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      EFL cult hero, 39, brutally sacked by non-league minnows after 48 days as he says ‘not what I wanted or worked for’

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      EFL CULT HERO David Stockdale has been brutally sacked as manager of non-league outfit Blyth Spartans AFC.The former Premier League goalkeeper, who was only appointed 48 days ago, has turned to social media to announce his dismissal.David Stockdale has been sacked by non-league side Blyth Spartans AFCCredit: https://www.instagram.com/yorkcityfc/The former goalkeeper took up his first role in management just 48 days agoCredit: GettyStockdale posted on X: “Gutted to have been SACKED. Not what I wanted or worked for.”It’s been a great time and worked with some great people. Hopefully I can try somewhere else. I wish @Blyth_Spartans all the best.”But more so the staff and players I had while there. Truly great people ❤.”The 39-year-old joined Blyth Spartans as assistant manager to the newly appointed former Newcastle star Nolberto Solano on August 5.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSStockdale was then appointed caretaker manager after Solano was sacked 22 days later on August 27.But he was later given the job on a permanent basis on Friday 13 September after reaching the second qualifying round of the FA Cup.However, the Green Army have endured a horrible start to the Northern Premier League Premier Division season.The Northumberland outfit sit rock-bottom, having lost seven and won just two of their opening 12 games following their relegation from the National League North last term.Most read in EFLFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSIn fact, Stockdale was winless in the league during his seven-game spell as permanent gaffer.The club’s two victories came against Campion and Workington during the former goalkeeper’s fortnight as interim boss.’My pro football team-mate thought he was Spiderman after being spiked on night out’ | What the EFL?!Blyth Spartans have also announced that local businessman Martin Trinder will take over the club from Friday 1 November.Earlier this month, the club’s chairman Irfan Liaquat revealed that he was looking to sell, and that discussions with a potential buyer were underway.The non-league side had to postpone their last two home games following the resignation of club volunteers.Fans boycotted their FA Trophy defeat against Stockton in their last match at Croft Park in protest at Liaquat’s running of the club.Meanwhile, Stockdale became a cult-hero during his playing career in England.He started at York City in 2003 before later earning a move to Premier League outfit Fulham in 2008. The stopper had multiple loan spells away from Craven Cottage at the likes of Rotherham, Leicester City, Plymouth Argyle, Ipswich Town and Hull City.He left the West London club on a permanent basis in 2014 for Brighton and helped the club win promotion from the Championship in 2017.Since leaving the Seagulls, he has had spells at Birmingham City, Southend, Coventry City, Wycombe Wanderers, Stevenage and Sheffield Wednesday.READ MORE SUN STORIESStockdale returned to York in June 2023 as a goalkeeper and head of recruitment, but was released in April.He spent six years with the Cottagers and featured 39 times in England’s top division.Stockdale was promoted to the Championship with Sheffield Wednesday in 2023Credit: Rex More

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      Trevor Whymark dead at 74: Ipswich legend and one-cap England international passes away as tributes pour in

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      FORMER Ipswich Town star Trevor Whymark has died aged 74 after an 18-month battle with Alzheimer’s.The one-time England international spent a decade at Portman Road from 1969 to 1979.Ipswich Town legend Trevor Whymark has died aged 74Credit: GettyWhymark bagged 104 goals at Portman RoadCredit: RexWhymark made one appearance for England in 1977Whymark scored 104 goals in 335 outings for Ipswich.And he scooped two trophies with the club, first landing the Texaco Cup in 1973 before securing FA Cup glory in 1978.Whymark remains Ipswich’s sixth-highest goal scorer.He was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2012.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd the forward’s prowess up top saw him land one England cap against Luxembourg in 1977.Whymark was signed by Ipswich from Diss Town in 1969 by Sir Bobby Robson.After 10 years at Portman Road, he spent time with Derby County and Dutch side Sparta Rotterdam.Whymark then enjoyed a spell in Canada with the Vancouver Whitecaps, scoring 25 goals in 57 games while winning the NASL (North American Soccer League) title.Most read in FootballWhymark was inducted into Ipswich’s Hall of Fame in 2012Credit: AlamyWhymark also won the North American Soccer League title with VancouverCredit: RexHe returned to England in 1980 with Grimsby Town, where he netted 16 times in 93 games over four years.And between 1984 and 1985, he played for Southend, Peterborough and Colchester before closing the door on his career with boyhood club Diss Town as player-manager for a year.After retiring, he coached youth sides at both Norwich and Ipswich.But last year Whymark’s family announced he was battling Alzheimer’s.Ipswich led the tributes to their former star, saying: “The club is saddened to report the passing of Town legend Trevor Whymark at the age of 74.“Trevor, who scored 104 goals in 335 appearances for the Club, died peacefully surrounded by his family. Rest in peace, Trevor.”The PFA said: “Everyone at the PFA is deeply saddened by the passing of Trevor Whymark.“Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Trevor’s family, friends and loved ones.”Former BDO world darts champ Keith Deller said: “Trevor was one of my all-time favourite Ipswich players.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Fantastic football and such sad news. RIP Ipswich legend.”An Ipswich fan added: “RIP the great Trevor Whymark. Brilliant, underrated striker and lovely, unassuming man.” More

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      Ruud van Nistelrooy took just 59 minutes to break Ten Hag record after replacing him as Man Utd interim boss

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      MANCHESTER UNITED interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy needed less than an hour to best former manager Erik ten Hag on his debut at the helm.Van Nistelrooy, 48, took over at the United hotseat on a temporary basis following Sunday’s 2-1 loss at West Ham under Ten Hag which extended the club’s worst ever Premier League start.Manchester United interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy beat an Erik ten Hag recordCredit: GettyMan Utd scored five goals against a Premier League side under Van Nistelrooy, something Ten Hag never managedCredit: GettyThe club legend oversaw the Red Devils’ Carabao Cup clash with Leicester in the Round of 16 at Old Trafford on Wednesday and led them to an impressive 5-2 win.The former striker saw his team score four goals in the first half with a brace by Casemiro and strikes by Alejandro Garnacho and Bruno Fernandes.Goals by the Foxes’ Bilal El Khannouss and Conor Coady sealed an entertaining six-goal spectacular in the first half before both teams slowed down in the second half.That was when Fernandes completed his brace in the 59th minute before Van Nistelrooy took his foot off the gas.Read More on Man UtdThat means that in his first game in charge of Man Utd, the ex-PSV Eindhoven boss has already beaten a Ten Hag feat by netting five goals against a Premier League side.Ten Hag’s biggest win was last month’s 7-0 triumph over League One outfit Barnsley in the third round of the Carabao Cup.The Dutch tactician’s biggest win before that was a 4-1 victory against Chelsea and Real Betis last year in the Premier League and Europa League respectively.United looked much better in just one match under Van Nistelrooy, who hinted he wants to stay and work under incoming new boss Ruben Amorim.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe told Sky Sports: “I came here as an assistant to help the club. Now in this role, I’m helping as long as needed.”I’m here to help and serve and give my everything for the club in any capacity with so many people here around me that want the best for the club and that will never change.”Erik ten Hag and Ruud van Nistelrooy caught in heated conversation during Man Utd’s draw at Villa Sporting Lisbon boss Amorim is expected to replace Ten Hag on a full-time basis.The Portuguese tactician, though, may not assume duties until after next month’s international break, meaning his first match could take place at Ipswich on November 24.And Van Nistelrooy’s future at the club is currently uncertain as United appear to be trying to also sign Amorim’s coaching staff at Sporting.Those are assistant coaches Adelio Candido, Carlos Fernandes and Emanuel Ferro as well as goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital and sports scientist Paulo Barreira. More

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      Who are FC Noah? Armenian football club taking on Chelsea in Uefa Conference League match

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      FC NOAH is an Armenian team that has recently made waves in European football.Here’s everything you need to know about the aspirational club, who are taking on Chelsea in the Europa Conference League.FC Noah was founded in 2017 as FC ArtsakhRui Mota is the head coach of FC NoahCredit: GettyMatheus Aiás is a striker for the Armenian sideCredit: GettyWho Are FC Noah?Founded in 2017 as FC Artsakh, the team was originally based in Stepanakert, Artsakh, Armenia.The club relocated to Armavir and was rebranded as FC Noah in 2019, drawing inspiration from biblical figure Noah.Its name references the story of Noah’s Ark, which is said to have come to rest on the Mountains of Ararat, traditionally identified with Mount Ararat in Armenia.Rise to prominenceThe team’s rise to prominence has been meteoric — they finished second in the Armenian First League in their inaugural 2017-18 season, earning promotion to the Armenian Premier League.More Europa Conference LeagueDespite a disappointing 8th-place finish in their first top-flight season, the club’s fortunes changed dramatically following a change of ownership and the rebranding in 2019.Noah’s first major trophy came in the 2019-20 season, when they won the Armenian Cup, defeating Ararat-Armenia on penalties.This marked the beginning of their European journey, as it meant they qualified for the UEFA Europa Conference League for the first time.They were knocked out in the first qualifying round in the 2021-22 season, losing 5-1 on aggregate to Finish club Kuopion Palloseura.Most read in FootballThe side finished second in the Armenian Premier League in 2023-24, meaning they qualified for Europe’s third-tier tournament once again.Making historyThe 2024-25 season has been a landmark year for FC Noah.Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca lauds Cole Palmer as the type of player supporters ‘pay to see’ They made history by becoming the first club in history to enter the Conference League qualifiers in the first round and successfully navigate all four rounds.Their impressive run included victories over Shkëndija, Sliema Wanderers and Greek powerhouse AEK Athens, before a nail-biting 4-3 aggregate win against Ružomberok in the play-off round.They continued their hot streak run into match-day one of the competition on October 3, 2024, beating Czech First League outfit FK Mladá Boleslav 2-0 at Armavir City Stadium, their home ground. Key playersCurrently managed by Rui Mota, Noah boasts a diverse squad filled with both local talent and players from around the world.Key players include Gonçalo Gregório from Portugal and Brazilian Matheus Aiás in attack.Gonçalo Gregório plays up front for FC NoahmaCredit: GettyIn midfield there’s Gustavo Sangaré from Burkina Faso and local lad Gor Manvelyan.The side boasts experienced defenders in Hovhannes Hambardzumyan from Armenia, as well as the Icelandic left-back Guðmundur Þórarinsson.StadiumThe team’s home ground has changed several times since their inception.After initially playing at various stadiums in Yerevan, including the Mika Stadium and Alashkert Stadium, FC Noah moved their home games to the Armavir City Stadium in February 2022.Upcoming Chelsea fixtureFC Noah’s European adventure continues with a highly anticipated match against English giants Chelsea in the UEFA Conference League on November 7, 2024.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis fixture represents a David vs Goliath encounter, pitting the Armenian underdogs against one of Europe’s most successful clubs of the past two decades.The match against Chelsea will undoubtedly be the biggest in the club’s short history.Chelsea’s Europa Conference League matchesHere are the Blues’ Europa Conference League fixtures in 2024:Thursday, October 3Chelsea vs GentKick-off: 8pmThursday, October 24Panathinaikos vs ChelseaKick-off: 5.45pmThursday, November 7Chelsea vs FC NoahKick-off: 8pmThursday, November 28Heidenheim vs ChelseaKick-off: 5.45pmThursday, December 12FC Astana vs ChelseaKick-off: 3.30pmThursday, December 19Chelsea vs Shamrock RoversKick-off: 8pm. More

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      Transfer recommendations ahead of Gameweek 10: Bukayo Saka once again essential in midfield

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      DREAM TEAM managers have until 11am on Saturday morning to confirm their transfers for Gameweek 10.Many will wait until Friday’s press conferences for availability updates but allow us to put forward some recommendations for the time being.Last week we tipped Bryan Mbeumo (25 pts), Alejandro Garnacho (20 pts) and Savinho (17 pts) – let’s hope this week’s suggestions work out even half as well!A must-have star?Credit: APBukayo Saka (£6.8m)We usually wouldn’t bother recommending such an obvious name but, given the circumstances, Arsenal’s No7 is worthy of a mention.Dream Team bosses have had to contend with Mikel Arteta’s mind games in relation to Saka’s availability in recent weeks.The Spanish tactician gave an encouraging update prior to Gameweek 8 only for the England winger to miss both of the Gunners’ fixtures.Arteta then switched it up and suggested to reporters that Saka was unlikely to feature in Gameweek 9 before the 23-year-old featured against both Liverpool and Preston.With 113 points to his name, Saka is Dream Team’s top-performing midfielder this season and many gaffers consider him an essential asset when fit – it’s hard to disagree.Unfortunately, Saka’s quality comes at a significant cost, he’s comfortably the most expensive player in his position.Most read in FootballMatheus Nunes (£3.6m)Time to shineCredit: GettyWe had planned to repeat our Savinho recommendation but the lively Brazilian winger was stretchered off in midweek and is likely to be sidelined until the international break at the earliest.Fingers crossed he returns sooner rather than later.For the meantime, how about another Manchester City midfielder on the rise?The defending champions’ injury crisis meant Nunes played almost the full 180 minutes in Gameweek 9 and he capitalised to a great extent.The Portugal international took Southampton and Spurs for a combined 21 points, making him one of the top performers of the Gameweek.Nunes is quietly averaging a goal involvement every 67.3 minutes in all competitions this season.The 0.7%-owned midfielder should get plenty of minutes again in Gameweek 10 with City set to face Bournemouth and Sporting CP.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOWDarwin Nunez (£4.2m)Hear us out…Credit: GettySome may see this suggestion as overly outlandish but allow us to make a case for the enigmatic Uruguayan.Firstly, he should be assured minutes in Gameweek 10 while Diogo Jota (£4.5m) continues his rehabilitation from injury.Secondly, Liverpool have the luxury of back-to-back home games with Brighton and Bayer Leverkusen set to visit Anfield in the coming days.The Reds boast such a formidable home record that it might be worth doubling up on their starting forwards – let’s be clear, Mohamed Salah (£7.4m) remains the priority selection but nobody needs to hear that from us.Nunez can be a frustrating Dream Team asset to own as he’s far from the most composed finisher in the world but his chaotic style causes serious problems for Liverpool’s opponents when everything clicks.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe recently banked a combined 16 points from games against RB Leipzig and Arsenal, relatively tough fixtures on paper.Predicting Luis Diaz (£4.3m) and Cody Gakpo’s (£4m) minutes is not all that easy right now and so Nunez might be a smart option to accompany Salah, for the next two Gameweeks at least.BetMGM sign up offerBetMGM: Get £40 in free bets — HERE**New cust only. 7 days to opt in by placing a £10 qualifying bet at 1/1 (2.0) odds or greater to receive 4x Free Bets: 1 x £10 horse racing, 1 x £10 Bet Builder, 1 x £10 Acca and 1 x £10 football. 7 day expiry. Exclusions apply. Stake not returned. 18+. T&Cs apply.Commercial content notice: Taking one of the bookmaker offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. 18+. T&Cs apply. gambleaware.org More

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      Steve Bruce shares heartbreaking statement after tragic death of four-month old grandson Madison

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      STEVE BRUCE has shared a heartbreaking statement after the tragic death of his four-month old grandson.Newborn Madison was the child of former Leeds, Fulham and Millwall striker Matt Smith, who is Bruce’s son-in-law.Blackpool’s Manager Steve Bruce has issued a statement after the death of his grandsonCredit: PABruce’s statement read: “On Tuesday we laid my grandson Madison to rest.”It’s been the worst time of my family’s entire lives and is something no family should have to endure.”I’d like to take this opportunity on behalf of all the family to thank everyone for the tributes and messages from inside and outside the footballing world.”It has touched us all. I’d also like to thank David, Julian and the owner Simon for their understanding and support.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”I look forward to seeing you all on Saturday at Gillingham, and back at Bloomfield Road.”Look after your loved ones. Best wishes, Steve Bruce.”Madison’s passing was announced on October 18.In a statement, Blackpool said Madison’s death was “sudden and unexpected”.Most read in FootballBruce, former Newcastle and Aston Villa gaffer, missed Blackpool’s match against Barnsley on October 19 due to the bereavement. And understanding so, hasn’t been in the dugout since.The legendary manager, who has overseen more than 1,000 matches, is set to return to action for this weekend’s FA Cup clash against Gillingham.Bruce’s son Alex, who is currently working as the assistant manager at Salford City, also missed their game against Crewe.The ex-Prem manager, 63, joined the Tangerines on a two-year deal in September after nearly two years out of football management.Blackpool have won just four of their opening 13 games of the season, losing five along the way, leaving them 16th in League One. What tributes clubs have madeClubs up and down the country have sent their condolences…Preston North End”Devastating news. Sending our thoughts and condolences to Steve and his family at this incredibly difficult time.”West Bromwich Albion”Everybody at West Bromwich Albion sends their condolences, thoughts and love to Steve Bruce’s family at this desperately sad time.”Norwich City”Heartbreaking news. We’re sending our love and support to Steve and his family at this difficult time”Birmingham City”Everyone at Blues sends their love and support to our former boss and his family and friends at this extremely difficult time.”Bristol City”Everybody at Bristol City sends their condolences, thoughts and love to the family at this tragic time.”Lincoln City”Deepest condolences from everyone at the Imps to Steve and his family.”Northampton Town”Sending the condolences of everyone at Sixfields to Steve and his family.”Leeds United”Everybody at Leeds United sends their condolences and thoughts to Steve’s family at this tragic time.”Bristol Rovers”Everyone at Bristol Rovers sends our condolences, thoughts and love to Steve and the Bruce family.”Barnsley”Incredibly sad news. The thoughts and prayers of everyone connected to Barnsley Football Club are with Steve and his family.” More

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      Scott McTominay handed new nickname at Napoli as video emerges of him tearing AC Milan to shreds

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      SCOTT MCTOMINAY has been handed a new nickname after his impressive performance against AC Milan.The Scotland international left Manchester United in the summer transfer window to join Serie A giants Napoli.Scott McTominay starred for Napoli against AC MilanCredit: X @SerieAHe has been handed a new nickname by Napoli fansCredit: RexMcTominay, 27, has gone on to become a crucial cog in Antonio Conte’s side who are now at the top of the Italian top division.In Napoli’s latest match they were able to dispatch AC Milan 2-0 at the San Siro.The visitor’s goals came from Romelu Lukaku and Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.But it was McTominay’s performance in the midfield that got people talking on social media.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe former Red Devils star played the full 90 minutes and impressed against the likes of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Youssouf Fofana and Yunus Musah.A video of him driving the ball forward was viewed by thousands of fans, with McTominay being heralded with a new nickname.Napoli fans have fallen for the combative midfielder and have nicknamed him “McTotally”.It differs from his previous nickname that he had at Old Trafford when he was known as “McSauce”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSince his arrival in Naples, McTominay has scored one and assisted one goal in Serie A.He has also netted in the 5-0 Coppa Italia victory over Palermo back in September.Inside Scott McTominay and Cam Reading’s glam life in NaplesFormer Manchester United star Brian McClair has been left disappointed by McTominay’s success.The retired midfielder believes that the Old Trafford outfit should never have cashed in on the Scot.He told the BBC: “For me, it’s a big disappointment that he’s not still at Manchester United.”I can’t fathom why on his performances when he played and when has played he’s been very good for Napoli.”For Scotland he’s been a revelation.”Ten Hag’s Man Utd signingsThe Dutchman has brought in 21 players since moving to Old Trafford in 20222022-23:Antony, (Ajax) £86mCasemiro, (Real Madrid) £70mLisandro Martinez, (Ajax) £46mTyrell Malacia, (Feyenoord) £13mChristian Eriksen, (Brentford) freeMartin Dubravka, (Newcastle) loanWout Weghorst, (Burnley) loanJack Butland, (Crystal Palace) loanMarcel Sabitzer, (Bayern Munich) loan2023-24:Rasmus Hojlund, (Atalanta) £72mMason Mount, (Chelsea) £60mAndre Onana, (Inter Milan) £47mSofyan Amrabat, (Fiorentina) loanAltay Bayindir, (Fenerbahce) £4.3mJonny Evans, (Leicester) freeSergio Reguilon, (Tottenham) loan2024-25:Leny Yoro, (Lille) £52mManuel Ugarte, (Paris Saint-Germain) £50mMatthijs de Ligt, (Bayern Munich) £45mJoshua Zirkee, (Bologna) £36.5mNoussair Mazraoui, (Bayern Munich) £12.8m More

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      Goalkeeper ‘blames’ Harry Kane for leaving him bloodied with studs to the face during Bayern Munich clash

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      MAINZ goalkeeper Robin Zentner has called out Harry Kane after a sickening on-field collision. The 30-year-old needed treatment on the field after a challenge from the England striker on Wednesday night. Harry Kane has been called out for leaving his boot in on Mainz goalkeeper Robin ZentnerCredit: GettyThe 30-year-old required lengthy treatment during Mainz’s 4-0 loss to Bayern on WednesdayCredit: GettyZentner was able to continue following the collisionCredit: ReutersKane drew a rare blank as Bayern Munich romped to a 4-0 DFB-Pokal win at the MEWA Arena. The former Tottenham forward came close on several occasions, twice turning provider for Jamal Musiala as the youngster struck a brilliant hat-trick. But it was an incident in the 15th minute that had Mainz fans – and Zentner – incensed. Kane burst into the box with one of his trademark late runs, looking to find the opening goal.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHe slid in to try and beat Zentner to the loose ball, with the goal gaping.But the goalkeeper got there first, resulting in Kane’s studs raking down the side of Zentner’s face.The game was halted for several minutes while the former Kiel keeper was attended by medical staff.He was eventually given the green light to continue with a bandage above his right eye.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollowing the loss, Zentner hit out at Kane and accused the England star of going for a ball he was never likely to make.He told Bild: “I think you can blame him. Rodri and Harry Kane lead footy stars and Wags arriving for lavish Ballon d’Or ceremony despite Real Madrid ‘boycott'”He sees relatively early on that he can’t get to the ball. “He might as well just stay away.’ Kane joined Munich in the summer of 2023 for a deal worth £104million. The veteran keeper saw out the game with a mark above his right eyeCredit: GettyHarry Kane reveals his favourite England goalsHARRY KANE is already England’s all-time record goalscorer.But the Three Lions skipper will NOT be stopping there.To mark his 100th cap for his country, Kane spoke to SunSport’s CHARLIE WYETT about some of his special England goals….FIRST ENGLAND GOAL“My debut v Lithuania. March 2015.”There was a lot of talk in the build-up to that camp because I was playing well for Spurs.“I got a great reception and within a couple of minutes I scored a goal.“I don’t think I could have dreamed it any better.“My friends and family were there. That was a really special night.”FAVOURITE ENGLAND GOAL“It’s between two, for me.“Against Germany, the one at Wembley in Euro 2020.“Also, the header against Tunisia at the World Cup in 2018.“That moment of scoring a last-minute winner at my first World Cup was special.”BEST ENGLAND GOAL“The one I scored in Poland away in a World Cup qualifier in 2021. It was from 25 yards.”(Kane picked up the ball from Kyle Walker, advanced towards goal and put his foot through it.)“It kind of drifted away and it was a good strike, probably my furthest-out goal for England.”He has since scored a remarkable 45 goals in 40 games across all competitions. So far this season, the former Spurs star has bagged nine goals in eight, as well as five assists. Bayern are setting the early pace in the Bundesliga, top of the table with 20 points from 6 games. More