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    ‘It’s a shame’ says Gareth Southgate as he reveals why Chelsea star Cole Palmer missed England friendlies

    GARETH SOUTHGATE has revealed why Cole Palmer didn’t play a single minute of England’s recent friendlies.The Chelsea ace was part of The Three Lions squad for their matches against Brazil and Belgium but didn’t play in either match.Cole Palmer was part of the England squad for their recent matches with Brazil and Belgium but didn’t play a single minuteCredit: GETTYPalmer’s missing of some of The Three Lions’ training sessions led to him not featuring in the matchesCredit: GETTYFans thought the in-form Blues man would be a shoo-in to feature in one of the matches, which Southgate didn’t play him in due to his lack of training.When asked if this was a missed camp for Marcus Rashford, Southgate said: “Well, I wanted to see Anthony Gordon.”I think he’s been excellent for his club. And Marcus got on in the first game. But I wanted to see Gordon again.”I thought James Maddison coming on would be able to have an impact and, of course, Jarrod Bowen has also had a really good camp.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“So there’s competition for places. “And it’s a bit of a shame that Cole Palmer missed so much training that we weren’t able to put him into the game against Belgium.”I wouldn’t rule Cole out of that equation, either.”Palmer has been a shining light in what has been a dismal season for Chelsea, who are languishing in 11th place in the Premier League.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERCole Palmer has scored 16 goals in all competitions this seasonCredit: GETTYThe former Manchester City man has scored 16 goals and provided 12 assists in 37 appearances in all competitions this campaign.Manager Mauricio Pochettino recently said of the attacking midfielder: “He is a player with an amazing talent.Fans can’t believe what Tim Sherwood said to Cole Palmer on live TV as Chelsea star is left looking awkward”It is a player that understands the game. He has the quality and the talent to see the situation and to read the game in another aspect.”He can play from the right, striker or in behind the striker.”We try to give him freedom because in this type of game he can find the best position to help the team.”For me, [the best part] is when he presses and then the intuition to get the ball back. “He is still young, but he is doing fantastically for us.”Palmer was back in action at Chelsea’s Cobham training ground on Wednesday.He’s expected to be in the starting XI on Saturday when the West Londoners welcome Prem strugglers Burnley to Stamford Bridge. More

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    Erin Cuthbert insists Chelsea aces will all have ‘moments’ to shine as Blues target Champions League progress

    ERIN CUTHBERT says Emma Hayes knows how to bring out “the animal” in her performances on the pitch.And the Chelsea star, 25, says believes all her Blues team-mates will have a role to play in their quadruple trophy chase.Erin Cuthbert says Chelsea will need every player to contribute with games coming thick and fast in their bid to win four major trophiesCredit: AlamyA win or draw against Ajax this evening will Chelsea set up a semi-final duel with Barcelona or SK BrannCredit: GettyThis evening they take on Ajax in the second leg of their Champions League quarters duel.The Women’s Super League leaders, who hope to win the contest for the first time, are carrying a 3-0-win advantage from the first leg.Cuthbert, who rifled home a stunning shot from distance in a 2-0 defeat of West Ham on Sunday, hopes to produce goals against Ajax at Stamford Bridge.Ahead of the game against the Irons Hayes spoke of the midfielder’s team-mate Sjoeke Nusken being more of a natural goal scorer.Read More Football Stories In response to her gaffer’s remarks, Cuthbert said: “Emma knows how to get at me, that’s for sure.”She knows how to provoke me and find a little bit of an animal inside me and she knows that as well. She knows how to wind me up.”But Sjoeke has been in brilliant form as well and that’s important to say. We’ve needed her at this time of the season.”I think everyone’s going to have their moments. Sunday was mine and Aggie’s (Beever-Jones’) moment.”Most read in Football“The week before it was Sjoeke and we need everyone to contribute over this period especially when we’ve got so many games.”Following their loss to Chelsea last Tuesday Ajax have maintained their winning form in the Netherlands’ women’s top-flight.The Amsterdam side are currently second in the Eredevisie and four points behind FC Twente after a run of 14 wins and three draws in 18 games.Suzanne Bakker’s players come into tonight’s match off the back of a 3-2 defeat of Zwolle in their league, with Romee Leuchter netting a hat-trick.Prior to their quarter-final tie with the Blues Ajax captain Sherida Spitse, 33, spoke of the need for Ajax to playing without fear of making mistakes.The Netherlands midfielder, who has made 73 top tier appearances for her club said: “I say to the team every time in training, and before games, you are here because you are good.”Of course, sometimes things are going wrong in the game.”You can make mistakes, but you need to ask for ball again, if you don’t do that, then you get scared.”Emma Hayes expects Chelsea’s opponents will be aggressive on the pitch with the Dutch club facing a last eight exit.Should the Blues triumph this evening it will be their sixteenth win out of 17 games across all competitions dating back to December 17.It would also see them pick up their third victory across all contests in eight days.While Chelsea are due to battle Arsenal for the final of this year’s Conti Cup this Sunday, Hayes’ players are fully focused on tonight’s match.The Blues boss said: “We only play one game at a time. I’m not thinking about Sunday.Sjoeke Nusken was among the scorers in Chelsea’s 3-0 defeat of Ajax last time outCredit: Getty”We know Ajax are going to come out to and be aggressive, we’re expecting and that they have to.”This is a competition where only one team advances, so we’re prepared for the aggression from the opponent and their learnings.READ MORE SUN STORIES”They’re a good side and it’s important for us to keep all of our focus and attention on this.”Chelsea vs Ajax can be watched live on DAZN’s women’s football channel on YouTube from 8:00pm this evening. More

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    Ex-Arsenal and Chelsea star Olivier Giroud agrees transfer to join new club aged 37

    AC MILAN striker Olivier Giroud is set to join MLS side Los Angeles FC in a permanent transfer.The 37-year-old was first linked with the club back in October.Olivier Giroud is set to join LAFCCredit: AFPBut according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, a verbal agreement has been reached.Giroud’s proposed contract will be valid until December 2025.The Frenchman is yet to officially sign, but his deal is close to being completed.Giroud has spent the last three years with AC Milan.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSo far this season he has scored 14 goals and provided nine assists in 36 appearances across all competitions.Prior to joining the Serie A giants he spent three years at Chelsea, where he won the Europa League, Champions League and FA Cup.But arguably his most memorable spell was with Arsenal.Giroud joined the Gunners in a £9.6million transfer from Montpellier in June 2012.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSGiroud has impressed for AC Milan this seasonHe went on to make 253 appearances, scoring 105 goals and providing 41 assists.The striker won the coveted Puskas Award during his time in north London after scoring a sensational scorpion kick against Crystal Palace in 2017.Olivier Giroud goes IN GOAL for AC Milan and makes wonder save Giroud has also established himself as a France legend over the years.He became the country’s all-time top goalscorer at the 2022 World Cup after surpassing Thierry Henry’s record.However, in December he admitted that Euro 2024 could be his last major tournament.Giroud told TéléFoot: “I’m not planning beyond the short-term. The most important thing is to be fit and competitive, these Euros are an objective.”We nearly got it in 2016, and it is a trophy that I would love to win with France.”It will maybe, probably, be my last competition, but I can’t tell you what will happen after.”Seven ex-Prem stars now playing in MLS
    1 – Hugo Lloris, LAFC
    Lloris made an emotional exit from Tottenham in December having failed to secure a move away from North London last summer.
    He has since made five MLS appearances.
    2 – Luis Suarez, Inter Miami
    A Liverpool great, Suarez currently plays for David Beckham’s Inter Miami, alongside ex-Barcelona team-mates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
    The club is even managed by former Barca boss Tata Martino.
    3 – Xherdan Shaqiri, Chicago Fire
    Shaqiri joined Chicago Fire from Lyon back in 2022. He joined in a £5.6m transfer, becoming the club’s most expensive player.
    The midfielder has since made 67 appearances.
    4 – Christian Benteke, D.C. United
    The former Aston Villa, Liverpool and Crystal Palace striker could be unplayable on his day in the Premier League, but also went through notorious dry spells in front of goal.
    Benteke joined DC United in 2022 when former England captain Wayne Rooney was in charge.
    5 – DeAndre Yedlin, Inter Miami
    The American international right-back has gone from lining-up behind Jeff Hendrick or Ayoze Perez at Steve Bruce’s Newcastle to sharing a flank with Messi in South Florida.
    Quite the rise for the full-back, who also played for Sunderland and, very briefly, Tottenham during his time in England.
    6 – Teemu Pukki, Minnesota United
    The Finnish striker has swapped Norfolk for the Twin Cities on the banks of the Mississippi River in Minnesota.
    Pukki joined Minnesota United in June last year after scoring 88 goals in more than 200 appearances for the Canaries in the Premier League and Championship.
    7 – Victor Wanyama, CF Montreal
    The Kenyan midfielder made his name in English football with Southampton and Tottenham before heading to MLS.
    Wanyama, who starred for Celtic before moving to the Premier League, now has more than 100 appearances for Canadian side CF Montreal. More

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    Chelsea fans beg Mauricio Pochettino to ‘reconsider’ Romelu Lukaku after ‘outrageous’ assist against England

    CHELSEA fans suddenly want Romelu Lukaku back after his insane” assist for Belgium against England.The Roma loanee conjured a curling cross with the outside of his left foot for Youri Tielemans to net with a flying header at Wembley.Youri Tielemans headed his second goal of the evening for Belgium, thanks to a stunning cross from Romelu LukakuCredit: GettyLukaku showed skill and invention to conjure this classy assistThat second goal of the night from Tielemans left the visitors 2-1 up at half-time in Tuesday’s friendly, Ivan Toney having replied with a penalty.And Blues’ fans raved over Lukaku’s inventive intervention – telling boss Mauricio Pochettino the 30-year-old can solve their strike problems.Keeper Jordan Pickford was to blame for Tielemans’ opener.But it was Lewis Dunk who was severely punished by Lukaku’s “incredible skill” just before the break.Most read in FootballThe former Manchester United targetman smuggled the ball off the Brighton defender, before showing sublime vision.The ex-Inter Milan hero delicately bent the ball round the front of the England defence for Tielemans to dive at the back post and nod in.Blues’ supporters rushed in with social media posts like: “Recall Lukaku back to Chelsea now.”Another said: “That Lukaku cross was filthy. Get him back to Chelsea immediately.”Most read in FootballA third wrote: “Imagine if Chelsea had a forward like Romelu Lukaku, the experience and quality he would bring would be amazing. Oh wait!!”And a fourth added: “What a cross from Lukaku, I think Chelsea needs to reconsider this guy.  “Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024But one fan reckons Chelsea should instead try to cash in on a player who has spent the last two seasons on loan at Inter and now Roma.He said: “Seriously though that’s an outrageous assist from Lukaku. Hopefully the Saudis are watching.” More

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    Man Utd ‘consider shock Ivan Toney transfer approach in blow to Chelsea pursuit of Brentford star’

    MANCHESTER UNITED are considering a shock transfer for Ivan Toney, according to reports. The Red Devils are in the market for a new forward in the summer to compete with Rasmus Hojlund.Ivan Toney is has emerged as a shock target on Man Utd’s radarCredit: RexToney could move to Old Trafford as Man Utd ponder the type of striker they want in the summerCredit: EPAAnd, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, their search may land them on Brentford ace Toney.Toney has made no secret of his desire to leave the Bees for pastures new in the summer. Man Utd are yet to finalise their summer transfer strategy following the investment of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos, who have been handed control over the clubs football operations after a decade of mediocrity under the Glazers.Ratcliffe and his new team are still ironing out certain profiles they want, and are deciding between bringing an experienced or younger frontman.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut, according to Romano in his daily briefing column for CaughtOffside, Toney’s availability could prompt Man Utd to make a move.Romano said: “It’s just one of the options to be considered and discussed internally. “Man United are still in early stages of the process to decide which striker they want to sign; experienced or young. “Talks are gonna take place internally, Toney will be one of the names available on the market so could be one to watch.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAt the age of 28, Toney would offer a wealth of experience without age being a risk.Arsenal and Chelsea are among the other clubs who have been linked with the star.Inside Ivan Toney’s Life As A FootballerHowever, SunSport understands the Gunners have cooled their interest, leaving the Blues, Tottenham and West Ham as the main parties in the running to have expressed interest.That is of course, barring a move from Man Utd to bring Toney to Old Trafford.Toney unlikely to let opportunity slideBy Charlie Wyett
    IVAN TONEY will be backing himself to beat Ollie Watkins in the race to Euro 2024.
    Because when it comes to supreme self-confidence, others might call it extraordinary arrogance, Toney gives Zlatan Ibrahimovic — football’s ultimate bighead — a run for his money.
    If, heaven forbid, something did happen to Harry Kane ahead of the summer tournament in Germany, Brentford striker Toney would likely see himself the only viable alternative as a replacement No 9.
    Equally, if England found themselves in another shootout at this year’s final in Berlin on July 14, most would want the bloke who has scored 35 of his 38 career penalties to be one of Gareth Southgate’s takers.
    Aston Villa forward Watkins, 28, is enjoying the best season of his career with 22 goals in all competitions but his Euros trial did not go so well with a disappointing performance in the 1-0 defeat by Brazil on Saturday.
    Against Belgium, Toney is unlikely to make the same mistake.
    A strong performance could see the Brentford ace continue on his journey from footballing outcast to, potentially, a national hero this summer.

    Given Erik ten Hag likes to utilise a physically dominant forward such as Sebastien Haller at Ajax or Wout Weghorst at Man Utd last season, it stands to reason that Toney would compliment the Dutchman’s system.In the meantime, Toney is set to start for England in their friendly against Belgium.Toney returned to football in January following a betting ban.In that time he has netted four goals in ten Premier League games, but blanked in each of his last five.Here’s how Toney has performed this season More

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    Chelsea ‘actively trying to sell Conor Gallagher in summer transfer window with Blues desperate to avoid FFP hit’

    CHELSEA are reportedly “actively trying to sell” Conor Gallagher this summer.The 24-year-old midfielder has come through the Blues’ academy and is now a first-team regular.Chelsea are ‘actively trying to sell’ Conor Gallagher this summerCredit: RexHe has played 38 times under Mauricio Pochettino so far this term.He is also now a member of Gareth Southgate’s England squad and started the 1-0 defeat to Brazil on Saturday.Gallagher will be looking to win his 19th cap tonight against Belgium at Wembley and secure a place on the plane for the Euros this summer.However, he could also be on the move domestically, according to the Daily Mail.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThey state that “sources at rival Premier League clubs tell us that Chelsea are actively trying to sell their academy graduate this summer”.That is because he only has just over a year left on his deal and any transfer fee generated would count as “pure profit” with regards to FFP rules.We revealed before that he is still yet to be formally offered a new one.Speculation claimed that there had been “little sign of negotiations progressing” on an extension to stay at Stamford Bridge and he could thereforebe off come the end of the season.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERGallagher came close to joining Tottenham last summer but has gone on to be handed the armband on several occasions by Pochettino.Spurs are still thought to be interested in buying the ex-Crystal Palace loanee should he become available.Conor Gallagher apologises live on Sky Sports in interview after Chelsea’s win over Crystal PalaceChelsea have sold off a host of home-grown aces over recent years, with nearly £200m raised, which has enabled them stay within financial rules.And they are reluctant to get involved in long, drawn-out contract discussions.That was the scenario that unfolded with Mason Mount before he eventually departed for Manchester United following a lengthy stand-off for £60m. More

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    Arsenal made Ousmane Diomande transfer target while scouting ANOTHER star as they’re set for £50m battle with Chelsea

    ARSENAL are mulling over a summer bid for Sporting Lisbon central defender Ousmane Diomande.SunSport revealed earlier this month that the Gunners took notice of the 20-year-old Ivorian during a scouting mission at a Sporting vs Benfica clash out in Portugal.Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande is a transfer target for ArsenalCredit: GettyThe main focus of that trip was to see Sweden’s Viktor Gyokeres, 25, ahead of a potential move for the red-hot forward with 36 goals in 39 games in all competitions so far.However, Diomande also stood out – and SunSport understands Arsenal are considering their options regarding an imminent move for the centre-back.Chelsea are likely to rival them for the player, who has a release clause of around £68.6million, but that fee could drop to £50m with significant contractual add-ons included.Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is interested in strengthening his defence, providing depth and cover for their first-choice centre-back pairing of Gabriel and William Saliba.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDiomande has played the majority of this campaign for Sporting in a back three, so is comfortable featuring in wide positions – something Arteta likes in his defenders.Ideally, Arteta would go into the start of next season with four central defenders at his disposal, adding to Saliba, Gabriel and Jakub Kiwior.But any bid depends on how much money they can raise through sales, as well as how much they are willing to spend in other areas, such as in attack.Arsenal’s priority going into the summer is a No9 – and Gyokeres is among the list of names the club are considering splashing out on.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBrentford’s Ivan Toney is also a consideration, but Arteta will likely wait until the end of the season before deciding on the profile of striker his team needs compared to the options he already has.Gabriel Jesus has spent a lot of this season injured, while Kai Havertz has contributed from deeper positions when leading the line.What happened to Highbury?A winger is also on Arteta’s wish list, providing cover for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.In the meantime, Aaron Ramsdale, Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson and Cedric Soares could all be leaving the club in a summer clear-out. More

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    Chelsea and Man Utd transfer moves for French wonderkid set to be hijacked as ‘Real Madrid line up swoop’

    A TRIO of Premier League clubs face a huge battle with Real Madrid to snap up French wonderkid Leny Yoro.The defender is only 18 but is already impressing in his homeland for Lille’s first-team.A host of clubs have entered the chase for Lille’s wonderkid Lenny YoroCredit: GettyHis performances have led to him being dubbed the “new Raphael Varane” due to similarities with Manchester United’s French World Cup-winning ace.We revealed previously how Liverpool were eyeing him up as a potential long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk.Man United and Chelsea also have an interest in bringing him to England  while Paris Saint-Germain hope to keep him in Ligue 1. Now Spanish outlet AS claims that Real Madrid are lining up a move to add another teenage sensation to their ranks after securing the services of Endrick – the 17-year-old who scored Brazil’s winner against England on Saturday.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe same outlet also reiterates how Chelsea have been keeping tabs on Yoro and that Bayern Munich have an interest also.But they are adamant that Madrid are in pole position to land him as they look to inject youth in their ageing backline.Lille were determined to hang on to Yoro during the January window and managed to succeed with that but it could prove to be a lot harder come the summer.The French U21 international will be entering the final 12 months on his deal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThey were originally reported to be holding out for £85m when French rivals PSG enquired two months ago.However, this update states that his price-tag is now £51m.Football icons’ strange hobbiesThat could also make him the most expensive defender to be sold by a Ligue 1 club ever.Paulo Fonseca, his boss at Lille, has already gone on record to state that he expects big things for the starlet.He said: “He’s a very mature player and I think he has a great future ahead of him.” More