LIAM Payne looks totally different in a childhood throwback as he celebrates performing at a sports award.

The singer, 26, spoke about the importance of sport as he announced he was performing at the 20th anniversary of the World Sports Awards in Berlin tomorrow.

But he accompanied his post with a throwback photo of a young Liam Payne taking part in a race – and he looks completely different.

The One Direction star captioned the photo: “Excited to announce that I’ll be performing at the 20th anniversary @LaureusSport World Sports Awards in Berlin tomorrow.

“These awards show the importance of sport. I’m so thankful my parents took me to all different sports clubs and activities when I was younger, as it’s much better than sitting at home on the sofa.

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“Taking the time to do sports as a youngster builds a great foundation for the rest of your life.”

Liam hasn’t hid the results from his fitness regime and takes many opportunities to get his kit off.

But his sporting prowess isn’t the only thing he takes pride in – he also claims to have the biggest penis out of all of One Direction.

Appearing on Andy Cohen’s Watch What Happens Live and during a game called Plead The Fifth, he was asked to reveal which of the five band members was the most well-endowed.

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The Strip That Down singer then joked: “I’d have to say myself, I’ll say me.”

Sitting alongside fellow guest Lea Michele, Liam also admitted that he had not spoken to Harry Styles in three years but that they finally caught up at London’s Capital FM Jingle Bell Ball in early December.

He said: “We talked about a number of things.

“It was good to see him, he’s the same boy I had left him as, we spoke about the kids and happiness and all sorts of things.”

DANCING With The Stars Brian Dowling and Laura Nolan have been the first couple to be voted off in the first dance-off elimination.

Brian was in tears as he thanked everyone on the show as he talks about the vulnerable time he has been through.

Kyran O'Brien

Kyran O'Brien

Brian was up against Sinead O’Carroll and Ryan McShane tonight after they were both left in the bottom two.

However, Sinead outshone Brian tonight and the judges all decided to save Sinead and Ryan on tonight’s show.

This comes after Brian and Kai Widdrington and Lottie Ryan and Emily Barker became the first same-sex couple to perform on the show.

Lottie Ryan and her pro dancing partner Pasquale La Rocca were at the top of the leader board tonight.

At the bottom was Fr Ray Kelly despite the judges all agreeing he has been improving every week.

On tonight’s show, musician Dermot Kennedy had a special message for his aunt Mary on Dancing With The Stars.

The former Nationwide presenter danced a Viennese Waltz to Dermot Kennedy’s What Have I Done.

Pro dancer John Nolan explained: “This week we’ll be doing a Viennese Waltz to What Have I done by Dermot Kennedy.

“It’s a very special song because Dermot Kennedy is a nephew of Mary’s.”

And as they were using his tune, Dermot sent in a special video message to his aunt.

He said in the clip: “Hey guys it’s Dermot here. I’m on tour at the moment in Atlanta but I just wanted to send a little message to say best of luck to Mary and John this weekend.”

Viewers at home were surprised to find out that the pair were related.

Niall said on Twitter: “Mary has really improved! Also she is NOT related to Dermot Kennedy??? I am SHOOK”

David said: “Dermot Kennedy is Mary Kennedy’s nephew? Who knew!”

Mary also revealed that she was delighted to be dancing to her nephew’s tune.

She said: “It’s not just John and I on the dancefloor this week, it’s the whole Kennedy family. He’s going to bring us all around the dancefloor.

“This dance is all about a dream and this has been a dream for me to be a part of dancing With The Stars. I don’t want to wake up from the dream.”

They impressed judges with their performance as well.

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NEWCASTLE manager Steve Bruce has confirmed that Irish defender Ciaran Clark could be facing a period on the sidelines.

The Republic of Ireland international is due for a scan soon which will determine how long he will be out of action for.

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Speaking after Newcastle’s defeat against Arsenal, Bruce said: “He’s got a bad one. It doesn’t look good. By the state of his ankle it looks pretty serious.

“We’ll know more in next 24-48 hours.

“It doesn’t look great, the state of his ankle, leaving the ground on crutches.

“I can’t say now how bad it is but it’s bad enough,” he added.

BIG BLOW

The news is a big blow for the Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy as he prepares for the crucial Euro 2020 play-off against Slovakia in March.

James McClean is also in a race to be fit for the clash – after picking up a medial knee ligament injury playing for Stoke City during the week.

However, a positive message was posted on social media as he begins recovery, simply saying: “No time for excuses, work continues.”

McCarthy told the FAI: “I’ve been in contact with James since he got injured. He’s told me he will do everything he can to get on the plane to Bratislava next month and I’d expect nothing less from him.

“James has been a key player for me throughout this European Championship campaign and we will support him all the way with his recovery.”

Ireland head to Bratislava for the one-off match which will be played on March 26 – with the winner taking on the winner of the Northern Ireland-Bosnia tie for a place at Euro 2020.

NICOLA Roberts is releasing her first music in nearly a decade after winning The Masked Singer.

The Girls Aloud star was revealed as Queen Bee in Saturday night’s final.

Nicola, 34, now hopes her stunning performances on the TV series will give her solo career a major boost.

She has written and recorded an EP which she is planning to release through Access Records — whose acts include the Pussycat Dolls.

It will be Nicola’s first new solo music since her debut album Cinderella’s Eyes was released in September 2011.

Almost eight million people tuned in to ITV as Queen Bee’s identity was finally revealed.

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Comedian Jason Manford, 38, came second as Hedgehog and opera singer Katherine Jenkins, 39, was third as Octopus.

Even bigger names are clamouring to take part in the second series after the show became an unexpected hit.

A TV insider said: “The idea of The Masked Singer was laughed off by a lot of people in the industry but it’s become one of the biggest shows on telly.

Viewers have been gripped and lots of stars have been getting agents to speak to bookers about getting a space in next year’s series.

“It was tough convincing some of the contestants for this series but now ITV are expecting to be overrun with offers.”

Judges Rita Ora, 29, Davina McCall, 52, Jonathan Ross, 59, and Ken Jeong, 50, and host Joel Dommett, 34, have all been asked to return.

Runner-up Jason is also expected to see a boom in his career having released an album titled A Different Stage in 2017.

And actress Denise Van Outen, 45, who was unmasked as Fox earlier this month, has landed a new record deal.

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SHE stunned Strictly viewers by returning to the show just days after having her breast implants removed.

Now Shirley Ballas is going to bare her soul over her decision in a new documentary.

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The Sun revealed in September that the dance show judge was taking the drastic step amid fears the implants could prevent doctors detecting cancer — which both her mum and aunt have battled.

An insider said: “Although it’s been difficult for Shirley, she hopes sharing her experiences might inform women who are either considering having breast implants, or already have them.”

The Strictly star had her boob job in 2002, but Shirley later became concerned when she was told her mammogram scan might not be able to detect cancerous cells behind the implants.

This won’t just be compelling viewing, but potent.

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Shirley returned to judge Strictly just days after undergoing the procedure in October.

She later admitted that she was suffering during the iconic dancing series – but had moderated her medication due to her “commitment” to the show.

Before the operation she urged women to think twice before opting for surgery: “Do your research about the implants. I did not do mine,” she told The Sun.

“I thought if I put them in I’d look better and my husband would think of me as more desirable.

“I made this choice many years ago not understanding what I was really doing, except telling myself I didn’t look good enough.”

Nadine: Shower time up

NADINE Coyle wants to do away with I’m A Celebrity’s trademark “shower scenes”.

The Girls Aloud star and 2019 campmate helped block cameras while pals showered in the most recent series.

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She said: “You can forget yourself and you’re doing your thing because it’s such a natural thing to be in the shower, then you’re like, ‘Oh, that’s right – the cameras! We’re on TV!’  It’s a really odd experience, the shower thing.”

But she admitted Caitlyn Jenner and Kate Garraway looked “unbelievable” in the jungle.

Nadine, whose song All That I Know is available on iTunes and Spotify, added: “There’s something really odd in itself about showering in a rock with drops of water coming down!

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“But what’s really weird is when cameras move around when they see you in the shower. You’re like, ‘Come off it, leave us alone, please’.”

The most recent series struggled to match the ratings of earlier outings and was branded boring by some.
I’m not convinced anyone tunes in to watch someone famous have a wash.

Fay’s new look

COLD Feet’s Jenny Gifford proudly shows off her new pixie crop after fighting cancer.

Fay Ripley’s character had chemotherapy in the series opener and her new do is a far cry from her blonde bob in previous outings.

She is pictured looking thrilled at her brunette dye job, which she is seen touching as she shows it off to her friends and family.

Fans have praised Fay’s emotional turn for the storyline, with one saying: “I’m in tears after watching you sobbing in the hospital car park, such a moving scene.”

Fay said: “I’m so hugely relieved that I don’t appear to have let people down. That was the very thing I was most nervous about.”

Sal’s gay fair play

LAST Tango In Halifax creator Sally Wainwright has defended her decision to kill off lesbian character Kate.

For many viewers it confirmed the idea that gay people die first in dramas.

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But as the BBC1 series returns on Sunday, Sally said: “When I did that storyline I genuinely didn’t know gay female characters persistently got killed off.”

And she pointed out she also created the series Gentleman Jack, with lesbian main character Anne Lister.

A good point well made.

Acting royalty

MIRIAM Margolyes looks very much at home as Queen Victoria.

She guest-stars on C4’s The Windsors when a painting of Vic comes to life to give William (Hugh Skinner) advice.

Miriam memorably played the monarch in Blackadder’s Christmas Carol back in 1988 and said: “Victoria has always been one of my heroes. I hope she’ll forgive my irreverent portrayal.”

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TOTTENHAM need to be careful not to be mowed down by Timo ‘Turbo’ Werner on Wednesday.

Another team in Leipzig may be called Lokomotive, but it is Julian Nagelsmann’s side who can really motor.

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Liverpool-target Werner is the second top scorer in the Bundesliga with 20 goals in 22 games and in Germany he is nicknamed ‘Turbo’ Timo, because he is so quick.

The worry for Spurs boss Jose Mourinho is his Serge Aurier often plays like a right-winger and leaves a lot of space behind him.

And Leipzig are one of the top counter-attacking teams around.

Tottenham cannot afford to have big gaps as Werner will look to exploit them and get in behind Aurier.

It is something they have to be very careful with.

As Tottenham are at home, the onus is on them to try to take something to Leipzig.

But that does not mean Mourinho will not set them up as the away team to a certain extent. He will know all about the threat of Werner and Leipzig.

Only Bayern and Dortmund have scored more than them in the Bundesliga and they have failed to hit the target only twice in the German top flight this campaign.

They have a great away record in the league as well, with just two defeats from 11.

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Recently, they have been playing a 3-4-3, which really suits Angelino, who has come in from Manchester City at left wing-back.

They can also play a 4-2-2-2, which worked really well for them under Ralph Hasenhuttl, who is now at Southampton. And they are fast starters. Because of their style of play, when they grab a goal, they do tend to go on and dominate.

In the Bundesliga this  season, they have scored first 11 times, winning ten and drawing one.

So the early stages of the Champions League last 16 clash in north London could be vital.

What Tottenham cannot afford to do is give up space, especially on the turnover.

They have to be wary, because Leipzig are so good at turning defence into counter-attack very quickly and then taking full advantage.

It is all well and good being attack-minded but there has to be some structure — and it may be Mourinho does not risk selecting Aurier, opting instead for the more defence-minded rookie Japhet Tanganga instead.

On Tuesday, Liverpool are at Atletico Madrid, who are having a terrible time with injuries of late and are in a state of flux.

With the players they have out, you simply have to favour Jurgen Klopp’s all- conquering team.

The one thing Klopp has developed during his time at the club is that they find more than one way to win.

We know how good they are on the counter-attack, but they are also possession-based. They are so solid as well, with nine clean sheets in their past ten Premier League matches.

I see them being successful in the Spanish capital from set-pieces as Atletico looked susceptible to these against Valencia on Friday — and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s delivery is up there with the best in the world.

WHEN actor Orlando Bloom decided to get a tattoo in tribute to his young son, things didn’t go quite to plan.

The star showed off his new tattoo on social media, left, a tasteful inking of his nine-year-old son Flynn’s name in Morse code.

However, one eagle-eyed follower noticed something wrong.

They told Bloom, “If the Morse code is supposed to spell out Flynn then there is a mistake” — before explaining how the order and number of Morse code in the tattoo spells out “Frynn” instead of “Flynn.”

Of course, Orlando is not the only celebrity to have a bad tattoo.

Here FIONA ELLIS looks at some other inked celebs who probably wish they tried henna first.

ED SHEERAN

In the video for Ed’s hit Galway Girl, the singer had Saoirse Ronan write the song’s name on his arm and then got it tattooed.

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But instead of it saying Galway Girl, it read Galway grill.

That didn’t stop Ed getting the real inking afterwards.

ZOE KRAVITZ

Batman star Zoe Kravitz got a shoulder tattoo that was supposed to read “Let love rule” in Arabic, after her dad Lenny’s hit single.

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However, it ended up reading: “Let the love the rule.”

Zoe got it covered up with a delicate dragonfly by celebrity tattoo artist Dr Woo.

CHERYL TWEEDY

Cheryl had to go through hours of gruelling pain for this monster-piece across her bum and lower back.

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Perhaps the rose tatt was a cover-up for the less glamorous Tweedy Pie inking on her butt cheek and the butterfly on her lower back.

ARIANA GRANDE

Grande got a tattoo on her hand, which was meant to say ‘7 rings’ in Japanese to celebrate the release of her song.

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But fans were quick to note that “shichirin” was actually a small BBQ.

The star got it redone, saying: “RIP tiny charcoal grill.”

STEVE-O

The Jackass daredevil has made a career out of being reckless, but one of his more regrettable decisions has to be getting a massive tattoo — off himself.

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The self-portrait also comes with the words: “Yeah dude, I rock!”

AMANDA SEYFRIED

The Mamma Mia! actor has the word “minge” on her foot.

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While it means something else here, it is, according to Amanda, a term of endearment.

She said she got it to celebrate her friendship with co-stars Ashley Lilley and Rachel McDowall.

HAYDEN PANETTIERE

Hayden had the phrase, “Live without regrets” in Italian tattooed on the side of her back but it has a typo.

She said: “It’s misspelled, whatever.

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“I just put my own spin to it.

“Chances are I’ll probably get it fixed, but that’s why I love having it on my back because I don’t get bored of it.”

JENNIFER LAWRENCE

The actress got “H2O” inked in red on her hand — with the number in the wrong place.

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She got her first tattoo after making a pact with her Hunger Games co-stars to get inked together.

She said: “I should have Googled it before I got it tattooed.”

DANCING On Ice has whittled the celebrity contestants down to five after another famous face was eliminated tonight.

Maura Higgin was booted off the series following a dance-off with Libby Clegg.

For all the latest gossip from the ITV show including live reactions keep following our blog below…

SHE claims to have pulled more than a million pints in the Queen Vic and has probably witnessed more East End bar brawls than the Kray twins.

So there’s nobody better placed to review EastEnders’ 35-year history than Walford stalwart Jane Slaughter – AKA Tracey The Barmaid.

Dubbed TV’s Most Famous Extra, she has built up a cult following online and is the soap’s longest-serving female cast member, having appeared on the first episode in 1985.

Over the years she has worked alongside many of Albert Square’s most legendary characters and iconic landlords.

For a barmaid, Tracey doesn’t have a lot to say on EastEnders, so today The Sun has given 58-year-old Jane a platform to pay tribute to the BBC1 saga ahead of its 35th anniversary.

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Barbara has a special place in my heart

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WHEN Barbara Windsor joined EastEnders in 1994 I was completely blown away.

I filmed a scene in the Vic with her and thought, ‘Oh my goodness, this is it’, and when she did her laugh it was like an out-of-body experience.

She took EastEnders to another level. She gave the Mitchells another dimension, she made them so strong.

But what was also great about Barbara was she was so supportive of other actors behind the scenes.

I was given three pages of dialogue out of the blue to have in a scene with a character called Sean Slater and she sat and helped me run through my lines, giving me the thumbs up.

She did that with lots of people.

Barbara has a special place in my heart, like she does with the public. She is so loved and that was clear when cast and friends ran the marathon to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s last year.

Viewer wanted to phone Grant

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ROSS Kemp (tough guy Grant Mitchell) was hugely popular with female viewers.

When I was out on the street people would come up to me saying, ‘What’s it like working with Ross?’ or telling me I’m so lucky to be in his company. I would get it all the time.

He played a hard man but he was a lot softer than his screen brother Phil, which might be why he had a big female following.

Years ago I had someone ask me if I could give them the number for the phone box in Albert Square by Dr Legg’s surgery so they could speak to Grant.

Danny just as magic as Mick

I ADORE Danny Dyer (Mick Carter). Again, his impact was huge when he joined the programme in 2013, like a lot of other big characters coming into the soap.
He brought something so different.

His character Mick is a lovely, gentle and kind father figure who does his best for his family, whatever that meant.

I worked with the Mitchells, who – Peggy aside – were quite devious, but his family are more honest.

I’m of the generation that wasn’t aware of Danny’s previous work so I had no preconceptions about him when he joined. He’s a lovely guy.

Scenes that packed a proper punch

OF ALL the best bust-ups I remember Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell) and Martin Kemp (Steve Owen) fighting all the way down the length of the bar, smashing everything up.

It was like a genuine East End punch-up.

Steve is an amazing actor. He has this brooding, real, dark energy and was genuinely terrifying when you’re doing a scene with him and you’re on the end of it.

He had a go at me, as Tracey, when Phil was drunk and I remember feeling so uncomfortable and like there was an actual alcoholic in front of me.

I just wanted to run away, I felt so scared.

He’s a very powerful actor but very funny behind the scenes. He has some bloody good one-liners.

A classic Doof Doof moment

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THERE’S been so many great dramatic moments that trigger the ‘Doof Doof’ theme tune but I would have to go for Phil and Sharongate as my favourite, when Grant played an audio exposing Sharon and Phil’s affair in the Vic.

I remember standing behind the bar when it happened and I had goose pimples, and it’s not very often I can say that.

When you’re filming you don’t really feel the impact of the Doof Doof moments or you’re unaware they’re actually going to be used as one.

But that scene, you knew was going to be a definitive moment.

On June Brown

JUNE is an amazing actress who is so passionate about her character Dot.

Once we went all the way up to the Isle of Dogs to film a scene with the Queen Vic ladies’ darts team on tour.

It was me, Wendy Richard (Pauline Fowler), June and Gretchen Franklin, who played Ethel.

Ethel had stowed Willie the dog in her bag and I was sat next to her with this poor dog zipped up.

When she did the big reveal this hot, sweaty pug popped out. That wouldn’t be allowed now.

It’s not always the Ender a character

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MY favourite comeback was Letitia Dean (Sharon Mitchell) when she returned in 2001.

I was there in the scene and remember when she walked behind the bar and said something to Peggy and the look on Peggy’s face . . .

Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Beale) coming back in 2015 was a big moment too.

I was so lucky, as I got to take the phone call in the Vic and was part of the reveal.

The bringing-back-from-the-dead storylines are done really well. It’s good when you bring back big characters like that.

Truly spirited performances

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THERE have been so many great storylines but the way writers have tackled alcoholism over the years has been brilliant.

Kellie Bright (Linda Carter) has done an incredible job, likewise Anita Dobson (Angie Watts) and Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell) before her.

Kat Slater being abused by her uncle was so powerful – Jessie Wallace put in a great performance. I remember Childline saying it had more calls that week than ever after she revealed it.

She went on to have a great partnership with Shane Richie (Alfie Moon).

Love and hate of Den and Angie

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LESLIE Grantham’s storylines as Queen Vic landlord Dirty Den Watts were unbelievable, with his love-hate relationship with wife Angie.

He used to say he had ladies hitting him with handbags on the street and people saying, ‘How could you treat Ange like that?’

He was a big character off screen too, but I got on fine with him – he was very easy to work with.

I was there when Den died in 2005, for real this time. It was so undignified – Sam Mitchell knocks me out and drags me into the bathroom and I’m slumped over the toilet while she tries to dig up murdered Den’s body.

Angie was a really powerful landlady, alcoholic, desperately dysfunctional and such a performance by Anita Dobson.

Frank role for comic Mike

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I LOVED Pat and Frank Butcher, especially the comedy elements they brought with them.

Again, that was another iconic moment when Mike Reid joined the show as Frank in 1987, because he was a huge name in stand-up comedy that everybody knew and suddenly he was behind the bar, smoking a roll-up next to me, doing that laugh – another moment that I couldn’t believe was happening.

Karen will be a top character

LORRAINE Stanle (Karen Taylor) is without doubt one to watch among the cast.

She’s a very strong character who has that wonderful combination of incredible warmth and kindness and yet feels so real.

She has all the facets of somebody who will be a mainstay in EastEnders for years.
If she stays, I’m sure she’ll be- come a classic.

From flower stall to pulling pints

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I GOT the role as Tracey on the first day of filming when (EastEnders writer and co-creator) Julia Smith, who I worked with when I was about 15, said she’d like me to have the flower stall. I later got the Queen Vic bar job.

I remember thinking, ‘This is a good six months’ work, even though I won’t get much to say’.

Back then I had ambitions of doing more, but sticking with Tracey has suited me the older I got.

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As I had children, I got quite comfortable with being in and out of the show for a bit, so it’s evolved really nicely.

Every time I’m in a pub the bar staff are always like, ‘Can you come behind here and help?’

That’s when you release how big this show is. On most days people recognise me and they are so sweet. I never get anything other than warmth and interest.

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FAIR City fans were confused by tonight’s storyline as Paul took back his money that Barry donated to the community centre.

Tonight saw Carol advise Paul to let sleeping dogs lie in the aftermath of his ‘donation’ to the community.

Paul enjoyed his new-found popularity as a philanthropist before Cass learned that Paul had taken back the charity donation.

Cass vented his anger on Paul but Paul was unapologetic about his actions to Cass.

Carol said: “Your name is muck out there. He’s messing with your reputation.

“If you keep that money you will be a local pariah.”

Paul remained defiant as his neighbours turned their back on him and Vino’s.

But viewers at home were confused as to how Barry could have made out a cheque in Paul’s name and how Pual could take back a donation.

One person said: “I’m confused. How did Barry write a cheque in Paul’s name?”

Emma who runs the Fair City fans Twitter account wrote: “This storyline makes no sense #faircity”

Elsewhere in Carrigstown tonight Renee worried that Ellie wasn’t engaging with her friends.

WORRY FOR ELLIE

Ellie dismissed Hughie’s offer of work and rejected Renee’s ideas for mid-term break.

Renee worried about Ellie’s online friends.

Paul dragged up Bob’s past as Ellie looked on. He said: “This comes off a man who stole money off a child with cancer. How low can one person go?”

Ellie was uninterested in Bob’s explanation for his wrongdoing.

Meanwhile on the RTE soap Doug came up with a place to hide Erica’s wedding supplies.

Doug dragged Ray into hiding Erica’s wedding supplies and Ray warned Erica not to take advantage of Doug.

Ray and Nora helped Erica hide a wedding arch in the garage.

As well as that Lee was up to his old tricks as he planned to land a new investor.

Hayley refused to lie to Lee’s potential investor to clinch the deal.

Hayley warned Anto not to get involved in Lee’s dodgy dealings.

PORTO star Moussa Marega has told Vitoria fans to “go f*** yourself” after he was subject to disgusting racist abuse.

The Malian, who scored what turned out to be the winner in a 2-1 victory, subbed himself infuriated at what he was hearing from the stands.

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Team-mates tried to stop Marega from walking off the pitch in a Primeira Liga game that still had 20 minutes to play.

But the furious striker headed for the tunnel in sickening scenes at the Estadio D. Alfonso Henriques.

Before leaving the pitch Marega, who played for Vitoria in 2016-17, had a message for the fans – sticking two middle fingers up at them as he walked down the tunnel.

He then took to social media to aim a further shot at the vile supporters who abused him – and referee Luis Godinho who showed him a yellow card.

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On Instagram he wrote: “I would just like to tell these idiots who come to the stadium to make racist [chants]… go f*** yourself.

“And I also thank the referees for not defending me and for giving me a yellow card because I defend my skin colour.

“I hope I never see you on a football field again! YOU ARE SHAMEFUL!!!!”

Marega had scored a 60th minute goal, his sixth of the season, to keep Porto on the heels of league leaders Benfica.

SIMON Cowell has hailed Phillip Schofield coming out as a “very positive thing” — but insisted he would not have stayed in the closet if he were gay.

His sexuality has been the subject of speculation for years and Simon says it is funny people think it is something gay people “have to hide”.

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The X Factor boss was talking with The Sun’s Dan Wootton for his debut talkRADIO drivetime show, which airs from 4pm today.

Simon said: “It makes me laugh, because 20 years ago I would be doing interviews and the first question would be, ‘Are you gay?’ and I would say, ‘No’.

“They would say, ‘Yes you are!’ and I’d go, ‘Do you honestly think it would be a problem if I was? And that I would hide it like there is something wrong?’ I told them, ‘If I was, I would tell you’.

“But it used to crack me up that it was seen as something bad you would have to hide.

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“To that point, I think it is a very positive thing (with Phillip). You’ve seen the support he has got because nobody cares (about his sexuality).

“I’ve worked on films, TV, in music and probably 50 per cent of the people I have worked with are gay, have been gay, whatever.

“It’s not even a conscious thought any more.”

Phillip came out this month following 27 years of marriage to Stephanie.

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Simon, who is in a long-term relationship with Lauren Silverman, said he had no idea about Phillip’s sexuality, adding: “My ‘gaydar’ isn’t great.”

The Sun told this month how Simon would be resting The X Factor after 16 years on TV.

Speaking for the first time about his decision, Simon said: “I thought, since it is 2020, a new decade, we have to rest it for a year.

“We have to come back with a show that is relevant, different, a show that takes into account all the different things kids are watching and being influenced by.

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“As well as the evolution of The X Factor, I’ve got two new talent shows we’re launching in the next 12 months.

“One in particular I do think is our best one yet.”

Sobbing Elton cuts gig short

HE has battled prostate cancer and a life-threatening tropical disease in recent years and now Sir Elton John is struggling again with his health.

The legendary singer broke down in tears on stage in Auckland, New Zealand, last night after being forced to cut his usual three-hour set to 90 minutes due to being diagnosed with “walking pneumonia” – a lesser strain of the condition.

As you can see from the pictures on the right, he sobbed as he was helped down from the stage, holding his hands over his eyes.

In an emotional statement on Instagram later, he wrote: “I want to thank everyone who attended tonight’s gig in Auckland.

“I was diagnosed with walking pneumonia earlier today, but I was determined to give you the best show humanly possible.

“I played and sang my heart out, until my voice could sing no more. I’m disappointed, deeply upset and sorry. I gave it all I had.”

It raises concerns for the superstar, no spring chicken at 72, who is scheduled to play 98 more shows this year as part of his gruelling Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour.

He begins the European leg in September and will play the final show at London’s O2 Arena on December 17.

I know Elton is a consummate professional but I hope for once he puts himself first.

Kylie red-dy for romance

KYLIE Jenner looked like she was ready to line up on a Formula 1 grid in this red jumpsuit.

The US reality star chose the outfit for a night out at Japanese restaurant Roku in West Hollywood.

Splash News

It was the first time she has been seen in public since The Sun revealed she had rekindled her romance with rapper Travis Scott.

Pals confirmed the couple, parents to daughter Stormi, were giving their relationship another chance after they partied together at the Oscars this month.

On Valentine’s Day he filled her home with sunflowers.

That romance certainly seems to be blossoming.

Gaga’s gown the shops

MOST celebs popping to the supermarket would try to keep a low profile.

But Lady Gaga opted for the obvious choice of a ball gown and bright pink hair while picking up some essentials in California.

A shopper who spotted her on Saturday tweeted: “We’re in a store in Monterey and Lady Gaga is in here.

“Her security told my wife not to let others know.”

Secret’s out . . .

Raya hope for Anne-Marie date

ANYONE hoping to bag a night out with Anne-Marie will find she is an old-fashioned girl.

She is terrified of dating app Tinder and insists on meeting potential suitors in person to figure out if they gel.

What a novel idea.

Getty Images - Getty

Asked if she had given the apps a whirl, the singer said: “Never, ever, ever. It scares the s*** out of me, those things.

“I’ve just never wanted to go on them. I have to meet people because I’m such an energy person. I feel I can tell if someone’s evil or not.”

Even so, the singer, who recently released brilliant comeback single Birthday, is quietly tempted by celebrity dating app Raya.

She joked: “Is that the famous one? No I’m not on that, that would be quite funny though. They’d be like, ‘Who the f*** is that?’”

Hero gay kiss

MARVEL will feature its first gay kiss in upcoming superhero blockbuster Eternals.

Haaz Sleiman confirmed he would share the moment with his on-screen husband Phastos, played by Joker star Brian Tyree Henry.

Getty Images - Getty

Getty Images - Getty

The gay actor said of filming the scene: “It’s a beautiful, very moving kiss. Everyone cried on set.”

The film, which is due for release on November 6, also stars Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, Salma Hayek and Kit Harington.

Charli hosts Brits party

CHARLI XCX is in for one hell of a night at tomorrow’s Brit Awards – even if she doesn’t win a gong.

She is in the running for Female Solo Artist and her label Warner clearly has faith in her taste in music as it has given her free rein over its exclusive after-party.

Getty Images - Getty

The Blame It On Your Love singer will be one of the hosts and has picked the DJ line-up, including sets from Jaime Winstone, Courtney Love and Jodie Harsh.

Guests have also been sent a luxury gift box including Louis Vuitton earphones, Ciroc vodka, Transparent speakers and embroidered boxer shorts.

Those lucky enough to go backstage at the awards at London’s O2 Arena will get even more freebies.

Beard groomers and male skincare experts Lab Series For Men will help stars get ready in a backstage spa. Beats a trip to the barbers.

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AFTER a fortnight out of action, Man Utd return to the rigours of Premier League football against Chelsea.

New signing Bruno Fernandes appears to be fitting in well at Old Trafford, while Odion Igahlo has been spotted at Carrington for the first time after being released from coronavirus quarantine.

Follow all the latest Utd updates and gossip below…

IT’S all hands on deck for Frank Lampard as Chelsea welcome Man Utd on Monday night.

The weekend has seen big developments on the potential transfer of Jadon Sancho in the summer, while Matias Vecino could be joining from Inter Milan for £23m.

Follow all the latest Chelsea gossip, updates and news below…

ARSENAL ended a run of four straight Premier League draws as they beat Newcastle 3-0 at the Emirates.

Second half goals from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Nicolas Pepe, Mesut Ozil and Alexandre Lacazette were enough to give Mikel Arteta’s side all three points,

While on the transfer front, the Gunners are reportedly ready to sell Keiran Tierney to Leicester for £25million.

Follow all the latest news, gossip and updates from the Emirates below…

DANCING With The Stars contestant Brian Dowling has called the show an “experience of a lifetime” after he was voted off the show in tonight’s elimination.

Brian and his pro partner Laura Nolan were in the bottom tonight along with Sinead O’Carroll and Ryan McShane.

Kyran O'Brien

Kyran O'Brien

They danced it out tonight but in the end, the judges decided to save Sinead and Ryan for another week.

Brian and Laura have now spoken with RTE’s James Patrice for the Facebook page and have said that the show is an “experience of a lifetime”.

He explained to James: “I am a bit annoyed about one thing. I didn’t get the chance to dance to a Britney number, so I’ll be sending a stern email.”

Then James asked Laura what it was like to work with Brian and she said: “He was an absolute dream.

“I said from the start all I wanted was someone who would give their heart and give everything and you did, you gave 150 percent.

“He threw himself into everything and what I thought he was very good at, which is very difficult for a nondancer, is he performed every number.

“He took on a role he took on the characters and you were amazing.”

‘SO GENUINE’

She started to tear up when she said: “I have never met anyone so genuine.”

Brian then spoke about his time on the show and said: “It was an experience of a lifetime.

“I have been asked to do it before but it was the right time for me to do it, to come out of my comfort zone.

“I know people say on reality show I’ve met friends for life and I’ve done enough to know that I have done that they are amazing people.”

Speaking after his dance-off with Sinead Brian said: “It’s not a nice feeling. It is what it is. I’ve enjoyed it. Sinead’s phenomenal. I’ve done it better before. I get quite nervous with dancing because it’s not presenting it’s a different vulnerability.”

When choosing who to save the judges revealed that the gap was too big to bridge.

Julian said: “You have both been phenomenal. Brian you’re a true showman, you’re a star in your own right.

“Sinead, giving it your all. The couple that I have to save tonight is Sinead and Ryan.”

Brian Redmond said: “A dance off is very very difficult. The gap was too big to bridge and I’m going to save Sinead and Ryan.”

Dancing With The Stars returns next Sunday, February 23 on RTE One at 6.30pm.

TJ DOHENY will be back in action next month when he takes on Ionut Baluta in Dubai on March 6.

The former IBF super-bantamweight champion has been added to the Rotunda Rumble III card which will take place at the Rotunda at Caesars, Bluewaters.

Sportsfile

It will be his first fight back in the ring since he lost stopped Jesus Martinez in Chicago in October.

Doheny, 22-1, faces a tricky test against Baluta, 12-2, as he looks to place himself in title contention once again.

Baluta upset Kyle Williams in Wolverhampton last October to claim a WBO European title.

At 179cm, he will have a significant height advantage over the Portlaoise native (166cm) when the pair square off in three weeks time. The Romanian will also hold a 6cm reach advantage.

Elsewhere on the card, Aliu Bamidele Lasisi and Rohan Date will all be in action while Steve Collins Jr will also be lacing the gloves up on the night when he takes on Cesar Mateo Tapia at super-middleweight.

ARSENAL are reportedly eyeing Daley Blind for a cut-price summer transfer.

Mikel Arteta has considerably improved the Gunners’ defence since taking over from Unai Emery but may still seek further gains in the summer.

Sunday’s 4-0 win over Newcastle meant keeping consecutive league clean sheets for the first time in over ten months with faint hopes of qualifying for the Champions League still alive.

Yet missing out on Europe’s premier club competition might not impact their pursuit of Blind.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal are one of a number of teams monitoring the ex-Manchester United defender’s situation at Ajax.

As a left-footed centre-back who prefers to play on the left side of a defensive partnership, and can also play in a three-man backline, Blind is seen as a unique talent in the market.

In addition, the 29-year-old possesses great experience and could juxtapose the youthful exuberance of William Saliba.

The Frenchman is one name already in the bag for next season, when he will arrive in North London after his loan at Saint-Etienne.

Blind is reported to have a small release clause and is one of several Ajax stars tipped to join a summer exodus, prompted by Hakim Ziyech’s imminent switch to Chelsea.

ARSENAL NEWS LIVE: Follow for all the latest on the Gunners

A part of the team that reached last season’s Champions League semi-finals, the Dutch international has featured 28 times this season despite being sidelined with a heart condition at the turn of the year.

Fans of the English game will remember Blind from a four-year spell at Manchester United, where he won the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League.

But his final season at Old Trafford saw him fall out of favour under Jose Mourinho and struggle with an ankle injury.

LINE of Duty fans are one day closer to finally watching the brand new series after filming earlier today.

The popular BBC One drama first hit our screens in 2012 and fans have been hooked ever since as the series follows the work of AC-12, a special unit charged with investigating corruption within the police force.

Earlier today the BBC Press Office official Twitter page shared a behind the scenes glimpse of the set with all the favourites working their magic.

They captioned the post: “Mother. Of. God. First look images released as filming begins on series six of #LineOfDuty.”

One snap shows an artistic shot of the Line of Duty favourites Adrian Dunbar and Martin Compston through a camera monitor.

The second shows the directors clapper board with “Line of Duty 6” written on the front of it with today’s date.

In November 2019 BBC One confirmed that Kelly Macdonald will guest lead for the new season as Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Davidson.

Their official Twitter page tweeted: “Kelly Macdonald will star as guest lead in the next series of #LineOfDuty.

“She’s playing Detective Chief Inspector Joanne Davidson, the senior investigating officer of an unsolved murder, whose unconventional conduct raises suspicions at AC-12.”

Line of Duty writer Jed Mercurio, said: “We’re honoured that Kelly Macdonald will join Martin, Vicky and Adrian in series six of Line Of Duty.

“DCI Joanne Davidson will prove the most enigmatic adversary AC-12 have ever faced.”

Twitter

Alongside Kelly, Anna Maxwell, Adrian Dunbar, Vicky McClure and Marton Compston will also be returning to play their iconic role in the popular British drama.

Just last week fans went wild when the cast reunited for the brand new season and the show bosses signed off on final script.

Fans were delighted to see the trio cosied up to season six guest star and newbie Kelly Macdonald and it was shared on BBC One’s official Twitter page with the caption: “Back to work for this lot at the #LineOfDuty Series 6 read-through!”

One fan wrote: “IM SO HAPPY”.

Another said: “Buzzzzzing.”

A third added: “On edge lol cannot wait to hear the title music LOVE IT.”

FAIR City’s Paul Brennan is absolutely furious when he learns people are boycotting his Vino’s after he pulls his donation from the community center.

Last night’s episode left fans very confused after Paul decided to pull his €30,000 donation from the community center.

Barry O’Hanlan had made the donation in his name after he stole €60,000 from him after he conned both him and Fiona.

During last night’s episode, Cass was fuming when he heard about Paul’s decision to pull the donation and he told the entire community about it.

However, viewers at home were confused as to how Barry could have made out a cheque in Paul’s name and how Pual could take back a donation.

Now in tomorrow night’s episode, Paul discovers that there has been a boycott made of his business and he is absolutely furious.

Paul accuses Bob of starting an online campaign against him. Carol advises Paul to tell the truth about the donation.

Paul asks Hayley for PR advice. Ruth is devastated when she secretly overhears Cass and Carol tell Paul some harsh truths.

ERICA AND DOUG

Meanwhile, Sharon grimaces as she sees Doug and Erica together.

Sharon is furious when Erica’s wedding dress gets delivered to the salon.

Sharon tells Erica she donated her wedding dress to the Helping Hand.

Nora is shocked at Sharon’s behaviour. Sharon is unrepentant to Nora.

ELLIE AND RENEE

Elsewhere, The Hungry Pig benefits from the Vino’s boycott.

Hughie worries that Renee is being over-protective of Ellie. Renee finds out Ellie’s at a gaming convention.

Renee humiliates Ellie when she drags her out of the gaming convention. Hughie advises Renee to have faith in Ellie or risk isolating her.

Hughie suggests seeing things from Ellie’s point of view.

Lee’s feels unsupported by his family as he struggles to find an investor for his app.

Hayley refuses to give Lee shifts working in McCoys.

Fans of the show can see this and more tomorrow night Tuesday, February 18 on RTE One at 8pm.