More stories

  • in

    Roy Keane, Laura Woods and Gary Neville make England predictions for Euro 2024 as Three Lions gear up for Bosnia clash

    GARETH SOUTHGATE’S brave lions are readying themselves to do battle once more for Euro 2024 this summer.And as England head into the final weeks of their preparation before the competition gets underway, the pundits from ITV1 and ITVX’s Euro 2024 live coverage have made their predictions.Gareth Southgate is preparing his side for this summer’s EurosCredit: AlamyHis 33-man provisional squad have two friendlies to play before it is trimmed down to 26Credit: AlamyITV’s pundits have given their predictions ahead of the tournament properCredit: ITVEngland will head to Germany amongst the favourites to lift the trophy after suffering penalty shootout heartbreak during Euro 2020 at Wembley.A squad filled with some of the most exciting talents in European football will try and put an end to England’s near 60-year wait for a major trophy in the men’s game.The experts have had their say on whether Southgate and Co can get over the line this time with big names such as Laura Woods, Roy Keane and Gary Neville making their predictions.Here SunSport breaks down what they all said to ITV about the highly anticipated tournament ahead of this evening’s warm up game against Bosnia and Herzegovina. READ MORE IN FOOTBALLLaura WoodsLaura Woods had piled the pressure on England this summer claiming it will be a “huge letdown” if the Three Lions don’t advance to the “latter stages”.However the award-winning presenter still reckons that alongside France, England are favourites to win the competition.Winners: England or FranceEngland performance: WinnersScotland performance: Advance through the groupPlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude BellinghamRoy KeaneKeane has over 67 international caps and has used his experience to back Germany to make the most of their home advantage this summer.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut the Manchester United legend has his reservations over how well Scotland and England will perform.Inside England’s stunning five-star Euro 2024 base with robot waiters that will cost £800,000Winners: GermanyEngland performance: Top their group, but not win the tournamentScotland performance: Out in the groupsPlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Harry KaneGary NevilleGary Neville has been both a player and a coach for England at the Euros in the past.And drawing on his vast experience he has claimed that it’s “about bloody time” that the Three Lions lifted the trophy aloft this summer.Winners: EnglandEngland performance: WinnersScotland performance: Out in the groupsPlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude Bellingham and Phil FodenMark PougatchMark Pougatch is one of the most experienced football pundits on television and he has had his say on this summer’s tournament.Winners: FranceEngland performance: Huge opportunity to winScotland performance: Struggling in tough groupPlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude Bellingham and Kylian MbappeEngland are among the favourites to life the trophy in JulyCredit: GettyScotland face tough opponents in their group with hosts Germany, Switzerland and HungaryCredit: GettyIan WrightIan Wright has followed the majority in naming England and France as the teams to beat out in Germany.But he too has put the pressure on Southgate saying: “Semi-finals or bust – anything less will be a disappointment – and they have a genuine shot at the trophy”.Winners: England or FranceEngland performance: Semi-finals or winnersScotland performance: Realistic aim is to get out of the groupPlayer most looking forward to watching: Florian Wirtz, Lamine Yamal and Benjamin SeskoEni AlukoAnother England legend who has weighed in on the proceedings in Germany.Winners: FranceEngland performance: Reach the finalScotland performance: Advance through the groupsPlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, Kylian MbappeGraeme SounessScotland’s straight-talking star has given his take on what will happen.Winners: EnglandEngland performance: WinnersScotland performance: Tough to get out of the groupPlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole PalmerMost pundits are excited to watch Jude Bellingham playCredit: GettyKaren CarneyWith 144 caps for the Lionesses, there are few people more qualified to talk about International football than Karen Carney.Winners: EnglandEngland performance: WinnersScotland performance: N/APlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude BellinghamSam MatterfaceSam Matterface will be the lead commentator for ITV during the Euros and here’s what he thinks will unfold in front of his eyes.Winners: GermanyEngland performance: Come close to winning itScotland performance: Advance through the groupPlayer most looking forward to watching: Jude BellinghamLee DixonArsenal and England icon Lee Dixon has backed Gareth Southgate to bring it home.Winners: EnglandEngland performance: WinnersScotland performance: Scrape through the group stagesPlayer most looking forward to watching: Kobbie MainooLee Dixon has singled out Kobbie Mainoo as one to watch this summerCredit: GettyAlly McCoistAnother Scottish icon has had his say on what could happen in the next two months.Winners: FranceEngland performance: Chance of winning it alongside FranceScotland performance: Advance through the groupPlayer most looking forward to watching: Antonio SilvaREAD MORE SUN STORIESAndros TownsendLuton Town winger and 13-time England international Andros Townsend has given his predictions.Winners: FranceEngland performance: Semi-finalsScotland performance: Out in the Last 16Player most looking forward to watching: Jude BellinghamEngland will be hoping to recover from their Euro 2020 heartbreakCredit: GettyGareth Southgate has to get his side ready for a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina tonight firstCredit: ReutersBBC 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 More

  • in

    Bruno Fernandes, Romelu Lukaku and other players who thrived during Euros qualifying

    DREAM TEAM managers currently tinkering with their Euros fantasy XI should consider which players thrived during qualifying for this summer’s tournament.We understand that many gaffers don’t have the time or patience to seek out spreadsheets and bar graphs so we’ve assembled all the headline stats here in one convenient location.CLICK HERE TO PLAY DREAM TEAM’S EUROS FANTASY GAME NOW!Romelu Lukaku scored 14 goals to help Belgium qualifyCredit: EPAFirst up, let’s take a look at the top goalscorers during Euro 2024 qualifying.MOST GOALS
    14 – Romelu Lukaku (£5.5m)
    10 – Cristiano Ronaldo (£6m)
    9 – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m)
    8 – Harry Kane (£7.5m)
    7 – Scott McTominay (£2.5m), Rasmus Hojlund (£4m)
    Belgium’s target man particularly enjoyed himself against the likes of Estonia and Azerbaijan but a hat-trick away to Sweden plus goals in both fixtures against group runners-up Austria meant he was no flat-track bully.When things go wrong for Lukaku they tend to go spectacularly wrong but that shouldn’t obscure the fact he’s a potent threat when everything clicks – he’s scored 83 goals in 114 caps in international football.How about McTominay rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest names in world football?The Manchester United midfielder has been talismanic for Scotland lately and may well prove to be a smart differential option in Dream Team Euros if Steve Clarke’s side continue to punch above their weight this summer.Most read in FootballMOST ASSISTS
    8 – Bruno Fernandes (£6m)
    5 – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m), Denzel Dumfries (£4.5m), Dominik Szoboszlai (£3.5m)
    4 – Bernardo Silva (£4.5m), Dusan Tadic (£3m), Jeremy Doku (£5m) Nicolo Barella (£4m)
    Ronaldo will always be Portugal’s megastar as long as he’s playing for them but Fernandes is the true driving force of the current side.The 29-year-old finished the regular season in fine style and averaged nearly nine points-per-game for Man United after the turn of the year.Portugal’s main manCredit: Dream TeamMbappe is not only an elite goalscorer but a prolific creative force too – no wonder he’s the joint-most expensive player in the game.Dumfries is a notable inclusion in this list as the Dutchman is categorised as a defender – wing-backs who provide an attacking threat can be worth their weight in gold.As a side note, we’ve left out Teemu Pukki and Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson (five assists each) plus Harry Wilson and Olimpiu Morutan (four each) because we’re only really interested in players that will be present in Germany.GOALS + ASSISTS PER 90 MINUTES
    2.28 – Romelu Lukaku (£5.5m)
    1.92 – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m)
    1.50 – Bruno Fernandes (£6m)
    1.49 – Harry Kane (£7.5m)
    1.46 – Marcel Sabizter (£3m)
    Erling Haaland (1.48) has been omitted here as Norway didn’t qualify but otherwise it’s more of the same names.This stat highlights Fernandes’ dual threat – he scored six goals on top of his eight assists – and cements him as a top-tier Dream Team Euros asset.Sabitzer’s inclusion is interesting as he started just three of Austria’s eight qualifiers – what sort of impact could he have if allowed more minutes on the pitch?Mbappe boasted impressive numbers throughout qualifyingCredit: GettyTOTAL SHOTS
    46 – Cristiano Ronaldo (£6m)
    38 – Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m)
    34 – Robert Lewandowski (£5m)
    32 – Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (3m)
    29 – Romelu Lukaku (£5.5m), Nicolae Stanciu (£2m)
    Total shots gives a sense of which players are presented with plentiful chances and those most hungry for goals.It’s hardly surprising to see the five-time Ballon d’Or winner so far clear at the top as Portugal were gifted a relatively favourable group and dominated almost every qualifying fixture – not to diminish the appeal of Ronaldo and Fernandes as assets.However, total shots only tells us a fraction of the story; additional context changes the outlook quite dramatically.For example, Georgia’s superstar Kvaratskhelia is an entertaining talent but only five of his 32 shots in qualifying were registered as on target – compare that ratio to Lukaku’s (62.1% of shots on target) and it’s night and day.Greece’s Anastasios Bakasetas (32) and Luxembourg’s Gerson Rodrigues (30) have been removed.Kvaratskhelia struggled to hit the targetCredit: Kenny RamsaySHOTS ON TARGET PER 90 MINUTES
    2.74 – Romelu Lukaku (£5.5m)
    2.37 – Cristiano Ronaldo (£6m)
    2.33 – Andrej Kramaric (£3m)
    2.26 – Michael Gregoritsch (£2.5m)
    2.21 – Zeki Amdouni (£2.5m)
    Remember, shots on target are worth one point each in our Euros fantasy game and boiling stats down to per 90 minutes gives a clearer indication of what players do with their time on the pitch.It’s interesting that big names like Mbappe and Kane are absent from the top end of this metric but strikers from Croatia, Austria and Swizterland make the cut.TACKLES
    22 – Joao Palhinha (£3.5m)
    21 – Milos Kerkez (£2.5m)
    19 – Antoine Griezmann (£6.5m)
    18 – Andrej Duda (£2m)
    17 – Jaka Bijol (£2m)
    We’ve had to remove plenty of players here as naturally many of the productive tacklers during qualifying represented smaller teams that weren’t afforded much possession.It’s no surprise to see Palhinha come out on top of the revised ranking as he was in a league of his own for tackles in our regular season game.The Fulham and Portugal midfielder takes no prisoners in the middle of park and is fully capable of earning four or five Dream Team points in one game from tackles alone when in the mood – although he gets his fair share of yellow cards too.Modern football’s tackle machineCredit: GettyFurther evidence here of why Griezmann has been categorised as a midfielder in Dream Team Euros.He may not score the same volume of goals at international level as he once did but he does pretty much everything else in a deeper role.EUROS SCORE PREDICTOR IS HERE! CLICK HERE TO PLAY FOR FREE – £5,000 PRIZE POT!CLEAN SHEETS
    6 – Diogo Costa (£4m)
    5 – Martin Dubravka (£1.5m), Dominik Livakovic (£3.5m), Mike Maignan (£4.5m)
    4 – Angus Gunn (£2m), Jan Oblak (£3m), Jordan Pickford (£4m), Wojciech Szczesny (£2.5m)
    Portugal’s favourable group also allowed their first-choice goalkeeper to top the charts for clean sheets in qualifying.Costa is currently the fourth-most popular asset in his position among gaffers but it wouldn’t be a shock if he cracked the top three before the Matchday 1 deadline.Dubravka’s price suddenly looks very reasonable although it’s worth noting that Slovakia play Belgium in their opening game.Is Dubravka good value at £1.5m?Credit: GettySAVES
    35 – Giorgi Mamardashvili (£2m)
    27 – Martin Dubravka (£1.5m)
    25 – Horatiu Moldovan (£1.5m)
    22 – Denes Dibusz (£2.5m)
    21 – Dominik Livakovic (£3.5m), Anatoliy Trubin (£2.5m)
    Clean sheets are like goals to keepers but with one point earned for every two saves completed it’s worth considering each individual’s workload too.Andre Onana finished as the top goalkeeper in our regular season game, mostly because he was forced to make a huge volume of saves over the course of the campaign.Again, we’ve omitted those who failed to qualify and Georgia’s No1 tops the pile as a result – the Valencia keeper is highly rated by those in the know.The stats suggest Dubravka ticks both boxes in terms of clean sheets and saves but it’s worth noting Slovakia finished runners-up to Portugal in that favourable qualifying group – Luxembourg finished third for context.READ MORE SUN STORIESDream Team will be on hand with plenty more tips, tricks, stats and facts as the tournament draws near.If you haven’t yet selected an XI, even as a first draft, what are you waiting for?Dream Team’s Nick Elliott previews this summer’s Euros fantasy game More

  • in

    Only 3.4% of Dream Team Euros gaffers have selected La Liga’s top scorer – is Artem Dovbyk a secret weapon worth having?

    EVEN the more lackadaisical Dream Team managers should start immersing themselves in our Euros fantasy game this week.The tournament itself kicks off on June 14th with Germany v Scotland and so it’s high time we started highlighting some underrated players who may be flying under the radar.How about Artem Dovbyk (£3m) for starters?CLICK HERE TO PLAY DREAM TEAM’S EUROS FANTASY GAME NOW!Unfairly overlooked?Credit: Dream TeamThe Ukraine striker heads into this summer’s international tournament having lit up La Liga throughout the domestic season.As the spearhead for a valiant Girona side that punched well above their weight to claim third, Dovbyk finished as the top flight’s leading goalscorer.He claimed the Pichichi with a hat-trick against Granada on the final day of the campaign to take his tally to 24 league goals.This flourish was the culmination of an extraordinary end to the campaign that saw him score ten goals in nine games.Antoine Griezmann, Robert Lewandowski and Jude Bellingham were just some of names left trailing in Dovbyk’s wake in regards to La Liga goals in 2023/24.It’s simply a fact that very few players will head to Germany in better form than the 26-year-old so why has been selected by just 3.4% of Dream Team Euros managers at the time of writing?Most read in FootballDovbyk fired Girona to Champions League qualificationCredit: EPAThe fact he doesn’t represent one of the tournament’s stronger teams is undoubtedly a factor – Ukraine qualified for Euro 2024 via the play-offs (by virtue of their performance in the Nations League) after finishing third in their group.Although it should be noted that Serhiy Rebrov’s side finished level on points with Italy during qualifying, in the same group as England – they drew with the Three Lions back in September.EUROS SCORE PREDICTOR IS HERE! CLICK HERE TO PLAY FOR FREE – £5,000 PRIZE POT!Dovbyk and company were dealt a difficult qualifying group but they won’t mind their draw for the actual tournament as they’re in Group E alongside Belgium, Slovakia and Romania.In fact, most bookies reckon they’ll qualify for the round of 16.Ukraine start their campaign against Romania in Matchday 1 and don’t have to play group favourites Belgium until Matchday 3.With all this in mind, surely Dovbyk deserves to be more popular among Dream Team Euros bosses?Ukraine fans are hoping Dovbyk translates his club form to the international stageCredit: ReutersHe’s reasonably priced at £3million and could helpfully offset the cost of other more expensive forwards, such as Kylian Mbappe (£7.5m) and Harry Kane (£7.5m).At present, Dovbyk, who previously plundered plenty of goals for Dnipro-1, is only 0.1% more popular than Ollie Watkins (£3.5m), who is almost certain to start on the bench for England throughout the summer.READ MORE SUN STORIESUkraine face Germany in a friendly this evening and will later take on Poland and Moldova so gaffers may be able to get a better read on Dovbyk’s prospects before the Matchday 1 deadline.He should certainly be considered a viable option.Dream Team’s Nick Elliott previews this summer’s Euros fantasy game More

  • in

    Bellingham hailed by fans on Real Madrid’s Champions League parade as Southgate tells England star to rest up for Euros

    GARETH SOUTHGATE has ordered Jude Bellingham to save his strength so he is “psychologically fresh” to spearhead England’s Euros bid.Three Lions boss Southgate has given the Real Madrid superstar six days off before he joins up with his squad on Saturday.Jude Bellingham has lit up Real Madrid this season and got the same treatment himself back in Spain after Champions League glory at WembleyCredit: ReutersReal took the plaudits for a record 15th Champions League crownCredit: Splash NewsBellingham topped off his joy by popping the trophy on his headCredit: GettySo he will miss Monday’s Euros warm-up against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Newcastle and Friday’s Wembley clash with Iceland.Bellingham, 20, helped Real win their 15th European Cup with victory over his former team Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on Saturday.It was the midfielder’s 47th match this season for club and country, and he was back in Madrid for Champions League celebrations on Sunday night.Asked about Bellingham’s absence, Southgate said: “The most important thing is rest and recovery and we will benefit from that.READ MORE TOP STORIES“That is the constraint of international football. You have to work out the most important thing and, for Jude and therefore the team, it is about psychologically switching off and recovering. It’s all about psychological freshness.“He’s had a fantastic season. To join the biggest club in the world and perform the way he has throughout the season has been incredible for him.”Bellingham himself hailed the “best night” of his life after teeing up Vinicius Junior for Real’s second goal to clinch by far the greatest achievement of his career to date.The 29-cap star was briefly calm afterwards – until becoming emotional when spotting his family in the crowd.Most read in FootballBellingham was overcome when he greeted mum Denise after victoryCredit: GettyHe dressed up for Real’s Champions League-winning celebrations back in Madrid at the Plaza de Cibeles on SundayCredit: SplashBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe told TNT Sports: “I was alright until I was up in my mum’s and dad’s face… and my little brother who I’m trying to be a role model for.”The amount of nights where they [his parents] could be at home at 7pm but instead they’re doing trips at 11, 12 at night to take me to football. Inside the Real Madrid and Jude Bellingham love affairBellingham, right, almost rejoices early after setting up Vinicius Junior for Real’s killer second goal against the England star’s old club DortmundCredit: ReutersBellingham outshines Sancho on the night of his dreams at Wembley
    THE very moment Vinicius Junior struck the second goal, Jude Bellingham sank to his knees, stretched out his arms and looked up at the sky, writes Charlie Wyett.
    It was the moment that Bellingham had always dreamed of, to win the Champions League. The fact it came at Wembley, on home soil, made it that little sweeter.
    Bellingham delivered the pass to Vinicius who scored to ensure that Real Madrid, remarkably, have now been the kings of Europe on 15 occasions.
    It was the final kick of the biggest game in Bellingham’s life as he was immediately replaced by Joselu in a tactical switch by Carlo Ancelotti.
    With no Premier League teams involved, this was an English duel between Bellingham and Jadon Sancho. The west midlands v south London. Stourbridge versus Kennington.
    It is obvious which of the two former team-mates won this scrap, although Sancho’s team should have put Real out of sight by half-time.
    Ultimately, neither Englishmen had particularly dazzling games.
    Sancho, on loan from Manchester United, started brightly and gave Real left-back Ferland Mendy a few uneasy moments.
    Yet this was nothing like the performances he delivered against PSG to help his team to the final.
    Instead, with three minutes remaining of normal time, Sancho was replaced by another Englishman, teenager Jamie Bynoe-Gittens.
    There was to be no drama. Bellingham added this Euro title to his La Liga winner’s medal. Not forgetting he has also been voted as the La Liga player of the year.
    Bellingham, featuring in his 42nd game of the season for Real, was unable to make much of an impact in his role wide left.
    On the hour mark, he had touched the ball 35 times but had done little with it.
    With the scores at 0-0, he somehow failed to score with a header when he was unable to make contact with a cross from Vinicius. Any touch and it would have been a goal.
    By then, the keyboard warriors were out in force on social media, dishing out some laughable criticism of England’s greatest talent. Potentially, our greatest ever player.
    Yet the inevitable happened and Dortmund were left to curse those missed chances.
    A mistake by Sancho led to a Madrid corner and Dani Carvajal leapt highest to head them into the lead.
    Bellingham had another chance but it was deflected wide by Nico Schlotterbeck.
    But, with seven minutes left, he helped stick the knife in to help Vinicius score and ensure this is an evening he will never forget.
    In the crowd were his dad Mark, mum Denise and brother Jobe, who got into the stadium five hours early
    Bellingham’s mum was in tears as her son stepped up to get his medal. And let’s all hope Bellingham will be lifting another trophy in Berlin on July 14.

    “I can’t have dreamed it much better than this. I just can’t believe it.”Fans then thronged the streets back in Madrid on Sunday – saluting their heroes, notably Bellingham for his staggering first season with the Spanish giants. The ex-Birmingham ace has scored 25 goals this campaign.Southgate added: “I am absolutely delighted for him to win.“His parents have to take enormous credit because the way he comes across in his interviews is the way he is. He is authentic. That is how he is — every day.”England team-mate Kieran Trippier, who will captain England on Monday because Harry Kane will not be starting, said: “He doesn’t seem like a 20-year-old. He is so mature for his age.“Jude has pressure playing for Real Madrid and he has taken it in his stride and all the boys are absolutely delighted for him.“We’re looking forward to meeting up with him and hopefully he can bring that form with him to England.”People say I need to show more for my country. I don’t mind pressure. I feel like I can definitely be a lot better for the national team.Phil FodenPhil Foden knows the spotlight will also be on him at Euro 2024 after an outstanding club season at Manchester City.And he is determined to prove he can replicate that form for England.Foden, 24, was named Premier League player of the season after thriving in a more central role.Speaking after his first session as a McDonald’s Fun Football ambassador, he said: “There’s a lot of pressure on my shoulders.“A lot of people are saying I need to show more for my country.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I don’t mind the pressure. I feel like I can definitely be a lot better for the national team.“I’m so determined now to put on the shirt and prove everyone wrong and try to continue my form.”Phil Foden, right, agrees he could step up to the plate more for England, like midfielders Declan Rice and Bellingham have doneCredit: AFP More

  • in

    Gareth Southgate hints Jack Grealish could be CUT from England Euro 2024 squad despite cutting short holiday to impress

    JACK GREALISH’S place in England’s Euro 2024 squad appears to be in major doubt.Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions kick off their summer with a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday.Jack Grealish could miss out on England’s Euro squad this summerCredit: RexThe winger has cut short his holiday to join Gareth Southgate’s training campCredit: GettyGrealish endured a dismal personal end to Man City’s seasonCredit: GettyGrealish, 28, could feature in the St James’ Park clash after cutting short his summer holiday to join up with the 33-man provisional squad.But boss Southgate is giving no assurances to £100million Manchester City star Grealish, who played just ten minutes of their last five matches of the season and did not feature in the FA Cup final.England are also sweating on the fitness of Harry Maguire who has a calf injury and may not be fit for the opening Euros match against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on June 16.Asked if Grealish could be axed from the final tournament squad, Southgate said: “I don’t think we’re defining that just yet.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“It’s hard to be quite so specific because we keep sitting down and saying: ‘Okay, if it’s this or this’.“We have a lot of good players in that area and they are all competing.“We think we know who the best have been across the season, what we don’t know is how many we need to take or can allow ourselves to take because of the cover we might need in other positions.“I haven’t talked to him specifically about the cup final. But he has been really bright and he loves being here.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSApart from Maguire, England will also be without Luke Shaw (thigh), Anthony Gordon (ankle) and Bukayo Saka (groin) on Monday.Harry Kane is training after a back injury but will not start.Jack Grealish lined up for sensational Bayern Munich transferOn Maguire’s fitness for the first game of the Euros, Southgate said: “We don’t know that at the moment.”He also admitted he will be listening to his medical staff — not the players themselves — over whether they are fit.Southgate added: “They are lying buggers! If you’re in a relegation battle, the treatment room is absolutely full. If you’re in a cup final it’s empty.”Chelsea’s Cole Palmer is set to be given his first England cap. Marc Guehi will start in defence.Jack Grealish’s Euro 2024 place in jeopardyBy Martin Blackburn and Charlie Wyett
    JACK GREALISH is sweating on a Euro 2024 place after a nightmare end to the season.
    The £100million star celebrated Manchester City’s four-in-a-row title success on a bus parade yesterday.
    But now he is battling with Tottenham’s James Maddison to secure a spot in Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
    Cole Palmer, Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Gordon all look certain to go after excellent seasons with their clubs — while Bukayo Saka is guaranteed a spot.
    But Grealish, 28, has struggled  and his lack of match action for his club will be a big concern for the Three Lions boss.
    The former Aston Villa captain has featured in only one of City’s final five matches.
    That was a ten-minute run out in the 5-1 win over Wolves  this month.
    He was not thrown on at Wembley as the below-par champs desperately searched for a way back in to Saturday’s 2-1 FA Cup Final defeat to rivals Manchester United.
    City boss Pep Guardiola explained his decision afterwards by admitting the attacker has “struggled” this season.
    He has challenged him to recapture the form from the back end of the 2022-23 season when he helped the club secure an historic Treble.
    Guardiola said: “He will be back. He’s struggled this season — Jeremy Doku has made an incredible step forward as everyone has seen in the last games.
    “But Jack will be back at the level of last season — I’m pretty sure.”
    READ THE FULL STORY HERE More

  • in

    Best XI of stars who could return from Euro 2024 to new clubs with transfers on cards for likes of Fernandes & Gallagher

    A NUMBER of Europe’s finest stars are going into the Euros with their futures yet to be decided.For some, they will be hoping to use a European Championship triumph as a springboard for a multi-million pound glamour move.Kylian Mbappe will be hoping to join Real Madrid fresh off the back of winning the Euros with FranceCredit: GettyBruno Fernandes has also thrown his Manchester United future into doubtCredit: GettyFor others, the Euros could be a chance to put them in the shop window for a transfer that would see them play week-in-week-out for a new club.Here’s a look at 11 stars that could move once the tournament in Germany is wrapped up.Jordan PickfordPickford, 30, has been Gareth Southgate’s first-choice England goalkeeper since the beginning of the manager’s tenure.With 60 Three Lions caps to his name, Southgate has stuck with the keeper through some tough periods, but he has been consistent for Everton over the past two seasons.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe Toffees are again facing PSR constraints and could be forced into a summer firesale – Chelsea are reportedly leading the race for the keeper.Pickford could leave Everton after the EurosCredit: GettyJeremie FrimpongFrimpong, 23, was one of the jewels in the crown as Bayer Leverkusen waltzed to an unbeaten Bundesliga title.The Dutchman has emerged as one of the most in-demand attacking full-backs in the world and has a release clause of £34million.Manchester United are at the front of the queue for his signature.Most read in FootballJeremie Frimpong could be on the move to Manchester UnitedCredit: Kenny RamsayCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHarry MaguireMaguire was humiliatingly stripped of the United captaincy last summer but the defender bounced back admirably this season.How to do Germany on a budget for Euro 2024The centre-back played 22 times for United, but only has a year remaining on his contract – West Ham have been credited with having an interest.Jarrad BranthwaiteAnother player that Everton could be forced to sell if they are to meet the Premier League’s PSR constraints – Branthwaite is the club’s most sellable asset.The 21-year-old has made Southgate’s long-list for the England squad and should make the cut based on his club form.He’s valued at £80million by Everton with both Manchester United and Chelsea interested.Both Branthwaite and Pickford could leave EvertonCredit: GettyOleksandr ZinchenkoZinchenko was a breath of fresh air when he arrived at Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022.Playing as an inverted full-back, the Ukrainian allowed the Gunners to overload their midfield and overwhelm opponents.But defensive lapses have seen him lose his place in the side and Vincent Kompany’s Bayern Munich are said to see him as a potential replacement for Alphonso Davies.Joshua KimmichGermany star Joshua Kimmich is said to have rejected Bayern Munich’s latest offer of a contract extension.He has fallen out with the club following tensions with Thomas Tuchel last season and could be set to link up with former Bayern and Germany manager Hansi Flick at Barcelona.Conor GallagherGallagher has just a year left on his Chelsea contract and despite captaining the Blues on numerous occasions this season, is said to be on the transfer list.Tottenham lead the way in pursuing the midfielder but Aston Villa are also hoping to land the England man.Gallagher is a target for Tottenham and Aston VillaCredit: PABruno FernandesFernandes threw his Manchester United future into doubt before captaining his side to FA Cup victory this month.When speaking to DAZN Portugal before the final, he said: “If you want me to be very honest, if I have to think about not continuing in the Premier League, it won’t be until after the Euros because nothing will be able to take my focus away from the FA Cup final and the Euros, as there’s nothing more important than that at the moment.”Bayern Munich, Inter Milan and Saudi clubs are all thought to hold an interest in the Portuguese star.Rafael LeaoAnother Portugal star, Rafael Leao, has been one of Europe’s most exciting wingers over the last two years.He bagged nine goals and 10 assists in 34 appearances for Milan last season and has attracted interest from Newcastle and clubs in the Saudi League.Leao could be on the move this summerCredit: RexBenjamin SeskoSlovenia star Benjamin Sesko could become a familiar face to England fans, with Slovenia drawn in the same group as the Three Lions.The RB Leipzig star is attracting interest from Arsenal in a £56million deal and has reportedly already “said yes” to a move to the Gunners.Sesko is a top target for ArsenalCredit: GettyKylian MbappeMbappe to Real Madrid has been a saga years in the making… It looks to finally be reaching a close this summer though.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Frenchman is said to have already agreed a contract with Los Blancos which will see him bag £85.5m as a signing on fee alone.He’ll be hoping to be unveiled at the club fresh off the back of leading France to Euros glory.Mbappe will hope to join Real Madrid off the back of leading France to Euros gloryCredit: AP More

  • in

    England vs Bosnia & Herzegovina: Three Lions face Dzeko and Co in Euro 2024 warm-up match – stream FREE, TV, team news

    EXCITEMENT is building among football fans as we are just weeks away from Euro 2024 – and England continue their preparations for the iconic tournament against Bosnia & Herzegovina TOMORROW!The Three Lions are expected to sail through Group C which includes Serbia, Denmark and Slovenia.England will be expected to cruise through Group CCredit: GettyBut Gareth Southgate has an important job ahead of the competition as he needs to whittle his current 33-man squad list down to 26.And there won’t be a better chance for players to prove themselves to the England boss considering the opposition has never beaten England and failed to qualify for the Euros.Furthermore, Southgate made some controversial decisions such as leaving the likes of Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling out of the provisional squad.So this gives some of England’s fringe players the chance to shine and potentially get on that plane to Germany this summer.Read more on EnglandWhen is England vs Bosnia & Herzegovina?
    England are all set to face Bosnia & Herzegovina TOMORROW – Monday, June 3.
    It is scheduled to kick off at 7:45pm BST.
    St James’ Park is the allocated arena for this match and it can host approximately 52,000 passionate fans.
    The Three Lions have never played Bosnia at senior level England’s U21 side Humiliated Bosnia’s 5-1 back in 2016.
    What TV channel is it on and can it be live streamed?
    England vs Bosnia & Herzegovina will be broadcast LIVE on Channel 4 in the UK.
    Coverage is expected to commence from 7pm BST – 45 minutes before kick-off.
    Fans can stream the entire action via All 4 through any compatible mobile device or tablet.
    Alternatively, SunSport will have minute-by-minute coverage of the whole game through our live blog.
    How can I watch it for FREE?YES!England vs Bosnia & Herzegovina can be watched for FREE in the UK as long as you have a valid TV license.Most read in FootballWhat is the team news?Jude Bellingham is unlikely to feature following his recent Champions League triumph with Real Madrid on Saturday.And the same for Luke Shaw who Gareth Southgate has admitted is a ‘long shot’ from participating at the Euros due to his leg injury.England’s 33-man provisional squad:Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), James Trafford (Burnley).Defenders: Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton), Lewis Dunk (Brighton), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Jarell Quansah (Liverpool), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle), Kyle Walker (Manchester City)Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Curtis Jones (Liverpool), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace).Forwards: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), James Maddison (Tottenham), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa).Elsewhere, new Bosnia boss Sergej Barbarez is expected to give captain Edin Dzeko a run out against England.However, former Arsenal defender Sead Kolasinac will not feature after picking an injury in Atalanta’s shock Europa League win against Bayer Leverkusen.READ MORE SUN STORIESWhat are the odds?
    England to win 1/9
    Draw 13/2
    Bosnia & Herzegovina to win 14/1
    *Odds courtesy of Paddy Power are correct at time of publication  More

  • in

    Watch Thomas Muller leave message for Harry Kane as Germany team leave England’s luxury Euro 2024 camp

    THOMAS MULLER hilariously left a message for Bayern Munich team-mate Harry Kane as the Germany squad vacated the hotel England will be staying in during the Euros.The FA have reportedly paid £800,000 for the luxury 94-room Weimarer Land Golf Resort and Spa south-east of Leipzig.Harry Kane will be handed a message in an envelope when he arrives at England’s Euros hotelCredit: GettyThomas Muller wrote ‘All the best’ on the back of a Polyroid of himselfCredit: Instagram / DFB-TeamHe gave a thumbs up to the camera after writing the messageCredit: Instagram / DFB-TeamHe showed that the envelope was for Bayern Munich team-mate Harry KaneCredit: Instagram / DFB-TeamMuller also showed that the Polyroid was of him winking and giving a thumbs upCredit: Instagram / DFB-TeamBut before Gareth Southgate’s men get settled into the accommodation, Julian Nagelsmann’s squad have spent five days there as they begin preparations for their home tournament.And Bayern legend Muller, 34, decided to have some fun with Three Lions captain Kane, 30, ahead of England’s arrival.Germany’s official Instagram account shared a video of Muller writing “All the best” and his signature on the back of a Polaroid of him winking and giving a thumbs up.He then popped the image in an envelope and put “Harry” on the front, before delivering it to reception.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAlongside the clip, Germany added the caption: “Hey @england 👋 What‘s up @harrykane? ✌️”We just finished our 5 days in your future team basecamp here in Thuringia.”Great conditions, very friendly people, and sometimes it‘s even raining 🌧️ Sounds perfect, right? 😉”Have a good time here in Germany! See you at the Euros! 😎”Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSIf both Germany and England win their respective groups they cannot meet until the final.However, if Germany win their group and England finish runners-up then they will face off in a huge last-16 tie.Watch Harry Kane speak German for first time in Audi advert with Muller as fans say ‘does a Bafta count as a trophy?’The FA are pulling out all the stops with England’s accommodation in a bid to give them the best chance at this summer’s Euros.The resort includes a spa, gym, swimming pools, timber-lined rooms and suites, digital pads linked to phones to contact hotel staff, Michelin star chefs, and a bar.The England players’ partners are understood to be looking into staying at a five-star hotel 40 minutes away by car. More