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    Scotland ‘ready to poach four Premier League stars’ from under England chiefs’ noses in dilemma for Gareth Southgate

    ENGLAND could see four talents poached away by rivals Scotland as they prepare for Euro 2024.Newcastle United stars Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes and Tino Livramento could all be snapped up by the Scots.
    Gareth Southgate may lose out on four top talents to rivals ScotlandCredit: Getty
    Scotland assistant John Carver (R) has revealed four stars that he and Steve Clarke (L) have got their eyes onCredit: Kenny Ramsay
    The Magpies trio all look increasingly unlikely to be called up to Gareth Soutgate’s squad for the Euros in Germany next summer.
    They join Newcastle teammate Elliot Anderson in the boat of having to decide to commit to either Scotland or England going forward with all four players eligible for both nations.
    Anderson has already had one call up to the Scotland squad, but pulled out after deciding he wan’t ready to commit his international future to the Tartan Army just yet.
    And now Steve Clarke’s assistant at Scotland, John Carver, has explained how the Scots are eyeing up the four potential England stars.
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    In an interview with Chronicle Live, the former Newcastle United interim manager said: “At Newcastle, there are four [that we have scouted] actually,
    “Elliot Anderson, Tino Livramento, Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes. We are always looking to add quality to the group. But we want players that want to be part of the journey.
    “Some of the lads at Newcastle mentioned are just starting their careers at St James’ Park and really need to concentrate on that first before they talk about which country they want to play for.
    “That’s the important part. I know I have been at Newcastle for a long time.”
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    England will want to fight to keep hold of Anthony GordonCredit: Rex
    Tino Livramento could also be swooped up by Scotland if England aren’t carefulCredit: Getty
    Both Tino Livramento and Anthony Gordon are yet to make a senior appearance for England, but have excelled in the Three Lions’ youth ranks.
    Gordon was part of the England U21s side that won the Euros this summer and has now been catching the eye in the Premier League for the Toon Army.
    While Elliot Anderson played his youth international football for Scotland and would have to wait for England to come in for him – although Southgate has already discussed his interest in the 21-year-old.
    Whereas Harvey Barnes is a different case altogether with the former Leicester man actually earning himself a senior international cap for England already.
    But he would still be eligible to swap his allegiance to Scotland should he grow frustrated at not finding away back in to the England set up since his debut in 2020.
    Carver acknowledged that it wouldn’t be easy to convince the four rising starts to wear the the blue of Scotland over the white of England.
    He said: “The two youngsters such as Elliot and Anthony are different to somebody like say Harvey Barnes.
    “Harvey has been called up by England and not had opportunities. Let’s see what happens when Harvey is fit again.
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    “Anthony will make his decision when he needs to. England will force the issue because they would be mad not to.
    “The four at Newcastle are just a handful. There are many others out there and we are always looking to improve and make things better.”
    Despite Harvey Barnes already earning a senior cap for England, he can still switch his allegiance to ScotlandCredit: Getty
    England and Scotland are both keen on convincing Elliot Anderson to play for themCredit: Kenny Ramsay More

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    Reece James’ surgeon predicts whether Chelsea star will be fit for England’s Euro 2024 campaign after latest setback

    REECE JAMES will be in “top shape” for Euro 2024, according to his surgeon.The Chelsea full-back suffered a hamstring injury two weeks ago and is now set to be unavailable for at least three months.
    Reece James is set to be fit in time for Euro 2024Credit: PA
    The full-back suffered a hamstring injury earlier this monthCredit: Getty
    Dr Lempainen has revealed that James will be unavailable for three to four monthsCredit: Instagram @lasselempainen
    He underwent surgery on Thursday in Finland following several assessments.
    And his surgeon, Dr Lempainen, has assured him that he will be fully fit in time for next summer’s European Championship.
    In an interview with the Telegraph, Dr Lempainen was very optimistic about James’ road to recovery.
    He said: “I am very convinced that Reece will be in top shape before the European Championship.
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    “Chelsea will decide on how long he takes, but more likely we are talking about that kind of period [three to four months].”
    James has suffered several hamstring injuries in recent years.
    However, Dr Lempainen believes the 24-year-old’s recent operation will increase the chances of him staying fit.
    He added: “The surgery gives Reece a better chance of staying fit and not having a recurring problem.
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    “We will try to do our best during the rehab process to assess the risk factors in Reece’s left hamstring and try to help his strength, mobility and sprinting technique, so Reece can enjoy high-level football again.”
    After undergoing surgery this week, James took to Instagram to reveal that he had received more hate than support from football fans.
    He wrote: “The footballing world knew I got injured but the procedure I would go down this time took slightly longer to figure out the best solution.
    “I had surgery today to try fix my recurring hamstring issue, the recovery has started, both physically and mentally.
    “Since this injury I’ve had a good amount of support but significantly more hate and negativity.
    “Believe me I don’t wanna be injured, I’m happiest when I’m playing football.
    “Thanks to the understanding people that support me despite the highs or the lows, it goes a long way. Stay well, Reece.”
    Should his recovery go to plan, the Chelsea star could return to action in March.
    However, the chances of him being fit for England’s spring friendlies against Brazil and Belgium are slim. More

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    Premier League confirm 2024/25 start date with season to begin late after Euro 2024

    THE PREMIER LEAGUE have confirmed the start date for the 2024/25 season.Due to next summer’s Euros, the campaign is set to get underway later than usual.
    The Premier League have revealed the start date for the 2024/25 seasonCredit: PA
    The campaign will begin on August 17 2024 with the final day on May 25 2025Credit: Rex
    The league have confirmed the season will begin on August 17 2024 and run until May 25 2025.
    In a statement, the Premier League revealed: “The Premier League 2024/25 season dates have been confirmed with the season starting on 17 August 2024.
    “The final match round of the campaign will be played on 25 May 2025, when all games will kick off simultaneously as usual.
    “In keeping with previous commitments made to clubs to address the congested schedule across Christmas and New Year, arrangements will be made to allow more rest time over three of the festive match rounds, with no club playing within 60 hours of another match.”
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    The 2024/25 season will begin six days later than the current campaign, which started on August 11 this year.
    It will also conclude the same amount of time later with all matches on the final day kicking off simultaneously.
    That is in part down to Euro 2024, which will take place in Germany between June 14 and July 14 next year.
    England will be one of 24 nations competing at the finals after qualifying in October.
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    Gareth Southgate’s side have been drawn in group C alongside Slovenia, Denmark and Serbia.
    Meanwhile, Scotland are in group A alongside hosts Germany, Switzerland and Hungary.
    Wales could also be involved, but must first come through the play-offs by beating Finland and either Poland or Estonia. More

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    Italy legend Giorgio Chiellini posts emotional retirement video at 39 but it’s left England fans seething

    ITALY legend Giorgio Chiellini has quit playing aged 39 – but a moving retirement message failed to prevent a savaging from England fans.The “master of the dark arts” remains unforgiven for a famous foul on Three Lions winger Bukayo Saka in the Azzurri’s Euro 2020 final triumph.
    Bukayo Saka was in a menacing position when Giorgio Chiellini cynically hauled him back in Italy’s Euro 2020 final success at WembleyCredit: PA
    You have been the most beautiful and intense journey of my life.You have been my everything. With you I have travelled a unique and unforgettable path.But now it is time to start new chapters, face new challenges and write further important and exciting pages of life. pic.twitter.com/IjHDDE4jMe— Giorgio Chiellini (@chiellini) December 12, 2023

    One of the Three Lions’ best hopes of victory in the Euro final disappeared when Chiellini pulled Saka over at 1-1 in the 96th minuteCredit: PA
    The all-time great defender called his career “the most beautiful and intense journey of my life” in a poetic farewell online.
    But many England followers can’t forget his “outrageous” cynicism in hauling Saka down by the neck to curb danger at Wembley in July 2021.
    The Arsenal hero was surging clear in extra time during a 1-1 draw when Chiellini dragged him over – before Italy won 3-2 on penalties.
    So the Juventus icon’s emotional announcement as he bowed out as a player didn’t go down too well with a large batch of Three Lions fans.
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    Chiellini posted a highlights video interspersed with him flicking through an album of collectors’ cards and stickers over 23 years.
    The 117-cap icon also wrote: “You have been my everything. With you I have travelled a unique and unforgettable path.
    “But now it is time to start new chapters, face new challenges and write further important and exciting pages of life.”
    But the heartfelt words of the nine-time Serie A winner, who has spent the last two seasons in the MLS with LAFC, drew a mixed response online.
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    Iconic defensive hardman Chiellini knew it was his last game as LAFC lost the MLS Cup final 2-1 to Columbus Crew last SaturdayCredit: Reuters
    One fan posted: “I would respect you for what you said, only if you didn’t pull Saka by the neck in that Euro’s final.”
    Another said, “Saka will never forget him” and a third wrote: “Happy retirement… you cost Saka his first England gold medal.”
    But some supporters mixed anger at the incident with recognition for the two-time Champions League runner-up doing the dirty things so well.
    One wrote: “Dragging Bukayo Saka down to the core of the Earth in the Euro 2020 final was one of the last great football moments. Outrageous, superb behaviour that must be respected. ”
    And this verdict was similar: “Chiellini was an old school defender. Pulling Saka down in the Euros final just embodied the dark arts. You have to respect someone this good at their craft.”
    Chiellini himself has admitted he “grabbed him good!” when discussing the Saka incident.
    He claimed the moment was a “symbol of Euro 2020” and followed “one of the only mistakes” he made at the tournament.
    Chiellini admitted he thought he could shepherd the ball out – then upended Saka when he realised he couldn’t. More

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    Inside the luxury £1,750-a-night German castle and golf resort where England Wags could stay for Euro 2024

    ENGLAND’S Wags are looking to beat their rivals to a prime holiday spot during next year’s Euros.While Gareth Southgate will be looking to whip his squad into shape before the tournament, the players’ partners are planning on making the most of their freedom after Qatar’s more lowkey atmosphere.
    The Schlosshotel hotel in Germany is being eyed for England’s Wags
    The castle’s construction was completed in 1893 under commission of Empress Victoria Friedrich
    The hotel is located in Kronberg near Frankfurt
    The hotel’s land features a golf resort
    Germany are the hosts for next summers tournament, and some suitably luxurious accommodation is being eyed up.
    As revealed by SunSport, the five-star hotel and castle Schlosshotel has already been scouted out following the hiring of a personal travel planner.
    Located in Kronberg near Frankfurt, it rooms which can cost up to £1,750 a night, combining a luxury golf resort and castle hotel.
    The resort’s construction was completed in 1893 under commission from Empress Victoria Friedrich and has operated as a luxury hotel since 1954.
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    Owned by the Landgrave and Princes von Hessen, the hotel offers a variety of services for guests, including a Porsche rental service, a limousine service for guests and on-call masseuses and butlers.
    It also offers wedding services and Christmas party’s which no doubt pair well with its huge banqueting halls that can accommodate for as many as 300 guests.
    There is even a cocktail reception at the hotel’s cave or Rose Garden in the park of the Castle Hotel Kronberg.
    On the England Wags search, a source told The Sun: “They have hired a personal travel planner.
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    “They’re actually toying with the idea of a German castle.
    “They’re keen to let their hair down after being restricted in Qatar but still want their own privacy.
    “The ones they’ve picked out so far are deep within the countryside, surrounded by woodland and protected from prying eyes.”
    However, Schlosshotel is not the only location which has been earmarked for next summer.
    It faces competition from Schloss Auel Boutique Hotel in Lohmar, near Cologne.
    It offers cocktail bars, Michelin star chefs and a team of personal assistants to assist with any requests.
    When the tournament rolls around next summer the group of England Wags who head there are already said to be “excited” for the trip following the restrictions in Qatar.
    The source added: “The Wags are extremely excited for the tournament.
    “Qatar was far too restrictive. This time around they can properly enjoy themselves without worrying.”
    Guests can be charged up to £1,750 a night to stay in the hotelCredit: “Simon Brown”
    Schlosshotel is a five-star hotel
    England’s Wags are looking to spend the Euro’s in luxury
    The hotel resort can play host to stunning events including wedding
    The hotel can host parties for as many as 300 guests
    The hotel was earmarked by a travel planner
    The hotel also features a stunning swimming pool and spa
    There is even a cocktail reception by its Rose Garden on the castle grounds
    England’s Wags are eyeing up luxury German castles for next year’s Euros (L-R: Kieran Trippiers wife Charlotte, Jordan Pickford’s wife Megan Davison , Harry Maguire’s wife Fern Hawkins, Kyle Walker’s wife Annie Kilner, and Luke Shaw’s partner Anoushka Santos)Credit: Instagram More

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    Fans loving Ross Barkley’s ‘redemption arc’ as ex-Chelsea ace tipped to replace City flop in England squad for Euro 2024

    HE starred against Arsenal, and Ross Barkley has now stole the show against the European champions.The Luton Town midfielder, 30, was in irresistible form against Man City on Sunday.
    Ross Barkley played a starring role for Luton Town against Man CityCredit: PA
    Barkley’s all-action display had fans calling for an England recall for the ex-Chelsea aceCredit: AP
    The former Blues man played a significant role for the Hatters’ opener scored by Elijah Adebayo.
    Although he couldn’t halt his side’s narrow 2-1 defeat, his performance had fans on X purring.
    Some even suggested he should return to the England fold and replace Kalvin Phillips in the squad.
    One fan wrote: “Hear me out…… This version of Ross Barkley with Rice and Bellingham in a midfield for England.”
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    A second posted: “Ross Barkley has really been class in the more holding role the last few weeks. If he keeps this up, deserves to be in contention for England over Kalvin Phillips surely.”
    A third shared: “If Ross Barkley keeps playing the way he is, could he be the answer to an England problem position at the Euros? Rice, Barkley and Bellingham could work very well.”
    A fourth added: “Ross Barkley redemption arc. He’s taking England to Euro 2024 glory.”
    While a fifth said: “Call me crazy, but Ross Barkley needs to play for England again.”
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    Barkley’s recent displays could give England boss Gareth Southgate a selection headache.
    The Chelsea flop, who also played for Nice, has 33 caps for the Three Lions.
    His last appearance for his country came in the 6-0 defeat of Bulgaria in 2019, when he scored twice and provided an assist.
    But, in recent times he has been well down the pecking order after struggling for form. More

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    England fans face beer ban at Euro 2024 with top cop in Germany warning troublemakers ‘we will be prepared’

    ENGLAND fans could face a beer ban for their opening match at Euro 2024.Gelsenkirchen’s chief of police has warned troublemakers “we will be prepared” ahead of the Three Lions’ clash with Serbia in the city.
    England fans face a beer ban for their opening match at Euro 2024Credit: Simon Jones
    The Three Lions take on Serbia at the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen on June 16Credit: Getty
    England begin their campaign at Schalke’s Veltins Arena on June 16 and could also return for the round of 16 if they win their group.
    However, top cop Peter Both is aiming to ban supporters from drinking inside the stadium and in public areas in the city.
    He has also vowed to send home any England fans causing trouble, threatening to use water cannons on them if necessary.
    Both’s plan to ban booze is a blow to England fans planning to travel to England’s tournament opener as well as the Euros’ official beer Bitburger.
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    The German brewery have paid millions to sell drinks at stadiums and official fan zones next summer.
    Speaking to the Mirror, Both explained: “We’re discussing the possibility of banning alcohol in the stadium and I make no secret of it.
    “Through the ­spectacles of someone responsible for security and in charge of police deployment on that day, I would find it good.
    “We are also currently checking at the moment to what extent we can apply banning alcohol in public places.
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    Gelsenkirchen’s chief of police wants to ban drinking inside the stadium and in public areasCredit: News Group Newspapers ltd
    He has also vowed to send home troublemakers in a warning to England supportersCredit: Simon Jones
    “In principle you’re free to drink alcohol on the street in Germany, but in big areas where fans gather in overfilled spaces we want to forbid it.”
    He also had a warning to Three Lions fans heading to Germany, adding: “It’s important all police in Germany adopt a mindset of seeing the fans as peaceful rather than a threat, but we will react if something happens – and we’re prepared for that.
    “You can’t exclude the fact that some will be coming with the intention of causing riots. My message to England fans is we will be prepared.
    “If anyone does try to cause serious trouble we will move quickly and they will be sent home.”
    After facing Serbia, England are set to take on Denmark in Frankfurt on June 20 before playing Slovenia in Cologne on June 25.
    Gareth Southgate’s side will reportedly be based at the five-star Golfresort Weimarer Land throughout the tournament.
    It is understood the Three Lions beat Austria to the booking of the remote resort located near the town of Blankenhain. More

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    Inside England’s 5-star Euro 2024 base including 45 holes of golf as Southgate aims to swerve Baden-Baden WAGs circus

    ENGLAND are set to stay at a 5-star golf and spa resort in a secluded part of Germany to avoid a repeat of the Baden-Baden Wag circus.Gareth Southgate and the FA have chosen a base away from the buzz of big cities after Victoria Beckham, Cheryl Tweedy, Coleen Rooney and Abbey Clancy stole the show at the 2006 World Cup.
    This is set to be England’s base for Euro 2024Credit: https://www.instagram.com/golfweimarerland/
    The Golfresort Weimarer Land boasts two 18-hole golf coursesCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/media
    A stunning swimming pool can be found at the resortCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/media
    One-and-a-half training pitches will give Gareth Southgate plenty of space for his campCredit: https://www.instagram.com/golfweimarerland/
    So, they will not base themselves in a big city like Hamburg or Berlin, where partners could be tempted by the vibrant nightlife available.
    Instead, they have decided the Golfresort Weimarer Land, near to the town of Blankenhain, will be where they will stay during the tournament.
    According to Bild, Ralf Rangnick had been keen for his Austria team to stay there.
    He was reportedly aware of the “tranquility” of the surroundings during his time at RB Leipzig, one of the host venues of the tournament.
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    The facility is one of the most spectacular golf resorts in Germany, with 45-holes to play.
    There are two 18-hole courses, as well as a nine-hole course.
    While that will give the players something to enjoy during their downtime, the most important aspect is the one and a half football pitches available to train on – making it ideal for training camps.
    Golfresort Weimarer Land was built in 2021, with the idea of attracting top international teams.
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    The resort also features a state-of-the-art gym, as well as a wellness centre and spa – with seven different treatment rooms.
    Leisure facilities include snooker, table football and table tennis, with running and e-bike routes.
    There are several conference rooms Southgate can use for video analysis and to give his side a teamtalk.
    Seven restaurants on site also give the players plenty of catering options.
    They are named after famous golf courses, including Augusta and the Masters.
    The latter offers fine dining with Mediterranean Francophile cuisine.
    Golfresort Weimarer Land has 94 rooms, suites and family suites.
    To book a room it costs around £300-per-night.
    There are 94 rooms that cost as much as £300-per-nightCredit: https://www.golfresort-weimarerland.de/en.html
    Surroundings around the base are tranquilCredit: https://www.instagram.com/golfweimarerland/
    A huge conference room is perfect for team meetingsCredit: https://www.golfresort-weimarerland.de/en.html
    A spa will help the players relax and take their mind of their stress of the tournamentCredit: https://www.instagram.com/golfweimarerland/
    There are seven restaurants at the resortCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/media
    Mediterranean Francophile cuisine is available at one restaurant called MastersCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/media
    Players like Harry Kane will enjoy the golf courses availableCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/media
    Golfresort Weimarer Land has been chosen because it is a relaxing treat away from the busy citiesCredit: https://www.golfresort-weimarerland.de/en.html
    Werder Bremen, Rangers and QPR are among the teams to have previously held training camps at the resort
    Earlier this month, Southgate hinted of a relaxing venue packed with facilities to entertain the players and staff.
    “We need that nice contrast of relaxation and areas where we can work,” he said.
    “You want to minimise travel where you can but within the FA our staff are really good at picking venues that the players will enjoy and feel comfortable in.
    “You want to be somewhere where you can zone out from everything that’s going on around you, but somewhere with good facilities.”
    Last time England played in a German World Cup, it was the Wags who stole the show.
    Sven Goran-Eriksson’s Three Lions lost to Portugal in the quarter-finals.
    However, it was the Wags who were front page news, as their escapades were said to be a distraction for the players.
    Southgate believes a balance is important, and wants to welcome families, but doesn’t want a repeat of when the Wags took over Baden-Baden.
    The resort was built in 2021 to entice football teams to have their training camps thereCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/media
    A golf simulator will amuse some of the England squadfCredit: https://twitter.com/golfweimar/media
    During the 2006 World Cup, Wags like Cheryl Tweedy were said to be a distraction for the teamCredit: PA:Press Association
    England are said to have beaten Austria to landing the resortCredit: https://www.instagram.com/golfweimarerland/
    “I wasn’t involved in that tournament so I don’t know how all that was but we have a great environment with our players,” Southgate said.
    Read more on The Sun
    “We want their families to be able to go and enjoy the tournament as well. We normally welcome them in at various times. It changes the dynamic of the hotel, especially if the kids come in, and those elements are important for the players.
    “Really we want somewhere where we can be a little bit on our own.” More