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      Christoph Baumgartner and other bargain midfielders available in Dream Team Euros

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      DREAM TEAM EUROS managers are spoiled for choice in midfield.The likes of Jude Bellingham (£6m), Bruno Fernandes (£6m) and Kevin De Bruyne (£7m) are all hugely popular selections but a budget of £50million only covers a certain number of premium stars.Many gaffers will be on the hunt for a bargain midfielder to balance the books ahead of Matchday 1.Allow us to put forward some suggestions…DON’T MISS OUT – PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!Underrated and undervaluedCredit: Dream TeamChristoph Baumgartner (£2.5m)Austria are expected to be a compelling side this summer as Ralf Rangnick has successfully implemented (for want of a better term) ‘Red Bull football’ since he took charge – think intense pressing and high energy.As an RB Leipzig player, Baumgartner has naturally taken to the tactics like a duck to water, with impressive results to show for his efforts.The 24-year-old heads to Germany having scored in each of his last five games at international level.He also notched three goals and two assists in seven outings during qualifying.That being said, Austria are set to face France in Matchday 1 so gaffers keen on Baumgartner could wait until Matchday 2.Although Rangnick’s side have beaten Croatia, Italy and Germany since they adopted a more ambitious approach…Viktor Tsygankov (£2.5m)Tsygankov played an important role in Ukraine’s journey to GermanyCredit: GettyGaffers more inclined to dub Ukraine ‘dark horses’ should consider their lively right winger, who has outperformed Mykhailo Mudryk (£3m) in recent times.Tsygankov plays his club football with Girona, where he’s team-mates with compatriot and La Liga top scorer Artem Dovbyk (£3m), but he’s saved his best form for the international stage.The 26-year-old has scored six goals in his last ten outings for Ukraine, including a brace against Germany.Serhiy Rebrov’s side were dealt a tough draw during qualifying with Italy and England for company but their group at the tournament itself appears relatively friendly – they face Romania and Slovakia before a more testing match-up against Belgium.See also: Heorhii Sudakov (£2.5m)PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      Scott McTominay (£2.5m)Scotland’s primary goal threat?The Manchester United midfielder was Scotland’s clutch goalscorer during qualifying – he bagged seven in total to book his country’s place in Germany.In previous years he’s been viewed as a combative, defensive anchor but more recently he’s been an increasingly effective contributor in the final third for club and country.Like Baumgartner, McTominay’s first fixture is a tough one on paper with Steve Clarke’s men raising the curtain against hosts Germany on Friday night.Dream Team Euros bosses may be a tad underwhelmed at the prospect of selecting a player who has notable limitations but it’s simply a fact he was among the top goalscorers in qualifying.EUROS SCORE PREDICTOR IS HERE! CLICK PLAY FOR FREE NOW – £5,000 PRIZE POT!Roland Sallai (£2.5m)England’s tormentorHungary are another team in the ‘dark horses’ conversation having gone unbeaten in qualifying and knocked off England 4-0 at Molineux in the Nations League.Expectations were dampened by a 2-1 loss to the Republic of Ireland in their final pre-tournament friendly but they’re expected to be very competitive in Group A.Dominik Szoboszlai (£3.5m) is unquestionably Hungary’s main man but his price puts him in the mid-range whereas Sallai is comparatively affordable.The Freiburg winger offers plenty of industry and his output at international level is more than respectable – he’s scored seven goals and provided three assists in his last 14 outings, including a brace against the Three Lions in that aforementioned upset.Arda Guler (£2.5m)WonderkidCredit: GettyNo list of cheap of midfielders would be complete without an exciting teenager.The Real Madrid youngster was limited to just 373 minutes in La Liga this season but he managed six goals in that time at a strike rate of one every 62.2 minutes.Guler was particularly impressive at the back end of the campaign when Carlo Ancelotti have him a little run in the starting line-up.This major international tournament might come too soon for the 19-year-old to flaunt his skills to the full extent but he’s clearly a natural talent.Turkey have the benefit of a favourable Matchday 1 fixture in the form of Georgia.Guler is a tempting option but it should be noted that Hakan Calhanoglu (£3m) is available for an extra £0.5m.Jack Wilshere, Jurgen Klinsmann and Gordon Strachan settle some HUGE Dream Team Euros debates More

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      Euro 2024 travel chaos with England fans facing massive delays and nightmare train journeys

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      ENGLAND and Scotland fans planning on getting round Euro 2024 by train face a series of nightmare journeys.The once-famously efficient German transport network has become little more than a running joke in the country.Fans are facing transport hell in GermanyCredit: GettyThere are expected to be severe delaysCredit: GettyIt means fans have been warned to factor in at least an hour and maybe double that time for delays caused by a lack of trains, staffing issues and other reasons.UEFA have trumped the green credentials of the tournament, urging teams to use coach travel and supporters to get on the train between the 10 venue cities.Yet significant delays are now recorded on more than a THIRD of journeys across the Government-run Deutsche Bahn network.And that was BEFORE thousands of supporters from across Europe flood the trains seeking to criss-cross the country following their teams.READ MORE ON EURO 2024When a simple three hour journey can take almost twice as long on a bad day, the chaos is likely to cause hot tempers and bad blood.Germany-based UEFA representatives had been privately warning colleagues in Nyon about the looming problems for months leading up to the tournament.And the German media are also laughing publicly about the dreadful serviceTV journalist Chaled Nagar wrote on X: “The idea that Germany is so efficient and great at organizing is now officially considered a myth.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Almost everyone coming here is surprised that their train service at home is far so much better.”In a group with colleagues from abroad, there has been anger and sarcasm towards the train from day one. Banning England fans from drinking strong lager at Euros is ‘discriminatory’….‘we’re being picked on’, minister says”Many arrived today and yesterday. Now they have found out that there is a refund for delays and are demanding the same principle for the VAR. “Here’s to four wonderful weeks!”England begin their campaign against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.Their next game is in Frankfurt as they take on Denmark four days later.Martin Lipton’s nightmare journeyIt should have been an easy day, a simple journey from Frankfurt to Munich and back to hear UEFA referees’ chief Roberto Rosetti explain how VAR and his team of officials were going to work in Euro 2024.
      But it turned into a 17-and-a-half hour nightmare as all the scare stories about the German railway network came frustratingly true.
      Cancellations, delays, work on the line and a shortage of staff meant I spent as long waiting and going nowhere as being on the move on the 480-mile round trip.
      “Vorsprung durch Technik”, as they USED to say in Germany? Don’t make me laugh… As for the sandwiches and salad at Munich Hauptbahnhof – don’t bother.
      Here’s how my day went….
      08:30 – Leave Frankfurt hotel and walk to main station for 0905 train. Already informed that connecting train in Stuttgart has been cancelled09:20 – Train departs – just 15 minutes late. By the time it arrives in Stuttgart I would have missed the original 1051 train.11:25 – Delayed 1115 leaves Stuttgart, arriving at Munich-Pasing 25 minutes late.15:00 – Finally arrive at Allianz Arena, almost two hours later than scheduled after more issues with local S-Bahn and U-Bahn commuter services.18:20 – Leave Allianz Arena in time for 1923 train to Frankfurt. Initially booked and faster direct service already cancelled.19:53 – Board train, already half an hour late. Discover it is no longer stopping at Frankfurt main station. The everybody told to get off as Deutsche Bahn have run out of train crew.21:03 – Replacement option of 2029 service finally leaves Munich, due to arrive in Frankfurt at 1204.01:25 -Train finally pulls in at Frankfurt, 85 minutes late. Catch last 37 bus to hotel, sparing me a 20 minute walk.

      And the Three Lions close out their Group C campaign in a clash with Slovenia on June 25.If Gareth Southgate’s men reach the last 16 by winning their group, they will be back in Gelsenkirchen on June 30.Finishing second would set up a trip to Dortmund on June 29, while England could also end up in Frankfurt on July 1 if they are one of the four best third-place teams.And it is not just the travel situation set to leave a bad taste in fans’ mouths.Policing Minister Chris Philp says thje decision to give Three Lions followers “watered-down” pints at England’s opening game against Serbia is “discriminatory.”He told The Sun’s Never Mind The Ballots election countdown show: “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.“And probably discriminatory – we should not be getting picked on in that way.”READ MORE SUN STORIESRisk ratings have been set to “very high” for Sunday’s clash with Serbia amid fears 500 hardcore yobs will travel to spark clashes with England fans. More

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      England stars’ favourite cheat meal and pre-match food revealed ahead of Euro 2024

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      CURRY PIE, sausage roll, come on England score a goal.Our Three Lions stars will tuck into curry pies and burgers if they can deliver Euro 2024 success, revealed their private chef.Private chef Jonny Marsh cooks for a number of England’s starsCredit: Instagram @chef_jonnymarsh
      Marsh has teamed up with Deliveroo to offer fans an at-home dining experience on England match daysCredit: DeliverooKyle Walker and Luke Shaw are two of his clients from the Three Lions campCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunMichelin star trained Jonny Marsh cooks for a host of football stars – including several members of Gareth Southgate’s squad in Germany.His clientele includes Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, while his latest one is Manchester United ace Rasmus Hojlund.England’s own Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker and Luke Shaw are just some of Southgate’s men who hire him – and now he has lifted the lid on what it’s like cooking for our Euro-chasing heroes.He told Sun Sport: “Luke Shaw is a big one for me and a big part of my career so far but I’ve cooked for a lot of players in that squad.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“In the last Euros, it was the game that Bukayo Saka didn’t start, there was a game that I’d cooked for every player on the pitch bar Harry Kane. That’s a pretty cool little fact.“But for me personally, whether it’s meal preps, daily cooking or a one-off event, I’ve cooked for pretty much everybody.”Marsh has now teamed up with Deliveroo to launch a competition for fans, with entry now open via participating restaurants, to win him as a private chef, in their very own home, to cook them a three-course menu during an England group game.And the kitchen whizz, who says a spaghetti bolognese is “a go-to pre-match pasta for sure” for his clients, could you up one of their favourite cheat meals.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMarsh said: “Everybody is different but I would say the most common is burger – that’s quite a big one.“And, do you know what, since coming back from Christmas and doing my Proper Pies series, pies have become very, very popular.The Sun’s Tom Barclay gives live update from England training and John Stones MISSES session through illness“Hojlund loves a meat pie, Aaron loves the chicken, leek and bacon pie.“There’s a load of variations on pies, which is great because we can always do something but everyone loves a curry pie.“They can take a while as you’re cooking the curry down so that the meat is tender and the pastry is like a hot water pastry so it becomes very, very crisp, which is why pies can kind of stand on their own rather than just have a pastry top.“The water pastry, you’re melting the water, butter and lard together until it’s hot and then pouring it into the flower.“And you can’t roll the dough out while the pastry is hot – you have to cool it down – so that will take a few hours. “All in all, it might take them five minutes to eat but eight or nine hours to make fully.”Jonny’s Beef Vindaloo PieA winning combination of two of English football’s most loved foods, the hot curry and the humble pie…
      INGREDIENTSDough
      • 720g flour • 240g water • 6tbsp butter • 6tbsp lard • Pinch of salt
      Filling
      • 800g beef (diced)
      Curry Paste
      • 2 tsp coriander seeds • 6tbsp chilli powder • 3 tsp cumin seed • 4 cloves • 4 cardamom pods (green) • 2 tsp cinnamon powder • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, roughly chopped • 10 garlic cloves (yes, 10!) • 1 tsp brown sugar • 1 tsp fenugreek seeds • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder • 230g cups water
      Curry Sauce
      • 50g unsalted butter • 1 onion, finely chopped (white) • 2 tsp ginger, finely grated • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced • 2 tbsp tomato paste • 500ml beef stock
      METHOD
      Dough
      1. Add your water, butter and lard to a pan and bring to a boil.
      2. Mix your flour and salt.
      3. You can either use a wooden spoon and a bowl or a food mixer and slowly bring dough together by adding your water and butter mixture slowly to the flour.
      4. Then flour a plate and place the dough on the plate and leave in your fridge to cool down – will take around 2 hours.
      FILLING
      1. Toss beef in salt.
      2. Curry paste: Place the curry paste ingredients in a small food processor with the water. Blitz until smooth.
      3. Fry your beef dice until golden brown, once brown transfer to a bowl.
      4. Curry sauce: Melt ghee over medium-high. Cook onion, ginger and garlic until they become translucent – about 3 minutes.
      5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
      6. Add your beef back to the pan and mix thoroughly, then add your curry paste and mix.
      7. Add beef stock. Slow cook and place lid on top, then cook for 2 hours or until beef is falling apart tender and the sauce has darkened in colour and thickened.
      8. When you have rolled out the dough, place in your non-stick mould and bake for 40 minutes at 175 degrees until golden brown, making sure you brush the pie lid with egg wash before cooking.
      ALLERGENS
      Pastry – Wheat, Milk
      Mash – Milk
      Filling – Although extremely rare, anaphylaxis has been reported with some spices. These reactions are consistent with true allergy. Some reactions can occur with oregano, thyme, coriander, caraway seed, cumin and cayenne pepper.

      He continued: “Players, in terms of cheat meals, it’s not like they are going to KFC and getting a bargain bucket and stuffing their faces full of chicken wings.“Their version of a cheat meal is a lot different to a normal person’s cheat meal.“So a cheat meal for them might be going out for a cheat meal but still eating quite healthy, so it’s all in perspective.“But they won’t be going down to McDonalds and getting 20 chicken nuggets.”Marsh will be watching on like the rest of the nation to see whether his England pals can cook up a storm on the pitch.He said: “I’ve never been asked to do an international tournament as England have their own chef.“They’ve had two or three chefs but had the one sole chef working for them for the last five or six years.“There was an opportunity a few years back if I wanted to apply for it but I’m pretty sure they filled it quickly.“It’s one of them, maybe one day I might be England chef.”Asked on why he had decided to team up with Deliveroo, Marsh said: “I think it’s because it gives people an idea of exactly what I can do on a day-to-day basis in terms of the players.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT“It also gives a bit of an insight into players’ cheat meals and that’s what the menu is based around.“So it’s a sort of day in the life and POV of what I get up to but also showing a bit of a fun side to the players and what they like to eat when they are not on strict diets.”The winner can be certain that he will hit the back of the net with whatever magic he cooks up for them – unlike his self-confessed biggest own goal with Man City legend Ilkay Gundogan.“When I very first started with Ilkay I made him like a smoked fish cake,” he added.“I really enjoyed it and made a sweet chilli sauce, it took hours to make and it was really nice. It just didn’t sit with him and he didn’t like it.“I was gutted but at least then I knew that smoked fish was a no-no for the rest of the five years that I was with him.”READ MORE SUN STORIESPrivate chef to pro footballers, Jonny Marsh, has teamed up with Deliveroo to offer fans the chance to eat like an England player, winning an at-home dining experience on match days on 20th and 25thJune.Order from participating restaurants from 14th-16th June, to find out more visit https://deliveroo.co.uk/more/news-articles/baller-bites. More

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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