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      Gareth Southgate drops biggest hint yet over next job amid Man Utd links after stepping down as England manager

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE has no plans to jump straight back into the dugout following his England exit.The 54-year-old resigned from his role as Three Lions boss in July following the nation’s second straight Euros final defeat, a 2-1 loss to Spain.Gareth Southgate resigned from his role as England manager after their Euro 2024 final defeat to SpainCredit: PAThe 54-year-old won’t be rushing back into managementCredit: REXSouthgate has hinted that his next job might not be in footballCredit: RexSouthgate’s success at the England helm has put him on the radar of several clubs.And the former England international is understood to be on Manchester United’s shortlist of candidates to replace Erik ten Hag.But he’s revealed his next job might not even be football-related.He told Sky Sports: “I’ve got lots of opportunities, I’m very open-minded to what’s next.READ MORE ON SOUTHGATE”That might be in football, that might be outside of football. “I’m just going to take some time, refresh, recharge and go from there.”I think at the moment people know that I need to get my energy back.”The FA have yet to appoint a permanent successor for Southgate, who spent eight years in charge of the Three Lions.Most read in FootballLee Carsley will remain in interim charge of the side while FA chiefs continue their search for a new gaffer.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSouthgate’s England legacy should be celebrated, not torn downBy Tom BarclayGareth Southgate claimed that only winning Sunday’s final would earn England the respect of the footballing world.Spain proved a last-gasp comeback too far in Berlin, but defeat did not change the fact that Southgate’s eight-year transformation put respect back into the world of England football.Critics will pick apart his cautious tactics, his selection choices and his record in the most high-pressurised games – with some legitimacy.Yet what is quickly forgotten is the laughing stock our national side had become before he took over in 2016.A shambolic Euros exit to Iceland that summer had been followed up by Sam Allardyce quitting just one game into his tenure thanks to his pint of wine with undercover reporters.Then came Southgate, with his decency, his humility, his understated eloquence and his vision for a better, different future.He had analysed why England had so often failed in the past, from lack of preparation at penalty shoot-outs to players being bored out of their minds during major tournaments.Southgate took those findings and implemented a culture where players wanted to play for their country again – and it led to back-to-back finals for the first time in our history.Instead of going to war with the media, he opened his doors to them and discovered, shock, horror, that it was met, generally, with support. It did not stop him from being criticised when required – we are no cheerleaders, here – but the vitriol of yesteryear – or today on social media – was largely gone.No manager is perfect and neither was Southgate. We cannot pretend his teams played like those of Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp.But in the fullness of time, his feats will likely be revered because the results speak for themselves.Hopefully his successor can go one step further and bring football home. To do that, they must show respect to what Southgate has created and build on it, rather than rip it down.To read more from Tom Barclay click HERE. Southgate has paid little attention to the noise surrounding his departure, including criticism from pundits like Gary Lineker.He said: “There’s no point in me talking about the team now.’Get him in’ – England fans reveal who they would like to replace Gareth Southgate after Euro defeat”It’s for me to let other people take over, to give them the space to go and take the team on to the next challenges.”There’s no point in me getting involved in anything like that.”Despite ultimately failing to end the nation’s long wait for silverware, Southgate insists he’ll look back at his time in charge of the team with great pride.He said: “We raised expectations and that was important. “We needed to put English football back on the map.”He added: “I think it was probably the right time for change.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I don’t think you can have regrets. “We made decisions with the information we had at the time to try and produce a winning team.” More

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      England in World Cup 2026 boost as major Uefa change all but guarantees Three Lions top seed in qualification

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      ENGLAND are set to receive a massive World Cup seeding boost – after a Uefa rethink.Euro chiefs had indicated that seeding for December’s qualification draw in Zurich would be determined entirely by Nations League places, with the best 12 performers getting the advantage.England have received a massive boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup drawCredit: AFPThat meant England, relegated to League B after their 2022 horror show performances, could not gatecrash the top seeding pot even with a 100 per cent record under interim boss Lee Carsley.Three Lions’ sources had accepted the apparent reality and the risk of having to beat one of the likes of France, Spain, Portugal to Germany to take an automatic place in the USA, Canada and Mexico.But it has now emerged that Nyon chiefs have refined the seeding plans – effectively guaranteeing England top spot unless they suffer a major meltdown over the next two months.Instead of the top 12 League A sides being seeded, the new plan will see the top two in each of the four pools earning that ranking.Read More on EnglandBut the four remaining top seeds will be the best four sides in Fifa’s world rankings that have not earned their spots through the Nations League.And with England’s position in fourth in that Fifa table – behind only Argentina, France and Spain – strengthened by the back-to-back wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland, it is almost certain that they will be rewarded by a place in the top pot.The expansion to a 48-nation tournament means Europe will get 16 teams in the revamped tournament, up from 13 in 2022.Uefa agreed to downsize qualifying groups to ensure all the group matches are played between March and November next year.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThere will be 12 groups, six of which will have four teams and the others containing five sides.Only the group winners qualify, with the runners up joined by four sides from the Nations League campaign in a series of sudden-death play-offs for the final four places in March 2026.Lee Carsley reveals he is ‘not speaking’ to Ben White as he gives update on Arsenal star’s England careerWinning their League B pool would ensure England have a fall-back place in the play-offs even if they blow up in the qualifying campaign.But even as top seeds, England will still probably be in one of the five team groups with at least two qualifying matches before the end of this season, in the March and June international breaks.England ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. More

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      Angel Gomes is 5ft 6in just like N’Golo Kante and has a lot of similarities… England were dying for a player like him

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      AT first glance, it seemed like England had more mascots than normal when the teams lined up for their 2-0 win over Finland.Harry Kane had a couple of his children on the pitch to mark his 100th cap but even so, there still seemed to be too many kids out there.Angel Gomes could be the future for England in central midfieldCredit: GettyGomes shone as Harry Kane fired England to a 2-0 win over FinlandCredit: GettyOn closer inspection, it was Angel Gomes, England’s new midfield hope. Officially, he stands at 5ft 6 in but even that looks debatable.Interim manager Lee Carsley clearly believes that good things come in small packages. Rico Lewis, who also enjoyed a decent second senior appearance, is also an inch taller than Gomes but his hair gives him a height boost.While Gomes looks tiny out there in the centre of the pitch, it is still a refreshing sight when you consider an increasing number of managers clearly believe every player has to be 6ft.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe 24-year-old is the same height as former Chelsea and Leicester midfielder N’Golo Kante and there are obvious similarities in their style of play.England have been dying for a player like him. After an encouraging cameo against Ireland, Gomes, who came through the ranks at Manchester United, delivered a smooth and composed performance.While his inclusion was a surprise, we will certainly be seeing a lot of him over the next couple of months.You can see why he stood out in every age group in terms of his touch, control and the way he receives and moves the ball with his back to goal.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSGomes has similarities to N’Golo KanteCredit: GettyEngland ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 69 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham.Gomes saw plenty of the ball at Wembley, particularly in the first half, and at no point was he looking for the safe option of passing sideways.He was always looking to try the risky pass but he was making it look simple.Inside Angel Gomes’ rise from Man Utd wonderkid to England starThe Lille midfielder set up a decent chance for Kane and then delivered a wonderful pass to Bukayo Saka but his cross was deflected for a corner.While Gomes is also small in build, he still puts his foot in. He tackled Teemu Pukki to cheers from the home crowd and then won the ball to put himself clean through but Matti Peltola threw himself into the air to earn a foul.Gomes’ performance will earn him further matches against Greece at Wembley next month along with Finland away three days later.But a true test will only come when England face a better team and have much less possession.Only then will we see what Gomes is like without the ball and whether he is able to protect the defence well enough.Kobbie Mainoo, who has played in a similar position to Gomes for England, has also delivered some special performances but there have been times – including the final against Spain – when he has found himself being bypassed.While his inclusion was a surprise, we will certainly be seeing a lot of him over the next couple of months.Although his preferred position is as a no.10, maybe Gomes could be that player to dominate games in a deeper role like Rodri does for Manchester City and Spain.Carsley’s travelling over the next few weeks will not be restricted to Premier League games.He will also head to Germany to see Kane at Bayern Munich and rising star Jamie Bynoe-Gittens at Dortmund.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn Madrid, there is Jude Bellingham and Conor Gallagher while Carsley has also indicated that he may travel to Saudi Arabia to watch Ivan Toney.But most of all, you get the impression Carsley will be heading to northern France to watch Gomes. And in the future, we will be seeing a lot more of him.Gomes has impressed in France with LilleCredit: GettyGomes won the U17 World Cup with England in 2017Credit: GettyHe helped the Young Lions win the 2023 European Championship tooCredit: Getty More

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      England ratings: Trent is Three Lions star man and could have had hatful of assists but Rice gifts Finland huge chance

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      TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.Trent Alexander-Arnold impressed against FinlandCredit: ReutersHarry Kane bagged a brace on his 100 England appearanceCredit: GettyKane was the main focus of the match as he completed his century of appearances for the Three Lions.After a few attempts, the captain finally got his name on the scoresheet to mark his milestone outing for England.The striker was a constant thorn in the Finland defence and was unlucky not to score more as he saw a spectacular overhead kick and free-kick well saved.But it was Trent Alexander-Arnold who impressed the most with a classy performance.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLDeclan Rice however was far from his best and he was lucky not have given up a goal with a sloppy mistake.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to doTrent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.England pay touching tribute to Sven Goran-Eriksson with minute’s applause at Wembley and emotional videoEngland players with 100 capsHere is a list all the players to reach 100 caps for England…Peter Shilton – 125Wayne Rooney – 120David Beckham – 115Steven Gerrard – 114Bobby Moore – 108Ashley Cole – 107Bobby Charlton – 106Frank Lampard – 106Billy Wright – 105Harry Kane – 100Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on. Solid though not much to deal with.Now 19 short of 100 caps. 6.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki. Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Declan Rice was not at his best against FinlandCredit: GettyLost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka -7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display. Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Jack Grealish looked goodCredit: GettyEnjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return. 7Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Kane’s goals were the differenceCredit: GettyTwo blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 68 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten. Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.Subs: Levi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61): Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on. 6Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66): Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper. 6Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66): Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second. 7Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80): As with Colwill, little to do. 6Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81): Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham. 6READ MORE SUN STORIESLee Carsley: Two games down, two 2-0 wins. In truth, the first half was quite dull fare against the Finland’s ten men behind the ball. But the quality shone through, as well it should have given the gulf in class and mainly thanks to Kane’s shooting prowess.Alexander-Arnold shone as he was given licence and trust by Carsley at right-back and Angel Gomes looked unfazed on debut. Not a victory to write home about but nothing wrong either. 6Harry Kane reveals his favourite England goalsHARRY KANE is already England’s all-time record goalscorer.But the Three Lions skipper will NOT be stopping there.To mark his 100th cap for his country, Kane spoke to SunSport’s CHARLIE WYETT about some of his special England goals….FIRST ENGLAND GOAL“My debut v Lithuania. March 2015.”There was a lot of talk in the build-up to that camp because I was playing well for Spurs.“I got a great reception and within a couple of minutes I scored a goal.“I don’t think I could have dreamed it any better.“My friends and family were there. That was a really special night.”FAVOURITE ENGLAND GOAL“It’s between two, for me.“Against Germany, the one at Wembley in Euro 2020.“Also, the header against Tunisia at the World Cup in 2018.“That moment of scoring a last-minute winner at my first World Cup was special.”BEST ENGLAND GOAL“The one I scored in Poland away in a World Cup qualifier in 2021. It was from 25 yards.”(Kane picked up the ball from Kyle Walker, advanced towards goal and put his foot through it.)“It kind of drifted away and it was a good strike, probably my furthest-out goal for England.” More

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      England 2 Finland 0: Harry Kane back to his best with brilliant double on 100th cap as Lee Carsley wins in Wembley bow

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      AFTER being cast as a summer scapegoat in Germany, Harry Kane is back to being simply the GOAT.England’s greatest goalscorer marked his 100th international appearance with an emphatic second-half double – two of the very best strikes he has ever conjured for his country.Harry Kane did what he does best on his 100th appearance for EnglandCredit: GettyThe star bagged twice to see England win 2-0Credit: PAIt was a golden night for Kane who made his 100th appearance for the Three LionsCredit: GettyAs a keen cricket fan, Kane knows the importance of marking a century and at Wembley tonight he raised his bat in style, leaving to a standing ovation from all four corners of Wembley ten minutes from time.That double took the Bayern Munich striker’s tally to 68. Kane claims he is aiming for three figures and you wouldn’t bet against the 31-year-old on this showing.Kane has been bristling at taking much of the blame for England’s faltering performances en route to the Euros Final.But after clearly struggling for full fitness during that campaign this was a welcome return to full sharpness, with two sweet finishes after a much busier all-round display.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIt was a second successive impressive performance for England under interim boss Lee Carsley. They were patient against a stubborn Finnish defence and an excellent keeper – lively, inventive and ultimately clinical.And while Kane stole the show, Trent Alexander-Arnold was magnificent, playing a major role in both goals. Carsley’s decision to employ him in his Liverpool role as a right-back/midfield playmaker proving a masterstroke.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSKane rifled his first goal into the roof of the netCredit: ReutersHe swept his second past Finland goalkeeper Lukas HradeckyCredit: GettyThe star had been searching for a goal to mark the historic occasionCredit: GettyKane helped Lee Carsley keep a perfect record as England bossCredit: APThe Anfield man looks liberated under Carsley’s interim regime and will surely be an automatic England starter from now on.Sure, this was still only a home win against a Finnish side ranked 63rd world but England lost to Iceland the last time they played at Wembley so should not be sniffed at.Harry Kane’s favourite England goalsEngland ratings vs Finland: Kane bags double on his big day… but he’s not the Three Lions’ star manTRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD showed his brilliance as Harry Kane’s brace saw England beat Finland.Interim boss Lee Carsley maintained his 100 per cent win record in charge of England.SunSports Tom Barclay has given their ratings of the England players…Jordan Pickford – 6Had nothing to do.Trent Alexander-Arnold – STAR MAN 9England’s best player as he supplied some beautiful balls from deep that on another day would have led to a glut of assists.He did get one in the end, although that was more thanks to Harry Kane’s lethal finishing.Ezri Konsa – 6Showed his ability on the ball with a super ball through for Bukayo Saka on the half hour.Twisted his ankle early in the second half, surprisingly played on before being replaced on the hour.John Stones – 6Played at left-sided centre-back before shifting when Levi Colwill came on.Solid though not much to deal with. Now 19 short of 100 caps.Rico Lewis – 7In the right place to snuff out early danger from ex-Norwich man Teemu Pukki.Came close to a goal on his second England cap when prodding wide after the break.Declan Rice – 5Lost possession to give Finland their one and only big chance which Topi Kesinen should have squared to Pukki, but instead fired wildly over.Angel Gomes – 7Wanted the ball from the off, just like Lee Carsley thought he would. Deliciously drilled cross-field ball to Alexander-Arnold early doors showed his range.Bukayo Saka – 7Almost scored and almost assisted in a lively display.Unlucky that Kane was millimetres offside after the centurion had headed home the Arsenal man’s wicked delivery.Jack Grealish – 7Enjoyed being in the heart of the action at No10 again, as he did on Saturday against the Republic of Ireland.Carsley clearly likes him – it will be fascinating to see what happens when Mssrs Bellingham, Foden and Palmer all return.Anthony Gordon – 7Caused problems down the left with his rapid pace – how we needed some of that in the Euros.But did not have on his shooting boots as he fluffed a decent chance early in the second half.Harry Kane – 8Two blistering finishes took the centurion to an astonishing 69 goals in 100 caps.Was denied the chance of a hat-trick in front of his family when subbed off to a standing ovation for the final ten.Kane said he fancies his chances of reaching a ton of international goals – and it does not seem fanciful.SUBSLevi Colwill (on for Konsa, 61) – 6Next to no threat from Finland by the time he came on.Eberechi Eze (on for Gordon, 66) – 6Raced on to yet another special Trent pass but could not loop it over the keeper.Noni Madueke (on for Saka, 66) – 7Looked to make an impact every time he got the ball on debut. Excellent one-two with Trent saw the Chelsea man tee up Kane’s second.Marc Guehi (on for Stones, 80) – 6As with Colwill, little to do.Jarrod Bowen (on for Kane, 81) – 6Played up top after Kane went off for the final minutes, as he has done for West Ham.We will be hearing a lot of the expression ‘you can only beat what’s in front of you’ during Carsley’s six-match autumn audition against the Finns, Ireland and Greece – but England have at least done their job with a touch of flourish this week.And just two games into the campaign we can safely say that top-tier Nations League football is coming home.Carsley’s maiden outing in charge – especially the first half – had been a triumph in Dublin, with England free-flowing and thrilling in a 2-0 win.But it initially looked an inauspicious first Wembley date for the interim boss – piddling rain, thousands of empty seats and low-rent opposition which included former Norwich striker Teemu Pukki and a bloke who plays for Aberdeen with a tattoo of Wayne Rooney fishing on his arm.Kane was handed a golden cap by fellow 100 Club members Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole as well as a bunch of flowers from Finnish keeper Lukas Hradecky.After a big-screen shot of Carsley not singing God Save The King – and that’s surely enough of that now – and applause for the late Sven Goran Eriksson, we were off.And it all seemed to be about trying to tee up Kane for a goal on his landmark night.First, Anthony ‘Flash’ Gordon centred but Kane headed back across goal when he might have scored, then he skied a deflected effort from a Bukayo Saka cross.As in Dublin, England were zipping it around nicely. Angel Gomes, on his first England start, was neat and tiny, looking even shorter than his 5ft 6in frame in comically big shorts and short socks.The little Lille midfielder produced a peach of a pass for Kane, who swivelled and had a shot pushed away by his pre-match Interflora man.Next, Alexander-Arnold played a sweet reverse pass and Saka’s deflected cross-shot forced a decent improv save from Hradecky.When Kane first found the net, heading home a curling Saka centre midway through the first half, the linesman correctly spotted a toenail offside.England hogged the ball, possessive as jealous lovers and forced a succession of corners.But the Finns, preparing for months without sunlight, were pulling down the blackout blinds, defending in a low block which resembled a sandbagged roadblock.Alexander-Arnold, England’s most creative player, fizzed one just wide and it felt a little churlish that paper planes were already descending onto the turf when Carsley’s men were playing pretty damned well.Trent Alexander-Arnold looks a man rejuvenated under Lee CarsleyCredit: RexAngel Gomes looked comfortable in the middle of the parkCredit: GettyGomes was chopped down by Glen Kamara on the edge of the box but Alexander-Arnold thudded his free-kick wide.The second half began with Ezri Konsa surviving an injury scare when he went over on his ankle.Then we were back to Hradecky versus England.In the space of five minutes, the Finnish keeper saved from an angled Rice shot, a Kane free-kick, a Gordon effort and a Kane overhead kick.Then finally the resistance was broken thanks to that piece of world-class quality from Kane.Alexander-Arnold made the pass, Kane slipped inside Robert Ivanov and thumped his shot in off the underside of the crossbar.He raced towards the corner flag, leapt in joy and was mobbed by his team-mates.Soon, left-back Rico Lewis dragged one wide when he ought to have doubled England’s lead and Konsa was replaced by Levi Colwill.Carsley soon sent on Ebere Eze and handed a debut to Chelsea’s Noni Madueke.READ MORE SUN STORIESEze should have scored from one of those first-time laser passes from Alexander-Arnold.The second arrived 15 minutes from time, another gorgeous first-time pass from Alexander-Arnold locating Madueke, who squared with the outside of his boot for Kane to rifle into the far corner.England players with 100 capsHere’s a list of all the players to have earned 100 caps for England…Peter Shilton – 125Wayne Rooney – 120David Beckham – 115Steven Gerrard – 114Bobby Moore – 108Ashley Cole – 107Bobby Charlton – 106Frank Lampard – 106Billy Wright – 105Harry Kane – 100 More

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      England fans say ‘music to my ears’ after Lee Carsley’s ‘refreshing’ take on how he wants to play

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      ENGLAND fans are warming to Lee Carsley for his refreshing tactics after the interim manager promised “exciting” football.Carsley, 50, began life after Gareth Southgate with a 2-0 win over Republic of Ireland on Saturday thanks to goals from Declan Rice and Jack Grealish.Lee Carsley has vowed to play attacking football during his time as bossThe Three Lions will continue to play attack minded footballIt was the first of six matches Carsley has been guaranteed as he looks to make the case for him to be given the job permanently.England fans have been craving exciting and entertaining football, which wasn’t necessarily a top priority for the defensive minded Southgate.And Carsley’s latest comments have ignited optimism and joy among the Three Lions faithful who were keen to move away from the conservative tactics employed under the old regime.Before England face Finland on Tuesday, Carsley said: “I made a decision when I went into coaching that I wanted to play attacking football.READ MORE ON ENGLAND”I want us to be playing with control but it’s important we’re exciting to watch.”I think when fans come to watch England play at home they expect attacking football, they expect chances to be created and to play with a tempo and us to be on the ball. It’s entertainment.”One happy England fan wrote on X: “This is music to our ears.”While another wrote: “How refreshing is that!”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSA third said: “Carsley’s football is fast and forward-thinking build up play. What’s not to love? 🙌”Carsley played a 4-2-3-1 formation when he lifted the Euros with the U21s in 2023, placing emphasis on dominating the ball and taking chances.Jack Grealish opens up on ‘one of the worst summers of my life’ after scoring against England over former side IrelandBut his first senior game at the helm was not without its controversy as Irish fans booed and abused Rice and Grealish after they switched allegiances under Southgate.Carsley then refused to sing ‘God Save the King’ after earning 40 Irish caps during his career, before accidentally taking a seat in Ireland’s dugout.But former England striker Gary Lineker, 63, hailed the inclusion of Anthony Gordon, Grealish and Trent Alexander-Arnold in Saturday’s win.Speaking on The Rest is Football, he said: “It’s interesting as well, isn’t it, that perhaps some of the things fans were most disappointed about in the Euros – well, probably three things, maybe more.”But everyone wanted Gordon to play on the left because we all saw a weakness and an unbalance on that side. Grealish was left out entirely which bemused fans and Southgate never really trusted Trent.”In the first game Carsley has come up with all these things and a lot of us are going ‘you see? We told you’.”The Three Lions host Finland on Tuesday in Carsley’s first game at Wembley as boss.England Player Ratings vs IrelandDECLAN RICE silenced his Irish critics with a dominant display in England’s Nations League opener.Lee Carsley’s players handed him a debut win as interim manager of the Three Lions.Rice starred in the first half as he netted the opener and then set up England’s second goal.Jack Grealish doubled up for England after being set up by Rice 15 minutes later.Anthony Gordon however faded in the match as he was not able to have as much success as Grealish.SunSport’s Charlie Wyett has rated England’s players’ performance against Ireland…JORDAN PICKFORD – 6Pushed away a half decent shot from Sammie Szmodics at the start of the game but as England took control, he had a stress-free game.After a difficult couple of weeks with Everton, he would have been grateful for this. TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD – 7Looked more at home at right-back compared to the disastrous midfield experiment at the Euros.Stunning pass in a move that eventually led to the first goal. He has to remain as England’s right-back. MARC GUEHI – 7Enjoyed a decent Euros and switched over to the right of central defence as John Stones was named on the bench.Looks increasingly like a top-drawer defender. HARRY MAGUIRE – 7Was left devastated after failing to make the Euro 2024 squad but he has enjoyed a decent start with Manchester United and looked solid here.When he is not in the team, England do miss his aerial presence. 7LEVI COLWILL – 7Second appearance for England and was deployed at left-back.Unlike the Euros, England have much better balance in defence with a natural left footer in this position. 7DECLAN RICE – 9Enjoyed an absolute stormer in what could have been a difficult afternoon.Booed every time he touched the ball, the former Irish international quietened the boisterous home fans with a brilliant finish although refused to celebrate.He then set up the second for Grealish. KOBBIE MAINOO – 7Fits perfectly into Carsley’s style of play. Some of his passing was excellent, particularly in the final third of the pitch, and this included his part in the outstanding second goal. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Enjoying a terrific start to the season with Arsenal – he has been nominated as their player of the month – and played with plenty of confidence here.Was involved in the second goal.JACK GREALISH – 8Left out of the Euros squad, but loved every minute of this.A decent finish for 2-0 and unlike Rice, celebrated in front of the visiting fans by raising both arms in triumph.ANTHONY GORDON – 6Looked really lively early on but faded.He should have put England ahead when clean through but was lucky that seconds later, Rice hammered his shot into the corner. 6HARRY KANE – 6Missed with a header and despite working hard, did not actually have that many chances despite England having so much possession. SubsGibbs-White (for Grealish 77 mins) 6, Gomes (for Mainoo 77) 6, Eze (for Gordon 77 mins) 6, Bowen (for Kane 84 mins) 6, Stones (for Maguire 85) 6.Subs not used: Henderson, Pope, Lewis, Gallagher, Livramento, Konsa, Madueke. More

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      Who is Harry Kane’s wife Katie Goodland, and how many children do the couple have?

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      HARRY KANE married Katie Goodland in June 2019 after meeting his childhood sweetheart while at school.And the couple are now loving life in Germany following Kane’s stunning transfer to Bayern Munich in August 2023. Katie supported Harry Kane and England at Euro 2024Credit: Paul EdwardsHere is what SunSport know about Kane’s wife Katie Goodland.Who is Katie Goodland?Katie Goodland, 31, is a fitness instructor who has dated England striker Harry Kane since meeting in school. Goodland is a sports science graduate who is said to find her husband’s fame a little “crazy”. They have two dogs called Brady and Wilson, named after NFL quarterbacks Tom Brady and Russell Wilson. Speaking to Esquire, Harry said of Katie: “We went to school together, so she’s seen my whole career. Of course, she’s finding it a little crazy. I think she’s even been in the papers a couple of times taking the dogs out.” Kane and Goodland at BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2018Credit: PA The pair got engaged during July 2017 on a holiday to the BahamasCredit: InstagramWhen did Katie Goodland meet Harry Kane?Katie and Harry are childhood sweethearts who have been together since they met in their school days. The pair got engaged during July 2017, when Kane was aged 23, on a holiday in the Bahamas. Kane, who is England’s captain, got down on one knee on a beach to ask the question – then revealed on Twitter that “she said yes!” Harry Kane’s wife Kate joins star in Germany after Wag spent time ‘hunting for houses & schools for their three kids’ Katie dazzled in a stunning green dress on holiday with Harry and their baby daughter Ivy, who was born in January 2017Credit: InstagramWhen was the wedding?The pair married in the summer of 2019, with Kane announcing that he had married his “best friend”. He had previously joked that he would not cry on his wedding day and only if England won a trophy. The Bayern striker celebrated his joyous day by posting this message: “Finally got to marry my Best Friend! I love you.” And in a wedding photo on Instagram, he planted a tender kiss on his new wife’s forehead.Do Katie Goodland and Harry Kane have any children?Harry and Katie currently have four children together, Ivy (7), Vivienne (5), Louis (3) and Henry (ten months). Baby boy Henry was the latest addition to the family born on August 20, 2023. Harry Kane with his family after becoming England’s all-time record scorerCredit: GettyIn January 2017, the loved-up couple announced the birth of their first daughter to fans with a touching social media post. In the heartwarming snap, Kane and Goodland both kissed little Ivy with Kane writing alongside the photo: “Our beautiful baby girl Ivy.” The England hitman told fans back in July 2016 that he and Katie were expecting their first child, and that their baby was due to be born after Christmas.Kate, who was famously snapped alongside Harry and David Beckham when they were kids, went into more detail about her labour on her Instagram page, revealing she had a water birth. She wrote: “Our beautiful hypnobirthed [sic] baby girl Ivy. “Being a first time mum, I was very scared about labour and was recommended to try hypnobirthing [sic]. “We had an amazing water birth with no pain relief or gas and air and Harry was an incredible birthing partner.” In January 2018, Kane revealed on Twitter the couple were expecting their second child. Their second daughter was born in August 2018 with the couple again taking to social media to announce the new arrival. And the Kane family announced the birth of their first son, Louis Harry Kane, on December 29, 2020. On April 8, 2024, Louis, three, Vivienne, five, and Ivy, seven, were involved in a car crash in Germany on the day the Bayern Munich ace landed in England for his side’s 2-2 Champions League quarter-final first leg against Arsenal. Kane, 30, played and scored in the game — the day after the Monday afternoon crash. A Renault driver, 20, smashed into a black Mercedes Vito while trying to turn onto a motorway slip road, as reported by Bild. Three of the top striker’s children – Louis three, Vivienne, five, and Ivy, seven – were travelling in the Mercedes and were taken to hospital as a precaution.Meet England’s Euro 2024 WagsEngland Wags range from childhood sweethearts to recently blossoming love stories.Katie Goodland (Harry Kane’s wife)The fitness instructor has been married to the England captain since 2019 and joined him in Germany with their four children after he joined Bayern Munich.Laura Celia Valk (Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend)The stunning Dutch model, 25, has more than half a million Instagram followers and is said to be absolutely smitten with the Real Madrid star.Rebecca Cooke (Phil Foden’s girlfriend)Foden’s childhood sweetheart and the mother of his two kids tends to keep out of the spotlight, but is a regular at England games.Dani Dyer (Jarrod Bowen’s girlfriend)England’s most famous Wag, former Love Island winner and daughter of Eastenders’ Danny Dyer.Iris Law (Trent Alexander-Arnold’s girlfriend)Dani Dyer isn’t the only actor’s daughter dating an England star. Iris’ dad is Hollywood legend Jude Law.Megan Davison (Jordan Pickford’s wife)Megan has been with Pickford since he was 14 years old. The couple married in 2022 and have one son.Olivia Naylor (John Stones’ girlfriend)The 33-year-old former beautician has stepped back from her role after giving birth to a baby son.Read more about the Wags supporting England at Euro 2024 hereA spokesman for Kane said: “There was a crash, but the kids are fine, and none were injured. “No injuries at all. “They went to hospital for a routine check-up.” Kane’s wife and his youngest child Henry, seven months, were not in the car. The Mercedes was driven by a 24-year-old woman from the district and there were three passengers in the Renault, aged three, 43 and 48. The Land Rover driven by a 63-year-old woman was also caught in the shocking collision. All eight people caught up in the smash suffered minor injuries and were transported to hospital via ambulance and helicopter, police said. In a statement Munich police said: “On Monday, 8 April 2024, around 5:15pm, a 20-year-old resident of Munich was driving a Renault on state road 2071 towards the A95. “A 48-year-old, a 43-year-old and a three-year-old were also passengers in the 20-year-old’s car. “At the same time, a 24-year-old resident of Munich was also driving a Mercedes on the state road of 2071 in the opposite direction. “There were three children between five and seven in the 24-year-old’s vehicle. “At the junction of the A95 the 20-year-old wanted to turn left on the motorway access road there. “The 20-year-old’s car collided with the 24-year-old’s on-coming car. “As a result, the 20-year-old’s car began to skid and collided with another Land Rover car belonging to a 62-year-old woman who lives in the Munich district and was on the exit of the A95 slip road. “All occupants of the vehicles involved suffered minor injuries as a result of the collision. “They were taken to hospital via helicopter and emergency services. “The 62-year-old went to the doctor herself. “There was material damage amounting to tens of thousands of euros.”How old are Harry Kane and Katie Goodland?The England captain is 31-years-old and he made his professional Tottenham debut in 2011 when he was just 18. His wife Katie is 31. Their eldest child is daughter Ivy who is seven years old. Vivienne Jane is the middle child who is five, Louis who is three years old and Henry was born on August 20, 2023. More

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      Watch highlights of Lewis Hall’s MOTM-display for England U21s as fans call him ‘left-back we’ve been crying out for’

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      NEWCASTLE ace Lewis Hall put together a man-of-the-match performance for England Under-21s and hinted he could be the one to solve Lee Carsley’s left-back problem.The Three Lions have been crying out for a left-back since Euro 2024 when former manager Gareth Southgate only had Luke Shaw to call upon at a time when the Manchester United ace was still injured.Newcastle ace Lewis Hall put together a man-of-the-match performance for England Under-21Credit: GettyHall produced two assists for England Under-21 against AustriaCredit: X @EnglandEngland fans believe Hall is the answer to the seniors’ left-back problemsCredit: X @EnglandInterim boss Carsley used centre-back Levi Colwill in the position in his first match in charge against the Republic of Ireland on Saturday with Rico Lewis the only other alternative on the bench.That means the seniors still need a natural full-back to cover the left flank.Hall, 20, made a strong case on Monday when he helped the Young Lions beat Austria 4-1 in a friendly at Kenilworth Road.The Newcastle ace produced two assists with a dominant display at the left wing.Read More on FootballThe defender set up James McAtee in the 59th minute and Tom Fellows nine minutes before full-time with low crosses from the left.England fans were left absolutely stunned as they insist they found the solution to the seniors’ biggest problem.Some even went as far as to compare Hall to the legendary Ashley Cole.One fan tweeted: “Baller. The best young left-back in the country.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother commented: “The left-back @England have been crying out for since Ashley Cole.”A third wrote: “He’s such an exciting young full-back.”Harry Kane’s favourite England goalsThis fan said: “Class.”And that one stated: “Hall will be one of the best left-backs in the world no question.” More