteen concert on the same afternoon for Yorkshire Television, or explaining The Hundred to viewers of Sky Germany. In German.”Powell looks back at his career very fondly without regretting even the hardest times that saw him working under difficult circumstances.Most read in FootballBut there were also some very pleasant experiences along the way, such as when he covered Liverpool’s first ever Premier League triumph in 2020.Powell wrote: “And now it’s a final goodbye.Premier League giants give update on £300m, 60,000-plus-capacity stadium expansion with area turned into building site”Favourite moment? So many, but as a born and bred Liverpool fan, it’s hard to beat being on air for their first league title in 30 years.”As it turned out, between the final whistle going on Manchester City’s defeat at Chelsea, which meant Liverpool could not be caught, and the start of a special programme fronted by David Jones to mark Liverpool’s triumph, I had precisely 12 seconds.”But that’s live television for you.” More

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      Controversial EFL team’s old stadium and former home of national side is now headquarters of Network Rail

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      THE home of English football’s most controversial club is now the headquarters of Network Rail.In it’s heyday, 9,000 fans would fill the stadium every week – but before all of that it housed England’s national hockey team.The home of English football’s most controversial club is now the headquarters of Network RailIt was once the National Hockey stadium before it was demolished in late 2009The stadium was previously used by England hockey between 1995 and 2003But housed the contentious EFL side for four years between 2003 and 2007The old multi-purpose ground was leased by a club that was going through one of the biggest changes in modern football history.It temporarily housed MK Dons, who were in League One at the time, between 2003 and 2007 – during the EFL side’s gigantic move away from London.MK Dons suffered the highs and lows of relegation to League Two and promotion back up again during that four year stay.In summer 2007, the Dons relocated to the new Stadium MK, near Bletchley, leaving the hockey digs without a tenant. READ MORE FOOTBALLIt was unused for two years and, in late 2009, demolition began in preparation for the redevelopment of the site into a new Rail HQ, which became operational in July 2012.MK Dons were formed in 2004 following the controversial relocating of Wimbledon FC.Back in the 80s and 90s, Wimbledon’s notorious ‘Crazy gang’ played at Plough Lane in Merton, South West London.However the iconic, but dreaded ground, no longer met the all-seater requirements for Premier League stadiums by 1991.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMK Dons suffered the highs and lows of relegation and promotion at the stadiumOwner Sam Hammam couldn’t afford the renovations and sold 80 per cent to Peter Wrinkleman by 1997.Wimbledon were forced into ground sharing with Crystal Palace from 1991 to 2003 before Wrinkleman relocated 46 miles north to Milton Keynes in Buckinghamshire with the permission of the FA.New Luton Town Stadium given planning permissionMillions of fans were appalled when the club had to abandon their ‘Don’ name, 102-year-old stadium, badge and colours by 2004.Many supporters walked away and formed AFC Wimbledon in 2002 as a non-league club, who are currently pushing for promotion in League Two.During that time, the club played home matches at Kingsmeadow – which is now the home of Chelsea FC Women.AFC Wimbledon returned to their spiritual home on Plough Lane to the Cherry Red Records Stadium a few hundred yards away from the original ground in 2020.MK Dons relocated to the Stadium MK in 2007A groundshare with rugby league side London Broncos began in 2022.MK Dons and AFC Wimbledon continue to share a unique, but bitter, with the latter refusing to recognise the former.AFC were charged for failing to call MK Dons by their proper name in a pre-match programme when they both sat in League One in 2017.No collection of football’s most memorable teams could ever be complete without mention of the rise of Wimbledon FC in the 80s.The notorious ‘Crazy Gang’ brought together a group of players who went from the fourth division to the top-flight in four consecutive seasons.And, most memorably of all, the Wombles lifted the FA Cup after Lawrie Sanchez scored the Wembley winner against all-conquering Liverpool in the 1988 final.But the old First Division’s most famous Cinderella story had a dark side.Vinnie Jones and the rest of the Crazy Gang were famous for their wild antics both on and off the pitchThe team’s work hard-play hard-tackle harder approach to football made them intimidating for opponents.And the fear factor spread within the team’s own dressing room.Former players Dennis Wise, Vinnie Jones and John Fashanu told BT Sport a tale of vicious beatings, endemic brutality and even arson.“I saw players actually cry from the abuse – physically break down and cry,” said ex-defender Terry Phelan.Jones backed up those words saying: “We were a lot of misfits, a lot of throw-outs, a lot of not-wanteds.”You either grew a backbone very quickly or you dissolved as a man.”Jones was often identified as the ring leader, but he claims that the tough culture was already well established by the time he signed in 1984 and that Wally Downes really ran things. Meanwhile, Wrinkelman sold MK Dons to a Kuwait-based consortium led by entrepreneur Fahad Al Ghanim in August this year.READ MORE SUN STORIESWinkelman oversaw the club’s promotion up to the Championship before an eventual return to League Two.MK Dons currently sit below their fierce rivals AFC Wimbledon in the professional fourth tier.MK Dons’ first stadium was the home of England hockeyThe National Hockey Stadium was demolished and replaced by a Network Rail building in 2012 More

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      Incredible before and after video shows AFC Wimbledon’s progress fixing huge sinkhole after Carabao Cup clash postponed

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      AFC WIMBLEDON have issued an update on the pitch restoration at Plough Lane.The Dons were forced to postpone their Carabao Cup third round clash with Newcastle on Tuesday due to flooding.AFC Wimbledon have shared an update on their pitchCredit: AFC WimbledonThe Dons raised over £100,000 for repairsCredit: AFC WimbledonWork is underway to resurface the damaged part of the pitchCredit: AFC WimbledonAdverse weather conditions in the area caused “significant damage” to both the stadium itself and the pitch.A SINKHOLE formed by the corner flag, prompting the fan-owned club to start a fundraiser to pay for the damage.Work began on the pitch yesterday morning, with significant progress made in just a matter of hours.AFC Wimbledon shared a before and after clip of the work on social media last night.Read More in FootballIt showed the first steps of the pitch being evened out to repair the huge sinkhole.Wimbledon managed to raise over £100,000 for repairs by Wednesday afternoon.Newcastle donated £15,000 following the match postponement.The fixture has been pushed back to October 1 and moved to St James’ Park.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWimbledon will receive 45 per cent of the gate revenue from it.The winner of the clash will go on to face Chelsea in the fourth round.Watch AFC Wimbledon begin work fixing sinkhole on pitch after pumping more than 100,000 LITRES of water out of stadiumThe Dons hope to return to Plough Lane for their clash with Carlisle on October 12. More

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      BBC forced into emergency broadcasting change as Wimbledon final shock changes channel’s plans

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      BBC bosses were forced to act quickly after Carlos Alcaraz stunned Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon.The Spaniard took just two hours and 27 minutes to dismantle the tennis great and defend his Wimbledon title.Carlos Alcaraz destroyed Novak Djokovic to win WimbledonCredit: ReutersEngland are taking on Spain for their own shot at glory tonightWimbledon coverage was supposed to continue until 6.20pm, followed by ten minutes of news and the Euro 2024 final.But Alcaraz, 21, dismantled Djokovic so emphatically that the BBC had to stick an episode of Countryfile on at 5.20 instead to plug the gap.Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions take on Spain at the Olympiastadion in Berlin as they bid to end 58 years of hurt.But Alcaraz had a defiant message to his compatriots.READ MORE SPORT NEWSHe said: “I’ve already done my job so let’s see about the football.”I’ll watch with my team for, sure, I don’t know where but I will be watching.”It will be a really difficult match, I’ll watch and let’s see who wins the Euros.”Beeb chiefs had already made a massive shift to their coverage of England’s pursuit of glory.Most read in Euro 2024THE TIME IS NOWENGLAND face their destiny against Spain TONIGHT – hoping to end 58 years of hurt in the Euro 2024 final.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe BBC were planning to begin their coverage an hour before kick-off at 7pm.But they shifted it forwards 30 minutes as rival broadcaster ITV’s programme was slotted for 6.30pm.Alcaraz gives cheeky five-word message to Spain ahead of Euro 2024 final after winning WimbledonDuring the semi-final win over Holland, it is estimated that there was a peak of 21.6million people watching on ITV.This has given fans a big decision to make about which broadcaster to tune into.The BBC will have regular faces presenting the show, such as Gary Lineker and Micah Richards.While ITV will feature the likes of Laura Woods, Gary Neville and Roy Keane.Team news has already started to emerge with Luke Shaw set to start for in place of Kieran Trippier.England stars could be set for a major money boost should they win the final from increased wages and endorsement deals.England vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain. More

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      Elle Brooke risks wardrobe malfunction at Wimbledon in bold white outfit as Misfits boxer ‘tries being a posh gyal’

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      ELLE BROOKE joked she tried being “a posh gyal” for the day at Wimbledon – while suffering a slight wardrobe malfunction.The OnlyFans star-turned-influencer boxer enjoyed a day out at the tennis in a break from her training. Elle Brooke pictured at WimbledonCredit: Instagram @thedumbledongBrooke joked she tried being ‘a posh gyal’ for the dayCredit: Instagram @thedumbledongThe influencer-boxer enjoyed a day off trainingCredit: Instagram @thedumbledongShe stunned in a daring white outfitCredit: Instagram @thedumbledongShe posed in a bold white dress which showed her off her curves in all their glory.The content creator from Surrey captioned the post: “Tried my hand at being a posh gyal.” Brooke, 26, has four wins and just one loss and a draw in the boxing ring. Her last bout was against former UFC star Paige VanZant, 30, where she scored a shock knockdown. READ MORE IN sportBut the judges could not separate the pair and called it a draw – with talks now ongoing for a rematch. Brooke told iFL TV: “I’m excited for the rematch because I’m working hard for it. I’ve got a new strength and conditioner and he’s killing me. “My legs are in bits, I’m in bits. I’ve never been worked so hard that I can’t physically walk. “I am dead so onwards and upwards, I know what I need to work on and that’s what I’m working on. Most read in Boxing”Feeling optimistic, I’ve got to win, I’ve cancelled my life for this.” Brooke – who rakes in over £60,000-per MONTH on OnlyFans – uploaded a picture with 2-0 sparring partner Eilish Tierney.She wrote: “Can you believe people subscribe to me.”Unbeate 2-0 boxer Eilish Tierney with sparring partner Elle BrookeElle Brooke and Paige VanZant fought to a drawCredit: Misfits Boxing More

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      Novak Djokovic spotted on pitch at Serbia’s Euro 2024 clash just hours after he was practising at Wimbledon

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      NOVAK DJOKOVIC made an appearance on the pitch ahead of Serbia’s Euro 2024 clash with Denmark in Munich tonight, just hours after taking to the practice courts at Wimbledon.The 24-time major champion, 37, is in a desperate bid to be fit for the Championships in SW19, which get underway next Monday.Novak Djokovic was at Wimbledon this morningCredit: GettyThe 37-year-old was in good spirits at the All England ClubCredit: GettyDjokovic laughed with Frances TiafoeCredit: GettyDjokovic later surfaced at Serbia vs DenmarkCredit: GettyHe travelled over 700 miles to MunichCredit: ReutersDjokovic underwent knee surgery less than three weeks ago after tearing his medial meniscus at Roland Garros.Despite his injury, the Serbian arrived at the All England Club yesterday, ready to wait and see if he’ll be able to play.He practised on the Aorangi practice courts at Wimbledon on Monday.Djokovic then took to the same courts on Tuesday morning.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe seven-time Wimbledon champion was pictured smiling and laughing alongside Frances Tiafoe.Just hours later, Djokovic could be seen on the pitch at Allianz Arena – more than 700 miles away.Wearing a suit, he snapped selfies with thrilled Serbia fans at the stadium.As Serbia stars including Dusan Vlahovic left the pitch after finishing their warm-ups, they were each hugged in turn by national hero Djokovic.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWhen he took his seat, the tennis champion put a Serbia shirt on to show his support.Following his operation earlier this month, Djokovic wrote on social media: “My love for this sport is strong and the desire to compete at the highest level is what keeps me going.Djokovic breaks incredible Federer tennis record despite ‘screwing up his knee’ in his longest ever French Open matchEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY”I’m going to do my best to be healthy and fit to return to the court as soon as possible.”He then added from SW19 yesterday: “That time of year. Good to be back. Giving my best to be ready for Wimbledon.”The Wimbledon draw is set to take place on Friday, but it remains to be seen whether Djokovic will be in it.The top 10 richest stars in tennisWho is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.But who is the sexiest?Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story.If so, he will be the second seed – only behind world No1 Jannik Sinner.Djokovic will likely return to SW19 tomorrow, as he ponders whether to play.After Wimbledon, his next scheduled appearance is set to be at the Olympics later this month.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe tennis event is set to take place at Roland Garros, the scene of Djokovic’s knee injury.He sustained the issue during his win over Francisco Cerundolo on June 3, which forced him to withdraw ahead of his scheduled quarter-final with Casper Ruud.Djokovic greeted Serbia’s stars each with a hugDjokovic arrived at Wimbledon on MondayCredit: PAThe 24-time major champion suffered a knee injury at Roland GarrosCredit: AFP More

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      My dad is Premier League cult hero… now I’m making my own way as a presenter – I’ve even interviewed Kane and Bellingham

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      KENZIE BENALI will have had plenty of practice interviewing footballers before quizzing the likes of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham on live TV.That is because the rising reporter is the daughter of Premier League cult hero Francis Benali.Kenzie Benali is the son of Southampton cult hero FrancisCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliShe is forging her own career as a broadcasterCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliBenali interviewed Harry Kane on the Wembley pitchCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliShe worked in the media at the 2022 World Cup in QatarCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliKenzie is set to become a mum in 2024Credit: Instagram @kenziebenaliThe former full-back certainly has legendary status in Southampton after coming through the academy at his hometown club and spending his entire professional career on Saints’ books. Benali Sr racked up more than 350 appearances for Southampton across 16 years from 1988 to 2004, chipping in with just one solitary goal. He did get a runners-up medal from the FA Cup despite not being involved in the 2003 final, then turned out for Eastleigh for a season in 2006-07. After retiring, he set up the True Greats website and co-founded the 73 Management agency company – both alongside former Saints team-mate Matt Le Tissier – and does some after-dinner speeches and punditry work. READ MORE ON SPORTBut it has been his charity efforts that have led to his MBE and Freedom of Southampton.His heroic challenges include a marathon and a 75-mile cycle ride each day for two weeks to visit all 44 Premier League and Championship stadiums in October 2016.Then in 2019, he attempted to complete seven Ironmans in seven days – he completed five and was hospitalised but still raised a staggering £1million. Benali’s son Luke had brief stint at Winchester City in non-league but it is daughter Kenzie who is flying the football flag for the family now.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBorn in May 1995, she is already forging a stellar career in front of the camera as a broadcaster.She presents the Premier League Rising Stars show with Ben Foster and has done various gigs with the likes of The Hundred and England cricket, England rugby, Southampton and Wimbledon, where she interviewed Andy Murray.Playboy model and daughter of LaLiga legend banned from dating footballersBenali Jr has helped cover The HundredCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliKenzie married Northamptonshire cricketer Lewis McManus in 2021Credit: Instagram @kenziebenaliBenali rocked a red suit to cover England rugby – nicknamed the Red RoseCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliShe was clearly delighted to chat with Jude BellinghamCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliHowever, her biggest jobs have been in the Qatar World Cup, FA Cup and for the England football team, chatting on live TV to the likes of Kane, Bellingham, Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones.The popular star even got her football boots on as part of a shoot with Puma in 2022.Away from her job, Kenzie married her Northamptonshire cricketer husband Lewis McManus in November 2021.They are set to welcome her first child, a daughter, in 2024. Glamorous Kenzie is also a huge fan of the theatre and an animal lover and posts plenty of stunning content from her wonderful lifestyle on Instagram – including her highlights at work, family photos, baby bump pics and even horse riding. Alongside dad Franny, she is also an ambassador for the Saints Foundation.The glamorous presenter lives an incredible lifestyleCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliHer knowledge of a wide range of sports has served her wellCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliKenzie interviewed Andy Murray at WimbledonCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliShe regularly posts smiley pics from various sporting venuesCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliKenzie even showed off her baby bump at WembleyCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliHer love for Wimbledon is clear to seeCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliDad Franny received an MBE for his incredible physical challenges for charityCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliShe talked with Kevin De Bruyne after the FA Cup semi-finalCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliKenzie loves horses and likes to go out ridingCredit: Instagram @kenziebenaliThe star is also a huge fan of the theatreCredit: Instagram @kenziebenali More

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      My dad is a former England coach and top-flight star – now I have fourth most English league appearances in history

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      TONY BLAIR was Prime Minister, The West Wing was on TV and 18-year-old Dean Lewington made his senior debut for Wimbledon.And 21 YEARS later the defender is still going strong.Dean Lewington is still going strong after over 20 yearsCredit: GettyLewington started his career in the fallout of Wimbledon’s 2000 relegationCredit: PAHe is set to make his 939th appearance in a huge fourth-v-third clash when MK Dons host Mansfield today.Lewington sits fourth in the all-time English league outings with 814 — a feat bettered only by England legend Peter Shilton (1,005), Tony Ford (931) and Graham Alexander (833).Meeting for coffee in leafy Surrey, I asked what secret lay behind his astonishing career.He laughed: “I wish I knew because I’d sell it for a few quid! Probably being happy and lucky with injuries.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut for a man who turns 40 next month, there must be more to it?Lewington said: “I caught the back-end of old-school football when there was the drinking culture. “Yet I’ve been lucky to benefit from modern training methods and nutritionists.“The diet is nothing in excess, fruit and vegetables, all good stuff and looking after yourself.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAlthough he technically stayed at one club, he made 32 appearances for Wimbledon before they controversially switched to Milton Keynes in 2004 — with pre-MK history officially relinquished to AFC.Lewington started his career in the fallout of Wimbledon’s 2000 relegation from the Premier League and was in the team that moved to MK.Super League star wakes up unemployed after nightmare spell of just EIGHT games in which he forced a rewriting of rulesAFC Wimbledon were created, gaining EFL status, building a new stadium at Plough Lane, not far from their old ground, and now in the same division as MK.Lewington, the only MK player left from the ‘old’ Wimbledon, said: “It was a baptism of fire — but lucky most of us playing then were youngsters who came through the youth side.“Because of our age, we saw it as a good opportunity and didn’t worry about the side-effects.“Hindsight is wonderful and no one would want to repeat what happened.“But AFC have gone on and done well. There’s no animosity from me. I’m glad they’re doing what they’re doing but my focus is on MK.”Lewington has played in all three EFL divisions — enjoying three promotions but suffering five relegations.Last season’s drop into League Two came only a year after almost winning promotion to the Championship — following a heartbreaking loss to Wycombe over two play-off legs.He said: “I’ve been relegated twice and promoted twice on the last day. It’s been a career in the lower leagues, so unglamorous — but a happy one.The diet is nothing in excess, fruit and vegetables, all good stuff and looking after yourself.Dean Lewington“I’ve changed position slightly but was always a tall full-back, quite aggressive, composed on the ball, good passer. “But I’m not overly athletic so that’s held me back.”His career highlight was winning promotion to the Championship in 2015 under Karl Robinson with Dele Alli leading the way — prompting Tottenham to sign him for £5million.And Lewington said: “After relegations from the Championship to League Two, we wanted to get back there.“It took more than ten years but the club got into a positive place.“We had Dele coming through, the youth team was producing and everything was on the up.“Dele trained with us since he was 15. It was a pleasure to play alongside and see him fulfil his potential.“Getting into the Championship felt like a chance for the club to establish itself. It didn’t work out but that brief moment was the best.”’I was told I wasn’t wanted and could train elsewhere’The club were only in the second tier for a season, and two years after that they were back in League Two.Lewington’s stay with MK came close to ending twice.A swap deal involving Huddersfield’s Pawel Abbott in 2006 fell through when the Terriers man pulled out, and in 2017 Lewington was frozen out by ex-boss Robbie Neilson.The latter was Lewington’s lowest moment. He said: “Neilson banned me from the club for about six weeks. “I was told I wasn’t wanted and could train elsewhere. That’s when I thought, ‘Perhaps my time at MK is over’. But he got sacked and things changed.”During that time, his dad Ray — ex-Fulham, Brentford and Watford boss and England No 2 — was invaluable.He said: “With dad being in the game, I’ve learnt to realise it’s not personal. Managers try to pick their best XI and sometimes it doesn’t include you.“You feel like they don’t know what they’re doing and the world is against you but they’re trying to do their best.”His standout manager was current Southampton boss and former team-mate Russell Martin.Roy Hodgson with with assistant Ray Lewington during their England daysCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdHe explained: “Russ believes in what he does 100 per cent. There’s no Plan B — it’s his way and you stick to it.“Some managers, when hitting a tough patch, change things but not him. That’s what makes him effective.“He took over when we were fighting relegation from League One.“He changed us to complete football, which is the opposite of what teams usually do in those situations.“It was a real risk but he believed in it. It’s like going back to your childhood, playing free-flowing football.”His only regret is MK having not fulfilled chairman Pete Winkelman’s ambition to reach the Prem — or stay in the Championship.But Lewington said: “The reality is it costs a lot of money to get in the Premier League now. “When the club was formed, the gap between the top flight and the EFL was smaller.“The stadium and infrastructure are there so if someone wants to take it on, it could definitely happen.”READ MORE SUN STORIESSo with his 40th birthday approaching, what does the future hold?He said: “At some point I’ll go down the coaching route. But I’ll keep playing for as long as I can.” More