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    Wales boss Robert Page has sympathy for No1 keeper being left out in the cold at club side

    ROBERT PAGE has been torn by Danny Ward’s Leicester exile.The Foxes goalkeeper, who is also Wales’ No1, has not played a single minute at club level this season in contrast to five matches for his country.Danny Ward has remained Wales No1 despite zero minutes for Leicester this seasonCredit: AlamyDragons keeper Ward denies England’s Marcus Rashford at the 2022 World CupCredit: GettyWales boss Page asked for his out-of-favour stars to get January moves but Ward, who cost £12.5million from Liverpool in 2018, failed to leave the King Power.Page said: “I’ve spoken to Danny. It wasn’t a case of him not listening to my advice. I had a couple of conversations with him. “When you put your player head on, you get it, I understand it.“When politics are involved and you’ve got a length of time left on your contract, it is not as easy as just getting out and playing games of football. There are many aspects to that.read more football news“We’ve dealt with players not playing for clubs in the past. “I’m just going to focus on the positives and the positives are that the majority of our squad are out playing football and playing well.“When I put my player head on, I have sympathy for Danny, when I put my manager head on, no, but with my player head on, of course I understand.“It’s hard sometimes and not easy to just get out when there are wages, fees and all-sorts involved, it is out of your control.”Most read in FootballGary Lineker calls for huge FA Cup rule change after Chelsea knock out his beloved Leicester in thrilling clashWard, 30, was on the bench for Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final tie at Chelsea.But his preparation is hardly ideal for Thursday’s crunch Euro 2024 play-off semi-final against Finland in Cardiff.Page added: “He has played in a couple of under-23 games, he said he was going to do that and he has done, I think he’s played three or four.“It’s not the level, we know that, but at least he’s made some effort to go and play games.“In all positions it is important to have that rhythm of playing games. “We’ve managed it in the past before, we’ve never had the luxury of the amount of players playing that we do at the moment. We will have them up to speed and ready for the game.”Ipswich’s Wes Burns is unlikely to be fit after limping off with a hamstring injury in Saturday’s 6-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday.Wycombe’s Joe Low has pulled out through a minor hamstring injury. More

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    Ethan Ampadu takes leadership tips from John Terry and Didier Drogba in pursuit of Euro 2024 dream

    ETHAN AMPADU is taking inspiration from Chelsea legends John Terry and Didier Drogba as he chases a ticket to the Euro 2024 finals spot with Wales.The Leeds captain is set to win his 50th cap at just the age of 23 in Thursday’s play-off semi-final against Finland in Cardiff.John Terry was back at Cobham as he trained alongside Ethan Ampadu and Karen CarneyCredit: Instagram @johnterry.26Ampadu has already played at a Euros and World Cup but wants a third tournament experience in GermanyCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunAaron Ramsey is Wales’ leader but boss Robert Page hailed Ampadu last week as a “future skipper”.Ampadu reverts back to a support act with his country rather than captain at club level and says his childhood Blues heroes of Terry and Drogba are driving him to lead by example on the pitch.Ampadu said: “Growing up as a Chelsea fan, I would look up to John Terry and Didier Drogba, “I was fortunate I was able to watch those two.Read More football news“Didier wasn’t a captain like John was. It was the way he led the team through his performance rather than wearing the armband. “Being a leader comes naturally to me. Because of the position I play, either as a midfielder or defender, you’re in the middle of the pitch. You try and help the team whichever way you can.”Ampadu, who left Stamford Bridge for Elland Road in a £7m deal last summer, is ready to reach his international half-century at the same age as England duo Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen.He was introduced to the Wales squad as a 15-year-old by Chris Coleman before Euro 2016.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERAmpadu then made his senior debut against France in November 2017.The versatile ace plays centre-back for Leeds but central midfield for Wales.Gareth Bale takes up brand new sport in retirement from football and former world No2 is impressedBut he would swap his personal night of celebration where he becomes the youngest Welsh player to reach 50 caps ahead of Chris Gunter for a third successive Euros final place for the Dragons.Ampadu added: “It’s nice to reach the milestone. It’s a massive achievement. “I’m still young, but I’ve experienced a lot which I’m very grateful for.”I’m hoping that even if people say I’ve been around forever that I’ve still got a long way to go in the game and I can achieve a lot more.”But if it meant I didn’t reach 50 caps and we got to the Euros, I would probably enjoy that more. It’s massive for us.”Ampadu has led Leeds to the top of the Championship above Leicester following Sunday’s 2-0 win over Millwall.But he suffered three successive relegations during loan spells at Sheffield United, Venezia and Spezia – prompting cries he was cursed.Ampadu laughed at the online headlines: “I had that a lot!But what has he learnt from the low times to help Daniel Farke’s high-flying side in their promotion quest?He added: “I still have the same dedication and application in preparing for games. “I’ve taken the feeling of three relegations and how much that hurt me. I was disappointed.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I have used that as a motivation to not have that feeling again.“It’s a lot nicer and more enjoyable when you’re winning. “It’s a different pressure but the mood is better and more positive when you are trying to win something.” More

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    Scotland eyeing FIVE England stars for potential allegiance switch but Tartan Army No2 admits ‘loyalty is massive’

    SCOTLAND will not dangle a Euro 2024 carrot to tempt any player into pledging allegiance.A number of top talents have been discussed with regard to a potential switch to represent the Tartan Army this summer.John Carver (right) has said Scotland are valuing loyalty to their players ahead of the Euros this summerCredit: Kenny RamsayNewcastle duo Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento have been linked with a switch of allegiance to Scotland from EnglandCredit: GettyToon teammate Harvey Barnes has also been eyed by ScotlandCredit: GettyNewcastle quartet Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Elliot Anderson and Tino Livramento, plus Leeds’ Archie Gray, have all been mentioned as possibles for months.Although Gordon has now been called up by England while Anderson pulled out.But Scotland No 2 John Carver insists there is little chance of any of them wearing a Dark Blue jersey at this year’s finals.On the suggestion of the Euros being used as a negotiating ploy, Carver replied bluntly: “I would be very surprised because loyalty is massive.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“It is important to give these guys who have been loyal, and who have done really well for this national team, an opportunity to be in that squad of 23.“I think we are almost settled on what we are going to take away.“I’d be very surprised if somebody comes out from nowhere. Unless we find somebody who’s like, ‘Wow’ — an outstanding player.“I am not going to go down this street of Anderson and Gordon and all this lot because I’ve had enough of that. I am sick of talking about that.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“If somebody comes from nowhere I would be very surprised.“But we are looking at all the options for the future — because we have to take it further again after the Euros.”Shaun Custis and Jack Rosser discuss Cole Palmer and Conor Gallagher’s England hopes as Southgate ponders Euro 2024 squadNorwich’s Grant Hanley has pulled out of Friday’s opening friendly against Holland in Amsterdam through injury, while FC Copenhagen’s loan ace Scott McKenna is a doubt.Brentford’s sidelined Aaron Hickey is sweating on his Euros place after aggravating a hamstring injury.Elliot Anderson is a fourth Newcastle star that England and Scotland are battling it out forCredit: GettyLeeds United’s Archie Gray has also been linked with a Scotland call up despite representing England at youth levelCredit: PA More

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    Kim Kardashian splashes £200k on luxury boxes for England match and finals in Euros as she plans Germany trip with kids

    KIM Kardashian is planning a dream trip to the Euros – and it could be bad news for England boss Gareth Southgate.The reality TV megastar is treating her football-mad kids to a host of matches at this summer’s European Championships in Germany, according to a source.Kim is planning a trip to the Euros in Germany with her kidsCredit: Instagram/kimkardashianKim will be going to watch England against SerbiaCredit: GettyFans blamed Kim and the Kardashian curse for dented Arsenal’s Premier League hopes after she went to a match last seasonCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunKim has bagged tickets for Spain versus Croatia in Berlin on June 15, and will take in England’s crunch with Serbia just 24 hours later, the insider said.Sons Saint and Psalm will be chomping at the bit to see Harry Kane and co push for glory.But Three Lions fans will be praying the Kardashian curse which some believe dented Arsenal’s Premier League hopes last season has disappeared by the time she takes her seat.The Gunners were heading for the title yet their form fatally nosedived following Kim’s appearance at the Emirates towards the end of their ultimately botched campaign.Read more on the EurosOther teams at the Euros need to be on their guard – she’s planning to watch Portugal and the Czech Republic on June 18 which will also involve a meet and greet with Cristiano Ronaldo, the source added.Spain against Italy in Gelsenkirchen is also on her radar, along with the titanic France versus Holland clash and some massive knock-out stage games including the final in Berlin on July 14th.Kim will spend a whopping £200,000 on her Euro journey, but with cost not an issue, she will then move to Paris to take in the Olympic Games, according to the insider.Suites in the Olmpiastadion in Berlin will cost around £25,000, while in Leipzig’s Red Bull Arena, it will cost a tasty £6,300 per person.Most read in Euro 2024Stuttgart will set them back £4,200 per seat and a box in the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen will be $24,400.A source involved with organizing VIP experiences for Euro 2024 says it will be “great” to have Kim, her sons and some pals soaking up the atmosphere in Germany.Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024″They will see how passionate the crowds are and this trip is a dream for a kid that loves soccer,” said the insider.”This is a life experience and we hope to give them the best experience possible.”The Kardashian curse was also feared to hit France ace Kylian Mbappe and Manchester City goal-machine Erling Haaland after both players were seen hanging out with the American star.Kardashian isn’t the only star accused of cursing a team – Brazil fans are adamant Mick Jagger is a bad luck charm for their beloved five-time world champs.The Sun reached out to a rep for Kim.Gareth Southgate will be hoping his team aren’t hit by the Kardashian curseCredit: GettyKim with footy-mad kids Saint and Psalm on their way to an Inter Miami gameCredit: Reuters More

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    I’m an ex-Tottenham star but I want Arsenal to win the league more than ANYTHING… even England winning Euro 2024

    FORMER Tottenham star Darren Bent has admitted he’d rather see Arsenal win the Premier League than England triumph at Euro 2024.The former striker, 40, became Spurs’ record transfer when he joined in a £16.5million deal from Charlton in 2007.Darren Bent played for Tottenham between 2007 and 2009Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdBent, 40, has since revealed himself to be a huge Arsenal fanCredit: YouTube/talkSPORTDespite playing for the Lilywhites for two years, Bent remains a staunch Gooner.Appearing on talkSPORT, Bent was asked by co-host Andy Goldstein whether he’d prefer Prem or Euro 2024 glory later this year.He emphatically replied: “As an Arsenal fan I want the league. I want Arsenal over anything.”Goldstein, 50, then countered: “You don’t want FA Cup – Arsenal, Euros – England?”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSBent admitted it would be close but appeared to edge towards the Euros, although he did stress: “Champions League, Premier League over anything.”He then left Goldstein flabbergasted by claiming that even a domestic cup double would have done it for him over the Euros.The 12-cap former England striker added: “FA Cup and League Cup. Nope, I’m not joking you. FA Cup, League Cup. Arsenal.”After having his opinion called “nuts”, Bent continued: “As a fan, I’m club over country.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERBent played 79 times for Tottenham, scoring 25 goals and laying on seven assists.After falling down the pecking order at White Hart Lane, he moved to Sunderland in 2009.Luka Modric passed out in a cubicle and had to be carried out by a bouncer on his first Tottenham night out, says Jenas v2He netted four goals in 12 England caps, including three in Euro qualifiers – but never earned a call-up for a major tournament with the Three Lions.Bent had already shown off his love for Arsenal over former club Tottenham this season.Prior to September’s North London derby, he picked 11 Arsenal players in a combined XI.This meant that Gabriel Jesus staggeringly received the nod over Son Heung-min, although the South Korean made Bent eat his words by scoring twice in the 2-2 draw.Bent earned 12 England caps during his careerCredit: Dave Pinegar – The Sun More

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    Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard model ‘masterpiece’ international kits – but fans all spot the same problem

    NORWAY have launched their “masterpiece” of a kit – but fans all spot the same problem.Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard modelled in the brand new Norweigan outfit however the Scandinavian nation will not have the chance to wear it to the Euro 2024.Martin Odegaard and Erling Haaland model in Norway’s ‘masterpiece’ international kitsCredit: Instagram / @herrelandslagetFans spot that the Scandinavian outfit will not be worn in the Euros this summerCredit: Instagram / @herrelandslagetNorway has revealed their new jerseys for Euro 2024, following England – the only difference is they will not be participating in the tournament.Teams from around the world have been unveiling their kits for the upcoming European Championship and Copa America tournaments this summer.And fans were left in awe after Norway shared their striking new home and away kits modelled by the Manchester City goal-scoring menace and the Arsenal skipper.As one fan said: ” Now this is a masterpiece.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut the others had to remind the Scandinavian nation they would not be wearing the shirts this summer.A supporter said: “No world cup or euro. This fine jersey just to play friendlies.”Another added: “These will look beautiful at the Euros… Oh wait!”A third then said: “Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard model eye-catching new Norway kit – but they won’t be wearing it at Euro 2024.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERThe home jersey boasts bold vertical stripes with the flag’s colour scheme of red, white, and blue, drawing inspiration from the iconic Harald Harfagre sword monument.The away shirt is a white jersey with flashes of blue across the front and back – said to be influenced by the northern lights.Both shirts also feature a new Norway badge, which is topped with gold motifs.’I was waiting for that’ – Jamie Carragher leaves Odegaard in hysterics as he reignites celebration row live on Sky SportsThe kits are one of the best fans have seen on the international stage in years – but it’s a shame they will not be seen in the European Championship this summer.Norway will be able to flaunt their new kits in the Nations League which will be held from September to November 2024 with the final rounds in 2025.The new Three Lions kits have also pleased fans with a polo-style collar making a comeback to the white jersey.And the away kit has caused a debate amongst supporters over whether it’s purple or blue. More

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    England fans convinced away kit is new ‘blue and black dress’ optical illusion as they can’t decide what colour it is

    ENGLAND’S new away kit has reminded some fans of the infamous “blue and black dress” optical illusion of 2015.Nine years ago social media was left truly divided by a picture of a dress.Bukayo Saka models England’s new away kitCredit: https://twitter.com/EnglandThis blue and black dress divided social media in 2015Millions debated its colour online, with many arguing that it was white and gold… even though in actual fact it was blue and black.The Three Lions’ new away kit has seen them stray away from their usual changed colours of red or blue.In fact, England chiefs officially describe it as combining the two to create an “eye-catching purple”.Seeing the strip, one fan wrote on social media: “This new England away kit is gonna be the football equivalent of that ‘what colour is the dress?’ photo from a few years back!”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe kit has generally gone down well with fans.One called it: “A thing of beauty.”While a second gushed: “Phwoar.”A third wrote: “It’s 100 per cent gonna bang at festivals across the country this summer.”Most read in FootballAnd another added: “Take my money!”England’s four matches prior to Euro 2024 are all set to take place on home soil.I’m a Premier League champion who snubbed an England call-up – I was an idiot and it’s my biggest regretGareth Southgate’s side host Brazil on Saturday and Belgium next Tuesday, with both matches taking place at Wembley.In June they will welcome Bosnia & Herzegovina to St James’ Park, before returning to the national stadium to face Iceland.The Three Lions will then kick off their Euro 2024 campaign by playing Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on June 16. More

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    England face club vs country row as two Premier League clubs play friendly in AUSTRALIA three days after season ends

    ENGLAND are facing a club vs country row over Newcastle and Tottenham’s end-of-season Australian friendly.The two Premier League sides are playing in Melbourne on May 22, just days before Gareth Southgate’s squad meet to begin their final preparations for Euro 2024.Gareth Southgate is facing a club and country rowCredit: PASpurs will be heading to Melbourne on May 22 for a friendly days before England begin preparations for EurosCredit: RexTottenham will be playing against Newcastle in AustraliaCredit: RexNewcastle are expecting Kieran Trippier and Anthony Gordon to be involved despite the fact they could be preparing for England duty ahead of the tournament in Germany.Tottenham will not confirm their travelling squad until closer to the time but have not ruled out international players being involved.Both squads, who will make a 21,000-mile round trip, include players who will be involved in the Euros or Copa America.While the Euros does not begin until June 14, the England squad will start to gather at St. George’s Park from May 27, with Southgate naming his training camp squad on May 21.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLTrippier, Gordon and Tottenham’s James Maddison are all likely to be included in that group, meaning Southgate will not want to see them flying to the other side of the world for a meaningless fixture.England are relaxed about the situation but are expected to hold talks with both clubs following the March international break as they gear up for the summer.Southgate likes to give players a week off after their final club game before they come into camp for a major tournament.And with England he expects player arrivals to be staggered due to potential involvement in the FA Cup or European finals.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERIf an agreement cannot be reached between club and country to stop Three Lions players travelling to Australia, Southgate will make allowances to give those involved some time off before joining the squad.Any accommodations made for the players involved in the friendly would mean them missing out on training sessions ahead of warm-up games against Bosnia and Iceland.Ian Wright digs out Gareth Southgate over star’s England squad omission and asks Man Utd legend Roy Keane for backupSpurs are pitching the match, to be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, as a homecoming for boss Ange Postecoglou, who grew up in the city and played for and managed South Melbourne as well as Melbourne Victory. More