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Heartache as family of ‘truly special’ boy, 16, killed in tragic Kerry fall issue emotional statement & confirm funeral

THE heartbroken family of a “beloved” 16-year-old teenager who died in tragic fall in Co Kerry have confirmed he will be laid to rest this weekend.

Darragh Byrne, from Charleville in Co Cork, was killed instantly on Tuesday when he fell at a lake close to Daingean Ui Chuis in the west Kerry Gaeltacht of Corca Dhuibhne near the Conor Pass.

Memorial candle and book with flowers.
Social Media
Darragh’s school opened a book of condolences[/caption]
Black and white photo of Darragh James Byrne.
Darragh, 16, tragically passed away in the accidental fall
RIP.ie

Darragh, who had travelled to Kerry on holidays with his parents James and Siobhan, went exploring an area with a waterfall close to Pedlars Lake.

However, when he failed to return his parents raised the alarm and emergency services kicked into action.

Darragh was found close to the bottom of the waterfall and it is believed he may have climbed up to the lake, slipped and plunged to his death.

A notice online described Darragh as the “beloved son” of James and Siobhan.

It added: “Sadly missed by his heartbroken parents, grandfather George Fehilly, grandmother Marie Byrne, uncles Pádraig, Gearoid, Kevin and Michael, aunts Nollaig, Maeve, Deirdre, grandaunts, relatives and friends.”

In an emotional statement, Darragh’s family thanked emergency services for their efforts at the scene, including 30 members of Dingle Coast Guard and the Kerry Mountain Action Team who responded alongside the ambulance service and Gardai.

They said: “The family would like to thank the Doctors, Paramedics, Gardai, Dingle and Killarney Mountain Rescue, Shannon Rescue 115 and all those who helped in so many ways.”

Darragh’s family confirmed the young man will be reposing in Hawe O’Keeffe Funeral Home in Charleville on Saturday from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, followed by prayers.

His funeral mass will take place in Holy Cross Church in Charleville at 12 noon on Sunday, with a cremation service at Shannon Crematorium at 3pm.

Tributes have been pouring in for Darragh, who was a student at Christian Brothers Secondary School in Charleville, since he passed away earlier this week.

In a post on social media, management at his school said Darragh was a “bright and uplifting” presence in their school community.

They added: “Whether in the classroom, walking our corridors, or spending times with his friends, he left a meaningful and lasting impact.

“His generous nature, intelligence and talent inspired all who knew him.

“Darragh will be missed deeply by his friends, his classmates, and all the staff here at CBS Charleville.

“His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, and we will remember him with great affection and sorrow.”

‘TRULY HEARTBROKEN’

One mourner said: “I had the pleasure of knowing Darragh during his school days at CBS Primary. He had a wonderfully quirky and unique personality that made our conversations thoughtful and often very memorable.

“He had a big, beautiful smile, something I know so many people will miss deeply. I’m truly heartbroken for you all. My heart goes out to his family, friends, and all who loved him.”

A classmate added: “Darragh was a truly special person, and his kindness and presence will be deeply missed, wether it was in the classroom, or moments shared outside, his humble and kind presence was always felt.

“You was taken from us too soon brother, may we meet again in the next life, but for now, may your soul Rest in Peace.”

This is the second high-profile tragedy to hit the family as Darragh’s grandmother, Mary Feehily, died last November.

She was struck by a car as she stood on a footpath after stopping to buy a GAA lottery ticket in the centre of Charleville.

Mary, who was in her 70s, was very well known locally and was the mother-in-law of Fianna Fail TD for Clare Cathal Crowe.

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Budget airline to launch new flights from the UK to affordable Asian city

NEW flights will soon connect Manchester to the capital of Thailand.

Norse Atlantic Airways is starting its first direct route from the airport in the north of the UK to Bangkok this winter.

Norse Atlantic Airways Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner landing.
Alamy
Norse Atlantic Airways is launching new flights from Manchester to Bangkok[/caption]
Bangkok skyline over Lumphini Park.
Alamy
Thailand is considered a cheap holiday destination for Brits[/caption]

The new flights will launch on November 26, 2025.

Passengers will be able to fly once a week on Wednesdays at 11.30pm which will arrive at 6pm local time. Return fares start from £259.

Norse Atlantic Airways called the launch a “game-changing alternative” to indirect, lengthier connections to Bangkok.

Currently, the carrier estimates it takes more than 100,000 passengers travel a year on indirect routes from Manchester to Bangkok

A further 100,000 travel via other airports.

Bjørn Tore Larsen, chief executive, Norse Atlantic Airways, said: “We don’t just follow demand — we unlock it.

“This route has been waiting to happen, and we’re proud to be the ones making it a reality. Manchester is a key gateway to the north of England, and Bangkok is a magnet for adventure, business, and culture.

“Connecting the two cities is a natural next step for Norse as we continue to disrupt and expand in the long-haul space.”

The other direct flights leave from London Heathrow to Bangkok with Eva Air and Thai Airways.

Norse Atlantic Airways was awarded the Best Low-Cost Airline in Northern Europe at the Skytrax World Airline Awards this year.

Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand.
Alamy
Bangkok has lots of beautiful temples around the city[/caption]
Women selling fruit and vegetables from boats at a floating market.
Alamy
There are lots of markets – some even float on boats[/caption]

It also came in fifth place for the World’s Best Long Haul Low Cost Airlines.

Head of Sun Travel Digital, Caroline McGuire flew with Norse on a recent trip to Cape Town and gave her own verdict on the airline.

Thailand’s known as one of the most budget-friendly holiday destinations out there, even if you’re planning on a luxurious island escape.

Magazine Travel + Leisure named Thailand as its Destination of the Year for 2025.

And Lonely Planet said the northern city of Chiang Mai as a holiday big-hitter for 2025 because of its great value.

Assistant Editor, Sophie Swietochowski, went on a trip at the end of 2024 where she discovered delicious street food, and where to get the best views.

Here’s more on the affordable winter sun destination that has new BA flights and £1 street food.

And one Thai island that Brits have no idea exists that’s like going back in time – and loved by famous footballer.

Aerial view of Bangkok's Ratchathewi district.
Alamy
Bangkok is a cheap holiday spot with incredible views and food[/caption]

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Thai Mercedes-Benz driver allegedly slaps student over parking dispute

A Mercedes-Benz driver allegedly slapped a female university student during a parking dispute outside a convenience store on Soi Sukhumvit 62 in Bangkok. The student shared a video on social media showing her and her boyfriend engaged in a heated argument with the driver. In the video caption, she wrote, “Wealthy Mercedes-Benz driver slaps university …

The story Thai Mercedes-Benz driver allegedly slaps student over parking dispute as seen on Thaiger News.

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Ubon Ratchathani police arrest 4 for violent assault on woman

Police in Ubon Ratchathani apprehended four men on charges related to a violent assault involving a 65 year old woman. The suspects allegedly attacked the woman with an iron object during a dispute. Police Lieutenant General Wathana Yijeen, commander of Region 3, and Police Major General Patiyut Singsamorot of the Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Police, announced …

The story Ubon Ratchathani police arrest 4 for violent assault on woman as seen on Thaiger News.

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I’m in £3.7m debt but still live a millionaire lifestyle with less work – people think I’m a lunatic but it’s brilliant

JUST seven years ago, Abi Hookway was a broke single mum struggling to get by.

Now, the 39-year-old has totally transformed her life, building an £8 million property portfolio and a £10 million business.

Woman in a straw cowboy hat at a music festival.
TikTok/@abihookwaypropert
Abi Hookway has candidly opened up on being in £3.7million in debt[/caption]
Woman in a straw cowboy hat at an outdoor concert.
TikTok/@abihookwaypropert
The mum-of-two revealed all on her “good debt”[/caption]
Woman enjoying champagne on a private jet.
abihookway.com
She explained why she isn’t a “lunatic” for having the debt[/caption]
A woman stands in front of two houses; a large stone house and a smaller, more modern house.
Supplied
Now she makes a fortune by flipping properties[/caption]

But having said that, the Property Expert and Entrepreneur has confessed that she is in £3.7million of debt.

Despite this, the mum-of-two isn’t bothered by the debt and still lives a very lavish, millionaire lifestyle.

Abi doesn’t work a standard 9 to 5 job and people have called her a “lunatic” as a result, but she isn’t phased, as she’s too busy living the dream.

Posting on social media, the businesswoman, who spends £800 a month on a housekeeper and has £70,000 in savings, got candid on her financial situation. 

Instead of working for someone else, Abi earns money by property flipping – she buys a property, renovates it, and sells it for a profit. 

As she filmed directly from a concert, she said: “I’m £3.7million in debt and I sleep like a baby – honestly, it is the best time of my life right now being in so much debt. 

“Most normal people would go ‘oh my gosh, you’re in so much debt, you’re a lunatic, what are you doing?’ – for me, it makes me happy. 

“Why? Because my debt is good debt. It’s leveraged on properties that pay for my lifestyle.”

Abi then explained: “I don’t work a 40-hour a week job, I don’t have a boss, I do what I want, when I want, because I’ve got all these houses paying passive income to me so I can do what I want in life, I can be at peace and fulfilled doing what I love most.”

Abi stressed the importance of understanding how to earn passive income and knowing the difference between “good debt and bad debt.”

She acknowledged: “We’re taught all debt is bad, but it’s not – good debt is leveraged on assets to make you money. Figure it out.” 

To have debt leveraged on assets involves borrowing money specifically to acquire or invest in assets with the expectation that those assets will generate enough income or appreciate in value to not only cover the cost of the debt (interest and principal payments) but also provide a net positive return.

Despite her “debt”, Abi has an £8 million portfolio, which includes buy-to-let properties, holiday homes in the Lake District and Peak District, and commercial properties. 

And her ambitions don’t stop there, as in the next 10 years, she plans to become a billionaire

Woman holding a bottle of Moët & Chandon Ice Impérial champagne at an outdoor restaurant.
Instagram
Abi now splurges £800 a month on a full-time housekeeper[/caption]
Woman holding daffodils in her kitchen.
Supplied
Abi has an £8 million portfolio, which includes buy-to-let properties, holiday homes and commercial properties[/caption]
A woman in a pink blazer stands on a residential street.
The Times
She recommends investing into property[/caption]

How exactly did Abi get started?

After finding herself consumed by “fear and anxiety” as her credit card debt spiralled, Abi took the plunge in property flipping.

Her breakthrough came during a conversation with her dentist, who admitted he’d love to invest in property but didn’t have the time. 

Abi seized the opportunity and her dentist agreed to fund her first property flip, in exchange for a 10% return on his investment.

Her first project was a neglected house in Doncaster that had been vacant for 18 months.

Using her dentist’s investment, Abi successfully flipped the property, paid back the loan with a 10% return and walked away with £72,000 in just six months. 

The next big goal is taking my business to the £100 million mark

Abi Hookway

Abi previously told Fabulous: “I said goodbye to my £24,000 debt, and the rest of the money was reinvested.

“I’d just made double my annual salary in less than six months, working less than six hours a week. Why wouldn’t I do it again?”

Now, Abi earns between £50,000 and £100,000 with every property flip. 

5 Tips to Get on The Property Ladder

Saving for your first property is tough, but it is possible. Here are a few steps for first-time buyers.

    1. Cut back on luxuries and start saving

    Consistent monthly saving is the best way to accumulate enough money to get on the ladder, for a deposit and purchase fees. To do this, you need to take a look at your monthly outgoings and think about what can be cut out – holidays, new clothes, weekly takeaway.

    Using a savings calculator can help you to establish how long you will need to save for a deposit. Based on your income, you can figure out a realistic amount to save each month.  

    2. Have a realistic property search

    Set a budget for the property price you would like to buy, and think realistically about the location and size of your property. While we all may want that house with a view or extra bedroom, can you afford it?

    3. Research Help To Buy and Shared Ownership schemes

    The government has introduced a few ways to help first-time-buyers get on the property ladder and they’re great for those on lower incomes or to buy a property in more expensive areas like London.

    4. Consider buying with another person

    Investing with somebody else you know is a sure way to get onto the property ladder. You only need to save half the amount you would otherwise, so you can work towards getting your property sooner. 

    You can invest with a friend, family or partner. Naturally, it is a big step and a huge commitment so be open and honest about what you expect from living together — if you haven’t already. 

    5. Talk to a mortgage broker and get your documents in order

    A mortgage broker can tell you exactly how much you can borrow for a mortgage, what you will need to pay monthly and in upfront costs.

    Abi added: “My most recent deal is a three-acre plot of land used to store caravans and containers. I’ve got about six or seven holiday homes and four or five commercial properties.

    “The next big goal is taking my business to the £100 million mark.

    “This year, my business should turn over around £10 million, but I want to fast-track it.”

    Social media users react

    The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @abihookwayproperty, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 414,400 views.

    It’s also amassed 20,200 likes, 121 comments and 1,036 saves. 

    Passive income is a game changer. Love it!

    TikTok user

    Social media users were stunned by Abi’s claims and raced to the comments to share their thoughts. 

    One person said: “I want to do what you are doing.” 

    Another added: “Passive income is a game changer. Love it!” 

    A third commented: “It’s crazy but you’re right.” 

    Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club

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    Estevao Willian, 18, at centre of Palmeiras dressing-room storm amid fears he has changed since Chelsea transfer

    ESTEVAO WILLIAN is Brazil’s new superstar in waiting poised to set light to the Premier League next season.

    But as he stands on the brink of the ultimate Chelsea audition, taking on his new team-mates in what could be his final appearance for Palmeiras this weekend, the teenager is at the centre of a storm.

    Alamy Live News. 3BKAHWB NEW YORK, USA - 19th June 2025: Estevao Willian of SE Palmeiras celebrates the opening goal during the FIFA Club World Cup Group A match between SE Palmeiras and Al Ahly FC at MetLife Stadium (Credit: Craig Mercer/ Alamy Live News) This is an Alamy Live News image and may not be part of your current Alamy deal . If you are unsure, please contact our sales team to check.
    Incoming Chelsea ace Estevao Willian has been accused of putting himself first at Palmeiras

    Once seen as a team player, despite his tender years, Estevao is now being accused of putting himself first.

    He is also said to have been misbehaving behind the scenes, taking liberties on the training ground and putting his Chelsea future miles ahead of his Palmeiras present.

    It all adds up to an 18-year-old under huge pressure ahead of what was already the biggest game of his fledgling career.

    In Philadelphia, in the early hours of Saturday, Estevao hopes to show the Chelsea fans why the club has agreed to pay £29million up front plus another £25m in bonuses – one of the biggest transfers for a South American teenager in recent years.

    WATCH EVERY MATCH OF THE CLUB WORLD CUP 2025 LIVE ON DAZN

    For Palmeiras, it’s a financial windfall but for Estevao, it is a turning point fraught with challenges, expectations, and personal battles.

    Behind the headlines, Estevao has been quite open about his struggles.

    He admitted recently that anxiety follows him daily, making it hard to stay fully focused on the present. Quite a confession.

    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS

    His mind often drifts to London and the life that awaits him there.

    As young as he still is, he understands this move will mark the end of a chapter that he knows and controls.

    And the beginning of another, where everything is unknown, he controls nothing. And where every action he does will be scrutinised.

    On the pitch this tension has been visible over recent weeks, especially in the last-16 clash against fellow Brazilians Botafogo.

    Hauled off, Estevao clearly and publicly complained about the call, his explicit language causing shock and outrage as he threw his wristband down and muttered under his breath.

    This sparked a media frenzy back home, with some calling him a “difficult boy”, while few others defended his raw honesty.

    Coach Abel Ferreira stepped in to defend Estevao, saying: “He is still a boy in a very complicated phase of life, needing understanding and patience.”

    But inside Palmeiras’ dressing room, the situation is more complex.

    Palmeiras' Brazilian forward #41 Estevao Willian reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 all-Brazilian football match between Palmeiras and Botafogo at Lincoln Financial Field Stadium in Philadelphia on June 28, 2025. (Photo by JUAN MABROMATA / AFP) (Photo by JUAN MABROMATA/AFP via Getty Images)
    Estevao admitted he is feeling anxious ahead of his Chelsea move

    Dressing room accusations

    Some senior players have disagreed with Estevao over tactical decisions with the youngster accused of being headstrong and selfish, of passing the ball less and less to his team-mates and too determined to win matches on his own to see the bigger picture on the pitch.

    There are very clear and repeated reports he has become quieter, more reserved, as if trying to avoid more mistakes before his big move to London.

    What seemed and was supposed to be a tranquil and relaxed move to Chelsea, is now a full row of gossip, questioning and arguments, all over the media.

    He has caught attention for his Neymar-style white wrist tape and haircut.

    But where it matters, on the pitch, he has not delivered in the United States.

    Against Botafogo it was his replacement, Paulinho, who entered and scored the only goal to set up the quarter-final showdown with Chelsea.

    ‘Late to training’

    Through his development, a close-knit family – led by his father Ivo – have tried to shield him from the pressures of the game.

    But Palmeiras insiders feel he has changed under the weight of his imminent move by being late to training and skipping post-match team meetings, citing fatigue or personal commitments.

    This has raised eyebrows among the coaching staff, who are concerned about maintaining squad unity while Estevao has been spending time on his phone, messaging Chelsea contacts and friends already in Europe.

    After one recent session, he was overheard discussing London and asking about English lessons.

    The fear is that, like two other recent Brazilian wonderkids, it might be all too much.

    Vitor Roque, once a highly touted prospect for Barcelona and now back with Palmeiras, struggled in Europe and returned to Brazil.

    Endrick of Real Madrid CF during a Champions League match.
    Rex
    Endrick has struggled at Real Madrid[/caption]

    ‘Volatile’ personality

    And Endrick, at Real Madrid, has faced difficulties adapting to pressure and style.

    Even those who have nurtured Estevao feel he is volatile, his development marked by flashes of brilliance and bouts of frustration.

    From childhood, Estevao was fiercely competitive and sensitive, locking himself away in his room to cry himself to sleep.

    Now, those vulnerabilities will play out under a global spotlight.

    Tensions in training, occasional harsh words with team-mates, and nervous body language reveal a young man wrestling with immense expectations.

    Brazilian media have reported that Estevao’s commercial team has been working overtime to manage his image, negotiating new sponsorships and even planning a farewell video for social media, while a documentary crew has been following him for months.

    Enzo Maresca, Chelsea's head coach, instructs during a training session.
    Getty
    Enzo Maresca will get to watch his new starlet close up on Saturday[/caption]

    Becoming ‘isolated’

    When he started following Chelsea players and liking posts about his future club, Palmeiras fans reacted with accusations of disloyalty.

    Defeat in Saturday’s game against the Blues would make it his last game for Palmeiras, before leaving under a cloud of tension.

    That has been evident since Chelsea beat Benfica to confirm the showdown.

    Estevao has been more isolated, spending extra time in the gym but also seen in quiet conversations with Palmeiras’ psychologist, hoping to manage the emotional rollercoaster.

    The club’s sports science staff have also adjusted his workload, hoping to keep him fresh both physically and mentally for what could be his grand farewell.

    But it has only brought more questions over his priorities, a young man amid a maelstrom of a massive transfer, public scrutiny and personal growth.

    Chelsea’s investment reflects faith in his talent, but also a risk.

    Whether Estevao will rise to the challenge or falter under pressure remains to be seen.

    For now, he is a boy with a ball, dreams in his eyes and the weight of a nation – a big one – on his shoulders.

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    Chelsea sign UK’s youngest ever senior player nearly three years after forward broke incredible record

    CHELSEA have signed the UK’s youngest ever senior player.

    Glenavon’s Chris Atherton created history in September 2022 when he made his debut aged 13 years and 329 days old.

    Christopher Atherton, the youngest senior UK footballer, at a Glenavon FC game.
    Chelsea have signed Glenavon teen Chris Atherton
    Refer to Caption
    Two young soccer players vying for the ball.
    Pacemaker
    He became the UK’s youngest senior player aged 13 and 329 days old[/caption]

    The striker, 16, has now made a move to Chelsea where he will join the youth programme.

    Glenavon confirmed the switch in a statement, writing: “Chris Atherton – blue still the colour.

    “We can confirm that academy product Chris Atherton has left the club to sign for Chelsea.

    “We wish him the best in his career and hope he and his family won’t be strangers at MVP.”

    Atherton made 32 appearances for Glenavon, and played 28 games last season, scoring once.

    He is Chelsea’s fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap and Mamadou Sarr.

    But their transfer activity shows no signs of slowing down with Borussia Dortmund confirming Jamie Gittens is set to move to Stamford Bridge.

    There could be outgoings too with Noni Madueke linked to Arsenal.

    BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS

    While Manchester United appear keen on a deal for Christopher Nkunku.

    Palmeiras star Estevao is also set to join up with Enzo Maresca’s squad after the Club World Cup.

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    ‘I prefer the Stone Roses’ – Stephen Kenny jokes about Bohemians’ Oasis collaboration ahead of derby clash

    STEPHEN Kenny would take a Stone Roses reunion over an Oasis one.

    But the St Pat’s supremo knows This is the One where his St Pat’s side must turn things around.

    23 June 2025; St Patrick's Athletic manager Stephen Kenny before the SSE Airtricity Men's Premier Division match between St Patrick's Athletic and Derry City at Richmond Park in Dublin. Photo by Ben McShane/Sportsfile
    Kenny’s Pat’s currently sit six points behind rivals Bohs having played two more games
    Two men in blue Oasis-sponsored Bohemian Football Club jerseys leaning on a pool table.
    bohemians.ie
    Bohemians released the Oasis collaboration jersey on Tuesday and it has split opinions[/caption]

    Kenny’s Saints host Bohemians at Richmond Park tonight with their rivals set to play for the first time in their new kit created in conjunction with Oasis.

    Kenny smiled: “Am I an Oasis fan? A few of our family are musicians so I think they’re played in our house a lot. And obviously it’s my era growing up.

    “But Stones Roses are better. I’m much more influenced by the Stone Roses than Oasis. But Oasis are good, they’re OK, but I prefer the Stone Roses.”

    The former Ireland manager, 53, understands his side need to stop producing the Fool’s Gold of good performances with mixed results.

    And he hopes tonight can be the springboard for a Resurrection of their league form.

    Kenny’s band of brothers went into the summer break fourth and a point off second but they are now sixth, six points off second, and having played two games more. It leaves their season on a Tightrope.

    And it is a case of Ste Bangs the Drums on the need to change that.

    Kenny reasoned: “We just had a hugely, hugely disappointing two-week period.

    “We ended up taking two points from five games, which was inconceivable at that time. So it’s been a bad two weeks for us, the minimum we probably deserved was eight points.

    “It’s one of those intense periods in the season — five games in two weeks, I’ve always looked at those as opportunities.

    “But it’s had the opposite effect on us. We’ve found ourselves dropping down the table. We definitely know we could do with three points, for sure.”

    And crucial to that is their front men getting back among the goals as the Saints have netted just once in five games.

    Defender Seán Hoare added: “When you are not scoring goals it only takes one to beat you. I feel like we do play the most exciting football in the league.

    “We play attacking football and at times we’re open defensively but so be it, you want to excite people.

    “But before the last four games, we were probably top scorers in the league. You feel like that has to flip around again soon.

    “I just feel like it will click for us going forward. Somebody is going to get a high-scoring game off us when it does click for us.”

    Kenny added: “We’ve actually scored the same number of goals as Bohemians, scored the same as Shelbourne, one less than Derry . . .

    “It’s just this little barren period that cost us, over the course of the season we’ve let in more goals than we would have wanted.

    “I understand there has been a formula, low blocks, five-man defences . . . stifle our dribblers. That’s something that we’ve had to adjust to and we haven’t adjusted well enough.

    “We’re not making excuses, I’m just explaining that other teams have found ways of stifling us and we have to be more adaptable.”

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    Bangkok gibbon smuggling busted at India’s Chennai Airport

    Chennai Airport has become the frontline in a bizarre wildlife trafficking saga after customs officers intercepted a passenger trying to smuggle two endangered gibbon monkeys from Bangkok — the second such brazen attempt in just two weeks. The passenger, who arrived on a Thai Airways flight in the early hours of Tuesday, July 1, aroused …

    The story Bangkok gibbon smuggling busted at India’s Chennai Airport as seen on Thaiger News.

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    Iconic club who Pep Guardiola played for booted out of the league after 114 years

    FAMOUS Italian club Brescia have been booted out of the country’s professional leagues for the first time in their 114-year history.

    The former Serie A side is now facing EXTINCTION due to financial problems and is close to declaring bankruptcy.

    14 Oct 2001:  Guardiola of Brescia in action during the Serie A 7th  Round League match between Brescia and Chievo, played at the M. Rigamonti Stadium, Brescia Italy. DIGITAL IMAGE. Mandatory Credit: Grazia Neri/ALLSPORT
    Pep Guardiola’s former club Brescia have been booted out of Italy’s professional leagues
    Roberto Baggio and another soccer player in matching jerseys.
    Roberto Baggio and Andrea Pirlo also played for Brescia, who now face extinction
    Soccer player in a white uniform.
    Mario Balotelli is part of Brescia’s impressive alumni page

    The Italian Football Federation – also knows as the FIGC – announced on Thursday that they withdrew the club’s professional status and license.

    The FIGC released the following statement: “The FIGC Federal Council takes note of the refusal to grant Brescia Calcio a national license for the 2025-2026 season and therefore to accept it to play the 2025-2026 Serie C season.”

    Brescia started this season in Serie B but failed to pay debts of more than £2.5million.

    The Lombardy giants were promoted to Serie A in 2019 but were relegated the very next season.

    Things went from bad to worse last term as they were deducted four points amid their financial woes, which saw them drop to Serie C.

    Rolando Maran’s side initially managed to secure their place in Serie B as they finished 15th.

    However, Brescia were hit with an eight-point penalty – four for this past season and another four for the next one – due to administrative offences.

    That saw them drop to 18th place, which ultimately led to relegation to the third division.

    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS

    Brescia are owned by Massimo Cellino, who was in charge of Leeds between 2014 and 2017 before buying the Italian side eight years ago.

    Cellino had a troubled tenure in Yorkshire and left amid fan protests and much discontent.

    Now Brescia are facing a very uncertain future that could see them disappear altogether.

    This is a famous Italian club that has seen a raft of legendary players wear the jersey.

    That includes current Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, who is part of a rich alumni page that includes Roberto Baggio, Andrea Pirlo, Luca Toni, Marek Hamsik and Mario Balotelli.

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