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      Wales vs Albania LIVE: Stream FREE, score, TV channel as match UNDERWAY – Euro 2020 warm-up latest updates

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      WALES face Albania in Cardiff today as they look to take momentum in Euro 2020.
      TV channel: Sky Sports Football/S4C
      Live stream FREE: BBC iPlayer (Welsh S4C commentary)
      Wales XI: Hennessy, Ampadu, Mepham, Davies, Williams, Levitt, Allen, Ramsey, Norrington-Davies, Brooks, Roberts.
      Albania XI: Selmani, Ismajli, Kumbulla, Djimsiti, Doka, Cekici, Bare, Abrashi, Lenjani, Balaj, Manaj.

      Follow ALL the action with our live blog below…

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      WALES 0-0 ALBANIA
      3. Early chance for David Brooks but his touch lets him down as he looks to collect Aaron Ramsey’s pass.
      WALES 0-0 ALBANIA
      1. We’re off and under way in a sunny South Wales.
      PEEEEEEEEEREEEEEEEEP!HERE WE GO!
      HERE COME THE TEAMS!
      JOSE’S BALE SWIPE
      Axed Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho has taken a thinly-veiled swipe at Gareth Bale ahead of Euro 2020.
      Writing for The Sun, Mourinho claimed Bale had struggled against the top teams during his season-long loan with Spurs. 
      Giving his verdict on Wales’ European Championship hopes, Mourinho said: “Over the years Wales have relied a lot on Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, the two most talented players in the country.
      “But when I look to the club season and how many matches Ramsey played at Juventus… there were lots of injuries.
      “When we look to Gareth and how many great performances he had, how many goals he scored against the best teams, there were not many or none.
      “It’s not an easy situation for a country without many options.
      “But they are always well organised and know how to create a situation to try to get the best out of the more talented players.
      “Dan James is fast and is the one that can break defenders.
      “With the small group of players they are doing amazingly well, so lots of respect.
      “But it will be hard for them even to qualify for the next phase.”
      .Credit: Reuters

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      PAST MEETINGS & STATS
      Wales and Albania last met in November 2018 in a friendly. Back then, Albania won 1-0 in Elbasan with a Bekim Balaj penalty.
      Wales have only won one of their three matches against Albania (D1 L1), beating them 2-0 at Cardiff Arms Park in a Euro 1996 qualifier.
      Wales are unbeaten in their last 12 home matches in all competitions (W10 D2), their longest ever unbeaten run on home soil.
      At the Cardiff City Stadium, Wales are on a six-match winning run. Their last defeat in Cardiff was in November 2018 in a 2-1 defeat to Denmark in the UEFA Nations League.
      Albania have won five of their last six matches in all competitions (L1), with their only defeat in this run coming at home to England in a World Cup qualifier.
      RINGING THE CHANGES
      As expected, Wales boss Rob Page has rung the changes for tonight’s clash.
      Only three of the players – Chris Mepham, Neco Williams and Joe Allen – who started the midweek defence to France retain their places this evening.
      Ben Davies takes the captain’s armband on what will be his 60th international appearance.
      Albania failed to qualify for next week’s European Championships after finishing fourth in their qualifying group.

      SUBSTITUTES:
      WALES: Ward, A Davies, Gunter, Rodon, Wilson, Bale, Moore, Roberts, Williams, Cabango, Colwill, Smith
      ALBANIA: Sherri, Harizaj, Hozhallari, Veseli, Kallaku, Trashi, Seferi, Ajeti, Laci, Cikalleshi, Ramadani

      WALES & ALBANIA LINE-UPS:
      WALES XI: 1 Hennessey; 15 Ampadu, 22 Mepham, 4 B Davies, 3 Williams; 23 Levitt, 7 Allen, 10 Ramsey, 17 Norrington-Davies; 9 Roberts, 19 Brooks
      ALBANIA XI: 1 Selmani; Ismajli, Kumbulla, Djimsiti; 17 Doka, 4 Cekici, 7 Bare, 22 Abrashi, 3 Lenjani; 10 Manaj, 19 Balaj 

      THE TEAMSHEETS ARE IN!
      TEAM NEWS
      Robert Page plans to rotate his squad tonight to ensure players are fit for their Euro 2020 opener with the likes of Kieffer Moore, Ben Cabango and Wayne Hennessey set to get some minutes under their belts. 
      After appearing as second-half substitutes against France, Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey and Tottenham defender Ben Davies could feature from the off.
      Joe Allen will feature at some stage, while Ethan Ampadu, who missed the France clash, will also get a run-out.
      “It’s all about the first game [against Switzerland] so we have one eye on that,” said Wales interim boss Robert Page.
      “There was a plan put in place when we first met up on camp with regards to what we want, who we want may be for the first game and work backwards from that, what minutes we need to play them in the two friendlies to give us the best chance of getting them involved in that first game. 
      “Of course, we have an idea of how we want to go about it [team selection for Switzerland] and get our best players on the pitch.”
      .Credit: Reuters

      FINAL FRIENDLY
      This is Wales’ second friendly in preparation for the Euros, following Wednesday’s 3-0 defeat against world champions France in Nice.
      Neco Williams’ early red card for handball in the area meant Wales had to toil for more than an hour with 10 men.
      Karim Benzema had his penalty saved by Danny Ward, but Kylian Mbappe scored in the 34th minute to put the hosts in front.
      Antoine Griezmann curled in a second just after the restart and substitute Ousmane Dembele struck France’s third.
      World class. 🔥France double their lead as Antoine Griezmann curls in a super second! 🎯Watch live on Sky Sports Football now! pic.twitter.com/toG6EI19mx— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) June 2, 2021

      IN FULL VOICE
      There are few things more inspiring than hearing Wales fans singing ‘Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau’.
      And tonight, Wales will play in front of their home supporters for the first time since November 2019.
      There will be up to 6,500 supporters at the Cardiff City Stadium for one of the Welsh Government’s pilot events for the safe return of spectators.
      “It’s a shame we can’t get more in,” said interim Wales manager Robert Page.
      “It would have been lovely to get a full house there or more than what we’ve been allowed. It is what it is, we can’t control that.”
      Captain Gareth Bale said: “It will be amazing before we go off to the Euros to have that send-off.
      “There’s only 6,500 but I’m sure they’ll make it seem like a full stadium.”
      On Monday Wales fly to Baku, where they face Switzerland in their opening Euro 2020 match on 12th June.
      Wales fans have been advised not to travel to Baku and Rome for their Euro group matches. 

      GOOD AFTERNOON FROM CARDIFF
      Wales host Albania in their final friendly before the Euros.
      Breaking news is that Neco Williams is available to play for Wales tonight.
      The Liverpool full-back was shown a red card in Wednesday’s 3-0 loss to France after referee Luis Godinho had consulted with VAR, deciding his handball had illegally impeded a goal-bound effort from Karim Benzema.
      He was expected to sit out this evening’s clash as a result.
      However, just a few hours before kick-off against Albania, a Welsh FA statement read: “The Football Association of Wales (FAW) have been in direct contact with FIFA and UEFA regarding what (if any) suspension Neco Williams may have to serve as a result of his red card v France on 2nd June.
      “FIFA have confirmed that as per article 27.2 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code the match falls under the jurisdiction of UEFA. UEFA Disciplinary Regulations do not legislate for sanctions related to friendly matches.
      “The FAW have therefore sanctioned Neco Williams directly for the red card but can confirm he will be available to participate in tonight’s fixture.”
      VAR will not be in use this evening.
      We’ll have confirmation of tonight’s teams shortly plus lots more build-up ahead of the 5pm kick-off.

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      Euro 2020 live: Pickford sees psychologist to make him ‘calmer’, Bale ‘to RETIRE’ after comp, Spain draw with Portugal

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      GARETH BALE is ready to announce his retirement after Euro 2020, according to stunning reports from Spain.Meanwhile the Spanish national team were held to a 0-0 draw by Portugal in a pre-tournament clash of the Iberian titans.

      Follow all of the latest news, build up and updates below…
      BACK LINE
      EXCLUSIVE – England should follow Chelsea’s blueprint for European glory as they look to cope with the absence of Harry Maguire, says Arsenal legend Martin Keown.
      He said: “Maguire is a huge loss for England because he’s very dominant in the air, he’s never ruffled in possession and he has that quality on  the ball that you need at international level.
      “But if he’s not going to be fit then we are better off  playing with a back three because I can barely  remember a time when the back-up central defenders had so few international caps.
      “Gareth was looking to get more creative players into the team higher up the pitch, which is better suited to 4-3-3.
      “But now we should look at what Tuchel has done at Chelsea and ask if it is something which England can copy?
      “There are three Chelsea players in the squad who are used to playing that way and I don’t think we’d go far wrong going into a tournament  playing like that.
      “I’m not saying that guys like Conor Coady and Tyrone Mings aren’t good enough. I think they lack international experience so a back four is a problem for England.”
      HEND-GO
      Gaerth Southgate has been given a major boost ahead of the Euros as Jordan Henderson has returned to full training.
      The Liverpool captain, who’s not played for FOUR months, is in a race to be fit for England’s first group game against Croatia on Sunday, June 13.
      The 30-year-old joined in with the bulk of the squad as they continue their preparations for Euro 2020.
      Henderson remains a doubt for the opener next weekend having not played since undergoing groin surgery in February.
      The midfielder was initially expected to be back within eight weeks but missed Liverpool’s run-in as they finished third in the Premier League.
      His absence will have worried England boss Southgate, who was unable to pick him for the warm-up match against Austria on Wednesday after he felt some discomfort hours before kick-off.
      Jordan Henderson has resumed full training to give Gareth Southgate a boost
      MAGUIRE UPDATE
      Manchester United star defender Harry Maguire has been training on his own ahead of tomorrow’s friendly with Romania.
      England have stated that the reason behind it is to “manage load” ahead of the summer’s delayed Euro 2020.
      But Maguire has also been practicing alone due to his ankle injury.
      Tottenham superstar Harry Kane and Arsenal star Bukayo Saka have also been doing the same by undergoing a different training routine

      MANCHESTER TRIP
      Atletico Madrid ace Kieran Trippier has been looking at houses in the north-west of England.
      Trippier has been linked with a £10million transfer to Manchester United this summer transfer window.
      According to The Athletic, the full-back has been seen trying to find a new house near Old Trafford.
      However, the England international may just be looking to buy a property in the area because he’s originally from Bury, a town in Greater Manchester.
      SANCHO SITUATION
      Manchester United are growing confident of landing Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho in the summer.
      According to The Athletic, United continue their pursuit to sign Sancho and negotiations have started with the star winger.
      The England international has a “gentlemen’s agreement” to exit Borussia Dortmund this summer if their terms are met.
      The 21-year-old is focused on Euro 2020 with his England team-mates
      MOUR PRAISE
      Jose Mourinho has praised Gareth Southgate’s England squad ahead of Euro 2020.
      Mourinho is impressed with the depth in the roster as Southgate has a lot of players to pick for each position in case there is an injury or suspension.
      The new Roma boss told SunSport: “The squad is very good, full of options.
      “It’s not like some others where you can field a good starting XI but then during the competition they will be in trouble with an injury or a suspension”
      IT’S RON
      Cristiano Ronaldo is in talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a potential move in the summer transfer window.
      That is according to AS, who claim that Ronaldo has “welcomed” PSG’s approach.
      The star forward’s future at Juventus has become uncertain following a hapless campaign that saw the Bianconeri giving away their Serie A crown to Inter Milan.
      The 36-year-old has also been linked with a major return to Manchester United.
      The Real Madrid great is now set to compete in Euro 2020 with Portugal
      GETTY IMAGES
      RICE TOUCH
      England boss Gareth Southgate has praised West Ham star Declan Rice’s leadership qualities but warned the midfielder about taking on too much responsibility at such a young age.
      Southgate told the High Performance Podcast: “But what I said to him was, ‘Look, these are brilliant experiences for you. I like the fact that you’re standing, you feel the responsibility. You’re not ducking after a bad performance, you’re not looking to push the blame elsewhere. If anything, you’ve actually taken a bit too much on your shoulders. So keep a balance on that.’
      “But I think reinforcing that that’s a good thing hopefully encourages him to keep doing it. So it’s easy to pick up when people aren’t doing those things, isn’t it?
      “But if you can find them doing it well, I think that’s equally if not more powerful”
      TRENT REPLACEMENT
      England boss Gareth Southgate will have to choose a replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of Euro 2020.
      Alexander-Arnold suffered a devastating thigh injury during Wednesday’s friendly against Austria.
      Southgate has five players, all axed from the provisional squad, to pick from.
      Those are Jesse Lingard, James Ward-Prowse, Ollie Watkins, Ben White and Ben Godfrey
      T-A-A UPDATE
      Liverpool have confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold will have regained fitness in time for pre-season training.
      Alexander-Arnold suffered a devastating thigh injury during Wednesday’s friendly against Austria and was ruled out of Euro 2020.
      According to the Daily Mirror, however, the England international will be fit to start pre-season training on July 12.
      Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate is set to pick a replacement
      SOUTHGATE MESSAGE
      England boss Gareth Southgate condemned the section of English fans who booed the players for taking a knee against racism and stated that it feels like they are criticising black players.
      Southgate said: “I did hear it. It’s not something on behalf of our black players I wanted to hear because it feels as though it’s a criticism of them.
      “I think we have got a situation where some people seem to think it’s a political stand that they don’t agree with. That’s not the reason the players are doing it. We’re supporting each other. I was pleased that was drowned out by the majority of the crowd.
      “We can’t deny the fact that it happened. I think the most important thing for our players to know is all their team-mates and all the staff are very supportive. I think the majority of people understand it. I think some people aren’t quite understanding the message. I suppose we’re seeing that across a number of football grounds at the moment”
      PFA TOTY
      Here’s the PFA Premier League Team of the Year, which includes three England internationals:
      Those are Manchester United ace Luke Shaw, Manchester City player John Stones and Tottenham star Harry Kane.
      As you can see, six City players are included after a stunning title-winning campaign.
      Two United players also made the cut.
      The line-up is completed with two representatives from Tottenham and one from Liverpool

      ENGLAND SQUAD
      Let’s revisit the players England manager Gareth Southgate has called up:
      Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Sam Johnstone, Jordan Pickford
      Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (injured), Ben Chilwell, Conor Coady, Reece James, Harry Maguire, Tyrone Mings, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker
      Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Jordan Henderson, Mason Mount, Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice
      Forwards: Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho, Raheem Sterling
      MORE FROM PICKFORD
      England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford admits that he is in a much better place as he prepares for Euro 2020.
      Pickford told the Daily Telegraph: “I have to think how lucky I am; all of the work my family put in – from me being six, seven years old with my parents taking me to football all the time.
      “The amount they have invested in me. It’s about how can I keep that level of performance and look back to where I have come from.
      “It’s crucial and I feel that I have kicked on this year. I feel calmer, I feel in the moment and I feel great”
      GETTY IMAGES
      FORD TO BE RECKONED WITH
      England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford revealed that he has upped his game by seeing a sports psychologist and is no longer the same hyperactive and bellowing player on the pitch.
      Pickford told the Daily Telegraph: “I just feel in a very good place. I began working with a psychologist at the start of the season.
      “You know in football, those little one or two per cent gains — just to raise your ability on the pitch and what you can achieve — are crucial.
      “Whether it’s nutrition, psychology, extra gym sessions. I think it helps. So why not use it?”
      SANCHO BOOST
      Manchester United, Borussia Dortmund and Jadon Sancho are “cautiously optimistic” a deal can be achieved this summer.
      That is according to Sky Sports, who claim that discussions over Sancho’s signing are centred around Dortmund’s asking price.
      But the Bundesliga side is expected to ask for a fee significantly lower than the star winger’s previous £108million release clause.
      Dortmund’s terms haven’t been made public but if any suitor meets them then they won’t stand in the 21-year-old’s way.
      Sancho is currently on international duty with England ahead of the summer’s delayed Euro 2020 competition
      KOUNDE RACE
      Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal have been joined by Barcelona and Real Madrid in the race for Sevilla star Jules Kounde.
      According to Mundo Deportivo, Barca have been monitoring Kounde for two years.
      Real are also thought to be keeping a close eye on the star centre-back as they may need to replace Raphael Varane.
      The France international is now on international duty ahead of Euro 2020
      GOALLESS DRAW
      Spain and Portugal drew 0-0 last night at the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
      Juventus superstar Cristiano Ronaldo started for Fernando Santos’ side but couldn’t help them win.
      Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes came off the bench after 59 minutes.
      Fernandes’ United team-mate David de Gea didn’t get to play in this big friendly match
      FOR WHOM THE BALE TOLLS
      Gareth Bale is still considering retirement after the summer’s Euro 2020 competition.
      That is according to Marca, who claim that Carlo Ancelotti’s return to Real Madrid won’t alter his future plans.
      Bale spent the season on loan at Tottenham and is now set to compete for Wales in the summer’s Euros.
      The 31-year-old has another year to run on his contract with Real but the club wouldn’t stand in his way, as his departure would see them free up almost £20million
      GETTY IMAGES
      EURO 2020 ROUND-UP
      New SunSport columnist Jose Mourinho believes Harry Kane’s Tottenham trophy drought can fire up his and England’s hopes of home glory this summer.
      The new Roma boss rates the striker he bossed at Spurs as the Three Lions’ key man, adding “Harry is the one that shoulders a lot.
      “The country expects a lot from him. He expects a lot from himself.
      “He’s the captain and he wants to win something. He is not doing that with his club, so he’s going to try everything he can to do it with the Three Lions.”
      Meanwhile, Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has posted on Instagram he is ‘absolutely gutted’ injury has forced him out of England’s 26-man squad.
      And Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka insists he can still break into the squad despite fierce opposition from TAA and Co.
      He told United’s website: “I feel I’ve done okay. I can feel it in myself, the confidence and excitement of when every game comes up.”
      Finally, Uefa are reportedly in discussion with the UK government over easing fan limits for the Euro 2020 knockout stages.
      Sky Sports say the talks focus on reducing coronavirus quarantine restrictions on overseas supporters.
      BALE OUT
      Gareth Bale is ready to call it a day after Euro 2020, according to stunning reports in Spain.
      Though the Welshman played his best football under new Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti, he is not said to be keen on another season with Los Blancos.
      And Marca state that if nothing changes, Bale will announce his retirement from professional football at the age of 31 once the tournament is over.
      The Wales captain his one year left of his £19m contract at Real Madrid, but the 13-time Champions League winners are reportedly not likely to stand in his way if he wants to call it quite.

      FULL PREM RELEASE LIST
      Big names could be on their way out this summer – after Premier League clubs revealed their released list.
      Here’s our FULL GUIDE.
      MOURINHO’S GUIDE TO EACH TEAM
      New SunSport columnist Jose Mourinho has given his expert rundown on all the contenders at this summer’s Euros.
      Click HERE to read his detailed analysis.

      JOSE: SPURS DROUGHT CAN FIRE UP HARRY
      Jose Mourinho has backed Harry Kane to use his Tottenham trophy drought to fire him up for the Euros.
      Despite his fine goalscoring form, England skipper Kane has endured another frustrating trophy-less season with Spurs – and is eyeing a move away this summer.
      But old boss Mourinho believes the striker’s pain will stand him in good stead to lead the Three Lions on home turf.
      Mourinho said: “Harry (Kane) is the one that has on his shoulders a lot.
      “The country expects a lot from him. He expects a lot from himself.
      “He’s the captain and he wants to win something. He’s not doing that with the club, so, of course, he’s going to try everything he can to do it with the Three Lions.”
      SPAIN 0 PORTUGAL 0
      Cristiano Ronaldo was booed at every touch to prove he is still the main man at the Euros.
      Portugal’s stellar captain is poised to play in a record fifth championship.
      The three Group F games alone will give him the most appearances at the tournament with 59 – which includes qualifying.
      Now 36, Ronaldo is still leading the line for his country who kick off the defence of their Euro 2016 title against Hungary on June 15.
      But the normally lethal finisher will have to wait for his 104th international goal after missing a sitter against local rivals Spain in a warm up.
      Frustrated Ronaldo was unmarked but sent a header wide of the post from a 69th minute free kick.
      Liverpool’s Diogo Jota also missed a golden chance to score with a diving header that flew over the crossbar in the second half.
      Manchester City’s Ferran Torres also headed wide in the 28th minute at the back post when unmarked.
      But ex-Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata was most guilty as he fluffed a series of opportunities to give Spain a winning warm up in a lively match which was overseen by Premier League ref Craig Pawson.
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      France favourites to win Euro 2020 with Ballon d’Or-worthy N’Golo Kante more important than Kylian Mbappe, says Petit

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      EMMANUEL PETIT can’t see many comparisons between the current French squad and the team he played in 20 years ago – and thinks N’Golo Kante is their best player.The ex-Arsenal star was part of the side that won the World Cup and Euros back-to-back – a feat Didier Deschamps’ team can also achieve at this summer’s tournament.
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      Emmanuel Petit has backed France to win Euro 2020
      The ex-Arsenal midfielder was part of the France squad that won the World Cup in 1998 and Euro 2000Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Speaking at the launch of the Paddy Park at Flat Iron Square in London, Petit compared the two fabulous teams.
      He told SunSport: “I don’t see many similarities, on the pitch and off the pitch.
      “It’s not the same world anymore; it’s not the same football; it’s not the same communication. Everything has changed so much in the space of 20 years.
      “The only similarity is that they’ve won the World Cup and they can do the same as we did 20 years ago.”
      Although Petit doesn’t think the two sides are similar, he does believe Kylian Mbappe and co can follow in his footsteps and win the Euros.
      The 63-cap international also praised Deschamps for rejuvenating the team after a group of players publicly fell out with French authorities at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
      He said confidently: “We are the team to beat.
      “Deschamps took over after the big scandal in South Africa and straight away the team has been going up.
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      Petit believes N’Golo Kante, 30, is the ‘soul’ of the French teamCredit: EPA
      “Quarter-final in 2014, final in 2016, world champion in 2018 – the expectation is very high here in France because of what they’ve done in the past but also the team and the individuals.
      “Deschamps has the luxury of putting out two teams that are similar, in terms of talent. He can do whatever he wants; he has so many options up front, in midfield and behind as well.
      “The only position where he doesn’t have much of an option is probably the goalkeeper, but for the rest, there is no comparison with what we had 20 years ago.
      “We probably had 25 good players but that’s it. This generation there’s probably 50 players.”
      And of all the talent Deschamps has at his disposal, Kante is the player Petit is most fond of.
      The Chelsea midfielder has enjoyed a sensational rise since moving to England in 2015, winning the FA Cup, Europa League, World Cup, Champions League and two Premier League titles.
      Petit said: “If he has a great European tournament, he should get this personal prize [the Ballon d’Or].
      England boast the most-valuable squad of all Euro 2020 nations

      “I think he deserves it, for what he’s done in the last five or six years.
      “He’s a great lad; great humility; great character on the pitch. When you play with him in your team, you play with 12 players.
      “I would have loved to have played with him – to play with him and Patrick [Vieira] in midfield.
      “I think we would have been best friends on the pitch because we talk the same football, we give everything for the team and we don’t care about our [individual] performances – we want the team to win.
      “For me, Kante is the soul of the national team.
      “When you ask people in the street, ‘Who is the best player in the national team?’ They will always say, ‘Mbappe or Benzema or Griezmann.’
      “But for me – in this team – it’s Kante.”
      Emmanuel Petit was speaking at the launch of the Paddy Parks, the ultimate fan viewing experience for all EURO 2020 games. Held at Flat Iron Square and Riverside Newcastle, tickets will sell out fast – visit www.paddyparkfanzones.com to book your spot.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      N’golo Kante shows his skills as he takes on Bathsuayi at Chelsea training More

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      How England could line up vs Romania with Southgate set to name full-strength team in final Euro 2020 warm-up game

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      ENGLAND face Romania on Sunday night in their final warm-up game ahead of Euro 2020.The Three Lions host the Romanians at Middlesbrough’s Riverside stadium and Gareth Southgate is set to play a strong team before England’s curtain raiser against Croatia on Sunday June 13.
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      Gareth Southgate is likely to name a strong side to face Romania
      Trent Alexander-Arnold has been forced to withdraw from the tournament with a thigh injury picked up against Austria on Wednesday.
      Jordan Henderson and Harry Maguire are also out injured but both hope to be back at some stage during the Euros.
      Liverpool skipper Henderson was expected to feature in the 1-0 win at the Riverside against the Austrians but he had a setback in his recovery from the groin injury picked up in February which saw him miss out.
      And Maguire’s ankle ligament injury is still keeping him out of action.
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      Players from Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City – who were all involved in the European finals – have now joined up with the Three Lions squad.
      But Marcus Rashford is unlikely to feature against Romania and Leeds ace Kalvin Phillips is also a doubt.
      That will likely see West Ham ace Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham play together in central midfield again.
      With Southgate expected to play his favoured 5-2-3 system, the two will play in deeper roles with Kieran Trippier and Luke Shaw bombing on from the wing-back positions.
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      Southgate has a squad full of talent to choose from and could use the game to give some fringe players a chance to prove themselves

      Kyle Walker, John Stones and Conor Coady will likely start in the centre-back roles in front of Jordan Pickford in goal.
      And if Southgate goes full strength up front, fans can expect to see Phil Foden and Jadon Sancho playing either side of Harry Kane.
      There is a chance Southgate will shake it up and play four at the back with Tyrone Mings and Coady vying for the last centre-back spot alongside City ace Stones.
      Walker would likely slot out to right-back in such a system with Ben Chilwell potentially in with a shot of edging ahead of Luke Shaw.
      Raheem Sterling is also a Southgate favourite and could get some game time on the right with Champions League winner Mason Mount slotting in on the other side.
      If Southgate wants to rest superstar Kane, Dominic Calvert-Lewin could start up front after his supersonic leap after he came off the bench against Austria.
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds

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      England given major Euro 2020 boost as Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson returns to full training ahead of Romania game

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE has been given a major boost ahead of the Euros as Jordan Henderson has returned to full training.The Liverpool captain, who’s not played for FOUR months, is in a race to be fit for England’s first group game against Croatia on Sunday, June 13.
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      Jordan Henderson has resumed full trainingCredit: Getty
      The 30-year-old kept up with Brighton’s Ben White and Manchester United’s Marcus RashfordCredit: Getty
      The Liverpool captain was leading the sprint race after four months outCredit: Getty
      The 30-year-old joined in with the bulk of the squad as they continue their preparations for Euro 2020.
      Henderson remains a doubt for the opener next weekend having not played since undergoing groin surgery in February.
      The midfielder was initially expected to be back within eight weeks but missed Liverpool’s run-in as they finished third in the Premier League.
      His absence will have worried England boss Southgate, who was unable to pick him for the warm-up match against Austria on Wednesday after he felt some discomfort hours before kick-off.
      And Henderson’s recovery is not over yet as he will need some match fitness before starting at the Euros.
      His last chance to do so is England’s game against Romania tomorrow – and Southgate will be eager to start him.
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      Henderson is in a race to be fit for England’s Euros opener against CroatiaCredit: Getty

      If Henderson breaks down in their final warm-up match, the England manager can call-up a reserve to replace him in the squad.
      Question marks remain over Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, who is still nursing an ankle injury picked up against Aston Villa last month.
      The 28-year-old is following his own training programme and is a huge doubt for the games against Romania and Croatia.

      Brighton’s Ben White and Everton’s Ben Godfrey are on stand-by, although neither of them have played a competitive match for England.
      One player who is definitely out of Euro 2020 is Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold after he picked up a thigh injury against Austria.
      Potential replacements include Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse and West Ham loanee Jesse Lingard.
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      Euro 2020 betting tips: Kane and Benzema top scorers, Lukaku player of tournament, France lift cup – guide, predictions

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      EURO 2020 gets underway in under a week’s time – and the excitement is building across the continent. Wembley will host both the semis and final next month, with the first game on June 11 as Italy take on Turkey in Rome.
      Euro 2020 kicks off on June 11 in RomeCredit: Alamy
      With England, Wales and Scotland making it from the Home Nations, there’s a whole host of betting opportunities – and SunSport are on hand to find you the best.
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      BoyleSports’ bet of the day
      Group F hasn’t been christened this tournament’s Group of Death for nothing.
      The reigning world champions, reigning Euro champions and 2014 World Cup winners all in together.
      And let’s not forget Hungary either, who must be cursing their luck.
      Germany, France and Portugal are all set to battle it out in what could be a terrific group stage, with Joachim Low’s Germans facing the French in the opener.
      We’re all about value with our ante-post selections and we’re confident Deschamps side go far in this year’s tournament.
      Deschamps’ side won the World Cup in 2018 and are one of the favourites this summerCredit: PA
      Winning this group will likely evade England in the knockouts – and that will be a major incentive to win all three games and get on the right side of the draw.
      Germany are a team in transition and not the force they once were, with Low’s reign coming to an end following the tournament.
      Portugal meanwhile are relying on a 36-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo to drag them through.
      But even CR7 isn’t a miracle worker and by far the most complete squad in the group is France.
      Get them at a huge 13/10 to win Group F – a price to grab before it’s gone.

      Tournament winners
      Unlike five years ago at Euro 2016, there’s been no big casualties in the qualifying stages.
      With all the big guns intact, expect this to be a tournament that grabs you by the throat and keeps you stuck to the sofa.
      It’s tough to split the top five in the market, with France, England, Belgium, Germany and Spain the front runners.
      And that’s before we even get onto Portugal, Italy and Holland.
      We’re not going to deter you from a patriotic punt on England (5/1), with the Three Lions – for the most part – playing on home soil throughout.
      This could prove a huge advantage as Wembley is such a fortress for Southgate’s side, with just two defeats there since 2014.
      But we feel this youthful England side is a couple of years too early to end all those years of hurt – and therefore our pick for overall winner are reigning world champions France (9/2).

      The overall depth of their squad if phenomenal, with a spine of world-class players all peaking at the right time.
      They are there to be shot at as the world champs, but Didier Deschamps has a wealth of talent at his disposal and has the added bonus of bringing back Karim Benzema from the cold.
      Ante-post they’re a terrific price at 5/1, mainly due to having Germany and Portugal in a tricky group.
      That price plummets if and when they beat a young German side in transition in their first match – so don’t miss out.
      Top goalscorer
      There’s a clear front-runner in the market here – and Harry Kane deserves to be.
      The 2018 World Cup Golden Boot winner was the top scorer in this season’s Premier League with 23 goals.
      In international competition, a tie in the goalscorer standings are decided by the amount of assists a player has.
      And that’s why Kane is such a good bet even at a paltry looking 5/1 – he’s a playmaker as well as a marksman, bagging the most assists in the Prem this campaign.
      If you’re looking for longer value, France’s returning veteran Benzema is a terrific bet at 16/1.
      Back on the international scene for the first time in five years, the Madrid forward finished second to Messi in the LaLiga scoring charts this season.

      France are sure to go far and Benzema will line-up alongside Kylian Mbappe and Antoine Griezmann. Terrifying.
      For Madrid this term, he’s scored two or more on seven occasions and despite his advancing age continues to dominate defences.
      Player of the tournament
      Is this tournament finally the time for Belgium to fulfill their potential?
      Beaten semi-finalists in the World Cup three years ago, the Red Devils have the market leader for player of the tournament in their ranks.
      Value is the name of the game and we expect Belgium to cruise through the group stages with only Russia, Finland and Denmark in their way.
      And they will look to former Man Utd and Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku for goals.
      The 28-year-old striker has been a revelation for Inter Milan since heading to Italy, netting over 60 times in two seasons.
      At a whopping 20/1, he’s a real value bet in this market.
      Belgium scored 40 in just ten qualifying matches in the run-up to this tournament, including putting four past Russia in November.
      Lukaku has been in sensational form and can take that into Euro 2020Credit: Reuters
      Lukaku netted seven goals altogether in those 10 matches, as well as laying on three assists.
      In the form he’s been in domestically and for his country this term, 33/1 is a price we’re taking all day long.
      Highest scoring team
      There’s attacking talent all over the pitch for Belgium and we’re more than happy for you to have a play on them to be the highest scoring team at 5/1.
      But we’re going to be siding with France again here.
      Their attacking options are phenomenal and 11/2 on them being top scorers looks long – especially as we’re backing them to go all the way to the final and lift the trophy.
      Deschamps men plundered 25 goals in 10 qualifying games, taking their foot off the gas in the later rounds.
      France are blessed with a frightening array of attacking talentCredit: AFP or licensors
      With Giroud, Benzema, Coman, Lemar, Dembele, Ben Yedder, Griezmann and Mbappe all vying for spots, there’s goals galore in this team.
      Go with head over heart and choose them over England to be top scorers this summer. No brainer.
      To reach semi-finals
      So, who does a Wales this time round?
      It was a valiant run to the last-four by the Welsh five years ago in France, with Hal Robson-Kanu’s goal against Belgium one of the standout moments of a terrific summer.
      You can get 12/1 on the Dragons repeating the trick this time round, but we’re not overly convinced despite Gareth Bale’s recent upturn in form.
      As a viable outsider – but still at a good price – we reckon Denmark could be the surprise side of the summer.
      Kasper Schmeichel’s Denmark side could be a good bet to go far this summerCredit: Reuters
      The Danes look a real team under Kasper Hjulmand, beating England at Wembley in the last year and staying in Group A of the Nations League.
      Alongside Belgium, Russia and Finland in Group B, they have a terrific change of getting through to the knockouts.
      And they will have a big advantage in those games, playing in front of a home crowd in Copenhagen.
      The way the group system falls, Denmark could finish second and come up against Wales in the last-16.
      Their route to the quarter-finals doesn’t look as tough as some, making them the value tip of the tournament to squeeze their way into the last-four.

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      England ‘don’t have a Gazza’ in their Euro 2020 squad and must go defensive vs Croatia, says Three Lions legend Ince

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      PAUL INCE was Paul Gascoigne’s ‘minder’ at Euro ’96 – helping the mercurial midfielder reach his potential the last time England hosted a major tournament.But the Three Lions legend doesn’t think Gareth Southgate has a ‘one off’ Gazza in his ranks – and reckons the manager should go defensive in his team’s opener against Croatia.
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      Paul Ince thinks Jack Grealish is the closest England have to a GazzaCredit: PADDY POWER
      Paul Gascoigne was in the form of his life at Euro ’96Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Speaking at the launch of the Paddy Park at Flat Iron Square in London, Ince claimed the closest thing Southgate has to an Ince and Gazza partnership is Jordan Henderson and Jack Grealish.
      He told SunSport: “It’s a hard one to answer because I don’t think England have a Gazza in their team.
      “I think they might have a potential [Gascoigne] in Jack Grealish, but Gazza was a one-off.
      “You look at the number of fouls that Grealish gets – and the number of people that foul Grealish – it’s probably the same [number that fouled] Gazza.
      “When I look at the make-up of the squad, there’s going to be some protectors. I’m hoping Jordan Henderson will be fit, I think he’s vital to England’s chances of getting as far as they’d like to.
      “He’s grown and grown and grown… He does the kind of things that I do; he keeps it simple, doesn’t overdo it.
      “He’s a character; he gets on to people and he’s got a bit of nastiness to him – a bit of naughtiness – which you’ve got to have as a holding midfielder.”
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      Ince’s midfielder partnership with Gazza at Euro ’96 helped England reach the semi-finalsCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Gareth Southgate missed the deciding penalty in England’s shoot-out defeat to Germany at Euro ’96Credit: Hulton Archive – Getty
      England’s iconic campaign 25 years ago is remembered for huge wins against Scotland and Holland – and that rarity of a penalty shoot-out triumph against Spain.
      But many forget about their opening game of the tournament – a 1-1 draw with underdogs Switzerland.
      Ince highlights the importance of getting something on the board early on and reckons his old teammate Southgate should be cautious.
      He said: “The first game’s a tough one against Croatia, they’re a good side.
      “The most important thing from the first game is to get a point, get something. If you lose the first game then you’re in trouble.
      “We played Switzerland in Euro ’96. It wasn’t the greatest game, but we got a point. And that gave us something to play for.
      “I can see Gareth going with two holding midfielders – maybe Henderson or Declan [Rice] – and have Mount in front of them.”

      Southgate’s options may be limited, though, as the England boss is sweating over the fitness of key players Henderson and Harry Maguire.
      The Liverpool skipper hasn’t played since suffering a groin injury against Everton FOUR months ago and the Manchester United captain is still nursing an ankle knock picked up against Aston Villa in May.
      Despite their lack of match fitness, Ince reckons both players can be fit for the tournament – and thinks Southgate already knows when they’re going to feature.
      He said: “Whether they can last the 90 minutes, it depends on who you’re playing.
      “If he [Maguire] comes back for Scotland, that’s a high-octane game and he’s got to be on his job – and if there’s that little bit of fatigue where you haven’t played enough games and lose concentration, things can happen.
      “It is going to be tough and that’s why there are question marks, but Southy would know now what the plan is for them two – whether it’s the first, second or third game.”
      Paul Ince was speaking at the launch of the Paddy Parks, the ultimate fan viewing experience for all Euro 2020 games. Held at Flat Iron Square and Riverside Newcastle, tickets will sell out fast – visit www.paddyparkfanzones.com to book your spot.
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      Gareth Bale to RETIRE after Euro 2020 and negotiate £19million payout with Real Madrid to cancel final year of contract

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      WALES star Gareth Bale will RETIRE after Euro 2020, according to reports in Spain.The forward wants to negotiate a payout with Real Madrid for the last year of his contract and call time on his illustrious playing career at 32, it’s claimed.
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      Gareth Bale has just endured a difficult season at Tottenham under Jose MourinhoCredit: Getty
      According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Bale will look to negotiate a £19million deal with Real.
      The 31-year-old, who celebrates his birthday next month, is said to only find joy in playing for Wales after a tricky couple of years in club football.
      He managed just 16 LaLiga appearances for Real during the 2019-20 campaign as he fell out of favour with manager Zinedine Zidane.
      The Welshman had been hoping to rejuvenate his career on loan at former side Tottenham this term – but featured in only 20 Premier League games.
      Bale has achieved more than most in the professional game – winning four Champions League titles – and his existing £650,000-a-week contract expires next summer.
      The fresh rumours come a month after reports about the ex-Southampton star wanting to quit football at the end of his Real deal emerged.
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      Gareth Bale, Eden Hazard and Sergio Ramos are Real Madrid’s top earners
      Bale may still see a future in the game as his former manager Carlo Ancelotti has been reappointed at the Bernabeu.
      The winger flourished under the Italian boss between 2013 and 2015, putting in outstanding performances in the 2014 Champions League and Spanish Cup finals.
      Ancelotti is a huge fan of Bale and could be key to keeping his desire to play alive.
      The returning Real boss told the press at his unveiling: “I have a lot of love still for Gareth Bale, Isco, Marcelo… They will have motivation to show they can still play for Real Madrid.
      “Eden Hazard? He’s a top player, he’ll show his skills. Hazard and Bale can be so important for us.”

      Bale himself has declined to make any assurances he will continue playing beyond this summer.
      And when asked if Ancelotti’s second stint at the Bernabeu will affect his future plans, Bale said: “No, I am not thinking about anything until after the Euros.
      “I know Carlo Ancelotti, he’s a great manager and I get on with him really well.
      “We had some great times in the past.
      “But I haven’t spoken to anyone.
      “I’m not thinking about my future.
      “As soon as the Euros finishes I’m sure I will have a conversation and then I will go from there. 
      “I am not thinking about anything until after the Euros.”
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