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      Walking into England dressing room after Euros final defeat was so hard – but we CAN win World Cup, says Prince William

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      PRINCE William revealed one of his toughest tasks as FA ­President was consoling England’s crushed players shortly after the gut-wrenching defeat in the final of Euro 2024.The royal joined the deflated stars following the shattering 2-1 loss to Spain in Berlin and admitted: “That was the hardest changing room atmosphere I’ve ever had to walk into.After the whistle blew at the Olympic Stadium, the future king consoled the stars including captain Harry KaneCredit: EPAWilliam and George collapsing back into their seats, hands over their faces, as Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal bagged the late winnerCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)Prince William and England manager Thomas TuchelCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace“They were really down. They realised they’d given it their all and they’d been on such a journey.“It felt like the culmination should have been a successful ­victory for them.”However, footie-mad Wills is still quietly hopeful for the future and feels the Three Lions will be “as close as we’ve ever been” to winning a World Cup in two years.The Prince had taken on the FA presidency 18 years before the shattering defeat against Spain which he shared with son Prince George, then ten, who sat by his side.READ MORE ON PRINCE WILLIAMHe famously marked his appointment by turning up at England training and asking beanpole striker Peter Crouch to perform his robot goal celebration for him. The foundations are very strong, and we’ve got good leadership with Thomas having arrived.Prince WilliamEngland sadly failed to get past the quarter-finals that summer and, ever since, William has been as frustrated as any other England supporter at their continuing inability to lift a trophy.His hopes had been high in the Euro 2020 decider at Wembley, but Italy won that on penalties.“Do you know, I thought it was our time at the first final,” he said.Most read in FootballThat result made last year’s further disappointment doubly difficult to take, he said — as was evident from the images of him and George collapsing back into their seats, hands over their faces, as Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal bagged the late winner and shattered English dreams.William said: “To go and see it again and be so close when the guys had really given it their all was very difficult.”Prince William picks Messi vs Ronaldo winner and gives David Beckham a huge boost | Big Shot BattleAfter the whistle blew at the Olympic Stadium, the future king consoled the stars including captain Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham as well as long-term manager Gareth Southgate.Like Southgate, he too stepped down after that final, but he has since taken on the role of FA patron instead of president and is as big an England fan as ever.The appointment of the German Thomas Tuchel as manager attracted criticism from those who felt the job should have gone to an Englishman.And William himself was involved in the development of the FA’s national training centre at St George’s Park, which was supposed to provide a pathway for English coaches.In fact, he opened the facility, which is just outside Burton-on-Trent, Staffs, back in 2012.He well understands that concern about an English coach being denied the top job this time round but is enthusiastic about what former Chelsea boss Tuchel can bring to the table.And he is optimistic that England have a real chance of getting their hands on the 2026 World Cup.He said: “I’m still linked to the FA but as a patron rather than president now. However, I loved my time as president.Prince William with former England manager Gareth SouthgateCredit: GettyWilliam is optimistic that England have a real chance of getting their hands on the 2026 World CupCredit: Dan Charity“I learned an awful lot about the football world and the England set-up. I was trying to do my bit to work out how to bring the best minds in so that England could win a World Cup.“We’re now as close as we’ve ever been, I really do feel that. The foundations are very strong, and we’ve got good leadership with Thomas having arrived. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us.”He went on: “The FA is in quite a stable place which it hasn’t always been in the past when I was involved when I was younger.“It’s all coming together nicely. We just need the results on the pitch to go our way. We are going to see how Thomas sets up and who he picks.”He’s only got two years so it’s a short turnaround but I am quietly confident we are in a good position.”’Right person for job’Tuchel is due to announce his first England squad today. William was informed about the decision to hire him before it became public knowledge and he has had no reason to doubt it was the right move.The dad of three went on: “Having met him, I’m definitely happy about that decision.“I think he will bring serious detail and experience and wisdom to the role. Gareth Southgate was an incredible manager who did brilliantly and really laid the foundations for success.“He was very unlucky that he just didn’t quite manage to get us over the line. He gave it his all.“Of course I was sad to see him leave. He’s a lovely guy who did an incredible job.“He was the manager for nearly nine years, which is a long time.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But, as regards finding his successor, I’m excited by what Thomas might bring.“I think he is exactly the right person for the job.”WILLING ENGLAND ONPRINCE William’s tenure as FA President has been marked by a huge upturn in form.May 2006: He takes over from uncle Prince Andrew.June 2006: He cheers on England and meets fans at the World Cup in Germany.2010: He and Prince Harry visit the England camp in South Africa.2012-2014: The future King stays home for the disappointing Euro 2012 and the dismal 2014 World Cup in Brazil.2016: Wills says the FA’s governance structure needs reform, at a lunch commemorating his ten-year anniversary as president.2018: The Prince does not attend the World Cup in Russia but he tweeted after the 2-0 win over Sweden in the quarter finals: “You wanted to make history England and you are doing just that.”2021: The president continues his hands-on approach to the Three Lions during the Covid-delayed Euro 2020.He gave a dressing room speech after England’s final defeat to Italy, which he watched alongside wife Kate and son George at Wembley.2022: Wills and Kate cheer the Lionesses on to England’s first trophy since 1966 at the Euro 2022 final at Wembley.2024: He roars England to victory over Switzerland at Euro 2024 — months after the double cancer diagnosis shock of Kate and dad Charles. He steps down after loss in final. More

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      Prince William reveals superstitious match day rituals when watching Villa & how he lurks on fan forums with random name

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      PRINCE William has spoken of falling in love with Aston Villa after being taken to a match by friends as a boy.The heir, 42, said he was gripped by the “sense of belonging” and the passion of his fellow football fans.Prince William has revealed his ‘passion’ for Aston Villa and shares his superstitions, including moving the kids around during gamesCredit: Dan CharityGeorge, Charlotte and Louis better not get comfortable if their dad is watching Aston Villa losingCredit: GettyPrince William enjoys a matchday at Villa Park – where he enjoys mixing with the other fansCredit: GettyWills also revealed he visits fan forums anonymously online — and moves his kids around when watching at home to bring the team luck.We sat down with the heir to the throne for a chat at Villa’s training ground on the eve of their Champions League win over Club Brugge.They now have a glamour tie with PSG in the last eight to look forward to — and their fans can maybe dream of the glory days when they lifted the European Cup.Wills said: “Yep they won it, 1982, the year I was born. There’s a nice connection with them straight away.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut how did he become a Villa fan, seeing as he had no obvious connection with the Midlands?William, now 42, concedes it was relatively late when he got the bug but he was gripped by the camaraderie, and his interest intensified when Villa got relegated in 2016.He said: “There were a few moments that happened. I had some family friends who took me to my first Villa game when I was younger because they are big Villa fans.“It was against Bolton and I sat in the stands with my Villa beanie hat on and I remember Paul Merson was playing for Villa at the time. With the camaraderie among the fans and the chanting and the singing, I just felt like I belonged there.Most read in Football“I kept an eye on Villa from then on but didn’t get too involved initially. But Villa being relegated to the Championship in 2016 got me even more interested, strangely.“A few years earlier, we’d finished sixth under Martin O’Neill and now we weren’t even in the Premier League. Prince William on recreating Ronaldo’s goal celebration in his garden as he builds ‘Perfect Footballer'”I’m not certain why I became much more interested then but it might have been due to the rise of the smartphone.“I’d grown up looking at Ceefax on the television or the back pages of newspapers and if you didn’t have those to hand you were a bit out of the loop.“But now you can get so much data and follow how your team is doing all the time and there’s so much more discussion and debate. That’s how my passion really increased.“I’m incredibly proud of the club and the journey it’s been on. It’s hard to put into words and a lot of Villa fans are still pinching themselves a bit that we’re here and we’ve done this.”’The atmosphere was electric’William poured praise on manager Unai Emery, and said he can learn from his exceptional eye for detail and man-management skills. “He went on: “Last season was very tense and we were wondering if we’d get over the line to get in the Champions League and when we did it was a big deal.“When I came up here to see the team, the atmosphere was electric.“We are all so proud and pleased with what they’ve done and you can see the difference with a manager like Unai, who brings people together and works hard on the little details. “He’s a really good man-manager with a great support staff around him and the players enjoy playing for him.I’m kind of hoping they’ll all find their own teams in time. They don’t all have to be Villa fans. I’m trying not to be biased but obviously they see how passionate I am about it and they watch the matches with me.Prince William“There have been lots of good managers in Villa’s time but I’d say Unai is a step up on some of them in terms of his formations, and the length of detail he goes into with his videos. “He spends hours debriefing the previous match to get them ready for the next one.“He lives, eats, breathes and sleeps football and it gives you a bit of a lesson in life that if you really want to do something right, you’ve got to throw everything at it and give your time. “Unai is that dedicated, a completely obsessed man of football and that rubs off on the players.“If you’re doing what you love and speaking so well about how you love it then they’ll follow you. It’s quite a good leadership point.”William has often taken son George to games but is not forcing his eldest, or their siblings Charlotte or Louis, into supporting Villa.He said: “I’m kind of hoping they’ll all find their own teams in time. They don’t all have to be Villa fans. I’m trying not to be biased but obviously they see how passionate I am about it and they watch the matches with me. I’m trying to spread the love a little bit.“They do have Villa shirts, and ask to come to games with me, but they have other shirts as well. There’s been a bit of courting going on by other managers too.”William also revealed his irritation over the TV blackout, which bans Premier League games from being broadcast in England at 3pm on a Saturday.He said: “Getting up to Villa Park isn’t the easiest thing for me but I like to watch as many games as I possibly can either by being there or on TV. “I’ve tried to really make an effort to get there for all the Champions League games because it feels like that’s something you’ve got to make the most of when you’re in it. “The biggest thing at home is trying to find it on TV sometimes because obviously you’ve got the Saturday 3pm blackout which is irritating.”Illegal firestickHe puts the shutters up when it is suggested he could use an illegal firestick. He laughs: “Haha, no comment on that one. I’m a paid-up member of Villa TV though so I keep up to date through that. “But it’s really annoying that we still can’t watch our own team’s Premier League match in this country but you can go abroad and watch any game any time.”So when he watches Villa on TV, does he get into the matchday spirit as if he was in the ground?I like mixing with the fans. Anything Villa I love and they all love their Villa. It’s a family within a family and I do feel part of the Villa family.Prince WilliamHe replied: “If I’m home alone with the children, I probably don’t have the pre-match pint but I do have a bit of superstition about where I sit when I’m watching them. “If we’re not doing very well, I start moving round the house quite quickly and I put the children in different positions hoping that’s going to change our luck.” William recently popped into a Birmingham Wetherspoons to join Villa fans for a beer before a game at Everton.He said: “I like mixing with the fans. Anything Villa I love and they all love their Villa.“It’s a family within a family and I do feel part of the Villa family. This club does an awful lot — and I know lots of clubs do it too — but I particularly feel it with Villa in my life that I’m very included.“The morals and the vision and the general atmosphere and the culture of the club really matters.“For me, it’s always been very welcoming, very diverse, and all-encompassing.” He unhesitatingly names Irish stalwart defender of the 90s, Paul McGrath, as the greatest Villa player ever, while he also has a particular soft spot for Norwegian striker John Carew.He said: “Yeah it has to be McGrath, doesn’t it? I really liked Carew as well, he was a serious all-round player. There’s been quite a few good ones, but they are two who I would pick out.”He also loves to chip in with his opinions on fans’ internet forums, posting anonymously of course.He revealed: “I like going on the forums, I can be on there for ages. I listen to what other fans have to say and give them my opinions. I get quite into it, definitely. It’s important to have that debate.”However, he added: “Having said that, while I may be an armchair fan, I wouldn’t presume to tell Unai if he’s doing anything wrong.“I’m fascinated by what Unai is doing and how he tweaks his system and what he sees. “I’d love to know more about how he goes about managing the team better and how do you see those little details which no one else does.”READ MORE SUN STORIESUnlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme – Sun Club.Wills chats with Villa fave Morgan RogersCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceThe prince is full of praise for Villa’s Spanish manager Unai EmeryCredit: ReutersWills sits down for an exclusive chat with The Sun’s head of sport, Shaun CustisCredit: Dan Charity More

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      Paul Scholes ‘jumps out of his skin’ live on TNT Sports as pundit is shocked by Man Utd’s pre-game antics

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      PAUL SCHOLES “jumped out of his skin” at Old Trafford as Manchester United prepared for a huge European night.And it wasn’t the unpredictable horrors offered up by United this season that made him do it!Paul Scholes and Karen Carney were both caught outBruno Fernandes hit a penalty leveller in an absorbing second legCredit: APThe Red Devils were readying for Real Sociedad in the Europa League last-16 second leg.And at 1-1 from the first leg in Spain, it was understandable if TNT Sports pundit Scholes was a little nervous.United were looking for more than a spark of intervention.But it was something even more dazzling that caught out the former England midfielder and colleague Karen Carney. READ MORE ON MAN UTDUnited suddenly let off fireworks around the famous old ground.And TNT’s commentator told viewers the pair of pundits leapt with surprise when the pyrotechnics fizzed into action.Armchair observers weren’t able to see the reaction of Scholes and Carney for themselves – as the cameras weren’t on the twitchy duo at the time.It came after Scholes backed plans for a £2billion new home unveiled by United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSHe said: “I was quite excited to hear it. It’s about time United caught up.”I think the time is right to move to a better, bigger, brilliant stadium.”Paul Scholes says ‘it’s about time Manchester United caught up’Meanwhile, on the pitch It was the Red Devils who were soon looking jumpy – as Mikel Oyarzabal hit a 10th-minute penalty opener for Sociedad.That put the visitors 2-1 in front on aggregate, with a quarter-final place at stake.But United soon rocketed back into it, thanks to a spot-kick of their own from Bruno Fernandes. More

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      James Maddison and Pedro Porro in heated row in huge Tottenham match forcing captain Son Heung-min to separate them

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      TOTTENHAM captain Son Heung-min had to intervene as James Maddison and Pedro Porro squabbled over free-kick duty. Spurs were 1-0 against AZ Alkmaar just before the break when the set-piece was awarded. Son Heung-min had to intervene as James Maddison and Pedro Porro squabbled over free-kick dutyCredit: GettyThe two rowed over who would takeCredit: APMaddison picked up the ball ready to take it but was challenged by Porro – who tried to grab it from him. The two were then in a heated exchange of words before skipper Son get between the two for Maddison to take the free-kick. One fan said: “This is so embarrassing.”Another fumed: “I hate this nonsense with a passion.”READ MORE IN football One said: “Son Heung-min, a footballer with zero haters.”Another joked: “Why do they have to keep embarrassing me.”Maddison actually doubled Spurs’ lead on 48 minutes and was joined in celebration by Porro.His goal was sandwiched by two Wilson Odobert strikes which saw Tottenham win 3-1 on the night.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat was enough to see them progress 3-2 on aggregate, relieving the pressure on manager Ange Postecoglu. Spurs play Frankfurt in the quarter-finals and Maddison said: “The next stage is what we set out to do at the start of the two legs. “There was a lot of talk after last week’s performance, we were honest with ourselves it wasn’t good enough.”I know what we’re capable of here and we got the job done. We haven’t achieved anything yet, we’re in the quarter-final and we kick on and we look forward to it.” Porro and Maddison made up in celebration later onCredit: AFP More

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      How clever Howe’s brave tactic and Isak’s ‘go, stop, go’ mastery can finally end Newcastle’s trophy drought at Wembley

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      A HUGE chunk of Newcastle fans have never seen their side lift a trophy – but Sunday could finally be the day.It’s been 70 years since the Toon celebrated getting their hands on some silverware, when they beat Manchester City to win the 1955 FA Cup.Newcastle haven’t won a trophy since the 1955 FA Cup win over Man CityCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdEddie Howe has some huge calls to make ahead of the Wembley showdown with LiverpoolCredit: GettyHow Liverpool and Newcastle’s star men compare ahead of the Carabao Cup finalThe 1968-69 Fairs Cup triumph aside, the Magpies have been left utterly deprived of titles.But on Sunday, Eddie Howe’s squad have the chance to finally break that horrendous drought when they take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.And in the latest episode of SunSport’s Tactics Exposed, our tactics expert DEAN SCOGGINS looks at where Newcastle can hurt the Reds and finally end their silverware misery.Here are Dean’s three top observations…READ MORE SPORT STORIES1. Isak’s ‘go, stop, go’ can hurt Van Dijk.. againAlexander Isak did a very, very cool thing against Virgil van Dijk when they played in at St James’ Park earlier in the season, which finished 3-3… I’m going to call it “go, stop, go”.We’ve got a fairly similar formation set up for both teams – they’re going to set up as 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, fairly similar.But the most important thing, what we’ll see straight away is Liverpool’s back four are going to be against Newcastle’s attacking three.Isak will be the man to try and take on Ibrahima Konate and Van Dijk by himself, because Newcastle will go man for man in a lot of other areas on the field – Howe backs them to win individual duels all over the pitch.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsBut what Isak did in that first game at St James’ Park against Van Dijk and Konate, is move forward, first of all, which makes these two defenders go drop back.Then he stops so he can receive the ball… and then he goes again. So then he’s faced you up as a defender.Eddie Howe determined to end Newcastle’s trophy drought in Carabao Cup final Alexander Isak has had some success with Virgil van Dijk already this season and his ‘go, stop, go’ strategy could reap the rewardsCredit: GettyAnd then, does the defender start to narrow the gap like Van Dijk would naturally do? And then when he picks the ball up, he’s running to the side, which is where he scored his goal from earlier in the season.Of course, if the defenders do get in a great position and block his path, and he receives the ball into feet, that’s when you get your runner from this side, who’s likely to be Harvey Barnes in the cup final because we’ve got no Anthony Gordon.And then you get Jacob Murphy coming up the other side with his pace the other way, running into these channels because Isak has made that narrow space there.Are Van Dijk and Konate going to be able to make a decision between them? You know, like the old one-to-one defending, “you go to him and I’ll drop”…Or as soon as they get flat, they’ve got a problem because he’s going to make a run in between around the outsides of them.He’s going to be a big handful.2. Joelinton surprise key to stopping SalahNewcastle have obviously got a problem where with Lewis Hall injured, they’re going to have to move Livramento to left back.It’s a shame is because what they’ve done previously against Liverpool is almost create a back five by having Hall playing the left midfield role and then Dan Burn playing left back.Burn comes inside and Hall goes back to left back, which creates a back five, which means Mo Salah’s got a double up scenario.They haven’t got that because Burn is going to have to play as the left centre back and Livramento is going to be the man who’s going to be one for one.Joelinton will be the surprise man who could be key to stopping Mo SalahCredit: GettyLewis Hall’s absence is a massive blow to Newcastle in slowing down Mo SalahCredit: GettyThe key man here is Joelinton, who’ll play to the the left of that midfield three – and there’ll have to be a decision between him and Burn about who’s going to be the double up man.That’s going to be communication between those two.. double up on him at all costs whenever you can.But the other tactical thing that I think is really important to note is that when Liverpool have the ball in defensive positions, they can be quite direct.With Newcastle pressing high, man-to-man, they’ll go direct to Salah as fast as they can – and the key thing from Newcastle defensive point of view is that they get him going away from goal.They’ll have to make sure they’re engaging him straight away. Newcastle are a very fit, very physical, very dynamic team and this approach suits them because they can go and do that and not be frightened if the ball goes in behind.So those three left-footed, left-sided players are going to be key, three of them together, in trying to stop Salah.3. Howe’s very brave and clever tacticEddie Howe is incredibly clever. When Newcastle beat Arsenal in the semi-final, the line up was much more of a back five.But they identified that often Arsenal play out through Declan Rice in that game.So instead of having a midfielder go and push onto Rice and open up the passing lanes, Fabian Schar came all the way out to press him on the edge of Arsenal’s own area and caused them loads of problems.It was a brave, brave tactic but this is what I think they could do against Liverpool.What they do now is that Bruno Guimaraes is not always the one who sits deep, he will go and press with the attack.Eddie Howe was clever and brave against Arsenal – will he be so bold in the final against Liverpool?Credit: GettyThey’ll have Isak, Guimaraes and the wingers pressing, and then you end up with a midfielder pushing up as well.And the defence doesn’t push up. So that leaves a massive corridor of space in front of the defence.But because they’re so brave with the press and they go man-to-man all over the place in attacking areas, inevitably what happens is a goalkeeper or a defender will play over the top.As soon as the ball goes into the air, the defenders are going to attack the free Liverpool man in the air and then they’re going to try and win the ball back.As soon as the ball’s in the air, Newcastle’s two hardworking midfielders will straight away come sprinting back.And then they win the ball back, they’re going at you 4v4 in the other direction.So by creating this huge space that the midfielders have to cover, they’re saying our midfield’s fitter than yours. We’re going to win more duels than you. And then we’re going to win the ball back by pressing high, but not pressing the defence up.READ MORE SUN STORIESSo I’ll be really intrigued if they do that at Wembley on that massive pitch and how long they can keep up that intensity.But by creating that big space and being very committed in the press, they could have some joy. It’s a cup final, right? Go and win it, lads. More

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      Thomas Tuchel ‘to call up two-cap England star’ as team news ahead of World Cup 2026 qualifying is revealed

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      THOMAS TUCHEL will reportedly hand a call-up to Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers in his first-ever England squad.The former Chelsea gaffer names his maiden Three Lions group for World Cup qualifying on Friday morning.Morgan Rogers will be called up by England tomorrowCredit: AlamyThomas Tuchel names his first-ever Three Lions squad for World Cup qualifyingCredit: GettyAnd it’s reckoned Tuchel has touched base with 55 players ahead of tomorrow’s annoucement.But one man who has made his way into the group is Villa ace Rogers.The Telegraph claims he will be announced with other England stars on Friday.And Rogers, 22, could end up being an important player in Tuchel’s Three Lions system.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe £8million signing from Middlesbrough one year ago has quickly blossomed into a key figure at Villa.He has 12 goals and seven assists under Unai Emery this season.And Tuchel has been left extremely impressed by Rogers’ eye for goal.The versatile forward already has two England caps under his belt.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsRogers was called up for the first-time by former interim boss Lee Carsley for November’s Nations League games against Greece and the Republic of Ireland.His debut came from the bench in the 3-0 win over Greece.England manager Thomas Tuchel reacts to Three Lions’ World Cup 2026 qualifying drawAnd Rogers again was a used sub in the 5-0 win against Ireland.He is now set to feature in this month’s clashes against Albania and Latvia.But after guiding Villa to a Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain, Rogers will be hoping to finally get his first start for the Three Lions. More

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      Ajax star left with blood pouring down face before returning to pitch in SWIMMING CAP during Europa League clash

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      AN AJAX star was left with blood pouring down his face before returning to the pitch in a SWIMMING CAP.Defender Daniele Rugani, 30, lined up for their Dutch giants in their Europa League last-16 defeat at Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday.Daniele Rugani put on a swimming cap after taking a knock to the headCredit: RexThe Ajax star was left with blood running down his face after a fierce collisionCredit: RexRugani proved his dedication by playing on with the swimming cap stopping the bleedingCredit: RexAjax lost the first leg at home 2-1 and were desperate to make amends in Germany.But they losing 6-2 on aggregate as travelling fans suffered a miserable evening.However, Rugani gave them something to be proud about with a brave piece of play.The Italian is on loan at Ajax from Juventus.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd he showed his dedication to the cause by taking a big knock to the head while organising the defence.The five-time Serie A winner was left with blood pouring down onto his face.But Rugani refused to be taken off in Ajax’s time of need.Moving to the sideline, the centre-back left fans stunned as he chucked on a swimming cap.Most read in Europa LeagueCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsThe headpiece slotted perfectly onto his scalp and immediately stopped any blood pouring from his cut.Rugani was able to stay on the pitch but his presence proved to be futile.Furious Jordan Henderson pulled apart from Ajax team-mate in Europa League clashAjax did manage to pull a goal back in the 78th minute to make it 3-1 on the night.But Mario Gotze netted moments later for his second goal of the game.It saw Frankfurt win the match 4-1 on the night and 6-2 on aggregate.And they will now face either Tottenham or AZ Alkmaar in the quarters, with Spurs chasing a 1-0 deficit from the first leg. More

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      Man Utd vs Real Sociedad LIVE RESULT: Red Devils DOMINATE Sociedad after Bruno Fernandes hat-trick, Spurs also win vs AZ

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are through to the Champions League quarter-finals after DOMINATING Real Sociedad at Old Trafford.Mikel Oyarzabal scored his second penalty of the tie in the first ten minutes, but that was as good as it got for the visitors. Rasmus Hojlund won United a penalty at the other end of the pitch, and Bruno Fernandes, as he always does, stepped up and converted for the Red Devils.Fernandes scored another penalty in the second half, before sealing the deal with a fantastic finish in the dying embers. Diogo Dalot added the finishing touches in added time.Tottenham also progress to the quarter-final after a Wilson Odobert brace helped them to a 3-1 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSFollow our live blog for updates… That’s all from Old TraffordWhere it’s been a rare red letter day for Manchester United and Ruben Amorim.And once again both were grateful to Bruno Fernandes for leading the charge.The captain hit a hat-trick as the Red Devils dispatched Real Sociedad in the Last 16 of the Europa League to set up a quarter-final clash with Lyon.It was arguably United’s best showing since Amorim took charge, and an indication of what may yet lie ahead if the club can start to get things right. Watch this space.Goodnight.Copy linkCopiedThree and easy for BrunoIt’s now six goals in his last six appearances for Bruno Fernandes.A real captain’s performance.Credit: @EuropaLeague on XCopy linkCopiedDorgu: We played our own gameAnother standout star of Manchester United’s four-goal display was Patrick Dorgu.The Dane was a constant threat on the left, and was responsible for winning a penalty as well as the foul that led to Real Sociedad’s red card.It is perhaps no surprise that both he and Ayden Heaven – two winter signings – were so pivotal to the best attacking performance of Ruben Amorim’s reign.It was a really good win and we dominated from the first minute. They got an early penalty but after that we responded well and played well. The key was to control the game with the ball and be patient, not to overthink too much and just to play our game.Patrick DorguUefa.comCopy linkCopiedUnited grateful after paying pennies for Heaven Eighteen-year-old Ayden Heaven made his first start for Manchester United this evening, and performed with all the composure of a seasoned international defender.Credit: @StatmanDave on XCopy linkCopiedAmorim: Bruno deserves titlesRuben Amorim paid tribute to Bruno Fernandes – and then declared that his captain should be regularly winning leagues and cups.The Portuguese ace played another starring role as Manchester United saw off Real Sociedad in the Europa League, although the Red Devils boss also admitted that his compatriot can be guilty of doing too much.Sometimes he wants to win too much. It’s not a bad thing, but sometimes he goes around in different positions and shows frustration. He can play set-pieces, he can score penalties under pressure, and make transitions late in games. We need to help him win titles because he deserves it.Ruben AmorimTNT SportdCopy linkCopiedThe Europa League kingWith his hat-trick tonight, Bruno Fernandes now has more goal involvements in the Europa League than any player in the competition’s history.The Portuguese star has scored 24 goals and assisted 17 more on Europe’s second-biggest stage.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Old TraffordManchester United’s 25 shots, 10 shots on target and xG of 4.02 are all their best totals in a match under Ruben Amorim so far.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn at Old TraffordA great night for Ruben Amorim and his Portuguese men of four.Diogo Dalot got on the scoresheet late on but it was all about Bruno Fernandes who claimed the match-ball and led by example all night.Amid all the slashing of costs and job cuts at United they may have to find a way to give Fernandes a pay rise.Time and time again he comes to their rescue and it is thanks to him that they will be in quarter finals next month – with the dream of Champions League football next season still alive.Copy linkCopiedTonight’s Europa League tiesIt’s been a good night for both English sides in the Europa League with Tottenham also progressing after fighting back to eliminate AZ Alkmaar.But Rangers have a scrap on their hands after seeing their two-goal advantage wiped out by Fenerbache at Ibrox, where they are now into extra-time.Man Utd 4-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 5-2) FTRangers 0-2 Fenerbahce (Agg: 3-3) EXTRA TIME BEING PLAYEDTottenham 3-1 AZ Alkmaar (Agg: 3-2) FTCopy linkCopiedFull time – Man Utd 4-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 5-2)Manchester United march into the quarter-finals of the Europa League.The Red Devils will now face Lyon in the last eight.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 5-2)90+4. There haven’t been too many nights at Old Trafford like this recently.They may have been helped by two penalties and a red card, but four-goal victories and successful European nights are what many in this stadium were brought up on.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 4-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 5-2)90+1. Diogo Dalot puts the icing on the cake!United are ending this one with a flourish, and suddenly these players – beleaguered for so long – are playing with a real confidence.They’re queuing up to score too, and when Rasmus Hojlund does well to work the ball back in from the byline, Dalot arrives to sidefoot into the roof the net.Copy linkCopiedFour!Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 4-2)89. Heaven tries an overhead kick.He doesn’t connect with the cross, but it gives some indication of the freedom that these United players are suddenly operating with.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 4-2)87. What a player Bruno Fernandes is!Not disheartened by missing out on the opportunity to net a hat-trick of penalties, the Manchester United captain simply rises to the fore on the next attack.Taking advantage of the extra man, Fernandes overlaps on the right to receive Alejandro Garnacho’s measured pass, and promptly whips his shot low past Alex Remiro and into the bottom corner.It’s a second Manchester United treble for the Portuguese ace, and his first for three-and-a-half years.Copy linkCopiedHat-trick!Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 3-2)84. It’s been a while but Manchester United have another penalty!It’s the lively Dorgu who is sent sprawling again, this time by the sliding challenge of Traore.The Real Sociedad player can’t believe it, and I’m not sure Dorgu can either as he appears to tell the referee ‘no penalty’.It prompts a VAR check in which the referee is informed that the defender won the ball first before the United man was sent to ground.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 3-2)81. For the first time in a long time, United are cracking open some champaign football. Bruno Fernandes is pulling strings, and it’s he who sets off Noussair Mazraoui for some brilliance on the right flank.A nutmeg and a measured cross puts a chance on a plate for Joshua Zirkzee, who heads despairingly wide.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 3-2)78. Young Toby Collyer is on for the Red Devils.The 21-year-old takes over in midfield from Casemiro, who has put in a decent shift for the hosts.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 3-2)74. Bruno Fernandes has his eyes on a hat-trick.The Portuguese pass-master lines up a quickfire effort from just outside the box, only for it take a deflection and loop straight at the goalkeeper.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn at Old TraffordBruno Fernandes was the coolest man on the park – slotting home his second spot-kick of the night just after half time.Where would United be without their skipper and talisman? More than likely going out of the Europa League.Sociedad going down to 10-men following Aramburu’s red card means the quarter finals beckon for Amorim’s men. Copy linkCopiedAn update from the Tottenham Hotspur StadiumWilson Odobert has followed his first Tottenham goal earlier this evening with his second.The former Burnley youngster has put Spurs 3-1 up on the night, and back in charge of their Last 16 tie.Tottenham 3-1 AZ Alkmaar (Agg: 3-2)Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 3-2)69. With the extra man, United are dominating the ball.It would take something particularly disastrous for the Red Devils to let this tie slip from their grasp now.Never say never, mind.Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Real Sociedad (Agg: 3-2)67. Well, that’s the opposite of the phrase ‘good football all around’.Garnacho finds room on the right flank, but makes a mess of his cross with plenty of options available.It’s an easy clearance for the the defender, except he instead takes such a heavy touch that it allows Hojlund to take over.The striker has time and room to weigh up his finish yet takes advantage of neither, scuffing a wayward shot straight at an opponent.Copy linkCopiedAn update from the Tottenham Hotspur StadiumSpurs have been pegged back in North London.Peer Koopmeiners has fired AZ Alkmaar level on aggregate, and with little under half hour remaining, the Premier League side have to respond again.Tottenham 2-1 AZ Alkmaar (Agg: 2-2)Copy linkCopied More