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      Wayne Rooney names his England XI for Euro 2024 and goes in two-footed on star Southgate ‘will go with’

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      WAYNE ROONEY would not have Trent Alexander-Arnold anywhere near England’s midfield because the Liverpool star “can’t defend”.Three Lions legend Rooney also wants to see Phil Foden played at No10 and Jude Bellingham pushed deeper into midfield.Wayne Rooney has claimed Trent Alexander-Arnold ‘can’t defend’Credit: GettyThe Liverpool star has been listed as a midfielder for Euro 2024Credit: GettyRooney has named who he thinks needs to start for the Three LionsCredit: GettyBut the 38-year-old, who took the Euros by storm as a teenager 20 years ago, is worried the lack of experience in Gareth Southgate’s squad could cost them at this summer’s tournament.Southgate’s men kick off their Euro 2024 campaign on Sunday against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen – where Rooney expects Alexander-Arnold to start in the middle of the park.But the Manchester United record-scorer, who was recently appointed boss of Championship side Plymouth, would not make the same choice if he called the shots.Rooney told Gary Neville’s Overlap podcast: “I think (Gareth) will go with Trent. He’s probably the most gifted player with the ball at his feet we’ve got. READ MORE ON EURO 2024“Defensively, he’s all over the place. He can’t defend. I wouldn’t have him anywhere near the middle of the pitch.”Conor Gallagher looks to be Alexander-Arnold’s biggest competition for a starting berth this weekend, ahead of youngsters Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton.But Rooney would not have any of them and instead would drop superstar Bellingham back further to accommodate Manchester City star Foden in at No10.Bellingham will end up playing there anyway next season at his club Real Madrid, following the arrivals of forwards Kylian Mbappe and Endrick, according to ex-Derby chief Rooney.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Three Lions icon, who scored 53 goals in 120 caps for his country, added: “You have to build the team around Phil Foden. “He has to be as a No10 and Jude play a little bit deeper. SunSport’s Charlie Wyett runs the rule over England’s first training session in Germany ahead of Euro 2024“(Foden) is completely different to me (as a player), he’s more mature than I was with the ball at that age. I was a bit more raw. “I think (the expectation) is more on Jude now. For Phil, this season has really been a big step-up for him. “You’re lacking a midfielder next to Declan Rice and I think Jude is going to play there at Madrid given the players they’ve brought in. “He’s more than capable of doing that. For me, that’s his best position.”Rooney reckons England are going to face stubborn, deep defences at times in Germany this summer – similar to the Iceland one that earned a shock 1-0 win at Wembley on Friday.In those scenarios, Rooney would like Southgate to bring Ivan Toney off the bench to partner Harry Kane in a bid to break resistances.Rooney believes Foden should be starting in the No10 positionCredit: GettyHe also thinks Bellingham should drop deeperCredit: GettyHe also would have taken Jack Grealish over Jarrod Bowen for the Manchester City star’s ability to “bring something a bit different” and offer more balance on the left.Jarrad Branthwaite would have been selected by Rooney too for his size, ball-playing ability and fine season with Everton.Grealish has become a serial winner during his time at City, even if he was a bit-part player in the club’s fourth league title on the trot this term.The lack of silverware tasted by many in Southgate’s squad is a worry for Rooney – as is the inexperienced backline.He added: “There’s no substitute for players who win trophies. It’s so important. “There’s not many in the England squad that have done that. “I just think there’s a real lack of experience in the squad, that’s my worry. “On the backline, there’s not many caps between the players. When you get to the later stages… “I had it when I first signed for Manchester United, you get to finals and ends of tournaments, semi-final etc, we’re looking at the lads that have been there and won trophies. They keep you calm and get you through it. That’s my worry for England.“I think they’ll breeze through the group stages but when they come up against good teams that are going to be a real threat to them, I think that lack of experience might harm us.“In 2004, I was probably the only one (inexperienced player). There are so many players now. “I could go to any player in the squad and get advice off them or guidance on certain things.“Where now you’ve got (Marc) Guehi, you’ve got (Ezri) Konsa, Mainoo, Wharton… the amount of players that have barely played, Cole Palmer, (Eberechi) Eze. “So many players and what will happen naturally is they will probably stick together and then when it starts getting tough, they’ll be talking, going, ‘What do we do?’ Because they’re in a group. “I was on my own, I wasn’t in a group, so I could go to anyone and say, ‘I’m a bit worried here’. “That’s my issue. It’s not that they’re not good enough or that they don’t deserve to be there, but there’s so many players with a lack of caps and a lack of tournament football that you need that Harry Maguire, Grealish, for me, to bring that experience into the squad.”Maguire, who has scored seven goals in 63 appearance for his country, was left out of the touring party due to a calf problem.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt has left Southgate with a raft of centre-backs with fewer than ten caps, barring John Stones who missed training on Wednesday through illness.Rooney added: “The attacking players are unbelievable, probably the best we’ve had as a country. But the backline is a big worry for me.”How England should line up against Serbia, according to RooneyEURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT More

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      How Russian ultras sat back to let England fans get boozed into a stupor before launching bloodiest hooligan in decades

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      CARNAGE unfolded at the 2016 Euros as Russian ultras launched one of the bloodiest hooligan brawls in a generation on boozed up England fans.Over 100 Three Lions supporters 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 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 – GettyRussian ultras were said to have targeted pubs where England fans were drinking as they let them get boozed into a stupor before attackingCredit: GettyOver 100 Three Lions supporters were left ‘walking wounded’ after the attacksCredit: AFP – GettyGlass bottles were seen being thrown by both sides of fans after Russian thugs stalked England fans in MarseilleCredit: ReutersThe Euros in France was viewed as a major failure for England both on the pitch and off it due to the disturbing levels of fan violence.Now infamous, the Battle of Marseille saw England fans stand toe-to-toe with some of the hardest fans on the planet across several days of fighting. Russian hooligans were described as “hyper-rapid and hyper-violent” by the chief prosecutor in Marseille for their heinous planned assaults eight years ago this week.Before the tournament had even begun, scraps broke out between England fans and rival supporters in the city with cops being forced to tear gas local youths.READ MORE IN HOOLIGANISM After England drew with Russia on June 11, more severe clashes broke out on the street.The Russians came with serious intent to carry out barbaric violence. They were highly organised, very effective and we saw football hooliganism on a different levelSteve NeillSenior police chief in MarseilleTwisted plans from a Russian hooligan blog revealed the ultras coordinated their attacks to cause trouble outside of boozers in a piazza near the Old Port.Russian ultras began to lob things from chairs and bottles at the England fans to provoke them to come outside for a fight.Due to the drinking, many fans were left in a stupor and accepted the grim deal.Most read in Euro 2024Streaming drunks filed out of the pubs with their hands raised as several others converged in Marseille to join the brawl.British police feared at the time that at least five England fans could’ve died from their injuries.Pub-drinking England fans are most at risk at Euros from martial arts trained football ultrasPolice spotters out in France said the streets looked like a “battlefield”.Saying the violence was the most extreme and brutal they had ever witnessed by football mobs.Thirty England fans were taken to hospital across the opening weekend of Euro 2016 with serious injuries.One of the most shocking scenes saw a Three Lions fan stumbling across the cobbled streets after a Russian maniac had severed his Achilles tendon.Another reportedly had glass shards sticking out of his neck.I stood in Marseille as the senior officer believing we were going to get five fatalities that night, we might have five murders on our hands.Steve NeillSenior police chief in MarseilleSenior police chief in Marseille Chief Superintendent Steve Neill said: “The Russians came with serious intent to carry out barbaric violence. They were highly organised, very effective and we saw football hooliganism on a different level.”It was like a herd of wildebeest rampaging through tables and chairs, fights going off, people being kicked on the ground by groups of five or six men.”I stood in Marseille as the senior officer believing we were going to get five fatalities that night, we might have five murders on our hands.”The scenes became so violent that cops deployed anti-terrorism procedures as well as spraying water cannons and dropping tear gas on scuffling fans. Police spotters out in France said the streets looked like a ‘battlefield’Credit: Getty Images – GettyClashes also broke out in the stadium between Russian and English fansCredit: Getty Images – GettyRussian and England fans were seen scrapping in the streets over several days of fan violenceCredit: Getty Images – GettyRiot police were forced to take serious measures to break up the fighting including tear gas and water cannonsCredit: Times Newspapers LtdClashes also broke out in the stadium during the one all draw with shocking pictures of fans with ripped tops running from Russian brutes. Russia, the clear aggressor in the brutal beatings, were given a suspended disqualification as a team and fined €150,000 (£126,000).But, more violence erupted between English and Russian fans in Lille a few days later.At least 40 fans were reportedly arrested, 50 Russians deported and dozens left injured after the clashes.After the tournament Russian politicians claimed the country had been singled out for unfair treatment.Britain’s Andy Burnham condemned the violence saying England had bene let down by a minority of their own fanbase.Former England manager Roy Hodgson and captain Wayne Rooney pleaded with fans to “stay out of trouble”, prior to the final match of the group stages.Euro 2024 hooligan fearsWith just days left before the biggest tournament of the summer kicks off worrying reports of hooliganism have already come out.With England fans being warned that a 500-strong army of “violence-seeking ­Serbian ­hooligans” are set to swarm Sunday’s huge Euros clash.The opening game for both sides has already been labelled as a “very high risk” match by German cops with 1,300 extra officers being deployed on matchday as well as heavily increased surveillance.Serbian ultra groups such as Headhunters and Gravediggers are among some of the most feared football fans in Europe.They have regularly caused riots on the streets and fierce fights up in the stands at international matches – even by pitch invading and attacking rival players.With England fans also being known for causing havoc at football matches through distasteful chants, alcohol-fuelled ventures and their undying arrogance over the team’s ability on the pitch.Rowdy Three Lions fans and ruthless Serbian ultras are flocking to Germany over the weekend to take part in what could be one of the most volatile games of the tournament.Despite Both saying they don’t “have concrete information” on the number of travelling thugs he vowed his team will prepare for any eventuality.He told The Guardian: “I guess the biggest challenge for us will be to identify violent, disruptive groups at an early stage, to separate them from peaceful and law-abiding fans, that will be our biggest challenge.”Roughly 500,000 Serbs live in Germany and there are fears some may travel to Gelsenkirchen specifically to cause trouble.Around 22,000 federal police officers will be on duty every day of the tournament across Germany.With officers from across the continent being on high alert for any potential suspects at borders and train stations.READ MORE SUN STORIESFurther restrictions saw booze banned in the stadium for the match and replaced by low alcoholic shandy.The Foreign Office were issuing official warnings to fans telling them to “drink responsibly” after concerns were raised over the cheap price of strong beer in Germany.Are the Serbs the most notorious football fans?FROM pitch raids to mass brawls and death threats, Serbian hooligans are known wreak havoc and create carnage during 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, Head Hunters, Zulu Warriors, and the Red Devils.
      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 bangers onto the pitch as players warmed up and ordered them to break down barriers separating them from Italian fans while taunting police.
      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.
      They are known for throwing live bangers at players who have switched sides and invading the pitches when games don’t go their way.
      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.

      Fears are increasing that Serbian hooligans could swarm the 2024 Euros and attack England fansCredit: AlamySerbian ultras are known as some of the hardest fans on the planetCredit: AFPSerbian ultra leader Ivan Bogdanov is one of the most notorious football maniacsCredit: Getty More

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      Euro 2024 rule changes: What will referees enforce at the tournament?

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      EURO 2024 is just around the corner as football fans flock in their thousands to Germany for the highly-anticipated tournament.The action gets underway on Friday when Scotland face hosts Germany in Munich, while England start their campaign with a Group C clash against Serbia on Sunday.Europe’s elite are preparing to battle it out to win Euro 2024Credit: ReutersThe action never fails to disappoint at major tournaments and supporters can expect to be thoroughly entertained over the next month.However, the travelling fans will be hoping that their experience won’t be tainted by the officiating – as it so often is in the Premier League.Referees have been cherry picked from around the continent to ensure the best of the best are taking charge of the games at Euro 2024.But they and the players will have to be clued up on some new rules ahead of the tournament.Here SunSport breaks down what may look different out in Germany this summer.VARPremier League fans know just how infuriating VAR can be, but on an international level it is largely used well.VAR will be in operation for every game of the tournament this summer and the officials will be operating out of technologies hub in Leipzig.Each game will be assigned one Video Assistant Referee and two assistants VAR’s – that’s one less than the three assistants that were employed for each game at Euro 2020.Most read in Euro 2024The Video Assistant Referees will work out of the VAR room in LeipzigCredit: GettyThis will hopefully lead to less complicated VAR reviews and speed up the process of decision making.Uefa’s regulations state that they will also use the big screens inside stadiums to show VAR replays and display decisions to fans.VAR will intervene for clear and obvious errors relating to goals, penalty incidents, red cards and mistaken identity.Semi-automated offsidesFootball fans will be pleased to know that there won’t be any meticulous line drawing by the VAR this summer.Instead Uefa will be using semi-automated offside thanks to Connected Ball Technology inside the balls at the tournament.The tech will immediately identify the point of ball contact and assess the offside thanks to ten specialised cameras monitoring 29 different body points on the players.Semi-automated offsides were successfully used in the 2022 Qatar World Cup and are already used in the Champions League. The official Euro 2024 ball will feature Connected Ball TechnologyCredit: GettySurrounding refereesA new rule being introduced at the tournament will aim to prevent players from crowding the referee in order to plead their case regarding a decision.Uefa have announced that any player surrounding the officials will be booked, stating that only the captain can discuss decisions made on the pitch with the referee.The only exception to the rule will be teams who field their goalkeeper as their captain.In that instance a teammate can be nominated to approach the ref.Squad sizesAnother change to the rules has already been made.READ MORE SUN STORIESUefa have allowed teams to take 26-man squads instead of the usual 23-strong selections.The expanded squad size means more firepower for the nations stacked with talent. More

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      Kai Havertz celebration: Why does Arsenal and Germany star cup his ears after scoring?

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      KAI HAVERTZ looks like he is back to his best and will be hoping to impress at Euro 2024 this summer.The star had his best ever attacking return in the Premier League last season and will be hoping to carry his form into the Euros for Germany.Kai Havertz’s goal scoring exploits have seen him adopt a signature celebrationCredit: ReutersHavertz made a habit of finding the back of the net for Arsenal and did it so much that he even started to show off a signature celebration.Now fans of Euro 2024 home nation Germany will be hoping they get to see it throughout the tournament as they bid for a fourth European Championship trophy.What is Kai Havertz’s celebration?Havertz can often be seen pulling the same celebration when he finds the back of the net.The 25-year-old forward cups his ears and places his thumbs to his temple before waving them and gleefully sticking out his tongue.The cheeky celebration is infectious to his fans, but can tend to rile up opposition supporters or players.Havertz certainly left Chelsea fans fuming when he pulled off the celebration against his old club last season after scoring a brace in Arsenal’s 5-0 battering of the Blues.Why does Havertz celebrate like that?Havertz has become well known for the playful celebration, but its origins lie with another footballer.The attacking midfielder has credited Brazil and Al Hilal star Neymar Jr with popularising the celebration.Most read in Euro 2024While he has also explained that Germany team-mate Marvin Ducksh was the one who egged him on to make the celebration his own.Speaking to Arsenal’s official outlets, Havertz said: “Neymar used to do it. “And recently I was in the national team with one of the guys, Marvin Ducksch, who plays for Werder Bremen.”I was sitting next to him on the coach and before the game, he said to me, ‘If you score today do my celebration.’ “I said, ‘OK’, I scored, and then I did the celebration [and then it just carried on].”German fans are hoping they will see plenty of Havertz’s celebration for the national team this summerCredit: Getty More

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      England fans’ biggest Euro 2024 fears including penalty shootouts, a Harry Kane injury and fans’ favourite being dropped

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      ENGLAND supporters’ biggest “fanxieties” ahead of the Euros include penalty shootouts, Harry Kane getting injured, and Phil Foden not starting.A poll of 1,606 Three Lions fans found 83 per cent have worries about the team’s prospects in the forthcoming tournament in Germany.England suffered a pre-Euros set-back against IcelandCredit: GettyThree Lions fans are desperate for success in GermanyCredit: GettyOther concerns include scoring “too early”, a David Beckham ’98-esque red card, and coming up against Scotland and losing.Despite these fears, the research by BoyleSports, which offers early payouts, found 20 per cent are confident in England’s chances – convinced this will finally be their year.Although, 33 per cent think France will be European champions for the first time since 2000 and third time overall.A spokesperson for the betting provider said: “While football fans are passionate about the game, it can also bring a fair amount of stress.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWS“Few supporters of an international team have had it all go their way and England fans will likely feel they’ve suffered more than most.“And these experiences could explain why so many fans have worries about their prospects in Germany, but perhaps their fortunes will finally turnaround.”Other fanxieties include England being too defensive, losing to a last-minute goal, and another ‘golden generation’ underachieving.Gareth Southgate playing it safe, Jude Bellingham suffering an injury, and facing Germany are also concerns.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      As is the curse of ITV – with England having won just three of their 17 World Cup matches aired on ITV, while triumphing in 12 out of 16 matches shown on BBC.Defeats endured might explain why international football has left 27 per cent of cent of England fans in tears.England can win Euro 2024 with these tacticsBut regardless of what happens, 42 per cent think Gareth Southgate will step down as manager, with 50 per cent happy to see him move on.And while fans of the Three Lions have fears about what could happen, the research, carried out through OnePoll, found there are things they’re certain of.A third think the tournament would be better if Wales had qualified – and it’s a similar story for the Republic of Ireland (25 per cent) and Northern Ireland (23 per cent).A spokesperson for BoyleSports added: “Clearly ‘Fanxiety’ is a very real side effect of watching football and with just days to go until Euro 2024, England fans are feeling the pressure!”England fans’ biggest ‘fanxieties’Supporters are concerned things could go pear shaped in Germany
      1. Penalty shootouts
      2. Losing another final
      3. Getting eliminated in the group stage
      4. England being too defensive
      5. Losing to a last-minute goal
      6. Another “golden generation” underachieving
      7. Gareth Southgate playing it safe
      8. Harry Kane getting injured
      9. Failing to utilise their attacking capabilities to their full potential
      10. VAR decisions going in the opposition’s favour
      11. Jude Bellingham getting injured
      12. Media undermining the team efforts
      13. A red card to a star player (a David Beckham ’98-esque red card)
      14. Coming up against Germany
      15. Jordan Pickford conceding a howler
      16. Gareth Southgate not setting up the side to Jude Bellingham’s strengths
      17. Coming up against France or Belgium in the final
      18. Phil Foden not starting
      19. The curse of ITV
      20. Coming up against Scotland and losing More

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      9 things every Dream Team Euros gaffer needs to know before tournament begins

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      WITH just two days until Germany and Scotland get proceedings underway, Dream Team Euros managers should be close to a confirmed XI.Before you lock in you strategy for Matchday 1 once and for all, we want to ensure you’re fully clued up on the game rules and format.Here’s nine things you need to know before the action kicks off…Every manager should be fully prepared for the Euros… especially you, Gareth!Credit: Dream Team1. Penalty shootouts don’t countNo points will be scored during penalty shootouts once the tournament reaches the knockout stages.This means your goalkeepers won’t earn points for any saves they make in shootouts and your outfield players won’t be rewarded with a goal if they convert a spot-kick after extra time (or penalised for a miss).Penalties during normal time and extra time will count as normal.All scoring stops at the end of extra time – just like in our season fantasy game.2. Player prices will not change during the tournamentIn our season fantasy game, player prices fluctuate based on each individual’s form but that’s not the case in our Euros fantasy game.Every single player will remain at the same price no matter how many (or few) points they earn.Penalty shootouts don’t impact Dream Team Euros – which is handy for those backing England…Credit: AFP3. There are just seven Matchdays in totalMatchdays effectively work the same way as Gameweeks in our season fantasy game.Each Matchday, a term also used by Uefa, represents a different ’round’ of the tournament.
      Matchday 1 – first round of group fixtures (12 games)
      Matchday 2 – second round of groups fixtures (12 games)
      Matchday 3 – third round of group fixtures (12 games)
      Matchday 4 – round of 16 fixtures (8 games)
      Matchday 5 – quarter-finals (4 games)
      Matchday 6 – semi-finals (2 games)
      Matchday 7 – final (1 game)
      To be absolutely clear, the tournament is 31 days long but only seven Matchdays long.If in doubt, consult the Match Centre.4. Transfer allocation Now you know the exact definition of a Matchday, familiarise yourself with the transfer allocation for each stage of the tournament.
      Matchday 1 – unlimited transfers (prior to deadline)
      Matchday 2 – three transfers
      Matchday 3 – three transfers
      Matchday 4 – unlimited transfers (before round of 16)
      Matchday 5 – five transfers
      Matchday 6 – five transfers
      Matchday 7 – five transfers
      Channel your inner Didier Deschamps to take your XI deep into the tournamentCredit: AFP5. The deadline for each Matchday is one hour before the first fixtureMake sure your team is set up in advance of each Matchday deadline.Germany v Scotland kicks off at 8pm on Friday to get Matchday 1 underway which means you should have your XI locked in for the entire first round of group games by 7pm.The deadline for Matchday 2 is 1pm on Wednesday June 19th as that’s one hour before Croatia v Albania – the first fixture of the second round of group games.And so on.EUROS SCORE PREDICTOR IS HERE! CLICK PLAY FOR FREE NOW – £5,000 PRIZE POT!6. Each Booster can only be played once and never in combination with anotherEach of your three Boosters lasts the duration of one Matchday and since they can only be played one at a time, you’ll have a Booster active in three of the seven Matchdays overall.Here’s a reminder of each Booster’s effect:
      Goal Bonus – each goal scored by your players earns TEN points (instead of the usual six)
      12th Man – select an additional player from any position for free to score points for your team
      Max Captain – the player who earns the most points for your team will automatically be selected as captain, doubling their score
      Goal Bonus, you say?Credit: AP7. Goals are worth six points and assists are worth three pointsAttacking returns are more valuable than ever with an extra point for each goal and assist compared to previous Dream Team fantasy games.We’ve also improved the bonus point system for goalkeepers.More information on scoring, bonus points and player performance marks here.8. Your formation will automatically adapt to your player selectionsIf you initially opted for a 4-3-3 formation but later decide you want to switch to 3-4-3 then simply transfer out a defender and replace them with a midfielder – your formation will automatically change to accommodate your new recruit.As long as you’ve got at least three defenders, three midfielders and one striker, any formation you select will be valid.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      9. Beware unavailable players!We tried our best to predict the final squads for all 24 nations at the tournament well in advance of the deadline so that you could start tinkering with your XI as early as possible.While we correctly identified the vast majority of selected players, we obviously didn’t get it 100% correct – it’s impossible to predict late injury pullouts.It goes without saying that you should stay clear of the players who didn’t make the final cut at all costs – Jack Grealish, Francesco Acerbi, Frenkie de Jong, etc.Additionally, it you should endeavour to avoid injured players.Dominik Szoboszlai, Robert Lewandowski, Luke Shaw and Nicolo Barella are among the high-profile names currently considered unavailable or doubtful for Matchday 1.Please be aware the warning icons that appear next to player names in app and on site are advisory only – it’s always best to seek out more specific updates.If you’re still unsure of anything, you can read the full game rules here.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW – £50,000 PRIZE POT, FREE TO PLAY, GREAT FUN!Germany Legend Jurgen Klinsmann reveals which stars he’d pick in Dream Team Euros More

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      Poland vs Holland – Euro 2024: Koeman’s men handed timely boost with Lewandowski OUT for opener – stream FREE, team news

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      POLAND kick off their Euro 2024 campaign with a challenging fixture against Holland on Sunday.The two sides are set to meet at Volksparkstadion in Hamburg.Poland qualified for Euro 2024 through the play-offsCredit: APHolland booked their spot at the Euros after finishing second in their qualifying groupCredit: AFPPoland became the final team to qualify for this summer’s tournament after beating Wales in the play-offs.Meanwhile, Holland booked their spot back in November with a 1-0 win over Ireland.Both teams have been drawn in Group D, arguably one of the most difficult groups in the competition.They will also have to face two-time champions France and Ralf Rangnick’s Austria in a bid to qualify for the knockouts.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Managers Michal Probierz and Ronald Koeman will both be eager to kick off Euro 2024 with a win, with every point sure to be crucial in the group.However, Probierz has been handed a major setback with captain and top goalscorer Robert Lewandowski set to miss the team’s opening match.Path to the EurosHaving finished third in Group E qualifying behind Albania and Czech Republic, Poland had to book a spot through the play-offs.The Eagles defeated Estonia 5-1 in the semi-finals before beating Wales 5-4 on penalties in the final following a 0-0 draw.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMeanwhile, Holland finished second in Group B with 18 points from eight games to book an automatic qualification spot.Oranje beat Greece, Ireland and Gibraltar along the way and only struggled against France.Jack Wilshere, Jurgen Klinsmann and Gordon Strachan pick their ultimate Euro 2024 Dream TeamTeam NewsCaptain Lewandowski will not feature for Poland against Holland due to a thigh injury.The 35-year-old suffered the issue during a warm-up match against Turkey on Monday and was forced off after just 33 minutes.Robert Lewandowski has been ruled out of the matchCredit: GettyFrenkie de Jong will not feature at Euro 2024 due to injuryCredit: EPAAn official statement from the national team read: “Lewandowski suffered a rupture of the biceps femoris muscle, which will exclude him from the first match of the tournament.”Defender Pawel Dawidowicz and striker Karol Swiderski are also doubts for Sunday’s match due to injury.Meanwhile, Frenkie De Jong has been ruled out of the tournament for Holland due to an ankle issue.Midfielder Teun Koopmeiners will also be absent after suffering a groin injury just minutes before the team’s final warm-up match against Iceland on Monday.Ones to watchWith Lewandowski out injured, Sebastian Szymanski could be expected to create a spark from midfield.The 25-year-old scored 13 goals and provided 19 assists in 55 appearances for Fenerbahce this season and reportedly attracted interest from both Manchester United and Tottenham.As for Holland, Xavi Simons could be a standout star this summer.The 21-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign at RB Leipzig on loan from Paris Saint-Germain this season, scoring 10 goals and providing 15 assists in 43 appearances.If he keeps up the good form, Simons could be in with a shout for Young Player of the Tournament.Head-to-HeadThese two sides have met 19 times in the past, with seven of those occasions ending in a draw.Poland have won just three times, with Holland taking nine wins.SunSport predictionLewandowski’s injury will be a huge blow to Poland and his absence could dramatically reduce the team’s goalscoring threat.The Eagles will also be coming up against a very strong defence armed with the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Ake, Micky van de Ven and Matthijs de Ligt.Holland’s attack is also strong, so for that reason the Dutch could be in a good position to see out the game with a win.Prediction: Poland 0-2 HollandPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      When is Poland vs Holland?
      Holland’s opening game against Poland will take place on Sunday, June 16.
      The game will kick off at 2pm BST.
      The Volksparkstadion in Hamburg will play host to the big game.
      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
      Poland vs Holland will be shown live on BBC One in the UK.
      You can live stream the action from the BBC iPlayer, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      Can I watch for FREE?
      Yes, the game is available for FREE on BBC One, so long as you have a TV licence.
      READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Poland – 4/1
      Draw – 3/1
      Holland – 4/6
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication. More

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      Euro 2024: Millions of footie-mad workers ‘could be sacked’ for pulling sickie on Monday after first game, expert warns

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      MILLIONS of footie-mad workers could be sacked for pulling a sickie after the first match of the Euros, a legal expert warns.The tournament – hosted in Germany – kicks off on Friday, with England’s opening game on Sunday as they bid to win their first major trophy in 58 years.Many fans are likely to try pull a sickie after England’s opening game on SundayCredit: GettyA legal firm has warned employers could be within their rights to take disciplinary actionCredit: GettyNina Farooqi was sacked after skipping work to go watch England in Euro 2020Credit: NINA FAROOQIHer bosses spotted her on TV celebrating Harry Kane’s winner against DenmarkCredit: NINA FAROOQI/ITVWith many Three Lions fans expected to watch the match down the pub, many could be tempted to stay in bed on Monday with a hangover.However, employment lawyers at Richard Nelson LLP have encouraged football supporters to think twice before faking illness.It comes after office worker Nina Farooqi was sacked after her bosses spotted her on TV celebrating a Harry Kane goal at Wembley during Euro 2020.Jayne Harrison, head of employment law at the firm, said with England this year’s favourites, excitement is likely to “reach fever pitch over the coming days”. Read more sport newsBut she warned people to be careful.”If an employer thinks their employee has called in sick and it is not genuine – such as to recover from a hangover – then they can investigate the case and may take disciplinary action over unauthorised absence,” she said.“For those wanting to indulge on Sunday night we’d encourage you to book annual leave for the following Monday, avoiding not turning up for work at all or worse being dismissed.”She added: “Over the last few years companies across the country have embraced flexible working and we’d encourage them to do so during the Euros.” Most read in FootballThis has included companies allowing staff to finish early or work remotely.Full strength beer at England vs Serbia AXED and replaced by low alcohol brew amid threat of boozed-up ultras violenceNina, then-37 had wrapped an England flag around her and was seated right behind the goal for the magical moment as the Three Lions defeated Denmark. But she was brought back down to earth with a bump when her boss called her the morning after to fire her for going to the historic game. Nina, from Ilkley, Bradford, had pulled a sickie to go to the game with her pal who had won a last minute ticket in a ballot. Speaking to The Telegraph, Nina said: “It’s mixed emotions: we’re through to the final, I’m still on that high, but I’ve also lost my job.”Footie fans were given similar warnings ahead of the World Cup in Qatar in November 2022.One in three Brits planned to “pull a sickie” for England’s opening game – which fell during the working day, according to a poll of 2,000 people.How England are likely to line up on Sunday
      England kick off Euro 2024 on Sunday. But how are they likely to line-up?
      Key Man: Jude Bellingham
      Arguably the best player on the planet right now.
      His world class performances at Real Madrid give England the perfect platform to dominate big games.
      Likely line-up
      Southgate doesn’t experiment much, so the team is certain to play 4-2-3-1, with many of the players locked in.
      The only real doubts are who plays at left-back, where Luke Shaw will play if fit or if not it will probably be Kieran Trippier.
      And alongside Declan Rice in midfield where Kobbie Mainoo and Trent Alexander-Arnold will be the main contenders, along with Conor Gallagher.
      Much will depend on just how daring Southgate decides to be.
      Prediction
      England are firm favourites to top the table after their very friendly draw, and would be set to play the best third placed team from Group D/E/F.
      SunSport reckon that it could be one of Austria, Czech Republic or Slovakia.
      Progressing from the last 16 would set up a predicted tie against Italy in the quarter-final on July 6.
      The game would be a rematch of the Euro 2020 final, which the Italians won on penalties.
      England could then play France in the semi-final, giving Harry Kane a chance to get revenge on Les Bleus after his missed penalty in the 2022 World Cup quarter-final.
      In the final, the likes of Germany, Spain, Portugal could be the opponents. England will do well to equal their run to the final of Euro 2020

      If correct, it meant a third of workers really do call in sick that means 11 million fans could be dodging their jobs to watch the Three Lions.England will be based in Blankenhain in the east German countryside for the tournament, and are set to stay at the five-star Weimarer Land Spa and Golf resort.Boss Gareth Southgate made the controversial decision to drop Manchester City winger Jack Grealish, 28, along with Tottenham playmaker James Maddison, 27, from his squad ahead of the tournament.Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, 31, has also not travelled with the team, due to ongoing injury recovery.However, the Three Lions have been boosted today with all players, including injury-doubt Luke Shaw – taking part in the first training session.Southgate has taken inspiration from Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann in his preparation.READ MORE SUN STORIESThat’s seen England borrow a big screen from RB Leipzig to help with their sessions.The screen will allow Southgate to forensically analyse videos from training and lecture his players after sessions.Gareth Southgate looks on during a training session at Spa & Golf Resort Weimarer LandCredit: GettyHarry Kane and Kyle Walker playfully tussle in front of manager SouthgateCredit: GettyJude Bellingham, Lewis Dunk and Southgate sign autographs for fans following a training sessionCredit: Getty More