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      Conor Gallagher played only five of Thomas Tuchel’s 100 games at Chelsea – but will thrive under new England boss

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      CONOR GALLAGHER only played five of the 100 games Thomas Tuchel managed for Chelsea – and was sent off in one of those.Yet he made enough of an impression on the German in their brief time together that Tuchel’s appointment as England boss could be good news for the midfielder.Conor Gallagher could be set for a new starring role with EnglandCredit: GettyNew Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel is a huge fan of the midfield supremoCredit: GettyGallagher only featured a handful of times during Tuchel’s Chelsea reignCredit: RexThe ace is loving life in Spain with Atletico MadridCredit: EPAGallagher spent most of Tuchel’s Champions League-winning reign at Stamford Bridge out on loan, first to West Brom and then Crystal Palace.But Tuchel was always a fan of the industrious midfielder, seeing similarities to Chelsea great N’Golo Kante for his energy.Tuchel pushed for a new deal for Gallagher before his axing in September 2022 – and showed interest in signing the Londoner when bossing Bayern Munich.It all bodes well for Gallagher’s international prospects, even if the Atletico Madrid man will be taking nothing for granted.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLGallagher, who has 19 caps, is in Lee Carsley’s squad again for this week’s Nations League clashes against Greece and Republic of Ireland.He has made just one sub appearance under the outgoing interim boss, so will be hoping for more action when Tuchel’s reign kicks off in the new year.By then, Gallagher will have hoped to have fully got to grips with his new life in Madrid after an up-and-down start so far.Put in a situation by Chelsea where if he did not sign a relatively short-term deal of two years plus an option of a further season – relative to the massive contracts the Blues have handed out under Todd Boehly, at least – he would be bombed to the reserves, Gallagher opted for the climes of sunny Spain.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAtletico made their interest known during the Euros, where the 24-year-old became convinced of the move after chatting with La Liga winner and ex-Rojiblanco Kieran Trippier.After some late drama which saw Gallagher fly over to Madrid, then back to London, then back to the Spanish capital, Atletico eventually sealed the £36million deal.Five things you may not know about Thomas Tuchel from younger Brazilian girlfriend to former modelling careerGallagher left Stamford Bridge as a fan favouriteCredit: GettyTuchel is forever enshrined in Chelsea history after his Champions League triumphCredit: APIt added to their mega-money recruitment drive this summer, which also saw them splash £88m on Julian Alvarez, and that has heaped on the pressure after the team’s inconsistent start to the season.Off the pitch, Gallagher and his girlfriend Aine May Kennedy have settled in well, wasting no time to move out of a hotel and into a house.Freddy, their cream-coloured chow chow dog who looks like a fluffy little bear and has his own Instagram account, joined the pair out in Madrid in September.Gallagher quickly earned a canine-themed nickname himself with the Atletico supporters, who have branded him “Pitbull” for his all-action approach and relentless running.It is a moniker he enjoys and was particularly relevant to his outstanding display in September’s 3-0 home win over Valencia, where he won nine duels, all four of his tackles and became the first Englishman to score for the club for 101 years.That great start was followed up a week later with another goal and good performance in the 1-1 draw at Rayo Vallecano.Gallagher played a key role as Atletico beat PSG in the Champions LeagueCredit: EPABut then came a tougher period in October as he came in and out of a team who were thumped at Benfica and lost at home to Lille in the Champions League.That poor run culminated with Gallagher being subbed off at half-time in the dreadful 1-0 loss at Real Betis.That defeat drew criticism, particularly after the huge summer spend, with skipper Koke insisting the club must not lose its hard-working DNA despite “the millions that have been spent” and boss Diego Simeone admitting he needed to get more out of the new signings.Mario Suarez played for four years at Atletico under Simeone and had two stints at the club – so knows what it is like to handle the supporters’ expectations.The former Spain international, 37, told SunSport: “This year is a lot of pressure on them because they spent a lot of money on signings, including Gallagher.“The people are demanding this year a lot of the team. They want them to fight.Mario Suarez feels the best is yet to come from GallagherCredit: Getty Images – GettyThe ace has been backed to shine under Diego SimeoneCredit: AFP“In England, people show more respect in the street. You can go more on the street and the people don’t tell you nothing. They respect when you are with your wife and your kids.“Here in Spain it’s different. If you beat Real Madrid, they will tell you they love you and if you lose, some people can bother you.“He’s a player with character and he has to handle that pressure. I think he can do it.”Atletico appear to have turned a corner, having won the last four games, including a smash-and-grab 2-1 victory at Paris Saint-Germain which Gallagher started.The chance to work with Simeone was a huge reason behind Gallagher’s decision to sign.But the Argentine does not speak English and Epsom-born Gallagher is only at the start of his journey to learn the Spanish lingo, mainly using online apps at this point.Former Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta has been Gallagher’s translator in SpainCredit: Getty Images – GettyFormer Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has also been helping Gallagher settle inCredit: GettyIt means ‘El Cholo’, as Simeone is known, has to use a translator to speak to his combative midfielder.English-speaking Cesar Azpilicueta and Alexander Sorloth have helped Gallagher’s integration – along with a certain Fernando Torres, now manager of Atletico’s B team.Simeone has also used Gallagher in a number of positions, from a holder to an attacking, box-to-box midfielder.Suarez, who was out of his comfort zone linguistically with stints in China, Italy and with Watford, added: “It’s true to not speak the language perfectly is tough.“But the great players do it. He will need some time, maybe more time than others, but Kieran Trippier managed it in an amazing way, so I think Conor can do it.“He has to adapt to Spanish football. It’s more tactical than English football, which is more box-to-box, more intensity, less possession.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Simeone is like you see on the touchline. He puts intensity into everything he does. He’s a very demanding coach, in the training, the matches.“Conor is a Simeone type of player. He gives 120 per cent in every action, he fights for every ball, with a lot of intensity and energy.” More

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      Tragedy as footballer Gift Atulewa, 38, dies suddenly just one month after burying his wife

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      FOOTBALLER Gift Atulewa has tragically passed away at the age of 38.The striker died in the early hours of Tuesday morning following complications with his blood pressure.Nigerian footballer Gift Atulewa has tragically passed awayCredit: .He was still mourning the loss of his wife, who passed just one month ago.On Tuesday, a spokesperson for the Delta State Football Association said: “We just buried the wife last month, that may have contributed to this development.”He has blood pressure issues but he had been managing it.”The day before yesterday, the condition became bad and he was taken to the hospital.Read More in Football”They noticed he had malaria but aside from that, the blood pressure kept going up, we lost him this morning by 7am.”As we are speaking, there is an ex-international football tournament going on in Delta State – he is part of the ex-Uwei where he comes from, he is part of their team.”He scored the first goal of the tournament from a wonderful free kick that he is known for, he scored that goal like three weeks ago when the competition began.”Atulewa had recently travelled to the Ivory Coast to complete a coaching course.Most read in FootballHe retired from professional football in 2016 having played for Nigerian clubs Bayelsa United, Ocean Boys and Warri Wolves.The striker also made three appearances for Nigeria’s Under-20s. More

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      Match of the Day job share would be a ‘COP OUT’ say ex-footballers as controversial plan to replace Lineker revealed

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      ONLY one person should be appointed to replace Gary Lineker as Match of the Day presenter, according to ex-footballers Ally McCoist and Troy Deeney.Lineker will step down from his role at the end of the season having fronted Match of the Day for the last 25 years.Gary Lineker will quit Match of the Day at the end of the seasonCredit: PAMark Chapman is the favourite for the role but has no interest in a job shareCredit: GettyKelly Somers is also in the runningCredit: GettyMOTD2 presenter Mark Chapman is one of the favourites to replace him.The Sun exclusively revealed on Tuesday that BBC bosses want him to share the role with Kelly Somers.However, ‘Chappers’ has no interest in a job share.A source said: “He doesn’t want a job share, he wants Gary’s role as his own, which is understandable.Read More in Football”It’s a headache for the BBC because they thought they’d found an easy solution.”Rangers legend McCoist believes it would be wrong to appoint two people for the job.Discussing the issue on talkSPORT Breakfast, the 62-year-old said: “I don’t know about a job share…”SunSport columnist Deeney was quick to agree and explained: “Yeah, I was about to say the same thing. I feel it’s an iconic show and you’re used to seeing one person.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”I want to go and see one person, whether that be Chappers or that be Kelly. I know both of them, great, great people. “So whoever you choose to go with, I think trying to job share it is a cop out, in my opinion.Gary Lineker will stop presenting Match of the Day the end of this season at and will quit Beeb by 2027″Make a decision, go with somebody and then we all know that’s where the show’s going, that’s who it is.”McCoist then went on to say: “I’ve grown up with it, I’ve always loved it. I really have. I’ve loved it. And I’m with you mate.”I think whether it’s Chappers or Kelly, I think you should have one focal point presenting it. And it’s a tough job to follow because Gary’s been brilliant. “Gary’s been brilliant since 1999, 24, 25 years and like Des Lynam before him, all the guys before him are iconic. But you make an interesting point, Shebahn, like anything else, like newspapers, for example. It is really hard to be a part of it. “We’re seeing the goals before we pick up a newspaper. We’ve seen the goals before we watch Match of the Day – we’ve known all about the sending offs, everything, so it’s very, very difficult to keep it as topical as possible.”But for me, guys… I think it should be one person, new person fronting it.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBBC chiefs are still in the process of appointing a new full-time Match of the Day presenter.Whoever is selected will likely step into the role from the start of the 2025-26 season.Ally McCoist does not believe the job should be sharedCredit: GettyTroy Deeney is also not convinced it would be the right moveCredit: The Mega Agency More

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      Cole Palmer reveals moment he decided to leave Man City for Chelsea but admits he never got to say a proper goodbye

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      COLE PALMER has revealed when he decided to leave Manchester City.Palmer, 22, has been a revelation since joining Chelsea for £40million on deadline day of the 2023/24 summer transfer window.Cole Palmer has revealed when he knew he had to leave Man CityCredit: GettyPalmer had been at the club since the age of seven and originally only wanted to go on loanCredit: Players tribuneAnd Palmer admits the rapid nature of his deadline-day move to Chelsea means he never got to say a proper goodbye.Credit: Manchester CityDespite the club’s overall struggles in a huge transitional period, Palmer stood up to be counted and has scored a remarkable 32 goals in 57 games in all competitions.However, Palmer’s original plan was not to leave City, who had nurtured him since the age of seven.But speaking to GQ, Palmer admitted he knew he had to take the decision in order to further his career.He said: “I wasn’t even gonna go [to] Chelsea. I got persuaded.” He then nodded to his manager when asked who persuaded him to move.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”I just knew I wasn’t going to play as much as I wanted to. Even when I was going to England [camps] with younger age groups, you had players there who were playing in the league every week. “And you’re looking around thinking, I can play in the league. When you’re not playing, it’s annoying.”Palmer admits he wanted to go on loan, but had his hand forced when he found out he was not going to play behind established stars even after Riyad Mahrez sealed a move to Saudi Arabia.However, the fast nature of the deal meant Palmer was not able to say a proper goodbye, with a text message being his ultimate farewell to the club he had been with for 14 years.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe added: “No – do you know what, I just wanted to go on loan…”I remember training on a Wednesday at City in the afternoon, and the news was ‘they’re trying to agree a fee.’Cole Palmer stars in video to tackle London homelessness as Chelsea launch Wrap Up Warm campaign”Every time the ball went out I’d ask the kit man or the doctor if they’ve agreed the fee yet.”So I didn’t really get a chance to see many people and say I’m going. I just had to get my stuff.”I messaged the group chat, said ‘Thanks and everything. I’m gone.’ That was it.”On his meteoric rise to stardom, Palmer admitted he even “surprised” himself, although he recalls as a youngster how his father Jermaine told him to keep faith despite the midfielder’s own doubts during his development.He said: “I’d see people saying, like, ‘He’s just in good form.’ Then I think it was after the first England camp where I went a bit quiet, and people were saying, ‘This was always going to happen.’ “But then I just picked up and went even better. Played Middlesbrough at home, played Everton, Manchester United at home, and I just kept scoring, scoring, scoring.”I knew I could do it. But for it to happen so fast… I surprised myself, yeah…”Maybe because I wasn’t the quickest when I was younger, I had to use body movement instead of speed. “I remember I would say, ‘I want to be fast, I want to be stronger, bigger,’ because I was so small – like, just tiny. “I would try and do something and I’d just get the ball took off me. I said, ‘Why am I like this?’ And my dad said: ‘Wait. You will take over everybody’.”Palmer grew up in Wythenshawe, south of Manchester as a Red Devils fan.Jermaine’s parents hail from Saint Kitts and Nevis, which is why Palmer wears the flag on his boots. Palmer has said one of his first memories was of him and his father playing football together, and after his chip in the 6-2 thrashing over Wolves, he recalled how his father messaged him to reminisce.He said: “He messaged me the other day, after I scored that chip versus Wolves, saying, ‘You remember practising chips in the park?’ But I actually do, to be fair.”Palmer scored for England in the final of Euro 2024 against Spain, but he admitted the rush of the situation means he “doesn’t really remember it”.READ MORE SUN STORIESNow a mainstay for the Three Lions, Palmer was called up for Lee Carsley’s final squad before Thomas Tuchel takes over fully next year.However, Palmer was one of eight stars to withdraw from the squad after suffering a knock in weeks prior to the camp that left him doubtful over his inclusion in the Arsenal clash.Dave Kidd: Why I’ve voted for Cole Palmer to be Footballer of the Year despite Chelsea woesBy Dave KiddTHE voting for the Footballer of the Year award closes on Tuesday and, unlike many, I’ve gone for Cole Palmer.Most Football Writers’ Association members vote by starting with the likely Prem champs and work backwards. So the winner will be Phil Foden, Rodri, Declan Rice or Martin Odegaard.There is dissent if a player from a less successful team wins, like David Ginola from mid-table Spurs in Manchester United’s ’99 Treble- winning year.But enjoying a superb individual season in a poor team is a greater achievement.And for Palmer — just 21 and in his first season as a regular starter — to have chalked up 23 goals and 13 assists in such a basket-case team as Chelsea, makes him this season’s outstanding player.Read Dave Kidd’s full column hereOr click here to check out all of Dave Kidd’s articles. More

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      Rio Ferdinand tells Chelsea to fine Noni Madueke two weeks’ wages for ‘disrespectful’ act moments after Arsenal clash

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      RIO FERDINAND has told Chelsea to fine Noni Madueke two weeks’ wages for his “disrespectful” act against Arsenal.The winger started his side’s 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, having cemented his status as a first-teamer under new boss Enzo Maresca.Rio Ferdinand has urged Chelsea to fine Noni Madueke two weeks’ wagesCredit: GettyMadueke stormed down the tunnel after being subbed off against ArsenalCredit: GettyBut Madueke struggled to make an impact down Chelsea’s right-hand side.Arsenal left-back Jurrien Timber made sure the England international was unable to dictate play when cutting inside.And Maresca decided enough was enough when he hauled Madueke off after the hour mark for Mykhailo Mudryk.However, Chelsea’s talented forward was not happy with the decision.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd instead of taking his place on the bench, Madueke stormed off down the tunnel in anger.Blues boss Maresca attempted to play down the incident by claiming it was a natural reaction.But former Manchester United star Ferdinand reckons Madueke’s actions were a sign of disrespect.And he feels the winger should be docked a fortnight’s wages to teach him a lesson.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSpeaking on his Rio Ferdinand Presents podcast, the ex-England defender said: “You think Danny Welbeck or Tom Cleverley or Nani are going to storm off the pitch and throw their dummy out?“It’s a young team. Who are the experienced players who are going to go in there and say, ‘Woah, we don’t accept that here’.How Cucurella trapped Saka AGAIN with simple trick but Chelsea have critical Palmer problem“And I understand his thinking but at the same time, I don’t understand why you are doing that.“That’s where the manager comes in, I think the manager protecting him is mad.“And that’s why I couldn’t be in there because I couldn’t come out and play the game where you say, ‘Yeah he was in the wrong but…’“Fined, that’s a two-week fine.”Maresca certainly didn’t seem to have a problem with Madueke’s reaction, explaining after the Arsenal match: “The problem is when you change a player, they are never happy.“Probably the only way to be happy is after the Wolves game where he scored a hat-trick and we changed him, so he was happy. It’s not only about Noni, it’s about all the players.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s a good thing because they want to be there until the end. But in that moment, we thought in different ways, probably Pedro with Timber could be a little bit more aggressive.“And also with Misha, so it was a tactical decision, no more than that.”Chelsea ratings vs ArsenalRobert Sanchez – 6Still punches the ball clear when a catch would be much safer – and reassuring for the fans behind him.Malo Gusto – 6Went close with a header in the first-half. But was missing at right-back when Arsenal took the lead through Gabriel Martinelli’s 59th minute goal. The problem with also playing in midfield.Wesley Fofana – 7Strong challenges and now fully back from lengthy injury. Also went close to a goal in the second half when he pumped the ball just over.Levi Colwill – 6Forging a partnership with Fofana at the heart of defence. Got caught dangerously in possession by Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard but recovered.Marc Cucurella – 7Cracking tussle with Bukayo Saka. Despite being one of only three men on the pitch wearing gloves, including the keepers, Chelsea’s left-back is a formidable defender.Moises Caicedo – 6Enjoying a run of form at the moment that includes last weekend’s volleyed equaliser at Manchester United. Strong tackler and smooth through the gears in midfield.Romeo Lavia – 6A surprise package keeping £107million Enzo Fernandez out of the team. After a terrible run of injuries is forming some consistency. But any twinge is a scare and came off in the 66th minute.Noni Madueke – 6Called up to the latest England squad and is mobile and nippy. Also seemed a bit stroppy and went straight down the tunnel when subbed in the 66th minute. Perhaps needed treatment.Cole Palmer – 6Maybe the sore knee is still troubling him. Only trained yesterday for the first time in almost a week. But it hampered his impact on a disjointed London derby.Pedro Neto – 7Starting to make his presence felt after being relegated to the Conference League matches. Stunning powerful drive for the equaliser and full of energy. Nicolas Jackson – 6Feisty and fiery but went to ground too easily to win a couple of free kicks when he could have done more damage on his feet. Gives everything though. More

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      Al-Ettifaq sack Steven Gerrard’s assistant and ex-EFL manager but Liverpool legend clings to job after showdown talks

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      AL-ETTIFAQ have announced two major departures – but under-fire manager Stephen Gerrard is set to keep his job.Sporting director Mark Allen and assistant manager Dean Holden have been sacked by club officials.Steven Gerrard will keep his job at Al-Ettifaq – for nowCredit: GettyEx-Charlton boss Dean Holden, who was Gerrard’s assistant, has been sackedCredit: AlamyA statement from Al-Ettifaq read: “The board of Ettifaq, led by Mr. Samer Almisehal, has approved the recommendations of the football committee, which are as follows: Mark Allen to leave his position as executive sporting director by mutual agreement.”Dean Holden to leave his position as assistant manager by mutual agreement.”The chairman, Mr Sameer Almisehal, reaffirmed that the board is fully committed to supporting the technical staff and players in their efforts to improve the club’s position in the league and to secure a top spot in the Gulf Champions League.”He also expressed his apologies to Ettifaq fans for the disappointing exit from the King Cup.Read More in Football”The board and everyone at the club deeply appreciate the unwavering support of Ettifaq fans despite recent unsatisfactory results. We remain optimistic that better results are on the horizon.”Al-Ettifaq currently sit 12th in the Saudi Pro League with just 11 points from 10 games.First team manager Gerrard, who was appointed in July 2023, has come under fire in recent weeks as a result.He was booed by his own fans after losing 2-0 to local rivals Al Qadsiah earlier this month.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd the England icon didn’t do himself any favours by admitting he schedules Al-Ettifaq training around Liverpool games.Despite his run of poor form, club chiefs have decided against sacking him.Steven Gerrard is looking for self improvement Al Ettifaq Instead, Allen and Holden were asked to leave.Before joining Al-Ettifaq in 2023, Allen was sporting director at Swansea City.He was promoted in 2021 after spending eight months as the club’s academy manager.The 61-year-old has also worked at Rangers and Manchester City.Meanwhile, Holden was manager of Charlton before making the switch to Al-Ettifaq earlier this year.The 45-year-old has also spent time with Oldham, Bristol and Stoke. More

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      Claudio Ranieri set for emotional return to old club at 73 in retirement U-turn with Ten Hag facing snub for new job

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      ERIK TEN HAG is set to be snubbed from the Roma job as the club considers welcoming back Claudio Ranieri, according to reports.Roma are already searching for their third manager of the season after sacking club legend Daniele De Rossi after just four games and then dismissing Ivan Juric earlier this week.Claudio Ranieri could be set for a stunning return to club management with Roma after retiring last seasonCredit: RexErik ten Hag had been linked with an immediate return to management with the positionCredit: PAThe Serie A outfit sit in 12th in the table having won just three of their 12 league games.Their search for a new boss had reportedly seen them eyeing up a move for Ten Hag after the Dutchman was sacked by Manchester United last month.However, a fresh report has now revealed that a stunning retirement U-turn could be on the cards for former Leicester and Chelsea manager Ranieri.Ranieri, who famously guided Leicester to the Premier League title in 2016, retired from coaching at the end of last season after stepping away from Cagliari.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 73-year-old had declared at the time that it would be his final club.But the Italian is being considered by the Giallorossi as they look for an experienced pair of hands to get their season back on track, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.The report says Ranieri has flown to London for a meeting with Roma owners Dan and Ryan Friedkin.A decision over his appointment could be made as soon as Wednesday, which would mark the start of a third-stint with Roma.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRanieri first worked for the club between September 2009 and February 2011.He returned for a second brief spell in charge from March to May 2019.Emotional Ruud van Nistelrooy given incredible ovation at Old Trafford with Man Utd interim still unclear on his futureAs well as Ten Hag, who was spotted at ex-club Ajax over the weekend, Turkey national team boss Vincenzo Montella was considered.Ten Hag, 54, was replaced at Man Utd on an interim basis by Ruud van Nistelrooy after just three wins from nine league games to start the season.Van Nistelrooy managed four games in all competitions, winning three and drawing one, while Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim was announced as the permanent successor in the position.Amorim has already landed in Manchester and met with some players, including Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount, at the Red Devils’ Carrington training base as he looks to get to work.The 39-year-old won the league twice in his time with the Eagles, ending a 19-year wait for a title to end the dominance of Porto and Benfica. More

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      New England star who won shock call-up is engaged to daughter of Man Utd legend Roy Keane

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      TAYLOR HARWOOD-BELLIS has a cuddly dad… and a not-so-cute future father-in-law.The Southampton defender, who captained England Under-21s to Euros glory last year, has been handed his first senior call-up by Lee Carsley.Roy Keane’s daughter Leah is engaged to a new England starCredit: officialkeane16 / InstagramSouthampton’s Taylor Harwood-Bellis is hoping to win his first senior capCredit: GettyAnd that delighted his football-mad father Martin, who for many years dressed up as Stockport’s mascot Vernon Bear. Yet there is someone who will be much harder to please.Harwood-Bellis is engaged to Leah Keane, whose dad is intimidating former Manchester United star Roy.The defender’s uncle, Steve, is Stockport’s president and his twin sister Becky was a top basketball player, so here is a family which loves sport.Harwood-Bellis was with Manchester City from the age of six before joining Southampton on loan last term, with promotion triggering a £20million transfer clause.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAsked about his family, starting with his costume-wearing dad, Harwood-Bellis said: “He did it a few times to be fair, it wasn’t just once.“He must have been good at it. It was sad to see him stop.“My sister doesn’t play any more but she represented Great Britain. She was good at basketball. We’re a sporty family.”Harwood-Bellis, though, did seem slightly nervous when the subject of the father of his fiancee Leah was mentioned.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe said: “Yes, it’s something that is good and I take a lot of advice.”Although England travel to Greece today for tomorrow’s Nations League clash, Sunday will see England face Ireland at Wembley, with the game nearly sold out.Man Utd legend Roy Keane abruptly walks off as he is repeatedly teased by ice cream manHarwood-Bellis has been a mainstay for the Saints this seasonCredit: ReutersFormer Burnley boss Vincent Kompany was a huge inspirationCredit: AlamyThat match will be of particular interest to a certain former Manchester United and Ireland midfielder.But swerving the next question about Keane and the Ireland showdown, Harwood-Bellis said: “Everything is focused on Greece. “It’s a big game with the result at home last month as we lost. We want to go over there and get a result.”One man who has featured prominently in the centre-back’s career is Vincent Kompany.The Belgian was manager in his loan spells at Anderlecht and Burnley.And the 22-year-old star said: “I had the best part of a year and a half under him so he’s helped me massively. He helped me personally to grow as a player and a human being, as well.”Asked about the England call-up by interim boss Carsley, he said: “Lee rang me in the morning. I couldn’t quite believe it at first. It was a feeling of pride.“I was with my partner. Then I phoned my dad and he was very proud.“The fact I had played for England through the age groups and now I was in the seniors, all my family were delighted.“He [Carsley] always said, ‘If you are playing well at the top level  and doing the best you can, there will be a  highly-likely chance that you get called up’ — and he stuck to his word. So I’m really happy.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAlthough he will not be at either game, manager-in-waiting Thomas Tuchel will be watching from his home in Germany.Harwood-Bellis said: “It will be a big motivation for all the lads that there is a new manager coming in and they will be wanting to keep their places.” More