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      Cops foiled suspected terror plot ahead of England’s Euro 2024 final when they raided ‘ISIS cell’ hours before kick off

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      POLICE foiled a suspected terror plot from IS ahead of England’s Euros final – raiding a series of addresses just hours before kick-off.Officers swooped amid fears of an imminent attack on the Three Lions fan zone in Berlin’s sprawling Breitscheidplatz.Three suspects were detained by German special forces during a series of co-ordinated raidsCredit: Story Picture AgencyThe raid on the suspected terror cell came hours before England’s Euro 2024 finalCredit: AFPThe men were said to be known IS supporters already under German police surveillanceCredit: EPAThousands of supporters had gathered there ahead of England’s 2-1 defeat to Spain in last Sunday’s football showpiece.Three suspects were detained by German special forces during a series of co-ordinated raids in nearby Potsdam. It has since emerged that police searched three addresses while looking for five men after pictures were taken on phones of Breitscheidplatz and a large church.The men were said to be known IS supporters already under German police surveillance.READ MORE EURO 2024A 2016 terror attack at Breitscheidplatz saw jihadists drive a truck into a Christmas market, killing 12 and wounding 56.A spokesperson for Berlin Police told The Sun on Sunday: “The homes of three men were searched at three addresses in Potsdam.“Forces from the special task forces were involved in the operation.The measures were carried out in connection with an immediate threat from the Islamist spectrum.”Most read in FootballSources said the men were put under surveillance in the days leading up to the final.The suspects have since been released under investigation.ISIS will make comeback… we must act now or face another 911, says CIA bossIt comes after we exclusively reported a chilling terror warning ahead of the Euros from the German Interior Minister in March.Nancy Faeser said: “One thing can be said for sure – the dangers have reached a new level. The state is arming itself even more strongly against all current threats.”The latest threat comes amid heightened security in Paris ahead of the Olympics which begins on Friday. British cops will be among a 45,000-strong force patrolling the streets of the French capital.Central parts around the Seine, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, are already shut to vehicles.Last month IS terrorists threatened attacks on the Olympics.The group posted an appalling propaganda image showing one of its terrorists flying an armed drone into the Eiffel Tower.READ MORE SUN STORIESSome 130 people on France’s terrorist watchlist have already been prevented from entering the country.At least 10 terror attacks have been foiled across Europe in the last 12 months alone, according to Dutch spooks.                        More

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      Inside Cristiano Ronaldo’s summer holiday as he hits beach with Georgina Rodriguez after Euro 2024 heartbreak

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO hit the beach with Georgina Rodriguez as he enjoyed a summer holiday after Portugal’s Euro heartbreak.The legendary striker failed to score a single goal as his side crashed out of the tournament in the quarters to France.Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez have been enjoying a loved-up holiday togetherCredit: https://x.com/CristianoRonaldo rode a bike as he took a trip to the Red Sea in Saudi ArabiaCredit: https://x.com/CristianoRonaldo soaked up the sun in his beautiful surroundingsCredit: https://x.com/CristianoHe then flexed with pals for a shirtless snapCredit: https://www.instagram.com/cristiano/?hl=enRonaldo, 39, was left in floods of tears after missing a penalty in the last-16 shootout win against Slovenia.But he was all smiles as he and Georgina soaked up the sun in Saudi Arabia.Ronaldo now lives in the Middle Eastern country after completing a move to Al-Nassr 18 months ago.And he appeared to be loving life with a trip to the Red Sea as he struck a pose on the beach.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLRonaldo and Georgina both stripped down to their bathing suits before taking a dip in the clear blue water.They shared a laugh together as the loved-up couple clasped each other by the waist.And Ronaldo made sure to get some exercise in as he hopped on a bike before cycling along the beach front.Finally, Ronnie did his famous shirtless flex alongside a couple of pals in the water.Most read in FootballGeorgina has already been sunning herself this month with a series of sexy snaps.The Spanish beauty posed in a bikini which left little to the imagination.Fans ask ‘what have I just watched’ as Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina’s bizarre sauna antics go viral She also posed snaps of herself going for a jog on the sand.And in another she could be seen sweetly running after Ronaldo as he entered the sea for a dip.The other day the pair had fans asking ‘what have I just watched?’ after sharing a video of their bizarre sauna antics.Ronaldo posted the clip his Instagram page alongside long-term partner Georgina.In the video, Georgina’s phone was placed outside of a sauna room.The former sales assistant, 30, was seen stretching up against the wall in the video.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe could be seen with her back levelled out with a stretched leg all the way up the wall.The peculiar position showed off Georgina’s curves through the window pane, while Ronaldo could also be seen topless in the background.Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez showed off bizarre sauna anticsCredit: Instagram @georginagioFans were left baffled by the stretching videoCredit: Instagram @georginagioGeorgina has been wowing with her bikinisCredit: INSTAGRAMThe Spanish beauty has been enjoying her time offShe struck a pose for the camerasCredit: Instagram / georginagioGeorgina has been doing some runningCredit: InstagramShe jogged along the golden sandsCredit: Instagram / georginagioRonaldo is hoping for a good season after Portugal’s Euros heartbreakCredit: Instagram / georginagioRonaldo suffered a nightmare Euros as Portugal were knocked out in the quarter-finals without him scoring – and he cried after missing a penaltyCredit: Getty More

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      Arsenal fans left speechless after spotting Ben White in the weight room in pre-season conditioning session

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      BEN WHITE looks like he has been busy this summer.The Arsenal defender did not travel to Germany for England’s Euro 2024 challenge.Ben White is getting in shape for the new seasonCredit: GettyFans were impressed with the weight he was liftingCredit: GettyWhite was also snapped hitting the punching bagCredit: GettyThe right-back hit the rowing machine hard tooCredit: GettyAnd judging by what he was lifting in the gym, he spent most of his summer break pumping iron.Fans were stunned to see White, 26, chest-pressing two 40kg dumbbells as the Gunners did some pre-season gym work.One commented on Arsenal’s Instagram post: “Throwing 80kg up, my guy.”Another added: “Ben White pressing 40kgs, my kinda guy.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLA third wrote: “Benny with the 40s.”For comparison, Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus had a pair of 22.5kg weights.Martin Odegaard was also looking ripped before joining Thomas Partey and Ethan Nwaneri on the exercise bikes.White would almost certainly have made England’s squad on merit.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSArsenal fans were less impressed by Gabriel Jesus’ strength as he lifted 22.5kg weightsCredit: GettyFabio Vieira pumps some ironCredit: GettyThomas Partey, Martin Odegaard and Ethan Nwaneri hit the bikesCredit: GettyOdegaard is looking in fine shapeCredit: GettyJesus holds the bag for Karl HeinCredit: GettyBut he has not played for the Three Lions since leaving the Qatar World Cup for “personal reasons”.Speaking after picking his squad, Gareth Southgate said: “Clearly on form, I can’t sit here and say he doesn’t deserve to be here.Three Lions’ aces dance away Euros disappointment at wild Ibiza knees-upSunSport’s verdict on Arsenal starsMikel Arteta is looking to get Arsenal ready to beat Man City to the title after another near miss, but he may need to be brutal with his squad in order to do so. Here’s SunSport’s verdict on who should stay and who should go.David Raya – STAY: Initial doubts arose when he replaced Aaron Ramsdale, but he has since proven himself to be a world-class keeper with all the attributes needed for Arteta’s way of playing.Aaron Ramsdale – GO: Unfortunate to be cast aside for Raya, but is now looking for a move to become a regular No.1 elsewhere, especially with his aspirations of one day starting in goal for England.Karl Hein – STAY: Unlikely to take Ramsdale’s spot as No.2 should the Englishman depart – but the club cannot afford to lose two keepers in one window.William Saliba – STAY: Saliba is of the best young defenders in the world right now, Arteta should be building his team around him. A vital part of the side’s spine that conceded just 29 Prem goals this term.Ben White – STAY: Another solid member of Arteta’s impressive back four. Has the flexibility to play on the right or as a central defender, but has made right-back his own this term.Gabriel – STAY: Was on the outskirts at the start of the campaign but forced his way back in and has forged an almighty partnership with Saliba in the middle of the defence. One of Arteta’s most important signings.Jurrien Timber – STAY: Yet to see the best of the Dutchman after an injury-hit season, but Arteta views him as a game-changing full-back.Jakub Kiwior – STAY: The Polish international has struggled to break up the duo of Saliba and Gabriel but has impressed when called upon, especially in a stint at left-back.Cedric – GO: Leaving the club with his contract expiring. Never really convinced Arteta he could be relied upon and spent most of the season warming the bench.Takehiro Tomiyasu – STAY: Another flexible and reliable figure that Arteta adores. Can play centre-back or right-back and is a real presence at set-pieces.Oleksandr Zinchenko – GO: With Timber in line to be Arteta’s first choice at left-back, it is hard to see the Ukrainian starting many games for Arsenal next season. A good signing at £35m but has shown himself to be limited defensively.Thomas Partey – GO: Injury prone and has looked leggy when finally back from his thigh issues that kept him out from October until March. Contract is up next summer.Martin Odegaard – STAY: Captain fantastic. A real leader amongst men at such a young age. The 25-year-old is on course to lift the Prem at Arsenal sooner rather than later.Emile Smith Rowe – STAY: Sidelined for most of the term and struggled to make an impact when called upon, but Arteta still sees something in him. A decent squad option but you get the feeling he is running out of time to prove to the club he is a player worth sticking with.Jorginho – STAY: Arteta’s experienced general who, more often than not, has Arsenal playing better with him in the team.Fabio Vieira – GO: Perhaps harsh to judge him based on just 16 appearances in all competitions this season but still looks out of place in English football. A loan move could help.Mohamed Elneny – GO: Another player departing with his contract expiring. The right call by both parties. A good servant from the Arsene Wenger days.Kai Havertz – STAY: Seems a bargain now at £65m from Chelsea following his barnstorming end to the season. Arteta bought him as a midfielder, yet now leads the line as a first-choice No.9.Declan Rice – STAY: Arsenal’s most important and influential signing in years. Enough said.Bukayo Saka – STAY: An undroppable superstar for club and country right now. Will undoubtedly get even better in seasons to come.Gabriel Jesus – STAY: Fighting for a starting spot but right now but would be foolish to let him go given how much he can impact games and his winning mentality inside the group.Gabriel Martinelli – STAY: A dip in form this term but Arteta has huge faith in him. The added competition with Leandro Trossard will only make him better.Eddie Nketiah – GO: Career is at a crossroads right now and he needs to leave to turn that around. His six-figure wages could put Premier League suitors off.Leandro Trossard – STAY: Can bring his qualities as a starter or from the bench – a brilliant option to have when you are going for a title.Reiss Nelson – GO: Arteta has often spoken of Nelson’s potential and likes having him around the squad, but his impact has withered over the past 12 months.“[FA technical director] John McDermott had a call from [Arsenal sporting director] Edu last night saying Ben didn’t want to be considered for England squads.“It’s a great shame, he’s a player I really like, a player we took to the Euros, a player I took to the World Cup.“I spoke to him post-Qatar because I was keen to pick him, there was clearly reticence on his side. I don’t know fully why that is, but I have to respect that.“I want to leave the door open to him, he’s a good player, a player who can make a difference for England, but he’s not available to us.”Arsenal have a tricky start to the season More

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      Fans love incredible pic of Declan Rice and Luke Shaw partying with ‘probably the coolest person ever’ at Ibiza bash

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      DECLAN RICE and Luke Shaw had fans in stitches as they were pictured partying with a music legend in Ibiza.The Three Lions stars decided to let their hair down after a heartbreaking Euro 2024 final defeat.Declan Rice and Luke Shaw partied with music producer FisherCredit: Instagram:followthefishtvIvan Toney was also partying with his England team-mates at Ocean BeachDeclan Rice was having the time of his lifeClubbers joined the Three Lions stars for a danceAnd fans were loving the sight of their heroes alongside Australian producer Fisher, 37.The Aussie was flanked by the footballers, who were holding him off the ground as Rice supported his leg.All three wore beaming grins.One posted on Instagram: “Probably the coolest person ever.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnother added: “We love you so much!!!!!!!”A third asked: “Why do fisher always hang with the most random people?”Rice and Toney had previously been spotted dancing the night away at O Club Ibiza — owned by England great Gary Lineker’s brother Wayne.One clubber said: “It was great to see them enjoying themselves. They deserve some down time after the Euros.”Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe nightclub owner said: “Had some incredible days and nights in my life but this will take some beating.”He joked that they had “been regulars”.Fans baffled as Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale joins Sky Sports’ commentary team for England’s CRICKET matchFootage obtained by The Sun showed unshaven Arsenal star Rice in a white vest and dark sunglasses jigging to disco tunes.The 25-year-old grinned and looked to be having a ball, with the disappointment of the Euros final long forgotten.At one point the midfield ace linked arms with a pal and jumped up and down on the spot.Yards away, tattooed Toney also managed a smile as he gyrated in a brown T-shirt, black shorts and grey baseball cap.An attractive blonde woman in a revealing orange bikini and white dress was seen dancing provocatively beside the 28-year-old.At one stage the duo linked arms and swayed together in time to the music, as happy Ivan waved to the crowd from the DJ stage.Maybe Kane really is cursed as trophy drought goes on… he may never get a better chance with EnglandIT now seems as though he really is cursed. Along with the rest of us, writes Charlie Wyett.Tragically, unbelievably, Harry Kane’s agonising search for a trophy still continues and you know have to wonder whether he will ever actually manage it.Certainly for England, in any case.Kane has now suffered defeat in three major club finals and two finals of the European Championships.Last night, the Three Lions captain was so ineffective that he was replaced by Ollie Watkins just after the hour.Like much of this tournament, he really struggled to make the impact when England needed him, not that he had much service.He had one shot in the first half and that was Rodri, who subsequently injured himself and went off at the break.When Cole Palmer struck that brilliant equaliser, Kane was off on his feet from the bench, only for the national team to get another kick in the bo**ocks at the end.Kane was substituted in both the games against Switzerland and Holland which England went on to win but on this occasion, he could only witness a gut-wrenching twist just when it looked as though Gareth Southgate’s team had dug their way out of trouble.The Bayern Munich striker suffered the World Cup 2018 semi-final loss against Croatia, endured heartbreak against Italy in the Euro2020 final and then missed from the spot in the World Cup 2022 quarter-final against France.He really thought that this was his time, even though England did not play well in Germany.Kane will know that he will have more opportunities with England. But not many more.The World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico seems a long way away and it will surely be under a new manager. Will England be better than they are now? Probably not.And we are all left to wonder how much better England would have been with a fit and firing Kane at his very best.Read the full verdict on the curse of Harry Kane…Or check out all of Charlie Wyett’s Euro 2024 stories… More

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      Eddie Howe breaks silence on England job links after Gareth Southgate quits as boss asks Newcastle to back him

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      EDDIE HOWE is happy to snub England and stay “committed” to Newcastle – as long as he continues to be supported.The Football Association are now officially advertising for Gareth Southgate’s replacement and the Newcastle boss ticks a lot of the boxes.Eddie Howe says he’s happy at Newcastle as long as they back himCredit: GettySouthgate’s resignation on Tuesday instantly led to Howe and unemployed Graham Potter being installed as bookies favourites for the job.Newcastle issued a hands-off warning to the FA by revealing that their manager had signed a multi-year contract extension with them last summer that does not have a set figure release clause.Magpies CEO Darren Eales also vowed to fight to hang on to the ex-Bournemouth man and said that he still believes the 46-year-old is the “right man for the project”.Howe has now finally broken his silence and addressed his future as he spoke to reporters at the Toon’s pre-season training camp in Germany on Friday.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd he was adamant that he needs to continue feeling backed by Newcastle’s Saudi owners and chiefs.Howe said: “For me, being very proud to be Newcastle manager, this is all about Newcastle.“It’s not about England so as long as I’m happy, feel supported, feel free to work in a way that I want to work, I’ve not thought of anything else other than Newcastle.“I absolutely love the club. I love the supporters. I love where I am at in my career. There’s no better place for me to be. That’s how I feel.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“I hope that from the answer that I’ve just given that there’s everything you need to know in there.“For me, it’s not about England. England is absolutely someone else’s conversation. It’s not mine. Mine is Newcastle.Gareth Southgate at centre of channel bidding war for glossy documentary after quitting as England boss“To speak about something else while manager of Newcastle is wrong. I don’t think I have to say the answer again. The answer is clear.”It has been a summer of upheaval and change at the North East giants as Howe’s key allies Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi have both left.And with Dan Ashworth’s exit for Manchester United now done, that has led to Paul Mitchell and James Bunce arriving as sporting and performance director respectively.Howe, who has not worked with either before, admitted that “boundaries of relationships and how they’re going to work are slightly unclear”.But when pressed again on whether he would still be in charge for Newcastle’s opening day Premier League home clash with Southampton, he reiterated: “As long as I’m happy in the position I’ve been.“As long as I feel supported by the football club and free to work in the way that I want to work, yes. That’s the crucial thing.“There’s been a lot of change at the football club this summer. It’s been a very difficult summer for everyone connected with the club because with change comes a new feeling so you can point to PSR, Amanda and Mehrdad, a change in sporting director, which, of course, influences me.“These are all big changes and that’s why I’ve made the points that I have because this has to work for Newcastle.England’s job advert for new bossThe FA’s seven requirements to succeed Gareth Southgate:Will hold a Uefa Pro License.Will have significant experience of English football, with a strong track record delivering results in the Premier League and/or leading international competitions.Will be an exceptional leader who understands and will enjoy the international football environment.Will be experienced in successfully identifying, managing and developing English qualified players.Will be highly resilient and comfortable in a very high-profile role with intense public scrutiny.Will have a track record of creating a high performing, positive team culture and environment.Will have strong personal values and integrity and understand and embrace the role that the England Men’s Senior Team Head Coach has inspiring the nation.“It’s not about me as the manager. I’m slightly irrelevant. It’s about making sure Newcastle United is as strong as it can be for the next season and beyond. We’ve all got to come together to be the force that we want to be.”Howe added: “I absolutely want to stay, but it has to be right for me and the football club. You have to understand, there’s no point me saying, ‘I’m absolutely going to stay’ if the dynamic is not right and it’s not going to work. I’m not serving Newcastle well if I do that.“It’s been a difficult summer in various aspects, no one more important than the other, but as a new team coming together we have to set our boundaries.“We have to see if we can work together in a really fluid, dynamic way to the benefit of Newcastle.“I’m working every day with the new people to see if the relationships can be beneficial to Newcastle.“The transfer window is absolutely massive. That’s no criticism of anyone who has come in. I want to make that absolutely clear.“Paul Mitchell has an outstanding record as a sporting director, he’s dynamic, he’s very strong, I think he’s exactly the sort of person Newcastle need to take the club forward.Southgate’s England legacy should be celebrated, not torn downBy Tom BarclayGareth Southgate claimed that only winning Sunday’s final would earn England the respect of the footballing world.Spain proved a last-gasp comeback too far in Berlin, but defeat did not change the fact that Southgate’s eight-year transformation put respect back into the world of England football.Critics will pick apart his cautious tactics, his selection choices and his record in the most high-pressurised games – with some legitimacy.Yet what is quickly forgotten is the laughing stock our national side had become before he took over in 2016.A shambolic Euros exit to Iceland that summer had been followed up by Sam Allardyce quitting just one game into his tenure thanks to his pint of wine with undercover reporters.Then came Southgate, with his decency, his humility, his understated eloquence and his vision for a better, different future.He had analysed why England had so often failed in the past, from lack of preparation at penalty shoot-outs to players being bored out of their minds during major tournaments.Southgate took those findings and implemented a culture where players wanted to play for their country again – and it led to back-to-back finals for the first time in our history.Instead of going to war with the media, he opened his doors to them and discovered, shock, horror, that it was met, generally, with support. It did not stop him from being criticised when required – we are no cheerleaders, here – but the vitriol of yesteryear – or today on social media – was largely gone.No manager is perfect and neither was Southgate. We cannot pretend his teams played like those of Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp.But in the fullness of time, his feats will likely be revered because the results speak for themselves.Hopefully his successor can go one step further and bring football home. To do that, they must show respect to what Southgate has created and build on it, rather than rip it down.To read more from Tom Barclay click HERE. “I’ve absolutely no issues with anyone personally but of course we move together, we have to be able to work together in key relationships for the football club.“I’m not talking about England. England is not even my focus – it’s all about Newcastle it has been all summer.”The FA outlined that the new man’s primary role will be to “lead and develop the England senior men’s team to win a major tournament”.Candidates should have a Uefa pro coaching license and significant experience of English football – both of which Howe possesses.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey also want an “exceptional leader” with “strong personal values and integrity” that is “highly resilient” to deal with the “intense public scrutiny” that comes with the role.And Wembley chiefs also want someone with a “track record of creating a high performing and positive team culture”. More

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      Jude Bellingham’s model girlfriend Laura Celia Valk puts on very busty display in white bikini top and frilly hotpants

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM fell one game short of capping a dream season with Euro 2024 glory.The Real Madrid sensation, 21, is among the favourites to lift the Ballon d’Or after winning LaLiga and the Champions League last season.Laura Celia Valk strikes a pose in a white bikini topCredit: SplashThe model is dating England hotshot Jude BellinghamCredit: SplashLaura looks to have picked up a real page-turnerCredit: SplashThe beauty has been stunning fans with her modelling shotsCredit: SplashThey will be eagerly awaiting the next chapterCredit: SplashAnd life is going pretty well off the field too, judging by model girlfriend Laura Celia Valk’s latest snaps.The Dutch beauty posed in a white bikini top and hotpants in the sunshine.She showed off the ensemble by leaning in a doorway and also appeared engrossed in a book.Bellingham will now look to turn the page on England’s heartbreaking defeat to Spain.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe may get a bit of banter from his Spanish team-mates before they set about defending their titles.Laura, 25, is believed to have been dating Bellingham since April.The pair have kept their romance low-key as they focus on their respective careers, but are said to be “smitten” with one another.However, she has certainly not been shy in promoting her modelling.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSShe was seen throughout the Euros and before wearing a number of jaw-dropping outfits.And her latest set proved to be no different.Jude Bellingham’s model girlfriend Laura Celia Valk helps him get over England heartache in bikini Several Wags from the England camp spent weeks out in Germany supporting the Three Lions.But a noticeable absence was Bellingham’s new partner, Dutch model Laura Celia Valk with the couple keeping their relationship from the public.Laura did not attend any matches or make any reference of Bellingham on social media.Instead, she has been filling up her page with model snaps to her 500,000 Instagram followers.The Sun were the first to reveal her relationship with Bellingham.Meet Jude Bellingham’s stunning girlfriend, lingerie model Laura Celia ValkBy Jon BoonLAURA CELIA VALK is the stunning Dutch fashion model who has stolen Jude Bellingham’s heart.The Sun exclusively revealed that she’s been staying at his place in Madrid and is completely smitten with him.Laura boasts a huge social media following and regularly travels the world, enjoying a luxurious lifestyle.From underwear modelling to showing off Pretty Little Thing’s latest wear, she regularly collaborates with fashion houses around the globe.Wherever she is, Laura makes sure to drop into Chanel – her favourite designer.She’s also quite the foodie, with pizza and strawberries being her favourites.It won’t be long before we see her at the Bernabeu enjoying a prawn sandwich!Find out more about Laura.Or read all the latest Jude Bellingham news.And she was believed to be staying in his Madrid mansion earlier in the year.Laura is not only a model for the likes of PrettyLittleThing but she is the owner of her own social media consultancy agency.Laura Celia Valk loves to show off outfitsCredit: Instagram @lauraceliavThe beauty has a taste for fashionCredit: SplashFans are always thirsty for moreCredit: InstagramJude Bellingham may need some cheering upCredit: InstagramWhere has it gone wrong with Bellingham?By Dave KiddJUDE BELLINGHAM turns 21 on Saturday as a champion of Europe, a champion of Spain and as the finest player at the world’s most famous club.He’s a multi-millionaire, a Ballon d’Or contender and an underpants model — so let’s not play those violins too loudly.But after two matches of intense frustration and virtual anonymity at the Euros, we’re entitled to ask: Where has it all, at least temporarily, gone wrong?Bellingham’s career has been on an unerring upward trajectory since Birmingham City retired his shirt at the age of 17 and packed him off to Dortmund.Last summer’s move to Real Madrid was an instant and extraordinary success.Bellingham netted 23 goals in his debut season — including late winners against Barcelona in both of his first two Clasicos — on his way to winning LaLiga and then the Champions League.And now this, the bizarre idea being floated that Gareth Southgate should consider dropping the best player England have had for at least half a century.After the goalless draw with Slovenia, Southgate admitted that he is going to speak to Bellingham about the need to channel his frustrations.During dismal back-to-back draws against Denmark and Slovenia, the Brummie Galactico has looked thoroughly piddled off with refereeing decisions, with team-mates, with tactics which clearly aren’t allowing him to flourish.The crushing, unremitting tedium of watching this joyless England team play football is bad enough.Imagine being as good as Bellingham and having to play for them.To be shoved out on to the left wing — as Bellingham was for long periods in the goalless grind against Slovenia — to accommodate Phil Foden, who has rarely if ever dominated a game for England.The result was another miserable let-down for England supporters, who have turned against Southgate in their droves during this tournament.Only Southgate’s England can turn up in Cologne — the perfume capital of the world — and stink the place out.England lack express pace, they lack attacking intent, they lack experience in central midfield and they lack left-footed defenders.But they do have Bellingham — and Southgate needs to allow him to thrive pretty sharpish or they will be home either this weekend or next.Then the search for a new England manager would begin.Bellingham has frequently grabbed big matches by the scruff of the neck for his country — against Senegal in the knockout stage of the last World Cup, against Scotland at Hampden Park, against Italy at Wembley and in the Euros opener against Serbia.This is a man with a proven track record of winning international football matches and yet somehow his place in the England team is being questioned.Foden returned home for the birth of his third child but it is not yet known whether the Manchester City midfielder will return for Sunday’s last-16 clash in Gelsenkirchen.But there has been a problem in accommodating Bellingham and Foden in the same team.And while the City man is a wonderful player and the reigning Footballer of the Year, his England career has not been in the same league as Bellingham’s.If you are going to build a team around anybody, it is Bellingham.There is plenty to be positive about with England — as long as you haven’t actually watched any of their matches.The Three Lions have won their group and have ended up in a favourable half of the draw away from all four of the tournament’s strongest teams.But they can only progress from here if Bellingham takes the leading role, as he did so impressively in the first half against the Serbs.His is too great a talent to waste. 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      I’m happy Gareth Southgate quit England job on his terms… I didn’t get that luxury, says Sven Goran Eriksson

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      SVEN GORAN ERIKSSON is happy that Gareth Southgate has left his job as England manager on his terms.Southgate stepped down as the Three Lions boss following the defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.Gareth Southgate stepped down as England managerCredit: AlamySven-Goran Eriksson does not think Southgate’s replacement has to be EnglishCredit: GettyThe former England player took the team to two Euro finals and a World Cup semi-final and quarter-final during his eight-year reign.Eriksson, 76, had backed England to win the Euros before the heartbreaking loss in the final.The Swed managed England himself between 2001 and 2006 but never managed to guide the team past the quarter-finals at a major tournament.He was however happy that Southgate was able to make the decision to leave himself as he spoke about his own exit from England. READ MORE ON ENGLANDHe wrote in his Telegraph column: “It is a pity he resigned but the one certainty in football management is that you will be sacked sooner or later. At least he had the opportunity to leave on his own terms.”I was sacked in 2006 and left after the World Cup that year, but I left for other reasons. It had nothing to do with football. There was the ‘fake sheikh’ sting with the News of the World.”It was a trap. There was also a fascination with my private life and the women I was with at different times. I was sacked because of that and the ‘sheikh’.”We should have done better than the quarter-final at the 2006 World Cup but I would have preferred to be sacked for losing to Portugal on penalties.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”In Germany, I would have been sacked because of that result and regardless of any stories in the papers.”The people and the FA wanted more. It was quite some month, let me tell you.”Lee Carsley for EnglandSouthgate’s England recordHere is a look at Gareth Southgate’s record as England manager.Overall recordGames: 102Wins: 61Draws: 24Losses: 17Goals scored: 213Goals conceded: 72Eriksson, who has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, has also insisted that England does not have to have an English manager and should just find the “right man” to take over.He added: “For me, it should not matter.”The most important thing is to find the right man who can not only take the team to a final, but also go the full distance.”If he is English, or foreign, I don’t think it should mean much.”You just have to find a top manager, or a young one with a good future.”There has already been many candidates named as Southgate’s potential successor.Englishman Eddie Howe, Graham Potter and Frank Lampard have all been linked.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Under-21’s head coach, Lee Carsley, is also believed to be in the running.While foreign coaches Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola have also been rumoured.Southgate’s England legacy should be celebrated, not torn downBy Tom BarclayGareth Southgate claimed that only winning Sunday’s final would earn England the respect of the footballing world.Spain proved a last-gasp comeback too far in Berlin, but defeat did not change the fact that Southgate’s eight-year transformation put respect back into the world of England football.Critics will pick apart his cautious tactics, his selection choices and his record in the most high-pressurised games – with some legitimacy.Yet what is quickly forgotten is the laughing stock our national side had become before he took over in 2016.A shambolic Euros exit to Iceland that summer had been followed up by Sam Allardyce quitting just one game into his tenure thanks to his pint of wine with undercover reporters.Then came Southgate, with his decency, his humility, his understated eloquence and his vision for a better, different future.He had analysed why England had so often failed in the past, from lack of preparation at penalty shoot-outs to players being bored out of their minds during major tournaments.Southgate took those findings and implemented a culture where players wanted to play for their country again – and it led to back-to-back finals for the first time in our history.Instead of going to war with the media, he opened his doors to them and discovered, shock, horror, that it was met, generally, with support. It did not stop him from being criticised when required – we are no cheerleaders, here – but the vitriol of yesteryear – or today on social media – was largely gone.No manager is perfect and neither was Southgate. We cannot pretend his teams played like those of Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp.But in the fullness of time, his feats will likely be revered because the results speak for themselves.Hopefully his successor can go one step further and bring football home. To do that, they must show respect to what Southgate has created and build on it, rather than rip it down.To read more from Tom Barclay click HERE. More

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      Spain stars Rodri and Morata under Uefa investigation for behaviour during Spain’s Euro 2024 trophy parade

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      RODRI and Alvaro Morata are being investigated by Uefa following the trophy parade for Spain’s Euro 2024 win.The Spanish stars were part of the team’s celebrations after they beat England in the final of the tournament in Berlin.Rodri is being investigated by UefaCredit: GettyAlvaro Morata is also being looked at by UefaCredit: GettyAlvaro Morata threw a cup at a fan during the bus paradeCredit: TikTokUefa have now confirmed that they are investigating the duo for their conduct during the trophy presentation in Madrid on Monday.A statement read: “A Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector is being appointed to evaluate a potential violation of the Uefa Disciplinary Regulations by the players Rodrigo Hernández Cascante and Álvaro Morata in the context of conduct that occurred during the public presentation of the Uefa Euro 2024 trophy in Madrid on 15 July 2024.”Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course.”Rodri and Morata played key roles for Spain as they went all the way to lift the trophy at Euro 2024.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Man City star Rodri continued his excellent club form in the heart of midfield right up until his injury in the final against the Three Lions.Morata captained the team and scored one goal in seven appearances.Since their decisive victory over England, the team and fans have been wildly celebrating.During the jubilations, Rodri and allegedly Morata chanted “It’s Spanish, Gibraltar is Spanish” at a party in Madrid.Most read in FootballThe Gibraltar FA have made an official complaint to Uefa after the “unacceptable” chanting.In an official note, it said: “The Gibraltar FA has noted the extremely provocative and insulting nature of the celebrations around the Spanish Men’s national team winning Euro 2024.Alvaro Morata throws cup at fan during Spainb’s trophy parade after Euro 2024 winWhat is the row over Gibraltar?THE dispute between the UK and Spain over Gibraltar revolves around issues of sovereignty and territorial waters.Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, has been under British control since 1713 following the Treaty of Utrecht.But Spain has long contested British sovereignty over Gibraltar, claiming that it should be part of Spanish territory.Spain argues that Gibraltar is a colonial relic and should be returned to Spanish sovereignty.The UK, however, maintains its control over Gibraltar, emphasising the wishes of the Gibraltarian people, who have consistently expressed a desire to remain under British sovereignty in referendum.There are disputes over the extent of Gibraltar’s territorial waters. Spain does not recognise the waters around Gibraltar as British, leading to tensions and incidents between Spanish and British vessels.The land border between Gibraltar and Spain has also been a source of tension, with periodic disruptions and stricter controls imposed by Spain, affecting the flow of people and goods.The UK’s exit from the EU has added another layer of complexity to the issue, particularly concerning the free movement of people and goods across the border.Negotiations are ongoing to address the implications of Brexit for Gibraltar and its relationship with both Spain and the EU.”The Association is this morning taking advice on the filing of a complaint to European Football’s governing body, UEFA, in relation to the unacceptable chanting and songs, relating to Gibraltar, sung by Spain’s Men’s National Team players after winning Euro 2024.”Football has no place for behaviour of this nature.”Gibraltar is on the southern tip of Spain and is a British overseas territory and has been for over 300 years.Rodri, whose full name is Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, joined Manchester City in July 2019 from Atlético Madrid for a then club-record fee of approximately £60 million.Morata was also filmed during the bus parade throwing a cup at a fan holding up a sign.He appeared to be upset by the sign as he threw the cup before being checked on by Rodri.The former Chelsea star has had a busy week as he has completed a move from Atletico Madrid to AC Milan. More