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      Junior Jude Bellingham to a tiny Harry Kane… Three Lions heroes when they were just cubs – so how many do you recognise?

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      ONE cheeky looking lad has his face painted with a St George’s flag while others proudly show off schoolboy medals.But these adorable photos aren’t of youngsters dreaming of emulating their footie heroes – they ARE the Three Lions, snapped playing the beautiful game as youngsters.Harry Kane’s first club Ridgeway Rovers say the England striker is an inspirationCredit: Collect picture .England’s record scorer Harry has come a long way since he began his careerCredit: GettyAhead of tomorrow’s last 16 clash against Slovakia, Robin Perrie and Nick Parker spoke to the players’ former clubs – who have sent their own good luck messages.Harry Kane Bayern Munich & Ridgeway RoversRIDGEWAY Rovers in Chingford, East London has produced not one, but two England captains – with Harry, 30, following in David Beckham’s footsteps.Chairman Ian Marshall said: “I really hope we go on to win this with Harry Kane taking a lead role.“When he wears that armband he’s a true leader for England. He has that ability to raise his game that extra five per cent.READ MORE ON ENGLAND TEAM“Harry means such a lot to us here, but he’s a player to be celebrated by the whole country now.“The kids here love to see Harry do well and he’s a tremendous inspiration for youngsters coming up through this club.”Jude Bellingham Real Madrid & Stourbridge JuniorsJude Bellingham could have become a cricket star if he wanted to, it is claimedCredit: Collect picture .Real Madrid midfielder Jude is one of England’s most exciting playersCredit: GettyTHE way Jude, who turns 21 today, has taken La Liga by storm with Real Madrid, shows he was destined to be a star – and not just as a footballer.At Hagley Cricket Club, Worcs, an 11-year-old Bellingham stood out.Most read in Euro 2024Club chairman Mark Baker, 71, said: “If he had focused on cricket, he could have gone far in the game.”But football was always his first love and he showed he has always been up for the cup when he posed for a pic with the FA Cup as a kid with non-league Leamington FC.Man Utd fans in meltdown over moment Kobbie Mainoo ‘sends Joe Gomez back to Charlton Athletic’ in England training Club chairman Jim Scott, 68, said: “What struck me about young Jude, even at that age, was how remarkably mature he was. “Forget about Jude the footballer, Jude the young man was very well brought up with great manners and great standards.”Bukayo Saka Arsenal & Greenford CelticArsenal academy star Bukayo Saka began his fledgling career a Greenford CelticCredit: Collect picture .Bukayo is now playing in his second European ChampionshipsCredit: GettyTHE 22-year-old flying winger played his first game at Greenford Celtic FC, in West ­London, before moving to Arsenal’s academy. The original club no longer exists and it later became Celtic- 1995 FC.Chairman Albert Tamou said: “We’re very proud Bukayo started at our club and has gone on to achieve such great things.”John Stones Man City & Penistone Church FCJohn Stones’ talent stood out from a young age at Penistone Church FCCredit: Collect picture .John is England’s most important defender with Harrry Maguire out injuredCredit: GettyJOHN, 30, stood out the first time he played for Penistone Church FC, aged seven, in Barnsley.Club secretary Dave Hampshire recalled: “When he joined Penistone it was clear that he had something extra – he had an awareness about him.“When we see Penistone Church FC next to his name it gives the club a boost. “We wish him the very best at Euro 2024.”Kobbie Mainoo Man Utd & Cheadle And Gatley Juniors, Adam Wharton Crystal Palace & Moorland AcademyManchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo is one of England’s newest starsCredit: Kobbie wants to win the Euros after helping his club lift the FA CupCredit: GettyCrystal Palace’s Adam Wharton also made his name as a youngster in LancashireCredit: Collect picture .Wharton was a surprise call-up after a superb second half of the seasonCredit: GettyIT wasn’t long ago that England starlets Adam, 20, and 19-year-old Kobbie were enjoying junior football games in Lancashire.The gifted midfielders may yet play a huge role for England in their first senior tournament, after playing for ­Moorland Academy in Clitheroe and Cheadle And Gatley Juniors, in Stockport, respectively.A Moorland spokesman said: “It’s difficult to put into words how over the moon we are about what Adam has achieved. “We wish him every success.”And Cheadle And Gatley Juniors said they were “so proud” to see Kobbie in the England squad.Coach Steve Vare said: “He wasn’t one of these young lads that might be a little ­arrogant – he was very quiet and he’d let his football do the talking.”Aaron Ramsdale Arsenal & Kyle Walker Man City, both Sheffield United AcademyKyle Walker is one of two England players to come through Sheffield United’s ranksCredit: Blades sportsKyle is now one of England’s most successful players at club levelCredit: GettyKyle’s path was followed by Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron RamsdaleCredit: Collect picture .SHEFFIELD United Academy manager Derek Geary knew both Aaron, 26, and 34-year-old Kyle when they were youngsters.Aaron’s prowess between the sticks singled him out as a special talent, while Kyle’s electric turn of foot caught the eye.Derek said: “I could see straight away that Aaron was going to make it as a professional.“Not just because he was talented, but his character was outrageous.“He was bubbly and full of energy, but he was obsessed with being a goalkeeper and loved being at Sheffield United.“Kyle was very, very fast. “He was very determined, very outgoing, full of energy and ultra-ambitious.“He suited the modern day full-back position. “There was absolutely no doubt in my mind that he was going to go on and have the great career that he has.“They are both now an inspiration to the current players here because they see pictures of them around the Academy.”Phil Foden Man City & Reddish VulcansPhil Foden had ‘frightening’ talent as a youngsterCredit: Man City ace Phil has just become a dad for a third timeCredit: GettyNEW dad Phil, 24, dazzled even as a youngster for Reddish Vulcans in his home town of Stockport.A club spokesman said: “Even at the age of seven his control, ­movement and change of direction were frightening.“He would leave players trailing.“It’s a wonderful knowing that Phil played for us.“He’s inspired a lot of children in our community and we are ­honoured to say that he was once here.”Marc Guehi Crystal Palace & Cray WanderersMarc Guehi is making former club Cray Wanderers very proudCredit: Collect picture .The Crystal Palace defender is one of England’s rising starsCredit: GettyENGLAND’S stand-out defender, 23, at the Euros once played for Cray Wanderers in South East London.CEO Sam Wright said: “It’s fantastic to have a guy who played in our under-7s and under-8s now representing England at the Euros.“We’ve been blown away by how well he has done. “After the Iceland friendly I worried whether the big stage might be too much for him but he’s been absolutely magnificent.“Even when he makes an error he makes sure he recovers and clear the danger.”Jarrod Bowen West Ham & Leominster TownWest Ham star Jarrod Bowen is living his dream by representing EnglandCredit: Collect picture .THE little lad with the face paint and the St George’s Cross hair do is now a millionaire Premier League star with West Ham United. And he’s also dating arguably England’s most famous Wag – Love Islander Dani Dyer.But for the 27-year-old winger it all started at Leominster Town FC, in his home town in Herefordshire.Club chairman Andy Barrington said: “I am incredibly proud that Jarrod made it into the England squad for the Euros.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s a momentous occasion for him, for our club, and our entire community. “His journey from a grassroots footballer at Leominster Town to an international star is nothing short of inspirational.”Jarrod has been looking to make an impact from the bench in England’s opening gamesCredit: Getty More

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      England’s likely line-up to face Slovakia with Southgate set to make just ONE change and Phil Foden to start

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      PHIL FODEN is set to start against Slovakia after returning to England training today.The Manchester City midfielder left the camp for the birth of his third child but took a private flight back to Germany ahead of the morning session.Phil Foden is set to keep his spot in the starting XICredit: PAKobbie Mainoo could replace Conor Gallagher in midfieldCredit: GettyFoden is set to keep his place in the team and the only change for the last-16 clash could be Kobbie Mainoo replacing Conor Gallagher in midfield.Declan Rice and Kieran Trippier look set to feature despite missing Thursday’s training.Of the two, Trippier is believed to be the bigger fitness concern.Should the Newcastle star be unable to play, Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa is the favourite to start at left-back.Read More on Euro 2024Luke Shaw, out since February with a hamstring injury, has also taken part in all of the sessions this week but he is likely to start on the substitute’s bench.England topped Group C with five points from a possible nine after beating Serbia and managing draws against Denmark and Slovenia.But the Three Lions have struggled to impress, scoring just two goals.Following Tuesday’s 0-0 draw with Slovenia, Southgate said: “I understand the narrative towards me. That’s better for the team than it being towards them.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSEngland’s likely starting XI to face SlovakiaEngland 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.”But it’s creating an unusual environment to operate in. I’ve not seen any other team qualify and receive similar.”I understand some of the reactions but it’s a strange environment we’re playing in.SunSport’s Latest Euro 2024 headlines”I thought we were much improved with the ball, we’ve created some good openings and at the moment it’s hard work for us because we’re not quite getting that break in front of goal.”So many things are starting to come together. We had a lot of issues coming into the tournament and today we looked more dangerous, we had a good impact from our substitutes, and we’ve got just now to convert our chances.”England face Slovakia on Sunday in Gelsenkirchen.Victory for the Three Lions in the last-16 will set up a quarter-final tie against either Switzerland or Italy.France, Spain, Germany and Portugal are all on the other side of the draw.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      ‘Something’s not right’ – Ian Wright reveals Gareth Southgate concern as England prepare for Slovakia clash

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      IAN WRIGHT believes there is “something not right” with Gareth Southgate at the moment.Former England striker Wright sees a change in the demeanour of the Three Lions’ boss at the Euros – particularly when he is in front of the media.Ian Wright says there is ‘something not right’ with Gareth Southgate at the momentCredit: ITVEngland boss Southgate’s demeanour has concerned WrightCredit: GettyThe 60-year-old said on Stick to Football: The Overlap Special, brought to you by Sky Bet: “You can see something about him in his interviews.“When you look at Gareth before this tournament, you look at him and his demeanour, he was very confident.“When he’s speaking to people and looking at reporters, there is an authority to what he’s saying, and he has confidence in what he’s saying.“Now you’re hearing him say, ‘There’s something quite not right,’ and he does this thing at the moment where he’s speaking and will look down and you can see that he’s contemplating something else.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS“There is something not right with him and I really feel for him because I think he’s taken on so much with what he’s had to do as England manager and change so many different things culturally and politically.”Southgate is bossing his fourth major tournament since taking over in 2016 but is expected by many to step down after this summer’s Euros.England topped their group with an opening win against Serbia with draws to Denmark and Slovenia following. Slovakia now await in the last 16 on Sunday and Phil Foden is back having gone to the UK for the birth of his third child.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYBBC 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 TownsendMeanwhile, Declan Rice and Kieran Trippier worked on individual programmes to aid their load – but are expected to play against Slovakia.Luke Shaw still remains an unused member of the squad after being selected while still carrying an injury.But the Manchester United star has now declared himself fit and could feature against Slovakia.Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the Euros More

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      Spain vs Georgia – Euro 2024: La Furia Roja take on underdogs in huge last 16 clash – stream FREE, team news, odds

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      SPAIN take on tournament debutants Georgia in a huge Euro 2024 round-of-16 clash on Sunday.La Roja cruised through the group stages this month, becoming the only team to claim maximum points.Spain took maximum points from the group stagesCredit: GettyGeorgia beat Portugal to book a spot in the knockoutsCredit: GettyLuis de la Fuente’s side beat Croatia 3-0 in their opening game before winning 1-0 against Italy and Albania respectively.They have now been tipped to go the distance in the knockouts – but face a difficult challenge against Georgia.Football fans have fallen in love with the Crusaders at this summer’s tournament.Despite losing 3-1 to Turkey in their opening game – which was immediately dubbed a European classic – Willy Sagnol’s side have gone above and beyond expectations.Read More on Euro 2024Georgia drew 1-1 with Czech Republic before earning a historic 2-0 win over Euro 2016 champions Portugal on Wednesday, meaning they progressed to the knockouts as one of the best third-placed teams.The question is – will the underdogs cause another upset this time around?What is their form like?Spain go into Sunday’s match with a 100% record so far at Euro 2024.While they are yet to lose a match, they are also yet to concede a single goal having kept clean sheets against Croatia, Italy and Albania.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSAs for Georgia, Willy Sagnol’s side registered one win, a draw and a defeat in the group stages.Following a slow start, they went on to beat eventual Group C winners Portugal thanks to goals from Napoli star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze, who is currently leading the Golden Boot race.Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s incredible history with Cristiano RonaldoTeam NewsDe la Fuente made 10 changes to his squad ahead of Spain’s match against Albania, but the likes of Nico Williams, Pedri, Lamine Yamal and Alvaro Morata are all set to return to the starting line-up.Rodri will also be back following a one-game ban.Rodri will be back for SpainCredit: GettyBut Nacho Fernandez and Ayoze Perez are battling to be fully fit following injury setbacks.As for Georgia, Anzor Mekvabishvili is suspended so he will likely be replaced by Giorgi Chakvetadze.Solomon Kvirkvelia and Giorgi Tsitaishvili are expected to return with Kvaratskhelia leading the attack.Ones to watchSpain youngster Lamine Yamal has impressed since making his major tournament debut.The 16-year-old became the youngest footballer to play at a European Championship when he started for La Roja against Croatia earlier this month.He also provided an assist during the opening match.Lamine Yamal has impressed for Spain this summerCredit: GettyGeorges Mikautadze is leading the Golden Boot raceCredit: GettyMeanwhile, Georgia forward Georges Mikautadze is in great form.The 23-year-old is currently leading the Euro 2024 Golden Boot race with three goals, beating the likes of Cody Gakpo and Jamal Musiala.What has been said?Looking ahead to Sunday’s match, Spain boss Luis de la Fuente said: “We have maximum respect for them. They are a team that is having a great tournament, that has defeated Portugal; and that, due to the experience we have, we have seen that they have been improving and progressing in their performance.”We will have to give our best version to have a chance of going through.Luis de la Fuente insists his team will respect GeorgiaCredit: GettyWilly Sagnol has praised his team for exceeding expectationsCredit: Getty“We have seen that they have changed the system somewhat, but not the idea they have, with players who come out very quickly in transitions.”We will have to be very careful. The experience of having played matches and the security of having qualified, with the motivation that comes from beating Portugal, make them more dangerous.”They, thanks to that trajectory, will have security. We, too, with ours.“We have to reaffirm our path, our idea, and continue to grow. In our heads, our hearts and our legs are continuing to improve. Our players understand that. If we want to go far, the improvement must be constant.”Following Georgia’s impressive win over Portugal, Willy Sagnol said: “To some players, I even told them, remember when you were 16, 17, 18, you were playing without any foes, then do exactly the same. And I think they did it brilliantly today, above all expectations.”There are benefits to being tournament underdogs. When you’re the small team, you know you have nothing to lose.”The only thing we said before the competition is whatever happened, we don’t want any regrets after the competition, the regret of maybe not having played our football or maybe not having enjoyed the competition as much as we should have done.”So, you have no weight on your shoulders. It’s difficult when you’re France, when you’re England, when you’re Spain, when you’re Portugal, because you’re under pressure, because people expect you to win.”The only responsibility we had was to make the Georgian nation proud of their players. And I think we’ve done it the best way.”He continued: “We just take the things the way it comes. And Spain is coming. Spain is probably the best team of the first round. So it’s another big challenge for us.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSWhen is Spain vs Georgia?Spain’s clash against Georgia will take place on Sunday, June 30. The game will kick off at 8pm BST. The RheinEnergie Stadium in Cologne, Germany, will play host. What channel is it and can it be live streamed?Spain vs Georgia will be shown live on ITV1 and ITV1 HD in the UK. You can live stream the action from ITV X app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device. Can I watch for FREE?Yes, the game is free to watch on ITV, so long as you have a valid TV licence. READ MORE SUN STORIESOddsSpain – 1/5Draw – 11/2Georgia – 14/1Spain to win tie – 2/13Georgia to win tie – 11/1*Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication. 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      France vs Belgium – Euro 2024: Les Bleus face De Bruyne and Co in tantalising Euro 2024 clash – odds,channel,prediction

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      FRANCE are aiming to forget the group stage and live up to their fierce reputation with a victory over Belgium in their last-16 tie of Euro 2024.Les Bleus have received much criticism back home after failing to win their final two group matches and finishing second in Group D.France need to kick-on and return to their normal outstanding style at Euro 2024Credit: GettyBelgium wimped through Group E after drawing with UkraineCredit: GettyFrance are out to win the Euros for a third time having failed to make good on their label as favourites in the last two tournaments.Didier Deschamps has faced up to plenty of criticism amid claims that off-pitch political matters are disrupting the French camp.And a slight 1-0 victory over Austria in the group opener, following by two lacklustre draws has left a lot to be desired.Of course, Kylian Mbappe’s broken nose didn’t help things, but the French need him back and firing on all fronts if they are to advance to the final.As well as Kevin De Bruyne’s Belgian side, France have Germany, Spain, Portugal on their brutal side of the Euro 2024 draw.But Belgium can claim to have even bigger issues after being BOOED off by their fans following their goalless draw with Ukraine.In their away kit inspired by Tintin, they were extremely reliant on their most Tintin-like player, De Bruyne.The Red Devils also scored just twice in their three games, with Romelu Lukaku cutting an increasingly frustrated figure after having three goals ruled out by VAR.Most read in Euro 2024Belgium also finished runners up in Group E and only achieved one victory – a 2-0 win over Romania.However, one of these teams has to progress with Portugal or Slovenia awaiting in the quarter-finals.Here is everything you need to know ahead of France’s showdown clash with Belgium on Monday.Kylian Mbappe’s new mask revealed as France training mask is bannedBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFrance Euro 2024 guideFRANCE are the one nation all England fans are truly afraid of.They are many punters’ favourites after knocking the Three Lions out of the 2022 World Cup and will be hoping to do much better than at Euro 2020, when they lost to Switzerland in the last 16.MANAGER: Didier DeschampsComing up to 12 years in the job, the only thing missing from his CV is a European Championship.STAR MAN: Kylian MbappeMbappe’s PSG may have underachieved on the European stage but he remains France’s most deadly threat, with a World Cup trophy and a World Cup final hat-trick to his name.How France attackExpect to see France play in a fluid 4-3-3 – which becomes 4-2-3-1 in possession – throughout the tournament.Giroud acts as the focal point in the attack with the two wide players and Griezmann as No 10 supporting.How France defendWe can expect to see France defend high with an emphasis on winning back possession as far up the pitch as possible.France will stagger their defensive shape when the opposition are in possession.Read the full France Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.What is their form like?France managed one win and two draws in the group stages and came out second behind shock contenders Austria.France have struggled to get up to speed this summer and are yet to put on a convincing performance.Les Bleus have failed to score from open play at Euro 2024, after an Austrian own-goal secured a French win over Austria and Mbappe’s penalty in their 1-1 draw with Poland.They were then lucky to avoid defeat in their goalless draw with the Netherlands – who finished and qualified in third place.The Dutch thought they’d won it when Xavi Simons slotted past X inside 70 minutes before VAR controversially overturned it due to a goalkeeper obstruction.France were let off after Xavi Simons’ late winner was ruled out for a Denzel Dumfries offsideMeanwhile Belgium suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Slovakia in their opening tie, but beat Group E winners Romania 2-0 in the second match.Before being out classed by a very unlucky Ukrainian side and limply passing through to the knockouts.What is the team news and any injuries to worry about?Mbappe was fit to start against Poland having broken his nose in their Euro 2024 opener, which will see him play out the rest of the tournament in a face mask.France brought Bradley Barcola into the line-up for Antoine Griezmann, after the youngster scored a hattrick in their mid-tournament friendly. Olivier Giroud and Marcus Thuram will also hope to get the nod in attack, perhaps moving Mbappe out wide.Belgium boss Domenico Tedesco has struggled with the problem of how to fit their wealth of attacking players into a coherent system.Sevilla winger Dodi Lukebakio is back from a ban to offer an alternative to Leandro Trossard, who has so far failed to impress.Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku has also failed to set the world alight, so Timeoue Bakayoko could get the nod to start on the left-wing.Up front, RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda hit 24 goals in the Bundesliga last season but looks set to remain on the bench behind Lukaku.Who will be the star men?Mbappe was the top goalscorer of the Qatar World Cup in 2022 (8 goals) – and most attacking finesse comes through him.The 25-year-old is the difference maker but N’ Golo Kante will step up to help him deal with Belgium’s talented midfield.France need Kylian Mbappe to ignore his maskCredit: RexThe Red Devils need De Bruyne to produce a world class performance to get them through this tie with tournament specialists France.De Bruyne created the only two chances against Ukraine, but Lukaku let him and side down on both occassions. The Man City midfield maestro will need help though – Trossard needs to step up, as well as Doku.Kevin De Bruyne is the man to watch for BelgiumCredit: GettyWhat have the managers said?French boss Deschamps insisted his side will only improve after their disappointing group-stage showing.Deschamps, 55, said: “It is a new competition that is starting. “You cannot always read a competition just from the group stage. We deserve to be second, I am satisfied.”Now it is going to be a little bit more down to the wire; now we’ve only got the big teams but that is the name of the game.”I would be a lot more concerned if we were not creating chances but obviously there is room for improvement.”Didier Deschamps has begged French fans for patienceCredit: GettyMeanwhile Belgium boss Tedesco claimed Belgium’s latest performance was impacted by their delayed pre-match arrival. He said: “We arrived at the stadium in circumstances I’ve never seen before.”It took one hour to come from the hotel with a police escort. The road was completely free, but they slowed down to 20-25 kilometres per hour. Every traffic light was red. “I had two minutes to make a preparation talk and we had to reduce the warmup. It’s unbelievable, unbelievable, unbelievable.“There were laser pens being shone in our eyes. There were many things in the first game and we still qualified, that’s why I’m so proud of the players.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYSunSport predictionA meeting between two teams that struggled to find the back of the net in the group stage means this could be a low-scoring affair.It could come down to a moment of magic to settle the match, and France boast a greater number of options capable of producing the goods.SunSport says 1-0 France.What are the odds?France – 5/6Draw – 23/10Belgium – 4/1France to win tie – 2/5Belgium to win tie – 7/4*Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication.When is France vs Belgium?France’s big last 16 game against Belgium will take place on Monday, July 1. The game will kick off at 5pm BST. The Merkur Spiel-Arena in Dusseldorf, Germany, will play host. READ MORE SUN STORIESWhat channel is it and can it be live streamed?France vs Belgium will be shown live on ITV1 and ITV1 HD in the UK. You can live stream the action from the ITV X app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device. Can I watch for FREE?Yes, the game is FREE to watch on ITV 1 and the ITV X app, so long as you have a valid TV licence. More

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      From Georgian heroes to Austria’s tackle machine – which players lead key stats in Dream Team Euros?

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      WITH Dream Team Euros briefly in limbo as the group stage becomes the knockout phase, it’s the perfect time to analyse which players are leading the way in the key statistics.To what extent this information guides your strategy ahead of Matchday 4 is up to you but it’s always helpful to be across the numbers that make up our beloved fantasy game.Spoiler: Georgia reign supremeLet’s start with the metric that matters most…POINTS34 pts – Georges Mikautadze (£2m)32 pts – Cody Gakpo (£4m) 27 pts – Jamal Musiala (£4.5m)26 pts – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m)24 pts – Theo Hernandez (£5m) 24 pts – Koen Casteels (£3.5m)Georgia have won plenty of hearts and minds at this tournament and the fact their No22 leads the way in terms of total points in Dream Team Euros at this stage is truly remarkable.The names that follow Mikautadze are more familiar and it’s worth noting Mbappe’s high ranking as he missed Matchday 2 because of a broken nose – France’s No10 averages 13 points-per-game right now.Musiala, Hernandez and Casteels are the top midfielder, top defender and top goalkeeper in the game respectively.GOALS3 – Georges Mikautadze (£2m)2 – Niclas Fullkrug (£4m) 2 – Cody Gakpo (£4m) 2 – Jamal Musiala (£4.5m) 2 – Ivan Schranz (£1.5m) 2 – Razvan Marin (£1.5m) Most read in FootballNaturally, there’s fair amount of crossover between goals and points but it’s worth marvelling at Mikautadze as Golden Boot leader, at least for the time being.It will be interesting to see whether Julian Nagelsmann keeps faith in Kai Havertz (£4.5m) or gives Fullkrug a start against Denmark as the Borussia Dortmund target man has looked sharper in front of goal.In terms of assists, there’s no front runner but the following nine players are level on two each: Nathan Ake (£4m), Ilkay Gundogan (£4m), Ante Budimir (£3m), Remo Freuler (£2.5m), Nuno Mendes (£4m), Juraj Kucka (£2m), Orkun Kokcu (£2.5m), Dennis Man (£1.5m) and Alexander Prass (£2m).Musiala is currently the most-selected player in Dream Team EurosCredit: GettyBONUS POINTS9 pts – Josip Sutalo (£3m)8 pts – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m)7 pts – Jude Bellingham (£6m)Croatia didn’t make it to the last 16 and so their 24-year-old centre-back won’t be adding to his impressive tally – the secret to his success is revealed further down.Not only did Mbappe score on his return to action in Matchday 3, he earned the maximum of five bonus points thanks in no small part to the fact he completed six successful dribbles against Poland.Bellingham’s lofty ranking here may surprise some gaffers, especially after his lethargic showing against Slovenia, but England’s No10 completed his fair share of dribbles and won more than a few free-kicks in his first two outings.SHOTS ON TARGET7 – Romelu Lukaku (£5.5m)6 – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m)5 – Kai Havertz (£4.5m)5 – Cristiano Ronaldo (£6m)How Belgium’s striker didn’t score in the group stage remains a mystery.A combination of narrow offsides, controversial VAR decisions and imprecise finishes meant the Red Devils’ all-time top scorer was left frustrated, as were his backers.There he is again, Mbappe, despite the fact he’s played just twice – he’s a serious asset in this game.Eight players are currently on four shots on target, including Kevin De Bruyne (£7m), Cody Gakpo (£4m) and Alvaro Morata (£5.5m).Lukaku suffered across the first three MatchdaysCredit: GettyBIG CHANCES CREATED4 – Roland Sallai (£2.5m)3 – Lamine Yamal (£4m)3 – Dominik Szoboszlai (£3.5m)3 – Ante Budimir (£3m)Hungary didn’t make it out of Group A but it evidently wasn’t due to a lack of creativity – Sallai and Szoboszlai created seven big chances between them!Spain’s teenage sensation will fancy his chances of creating some gilt-edged opportunities for his team-mates against Georgia in Matchday 4.Yamal is the only asset in this list still active in Germany.TACKLES13 – Nicolas Seiwald (£2m)11 – Strahinja Pavlovic (£2.5m)10 – Robert Andrich (£3.5m)10 – Giovanni Di Lorenzo (£4.5m)10 – Stefan Posch (£2.5m)10 – Josip Stanisic (£3.5m)10 – Oleksandr Tymchyk (£2m)Austria’s intense pressing has been a feature of their impressive performances under Ralf Rangnick and so it’s no surprise to see one of their industrious midfielders leading the way in this metric.Seiwald will probably have to make a few more against Turkey in what could be an end-to-end thrill ride if both teams go for it in their customary style.Austria’s tackle machineCredit: GettySAVES21 – Giorgi Mamardashvili (£2m)13 – Florin Nita (£1.5m)13 – Thomas Strakosha (£1.5m)12 – Martin Dubravka (£1.5m)12 – Bart Verbruggen (£3.5m)12 – Angus Gunn (£2m)Another Georgian hero tops the pile!The Valencia goalkeeper has been fantastic between the sticks, as evidenced by the fact he’s well and truly in a league of his own for saves.Interestingly, Nita and Verbruggen are set to meet in the round of 16 when Romania take on Netherlands – will that match-up come down to which keeper maintains their high standards?SUCCESSFUL DRIBBLES13 – Jeremy Doku (£5m)9 – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m)9 – Jamal Musiala (£4.5m)8 – Ousmane Dembele (£4.5m)8 – Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (£3m)8 – Lamine Yamal (£4m)Dream Team Euros assets don’t earn points for successful dribbles directly but this avenue is one of the best ways to reach bonus points.This list is essentially a breakdown of the continent’s most-natural dribblers but Belgium’s rapid winger is in a bracket of his own – although his end product will have to improve if his side are to edge out France in Matchday 4.Catch him if you canCredit: GettyACCURATE CROSSES10 – Christian Eriksen (£3m)7 – Lukas Haraslin (£2m)6 – Andrija Zivkovic (£2.5m)Denmark’s set-piece specialist has been well ahead since Matchday 1 when he registered a whopping seven accurate crosses against Slovenia.Memphis Depay (£3.5m), Toni Kroos (£3.5m) and Nico WIlliams (£4m) are among the six players on five accurate crosses.INTERCEPTIONS13 – Josip Sutalo (£3m)7 – Fabian Schar (£3m)7 – Samet Akaydin (£2m)7 – Mario Mitaj (£1.5m)No wonder Sutalo was such a keen bonus point hoarder during his time in Germany!The Ajax defender notched almost twice as many interceptions as his closest rival – clearly he’s expert reader of the game.Sutalo was deceptively effective despite Croatia’s issuesCredit: GettyFOULS WON10 – Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (£3m)9 – Max Mittelstadt (£3.5m)9 – Roland Sallai (£2.5m)9 – John McGinn (£2.5m)8 – Harry Kane (£7.5m)Georgia deserve a trophy of some kind, don’t they?This time it’s their talismanic forward who tops the ranking thanks to his quick feet and, let’s face it, his willingness to hit the deck.READ MORE SUN STORIESGermany’s left-back is something of an outlier here as the only defender – he’s currently the fifth most-popular player in his position.Remember, you can check out all the relevant numbers through Dream Team’s Stats Centre at any time.SunSport’s Tom Barclay gives an update on Phil Foden’s return to England’s euro 2024 camp More

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      Who is Luke Shaw’s girlfriend Anouska Santos, when did the Man Utd ace start dating her and is he playing for England?

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      LUKE SHAW has said he hopes to return to the England Team for Euros 2024.The Manchester United defender has struggled with a hamstring injury in recent years but has been supported by his stunning girlfriend Anouska Santos. The couple attended the wedding of Shaw’s Man Utd colleague Phil Jones and Kaya HallWho is Anouska Santos?Very little is known about Anouska, except that her birthday is on May 16.The couple tend to keep their relationship private – with Anouska’s Instagram account shut off to the public.But Luke Shaw has posted some snaps of the pair together over the years, including celebrating her birthday at Wireless Music Festival in 2017. Luke Shaw and Anouska Santos took a trip to New York together Luke Shaw wished his girlfriend Anouska Santos happy birthday during their trip to Wireless Festival in 2017Credit: Instagram @lukeshaw23Most Read in FootballWhen did Luke Shaw start dating Anouska Santos?There is no official timeline for when the couple got together, but they have been dating since at least May 2017.The couple regularly holiday together, spending time in Ibiza and New York.Meanwhile, Anouska is often spotted alongside her footballer boyfriend at events including Man United’s United4Unicef dinner.Do Luke Shaw and Anouska Santos have children together?Luke Shaw and his long-term partner Anouska Santos have two beautiful children together – a boy and a girl.Reign was born in November 2019 but the official date is unclear, while their little girl, Storie, was born in May, 20, 2022.Shaw and Santos have two children togetherIs Luke Shaw playing for England?Shaw, 28, is facing a battle against injury to make it in time to feature for England at the Euros in Germany.He has said that he hopes to play with the team this summer. Luke Shaw is facing a fitness challenge to play for England this summerCredit: GettyThe Manchester United defender scored three times including during England’s Euro 2020 final loss to Italy.Shaw will wear the number three shirt this summer which was handed to him by Prince William ahead of the tournament. More

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      Spain vs Georgia: Get £60 in football free bets and bonuses for Euro 2024 clash with William Hill

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      SPAIN clash with Georgia at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne on Sunday for a place of the quarter-finals.And brand new William Hill customers who register an account and stake a tenner will be rewarded with a colossal £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football.Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereSpain vs Georgia: Get £60 in football free bets with William HillCredit: WILLIAM HILLHow to claim..William Hill £60 bonusVisit the William Hill website on your mobile device HERE*Register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60Place a bet of at least £10 from your main balance on Euro 2024 football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greaterAfter settlement – win or lose – William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonusesSpain vs Georgia: Claim your £60 bonus – click here*William Hill £60 welcome bonusNew to William Hill? You can sign-up using the links provided on this page and then you can reap the rewards!Simply register a new account and deposit a minimum of £10 using the Promo Code: T60.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSAfter that, stake at least £10 from your main balance on football on the William Hill Sportsbook at odds of 1/2 or greater.After settlement — win or lose — William Hill will credit your account with £60 in free bets and bonuses to spend on football and in the casino!Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:Establishes time and monetary limits before playingOnly gambles with money they can afford to loseNever chase their lossesDoesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressedGamcare – www.gamcare.org.ukGamble Aware – www.gambleaware.orgFind our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk*18+. Play Safe. New players only, using promo code T60. Valid from 13/04/2022. Online play. Get £60 Bonus split between Vegas & Sports in the following manner – (i) Deposit £10 to unlock £20 Vegas Free Bet on Selected Games (72hr expiry, wagering reqs apply); then (ii) bet £10+ (odds 1/2+) with cash (excl. £10 deposit) or Vegas winnings (after wager reqs met). Once settled, receive £40 Sports Free Bets excluding Virtual Markets (4x £10, 7 days expiry). Payment methods & country restrictions apply. Full T&Cs apply. More