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      Flare-chucking Serb ultras try to storm their OWN training as 8,000 fans swarm stadium amid threat of England violence

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      FEARS of Euros aggro at England’s opening game soared yesterday after 8,000 Serbian fans tried to storm their own team’s training session in Germany.Flares were hurled at police forced to tackle a pitch invasion at the Serbian team’s base – four days before their curtain raiser clash with the Three Lions.Serbian ultras chucked flares on the pitch at their own team’s training session as cops struggled to contain the chaosThe flares landed just metres from the players as they prepared for their clash with England this SundayA young fan is escorted off the pitch by police officers after storming the sessionCredit: X/SerbianFootyEngland fans have been warned of 500 Serbian hooligans planning to trigger mayhem at Sunday’s gameCredit: ReutersTrouble erupted as 8,000 pyro-wielding Serbs surrounded the Rosenau Stadium in Augsburg on Wednesday evening.Clashes with security staff ensued as just 3,000 were allowed entry, with thousands more locked outside.Inside the stadium one young fan was led away by officers after he tried to get onto the pitch as the Serbian team were put through their paces.His arrest sparked a chorus of angry boos and a banned flare was thrown towards police, landing on the running track just yards from the players.read more on euros 2024Such scenes are unheard of at tournament training sessions – and revealed the fanatical fervour of Serbian supporters amid fears of clashes with English rivals.The training session continued but ended soon after the incident as police restored order.German cops fear up to 500 Serbian Ultra hooligans could trigger mayhem at England’s first Euro 2024 match in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday – and have designed the game “high risk”.Police have banned strong booze and forced 62,000 fans to drink only shandy or low alcohol beer at Veltins Arena.Most read in Euro 2024Security has also been beefed up with around 1,000 police drafted in to keep order amid concerns of clashes in unsegregated seating inside the stadium.Meet Serbia’s most fearsome hooligan ‘Ivan the Terrible’ who even hijacks team buses as England fans warned ahead of Euro clashIt is understood British police “spotters” and plain-clothed officers will also be on hand to watch England fans at every match.German police are most worried about hard core Serb Ultras including many who support Russian tyrant Vladimir Putin.One Serbian fan said: “On the pitch you will probably win but off the pitch it’s not a contest. We aren’t afraid of anyone.“We learned everything we know from the Italians and the English but they are no match for strong Serbian men.”Serbian fans lit flares during a friendly between Austria and Serbia in Vienna, Austria on June 4Credit: APThe national team’s fiercest hooligan Ivan ‘the terrible’ Bogdanov has led the chaos at past gamesSerbian ultra groups are known for causing chaos at matches (Bogdanov) is pictured lighting flares in 2012)Credit: GettyGerman cops are bracing for violence at England’s opening Euros matchCredit: RexSerbian ultra groups, such as Headhunters and Gravediggers, are among the most feared football fans in Europe.Their most notorious soccer savage has been named as Ivan ‘the Terrible’ Bogdanov – a tattooed hardman known to have terrorised players.Ahead of a Euros 2012 qualifier in Genoa, Italy, Serbian fans attacked their own team’s bus, with Bogdanov among those who made it inside.He was alleged to have confronted goalkeeper Vladimir Stojkovicfor for committing the unforgivable crime of switching from Bogdanov’s team, Red Star Belgrade to rival club Partizan.The game was later abandoned due to the trouble, Italy awarded a 3-0 win and Bogdanov – branded with his new nickname ‘the Beast of Genoa’ – jailed for his role in the riot.Are the Serbs the most notorious football fans? FROM pitch raids to mass brawls and death threats, Serbian hooligans are known to wreak absolute havoc and pure carnage at football games.
      Die-hard groups of hooligans are intertwined with football in Serbia – and they are known for ruthlessly attacking players on the pitch and storming opposition stalls when the match turns against them.
      Hooligan firms in the Balkan state have chilling names such as The Gravediggers, Headhunters, Zulu Warriors, and the Red Devils.
      Tracing their lineage back to the Balkan war of the 1990s, Serb football hooligans are renowned for their tough-as-nails attitude and love of violence.
      In the past, the Ultras have killed rival fans – including a Toulouse supporter in 2009 who was beaten to death with iron bars and bicycle chains.
      And one of their most vicious leaders is known as ‘Ivan the Terrible’.
      In 2012, Ivan – who has been linked to Serbian far-right paramilitaries – forced a Euros qualifying match between Serbia and Italy in Genoa to be abandoned after trying to attack rival fans and police.
      He rallied supporters to lob live flares and other pyrotechnics onto the pitch as players warmed up and ordered them to break down barriers separating them from Italian fans while taunting police.
      At the Euro 2016 qualifier between Serbia and Albania another battle kicked off in the stands.
      Serb supporters were recorded chanting “Kill the Albanians” and wore T-shirts of Serbian war crimes general Ratko Mladic in a heated snub to two ethnic Albanians in the Swiss squad.
      These horror incidents have resulted in several fines and bans being imposed on the Serbian national side with the latest coming one-year-ago.
      Uefa ordered them to play a 2024 European Championship qualifier in front of an empty stadium last year due to racist chants at their previous game against Montenegro.

      ENGLAND’S PAST TOURNAMENT CHAOSTravelling Three Lions supporters have forged a poor reputation for their behaviour overseas through the years.However, England fans have been the target of several international assaults in the past both at club level and for national fans.The 2016 Euros in France was viewed as a major failure for England both on the pitch and off it due to fan violence.Before the tournament had even begun, fighting broke out between England fans and rival supporters in Marseille with cops being forced to tear gas local youths.And after England drew with Russia on June 11, major clashes broke out on the streets of the French city between the two countries.Over 100 Three Lions fans were left “walking wounded” with some in a critical condition after barbaric attacks that saw Russian thugs stalk drunken fans outside of pubs and bars.The Russian team was given a suspended disqualification as a team and fined €150,000 (£126,000).The hooligans were branded “hyper-rapid and hyper-violent” by the chief prosecutor in Marseille for their heinous planned assaults eight years ago.More violence then erupted between English and Russian fans in Lille a few days later.READ MORE SUN STORIESAt least 40 fans were reportedly arrested, 50 Russians deported and dozens left injured after the clashes.One was even left in a critical condition in the hospital following a Russian ambush.The horror scenes in Marseille eight years ago this week when Russian ultras launched the bloodiest hooligan brawl in a generation on England fansCredit: Getty Images – GettyOver 100 Three Lions supporters were left ‘walking wounded’ after the attacksThe brutal clashes raged for hours in the French cityA Serbian fan clashes with police during a match between Red Star and and Partizan in Belgrade in 2018Credit: EPAKANE IN FOR ROUGH SERB-ICE
      FROM JORDAN DAVIES IN AUGSBURG
      HARRY KANE has been warned that he will be targeted by an aggressive Serbian defence.
      The Three Lions take on Serbia in their Euros Group C opener on Sunday in a bid to kick-start what they hope is a run to the final on July 14.
      But standing in their way is an experienced outfit – coached by Marseille legend Dragan Stojkovic – ready to make it as tough as possible for Gareth Southgate’s men.
      And Serbian defender Strahinja Pavlovic has promised England skipper and Bayern Munich star Kane, 30, an uncomfortable evening this weekend.
      Pavlovic, 23, said: “Kane is an unbelievable player who has had a great season, but if you want to stop players like him we need to play all together.
      “Work hard to put pressure on him, put in tackles and not give him any space whatsoever. That’s what we will try to do and that’s something we are working on.
      “When you look at England’s squad they have a lot of qualities, especially in attack, a lot of players who have had good seasons and scored a lot of goals.
      “That’s the biggest weapon they have.”
      Pavlovic – who plays for Red Bull Salzburg – added: “We have a tough group, one of the best teams in England and to have them in the first game is as difficult as it can be.
      “Denmark and Slovenia are also good sides, but we need to prepare in the best possible way and try to have a positive result. We need to put in maximum effort to get out the group.”
      Pavlovic admits that he and his teammates will speak to former Fulham and Newcastle striker Aleksandar Mitrovic to get tips on how stop some of England’s best outlets.
      He said: “Of course, we will speak to Mitrovic. We have a lot of experienced players so for sure, they will give us good advice.”
      Serbia have a fully fit squad to choose from to face England, including Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, former Real Madrid forward Luka Jovic and ex-Southampton playmaker Dusan Tadic. More

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      England’s Euro 2024 opponents set for last-minute training ground change because of state of pitch

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      UEFA chiefs are ready to step in and find a NEW training ground for England’s group opponents Denmark.SunSport reported on concerns about the condition of the newly-relaid pitch at the Danes’ base in Freudenstadt, near Baden-Baden in the south west of Germany.Denmark arrived in Germany for Euro 2024 on MondayCredit: AFPThe Danes were left furious at the condition of the pitch at their training baseCredit: EPAUefa are working hard to find the 1992 tournament winners a new training baseCredit: APA last-minute change saw ground staff rip up huge swathes of the new surface – only put down on June 2 – at the beginning of the week, with Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmund and his players unhappy at the state of play.Now Uefa has admitted it is preparing to identify a second option nearby.A Uefa spokesman said: “We are coordinating with the Danish FA on alternative options in the event that a solution is required for a new training facility.“Uefa wishes to confirm its commitment to provide first-class services and facilities to Denmark and to all teams participating in the Euro 2024 finals.”READ MORE ON EURO 2024Denmark start their campaign against Slovenia in Stuttgart on Sunday before returning to Freudenstadt ahead of their clash with England in Frankfurt next Thursday.The conditions of the training ground surface have caused growing concerns and suggestions it has already impacted on preparation for Denmark’s opening game.But Hjulmund and national team director Christian Norkjaer are attempting to take the heat out of the situation.Norkjaer said: “Fortunately, our training ground is improving.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSDenmark Euro 2024 guideTHE winners of Euro 1992 will be hoping for another unlikely surge to the latter stages under boss Kasper Hjulmand.
      The spirit of the squad cannot be questioned after they recovered from Christian Eriksen’s collapse to make it to the Euro 2020 semi-finals and give England a scare.
      MANAGER: Kasper Hjulmand
      Played in America for North Florida Ospreys and became Thomas Tuchel’s successor at Mainz in 2014. 
      KEY MAN: Rasmus Hojlund
      One of few bright sparks as Man Utd finished a dismal eighth in the Premier League. Can cause problems with his tireless work ethic and clinical finishing.
      How Denmark attack
      Denmark are very structured and patient in the way they attack.
      They will often push a midfielder up to join the three strikers and attempt to create a four-man overload.
      How Denmark defend
      While Denmark attack in a 4-3-3, or even a 4-2-2, they will drop into a deeper 5-4-1 out of possession.
      They will wait patiently for the right moment to press and recover quickly if the opposition attempt to play over the top.
      Read the full Denmark Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags

      “We had a really good training session on that Wednesday and there are therefore no plans to train elsewhere right now.”He added: “We feel good here in Freudenstadt, the atmosphere in the squad is really good.Jack Wilshere previews England’s Euro 2024 chances and praises Wayne Rooney while remembering his time as part of Three Lions squad”And we are using all our energy to get ready and prepare for the exciting opening match on Sunday.“We would like to focus solely on the match against Slovenia now, so we have no further to say about the pitch.“However, I will report if anything changes about the training pitch.” More

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      What is England’s biggest ever loss and their largest defeat at the Euros?

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      ENGLAND are looking to win their first ever European championship this summer at Euro 2024.The Three Lions came agonisingly close last time out in the Euro 2020 edition three years ago.England are no strangers to heartbreaking defeats throughout their historyEngland boss Gareth Southgate should remember the past when challenging for Euro 2024Gareth Southgate’s men made it the farthest they have ever advanced as they faced Italy in the final at Wembley.However, England suffered yet another penalty heartbreak against the Azzurri and are still without an international title since the 1966 World Cup.Southgate’s men pose as one of the favourites to lift the Euro 2024 trophy in Germany.However, the national team shouldn’t forget the past as history proves it can all still go up in flames.Read More on FootballWhat is England’s biggest loss?England’s biggest ever defeat in their entire history took place during an international friendly.The Three Lions took on the mighty Hungary of old back in 1954 in Budapest.Ferenc Puskas and co ran riot over England as they battered them with a score of 7-1. The performance was so bad that two players – Peter Harris and Jackie Sewell – were never capped again.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSWhat is England’s heaviest loss in the Euros?England have been a lot more fortunate in the Euros as they have never suffered a heavy defeat.The worst it got for the Three Lions was back in 1988 when they lost 3-1 to the Netherlands and the Soviet Union.Southgate speaks out after England humbled by Iceland ahead of EurosBoth games took place in the group stage when the three teams were also drawn with the Republic of Ireland.England lost all three games and finished bottom of the group in what is still remembered as the national team’s worst ever Euros tournament.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT More

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      England’s best players who missed out on playing in major tournaments including Le Tissier, Gazza and Grealish

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE isn’t the first England manager to have made some brutal selection decisions.The Three Lions boss, 53, raised eyebrows last week by leaving the likes of Jack Grealish and Harry Maguire out of his final Euro 2024 squad.Jack Grealish was surprisingly cut from the England squadCredit: GettyWhenever a major tournament comes around, fans eagerly pick over which stars should and shouldn’t get the nod from the powers that be.Last time out in Qatar, Fikayo Tomori, Jarrod Bowen and James Ward-Prowse suffered the heartache of falling at the final hurdle.While at Euro 2020, it was Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard who received the last-minute chop.Along with Grealish and Maguire, Jarell Quansah, Jarrad Branthwaite, James Maddison, Curtis Jones and James Trafford also missed out on this summer’s tournament.Read More on FootballWith Euro 2024 kicking off, let’s take a walk down memory lane to consider seven previous stars who surprisingly missed out.RIO FERDINANDIn 2012, aged 33, it’s fair to say Rio was past the peak of his powers.However, he did still offer a wise and experienced head at the back, and had come off a decent season for Manchester United.But Ferdinand was left “gutted” to have been left out of England’s Euro 2012 squad.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSManager Roy Hodgson explained the decision was made for footballing reasons, but Ferdinand’s omission did avoid any potential conflict with the selected John Terry, who months later faced allegations in court that he racially abused Rio’s brother, Anton.”I admire Rio Ferdinand as a player,” Hodgson explained. “I think he’s a fine footballer and I respect him, but I had to pick a squad with defenders I wanted to take to the Euros.”Phil Jones and Joleon Lescott got nods ahead of Ferdinand.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024Rio Ferdinand was snubbed from the Euro 2012 squadCredit: Getty Images – GettyPAUL GASCOIGNEEx-England boss Glenn Hoddle once described it as the “saddest thing he ever had to do.”After Gazza was instrumental in helping his country in the qualifiers, he was told he wouldn’t be going to France ’98.The hero two years earlier at Euro ’96, Gascoigne was given an ultimatum about his fitness. But Hoddle felt he just wasn’t up to it.According to reports, Gazza smashed up Hoddle’s hotel room when he was told the news.The mercurial midfielder was never picked for England again.Gazza was reportedly furious when Glenn Hoddle told him he wouldn’t be picked for the 1998 World CupCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdEURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENTPAUL MERSONAlthough Merse got the nod ahead of Gazza for France ’98, he could count himself unlucky not to have gone to Italia ’90.In fine fine form at Arsenal, and only 22, the ‘Magic Man’ won the PFA Young Player of the Year Award in 1989.But Bobby Robson only picked three forwards for the World Cup, with the striking positions being taken by Gary Lineker, Peter Beardsley and Steve Bull.Nine midfielders were selected, including Bryan Robson, who struggled with injury and missed the majority of the competition. and a relatively unknown Gazza.England Euro 2024 guideGARETH SOUTHGATE is under no illusions coming into this competition – it is win or bust.
      The Three Lions have never had a better opportunity to end their 58-year wait for a major international trophy given the talent and experience they have in their armoury.
      MANAGER: Gareth Southgate
      The former England star has come closer than anyone since Sir Alf Ramsey to ending the Three Lions’ trophy hoodoo.
      Southgate is aware that the nations expects, and has even suggested he will quit if he doesn’t deliver the European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Jude Bellingham
      The Real Madrid star is arguably the world’s best player at the moment and gives England the platform they need to dominate big games.
      How England attack
      England will look to dominate the ball against almost everybody.
      Declan Rice is crucial in progressing the ball, Bellingham, Saka and Foden will rotate to pull defenders out of position and Kane can both score and drop deep to provide chances for others.
      How England defend
      England press man-to-man with the midfield pushing up to support Kane when the ball is lost and look to win it as close to the opposition goal as possible.
      However, the left-back spot could be a cause for concern, particularly with Luke Shaw entering the tournament with fitness worries.
      Read the full England Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.

      In 1989 Paul Merson was the best young player in the country, but that didn’t get him an England call-up a year later for Italia ’90Credit: GettyPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.

      MATT LE TISSIERArguably the most talented footballer of his generation, it’s criminal Matt Le Tissier didn’t get the international recognition he deserved.Possibly because he played for an unfashionable club in Southampton at the time – that might’ve been why he was overlooked.But the Saints legend only managed eight caps in his career, despite scoring 209 goals for his club.Had England qualified for the 1994 World Cup, he might’ve had a chance of being selected.He was also overlooked for the 1998 World Cup, even after impressing in an England B game against Russia – scoring a hat-trick.A hat-trick playing England B against Russia wasn’t enough to earn Matt Le Tissier a place in the squad for the 1998 World CupCredit: Times Newspapers LtdTONY ADAMSExperience, perhaps, wasn’t on Mr Arsenal’s side when Bobby Robson was selecting his Italia ’90 squad.And the formation wouldn’t have been to the Gunners legend’s strengths – playing in a back three, when he was used to a flat back four in North London.Adams’ spot went to Mark Wright, a more cultured sweeper who could bring the ball out of defence better than his counterpart.At Euro ’92, Martin Keown and Des Walker were the preferred two. However, Adams was restored to the first team before Euro ’96, where he had an outstanding tournament.Tony Adams wasn’t selected for Italia ’90 or Euro ’92, but was picked in subsequent tournaments afterCredit: GettyJERMAIN DEFOEIn 2014, it was a close call in the striking positions for a partner for Wayne Rooney.In fairness to Roy Hodgson, Jermain Defoe didn’t do himself any favours by moving to the MLS to play for Toronto months before the squad was decided.Rickie Lambert, Danny Welbeck and Daniel Sturridge were picked instead, leaving Defoe devastated.”I don’t think I’ll ever be at peace [with the decision],” the striker said at the time.Jermain Defoe was omitted from the 2014 World Cup squad by Roy Hodgson in favour of Rickie LambertCredit: Getty Images – GettyLAURIE CUNNINGHAMGood enough for Real Madrid, but not for England.Winger Laurie Cunningham, whose life was tragically cut short at 33 in a car crash, joined Los Blancos after starring at West Brom for £950,000 in 1979.In doing so, he became the first British footballer to move to the LaLiga giants.However, Ron Greenwood completely snubbed him from his Euro 1980 squad.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe following season, Cunningham made the squad for the qualifiers, after bitter negotiations with Real Madrid.But after appearing as a sub in a 2-1 defeat to Romania, he would never wear an England jersey again.The late Laurie Cunningham found himself on the periphery of the England squad, despite starring for Real MadridCredit: PAJack 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

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      Belgium vs Slovakia – Euro 2024: Red Devils get campaign underway against Slovaks – stream FREE, TV channel, team news

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      BELGIUM kick off their Euro 2024 game with a tough but winnable game against Slovakia.The Red Devils launch their bid for glory in Frankfurt against a Slovakia side managed by former Napoli caretaker boss Francesco Calzona.This is likely to be Kevin De Bruyne’s last EurosCredit: AFPBut the Belgium squad still features several starsCredit: RexSlovakia now play a more attacking brand of footballCredit: GettyIt’s a case of a ‘last dance’ for many of the stars of Belgium’s golden generation with the likes of Jan Vertonghen, Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku seeing this as their final chance to win something for the Red Devils.Gone are stars such as Eden Hazard, Axel Witsel and Toby Alderweireld but there is a feeling of renewal for the Belgians.Previous boss Roberto Martinez, who guided Belgium to a World Cup semi-final in 2018, a quarter-final at Euro 2020 and a group stage exit at the 2022 World Cup, has gone, and so has his three at the back system.Former RB Leipzig coach, Domenico Tedesco, who plays a high-pressing brand of football, has come in and introduced a 4-3-3 system.The side have not been beaten under his stewardship.Not only has the system changed but the Italian has introduced fresh blood to the ailing golden generation.Johann Bakayoko, 21, Dodi Lukebakio, 26, and Orel Mangala, also 26, have all become important members of the side.Jeremy Doku, who was introduced to the squad by Martinez, is also flourishing into a great player at Manchester City and will be a key man for the Belgians.Most read in Euro 2024Tedesco has been in charge since March 2023 with the side collecting 20 points from 24 in a qualifying group that included Austria and Sweden.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBelgium come into the tournament as eighth favourites with the bookies but are ranked fourth in the men’s Fifa rankings.Slovakia are light on stars but could be a decent watch under Calzona, after developing a reputation for disciplined football under previous managers. Inside the ten stunning Euro 2024 stadiums including historic final venueHe is a disciple of Maurizio Sarri, having previously been his assistant at Napoli so expect pretty-passing patterns and possession-based football.PSG’s Milan Skriniar and Napoli’s Stanislav Lobotka are the side’s stand-out players.Path to the EurosBelgium arrive at the tournament unbeaten in qualification and without a loss so far under Tedesco.They opened qualifying with a statement 3-0 win over Sweden and also beat Germany 3-2 away in a friendly in his second game in charge.Slovakia’s qualifying form was also impressive, winning seven, drawing two and losing one.Both of those losses came against Portugal, which could be indicative of how this game will go against quality opposition.Team NewsThibaut Courtois, 32, is the most glaring omission from the Belgium squad.Felt by many to be the best goalkeeper in the world, he misses out through a combination of injury and bad blood between him and Tedesco. The keeper tore his ACL in August last year and declared himself out of the Euros then, but returned for Real Madrid as they won LaLiga and the Champions League.Courtois was angered not to have been made captain during Belgium’s home qualifier against Estonia which would have celebrated his 100th Belgian cap – he has not spoken to Tedesco since.Elsewhere they are struggling greatly to field a defence, with Thomas Meunier, Jan Vertonghen and Arthur Theate all doubts.Slovakia enter the tournament with a clean bill of health.Ones to watchThere can only be one answer for Belgium and that’s Kevin De Bruyne.At 32, this could be his final Euros tournament and he’s coming off the back of a Manchester City season where he missed the first half with injury – meaning he should be fresh for this tournament.He’ll be spoilt for choice when threading balls through to the front line, with Tedesco being able to pick a front-line from Jeremy Doku, Leandro Trossard, Johan Bakayoko and Romelu Lukaku.Slovakia’s strongest player is Milan Skriniar, who was a rock for Inter Milan but has struggled at PSG, but there’s nothing very interesting about a star centre-back.Stanislav Lobotka is a lovely central midfielder in the Jorginho mould and will keep things ticking over – he’s the sort of midfielder England could really do with.Hellas Verona winger Tomas Suslov is tricky if a bit too mercurial – his lack of tracking back has angered Calzona in the past but who doesn’t love a maverick?Head-to-HeadBelgium and Slovakia have only met twice in their history with both of those coming in friendlies.The two drew 0-0 in their first meeting in 2006.Belgium got the better of the Slovaks in 2013 with a 1-0 win.SunSport predictionDespite their two previous meetings yielding one goal in 180 minutes of football – Tedesco’ pressing football and wonderful attack should be too much for Slovakia.Prediction: 3-0PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      When is Belgium vs Slovakia?
      Belgium’s opening group game against Slovakia will take place on Monday, June 17.
      The game will kick off at 5pm BST.
      Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt, Germany will host the clash.
      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
      Belgium vs Slovakia will be shown live on ITV 1 and ITV 1 HD in the UK.
      You can live stream all the action from the ITV X app, which is available for download on to your mobile or tablet device.
      Can I watch for FREE?
      Yes, the game is available to watch for FREE on ITV 1, so long as you have a valid TV licence.
      READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Belgium – 1/2
      Draw – 7/2
      Slovakia – 11/2
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication. More

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      Italy vs Albania – Euro 2024: Sign up and get £30 in free bets to spend on football with talkSPORT BET

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      talkSPORT BET are offering new customers the chance to bag themselves £30 in free bets for the Euros!That’s right, brand new customers who register an account HERE* and stake £10 will be rewarded with £30 in free bets that can be used on Euro 2024!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereYour first £10 stake could be placed on Saturday’s 8pm kick off in Group B between Italy and Albania!talkSPORT BET: Get £30 in free bets – CLAIM HERE*talkSPORT BET bonus: Sign up and get £30 in free bets to spend on Euro 2024What’s the talkSPORT BET offer?Brand new talkSPORT BET customers can claim a welcome bonus of £30 for Italy vs Albania on Saturday when they register an account and stake £10 on any sports market.How to claim?Simply visit the talkSPORT BET website on your mobile device and create an account. Opt in to this promotion via the OFFERS tab and then make a deposit via debit card or Apple Pay.Stake £10 or more on any sports market – including the Euros – at odds of at least Evens. Remember, you must do this within 7 days of opening your account.What happens next?Once your bet has settled — win or lose — you will receive £30 in free bets to spend on the following:
      £5 Football Bet Builder Free Bet
      £5 Euro 2024 Lucky Dip Free Bet
      £5 Any Sports In-Play Free Bet
      And the following free bets, which will be credited 24 hours after the first bonus funds:
      £5 Football Bet Builder Free Bet
      £5 Euro 2024 Lucky Dip Free Bet
      £5 Any Sports In-Play Free Bet
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERS*18+ New customers only. Opt in via mobile & bet £10+ on any sports at 2.00+ odds within 7 days. No Cash out. Get 6x £5 Free Bets on selected markets. Free bets expire in 7 days. Card payments & Apple Pay only. T&Cs apply, see below. GambleAware.org | Please gamble responsibly.Remember to gamble responsiblyA responsible gambler is someone who:
      Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
      Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
      Never chase their losses
      Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressed
      Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
      Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org
      Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk More

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      Wetherspoons’ major rule change ahead of Euro 2024 after boozer slammed for harsh ban during World Cup frenzy

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      WETHERSPOONS has reversed a controversial ban for its boozers on the eve of Euros footie festivities.The proud pub chain in 2018 controversially rolled out bunting featuring every competing nation’s colours – but restricted staff when it came to another key decoration. Punters can expect a more patriotic pub experience for the 2024 EurosCredit: GettySt George’s Cross is set to be welcomed back to Spoons boozersCredit: AlamyThe St George’s Cross, along with all other flags, were barred from being flown in Spoons watering holes during the 2018 World Cup – but patriotic pubs are now being given the go-ahead. Spokesman Eddie Gershon said the previous restriction was an effort to keep each Spoons pub consistent.He explained at the time: “What we aren’t looking for is individual pubs putting extra flags up, so that one pub in Leeds might have a big England flag but another might not.”We have sent this morning bunting to all our pubs, but staff can’t go willy-nilly adding anything they want to it.”Read more sport newsA Worcester barman slammed the move as an “absolute joke”, The Sun reported in 2018.The employee wrote online: “Absolute joke that we have to take our England flags down at work. We are an English pub chain.”The bunting featuring every competing nation will again be handed to all Spoons pubs for the Euros.But now bar staff are being told they can also fly flags at their discretion as the nation cheers on Gareth Southgate’s boys in Germany.Most read in FootballSpokesman Eddie Gershon confirmed to The Sun: “Wetherspoon pubs can put out flags and bunting for the Euros if they wish to do so.”It comes after Spoons moved to end the peculiar “phenomenon” of single-file queuing at its bars.How Wetherspoons brought in strict new ordering rule A Merseyside boozer was snapped putting up a sign that read: “please stand at the bar to be served.”It went viral on social media amid a brewing “campaign to end the recent phenomenon of queuing in single file in pubs” led by @QueuesPub on X.The trend is speculated by some to be a byproduct of Covid times, when punters were forced to stand in lines socially distanced. Spoons chief Tim Martin told The Sun: “On balance, Wetherspoon would opt for the traditional anarchy of the pub non-queue.”It appears tradition is back in vogue at Spoons just in time for Euros footie fever. Spoons’ rules
      KIDS
      Wetherspoons welcomes under-18s during permitted hours, which vary from pub to pub.
      Kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
      If alcohol is ordered, some pubs may ask that all members of that party also order a main meal.
      The serving of alcohol is at the manager’s discretion and the purchase or consumption by under-18s is never permitted.
      DOGS
      The pub chain has a blanket ban on canines.
      They aren’t allowed in the pub, in beer gardens or even the car park.
      “Even well trained dogs can sometimes behave unpredictably,” the rules say.
      The only exception to this is for assistance dogs, but Wetherspoons asks that they are clearly marked with a recognisable leash or collar.
      DRESS CODE
      Patrons must be fully dressed at all times – this means no taking off your shirts or footwear.
      The website also stipulates that clothing slogans, accessories or tattoos must not be offensive.
      SMOKING AND VAPING
      This is only allowed in designating smoking areas.
      Wetherspoons warns that rule applies in hotel rooms and external areas.
      BEHAVIOUR
      The pub chain urges all patrons to be considerate to both fellow punters and employees.
      Rules say boozers will work with the cops to prosecute those physically or verbally abusing employees.

      Spoons boss Tim Martin has clarified a few controversial issues in recent timesCredit: AFPExpect a sea of England flags at Spoons pubs throughout the tournamentCredit: Getty More

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      Banning England fans from drinking strong lager at Euros is ‘discriminatory’….‘we’re being picked on’, minister says

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      SERVING England fans shandy beers instead of full-strength booze at the Euros is “discriminatory”, a Government minister has blasted.Policing Minister Chris Philp declared offering Three Lions followers “watered-down” pints at England’s opening game against Serbia on Sunday was “completely unfair”.Policing Minister Chris Philp told The Sun on Sunday’s Kate Ferguson that the booze measures were ‘completely unfair’Full strength beer at the England versus Serbia game has been banned and replaced with low alcohol boozeCredit: GettyThe heavy-handed security measures threatened to spark a diplomatic incident with the minister fuming: “We should not be getting picked on in that way.”It comes after tournament mandarins in Germany scrapped full-strength booze amid fears Serbian yobs are planning to face off with tipsy English footy followers at the 62,000-seater Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen.England fans had been looking forward to throwing back the 4.8 per cent strength Bitburger Premium in stadium bars but the brew will now be replaced by the much weaker 2.5 per cent “Radler-style” beer — half lager and half citrus soda.Speaking to our Never Mind The Ballots election countdown show, Policing Minister Chris Philip blasted: “If England fans have somehow been picked out or singled out and served watered-down beer based on their nationality, that sounds to me completely unfair.Read more about Euro 2024“And probably discriminatory – we should not be getting picked on in that way.”Risk ratings were ramped up from “high” to “very high” for Sunday’s clash with Serbia amid fears 500 hardcore pro-Putin footy yobs will travel to spark clashes with England fans.[embedded content]Worries were amplified by a UEFA ban on segregation in the stadium — putting rival supporters next to each other in mixed seating.Gelsenkirchen police spokesman Stephan Knipp told The Sun: “It is just the England game which will have the low-strength beer. The other games at the stadium will have 4.8 per cent.”Most read in Euro 2024England fans will also be subjected to a last-minute booze ban in the city centre before the kick-off at 8pm UK time.Watch our daily politics show
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      England’s last Euros opener abroad was in 2016, when highly organised Russian yobs — believed to be state-sponsored — put scores of Three Lions fans in hospital in Marseille, France.An estimated 40,000 England fans are expected to travel to Sunday’s game, along with 8,000 Serbs, plus more from Serbian communities in Germany.Speaking about the safety of England fans in Germany, he said: “It’s really important that these games pass off peacefully.“I know there are UK police officers over in Germany, helping the German police, targeting and looking at monitoring fans that might cause a problem.“Fans that are violent and might cause a problem are not allowed to travel because they have banning orders.”Heavy-handed German cops have also said they will step in and fine anyone wearing a fake footy top under strict counterfeit and trademark laws.Police officers will reportedly be able to issue fines of up to £4,000 – although it is unclear if authorities are actually planning to enforce the law.Mr Philp said the matter was “something you wouldn’t expect the police to get involved in”.He went on: “I don’t know the details but it does sound quite heavy-handed.“Certainly as far as a ban is concerned, they might get involved in stopping people selling fake shirts – that would be a usual thing for them to be involved in.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I obviously in no way condone using (fake) shirts. I think you should buy shirts from legitimate vendors because that money goes back into the grassroots.“So people should not be buying fake shirts.”The minister added England footy fans should not be ‘picked on’ for their nationalityCredit: PA More