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      England must use past pain of last three tournaments to inspire Euro 2024 victory, says ex-Arsenal star Wilshere

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      JACK WILSHERE lights up when he talks about England.There is excitement, envy that he is not part of this team and belief that this could be the group of players who end our wait for a trophy.Jack Wilshere believes England must use their past pain to inspire victory at Euro 2024Credit: GettyThe Three Lions have suffered heart-breaking defeats at the last three major tournamentsCredit: GettyAnd the former Three Lions midfielder — who could even have been in the squad but for career-ending injuries — thinks it is the pain of the “oh so nears” for this young group that can drive success this time.Wilshere, still only 32, said: “I watched Man City’s documentary and at the end of it Pep said, ‘You know, we had to lose those finals for us to win this’.“Sometimes, you have to go through those experiences, you have to feel that pain and it just gives you something extra.“Unfortunately, I never got to an international semi-final or quarter-final even.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“But when you hear Pep talk about that, I can relate that to England.“They’ve been through the pain of Croatia, of Wembley in the last Euros, of France at the last World Cup.“You have to use that disappointment and take it forward. With the highs we’ve had, now is like the next step. It feels like we have to win something.”Wilshere, now imparting his vast knowledge and tactical nous on to Arsenal’s youth players as Under-18s boss, says the pressure of playing for your country is “just different”.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBut given the number of players in this current squad to have played huge Premier League-defining games as well as Champions League semi-finals and finals, he believes they now have the big-game mentality to get over those barriers.SunSport columnist Wilshere added: “I remember coming off the pitch after a game in Ukraine and feeling like we’d done OK to get a point.England can win Euro 2024 with these tactics“Then people are saying it’s possibly the worst ever England performance — that certainly doesn’t help!“But now, with the efforts in previous tournaments, there’s more pressure and  it does take a certain type of player, a certain type of mentality.“I felt that when I played the pressure felt different playing for England but now it seems everyone is sort of pushing in the same direction and everyone’s positive.“When I first got into the squad, it was just after the 2010 World Cup in  South Africa, it smashed us.  And I went into the squad and I could definitely feel the mood  was a little bit flat.“But there’s a lot of big personalities and leaders now.“Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, you know, the big games they’ve played. With Declan Rice, the way he leads.“John Stones as well, how brave he is on the ball as a centre-back, you’ve got players that have that mentality.“They’ve experienced that feeling. Now they’re a little bit older, wiser.Gareth Southgate’s side were beaten on penalties by Italy in the final of Euro 2020Credit: ReutersHarry Kane also missed from 12 yards in their 2022 World Cup quarter-final loss to FranceCredit: Getty“We should be so excited as a nation to have these players, a lovely blend of tournament experience and youthful attack.”Wilshere speaks with the authority of a coach, he is currently completing his Uefa licences and he discusses tactics and patterns of play with ease.Hardly surprising, possibly, given that he grew up in an Arsene Wenger dressing room at Arsenal.And he has seen up close the ability of Rice, first alongside him as a player at West Ham and now from the touchlines at Arsenal training and matches this season.Wilshere is quick to correct me when I say he won 32 caps — it is 34 — adding:  “I haven’t got the physical capabilities that Dec has. He just gets better week on week.“He’s more than good enough on the ball and what he brings off the ball physically, he’s right at the top.“I used to call him a freak physically but not just physically but technically as well. The way he trains, he’s a monster.“This is a big tournament for him, he was great in the last one but this is a step on. He’ll show those leadership qualities and when Harry isn’t playing any more, for me, he’s the next England captain.“His game intelligence has improved so much but he’s still young, there’s so much more to come.“As a midfielder you scan, you take a touch, look and think you’re in space, then bang, Dec is there taking the ball off you.”Wilshere showed during his Soccer Aid performance on Sunday that he has still got a trick or two up his sleeve.He was the game-changer with a drag-back and assist, leaving legendary Chelsea keeper Petr Cech on his backside, for Ellen White.And he thinks another Arsenal player he has seen up close, Bukayo Saka, could be the difference-maker this time around.The focus has mainly been on Phil Foden, Bellingham and Cole Palmer.Perhaps Saka’s quieter end to the season and groin injury has played a part but with him fit and firing, Wilshere believes England will take some stopping.He added: “Bukayo is one of the nicest people I’ve met in the game. He’s so humble, always got time for the academy.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.

      “But he’s a hard worker, he’s there first, he leaves last. He understands what it takes and you’re seeing the rewards of that work.“The big thing for me with Saka is his decision making. He almost always makes the right decision!“In big games everything gets heightened. You can feel a little bit more tense, a little bit more anxious but he still makes the right decisions.“Whether it’s a one-two, a simple pass, a dribble and shoot, you rarely see him make a wrong decision. And as he works so hard, he’s executing everything so well.”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.

      Wilshere accepts Kane’s role could change in this England team, with more ball players and more attacking players.He added: “Kane is our most intelligent player. I’ve heard people say before, ‘He’s dropping too deep’.“But he understands what the game needs, so he’ll work that out for himself.“We’re going to have more players that can link now, we need someone in the box and who better  than Harry Kane?”So are we getting carried away?Wilshere smiled and added: “Gareth’s a top manager, it is his job to manage those players and the expectations.READ MORE SUN STORIES“He’s got the fans and the media — and obviously the players — on board.“He and Steve Holland,  a top-class coach, have done that so well and hopefully we’ll see all their hard work come together.”Wilshere scored twice in 34 caps for the Three Lions before retiring aged 30 in 2022Credit: GettyHe was part of the England team beaten by Iceland at Euro 2016 eight years agoCredit: Getty – Contributor More

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      Newcastle legend Patrick Kluivert reveals plan to emulate Xabi Alonso’s success with Premier League job

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      PATRICK KLUIVERT is driven to one day become a Premier League manager.As he sat down with SunSport to assess Holland’s chances at the Euros, he now sees everything through the lens of a coach.Patrick Kluivert plans to become a Premier League manager in the futureKluivert says ‘things need to fit like a glove’ if the Netherlands are to win Euro 2024Credit: GettyKluivert was one of the finest strikers of his generation, scoring the winner in the 1995 Champions League final and jointly winning the Golden Boot at Euro 2000.The former Newcastle striker, 47, has occupied several different roles since retiring — including sporting director at Paris Saint-Germain and academy director at Barcelona.Speaking in the Catalan city, Kluivert said: “I am waiting for a good opportunity and a good project. I am ready.“I’m eager to show the world that I’m capable of doing big things in coaching.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“I like to have challenges and the Premier League would be fantastic.“What kind of experience did Xabi Alonso have? You need to have an opportunity and what he did with Bayer Leverkusen is unreal.“He had only trained the second team of Sociedad and then got the opportunity to train a first team in the Bundesliga and won the title.”Kluivert, who was Louis van Gaal’s assistant when Holland reached the 2014 World Cup semi-finals, does not deviate from an attacking mindset.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHe said: “I like to dominate the game, play high-pressure, offensive football.“I like to have possession of the ball. I came from the Ajax youth and Barcelona have the same philosophy . . . attack is the best defence.”Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024Patrick Kluivert’s career statistics

      Ajax, 1991-97 – 52 goals in 100 appearances
      AC Milan, 1997-98 – 9 goals in 33 appearances
      Barcelona, 1998-2004 – 122 goals in 257 appearances
      Newcastle, 2004-05 – 13 goals in 37 appearances
      Valencia, 2005-06 – 2 goals in 16 appearances
      PSV, 2006-07 – 3 goals in 21 appearances
      Lille, 2007-08 – 4 goals in 14 appearances
      Netherlands, 1994-2004 – 40 goals in 79 caps
      Honours – Champions League, La Liga, Uefa Super Cup, 3x Eredivisie, 2x Dutch Super Cup, Intercontinental Cup

      Kluivert, whose last job was as boss of Turkish side Adana Demirspor, knows his country must again knit together a team of individuals if they are to have any hope of emulating their 1988 Euros triumph on German soil.He added: “If we have the confidence and can show the opponent we’re strong as a team, we can win it. But things need to fit like a glove.“At the moment you have better teams like Spain, Italy, France, Portugal and England. We have to fight against them as a team.“Holland have great individual quality and players who play in the highest competitions in the world. But they need to be solid and determined.“It’s not about the best players but the best team, and if they stick together individual qualities can come out.“Football is a total performance. Mentally it can help to know they already won it in Germany to return and do that extra thing.”My son Justin should be at the EurosJUSTIN  KLUIVERT   deserved to be in the Netherlands’ Euros squad, according to father Patrick.
      Despite his impressive displays for Bournemouth, beating his dad’s tally of six goals for Newcastle, he was snubbed by Dutch boss Ronald Koeman.
      Football runs in the family — Patrick’s father Kenneth was a respected winger in Suriname.
      While three of Patrick’s sons play professionally.
      Shane in Barcelona’s La Masia, Ruben at Dordrecht in the Dutch second tier and Justin at Bournemouth. Eldest son Quincy is an international DJ.
      Kluivert Sr said: “Not only as a father, I think he deserved a call-up. He did a great job at Bournemouth.
      “Especially now you can take three more players — but it’s not my decision.
      “If I was coach I’d give him a chance. He can make a difference.
      “He’s fast and could do something important. He’s done it in the Premier League, one of the strongest leagues in the world.”
      When Kluivert Sr was at Ajax in 1994, and PSV signed Brazilian Ronaldo, boss Louis van Gaal responded: “They have Ronaldo, we have Kluivert.”
      Kluivert said: “It was confidence but also pressure which I managed.”Justin wishes he could say the same.

      Kluivert, who scored 40 times in 79 outings for Holland, despairs at their lack of world-class strikers after the heady days of Marco van Basten, Ruud van Nistelrooy and himself.Brian Brobbey and Memphis Depay are the main men in attack, with Cody Gakpo coming from deeper positions to score goals.Holland used to wow the crowds with their Total Football. And the philosophy still has not changed despite a lack of  attacking talent.Ahead of their opener against Poland, Kluivert said: “The balance is now more towards midfielders and defenders who play in big  competitions.“In my day the focus was more on midfielders and attackers. We had van Nistelrooy and after me there was Robin van Persie.“When I started out I looked up to Van Basten, the best striker in history. In this team, it’s not that you can choose a lot of No 9s, that’s a pity.“Brobbey is the right person at the moment and Depay will be the target man if match fit. Gakpo showed his importance at the World Cup in Qatar.“The difference is in my time we played a lot on the streets — that’s where I progressed. Not only in Ajax’s academy but on the streets of Amsterdam.“Nowadays a lot of players are hooked on social media, which we didn’t have in my time. And it was a good thing.“In this team no one can score a goal like Dennis Bergkamp against Argentina in 1998.”Kluivert scored six Premier League goals for Newcastle during the 2004/05 seasonCredit: GettyThe 47-year-old scored 40 goals in 79 caps for the Netherlands as a playerCredit: GettyHolland have a wealth of expensive defenders but it remains to be seen if the likes of Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk, Spurs’ Micky van de Ven, Manchester City’s Nathan Ake and Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt can match the bulletproof back four of Stam, De Boer, Van Bronckhorst and Reiziger from Kluivert’s heyday.He said: “If you look at Ake, Van Dijk and De Ligt they are fantastic but need to defend more as a block. Van Dijk is the captain of the team and doing well at  Liverpool, while De Ligt is a leader and great player.”It still pains Kluivert that his international career ended without a  trophy.He said: “The 1998 side was the best Dutch national team we’ve seen — even better than 1974.“We had a balanced team with fantastic qualities, playing the  football that we did and winning against Argentina.“We played incredibly well also against Brazil and we would have won the 1998 World Cup had we beaten them.“In 2000 we missed two penalties against Italy. It was in our own country so it was doubly bitter.“Still now when I talk about Euro 2000 it hurts. But 1998 is the biggest regret. Losing on penalties is devastating.”READ MORE SUN STORIESKluivert famously joined AC Milan on a free transfer from Ajax in 1997.So one final question — how much does he think he would he be worth in today’s market? With a smile, he said: “£100million? I hope so… I was quite big.” More

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      England WAGS are no fun compared to Germany 2006 line up – they knew how to party & were unafraid to splash stars’ cash

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      AS starting line-ups go, it’s the equivalent of pitching a Panini All-Star Legends XI against Accrington Stanley.In the former first 11, clad in a dazzling kit of Hermes, Roberto Cavalli and a lick of caramel hair extension, we have Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, nee McLoughlin, Cheryl Tweedy, Abbey Clancy and flamboyant journeywoman Nancy Dell’Olio.Victoria Beckham, Coleen Rooney, Louise Bonsall, Elen Rives and a pal hit the townCredit: RexThe glam squad, Cheryl, Coleen and Posh, at an England gameCredit: AlamyElen Rives and Carly Zucker on a night outCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdThe latter, a team of identikit smooth-foreheaded influencers, names available on Google.Yep, on the eve of the Euros, the question remains: Where have all the good Wags gone?What we all wouldn’t do to bring back the glory days of BadenBaden, Germany, 2006, when England was awash with first-team talent.Eighteen years on from that memorable World Cup — probably less memorable for the £140-a-pop bottle of Moet-swigging wives and girlfriends — the glory days are long gone.read more on eurosToday’s generation are a bunch of camera-ready, media-wary young women who’ve grown-up on TikTok.And where’s the fun in that?As a cub reporter of 24, my first foreign assignment for a national newspaper was in Baden-Baden.It was a baptism of fire. And pear bellinis. Sooo many pear bellinis.Most read in FootballAfter being dispatched to the Black Forest, I decided to invite my German housemate: The Bavarian Batman to my Robin. Initially, it proved a masterstroke.England Wags Instagram Rich ListOn night one ­— after the Wags went to the quiet spa town’s local bar, Garibaldis — German Martin and I followed and I made him charm the local barman . . . and get a copy of the girls’ astonishing £3,300 bar tab.Meine damen und herren, we were up and running.This first night quickly set the tone for the most exhausting two weeks of my hitherto relatively sheltered young life.Each night, Martin and I would traipse to Garibaldis and watch the Wags in action. (Soon joined by the rest of the media “pack”).They were a glorious, life-affirming, carefree sight to behold — and provided thous- ands and thousands of words of copy. Or “content”, as their 2024 counterparts might say.Unquestionably, Head Wag was Mrs Beckham. Unlike the rest of the squad, the Spice Girl was accompanied by a shaven-headed, ex-Forces body- guard at all times.Unfortunately, he clocked Martin and I (pretending to be a couple) early doors, during a quiet family dinner in the Wags’ Michelin-starred hotel restaurant, Wintergarten.’META-FEMINISM’He pointed me out to Victoria, who veritably swivelled in her chair and stared me menacingly in the eye.She audibly tutted in disgust over her steamed broccoli. My card was marked.From here, I became enemy No1 with Coleen and co.“You’re scum and you know you are,” chanted the late Neville Neville, Gary’s dad, and quite the character.He was swiftly joined by a 40-strong contingency of family and friends, their voices ringing loud and clear — certainly louder than any of the muffled, on-pitch national anthem renditions of their loved ones — in the Brenners Park Fritz and Felix bar.Unembarrassable, because I was 24 and on a crucial work assignment, fearing instant dismissal if I failed in my 007 Wag mission, I resolutely stayed put, smiling gormlessly and cheerfully sipping my champagne.(Many of these would later appear on my newspaper’s expenses tab).These ladies knew how to party, and they were staunchly, admirably, unafraid to spend their partners’ cash however they saw fit. Which is meta-feminism, I suppose.Starting with some shopping-shopping in Baden-Baden.Clemmie and her friend Martin covered the action on her first big assignmentCredit: SuppliedCheryl and Victoria out on the townCredit: MatrixThey were up at around 9am for a spot of breakfast (and caffeine) before a busy morning hitting the designer stores.While the men dribbled and tackled, their womenfolk dribbled with excitement and tackled Gucci and Prada and Co with the enthusiasm of Goldenballs eyeing a free kick.While they shopped, I trailed.On June 19, the eve of England’s final group game, £57,000 was spunked in an hour. A Spanish paper dubbed them “hooligans with credit cards”.“Everywhere I go, there’s that annoying little blonde,” hissed “hooligan” Coleen, in her new £900 shades, pointing at me in my sensible M&S ensemble, total cost approx 50 quid.She had a point, to be fair.I was one of the few reporters based at the Wags’ hotel, and by the end of the stay even I was sick of me. Fleet Street’s assortment of high-brow, knowledgeable football reporters also loathed my presence.My esteemed colleague actually rang our news editor at one point pleading for me to get sent home (sent off?) as my constant Wag coverage was “undermining the credibility of the game”.The Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of themClemmie MoodieHe said he was losing the trust of the families because I was writing about the ladies’ karaoke habits. (More on these later.) But the Wags were selling papers. I stayed.Afternoons saw the gang hitting up the hotel spa for various facials and manicures.Naturally, I booked in and spoke to a lovely therapist, who praised Mrs Beckham’s tan and gave me an identical treatment.When not utilising the hotel’s five-star facilities, or getting papped — one memorable shot saw Posh, Coleen and her mate, Claire, Louise Bonsall (Michael Owen’s missus) and Elen Rives (Frank Lampard’s partner) confidently strutting into town like the line-up scene from The Usual Suspects — the gang were making the most of their in-room entertainment.Honourable mentions here to Ms Rives and Alex Curran, Stevie G’s other half, who racked up hotel bills of £28,607 and £25,321 respectively. The latter’s included 60 bottles of pink champagne.The 22-strong contingent’s cumula-tive hotel spend was just shy of a reported £600,000. Their total spend, including alcohol, almost £1million.’RAUCOUS NIGHTS’As I wrote at the time, “the Wags were accused of many things, frugality was not one of them”.Elsewhere, the genteel Black Forest town’s nightclub, Maxi’s, soon became the extra-time venue of choice.While management refused to give the girls freebie drinks, they were allowed off the £7 entry fee.A 3am finish became the norm. While the women slept it all off, I filed copy, by now a shell of a creature.“More, more, more,” came the newsdesk cry, at a time when tabloids were at their peak and social media was but a twinkle in Joe Cole’s eye.On the subject of the former Chelsea midfielder, his beautiful, athletic girlfriend Carly Zucker briefly became a star of the show.A ripped personal trainer before abs on women were a “thing”, she would go jogging most mornings. Martin and I, especially, had a vested interest in making her a star.She worked for £22 an hour as a personal trainer at the Virgin Active gym opposite my then office.Obviously, weeks before the tournament kicked off, I made hapless Martin sign up for a course of PT sessions with her, hoping we’d have a ready-made friend out there.Posh shopping in some denim hotpantsCredit: GettyCarly Zucker had abs before they were trendyCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdAlas, when she saw us both, her look was not one of unconfined joy.Anyway, karaoke became a big theme of those halcyon few weeks — We Are The Champions, I Will Survive and The Black Eyed Peas’ 2005 classic My Humps were regularly requested.Victoria was largely absent from these raucous singing nights.Perhaps she was missing Ginger.When we weren’t working 19-hour days we angered the women even more by setting up camp outside the hotel and playing raucous games of football beside the gently flowing river.It’s safe to say manager Sven-Goran Eriksson’s squad had little to fear in the way of last-minute selections. By the end of my stint in the salubrious town there was no amount of health-giving spa water that could heal my broken body.But my heart was full.These women, superstars one and all, partied like it was the apocalypse and did it, on the whole, with good grace.They knew we had a job to do and were savvy enough to know such exposure could prove hugely lucrative in the coming months. And, undoubtedly, it did.WORLDS AWAYAnd the husbands? Lost on penalties in the quarters, naturally. (Mrs Beckham’s husband was crocked and Mrs Rooney’s husband got sent off).So what of today’s Wag world? While the tournament bases are only 475 miles away, the Wag fun possibilities seem worlds away.Well, I suppose there will be some drama. England’s star defender Kyle Walker will have not one, but two Wags in attendance as he hopes to score purely on the pitch for once.Five of the six children he has fathered with both are also expected to be there to cheer on daddy-o. Wife Annie Kilner — perhaps the most famous of this generation of Wags — and her four children will be sitting among the rest of the players’ families in pitchside seats arranged by the FA.His ex-mistress, Lauryn Goodman, is also planning to support him, alongside son Kairo.The possibility of thuggery threatens to overshadow anything Serbia’s militant fans could possibly throw at the tournament.READ MORE SUN STORIESOtherwise though — with no Jack Grealish and his semi-famous gf Sasha Attwood — the pickings for mischief, madness and good old- fashioned front-page fun look decidedly limited.Looks like it’s down to the boys to bring it home, then.Sven-Goran Eriksson’s girlfriend Nancy Dell’Olio wearing a Number one capCredit: RexLisa Roughhead (left) girlfriend of Michael Carrick and Michaela Henderson-Thynne girlfriend of Stewart Downing at the Garibaldi restaurantCredit: RexDavid Beckham sits on the bench after his substitution at the quarter-final against PortugalCredit: ReutersWayne Rooney was sent off with a red cardCredit: Getty More

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      The problems that will be keeping Gareth Southgate awake ahead of England’s Euro 2024 opener

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE leads England into their Euros battle against Serbia on Sunday.The Three Lions are among the favourites to win this summer’s coveted trophy in Germany.Gareth Southgate has several big problems to contend with ahead of the EurosCredit: RexAnd with superstars like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham in tow, fans are hoping England can go a step further than the last Euros by finally clinching glory.However, it’s not all plain sailing for Southgate.The gaffer has got numerous problems to be dealing with.And they could end up derailing England’s plans to be crowned champions of Europe.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Here, SunSport’s Tom Barclay and Charlie Wyett reveal the biggest issues giving Southgate a headache right now:TOM BARCLAYLEFT-BACKKieran Trippier will be the square peg put in the round hole that is left-back in Gelsenkirchen. The Newcastle star, naturally a right-back, has performed admirably there for his country in years gone by. Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBut the 33-year-old’s form this season with the Magpies has dropped off considerably. So not only do we not have a natural left-back playing in a key position – nor a left-footer at all across the backline – but the one Gareth Southgate will turn to is not playing very well either.Wayne Rooney claims Trent Alexander-Arnold ‘can’t defend’ and says he ‘shouldn’t be near’ England’s midfieldJude Bellingham will be hoping to regain his form against SerbiaCredit: AlamyJUDE BELLINGHAM’S FORMLa Liga’s player of the season has had a phenomenal first campaign with Real Madrid, winning both the league and Champions League. He has not been as devastating in recent games though – albeit a big part of that could be an increased focus on defensive duties out left for Carlo Ancelotti’s side – and was quiet in the Champions League final win over Borussia Dortmund. Expectation will be huge on him – more than on Phil Foden, according to Wayne Rooney, who knows a thing or two about these things. You would fancy the 20-year-old to handle that but if England are to win out here in Germany, they need Bellingham at the top of his game.INEXPERIENCESouthgate has picked a squad that includes 12 players who have never been to a major tournament before. It should not affect his first XI too much – pretty much all the expected starters, barring Marc Guehi, have at least 25 caps. But off the bench are relative rookies such as Eberechi Eze, Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon. Their form has certainly merited inclusion but it will all be new to them when they come on. Hopefully they will thrive under the pressure rather than wilt – but we just do not know yet.Aleksandar Mitrovic is Serbia’s key manCredit: GettyALEKSANDAR MITROVICThe 29-year-old never truly set the Premier League alight with Newcastle and Fulham – though last season’s haul of 14 top-flight goals for the Cottagers was decent – but for his country, he has been phenomenal. A whopping 58 goals in 91 caps put him close to Harry Kane’s numbers (63 goals in the same amount of international appearances). He will be a huge threat for an England defence that looked shaky against Iceland on Friday at Wembley. He will be full of confidence too after banging in 28 goals in as many games to help invincible Al-Hilal to the Saudi Pro League title.German police are braced for fan trouble between England and SerbiaCredit: AlamyFAN SAFETYSerbia’s fanbase includes some notorious hooligan gangs such as the Head Hunters and Gravediggers.German police officers have deemed England’s game against Serbia at Gelsenkirchen on Sunday as “high risk”. Let’s hope all we’re talking about is the football – rather than crowd trouble – come the end of the game.CHARLIE WYETTJohn Stones is the latest doubt in defenceCredit: RexTHE DEFENCEThis is clearly going to be a weakness for England at Euro 2024 and the absence of Harry Maguire is a big miss – even if some fans do not agree. John Stones missed training today due to an illness while he also suffered a foot injury in the 1-0 defeat to Iceland. Even during the game, Stones did not look 100 per cent and just 12 starts for Manchester City in the Premier League have not helped him. Also, his partnership with Marc Guehi is a new one but it needs to develop quickly.CENTRAL MIDFIELDThe big question is who Southgate will play next to Declan Rice. Southgate has been experimenting with Trent Alexander-Arnold in this position although it still feels like a gamble going into a major tournament. The other likely option is Conor Gallagher who is more used to this position and will work hard. Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton are both terrific prospects but it seems unlikely that Southgate will gamble with either of the two young players.Harry Kane’s back could yet cause issuesCredit: GettyHARRY KANEThe Bayern Munich striker missed the end of the season with a back injury and he did not look 100 per cent either coming on as a substitute against Bosnia or in his 64-minute run-out against Iceland.The decision to include Ivan Toney in the squad was, in part, due to a mild concern over Kane’s issue. Phil Foden is yet to show his best for the Three LionsCredit: GettyPHIL FODENThe Manchester City star enjoyed a stunning season so he will go into Euro 2024 full of confidence. The problem is that we have rarely seen Foden at his best for England. He has 34 caps and scored four times but you can count on one hand how many excellent performances he has delivered for the Three Lions. Foden will start out wide and Jude Bellingham will play as a number 10. The pair will be given a licence to swap positions.Bukayo Saka could miss the Serbia game with injuryCredit: AFPBUKAYO SAKAThe Arsenal winger suffered a groin injury in training towards the end of the season and has not been at 100 per cent. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe has not taken part in all of England’s training sessions although he featured both on Tuesday and Wednesday. Saka came on as a sub for 25 minutes against Iceland and he is hoping to start against Serbia. But if he is not 100 per cent, Southgate could start Cole Palmer.Gareth Southgate will take the handbrake off at Euro 2024… because he has no choiceBy Charlie Wyett
      GARETH SOUTHGATE will have no choice but to take the handbrake off his England team at Euro 2024.
      The defensive crisis gripping the Three Lions means the only option in Germany, within ­reason, will be outright attack.
      Southgate has often been lambasted for his safety-first approach — even if he points out you must go back to Walter Winterbottom’s sides in the 1950s to find an England manager with a better scoring record.
      But with the crocked Harry Maguire left out, Luke Shaw not fit enough to start the tournament and John Stones having made just 12 ­Premier League starts this season, this is not a defence you would stake your life on.
      The last time England went to a major tournament in Germany — the 2006 World Cup — the four centre-backs selected were Sol Campbell (68 caps), Rio Ferdinand (47), Jamie Carragher (25) and John Terry (24).
      This time, when England fly out on Monday, the quartet will be Lewis Dunk (six), Joe Gomez (14), Marc Guehi (ten) and Ezri Konsa (three).
      It makes Southgate’s decision not to recall the 49-cap Eric Dier for his ­provisional squad even stranger — especially considering his strong end to the season with Bayern Munich.
      The elder statesman in his defence — and the one who absolutely has to stay fit — is 71-cap Stones. More

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      German pub RUNS OUT of beer as Scotland fans drink place dry in hours

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      IT’S the news the travelling Tartan Army in Munich was dreading….’We’ve no more beer’.Taps ran dry today at Woerners’ bar in the city’s Marienplatz, just hours after Scots fans arrived for Friday’s game.Beer taps ran out as (l-r) Wayne Lynch, Mark Armour and Brian Robertson found out outside the ‘dry’ bar in MunichCredit: Paul DruryThe Tartan Army were getting ready for Friday’s big gameCredit: Roddy ScottThey arrived in Germany this week – and got to work ahead of Friday’s gameCredit: Andy BarrThe atmosphere is building in the cities of GermanyCredit: Andy BarrOne waitress said:”It’s not our fault – your fans like beer so much.”Brian Robertson, 56, from Oxfordshire, groaned: “How can they run out of beer?“We arrived at 12 noon and the place was dry by 4pm.”Mate Wayne Lynch, 43, from Kirkcaldy in Fife, began the chant from his seat: “No more beer….but we’re still here.”Mark Armour, 40, from Auchtertool in Fife, added: “There nothing else for it – I’m on the vodka now.”And now Munich bars have put breweries on alert for ‘Scot-oberfest’ and ordered more beer – to stop our record 100,000-strong Euros travelling support from emptying pubs’ barrels.Bar and beer garden bosses have told their suppliers they need hundreds of thousands of pints for the thirsty Tartan Army ahead of the Germany clash tomorrow. Valetina Shaap, reservations manager at Munich’s most famous bar, Hofbrauhaus, said: “We’ve had to order extra beer as we don’t want to run out.Most read in Euro 2024“You know Oktoberfest is held in Munich, and now we are hoping for ‘Scot-oberfest.’“We have what you call an oompah band and we have Scotland fans here already, having a great time and singing songs.”Sky Sports hero Jeff Stelling parties with Scotland fans in Munich ahead of Euros clash vs Germany A manager at the Ratskeller bar, on the city’s Marienplatz main square, said: “We’ve got 3,000 litres of beer in the cellar ready for Scotland fans. Our brewery, Lowenbrau, has sent us more beer.“I’ve heard the song ‘No Scotland, no party’ and we’re expecting a party from Scotland fans.”A bar lady at Munich’s Kniglicher Hirschgarten, the world’s biggest beer garden with 8,700 seats, said: “We have heard Scotland fans like to drink beer. “We expect lots of them to visit us, so we have made sure we have enough beer for all the fans.”New YouTube channelSubscribe to our new Scottish Sun Sport YouTube channel for all the latest football news, views and videos as Scotland heads to the Euros.
      Watch our daily GoBallistic podcast with Roger Hannah and our SunSport team in Germany as the Tartan Army marches on Munich in search of glory.
      Subscribe now and don’t miss a moment. Herr we go!

      Association of Tartan Army Clubs spokesman Hamish Husband said: “It’s heartening to know German bars and beer gardens are stocking up, as we don’t want them to run out of beer.READ MORE SUN STORIES“They need to have stocks to celebrate a famous Scottish victory on Friday night.“Our friendly fans are looking forward to a party atmosphere with fans from across Europe – and we’ll win the Euros drinking contest.” More

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      Romania vs Ukraine – Euro 2024: Underdogs looking to get tournament off to perfect start – stream FREE, team news

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      ROMANIA kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against fellow tournament underdogs Ukraine on Monday.The two sides are set to meet at the Allianz Arena in Munich.Romania were undefeated in qualifyingCredit: EPAUkraine booked a spot in the group stages through the qualification play-offsCredit: GettyRomania failed to qualify for the European Championships four years ago, but they managed to book a spot this time around by topping Group I.Edward Iordanescu’s side came through the group unbeaten, easing past Switzerland, Israel, Belarus, Kosovo and Andorra.Meanwhile, Ukraine earned a place through the play-offs earlier this year.Serhiy Rebrov’s side beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-1 in the semi-finals before earning a 2-1 win over Iceland in the final.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Both teams go into Group E with Slovakia and Belgium.And both will fancy their chances of a spot in the knockouts.Path to the EurosRomania managed an invincible record in qualifying with six wins and four draws in 10 games.They won Group I with a five-point advantage over Switzerland.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSUkraine finished third in Group C, behind England and Italy.However, they beat Bosnia and Iceland in the play-offs to secure a spot.Jack Wilshere, Jurgen Klinsmann and Gordon Strachan pick their ultimate Euro 2024 Dream TeamTeam NewsBoth teams are expected to have a full squad available for the match, with no injury concerns in either 26-man squad.Tottenham’s Radu Dragusin is set to star for Romania, with Oleksandr Zinchenko and Mykhailo Mudryk in line to start for Ukraine.Radu Dragusin is set to star for RomaniaCredit: GettyOnes to watchRadu Dragusin is arguably the biggest name in the Romania squad.The defender joined Tottenham in a £21.5million transfer from Genoa in January and has since made nine appearances.Despite being just 22-years-old, Dragusin has already earned 17 senior international caps.As for Ukraine, Mykhailo Mudryk is the man to watch.He scored the winning goal in the play-off final to send Ukraine through to Euro 2024 and is capable of great speed and great frustration.The 23-year-old has made 21 appearances for the Ukraine senior squad and scored twice.Head-to-HeadThese two sides have faced each other six times.They remain completely equal, with three wins each.SunSport predictionRomania have caused a few upsets over the last year, but Ukraine arguably have a bit more quality throughout the squad and could narrowly take the win.Prediction: Romania 0-1 UkrainePLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      When is Romania vs Ukraine?
      Romania’s opening group stage game against Ukraine takes place on Monday, June 17.
      The game kicks off at 2pm BST.
      Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany will host the game.
      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
      Romania vs Ukraine will be shown live on BBC One in the UK.
      You can live stream all the action from the BBC iPlayer app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      Can I watch for FREE?
      Yes! Romania vs Ukraine will be shown live for FREE on BBC One, so long as you have a valid TV licence.
      READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Romania – 27/10
      Draw – 12/5
      Ukraine – 21/20
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication. More

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      When is Toni Kroos retiring?

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      EURO 2024 will take place in Germany this summer with some of the best footballing talent in Europe on display.Many of the sport’s serial winners such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, Robert Lewandowski and Toni Kroos, will take to the pitch at the huge international tournament.Toni Kroos and Luka Modric both claimed their sixth Champions League win in JuneCredit: GETTYReal Madrid’s ageing midfield duo of Modric and Kroos showed no signs of slowing down after the pair lifted their sixth Champions League title at Wembley in June.But it will soon be the end of an era for one of the two maestros after Kroos revealed his retirement plans earlier this year.When is Toni Kroos retiring?Toni Kroos has enjoyed a phenomenal career in football winning some of the highest honours the game has to offer.The German made his debut for European giants Bayern Munich aged 17 and went on to win the first of three Bundesliga titles that season.READ MORE IN EURO 2024He also won his first Champions League with the club in 2013, beating rivals Borussia Dortmund in the final.Kroos made the £20million move to Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid in July 2014.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe midfield maestro went on to make 465 appearances for Los Blancos, winning 21 trophies including five Champions Leagues, five Club World Cups and four La Liga titles.Kroos was also part of Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad.Most read in Euro 2024He quit international football in 2021 but came out of retirement ahead of Euro 2024 in his native country, following talks with Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.Kroos will, however, call time on his illustrious career after the European championship this summer.He confirmed his decision on Instagram: “July 17th, 2014 – the day of my presentation at Real Madrid, the day that changed my life. My life as a footballer – but especially as a person. “It was the start of a new chapter at the biggest club in the world. After 10 years, at the end of the season this chapter comes to an end.”At the same time this decision means that my career as an active footballer will end this summer after the Euro championship. “As I have always said: Real Madrid is and will be my last club. I am happy and proud, that in my mind I found the right timing for my decision and that I could choose it by my own. “My ambition was always to finish my career at the peak of my performance level.”Who is in Germany’s squad for Euro 2024?Goalkeepers: Oliver Baumann (Hoffenheim), Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona)Defenders: Waldemar Anton (Stuttgart), Benjamin Henrichs (RB Leipzig), Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Robin Koch (Eintracht Frankfurt), Maximilian Mittelstadt (Stuttgart), David Raum (RB Leipzig), Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid), Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund), Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen)READ MORE SUN STORIESMidfielders: Robert Andrich (Bayer Leverkusen), Chris Fuhrich (Stuttgart), Pascal Gross (Brighton and Hove Albion), Ilkay Gundogan (Barcelona), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Emre Can (Borussia Dortmund), Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich), Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)Forwards: Maximilian Beier (Hoffenheim), Niclas Fullkrug (Borussia Dortmund), Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Deniz Undav (Stuttgart)PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament. More

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      Get £50 in free bets for Italy vs Albania at Euro 2024 this weekend with Betfred

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      BETFRED have ramped their offers up ahead of the Euros and you can take advantage for Saturday’s game between Italy and Albania!New Betfred customers who register an account and stake a tenner on the Euro 2024 showdown will be rewarded with £50 in free football bets!Find The Sun’s betting publishing principles hereDefending champions Italy are looking to get a tricky group off to a flyer with three points against Albania.These sides have met on four occasions in the past decade, with the Italians winning every one of them.They’ve conceded just once against Albania in that time and their recent defensive showings (one goal lost in their last five games) suggests goals aren’t on the menu this Saturday.New to Betfred? You’re in luck! YOU are eligible to claim this spectacular Euro 2024 offer!EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHow to claim..Betfred welcome offer

      Visit the Betfred website HERE*
      Register an account using the Promo Code: SUMMER50
      Deposit £10 using a Debit Card
      Place your first bet of £10 or more on any qualifying Sportsbook markets, at odds of Evens or greater
      Once that bet has settled, Betfred will credit your account with £50 in Free Bets

      Betfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*

      And it couldn’t be any easier to claim.Simply register a brand new account with Betfred HERE* using the Promo Code: SUMMER50 and deposit a minimum of £10 using a debit card.Once that’s done and dusted, stake a tenner on any qualifying sports market at odds of Evens or greater, including the Euros.After that, you’ll receive the following free bets and bonuses;
      3 x £10 to use on any Sportsbook Markets
      2 x £10 to use on Accumulators (4+ selections)
      Betfred: Get your £50 in free bets – Claim here*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*New customers only. Register with SUMMER50 between 31/05/24 – 14/07/24. First bet £10+ at Evens (2.0)+ on Sports within 7 days to get 3 x £10 in Sports Free Bets & 2 x £10 in Acca Free Bets within 10 hours of settlement. 7-day expiry. Eligibility & payment exclusions apply. Full T&Cs apply. More