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      ‘Referees are going after me because I’m playing in their home and they’re hurt’

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      MARC Cucurella believes English crowds and referees are out to get him – after his exploits at Euro 2024. The Chelsea full-back helped Spain to a 2-1 win over Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions in July’s Euros final. Marc Cucurella believes England is still “hurting” after Euro 2024 heartbreakCredit: GettyThe Chelsea full-back has picked up five bookings in just seven games this seasonCredit: AFPThe 26-year-old helped Spain beat England in July’s Euro 2024 finalCredit: ReutersCucurella proved to be a divisive figure in the Spanish camp during their run to glory. German fans roundly booed him throughout the knockout stages after a penalty incident in the quarter-finals.The 26-year-old began the Euros being branded Spain’s “weak link” by Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville.But he had the last laugh, being named in Uefa’s Team of the Tournament and assisting Mikel Oyarzabal’s dramatic late winner against England. READ MORE ON CHELSEAVideo of Cucurella singing during Spain’s raucous celebrations quickly went viral after taming the Three Lions. He stood on top of a table, serenading his teammates with a fan song about drinking beer and besting Man City striker Erling Haaland.Since returning for the new season, Cucurella has made just seven appearances for Chelsea. He has picked up five yellow cards in the process – as well as receiving plenty of lip from the terraces – leaving him convinced the English game holds a grudge.Most read in FootballThe Blues star told Spanish outlet COPE: “You have more impact – people know you more [after winning the Euros]. CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”Being champion of the Euros is historic and you will always take it with you.“I’ve already been suspended for five yellow cards and I’ve committed [only a] few fouls.Marc Cucurella sings his own song in advert after viral post-Euros video but unimpressed fans say ‘I physically cringed'”They’re going after me a bit. They jump on me quickly, especially when we play away. “It’s normal, we won, I was involved in the goal, I’m playing at their home.”It’s normal, they’re hurt.”Cucurella began his career at Barcelona, but failed to break into the first team at the Nou Camp. He forged a career at Getafe before moving to the Premier League in 2021 to join Brighton. Cucurella was filmed dancing and singing following Spain’s historic winCredit: XHis lightning-fast counter-attacks and flowing locks made him an instant cult hero on the South Coast.And the Seagulls made a huge profit on the full-back as Chelsea swooped with a £55million offer in August 2022. READ MORE SUN STORIESCucurella picked up his most recent booking in Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest. He will now miss the Blues Premier League clash with Liverpool on October 20. More

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      George Baldock: Greece star’s classy gesture to tragic footballer caught on live TV after shock win over England

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      GREECE ace Lazaros Rota paid a touching tribute to his late great team-mate George Baldock after a famous victory over England.Baldock was found dead in his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night when he drowned in his swimming pool at the age of 31 plunging the football community into mourning.Greece right-back Lazaros Rota dedicated the win over England to George BaldockBaldock played ahead of Rota at right-back in the Greek national teamCredit: RexA devastated Greek national team found the strength to put on a heroic performance and snatch an emotional 2-1 win in London, which they dedicated to their team-mate and his family.Benfica star Vangelis Pavlidis commemorated the Sheffield United legend by raising his black armband in the air and pointing to the heavens after scoring both of his goals.And after the match Ivan Jovanovic’s men lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that led to many breaking down in tears.That was when right-back Rota, 27, who played behind Baldock in Greece’s pecking order, pointed at the ITV camera and dedicated the win to his former team-mate.Read More on FootballThe AEK Athens ace cried: “Georgie, for you.”This was Greece’s first ever win over England and the team became the first ever Greek side to win at Wembley.That was after the visitors’ captain Tasos Bakasetas issued a spine-tingling pre-match speech urging his team-mates to “sacrifice” themselves on the pitch for Baldock.The full-back was so passionate that he often risked his physical well-being on the pitch, such as against France last year in Paris where he played with a swollen ankle and still silenced Kylian Mbappe.Most read in FootballThere were no celebrations from the Greek national team, who were still overwhelmed by the horrific news, after the game.Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England Instead, Bakasetas and Pavlidis opted to use that time to reflect on their friend and his family.Baldock was found dead in the swimming pool of his Greek apartment on Wednesday evening.His family has now confirmed his cause of death as drowning in his swimming pool.They have released a touching statement saying: “We are heartbroken with the sudden passing of our beloved George.Ex-Sheffield United full-back Baldock was supposed to fly back to the UK on Thursday to celebrate his son Brody’s birthday.Baldock moved to Greece after joining Athens side Panathinaikos from Sheffield United this summer.His heartbroken fiancee Annabel Dignam hailed him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”His fiancee Annabel Dignam said her ‘world will never be the same’Credit: Facebook/ Annabel DignamGeorge Baldock waves to fans at Bramall Lane on May 19, 2024Credit: GettyA minute’s silence was held in his memory at Wembley before England and Greece’s Nations League clashCredit: ReutersCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death.Baldock played for his club side on Sunday during a 0-0 draw with fierce rivals Olympiacos.He played 75 minutes before being subbed off.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe club confirmed he last trained with them on Wednesday before driving home to his €15,000-a-month apartment.England and Greece stars held a minute’s silence ahead of their Nations League clash.Dominating Mbappe, Premier League Iron Man, promotion hero: A tribute to George BaldockBy Kostas Lianos, Digital Sports ReporterIT was back in 2019 when Greece legend Vasilis Torosidis – the heir to Euro 2004 hero Giourkas Seitaridis – retired from international duty after 101 caps.A giant void was left behind at right-back, many talented players tried to step up – and none of them could fill those big boots.But, soon enough, I started to hear whispers about a Premier League ace with Greek heritage who’s a starter week-in and week-out…That was none other than George Baldock, born in Buckingham on March 9, 1993, to English parents but qualified for Greece through his grandmother.And what a season he was having. The right-back starred for Sheffield United as they surprised the Prem in the 2019-20 campaign – their first in 12 years – by finishing in the top half of the table.Baldock was among their standout players as he registered a staggering 3,420 minutes played – the joint highest along with the likes of Declan Rice and Virgil van Dijk.The defender was keen to make the big step to the international stage with his grandmother’s homeland – and it didn’t take long until he shook hands with the Greek football federation (EPO) chiefs.However, a long and arduous paperwork slog stood in the way – with the then Sheffield United star claiming Covid-19 and Brexit slowed things down.Greece finally got the right-back they were begging for for years as Baldock made his debut on June 2, 2022 in a Nations League clash at Northern Ireland as a late substitute.It didn’t take long until the English-born ace owned the right flank at the back and impressive performances followed.Perhaps none compare to the Euro 2024 qualifier against France in June 2023 when Baldock did the unthinkable and kept Kylian Mbappe quiet for 104 MINUTES, despite being injured and playing through “unimaginable” pain.I still remember speaking to then-Greece manager Gus Poyet about his player’s stunning performance, and I will never forget the big smile the Chelsea legend had on his face.Poyet reminded me of a proud father as he took me through the injury hell the full-back endured before squaring up against perhaps the world’s best player for his country.A beaming Poyet told me: “Against the Republic of Ireland [three days beforehand] – and now that it is finished I can say it – after 20 minutes he had a very bad twist in his ankle, very bad. He was very close to come out. I asked him, ‘Can you hold until half-time?'”At half-time his ankle was very, very swollen. He asked for a strapping and he asked me for five minutes. Give me five minutes and we’ll let you know. And he had an unbelievable second half running up and down and being outstanding.”You don’t imagine the ankle after the game. You don’t imagine the ankle the day after, after the flight to France. Black and blue – swollen. And a day-and-a-half later you need to play against Mbappe.”Ninety per cent of people will think, no chance. And I keep talking to him, individually. And he keeps saying to me, ‘Coach I’m gonna be there no worries’.”And he didn’t play 20 minutes, he didn’t play 60 minutes, he played 104 minutes because the referee gave 14 minutes of injury time against Mbappe.”It’s easy to understand how loyal Baldock was to every team he ever played for during his 15-year career, just by looking at his stats.The Greek ace started his career at MK Dons in 2009 where he amassed a staggering 125 appearances throughout an eight-year stint that also saw him playing on loan for Northampton Town, Tamworth, IBV and Oxford United.The defender joined Sheffield United in 2017 and registered a whopping 219 appearances in seven years that also saw him helping his team achieve two Premier League promotions.Baldock’s work ethic and commitment was no different in Greece as he proudly stated two years ago: “To play for the national side is a great honour and a lot of pride involved for me and my family.”Representing my country through my late grandmother, it’s a very proud moment for me and my family. I love the country and I will fight for every success”Baldock never played for England at any level, but he always competed like a lion and he proved it on Sunday in his last ever match when he started for Panathinaikos, whom he joined in the summer, against eternal rivals Olympiacos in perhaps the most intense derby in Europe.He served his team with honour as he helped them pick up a valuable point in a goalless draw against their in-form foes, who had just played their best game of the season with a 3-0 win over Braga in the Europa League a few days earlier.He only managed 12 caps for Greece before his sudden and tragic death at the age of 31 on Wednesday in Athens.But his fighting spirit and charisma at right-back with the white and blue, as well as his remarkable run in the Premier League and the Championship, show that he is leaving a legacy behind for many Greek and English fans to look up to. More

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      Watch Greece captain’s spine-tingling speech about George Baldock in dressing room that inspired win over England

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      GREECE captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling speech dedicated to the late George Baldock that inspired his team-mates to victory against England before stepping out at Wembley.Baldock was found dead at his home in Glyfada on Wednesday night at the age of 31 plunging the English and Greek football community into mourning.Greece captain Tasos Bakasetas delivered a spine-tingling pre-match speech before the win over EnglandCredit: instagramBakasetas inspired his Greece team-mates to fight for George Baldock after his tragic deathCredit: EPAGreece dedicated their famous win over England to Baldock after the whistleCredit: AlamyThe former Sheffield United star’s team-mates were in London when the news broke and were left devastated ahead of Thursday’s crunch Nations League clash with the Three Lions.However, Bakasetas, 31, took it upon himself to lift his team-mates’ spirits with a powerful pre-match speech in the dressing room.The Panathinaikos star, who also played with Baldock for the Athenian club, described the Buckingham-born ace as an “example” that would even sacrifice his physical well-being for the team. The playmaker then went on to order his team-mates to return the favour by stepping onto England’s hallowed Wembley turf and “sacrificing” themselves.Read More on FootballBakasetas stated: “We know very well what kind of team we are because we earned our way.”We have no one to fear and we should show it from the first minute. We know the game’s importance. Many of us know who George is and what kind of a man he was.”George was always an example for this team. Because many times he left his soul on the pitch. He prioritised the team above all else and he even sacrificed his physical wellbeing.”And tonight in this game he will be our example. Each and everyone of us will sacrifice ourselves to honour him exactly as he deserves. Let’s all be ready. Let’s go!” Most read in FootballGreece went on to produce an incredible performance as they beat England for the first time ever and picked up their first ever victory at Wembley.Vangelis Pavlidis scored a stunning brace to break Three Lions hearts and deliver a hammer blow to interim boss Lee Carsley’s hopes of replacing Gareth Southgate full-time.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31Pavlidis and his team-mates dedicated both goals to Baldock as they lifted their black armbands and pointed to the heavens.However, there was no celebration at full-time, instead the visitors lined up in front of the away end with Baldock’s jersey in an emotional scene that saw many break down in tears.Pavlidis refused to talk about the game in his post-match interview and instead paid tribute to the ex-MK Dons ace.The Benfica star said: “It was a very peculiar day. Our thoughts are with George. The game was not postponed, we are here and [we are] professionals, we played, we gave our souls for him. “[These are] Very difficult times, it was a peculiar match because of that happened with George. It’s not a day to talk about football, he was part of our team and all I can say is he’s going to be sorely missed, we wish strength to his family.”The whole day was silent, even now, we can’t say much. A picture is worth a thousand words, there are no words.”Paying tribute to BaldockBakasetas, who was reduced to tears at full-time, echoed is team-mate’s statement as he paid homage to Baldock’s character and professionalism.The ex-Trabzonspor star even shared two anecdotal stories that showed how dedicated the defender was to the national team.Bakasetas said: “I’m very proud to have these team-mates. We want to dedicate this game to George and his family This way we will try and give them some strength.”It’s a game that shouldn’t have happened in my opinion. It’s not a day we can talk more about football. George today was our guide. He always put the team above all else.”In France last summer he played with an ankle banged up and still delivered for the team.”And against Georgia [in the final of the Euro 2024 play-off qualifying round] he was hurt and knew he would get injured but fought with doctors so that he can play and left it all on the pitch.”We thank him for everything. We wish strength to his family.”Fiancee’s tributeBaldock’s fiancee released a statement last night hailing him the “love of my life” and “my soulmate” in an emotional tribute.She said: “The perfect dad to our beautiful boy.”You completed me. You were my world and I know we were yours.”You are here with me in Brody’s smile, giggle and infectious personality.”My world will never be the same but I will find a way for Brody. I promise.”I love you forever and always G. Your Neen. X”Baldock was found in the pool by his landlord, who jumped over the fence.Emergency crews pulled the footballer from the water, but were unable to resuscitate him.Forensic scientists who conducted the autopsy on Baldock at Athens’ University Hospital on Thursday said he was dead for five hours before he was discovered.READ MORE SUN STORIESCops said it would be “several weeks, if not months” before the full autopsy and toxicology results were released.Officials have ruled out any criminality was at play in his death. More

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      Lee Carsley may have gambled away England job as damning stats underline how bad Greece horror show really was

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      LEE CARSLEY may have lost his chance of landing the England job on a full-time basis after the shock defeat to Greece.The Three Lions were humbled 2-1 as they were defeated at Wembley in the Nations League.Lee Carsley watched on as England were beaten by GreeceCredit: RexThey were the lowest-ranked side to ever beat the Three Lions on home soilCredit: GettyVangelis Pavlidis fired in the winning goalCredit: GettyJude Bellingham had looked to have spared England’s blushes as his 87th-minute goal cancelled out Vangelis Pavlidis’s earlier goal.However, the Greek striker struck again in the 94th minute to hand the visitors an emotional victory following the tragic death of George Baldock.Many had believed that Carsley was the man to take England forward after the impressive wins over Finland and the Republic of Ireland in his first two matches of his interim reign.However, the underlining stats made during the loss to Greece may have wrecked his chances.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLGreece’s win meant they set the record to become the lowest-ranked side, 48th, to beat England on home soil.The previous record was set when North Ireland beat England 1-0 in a World Cup qualifier back in September 2005.They are also the lowest-ranked side to beat the Three Lions in a competitive match in 19 years.It was also the first time England had ever lost to Greece and the first goals scored by the nation at Wembley.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSCarsley opted to play a very attacking side with the likes of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Anthony Gordon all starting.The team set up in a false nine due to the absence of Harry Kane but the glut of attacking talent failed to shine.Lee Carsley’s slip of the tongue after Greece nightmare hints he wants England U21s job back and not replace SouthgateEngland’s shocking stats against GreeceHere are the shocking that stats that were set in England’s defeat to Greece…- Lowest ranked side to beat England in a competitive match in 19 years.- The lowest-ranked side ever beat England on home soil.- Greece had never beaten England in their history.- Greece had never scored a goal at Wembley before.- Pavlidis’ strikes were his first since June 2022 vs Cyprus.- Bellingham’s 87th-minute equaliser was England’s first shot on target since the third minute (also Bellingham).Jude Bellingham managed both of England’s shots on targetCredit: GettyBellingham’s goal was England’s first shot on target since his effort in the 87th minute.Defensively, the Three Lions allowed Pavlidis to score his first international goals since June 2022 when he netted in the 3-0 win over Cyprus.After the match, Carsley admitted that the tactics had only been practised the bold style for 20 minutes.He also put doubt on his willingness to be named the permenant manager of England.He said: “I was surprised after the last camp [to hear], ‘The job’s mine, it’s mine to lose.'”My remit is I am doing three camps and then hopefully going back to the Under-21s.”After being pressed as to why he’s hopeful of returning to his normal job, Carsley added: “I said at the start that I wouldn’t rule myself in or out.”And that’s still the case. I’m more than comfortable in my position where I am.”The remit was clear. I’m comfortable and confident with that.“After the first camp, I definitely didn’t get too excited or believe too much.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I’m very aware that this job is one of the best in the world in terms of you’ve actually got a chance of winning.”Obviously, I’m talking about that after a loss but in terms of a major competition – and that’s still the case.”England player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      England’s Greece horror show was a stark reminder World Cup 2026 is out of reach with so little quality at the back

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      ALTHOUGH this was the night when England’s embarrassment of riches in attack was put on full show, here was a stark reminder that the nation remains unbelievably thin in quality at the back.Central defenders, full-backs and even the goalkeeper. Right across the board, England have some major issues.England had a defensive nightmare against GreeceCredit: AlamyIt saw an experimental Lee Carsley team fall to a shock 2-1 defeat at WembleyCredit: ReutersJohn Stones captained England for the first time in the absence of Harry Kane and this is not a night he will look back at with any fondness.Stones was one of three players – along with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer – who could have done better for Greece’s opening goal through Vangelis Pavlidis.Along with Levi Colwill, he was also lucky that Pavlidis’ strike towards the end was ruled offside as both players were at fault.Yet right at the end, when Pavlidis struck again for the winner, Stones – along with Rico Lewis – could have done much better.READ MORE ON ENGLANDThe options for Lee Carsley – and whoever takes this team forward over the next two years – are not exactly mind-blowing when it comes to strength in depth across the back.Over the last couple of years, we should have seen this issue coming. But there has been too much focus on what we could do at the other end of the pitch.This was Stones’ 82nd cap, meaning he has now overtaken former defender Rio Ferdinand in England appearances. He is now joint 17th on the all-time list with Raheem Sterling.The Yorkshireman is even more important to the England team than Ferdinand ever was purely because the former Manchester United defender had John Terry, Sol Campbell, Ledley King and Jamie Carragher as international colleagues.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSWith Harry Maguire axed from the squad before suffering an injury, and Ezri Konsa also forced to withdraw with a knock, Stones played next to Chelsea’s Levi Colwill who did OK.Yet Stones’ lack of games for Manchester City is a huge worry and this could harm England over the next two seasons.England and Greece stars in emotional minute’s silence to pay tribute to George Baldock after tragic death at 31He enjoyed a decent Euros in Germany even though this followed the most difficult season of his club career when form and injuries limited him to just 12 starts in the Premier League.And this season, despite playing a part in other competitions for Pep Guardiola, Stones has only started one top-flight match this term.There were times against the Greeks when Stones found himself exposed as England did their Harlem Globetrotters impression. It was a mix-up between Stones and Jordan Pickford which presented a chance to Tasos Bakasetas yet Colwill dashed back to deliver a heroic goal-line clearance.But as for the goals – along with the disallowed ones – Wembley witnessed some Car-crash.Here was the proof, not that we needed it, that left-back is also a huge problem.England player ratings vs GreeceBy Tom BarclayLEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jue Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.But it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.Here are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land territory outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance. Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. He, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back onto his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham still so nearly emerged as the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. 6Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. 7Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. 7Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. Carsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again.Although happy to play there, Lewis considers himself as a midfielder. Colwill can also play in that spot but he is more comfortable in central defence.Even at right-back, where we seemed to be spoilt for choice, there are concerns. Carsley clearly considers Alexander-Arnold as the team’s first-choice right-back even though Gareth Southgate listed him as a midfielder.Alexander-Arnold, though, was guilty of allowing Pavlidis to brush past him too easily for the opening goal and it was not the only time he was caught out.Kyle Walker, who did not make the England squad last month, will probably start against Finland but he will be 36 at the next World Cup.While Pickford has been England’s best keeper by some distance over the years, he was properly dodgy in this Greek humiliation.READ MORE SUN STORIESYet the alternatives are Dean Henderson and Nick Pope, along with Aaron Ramsdale. All are decent keepers but neither are going to challenge the Everton keeper.Now, there is a real chance England might have to go into a Nations League play-off in March as they might not win the group. More

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      England ratings: Bellingham so nearly the saviour despite new position not working but Pickford has a nightmare

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      LEE CARSLEY’S tactical experiment of playing no strikers backfired as Vangelis Pavlidis’ double secured an emotional shock win for Greece at Wembley.Interim England boss Carsley played all three of our nation’s gifted No10s – Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer – in varying positions.Lee Carsley went without a striker for the clash against GreeceCredit: PAJude Bellingham was almost the saviour on the night, but his late goal was cancelled out by an injury time winnerCredit: GettyJordan Pickford had one of his worst England gamesCredit: RexBut it did not work and the Greeks took a deserved lead thanks to Pavlidis’ belting second-half finish.The visitors then held up a shirt in celebration bearing the name Baldock – in reference to their team-mate George Baldock, whose passing at the age of just 31 on Wednesday rocked the world of football.Bellingham looked to have ensured the points were shared with a thunderous strike with three minutes to go.But there was still time for Pavlidis to expose some woeful defending deep into injury time by firing past Jordan Pickford.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHere are SunSport’s player ratings from a dire night for England under the arch.Jordan Pickford: 4Wandered into no-man’s-land outside his box early on and lost the ball, allowing Greek skipper Tasos Baksetas a free shot at goal – only to be saved by Levi Colwill’s last-gasp clearance.Did not instil confidence, despite his experience.Trent Alexander-Arnold: 6Some tasty passes – they are his speciality, after all – but not great at the back. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe, John Stones and Cole Palmer were weak in their attempt to close down Vangelis Pavlidis before the Benfica man smashed home the opener.John Stones: 5Made captain for what was his 82nd cap, surpassing Rio Ferdinand’s haul. Lee Carsley nailed on to land England manager job with bookies with Pep Guardiola second favourite at massive 10-1 But it was a shaky display from his defence and Stones should have done better to stop Pavlidis.Levi Colwill: 7Greece would have been ahead far sooner were it not for Colwill’s athletic hack away to deny Bakasetas. Replays showed it would have crossed the line had the Chelsea man been a split second later with his incredible intervention.Rico Lewis: 6Tried to bomb up the left flank where he could but, just like Kieran Trippier at the Euros, was hamstrung by constantly having to cut back on to his favoured right foot.Declan Rice: 6Played as England’s only holding midfielder, as fans had been imploring Gareth Southgate to use him for years. It was not like he was overrun but his side did look vulnerable on the counter.Phil Foden: 4Spent most of the game pressing the Greek backline as a false nine without really getting on the ball and causing any damage. Ineffective. Cole Palmer: 6Deployed in a deeper, central-midfield role which at least meant he saw plenty of the ball, though he blazed England’s best chance of the first half over the bar. Remarkably, his first competitive England start, despite being named on Tuesday as Three Lions player of the 2023-24 season. Bukayo Saka: 5Struggled to get into the game and then was forced out of it, worryingly limping off early in the second half. The last thing Arsenal fans wanted to see.Jude Bellingham: 7 STAR MANPlayed in a false nine position and had a belting early shot well saved. The system did not work but Bellingham was nearly the saviour by banging in his first goal of the season for club and country.Anthony Gordon: 5Caused Greece few problems and his touch looked off it. Had a decent chance from Alexander-Arnold’s peach of a delivery but headed over.SUBS: Noni Madueke (for Saka 52): 6Played out on the left, rather than his natural right, when coming on. Went down in the box deep into injury time but no penalty was given. Ollie Watkins (for Gordon 60): 7Almost scored with his first touch when played through by Palmer, but smashed just over. Dominic Solanke (for Foden 72): 7Grabbed an assist when laying the ball back to Bellingham who thumped in the leveller. Manager Lee Carsley: 4Seemed to gamble unnecessarily with this experimental system instead of playing it safe to add another win to boost his case to earn the job full-time. READ MORE SUN STORIESCarsley played without a natural centre-forward when winning the Under-21 Euros because he had to after Flo Balogun switched the USA and Rhian Brewster got injured, but here he did it by choice and it did not work. Bellingham looked to have saved his bacon – but then Pavlidis struck again. More

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      Unique feature of Lee Carsley’s England squad not seen for 48 years is more egg on the face of Erik ten Hag

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      LEE CARSLEY is already putting his stamp on the England set-up with his latest squad possessing a unique feat not seen in 48 years.The Three Lions caretaker boss recently named his second squad since taking the reins from Gareth Southgate.Lee Carsley has named his latest England sideCredit: GettyErik ten Hag’s side have had a shocking start to the seasonCredit: GettyCarsley’s tenure began with comfortable 2-0 wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland last month.This week he takes on Greece at Wembley before facing Finland again on Sunday.And for the first time since 1976, England will go into those games with no Manchester United players in their squad.For nearly half a century, at least one Man Utd star has been involved in the England set-up.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFor much of that time there have been several, particularly in the 1990s era of David Beckham, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt.In recent years, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford have all been regular features.While homegrown hero Kobbie Mainoo played at Euro 2024.None of them, however, are available to Carsley against Greece tonight.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMainoo, 19, was initially named in the squad – before pulling out with injury.Maguire, meanwhile, has also suffered with a recent injury, coming off at half time against Aston Villa last weekend.Lee Carsley welcomes back Cole Palmer to the England team Forward Rashford was available to Carsley but was again not called up.Having missed out on Euro 2024, Rashford has not played in any of England’s last 12 games dating back to March.Youth development has always been a key hallmark of Man Utd’s success.In fact, they possess the astonishing record of having named at least one academy graduate in their matchday squad for the last 86 years, spanning more than 4,000 matches.Ironically, two Man Utd academy graduates have been named on Carsley’s bench for tonight’s game against Greece – with neither still members of Erik ten Hag’s squad.Angel Gomes, who earned his first caps last month, left United in 2020 and has since excelled in France with Lille.Dean Henderson, meanwhile, is England’s back-up goalkeeper this evening having earned No1 status at Crystal Palace.Angel Gomes is on the bench for England at Wembley tonightCredit: Getty More

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      Alvaro Morata reveals depression battle and says ‘I couldn’t lace up my boots, and when I did my throat would close up’

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      FORMER Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata has opened up about his battle with depression.The 31-year-old captained Spain to Euro 2024 glory this summer, but recently admitted he almost didn’t make it to Germany.Alvaro Morata has opened up about his battle with depressionCredit: RexThe striker also revealed he has suffered from panic attacksCredit: GettyMorata admitted he almost couldn’t play at Euro 2024Credit: GettyMorata had received heavy criticism from both fans and journalists in the build-up to the tournament – so much so that it made him want to leave the country.The AC Milan striker experienced some mental health troubles as a result which made him question if he would ever be able to step onto a football pitch again.Speaking to El Partidazo, Morata revealed: “When you have really tough times, depression, panic attacks, it doesn’t matter what job you do, what situation you have in life, you have another person inside that you have to fight against every day and every night.”The Spaniard began doubting his future during the latter stages of his time with Atletico Madrid – just months before Euro 2024. Read More in FootballHe continued: “For me, leaving Spain was the best option; I couldn’t stand it.”I had a really bad time. I thought I wouldn’t be able to put my boots on and go out on the pitch again.”But hey, thanks to a lot of people, from Simeone, Koke, Miguel Ángel Gil last year, my psychiatrist, my coach… we are what you see on TV and on social media but often it’s not real.”You have to give an image because it’s your job. I had a really bad time, I exploded and there came a time when I couldn’t lace up my boots, and when I did I would run home because my throat would close up and my vision would start to blur.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Three months before the Euros I was wondering if I would be able to play another match. I didn’t know what was happening to me but it’s very complicated and delicate.”At that moment you realise that what you like most in the world is what you hate the most, it’s complicated.”Every time I went out with them I always had some episode, sometimes without malice, with people about something that had happened in previous games. “And, in the end, they didn’t want to go shopping either, things that a normal father does with his children. “There came a time when they said so many things to me in front of them that I was embarrassed to be with them. I was an easy joke, a joke to make the person next to you laugh.”Earlier this year, Morata announced that he had split from wife Alice Campello.The couple had been together for seven years and share four children.Morata left Atletico to join AC Milan in a £10.9million transfer in July.The striker has since scored two goals in five Serie A appearances.If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the Samaritans for free on 116123. More