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    BBC make last-minute change to punditry team for England vs Spain Euro 2024 final as ex-Man Utd and Chelsea ace signs up

    THE BBC have made a last-ditch signing to try and help them win the ratings war with ITV.Both UK broadcasters will show the Euro 2024 final between England and Spain live.BBC One have made a last-minute addition to their punditry panel for Euro 2024Credit: BBCBBC’s Euro coverage has featured Gary Lineker, Rio Ferdinand and Micah Richards and Alan Shearer so far at the tournament.That is in addition to the likes of Gabby Logan, Alex Scott, Mark Chapman, Wayne Rooney, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, David Moyes and Rachel Corsie.ITV have also had a star-studded line-up themselves to bring us all of the action from Germany.Hosts Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods have been joined by big-names such as Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville.READ MORE ON EURO 2024And they have also enjoyed appearances from fan favourites such as Eni Aluko, Graeme Souness, Ange Postecoglou and Danny Rohl.However, BBC have moved to bring in a major new addition for their head-to-head with ITV tomorrow at the final in Berlin.And it just happens to be a man who lifted the 2010 World Cup and 2012 European Championship with Spain and who starred in the Premier League for both Chelsea and Manchester United.The Beeb’s new face is none other than the 36-year-old Spanish playmaker Juan Mata.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe ace scored ten times in 41 appearances for his country – with one of those coming in the final of Euro 2012 when Spain thrashed Italy 4-0.BBC announced the news by posting a clip of that strike on X alongside a message that read: “Welcome on board, @juanmata8. The former Spain international will join the @bbcsport squad for Sunday’s #Euro2024 final live on @BBCiPlayer’.”Watch Jordan Pickford absolutely lose it as he celebrates with fans after Ollie Watkins’ England winner vs NetherlandsMata played 278 times for Chelsea and Manchester United during his Premier League career.He produced 52 goals and provided 54 assists during that period.Mata, who joined Chelsea in 2011 from Valencia, won the Champions League, Europa League and FA Cup at Stamford Bridge before departing after three years.He signed for Man United and went on to spend eight years at Old Trafford.Juan Mata won the FA Cup with Manchester United after joining from ChelseaCredit: GettyThe star won both the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012 with SpainCredit: Getty Images – GettyMata played under David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick for the Red Devils.He lifted the FA Cup and League Cup at United as well as the Europa League and then he enjoyed Turkish title success at Galatasaray in his one-year spell there from 2022.READ MORE SUN STORIESMata then moved to Japan, signing for Vissel Kobe, but he only made one appearance for them as they won the J-League.He left them earlier this year and has been training in London as the attacker recently revealed that he has not yet decided on his next destination in football.BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:BBC presenters:Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark ChapmanITV presenters:Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods BBC pundits:Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFaddenITV pundits:Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina UnkelBBC commentators:Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan PearceITV commentators:Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe SpeightBBC co-commentators:Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFaddenITV co-commentators:Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros TownsendYou can say it hasn’t been pretty, but England are in the final… and we’re peaking at just the right time, says Jack WilshereAFTER what has been a tough tournament of times, what an opportunity Gareth Southgate and his team will have to end in the best possible way, writes Jack Wilshere.We might like a team that played better football. But it’s a results business.Germany, Italy, France, Portugal and of course Holland would love to be where we are.People will say we’re lucky because we’re on this side of the draw.But we won the group. France didn’t and then ran into Spain.You can say it wasn’t that pretty, but we’re there.Gareth and his coaches won’t have been happy with some of the performances.But I did like the way Gareth and his team have dealt with it.There was no panic coming out of the camp.Everyone gave the same message: ‘We know we can better, but we’re here still.’And on Sunday they will be in Berlin to play Spain.They will probably have to produce two halves of football as good as the first against Holland to beat them.We have improved as the tournament has gone on and that is how you win things.You want to peak in the final.If Gareth can lead England to that major trophy we’ve all been waiting for, it will be the perfect answer to the critics and a brilliant day for us all.Read Jack Wilshere’s England vs Holland verdict in full.Or check out all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euros 2024 opinions… More

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    Laura Woods vs Gary Lineker and how the pundits have rated as we help you decide ITV vs BBC dilemma for England vs Spain

    ALL EYES will be on Sunday’s Euro 2024 final when England take on Spain – but on which channel will you watch?BBC and ITV have shared the rights throughout the tournament in Germany as Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions made it to successive Euros finals.ITV’s Karen Carney and Laura WoodsCredit: GettyIan Wright, Gary Neville, Roy Keane and presenter Mark PougatchCredit: ITVRio Ferdinand, Cesc Fabregas and Micah Richards in the BBC studioCredit: BBCBut for the first time this summer, the broadcasters will go head-to-head, with viewers having the choice of which channel they tune into for the final. So here, SunSport helps fans decide ahead of the big game…HostsGary Lineker has long been the face of BBC’s football coverage, having hosted the iconic Match of the Day since 1999, making him a sage pair of hands.Gabby Logan, Alex Scott and Mark Chapman have shared the hotseat in the absence of Lineker.READ MORE IN football Former England striker Lineker has had an eventful Euros, notably being censored by the BBC for dropping an F-bomb while celebrating England’s win over Switzerland. He was also accused of breaking rules when he wore his own Next clothing range on air – as BBC ban talent from wearing attire they’re either promoting or being paid to wear.Lineker and BBC pundit Alan Shearer were also caught in a spiky back and forth with England captain Harry Kane after criticism of England’s early performances.Those tuning into ITV have been guided through proceedings by fans’ favourite Laura Woods and veteran broadcaster Mark Pougatch.Most read in Euro 2024Woods has stunned in a variety of bold outfits throughput the tournament and even brought along boyfriend Adam Collard to Berlin.ITV’s Euro 2024 host Laura WoodsCredit: RexShe has won praise from fans for her matchday outfitsCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)Woods has share the hosting role with PougatchCredit: RexPunditsThe BBC have had Micah Richards, Shearer, Frank Lampard, Rio Ferdinand, Jermaine Jenas, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Ellen White, Ashley Williams, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie, Thomas Frank and Cesc Fabregas in the studio in Germany.Fabregas in particular received praise for his expert analysis and the Spaniard would be the perfect pundit for the final.He won the Euros in 2008 and 2012 while spending 13 years playing in England at Arsenal and Chelsea. Ferdinand meanwhile was on the end of some funny stick from Jenas after making it known he spoke with former team-mate Critstiano Ronaldo in private.BBC’s Lineker, Ferdinand, Lampard and Richards cheer on EnglandCredit: BBCBBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:BBC presenters:Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark ChapmanITV presenters:Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods BBC pundits:Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFaddenITV pundits:Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina UnkelBBC commentators:Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan PearceITV commentators:Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe SpeightBBC co-commentators:Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFaddenITV co-commentators:Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros TownsendCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSITV have had Ian Wright, Karen Carney, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Eni Aluko, Graeme Souness, Ange Postecoglou and Danny Rohl in their studio.Behind-the-scenes footage has shown Irishman Keane’s hilarious reaction to England’s goals – and his brutal take on the action will be a draw for many fans.In contrast, Wright and Neville haven’t disguised their jubilation at England’s progress, with the pair’s celebrations at Ollie Watkins’ late winner against Switzerland going viral.Former referee Christina Unkel was been a very welcome addition to ITV’s coverage – and definitely an upgrade on Peter Walton – as she analyses the on-pitch decisions.Unkel claimed England should NOT have been awarded a penalty against the Dutch before ITV later had to censor manager Ronald Koeman’s furious post-match interview.England fans reaction to dramatic last minute Euros win over NetherlandsCommentatorsGuy Mowbray is BBC’s lead commentator and he could be partnered with Jenas, Shearer, Danny Murphy or Martin Keown.Shearer brilliantly came up with the “pressure is for tyres” line as England went 5/5 in their quarter-final shootout win over Switzerland.Fans will likely be hoping the Newcastle pundit is back on co-comms for the final.Sam Matterface is ITV’s head commentator and will likely be partnered with Lee Dixon or Ally McCoist.But fans are pushing for former England international Andros Townsend to pair with McCoist in a dream co-commentary duo. The Euros also brought an end to Clive Tyldesley’s near-three decades with ITV. ITV’s lead commentator Sam MatterfaceCredit: RexStill undecided?A stunning 21.6 million tuned in on ITV at its peak to watch England beat Holland 2-1 thanks Watkins’ winner. BBC had 16.8m for the dramatic quarter-final against the Swiss which went to the dreaded shootout.Those numbers will likely be blown out the water on Sunday as the nation comes to a halt for the final.Coverage is set to start at 7pm on BBC – an hour before kick off – while ITV are going live at 6.30pm to give themselves an extra 30 minutes.READ MORE SUN STORIESOf course, BBC have the advantage of offering their coverage ad-free and three years ago only 5.8m of the total 31.1m viewers of the Euro final at Wembley watched it on ITV.But, if fans really can’t decide then there is always the option of flicking between the two.Euro 2024 final stadium is home to English football’s most shameful episodeGARETH SOUTHGATE and his players will walk in the footsteps of sporting infamy on Sunday.And they also have the chance to wipe out the memories of English football’s most shameful episode by replacing it with glorious triumph.For many, the Olympiastadion will always be the place where Jesse Owens humiliated Adolf Hitler in his own backyard.But the 1936 Olympics WERE used by the Nazis as pure propaganda, as a statement about the supposed supremacy of the “Aryan race”.The ghosts of those Games still flit between the towers and the colosseum-style architecture.Fans walking in on Sunday will see the plinth where the Olympic cauldron was lit by Fritz Schilgen – handpicked by propagandist film-maker Leni Riefenstahl – still there, high in the stands above one goal.And two years later, when the FA disgracefully ordered England’s players to raise their arm in the Nazi salute before beating Germany in a friendly, it seemed that the British state was implicitly accepting Hitler’s authority and power.The Three Lions have the opportunity to right that ancient wrong yet nothing can detract from the stadium’s place in the pantheon of sport’s darkest hours.Read the full story HERE. 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    ITV gain early edge over BBC for Euro 2024 final as broadcasting coverage plans are revealed

    FOOTBALL fans up and down the country are gearing up to see England in the Euro 2024 final this weekend – but must decide on which channel to watch it.Ahead of the Berlin clash against Spain, plans have been announced for the broadcasting coverage.England will play Spain in the Euro 2024 final on SundayCredit: AlamyITV have the upper hand for the broadcastCredit: RexBBC will be starting their coverage 30 minutes after ITVCredit: BBCBoth ITV and the BBC will show the game, unlike how they have each held individual rights for the fixtures during the rest of the tournament.But despite the two broadcasting giants sharing the coverage, ITV have already gained an advantage over their competitors.ITV will have begin their build-up to the big game 30 minutes before the BBC start theirs.The Beeb will begin their broadcast on BBC iPlayer and BBC One at 7pm, while fans can watch ITV’s pundits discuss the game from 6:30pm.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans had their eyes glued to their screens last night as Ollie Watkins scored a 90th minute winner to book England’s place in Sunday’s final.In fact, a peak of 21.6 MILLION people watched the Three Lions get the better of Holland on ITV1 and ITVX.That’s the highest peak audience on a single channel since December 2022, when the nation watched England’s exit form the Qatar World Cup at the hands of France.England will be hoping they can lift the first men’s trophy since 1966 on Sunday in Berlin, after suffering heartbreak at Wembley in 2021.Most read in Euro 2024BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:BBC presenters:Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark ChapmanITV presenters:Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods BBC pundits:Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFaddenITV pundits:Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina UnkelBBC commentators:Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan PearceITV commentators:Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe SpeightBBC co-commentators:Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFaddenITV co-commentators:Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros TownsendEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBut they can be proud of the efforts so far as they have already made history.Gareth Southgate’s brave lions have become the first men’s team in England history to make a major final on foreign soil.Watch Roy Keane scream and swear at Gary Neville as he’s left on the floor during BBC vs ITV football match at Euro 2024While Southgate himself has become the first manager to reach two major finals while in charge of the nation.It won’t be easy on Sunday as they take on an in-form Spain side who have looked the best team at Euro 2024.Ollie Watkins booked England’s spot in the final with a dramatic late winnerCredit: GettyMillions of England fans had their eyes glued to the action last nightCredit: PAEngland ratings vs HollandENGLAND stormed into the final against Spain thanks to Ollie Watkins’ last-minute strike in the 2-1 win over Holland.It was a brilliant team performance, but how did each player rate?SunSport’s Tom Barclay ran the rule over Southgate’s boys, and here’s how he rated them.Jordan Pickford: 7Bigger goalkeepers may have got a stronger hand to Xavi Simons’ early stunner – though that was being hypercritical. Solid stop to deny Virgil van Dijk after the hour.Kyle Walker: 7Looked re-energised after some lumbering displays and bombed on at times in the first half, despite his role on the right of a back three. Last-ditch tackle on Cody Gakpo was spot on.John Stones: 7Strong in possession. He looks to have benefited from regular game-time after rarely featuring for Manchester City in the last few months.Marc Guehi: 6Came back into the side after suspension ruled him out of the Switzerland game. Had an unenviable task of making the big man Wout Weghorst after the break.Bukayo Saka: 7Razor-sharp in the first half, winning tackles, making runs and dribbling the ball proficiently. Less of an impact after the break, had a goal ruled out for offside and was booked.Declan Rice: 6Lost possession for Simons’ thunderous opener but grew into the game, mopping up where necessary. Poor pass when Kane was open midway through the second half.Kobbie Mainoo: 8Was England’s youngest-ever player to play in a major-tournament semi-final, aged 19years 82 days, and had a stormer in the first half. Great bursts forward, vital tackles, and his interplay with Foden was a joy.Kieran Trippier: 6We all know by now that he is playing out of position, so again he was limited going forward and reliable defensively. Subbed at half-time for the more natural Shaw.Phil Foden: 7The first 45 minutes was by far and away his best half of the tournament. Thought he’d scored when his shot was cleared off the line by Denzel Dumfries, and cracked the post with a cracker. But was then surprisingly subbed.Jude Bellingham: 5Back at the ground where he made his name but struggled to make much of an impact on his old stomping ground. Fortunate it was not he that was subbed.Harry Kane: 6Won and dispatched the penalty to go joint top-scorer in the tournament with three goals. Had looked more mobile initially but still tired badly after the break and was taken off.SUBSLuke Shaw (for Kieran Trippier, half-time): 6Looked assured for a man who has been out for so long.Ollie Watkins (for Harry Kane, 81): 9 and STAR MAN Surprisingly given the nod over Ivan Toney as striker sub as Southgate looked for more pace in behind. Brilliant finish into the corner to win the game – you could not ask more from him.Cole Palmer (for Phil Foden, 81): 7Had his big chance in the final minutes but shanked it horribly wide – but then fed Watkins for his wonderful winner.Gareth Southgate: 8His switch to a back three against Switzerland helped dig out the win there, and here it had his team finally playing some great football in the first half. The team went into their shells again as the game wore on and you feared the worst – but you have to say his decision to bring on Ollie Watkins was a masterstroke.  More

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    Gary Lineker will NOT present BBC’s Champions League highlights programme with another legendary host lined up

    GARY LINEKER will not be presenting the BBC’s Champions League highlights show next season.The Match of the Day host has been busy this summer helping the broadcaster cover Euro 2024.Gary Lineker will not be hosting the Champions League programme for the BBCCredit: GettyGabby Logan is reportedly set to take the jobCredit: GettyLineker, 63, only has 12 months left on his contract at the BBC.The broadcaster is reportedly lining up a legendary host to present the Champions League show for next season.Gabby Logan has instead been the option chosen by the BBC, according to the Telegraph.The new show will air for the first time next season with shows being put on Wednesdays from September.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLineker used to present BT Sport’s Champions League highlights show.However, he quit so he would be able to watch Leicester City’s matches in the competition in 2021.He said at the time: “I would like to thank BT Sport for the generous renewal offer but, after much thought, I have decided to call it a day.”I feel it’s time to do things that I’ve always promised myself I’d do: such as follow Leicester across Europe with my sons [how many opportunities will we have?].”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe report claims that the BBC spoke to Lineker about the role but did not make him a formal offer.The show is expected to run for the next three years.Watch moment BBC forced to censor Gary Lineker on live TV for dropping F-bomb as pundits celebrate wildly for Saka goalGabby Logan started presenting for the BBC in 2007 as she worked covering FA Cup games.She has also had experience presenting on different sports such as rugby, athletics and the London Marathon.She is also expected to present at the Olympics in France this summer.Meanwhile, while working for the BBC at the Euros, Lineker has also been producing his Rest is Football podcast alongside Alan Shearer and Micah Richards.The podcast is owned by Lineker’s Goalhanger Podcasts company. More

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    Watch highlights as ITV edge BBC in crunch football match with Roy Keane bossing it and presenter scoring stunner

    BBC pundits faced their ITV pals in a “friendly” five-a-side match at Euro 2024.The two star-studded sides went head-to-head in the heart of Berlin on a pitch just around the corner from their TV studios.BBC faced ITV in a star-studded friendlyCredit: @gaizkamendieta6Tough talking Roy Keane slammed Gary Neville for poor defendingCredit: @itvfootballRio Ferdinand barked orders from the sidelines before going in goalCredit: @BBCSportITV host Mark Pougatch netted a screamer that flew beyond FerdinandCredit: @ITVfootballMicah Richards saved a Jill Scott penalty – but couldn’t stop Keane’s reboundCredit: @BBCSPORTAn incredible ITV squad featured Gary Neville, Roy Keane, Gaizka Mendieta, Eni Aluko and Jill Scott.Presenter Mark Pougatch and several of the behind-the-scenes crew were also involved.With team ITV being cheered on by Ian Wright and Lee Dixon from the sidelines.The Beeb’s outfit included Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Izzy Christiansen, French journalist Julien Laurens and several of their less well-known colleagues. READ MORE ON EURO 2024ITV won the closely fought contest 16-14. But despite many Premier League and Champions League winners on the pitch, it was Pougatch who stole the show. The host fired in an incredible goal, letting the ball roll across his body before powering it beyond the diving Ferdinand between the sticks.There was also penalty drama as team ITV were awarded a spot-kick after a BBC foul.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSScott stepped up – only for her effort to be brilliantly saved by Richards as he swapped the punditry microphone for goalkeeper gloves.However, Keane was on hand to tap home the rebound.Watch Roy Keane scream and swear at Gary Neville as he’s left on the floor during BBC vs ITV football match at Euro 2024And the former Manchester United skipper has not lost his competitive edge as he blasted Neville for poor defending after the BBC scored.Keane shouted while he was resting as a substitute: “Nev, Nev, f***ing get tighter, Jesus.”Show him the line and you will stop the shot.”Ferdinand also barked orders from the sidelines as he sung the praises of Richards after a good save, which led to a BBC counter-attack and clinical finish.The ex-England centre-back shouted: “Micah, well done. That’s why you’re there.”Richards later opened up on the game on the Rest is Football podcast.He was delighted with his own performance, hilariously saying: “Oh my God, I was in net and I was like a young Shaka Hislop.”I made a great penalty save against Jill Scott – but Keane was there to tap it in. A little rebound.”Eni Aluko starred for team ITVCredit: @enialukoMark Pougatch scored a screamerCredit: @markpougatchRichards was not so complimentary to Ferdinand as he was to him as he fumed: “Rio went in net for a spell – useless.”He conceded about five goals – he cost us the game today. I should’ve stayed in net.”Richards was also not impressed by Neville’s display, saying: “Useless as well, he can’t turn and he can’t move.”But Keane was good. He didn’t kick anyone but you could see he was competitive.”Richards also didn’t dodge a tackle and admitted to brutally clattering Pougatch.He explained: “I smashed Pougatch. I came out my box and it was a 60/40 to him. And I thought I’m tempted to leave one on him here.”I went right through him – but he took it well.”Richards admitted he was in pain after the game, with his “knees, legs and back” all feeling the full force of the game.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis podcast co-host Gary Lineker opened up on why he didn’t play, saying: “I have not played since the day I retired – except for one game after I retired which was a month after in Gordon Banks’ testimonial.”You retire for a reason, you retire because you can’t do it anymore, so why do you want to go and be c**p?”BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:BBC presenters:Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark ChapmanITV presenters:Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods BBC pundits:Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFaddenITV pundits:Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina UnkelBBC commentators:Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan PearceITV commentators:Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe SpeightBBC co-commentators:Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFaddenITV co-commentators:Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros Townsend More

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    BBC release statement after backlash over ‘Misstiano Penaldo’ caption after Cristiano Ronaldo’s Euro 2024 penalty miss

    THE BBC has responded to criticism about a “Misstiano Penaldo” caption that was put on screen during Portugal’s Euro 2024 last-16 match against Slovenia last week.Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, was left in tears after missing a crucial penalty in extra time.The BBC used a ‘Misstiano Penaldo’ caption live on TVCristiano Ronaldo was left in tears after missing a crucial penalty against SloveniaCredit: GettyHis team went on to win the match on penalties, but BBC Sport pundits were quick to recap the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s failed attempt at full-time.While a clip of the miss was being shown, a caption reading ‘Misstiano Penaldo’ appeared on screen.Fans were left stunned, while former Chelsea captain John Terry branded it a “disgrace” on social media.The BBC has now issued a statement about the cheeky comment, insisting that it was simply a light-hearted joke.Read More on Euro 2024The statement read: “The caption was simply intended as a play on words, which we have done many times before on Match Of The Day analysis graphics. There was no offence intended toward Cristiano Ronaldo.”In fact, throughout the programme we spoke favourably about Ronaldo on a number of occasions, including:”1. In the pre-match build-up when Jose Fonte highlighted Ronaldo’s dedication to training, saying it’s why ‘he’s one of the best-ever’.”2. At half-time Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer did a long analysis run on Ronaldo’s movement, praising it as ‘absolutely fantastic’.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”3. After the penalty shoot-out, Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer both referenced Ronaldo’s courage and self-belief to step forward and take a penalty.”At no point were the pundits overly critical of Ronaldo and in the context of the programme overall, the tone was consistently respectful towards him.Why Cristiano Ronaldo cried at Euro 2024″However, we appreciate some viewers were unhappy with the graphic and the feedback has been passed on to the production team to help inform their work going forward.”Portugal beat Slovenia 3-0 on penalties following a 0-0 draw to progress to the quarter-finals.However, they lost the following shootout 5-3 after a goalless draw with France.Joao Felix hit the post with his effort against Les Bleus as Roberto Martínez’s side crashed out of the tournament. More

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    Watch moment BBC forced to censor Gary Lineker on live TV for dropping F-bomb as pundits celebrate wildly for Saka goal

    GARY LINEKER forced the BBC into drastic defending when he dropped the F-bomb during England’s victory over Switzerland.The Beeb showed footage of the Three Lions’ legend and studio pundits celebrating wildly after Bukayo Saka’s sensational equaliser which led to Gareth Southgate’s men winning on penalties.Gary Lineker and Co were wild for it as Bukayo Saka bagged a leveller against Switzerland and then won on penalties to reach the Euro 2024 semisTrent Alexander-Arnold, Ivan Toney and Kyle Walker help shootout hero keeper Jordan Pickford celebrate victory over SwitzerlandCredit: GettyBut Lineker’s uncontrolled expression of joy was too much for the broadcaster.First the Beeb had displayed rejoicing that exploded from a fans’ zone when Bukayo Saka levelled in normal time – ahead of the shootout success. Then the BBC then switched to what had happened in the studio – where a similar burst of joy over Saka’s sizzler was interrupted by Lineker appearing to let out an expletive.Luckily, the BBC responded even sharper than Jordan Pickford had done in plunging to keep out Manuel Akanji’s shootout penalty.MOST READ IN FOOTBALLLineker’s words became more like a mime – as they were muted.Amused ex-Manchester City defender Micah Richards asked: “Where’s the sound gone?!”Lineker confessed: “I think, to be honest, I dropped the F-bomb.”The duo, plus fellow experts Rio Ferdinand and Frank Lampard, were shown leaping up with relief as England scraped through.Most read in Euro 2024Lineker, Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard and Micah Richard burst up with joy as England went through on penaltiesSouthgate changed his system… now he has to change the players if England are going to win Euros, writes Charlie WyettGARETH SOUTHGATE changed the system… but he now needs to start switching his players, writes Charlie Wyett.And that not only means for his starting XI for the semi-final in Dortmund on Wednesday, but also during the match itself.Not for the first time, Southgate nearly paid the price for his bloody-minded refusal to react with substitutions and you have to wonder if he is ever going to learn.Probably not.At least the England manager reverted to a three-man defence which served him well at the World Cup in 2018 and, on occasions, during Euro 2020.Kyle Walker, John Stones and Ezri Konsa generally did well at the back with Kieran Trippier and Bukayo Saka the wing-backs.But England still had a complete lack of balance as they had Trippier, a right-footer on the left, and Saka, a left-footer on the right.It really made no sense whatsoever. Southgate will have his reasons but it was still a case of putting a square peg into a round hole.Although Saka was England’s most dangerous player for long periods, not for the first time, playing Trippier on the left simply did not work.And this is why Luke Shaw, if fit, simply HAS to start the next game.England are through by the skin of their teeth and maybe their name is written on the trophy.Southgate is actually England’s second most successful manager behind Alf Ramsey although today, it still does not feel like it.In his eight years as manager his England team have won eight tournament knockout games, compared to six in half a century before him.This is the most sustained period of success in the history of the men’s England football team.Ultimately, though, Southgate will only be celebrated as a true success if England – despite being rubbish for most of this tournament – come home with the trophy.Read all of Charlie Wyett’s Euro 2024 articles.Saka, 22, coolly fired past Yann Sommer in the shootout, burying the demons of his heartbreaking miss in the final loss to Italy at Euro 2020.All five of England’s takers converted to make it a perfect set of pens, with England winning 5-3 – only their third-ever shootout win.Moment Prince William fist pumps after England’s thrilling Euros win as he hails victory as ‘nailbiting to the very end’Asked about exorcising his demons, Saka admitted: “It’s something I embrace. It was special, very special, how we fought back. The last time we went to penalties we all know what happened.“You can fail once but you have a choice whether you put yourself in that position again or not. I’m a guy who is going to put myself in that position. I believed in myself.“To come back from something like that was really difficult but I used it to make me stronger.“We know there are two more games until we can change our lives and make some history that’s never been made before. We’re really focused on that.“Hopefully in the next game we can win in 90 minutes. But if this is what it takes we will do anything.”England will face the Netherlands for a place in the final on Wednesday at the Signal Iduna Park.England player ratings: Saka the saviour for Three Lions but subbed Kane stuggles in penalties thriller vs SwitzerlandBUKAYO SAKA showed huge courage as he dug England out of a hole and through on penalties against Switzerland, writes Tom Barclay.The Three Lions looked to be going out when Breel Embolo had put Swiss ahead on 75 minutes.But Arsenal star Saka dragged England back into five minutes later with a stunning effort off the post.To penalties it went – just like it did between these two sides five years ago in the Nations League.And just like back then, Jordan Pickford made a save – repelling the Swiss’s first effort from Manuel Akanji.England were perfect from then on, with Cole Palmer, Jude Bellignam, Saka, Ivan Toney and finally Trent Alexander-Arnold sending the Three Lions into the semi-final.Here’s how the players rated…Jordan Pickford: 7Had his heart in his mouth when Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner deep into extra-time hit the post and bar, but then pulled off a smart stop to take it to penalties.Saved Manuel Akanji’s first spot-kick by diving low to his left.Kyle Walker: 6Spent most of the game on the right side of a three which meant he could not get forward. Embolo got in front of him for Switzerland’s opener. Won the toss so the penalties were taken in front of the England fans.John Stones: 6Crisper passing in the first half, much better than his sloppy Slovakia display, but his deflection on Dan Ndoye’s cross diverted it to Embolo.Ezri Konsa: 6Was decent in the first half of his maiden start at a major tournament but, like the rest of the team, went into his shell after the break.Kieran Trippier: 6Had been expected to play right wing-back but was once again on the left.Solid defensively but, as has been the case throughout the tournament, offered little going forward on his unnatural side.Declan Rice: 7Anticipated, and subsequently, won a number of 50-50s at the base of England’s midfield.It was his decoy run that opened up the space for Saka to find the corner, before his 25-yard wonderstrike was denied by a flying Yann Sommer save in extra-time.Kobbie Mainoo: 6Some decent drives forward from midfield. Looked as if he would fire home an opener just before the break afterBukayo Saka’s nice cutback, but was denied by Granit Xhaka’s excellent block.Bukayo Saka: 8 and STAR MANDid not play at left wing-back as expected, but was England’s most dangerous attacking player throughout – and none more so when he came to the rescue with his 80th-minute leveller which flew in off the post.Showed huge courage in the shoot-out as he stroked home his penalty beautifully, three years on from missing in the last Euros final.Jude Bellingham: 6Produced a few graceful dribbles which showcased his quality in the first half but pretty quiet.Looked knackered but showed big cojones with his low penalty.Phil Foden: 6Admitted before the game that his central role would suit him better and it seemed to in the first 20 minutes, but faded after that.Harry Kane: 4This system just does not suit him. He needs runners, but does not look like he is going to get them.Just could not get into the game and was subbed out of it in extra-time, seconds after he was sent crashing into his manager on the touchline.SUBSCole Palmer (for Konsa, 78): 7One of three players to come on in reaction to Switzerland’s opener – why did it take so long, Gareth? Dispatched England’s first spot-kick with aplomb.Luke Shaw (for Trippier, 78): 6First minutes of football since February, slotting in on the left side of back three as Southgate went for broke.Eberechi Eze (for Mainoo, 78): 6Carved out a nice bit of space for himself in the dying moments but fired wide.Ivan Toney (For Kane, 109): 7It was no surprise to see him come with the prospect of penalties on the horizon – what was more of a shock was that it was for spot-kick maestro Kane. Was knocked over in the box right at the end of extra-time, but nothing was given. Confident penalty.Trent Alexander-Arnold (for Foden, 115): 7Thrown on late into extra-time. Belted home his spot-kick to win it.Gareth Southgate: 4The adjusted back three system worked to a certain extent, but still the approach looked to be to keep it tight and rely on a moment of magic.Saka provided that for the leveller, but given the talent at his disposal, it seemed very limited.Took an age to make a change – prompted only by Switzerland going ahead. But got his subs right when it came to the penalty shoot-out. More

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    BBC and ITV pundits are much closer than you’d think as unusual details of their Euro 2024 ‘connection’ is revealed

    THEY may work for rival broadcasters, but the BBC and ITV’s pundits are much closer than you think.The British TV powerhouses have brought out the big guns for their respective coverage of Euro 2024 in Germany.The BBC have an all-star punditry team for Euro 2024ITV also have several big guns for their coverage of the tournamentRio Ferdinand has revealed all the pundits are closer than you thinkCredit: BBCSpearheading the Beeb’s coverage of Euro 2024 is Gary Lineker, who has been calling on the expertise of the likes of Alan Shearer, Rio Ferdinand, Micah Richards and Jermaine Jenas.Leading the charge for ITV is Mark Pougatch, who has been breaking down the games along with Arsenal and Manchester United legends Ian Wright, Roy Keane and Gary Neville.One would think there would be a bit of tribalism between the teams, after all the majority of Beeb and ITV’s Euros teams are made up of former players.But according to Ferdinand, couldn’t be any further from the case.READ MORE ON EURO 2024The former Manchester United and England defender told GQ: “We’re all in it together.”I’m in the same dressing room as Alan Shearer, Ian Wright and Gary Neville, then in the same room as Micah and Jermaine.”So I have a real connection with them – even the younger kids in the England team.”Ferdinand hasn’t sat on the fence with his opinions of Gareth Southgate’s troops, dishing out his fair share of criticism as well as praise.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSMeet England’s Euro 2024 WagsEngland Wags range from childhood sweethearts to recently blossoming love stories.Katie Goodland (Harry Kane’s wife)The fitness instructor has been married to the England captain since 2019 and joined him in Germany with their four children after he joined Bayern Munich.Laura Celia Valk (Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend)The stunning Dutch model, 25, has more than half a million Instagram followers and is said to be absolutely smitten with the Real Madrid star.Rebecca Cooke (Phil Foden’s girlfriend)Foden’s childhood sweetheart and the mother of his two kids tends to keep out of the spotlight, but is a regular at England games.Dani Dyer (Jarrod Bowen’s girlfriend)England’s most famous Wag, former Love Island winner and daughter of Eastenders’ Danny Dyer.Iris Law (Trent Alexander-Arnold’s girlfriend)Dani Dyer isn’t the only actor’s daughter dating an England star. Iris’ dad is Hollywood legend Jude Law.Megan Davison (Jordan Pickford’s wife)Megan has been with Pickford since he was 14 years old. The couple married in 2022 and have one son.Olivia Naylor (John Stones’ girlfriend)The 33-year-old former beautician has stepped back from her role after giving birth to a baby son.Read more about the Wags supporting England at Euro 2024 hereAnd his frankness has come from regularly speaking to the Three Lions stars.He continued: “I speak to a lot of the players.England fans at 2024 celebrate German misery wildly with brilliant song after hosts are dramatically dumped out”That’s why I have to be honest and open. When I see these guys,”I don’t have to hide behind anything because I know when I’m talking about them, I’m talking with honesty.”Ferdinand has transitioned seamlessly to punditry since hanging up his boots in 2015 following QPR’s relegation to the Championship.And he credits his success on camera to the influence of Liverpool legend and former Match of the Day presenter Alan Hansen had on him.He said: “Alan Hansen was a mainstay on Match of the Day. I was very fortunate to go on my first-ever job at the World Cup in Brazil.”He was there, and I have some wonderful memories with him.”I just watched him to see what he was like – as soon as the cameras came on, he wasn’t much different to what you saw when he was having a beer with the lads.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was very calm and cool, never really flustered about anything, and took it all in his stride.”Those little details were really good for me [at the start of my career], understanding what it was like to be in front of a camera in big-pressure situations.BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:BBC presenters:Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark ChapmanITV presenters:Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods BBC pundits:Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFaddenITV pundits:Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina UnkelBBC commentators:Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan PearceITV commentators:Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe SpeightBBC co-commentators:Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFaddenITV co-commentators:Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros Townsend More