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      Jack Grealish dons hilarious shoulder-length blond WIG as he lets his hair down after England exile

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      JACK Grealish was today spotted letting his hair down after he was dropped from the Euros – by donning a WIG on his luxury St Tropez getaway.The Man City ace appeared to mock his signature highlighted curtains by sporting shoulder-length blond locks.Jack Grealish, 28, was spotted sporting a blond wig and black capCredit: BackGridThe Manchester City ace was having some fun in Saint-Tropez, FranceCredit: BackGridHe was seen smiling as he petted two dogs on SaturdayCredit: BackGridHe tucked them under a black cap and also wore a tank top, shorts and sliders while soaking up the sunshine with pals in the south of France.An onlooker said: “It all seemed like great fun. “Other people on the beach had to look twice as Jack looked more like his teammate Erling Haaland.”Grealish, 28, was seen smiling as he petted two dogs on Saturday as his partner Sasha Attwood looks after their cockapoo at home in Cheshire.The £100m winger will have to find somewhere to watch England’s crunch match against Slovakia after Gareth Southgate dropped him from the squad.It is his second trip abroad since the disappointment after the ex-Aston Villa captain was seen enjoying himself in Dubai.Axed from Euro 2024 England squadFORMER Arsenal star Paul Merson revealed his theory as to why the £100million Manchester City star was not brought to Germany.Appearing on Football’s Greatest Pod alongside legendary presenter Jeff Stelling, Merson was asked about the thoughts of Gordon and Palmer’s zero minutes so far, revealing a theory about avoiding conflict in the camp.The 56-year-old said: “That’s why they’re there and Jack Grealish is not there. Because Jack, I imagine, would be going mad now. I can’t imagine Gordon and Palmer saying anything.”I just imagine them sitting there, just saying to himself; ‘Well, maybe I should be getting on’.”I don’t see him saying anything to him. I could see a Grealish going to Gareth and going; ‘Why am I not playing?'”He continued: “I think he brings on Eze, who’s one of our most gifted players to do a job, he’s running back.”He puts Bowen on the other side, Bowen’s alright if you want to keep a lead, you know if we’re winning like we were last week [against Serbia].”We’re one-nil up, you put him out on the right, he’ll do what it says on the tin, get up and down, block crosses, get crosses in.”But you don’t put him on to win a game in my opinion. You know there’s horses for courses.”You’ve got to put Palmer on, he scored 20 goals this season. You know he can play with that bit of flair. Eze gets on and he doesn’t touch the ball hardly, there’s no plan.”You know I would play Watkins but I’d have to keep Kane in the team. I’d have to find a way because you know you have to keep world class players on the football pitch.”Meanwhile, Southgate said of his decision to chop Grealish: “I have just delivered a really difficult conversation to a lad who is devastated. I think the world of him as a kid.”It certainly doesn’t get any easier. You put yourself in the shoes of a player, a parent.”You understand that for these players this is a devastating moment. We knew we had a couple of really difficult days coming up.”The whole period has been tough, going back to talking to Marcus Rashford and Hendo (Jordan Henderson). Lots of difficult calls. But we have worked through all of that.”It comes after Gareth Southgate did not select the player in his Euro 2024 England squad.Grealish was said to have been shocked by the decision to leave him out of the team, while Three Lions stars were also understood to have left taken aback by the call.Most read in FootballBut, the Man City winger has returned to the training pitch ahead of pre-season.He shared a video from Juventus’ academy training pitch at the weekend.Paul Merson reveals theory about why Jack Grealish was snubbed from England’s Euro 2024 squad And Grealish has since flown back to Manchester to continue pre-season preparations at City’s training ground.The former Aston Villa star took part in a session with personal trainer Jamie Reynolds on Tuesday and filmed a short video of himself for Instagram.Grealish posted the clip during England’s Euro 2024 match against Slovenia.The Three Lions played out a disappointing 0-0 draw with Matjaz Kek’s side in Cologne.After the match, England boss Gareth Southgate said: “I’m not going to back away from it, The most important thing is the supporters stay with the team.”He continued: “I understand the narrative towards me and that’s better for the team than it being towards them.READ MORE SUN STORIES”But it is creating an unusual environment to operate in. I’ve not seen any other team qualify and receive similar.”I understand it, I’m not going to back away from it, but I’m very proud of the players for how they’re operating within it.”England player ratings: Southgate’s Gallagher experiment fails miserably vs SloveniaENGLAND served up another underwhelming performance – but still managed to top Group C.England dominated the ball, but Southgate will have plenty of questions to answer after a third straight display that lacked inspiration.SunSport’s Tom Barclay has given his ratings of the England players.Jordan Pickford – 6Largely a spectator due to England’s dominance on the ball. Asked the touchline what the Denmark score was during one break in the second half.Kieran Trippier – 6The one positive of having a right-footed player playing left-back is that he can dispatch in-swinging crosses, and one such one should have been headed home by Conor Gallagher before the break.Marc Guehi – 7Cruyff turn early doors showed his confidence from excellent displays against Serbia and Denmark, and barring one loose pass was good again.John Stones – 6One of many to miss his target with his passing. He wasn’t bad but, like others, way off what he has produced for his club.Kyle Walker – 5Played so safe, rarely looked to get forward. Was lucky at one point that Pickford was alive to his blast of a pass-back. Sliced cross after break summed up his off-night.Conor Gallagher – 4Got the nod after the Trent Alexander-Arnold midfield experiment ended, but was poor, particularly, in possession and replaced at half-time by Kobbie Mainoo.Declan Rice – 7Had promised an “in your face” performance from his team, but he was really the only one to produce it. Very good out of possession, much better than against Denmark.Phil Foden – 7Liveliest of England’s attacking four by a mile and went close with a stinging free-kick. Booked for dissent, summing up England’s frustration.Jude Bellingham – 5Cut a very frustrated figure as he and Harry Kane got in each other’s way at times, while he was often shunted wide left as Phil Foden moved into the middle.Bukayo Saka – 6Tapped home on 20 minutes, but it was ruled out for offside in the build-up. OK but once again subbed after the break, perhaps due to fitness concerns.Harry Kane – 6Insists he is 100 per cent fit and maybe he is. What is 100 per cent certain is that he has been nowhere near as effective in this tournament as he usually is for England, albeit he was marginally better here.SubstitutesKobbie Mainoo (for Gallagher at half-time) – 7Made a difference when coming on, making England much more positive in their play. So much more confident with his touch than Gallagher.Cole Palmer (for Bukayo Saka on 71) – 7Finally made an appearance at this tournament and one clever ball through for Mainoo showed what he can do.Trent Alexander-Arnold (for Kieran Trippier on 84) – 6Came on for the final few minutes at right-back, with Walker going to left-back.Anthony Gordon (for Phil Foden on 88) – 6Like Palmer, first minutes at the Euros, but too late to make an impact.He tucked the blond locks under a black cap and wore a tank top, shorts and slidersCredit: BackGridGrealish paired the hilarious look with some navy shortsCredit: BackGridThe player looked in good spirits out with palsCredit: BackGridHe stopped to pet two dogs in Saint TropezCredit: BackGridGareth Southgate did not select the player in his Euro 2024 England squadCredit: Getty More

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      Switzerland 2 Italy 0: Holders dumped out of Euro 2024 by ruthless Swiss as England learn route to semi-finals

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      AT the home of one of their greatest ever nights, the reigning European champions fell to one of their worst ever defeats at a major tournament.It was 18 years ago at Berlin’s infamous Olympiastadion that Italy lifted their fourth World Cup, coming from behind and holding their nerve on penalties to see off France’s Galacticos.Gianluca Scamacca reacts as Italy are CRASH OUT of Euro 2024Credit: GettyAlessandro Bastoni reacts at the end Swiss defeatCredit: AFPRemo Freuler gave Switzerland a deserved leadCredit: GettyIt was the beginning of a brilliant night for the SwissCredit: GettyRuben Vargas’ hit a beauty just seconds in the second half after Italy lost possessionCredit: AFPSwitzerland gave their fans a show and are through to the quarter-finalsCredit: GettySwitzerland play England or Slovakia nextCredit: ReutersVargas produced a brilliant performance before being taken off to rest in the 71st minuteThe mark of champions, some would say. The mark of a stereotypical Italian team. Guile and grit, precision and passion, bravery and beauty.But look at them now. Gutless, clueless and downright ugly – outclassed by Switzerland with an embarrassing last 16 display, unworthy of the Euros title they hold from three years ago.READ MORE EURO 2024 NEWSThe score line was the only thing respectable about this Italy performance. Never have the men in blue looked so timid. A team of nothingness.For all that, the Swiss were mightily impressive, toying with Spalletti’s wannabe contenders from the first minute before goals from Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas settled it.England beware, this lot mean business, and look ready to dismantle another international giant should they meet the Three Lions in the quarter finals in Dusseldorf on July 6.Most read in footballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTheir team is settled and immensely efficient – manager Murat Yakin able to make just one change to a line-up that nearly topped a group containing hosts Germany.Suspended wing-back Silvan Widmer meaning a reshuffle that saw Vargas recalled, and boy did he take his chance.Swiss football team singing the nationalSpalletti has fought and dismissed allegations of a mole in the Italy camp throughout this competition, with rumours suggesting the players were making tactical decisions during an average group stage showing.But it was Spalletti who decided to make six changes from the XI that drew 1-1 with Croatia, dropping Jorginho and bringing in Gianluca Scamacca. In hindsight, a grave error.The warning signs were there inside the first 20 seconds, Breet Embolo beating the offside trap from Fabian Schar’s long ball before Bryan Cristante’s deflection had his own keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma scrambling.The Swiss were elegant on the ball, so confident, so aggressive, typified by former Arsenal man Granit Xhaka expertly and consistently dictating from deep.It was a day to remember for the Swiss fans who travelled to GermanyCredit: GettyThe mannequins in blue were being given the run around, and responded by kicking – Giovanni Di Lorenzo introducing his studs to Vargas’ midriff.That physicality spurred them on – briefly – winning a corner after some neat play from Cristante and Nicolo Fagioli. Unsurprisingly, it came to nothing.A near perfect half from Switzerland, the only criticism being that they were guilty of trying to score the perfect goal. One pass too many on too many occasions.But this Swiss team have more than one arrow in their quiver, Fabian Rieder dinking over the top for Embolo, who clearly thought he was offside given his lethargic effort that was saved by Donnarumma. The replays showed the striker had timed his run perfectly.With 30 minutes gone, Italy looked resigned to their fate, dropping deeper and deeper in fear of being picked off with Yakin’s men controlling 63 per cent of possession.In a below par tournament, after a several poor years since lifting the Euros back in July 2021, this was as bad a first half outing from any Italian side at a major tournament.It got worse in the 37th minute as Vargas lurked down the left and picked out Freuler in the box. His touch was dodgy, but so was the defending, giving him time to ripple the netting of Donnarumma’s near post.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYThe Swiss could smell blood and the Azzurri were bleeding out. Rieder’s whipped free-kick was pushed onto the post and out for a corner by a helpless Donnarumma.The half-time stats were grim reading. Switzerland had put together 32 attacks to Italy’s five, with 10 shots on goal to Italy’s one.Spalletti, a man known for using his voice as a weapon, would have read the riot act, and acted swiftly, hauling off Stephan El Shaarawy for group stage hero Mattia Zaccagni.It was Zaccagni’s 98th minute equaliser in Leipzig earlier this week that knocked out Croatia and sent the Italians into the last 16.Before he could even think about having a similar impact, Switzerland had doubled their lead.It was a peach of a strike, almost overshadowed by more shocking defending.Surrounded by three blue shirts, Michel Aebischer easily teed up Vargas, who jogged past his uninterested Italian markers and found the top corner over the giant Donnarumma.From there, the Swiss managed this game like tournament veterans, as opposed to a side who have never previously gone past the quarter final stage at a World Cup or Euros.READ MORE SUN STORIESScamacca hit the post late on, not that Italy ever came close to a late surge – more like a prolonged crawl to a miserable finish line.Not since the reign of ex-England boss Roy Hodgson in 1993 had Switzerland beaten Italy, an unwanted streak ended with one eye now on Gareth Southgate…England’s penalty shootout recordTHE dreaded penalty shootout.England’s nemesis at no fewer than SEVEN major tournaments since 1990, from the West Germany heartache at Italia 90 to Wembley woes on the brink of Euro 2020 final glory.But two shootout victories before the Italy defeat give some reason for optimism…1990 World Cup semi-final vs WEST GERMANY, 04/07/1990 – LOST 4-3Euro 1996 quarter-final vs SPAIN, 22/06/1996 – WON 4-2Euro 1996 semi-final vs WEST GERMANY, 26/06/1996 – LOST 6-5Friendly vs BELGIUM, 29/05/1998 – LOST 4-31998 World Cup last 16 vs ARGENTINA, 30/06/1998 – LOST 4-3Euro 2004 quarter-final vs PORTUGAL, 24/06/2004 – LOST 6-52006 World Cup quarter-final vs PORTUGAL, 01/07/2006 – LOST 3-1Euro 2012 quarter-final vs ITALY, 24/06/2012 – LOST 4-22018 World Cup last 16 vs COLOMBIA, 03/07/2018 – WON 4-3vs SWITZERLAND – Nations League third-place play-off, 09/06/2019 – WON 6-5Euro 2020 final vs ITALY, 11/07/2021 – LOST 3-2OVERALL: Played 11, Won 3, Lost 8 More

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      Clive Tyldesley reveals he ‘doesn’t know why’ ITV have axed him as legendary commentator narrates last game for channel

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      CLIVE TYLDESLEY has admitted he “doesn’t know why” he is being axed by ITV after 28 years with the channel.The veteran commentator, 69, will be on the mic for Germany’s round of 16 clash with Denmark this evening.Clive Tyldesley has been working alongside Ally McCoist in GermanyCredit: X / CliveTyldesleyTyldesley, who has been working alongside Ally McCoist at Euro 2024, is then set to leave ITV, after he was told that his contract will not be renewed.Speaking to the Mail, he revealed: “I’ve known for five to six weeks.”The ITV football editor phoned me to tell me I would be going home after the last 16.”I asked if there would be any other opportunities and he said that ITV would not be offering me another contract and so that will be it after 28 years.”READ MORE EURO 2024 NEWSTyldesley worked as ITV’s lead commentator at five World Cups, five European Championships, nine FA Cup finals and 17 Champions League finals.He was dropped as the channel’s No1 commentator in 2020, replaced by Sam Matterface.The experienced broadcaster continued to work with ITV as their No2, but will now depart.On his exit, he added: “ITV has been very good for me and my career and I’d like to think I have been good for them.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”It’s a shame it’s coming to an end but it’s a matter of opinion and their opinion is that this is the right call.”I don’t know why they think that. I’ve never fully understood but I have to accept it. I still think my work is strong enough to resonate with old and young.”Clive Tyldesley hilariously commentated on a REPLAY during North Macedonia vs HollandTyldesley believes he is still as good as ever, and has no intention of retiring.He added: “I think I am still at a level where I can commentate as well as I ever did.”I am conscious that that won’t last for ever. For personal pride and vanity I don’t want my levels to slip. If and when that happens I hope I’ll be first to see it and react accordingly but I think I can still do it.”I don’t wasn’t to use the word frustration, because I’m not particularly frustrated but this was not my decision.”Tyldesley is still set to commentate on Champions League matches for American broadcaster CBS Sports.While he has also launched his new “Football Authorities” podcast alongside Martin O’Neill.READ MORE SUN STORIESTyldesley could yet to return to UK broadcasts.He has confirmed that he is open to offers, although nothing has yet been confirmed.Tyldesley, 69, has launched a new podcastCredit: RexBBC 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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      England boffins targeting Slovakia’s biggest weakness as Newcastle goalkeeper Dubravka’s major flaw emerges

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      ENGLAND have identified Martin Dubravka’s poor penalty record as a potential Slovakia weakness ahead of tomorrow’s round of 16 clash.Gareth Southgate’s side will look to put a series of underwhelming group stage performances behind them as they take on Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen.Martin Dubravka is set to start against EngCredit: GettyWhile the Three Lions boss’ various selection dilemmas have dominated discussions among fans, those behind the scenes are also looking to find any weaknesses in their opponents that they can exploit.Among them is Dubravka’s poor record when facing shots from 12 yards.According to Newcastle World, England’s data team have identified the Toon goalkeeper’s struggles while facing penalties.Dubravka has faced 34 penalties in his career, preventing just six from going in.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis gives him a save percentage of just 17.6, which could serve to encourage England stars should the match go to penalties.The 35-year-old has already conceded a spot kick at Euro 2024, with Romanian Razvan Marin converting beyond him.In fact, he has never stopped a penalty low to his right in his entire career.He has saved two spot kicks in the last six years.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRazvan Marin converted beyond Dubravka during the group stageCredit: GettyOne came against Mohamed Salah during a Prem clash with Liverpool last term.While the other was from Alvaro Morata at Euro 2020.Anthony Gordon given cheeky gift by photographer after bike crash as England star reveals what caused high-speed crashEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYSouthgate, 53, is set to make a change to his midfield for the Gelsenkirchen clash.Conor Gallagher will drop out, to be replaced by Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo.At left-back, Kieran Trippier has been suffering with a calf issue.But he is expected to be available for tomorrow’s match, while Luke Shaw has also returned to full training.Gareth Southgate has a full compliment of players to choose fromCredit: PA More

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      How England stars are keeping busy in camp, from sauna contest to Harry Potter lego and copying BBC game show

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      ENGLAND stars have been keeping themselves busy in their Euro 2024 camp in many different ways.The Three Lions are currently preparing for the round of 16 clash against Slovakia on Sunday evening.England stars have found ways of keeping themselves entertained at Euro 2024Credit: GettyBukayo Saka is one star that has embraced dartsCredit: PAKobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer have played poolCredit: GettyEzri Konsa and Ollie Watkins have played TeqballCredit: GettyThe players have developed multiple ways to keep themselves occupied when they are not training.While at their Blankenhain training base, the stars have come up with different games to relax.One activity involves a 6,000-lego piece set of Hogwarts Castle from Harry Potter.Lewis Dunk has admitted that he has been building the castle along with team masseur Ben Mortlock.READ MORE IN EURO 2024The Brighton captain said: “It’s going to be Hogwarts. It’s not just me. Me and Ben the masseuse, we’re working on it.”To be fair, he has done more than me so far. He’s loving it.”I’ve done a little bit. I’m just glad my kids ain’t here to smash it up!”The players have also made a game to be played at the spa and wellness centre.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSTheir competitiveness has come into play as they do a last-man-standing game in the wood-panelled sauna.It is believed that Liverpool’s Joe Gomez is often the winner and the best at withstanding the heat.Anthony Gordon given cheeky gift by photographer after bike crash as England star reveals what caused high-speed crashAnother popular game among the players is called “wolf” which is based on BBC gameshow Traitors.The England stars have adapted it into a card-playing game in which a large group have to snuff out a small team of wolves.The game came to the forefront after Jude Bellingham’s celebration following his goal against Serbia.There have also been some more activity-based games, as a clip of Declan Rice, Aaron Ramsdale and Kieran Trippier playing cricket emerged online.The England players’ game of ‘wolf’ inspired this celebration against SerbiaCredit: AlamyHarry Kane has been practising his NFL skillsCredit: GettyMarc Guehi is one player that has enjoyed a bike rideCredit: GettyPlayers have also hit the padel courts to take part in mini-tennis matches.The game became popular after the Qatar World Cup and the likes of Phil Foden, Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer and Adam Wharton have been spotted taking part.Cycling has also been embraced by a number of the players, such as Marc Guehi, Ivan Toney and Anthony Gordon.The Newcastle star, however, suffered an unfortunate accident as he fell off his bike, which left him with some cuts and scraps.Gordon was lucky not have done any more damage as Czech Republic midfielder Michal Sadilek was ruled out of Euro 2024 after falling off his bike just days before the tournament started.Harry Kane has been snapped enjoying multiple different sports such as American football, golf and darts.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile other such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Palmer and Gordon have also been playing pool.Aston Villa stars Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins have also been playing Teqball at the camp.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Switzerland vs Italy LIVE SCORE: Defending champions kick off last 16 against in-form neighbours – latest updates

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      ITALY and Switzerland will kick start the knockout stages of Euro 2024 at the Olympiastadion in Berlin NEXT!The Azzurri scrapped through the group stages with a last-gasp equaliser against Croatia.Switzerland had an impressive group stage campaign as they went unbeaten to seal second place behind host nation Germany.Murat Yakin’s side beat Hungary in their first game before picking up 1-1 draws against Scotland and Germany.TV/stream: BBC1 / iPlayerSwitzerland team: Sommer; Schar, Akanji, Rodriguez; Aebischer, Freuler, Xhaka, Rieder; Vargas, Ndoye, Embolo.Italy team: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Mancini, Bastoni, Darmian; Fagioli, Cristante, Barella; Chiesa, El Shaarawy, Scamacca.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Switzerland 0-0 Italy5. Half the pitch is covered by the shadow of the Olympiastadion, but the rest is bathed in the early evening sunshine.”I’m surprised to see Italy press so quickly in this heat,” notes Danny Murphy on BBC co-commentary.Copy linkCopiedSwitzerland 0-0 Italy3. The Swiss have made a strong start here.Embolo had a shot blocked after just 14 seconds, some nine seconds quicker than the record-breaking goal the Italians conceded against Albania.That’s not the end of the early Switzerland pressure either. A Freuler shot from outside the box loops up and goes for a corner, that is eventually well defended by Mancini.Copy linkCopiedKick-off – Switzerland v Italy1. Peeeeeeeep! Polish referee Szymon Marciniak blows his whistle and Switzerland – all in red – get this knockout match underway in Berlin.The Italians, World Cup winners in this stadium 18 years ago, are all in blue, and eager to defend their European title.Copy linkCopiedHere come the two teams!The aperitif that was the group stage has been dealt with, and now it’s time for the main course.And first up, it’s the pasta masters of Italy and the hot chocolate of Switzerland.Gianluigi Donnarumma was crowned Player of the Tournament at the last European Championship, and he’s front and centre as captain three years later in leading the reigning champions out.Across for him at the Olympiastadion is Granit Xhaka, the Swiss skipper and their Mr Reliable in midfield. Over the next two hours – maybe more – one of these two will lead their nations into the last eight with many of their teammates taking on starring roles.This historic venue is the perfect setting to get the Round of 16 underway, and the weather conditions look equally adept for tournament football.Kick-off comes next.Copy linkCopiedEl Shaarawy’s shock selectionFew expected to see Stephan El Shaarawy’s name in the Italian line-up this afternoon, but Luciano Spalletti has trusted him with an important role it the Azzurri attack.This evening will be only the forward’s second appearance for Italy at an international tournament after appearing against the Republic of Ireland at Euro 2016, eight years and seven days ago.It is the second largest gap between appearances for an Italian player at a major competition after Ciro Ferrara in June 2000 (9 years and 348 days after his first appearance).Copy linkCopiedHow the sides shape upCopy linkCopiedAzzurri faves for final eightReigning European Champions Italy are expected to make it through to the quarter-finals of this year’s edition but they will be given a game by the Swiss. That’s the view of the bookies, who have the Azzurri as odds-against favourites while their opponents are a touch bigger than 2/1.Switzerland win 21/10Draw 15/8Italy win 13/8To reach the quarter-finals:Switzerland to qualify EvensItaly to qualify 8/11Odds from William Hill correct at time of post publication.Copy linkCopiedItalian feel to Swiss squadLong gone are the days of international football pitting two unfamiliar sets of players and cultures against each other.Six of Switzerland’s 26-man squad currently play their football in Serie A, five of whom start today.Yann Sommer (Inter), Ricardo Rodriguez (Torino), Remo Freuler (Bologna), Michel Aebischer (Bologna) and Dan Ndoye (Bologna) are all well known to fans of the Italian game.Copy linkCopiedDon’t bet against extra-timeIf you’re expecting a straightforward evening of knockout football that lasts little more than 90 minutes, then you might want to think again.And that’s because 15 of Italy’s last 26 knockout matches at major tournaments have gone to extra-time, including four of their last five.Overall, the Azzurri have had more games go to extra-time than any other nation at World Cups and European Championships, and have contested the joint-most penalty shootouts along with Spain (11).Copy linkCopiedSpalletti switches up AzzurriAfter changing things up for the group game with Croatia, Italy head coach Luciano Spalletti again rotates his squad.Federico Dimarco is injured and Riccardo Calafiori suspended, and they join Jorginho, Lorenzo Pellegrini, Giacomo Raspadori and Mateo Retegui in dropping out of the starting XI.Gianluca Mancini comes into a defence which is now a back four, while Nicolo Barella is now joined in midfield by Bryan Cristante and Nicolo Fagioli.Up front, former West Ham striker Gianluca Scamacca plays in between the supporting Federico Chiesa and Stephan El Shaarawy.Italy (4-3-3): 1 Donnarumma; 2 Di Lorenzo, 17 Mancini, 23 Bastoni, 13 Darmian; 16 Cristante, 21 Fagioli, 19 Barella; 14 Chiesa, 9 Scamacca, 22 El ShaarawySubs: 12 Vicario, 26 Meret, 3 Dimarco, 4 Buongiorno, 6 Gatti, 7 Frattesi, 8 Jorginho, 10 Pellegrini, 11 Raspadori, 15 Bellanova, 19 Retegui, 20 Zaccagni, 24 Cambiaso, 25 FolorunshoCredit: @Azzurri on XCopy linkCopiedVargas starts for SwissMurat Yakin makes one enforced change to the Switzerland side that pushed hosts Germany all the way to the final whistle last time out.Silvan Widmer is suspended after collecting two yellow cards in the group stage, and so he is replaced n the right by the more attacking Ruben Vargas.It’s a switch that’s likely to see Michael Aebischer playing in behind Vargas with Fabian Rieder operating back out on the left.Breel Embolo continues in attack following his recent injury woe while Granit Xhaka captains the team from the heart of midfield.Switzerland (3-4-3): 1 Sommer; 22 Schar, 5 Akanji, 13 Rodriguez; 20 Aebischer, 8 Freuler, 10 Xhaka, 26 Rieder; 17 Vargas, 7 Embolo, 19 NdoyeSubs: 12 Mvogo, 21 Kobel, 2 Stergiou, 4 Elvedi, 6 Zakaria, 9 Okafor, 11 Steffen, 14 Zuber, 15 Zesiger, 16 Sierro, 18 Duah, 23 Shaqiri, 24 Jashari, 25 AmdouniCredit: @nati_sfv_asf on XCopy linkCopiedAssured Azzurri dominating SwissThis evening’s encounter in Berlin will be the fifth meeting between Switzerland and Italy in a major international tournament.The Swiss won the first two games, both at the 1954 World Cup – 2-1 in the group and then 4-1 in a group play-off – but that’s as good as it’s got for the Red Crosses. The Italians have been 3-0 group stage victors in each of the last two such fixtures, at the 1962 World Cup, and – more recently – Euro 2020.In fact, since prevailing 1-0 in a May 1993 World Cup qualifier, Switzerland are winless in 11 matches against Italy in all competitions (D6 L5).They are only currently on a longer winless run against England (13) and Russia (12), while Italy are only on longer unbeaten streaks against Finland (14) and Turkey (13).Italy celebrate after victory against Switzerland at Euro 2020.Copy linkCopiedGood afternoon from BerlinWelcome to live coverage of Switzerland against Italy in the Last 16 of Euro 2024.It’s the first day of the knockout stage, and so it is fitting that we begin with the reigning champions.Mind you, they nearly didn’t make it this far in their defence at all.Had it not been for Mattia Zaccagni’s 90+8th minute equaliser against Croatia in Leipzig on Monday, then the Azzurri would already be back home having failed to make it out of Group B as one of the best third-placed teams.But the Italians are renowned slow starters, and a test against the Swiss this evening could prove the perfect opportunity to kickstart this summer’s campaign.In contrast, the Rossocrociati eased their way out of Group A – and almost beat hosts Germany to top spot until an injury time goal from Niclas Fullkrug denied them at the last six days ago.Murat Yakin’s men are now eager to at least replicate their quarter-final showing of the last Euros when they sparkled at this stage of the tournament with an epic comeback against France before prevailing on penalties.So which nation will be the first to book a place in the quarters? It’s almost time to find out.It’s a 5pm kick-off in the German capital, and team news is on the way.Copy linkCopied More

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      England team for Euro 2024 last-16 tie with Slovakia REVEALED with Man Utd star Kobbie Mainoo set for first start

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      MANCHESTER UNITED star Kobbie Mainoo will make his first Euros start in England’s last-16 tie with Slovakia tomorrow.Mainoo, 19, will be been rewarded by Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate for his impressive showing off the bench in the goalless draw against Slovenia.Kobbie Mainoo is set to start against Slovakia tomorrowCredit: GettyConor Gallagher, who Mainoo replaced at half-time on Tuesday, drops to the bench in the only change from England’s final Group C match.Meanwhile, Kieran Trippier has been passed fit to start in Gelsenkirchen.The Newcastle right-back, 33, has been nursing a calf injury this week but trained with the rest of the 26-man squad today and is ready to start again.With Luke Shaw, who has not played since February, lacking match sharpness, Ezri Konsa had been on standby.READ MORE ON EURO 2024But the versatile Aston Villa defender will have to wait for the time being at least to make his Euros bow.Southgate has also resisted temptation to bring Cole Palmer into the starting XI despite his promising cameo off the bench against Slovenia.With Bukayo Saka expected to make his fourth start at the tournament.PFA Player of the Year Phil Foden will keep his place on the left despite returning home earlier this week for the birth of his third child.Most read in Euro 2024Luke Shaw is back in full trainingCredit: RexPhil Foden has also returned after heading home for the birth of his third childCredit: PAGareth Southgate seems to still be tinkering with his midfieldCredit: PAEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSSouthgate will therefore stick with the same front-four for the fourth game running with Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane in line to start once again.Regulars Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker and John Stones will also start, along with Marc Guehi, arguably England’s best performer so far at the Euros.Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the EurosIt was harsh to hook Gallagher at half-time… but Mainoo showed he’s the answer, says Jack WilshereKOBBIE MAINOO was always my preference to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold in England’s midfield, writes Jack Wilshere.I think he showed why in the second half against Slovenia.But I still feel that it was harsh on Conor Gallagher that he was taken off at half time.Firstly because it was probably our best half of the tournament.And secondly, because it didn’t feel like a Gareth Southgate thing to do.It will knock Gallagher’s confidence for sure.He will have thought that this was his chance, but he only gets a half.Having said that, despite the disappointing result, the second half was better and Mainoo proved he is the man – or boy – to play there in future.Read Jack Wilshere’s post-match verdict in full.Or check out all of Jack’s Euro 2024 columns.Anthony Gordon remains an option on the bench despite his bike incident earlier this week.The Newcastle winger escaped serious injury after crashing an electric bike during a recovery session on Wednesday.Gordon was left with a huge graze on his chin and a number of nasty cuts all over is hands and arms.But the gashes are superficial, meaning he will still be an option to Southgate if called upon.Fans will be hoping England will be able to play some more exciting football to get the better of Slovakia tomorrow.The Three Lions have left fans wanting more with their uninspiring performances so far at Euro 2024.However, they have got the job done and finished top of Group C – giving them a great chance at going deep in the tournament.England’s full squad trained todayCredit: ReutersKieran Trippier is expected to keep his place at left-back after a late fitness testCredit: PAAnthony Gordon is fit to play despite falling off his bikeCredit: GettyGordon showed off his nasty cuts in his press conferenceCredit: APSpirits seem high in campCredit: Paul EdwardsEzri Konsa and Kyle Walker wrestled with each other on the grassCredit: Getty More

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      Watch Micah Richards belt out Bob Marley song with Danny Murphy and Alan Shearer as fans hail ‘nation’s treasure’

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      FANS have hailed Micah Richards as a “national treasure” after he belted out a Bob Marley song.The pundit is in Germany for Euro 2024 and has been working alongside BBC stars Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer.Micah Richards was filmed singing along to Bob MarleyCredit: Instagram / garylinekerFans hailed the pundit as a ‘national treasure’Credit: Instagram / garylinekerAlan Shearer also joined in on the sing-a-longCredit: Instagram / garylinekerDanny Murphy also showed off his dance movesCredit: Instagram / garylinekerThe trio had an evening off duty between the end of the group stages and the knockout stages.They were joined by Danny Murphy for a night out at a restaurant.The evening then saw Richards start singing along to Bob Marley’s 1977 song Three Little Birds.Richards was joined in his rendition by Murphy and Shearer.READ MORE ON EURO 2024The moment was filmed by Lineker, who posted the clip to his Instagram account.He captioned the video: “We’re all singing from the same song sheet.”Lineker’s 1.2million followers loved the video as they flooded the comment section.One fan posted: “Just a lads holiday isn’t it really.”Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSA second wrote: “Not enough words for this man. He’s the nation’s treasure.”A third commented: “Micah always bringing the energy.”BBC VS ITV: Who wins in battle of Euro 2024 teamsA fourth said: “Some job these have.”A fifth joked: “Proper Brits abroad.”Another added: “Haha, love it big Meeks!”Meanwhile, Richards has claimed that Portugal could go all the way to Euro 2024, but they have a problem with Cristiano Ronaldo.He is also expecting England to “kick into gear” following the group stages, which left many fans underwhelmed.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More