Euro 2024

Subterms

    More stories

    • 175 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      When is the Euro 2024 opening ceremony? Date and time for concert in Germany

      by

      IT wouldn’t be a Euros tournament without an opening ceremony – and SunSport can provide information on when the 2024 edition will take place.Hosts Germany kick-start the tournament with a mouthwatering fixture against Scotland.Luca De Gregorio and Arca Della of Meduza will be performing at the opening concertCredit: GettyWhile Three Lions fans will have to wait until Sunday, June 16 to see England get their campaign away with a tricky Serbia test.But before the first Euro 2024 whistle, fans have the opportunity to see some local artists perform.Find out everything you need to know about the opening ceremony.When is the Euro 2024 opening ceremony?There has been no confirmation of the official Euro 2024 opening ceremony but there will be an opening concert the day before the first whistle.Read more on Euro 2024Euro 2024 festival Stuttgart is set to take place on Thursday, June 13 and it will feature local artists.Admission for the festival is from 5pm BST but the actual concert starts an hour later at 6pm BST before concluding at around 11:30pm BST.Will there be a closing ceremony?Euro 2024 officials have confirmed that there will be an offical closing ceremony.It will take place ahead of the final on Sunday, July 14 at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin which can host approximately 74,475 fans.Most read in Euro 2024The Euro 2024 song ‘Fire’ will be performed which is a tune constructed by Meduza, OneRepublic and Leony.When is the opening Euro 2024 match?
      Germany’s opening clash with Scotland will take place on Friday, June 14.
      The Euro 2024 curtain raiser is scheduled to kick-off at 8pm BST.
      The Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany will play host and it can host approximately 75,024 fans.
      Euro 2024 – Prince William gives England team a royal send-off before Southgate’s 26 hopefuls jet off to Germany More

    • 238 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Prince Louis’ advice to England squad revealed by William as he gives team a royal send-off before Euro 2024

      by

      PRINCE Louis’ advice to the England squad has been revealed by his dad William – as he gave the team a royal send-off before Euro 2024.Wills, who is President of the FA, visited the squad at St George’s Park to wish them good luck before they jet off.Prince William meeting England manager Gareth SouthgateCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceHe posed for a squad photo before the Three Lions jet off to the continentCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceThe prince with skipper Harry KaneCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceHe revealed Prince Louis’s advice for the playersCredit: AFPThe Prince of Wales chatted to Three Lions boss SouthgateCredit: PAThe Prince of Wales during a visit to St George’s Park todayCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceThe Prince of Wales chatted to Three Lions boss Southgate before presenting shirts to each of the squad members.William told the players how his children had offered them a hilarious piece of advice.He said: “I was on the school run this morning with the children and I asked them what I should say to you today.”The best bit of advice I got to ask you was to eat twice as much as you normally eat.Read more Sports News”I don’t have visions of all of you running around with massive red tummies and getting stitches on the pitch.”So I think maybe take my youngest’s kind of advice with a pinch of salt.”England skipper Harry Kane jokingly said: “I don’t think our nutritionist will be happy with that advice.”Schools from across the Midlands have also been invited to St George’s Park to attend a festival of football during which schoolchildren will play friendly fixtures against each other.Most read in Euro 2024William attended England’s games in Euro 2020, which took place in Euro 2021 due to Covid, but gave the Qatar World Cup a miss.Back home, pubs are stocking up for a summer soccer spectacular as the nation stands ready to roar on our boys.England’s new Wags set to take Euro 2024 by stormEngland arrive among the favourites but Southgate will be praying for a return to form after Friday’s dismal Wembley send-off when they lost 1-0 to Iceland.Their remote but luxurious base set in 350 acres of glorious countryside – with three golf courses and a spa – is seen as the best soccer HQ of any Euros team.Southgate will start putting players through their paces on the hotel’s own Wembley-quality training pitch tomorrow as the team gears up for Sunday curtain raiser against Serbia.The team’s hotel is near the central German town of Blankenhain – and civic officials were due to hand every player “welcome bags” containing wine, crackers – and dumpling broth.Germany’s national team had training at the hotel before England’s arrival.Bayern Munich star Thomas Müller was revealed to have left a note for club teammate Harry Kane.The message was said to have wished the Three Lions striker “all the best” adding “great conditions, very friendly people – and sometimes it even rains”.Jill Scott and Josh Denvel caught up with the players before they boarded the coach at around 2pm.The team were seen in an all-black outfit as they boarded.READ MORE SUN STORIESSome stars including Kane, Ollie Watkins, Declan Rice and Aaron Ramsdale were seen grabbing a hot drink.Other stars, such as Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze and Mainoo, were caught up with after signing some autographs for fans.Former Lioness Jill Scott caught up with the squad before they boarded their coachPlayer of the Year Phil Foden joined the team in their black-out attireCredit: GettyBellingham linked up with the team after winning the Champions League last weekendCredit: GettyScott, Prince William, Ollie Watkins and KaneCredit: PAWills even had a kick about during his visit ahead of the EurosCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington PalaceWilliam’s pep talk in full

      Guys, I was just thinking on the way here what I would say today. Some of you have heard me speak before, some of you are new to the setup.
      I thought, what can I offer to all of you and your experienced team here, Gareth – what can I say that could help you in any way?
      I was on the school run this morning with the children and I asked them what I should say to you today.
      The best bit of advice I got to ask you was to eat twice as much as you normally eat.
      I don’t have visions of all of you running around with massive red tummies and getting stitches on the pitch.
      So I think maybe take my youngest’s kind of advice with a pinch of salt.
      Tournament football, it’s a big deal. All of you have had fantastic seasons.
      I’ve seen every single one of you play this season. You’ve all done amazingly well.
      As some of you know way better than anyone else in this room, tournament football is brutal.
      It requires a lot more than you’ve already given. You’ve had a long, long season as it is, and we’re going to ask you to go again
      It’s going to be difficult. It’s going to be fun. It’s going to be challenging.
      It’s going to be everything that you’ve ever dreamed of, you know, wearing that English shirt.
      I think you’re going to have to draw on all the experience you’ve had playing club football.
      I think the biggest thing I’ve learned from coming and seeing you guys over the years in the dressing room I’ve been into is the togetherness.
      What Gareth has instilled in all of you over the years, I really feel you’re a unit.
      You fight for each other. You play for each other. And you really care about putting that shirt on.
      And I just want you guys to know how much it means to everyone back here.
      You go out there. Give your all. Play for the shirt. Play for each other. Play for the country.
      Because everyone’s behind you. We really care about what you’re going to do.
      And I think you need to know also, you know, the England team has a target at the back.
      Everyone wants to beat us. So when you step on that pitch, you’re going to be, you’re going to want to be, you know.
      And you guys have got all the talent in the world. You’re a great squad, but talent alone won’t win us the tournament.
      And so whatever you can do, draw on those experiences in other parts of your life, growing up, other inspirations, other people, family members.
      Whatever it is, you know, get that in you right now. Build up on it. Pump yourself up.
      Because, you know, you never know when you might need it in the future. 
      But listen, I’m rambling. I wish you all the best. I really do. I’ve been watching you some games.
      I won’t get to say what I do at home, watching some matches. But we get very much into it. We really enjoy it.
      And yeah, just best of luck, guys. Bye. Thank you. More

    • 163 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      How many games do players miss for a red card at Euro 2024?

      by

      EURO 2024 promises intense action this summer and some of the world’s biggest stars are set to leave it all on the pitch.That is why some players may push the limits, especially when it matters the most, and that will really test the referees’ and VAR’s patience.A red card leads to a one-match suspension at Euro 2024Credit: GettyPlayers will want to avoid Giorgio Chiellini’s stunt on Bukayo SakaCredit: ReutersWho can ever forget Giorgio Chiellini grabbing Arsenal star Bukayo Saka by the scruff of the neck to stop a dangerous counter-attack during the Euro 2020 final when Italy beat England on penalties?Chiellini was only shown a yellow card for that incident, but players competing in this year’s tournament may want to avoid the same stunt as it could cost their teams dearly.How many games do players miss for a red card at Euro 2024?A red card could spell disaster, especially in the knockout stages where all managers will need their best players.That is because any player who is sent off will be suspended for the next match.Read More on FootballAnd any serious offences could lead to a more devastating punishment by UEFA.As per UEFA’s Article 54: “As a rule, a player or a team official sent off from the field of play and/or its immediate surrounds, including the technical area, is automatically suspended for the next match in the competition. “In case of serious offences, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body is entitled to augment this punishment, including by extending it to other competitions.”Funnily enough, the Premier League hasn’t seen a lot of red cards this season with Yves Bissouma and Oliver McBurnie topping the charts with two each.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSScotland given boost ahead of Euro 2024 as major rule change takes step forward More

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Captain Andy Robertson and Scotland team mate pull OUT injured during first Euros training session in huge blow

      by

      ANDY ROBERTSON is the latest injury doubt for Scotland ahead of the Euros.The Tartan Army captain limped out of training during the first training session at their base in Germany this morning.Andy Robertson is an injury doubt for Scotland on FridayCredit: SKY SPORTSHe looked bitterly disappointed after being forced off the training fieldRobertson, 30, is an indispensable member of the squad and recently broke the record for the most appearances as a Scotland captain.The Liverpool defender was seen being led off for treatment less than an hour after taking to the field at Stadion am Groben in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.His place in the session was bizarrely filled by one of the KITMEN – former Celtic trainee Aidan McIlduff.Hearts skipper Lawrence Shankland was also forced out of action today.The 28-year-old scored his third international goal last week against Finland and is a contender to lead the line for when Scotland kick-off the tournament against the hosts on Friday evening.It’s understood neither injury is considered to be serious but it is a worry for boss Steve Clarke and a bitter bow to his preparations for the competition.Shankland scored 31 goals at club level this year, including 24 in the Premiership, as he forced his way into Clarke’s Euros plans.The Jambos hero is in a straight fight with Southampton star Che Adams for the striker’s berth on Friday night.Most read in Euro 2024Adams has six goals in 30 caps for Scotland while Shankland has three strikes in 11 matches.Tommy Conway was promoted from the Under-21s and drafted in to take the spot of QPR frontman Lyndon Dykes, who was forced to withdraw from the squad last weekend.Scotland captain Andy Robertson tells Germans what to expect from the Tartan ArmyLewis Morgan also won a late call-up after Liverpool wonderkid Ben Boak was ruled out of the tournament.Conway impressed on his debut at Hampden, coming close to scoring the winner with a header in the 2-2 draw.The Bristol City forward spoke of his emotions after making his first Scotland appearance, revealing how his family would be looking down on him with pride.Scotland have been luckless with injuries in the run-up to Euro 2024.Full-backs Aaron Hickey and Nathan Patterson were both ruled out some months ago, as was midfielder Lewis Ferguson.Hickey and Patterson had been rotating at right-back and right wing-back under Clarke, while Ferguson had been starring for Bologna in Serie A and trying to force his way into Clarke’s starting XI.SunSport’s new podcastSUNSPORT is going Ballistic with the launch of our brilliant new podcast.
      Every day of the Euros host Roger Hannah will bring you all the latest news and views from the Scotland camp in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
      He will be joined by our men in Germany – Bill Leckie, Robert Grieve and Derek McGregor.
      And there will also be special guest appearances from our Euro 2024 columnist Gordon Strachan, regular columnist Kris Boyd and bookie basher Jim Delahunt.
      You can watch every episode on our website or our brand new YouTube channel.
      What are you waiting for, it’s time to Go Ballistic!

      Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

    • 150 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Harry Maguire’s injury inadvertently gifts Dream Team Euros managers potential bargain defender

      by

      GARETH SOUTHGATE has a wealth of attacking options available to him ahead of Euro 2024 but he’s stretched thin at the back.Luke Shaw (£4m) is the only specialist left-back in the England squad and he’s not expected to be available until Matchday 2 at the earliest having not played since mid-February.Harry Maguire (£4.5m) has been a first-choice centre-back for his country for over six years but the 31-year-old was unable to regain fitness in time to be included in the final 26-man squad.Furthermore, John Stones (£4.5m) has been dogged by injuries this season and was substituted at half-time against Iceland after taking a blow to the ankle.Naturally, these setbacks and concerns will have disrupted the Three Lions’ plans but can Dream Team Euros managers twist this situation to their advantage?PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW – £50,000 PRIZE POT, FREE TO PLAY, GREAT FUN!Value for money?Credit: Dream TeamMaguire was priced at £4.5m in our Euros fantasy game as a reflection of the fact he was expected to start every game for one of the strongest teams at the tournament.As it stands, he’s set to replaced in the first-choice XI by Marc Guehi (£3m).The Crystal Palace centre-back therefore offers a cheap route into England’s defence – there aren’t many starting defenders available for £3m among the top sides.Last week, we questioned Kyle Walker’s (£4m) immense popularity due to the fact he offers very little going forward at international level.Most read in FootballThe only reason for gaffers to select the speedy right-back is if they expect England to keep their fair share of clean sheets in Germany.If that’s the case then why not pick Guehi instead and invest the extra £1m on a significant upgrade elsewhere?Southgate has question marks in defenceCredit: AlamyEUROS SCORE PREDICTOR IS HERE! CLICK HERE TO PLAY FOR FREE – £5,000 PRIZE POT!For example, say there’s a Dream Team boss out there with Walker and Jorginho (£3.5m) in their XI – replacing Walker with Guehi would allow them to switch the Italy midfielder for either Jamal Musiala (£4.5m), Bernardo Silva (£4.5m), Ousmane Dembele (£4.5m) or Florian Wirtz (£4.5m).Of course, there is a chance Southgate will pair Stones with either Lewis Dunk (£3m), Joe Gomez (£3.5m) or Ezri Konsa (£3m) but right now it appears as if Guehi tops the pecking order.Gaffers may be given a helpful indication of England’s team selection prior to the Matchday 1 deadline this Friday (7pm).PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      One of the other reasons we doubted the widespread selection of Walker relates to the imbalance between the Three Lions’ attacking pedigree and their depleted defence, which looked vulnerable against Iceland at Wembley on Friday night.The point being, a makeshift back four might find clean sheets harder to come by than managers would like.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, there’s a difference between backing England’s defence at £4m via Walker and taking a punt on them at £3m through Guehi.Gaffers will have to do some risk-reward analysis of their own this week.Dream Team’s Nick Elliott previews this summer’s Euros fantasy game More

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Lineker, Shearer and Richards pick their England XI for Euro 2024 and all-but agree on exact same team

      by

      BBC football pundits Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards have revealed their England starting XI’s for Euro 2024.And the three of them have clearly been influencing each other considering the striking similarity of their teams.Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer and Micah Richards named their England XI’s for Euro 2024Credit: TWITTER/GARY LINEKERThe three named Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden in midfieldCredit: ReutersHarry Kane and Bukayo Saka was named up frontCredit: GettyMarc Guehi was favoured as the trios answer to replace Harry MaguireCredit: GettyHowever, while Lineker and Shearer named identical teams, Richards threw a spanner in the works by naming one star in a new position.Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, the trio universally named Everton star Jordan Pickford in goal, with Newcastle icon Shearer saying he had had a “great season” with the Toffees.Kyle Walker was an easy choice at right-back, with Kieran Trippier selected at left-back both due to the fitness concerns surrounding Luke Shaw.All three bemoaned the absence of Harry Maguire at the heart of defence after he was axed from the squad through injury, but backed Marc Guehi to deputise next to John Stones.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Lineker and Shearer both opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, while Richards went for an attacking 4-3-3 shape.This being said, the three centre-midfielders all remained the same, with Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden picked.Captain Harry Kane and England’s 2022 and 2023 Player of the Year Bukayo Saka were the next picks up front and on the right wing respectively.However, it was the left wing position where The Rest Is Football trio had differing opinions.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSLineker and Shearer both opted for Anthony Gordon as their left-winger, while Richards selected Premier League Young Player of the Season Cole Palmer there. But he caveated the selection by saying Gordon would have been his main pick if not to his co-hosts selections.England make their official Euros 2024 squad announcement Explaining his pick, Richards said: “I mean we can’t all pick the same team.”I’ve been talking about Gordon all season and in fairness to him, since he won the 21s tournament, was playing as like a false 9 at times, I would play him on the left. “I just think he brings balance to the team.”But I’m not going to pick him because it’s going to be boring, so I’m going to put Cole Palmer on the left. Rotation.All three were fans of Anthony Gordon being in the teamCredit: GettyBut Richards named Chelsea star Cole Palmer to throw up a changeCredit: GettyLineker and Shearer named an identical England XI for Euro 2024Micah Richards one change came with Cole Palmer playing off the left instead of Anthony Gordon”Gordon would have been in my XI but to change things up I’m going with Palmer on the left.”Today the team are travelling to their five-star Golfresort Weimarer Land base camp, near to east-German town of Blankenhain, which the FA have reportedly paid £800,000 for.BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:
      BBC presenters:
      Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark Chapman
      ITV presenters:
      Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods 
      BBC pundits:
      Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFadden
      ITV pundits:
      Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina Unkel
      BBC commentators:
      Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan Pearce
      ITV commentators:
      Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe Speight
      BBC co-commentators:
      Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFadden
      ITV co-commentators:
      Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros Townsend

      After acclimatising to their surroundings, the first training session the team will then have will commence on Tuesday June 11.England kick off their tournament on Sunday June 16 against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen.The Three Lions will then play Denmark in Frankfurt on June 20 before the final group game against Slovenia in Cologne on June 25.Since a strong qualifying campaign ending in November, England have not been in ideal form going into the tournament.READ MORE SUN STORIESMarch saw England lose 1-0 to Brazil and draw 2-2 to Belgium.England then landed their first win of 2024 against Bosnia Herzegovina on June 3 with a 3-0 victory, before being stunned 1-0 by Iceland last Friday.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

    • 225 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      Euro 2024 LIVE: Jude Bellingham joins England camp, Three Lions fans targetted by Serbian hooligans – latest updates

      by

      EURO 2024 fever has officially kicked in as the iconic competition gets underway THIS Friday – and there is a lot to look forward to.Gareth Southgate will be pleased to see Jude Bellingham finally joining up with the England camp after his momentous Champions League triumph at Wembley.And the Real Madrid superstar will be expected to start in the Three Lions opener against Serbia which has been deemed a ‘high risk’ fixture due to Serbian Ultras reportedly targeting the fans.But before we see England in action, hosts Germany kick-start the tournament with a thrilling match against Steve Clarke’s Scotland.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from Euro 2024 with our live blog below…Kitman called up to Scotland training
      Andy Robertson and Lawrence Shankland both withdrew from Scotland’s training session today, meaning a kitman had to step in.
      Aidan McIlduff was spotted out on the park with the players, taking an active part in the session.
      With a bib on and fully kitted out in training gear, McIlduff was spotted with a ball at his feet and also took part in sessions based around team shape and set pieces.
      Scotland Kitman spotted training with team after Andy Robertson forced-off injured at training in Germany
      Copy linkCopiedEngland stars arrive at airport
      The Three Lions have arrived at Birmingham Airport ahead of their flight to Germany.
      Credit: PA
      Credit: Getty
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedRobertson injury blow
      Andy Robertson is the latest injury doubt for Scotland ahead of the Euros.

      Copy linkCopiedRoyal advice
      Prince Louis’ advice to the England squad has been revealed by his dad William – as he gave the team a royal send-off before Euro 2024.
      Prince William visited Gareth Southgate and his squad earlier today.
      He told the players how his children had offered them a hilarious piece of advice.
      He said: “I was on the school run this morning with the children and I asked them what I should say to you today. The best bit of advice I got to ask you was to eat twice as much as you normally eat.
      “I don’t have visions of all of you running around with massive red tummies and getting stitches on the pitch.
      “So I think maybe take my youngest’s kind of advice with a pinch of salt.”
      England skipper Harry Kane jokingly said: “I don’t think our nutritionist will be happy with that advice.”
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedHeaton on his England involvement
      Man Utd goalkeeper Tom Heaton has been called up to train with the England goalkeepers in Germany.
      Announcing his new role, Heaton took to X to write: “Incredibly honoured to be asked by Gareth to join the squad.
      “To get the call to go to a major tournament, to help in anyway I can and pass on my experience is a proud moment.
      “We have a great squad, I’m excited and can’t wait to join the group.”
      Copy linkCopiedThree Lions begin journey to Euros
      England have just left St George’s Park for the airport ahead of their flight to Germany.
      Credit: Getty
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedEngland given royal send-off
      Prince William visited the England squad ahead of their flight to Germany today.

      Copy linkCopiedHeaton joins England squad as training goalkeeper
      Man Utd goalkeeper Tom Heaton will join the England squad in Germany to assist Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson and Aaron Ramsdale in training.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedSmells like victory
      England will travel to Euro 2024 with their own SCENT to make the players feel at home.
      According to the Daily Mail, the FA will pack special fragrances in their bags to spray around the hotel in order to give the players a sense of familiarity.
      The scents are the same ones used at England’s St George’s Park training base.
      Copy linkCopiedGet a room
      England have made a number of special requests to their five-star base for Euro 2024.
      With players set to touchdown in Germany shortly, the Weimarer Land Spa and Golf resort in the small rural town of Blankenhain have been preparing for their arrival.
      And several special requests have been made before the players check-in.Owner Matthias Grafe told Bild: “Most questions were about the air conditioning in the rooms – probably after the experience in Qatar. We had to retrofit one room. “We also ensured that English television was broadcast via satellite in the rooms.
      “And we blacked out the glass fronts and windows so that the notorious yellow press couldn’t take pictures of the boys.”
      In the kitchen, 35 chefs are on hand as Grafe confirmed England have chosen a bespoke menu.
      And a robot waiter named Robbie goes around collecting empty plates.
      There has also been changes to the rooms to make the resort a home away from home.
      Grafe said: “The rooms of the players, coaches and support staff are also decorated with personal items. 
      ‘For example, we received family photos and other personal items in advance, which we then used to decorate the rooms.”
      Credit: Darren Fletcher
      Copy linkCopiedEngland squads ranked by value
      England boast the most valuable squad at this summer’s Euros.

      Copy linkCopiedJones fires Mainoo warning
      Phil Jones wants Manchester United and England to manage teenage midfielder Kobbie Mainoo carefully.
      He said: “I’m expecting Kobbie to play a key role at the Euros. Whether that’s from the start or the bench, I certainly expect him to play his part.
      “I just hope he’s managed properly. Managing a player like him, at his age, is so important.
      “I played a lot when I was younger, and whether or not that had an impact on the later stages of my career, I don’t know.
      “Hopefully he’s managed well, in terms of his training load and game time.
      “There’ll be moments where you’re just going to have to take him out of the team, not because of his performances, but because you need to look after him and wrap him in cotton wool.
      “We need to be thinking about the need for Kobbie Mainoo in five or six years from now, not just the need for him here and now.
      “If you can manage him well, then we’re talking about an amazing talent.”
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedMeet SunSport’s Euro Dream Team
      Euro 2024 is just four days away — and SunSport have assembled a dream team of star columnists to keep you in the picture.

      Copy linkCopiedRobertson concern
      Scotland captain Andy Robertson was forced to leave a training session this morning due to a knock.
      Striker Lawrence Shankland was also seen leaving the session prematurely.
      Scotland captain Andy Robertson sparks Euro 2024 injury concern as captain is forced out of training in worrying scenes
      Copy linkCopiedBest XI of snubbed stars
      Jack Grealish was the most high-profile name initially selected by Gareth Southgate to be axed as the boss cut down the England squad from 33 to 26.
      But the Manchester City star was not the only star left “devastated” as squads were released with less than a week to go until the tournament kicks-off.
      SunSport have made an XI of stars not chosen by their managers – with players out injured not included.
      And the team is surely good enough to compete with the strongest nations this summer.

      Copy linkCopiedWhere to watch?
      Thousands of fans will be travelling from across Europe to see their nation in action in Germany, including qualifying home nation sides; England and Scotland.
      However, many fans will remain in the UK to watch Euro 2024.
      Both ITV and BBC will be showing matches, with the decision on who is hosting what games already decided for the group stages.
      You can see a list of the confirmed TV picks for each broadcaster below:

      Copy linkCopiedWhat stadiums are hosting the matches?

      Berlin: Olympiastadion Berlin (71,000)
      Cologne: Cologne Stadium (43,000)
      Dortmund: BVB Stadion Dortmund (62,000)
      Dusseldorf: Düsseldorf Arena (47,000)
      Frankfurt: Frankfurt Arena (47,000)
      Gelsenkirchen: Arena AufSchalke (50,000)
      Hamburg: Volksparkstadion Hamburg (49,000)
      Leipzig: Leipzig Stadium (40,000)
      Munich: Munich Football Arena (66,000)
      Stuttgart: Stuttgart Arena (51,000)

      Copy linkCopiedThe teams
      Click here for a quick run down of every team taking part in the tournament:

      Copy linkCopiedThe group stages
      Here are the groups!

      Copy linkCopiedWelcome to SunSport’s Euro 2024 blog
      Hello and welcome to SunSport’s Euro 2024 news blog!
      The tournament kicks off in just four days but fans across Europe have already been hit with football fever.
      We will be there every step of the way, so make sure you keep up to date with this live blog so you don’t miss out on anything!
      Copy linkCopied More

    • 275 Shares169 Views

      in Soccer

      England stars have special requests granted by 5-star hotel ahead of Euro 2024 stay to make base a home away from home

      by

      ENGLAND have made a number of special requests to their five-star base for Euro 2024.The Three Lions kick-off their campaign against Serbia on Sunday.England are staying at the five-star Weimarer Land Golf and Spa resortCredit: Alistair GrantThe luxury venue is in the rural town of BlackenhainCredit: Darren FletcherEngland have paid £850,000 to secure the baseCredit: Darren FletcherBoth Austria and Holland considered staying thereCredit: Darren FletcherThe resort has been described as ‘tranquil’Credit: Darren FletcherBedrooms will have a personal touch to make the players feel at homeCredit: Darren FletcherThe football pitch has been approved by Wembley grounds staffWith players set to touchdown in Germany shortly, the Weimarer Land Spa and Golf resort in the small rural town of Blankenhain have been preparing for their arrival.The luxury venue has state-of-the-art football pitches, 45 golf holes, a gym, spa, swimming pool, treatment and conference rooms, as well a games area with snooker and table tennis.England stars will also be catered for in the two Michelin-star restaurants.Austria and the Netherlands both wanted to use the tranquil 94-room resort as their base for the Euros. READ MORE ON EURO 2024But an £850,000 bid was reportedly enough to see England complete their booking. And several special requests have been made before the players check-in.Owner Matthias Grafe told Bild: “Most questions were about the air conditioning in the rooms – probably after the experience in Qatar. We had to retrofit one room. “We also ensured that English television was broadcast via satellite in the rooms. Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”And we blacked out the glass fronts and windows so that the notorious yellow press couldn’t take pictures of the boys.”In the kitchen, 35 chefs are on hand as Grafe confirmed England have chosen a bespoke menu.Harry mane the Lion visits Weimarer Land Spa and Gold where The England team will stay for the Euros this summerMeet the ROBOT waiter looking after England stars at the Euros

      ENGLAND stars will be served by a ROBOT called Robbie at the Euros.
      Robbie is a key part of 160-strong staff at the vast 350-acre leisure site at Blankenhain, eastern Germany, where Gareth Southgate’s squad will be staying for the tournament.
      The real-life WALL-E – kitted out in a Germany shirt with the name Kehrbart and the squad number 24 on it – helps out in the restaurant.
      Robbie, with flashing blue eyes, says phrases in German including “Excuse me” and “Please let me get on with my work” as he collects dishes from guests at one of the hotel’s six restaurants.
      A source told The Sun: “Robbie is usually a slate grey colour with flashing blue eyes and helps staff deliver plates and dishes.
      “But the German team stayed at the hotel recently so he was given a new look and new name to support them.
      “I’m not sure whether the England team will want to change his look when they arrive but a Three Lions shirt and an English name might be a good idea.”
      Find out all about Robbie the robot waiter…

      And a robot waiter named Robbie goes around collecting empty plates.There has also been changes to the rooms to make the resort a home away from home.Grafe said: “The rooms of the players, coaches and support staff are also decorated with personal items. ‘For example, we received family photos and other personal items in advance, which we then used to decorate the rooms.”A Wembley groundsman has visited the base to give his seal of approval to the training pitch.Reports suggest England have brought their own scent to the hotel too.The FA packed their bags with special fragrances to spray around the venue in order to give the players a sense of familiarity.The scents are the same ones used at England’s St George’s Park training base.There has been scientific studies that claim smells can improve performances as they help mental well-being and promote relaxation away from the pitch.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, England’s Wags will be staying at a different five-star location 20 miles up the road.They will be allowed to visit their loved ones, with manager Gareth Southgate set to decide the correct time for visitors.There is a huge spa for the players to relaxCredit: Darren FletcherA swimming pool is also on siteWindows have been blacked out to prevent photographers taking photosCredit: Darren FletcherPlus, there is a top quality gym facilitiesCredit: Darren FletcherAnd family photos will help it become a home from homeEngland have also reportedly brought along their own scentCredit: Darren FletcherThe resort has 45 golf holesInside German castle England Wags plan to stay at for Euro 2024England’s Wags plan to stay in a luxury German castle during the Euros this summer.

      A source revealed they are keen to let their hair down after abiding by strict rules at the World Cup in Qatar, and are planning a stay in a private, secluded area.
      The Wags have scouted the five-star Schlosshotel resort in Kronberg, where rooms cost up to £1,750 a night, and the Schloss Auel Boutique Hotel in Lohmar.
      The hotel also offers a limousine service for guests, comes with on-call masseuses and butlers and boasts a Porsche rental service.
      The group are also looking at Schloss Auel Boutique Hotel in Lohmar.
      It offers cocktail bars, Michelin star chefs and a team of personal assistants to assist with any requests.
      The group could include Kieran Trippier’s wife Charlotte, Jordan Pickford’s wife Megan, Harry Maguire’s wife Fern, Kyle Walker’s wife Annie and Luke Shaw’s partner Anouska Santos.
      Read more on the Wags’ plans for the summer. More