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      I’ve found TEN other explanations for Jude Bellingham’s ‘X-rated’ gesture – Uefa killjoys need to leave our talisman be!

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      England football superstar Jude Bellingham is at the centre of a firestorm at the Euros in Germany after performing an allegedly X-rated gesture following the thrilling 2-1 win over Slovakia.Uefa are officially investigating the incident in which Bellingham appeared to feign grabbing his crotch towards the opposition bench.Jude Bellingham performed an allegedly X-rated gesture following the thrilling 2-1 win over SlovakiaCredit: APEngland’s chances of winning the Euros could well come down to persuading Uefa that our star man was indeed gesticulating to his matesCredit: GettyAs my own gesture of support, as part of the ‘Justice for Jude’ campaign, I have compiled a list of ten things he might have been trying to communicateBut he’s emphatically denied any suggestion that it was an insult, or aimed at Slovakia’s team or officials, stating on X (formerly Twitter): ‘It was an inside joke gesture towards some close friends who were at the game. Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.’Watch Piers’ explosive interviews on his Uncensored YouTube channel hereHowever, if the authorities don’t believe him then Bellingham could be banned from Saturday’s crucial quarter-final clash with Switzerland, and possibly more games too if we progress further in the tournament.So, the stakes couldn’t be higher; in fact, England’s chances of winning the Euros could well come down to persuading Uefa that our star man was indeed gesticulating to his mates, and to providing a strong enough explanation of the message he was passing on to have him exonerated.READ MORE FROM PIERS MORGANAs my own gesture of support, as part of the ‘Justice for Jude’ campaign, I have compiled a list of ten things he might have been trying to communicate:1. His CajonesThe best, and most easily provable, excuse is that he was just telling his mates he’s got massive cojones. Jude, a young man with a very healthy ego, used this very signal before when he’s scored huge late goals. Indeed, he did it in April when he netted a last-minute winner for Real Madrid against Barcelona in another El Clasico. Most read in FootballAnd that time, it was towards his own fans so couldn’t possibly be an insult. Frankly, if a 21-year-old footballer can’t boast about having big balls when he scores wonder-goals, then what the hell is the world coming to?2. A medical emergencyIt was a cry for medical help. Jude was informing his mates that he twinged his groin performing the heroic overhead kick that saved England from an early Euros exit, abject ignominy and global mockery. If you study the incredibly skilful manoeuvre he made, it’s very clear that in bending his body into the right place to execute the shot, his lower abdominal area came under severe pressure, and he wanted his mates to tell England’s physio he’d need an urgent massage when he came off the pitch.3. Shopping for LauraHe’s an incredible romantic who was flashing a 5-digit signal (four fingers and a thumb) to his mates to go buy him a bottle of Chanel No5 perfume as a celebratory gift for his girlfriend, Dutch model Laura Celia Valk. He has to keep her happy because their relationship is now being talked up as potentially bigger than Posh and Becks, and right up there with Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. This would also explain the fingers-to-nose gesture which was obviously him telling them to keep it quiet and not let her get a whiff of his present before he gave it to her.4. Wanted a cuppaHe was making an urgent cupping gesture to denote that he and Harry Kane both wanted cups of tea after the game. Jude barely drinks alcohol, and Harry is teetotal. The fact he deliberately moved his fingers to his parched lips after the cupping signal is further evidence that it was all very clearly a request for his mates to make them much-needed, medically recommended, soothingly hydrating CUPS OF TEA.5. Package prideJude was making a joke about all the rave reviews he’s had in the past year declaring that he is ‘the complete package.’ These reviews have inevitably led to his mates constantly ribbing him about his ‘complete package’ in the way that all men do with their male friends whenever there’s any reference to a package of any kind. Jude’s repeated gesticulation towards a certain part of his anatomy was a deadpan statement of confirmation that his package is indeed impressively complete.6. Madrid nodJude’s shirt number for Real Madrid is No5, so he was sending a subliminal message to his mates (who we can pretend are all Real Madrid fans for the purposes of this investigation) that the genius level of his goal was entirely down to the elite-level training he’s done at Madrid that’s made him one of the world’s best players.7. Channelling CristianoHe was channelling one of his heroes, Cristiano Ronaldo, who once celebrated an El Clasico goal for Madrid against Barcelona in the rival’s Nou Camp stadium by sticking his hands out and saying ‘calma, calma’, then shushing them with his fingers. Jude just forgot which way he should be pointing his hands, and that you shush by putting your fingers to your lips not your nose – both easy mistakes to make in the pressure cauldron of an international tournament when you’ve just helped win a crucial knock-out match with a worldie.8. Olympic outrageJude was highlighting the iconic 5 Olympic rings because he wants to raise awareness that it’s ridiculous Team GB won’t be fielding a men’s football team in the upcoming Paris Olympics.This is due to the stupid ongoing dispute between the four home nation teams that means they can’t agree to play together. Jude’s livid that this will stop him winning an Olympic medal and was merely letting off steam about it.READ MORE SUN STORIES9. Hunger gameJude was starving hungry after the match, not least because he expended so much more energy during the 30 minutes of extra time, so he was frantically telling his mates that his stomach needed filling with his favourite dish, baked beans and eggs.10. Hitting back at GaryJude was winding up Gary Lineker, who branded the England team as ‘sh*t’ after an earlier match, by pointing out he’s better endowed than the BBC’s star presenter, which is almost certainly true. More

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      Romania 0 Holland 3: Cody Gakpo shines again as Dutch storm into Euro 2024 quarter-final

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      CODY GAKPO is a man for the big occasion.That’s not a phrase Liverpool fans have found themselves saying much, if at all.Cody Gakpo was the star of the show scoring the opening goal in the Netherlands’ 3-0 win against RomaniaCredit: GettyGakpo then assisted Holland’s goal scored by Donyell MalenCredit: APMalen then hit the third goal to seal the deal for the NetherlandsCredit: EPAHolland are through to the quarter-finals of the EurosCredit: GettyBut it was the Anfield wideman who propelled Holland into the last eight with a goal and an assist for Donyell Malan, who also grabbed the third.In truth, the Dutch should have had a few more against a Romania team that faded badly after a rousing start.This was an impressive display from Ronald Koeman’s men, a strong response to the criticism and disappointment of the 3-2 defeat by Austria in their final group game.Gakpo’s first-half goal put him joint top of the goalscoring charts with three.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Added to the three he grabbed at the Qatar World Cup, six of his 12 strikes for his country have now come at major tournaments.It was here in Munich, but at the Olympiastadion, that Koeman and Co won Holland’s only significant trophy when they beat the USSR in the 1988 Europan Championship final.After this confidence-boosting display, and with a favourable draw, they should fancy their chances of earning another tilt at glory.Gakpo’s goal changed the game and the whole mood in the stadium.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAfter noisy, dominant displays at their group games, the Dutch fans found themselves outnumbered and outgunned in Munich.Although the main yellow and orange sections were roughly equal in size, in the rest of the stadium Romanians were in the majority.Fans compare Romania star to an ONION as he is forced to wear hair net after nasty head injury against HollandTheir national anthem is stirring stuff when sung at high volume, as they proclaim that Roman blood still flows through their veins thanks to the conquest by Emperor Trajan nearly 2,000 years ago.Romania started like a team inspired by history and the prospect of making more by reaching the last eight of a major tournament for only the third time.Roared on by the crowd, they threw themselves into challenges and charged at the Dutch backline. A better pass from Ianis Hagi might have freed frontman Denis Dragus.A better touch from Dragus when he did get in behind Stefan De Vrij would have given him a chance to open the scoring.Dennis Man fired just over the bar and the Dutch looked rattled.Then Koeman’s side took the lead out of pretty much nothing and it was a very bad goal to concede.The ball was worked out to Gakpo on the left, and for sure, he was running at pace.But Romania’s blue-haired right back, Andrei Ratiu, made an even bigger spectacle of himself by showing the Liverpool iwdeman the inside as if he had never seen him play.Goalkeeper Florin Nita could only flap a weak pair of hands at Gakpo’s shot, and in it went at his near post. Hagi and Man both had shots off target before the Dutch fans behind Nita’s goal celebrated a second goal, only to realise that De Vrij’s header from Memphis Depay’s corner had gone into the side netting.Then it took a fine bit of defending by Tottenham’s Radu Dragusin to stop Steven Bergwijn’s cross reaching Depay.The former Manchester United man was increasingly able to sneak into dangerous positions despite his distinctive white headband. Twice more Holland could have extended their lead. First Tijjani Reijnders took too long to shoot, then Xavi Simons dallied even longer, after more good work by Dumfries, before hitting the ball tamely shooting tamely wide.Romania had a couple of surges late in the half, but you still felt boss Edward Iordanescu needed to deliver the team of his life at halftime to help his team rediscover their initial aggression and purpose.It didn’t look like he had.Reijnders was allowed to run half the length of the pitch before his shot was blocked.Then Depay seemed to panic with the goal at his mercy after half-time sub-Donyell Malen’s shot was deflected into his path. Nita gratefully dropped on the ball.Malen wasted a three-on-two break and from the resulting Depay corner, Virgil Van Dijk grazed a post with a header.Then it was Gakpo’s turn to run opposed deep into the Romanian half, and he forced Nita into a decent stop. He had the ball in the net after the corner that followed, but VAR ruled it out for a clear offside.That reprieve woke up the Romanian crowd. But not their team was still on the rack, with Depay sending a free kick just wide.Gakpo teed up substitute Joey Veerman with a brilliant backheel but again the target was narrowly missed. Simons almost scored by accident when the ball was cleared onto him and then Malen mucked up another overload that ended with Gakpo’s shot being blocked.Finally, the second goal arrived with seven minutes to go.Tottenham defender Radu Dragusin allowed Gakpo to wriggle past him on the byline and even Malen couldn’t miss from inside the six-yard box.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd the Borussia Dortmund forward wrapped it up deep in stoppage time with a good finish after another pacy break.If Gakpo keeps shining brighter in orange than he does in red, then Holland could go all the way.Gakpo’s second strike is ruled out by VARCredit: GettyEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Romania 0-3 Netherlands LIVE RESULT – Euro 2024: Cody Gakpo and Donyell Malen fire Holland to quarter-finals – reaction

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      NETHERLANDS have booked their spot in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 with a 3-0 win over Romania.Cody Gakpo opened the scoring with a stunning near-post finish on 20 minutes.Donyell Malen bagged a brace in the second half to secure the Netherlands’ spot in the quarter-finals.Holland will take on Austria or Turkey in the last-8 on Saturday, July 6.Match result: Romania 0-3 NetherlandsEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL of the latest updates below…Orange army celebrate winThey are right up there for any potential award for the best fans in Euro 2024 and the dream of winning the tournament is still alive.The streets of Munich will be a sea of orange as the Netherlands fans party long into the night.It was a perfect night this evening, winning the game and scoring three goals in the process.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedGakpo stars for Netherlands in MunichLiverpool striker Cody Gakpo was rightly awarded the ‘man of the match’ award at the Allianz Arena.He scored the first goal and assisted the second as the Dutch marched on to the quarter-finals.All focus now will be on tonight’s game between Turkey and Austria to see who they meet in the next round.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedRomania find Dutch too hot to handleJust to get to their first knockoout game in a major tournament for 24 years, Romania did their country proud.Even in losing this game, they did not look out of their depth and contributed to a competitive game.Netherlands rubbed salt in the wound with two late goals but on their showing in Euro 2024, Romanian football seems in good hands with Edward Iordanescu.Credit: AFPCredit: EPACopy linkCopiedDutch safely through to quartersNetherlands showed their quality against a dangerous Romania side in Munich this evening.After going a goal ahead, they struggled to give themselves the breathing space of a second goal until the closing stages of the game.Koeman’s side created plenty of chances in the game and were worthy winners and will wait to see whether it is Turkey or Austria that they face in the next round.Credit: ReutersCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedRounded performance from DutchWhoever they play in the quarter-finals, Netherlands will ask questions of many teams all over the pitch.One player who caused Romania real problems was Denzel Dumfries.His attacking play down the right gave his opposite number a nightmare for the majority of the game.Copy linkCopiedFT: Romania 0-3 NetherlandsThe scoreline flatters the Dutch a little as this was a more competitive game than it suggests.That said, Netherlands fully deserved their victory and put Romania to the sword in the final stages of the game.Many people will be taking note of Ronald Koeman’s side now.Copy linkCopiedFT: Romania 0-3 NetherlandsThe referee brings the game to a close.A dominant display from Netherlands at the Allianz Arena.Romania have done themselves proud in this tournament.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-3 Netherlands90+3. As a Romania attack breaks down, Malen breaks and takes the ball on himself.He cuts inside onto his right foot and slots the ball past the Romanian keeper.It adds an air of comfort to the scoreline in Munich.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Donyell Malen (Netherlands)Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-2 Netherlands90+2. A hopeful ball is hoisted upfield but Verbruggen does well to come and collect it.van Dijk is then penalised for a foul on Alibec on the halfway line.Depay is replaced by Blind for the Netherlands.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-2 Netherlands90. van de Ven sprints down the left flank putting in a dangerous ball into the near post.Weghorst slides in but cannot find the contact needed to convert.We are going to have four additional minutes added.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-2 Netherlands88. Credit where it is due to Romania, they have been a credit to this tournament and this game.It all seemed to be one step too far as they met a Dutch side today who brought their game.We have seen some dramatic late goals in Euro 2024 but it seems a big ask needing two goals in the time remaining.Credit: PACopy linkCopiedRomania 0-2 Netherlands86. You cannot deny that the Dutch deserve this win.They will be heading through to the quarter-finals unless something very out of the ordinary happens now.Netherlands continue to pile the pressure on the Romanians.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-2 Netherlands84. That was brilliant play from Gakpo on the byline to keep the ball in play.As the keeper tries to close him down, he squared it to Malen to poke home into a near empty net.That has ended any Romanian hopes of getting that equaliser in this game.Gakpo is then replaced by Weghorst.Copy linkCopiedGoal – Donyell Malen (Netherlands)Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands82. Malen goes on a mazy run before laying the ball off to Gakpo in the Romanian penalty-area.Once again the pass is slightly behind the Liverpool man.He manages to get a shot off at goal but it is well blocked and deflects high over the bar.Romania manage to break but the referee awards a free kick against Alibec for a foul on Dumfries.The replay shows there was no contact whatsoever and the defender was just acting and certainly sold the official one there.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands80. Simons almost gets lucky as a wild clearance from the Romanian strikes him and narrowly misses the far post.That certainly would not have been a ‘goal of the tournament’ contender.Romania will be hoping they can get one more chance in this game.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands78. Dumfries is shown a yellow card for timewasting.As the game goes on, the more desperate Romania become.They have created very little in terms of clear-cut chances in this second half.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands76. Netherlands continue to press forward in search of that goal.Gakpo looks to cross into the box but it is headed clear.The Dutch recycle it and Dumfries plays a good ball into the box but Depay cannot head it goalwards.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands74. While this game stays at one-nil, Romania are very much in it.They will gain some confidence from that in the closing stages of this game.Netherlands have had plenty of chances to put this game to bed.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands72. Hagi, Dragus and Maris are replaced by Mihaila, Alibec and Cicaldau.Gakpo lays the ball off to Simons who tries to be over elaborate again and is dispossessed.Netherlands win it back and Gakpo backheels it to Veerman but as he looks to pass it into the far corner, it narrowly goes the wrong side of the post.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands70. Ronald Koeman decides it is time for a change.Schouten comes off for Veerman while van de Ven replaces Ake.We are heading into the last twenty minutes of the game now and Romania look set to make some changes also.Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands68. The Dutch are playing some great passing football.If anything, the only criticism you could aim at Koeman’s side is that in this position they do not kill games off.Simons goes down just outside the box and the referee awards a free kick.Marius Marin is shown a yellow card for the challenge.Depay strikes the free kick under the wall and it narrowly misses the near post with the keeper scrambling.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-1 Netherlands66. Gakpo’s goal is disallowed, as the replay showed, he had just strayed offside before poking the ball home.Not sure why that decision took so long, even the registered blind could have seen that one.There is a huge cheer from the Romanian fans as the goal is chalked off.Copy linkCopiedVAR review – OffsideCopy linkCopied More

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      Austria vs Turkey LIVE RESULT: Rangnick’s side OUT of Euro 2024 as Turks set up Holland semi-final tie – latest updates

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      AUSTRIA are OUT of Euro 2024 after losing 2-1 to Turkey in a frantic game.Ralph Rangnick’s side topped Group D ahead of European giants France and the Netherlands.But they went 1-0 down after 57 seconds thanks to Merih Demiral’s goal and the former Juventus man doubled their lead in the second half. Austria pulled one back late on but failed to grab an equaliser. Kick-off time: 8pm BSTStream/TV: ITVX/ITV1HDAustria XI: Pentz; Posch, Danso, Lienhart, Mwene; Seiwald, Laimer; Baumgartner, Sabitzer, Schmid; ArnautovicTurkey XI: Gunok; Muldur, Bardakci, Demiral, Kadioglu; Yuksek, Ayhan; Arda Guler, Kokçu, Yildiz; YilmazEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSMatch report – Martin LiptonHere is your full match report from the fabulous Martin Lipton, SunSport’s Chief Sports Reporter. HIS name echoed around the Red Bull Arena as Leipzig was transformed into Istanbul.From every Turkish corner, the diaspora chanted: “Arda Guler.”And while Jude Bellingham is the Real Madrid star who has got the world talking, maybe we need to find room for his club-mate too.Guler may not have scored the goals that took his side through to a last-eight clash with Holland in Berlin.Centre-back Merih Demiral was the double-goal hero, first cashing on a Keystone Kop first-minute blunder at the back and then soaring to flick home.But both came from the deadly corner delivery of Guler…Copy linkCopiedMert Gunok at the deathRight at the end of the game, Christoph Baumgartner leapt like a salmon and nodded a header into the ground, which looked destined to find the back of the net in Jude Bellingham time. The save of the tournament so far without a doubt. Copy linkCopiedQuarter finals in full: This is how the quarter final line up looks after the completion of tonight’s game. Spain vs GermanyPortugal vs FranceNetherlands vs TurkeyEngland vs SwitzerlandWe will have full coverage of all those games for you here on SunSport. Copy linkCopiedMatch statsThis is how the match stats looked as the final whistle blew in Leipzig. 21 shots and 60% possession shows Austria’s dominance in the game, but they were not as clinical as Turkey and Merih Demiral when it mattered. The match stats between Austria and TurkeyCopy linkCopiedUp next: NetherlandsIt will be The Netherlands up next for Turkey, after they got the better of Austria in this game. Netherlands were convincing in their 3-0 rout over Romania earlier today, and will go into that game as favourites. Surely they will provide a tougher test than what Austria did tonight, but Turkey will have star man Hakan Calhanoglu back. Netherlands and Xavi Simons are the next challenge for TurkeyCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedFULL TIME: Austria 1-2 TurkeyFT. That is all says the referee!The Turkish fans and team go absolutely wild! Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey90+4. OH MY WORD. WHAT A SAVE. GUNOK DENIES BAUMGARTNER AT THE DEATH. A great cross is put into the middle and Baumgartner rises like a salmon to meet the ball in the air. The header is into the ground, but Pentz makes an incredible last ditch save. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey90+2. Yilmaz so nearly finishes the game for Turkey as he bursts forward on the counter attack and lashes a shot at the Austrian goalkeeper. Austria will have ONE more chance.Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey90. There have been four minutes added on at the end of the match. Austria will continue to fight until the final whistle, but so will Turkey.Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey87. Baumgartner goes down the left hand side for Austria, but is stopped by a great challenge by Kaan Ayhan. Turkey take their time bringing the ball forwards. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey84. Austria are penning Turkey into their own half here, and the attack is relentless right now. Turkey look like they are starting to panic a bit, and we could see plenty of late drama in the last five minutes or so of this one. A la Jude Bellingham perhaps. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey82. 10 minutes to go, and Austria continue to create chances as we near the end of the game here. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey80. Sabitzer goes to take another corner, but quickly nurses a head injury after being hit by something thrown by Turkish fans. The resulting corner doesn’t beat the first man. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey78. Arda Guler makes way after a spectacular performance in this match, alongside Kenan Yildiz. They are both replaced by Kerem Akturkoglu and Okay Yoksulu of West Bromwich Albion. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey75. Austria try to get forward once again with Sabitzer trying to feed Grillitsch who made a delightful run from midfield into the box. They win the ball back high up the pitch and launch a cross into Arnautovic, who wins a corner. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey73. Austria put in two crosses in quick succession, Merih Demiral clears the latest one out for a corner. The rain is thrashing down here in Leipzig. Copy linkCopiedAustria 1-2 Turkey71. Smart play from Yilmaz to try and reclaim a two goal lead over Austria, but none of his teammates are on the same page and after a great run his ball into the middle meets no one. Austria have got just over 18 minutes to try and get an equaliser. Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLLL! Austria 1-2 Turkey67. THE COMEBACK IS ON!It’s Michael Gregoritsch! Marcel Sabitzer’s corner is whipped into Stefan Posch, who flicks the header into the path of Michael Gregoritsch to turn it home with his left foot. Great finish from the Freiburg man. Copy linkCopiedAustria 0-2 Turkey65. Two more changes for Austria. Max Wober and Florian Grillitsch are on for Phillipp Lienhardt and Konrad Laimer. Copy linkCopiedAustria 0-2 Turkey62. Austria have got a mountain to climb here now, and not many would have predicted this before the game began. They are going to have to go for it. Copy linkCopiedGOALLLLL! Austria 0-2 Turkey60. IT’S TWO FOR TURKEY! Arda Guler whips in a corner and it’s Merih Demiral again!He rises highest in the box and knocks in a gorgeous header past the goalkeeper. That is sensational!Copy linkCopiedAustria 0-1 Turkey58. A great run from Kadioglu down the left hand side sees him burst past Posch and into the box. He fires a shot at the Austrian keeper, but it is blocked before it reaches him. Copy linkCopiedAustria 0-1 Turkey57. Marko Arnautovic is presented with another opportunity, but he is offside this time. In the first half Turkey were doing really well to stay with the Austrian runners, but they are starting to get away from them a bit more often now.Copy linkCopiedAustria 0-1 Turkey55. Huge chance for Austria again!This time it falls to Stefan Posch, who’s rebounded volley is hit straight at the goalkeeper!The Austrian pressure is starting to mount.Copy linkCopiedAustria 0-1 Turkey53. Konrad Laimer shows some dazzling feet to dance through two defenders Jamal Musiala style, but he slips as he looks to find the finishing touch. Copy linkCopied More

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      England fans say ‘get him back on the pitch’ as footage of Jarrod Bowen masterclass in Euro 2024 training emerges

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      JARROD BOWEN’s training ground masterclass has left England fans calling for him to start against Switzerland.Footage of the West Ham winger showing off his finishing in Euro 2024 training has emerged on social media.Jarrod Bowen wowed England fans with his finishing masterclass in trainingCredit: X / @EnglandFans have called for Gareth Southgate to ‘get him back on the pitch’Credit: X / @EnglandBowen has played just 35 minutes at the tournament so far after coming off the bench against Serbia and Denmark.However, he was an unused substitute for the clashes with Slovenia and Slovakia.The 27-year-old has now staked his claim to start Saturday’s quarter-final against Switzerland, though.In a video shared by England’s official channels, Bowen brilliantly dispatched four separate chances in training.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSHe started by finding the inside netting with a first-time volley, before bending a left-footed strike into the top corner.His masterclass continued with a delicate passed finish and concluded with Bowen tapping in Adam Wharton’s pass from close range.Fans were left in awe of the footage as they called for Bowen to be given more opportunities by Gareth Southgate.One supporter commented: “Get him back on that pitch!”Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother added: “Give him more minutes!”A third fan also commented: “That first finish from Bowen is a joke. Wow.”SunSport’s Latest Euro 2024 headlinesMeanwhile, one more simply said: “Let him play.”Bowen has yet to score in 10 England caps since making his debut in June 2022.However, he is fresh from scoring 20 goals in all competitions for West Ham last term.The former Hull man finished the campaign as the Hammers’ top scorer for a second time.Goals have been an issue for England in Germany, with just four goals from four matches.Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane have shared those goals between them after scoring two each.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Fans compare Romania star to an ONION as he is forced to wear hair net after nasty head injury against Holland

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      FANS have compared Romania star Ianis Hagi to an ONION for wearing a hairnet after suffering a nasty head injury.The Rangers midfielder started for his country in the round-of-16 clash against Holland in Germany.Fans compare Ianis Hagi to an ONION for wearing a hairnetCredit: GettyThe Ranger midfielder went down with a nasty head injury in the last-16 clash against HollandCredit: ReutersHagi was injured after colliding with Dutch defender Denzel DumfriesCredit: GettyIn the opening stages of the game Hagi collided with Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries as he challenged for the ball.The Inter Milan man’s elbow collided with Hagi’s head, which started to bleed.Thankfully the player was able to return to the field – but wearing protective netting.But fans immediately took to social media to compare the net to a variety of things – including an ONION.READ MORE ON EURO 2024One fan commented: “Someone put an onion bag on Hagi’s head. Onion Hagi.”Another agreed: “Hagi out here with the bag you get with onions on his head.”While another compared him to a dinner lady: “For real though, the f*** on Hagi’s head? Proper giving dinner lady.”And fourth then asks, “Why they got Hagi looking like he can’t leave Tesco without the alarms going off”, as they compared the star to a vodka bottle wrapped in mesh. Most read in FootballThe 25-year-old is hoping to step out of his father’s shadow as he looks to make an impact for Romania at Euro 2024.He is the son of the country’s greatest-ever player Gheorghe Hagi.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThe latter turned out for both Real Madrid and Barcelona and became a club legend at Turkish giants Galatasaray during the 1990s where Ianis was born.The young pretender made a name for himself in Europe after joining joined Rangers on an initial six-month loan under Steven Gerrard in January 2020.A horror ACL injury hindered his progress and he joined LaLiga side Alaves last summer on a season-long loan to revive his career.Romania Euro 2024 guideFORMER World Cup quarter-finalists Romania are back after eight years without qualifying for a tournament.They aren’t pretty to watch but they are effective and topped their qualifying group unbeaten ahead of Switzerland.MANAGER: Edward IordanescuHis father Anghel managed them at the 1994 World Cup where they reached the last eight. Tough act to follow.STAR MAN: Radu DragusinHas struggled to win a first team place at Spurs but has been a stalwart at international level.How Romania attackRomania will play out from the back and play one or two-touch passes to break between the lines.However, they can run out of ideas when faced with a low block.How Romania defendRomania do not tend to press high as a unit and their players can be dragged out of position up the pitch.However, they are far more effective close to their own goal with the midfield dropping deep to support the back four.Read the full Romania Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups and latest odds More

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      England star Marc Guehi needed injection and had to play through pain in epic comeback win against Slovakia

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      MARC GUEHI needed an injection on a shoulder injury at half-time in England’s win over Slovakia.The defender played through the pain barrier to help the Three Lions secure a dramatic comeback victory in the last 16 of Euro 2024.Marc Guehi needed an injection on a shoulder injury at half-time against SlovakiaCredit: AFPThe England defender received lengthy treatment before playing through the painCredit: GettyGuehi played the full 90 minutes plus extra-time in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.He also provided the assist for Jude Bellingham’s stoppage time equaliser, flicking on a throw-in to the Real Madrid man.However, Guehi did so despite twisting his shoulder in a tussle with David Strelec during the first half.The Crystal Palace man received lengthy treatment on the pitch before needing an injection at half-time to continue.READ MORE ON EURO 2024According to the Daily Mail, Guehi would have been a doubt for Saturday’s quarter-final against Switzerland had he not been suspended.Instead, the Three Lions are hopeful the 23-year-old will be fit for a possible semi-final in Dortmund on July 10.He has played every minute of England’s campaign so far but is suspended for the last eight after accumulating two yellow cards.Ezri Konsa is expected to come into the back four to replace Guehi alongside John Stones.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSDiscussing the potential of starting against Switzerland, the Aston Villa defender said: “I’m always ready.”When the gaffer wants to play me, wherever he wants to play, I will step in.”The Rise of Marc Guehi: England’s Defensive StarEngland ratings: Bellingham rescues woeful Three Lions as big names, and manager, have a shockerJUDE BELLINGHAM’S majestic overhead kick deep into stoppage time saved England from a humiliating Euros exit.Gareth Southgate’s side had been utterly woeful and looked to be heading home thanks to Ivan Schranz’s clever finish.But Bellingham came to the rescue in the 96th minute, brilliantly firing into the corner after Marc Guehi had flicked on Kyle Walker’s long throw.Remarkably, it was England’s first shot on target, summing how poor they had been.But another one came soon after, as 53 seconds into extra-time, Harry Kane headed home from close range to set up a quarter-final with Switzerland.It was as close a shave as it comes, and if they play like this against the Swiss, then they will be toast.Here’s how Tom Barclay rated England’s stars… and manager Southgate.Jordan Pickford: 5Appeared to hurt his left hand when taking a big whack in the warm-up, but still played. Fired a lot of long balls and was lucky not to be lobbed by David Strelec’s 45-yard strike.Kyle Walker: 4England’s second-most experienced player had a shocker. He looked uncharacteristically slow, his touch was heavy and his crossing was nowhere near good enough. But it was his long throw that led to Bellingham’s magic.John Stones: 4Said it was time for the senior pros to step up in the build-up to the game, but there was little sign of that until Bellingham did his thing, and he is only 21. Stones fired aimless long balls, gave it away and it was his mistake that almost led to Strelec’s trying his luck from range.Marc Guehi: 5Booked early after Kieran Trippier’s underhit pass meant he had to take out the excellent David Strelec, meaning he is out of the quarter-final. Ivan Schranz bamboozled him for Slovakia’s opener but his flick-on to Bellingham brought the leveller.Kieran Trippier: 4When Jude Bellingham’s good ball found Trippier on the edge of the box early doors, on his favoured right foot, you thought, ‘Here we go’. He smashed it into Row Z.Declan Rice: 5An old-school reducer on Juraj Kucka was a fair tackle, even if it left the 37-year-old hobbling. His curling effort with ten minutes to go cracked against the post.Kobbie Mainoo: 6FIRST start at a major tournament and our only decent performer in an horrendous first half from England. Blasted a volley over but was also booked for a late tackle.Bukayo Saka: 5We all know what a fantastic player Saka is for Arsenal, and for England in games gone by, but he rarely threatened here. Did go the distance though, and in a number of positions.Jude Bellingham: 7 and STAR MANCometh the hour, cometh the man. He had underwhelmed again until the 96th minute, but who cares when you step up like that.Phil Foden: 4Thought he had levelled early in the second half but his tap-in was ruled out by VAR after he was caught being, inexplicably, offside. Just off it all night, in danger of being dropped.Harry Kane: 6Still way off his best – he was nowhere to be seen in the first half and missed a free header after the break – but got it right when it counted in extra time.SUBSTITUTIONSCole Palmer (on for Kieran Trippier, 66): 7FANS were on their feet applauding when Southgate finally made a change and brought him on. So lively and with a lovely delivery, must be in with a chance of starting against the Swiss.Eberechi Eze (on for Kobbie Mainoo, 84): 6Did enough to put off Slovak full-back Peter Pekarik from turning home at close range in extra-time. Looked like he had been hit by a train when Denis Vavro walloped into him.Ivan Toney (on for Phil Foden, 90): 7GRABBED the assist for Kane’s winner by flicking on after a free-kick – which he had won with his strength – had been cleared.Conor Gallagher (on for Harry Kane, 105): 6Southgate rolled the dice in extra-time by trying to shut the game out, taking his captain off for the Chelsea midfielder.Ezri Konsa (on for Jude Bellingham, 105): 6Ditto to Gallagher as Konsa got his first minutes of the tournament in place of the hero Bellingham, which felt a risky strategy.MANAGERGareth Southgate: 3.A lucky, lucky man. Tactically, his team were all long ball, lacked any movement, and did not conjure up a shot on target until Bellingham’s wonder strike – and that came from Walker chucking it in the mixer. Subs took ages in the 90 and then felt risky as he sought to see the game out in extra-time.Elsewhere, both Stones and Kieran Trippier are expected to be fit for Saturday’s match in Dusseldorf.Stones left the stadium with strapping on his right knee after the win over Slovakia but said he would be “fine” for the next match.Meanwhile, Trippier was withdrawn during the second half after picking up a knock from a heavy challenge.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Romania 0-0 Netherlands LIVE SCORE – Euro 2024: Last 16 clash on NOW as Holland eye last-8 spot – latest updates

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      NETHERLANDS are taking on Romania in a tough last-16 clash at the Allianz Arena RIGHT NOW!Edward Iordanescu’s side are one of the biggest surprise packages of the Euros so far after they topped Group E ahead of Belgium, Slovakia and Ukraine.Meanwhile, the Netherlands have been underwhelming so far at Euro 2024 and only managed to sneak through to the knockout stages as one of the best-ranked third-placed sides.The winner of tonight’s last-16 clash will take on Austria or Turkey in the quarter-finals.TV channel/ live stream: BBC One/ BBC iPlayerRomania team: Nita, Ratiu, Dragusin, M Marin, Hagi, Burca, R Marin, Dragus, Man, Stanciu, MogosNetherlands team: Verbruggen, Ake, Van Dijk, De Vrij, Dumfries, Reijnders, Schouten, Gakpo, Simons, Bergwijn, DepayEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL of the latest updates below…Romania 0-0 Netherlands5. We have a slight break in play as Stanciu receives some treatment for a cut to the top of his head.There are whistles and jeers when the Dutch are in possession due to the sheer number of Romanian fans.Both teams are trying to find a foothold in the game early on.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-0 Netherlands3. Romania have started with a high-tempo.They are giving the opposition no time on the ball at all.Dragus closes down Verbruggen and almost blocks the Dutch keeper’s clearance.Copy linkCopiedRomania 0-0 Netherlands1. It is rare you see the Dutch fans outnumbered in a major tournament but the Romanians may have them beat here.The Allianz Arena is a sea of yellow with its pocket of orange.Netherlands look to start on the front foot.Copy linkCopiedKick-off: Romania vs NetherlandsWe are underway in Munich.This could be a game that offers us a lot of goals today.Netherlands get the match started.Copy linkCopiedRomanians raising the roof for kick-offIt is not just the Dutch fans who are getting in the party atmosphere for this ’round of 16′ game.The Romania fans are loving the fact that their team have made the knockout phase of a major tournament again.The Allianz Arena is going to be a cauldron of noise for this one.Credit: GettyCredit: ReutersCopy linkCopiedOrange army hits Munich in styleOne thing you cannot question with the Netherlands, their fans have lit up Euro 2024.Today is no different as they headed to the Allianz Arena.This is before a ball is even kicked, it could be absolute scenes should they progress to the quarter-finals.Copy linkCopiedNetherlands need to answer criticsHaving ended up finishing in third place in the group, many Dutch fans were underwhelmed by their performances.The knockout phase is often seen as where tournaments really begin, making this match this evening all the more important.Netherlands will need to flex their attacking muscle today and put Romania to the sword if they are to get the fans back onside.Copy linkCopiedHoping to relive Euro ’88Netherlands had a famous victory in the tournament, beating USSR 2-0 in the final.Goals from Gullit and van Basten sealed victory for the Dutch.However, this is the goal that lives on to this day and every fan knows where they were when it was scored.Copy linkCopiedNothing to lose, everything to gainNobody predicted Romania getting to the ’round of 16′ phase.As a result, they can play with freedom in this game as the Dutch come into the tie as heavy favourites.Ronald Koeman’s side need to wary, there is nothing more dangerous than a team who feel they can just go out and throw caution to the wind.Copy linkCopiedDutch hold advantage in tieRomania have won only one of their fourteen matches against the Netherlands in all competitions (D3, L10).In those matches, Romania have only scored three goals while they have conceded twenty-nine.Their last victory over the Dutch was a 1-0 win in a qualifying campaign for the Euros in October 2007.Copy linkCopiedNetherlands starting XI:Simons returns to the line-up for this pivotal game for the Dutch in Euro 2024:1. Verbruggen, 5. Ake, 4. van Dijk, 6. de Vrij, 22. Dumfries, 14. Reijnders, 24. Schouten, 11. Gakpo, 7. Simons, 25. Bergwijn, 10. DepayCredit: @onsoranjeCopy linkCopiedRomania starting XI:Edward Iordanescu names his starting line-up for this massive tie against the Dutch.1. Nita, 22. Mogos, 15. Burca, 3. Dragusin, 2. Ratiu, 6. M.Marin, 10. Hagi, 21. Stanciu, 18. R.Marin, 20. Man, 19. DragusCredit: @hai_romaniaCopy linkCopiedParty atmosphere in MunichAs fans of both teams head to the Allianz Arena, it is really a carnival atmosphere in and around the ground.The knockout phases add a little something different to the meaning of these games with the stakes so high.For one set of fans, they will be partying long into the night, for the others that long trip home becomes a reality.Credit: AFPCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedKoeman needing to succeedNetherlands will be expected to make it to at least the quarter-finals of Euro 2024.For some of their players, it is their last chance to try and win the tournament.Sat on the easier side of the draw, it provides a huge chance for them to focus on trying to make it to the semi-finals where a potential tie against England could await.Copy linkCopiedTricolours with upset in their sightsRomania continue to impress at Euro 2024.After topping their group, they will come into this knockout game with no fear whatsoever.Austria will have given the Romanians confidence that they are more than capable of upsetting the odds in Munich this evening.Copy linkCopiedNetherlands looking to set record straightSpeaking the media, Netherlands’ striker spoke about their defeat in the last group game:We must ensure that we learn from our mistakes. We had discussions and criticised each other and it is normal that there is friction if the results do not go as you want them to go. It’s logical that there will be irritations. But that’s behind us now. There’s a good spirit among the group and we are looking forward.Memphis DepayNetherlandsCopy linkCopiedPressure on Dutch to performNetherlands came into this tournament fancied to challenge for the trophy.After their first two group games, one of which they were robbed of victory by a dodgy VAR decision, many were surprised by their defeat to Austria.Ronald Koeman’s side will be looking to bounce back from that defeat against Romania this evening.Copy linkCopiedRomania continue to surprise in GermanyNot many would have predicted that Romania were going to finish on top of Group E.In a very tight group, Iordanescu’s team edged out some European heavyweights.After a 24-year absence from the knockout phases, this will be a monumental game in Munich where this side can make history against the Dutch.Copy linkCopiedWelcome to Romania vs NetherlandsRomania face the Netherlands in Munich in this ‘round of 16’ tie looking to continue their Euro 2024 campaign but claiming another big scalp.Iordanescu will be without left-back Nicusor Bancu after amassing two yellow cards after he picked up a caution against Slovakia.Right-back Vasile Mogos and Dejan Sorescu are regarded the two main contenders to replace Bancu with the former expected to get the nod due to his defensive experience, which would mean Andrei Ratiu shifting out to the left.One bit of good news for Romania is that two-goal man Marin has been training fully which will give Iordanescu the best kind of attacking dilemma as Ianis Hagi, Dennis Man, Florinel Coman and Valentin Mihaila are all battling for the spots either side of Denis Dragus.Netherlands have a fully fit squad available for selection in Munich, but a tactical change is expected in midfield after Joey Veerman was brought off after just 35 minutes of their group loss against Austria.Xavi Simons is expected to replace him which will mean Tijjani Reijnders dropping into a deeper role alongside Jerdy Schouten, who will miss any quarter-final if booked this evening.Joshua Zirkee is now back in training once again following a brief illness, but having broken his Euros duck last time out, Memphis Depay is expected to keep his spot in attack as he chases down Robin van Persie’s record of 50 goals for his country.Depay is just four goals short of that tally.Copy linkCopied More