Euro 2024

Subterms

    More stories

    • 188 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Kieran Trippier tattoos: What are the meanings behind the England & Newcastle defender’s body ink?

      by

      KIERAN Trippier is well known for his incredible passion for football which has seen him earn a place on the England squad.But the Euro 2024 star also has another great love and that’s his tattoos.:Kieran Trippier sports a huge collection of tattoosCredit: GettyHow many tattoos does Kieran Trippier have?Kieran Trippier is enjoying the career of his life on the Euro 2024 pitch.But along with a lot of the England squad – like Kyle Walker, Ivan Toney and Phil Foden – he also has a HUGE passion for tattoos.The sportsman’s body art includes sleeves on both arms and a poignant inking on his chest.Fans regularly get a glimpse of his impressive body art when he is on the pitch.Read more on Kieran TrippierDiamond on his chestThe defender has a huge diamond on his chestCredit: GettyEngland defender Kieran Trippier has several tattoos across his body which includes a huge diamond on his chest.Although he hasn’t revealed what it means, the gem could symbolise the wealth he has enjoyed thanks to his glittering football career.The diamond is likely to represent personal achievement and value.The Newcastle United player has certainly built up a huge fortune since beginning his career as a premiership footballer.Most read in FootballThanks to being hot property on the pitch, Trippier has a personal wealth of £33M which could buy a lot of diamonds.Birds on his backThe birds on his back symbolise freedomCredit: GettyTrippier also sports two birds on his back that are placed either side of his shoulder blades.This type of tattoo are generally seen as symbols of freedom due to their ability to soar high in the skies.My mascot son wants to walk out with Mbappe instead of me They can also symbolise transformation as they draw parallels from the mythical phoenix that rises from the ashes.Full sleeves on both armsThe footy star has tattoo sleeves on both armsCredit: GettyA lot of footballers sport full arm sleeve tattoos, and Trippier is no different.The popular defender has full body ink on both of his arms.Trippier’s impressive collection of interconnected tattoos go from shoulder to wrist. Tattoo specialists say that full sleeves are often a “canvas for storytelling and personal expression”.One person who also has their arms completely covered is former England ace David Beckham, who is known for his extensive collection of tattoos.A woman on his forearmTrippier has a woman on his right forearmCredit: GettyAnother very prominent tattoo is Trippier inking of a woman.The inking can be found on his right forearm.It’s not known who the woman is, but portrait tattoos typically represent a loved one.The impressive body art could be to show the love he has for his wife Charlotte.The couple got married in June 2016, after getting engaged the previous year.How to watch the Euro 2024 finalThe Euro 2024 final will be broadcast live on BOTH BBC One and ITV1.READ MORE SUN STORIESAll of the games at the European Championships have been aired on either BBC or ITV during the tournament. You will be able to live stream the final for FREE on either BBC iPlayer or ITVX.England football stars’ tattoosThe England squad are known for their love of body art and a lot of them are covered in tattoos. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Eagle-eyed fans spot what ‘true pro’ Steve Holland did during wild Ollie Watkins goal celebrations to help England win

      by

      FANS have hailed England assistant boss Steve Holland for his quick-thinking professionalism after Ollie Watkins’ winner.The Three Lions sealed their place in the Euro 2024 final thanks to a last-minute goal from the substitute.Gareth Southgate got carried away celebrating Ollie Watkins’ winnerCredit: X/itvfootballSteve Holland kept calm and advised Southgate to make substitutionsCredit: X/itvfootballHis strike sent Gareth Southgate and his coaching staff into bedlam – all but one man.Holland paused his celebrations to speak to Southgate, advising the England manager to make substitutions to tighten things up for the remainder of stoppage time.The subs also caused a delay in play, allowing the players on the pitch to regain their composure while disrupting the flow of the match.Conor Gallagher and Ezri Konsa were brought on to add defensive reinforcement, replacing Kobbie Mainoo and Bukayo Saka.READ MORE ON EURO 2024It worked a treat as England were able to close out the final few minutes without the Netherlands getting a chance.Fans have praised Holland for his professionalism at a time when he could easily have got carried away celebrating.One supporter reacted saying: “True professionalism.”Another added: “Good work.”Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEngland ratings vs HollandENGLAND stormed into the final against Spain thanks to Ollie Watkins’ last-minute strike in the 2-1 win over Holland.It was a brilliant team performance, but how did each player rate?SunSport’s Tom Barclay ran the rule over Southgate’s boys, and here’s how he rated them.Jordan Pickford: 7Bigger goalkeepers may have got a stronger hand to Xavi Simons’ early stunner – though that was being hypercritical. Solid stop to deny Virgil van Dijk after the hour.Kyle Walker: 7Looked re-energised after some lumbering displays and bombed on at times in the first half, despite his role on the right of a back three. Last-ditch tackle on Cody Gakpo was spot on.John Stones: 7Strong in possession. He looks to have benefited from regular game-time after rarely featuring for Manchester City in the last few months.Marc Guehi: 6Came back into the side after suspension ruled him out of the Switzerland game. Had an unenviable task of making the big man Wout Weghorst after the break.Bukayo Saka: 7Razor-sharp in the first half, winning tackles, making runs and dribbling the ball proficiently. Less of an impact after the break, had a goal ruled out for offside and was booked.Declan Rice: 6Lost possession for Simons’ thunderous opener but grew into the game, mopping up where necessary. Poor pass when Kane was open midway through the second half.Kobbie Mainoo: 8Was England’s youngest-ever player to play in a major-tournament semi-final, aged 19years 82 days, and had a stormer in the first half. Great bursts forward, vital tackles, and his interplay with Foden was a joy.Kieran Trippier: 6We all know by now that he is playing out of position, so again he was limited going forward and reliable defensively. Subbed at half-time for the more natural Shaw.Phil Foden: 7The first 45 minutes was by far and away his best half of the tournament. Thought he’d scored when his shot was cleared off the line by Denzel Dumfries, and cracked the post with a cracker. But was then surprisingly subbed.Jude Bellingham: 5Back at the ground where he made his name but struggled to make much of an impact on his old stomping ground. Fortunate it was not he that was subbed.Harry Kane: 6Won and dispatched the penalty to go joint top-scorer in the tournament with three goals. Had looked more mobile initially but still tired badly after the break and was taken off.SUBSLuke Shaw (for Kieran Trippier, half-time): 6Looked assured for a man who has been out for so long.Ollie Watkins (for Harry Kane, 81): 9 and STAR MAN Surprisingly given the nod over Ivan Toney as striker sub as Southgate looked for more pace in behind. Brilliant finish into the corner to win the game – you could not ask more from him.Cole Palmer (for Phil Foden, 81): 7Had his big chance in the final minutes but shanked it horribly wide – but then fed Watkins for his wonderful winner.Gareth Southgate: 8His switch to a back three against Switzerland helped dig out the win there, and here it had his team finally playing some great football in the first half. The team went into their shells again as the game wore on and you feared the worst – but you have to say his decision to bring on Ollie Watkins was a masterstroke. A third wrote: “He always does this. Not letting emotions take over but only concerned with getting the job done.”And another commented: “Exactly what you need from an assistant. Man has been all over winning trophies, he knows what it takes.”Ollie Watkins says it’s an honour to represent his country ahead of England Euro Final More

    • 263 Shares129 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea flop Alvaro Morata is ridiculed in both England AND Spain but there’s a reason he’s captain for Euro 2024 final

      by

      ALVARO MORATA has over 250 goals at the highest level of football to his name.But despite his glut of goals and a slew of winner’s medals – which he’s picked up in stints in England, Italy and Spain – the striker has never been given his flowers.Alvaro Morata is arguably the most unsung striker in Spain’s historyCredit: AFPThe 31-year-old pretty much won the lot in two stints with Real MadridCredit: GETTYMorata is best remembered by English footie fans for his torrid spell at ChelseaCredit: GETTYMorata is often ridiculed in Spain but he’s beloved by his national team colleaguesCredit: AFPAnd that’s even the case in his homeland, where he’s won nearly every trophy going.In two stints with Real Madrid, Morata scored 31 goals in 95 appearances and twice tasted La Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League glory.And in 153 appearances for Los Blancos’ crosstown rivals Atletico, he’s found the back of the net 58 times.Nearly a century of goals in 248 appearances for two of Spain’s biggest teams is nothing to be sniffed at.READ MORE ON SPAIN VS ENGLANDNeither is his record for his country, which any aspiring striker would be more than happy to have.In nearly 80 appearances for the three-time Euros winners – 79 to be precise – Morata has found the back of the net 36 times.A record of nearly a goal every other game shouldn’t be overlooked, in particular by England fans basing their opinions on him solely on his disappointing stint with Chelsea.Unlike some high-scoring strikers of yesteryear, Morata hasn’t padded out his record with goals galore against minnow nations.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSEngland vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain.He’s bagged strikes against the creme de la creme of European football, scoring against the likes of Italy, Germany and Portugal.The 31-year-old has also turned up when his country has needed him in tournaments, scoring in four of the last five major competitions.Shocking moment member of staff injures Spain star moments after reaching Euro 2024 final with victory over FranceBut Morata is much more than just a goalscorer for La Roja. The skipper is a workhorse who puts in a shift defensively when required.Defending from the front and tracking back are elements of Morata’s game that are often overlooked by both English and Spanish footie fans.Those elements are just small examples of the immense passion he has for the shirt, which sometimes leaves him on the verge of tears.“We are fortunate to have Alvaro,” said Atletic Bilbao and Spain left-back Dani Vivian. “It’s a privilege.”We couldn’t be more grateful.”The way he defends is his way of living every day. You couldn’t be more committed.”He finishes the games almost in tears because he has such a huge desire for everything to go well, which he shows on the pitch.”Our forward is our first defender and that speaks highly of him.”READ MORE SUN STORIESThe public praise Morata often receives from his team-mates is a testament to how much they value him – unlike some Spain fans.But his often vocal detractors will be silenced and forced to finally give him his flowers if he leads Spain to yet more Euros glory against England on Sunday night.Even Alvaro Morata’s staunchest critics will be forced to give him his flowers if he guides Spain to a fourth European ChampionshipCredit: GETTY More

    • 263 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Extra flights laid on for Euros final begin selling out in HOURS with Three Lions fans snapping up seats at £600-a-pop

      by

      EXTRA flights laid on for England fans descending on Berlin for the Euro 2024 final have already started to sell out – despite seats being £600-a-pop.British Airways confirmed two more flights will operate from London to Berlin over the weekend after thousands of fans tried to book a trip to Germany after Wednesday’s historic win.A huge number of extra flights are set to be laid on as thousands of England fans descend on Berlin for the Euro 2024 final on SundayCredit: PAThousands of elated England fans are set to rock up to Berlin for the Euros finalCredit: GettyBA’s website experienced a 1,000 per cent increase in searches for flights to Berlin after Ollie Watkin’s last gasp winnerCredit: RexThe first new BA flight will leave Heathrow at 7.50am on Sunday before arriving in the German capital at 10.40am – just hours before kick-off. All seats on board reportedly sold out in less than two hours of them going on sale.The second flight, via an Airbus A320, has a limited number of tickets left with economy seats selling for a whopping £613 and business class being £781.Fans will leave the UK at 1.50pm and arrive just in time for the mammoth clash.read more in Euro 2024The identical economy ticket in August will cost travellers just £78.BA say the extra flights allows for a whopping 30 per cent more passengers heading to Berlin.The airline’s website experienced a 1,000 per cent increase in searches for flights to Berlin on Wednesday evening.Neil Chernoff, BA’s chief planning and strategy officer said: “It’s a huge game and everyone at British Airways hopes England can get over the line and bring it home.”Most read in Euro 2024Elated England fans spent the night scrambling to join a ‘Berlin Airlift’ heading to the game against Spain.Up to 50,000 supporters are expected to race to the Three Lions’ first ever final on foreign soil.England gets ready for almighty Euro 2024 final party with fans set to spend £800MILLION on beer and pizzaIt comes as desperate England fans have already been priced out of attending with ticket prices soaring since Ollie Watkin’s winner against the Netherlands.Leaving those who couldn’t grab a gold dust ticket already planning to jet off to a sunny location such as Benidorm to enjoy the game.Following England’s last gasp screamer fans were quick to try and snap up tickets, flights and hotels ahead of a historic Sunday 14.Ticket prices for Sunday’s final flew up on the re-sale market with the most expensive seat selling for an incredible £78,000-a-pair.Some of the lowest-priced tickets – known as “Fans First” – are now sat at £4,400 – 25 times more expensive than the £85 face value they’re worth through UEFA.Meaning the cost has soared by 2,456 per cent, according to data from KingCasinoBonus.UEFA have warned fans about buying tickets from outside sellers as they said: “We urge fans not to purchase tickets on the secondary market.”Cost of hotels, flights and tickets to the Euro 2024 finalUP to 50,000 supporters are expected to race to the Three Lions’ first ever final on foreign soil – with the cost quickly adding up for fans.Tickets*Most expensive ticket – £39,000Premium resell ticket – £5,500 to £16,600Category 1 ticket – £3,100 to £6,600Category 2 ticket – £2,200 to £4,400Category 3 ticket – £1,700 to £3,500Fans First ticket – £2,045 to £4,400HotelsHoliday Inn Berlin – £345 for Sunday nightCourtyard Berlin City Centre – £606 for Sunday nightAirbnb – Upwards of £117-a-nightFlightsEasyJet flights, UK airports to Berlin – £918British Airways, Heathrow to Berlin – £613 to £781*Data from KingCasinoBonusNot only do fans need to fork out a small fortune on tickets to the match but they also need to pay for flights and hotels.Joyous England fans have spent the night scrambling to join a ‘Berlin Airlift’ heading to Sunday’s final against Spain – with flights swiftly soaring up in price.With 21 EasyJet flights to Berlin from Birmingham, Bristol, Luton and Gatwick between Friday and the match also being fully booked.The remaining EasyJet flights going from Gatwick to Berlin in the next few days are priced at a whopping £918.The same seat will set back punters just £167 a week later.Hotel prices in Berlin have also rocketed with a one-night stay at a Holiday Inn in Berlin costing £345 on Sunday night.Over £200 more expensive than the same room a week later.The Courtyard Berlin City Centre is also charging £606 for Sunday night in its cheapest room – but just £137 the following Sunday.England face Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.England overcame the Dutch in the semi-final at the Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday in a monumental game for Southgate’s side.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Spanish reached the final by dumping out France in the first semi-final 2-1.Randal Kolo Muani had given the French the lead before goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo sent Spain through.England fever has gripped most of the country in recent weeksCredit: RexGareth Southgate is looking to make history on Sunday in England’s first final on foreign soilCredit: RexUp to 50,000 England fans are set to embark on a journey to Berlin airport More

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Who is Alvaro Morata’s wife Alice Campello and do they have children? Meet the Spain & Atlético Madrid striker’s family

      by

      ALICE Campello is an Italian model and fashion designer married to Spanish footballer Álvaro Morata.She is currently in Germany supporting her husband at the Euro 2024 championships. Here is everything you need to know about her and their relationship. Alice Campello at the Euro 2024 semi final supporting her husband Campello poses in the Lavezzi Islands The married couple pose in Ibiza just after their wedding Alice poses in this selifeWho is Alice Campello?Alice Campello is an Italian model and fashion designer.She was born on March 5, 1995, in Mestre, Italy.Alice has been successful in the fashion industry, with her own brand of bags called Avril Gau.She has collaborated with several high-profile brands such as Dior and Chanel.READ MORE ON ALVARO MORATAThe couple met in 2016 when Morata was playing for Juventus.Alice said about their meeting:“He wrote to me (on Instagram).”I answered him after a long time and, in the end, we met.”The couple started dating shortly after and on December 10, 2016, Morata proposed on stage during a magic show in Madrid.read more in footballThey tied the knot in 2017 and got married in Venice in front of a star studded audience including Isco and Simone Zaza.Since their wedding the pair have welcomed four children.Chelsea flop Morata branded ‘so unintentionally funny’ as he gets stuck in flag during Atletico Madrid celebrationTheir twins, Alessandro and Leonardo, were born on July 29, 2018.As a tribute to them, Morata changed his shirt number from 9 to 29 at Chelsea.In 2020, they welcomed their third son Edoardo.And in 2023 their daughter, Bella, was born. Alice Campello with their youngest daughter Bella at the Euro 2024 The pair welcomed twins in 2018Alice suffered complications during that pregnancy and ended up in intensive care after the birth.Alvaro said: “Alice has left intensive care and is in a room doing much better and recovering with Bella.“I am still coming to terms with what happened.“Thank you Alice for teaching me a lesson once again.You’re the best thing that has happened to me and my life without you would have no meaning.Alvaro Morata’s message to his wife”You are without doubt a fighter and an example for me.“These have definitely been the worst days of my life but I’m fortunate to have you in it.“You’re the best thing that has happened to me and my life without you would have no meaning.“Thank you to everyone who has been close to us and once again thank you to everyone at the University Hospital of Navarra for their delicacy and treatment.”Alice has been see on the sidelines supporting Morata in Germany at the Euro 2024 finals.Spain advanced to the final and is playing England on Sunday July 14, 2024 at 8pm.It is yet unclear if he will play in the final after he injured himself during the semi-final celebrations. The model frequently uploads raunchy pictures to Instagram Alvaro Morata and Alice Campello enjoyed their wedding in VeniceCredit: Flynet Pictures The model has 1 million followers on InstagramDoes Alice Campello use Twitter or Instagram?Alice is an Instagram star, boasting 3.4 million followers on the social media site.She uploads multiple photos most days, and can be found at @alicecampello.Her Twitter account has the same handle as her Instagram account, however she is not active on it. The couple pose in a photo uploaded days after their wedding The couple pose with their two dogsMeet Spain’s Euro 2024 WagsSpain Wags range from teenager sweethearts to recently blossoming love stories.Alice Campello (Alvaro Morata’s wife) Alice Campello is an Italian model and fashion designer and has been married to Alvaro Morata since 2017. The pair has four children together. Sara Botello (Aymeric Laporte’s wife) Sara Botello is a trained dancer, having performed ballet and contemporary dance in shows around Spain. She married Aymeric Laporte in 2023 and the pair have two children together. Tatiana Trouboul (David Raya’s girlfriend) Tatiana Trouboul is the girlfriend of David Raya. Before moving to London with him, she worked in a nightclub. Now she is working as a model. Claudia Rodriguez (Marc Cucurella’s girlfriend) Claudia and Marc met in Barcelona after he messaged her on Instagram. The pair has third children together and have been together since six years. Lola Liberal ( Mikel Merino’s wife) Lola Liberal is a blogger and loves to share loving moments with ex-Newcastle star Mikel Merino. The pair married in January 2024. Laura Cascante (Rodrigo Hernández’s girlfriend) Laura Iglesias is a medical student and is training to become a surgeon. The pair met during university. Laura Abla Schmitt (Dani Olmo’s girlfriend) Laura Abla Schmitt and Dani Olmo made their relationship public on New Year’s Day in 2024. Read more about the Wags supporting Spain at Euro 2024 here More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Teddy Sheringham tips Premier League legend to take over from Gareth Southgate as England manager after Euro 2024

      by

      ENGLAND legend Teddy Sheringham has told the FA to “break the bank” and get Pep Guardiola to replace Gareth Southgate.The former striker, 58, and the rest of the country are gearing up to cheer on our heroic Three Lions against Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday.The FA want Gareth Southgate to stay on as England managerCredit: GettyTeddy Sheringham knows exactly who he would go for as a replacement for himCredit: AFPEngland booked their spot in the Berlin showpiece with a 2-1 victory over Holland on Wednesday.Super-sub Ollie Watkins scored the 90th-minute winner in what many believe was the country’s greatest sporting moment for generations.Southgate has faced plenty of criticism throughout England’s journey to the final from both fans and pundits alike.But this week’s result silenced his critics as he became the first England boss to lead them to two major finals in addition to also reaching the 2018 World Cup semi-final.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Southgate will secure the first men’s major title in 58 years with a triumph over Spain – but even if he does not then the FA want him to remain in the job.Southgate’s current contract expires in December, but FA chief executive Mark Bullingham plans to hold fresh talks with him at the end of Euro 2024.Any new deal would take him through to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico – which would mark his 10th year in the job.Others believe that Southgate, who has overseen 101 games, could step down after this summer’s tournament.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnd Sheringham, who was part of the same England team that reached the semi-final of Euro ‘96 as Southgate, knows exactly who should come in should he depart.And it is someone who comes from Spain – the same nation looking to inflict heartbreak on Southgate and England in 48 hours’ time.England fans who can’t make it to Germany vow to flock to SPAIN for Euros final & dub clash the ‘Battle of Benidorm’Sheringham told Online Poker: “If I were in the FA and given the choice, I’d break the bank for Pep Guardiola.“I don’t know whether he’d like to take the job – if he was given the opportunity he’d probably have a stab at the Spain job, although they seem to be in a good place with Luis de la Fuente at the moment.“We’ve obviously never seen him manage a national side before, but he’s worth taking the risk on.“He’d be my pick to replace Gareth Southgate – the FA could realistically afford it, so what’s there to lose?”You can say it hasn’t been pretty, but England are in the final… and we’re peaking at just the right time, says Jack WilshereAFTER what has been a tough tournament of times, what an opportunity Gareth Southgate and his team will have to end in the best possible way, writes Jack Wilshere.We might like a team that played better football. But it’s a results business.Germany, Italy, France, Portugal and of course Holland would love to be where we are.People will say we’re lucky because we’re on this side of the draw.But we won the group. France didn’t and then ran into Spain.You can say it wasn’t that pretty, but we’re there.Gareth and his coaches won’t have been happy with some of the performances.But I did like the way Gareth and his team have dealt with it.There was no panic coming out of the camp.Everyone gave the same message: ‘We know we can better, but we’re here still.’And on Sunday they will be in Berlin to play Spain.They will probably have to produce two halves of football as good as the first against Holland to beat them.We have improved as the tournament has gone on and that is how you win things.You want to peak in the final.If Gareth can lead England to that major trophy we’ve all been waiting for, it will be the perfect answer to the critics and a brilliant day for us all.Read Jack Wilshere’s England vs Holland verdict in full.Or check out all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euros 2024 opinions…And when pressed on whether Southgate can lead us to a first trophy since 1966, Sheringham said: “It’s going to be a really tough game, but I’m expecting us to win.“We’ve seen how good the Spanish have been all tournament, they’ve probably been the best side out of the lot.READ MORE SUN STORIES“All of England’s players all over the pitch need to put in nine out of 10 performances, then collectively we need to be at our best as well.“I’m hoping that can be enough for us to win by the odd goal – I’m going with 2-1 to England.”The England legend urged the FA to ‘break the bank’ for Pep GuardiolaCredit: AFPEngland vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain. More

    • 213 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Alvaro Morata most-popular recruit ahead of Dream Team Euros finale – every key stat for Matchday 7

      by

      JUST one fixture remains in Dream Team Euros, the small matter of the final between Spain and England.Who will reign supreme, the free-flowing, tactically sound entertainers of Europe or Gareth Southgate and the Power of Friendship?With Mini Leagues on the line worldwide, gaffers should be as informed as possible ahead of Matchday 7.Here’s everything you need to know.Many gaffers will pair Alvaro Morata with Harry Kane for Sunday’s finalCredit: Dream TeamAlvaro Morata (£5.5m) is comfortably the most-popular recruit ahead of Sunday’s 7pm deadline.La Roja’s captain is expected to start in Berlin despite an unfortunate accidental collision with a security guard during the post-match celebrations following his side’s semi-final win over France.The 31-year-old has scored just one goal at this tournament but he’s also provided two assists and he’s an easy selection as the first-choice centre-forward for the best attacking unit of the summer.Many Dream Team Euros bosses will be pairing Morata with Harry Kane (£7.5m) up top.The Three Lions’ all-time top scorer has looked sluggish but it’s simply a fact that no player has scored more goals at this tournament.Whether he’s fatigued or carrying an injury, his goalscoring pedigree is unquestionable, as evidenced by his poacher’s efforts against Denmark and Slovakia – plus a trademark unreachable penalty against Netherlands.Most read in FootballKane scored England’s equaliser from the penalty spot in the semi-finalCredit: GettyOllie Watkins (£3.5m) and Ivan Toney (£3m) have made positive impacts off the bench but if Kane can jog, he’ll start.The Bayern Munich marksman currently features in 64.8% of teams but he’s not the most-selected player ahead of the final, that honour belongs to Jude Bellingham (£6m).England’s No10 appears in 70.4% of teams at the time of writing.Like Kane, he hasn’t been at his very best this tournament and is seemingly knackered at the end of a long season but he’s provided moments of magic when required – his overhead kick against Slovakia being the jewel in the crown.It’s worth noting that Bellingham has earned the most bonus points (10) among England and Spain players so far.In terms of total points, Dani Olmo (£4m) leads the way among the finalists with 48.Class actCredit: GettyThe RB Leipzig playmaker has only started two games and yet he’s the current front runner for the Golden Boot having scored three goals and provided two assists.He will start as Spain’s most-advanced midfielder following Pedri’s (£4m) injury in the quarter-finals.MOST DREAM TEAM EUROS POINTS AMONG SPAIN AND ENGLAND PLAYERS:48 pts – Dani Olmo (£4m)42 pts – Fabian Ruiz (£3.5m)41 pts – Lamine Yamal (£4m)39 pts – Jude Bellingham (£6m)37 pts – Harry Kane (£7.5m)Dani Carvajal (£4m) was suspended for the semi-final after his cynical second yellow card against Germany in the quarters but he’s available for the final and will surely reclaim his place at right-back for Luis de la Fuente’s side.Centre-back Robin Le Normand will probably come back in too after serving a suspension of his own.In terms of viable cheap options for those with budgetary issues, Declan Rice (£3m), Kobbie Mainoo (£3m) and Marc Guehi (£3m) are all expected to start for England while Spain’s left-back Marc Cucurella (£3m) has offered excellent value for money since Matchday 1.Cucurella has played well at left-back for Spain this summerCredit: GettyEXPECTED STARTING LINE-UPS:SPAIN: Unai Simon, Dani Carvajal, Robin Le Normand, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, Nico WIlliams, Alvaro Morata.READ MORE SUN STORIESENGLAND: Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Bukayo Saka, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Kieran Trippier, Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane.Dream Euros managers need to lock in their transfers, captain and their last Booster (if available) before Sunday’s 7pm deadline. More

    • 250 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      I lost my brother, 60, during Euro 2024 – tournament football has been a welcome distraction for my bewildered family

      by

      ONE of the last conversations I had with my eldest brother was a week or so into this European Championship.The group stage was at its frenetic height. Three games per day, wall-to-wall football.Andy Dillon has bravely opened up about the death of his brotherCredit: Griffiths PhotographersAndy lost his brother John during the EurosThe first fortnight of any major international tournament suspends truth.It gifts escapism from routine, the sagging effect of everyday life that afflicts the majority of people from competing nations.Why Slovakia versus Ukraine at 2 o’clock in the afternoon is suddenly unmissable is a mystery, and should remain so.But it’s not really about the game. Who cares if it finishes goalless without a shot on target?READ MORE ON EURO 2024What’s great is that it’s now OK for work to be a thing you do between fixtures.My brother called it ‘Christmas for blokes’. Let’s forgive him the terribly un-PC phraseology.The festive season helps us forget what waits outside the front door, at the end of the commute to the office or on the building site when it’s comedown time. But it’s just 12 days.This Sunday, when England discover whether or not they are European champions for the first time, it will be a month since hosts Germany kicked off Euro 2024 against Scotland.Most read in Euro 2024Anyone missed real life? Four weeks of different flags, solemn national anthems, joyful ones, weird ones. Players nobody has heard of. Tiny nations standing next to giants.Bore draws, beer showers.England vs Netherlands Player RatingsInternational football tournaments whisk us away. And it’s where organisations like Uefa and Fifa still hold the trump card over the increasingly powerful clubs.During our chat, John, formerly chief sports writer on one of Fleet Street’s grandest titles, noted how the depressing themes of Profitability and Sustainability Rules and Financial Fair Play have virtually disappeared from the news agenda.When European Championships and World Cups hit town, it’s not about money… who has the most or where it came from.Instead of shady owners, spending caps, points deductions and appeal processes, there is the simple enjoyment of pitting one country’s best footballers against another’s. The dying art of the level playing field.There is still the bloody nuisance of VAR but you can’t have everything.Of course, with England stumbling their way to the final, with overnight heroes like mums’ favourite Ollie Watkins and the unifying cause, it’s been good news of late.But even if our national team had crashed out early, there would be plenty of football left to keep the fairytale alive.Emerging stars like Spain’s young sensation Lamine Yamal, the demise of Cristiano Ronaldo, the remarkable achievement of debutants Georgia, the crazy Turks, the love for wartorn Ukraine.Plus, in millions of households like mine, a meticulously-planned kitchen sweepstake keeping interest levels up, right to the finish line.We lost my big brother John just days after the group stage concluded.Snatched away at just 60, not long after he watched England labour to victory over Slovakia a week last Sunday.The follow-on game of Spain versus Georgia would have been on the TV bolted to the wall above the fireplace, at his modest home when the moment came.It’s tough. John’s death leaves behind a bewildered family, all of us too numb to be heartbroken yet. My parents are beyond grief.Dad, 88 last week, doesn’t obsess about football like his eldest son did but in recent years has watched more and more games on mainstream channels, with subtitles. That means mainly internationals.His interest blossomed hand-in-hand with England’s Lionesses progressing through Euro 2022.And since the worst thing ever to happen to him occurred a week or so ago, he and my mum, Sylvie, have found some respite watching Euro 2024.Quite a few games but mostly England.On Wednesday, dad was in his dressing gown with ITV on by 7pm. He then got roughly three hours in which to feel vaguely human again while drinking his customary tin of John Smith’s.Last Saturday, my folks brightened for a while sitting through the Switzerland game — an excruciating experience that in normal circumstances would see them switch over to watch The Chase within 20 minutes.But these aren’t normal circumstances.They never are when it’s tournament time and hopefully it stays that way forever.A 24-team Euros or 48-country World Cup looks wildly overblown but maybe it’s a good thing if it keeps the bad stuff at bay for ordinary people.It’s an idea we should keep firmly in mind as the money-mad clubs, increasingly dependent on the income stream from subscription TV and greedy for more, take football further out of reach.Greatest English sporting moments since 1966David Platt’s last-minute extra-time winner vs Belgium at Italia 90Paul Gascoigne’s wondergoal vs Scotland at Euro 96Jonny Wilkinson’s drop goal to win the 2003 Rugby World CupAshes victory over Australia in 2005Super Saturday at London 2012Ben Stokes’ heroics to win 2019 Cricket World Cup finalLionesses winning 2022 Women’s Euros at WembleyKit shtick a bit ponyYOU could almost hear Dick Van Dyke’s cartoon accent as West Ham launched their latest attempt to persuade fans to part with their cash with the new ‘Cockney’ away kit.To most people it looks like a regular black shirt but, apparently, it’s inspired by East End tradition.It includes woven-in images of the iconic St Mary-le-Bow Church. Folklore dictates only those born within earshot of the church’s bells can claim to be true Cock-er-nees.Which is weird because North London’s Arsenal are a mile closer to Bow bells than West Ham.Throw in most of the Hammers fanbase has now emigrated from East London to the A13 corridor and you can only assume that they must have bloody good hearing.It retails at £75, by the way. That’s a ton take away a pony to you, Guv.It’s a proper problemIN this column just a few weeks ago we highlighted fears for the future of Chelsea’s renowned academy.There is an increasing flow of teenage talent coming into the club from outside sources, many from South America.So it’s no surprise to us that youth football guru Neil Bath has decided to step down after roughly 30 years at Stamford Bridge.Most recently, Bath oversaw the development of players such as Reece James, Mason Mount, Trevoh Chalobah and Fikayo Tomori.READ MORE SUN STORIESHis exit follows the departure of Under-21 coach Mark Robinson, who took a pay cut to manage League One Burton Albion.Both men are lifelong Blues fans but feel their futures lie elsewhere. Many supporters are concerned that, under American co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali, their club is losing the identity which coined the phrase ‘proper Chels’. More