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      Thomas Tuchel to SURPASS Southgate at first attempt as supercomputer predicts how England will do at World Cup 2026

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      A SUPERCOMPUTER has predicted how England will get on at the 2026 World Cup under the management of new boss Thomas Tuchel.Tuchel has penned an 18-month contract with the Three Lions that will see him take charge of the nation for the 2026 tournament.Thomas Tuchel has been unveiled as the new England managerCredit: GettyA supercomputer has tipped Tuchel to surpass Gareth Southgate on his first attempt at a World CupCredit: GettyThe former Chelsea and Bayern Munich gaffer will have the hopes of the nation on his back as he looks to go one better than Gareth Southgate’s efforts at the Euros last summer.And he seems pretty calm about that pressure, insisting he “doesn’t feel” the weight of expectation – even in the hot-seat for the England national team.That may be because he’s confident that he will be able to build upon the foundations laid by Southgate over the past eight years.And a World Cup simulation on a supercomputer has the exact same idea, predicting that Tuchel will surpass Southgate’s best ever World Cup effort on his first attempt.READ MORE ON ENGLANDThe whizzes behind SimWorldCup have suggested that England will manage a THIRD PLACE finish at the 2026 World Cup in North America.Their simulation sees Tuchel’s men breezing through the group stages and pushing all the way to the semi-final before suffering heartbreak to a familiar foe – Spain.A 1-0 defeat to the Spaniards in the semi-final would set up a third-place play-off against Uruguay – a match which England are predicted to win 1-0 themselves.That would be one step better than Southgate managed during his first tournament in the 2018 World Cup.Most read in FootballGareth Southgate led England to a fourth-placed finish at the 2018 World CupCredit: ReutersThe Three Lions bravely bowed out to Croatia in the semi-finalCredit: AFP or licensorsANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSouthgate’s brave lions managed to reach the semi-finals in Russia, where they were knocked out by Croatia in extra-time.But the former England manager didn’t manage to get the better of Belgium in the third place play-off, ultimately taking fourth in his debut tournament.England interviewed ten candidates before appointing Thomas Tuchel, admits FA chief in German’s first press conferenceOf course, Southgate went on to reach two European Championship finals in 2021 and 2024 as well.Tuchel appears to have been brought in by the FA with the goal of securing World Cup glory in 2026 and a third place finish may not be enough to get him an extension on his 18-month deal.However, the supercomputer’s prediction did see the German pulling off some impressive victories throughout the tournament.The Three Lions topped their group with three wins from three over South Korea, Paraguay and South Africa.While their knockout efforts included wins over Panama, host nation the USA and Belgium.And Tuchel’s men are in line for some attractive football if the simulation is to be correct, as England netted 17 times and conceded just three across the supercomputer’s predictions. READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the remainder of the tournament the supercomputer predicted that Argentina would win their second World Cup on the bounce – defeating Spain 1-0 in the final.While home nations Wales and Scotland both made it out of their groups before being knocked out in the last-32 to Belgium and France respectively. Here’s how the tournament knockouts were predicted by the supercomputerEngland World Cup 2026 supercomputer predictionsHere’s a look at how every England game was predicted by the supercomputer…Group stageEngland 3 Paraguay 0England 2 South Korea 0South Africa 0 England 4Round of 32England 2 Panama 1Last 16USA 0 England 3Quarter-finalBelgium 1 England 2Semi-finalSpain 1 England 0Third place play-offUruguay 0 England 1 More

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      Watch Romania U21s’ ‘disrespectfully glorious’ team goal to qualify for Euros as fans ask ‘is this Brazil?’

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      ROMANIA’S Under-21 side left fans in disbelief with a “disrespectfully glorious” goal.The nation were taking on Switzerland during a Euro U21 qualification match, the winner of which would seal qualification to the tournament next year.Ianis Stoica rounded off a brilliant Romania Under-21 team goalCredit: EPARomania won the game 3-1 and secured their spot at Euro 2025Credit: EPADaniel Pancu’s side got off to a flying start after Ianis Stoica scored after 16 minutes.A red card for Vladislav Blanuta in the 29th minute threatened to undo that, but those fears were soon placated as Stoica, 21, netted again ten minutes before the break.However, it was the remarkable nature of the goal that left fans in awe.After Louis Munteanu won the ball back, Octavian Popescu picked up the loose ball on the left wing.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe then dribbled to the touchline before playing a one-two with 22-year-old Munteanu.With two defenders closing him down, Popescu, 21, then chipped the ball over the pair.Munteanu controlled the ball with his head before volleying the ball down the wing for his team-mate who had made a move.Popescu then got the ball back, beat his marker at the byline to then cut the ball back to team-mate Constantin Grameni.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe 21-year-old then back-heeled the ball to Munteanu, who then threaded a pass towards Stoica just outside of the six-yard area.He then rifled a shot into the top corner of the net to out his nation 2-0 ahead and complete the stunning sequence.Watch fan’s incredible goal in half-time competition that saw him win life-changing jackpotReacting on social media, one fan said: “Well that’s just disrespectfully glorious.”A second said: “Is this Brazil?”A third added: “That is team football!! Wonderful to watch.”Another said: “PlayStation.”A fifth said: “Am I watching at an eFootball action in real life?”Switzerland managed to rally after the break and halve the deficit through Albian Hajdari.Although just three minutes later Umit Akdag scored a third goal to give Romania some safety.Three red cards were shown throughout the game, with Pancu and a substitute from the team being sent to the stands.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe result saw Romania top Group E of the Euro 2025 qualifying campaign.However, in defeat Switzerland were eliminated as they dropped to third place as Finland recorded a win over Montenegro to climb into second. More

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      Thomas Tuchel AGREES to become England manager with ex-Chelsea boss expected to be hired THIS WEEK

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      THOMAS TUCHEL has AGREED to take charge of England.The FA have been searching for a permanent successor for Gareth Southgate after the 54-year-old quit the role following a heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain in July.Thomas Tuchel has reportedly agreed to take charge of EnglandCredit: GettyThe German is set to replace Gareth Southgate as the new Three Lions gafferFA CEO Mark Bullingham had some big names on his shortlist of candidates to replace SouthgateBut they’ve decided to appoint the former Chelsea manager as the nation’s 20th bossCredit: AFPFA bigwig Mark Bullingham had former Chelsea manager Tuchel high on his list of candidates to replace the recently departed Southgate.Talks for the out-of-work German to take charge of the Three Lions began earlier this week.And SunSport understands the former Bayern Munich gaffer has now AGREED a deal with the Football Association.The 51-year-old is set to be announced as the nation’s 20th manager IMMINENTLY.READ MORE ON TUCHELAnd he is set to take home a cool £5MILLION A YEAR as Three Lions chief.It’s a drastic pay cut, however, in comparison to the £10m-a-year deal he was on during his time in charge of Chelsea – who he managed for 20 months before being sacked in September 2022.However, this does not mean that Lee Carsley will be leaving his interim role immediately.He is expected to continue in his role until after the Nations League fixtures against Greece and the Republic of Ireland in November.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSTuchel – who has been out of work since leaving Bayern at the end of last season – hashed out a lucrative deal with the FA following a breakneck speed conclusion to talks.It’s understood he’s relishing the prospect of coaching the talented players now available to him.Inside Thomas Tuchel’s crazy lifeANDY DILLON: Thomas Tuchel has all the ingredients to become a classic England manager – tactical nous, drive and a tangled love lifeBy Andy DillonTHOMAS TUCHEL possesses all the ingredients to become a classic England manager.Tactical nous, drive, energy, experience – a tangled love life.English football should welcome back the most explosive, dynamic, charismatic and impossibly tall and gangly coach to have lit up the Premier League.Chelsea’s colourful former boss has been leading a settled life in Munich of late.Far enough away from ex-wife Sissi but close enough to see his two daughters.Walking his dog in the streets in the east of Germany’s most fashionable city, residing in the posh Bogenhausen area. Living relatively quietly with his Brazilian girlfriend.Tuchel is a vastly different personality to the man who led England quietly but assuredly to the brink of World Cups and European Championships.An excitable nature can make him hard to handle for those seeking calm and who like to impose their way on a manager they view very much as an underling.Read more on why Tuchel REALLY IS the best man for the England jobTuchel is set to become only England’s THIRD-EVER foreign manager behind the late Sven Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.But he seemingly wasn’t the FA’s first-choice candidate to succeed Southgate in the Wembley hotseat.The FA reportedly made overtures to secure the services of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola BEFORE the start of the season.SunSport understands the out-of-work Graham Potter and current Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe were also on the FA’s shortlist.But they ultimately decided not to pursue either man in favour of the vastly experienced Tuchel.Carsley was also in contention to land the gig but sensationally ruled himself out of the running last week.Tuchel was on course to return to management in England’s top flight before agreeing to take charge of the national team.Manchester United held talks with the veteran manager in the summer about replacing the under-pressure Erik ten Hag.Tuchel is best known to England fans for his stint managing Chelsea, who he was in charge of for just over a season and a half.Southgate vs Tuchel records comparedTHOMAS TUCHELAugsburg II 2007-2008P34 W 20 D8 L6 Win percentage: 58.82%Mainz 05 2009-2014P184 W72 D46 L66 Win percentage: 39.13%Borussia Dortmund 2015-2017P107 W67 D23 L17 Win percentage: 62.62%Honours: DFB Pokal Paris Saint Germain 2018-2020P127 W95 D13 L16 Win percentage: 74.8%Honours: Ligue 1 X2, Coupe de France, Coupe de la Ligue, Trophee des Champions x2Chelsea 2021-2022P100 W60 D24 L16 Win percentage: 60%Honours: Champions League, Super Cup, Club World CupBayern Munich 2023-2024P61 W37 D8 L16 Win percentage: 60.66%Honours: BundesligaGARETH SOUTHGATEMiddlesbrough 2006-2009P151 W54 D43 Win percentage: 35.76%England U21 2013-2016P37 W27 D5 L5 Win percentage: 72.97%Honours: Toulon tournamentEngland 2016-PresentP102 W61 D24 L17 Win percentage: 59.8%He guided the West Londoners to European glory in May 2021, pipping Manchester City to the Champions League trophy.He followed that up by winning Uefa’s Super and Club World Cups.Tuchel steered the Chelsea ship through tumultuous waters after former owner Roman Abramovich was forced to sell the club in May 2022.The billionaire was forced to sell up after the UK Government froze his assets as part of their sanctions on Russia following their illegal invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.But he was given his marching orders by new owner Todd Boehly the following September after a poor start to the 2022/2023 season.Tuchel was out of work for six months before he took charge of Bayern, whom he guided to the 22/23 Bundesliga title.Thomas Tuchel managed Chelsea for just over a season and a half and guided them to Champions League gloryCredit: GETTYHe was most recently in charge of German giants Bayern MunichCredit: APTuchel will likely be joined in London by his girlfriend Natalie MaxCredit: REXTuchel started dating Natalie following his separation from his ex-wife of 13 years, SissiCredit: GETTYIt was announced he’d leave the Allianz Arena in February after his troops fell eight points behind last season’s Bundesliga winners Bayer Leverkusen.But he didn’t end up departing the club until the end of the season.Tuchel will likely base himself in London once he officially takes charge of the Three Lions.He will be joined by his long-term girlfriend Natalie Guerriero Max, 37.The loved-up pair have been dating since the summer of 2022.READ MORE SUN STORIESTuchel found love with the Brazilian following his separation from his ex-wife, Sissi.The pair, who were with one another for 13 years, have two children together.Who has Tuchel coached?Here is a list of the England stars that have already worked with Thomas Tuchel…Harry Kane – Bayern MunichEric Dier – Bayern MunichMason Mount – ChelseaReece James – ChelseaBen Chilwell – ChelseaCallum Hudson-Odoi – ChelseaRuben Loftus-Cheek – ChelseaRaheem Sterling – ChelseaRoss Barkley – ChelseaTammy Abraham – ChelseaConor Gallagher – Chelsea More

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      England ‘contact Pep Guardiola about becoming next manager with Man City boss to make decision in weeks’

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      PEP GUARDIOLA has sensationally been sounded out over the vacant England job, it’s been claimed.The Football Association are on the lookout for a permanent successor for Gareth Southgate, who left the role in July after the Three Lions’ heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.The FA have approached Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola about the vacant England jobCredit: PAGareth Southgate resigned as England manager in July following yet more Euros final heartacheCredit: GETTYLee Carsley is in temporary charge of the Three LionsCredit: PAFA bigwig Mark Bullingham is heading up the search for Southgate’s successorCredit: PAManchester City boss Guardiola is understood to be on the FA’s shortlist of candidates to replace the recently departed Southgate.SunSport understands Eddie Howe and the out-of-work Graham Potter and Thomas Tuchel are also on the FA’s list.And it’s claimed they’ve made overtures to appoint Spaniard Guardiola as the national team’s new gaffer.That’s according to The Times, who claims the FA made “informal contact” with Guardiola’s representatives over the role earlier this season.READ MORE ON ENGLANDFA chiefs are said to see the 53-year-old as the “standout” candidate to take charge of the team, who are under the temporary leadership of Lee Carsley.Guardiola, however, has yet to respond to the FA’s attempts to gauge his interest in becoming only the 20th man to manage England.The future of the former Barcelona boss – who guided City to an unprecedented FOURTH-STRAIGHT Premier League title last season – is currently up in the air.His existing contract with City expires at the end of the season and he’s yet to commit his future to the champions.Most read in FootballGuardiola did, however, suggest in the summer that he could pen a NEW contract at the Etihad.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEngland player ratings vs FinlandENGLAND secured a commanding 3-1 win over Finland following their horror show at home to GreeceHere’s how SunSport’s Tom Barclay assessed the Three Lions’ stars performances.Dean Henderson – 6Only his second cap after long-time No1 Jordan Pickford was dropped. Not a lot to do, but pretty assured when he was called into action, including a smart, first-half stop to repel a Benjamin Kallman strike – even if the Finn was later flagged offside. Could do little to prevent Finland’s goal.Kyle Walker – 6After the calamity against Greece, it was no surprise to see Lee Carsley turn to his most experienced defender. Now just nine caps shy of a century, Walker was solid. Could have had an assist late on but his cushioned down header was poor.John Stones – 6England’s more conventional system meant the defence was far less exposed – though Carsley’s attacking approach did still see the Finns create chances. Stones made a good early block to deny Kallman after Angel Gomes gave the ball away.Marc Guehi – 6Our best defender in the Euros group stages, Guehi was back in here with Levi Colwill dropping out. Pretty assured for a player who by his own admission has not started the season particularly well for his club.Trent Alexander-Arnold – 7We saw him in midfield at the Euros, and here the Liverpool right-back was shunted to left-back. Looked vulnerable defensively at times but who cares when he produces such quality on the ball – epitomised by his terrific free-kick to kill off this game.Angel Gomes – 8The big success story of the Carsley era, however long it lasts, has been bringing Gomes into the fold. He created Jack Grealish’s opener with a beautiful, flicked-pass round the corner and was excellent in possession – barring one sloppy early pass.Declan Rice – 7Looked far more comfortable with Gomes playing in behind him, as opposed to the one-man defensive operation he was forced to put up against the Greeks. Looked proud as punch after stroking home England’s third from Watkins’ cross.Cole Palmer – 5Played in a more familiar wide right position compared to his central-midfield experiment against Greece. Yet it reduced him to a peripheral figure, adding more questions than answers as to where best to deploy him, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.Jude Bellingham – 6The Real Madrid superstar played off Harry Kane and had the occasional, exciting link-up with Grealish, but this was not one of his more memorable games overall.Jack Grealish – 8No doubt will be hoping Carsley does get the job full-time as his fellow Brummie seems to appreciate his talents. His composed finish was his second goal in three games under Carsley – doubling his overall haul from 39 caps.Harry Kane – 6Cap 101 for the captain but not one he will remember particularly fondly. He offered the presence the team lacked against Greece when they played with no striker, but did not get much of a sniff in front of goal.SubsNoni Madueke (for Palmer, 69) – 7This game was made for him to make an impact off the bench and he almost teed up Watkins after one fine run but the Finns cleared.Ollie Watkins (for Kane, 69) – 7Low cross for Rice’s third was right on the money.Rico Lewis (for Gomes, 80) – 6Slotted in at centre midfield when coming on and looked busy.Phil Foden (for Bellingham, 80) – 5Embraced the post ruefully after Madueke opted to shoot instead of crossing to him for a tap-in seconds after Finland’s goal. Was marking Arttu Hoskonen when the Finn headed home a consolatio.Conor Gallagher (for Rice, 89) – 6His first appearance under Carsley but too late to make an impact.Lee Carsley – 7His tactical gamble backfired against Greece but he held his hands up and went more conventional here. It paid off as England were relatively comfortable – although his teams have looked defensively vulnerable at times in all four of his games and this was no different. But the three best players, Gomes, Grealish and Alexander-Arnold, were all given starring roles by Carsley when used sparingly or not at all by predecessor Gareth Southgate – and for that, the interim boss should take credit.But he’s also sensationally opened the door to taking the Wembley hot seat, insisting “anything is possible.”He said: “(Leaving City?) That’s not true, in the sense that I have to think about it. (England?) No, that’s not true.England ratings: Angel Gomes is the runaway success of Lee Carsley era but Cole Palmer is anonymous”If I had decided something, I would say so. Anything is possible.”Interim Three Lions boss Carsley has guided the team to three wins and a shock loss to Greece during his brief tenure.But he has left fans confused over whether he actually wants the job going forward.The England interim boss raised eyebrows when he mentioned that he would “hopefully” return to his role as Under-21s manager on the back of England’s 2-1 defeat to Greece last week.Then, following the 3-1 win over Finland on Sunday, Carsley urged the FA to appoint a “world-class” manager to replace Gareth Southgate, before adding that he hasn’t ruled himself out.Carsley said: “I have been doing the Under-21s and I am really happy with my job.”I am an employee of the FA and I was asked to take the senior team which is a privilege, it was the proudest moment of my career.”I am really honoured with the chance to manage the senior team.”I am in a really fortunate position in that I am on the inside and I can see how much potential this team’s got.READ MORE SUN STORIES”It is one of the best jobs in world football. There aren’t many jobs where you’ve got a chance of winning.”I believe the coach that comes in has got a really good chance of winning and we deserve the best one that’s out there.” More

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      England’s Marc Guehi admits he’s still suffering from Euro 2024 hangover after Crystal Palace’s dismal start to season

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      MARC GUEHI admits he is suffering from a hangover after a summer of ‘oh so nears’.The Crystal Palace defender was a mainstay of Gareth Southgate’s England team who were defeated by Spain in the Euros final before a proposed mega-money move to Newcastle failed to materialise.Marc Guehi believes England can go on to win the World CupCredit: EPAThe Palace star has struggled this season domesticallyCredit: RexNow Palace, who finished last season on a massive high with six wins and a draw from their final seven Premier League games, are without a victory in seven matches and stuck in the relegation zone.And Guehi has struggled through not having had a proper summer break or a pre-season.Here in the Finnish capital tonight, he will attempt to lift his battered national side after Thursday’s shock home defeat by Greece.Guehi is set to reprise his central-defensive partnership with John Stones, 30, for the first time since the Euros.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSHe said: “I’d have to say it’s been quite tough not having a pre-season, not having much of a break and going straight back into it. I’ve handled it as best as I can.“The Euros was such an amazing experience.“Since then, I just tried to get my head down and get to work.“It’s been a tough start for us at Palace but everyone’s pulling in the right direction to try to get ourselves back to where we want to be.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“And then for myself to be called up again. England’s amazing. It’s always a privilege to play for my country.”Despite the Wembley debacle, when interim boss Lee Carsley suffered a tactical brain freeze, Guehi, 24, claims England have the talent and winning mentality required to lift a first major trophy since 1966.Lee Carsley appears to admit staggeringly short amount of time England practised bold new tactic before Greece shockerAsked about the Three Lions’ wealth of attacking players, Guehi added: “It’s really tough to play against these boys.“We’re talking about world-class players. For myself and the rest of the defenders I can proudly say that it is a really tough ask to come up against them.“Their quality shines through, their intelligence of the game.“Our goal is to win a trophy. So when you do come that close in the summer, it’s important you find ways to improve.“The manager coming in has definitely seen something and we, as players, want to be as receptive as possible.“We want to  close the gap, to have that final push to get a trophy.”Like many of England’s emerging players, Guehi has enjoyed international success at age-group level — lifting the Under-17s World Cup seven years ago.And he said: “I think that sort of experience is massive. It’s a really big thing for so many of the players on the team.“It’s such a valuable experience to have won something with your country and try to bring that into senior football.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Even the players here that haven’t done it at international level at the younger ages but have in the Premier League, in the Champions League.“It’s massive to have a group that have won things before and can continue to win.”England player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      Lee Carsley reveals how England can win World Cup as he warns ‘we can’t just do the same and expect something different’

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      LEE CARSLEY believes England can win the 2026 World Cup — but only if the Three Lions embrace change.Interim boss Carsley saw his gamble to play without a recognised No 9 backfire in the shock 2-1 defeat to Greece at Wembley on Thursday.England interim boss Lee Carsley claims the national team can win the 2026 World CupCredit: GettyEngland can only end their trophy drought if they embrace change, claims CarsleyCredit: AlamyEngland’s men have not won a major tournament since 1966. But after two Euro final defeats, Carsley is on a mission to find the magic formula that will see Harry Kane and Co finally end 60 years of hurt.Carsley said: “I’m really wary of the fact that the last time we won something was 1966, so we have to have that ability to try something different. We’re not that far away. We have been close twice.“It was important that I put my own stamp on the team and the squad and tried something different because the understanding is that, unless it changes, it won’t change.”Predecessor Gareth Southgate took England to the last two Euros finals, losing to Italy on penalties in 2021 and 2-1 against Spain in the summer.Read More on FootballHe also oversaw World Cup campaigns that ended at the semi-final stage in 2018 and last eight two years ago.But Southgate was often criticised for being too cautious tactically.Now Carsley, who takes charge for the fourth time as caretaker on Sunday’s Nations League clash with Finland, added: “Your human instinct is to be safe, to go with things that you’re comfortable with.“But I felt it was important to be out of my comfort zone.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“I have to try something because we’ve got to put ourselves in a position where we can win.“To think that we can just do the same again and expect something different is naive.Lee Carsley appears to admit staggeringly short amount of time England practised bold new tactic before Greece shocker“I don’t want to sit back in a month’s time with regrets that I was safe. This is a great opportunity, not only for myself but for the rest of the staff and players to try something different.“We’re also looking bigger picture in terms of World Cup qualification and then hopefully the World Cup — that we’ve got a good understanding of the player capabilities.”Some reports claim Carsley has doubts over taking the job long-term but he refuses to rule himself out completely.He said: “I don’t see this as an audition. I don’t see it as the biggest chance I have ever had.“I see it as a privilege. I see it as an unbelievable responsibility.“I have got three more games left and I want to try to make sure that the squad are in a really good position.The youth paves the way“That we have seen players play in different positions and we are in a healthy position.”Carsley, 50, wants to adopt a more attacking brand of football, having triumphed at last year’s Under-21 Euros playing that way.It was the latest in a number of youth competitions won by England in the last decade.And Carsley believes it will pave the way to senior success — just like it has for Germany and Spain in recent decades.Asked if he really felt England can win the next World Cup in USA, Canada and Mexico, the former Everton midfielder replied: “Yeah.“The past is a good indicator of the future and we’ve got quite a few players now that have won a lot with England. They’ve felt that before.England stars ‘used to winning’“They come to St George’s, they come on England camps, and they’re used to winning.“They’re used to being in the latter stages of competitions and being successful. That can only be a good thing for us.“If you think back to that Germany team, and the Spain team, that were really successful at the younger age groups that came through.“I think potentially we could be coming into a period of that ilk.READ MORE SUN STORIES“We’ve been so close in the past and with a bit more luck, or belief, on our side it could have been different.“But as we stand at the minute it’s not, so I believe that we could be coming into a phase of that kind of success.” More

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      Lee Carsley confirms that he did NOT apply for England manager’s job following bombshell ‘hopefully’ comments

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      LEE CARSLEY has confirmed that he did not apply for the England job.The interim coach has overseen three games for the Three Lions since Gareth Southgate stepped down after Euro 2024.Lee Carsley did not apply for the England jobCredit: EPACarsley has taken charge of England since Gareth Southgate stepped downCredit: AlamyThe FA closed applications for the role on August 2 as they searched for Southgate’s successor.Carsley, 50, was appointed as the interim coach seven days later.However, he had revealed that he did not send a formal application for the role.He said: “I didn’t apply for it.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS”Because hopefully… I have been doing the Under-21s and I am really happy with my job.”I am an employee of the FA and I was asked to take the senior team which is a privilege, it was the proudest moment of my career.”I am really honoured with the chance to manage the senior team.”I am in a really fortunate position in that I am on the inside and I can see how much potential this team’s got.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”It is one of the best jobs in world football. There aren’t many jobs where you’ve got a chance of winning.”I believe the coach that comes in has got a really good chance of winning and we deserve the best one that’s out there.”Lee Carsley appears to admit staggeringly short amount of time England practised bold new tactic before Greece shockerHe will lead the team against FinlandCredit: GettyEngland’s shocking stats against GreeceHere are the shocking stats that were set in England’s defeat to Greece…- Lowest ranked side to beat England in a competitive match in 19 years.- The lowest-ranked side ever beat England on home soil.- Greece had never beaten England in their history.- Greece had never scored a goal at Wembley before.- Pavlidis’ strikes were his first since June 2022 vs Cyprus.- Bellingham’s 87th-minute equaliser was England’s first shot on target since the third minute (also Bellingham)Carsley also claimed that he is not treating his interim job as an audition with a view to taking the job full time.He added: “Definitely not. I don’t see this as an audition at all.”I see it as simple as I was asked to take the team for three camps, it wasn’t with a view to anything, it was literally do your best try as hard as you can and look after the players and that is what I am doing.”When asked if he would take the job if it was offered to him, Carsley insisted he is just trying to do his best for the team.He said: “It’s hypothetical. I think it’s important that we are in a position where, hopefully, we have had a brilliant campaign.”That will be in a good position going into World Cup qualifying and I would see that as a success.”The revelation follows his comments in which he suggested he was “hopefully” returning to his role with the Under 21s.Carsley has since clarified his statement and suggested that he and his team are aiming to be in a “good position” after their three camps with the senior team.He will be in charge of the team for the Nations League clash against Finland on Sunday.So far, he has won two of his three games, with the only defeat coming against Greece on Thursday.READ MORE SUN STORIESFormer Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel has reportedly held talks with the FA over the job.If the German was to land the job with the Three Lions, then he could hand a shock return to the team to at least one player.Thomas Tuchel is believed to have had negotiations over the England jobCredit: GettyEngland player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      Wales promise review after farcical admin blunder sees SIX players ruled out of Euro U21 qualifier

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      MATTY JONES promised a review into the admin blunder that saw SIX Wales Under-21 players ruled out of their Euro qualifier with the Czech Republic.A paperwork error meant only those registered to face Iceland last month could take to the field.Coach Matty Jones spoke about his side’s chances going forwardCredit: AlamyThat meant the likes of Owen Beck and Rubin Colwill were made unavailable just hours before Friday’s costly 2-1 defeat.Wales now need the Czechs to fail to beat Lithuania on Tuesday to secure a play-off place for next summer’s finals.Under-21s boss Jones said: “There will be a review to get to the bottom of it and make sure it doesn’t happen again.“It has caused disruption and unnecessary noise.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS“I think I managed it the best I could but ultimately it’s at the back of your mind and at the back of players’ minds as well.“We know we have the strength in the squad to cater for players when they’ve been missed, when they’ve been good enough to go up to the first team.“Of course everyone wants a Rubin Colwill and Owen Beck in the team but we’ve shown before we can manage without them.“It wasn’t a major concern, but how it came about was disappointing.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“We will stick together and take the responsibility as a whole.“It’s a ‘we’ problem rather than about pointing fingers.”Top 10 highest-paid Premier League starsWales’ Euros qualiying group Here is the state of play in Group I…1. Germany U-21 – 18pts2. Belgium U-21 – 13pts3. Bosnia and Herzegovina U-21 – 11pts4. Wales U-21 – 9pts5. Moldova U-21 – 7ptsJones also revealed that he was feeling emotional and “really fragile” at the possibility of their Euros campaign ending.The last time the Under-21s last reached the finals was with the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen in 2008.A victory against the Czechs would give them a chance of qualifying.Jones did admit his emotions were “really fragile” at the prospect of the end of a campaign that had impressed and threatened to create history.He said: “My emotions are really fragile because it’s been a lot of hard work for two years, and to see it come to an end like that – even though we’re hanging onto a string – is tough.“We know these teams qualify for major tournaments and do it consistently, we know what it looks like, but we need to know how it feels.“They know how to find a way to qualify and we need to get there.” More