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      Scotland Euro 2024 squad, predicted line-up versus Germany, latest odds and star players

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      QUALIFYING for back-to-back Euros is an achievement in itself and the Tartan Army are sure to make the most of it.The 2-0 win over Spain and the 15 other goals scored en route to Germany are decent reasons to believe Steve Clarke’s team can make an impact.Scotland players line up ahead of their 2-0 victory over GibraltarCredit: GettyBut a run of seven games without a win, including a friendly defeat by Northern Ireland in March, suggests they should travel more in hope than expectation.But if experienced players like captain Andy Robertson and goal machine Scott McTominay are fit and in form, the knockout stage is not beyond the Scots.Manager: Steve ClarkeOnly Jock Stein, Andy Roxburgh and Craig Brown have managed Scotland in more games.Steve Clarke has led Scotland to their first European championships since 1996 in 2020Credit: Kenny RamsayKey player: John McGinnThe Aston Villa captain has reached new levels under the coaching of Unai Emery and is crucial to a midfield that provides most of Scotland’s goals.read more on the eurosLikely line-upHow they attackWe are likely to see Scotland line up in a 5-4-1 system with the Southampton striker Che Adams leading the attacking line.While Adams will run and work hard he is more used to making runs to drag defenders out of shape.It relies on players from the narrow three-man midfield and the attacking midfielder making runs behind him to stretch and open up the opposition.McTominay and McGinn regularly make extremely long runs to get into the final third and they are often responsible for getting the goals.Most read in FootballMcGinn, McTominay and Hickey race forward to support Adams in attack and in this case it was McGinn who scoredJohn McGinn scores against Cyprus in qualifyingCredit: Kenny RamsayScotland will typically look to build into wide areas with the full-backs and central midfielders working together.The players on the flanks then look to get the ball into the area or into central spaces around the edge of the opposition penalty area.Inside the ten stunning Euro 2024 stadiums including historic final venueThis time the goalscorer is the Norwich midfielder Kenny McLean who makes a long run to support the Scottish attack from deepScotland’s Kenny McLean celebrates scoring vs Norway with John McGinnCredit: ReutersIn qualifying against Norway, Norwich’s Kenny McLean arrived in the box to score.Once again McGinn was involved and the initial cross came from McTominay on the right-side.As Scotland will typically be passive against the ball as they sit in a deeper defensive block, they will attack through quick forward passes when they get the opportunity to win the ball back.Striker Adams is important in terms of making runs to get on the end of these passes and to allow their team to move forward to support the attack.The forward line will be affected by the absence of Lyndon Dykes, who was ruled out of Euro 2024 after being carried off on a stretcher in training.Clarke has brought in 18-year-old Ben Doak to replace the injured Queens Park Rangers forward.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      Hickey often regains possession deep then quickly drives forward and looks to pass into space to release the striker making an off the ball runHow they defendScotland sit deep in a 5-4-1 block.Clarke’s defensive goal is to stop the opposition from being able to play centrally in their defensive third.They will usually work extremely hard in order to deny any spaces between the lines as they try to force the opposition wide.Scotland have a line of five defenders across the back, and then the other five outfield players are also behind the ballWhen they are defending, all of their players are behind the ball and positioned in their defensive third as they look to force the opposition wide.The midfielders for Scotland will have a key role and they are typically very narrow in their positioning. They will work to shift across from side to side in order to stop the opposition from being able to break the line with a pass.Scotland are often narrow as they defend the centre of the pitch and look to force the opposition to play wide as they attackBy forcing the opposition outside as they look to attack, Scotland are effectively saying that they are comfortably defending the area from crosses.They will also, however, look to quickly shift out when the ball goes wide to press the space and deny the opposition wide players any space.As the ball goes wide the fullback and ball side central midfielder will work to close down and look to pin the ball carrier widePredictionScotland were drawn into a hard group with hosts Germany, disciplined Hungary and Switzerland.Finish as runners up in Group A, and they will face the second place team in Group B, meaning it could be anyone of Spain, Italy or Croatia.Win that last 16 game and they are presented with the possibility of a mouthwatering knockout clash against either England, Belgium or the Netherlands.There is also the prospect of Scotland going through as one of the best third-place teams.But that could present any number of scenarios.The only guarantee here is that the Tartan Army would then meet a group winner in the round of 16. Latest oddsScotland are 100/1 to lift the trophy come July 14.Glam fans and WagsThe players have got some dedicated support as they make their bid to qualify from Group A.READ MORE SUN STORIESClarke has encouraged the players’ wives and girlfriends to accompany them on major tournaments.Kenny McLean is expecting his first child with stunning girlfriend Robyn KeenShe is a model with over 38k followers on InstagramCredit: instagram/Robyn Emma KeenThe model has been labelled the ‘most beautiful British woman’Cam Reading is the girlfriend of Scotland midfielder Scott McTominayCredit: Instagram @scottmctominayReading boasts an enviable lifestyle which includes travelling and shoppingCredit: Instagram @camreadingThe blonde bombshell supports McTominay at Manchester United award showsCredit: Instagram @camreadingCaptain Andy Robertson is married to long-term love RachelJohn McGinn married Sara Stokes last yearCredit: instagram/John McGinnChe Adams with girlfriend Amelia KateCredit: Instagram @cheadams_Ryan Christie and girlfriend Georgie Bell More

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      Best XI of stars brutally snubbed for Euro 2024 with Germany ‘stunned’ at Jack Grealish’s omission from England team

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      BRUTAL decisions are being made by managers across the continent as they reveal their squads for Euro 2024.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.Jack Grealish has been left out of England’s squadCredit: GettyThibaut Courtois has not been chosen after a fall out with the managerCredit: ReutersBut 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.Here, SunSport make 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.GK: Thibaut CourtoisThe Real Madrid No1 had a difficult season with injury but was fit for Euros selection.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, he has been controversially left out by Belgium boss Domenico Tedesco after a public fall out.The boss took the captain’s armband off him for a qualifier against Estonia and left Courtois furious.He claims Tedesco has not explained his decision and their relationship has never recovered. The boss told the press he has tried to invite him back into the fold.Most read in Euro 2024Courtois then accused Tedesco of lying on social media.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSRight-back: Pedro PorroPorro, who has three caps for Spain, enjoyed a solid season at Tottenham.But manager Luis de la Fuente opted for Dani Carvajal and veteran Jesus Navas instead.Become a Euro 2024 expert in two minutesCentre-backs: Mats Hummels and Pau TorresHummels was one of Borussia Dortmund’s standout players as they made an incredible run to the Champions League final.But the experienced 35-year-old was not selected by Julian Nagelsmann as he opts for a more youthful-looking squad.Pau Torres will also feel he is unlucky to not be selected by Spain after helping Aston Villa qualify for next season’s Champions League.Mats Hummels has been left out the Germany squadCredit: RexLeft-back: Ian MaatsenNetherlands boss Ronald Koeman has played veteran Daley Blind and Tottenham centre-half Micky van de Ven on the left side of defence in warm-up games.Despite him never earning a cap, it is shock to see Maatsen’s snubbed after a strong loan spell at Dortmund from Chelsea.Centre-midfielders: Emre Can and Leon GoretzkaAgain, Nagelsmann’s huge calls continue as he leaves out Dortmund captain Can and Bayern Munich star Goretzka.They have exactly 100 caps between them.Right-wing: Michael OliseEngland have four Crystal Palace stars in their squad but perhaps the Eagles’ best player is not on the plane to Germany.Olise is still waiting for his first senior France call-up.Michael Olise was close to earning his first ever France call-upCredit: GettyNo.10: Jack GrealishOn his absence, Southgate said: “I have just delivered a really difficult conversation to a lad who is devastated. I think the world of him as a kid.“It certainly doesn’t get any easier. You put yourself in the shoes of a player, a parent. You understand that for these players this is a devastating moment.”Grealish could be flying to Ibiza for a holiday instead of Germany for the Euros, with rival players from the host nation shocked as they feared playing against him.Left-wing: Marcus Rashford Rashford struggled for form with Manchester United this season, scoring just eight goals.But despite being reliable in the past for the Three Lions, it was not enough to earn a place on the plane.Marcus Rashford’s poor form for Man Utd cost him a spot on England’s leftCredit: ReutersStriker: Christopher NkunkuNkunku had a tough debut season at Chelsea as he battled injury.And his stop-start campaign saw him fail to make the France squad.Didier Deschamps said: “Of course Nkunku could’ve been called, but he had a complicated season.READ MORE SUN STORIES “He played some minutes recently, but it wasn’t quite enough.”Subs bench:Kevin Trapp, Jarrad Branthwaite, Malo Gusto, Jurrien Timber, Raphael Guerreiro, Manuel Locatelli, Julian Brandt, Moussa Diaby and Joshua Zirkzee.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament. More

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      Fans ‘feel physically ill’ at ‘worst thing to ever happen in a line-up graphic’ for Netherlands’ Euro 2024 warm-up clash

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      FANS were fuming at the Canada national football team for its lineup graphic ahead of playing the Netherlands.The North American nation took on the Dutch ahead of Euro 2024.Fans were not happy with Canada’s line-up graphicAlphonso Davies was at the top of the list instead of the goalkeeperCredit: GettyCanada announced its team ahead of kick-off at Feyernood’s De Kuip stadium on Thursday as normal with one notiavle change. Traditionally, when teams have announced the starting XI, the goalkeeper has always taken the first spot.However, Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies was the first name on the list as he captained the side instead of stopper Dayne St. Clair.Fans were not happy with the change, and they slammed it on social media.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne posted: “The goalkeeper not being first on the list is the worst thing to ever happen in a lineup graphic ever.”A second commented: “I feel physically ill.”A third wrote: “If the keeper isn’t first it has to be in either alphabetical or numerical order.”A fourth said: “Sorry, what sort of nonsense line-up graphic is this? captain first? an outrage.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother added: “Nah, not having this at all, goalkeeper is ALWAYS first in the lineup graphic.”However, a cricket fan was in favour of the unique layout.Fans delight in Ireland legend talking down England’s chances at Euro 2024 while picking combined XI They remarked: “Captain first, keeper second. Cricket fever is taking over and I’m here for it.”Jesse Marsch’s side were unable to cause an upset against the Dutch as they were thrashed 4-0.Memphis Depay opened the scoring in the 50th minute before Jeremie Frimpong made it 2-0 seven minutes later.Wout Weghorst and Virgil van Dijk wrapped up the scoring for Ronald Koeman’s side.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      How hosts Germany can win Euro 2024 – squad, predicted line-up versus Scotland, latest odds and star players

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      GERMANY’S reputation as tournament football’s greatest nation has taken a battering in recent years.At Qatar 2022 the Nationalmannschaft went out at the group stage for the second World Cup in a row, having lost in the last 16 to England at Euro 2020 in between the two.Germany have turned to Julian Nagelsmann after a disappointing few yearsCredit: RexSo when Julian Nagelsmann took over last autumn, expectations were at their lowest for some time.But hosting a big competition brings back happy memories for German fans. They won the 1974 World Cup on home soil, finished third under Jurgen Klinsmann in the game-changing 2006 tournament, and reached the semis of Euro 1988.And there have been recent signs of improvement.read more on the eurosAfter disappointing friendly defeats by Turkey and Austria in November, Germany beat World Cup runners-up France and Qatar quarter finalists Holland in back-to-back games in March.They were Toni Kroos’ first matches back following his decision to return from three years in international retirement.Kroos, 34, brings experience, quality and grit to a midfield that has lacked all three.The backline remains a bit of a concern, however, and Germany’s best form of defence may be attack. Most read in Euro 2024Their impressive options include Florian Wirtz, fresh from helping Bayer Leverkusen win their first Bundesliga title.Germany play Scotland in the opening game of Euro 2024 on 14 June at Munich’s Allianz Arena.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024Manager: Julian NagelsmannBright, young boss and a bit of a maverick. Known for his flashy outfits and arriving for training on a skateboard. Nagelsmann, 36, was appointed as Hansi Flick’s successor in September 2023.His masterstroke was to talk Kroos back into the fold, after the Real Madrid man had retired from international football in 2021.Julian Nagelsmann has brought hope to German fans ahead of Euro 2024Credit: APKey Man: Jamal MusialaStill only 21, Musiala can make things happen out of nothing. Maybe the disappointment of Bayern Munich’s season will spur him on to greatness.The former Chelsea academy star is one of the most creative players on show at Euro 2024.Musiala likes to come in from the right to cause havocLikely line-upNagelsmann has yet to decide on a settled formation. He used a back three against Austria in November, before opting to go four at the back in a defeat to Turkey – with Kai Havertz at left back.Recently however he has gone for a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Kroos and Robert Andrich in front of the back four, and three attacking midfielders.He can chose between Niclas Fullkrug of Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal star Havertz as lone striker.How Germany could line up in a 4-2-3-1 formationHow they attackGermany will be very structured in their build-up with an emphasis on creating situations that allow them to dominate the ball from the middle of the park.This is generally achieved by the two deepest midfielders who will look to take up positions to support the attack.Toni Kroos drops deeper to take the ball off the defendersAs Germany are building the attack Kroos likes to drop from the midfield back to take the ball off the defence to help with ball progression.When the ball is out on the wing, Germany will look to overload the ball side of the pitch with revolving triangles and passing options to help the player in possession.But this overload creates space on the far side, away from the ball, that can be exploited through a quick cross-field ball.Focussing on one side of the pitch occupies the opposition, which frees up space on the opposite flankThese angles and passing triangles mean that the man in possession will have options to play through.But it also means that the player on the far side is left in acres of space.As Germany attack they have options – pass their way through the congested area of the pitch or to switch the play and attack the space behind the opposition defence.And with the creative talents of Wirtz, Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan in midfield, they have the ability to unpick any opposition.Germany dominate the ball on one side of the pitch with two players on the far side then able to make aggressive off the ball runs to hurt the opposition.How they defendDefensively we will see Germany working hard to protect and shut off the centre of the pitch. Because of their likely structure of play as 4-3-2-1, the two deeper midfielders will hold the base of the defensive shape.The three more attacking midfielders and the striker position themselves in more of a narrow shape to stop the opposition from being able to play through the middle.The Germans stay narrow to limit the options available to the French defence as they try to play from the backBy working in this way to prevent the opposition from playing through the centre of the pitch they are trying to force the opposition either out wide, where they can press against the line, or long where they can win the duel.As Germany force their opposition to pass wide to try to play around the defensive block we will then typically see the Germans press out.The midfielders and the fullback on that side of the pitch look to engage the ball carrier to try to win the ball back high.Once the opposition attack down the wing, the Germans use the touchline as an extra defenderThe passes from the opposition to move the ball will then be immediately pressed as Germany use the touchline as an extra defender to try to regain the ball.Germany have a very proactive and effective form of defending as they look to choke off the pitch in a medium to high defensive block and win the ball back high. Indeed, defending in this way is likely to be one of the most used defensive systems at the tournament as teams try to protect their defensive line at all costs.As the ball is played across to the far side we see Germany quickly break out to try to engage the ball and win possession in the opposition halfPredictionShould Germany win Group A, they’ll face the runners up of England’s Group C.If they get through that last-16 game, the likely opponent are the Group B winners, which many expect will be Spain.Then it’s a potential semi-final against the likes of Portugal, Netherlands, or Slovakia.And the final could pit Germany against the likes of France or England.Latest oddsAs hosts, Germany are the third favourites to win the competition, behind England and France respectively.William Hill price them as 5/1 to lift the Euros in Berlin on July 14.Glam fans and WagsSara Gundogan was one of the stars of Prime Video’s series ‘Married to the Game’, which followed the lives of five football Wags.The Italian model had a highly-successful career as a TV presenter before meeting former Manchester City Gundogan in 2021.She sparked fury when she called the Manchester restaurant scene “horrible” in 2022.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Germany’s lone striker Havertz will be supported by his fiancee Sophia Weber.But with Germany hosting Euro 2024, the squad will be blessed with an army of Wags cheering them on.Sara Gundogan models for Chanel and PradaCredit: Instagram @sarabenamiraShe married Ilkay Gundogan in 2022Credit: Instagram @sarabenamiraThe Italian beauty has been enjoying life since moving to Barcelona last summerCredit: Instagram @sarabenamiraSophia Weber is engaged to Germany and Arsenal striker Kai HavertzCredit: Instagram @sophiaaemeliaSophia Weber has amassed 180,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @sophiaaemeliaHavertz and Weber are high school sweetheartsCredit: INSTAGRAM @sophiaaemeliaGerman left-back David Raum is married to Eva KatharinaCredit: InstagramGlam Eva Katharina boasts an enviable lifestyle of travel and loves shoppingCredit: InstagramEva and Raum like to keep their relationship privateCredit: Instagram @katharina.raumToni Kroos’ wife Jessica will return to watch tournament football after watching her husband win the 2014 World CupCredit: GettyThe couple were married in June 2015 and have three childrenCredit: GettyNina Neuer is married to legendary German goalkeeper Manuel NeuerCredit: GettyNeuer tied the knot with the German beauty in 2017Credit: Splash News More

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      Who is Ivan Kruzliak? Meet the Slovakian referee officiating at Euro 2024

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      IVAN Kruzliak is a top referee who usually plies his trade in the Slovakian top division.He has been selected to officiate at Euro 2024 — here’s everything you need to know about him.Throughout his officiating career Ivan Kruzliak averages 0.27 red cards per gameCredit: PAWho is Ivan Kruzliak?Ivan Kruzliak was born in Bratislava, Slovakia on March 24, 1984.Although he started refereeing in 2005 in his early twenties, Kruzliak didn’t become a Fifa official until 20011.He made his first league appearance on August 15, 2009 when he took charge of the Slovak top tier clash between Spartak Trnava and MFK Košice, with Spartak eventually coming out on top with a scoreline of 5-4.During his debut Kruzliak handed out five yellow cards, which is in-keeping with his average throughout his career of 4.75 yellow cards per game.READ MORE ON EURO 2024He also averages 0.27 red cards and 0.2 penalties every match.Has Ivan Kruzliak officiated at major tournaments before?Although Kruzliak is 40, he has not yet refereed the finals of a major international tournament before.That said, he has experience officiating World Cup qualifiers, having looked after seven matches between 2012 and 2021 — including England’s 4-0 victory over Moldova in September 2013.Kruzliak has also taken charge of 16 Champions League matches from 2017 to 2023, all of them in the group stage.Most read in Euro 2024What else has Ivan Kruzliak done before?Kruzliak dished out a whopping seven yellow cards to Celtic in their Europa League intermediate stage second leg tie with Inter Milan at the San Siro — two of which were given to Virgil Van Dyke, who was sent off for two bookable offences. The Hoops were slapped with disciplinary action following the game in February 2015 because the team received more than five yellow cards.Then Celtic manager Ronny Delia slaughtered the ref’s display in his post-match comments, with attacking midfielder Kris Commons caught berating him on camera.In August 2017, Krusliak took charge of the Europa League game between Everton and Hajduk Split, which descended into scenes of chaos.He had to lead both sets of players into the Goodison Park dugouts after chaos broke out among the travelling Croatian support in the 32nd minute.Seats were torn out, missiles were launched at home fans and onto the pitch, and shocking footage showed one yob swinging a punch at a Goodison Park steward.The unruly travelling support also kicked down advertising boards and some streamed on to the field.Gareth Southgate reveals axed England star who could STILL play in Euro 2024 and face Iceland at WembleyHas Ivan Kruzliak used VAR before?VAR was introduced into the Slovak first division for the 2021-22 season.READ MORE SUN STORIESThis came a few years after the technology was incorporated into the Premier League for the 2018-19 season.Kruzlaik has reffed 41 games in the league since then, so he will know how to handle any VAR decisions during Euro 2024.Full list of main referees at Euro 2024

      Michael Oliver (England)
      Anthony Taylor (England)
      Artur Soares Dias (Portugal)
      Jesus Gil Manzano (Spain)
      Marco Guida (Italy)
      Istvan Kovacs (Romania)
      Ivan Kruzliak (Slovakia)
      Danny Makkelie (Netherlands)
      Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
      Halil Umut Meler (Turkey)
      Glenn Nyberg (Sweden)
      Daniele Orsato (Italy)
      Sandro Schärer (Switzerland)
      Daniel Siebert (Germany)
      Clement Turpin (France)
      Slavko Vinčić (Slovenia)
      Felix Zwayer (Germany)
      François Letexier (France)
      Facundo Tello (Argentina) More

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      ISIS terror suspect caught after applying to work as SECURITY GUARD at Euro 2024 in Germany

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      GERMAN cops have arrested a suspected ISIS terrorist while he was trying to sneak his way into the Euros. Anti-terror investigators caught Soufian T, 23, who is said to have applied to get a pass as a security guard for “side events” outside the football stadium.Fans cheering for their home teams during a football matchWhen authorities checked his application to become a member of staff, they found that the German state security had deemed Soufian an Islamist. Cops from the Cologne police department, along with investigators from the Bonn State Security Service and federal police, arrested the German-Moroccan-Polish citizen with his mother and sister at Cologne-Bonn Airport.A number of mobile phones and €2,500 were seized.The championship kicks off in Germany on June 14 and the build-up has already started.Read More on Euro 2024The England team is set to play against Slovenia in a stadium in Cologne. State security officials also discovered that he had applied for two accreditations in Rhineland-Palatinate for the big events Rock am Ring and the 24 Hour Nürburgring.Further investigations by the Federal police found that the suspected terrorist had booked a one-way ticket for a trip from Germany to Istanbul in May, fuelling their suspicions.After the arrest, Soufian T’s apartment was searched and other mobile phones, data storage devices and computers were confiscated.Most read in FootballThe Federal Criminal Police Office was also called in and further investigations were made on his bank account and online activities.Investigators also seized what are said to have been suspicious recordings.The suspect was taken to Karlsruhe under heavy guard and brought before the investigating judge at the Federal Court of Justice.His mother stated that they were supposedly planning to make a pilgrimage to Mecca.She was able to show tickets that showed that they were planning to continue their journey to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.She also had return tickets with her.The investigation is ongoing.It comes as the threat of terrorism in Europe by radical jihadists is at an all-time high.England fans were previously warned of a new terror threat for Euro 2024.Previously, ISIS-K – an Afghanistan-based offshoot of ISIS – issued threats against cities including Paris and London.The Al Azaim Foundation, a media channel responsible for disseminating messages from ISIS-K shared a post threatening an attack on four stadiums, also including the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.Games targeted included Arsenal versus Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium, and PSG vs Barcelona at the Parc des Princes.It comes after French security services foiled a plot for an “Islamist-inspired” attack which was planned for during this summer’s Olympic Games.The country’s domestic intelligence agency arrested 18-year-old Rokhman B. who is suspected of organising an attack on a football game in Lyon.The Chechen immigrant to France is said to have wanted to disrupt games planned in Saint-Étienne, a city in the east of the country, and “die a martyr” by killing spectators or police officers.France’s interior ministry said he had been detained for “actively preparing an attack against the Geoffroy Guichard stadium [in Saint-Etienne] during the football games that will take place there.”Meanwhile, the Paris Olympics chief promised a ring of steel at the opening ceremony amid fears it may have to be moved due to terror threats.Tony Estanguet insisted that “security is the priority” to ensure the safety of 15million fans and more than 10,000 athletes.Western intelligence revealed how cops stopped at least 12 terror attacks in the past 12 months across Europe.Ten jihadist attacks have been bravely intercepted and prevented in Europe last year, says Dutch intelligence agency AIVD.READ MORE SUN STORIESWho are ISIS-K?
      ISIS-K are a splinter faction is a warped army of barbaric fanatics that even terrify the Taliban.
      It’s members are believed to have led the massacre at a Russian rock concert that killed at least 133.
      Some 6,000 people are believed to have been inside the venue watching Russian rock band Picnic when the bloodshed began.
      The gunmen began shooting civilians at point-blank range – through glass doors, turnstiles and then the concert hall itself, traumatised witnesses said.
      At least 133 were killed – including three children – and over 121 wounded – but the death toll continues to rise as bodies are pulled from the smouldering rubble.
      The US says it has intelligence that confirms the Islamic State’s claim of responsibility for the bloody massacre – and argued it was led by an Afghanistan-based splinter cell, ISIS-K.
      Originally formed in 2015, the group have been a consistent threat to security in Afghanistan, carrying out brutal suicide bombings and vile ceremonial executions.
      The “K” refers to the historical region of Greater Khorasan, which included parts of Iran, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan.
      Despite efforts from the West, the former Afghan government and the Taliban to fight them back – they seized on the chaos sown by the country’s collapse and quickly established a reputation for extreme brutality.
      One of the most active regional affiliates of the Islamic State militant group, ISIS-K’s membership peaked in 2018 before declining.
      It suffered heavy losses inflicted by American air strikes and Taliban forces, reportedly cutting its ranks in half.
      However, it got a dramatic second wind after the US troop withdrawal from Afghanistan and the country’s fall to the Taliban.
      The group was responsible for an attack on Kabul’s international airport in 2021 that killed 13 US troops and scores of civilians during the chaotic US evacuation from the country.
      The attack raised the international profile of the group and help position it as a major threat to the Taliban’s rule.
      On May 8, 2021, ISIS-K were blamed for the bombing of the Sayed al-Shuhada girls’ school which saw two improvised explosive devices and a car bomb explode outside the school.
      Other vicious attacks include the storming of Kabul University by gunman which left 22 dead and 22 wounded in November 2020, and a suicide bomber who blew himself up at a wedding killing 92 in August 2019.
      In September 2022, ISIS-K militants claimed responsibility for a deadly suicide bombing at the Russian embassy in Kabul.

      Among the attacks foiled include stabbing rampages at global events, and barbaric assaults on specific venues and groups being targeted, the annual report revealed.AIVD didn’t elaborate further on where the 10 attacks were set to take place.Euro 2024 kicks off on June 14Credit: Getty More

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      What are the England squad numbers for Euro 2024?

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      ENGLAND will be hoping to finally secure their first trophy since 1966 at Euro 2024 this summer.Gareth Southgate has left a few big names out of his 26-man squad for the huge tournament in Germany.Harry Maguire wasn’t deemed fit enough to make the list after battling a calf injury in recent weeks.Southgate has also opted not to select Manchester City winger Jack Grealish, with the England gaffer preferring the options of Anthony Gordon, Eberechi Eze and Jarrod Bowen for this summer’s tournament.The Three Lions begin Euro 2024 with a Group C clash against Serbia on Sunday, June 16.SunSport has the all-important shirt numbers ahead of this summer’s tournament in Germany.READ MORE IN EURO 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSEngland squad numbersHere are the Three Lions’ squad numbers for Euro 2024:1 Jordan Pickford2 Kyle Walker 3 Luke Shaw4 Declan Rice5 John Stones6 Marc Guéhi7 Bukayo Saka8 Trent Alexander-Arnold9 Harry Kane10 Jude Bellingham11 Phil Foden12 Kieran Trippier13 Aaron Ramsdale14 Ezri Konsa15 Lewis Dunk16 Conor Gallagher17 Ivan Toney18 Anthony Gordon19 Ollie Watkins20 Jarrod Bowen21 Eberechi Eze22 Joe Gomez23 Dean Henderson24 Cole Palmer25 Adam Wharton26 Kobbie MainooFULL England fixture list at Euro 2024Sunday, June 16 – Group C: Serbia vs England (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen – kick-off 8pm BST, BBC)Thursday, June 20 – Group C: Denmark vs England (Waldstadion, Frankfurt – kick-off 5pm BST, BBC)Most read in Euro 2024Tuesday, June 25 – Group C: England vs Slovenia (RheinEnergieStadion, Cologne – kick-off 8pm BST, ITV)Round of 16If England finish top of Group CSunday, June 30: Group C winners vs third-placed side in Group D/E/F (Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen)If England finish runner-up in Group CSaturday, June 29 – Group A winners vs Group C runners-up (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund)If England finish as one of four best third-place teamsOne of:Monday, July 1 – Group F winner vs third-placed side from Group A/B/C (Waldstadion, Frankfurt)Tuesday, July 2 – Group E winners vs third-placed side from Group A/B/C/D (Allianz Arena, Munich)Quarter-finalsIf England finish top of Group C and win their round of 16 gameSaturday, July 6 (Merkur Spiel-Arena, Dusseldorf)If England finish runner-up in Group C and win their round of 16 gameFriday, July 5 (MHPArena, Stuttgart)If England finish as one of four best third-place teams and win their round of 16 gameOne of:Friday, July 5 (Volksparkstadion, Hamburg)Saturday, July 6 (Olympiastadion, Berlin)Semi-finalsIf England finish top of Group C, win their round of 16 game and win the quarter-finalWednesday, July 10 – kick-off 8pm (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund)If England finish runner-up in Group C, win their round of 16 game and win the quarter-finalTuesday, July 9 – kick-off 8pm (Allianz Arena, Munich)If England finish as one of four best third-place teams, win their round of 16 game and win the quarter-finalOne ofTuesday, July 9 – kick-off 8pm (Allianz Arena, Munich)READ MORE SUN STORIESWednesday, July 10 – kick-off 8pm (Westfalenstadion, Dortmund)FinalSunday, July 14 – kick-off 8pm (Olympiastadion, Berlin)PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament. More

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      England rivals ‘can’t believe’ Jack Grealish was left out of Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad

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      GERMANY players have reportedly been left SHOCKED by Gareth Southgate’s decision to axe Jack Grealish from England’s Euro 2024 squad. Grealish, 28, was one of seven players who failed to make the cut as Southgate trimmed his 33-man squad down to 26 on Thursday.Germany squad has reportedly been left stunned by Jack Grealish’s omission from England’s Euro 2024 squadCredit: Sunday TimesEberechi Eze, 25, who currently boasts three international caps, was given the nod ahead of the three time Premier League winner.The Crystal Palace forward was viewed as a fringe choice for the squad but managed to sway Southgate with his performances this season.And now it is claimed that members in the Germany squad were amazed by Eze’s inclusion over ex-Aston Villa captain Grealish.The Independent reports that many members of Die Mannschaft were “stunned” when they saw the England squad heading for Germany.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIt also claimed Grealish was seen as a player who “provokes fear in opposition when he runs at them” and that they do not feel the same about Eze.Grealish is considered to be one of the most popular players in the dressing room and the country.In fact, ex-Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic said that it is “good news” for Serbia that Southgate has ditched Grealish and Marcus Rashford.Matic wrote on X: “I would like to have players like Rashford and Grealish in the team. Players who can decide the game with one move! Not selected is good news for us.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Manchester City star joined James Maddison, Harry Maguire, Curtis Jones, Jarrel Quansah, Jarrad Branthwaite and James Trafford in being sent home early by Southgate.And while Maddison and Maguire have voiced their disappointment, Grealish has not yet made a public statement regarding his exit.Southgate speaks out after England humbled by Iceland ahead of EurosThe £100million winger was reportedly left “stunned and upset” following his axe.And it’s said that one senior player even approached the Three Lions boss to better understand the reasoning behind the decision.Reports suggest that there was no heated row or argument between the player and Southgate, and that the star was seeking an explanation to pass on to the rest of the squad.The squad as a whole were said to have been left shocked by the decision with a number of teammates heading to Grealish’s room after he had been informed of the manager’s decision.This is a bold changing of the guard from Southgate… he’s never been afraid to be ruthless
      GARETH SOUTHGATE has made a habit of taking ruthless calls during his eight years as England boss, writes Dave Kidd.
      And his decision to axe Jack Grealish, as well as James Maddison, is further evidence of the Three Lions chief being unafraid to take big decisions with big-name players. 
      Harry Maguire is also among the seven players left out for the squad to travel to Germany for the Euros, although the decision to omit the Manchester United centre-back is based on his failure to recover from injury. 
      Southgate is, more than ever, picking on form.
      Attacking midfielders such as Eberechi Eze, Jarrod Bowen, Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon have been rewarded with call-ups for their excellent Premier League form, while Marcus Rashford, Maddison and Grealish all get the chop.
      While the England boss is often regarded as an over-cautious nice guy, he took big decisions in getting rid of the likes of Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart and Chris Smalling at the start of his reign. 
      Southgate also jettisoned Raheem Sterling last year after the Chelsea man had been a regular starter throughout most of his reign. 
      And Jordan Henderson was left out of the 33-man preliminary squad having been a stalwart for Southgate throughout his previous three tournaments.  
      Grealish has been a cause celebre for England fans – who have often accused Southgate of holding an agenda against him. 
      But he has struggled for game-time with Manchester City all season, just as Maddison has been off-form since returning from injury at Spurs.
      This is a bold changing of the guard from Southgate, who has relied heavily on Maguire, Henderson, Sterling and Rashford throughout his time in charge, while Grealish and Maddison are both popular flair players who fully expected to make the 26-man party for Germany.
      Burnley keeper James Trafford, the Liverpool duo of Curtis Jones and Jarrell Quansah and Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite make up Southgate’s seven-man cull along with Grealish, Maddison and Maguire.  More