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      Who is Gareth Southgate’s wife Alison? What we know about the England football manager’s spouse

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      GARETH SOUTHGATE is about to lead the England side into the final of Euro 2024 against Spain on Sunday.Read more about the wife of the England boss, who’s by his side as he hopes to lead the Three Lions to glory. Gareth Southgate with his wife Alison at WimbledonWho is Gareth Southgate’s wife Alison and when did they get married?Southgate and Alison met when the now England boss was a trainee at Crystal Palace.She was working as a shop assistant, and Gareth used to say he was visiting so he could add more to his wardrobe.Really though, it was the girl behind the till he was there to see.Whilst she was in a relationship at the time they first met, Gareth wasted no time swooping in when he heard Alison had split up with her boyfriend.He handed her his number as soon as he found out – and she called him that same night.In his 2003 autobiography, Gareth revealed in the early days they used to sneak to a Tesco car park for dates to keep their new relationship secret from her ex.The pair eventually got married in July 1997 near Southgate’s family home in Crawley. Southgate and his wife Alison were married back in July 1997Credit: PA:Press AssociationAlison prefers to keep out of the limelight – however she’s appeared by her husband’s side on many occasions. Gareth Southgate and his wife Alison at Wimbledon in 2019How many children do the couple have?The pair have two children, Mia and Flynn.Southgate has talked about the importance of maintaining a normal parent-child relationship, despite his time-sapping and full-on job. Gareth and Alison Southgate at An Audience with Adele in 2021Credit: James Veysey/ShutterstockHe told the Standard in 2017: “Over the last couple of weeks I’ve just had a nice time spending it with the family though, and for me that’s important because my kids are 18 and 14, and their development is as important for me as anything else in my life.”You do have to try to find a balance because my focus inevitably gets drawn towards making this team as successful as we can and driving them to be the best team in the world. But I’m also a dad and a husband.”Gareth Southgate2017MORE ON SOUTHGATEWho did Gareth Southgate play for?The England manager retired as a player in 2006 and made 57 appearances for England.Southgate started his career in the youth set up at Crystal Palace before making his senior team debut in 1988.He made 152 appearances for the Eagles before moving to Aston Villa in 1995 where he made 192 and then he completed his career at Middlesbrough –  again with over 150 appearances for the club. Gareth Southgate heads a goal for Middlesborough against Liverpool in 2002His achievements as a player include the 1993-1994 First Division title with Palace and coming a runner-up in the 2000 FA Cup when Villa lost 1-0 to Chelsea.He went on to manage Middlesbrough from 2006-2009 and the England U21 from 2013-2016.He became manager of England on September 27, 2016, after the departure of Sam Allardyce.He’s got them as far as the final of Euro 2024, where they’ll face Spain.It’s the fourth major tournament he’d led the Three Lions for, and they got as far as the final of Euro 2020/21 before losing out to Italy.A win on Sunday will be the England men’s team’s first tournament win since 1966 – is it finally coming home? More

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      Keir Starmer hints at a bank holiday if England win Euros final against Spain on Sunday

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      HOPES of an extra Bank Holiday to celebrate an England Euros win rose today as Sir Keir Starmer vowed to mark any victory. Fans dared to dream of a day off as calls for a national celebration grew should the Three Lions romp home in the final on Sunday.England fans could get a Bank Holiday if we win the EurosCredit: PAFans were in full voice last night at the Netherlands triumphCredit: GettyThe new PM said he did not want to “jinx” the historic clash but would not rule out let giving millions have time off work to revel in a glory.He was speaking after the “fantastic” win last night while he was in America for a NATO summit.And the football-mad premier was asked about comments he made about granting a Bank Holiday if the Lionesses won the World Cup last year.He said: “We should certainly mark the occasion, I don’t want to jinx it. I went to the last Euros final, I don’t want to go through that again.”I don’t want to jinx anything but we must mark it in some way. But the most important thing is getting it over the line on Sunday.”He spoke about how he watched some of the game despite being at the defence and security summit in Washington DC.He added:  “It was fantastic. I managed to pop out from one of my sessions for just five minutes which is when I saw Harry Kane get the first goal.  I missed the second one but it was brilliant.”So on we go now, great chance. I’ve always said this team were going to go all the way so I’m really, really pleased and just good luck for Sunday.”Most read in Euro 2024The prospect of Sir Keir granting a Bank Holiday are quite slim as they come at great cost to the economy.The campaign for a Bank Holiday roared into life following last night’s nerve-shredding 2-1 win over the Netherlands.Adele fans spot her celebrating England’s Euros win in Rio Ferdinand’s video Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey was first out of the blocks today to throw his weight behind the Bank Holiday bonanza.He said: “The Three Lions are playing their first ever final on foreign soil, and if they bring it home, the government should bring home a bank holiday to celebrate.”England deserves the chance to celebrate a once in a generation event.”Who knows we might even get decent weather.”Sir Keir previously called for a Bank Holiday should the Lionesses have won the last women’s World Cup.He said: “It’s almost 60 years since England won the World Cup. “I’m never complacent about anything… but there should be a celebratory bank holiday if the Lionesses bring it home.”Roar them onIf you want to help the England team to Euro 2024 glory… here’s your chance.On Sunday they will face Spain in the biggest game of their lives and we are giving YOU and your children the opportunity to send messages of support.Tell us who your favourite player is, tell us how you plan to watch them and send us pictures of your little ones in their England kit helping the Three Lions get to glory.To send our boys – including manager Gareth Southgate, captain Harry Kane, goalie Jordan Pickford and our goal-scoring genius Ollie Watkins – a message and photo simply sundayfeatures@the-sun.co.uk.  Please send us your phone number too so we can get in touch.    More

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      Watch adorable moment Aston Villa star’s son sings Ollie Watkins song after England hero’s goal against Netherlands

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      ASTON VILLA’S Emi Buendia’s son showed his appreciation for his dad’s team-mate by singing his song after his wondergoal against the Netherlands.The striker was brought on for Harry Kane last night and only had four touches – one of which was to fire the ball into the bottom corner at the death.Emi Buendia’s son sang an Ollie Watkins chant after he scored the winner against the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finalCredit: Instagram @em10buendiaBuendia’s son sung ‘Ollie Watkins du du du’Credit: Instagram @em10buendiaWatkins scored a 90th-minute winner on Wednesday night to see England face Spain on SundayEmi Buendia and Ollie Watkins are team-mates at Aston VillaCredit: EPAWatkins’ 90th-minute winner means the Three Lions march on to Berlin to face Spain on Sunday.But his sensational impact seemed unlikely ahead of the semi-final as he had only featured for 20 minutes off the bench in England’s group-stage draw with Denmark.And after his spectacular finish Villa team-mate and midfielder Buendia filmed his son chanting “Ollie Watkins du du du. Ollie Watkins du du du,” – a song commonly sung at Villa Park.One fan said the heartfelt clip was “the best thing you’ll see today”.READ MORE ON EURO 2024While another added: “Mini Buendia knows ball.”A third then put: “So bloody cute.”And a fourth then wept: “The most adorable thing.”England had plenty of concerns against the Dutch as they fell behind inside seven minutes.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSXavi Simons scored a sublime goal after dispossessing Declan Rice in midfield.However, the goal sparked the Three Lions into life, and they were level eleven minutes later.England stars celebrate reaching Euro 2024 final with Wags as Ollie Watkins kisses girlfriend after late winnerKane won a controversial penalty after being caught by Denzel Dumfries.The captain took the responsibility and converted from the spot with a tidy finish into the bottom left corner.Holland came out fighting in the second half to try and find a winner but it was not to be.Celebrating after being awarded MOTM Watkins walked into the stands to meet his loved ones.He was spotted sharing a big kiss with his partner Ellie Alderson and hugged another loved one as those around him applauded after his heroics.Prior to the semi-final, Watkins’ mum urged Gareth Southgate to play her son more as she gave an X-rated rant at a pub.Watkins is a product of the Exeter City academy and made his breakthrough at the club, winning the EFL Young Player of the Year award, before departing in 2017 for Brentford. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe had a successful three-year spell at the club, culminating in being the joint top-scorer in the 2019–20 Championship and being named Championship Player of the Year in 2020.The striker then signed for Villa in September 2020 and was just awarded Premier League Playmaker of the Season after scoring 19 goals and creating 13 assists this term.England 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

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      ITV gain early edge over BBC for Euro 2024 final as broadcasting coverage plans are revealed

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      FOOTBALL fans up and down the country are gearing up to see England in the Euro 2024 final this weekend – but must decide on which channel to watch it.Ahead of the Berlin clash against Spain, plans have been announced for the broadcasting coverage.England will play Spain in the Euro 2024 final on SundayCredit: AlamyITV have the upper hand for the broadcastCredit: RexBBC will be starting their coverage 30 minutes after ITVCredit: BBCBoth ITV and the BBC will show the game, unlike how they have each held individual rights for the fixtures during the rest of the tournament.But despite the two broadcasting giants sharing the coverage, ITV have already gained an advantage over their competitors.ITV will have begin their build-up to the big game 30 minutes before the BBC start theirs.The Beeb will begin their broadcast on BBC iPlayer and BBC One at 7pm, while fans can watch ITV’s pundits discuss the game from 6:30pm.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLFans had their eyes glued to their screens last night as Ollie Watkins scored a 90th minute winner to book England’s place in Sunday’s final.In fact, a peak of 21.6 MILLION people watched the Three Lions get the better of Holland on ITV1 and ITVX.That’s the highest peak audience on a single channel since December 2022, when the nation watched England’s exit form the Qatar World Cup at the hands of France.England will be hoping they can lift the first men’s trophy since 1966 on Sunday in Berlin, after suffering heartbreak at Wembley in 2021.Most read in Euro 2024BBC and ITV’s Euro 2024 line up in fullHere’s how each channel will line-up:BBC presenters:Gary Lineker, Alex Scott, Gabby Logan and Mark ChapmanITV presenters:Mark Pougatch and Laura Woods BBC pundits:Alan Shearer, Micah Richards, Rio Ferdinand, Ellen White, Frank Lampard, Ashley Williams, Wayne Rooney, Joe Hart, Cesc Fabregas, Thomas Frank, David Moyes, Rachel Corsie and James McFaddenITV pundits:Ian Wright, Roy Keane, Gary Neville, Karen Carney, Graeme Souness, Eni Aluko, Ange Postecoglou, Danny Rohl and Christina UnkelBBC commentators:Guy Mowbray, Robyn Cowen, Vicki Sparks, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower and Jonathan PearceITV commentators:Sam Matterface, Clive Tyldesley, Seb Hutchinson, Pien Meulensteen and Joe SpeightBBC co-commentators:Danny Murphy, Martin Keown, Jermaine Jenas and James McFaddenITV co-commentators:Lee Dixon, Ally McCoist and Andros TownsendEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBut they can be proud of the efforts so far as they have already made history.Gareth Southgate’s brave lions have become the first men’s team in England history to make a major final on foreign soil.Watch Roy Keane scream and swear at Gary Neville as he’s left on the floor during BBC vs ITV football match at Euro 2024While Southgate himself has become the first manager to reach two major finals while in charge of the nation.It won’t be easy on Sunday as they take on an in-form Spain side who have looked the best team at Euro 2024.Ollie Watkins booked England’s spot in the final with a dramatic late winnerCredit: GettyMillions of England fans had their eyes glued to the action last nightCredit: PAEngland 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.  More

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      Watch Rio Ferdinand celebrate Ollie Watkins’ England winner surrounded by A-listers and football royalty including Adele

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      RIO FERDINAND was in exclusive company as he celebrated England’s win over the Netherlands.The pundit shared a video of the aftermath of Ollie Watkins’ late winner.Rio Ferdinand celebrates England’s winnerCredit: instagram @rioferdy5Arsene Wenger fancied a chat about the goal, while Fabio Capell sat behind smilingCredit: instagram @rioferdy5Adele gave her vocal chords a workoutCredit: instagram @rioferdy5And fans spotted several famous faces in the footage.The pundit was sat next to fellow former Three Lions centre-back Sol Campbell.Ferdinand, 45, exclaimed: ” What did I say? What did I say.”He then gets a tap on the shoulder from legendary Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, who unsurprisingly seemed to want to talk tactics.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Former England manager Fabio Capello was in the row behind.But the best was saved for last as Ferdinand’s Instagram video showed superstar songstress Adele in high spirits in front of him.Ed Sheeran was also in the stadium, while Olly Murs watched at BoxPark Wembley.BBC pundit Ferdinand was free to enjoy the game in the stands as ITV were showing the semi-final.Most read in SportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut Rio will be back on your screens with both broadcasters granted rights to the final.That ratings battle will take place at 8pm as England face Spain looking to end a 58-year trophy drought.Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions started the tournament slowly but have begun to improve in the knockout phase.They are now one game from writing themselves into the history books.But in their way are Spain, who have been the best team at the tournament and go into the weekend as favourites.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…Watkins earned the plaudits last night as he fired home the winning goal in the 90th minute.However, Jude Bellingham starred after the final whistle as he made a classy gesture to the heartbroken Dutch stars.He initially fell to his knees and was congratulated by Anthony Gordon and Trent Alexander-Arnold.The Real Madrid man was then spotted shaking hands and hugging each of his opponents.Inside humble Ollie Watkins’ remarkable rise from non-league to England’s Euro 2024 heroNINE summers ago Ollie Watkins went on a lads’ holiday after helping to save Conference South side Weston-Super-Mare from relegation, writes Dan King.Now he’s just fired England into the Euro 2024 final with a sensational 90th-minute winner.And even helped Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League last season.Watkins arrived on the Somerset coast as a teenaged striker on loan from League Two Exeter in December 2014.His 10 goals in 24 league games were a big factor in stopping Weston from slipping into the sixth tier for the first time in their history – and in giving them something to celebrate on a post-season trip to Spain.But it was also his workrate and attitude that earned him the respect of the dressing room, and helped him take the first significant steps on the road to stardom.Ryan Northmore, boss of Weston at the time, said: “His goals saved the club from relegation. But he contributed much more than his goals, which is really important when you’re scrapping away for your lives.“He wasn’t just sat at the top of the pitch waiting for the ball to come. He would roll his sleeves up and get involved in all aspects of the game.”Days after joining, Watkins made an instant impact with an equaliser against Farnborough.Team-mate Tom Jordan said: “He always struck me as the kind of lad who had his eyes wide open to different aspects of the game.“Sometimes you would have loan lads come in from a League club to non-League and they would be looking at you like they were doing you a favour.“His attitude was very different. He was coming in thinking, ‘I’m going to learn from this experience’.”It was during Watkins’ spell at Weston that the then Walsall boss Dean Smith spotted him.Smith would later take the striker to Brentford and bring him to Villa, where he has reached new levels under current boss Unai Emery.But Watkins has never forgotten the part that Weston played in his rise to the top.One of his Villa shirts is on display there, he has spoken to young players coming through and happily tells the local press how important and enjoyable his time at the club was.And he even helped fund an end-of-season boys’ trip to Spain due to his fines for being late – although he was allowed to join the rest of the squad.Read all about Ollie Watkins’ incredible rise in full… More

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      England set for huge cash windfall if they beat Spain with Ollie Watkins’ Euro 2024 semi-final goal banking MILLIONS

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      ENGLAND’S Euro 2024 run has already banked £20.4m for the FA.And that will go up by a further £2.5m if they lift the Henri Delaunay trophy in Berlin on Sunday.England have won over £20million at the EurosCredit: GettyGareth Southgate’s men will fall just £840,000 short of the maximum they could have earned from the tournament should England win their first trophy on foreign soil.That is because of the group stage draws against Denmark and Slovenia.England earned £7.8m for qualification, while the opening win over Serbia was worth £840,000.The two draws each earned £420,000 – the two teams shared the victory bonus – with qualification for the last 16 adding  £1.26m.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Reaching the last eight was worth £2.1m and beating Switzerland brought a further £3.4m.And Ollie Watkins’ stoppage time goal to see off the Dutch meant an extra £4.2m for reaching the final.The difference between being runners-up and winning the Final is an extra £2.5m.England face Spain in the Euro 2024 final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Spanish reached the last two after beating France 2-1 in the semi-final.The nation has won the competition three times in its history, with the first coming in 1964.Watch Jude Bellingham’s classy reaction to heartbroken Holland stars after England’s incredible last-gasp Euro 2024 win England’s route to the Euro 2024 finalENGLAND began their Euros final campaign in Germany on June 16.They then won the tournament back to back in 2008 and 2012.England made it to the final after seeing off Holland at the Signal Iduna Park.Harry Kane’s penalty cancelled out Xavi Simons’ opener before Ollie Watkins stole the headlines with a 90th-minute winner.A supercomputer has backed the Spanish to make it four tournament triumphs on Sunday.It suggested that England only have a 45.3 per cent chance of winning compared to Spain’s 54.7 per cent chance.England 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.England 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.  More

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      Who are Ollie Watkins’ parents Steven and Delsi-May? Meet the England and Aston Villa forward’s mum and dad

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      OLLIE Watkins last-gasp wonder goal against the Dutch sent the Three Lions to the final of Euro 2024.If you were wondering how the England ace got his start in football, here’s everything you need to know about his parents.Ollie Watkins celebrating with his mother Delsi-May in the stands following England’s semi-final victory over the NetherlandsCredit: PAWho are Ollie Watkins’ parents Steven and Delsi-May?England hero Oliver George Arthur Watkins was born in Torquay, Devon to parents Steven and Delsi-May on December 30, 1995.His parents divorced when he was a child — Ollie and his siblings were raised by their mother Delsi.Not much is known about his dad Steven, as he prefers to keep his personal information out of the public spotlight.Ollie has three brothers, Richie, Dale and Jordan, and a sister named Charlotte.READ MORE ON OLLIE WATKINSIn 2021, speaking about how her “football mad” boy got into the beautiful game, Delsi told the Times: “We used to take the kids out, and there was a little machine where you put a 2p in, and a little rubber ball fell out.“He’d stand there and you’d drop it, and he’d kick it. He never used to miss. He was only nine months old.“And he never wavered from saying, whenever I asked him what he wanted to do when he was older, ‘I want to be a professional footballer.’“He used to do a bit of skateboarding but that didn’t last long. He used to do BMX-ing but that didn’t last long either.Most read in Euro 2024“And every time he went out, he used to come back with a blinking football. “I’ve got a photograph somewhere of about 20-odd footballs that Oliver collected out playing.”RISE OF WATKINSAnd speaking about Ollie calling to inform her of his first call-up to the national side, she added: “I’m glad he did when I was in the car, because I let out the biggest scream.“If I’d have let that out in the street people would have said, ‘Find that woman a mental hospital!’”I still can’t believe it. I’m immensely proud.”Days before Ollie finally scored a last-gasp winner for the Three Lions on July 10, his mother was filmed launching an X-rated rant in a pub about her son’s lack of playing time.[Ollie] never wavered from saying, whenever I asked him what he wanted to do when he was older, ‘I want to be a professional footballer’Delsi-May WatkinsThe TimesShe said: “On Wednesday, [my wish is] that they finally let my son come on the f***ing pitch.”Delsi got her wish and Ollie went on to score the crucial goal.And she could be seen in the stands celebrating with her son after his 90th-minute winner against the Netherlands in the Euro2024 quarter-finals.The super-sub striker replaced Harry Kane and only made four touches after being brought on with 81 minutes on the the clock — one of which was to fire the ball into the bottom corner.Ollie’s superb finish sent England to the Euro 2024 final in Berlin against Spain on Sunday, July 14Credit: AFPOllie had a premonition he was going to score and revealed in his post-match press conference that he told Cole Palmer at half-time they were going to combine and score, before they went on to do so in spectacular fashion.He said: “I swear on my life, my kids’ life, I said to Cole Palmer: we’re coming on today and you’re gonna set me up.”The Aston Villa forward had played just 20 minutes at the Euros before he came off the bench against the Dutch.What does Ollie Watkins’ mum Delsi-May do for a living?The former Exeter and Brentford man’s mother works as a professional.Her stage name is Ruby Washington.Delsi’s band, The Superstitions, are a popular booking for weddings and events across Southwest England.In 2021, she told the Times: “That’s all I’ve ever done really, be a professional singer.“I got offered a recording contract when I was younger.”I had photographs taken and when they came back they all had Ruby Washington underneath them.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I said, ‘That’s not my name,’ and they said, ‘Well, that’s what we want you to be.’“The contract was the same. ‘Your life will be like this, you can’t do that . . .’ So I didn’t sign. But the name stuck.” More

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      Watch Sky Sports pundit’s incredible reaction to Watkins’ England winner just moments after predicting ‘a bit of magic’

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      GARETH AINSWORTH produced a brilliant reaction to Ollie Watkins’ winning goal against Holland.The Aston Villa striker scored in the 90th minute to send England through to their second consecutive Euros final.Gareth Ainsworth was covering England’s match on Sky SportsCredit: Sky SportsHe was thrilled with Ollie Watkins’ winning goalCredit: GettyXavi Simons had given Holland the lead in the 7th minute before Harry Kane equalised from a controversial penalty.The Euro 2024 semi-final clash proved to be a tense affair with Watkins netting the decisive goal in the final moments.Ainsworth, 51, was covering the match for Sky Sports live in the studio.The former QPR manager’s reaction to the goal has been posted on social media.READ MORE IN EURO 2024In the clip, he can be heard saying that there needs to be “a bit of magic” from someone.Only seconds later, Cole Palmer was able to play in Watkins to score the winning goal.Ainsworth, in response, let out a massive celebratory roar as he rose to his feet.Fans loved the clip as they reacted to it.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne posted: “Sensational celebration.”A second wrote: “I love all the Gareth’s. National Gareth day please.”Adele fans spot her celebrating England’s Euros win in Rio Ferdinand’s video England’s controversial penaltyBy Mark HalseyHARRY KANE was gifted a penalty by controversial referee Felix Zwayer.If England had been on the receiving end of that decision, we would have been absolutely fuming.The German official, previously banned for six months for his part in a match-fixing scandal, should not have been sent to the pitchside monitor by VAR Bastian Dankert.Both Denzel Dumfries and Kane had their feet in the air as England’s captain got his shot away.It was just a clash of legs and certainly NOT a ‘clear and obvious error’.Once Zwayer went over to the monitor, we knew what was going to happen.He is an excellent referee but we have seen that none of the officials seem mentally tough enough to stick with their original call.I know some people will argue Dumfries was late to the tackle and it would have been a free-kick elsewhere on the pitch.But it is a contact sport and it’s natural that there will be a coming together in instances like that.Aside from the penalty award, Zwayer had a good game.There were fears decisions would go against England because of Jude Bellingham’s previous comments about Zwayer.Bellingham was fined £34,000 in 2021 for blaming Zwayer and his match-fixing past for Borussia Dortmund’s 3-2 defeat to Bayern Munich.But Zwayer was right to caution Bellingham for his reckless challenge on Stefan de Vrij in the second half.A third commented: “Fair play to Gareth there. At that exact moment I couldn’t string two words together, let alone coherent sentences.”A fourth said: “What great insight and sheer passion!”Another added: “Lovely content.”The winning goal sent fans, players and coaching staff into wild celebrations.Even England’s Dutch coach Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink got swept up in the moment before realising it came against his native country.Pundits Gary Neville and Ian Wright went wild in the ITV studio while Roy Keane remained his usual composed self.After the game, Watkins admitted that he had predicted that he would score the winner in a conversation with Cole Palmer.England face Spain in the final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday.READ MORE SUN STORIESSpain made it to the final after beating France 2-1 in the first semi-final.England 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.England 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.  More