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      England boss Gareth Southgate looks to Euro 96 and Italia 90 for inspiration… but not for the reason you’d expect

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      MISTY-EYED fans still reminisce about Italia ’90 and Euro ’96 when England went all the way to both semi-finals before losing to Germany on penalties.Yet in each tournament, it is conveniently forgotten that, for the most part, the Three Lions were bloody awful before getting to within touching distance of the final.England manager Gareth Southgate looked back at Italia 90 and Euro 96Credit: RexDavid Platt saved England’s blushes at Italia 90 with a massive goal against BelgiumCredit: Action Images – ReutersPaul Gascoigne bailed England out with a stunner against Scotland in 1996Credit: AlamyJude Bellingham’s wondergoal against Slovakia brought back memoriesCredit: AFPEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYEngland boss Gareth Southgate is acutely aware that his team have not exactly set Euro 2024 alight.They are unbelievably fortunate not to be back home after scraping a 2-1 win over Slovakia on Sunday.There are obvious parallels between Euro 2024 and the World Cup 34 years ago when David Platt struck a career-defining volleyed winner in the last minute of extra-time for a 1-0 win over Belgium in the Last 16. That magical moment in Bologna not only helped prevent the game going to penalties but it followed a really poor group stage under then boss Sir Bobby Robson.Read More on Euro 2024Another iconic moment was Paul Gascoigne’s individual goal which sealed a 2-0 win over Scotland in the group stages of Euro ’96, after the Scots had missed a penalty.Even so, under Terry Venables, England still failed to impress for much of the Euros on home soil.So now, Southgate hopes Jude Bellingham’s blockbuster overhead kick – which could also prove to be an iconic goal like Platt’s — can help change the narrative of what has been a poor tournament so far for the bookies’ favourites. Currently, they do not look like potential champions.Hoping for a massive improvement against Switzerland in the last eight on Saturday, Southgate said: “Everybody now, 30-odd years on, looks back at ’96 — that I played in — in a different way to how it was at the time.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“We were bang average against Switzerland, we were the same against Scotland.“And Scotland missed a penalty at 1-0. Spain should have beaten us in a 0-0 draw.Watch Declan Rice’s passionate defence of under-fire Gareth Southgate after last-gasp Slovakia heroics“Also, 1990 was similar, so you do go through these moments in tournaments.“We know we should be better than we’ve been but I’m saying that we’ve ended up with a lot of young players in important positions and are trying to solve problems, right the way through the four weeks of the camp.“But the stand-out thing is the way the players are dealing with it. Their togetherness, their spirit.“You could see that with the boys that went on but also the boys that came off and the way that they were up and supporting the group. So that is giving us a chance.England united the country in their run to the Euro 96 semi-finalsCredit: PA:Press AssociationBut they started off with a dreadful draw against Saturday’s opponents SwitzerlandCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdEngland drew to the Republic of Ireland in the 1990 World Cup group stageCredit: PA:Empics SportSouthgate has been criticised for his squad selection with Harry Maguire – who would have easily been fit by now – left at homeCredit: Getty“I know that we’ve got to be better and we’ve got a very tough team to prepare for. So I’m already on to that. But I am so proud of the players.“I have to say they’re all impressing me — that group that hasn’t played yet, Joe Gomez, Lewis Dunk, Ezri Konsa before the Slovakia game, also Ivan Toney. They’re all playing a part in preparing the team and it’s so important.Team unity“If you’ve got any sort of fracture in the camp at a tournament, you’re in trouble.“And those guys, they’re training well, they’re with the group and they’re socially good. I can’t speak highly enough about all of them. What can’t be questioned is the togetherness of the group, the way they’re fighting for each other.“And in knockout football that can be as important as everything else.”Back in 1990, Robson faced the type of fierce criticism back home that Southgate is suffering now.Equally, Southgate is still paying the price for his poor squad selection before the tournament.England have a major issue at the back as Marc Guehi is suspended.Wrong team selectionsIt looks as though Southgate will start Ezri Konsa, who has played just five times for the senior team with only two starts.Although Harry Maguire failed to make the squad due to injury, he would easily have been fit by now — while Eric Dier would also have been a perfect replacement.The decision to include Brighton defender Dunk after an average season, was just plain weird.And in the second period of extra-time, when England seemed to be doing their best to give Slovakia a way back, the experience of Jordan Henderson — regardless of the way his season ended with Ajax — would have been vital.Instead, Southgate will once again start with 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo who has certainly done better in central midfield than either Trent Alexander-Arnold or Conor Gallagher.But against a more experienced team like Switzerland, this will be a real test for him off the ball.Palmer should startYet England’s best performer against Slovakia was substitute Cole Palmer, 22, and he simply HAS to start in Dusseldorf.Southgate said: “There’s that uninhibited style that he brings.“He can throw people off balance. He can open things up. Of course when you come on, as the opposition are tiring, there’s a different picture.“So the job that the guys are doing at the start is also important.”Remarkably, considering England’s positivity going into the tournament, the Swiss will be many people’s favourites as they look a far better, balanced team.And Southgate said: “I think they’re excellent.“I’ve thought that for a few years, really. They have had some consistency in what they do for a long time.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Their system is difficult to press. They’ve got good rotation.“Once they’ve been ahead they have been really difficult to break down.“So they are a very good side as they showed against Germany and as they showed against Italy.”England 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. More

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      From football scarves to Three Lions symbol… the 11 secret stories behind the game’s weird traditions

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      ENGLAND fans were clutching their heads in despair until midfielder Jude Bellingham’s stoppage-time goal in the Euros on Sunday.But did you know the gesture that has become all too familiar among football supporters actually goes back thousands of years?Fans putting their hands to their heads comes from a Celtic tradition that is two millennia oldCredit: i-ImagesFootball fans have a French opera from 1880 to thank for mascotsCredit: PAFrom why we wear football scarves to the Three Lions symbol, Alex Lloyd reveals the secret stories behind 11 of the game’s wonderful traditions . . . 1. Our Celtic ancestors were a fearsome bunch. But while they didn’t shy away from Romans, they did worry that the sky might fall down when anything bad happened.For this reason they began putting their hands to their heads to protect themselves in times of worry. Two millennia later we’re still doing it at the footie.READ MORE ON THREE LIONSBody language experts say the  reaction is an attempt to make ourselves feel safer, smaller and hidden.2. The red card is a universal symbol of foul play, first used in the 1970 Mexico World Cup thanks to English referee Ken Aston.He was inspired by traffic lights, and  introduced colours to communicate decisions between teams who speak different languages.3. Football chants have their roots in traditional folk songs and story-telling. Experts cite them as a modern example of “blason populaire”, where humorous stereotypes about rivals are invoked to create social cohesion in a group. Most read in FootballThe oldest football song in the world still in use is believed to be On The Ball City, sung by Norwich City fans.4. Mascots such as Arsenal’s Gunnersaurus owe their existence to a much more highbrow pastime. Watch Rio Ferdinand get on the beers with rowdy England fans as BBC Euros pundit cheers on Three Lions against SlovakiaThe Oxford English Dictionary lists the first recorded use of “mascotte” in 1880 in a French opera of the same name, about a person being a symbol of good fortune or  “lucky charm”.5. Playing in a game can be likened to going into battle, so it’s no wonder the Three Lions crest has military roots. English soldiers in the 12th century would carry flags with three gold lions on a red background to inspire them to be brave.The emblem was adopted by the FA in 1863.6. In the 19th century  brass bands were hired to entertain crowds during breaks in matches and boost their spirits.Many stadiums still keep  drums beating in games to this day.7. It is believed striped scarves started appearing around the 1930s. Traditionally, winter coats were made of dark material, so  fans wore the  accessories in their team’s colours as  a more  practical symbol of support than a rosette or rattle in the colder months. Trophies being lifted above players’ heads comes from a photographer asking for a better view of the trophyCredit: GettyReferees have traffic lights to thank for the colour of red and yellow cardsCredit: Hulton Archive – Getty8. Wearing football shirts was the preserve of the players until the 1973-74 season, when the brand Admiral sold the first replica shirt, for Leeds United.Teams such as  Liverpool today make £113million  a year from kit and merchandise sales.9. Numbers from one to 11 were first added to the backs of shirts to identify players’ positions when Arsenal played Sheffield Wednesday at home in 1928.Since the 1954 World Cup they have gradually  evolved so players have their own  numbers which often have no bearing on their position. Some are  a “lucky” or significant number.10. Singing Abide With Me before the FA Cup Final dates back to  1927, when Cardiff beat Arsenal 1-0.The hymn, written in 1847 by Anglican cleric Henry Francis Lyte as he was dying of TB, reminds the two sides to stay united, even in defeat.READ MORE SUN STORIES11. Whoever wins the 2024 Euros, you can guarantee the captain will celebrate by lifting the silverware in the air.This triumphant gesture began by accident at the 1958 World Cup, when Brazil skipper Hilder-aldo Bellini heard photographers call for a better view of the Jules Rimet Trophy and held it up.The three lions on the England shirt have a military originCredit: Alamy More

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      Portugal 0 Slovenia 0 (3-0 pens): Cristiano Ronaldo in tears after penalty miss but gets redemption in shootout win

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      CRISTIANO Ronaldo wiped the tears from his eyes after Portugal scrambled through to the last eight.Ronaldo’s extra-time spot kick miss – after a shocking decision by Italian ref Daniele Orsato – left the old stager crying with despair.Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the shootoutCredit: RexDiogo Costa was the shootout heroCredit: APThe keeper saved a European Championship record three penaltiesCredit: PAHe would have been bawling all night had Benjamin Sesko not missed an absolute sitter after Ronaldo’s fellow veteran Pepe fell over the ball.But Diogo Costa saved three in a row from Josip Ilicic, Jure Balkovec and Benjamin Verbic to make European Championship history.And after Ronaldo scored – and apologised to the Portuguese fans – Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva following his example to earn a last eight showdown with France on Friday.It ensured Ronaldo was bailed out for his blunder – from a penalty that should never have been given 12 minutes into the added 30 minutes.READ MORE IN football Diogo Jota had run into the box but stumbled into defender Vanja Drkusic, who certainly played the ball, before tumbling over his knee.But the VAR booth in Leipzig upheld the call and Ronaldo, despite a night of frustration, would surely score.He struck with power, to the keeper’s left, but Oblak guessed right, brilliantly anticipating to turn the ball aside.Ronaldo’s tears were symbolic.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSOnce upon a time, he would have found the moment, the imagination, to break down even a team as relentlessly determined as these Slovenians.While his spirit is still willing at 39, the flesh is now weaker.Watch as Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva are left in disbelief at referee’s antics during Portugal vs SloveniaThere was no lack of effort. No shortage of runs, shots, flicks or tricks, three free-kicks too.Yet it all foundered on the rugged Balkan rocks at the back, who simply refused to be bullied or blustered to ensure it went the distance.And then, when he was gifted the best opportunity of the lot, Oblak, whose heroics were lost amid the ultimate drama.Slovenia’s resilience and determination passed unnoticed as England’s sterile performance against them in Cologne was denounced.But there is nothing wrong with playing to your strengths, and that was exactly what they did.Ronaldo missed from the penalty spotCredit: PAJan Oblak made a tremendous saveCredit: ReutersOblak guessed right to keep it outCredit: ReutersYes, there were times when they were rocking, struggling against the pace of Rafael Leao, tormented occasionally by Bernardo Silva, always wary about the lurking presence of Ronaldo.But time and again, in a performance embodied by centre-halves Drkusic and Jaka Bijol, they found the block, the tackle, the clearance required.They needed, more than once, their keeper too.And when Jan Oblak was called upon, crucially in the final seconds of normal time when Jota sent Ronaldo in on goal, and then in extra-time, he stood tall and strong.There were other moments for Portugal. Of course there were.Ronaldo and the late-arriving Bruno Fernandes could not quite get on the end of one delicious Bernardo Silva cross.Then, after Leao’s surging run was ended by Drkusic’s lunge on the edge of his own box, Ronaldo’s effort flew past Oblak’s groping fingers but a fraction too high.Yet it was far from one way traffic, even if Slovenia were playing a Balkan version of rope-a-dope.Ronaldo was left devastatedCredit: GettyRonaldo was in floods of tearsCredit: AFPBruno Fernandes consoles his skipperCredit: ReutersLeft back Nuno Mendes rescued his side after Petar Stojanovic escaped down the right and tried to tee up Andraz Sporer before Sesko struck at Diogo Costa from distance.Portugal’s closest first half effort saw Joao Palhinha’s shot scraping Oblak’s right post after Leao had forced his way into the box while Bernardo Silva smacked wide straight after the restart.Ronaldo was engaged in a couple of running spats with the resolute Slovenians, who were throwing themselves in the way of everything.Oblak punched away another thumping Ronaldo free-kick which would have knocked a hole clean through the net and probably the stands behind his goal too before the first of two huge chances Sesko had been waiting for, one on one against Pepe from half-way.The Leipzig striker was too good for the veteran defender but then scuffed wide with his left foot.When Ronaldo’s late chance ended in Oblak’s midriff, it ensured an extra half hour, Martinez screaming out instructions in the middle of the huddle.Ronaldo, seemingly impassive to the hectoring, did not look so stoical after his miss, although Slovenian boss Matjez Kek saw red for voicing his fury at the official.READ MORE SUN STORIESHad Sesko, given a clear run on goal by Pepe’s stumble, past Diogo Costa, Ronaldo would have joined the 41-year-old in the dock.He missed and redemption was granted by the Portuguese keeper. A narrow escape, for Ronaldo and Martinez.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Watch moment Micah Richards is left looking sheepish after breaking broadcasting golden rule live on BBC at Euro 2024

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      MICAH RICHARDS was left looking sheepish on Monday night after breaking a broadcasting golden rule.The former defender appeared live on BBC One’s coverage of Portugal’s penalty shootout victory over Slovenia at Euro 2024.Micah Richards was left looking sheepish after breaking a broadcasting golden ruleCredit: BBC SportRichards analysed Portugal’s first half performance during half-time before discussing his connection to manager Roberto Martinez.He explained: “I worked with Roberto. He’s so on it with his tactics, details of it, he knows exactly what to do.”At the end of the segment, presenter Gary Lineker asked: “Where did you work with him?”Wary of mentioning a rival broadcaster, Richards paused before sheepishly replying: “On another broadcaster.”READ MORE ON EURO 2024Lineker tried to reassure him, though, adding: “I thought you meant as a coach.”I’m going through all the clubs. It’s ok to mention other broadcasters, Micah. Relax, relax.”Richards was able to see the funny side, however, joining fellow pundits Alan Shearer and Jose Fonte by laughing off his error.The former Manchester City right-back has been a fan favourite pundit since retiring in 2019 aged 31.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAs well as being part of the BBC team for Euro 2024, Richards is also a regular on Sky Sports and CBS Sports in the USA.Martinez, meanwhile, is taking charge of Portugal at a major tournament for the first time.Watch Micah Richards belt out Bob Marley song with Danny Murphy and Alan Shearer as fans hail ‘nation’s treasure’He previously guided Belgium to three consecutive finals between 2016 and 2022, before leaving after the World Cup in Qatar.Since taking over as Portugal boss in January last year, Martinez has lost just three of 18 matches in charge.The former Everton manager’s contract runs until the end of the 2026 World Cup.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo breaks down in floods of tears after penalty miss vs Slovenia leaving mum distraught in stands

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO was in floods of tears after missing an extra-time penalty amid extraordinary scenes at Euro 2024.Mum Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro was spotted distraught in the stands after Jan Oblak brilliantly foiled Ron’s spot-kick in Portugal’s last-16 nail-biter with Slovenia.Cristiano Ronaldo looked inconsolable after his extra-time agonyCredit: GettyRonaldo’s mum Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro was also tearfulJan Oblak produced a stunning save from Ron’s penaltyCredit: ReutersBruno Fernandes was among the players supporting RonaldoCredit: ReutersBut there was a stirring twist for the Manchester United legend when the contest went to a shootout.Ron not only scored but APOLOGISED to Portugal fans – as his side wrapped up a 3-0 win on penalties following the 0-0 draw.However, it had looked so different in the 105th minute – when Oblak plunged full length to tip Ron’s powerful penalty away.The 39-year-old striker at first just put his head in his hands and carried on.READ MORE ON EURO 2024But when the first period of the additional half-hour ended a few seconds later, his emotions erupted.Team-mates tried to console Ron as tears streamed out, seemingly uncontrollably.The Al-Nassr star’s Euro 2016-winning team-mate Jose Fonte told the BBC: “He’s an emotional guy – he wants to score more than anything else. That will hurt him.”Meanwhile, when cameras panned to the stands, his mum also looked tearful.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSRonaldo had entered the game on a career-worst run of seven games in international tournaments without a goal.And as Portugal struggled against outstanding defending from Slovenia, Ron had just a couple of chances in normal time to break that duck.BBC brutally troll Cristiano Ronaldo live on TV with pun about penalty miss during Portugal’s win over SloveniaThen came his extra-time woe from the spot.But Ronaldo showed his mental strength when the clash went to penalties.He smashed his spot-kick into the opposite corner to his failed attempt.And rather than celebrating, he put his hands together and made a humble expression – a gesture that said sorry to his country’s supporters inside the Frankfurt Arena.Ronaldo then regained his composure to net a shootout penaltyCredit: ReutersHe appeared to apologise to Portugal fans for his earlier miss when he tucked home his shootout spot-kickCredit: ReutersRonaldo let his emotions out in a tense clashTeam-mates were quick to rally around the five-time Ballon d’Or winnerPortugal then clinched a comfortable shootout success as Slovenia crumbed from the spot.But it was a match where much of the drama before that had come from the emotions of an icon rather than the physical actions of his below-par side.How Portugal have performed at the Euros with Cristiano RonaldoCRISTIANO RONALDO has been a model of longevity for more than two decades in an outstanding international career.Euro 2004After making his international debut in 2003, Ronaldo’s first Euros came in 2004.Ronaldo marked his Euro debut with a goal in a 2-1 defeat to Greece – his first for Portugal.He scored his second in the semi-final win over the Netherlands, but Portugal met Greece again in the final, losing 1-0 in shock result.Euro 2008Ronaldo was Portugal captain four years later but Euro 2008 was the least impactful tournament he’s had.There was still time for a standout performance, though, as Ronaldo scored once and set up two more in a group-stage win over the Czech Republic.Euro 2012Playing at Real Madrid at the time, Ronaldo was the top goalscorer at Euro 2012, with three goals, including a brace in the group stage against the Netherlands.Portugal’s quarter-final against Czech Republic was heading towards a stalemate with 10 minutes to go and they needed a special moment from him.His powerful header in the dying minutes took Portugal to the semi-finals where they lost on penalties to Spain.Euro 2016Ronaldo scored three goals in Euro 2016, with Portugal crowned CHAMPIONS after defeating France 1-0 in extra time in the final.After suffering an injury inside the opening 16 minutes against France, he was forced to watch from the sidelines.Yet the Portugal captain became a cheerleader, and helped coach his team-mates to the historic victory.He matched Michel Platini’s record of nine goals by the end of Euro 2016.Euro 2020Ronaldo made history again with FIVE goals at Euro 2020, the most of any player at a Euros.Yet it was arguably Portugal’s least exciting affair, as they exited in the Round of 16 following a 1-0 defeat to Belgium.With his goals in this tournament, Ronaldo became the top goalscorer at the European Championship with 14 goals. More

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      Outcry over Uefa probe into Jude Bellingham’s ‘crotch-grab’ goal celebration as fans plead ‘don’t ban him’

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      SUPERSTAR Jude Bellingham has defended his groin-grab goal celebration as “an inside joke” and denied making fun of plucky Slovakia.The Three Lions’ saviour could be ruled out of Saturday’s quarter-final against Switzerland if Uefa decide he breached “basic rules of decent conduct”.Jude Bellingham has defended his groin-grab goal celebration as ‘an inside joke’ and denied making fun of plucky SlovakiaCredit: GettyBellingham scores England’s first goal in spectacular fashionCredit: ReutersGareth Southgate’s team were assured no disciplinary measures were being considered over the gestureCredit: AlamyBut Bellingham explained on social media: “An inside joke towards some close friends who were at the game.“Nothing but respect for how that Slovakia team played tonight.”Moments after his astonishing 95th-minute bicycle kick strike spared England’s blushes, the Real Madrid ace was seen on TV making a hand gesture next to his crotch. It was believed that Jude was signalling he has what it takes to overcome a crisis — though some believed it was an insult aimed at the opposition bench.Read More on SportHarry Kane’s extra-time header sealed England’s 2-1 win on Sunday evening.Early yesterday, Gareth Southgate’s team were assured no disciplinary measures were being considered over the gesture.But Uefa then did a U-turn — despite the gesture not being mentioned in any match reports made by the officials.Fans reacted in fury with Max Veltman, 43, of Birmingham, saying: “It’s nonsense. It wasn’t offensive and Jude said so himself. Have Uefa got nothing better to do?Most read in Euro 2024“We’ve got no chance without Jude so we need to pray Uefa don’t ban him.”Sam Eversden, 45, from Uxbridge, West London, added: “Are Uefa policing goal celebrations now?The Sun’s Martin Lipton on Jude Bellingham’s potential ban as UEFA investigate gesture vs Slovakia“If they want to crack down on conduct and integrity, they should crack down on diving instead. Jude’s our main man.“He’s kept us in the Euros but without him we’ll be knocked out. He certainly shouldn’t get a ban. Save our Jude!”Fan Elaine Flower, 70, from Southampton, who has been to every England game at the Euros, said: “It’s daft to investigate something like this and clearly not worth a ban.“Common sense must prevail. He’s our best player and we need him to progress.“We’d have lost without his goal and we’ll need him more than ever in the next game.”Match of the Day host Gary Lineker said on Twitter/X: “For crying out loud, the Euro 2024 celebration police are looking into Jude Bellingham. Ridiculous!”The suggestion is Bellingham could have breached rule 11 2b into player conduct.A Uefa spokesman said: “A Uefa Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector will conduct a disciplinary investigation regarding a potential violation of the basic rules of decent conduct by the English Football Association player, Jude Bellingham, having allegedly occurred in the scope of this match.Aces rappedOTHER stars have landed in trouble for similar gestures. In 2019 Cristiano Ronaldo was fined £17,000 but avoided a ban for his Juventus goal celebration against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.Atletico boss Diego Simeone was also fined for his groin-grab gesture during the first leg.In 2017, England midfielder Dele Alli was banned for a match and fined £3,500 for raising his middle finger in a World Cup qualifier against Slovakia. He said it was a joke aimed at Kyle Walker.“Information on this matter will be made available in due course.”Bellingham has previously made a similar gesture when playing for Real Madrid, and after scoring a late equaliser for England in a friendly against Belgium in March.After Sunday’s dramatic win, he hit back at England’s critics saying: “You hear people talk a lot of rubbish. It’s nice when you can deliver and you can give them a little bit back.“For me, being on the pitch scoring goals and celebrating is my release.Bellingham explained on social media: ‘An inside joke towards some close friends who were at the game’Credit: InstagramBellingham playing cricket yesterdayCredit: Paul EdwardsBellingham could be ruled out of Saturday’s quarter-final against Switzerland if Uefa decide he breached ‘basic rules of decent conduct’Credit: Rex“And you know, maybe it was a message to a few people . . . but a very happy moment.”Yesterday Bellingham relaxed with a game of cricket, and was seen cupping his hands to catch a ball. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also shared a beaming selfie on his Instagram.Teammates raved about his goal on the England Lions’ Den channel posted online yesterday.Gary Lineker said: ‘For crying out loud, the Euro 2024 celebration police are looking into Jude Bellingham. Ridiculous!’Credit: BBCWriting off Swiss as no-hopers is cuckooSWITZERLAND is famed for cuckoo clocks and chocolate — but is also enjoying a golden era of football.The minnows have a team featuring world-class stars.Players such as ex-Arsenal star Granit Xhaka, 31, former Liverpool wizard Xherdan Shaqiri, 32, and Man City’s Manuel Akanji, 28, make them a force to be reckoned with.Midfield star Xhaka, their most capped player with 129, is the beating heart of the team and has just helped Bayer ­Leverkusen land the Bundesliga title in Germany.Historically, their best major tournament performance was 100 years ago — when they won silver at the 1924 Olympics.And the last time they reached the quarter-finals of the World Cup was 70 years ago. But they have risen steadily in the rankings over the past eight years.The Swiss made it to the last 16 during Euro 2016 and then achieved their best finish at Euro 2020, reaching the quarter-finals, having eliminated world champions France.The team has also reached the knockout rounds at the past three World Cups and is 19th in Fifa’s world rankings.They beat Italy 2-0 in this year’s Euros’ knockouts to clinch their clash with England.Roger Federer remains Switzerland’s most famous sporting hero. But this Swiss team remain determined to write its own page in history. More

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      Inside Italy’s broken Euro 2024 dressing room, from moaning about training to anger at call-up for ‘snitch’

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      ITALY suffered from a broken dressing room during Euro 2024, according to reports.The defending champions were dumped out by Switzerland in the last 16 on Saturday.Italy were dumped out of Euro 2024 by Switzerland in the last 16 on SaturdayCredit: GettyLuciano Spalletti’s players were left confused by his tactics and training methodsCredit: ReutersManager Luciano Spalletti made multiple excuses for their exit after the defeat.Meanwhile, his future has been clarified, with his contract running until after the 2026 World Cup.The news may come as a blow to several Italy stars, though, amid reports of unhappiness within their camp in Iserlohn.According to La Repubblica, part of the squad felt distanced from Spalletti and his ideas during the tournament.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Several players are said to have been left confused by his tactics and training methods, leading to a lack of commitment during sessions.The report adds that multiple small groups formed within the dressing room, with Spalletti lacking a leader to bring the squad together.Other players accused Spalletti of a lack of preparation and claimed there was no intensity in his style of play.It came after they were left shocked by a series of tactical alterations to the team just two hours before their final group match against Croatia.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSpalletti’s late decision is understood to have left some players feeling excluded from the side.Meanwhile, several members of the team were privately unhappy with the inclusion of Nicolo Fagioli.Albania fan cheekily snaps spaghetti in front of horrified Italy supporters at Euro 2024The Juventus midfielder was allegedly seen as a “snitch” after exposing Sandro Tonali’s involvement in a betting scandal.Fagioli was handed a seven-month ban in October for breaching betting rules before returning in May.However, Tonali was banned for 10 months by the Italian FA, causing the Newcastle star to miss Euro 2024.Spalletti named Fagioli in his squad following his return to action, with the 23-year-old playing nine minutes off the bench against Croatia before starting the Switzerland defeat.Italy began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Albania, but were then beaten by Spain.Mattia Zaccagni’s 98th minute equaliser against Croatia sealed progression as group runners-up at the expense of their opponents.Nicolo Fagioli was allegedly seen as a ‘snitch’ for exposing Sandro Tonali’s betting breachesCredit: RexDefending champions Italy won just one of their four matches at the tournamentCredit: EPAGoals from Remo Freuler and Ruben Vargas sealed a comfortable victory for Switzerland in the round of 16, though.Spalletti has been in charge since September, winning seven of his 14 matches as manager.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe will now turn his attention to the Nations League before Italy bid to end their World Cup exile.The Azzurri have failed to qualify for either of the last two tournaments, their longest ever absence from the World Cup.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Watch as Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva are left in disbelief at referee’s antics during Portugal vs Slovenia

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO was left in disbelief by the referee’s antics during Portugal’s clash with Slovenia.The veteran forward and Bernardo Silva were both left puzzled by Daniele Orsato in Frankfurt on Monday night.Cristiano Ronaldo was left in disbelief by the referee’s antics during Portugal vs SloveniaCredit: BBCBernardo Silva was equally surprised by Daniele Orsato’s decisionCredit: BBCOrsato forced Ronaldo and Silva to move the ball before taking a free-kickCredit: BBCPortugal had been awarded a free-kick near the corner of the opposition penalty area during the first half.With the ball placed down, Ronaldo had stepped back as he lined up an optimistic effort on goal.However, Orsato was left unhappy with the position of the ball and sprinted over to move it to the correct position.He shouted to Ronaldo as he protested the decision, with Silva seen putting his hands on his head.READ MORE ON EURO 2024The pair were able to see the funny side, though, as the five-time Ballon d’Or winner turned and pointed to a pitch-side camera.Once the ball was positioned to the referee’s liking, Ronaldo lined up to shoot again, only for his effort to whistle comfortably wide.The 39-year-old endured a frustrating afternoon in front of goal as he chased his first strike of the tournament.After a series of near misses, he was presented with a golden opportunity in extra-time when Portugal were awarded a penalty.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHowever, Jan Oblak denied Ronaldo from 12 yards, causing the former Manchester United man to break down in tears on the pitch.His blushes were spared during the penalty shootout, though, as Diogo Costa saved three spot-kicks to send Portugal through.Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s incredible history with Cristiano RonaldoRonaldo had placed the ball and lined up ready to shoot at goalCredit: BBCHowever, Orsato sprinted over and demanded the ball be positioned correctlyCredit: BBCRonaldo also dusted himself off to score his side’s first penalty before Bruno Fernandes and Bernardo Silva converted.The Al-Nassr forward has yet to open his account at Euro 2024, despite starting each of his side’s matches so far.He does have an assist to his name, however, after unselfishly teeing up Bruno Fernandes to score in the 3-0 win over Turkey.Ronaldo is playing at a record sixth Euros this summer, having first appeared at Euro 2004 on home soil.As well as holding the record for most tournaments, Ronaldo has also played the most matches and scored the most goals in Euros history.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More