EURO 2024 fever has officially kicked in as the thrilling competition gets underway THIS Friday – and there is a lot to look forward to.
And England have been given a huge boost with ALL players – including Luke Shaw – taking part in the first training session.
But it’s bad news for Poland fans as Robert Lewandowski has been ruled out of his country’s opener due to injury.
Meanwhile, Netherlands have suffered a huge injury blow as Frenkie de Jong has been forced to pull out of the Euros due to an ankle injury.
Before we see the above teams in action, the Germans open up the tournament with a thrilling fixture against Scotland.
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Scots play down Robertson fear
Scotland assistant John Carver has played down fears over Andy Robertson’s injury after the captain limped out of training.
The defender quit the session early as a “precaution”, according to Carver.
EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or âliveâ services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Paul Currie/REX/Shutterstock (14523736ao) Andy Robertson of Scotland during the training session Scotland Training Session and [â¦]Credit: Rex He said: “He’s fine. I’ve just spoken to him there. It was a precaution, really. The ball just caught his ankle but he will train tomorrow. He’ll be fine.
“Obviously, at this stage, we are going to be extra cautious. He’s okay, he’s fine and looking forward to joining in tomorrow.”
Three Lions prepare in case Southgate goes
England remain hopeful they can persuade Gareth Southgate to remain as manager after Euro 2024 but are already starting to consider alternative options.
The FA, according to the Daily Telegraph, are yet to draw up an official shortlist but both Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino, ironically, are among the candidates they would consider should Southgate step down later this summer.
Eddie Howe is also highly regarded as well as another former Chelsea boss, Graham Potter.
Fans help Grealish in Dubai hotel
Jack Grealish got a helping hand at hotel after Euro 2024 heartbreak
Grealish was ushered through a Dubai concourse towards a beach bar in front of shocked guests.
He looked a little unsteady on his feet at one point, wearing white socks and slip-ons, a yellow T-shirt and board shorts.
An onlooker said: “It looked like the rejection by Gareth Southgate had hit hard.”
Fans reckon 2-goal Ron can win Euros Golden Boot
Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice including a sensational curler as Portugal beat Republic of Ireland 3-0 in their final warm-up game.
The Manchester United legend now has 130 goals in 207 games for Roberto Martinez’s in-form side.
Al-Nassr’s ex-Real Madrid and Juventus striker, 39, has hit 14 goals in previous Euros tournaments, five more than any other player ever.
It remains unclear whether he will start the opening game as he fights with PSG’s Goncalo Ramos to lead the line.
Cristiano Ronaldo whipped a brilliant strike past Ireland keeper Caoimhin KelleherCredit: Sportsfile But fans reckon he could end up as Euro 2024 top scorer.
One said: “Fairs, he’s winning another Euros golden boot isn’t he?”
Another added: “CRISTIANO RONALDO WHAT A GOAL! 🤯”
While a third replied: “No way he’s 39 😭😭😭.”
And a fourth responded: “Nah he’s actually gonna be playing in the 2026 World Cup 😭😭❤️❤️.”
Cristiano Ronaldo whipped a brilliant strike past Ireland keeper Caoimhin KelleherCredit: Sportsfile Hart reveals why Pickford is different
EXCLUSIVE: FOR Joe Hart, there is one reason that England do not have to worry about the man between the sticks, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
Five letters that sum up why Jordan Pickford is unchallenged as Gareth Southgate’s No 1.
Hart said: “It’s about trust. Jordan’s been exceptional for England, he really has.
Joe Hart believes Jordan Pickford will be key for England at the EurosCredit: Getty “I could go into the technicalities and things but the biggest compliment that could be paid is that the England manager trusts him, the England team trust him.
“As a goalkeeper, that’s an incredible feeling and it’s one that’s not given out easily, it really isn’t.
“If you look at the top keepers who have won things over the years, they have always been trusted by their team-mates.
“And Jordan is trusted by the fans as well, which is important for this England team. You want to feel liked, you want to feel loved. And I think he fully deserves that label.”
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Klinsmann tips England to win Euro 2024
EXCLUSIVE: Jurgen Klinsmann knows more than most about the fierce footballing rivalry between England and his homeland, writes DAVE KIDD.
The legendary German goal machine helped to break English hearts in semi-final penalty shootouts at both Italia 90 and Euro 96.
SunSport’s Euro columnist Jurgen Klinsmann is backing England to win Euro 2024 So it might surprise you to hear Klinsmann’s belief that, if Gareth Southgate’s side win this summer’s Euros, they would be popular champions in Germany — “respected and admired” as a team who have long deserved a major trophy.
Klinsmann, who will be a SunSport columnist throughout the Euros, said: “If England win it would be massively respected in Germany.
“Maybe not if they beat Germany in the final . . . but if Germany were already out and England win, it would be respected and admired.
Klinsmann, with our man Dave Kidd, believes Germans would welcome England as champsCredit: Darren Fletcher “It helps to have Harry Kane there — he’s adored in Germany after settling in so well at Bayern Munich — and Jude Bellingham, who played so well for Borussia Dortmund.
“I sense now is the time to get your trophy that you deserve. You deserved it at the last Euros.
“You need some luck. You’re going to get another penalty shootout because it’s part of tournaments.
“But England now have so much experience that they should have the belief to get it done.”
He believes Harry Kane’s success at Bayern Munich has played a large role in making England popularCredit: Getty CLICK BELOW FOR THE FULL STORY:
Yamal, 16 brings homework to Euros
Lamine Yamal will aim to deliver top marks for Spain at Euro 2024 after taking his homework to Germany.
The Barcelona wonderkid, 16, is set to be the youngest player to appear at a Euros final against Croatia in Berlin on Saturday.
Winger Yamal will be 16 years and 338 days, breaking Brighton and Poland midfielder Kacper Kozłowski’s record of 17 years and 246 days at Euro 2020.
Barcelona man Lamine Yamal can make history in Spain’s opening game on SaturdayCredit: Getty Yamal said: “I’ve brought my homework with me because I’m finishing high school. I have classes on the web and I’m doing well, I hope the teacher doesn’t fail me.”
Yamal has had a stunning breakthrough season at Barca and the teen star has already played 57 games for club and country this term, scoring nine goals.
But, rather than preparing for his summer holidays like most kids his age, Yamal – viewed as one of the best young talents in the world – is dreaming of success on Europe’s biggest stage.
Yamal, who turns 17 in July, added: “Before, I was watching the Euros lying on the sofa with my mother.
“We’re not here for a stroll, but to make history. I hope to go far in the Euros.”
Red Devils Eze up the hunt
Manchester United are reportedly ready to step up their interest in Eberechi Eze.
Tottenham, Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona have also been mentioned in connection with Crystal Palace’s England midfielder.
It’s claimed the 25-year-old “ticks a lot of boxes” for INEOS.
But Palace will demand his £60million release clause.
And the Eagles still hope to keep some of their star flair players like Ez and Michael Olise.
Credit: Getty Polish Euro star in demand
Juventus are tipped to come in for Jakub Kiwior.
Arsenal signed the versatile Poland defender from new Juve boss Thiago Motta’s old club Spezia in January 2023.
And Tuttomercato claim the Gunners would consider selling the 24-year-old for around £17million – £3m less than the fee they paid.
Kiwior is gearing up for Poland’s Euro 2024 group opener against Holland on Sunday.
Credit: Rex
I’m surprised the Heat is on me
Tom Heaton is shocked to be in Germany’s as England’s training goalkeeper – but is ready to push Gareth Southgate’s three stoppers all the way at Euro 2024.
Manchester United’s No 3 keeper last season, Heaton, 38, was part of England’s 2016 Euros squad which saw them dumped out by Iceland.
Heaton has three England caps with two of them under Gareth Southgate. He will work alongside Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson.
Tom Heaton has lifted the lid on the phone call he received from Gareth SouthgateCredit: PA Heaton said: “It feels very special. Gareth rang me a couple weeks ago, floated the idea and I jumped at the opportunity.
“To come and be a part of it, at another major championship, is an honour and a privilege. I’m delighted to be here.
“It’s different, but I think it’s just a different challenge for me. I’ve come to support the boys, the goalkeepers, the outfielders, push them in training, try and offer them a different perspective and support in that manner.
“Of course, I’d love to be playing. I’m a football player that wants to play football matches, but it’s not that role. It’s a different role.
“But any opportunity to come and represent your country in some form. As I say, it was an amazing phone call and it didn’t take long for me to say yes.”
Saka set for Serbia clash
England expect Bukayo Saka to make Sunday’s Euro 20234 opener with Serbia.
Arsenal’s main attacking talent has been troubled by a muscle injury
Credit: Getty The winger missed England’s 1-0 Wembley against Iceland last Friday.
But boss Gareth Southgate is reportedly including Saka in his weekend plans.
That means the 22=year-old is likely to start alongside skipper harry Kane and Manchester City’s in-form raider Phil Foden up front.
Spain ace on Gunners’ radar
Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams is reportedly still interesting Arsenal.
The 14-cap Spaniard, 21, who is in Germany for Euro 2024, is also being eyed by other top clubs.
But it’s claimed the Gunners are now ready to target attacking widemen like Williams as well as a new main striker.
He has a release clause of around 50million euros (£42.1m).
Bilbao are said to be readying for his possible exit by targeting Alvaro Djalo of Portuguese top-flight club Braga.
United baulk at Jarrad asking price
Manchester United are tipped to cool interest in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite if the asking price stays at £70million-plus.
Old Trafford minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly unwilling to spend so big on the England 21-year-old.
United have been assessing a range of cheaper options in central defence – one of their transfer options.
And Branthwaite is focused on the Euros for now.
Credit: Alamy A littler sprinkler magic… to avoid Utd repeat
UEFA have implemented rules around watering of pitches at Euro 2024 to avoid a repeat of Manchester United’s clash with Bournemouth.
In April, a Premier League game between the two sides led to mocking on social media after fans spotted one penalty area being noticeably water-logged at the Vitality Stadium.
Viewers described the match, which ended 2-2, as taking place on a “swimming pool”.
Pitches are not set to be in danger of over-watering at Euro 2024Credit: Getty The incident was caused by over-watering before the game.
But no such problems are expected in Germany this summer as a result of regulations put in place by Uefa.
The governing body insist pitch-watering must be announced at the pre-match meeting and has to be distributed evenly across the turf.
Viewers described the match, which ended 2-2, as taking place on a “swimming pool”.
The incident was caused by over-watering before the game.
Pitches are not set to be in danger of over-watering at Euro 2024Credit: Getty But no such problems are expected in Germany this summer as a result of regulations put in place by Uefa.
The governing body insist pitch-watering must be announced at the pre-match meeting and has to be distributed evenly across the turf.
Teun for the worse could hit Liverpool
Teun Koopmeiners withdrawing from Holland’s squad could also be a transfer blow for Liverpool.
The Atalanta midfielder, 26, has been rated a prime target for new Liverpool chief Arne Slot.
Credit: Getty But a muscle injury has ruled him out of Euro 2024.
So that could delay or complicate any approach to his Italian club.
The Holland squad, bossed by ex-Everton manager Ronald Koeman, already includes three Liverpool players in Virgil van Dijk, Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch.
Rang out of order
Ex-Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick has the hump after England beat his Austria squad to their five-star Euro2024 base in Blankenhain, writes CHARLIE WYETT.
The Three Lions arrived at the Spa & Golf Resort Weimarer Land yesterday and they will tomorrow train on the pitches for the first time.
Today, they trained in front of youngsters at a German fourth division ground in the city of Jena. But they will be based in Blankenhain for the rest of the time and Rangnick failed in his bid to have Austria stay there – as England got there first.
In his four years as Leipzig coach, Rangnick used to play golf at the resort as it was his favourite course in the region – so he wanted to remain there all the time during Euro2024.
Germany also trained in Blankenhain last week but they were always set to return to their normal base which is near adidas HQ outside Nuremberg.
England will train in Blankenhain for the next four days before flying to Gelsenkirchen on Saturday afternoon for Sunday’s Euro2024 opener with Serbia.
Green for… go carefully
Luke Shaw returned to England training on Tuesday… but still stuck out as the only player wearing a green bib.
The Manchester United left-back, 28, has not played since February due to recurring hamstring issues.
It was unclear whether he would earn a place in Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 due to his fitness problems.
England received a boost today as Luke Shaw returned to trainingCredit: PA But he did end up making the plane to Germany – where England landed on Monday.
And 24 hours later Shaw was seen taking part in training with the rest of his team-mates.
This will be a major boost for Southgate – who has no other left-footed defender in his squad.
But Shaw did have to wear a green bib which identifies him as a player not to make contact with due to him being in a fragile state.
But it’s still unsure if he’ll be available for England’s opening game of the Euros against Serbia on Sunday.
Jude shows he who bares SKIMS
Jude Bellingham showed off his football skills ahead of Euro 2024 in his PANTS after becoming the face of Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS.
The England and Real Madrid ace has enjoyed a spectacular season, having led his club side to a league and European double.
Jude Bellingham showed off his footy skills in just his pantsCredit: SKIMS Bellingham, 20, now heads into the Euros as Gareth Southgate’s key man.
And he is expected to start as the No10 in Sunday’s group stage opener against Serbia.
However, Bellingham has been getting into the mood in a very novel way.
He has become the new face of Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS underwearCredit: Skims That’s because the midfielder is now the new face of socialite celeb Kardashian’s underwear brand SKIMS.
And he has clearly been taking lessons from Dutch girlfriend Laura Celia Valk, 25, who is a professional lingerie model.
Bellingham posed for several snaps wearing nothing but some of the American socialite’s custom briefs.
And a video also showed the ace demonstrating his football talents with some silky skills.
Bellingham hopes his new deal can inspire England to Euros gloryCredit: SKIMS By George! Strachan wishes England well
Manchester United legend and ex-Scotland boss Gordon Strachan is up to his old tricks!
The former midfielder and Sun Euros columnist, known for his sense of humour, was seen in a video wrapped in England’s St George’s Cross flag “going bonkers” in his support of Gareth Southgate’s squad.
Credit: Darren Fletcher Strachan, 67, is heard saying: “Hello, everyone. It’s Gordon, here. Like everybody else, I’m excited about the Euros about to start.
“I want to wish the lads the very best of luck. Hope you score a bucketful of goals and, if you do, I’ll be going bonkers.”
He the lifts up and waves an England flag before roaring: “Come on England, it’s coming home, Three Lions on the shirt, vindaloo. Southgate, all the best. Hope you score plenty.”
Denmark training pitch ripped up
England’s group opponents Denmark flew into a pitch storm as they arrived in German, writes MARTIN LIPTON.
A new surface was laid at the Danes’ training ground in Freudenstadt, near Baden-Baden in the south-west of Germany, earlier this month.
But panicking Uefa chiefs ordered parts of the pitch to be ripped up and relaid on Monday over worries that the newly-laid grass had not set properly.
Large areas of the pitch had been discoloured and were peeled off and replaced with new rolls of grass imported from Holland.
The pitch was supposed to be relaid in April but that was delayed because of a late covering of snow, meaning hurried work on June 2.
Denmark’s squad – including including Manchester United duo Rasmus Hojlund and Christian Eriksen plus Spurs midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg – left Copenhagen this morning.
Karsten Paaske, head of the Danish Groundsman Association, warned: “When you build a new grass pitch, it must have time to settle.
“That usually takes several weeks, not just a few hours and with the team training straightaway then the pitch will not have enough time to rest. If it were me, I’d have a stomach ache!”
Change course for Germany!
Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen had to dump his glitzy summer holidays to compete in Euro 2024 for the Netherlands.
Maatsen, 22, spent the season on loan at Borussia Dortmund where he shone bright as he helped the Bundesliga giants reach the Champions League final where they lost 2-0 to Real Madrid.
Ian Maatsen had to cut his sunny holidays to Greece shortCredit: instagram @maatsen_ However, the full-back was initially left out of Ronald Koeman’s squad for the European championship in Germany, much to the surprise of many.
Thus, the Dutchman decided to spend his summer holidays in Greece with his girlfriend where he would regroup while enjoying some sunshine.
The defender sailed for Mykonos and shared some snaps of his luxurious holiday on social media aboard his £564,000 yacht.
Maatsen and his girlfriend looked set for a month-long vacation in the Med while island hopping on a Hermes Yacht.
Maatsen has linked up with the Netherlands for Euro 2024 after a late call-upCredit: Getty
‘No point keeping De Jong’
Holland have explained their latest Euro 2024 blow – the loss of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong.
The perennial Manchester United target sat out a 4-0 friendly win over Iceland due to an ankle injury.
Credit: EPA The Dutch FA (KNVB) then announced he would not recover fully in time – and so would not be going to Germany.
A KNVB spokesman said: “Since De Jong’s entrance into the Dutch training camp, it was clear that his participation in EURO 2024 would be a race against time.
“Although it was initially hoped that he would be ready to play during the group stage of the European Championship, a planned examination yesterday and today showed that the ankle is not yet sufficiently resilient.
“Because his recovery will take more time, it was decided following consultation that Frenkie de Jong will not play in the European Championship.”
Manager Ronald Koeman added: “He won’t be fit enough to play at this level for the next three weeks. There’s no point keeping him with us.”
White water time away from Euros
Ben White got over his England snub as he relaxed on a speedboat and went to a wedding.
The Arsenal star was not selected for Euro 2024 by manager Gareth Southgate.
Credit: Instagram @millywhite White, 26, did not earn a place on the plane to Germany – so instead jetted off on holiday.
He was joined by his wife Milly, 27, as the couple soaked up the sun abroad.
Credit: Instagram @millywhite The four-time capped international posted a picture of his other half on Instagram as she strutted down the street in a stylish jacket and sunglasses.
And Milly posted snaps of the loved-up duo celebrating pals Harry and Gabi’s wedding.
Credit: Instagram @benwhite White was not chosen for the Euros after he mysteriously left England’s camp half way through the 2022 World Cup.
There was rumours of a bust-up with assistant manager Steve Holland. Southgate has denied there has been a falling out.
Credit: Instagram @millywhite Poland suffer Lewandowski blow
Poland striker Robert Lewandowski is OUT of their opening Euro 2024 clash with Holland.
Barcelona ace Lewandowski, 35, pulled his right hamstring in Poland’s final warm-up game with Turkey.
The veteran striker, who went down clutching his leg after 33 minutes of the 1-0 win, has now been ruled out of Sunday’s game in Hamburg.
Polish team doctor Jacek Jaroszewski said: “Robert Lewandowski has suffered a strain in his hamstring, which excludes him from participating in the first match of the tournament.
“We are doing everything to ensure that Robert can play in the second match against Austria.”
Southgate receives big injury boost
England have trained for the first time since arriving in Germany for the Euros.
And Gareth Southgate’s troops have given him a huge boost ahead of their tournament opener.
That is because every member of his 26-man squad is fit and took part in the first training session – even Luke Shaw.
Southgate was reportedly sweating on the fitness of FIVE players ahead of England’s Group C opener on Sunday night – Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, John Stones, Jude Bellingham and Shaw, but all have passed fit.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
