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      Walking into England dressing room after Euros final defeat was so hard – but we CAN win World Cup, says Prince William

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      PRINCE William revealed one of his toughest tasks as FA ­President was consoling England’s crushed players shortly after the gut-wrenching defeat in the final of Euro 2024.The royal joined the deflated stars following the shattering 2-1 loss to Spain in Berlin and admitted: “That was the hardest changing room atmosphere I’ve ever had to walk into.After the whistle blew at the Olympic Stadium, the future king consoled the stars including captain Harry KaneCredit: EPAWilliam and George collapsing back into their seats, hands over their faces, as Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal bagged the late winnerCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)Prince William and England manager Thomas TuchelCredit: Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace“They were really down. They realised they’d given it their all and they’d been on such a journey.“It felt like the culmination should have been a successful ­victory for them.”However, footie-mad Wills is still quietly hopeful for the future and feels the Three Lions will be “as close as we’ve ever been” to winning a World Cup in two years.The Prince had taken on the FA presidency 18 years before the shattering defeat against Spain which he shared with son Prince George, then ten, who sat by his side.READ MORE ON PRINCE WILLIAMHe famously marked his appointment by turning up at England training and asking beanpole striker Peter Crouch to perform his robot goal celebration for him. The foundations are very strong, and we’ve got good leadership with Thomas having arrived.Prince WilliamEngland sadly failed to get past the quarter-finals that summer and, ever since, William has been as frustrated as any other England supporter at their continuing inability to lift a trophy.His hopes had been high in the Euro 2020 decider at Wembley, but Italy won that on penalties.“Do you know, I thought it was our time at the first final,” he said.Most read in FootballThat result made last year’s further disappointment doubly difficult to take, he said — as was evident from the images of him and George collapsing back into their seats, hands over their faces, as Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal bagged the late winner and shattered English dreams.William said: “To go and see it again and be so close when the guys had really given it their all was very difficult.”Prince William picks Messi vs Ronaldo winner and gives David Beckham a huge boost | Big Shot BattleAfter the whistle blew at the Olympic Stadium, the future king consoled the stars including captain Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham as well as long-term manager Gareth Southgate.Like Southgate, he too stepped down after that final, but he has since taken on the role of FA patron instead of president and is as big an England fan as ever.The appointment of the German Thomas Tuchel as manager attracted criticism from those who felt the job should have gone to an Englishman.And William himself was involved in the development of the FA’s national training centre at St George’s Park, which was supposed to provide a pathway for English coaches.In fact, he opened the facility, which is just outside Burton-on-Trent, Staffs, back in 2012.He well understands that concern about an English coach being denied the top job this time round but is enthusiastic about what former Chelsea boss Tuchel can bring to the table.And he is optimistic that England have a real chance of getting their hands on the 2026 World Cup.He said: “I’m still linked to the FA but as a patron rather than president now. However, I loved my time as president.Prince William with former England manager Gareth SouthgateCredit: GettyWilliam is optimistic that England have a real chance of getting their hands on the 2026 World CupCredit: Dan Charity“I learned an awful lot about the football world and the England set-up. I was trying to do my bit to work out how to bring the best minds in so that England could win a World Cup.“We’re now as close as we’ve ever been, I really do feel that. The foundations are very strong, and we’ve got good leadership with Thomas having arrived. It’s a fantastic opportunity for us.”He went on: “The FA is in quite a stable place which it hasn’t always been in the past when I was involved when I was younger.“It’s all coming together nicely. We just need the results on the pitch to go our way. We are going to see how Thomas sets up and who he picks.”He’s only got two years so it’s a short turnaround but I am quietly confident we are in a good position.”’Right person for job’Tuchel is due to announce his first England squad today. William was informed about the decision to hire him before it became public knowledge and he has had no reason to doubt it was the right move.The dad of three went on: “Having met him, I’m definitely happy about that decision.“I think he will bring serious detail and experience and wisdom to the role. Gareth Southgate was an incredible manager who did brilliantly and really laid the foundations for success.“He was very unlucky that he just didn’t quite manage to get us over the line. He gave it his all.“Of course I was sad to see him leave. He’s a lovely guy who did an incredible job.“He was the manager for nearly nine years, which is a long time.READ MORE SUN STORIES“But, as regards finding his successor, I’m excited by what Thomas might bring.“I think he is exactly the right person for the job.”WILLING ENGLAND ONPRINCE William’s tenure as FA President has been marked by a huge upturn in form.May 2006: He takes over from uncle Prince Andrew.June 2006: He cheers on England and meets fans at the World Cup in Germany.2010: He and Prince Harry visit the England camp in South Africa.2012-2014: The future King stays home for the disappointing Euro 2012 and the dismal 2014 World Cup in Brazil.2016: Wills says the FA’s governance structure needs reform, at a lunch commemorating his ten-year anniversary as president.2018: The Prince does not attend the World Cup in Russia but he tweeted after the 2-0 win over Sweden in the quarter finals: “You wanted to make history England and you are doing just that.”2021: The president continues his hands-on approach to the Three Lions during the Covid-delayed Euro 2020.He gave a dressing room speech after England’s final defeat to Italy, which he watched alongside wife Kate and son George at Wembley.2022: Wills and Kate cheer the Lionesses on to England’s first trophy since 1966 at the Euro 2022 final at Wembley.2024: He roars England to victory over Switzerland at Euro 2024 — months after the double cancer diagnosis shock of Kate and dad Charles. He steps down after loss in final. More

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      Real Madrid and Germany legend Toni Kroos ready to come out of retirement to play for his brother’s team

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      TONI KROOS is set to return to football for a special match just eight months after his retirement.Toni, 35, rolled credits on a glittering 17-year career that saw him win almost everything with the likes of Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Germany.Toni Kroos is set to return to football just eight months after his retirementCredit: GettyToni will be playing for his brother Felix’s team Two Stripes United in the ICON LeagueCredit: GettyThe midfielder’s last game took place at Euro 2024 in his homeland when his national team was eliminated by eventual European champions Spain in a controversial quarter-final.According to Marca, however, the German legend is set to lace up his boots for just one more match.But it won’t be for a top-tier competition or an elite club, like everyone is used to seeing him.Instead, Toni will play for his brother Felix’s team named Two Stripes United in the ICON League.Read More on FootballThe competition is mostly consisted of streamers, content creators and footballers – similar to the Kings League in Spain.The six-time Champions League winner agreed to cross over to the non-pro competition, but he had one demand.And that was to play side by side with Felix, 34, with whom he started his professional career.The Kroos brothers cut their teeth together at Hansa Rostock but their paths were separated in 2006 when Bayern came knocking for Toni.Most read in FootballCheltenham Festival betting offers and free betsFelix stayed in Germany where he played for the likes of Werder Bremen, Union Berlin and Eintracht Braunschweig until his retirement in 2021.Toni’s addition to Two Stripes United works as a major boost for the younger brother.Toni Kroos shows his skills at Real Madrid training Felix’s team only managed six points out of 13 matches last season.Toni will be the most successful and experienced player in the league after 465 appearances with Real, 205 games with Bayern and 114 caps with Germany. More

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      Will Still reveals Sky Sports presenter partner was ‘in a coma’ and lifts lid on heartache of leaving her in hospital

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      WILL STILL has revealed his partner Emma Saunders was “in a coma” as he lifted the lid on her health battle.The Lens football manager started dating the Sky Sports presenter in 2024 and went public with their relationship during the Euros.Will Still is dating Sky Sports presenter Emma SaundersCredit: Instagram / @wrstillThey went public with their relationship during Euro 2024Credit: Instagram / @wrstillStill, 32, has paid emotional tributes to Emma after she was treated for thyroid cancer at the start of the season.The presenter has also recently had to overcome the brain infection encephalitis.However, he did have to leave her in the hospital as he had to take charge of Lens’ Ligue 1 match against Marseille.His side sealed an important win as Neil El Aynaoui scored the winner in the 94th minute.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSDespite the win, Still told L’Equipe that he is still mostly thinking about his partner.He said: “It’s tough.”We realise that there are more important things in life than a football match or a shot that goes into the top corner.”I was honest with the guys. My girlfriend was in a coma. We had to be with her, we had to take care of her. Most read in Football”The group reacted admirably well. My girlfriend is stable, she’s fine.”That’s the most important thing. When I came back last Saturday, I knew she was in the best possible place to get treatment.”I asked her the question openly: ‘Do I go, do I not go?’ She said to me: ‘You have to go.'”I thank the staff and my brothers who were there to do the work when I wasn’t there.Will Still goes public with Sky Sports girlfriend Emma Saunders”I felt like I had to give something back, hence the frustration and disappointment last week.”Emma recently thanked Still in a heartwarming post on Instagram as she shared a health update for her 71,5000 followers.It read: “Hi folks.Still had to leave Saunders in hospital to take charge of Lens’ win over MarseilleCredit: ReutersNeil El Aynaoui scored the winning goal in the 94th minuteCredit: AFP”Unfortunately life took a bit of an unexpected turn a couple of weeks ago and I’m now off work while I recover from Encephalitis – an infection of the brain.”I hope it won’t be long until I’m back to see out the end of 2024/25 – especially after missing part of the start of the season before this when I was treated for Thyroid cancer.”So, as I spend time now recovering and rebuilding again – I just wanted to thank my family & friends for their rock solid support, my colleagues at Sky for their patience allowing me the time to heal, and our wonderful NHS for their extraordinary kindness and care.”And of course you Will Still just for being you and being there for me.”The message accompanied a picture of Emma holding a toy giraffe while lying in her hospital bed.Plenty of her fans flooded the comment section to send her their well wishes.In her career, Emma has also worked for the likes of BBC Sport, fronting women’s football on the channel alongside her work at Sky.Seen as a trailblazer for women’s broadcasting in sport and football, she’s also worked as a stadium presenter for the World Cup, Six Nations Rugby matches, and the first-ever MLB game in the UK.Still made a name for himself as the youngest manager in Europe’s top five leagues.He was just 30 when he took over at Reims – even before getting his Uefa Pro Licence, costing the club £22,000 per match.Still guided the club to ninth in Ligue 1 last season before announcing his exit to take over at RC Lens in May 2024.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe was born in Belgium to English parents and began his managerial career aged 24.The English gaffer admitted that his love of coaching was born through playing Football Manager.She shared this picture from her hospital bedCredit: https://www.instagram.com/emmasaunds/?hl=enShe works for Sky SportsCredit: Instagram / @emmasaunds More

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      Sky Sports presenter reveals she’s battling brain infection after fighting cancer and pays tribute to manager boyfriend

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      SKY Sports presenter Emma Saunders bravely revealed she has been struck down with a brain infection after fighting cancer.Emma told fans she treated for thyroid cancer at the start of the 2024-2025 season in an emotional Instagram post.Emma Saunders is a regular face on Sky SportsBut the talented presenter has given her fans an update on her healthSaunders is dating English football manager Will StillAnd talented football journalist explained she’s off work at the moment while recovering from a brain infection called encephalitis.Emma began dating English football manager Will Still, 32, last year and went public with their relationship during Euro 2024.And the life-long Watford fan thanked him for his support as she has opened up on her health battle.She posted a picture from her hospital bed, while holding a mini giraffe stuffed animal.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSShe captioned her heartwarming post with: “Hi folks 🤍, unfortunately life took a bit of an unexpected turn a couple of weeks ago.”I’m now off work while I recover from Encephalitis – an infection of the brain. “I hope it wont be long until I’m back to see out the end of 2024/25 – especially after missing part of the start of the season before this when I was treated for Thyroid cancer.””So, as I spend time now recovering and rebuilding – I just wanted to thank my family & friends for their rock solid support, my colleagues at Sky for their patience allowing me the time to heal, and our wonderful NHS for their extraordinary kindness and care🤍.Most read in Football”And of course you @wrstill just for being you & being there for me ❤️.”Still made a name for himself as the youngest manager in Europe’s top five leagues.Will Still goes public with Sky Sports girlfriend Emma SaundersHe was just 30 when he took over at Reims – even before getting his Uefa Pro Licence, costing the club £22,000 per match.Still guided the club to ninth in Ligue 1 last season before announcing his exit to take over at RC Lens in May 2024.He was born in Belgium to English parents and began his managerial career aged 24.The English gaffer admitted that his love of coaching was born through playing Football Manager.In her career, Emma has also worked for the likes of BBC Sport, fronting women’s football on the channel alongside her work at Sky.Seen as a trailblazer for women’s broadcasting in sport and football, she’s also worked as a stadium presenter for the World Cup, Six Nations Rugby matches, and the first-ever MLB game in the UK.Meanwhile, her Sky Sports colleagues flooded her post with well-wishes.Soccer Saturday presenter Simon Thomas wrote: “So sorry to hear you’ve gone through this Emma. “You’re missed! Look after yourself and hope you’re feeling much better soon.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile England star Kyle Walker replied: “Sending you love.”Premier League presenter Olivia Buzaglo added: “Sending you all the love in the world ♥️.”The couple posed together in Frankfurt at Euro 2024 More

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      Real Sociedad 1 Man Utd 1: Controversial VAR penalty cancels out Zirkzee opener as Amorim rues chances to put tie to bed

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      NO English football fan will forget the name Mikel Oyarzabal any time soon.He was the Spain striker who popped up with the late winner which broke Three Lions hearts in the Euro 2024 final.Joshua Zirkzee opened the scoring for Manchester United in SpainCredit: ReutersBruno Fernandes gave away a penalty for handball which was awarded by VARCredit: TNT SPORTSMikel Oyarzabal then scored the equaliser from the penalty spotCredit: GettyEight months later he was at it again – the calmest man on the park as he stroked home the penalty that keeps this Europa League tie very much in the balance.It meant more penalty woe for Ruben Amorim’s men four days after they were dumped out of the FA Cup by Fulham in a shoot-out.For a few second half minutes at least – it looked as though Manchester United were going to put that disappointment firmly behind them.And there was redemption for Joshua Zirkzee, who had seen the final spot-kick saved by Bernd Leno before slumping to the turf in tears.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThis time he was all smiles as he swept home a cross from Alejandro Garnacho to give the visitors a crucial lead on the hour.But Oyarzabal – just as he did in Berlin last summer – had the last word and the tie is still on a knife edge.As is United’s season.Ruben Amorim has tried to play down the importance of winning this competition – but surely he isn’t kidding anybody.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSWinning a trophy would lift the gloom which is hanging over Old Trafford, not to mention give them a passport to the Champions League next season.It would also put a very different slant on a season which is in danger of becoming the worst since the club was relegated more than 50 years ago.’I know the consequences’ – Ruben Amorim insists he’s the right man for Man Utd but fears he may not get time to show itYet for all the problems in the current campaign, United have not lost a game in Europe – which is why they are among the favourites to go all the way to Bilbao on May 21.So there was so much at stake in San Sebastian – particularly after their FA Cup exit.And Amorim had to go into the game with a squad of just 18 – and only five outfield players on the bench – as the injury problems got worse still.United’s form at Old Trafford has been so dismal this season that it was hard to work out what would be classed as a good result here.Man Utd ratings vs Real SociedadMANCHESTER UNITED were left to rue missed chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Real Sociedad in the first leg of their last-16 Europa League tie. Joshua Zirkzee scored his first European goal for the Red Devils, before a tame Sociedad outfit levelled through Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty.United, perhaps, deserved more. And should’ve come away with a lead going into the second leg at Old Trafford next week.Ruben Amorim’s side started on the front foot and found space on the counterattack, which has been a rarity this season.They even prevented the hosts threatening Andre Onana’s goal in the first half.Sociedad, in truth, offered very little, perhaps still shellshocked from their 4-0 demolition away at Barcelona this past weekend.The gameplan should’ve been simple at half-time: simply pass the ball in behind to Rasmus Hojlund, with the Basques slow at back.United’s dominance of the match was rewarded when Zirkzee’s shot crept past Alex Remiro in the 57th minute.But the noise – and the Poznan – came back into the Reale Arena after Bruno Fernandes’ handball was spotted by VAR and allowed Mikel Oyarzabal to level from the spot.From that point on, the home side, who had offered nothing, were the better team.But it is Man Utd who have more right to feel aggrieved about taking just a share of the spoils back to Old Trafford.SunSport’s Katherine Walsh runs the rule over how each Manchester United star performed in the Basque Country.Yet they had the best chances of a largely forgettable first half with the first one falling to Garnacho who cut in but thumped his shot straight at home keeper Alex Remiro.Rasmus Hojlund was then furious with Diogo Dalot for passing up the chance to put him in on goal – choosing instead to go back to Garnacho.The Danish forward has not scored since mid December – and no wonder with that kind of service from the wings.Like United, Sociedad did not look to have much confidence or energy early on.They have saved their best form for the cup competitions this season and currently languish in mid-table in their domestic league.But star man Martin Zubimendi – who has been a target for Arsenal and Liverpool in the last 12 months – was pulled out due to illness.He is likely to be back for the return next week so that only added to the feeling this was United’s chance to take the tie by the scruff of the neck.They had opportunities to do so as well – most notably when Dalot chose the right option – cutting it back for skipper Bruno Fernandes.His effort was blocked by Aritz Elustondo and the rebound fell for Joshua Zirkzee who was denied by Remiro before poking the loose ball wide.Fernandes returned the compliment to his fellow Portuguese as his searching chip forward was met by the head of Dalot but his effort lacked the power’They’re anxious to score and win games’ – Amorim rues missed chancesBy Martin BlackburnRUBEN AMORIM admits the pressure is on next Thursday after Manchester United suffered more penalty woe.The Portuguese refused to comment on the controversial spot-kick which gifted Real Sociedad a draw in this Europa League last-16 first-leg clash.VAR Pol van Boekel spotted a handball by skipper Bruno Fernandes — despite nobody appealing.And after going over to his monitor, Slovakian referee Ivan Kruzliak agreed.The decision came just four days after the Red Devils were dumped out of the FA Cup following a 4-3 shootout defeat to Fulham.Asked about the  penalty, boss Amorim said: “I don’t want to talk about that — let’s just try to win the second game.”But he did acknowledge the heat will be on at Old Trafford after his ‘tired’ stars failed to build on the lead given to them by Joshua Zirkzee.Amorim said: “The pressure is going to be on us in that stadium. We have to be ready and fresh. It was clearly fatigue in that last half hour.”Alejandro Garnacho, Fernandes and Zirkzee were all guilty of missing good opportunities.Asked if United need to be more clinical, Amorim added: “That is clear, we are creating chances but sometimes you don’t see it because we manage not to shoot.“One thing I am sure of — they’re anxious to score and win games.”Amorim played down a row between Diogo Dalot and goal-shy forward Rasmus Hojlund.The Dane — who has not scored since December — was furious when Dalot failed to play him in.And Amorim said: “The decision from Diogo was not the best but the important thing is to move on and not be fighting.”Winning the Europa League is United’s last chance for silverware this season — and to clinch a Champions League spot.Rene Meulensteen — Sir Alex Ferguson’s former No 2 — feels they need Europa glory to lift some of the gloom over the club.He said: “It is so important as that’s the way back into the Champions League. If that happens you win a trophy.“Does it paint over cracks? Yes. I that falls away it is a totally disastrous season.“Manchester United has not been Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson left.“It has been a constant decline. It is a club in unrest — on and off the pitch.”The big plus was that Sociedad had posed almost no threat to United at all in the first half – although they did have a chance soon after the break.Takefusa Kubo’s cross was flicked on by Oyarzabal but Leny Yoro got across to make the block.However the best openings were still coming at the other end as Fernandes curled a free-kick from 20 yards narrowly wide.Then Patrick Dorgu’s cross found Garnacho at the back post but he directed his shot into the side-netting.It felt like things were starting to happen for United and just before the hour mark the breakthrough came.Garnacho rolled a pass to Zirkzee on the edge of the box and his low effort went through the legs of a defender which may have unsighted Remiro as it zipped past him.Nobody could deny the Dutch forward deserved his moment after what he went through on Sunday.It was what United deserved but as we know – nothing is ever straightforward for the Red Devils these days.The VAR spotted a handball by Fernandes as a corner was headed down and when the Slovakian ref went to check the monitor he agreed.READ MORE SUN STORIESOyarzabal never looked like missing and the tie was back in the balance.Sociedad could even have nicked it late on as Sheraldo Becker’s cross was right into the path of Orri Oskarsson but he somehow planted it the wrong side of the post. More

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      Prince William meets new England boss Thomas Tuchel at Windsor Castle ahead of German’s first match in charge

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      FOOTY fan Prince William gave the new England boss a winning start at Windsor Castle – as he gave a warm handshake to Thomas Tuchel.William, 42, spent an hour chatting about football and, of course, his favourite football team Aston Villa’s Champions League form.Prince William shakes hands with new England boss Thomas Tuchel at Windsor CastleCredit: InstagramTuchel’s first game in charge is against Albania at Wembley on March 21Credit: GettyWills with England ace Harry Kane at the Euros last summerCredit: EPAThe Prince of Wales cheered Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions from the stands in Germany as they went all the way to final at Euro 2024 only to agonisingly lose against Spain.And he took Prince George to games at Wembley during their run to the final in Euro 2021.Tuchel, 51, who won the Champions League with Chelsea, officially took on the ‘Impossible Job’ in January.Wills and Tuchel first met in the stands when Villa beat Celtic 4-2 last month.Read More on SportSources close to William, who is Patron of the FA, said yesterday’s royal welcome was an opportunity for the German boss to share his views on the team since taking over and his hopes for the future.While William was highly likely to speak about Villa’s European campaign and last 16 clash with Club Brugge next week, they said.Tuchel’s first game in charge is against Albania at Wembley on March 21 and his contract runs out after the 2026 World Cup.Thomas Tuchel’s first day at St. George’s Park as he meets England staff and coaches More

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      Bournemouth star, 21, switches international allegiance to play under ex-Premier League boss after representing England

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      BOURNEMOUTH star Daniel Jebbison has switched his national allegiance away from England.The 21-year-old striker has agreed to represent Canada, according to reports.Daniel Jebbison has switched his national allegiance away from EnglandJebbison was born in Oakville, Ontario, but is eligible to represent England and Jamaica through his parents.He has been capped 13 times across three different age groups in England’s youth set up.The Prem star was part of the Three Lions side that won the 2022 Under-19 Euros, where he scored against Serbia in the group stage.But he has swapped his allegiance as Canada Soccer has landed one of the most sought-after dual-nationals in the programme’shistory. READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSJebbison has started the process of his Fifa one-time change of association.An official announcement from Canada Soccer is expected soon, reports The Athletic.Should that be completed in time, he would likely attend his first Canada training camp in March as part of the Concacaf Nations League finals.Canada will face Mexico in the semifinals, with the winner advancing to meet either the U.S. or Panama.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSEx-Leeds boss Jesse Marsch has managed Canada since May 2024.Marsch attended Bournemouth’s 1-0 loss to Wolves at the Vitality Stadium to see Jebbison come on in the 89th minute.Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen couldn’t be happier being nominated for Premier League player of the month Marsch had several conversations with the striker and stressed the importance of Canada being one of three host nations for the 2026 World Cup.Jebbison has been a regular substitute for Bournemouth in the second half of this season, since returning from a loan to Championship side Watford.He has two goals in two FA Cup appearances this term and previously starred for Sheffield United in 2019.Jebbison last played for England’s Under-20 side in May 2023 at the Fifa U-20 World Cup.He was also partly convinced of how he could thrive with Canada thanks to a video Marsch and his staff created.Canada turned to three top stars in Alphonso Davies, Jonathan David and Alistair Johnston, to record video messages expressing their interest in having Jebbison join.Marsch also put a personal touch in his recruitment plan by creating a one-off Canada-themed pair of Air Jordans to gift to Jebbison.Ex-Leeds boss Jesse Marsch has managed Canada since May 2024 More

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      ‘I cannot explain it to this day’ – Gary Neville admits biggest regret of his football career still haunts him now

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      GARY NEVILLE won the lot with Manchester United – but claims there’s one huge “disappointment” on the pitch he’ll never get over.The 1999 Treble winner won eight Premier League titles, three FA Cups and 85 England caps.Gary Neville revealed the one huge huge frustration of his playing daysCredit: GettyBrothers Gary and Phil Neville celebrated after Man Utd beat Bayern Munich in the European Cup final to complete the Treble in 1989-99Credit: Allsport – GettyThe former right-back, who will be 50 on Monday, admits opposition players “absolutely despised him”.But that’s not what bothers him – especially as he even reckons they were RIGHT to hate him!Nev is now a Sky Sports pundit, successful businessman and one of the United Class of 92 group who helped take over Salford in 2014.And he believes a vow he made at the age of 36, to enjoy the second half of his life even more than the first, is proceeding well.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHowever, he is haunted by his record with the Three Lions.Neville played under Glenn Hoddle, Kevin Keegan, Sven Goran Eriksson and Steve McClaren for England from 1995-2007.He was part of the “Golden Generation” – an era launched with a 5-1 World Cup qualifying victory away to Germany in September 2001.That squad also included Ashley Cole, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry, David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes, Frank Lampard and Michael Owen.Most read in FootballGary Neville & Co exited the 2006 World Cup to Portugal on penaltiesCredit: GettyBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSEriksson took that incredible selection of individual talents to the quarter-finals of three major tournaments in a row.But their failure to get beyond that stage in the 2002 World Cup, Euro 2004 and the 2006 World Cup is regarded as a wasted opportunity. ‘It’ll become so toxic’ – Gary Neville pinpoints exact date he thinks Tottenham will sack Ange PostecoglouAbove all, England never quite worked out how to use their clutch of world class midfielders – or whether to drop some to ensure a better balance to the team.And Neville, arguably the most unsung member of the side, expects his frustration over his international CV to remain forever.Even more so because he was a coach under Roy Hodgson when the Three Lions flopped at Euro 2012 and the World Cup two years later.Nev told The Times: “It’s one of my biggest disappointments.”I’ve been to eight tournaments as a player, and then a coach, and I think in five we were knocked out on penalties. “I look at the current team, who have got through on penalties, and the mentality, what they’ve done in preparation terms, and think it could have been so different for us.“I was playing with an exceptional group of players at times but we didn’t know how to get over the line. I cannot explain it to this day.”Neville accepts that club rivalries – in particular with United and Liverpool – might have played a part in the Golden Generation under-achieving.He said: “We carried something into the games because there was such animosity at times. “I think I carried it as a player: anti-everybody else, siege mentality; United, or everyone else can do one. There was no doubt that Alex Ferguson created that at the club and we bought into it, carried that with us.”Nev added: “To be fair I look back and think I’d absolutely despise me if I was playing against me!READ MORE SUN STORIES“For me the idea of being despised was a trophy. I want to be despised, I didn’t want you to like me. “But maybe at times [with England] there was something of a hangover. You’re kicking lumps out of each other and then, all of a sudden, you rock up and you’ve got to be team-mates.” More