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      Record 350,000 England fans planning to travel to Germany for Euro 2024 in a bid to swerve rain and election gloom

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      ENGLAND’S biggest ever fan exodus kicked off yesterday as it was revealed 350,000 trips are planned to Euro 2024 in Germany.Fans desperate for a boozy break from the washout early summer and dreary election coverage are on their way to roar on Harry Kane and the boys.England fans have started arriving in Germany for Euro 2024 and 350,000 are expected over the course of the tournamentCredit: Jeremy SelwynEngland fans Tom Ayers and Jordan Benson from Cheltenham arrived in Germany in time for the Euros’ opening gameCredit: Jeremy SelwynEngland fans Tony Day and son George, 16, have driven from Birmingham to Gelsenkirchen for the EurosCredit: Jeremy SelwynWith the tournament within easy travel distance, at least 40,000 were expected in the first wave of The Great Escape this weekend ahead of England’s opener against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen tomorrow.UK Football Policing Unit director Mick Johnson told The Sun: “This is the first major tournament England fans have been able to travel to since 2016 and a lot of fans want to come to Germany to join the party.“At the World Cup in Germany in 2006, around 300,000 travelled but the figure is estimated at around 350,000 this time, so it is something of a record.”Asked about the election, he laughed: “That has to be the main story on why the fans want to get away — you can’t turn the TV on without seeing it!”READ MORE EURO 2024Tournament veteran Simon Harris, who helped manage the London England Fans supporters club, said: “There’s a whole new generation of young fans ready to travel. There’ll be lots of singing and drinking beer.”Football crazy Paul Bibby, 58 with son Aaron, 37 outside his England flag covered house in EssexCredit: John McLellanAt home, the millions watching on TV will include Paul Bibby, 58 — in a house covered by England flags in Chelmsford, Essex.Over in Germany, the Three Lions army began drinking the strong beer in the bars of Gelsenkirchen and nearby fan bases.London builder Tom Parkinson, 40, said in Dusseldorf: “I just wanted to escape the weather and the election back home — it’s so dreary I wanted to get away.”Most read in Euro 2024But there will be booze bans on match day and only weak beer or shandy will be served in the Arena AufSchalke stadium amid worries about fan clashes.Police fear 500 hardcore Serbian hooligans are on their way and warned England fans against getting drunk and aggressive.10 Steps to Victory for England: A Fan’s GuideBut The Sun revealed yesterday that cops will ignore fans smoking cannabis – which was legalised in Germany on April 1.Feeling Blue?
      BRITISH troops kept the French football team awake from all-night war games.
      Troops from the 19th Light Brigade drilled with cannons, assault rifles and flash bang grenades for three nights in a row — as the team headed by Kylian Mbappe, tried to rest.
      Locals were furious to hear the loud noises at 3am from the British-run base in Sennelager, Germany.
      The Blues moved into a hotel in Bad Lippspringe just a mile away on Wednesday.
      A source in the French camp said: “People have said it’s like being in a war zone.”
      The Army said they had planned the exercise months in advance.
      By Jerome Starkey

      Fears of rise in violence
      POLICE and the Women’s Aid charity fear a domestic abuse spike when England play Serbia.
      A previous study found that 999 calls increased by 38 per cent when England lose and 26 per cent when they win.
      Known abusers have been cross-checked with hooligans.
      Assistant Commissioner Louisa Rolfe said: “The vast majority of men who watch football would never dream of abusing their partner. But we need their help in calling out those who would.” More

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      England will triumph over Serbia on Sunday – we’ll be on the edge of our seats, says Phil Foden’s psychic medium

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      ENGLAND will begin a run of good fortune with a win over Serbia tomorrow, says the psychic visited by Three Lions hero Phil Foden.Chloe Smith believes Gareth Southgate’s lads will benefit from being such a “spiritual team”.England will triumph over Serbia on Sunday, Phil Foden’s ‘Mystic Wag’ has foreseenCredit: GettyPsychic medium Chloe Smith even ‘communed’ with Phil‘s beloved grandad Ronnie as she made her predictions of victory for the Three LionsCredit: SWNSPhil and his pregnant partner Rebecca Cooke visited Chloe before he jetted out to Euro 2024 in GermanyCredit: Eamonn and James ClarkeThe Sun revealed on Thursday how Phil, 24, and his pregnant Wag Rebecca Cooke visited Chloe before jetting out to Germany for Euro 2024.Last night Chloe said during a tarot card reading she even “communed” with Phil’s beloved grandad Ronnie, who died aged just 47 and inspired the midfielder’s choice of Manchester City shirt number.She added: “England will pull through this match with a win. It might be close, but the game will certainly have us on the edge of our seats.“This is only the start for England. With the support, it is going to be nothing but love and happiness through the nation. We have a good team and most importantly a spiritual team.”READ MORE ON EURO 2024Push towards finalMum-of-three Chloe, from Uttoxeter, Staffs, predicted: “Phil Foden will play smartly.“He has a lot of luck on his side from his grandad in spirit being his top supporter, giving him guidance and signs daily.“I can see the England team pushing their way through the tournament towards the final.”And Chloe — whose celebrity clients include Helen Skelton, Daisy May Cooper and Maura Higgins — said there is significance in the date of the opening game in Gelsenkirchen.Most read in Euro 2024 She explained: “Sunday the 16th of June — June is the month of joy, renewal and celebration. The number 16 is a sign you’re on the correct path.”Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024ENGLAND TO ‘WIN 6-0’

      By Ed Southgate
      SERBIAN supporters expect their side to be trounced by England tomorrow — some predicting a 6-0 thrashing.
      Fans say their players are intimidated by our boys’ reputation and will be swept aside.
      Dalbor Radobic, 44, boss of The Corner Terrace Cafe in Acton, West London, said: “It’s going to be 5-0 or 6-0.”
      The 44-year-old, who will show the game for the large local Serbian community, said: “I’m realistic. You’ve got the best players in the world.”
      Fan Pater Gasic, 23, who predicts a 4-1 defeat, added: “We look like we are over the finish line and then bottle it.” More

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      Major Euro 2028 change with co-host set to DROP OUT and allow Wembley to host at least one more match

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      NORTHERN IRELAND is reportedly set to DROP OUT as co-hosts of Euro 2028 due to the financial constraints of redeveloping Casement Park.If that happens Wembley – who will host the semi-finals and final – will be handed the opportunity to put on at least one more match.Northern Ireland are likely to drop out of Euro 2028 hosting dutiesAs the the redevelopment of Casement Park is expected to cost around £308mIf Northern Ireland do drop out Wembley will put on one extra game at Euro 2028Credit: AFPLikewise, the four matches that Belfast is due to host will be spread among Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, Hampden Park in Glasgow and Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. Uefa expects Northern Ireland to withdraw from hosting duties because of problems over raising the money to redevelop their stadium.Casement Park is yet to the fully funded with the latest estimated costs sitting at £308m.There have been plans to build a modern 34,000 capacity stadium on the site for more than 10 years.read more football newsBut political instability, issues behind the scenes and planning permission U-turns combined to keep the bulldozers away.A former senior Uefa strategist believes Belfast and the rest of the north will miss out on a huge opportunity, both financially and political, with the likely loss of Euro 2028.Ian Mallon told an Irish news outlet: “It is so unique for any city to be considered as a host venue for such a major tournament.”The mix of support, disinterest, and outright opposition to the use of Casement Park is completely irrational and ridiculous.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSecretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris has pledged £62.5m, with the Irish government promising £42.8m and the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) offering £15m.The UK government is allegedly prepared to contribute, but it is yet to give an exact figure.Sharlene Mawdsley & Sophie Becker beam as European Championship medallists return home to rapturous receptionHow the home nations and Ireland could qualify for Uefa 2028England and the other host nations will still have to play qualifying matches for Euro 2028.Uefa will only award a maximum of two automatic qualification spots and it will hold these in reserve for any host nation that fails to make it. If three fail to qualify, the two best-ranked teams will take the reserve spots.Uefa is set to award Cardiff the opening match of the European Championship in 2028 in a blow to hopes in England that Wembley would host the tournament’s curtain-raiser. More

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      Germany 5 Scotland 1: Tartan Army silenced as rampant hosts get Euro 2024 off to sensational start with thumping win

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      WELL, there’s good news and there’s bad news. The good news is that we will soon be experiencing the blessed sound of bagpipes retreating into the distance. Germany made the perfect start to their home European ChampionshipsCredit: GettyIt was a rough way for Scotland to start their campaignCredit: GettyFlorian Wirtz gave Germany an early lead in MunichCredit: PAJamal Musiala rifled Germany 2-0 up before the 20-minute markCredit: GettyRyan Porteous was sent off after a VAR review for a bad challenge on Ilkay GundoganCredit: EPAPorteous’ shocking tackle also earned Germany a penaltyCredit: RexKai Havertz sent Angus Gunn the wrong way from the penalty spotCredit: GettyHavertz played a part in two of Germany’s goalsThe Tartan Army can start packing their bags in preparation for yet another group-stage exit after an utter humiliation in this Euros opener. Give them a wee medal for having the best fans, by all means, because the Scots have certainly enjoyed a proper hooley in Munich this week. At least until the first whistle was blown and the actual football started.But the bad news for those of an English persuasion is that Germany are looking seriously, ominously good. READ MORE ON EURO 2024The shower of Scotland were only as bad as Julian Nagelsmann’s side made them look. By half-time, Steve Clarke’s side were 3-0 down and reduced to ten men – with Germany’s wunderkinds Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala handing Scotland’s backsides to them on a plate. Scotland have qualified for 11 previous tournaments and never reached the knock-out stage.It is difficult to imagine them garnering the four points they are likely to need against Hungary and Switzerland in their remaining Group A fixtures in order to progress this time.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSScotland were undone inside 10 minutesCredit: RexMusiala’s accomplished finish put Germany in complete controlCredit: ReutersGermany, eliminated at the group stage at the last two World Cups, had been largely overlooked by those tipping winners of this competition. But they must surely be part of the argument after this ruthless demolition job.   SCOTLAND FAN ZONESEURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTMusiala, the Bayern Munich playmaker who has so much in common with Jude Bellingham, was majestic here.The Germans are expecting him to emerge into genuine world-class status and that is precisely where he looked here. Before kick-off, there had been a carnival atmosphere on the U-bahn – men in skirts and men in leather shorts joining forces against a common foe with chants of ‘We hate England more than you!’The Tartan Army had spent most of the previous 48 hours getting piddled in the Marienplatz, with its vast beer halls. Few of them were optimistic about this match but the ‘No Scotland, No Party’ vibe ensured that they were going to savour this occasion – a first overseas tournament appearance in 26 years – no matter what. Sir Alex Ferguson appeared on the big screen, urging his countrymen to enjoy themselves whatever the result – never a sentiment he’d have expressed in his heyday. After a low-rent opening ceremony and a couple of stirring national anthems, we had us a first authentic summer footballing shebang in six years.  The Germans went straight for the jugular and were ahead inside ten minutes. Musiala was everywhere for Germany on Friday nightToni Kroos played a trademark crossfield pass out to Josh Kimmich, who squared for Wirtz to drill a low first-time shot which Angus Gunn could only turn onto the inside of the post on its way in.  The former England Under-21 keeper has clearly picked up the ancient traditions of Scottish glovemanship. Germany were so dominant, it was like watching Real Madrid against QPR. Soon Ilkay Gundogan sliced open the Scottish defence with a surgical pass, Kai Havertz cut inside and cut back for Musiala to swivel and ram a shot into the roof of the net.And it might have been three inside 25 minutes, but for VAR. Musiala was shoved in the back by Ryan Christie and Kieran Tierney lunged in on him. Ref Clement Turpin pointed to the spot but his VAR said Christie’s offence had come fractionally outside the area.It was a massive let-off but there was still no sign of Scotland actually joining in. This was so one-sided that the German supporters started a Mexican Wave after less than half an hour. Iconic Scottish manager Sir Alex Ferguson and legendary Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho were in attendance at the gameCredit: RexBefore the break, it got far, far worse for the Scots. Gunn pulled off an excellent save from a Gundogan header but from the rebound, Ryan Porteous lunged and caught the former Manchester City man on the shin. Turpin had given nothing but after he was sent to his screen by his VAR, the French ref awarded a penalty and dismissed the Scottish defender.Havertz casually sent Gunn the wrong way and a first half from hell was complete for Clarke’s men. At half-time, there was no Braveheartery as Clarke opted for damage limitation, taking off his lone striker Che Adams and bringing on Grant Hanley in defence.Gundogan was unable to continue after his maiming by Porteous.  As a lone piper played a blood-curdling lament in the away end, Wirtz skied a close-range volley after some bewitching work from Musiala. Nagelsmann began resting some key men, including Wirtz and Havertz, before the hour mark – although the sight of Leroy Sane emerging from the bench must have felt like a cruel joke to the Scots.Niclas Fullkrug, who had just replaced Havertz, then stole the ball off the toes of Hanley and walloped it into the far corner for the fourth before he had another effort ruled out for offside.  Musiala was withdrawn to make way for veteran Thomas Muller. We are going to see plenty more of this young fella over the next month – quite possibly all the way until the final in Berlin on July 14. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Scottish support erupted in joy three minutes from time when Toni Rudiger diverted a Scott McKenna header into his own net.But just when the ten men thought hey had the satisfaction of drawing the second half, Emre Can thumped home Germany’s fifth with the last kick of the game.Mark Halsey on penalty and red card

      SCOTLAND can have no arguments with Germany’s first-half penalty or Ryan Porteous’ red card.
      Watford defender Porteous made a dangerous lunge at Ilkay Gundogan and the officials finally came to the correct decision.
      It was tough for French referee Clement Turpin to see the challenge in real-time but VAR was quick to intervene for a review at the monitor and he immediately pointed to the spot.
      This is how VAR should work and the technology was also used efficiently when Turpin awarded a penalty but Jamal Musiala was caught by a combination of Ryan Christie and Kieran Tierney just outside the box.
      It was refreshing that Scotland captain Andy Robertson followed the protocol and was the only player to approach Turpin following his decisions.
      I said in my Euro 2024 preview that we would see fast games due to the direction of Uefa refs’ chief Roberto Rosetti and Germany’s easy win in Munich was a positive start. More

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      Meet Italy’s beautiful Wags cheering on the Azzurri at Euro 2024, from a former The Voice contestant to Armani model

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      ITALY kick off the defence of the Euros crown against Albania.But it won’t be easy against the minnows from the Balkans, who have been tipped by many to be the dark horses of the tournament.Chiara Nasti is one of Italy most famous Wags and has dated two Azzurri playersCredit: Instagram / @nastiloveBlonde bombshell Chiara used to be with Nicolo ZanioloCredit: Instagram / @nastiloveNow the former Armani model is married to Mattia ZaccagniCredit: Instagram / @nastiloveSupporting the Italians in their quest to reclaim their title will be their stunning Wags.From a singer who appeared as a contestant on The Voice to an Armani model who was formerly engaged to Italian teammate Nicolo Zaniolo.Join SunSport in meeting the beauties…Chiara NastiGorgeous Chiara, 26, has modelled for Armani and is a renowned fashion influencer with two million followers online.Read more football news She is married to Mattia Zaccagni, and they welcomed their first son together in 2022 called Thiago.Awkwardly, Chiara used to date Italy teammate Nicola Zaniolo which delighted rival fans who taunted Zaccagni.She also reportedly flirted with Neymar.Catherine HardingCatherine, 33, is a British singer and the fiancee of Arsenal ace Jorginho.Most read in Euro 2024She famously appeared on reality TV show The Voice, where she was mentored by Ollie Murs.The brunette beauty also had a romance with Jude Law, fathering a child with the Hollywood actor.Her life was featured on Amazon Prime Video series Married to the GameCatherine Harding is a singer from the UK who appeared on The VoiceCredit: @cat_cavelliCatherine’s life as a Wag played out on an Amazon Prime reality TV showCredit: @cat_cavelliJorginho and Catherine strike a hot couple off the pitchBenedetta BoemeAmazing Benedetta is the girlfriend of Bologna defender, Riccardo Calafiori.She appears to be a model, judging by her beauty and the photoshoots she shares with her 8,000 followers on Instagram.The pair appear to have been dating a years, with images together as far back as that.They have matching tattoos on their hands, which read Koi no Yokan – a Japanese phrase meaning ‘Feeling of love’.Amazing Benedetta Boeme is the girlfriend of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.Credit: Instagram @bboemeBrunette stunner appears to be a model and shares shoots to fans on InstagramCredit: Instagram @bboemeBenedetta and Calafiori have dated for around a year and have matching tattoosCredit: Instagram @bboemeAlessia ElefanteBeing Gianluigi Donnarumma’s fiancee Alessia is certainly in safe hands with the Italian No1.The 27-year-old has dated the talented keeper since his breakthrough at AC Milan as a 16-year-old, following him to Paris where he stars for PSG.The Naples beauty is fan of shopping, with Gucci being her favourite designer.She is also an interior designer.Alessia Elefante is the fiancee of goalkeeper Gianluigi DonnarummaAlessia began dating the PSG shotstopper when he was just 16Credit: Instagram / @alessiaelefanteOriginally from Naples, Alessia is an interior designer who loves GucciCredit: GettyLucia BraminiThe 24-year-old model has been described by football fans as the ‘most beautiful woman in the world’.She has amassed over 150,000 followers on Instagram, where she shares her glam lifestyle dating Federico Chiesa.But in the past, she has admitted to not being a football fan.Lucy also has a degree in psychology at Università Cattolica.Lucia Bramani has been describes by football fans as the most beautiful woman in the worldCredit: Instagram @lucybramaniLucia shares her glam life with her 150,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @lucybramaniFederico Chiesa and Lucia are engaged and are inseparableCredit: Instagram @lucybramaniItaly Euro 2024 guideTHEY are reigning champs and have a habit of defying the odds – yet little is expected of this Azzurri side.

      At least they qualified, given a nasty recent habit of missing major tournaments.
      MANAGER: Luciano Spalletti
      The 65-year-old who, in 2023, led Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years will not stand for any nonsense.
      STAR MAN: Gianluigi Donnarumma
      The PSG goalkeeper is Italy’s only genuine goalkeeping superstar, as England know to their cost after losing the Euro 2020 final on penalties.
      How Italy attack
      Spalletti’s Italy will be dogged from a defensive perspective but also flexible and fun to watch in possession.
      They can be patient and composed on the ball but also attack in a much more direct way when the opportunity comes.
      How Italy defend
      Italy no longer play the deep, defensive football they were known for in the past.
      They will look to press high out of possession, led by their two wide forwards – likely Federico Chiesa and Lorenzo Pellegrini.
      Read the full Italy Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags

      Flaminia AppolloniItaly hot shot Gianluca Scamacca and Flaminia keep their private lives to themselves.She did divide her time between her homeland and London, when he played for West Ham, but their romance will be going from strength to strength now he’s back at Atalanta.Not much is known about what she does for a living.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, she’s a huge fan of the beach, showing off her bikini body on luxury holidays.Flaminia Appolloni likes to keep her personal life private from her fansCredit: Instagram @flaminiaappolloniFlaminia often shows off her amazing bikini body to fans on InstagramCredit: Instagram @flaminiaappolloniFlaminia’s other half is ex-West Ham star Gianluca ScamaccaCredit: Instagram @flaminiaappolloni More

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      I’m the first ever man to be sent off for England in match decided by coin toss – I’ll forever be ultimate quiz question

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      I WAS out shopping recently and minding my own business when a guy about 60 introduced himself with his teenage kids.He said: “It’s lovely to meet you, Alan.” And I replied likewise.Alan Mullery was the first player to be sent off for EnglandFormer Tottenham Hotspur player Mullery spoke to SunSport’s Russell LanningCredit: RexHe’ll forever be ultimate quiz questionAnd then he turned to the youngsters next to him and proudly boasted: ‘This is Alan Mullery. He was the first player to be sent off for England.’It’s strange but despite playing over 700 games for club and country I will always have that tag around my neck for being the first senior player to be sent off for England.I have always been hugely patriotic and I’m incredibly proud that I played 35 times for England at senior level. It remains my greatest honour to have been able to walk out and play for my country.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSUnfortunately this was a match in which Spanish referee Jose Maria Oritz de Mendibil allowed the ­Yugoslavian team to kick and scythe us down at every opportunity.The official was an absolute ­disgrace. He let them get away with blue murder.Dragan Dzajic gave them the lead in the 86th minute. Then with a minute to go Dobrivoje Trivic — who had been the worst of all the dirty Yugoslav players that day — raked his studs down my calf and blood started pouring down my leg.It was the last straw. Human ­reaction got the better of me.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAll my pent-up frustrations over the previous 88 minutes turned to anger and I turned round and kicked him with my best foot in Trivic’s how’s your fathers!The ref was about two yards away from me. I’m sure it was the only thing he had seen the whole match.10 Steps to Victory for England: A Fan’s GuideIt didn’t affect the result of the game. There was only a minute to go so by the time I was going down the tunnel the ref blew the final whistle.I had no idea at that moment that I had become the first English player in 424 internationals to be sent off.However, I will forever be remembered for and be the ultimate football quiz question.Manager Alf Ramsey was very unhappy at the end and had a few harsh words with me but he was more raging about how our opponents had kicked lumps out of us.Typically Alf stuck up for me and even agreed to pay the £50 fine dished out to me by the FA.England football team manager Sir Alf Ramsey was left fuming, according to MulleryCredit: GettySince that game in 1968 there have been another 19 red cards dished out to England players — but I’m the one that no one ever forgets.The fact we were beaten by a team who just went out to kick us off the park and had a referee who let them —  it made the game an absolute joke.These were different times. Today, games are analysed and under the same scrutiny the Yugoslavs would have been found out for their outrageous dirty tricks.Had we had some sort of protection from the officials, I am convinced the result would have been different.We may have lost 1-0 but I still have a great deal of sympathy for the other losing semi-finalists Italy.Their match against the Soviet Union finished goalless after extra-time. There was no replay or even a penalty shootout.Can you believe that the outcome was decided by the toss of a coin?Indeed these were different times.I hope Euro 2024 is a tournament we get to see this ­outstanding crop of English talent produce what we know they are capable of.For instance, I watch and drool when I see the way Phil Foden plays for Manchester City.But I have yet to see him do the same in an England shirt.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt would be magical to see Foden and Co turn on the style for their country as they do for their clubs over the next month in Germany.It would certainly lift the grey skies from this miserable June. More

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      Jose Mourinho links up with Sir Alex Ferguson as former Man Utd managers attend Germany vs Scotland Euro 2024 opener

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      JOSE MOURINHO and Sir Alex Ferguson linked up at Euro 2024 as they enjoyed the opening night together.The former Manchester United managers took their seats for Germany’s 5-1 win against Scotland at the Allianz Arena.Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho were spotted together at Germany vs ScotlandThe pair looked to be deep in conversation ahead of the Euro 2024 openerThe pair were all smiles as they posed togetherCredit: Instagram / josemourinhoThere were plenty of football legends present for the game, including SunSport Euro pundit Jurgen Klinsmann.But only the fans watching from home will have seen Premier League royalty in the stands.13-time title winner Fergie and three-time title winner Mourinho were spotted next to each deep in conversation ahead of kick-off.The duo appeared engaged as they no doubt discussed all things football.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThey then cracked wide smiles as they posed together for a picture.Mourinho said: “With the Scottish legend. I have to be with them! Great Man.”And having both managed Man United, they may have even talked about their respective times in the Old Trafford dugout.Ferguson certainly had the better of it up north, winning numerous trophies during a 26-year stay.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHe’s widely regarded as the greatest manager of all time.And Sir Alex even had a stand named after him following his retirement in 2013.Aberdeen Fanzone: silence after Germany scoreEURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTAfter chatting to Jose, he received a huge cheer from the travelling Scotland fans as he gave them a personal address before the start of the game.As for Mourinho, he enjoyed relative success at the Theatre of Dreams after following on from David Moyes and Louis van Gaal.He won a Carabao Cup, Community Shield and Europa League during a two-and-a-half year stay at United.But Mourinho was sacked in December 2018 after a dismal run of form and was replaced by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.Afterwards, the Special One had spells at Tottenham and Roma, and will take charge of Turkish side Fenerbahce this summer.But he has enjoyed success in England with two spells at Chelsea, with his second one ending six months before taking the United hotseat.As for tonight’s Euro opener, Scotland endured a shocker against Germany.The hosts raced into a 2-0 lead in the opening 20 minutes.And Scotland went down to 10 men before the break while also conceding a penalty for 3-0.READ MORE SUN STORIESGermany then made it 4-0 in the second half before Scotland pulled one back with minutes left.But the hosts ensured there was little joy to be gained as they scored a fifth at the death. More

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      Harry Redknapp: I couldn’t be more confident despite England’s pre-Euro 2024 defeat to Iceland – it’s done us a favour

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      THERE are those who say the best shot in the arm is sometimes a kick up the backside — and England certainly took a size nine to theirs last week.I’m sure a Wembley defeat to ­Iceland wasn’t how Gareth Southgate hoped to head into the Euros.England are readying themselves to begin their Euro 2024 campaign on SundayCredit: PAThe Three Lions suffered a shock 1-0 loss to Iceland in their final friendly before the tournamentCredit: GettyBut while it seems the glass went from half-full to half-empty for half the nation, mine is still bubbling over . . . I couldn’t be more confident.Iceland might even have done England a favour with their shock 1-0 victory. It could actually be a blessing in disguise.All we’ve had in the run-up to the Euros has been: “We’ve got to win, we’ve got to win.”But now the pressure is off a bit and people realise it’s not that easy.No one in the England camp ever thought it would be.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLIceland — who didn’t even qualify — simply proved the point.Suddenly, though, the expectations from the outside have dipped a bit. But inside, believe me, they will be as high as ever.With good reason, too, as far as I’m concerned, because I look at Gareth’s squad and wouldn’t swap it for any other in Germany.Why would I?Harry Kane, Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham were all named Player of the Year in three of the toughest leagues in Europe — so that’s not a bad start.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBukayo Saka and Declan Rice had great seasons. Kyle Walker is the best right-back around. If Luke Shaw is fit — which we hear he should be — there’s no one to touch him on the left.John Stones has won four titles on the run plus a Champions League, while Cole Palmer would walk into any other side but will probably only make the bench.Tom Heaton reveals phone call from Gareth Southgate that saw Man Utd goalkeeper join up with England’s Euro 2024 squadSo would the likes of Jack ­Grealish and Marcus Rashford — and they didn’t even make Southgate’s 26-man squad. That’s how much talent we’ve got.I look around and there is honestly nothing that scares me. There’s no side packed with stars like we’ve seen in the past with, say, that great Spanish bunch from a few years back.Yes, I know France have Kylian Mbappe but Kane’s not too shabby either.And the French back-up includes Olivier Giroud, who would struggle to even make Gareth’s squad.If Southgate is positive and has a go, we’ve got the players to scare everyone.It’s shutting up shop where we aren’t so clever.With so many brilliant attacking options, let’s have a go.With so many who can really play, let’s get after them. Don’t go into the opposition too much, don’t think about how we can stop them. This is us — this is England.We have got the best players . . . so let’s show everyone what we can do instead.And although everyone’s on about who to pick alongside Rice, do we really need two defensive midfielders? I’m not so sure.Manchester City put people in all sorts of weird and wonderful ­positions because they’re capable on the ball.Bernardo Silva has played a load of games at left-back.When I was Tottenham manager I would put Luka Modric alongside Tom Huddlestone.It’s all about people who are good on the ball, at keeping the ball. They make things happen.England are awash with them, so let’s have the belief and have a go.There’s no debate, we have got the team to win this tournament.But before anyone accuses me of getting ahead of myself, don’t for one minute think I’m saying it will be easy, because there’s no chance of that.England have got a squad stacked with talentCredit: GettyHarry Kane will captain England this summer after a free-scoring campaign with Bayern MunichCredit: GettyEURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTSerbia won’t be a pushover in tomorrow’s opening game, for a start, any more than Denmark in the next game. Remember, England only edged past the Danes in extra-time of their semi-final at the last Euros.There might even be the odd ­hiccup in there.But if they make heavy weather of the group games, it’s no reason to get on their case.People look back at the Qatar World Cup and remember Argentina beating France in the final — not losing against Saudi Arabia in their first game.Portugal won the 2016 Euros after three draws meant they scrambled into the last 16 from third place in their section.It was hardly the group of death either — against Hungary, Austria and Iceland.And I have lost count of the ­tournaments in which Germany have started slowly but then peaked when it matters.So if it doesn’t all go to plan for England right from the off, just bear that in mind.It’s not about how you start but how you finish . . . and finishers don’t come any better than Kane.I’m sure Germany will be tough nuts on home soil, France are always there or thereabouts, and Portugal have got a decent squad.Those three are the biggest dangers in my book.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut I’m certain of one thing . . . they’ll be a hell of a lot more worried about us than the other way around.And with good reason, too.Jack Wilshere’s England XI vs SerbiaSunSport columnist Jack Wilshere wants Engand to start with just one holding midfielder – Declan Rice.
      That means playing Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham in attacking midfield roles, with Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka on the wings, either side of Harry Kane up top.
      Wilshere said: “In the group stage against teams we should beat, we can  afford to be more expansive, let’s attack.
      “It wasn’t that long ago we were saying we didn’t have the Spanish-type of players who can dominate the ball, now we have.
      “So let’s try to utilise that, dominate the ball and go for goals.”
      And the ex-England midfielder wants Trent Alexander-Arnold to get the nod at right-back, with Kyle Walker centre-back.
      He added: “If you play Trent at right-back and he drifts in midfield, he can switch the play at speed. Walker’s pace will get you out of trouble.”
      Read more from Jack Wilshere during Euro 2024. More