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      Switzerland spotted using bizarre secret weapon in training to prepare for England clash at Euro 2024

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      SWITZERLAND have been spotted using a bizarre secret weapon in training as they prepare to face England.The continental giants meet tomorrow in a Euros quarter-final clash for the ages.Switzerland have been spotted using a bizarre secret weapon in trainingCredit: AFPTheir goalies have been donning futuristic-looking sunglassesCredit: RexThe shades have a very specific purpose ahead of Switzerland’s match with EnglandCredit: RexEngland have been below-par for much of the tournament.While the Swiss are proving they are not to be trifled with after beating Italy 2-0 last weekend.And should they turn up again tomorrow, the nation famous for its mountains and chocolate could spring another surprise KO.Indeed, England are already making plans to cope with Switzerland’s brilliant team play by switching to a back five.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut that is unlikely to intimidate Granit Xhaka and Co after an amazing training method was spotted on Friday.Switzerland No1 Yann Sommer is one of the top goalies around, having helped Inter Milan win the Serie A title by conceding just 22 goals.And he looked as cool as ice as he wore a futuristic pair of sunglasses while training this morning.At first it appeared Sommer was merely trying to protect his eyes from the glare of the sun.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHowever, Switzerland’s No2 Gregor Kobel, who played in Borussia Dortmund’s Champions League final to Real Madrid, also sported a pair as he made several saves.And it quickly transpired that the glasses were not being worn for show.Luke Littler tells Gareth Southgate to ‘pick what the fans want’ as darts star explains how England can beat Switzerland No1 goalie Yann Sommer looked at ease with the glassesCredit: RexHe and Gregor Kobel are aiming to improve their anticipation skills with the shadesCredit: RexThe glasses are also used in other sports including tennis and baseballCredit: vision upThat’s because they are actually Japanese battery-powered glasses that create a slow-motion effect when a ball is being hit.It’s said that they help goalkeepers improve their anticipation due to their darker lense.And with Switzerland keeping a clean sheet against Italy, it’s safe to say the glasses are working.Produced by Japanese company VisionUp, the glasses cost upwards of £350.It’s not the first time Switzerland have used them, donning the shades at Euro 2020.And the glasses have also been used by athletes in a range of other sports including tennis and baseball.England must go old-school to shock Switzerland… this formation would be perfect, says Jurgen KlinsmannIT might be time for England to try something different at these Euros, writes Jurgen Klinsmann.Maybe Gareth Southgate will want to start the quarter-final against Switzerland in a 4-4-2 formation, with Ivan Toney alongside Harry Kane up front.I think it might work, and if Gareth feels the same, he should do it.This is the time when, as a manager at a tournament, you have to trust your gut instinct and never hold back from unpopular decisions.The quarter-finals are make-or-break time. Win and you’re in the last four and everyone respects you.Lose and it’s not acceptable for big nations like England, Germany, France and Spain.England are facing the best Swiss team of all time on Saturday – and it is certain to be another rollercoaster.I understand there can be snobbery about playing a 4-4-2 but sometimes you have to do something different. It can still be a fantastic system — two hard-working frontmen like Kane and Toney can be a real threat to the opposition.I think England need to surprise the Swiss, to try something different.And that just might be a good old-fashioned 4-4-2.Read Jurgen Klinsmann’s column in full.Or check out all of Jurgen’s Euro 2024 opinions. More

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      A ‘world class goalie’ and a ‘winger who offers something different’, meet the Switzerland stars looking to down England

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      SWITZERLAND should “not be scared of anybody” and have the belief and momentum to down England.That is according to 47-year-old Raphael Wicky, who led Young Boys to the Swiss Super League and Cup double last year.Raphael Wicky provided a run-through of the Swiss men looking to down EnglandCredit: GettySwitzerland face the Three Lions in the quarters of Euro 2024 on SaturdayCredit: GettyWhen asked by Sun Sport if Murat Yakin’s side can create history in Germany by overcoming England to reach their first semi-final, the ex-Atletico Madrid star said: “Absolutely, the belief is there.“The energy in the country after the performances from the players is amazing and everyone has the right to dream big.“The momentum is really positive for the team, and you can see that even if players don’t play, they are all happy for each other and celebrate together.“Playing Hungary and Scotland, the expectation was that we needed four or six points from both fans and the players and staff.READ MORE ON EURO 2024“Then, Switzerland played one of the best tactical games in the last few years against Germany where they were very strong defensively and they interrupted the German game very impressively.“They then dominated Italy completely, but dominated not defensively but with the ball.“So we have shown that we have a lot of different ways to play and be very solid in defensive but very dominant with the ball.“That’s why I don’t believe that we should be scared of anybody right now. The momentum is very big with Switzerland.”Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSYakin’s team have lined-up in a 3-4-3 formation so far, and Wicky believes that will be the case again against Gareth Southgate’s England in the quarters.The ex-Basel coach said: “Switzerland have played it very well this tournament, it’s very fluid, they can press high and remain in a low block without possession.Watch as Switzerland supporter is smacked in face by ball but fans can’t get over Scot’s reaction in front of him“There is no reason to have a change but there was not really to change and after the first game we did because they had a plan.“I don’t expect many, but it is possible there are one or two changes.“He may bring Silvan Widmer back in a right wing-back, which will be a little bit more defensive, and put Dan Ndoye back into his wing position, that is a possibility.“I don’t think anything will change on the left, but on the right it is possible – but for sure there will be no changes in the midfield, that will be Remo Freuler and Granit Xhaka.“They have worked very well together for many years and they are the heart of this team.”Wicky continued: “I think Embolo will play, but it depends on his fitness. He had a big injury and didn’t play much after being out with an ACL.“So he did not play for Monaco much and now, at a tournament where he plays every three or four days, the biggest question is how is his body doing?“But they’ve had a longer break now and it should be enough time to recover, then I expect him to go in.”So who exactly are the Swiss stars looking to roll over Gareth Southgate’s side? Wicky told SunSport in his own words:YANN SOMMER“A proven world class goalkeeper for many years and he is so important because of his experience, calmness and he is really, really good with his feet as well as being a good shotstopper.“He is a very, very important piece for this team.”FABIAN SCHAR“A lot of experience and has been with the national team a long time.“His strengths are also that he is very calm and good with the ball, his diagonal passing fits very well to this system with the width on both sides.”MANUEL AKANJI“A world class defender who I coached in Basel before he went to Dortmund and I’m not surprised with how his career has gone.“He is one of THE most important parts of this team with his overall package; strong is duels, very fast and he is unbelievably intelligent when in possession which helps a lot to build.”RICARDO RODRIGUEZ“A different player from Schar and Akanji, he was originally a left-back, but just as much experience and intelligence.“But I think that he is perfectly suited to play a back three as he’s the left-footed but he is always able to make a numerical advantage on the left hand as he often goes to help the wing-back on the offensive.“So this suits him as he is used to going forward from playing as a left-back.”England must go old-school to shock Switzerland… this formation would be perfect, says Jurgen KlinsmannIT might be time for England to try something different at these Euros, writes Jurgen Klinsmann.Maybe Gareth Southgate will want to start the quarter-final against Switzerland in a 4-4-2 formation, with Ivan Toney alongside Harry Kane up front.I think it might work, and if Gareth feels the same, he should do it.This is the time when, as a manager at a tournament, you have to trust your gut instinct and never hold back from unpopular decisions.The quarter-finals are make-or-break time. Win and you’re in the last four and everyone respects you.Lose and it’s not acceptable for big nations like England, Germany, France and Spain.England are facing the best Swiss team of all time on Saturday – and it is certain to be another rollercoaster.I understand there can be snobbery about playing a 4-4-2 but sometimes you have to do something different. It can still be a fantastic system — two hard-working frontmen like Kane and Toney can be a real threat to the opposition.I think England need to surprise the Swiss, to try something different.And that just might be a good old-fashioned 4-4-2.Read Jurgen Klinsmann’s column in full.Or check out all of Jurgen’s Euro 2024 opinions.DAN NDOYE“Ndoye is a very fast winger and a very vertical player who is always a threat when one-on-one with a defender.“He offers something different to the other players that we have.”REMO FREULER“It did not quite work out as he’d have wanted at Nottingham Forest so English fans may not have seen the real side of him but he’s another very experienced player.“He played for many years in Italy and has a very good tactical understanding. He’s everywhere, sees the spaces very well and he is a box-to-box midfielder.“For me, he is the complete team player – the team always comes first and that is why everyone really respects him in Switzerland.”GRANIT XHAKA“Swiss fans love him – he is with Sommer and Akanji the rhythm of our game, they are the leaders.“He is the captain, leader and along with those other guys, he is the most important player in this team.”Granit Xhaka will lead Switzerland out against EnglandCredit: GettyMICHEL AEBISCHERA central midfielder originally, he may play defensively as a left wing-back but in possession he usually goes into the centre to create an overload.“He then has the full freedom to go into the No.10 and No.8 position and float around and that has worked really well.“But then he has to defend as a left wing-back, where he did not often play for his club. So he and Ndoye are completely different players but the combination works well on the flanks.”FABIAN REIDERDespite only being 22, he is very mature for his age.Has an extremely good left foot and engine, a real box-to-box central midfielder with big volume.RUBEN VARGASHe’s similar to Ndoye and is also a winger and a big threat with his pace and in one-on-one situations.In them, we have two players that whenever they receive the ball wide, they are always a threat.He has made a great progression from playing in Germany the last few years. We need this mix of vertical players to go with our good central midfield players.BREEL EMBOLO“He is completely different to Shakiri, who would play as a false nine, and have the freedom to go anywhere and drop between the lines, but then you relieve the threat from Vargas and Ndoye to go in behind.“With Embolo, he is very strong, very physical and can hold the ball. And that would provide a very different problem for the English defenders than Xherdan Shaqiri.”Wicky played twice for Switzerland at the European Championship and won honours for Sion, Werder Bremen, Atletico and Hamburg before retiring in 2008 after a stint in America.His coaching career started at youth level with youth sides FC Thun, Servette and Basel before he took over their first-team late in the 2016/17 season.They wrapped up the title days later and followed that up with Swiss Cup success but he left the club the following summer after they finished runners-up.Wicky then had spells as USA under-17 and Chicago Fire in the MLS but returned to his homeland in June 2022.He took over Young Boys and led them to a Swiss double in his first season in charge but he left them in March despite them still being a point clear in the title race.Wicky is working as a pundit for Swiss TV throughout Euro 2024 but is looking forward to a challenge that excites and feels right enough for him.He added: “I’m enjoying some time off because, as every coach will tell you, the job is very intense so I’m enjoying this little bit of a break.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I always say though that I’m not just searching for A job – I’m very open if there is an interesting project that I can work with good people who have the same philosophies of how I see the game.“Whenever there is a good possibility then I am open, but I’m also very relaxed at the moment and don’t need to just jump into any job. It needs to feel right.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Kebab shop owner left stunned as Euro 2024 team order 300 kebabs in 3 hours – with mystery star eating 3 himself

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      A KEBAB shop owner was left stunned after the Turkish national team ordered 300 of the meaty treats to celebrate their Euros success.Turkey have been one of the surprise stars of the tournament after setting up a quarter-final clash against Holland.Turkey’s national team ordered 300 kebabs after reaching the Euro knockout stagesStars like Arda Guler tucked into the meaty treat, with one ace eating three aloneArda Guler and Co won two of their three group stage games, beating both Georgia and Czech Republic while losing to Portugal.That saw Turkey go up against Austria in the last-16, with Ralf Rangnick’s impressive side widely tipped to win.But the Turks upset the odds with a 2-1 victory and are now just three wins away from becoming Euro champions.And ever since reaching the knockout stages, they have been celebrating in hungry fashion.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAfter finishing second in Group F, Bild reports that Turkey bosses called up a local kebab house to place an extremely large order.The Hanover-based ‘Lister Doner’ was asked to prepare a staggering 300 kebabs with just three hours’ notice.The owner was only too happy to oblige and revved up his mobile kebab trailer before heading to Turkey’s team base at their nearby four-star hotel.He then prepared over 100kg of kebab meat on an XXL skewer.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSAnd no less than 150 people, ranging from players to coaches and other staff members, chowed down on 300 kebabs.Indeed, one greedy footballer guzzled three whole kebabs single-handedly.Luke Littler tells Gareth Southgate to ‘pick what the fans want’ as darts star explains how England can beat Switzerland Turkey will face Holland in the quarters after beating AustriaCredit: GettyBut the savoury feast did not slow Turkey down as they then triumphed against Austria in the last 16.Another kebab order was then placed by football bosses.But the ‘Lister Doner’ van was unavailable at the time, leaving Turkey players to go hungry.Owner Daldar Junaid said: “I got a call and someone said, ‘I am the team manager of Turkey and would like to order 300 kebabs.“’I would like them in three hours’. I could hardly believe it.“They invited everyone. The staff alone consisted of 150 people, plus security, police, hotel staff, everyone.“The players enjoyed it. One even ate three kebabs. But I won’t say who, it’s a trade secret!READ MORE SUN STORIES“That was over 100 kilos of meat. We made this skewer especially at top speed.“They were already in my shop during the group phase. Eight national team players were in my shop at once.”Who is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.But who is the sexiest?Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story. More

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      Abandoned stadium used for Olympics and World Cup unrecognisable after being turned into Euro 2024 fan park

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      A STADIUM once used to host the Euros in Germany has been left unrecognisable after being turned into a fan park for the Euros.But some of the surrounding areas have been left to fall into disrepair after being overtaken by weeds – despite the stadium’s rich history.The Olympiastadion in Munich hosted the 1972 Olympic GamesCredit: GettyIt then held the 1974 World Cup finalCredit: PABut parts of the stadium infrastructure now lay abandonedCredit: AlamyThe S-Bahn railway station was closed in 1988Credit: AlamyConstruction of the Munich Olympiastadion began in 1968 ahead of its use as the centrepiece of the 1972 Munich Olympic Games.After the games, the stadium was taken over by Bayern Munich and also used as a key concert venue in Munich.It’s seen the likes of Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stones, Metallica and Guns N’ Roses all perform there since the 1970s and will soon also see Taylor Swift and Coldplay take the stage.The stadium was also used as a key ground for the 1974 World Cup, hosting the final which was won by West Germany 2-1 over Holland.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLIt also hosted the final of Euro 1988 which saw the Dutch beat the Soviet Union 2-0.The stadium also played host to the European Cup final of 1979, and the Champions League finals of 1993 and 1997 as well as the Women’s Champions League final in 2012.It is now part of the wider Olympiapark Munchen, which is currently host to the biggest Euros fanzone in Munich.Some of the area has fallen into disrepair though, with the train station built to connect the stadium with the centre of Munich being closed in 1988.Most read in Euro 2024The surrounding area of the stadium has been turned into a fan park for this year’s EurosCredit: AlamyDutch fans used the stadium as a backdrop before their game against RomaniaCredit: RexCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThat saw the once bustling station being left to fall into ruin, with its infrastructure falling down and plenty of weeds growing out of the former tracks.Bayern Munich, who used the stadium from the 1970s onwards left for the Munich Football Arena in 2005, ahead of its use as the Allianz Arena at the 2006 World Cup.Germany Fans in Stuttgart get the party started and pay tribute to Rudi VollerIt is now rarely used for football purposes, although it is occasionally used for athletics.Over 70,000 fans are expected to pack into the arena to watch Taylor Swift play there at the end of the month.The surrounding areas of the stadium have been transformed into a fan park for the EurosCredit: olympic park DEThe stadium was last used by Bayern Munich in 2005, before they relocated to the Munich Football ArenaCredit: AFP More

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      Jude Bellingham CLEARED to face Switzerland in huge England Euro 2024 boost but still gets suspended ban over gesture

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM has been cleared to play against Switzerland by Uefa.But the Three Lions ace has been hit with a massive fine and a suspended one game BAN.Jude Bellingham has been cleared to play against SwitzerlandCredit: RexThe England star was accused of disrespecting SlovakiaCredit: GettyBellingham defended his actions claiming it was an ‘inside joke’Credit: APEngland’s hero was the subject of an investigation by Uefa over a gesture he made after scoring  in Sunday’s 2-1 Euros win over Slovakia.Bellingham, 21, appeared to feign grabbing his crotch  in a move that signalled he has what it takes in a crisis.Match officials made no mention of the gesture in their match reports but Uefa still intervened.However, Bellingham has now been cleared of any wrongdoing and is set to line up against Switzerland.READ MORE ON EURO 2024The England star has been slapped with a £25,000 fine and a one-match ban, suspended for 12 months.The Real Madrid star defended his controversial gesture, stating it was aimed at close friends at the game and not towards the opposition.He added: “Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”Piers Morgan also leapt to Bellingham’s defence by outlining ten reasons why he may have made the gesture.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEngland’s five-point penalty shootout planEXPERT football psychologist Professor Geir Jordet has told Gareth Southgate and his players what they can do to give themselves the best chance of victory in any shootouts.And he has even thrown in a rogue, bold suggestion for the Three Lions manager…1. START PLANNING LAST YEAR “It’s about planning for the opposition’s penalty takers but also ‘how do we win the psychological game against each opponent?’2. SMART SOUTHGATE LEADERSHIP”Southgate will have two minutes to influence his players as effectively as possible, show he has a plan and get confidence across.”3. DICTATE AS A TEAM”A shootout is really a team performance. Have the goalkeeper walk with the penalty taker into the penalty area to basically create a two-versus-one against the other goalkeeper. Dominate the centre circle, support the players who missed.”4. ‘BULLETPROOF’ INDIVIDUAL ROUTINES “Have really good, individualised and rehearsed pre-shot routines that are bulletproof and polished so they’re more likely to be able to resist the stress and more likely to score.”5. SHOOT YOUR SHOT  “Practise the shot itself, trying to simulate penalty shootouts in training. Even recreating 20 per cent of a Euros final penalty shootout is going to have a benefit for your performance.”AND A JOR DROPPING IDEA…Jordan Pickford is the No1 but Dean Henderson actually has a far better penalty record – saving 8/22 (36 per cent) compared to Pickford’s 8/62 (13 per cent).Jordet said: “One could consider making a late substitution for a penalty shootout. I doubt that they dare to do it in case it fails and the pressure is even higher but it would be a very ballsy move.”One reason may be Bellingham wanted to show he had “massive cojones” after rescuing the Three Lions from the brink of elimination with his last-minute overhead kick.He even made the exact same gesture when he netted a late winner in Real Madrid’s 3-2 El Clasico victory against Barcelona in April.Jude Bellingham felt like Cristiano Ronaldo when he scored against Slovakia and singles out ‘humble’ England team-mateBellingham previously did the same celebration for Real Madrid against BarcelonaUefa outlined the results of their investigation on Friday morning.And they handed Bellingham a £25k fine, as well as a suspended one-match ban, for “violating the basic rules of decent conduct.”The FA were also punished for crowd disturbances and the lighting of fireworks, receiving a £9,000 fine.A Uefa statement read: “The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has decided to fine the English Football Association €10,000 for crowd disturbances.”(It has also decided) To fine the English Football Association €1,000 for lighting of fireworks.”And to fine the English Football Association player Jude Bellingham €30,000 and to suspend him for a total of one UEFA competition match for which he would be otherwise eligible for violating the basic rules of decent conduct. “Said suspension is not immediately enforced and is subject to a probationary period of one (1) year, starting from the date of the present decision.”Turkey star Merih Demiral has been banned for two gamesHe scored both goals in Turkey’s 2-1 win over AustriaCredit: GettyBellingham isn’t the only player to foul fall of Uefa today.Turkey goal hero Merih Demiral has been banned for two matches for his controversial ‘Grey Wolf’ celebration against Austria.The symbol is linked with the far right in his country.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd after scoring both goals in Turkey’s 2-1 win in the last 16, he will now miss the quarter-final against Holland — and the semis if his side make it that far.A Uefa statement added: “The UEFA Appeals Body has decided to suspend Turkish Football Federation player Merih Demiral, for a total of two (2) UEFA representative team competition matches for which he would be otherwise eligible, for failing to comply with the general principles of conduct, for violating the basic rules of decent conduct, for using sports events for manifestations of a non-sporting nature and for bringing the sport of football into disrepute.”Crimes and punishmentsOther players have had the book thrown at them for making crude gestures. Here’s a list of some of the most famous offenders…Dele Alli was banned for one match by Fifa and fined £3,500 for raising his middle finger in a World Cup qualifier against… SLOVAKIA… in 2017. He claimed it was just a friendly joke aimed at Kyle Walker.Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone was slapped with a £17,000 fine for improper conduct for his bizarre crotch-grabbing celebration against Juventus in a Champions League first leg tie in 2019.Then-Juventus star Cristiano Ronaldo then repeated the act when he scored against Atletico in the return leg and was hit with an identical fine. He escaped a ban though.Montpellier coach Rene Girard was hit with a one-match European ban and fined £4,000 for raising his finger to opposite number Huub Stevens at the end of a 2012 Champions League clash against Schalke 04. More

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      Captaincy options for Matchday 5 – Kylian Mbappe most-popular skipper ahead of quarter-finals

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      DREAM TEAM EUROS managers have to decide their captain for Matchday 5 before today’s 4pm deadline.Due to the unpredictable nature of the quarter-final match-ups, there is no obvious player to strap the armband on so let’s run through a few candidates.Gakpo? Mbappe? Somebody else?Credit: Dream TeamKylian Mbappe (£7.5m)France’s No10 is the most-popular captain at the time of writing despite his side’s problems in front of goal.Les Bleus have squandered more than their fair share of chances, relying on two own goals and a penalty to make the last eight.That being said, Mbappe has racked up 31 points at an average of 10.3 per game (he missed one fixture through injury) thanks in no small part to his unmatched haul of 11 bonus points.Among the players still active in Germany, only Dani Olmo (£4m) averages more shots per 90 minutes than Mbappe at the tournament – he is a persistent threat.Granted, he faces a relatively tight Portuguese defence this evening but the rapid 25-year-old will fancy his chances against a back line that is likely to include Joao Cancelo (£4.5m), a relatively vulnerable one-on-one defender, and Pepe (£3.5m), who is 41 years old.Roberto Martinez’s side head into tonight’s game having lost to Georgia and drawn 0-0 with Slovenia (before progressing on penalties) in their last two outings.Gaffers seeking the safest captaincy option need look to further, Mbappe is always a justifiable choice when fit.Most read in FootballCody Gakpo (£4m)Golden Boot hopefulCredit: AFPThere are two compelling reasons to captain Netherlands’ main man.Firstly, he is the outright top performer in Dream Team Euros after the first four Matchdays having racked up 48 points via three goals and an assist.Secondly, he is due to face Turkey on Saturday night and while Vincenzo Montella’s side pack a punch going forward, their defence is comfortably the worst among the eight quarter-finalists.In terms of shots faced and xG conceded, there is statistical chasm between Turkey and the other seven teams, which suggests opting to double Gakpo’s points might be a smart strategy.The Liverpool forward has looked lively on the left flank and also leads the way for tackles among assets in his position – he has multiple routes to points.Fabian Ruiz (£3.5m)Can Spain go all the way?Credit: GettySpain v Germany is a match-up worthy of the final given what we’ve seen from both teams so far and many gaffers will be hesitant to select a captain up against a such a strong opponent.However, La Roja’s No8 simply has to be considered a viable skipper as he averages 12.7 points-per-game this summer!Ruiz has two goals and two assists to his name from just three outings as he was rested by Luis de la Fuente in Matchday 3.The PSG playmaker has been a key contributor to Spain’s smooth and dynamic build-up play that has arguably made them favourites to lift the trophy on July 14th.Some Dream Team Euros bosses may feel that the first fixture of Matchday 5 has the potential to be a high-scoring thriller.In which case, the likes of Ruiz and Jamal Musiala (£4.5m) could continue their fine form at the expense of defenders on both sides.Exciting wingers Lamine Yamal (£4m) and Nico Williams (£4m) are also in the conversation.Harry Kane (£7.5m) or Jude Bellingham (£6m)England are still alive at Euro 2024Credit: GettyMany gaffers wouldn’t dream of captaining an England player based on their performances at the tournament to date but Kane and Bellingham have somehow managed 58 points between.The former is currently the second most-selected captain for Matchday 5 with the Three Lions set to play Switzerland on Saturday.The Bayern Munich striker has looked rather sluggish but opportunistic finishes against Denmark and Slovakia served as reminders of his goalscoring pedigree – plus, he’s on penalties.As for Real Madrid’s superstar, he’s also scored two goals – the latest being an inspired stoppage-time overhead kick – and earned bonus points in every outing.READ MORE SUN STORIESGranit Xhaka (£3m), Manuel Akanji (£3.5m) and company should not be underestimated but it’s simply true that both Kane and Bellingham have found ways to earn points at this tournament despite not being at their best.Confirm your captain (and vice captain) before 4pm today!Why Xhaka is Football’s Greatest Comeback More

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      Majorca on ‘red alert’ for Spain vs Germany Euros CLASHES as motorbike cops & plain clothed officers swarm hols hotspot

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      MAJORCA has desperately called in cops on motorbikes and undercover officers for the Spain vs Germany match as tensions are set to flare on the island.The National Police have confirmed a special security operation has been prepared in Playa de Palma on Friday – where most German tourists will be for the big game. Some cops will be going undercover for the Spain vs Germany match in Playa de PalmaCredit: GettyIn May riot police armed with weapons charged towards the fansOfficers chased after them down the strip as horrified tourists watched on in horrorAlthough little detail has been provided, they confirmed the operation will be made up of public safety units like police intervention, prevention and reaction units. Cops will be seen on motorbikes or perhaps not at all as some will go undercover in plain clothing.Despite these seemingly intense provisions, bars across the Spanish island have other plans for tourists. The president of the Mallorca CAEB Restaurant Association, Alfonso Robledo, say many places are installing extra TV screens and increasing stock of provisions like alcohol. read more in footballThese changes are predominantly happening in the tourist areas like Playa de Palma and Peguera. But Mr Robledo suggested that the 6pm timing of the match was inconvenient, especially for the restaurant sector that won’t see much of the revenue.Fans going the heavy night without eating may also encourage more alcohol-induced commotion. He said: “Watching the match in a bar with friends is more fun than at home.Most read in Euro 2024However, the time, at six o’clock in the evening, doesn’t help”.He continued: “People will watch the match and will not make dinner reservations because they don’t know exactly when the Germany-Spain match will end; “it depends on whether there is extra time, penalties, etc. Restaurants don’t have the capacity to install screens because of the layout”.Majorca is a hugely popular holiday destination for Germans. According to the Statstica, Germans were the number one tourists to visit the island in 2022. The country are currently tackling with political violence after a series of physical attacks happened to local and leading politicians – blaming a rise of the far right. A few months ago fans of Germany’s “ultra” footy team Alemannia Achen were chased down and fired at with rubber bullets by Majorca’s riot team.Tourists were left fleeing the scene in Playa de Palma in May as officers from the National Police UPR unit looked to break up a group of some fifty people.The majority were fans of Alemannia Aachen, a German football club from the western city of Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, who have just been promoted to the 3. Liga – Germany’s third tier.The club’s ultras are said to be linked to the extreme right.The group had attacked a doorman at the Bamboleo bar on Carrer del Pare Bartomeu Salvà, near the beach, the Majorca Daily Bulletin report.A fight with other security personnel then followed, it was added, with significant damage caused to the bar.Officers holding weapons could be seen running after a group clad in yellow and black – the colours of Alemannia Aachen – in front of horrified onlookers.Amongst the chaos on the strip were other tourists fleeing to safety as the police began firing rubber bullets in the direction of the troublemakers.Fellow tourists cowered away on the side of the streets and ran into other bars for cover.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs of recent, Majorca has been slamming down on tourism.The idyllic Balearic island has seen violent gangs, bar brawls and anti-tourist protests stain its good name.GERMAN HOOLIGANS AWAYSLIKE Britain, Germany has been infected by football hooliganism since the 1980s – but it was perhaps worse in the 1990s.One of the most shocking incidents was during the 1998 World Cup in France, when a policeman was left with permanent brain damage following an attack by German louts.Two years later at the Euro 2000 tournament in Belgium, an English fan was stabbed as compatriots battled in the streets with German ones.It seemed to have been stamped out by intelligence led policing, but in the past few years it’s flared up again.In 2017 the kick-off at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium in London had to be delayed due to trouble caused by visiting fans from the German side Cologne.New rules in the Balearic IslandsTHE Spanish government has some strict rules in place for those visiting Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza.Certain restaurants have dress codes, banning tops without straps, swimwear or football kits.Holidaymakers can also be fined for walking around topless or in a state of undress while not on the beach.You could even get into trouble for driving topless.At some hotels, men might have to wear proper trousers for dinner.Authorities in Majorca are cracking down on tourists by imposing fresh bans on drinking on the streets and graffiti.Any tourist breaching the new rules could be slapped with a fine of £1,300.The penalty can be increased up to £2,600, in case the grounds of the offence are more serious.Fines for graffiti, vandalism and loud slogans have also been increased to £2,600.If minors are found to commit graffiti vandalism, their parents will be held responsible – and will be forced to pay the fine.Flooding the streets with banners, posters and advertising brochures is now prohibited.Destroying listed buildings, monuments, and other important public areas would be considered a serious offence – and could attract fines of up to £2,600Majorca is a very popular destination for German touristsCredit: AFPBars are expected to be mobbed for the big gameCredit: EPAMajorca has had a clamp down on tourism as of recentCredit: AFP – Getty More

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      Three ways England can upgrade and beat Switzerland at Euro 2024 but Southgate must be brave if he’s to succeed

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      ENGLAND’S reward for somehow stumbling to an unconvincing win over minnows Slovakia in the last-16 is a clash with the in-form Swiss.Switzerland looked very impressive in overcoming Italy to reach this stage and they are probably the toughest opponent that England will have faced so far at the Euros.Murat Yakin’s men one of the most compact and organised nations in Germany, especially when they breezed past holders Italy last time out.This will be England manager Gareth Southgate’s 100th game in charge, and the stakes could not be higher.Southgate is considering a switch to a back three for the quarter-final tie in Dusseldorf, and they have practiced it in training.Switzerland played with a back three and England also struggled against Serbia and Denmark who also played with the same set-up.read more on the eurosSouthgate could switch Kyle Walker to central defence with either Kieran Trippier or Trent Alexander-Arnold at right wing-back.Potentially, Bukayo Saka or Luke Shaw if fit could move to left wing-back.With Marc Guehi suspended Ezri Konsa is currently first in line to replace the defender.But it could be as part of a new-look back three with John Stones in the centre and Kyle Walker on the right.Most read in Euro 2024Moving to a back three could give Southgate the option to start with two strikers although he has preferred to play with two attacking players behind Kane.Whatever the formation, 3-4-3 or 4-2-3-1,  there are three key things that England must do if they are to beat the Swiss and keep their Euros dream alive.Why Xhaka is Football’s Greatest ComebackControl the midfieldThe midfield has been Southgate’s biggest headache throughout this tournament. The experiment of using the Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold as the deep midfielder partnering Declan Rice did not work out in the first two group stages. Gareth Southgate is considering switching to a back three against SwitzerlandCredit: GettyHow England could line up with a back threeSouthgate could opt to put Saka at left wing backEngland could choose to pick Luke Shaw if he is fit enoughChelsea’s Gallagher was named in the role against Slovenia in the group stage.But was hauled off at half-time and replaced by Man Utd star Mainoo, who went on to start the next match against SlovakiaIt is likely that Mainoo will again be the player chosen to play alongside Rice as the young midfielder did not look out of place against the Slovakians. The key for England in this match, regardless of who plays in the midfield positions, is to find a way to progress the ball through the midfield areas and into the final third. That means having midfielders who are comfortable in possession.But it also means having players positioned ahead of the ball who are in position to receive the pass in pockets of space that they can exploit.Mainoo is on the ball v Slovakia but the four team-,mates ahead of him are too close to each other, making it easy for the opposition to defend the spaceMainoo saw plenty of possession against SlovakiaThis has been one of the Swiss team’s biggest strengths.Switzerland have been one of the best teams in the competition when it comes to controlling the midfield and progressing through the thirds in possession of the ball. Led by the former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka the Swiss have been aggressive in possession of the ball.They are adept at stretching the play to take advantage of the pace that they have in the attack.In order for England to control and dominate the midfield areas in this game they need to be aggressive in possession, and move the ball forward.They need to push the Swiss to defend back towards their own goal. If they are not aggressive in their passing in this match and if they are not possession dominant then they will give Switzerland an opportunity to impose their style of play on the game and England will automatically be on the back foot.Xhaka has the ball v Italy and teammates are layered across the pitch ahead of him on different lines. This makes things far more difficult for the opposition to defend in a strong blockBellingham needs to be on the ball more to influence the game against SwitzerlandThe issues around the midfield for England have been one of the biggest question marks in this tournament so far. With Mainoo and Rice in the middle, hopefully Southgate and his coaching staff will have figured this out as they enter the quarter final stage.The midfield needs to be brave and be more aggressive with the ball, to put the Swiss on the back foot and force them into making mistakes.Defend togetherNumerous times in this tournament England have effectively left their back four isolated as the opposition attack. While, to an extent, this has worked out for England with the pace that they have with the likes of Walker and Guehi in the defensive line it is not an effective strategy as they go deeper into the tournament. With Guehi suspended for this match due to an accumulation of cautions it is likely that Konsa of Aston Villa will take his place, possibly in a back three.Declan Rice is adept at shielding the back fourBut England will still have to be careful given the sheer pace that Switzerland have in their attack.England have been stretched numerous times in this tournament with the midfield pressing higher and leaving significant gaps and spaces between their line and the defensive line. If they continue to play in this manner in this quarter final match then prepare to see a few races between the English defence and the Swiss attack.The Slovakians have beaten the England press and attack the exposed back four aggressivelyWith the likes of Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye, Switzerland are one of the quickest attacking teams in the tournament. They will look for opportunities to attack in behind the English defensive line wherever possible and especially on the left-side of the English defence where Kieran Trippier is not the quickest of fullbacks. Indeed, this is the side where we will see Switzerland use Ndoye as they look to stretch the pitch and attack space behind the defensive line.Ndoye attacks the space behind the Italy defence and the way the Swiss attack is spread out makes it tricky for the opposition to defendIn this match it will be important for England to keep the spaces between their midfield and defence tight in order to deny the Swiss the space to attack.Get runners around KaneThe performances of Harry Kane have attracted criticism throughout this tournament.But once again when England needed a goal in extra time against Slovakia it was the Bayern Munich man and England captain who provided it. Kane dropped deep against Slovakia too muchEngland’s attack was bunched together against SlovakiaIt is fair to say that Kane has not looked as mobile in this tournament as we have seen him previously.But he has still been effective in terms of receiving and holding the ball before linking the play.Yet at times he has looked isolated.It will be crucial for England to get players forward and around Kane in order to support the attack and make runs that will threaten to break through the defensive line for Switzerland.Kane drops deep and England have runners attacking the space behind him created by his movementThroughout this tournament Switzerland have looked solid and secure at the back.Led by the impressive Manuel Akanji from Man City, Switzerland consistently defend in a medium block that is compact with very little space between the lines that the opposition have been able to take advantage of. This is why the movement from England players to get beyond the ball when Kane drops in to receive the ball is so important. They have to find ways to stretch the game out and to give the Swiss defenders different problems to defend against. If the likes of Saka, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden can make these forward runs then England might cause Switzerland real problems.The Swiss drop back into an organised defensive unit which has proved very hard to break downIf England are going to come out of this game with a win then it will be important that they release runners aggressively to look to disrupt and break down the defensive organisation from the Swiss.READ MORE SUN STORIESConclusionEngland have not impressed so far in this tournament but they have still put themselves in a position where they are only two wins away from the final. England have the talent to overcome the Swiss in this game but they need to play as a more organised team. More