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      Joe Cole leaves out THREE massive names for his England Euro 2024 squad including Man Utd star and in-form striker

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      JOE COLE’S England squad includes Kobbie Mainoo- but NOT Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins or Jack Grealish.Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate is set to name a provisional squad on May 21.Joe Cole has pipped Ivan Toney to make the team ahead of Ollie WatkinsCredit: GettyThe ex-Chelsea defender believes Marcus Rashford could just miss out due to competition on the left wingCredit: GettyThe debate still remains whether there will be 26 or 23 players in squads for the tournament.But Southgate has a tough task on his hands in choosing the best forward players to bring to Euro 2024.And that is where Cole turned to when referencing THREE major names that he thinks should miss out on a spot on the plane to Germany.Speaking to promote the launch of the Topps official trading cards and stickers, Cole gave his squad predictions.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSThe ex- England defender said: “It sounds ridiculous but the character of the players comes into the thinking and what it means to them.”I’m a big fan of Rashford, he’s hit big heights in his career but for no fathomable reason he’ll go on a run where people start questioning him again. “For me, you only take Marcus if you’re going to start him. He’s at the age now that I think that’s where his mind is and I wouldn’t start him ahead of Phil Foden, Harry Kane or Bukayo Saka.”This is no defamation of his character and ability but at this time in his life and situation at United, I think he could be the one that’s left out. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERInjury ridden Jack Grealish wouldn’t make Cole’s team ahead of Bowen or GordonCredit: Getty”Also with Grealish, I love him, but how can you take him ahead of someone who is playing week in week out like a James Maddison or Jarrod Bowen who is doing it and who is match fit?”Grealish is perhaps the most surprising omission, but he has been limited to 15 Prem appearances for Manchester City this season due to injury.His groin problem caused him to miss out on the last England squad, with the likes of Bowen and Anthony Gordon pushing their cases for inclusion, while Cole Palmer remains an option.Another debate regarding the squad is who goes as back-up to Kane, with Southgate likely to take only one extra forward due to squad size restraints.Tom Barclay picks his England team for Euro 2024Watkins leads the way with 16 Prem goals this season but Toney’s physicality proved too strong for Cole.Cole said: “It’s the real tough one and I feel like one of them will be really disappointed and rightly feel hard done by.”Toney took his chance, not just with his penalty but the way he played too. Watkins had a harder task against Brazil.”I would go with Toney, he’s got the mindset and something in him that tells me he can play for England. “He’s not going to be panicking over a penalty, he’s the calmest man in the world and that comes into it too.”England will have to get past France to win 2024 More

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      Why is ‘Cristiano Ronaldo retiring’ trending now?

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      IT is no secret that Cristiano Ronaldo is nearing the end of his glittering career.The football legend – who has scored more official goals than any player in the sport’s history – is now 39 and in the twilight of his career.Cristiano Ronaldo, 39, has been in the goals for Al Nassr this season – but is nearing the end of his glittering careerCredit: ReutersWhy is ‘Cristiano Ronaldo retiring’ trending?Because of the forward’s age many fans have continued to wonder when Ronaldo will finally hang up his boots.With Euro 2024 this summer, and Ronaldo turning 40 in February 2025, many initially thought this tournament could be the perfect swansong for the Portuguese superstar.Moving to Saudi Arabia, which many see as a ‘retirement league’ despite the host of stars that have flocked to the Gulf on mega wages, has only increased talk that the end is approaching.Ronaldo throwing his support behind the campaign to bring the World Cup to Saudi Arabia also had fans questioning his future.READ MORE CRISTIANO RONALDOHowever, it does not appear likely – at this point – that Ronaldo is going anywhere any time soon.Al-Nassr are still competing at the top of the Saudi Pro League and Ronaldo has been in exceptional form this season.The Manchester United legend has scored an incredible 42 goals in 41 games in all competitions so far this season and is the top scorer in the league.His 29 goals in 24 league matches place him ahead of much younger stars such as Aleksandar Mitrovic, Talisca, Sadio Mane, Karim Benzema and Riyad Mahrez.Most read in FootballCristiano Ronaldo goal record

      GOALS
      Club

      Sporting (2002-03) – 31 games, 5 goals
      Manchester United (2003-09) – 292 games, 118 goals
      Real Madrid (2009-18) – 438 games, 450 goals
      Juventus (2018-22) – 134 games, 101 goals
      Manchester United (2021-23) – 54 games, 27 goals
      Al Nassr (2022-present) – 60 games, 56 goals

      International

      Portugal (2003-present) – 206 games, 128 goals

      CAREER TOTAL = 1,217 games, 885 goals
      *totals correct as of April 3, 2024

      His current contract with Al Nassr also runs until June 2025.With the Real Madrid and Juventus icon earning a reported $215million (£170m) every YEAR he is unlikely to break the contract and leave that much cash on the table.When will Cristiano Ronaldo retire?Ronaldo previously stated he will play until he is at least 40 and then see how he is feeling physically after that.But those plans may well change given how dominant he continues to be – not only in the Saudi Pro League but at international level.Cristiano Ronaldo led Manchester United to the 2008 Champions League and scored 145 goals in two spells for the clubCredit: GettyHe has scored 10 goals in his last 10 Portugal matches and, remarkably, is one of the bookies’ favourites for the Golden Boot at Euro 2024.Ronaldo already has the most international caps in the history of the game – and is the only player with more than 200 appearances for his country.He is also the all-time leading scorer in both international play and overall.Ronaldo’s total tally in all competitions stands at a staggering 885 – more than 50 ahead of closest rival Lionel Messi.The forward may think that an unprecedented 1,000 goals is in his sights.He currently has 885 goals – at the time of writing – leaving him 115 away from four figures. Having scored 47 goals for club and country so far in 23-24, it would only take another two or three seasons to reach the 1,000-goal mark.The most recent reports indicate that Ronaldo is interested in extending his Al Nassr contract until 2027.Cristiano Ronaldo trophy haul
      Manchester United

      Premier League – 2007, 2008, 2009
      Champions League – 2008
      FA Cup – 2004
      League Cup – 2006, 2009
      Club World Cup – 2008

      Real Madrid

      LaLiga – 2012, 2017
      Champions League – 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018
      Copa del Rey – 2011, 2014
      Club World Cup – 2014, 2016, 2017

      Juventus

      Serie A – 2019, 2020
      Coppa Italia – 2021

      Al Nassr

      Arab Club Champions Cup – 2023

      Portugal

      European Championships – 2016
      Nations League – 2019

      Individual (select)

      Ballon d’Or – 2008, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017
      Fifa World Player of the Year – 2008
      La Liga Best Player – 2014
      Serie A Footballer of the Year – 2019, 2020
      Premier League Player of the Season – 2007, 2008

      That would give him at least another two seasons at club level and put him in the frame to play at the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico.Ronaldo has only reached as far as the semi-final stage in five World Cup appearances – he may want one final crack at the Jules Rimet trophy, especially having spent much of the 2022 tournament on the bench.What has Ronaldo said about retirement?Ronaldo has kept pretty tight-lipped about his retirement plans, earlier this year joking that he will play on for another decade.He said: “At the moment when I finish I don’t know to be honest”Of course it will be soon. By soon I mean 10 years more. “I’m joking! I don’t know, let’s see.”Cristiano Ronaldo may want one last crack at the 2026 World Cup – the only title Lionel Messi has over him in the GOAT debateCredit: AP:Associated PressSpeaking before the last World Cup, he also didn’t think that winning a World Cup would have an impact on the GOAT debate with Messi.”Even if I win the World Cup that will continue.”Some people like me more, some less. It’s like in life, some like blondes, some like brunettes.”I have always had to show what I can do year after year. I would love to win this tournament.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I’m ambitious but if you tell me I won’t win any more tournaments I would still be happy given all I have won.”In the history books all other records will be there. But obviously a World Cup on the shelf wouldn’t be bad. It would be a dream.” More

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      Man Utd star Mason Mount spotted modelling England’s Euro 2024 kit… despite not playing in two years

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      MASON MOUNT has hinted at receiving a shock call-up to the England team.The Manchester United star has not played for the Three Lions since 2022.Mason Mount has been pictured in the England away shirtCredit: youtube/@EllaToone7The midfielder has not played for England since 2022Credit: AlamyMount, 25, made his last appearance for England in the quarter-final 2-1 defeat to France in the World Cup in Qatar.However he could be set for a return to Gareth Southgate’s squad for Euro 2024.The midfielder was pictured modelling England’s new away shirt during a photoshoot.The image was captured by Lionesses ace Ella Toone as she was filming a video for her YouTube channel.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLMount has struggled since his £60million move to Man United from Chelsea last summer.He recently missed 15 games in the Premier League due to a calf injury.The midfielder made his return from the treatment table in the 1-1 draw against Brentford.It has seemed like a fairytale return as he scored in the 96th minute to seemingly hand Man United the win.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut an even later goal from Kristoffer Ajer denied Mount from claiming the matchwinner.Manager Erik ten Hag insisted he was “pleased” for Mount getting his goal after the game.Biggest football kit fails after controversy over new England shirtThe Dutchman said: “I am very pleased for Mason [Mount] but I also feel sorry for him as it should have been the winner.”Mount has plenty of experience playing for England having earned 36 caps since his debut in September 2019.A call-up to the team from Southgate would be unlikely due to his lack of gametime this season.However following his goal against the Bees, Mount could see his chances boosted should he continue his form. More

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      England star set to return from injury and launch late bid to be in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad

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      ENGLAND star Nick Pope is set to return to action before the end of the season and make a late push to be in the Euro 2024 squad. The Newcastle man’s return date had been uncertain before now.Nick Pope on track to return after shoulder injuryCredit: GettyGareth Southgate has launched a late bid for Pope to be in his Euro 2024 squadCredit: RexGareth Southgate is in need of shot stoppers with uncertainty around his back-up options.Pope came off injured in the 1-0 win over Manchester United in December after dislocating his shoulder. He has been ruled out since but is now on track to return before the end of the season and is expected to play some part in the final games of the campaign.The 31-year-old made the Three Lions squad for the 2022 World Cup but did not make an appearance. READ MORE IN EUROSPope has 10 England caps, making his last appearance in the 3-3 draw against Germany in the UEFA Nation’s League fixture in September 2022. Southgate’s plans over the recent international window were turned upside down by an injury pile-up, meaning he’ll be keen to see any options back in contention.Sam Johnstone, a back-up option to Jordan Pickford, is currently out injured and looks set to miss the Euros.Meanwhile Aaron Ramsdale isn’t playing for Arsenal.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe desire for more options could see Southgate support a proposal for bigger squads.Squad numbers increased from 23 to 26 at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, but were expected to revert back to 23 this summer. Tom Barclay picks his England team for Euro 2024However, Southgate is considering backing a call from other coaches to take an expanded 26-strong due to England’s injury crisis.He is scheduled to announce the training squad on Tuesday May 21, just two days after the Premier League ends. England will kick off Euro 2024 against Serbia in on Sunday June, 16 before taking on Denmark on Thursday June, 20. More

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      Why is Adidas banning sales of the Germany ‘44’ jersey this Euro 2024?

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      GERMANY is hosting Euro 2024 this summer with the tournament kicking off in mid-June.But there has been controversy around the symbolism associated with the home team’s number 44 shirt that Adidas has taken the extraordinary step of removing it from sale.The number 44 shirt has been condemned by some as the font has been linked to fascist symbolismCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskWhy is Adidas banning sales of the ’44’ Germany Euro 2024 shirt?Adidas banned fans from buying German football shirts with the number 44 on them over apparent similarities with the Nazi SS insignia.Historian Michael König felt it was “questionable” and raised concerns about the design of the German football kit. The SS was a paramilitary force charged with implementing the genocide of millions of Jewish people across Europe.The German Football Association (DFB) and its partners were responsible for the numbers on the shirts, Adidas told the BBC.READ MORE ON EURO 2024In a post on Twitter/X, the DFB explained that the shirt designs had been submitted to UEFA for review during the design process and that “none of the parties involved saw any proximity to Nazi symbolism”.But Adidas maintains that any resemblance to the SS rune was unintentional.Spokesman Oliver Brüggen said: “We as a company are committed to opposing xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence and hatred in every form.”Germany’s Euro 2024 pink away kit has also attracted some controversy.Most read in FootballAdidas are said to have claimed the kit represents the diversity of the German fanbase and wider population.The German national team even launched a promotional video alongside the kit’s release to rubbish any claims that the outlandish colours shouldn’t be worn by the men’s team.Germany to wear pink ‘diversity’ kit at Euro 2024 as players and legends hit back at criticism amid England ‘woke’ rowDuring the video a voice over claims: “That is not a shirt for legends.”Before Germany and Bayern Munich star Thomas Muller butts in to say: “Well, let me ask one…”.He is backed up by German national team legend Rudi Voller, who won the World Cup in 1990, responding: “Well I think it is.”Other current stars also defend the colour choice in the video as Bayer Leverkusen youngster Florian Wirtz replies to a claim of “That’s not a Germany shirt” by simply responding saying: “It is.”Although the kit has been met with pockets of criticism, the united front from the team has hit back at those complaints.Adidas has been responsible for the German kit since the 1950s, but Nike is set to take over as the manufacturer from 2027.How much is the Germany Euro 2024 shirt?Buying the official Germany 2024 lightweight men’s player jersey from Adidas will set you back £130.The long-sleeved authentic men’s shirt is £140, whereas the Germany ’24 home shirt is £80.Prices for the women’s versions are the same as the men’s.Children’s shirts start from £55, while you can get mini and baby kits from £40.But there are a whole host of outlets offering discounted versions.There are also companies dedicated to creating high quality replica shirts. Where can I buy a Germany Euro 2024 shirt?You can buy the official kits from the Adidas website.READ MORE SUN STORIESThere are also hundreds of companies online offering both official and replica shirts.If you prefer to do your shopping in person, all major high street sporting goods outlets should stock them — but it would be wise to ensure they have them in stock before going to avoid disappointment.Football kit news More

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      Adidas bans Germany fans from buying Euro 2024 shirt number after it is linked to infamous Nazi symbol

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      ADIDAS has banned fans from buying German football kits with the number 44 over apparent confusion with Nazi era SS units.Historian Michael König raised concerns about the design of the German football kit, which he felt was “questionable.”Germany fans banned from buying number 44 kits over Nazi symbolismCredit: AdidasGermany is set to host the Euros this summerHowever Adidas has said that any resemblance to the SS rune was not intentional. Spokesman Oliver Brüggen said: “We as a company are committed to opposing xenophobia, anti-Semitism, violence and hatred in every form.”The SS was a paramilitary force charged with implementing the genocide of millions of Jews across Europe.Adidas told the BBC that the German Football Association (DFB) and its partners were responsible for the numbers on the shirts. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIn a post on Twitter/X, the DFB said the shirt designs had been submitted to UEFA for review during the design process andthat “none of the parties involved saw any proximity to Nazi symbolism”.The away version of the kit which is pink has also attracted some controversy. The colour is said to represent diversity. Adidas has been responsible for the German kit since the 1950s, but Nike will take over as the manufacturer from 2027.Euro 2024 terror warning to England fans after ISIS Moscow attack and kamikaze drones raise ‘dangers to new level’There are now security fears for fans heading to Germany this summer for the Euros. Most read in FootballGerman Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the Islamist attack in Moscow has raised “dangers to a new level.”Ms Faeser added: “We are pooling the forces of the security authorities even more strongly for the Euros and are preparing for all possible dangers.“This is necessary to protect this major international event in the best possible way.“The security of the tournament is paramount.”England, set to stay at the five-star Weimarer Land Golf Resort and Spa in Blankenhain, will be surrounded by a ring of steel. Author and terrorism expert Neil Doyle said: “Euro 2024 represents a major target for groups looking to mount mass casualty attacks for revenge and global headlines.“The use of drones will be a major concern as they have become a new feature of modern warfare, as seen in Ukraine.“Germany as a location in itself is also attractive as it has backed Ukraine with arms and equipment.” More

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      England fans can spend Euro 2024 staying in a drab bunker — for just £26 per night

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      ENGLAND fans have the chance to spend the Euros staying in a drab bunker — for just £26 per night.The gloomy cellar in Bochum is 25 minutes from Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen where England start the tournament against Serbia on June 16.England fans can stay in the gloomy German cellar for the EurosCredit: airbnbThe Bochum Airbnb costs just £26 per nightCredit: airbnbIt’s one of many Airbnb listings aiming to cash in on fans desperate for accommodation — some charging £50 to spend a night in rentals that resemble furnished garden sheds.One wooden outhouse is 20 minutes from the Frankfurt Arena, where the Three Lions face Denmark on June 20.It has no hot water and even ­features an “organic toilet bucket” at a nightly price of £51.A nine square metre treehouse is also an option further north towards Berlin – where the Euro final will be held on July 14 – at £31 per night.READ MORE ON EUROSIt has no heating, an outdoor wash basin, compost toilet and a bunk bed.Alternatively, a £10-a-night “hay hotel with bed made of dried grass/hay/straw” is available on a farm between Frankfurt and Leipzig.But Airbnb host Sandri warns barn guests to beware of the roaming alpacas and ducks – with earplugs advised due to roosters crowing early in the morning.Other wacky accommodation available includes a sweet-themed apartment in Gelsenkirchen – where the Three Lions face Serbia in the Group C opener.Most read in FootballIt costs a whopping £566 per night over the weekend of June 16 to cuddle cookie pillows while gorging on unlimited treats from a candy cart.UEFA Euro 2024: The glamorous life of WAGsThe drab room has a desk and bedCredit: airbnb More

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      England fans at Euro 2024 to booze it up in ‘world’s biggest brothel’ this summer to save £100s on overpriced hotels

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      ENGLAND fans at Euro 2024 could choose to stay in the world’s biggest brothel over expensive hotels. With prices soaring sky-high ahead of the football tournament in Germany, fans struggling to find an affordable stay could book a room at a brothel instead. The world’s biggest brothel Pascha in Cologne, GermanyCredit: GettyEngland fans are being offered to stay in the brothel at slashed pricesCredit: GettyIt would be cheaper for Brits to check into a brothel in GermanyIt will be way cheaper for England fans who are facing forking out figures for basic stays in the country, with some prices going over 1,000 per cent. A mere three-star hotel booking in Cologne on June 25 – when England play Slovenia – can set you back well over £1,000. Even though such hotels usually charge just £85 for a night. However, fans visiting the city can instead choose to stay in the world’s biggest brothel Pascha, which offers rooms at slashed prices. more on Euro 2024For as low as £169, England fans can book a room in the brothel to stay and booze up amid the Euros. The sweet deal even includes breakfast and entry to their nightclub. A manager from Pascha told the Daily Star: “We have 13 single rooms available. “One room costs €199 (£169) and that includes breakfast and entrance to our nightclub and brothel.”Most read in FootballEstablished in 1972, Pascha is the world’s biggest brothel in the German city’s red light district that can welcome up to 1,000 customers each day. The long, red-lit corridors of the brothel are packed with scantily clad and topless women who sit outside their doors offering men a chance to bed them for a price.And fans looking to score themselves this Euro season could visit one of the 120 girls working inside the 11-floor building. Meanwhile, England fans have been warned of a new terror threat for Euro 2024.The Islamist attack in Moscow has raised “dangers to a new level”, said German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, just 75 days before kick-off.Ms Faeser added: “We are pooling the forces of the security authorities even more strongly for the Euros and are preparing for all possible dangers.“This is necessary to protect this major international event in the best possible way.“The security of the tournament is paramount.”Her chilling alert came just days after the ISIS-K terrorist atrocity at a concert hall in Moscow killed 143.Among the drastic steps taken to protect Three Lions fans at the tournament in June will be a plan to temporarily close borders and ramp up frontier checks.British police will also be in Germany.A ring of steel will be thrown around every team base, including the home for Gareth Southgate’s England stars, such as skipper Harry Kane and young sensation Jude Bellingham.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey will stay at the swish five-star Weimarer Land Golf Resort and Spa in Blankenhain – with Wags and families also protected.An estimated 1.2million men in Germany buy sex inside its red-light areasCredit: Getty More