Football mourns Italy ace
FOOTBALL ace Davide Astori has died suddenly in his sleep aged 31.
The Fiorentina captain and Italy international defender was found in a hotel room after failing to turn up for breakfast.
It is believed Astori died of natural causes although he showed no warning signs of being ill.
His club said: “Fiorentina are profoundly shocked to have to announce the death of captain Davide Astori after a sudden illness.”
All Italian matches were postponed as a mark of respect.
He is survived by a two-year-old daughter and girlfriend. ® SIR Roger Bannister, the first man to run a mile in under four minutes, died yesterday.
He was 88 and had been suffering from Parkinson’s Disease since 2011.
The dad of four’s family, including wife Lady Moyra, were by his side at his home in Oxford.
Tributes poured in last night for the legendary athlete, who broke the record in 1954 while still a medical student at Oxford University.
World athletics chief Lord Coe said: “His achievement transcended sport, let alone athletics.
“It was a moment in history that lifted the heart of a nation that was still at a low ebb after the war.
“We have all lost a giant, and, for many of us, a deep and close friendship.”
Prime Minister Theresa May added: “Sir Roger was a great British sporting icon whose achievements were an inspiration to us all. He will be greatly missed.”
Sir Roger, who was knighted in 1975, had a distinguished career as a neurologist.
His family said: “He banked his treasure in the hearts of his many friends.”