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      Daniel James out to banish Man Utd Europa League final heartbreak and take Euro 2020 by storm with Wales pal Gareth Bale

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      DAN JAMES is out to banish the painful memory of Manchester United’s Europa League final heartache at the Euros.The Wales winger, 23, scored a penalty in the Red Devils’ 11-10 shoot-out defeat to Villarreal last month.
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      Daniel James (right) is hoping to bounce back from Europa League heartbreakCredit: AFP
      But James admitted he and his potless United team-mates were left ‘gutted’ after returning from Poland empty-handed.
      Now the prospect of a first Euro finals appearance in Saturday’s Group A opener with Switzerland in Baku is driving him on again.
      James said: “It was gutting for all of us really. For me and a lot of the other players it’s not the end of our season. In football you just have to get back up and get on with it.
      “Thankfully we don’t have to wait until next season to do that and we can go into the Euros and a different environment and look forward to getting back out on the pitch which is what we all want as players.”
      The 20-cap wideman is an integral part of Wales’ attack alongside captain Gareth Bale.
      James has started all of Wales’ 16 competitive fixtures since he made his international debut in a friendly with Albania in November 2018.
      But James was picked in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s starting eleven just 18 times out of United’s 61 games last season.
      Yet the ex-Swansea attacker, who moved to Old Trafford for £15million in the summer of 2019, dismissed the notion his performances have been better for Wales than United.
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      James added: “I wouldn’t say so. I think I’ve had great games for United as well.
      “Maybe the Wales ones stick out a little bit more. I may have got a few more assists for Wales. It’s been a little bit more consistent than it has been at United.
      “For every player, you want a consistency of games.”
      James’ spot-kick in the Gdansk final could prove handy if Rob Page’s Wales can reach the knock-out stages.
      He said: “It went fine but I’d be lying to you if I didn’t say I was a little bit nervous. I was confident to go and step up.
      “For me you have to put yourself in those moments because it’s going to happen in your career and you have to put yourself forward. Thankfully it went in the back of the net. It could be [useful] at the Euros.”
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      Wales’ mix of youth an experience has generated optimism within the campCredit: PA
      Speedy James hopes to tear up the Euros with his lightning pace. And he believes Wales’ opponents will be fearful of their attacking weapons including Bale and the fit-again duo of Aaron Ramsey and David Brooks.
      James said: “Whoever is put on the pitch attacking-wise, we’ve got a great group and will definitely be feared.
      “It’s one of the first times everyone has been in the squad. David and Aaron have had injuries over the past two years but when they have come into the squad they have been unbelievable.
      “I’ve only played for Wales with Aaron once or twice and he scored two goals against Hungary.
      “For us it’s just brilliant that everyone is involved. I know the Euros was supposed to be last summer and everyone was gutted but it’s great for the players who are now all fit and we have a full squad this time and we’re all raring to go.
      “Any team with pace is feared. In tournament football there are going to be times where we will have to sit back, especially with the hot weather, and then go on the break. It’s a great attribute to have throughout the team.
      If we want to hit teams on the break we have to win the ball back in the right areas to get those chances.Daniel James

      “I have freedom but the way we defend is from the front and it’s so important. If we want to hit teams on the break we have to win the ball back in the right areas to get those chances.
      “I’ve definitely matured as a player but I still have to do my defensive duties.
      “Me and Gaz have played both wide positions before and if we play on either side we’re ready and we know our job and roles. Just being on the pitch is great for me. I’d play anywhere.”
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      Bale and Wales stars fly out to Baku ahead of Switzerland clash More

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      Bruno Fernandes ‘on his knees’ after long season, says Arsene Wenger after Man Utd star struggled in Europa League final

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      BRUNO FERNANDES finished the season ‘on his knees’, according to Arsene Wenger.The Portuguese midfielder struggled in the Europa League final, as Manchester United fell to Villarreal in Gdansk.
      Bruno Fernandes was devastated after losing the Europa League finalCredit: Getty
      Arsene Wenger has given his view on the Portuguese starCredit: beIN Sports
      Fernandes, 26, was an absolutely pivotal figure for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side last season, scoring 28 goals and assisting 17 during the 2020-21 season.
      But Wenger reckons that his 58 appearances in all competitions across the campaign may have caught up with him.
      The Frenchman told beINSports: “I personally feel that he finished the season on his knees, and he missed the spark.
      “Sometimes you can see as well, I found him much more nervous in the game.
      “So that, as well, is a sign of fatigue. Your top level is calm, concentration, control.
      “And in the last four or five games, I found him a bit weak on that front.”
      Arsenal legend Wenger, 71, hopes that Fernandes can find his best form during the European Championships.
      He added: “I hope that he can recover to be efficient for Portugal.
      Fernandes, 26, will play at the Euros with PortugalCredit: EPA
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      “I know Bruno wants to play but sometimes you make decisions for the benefit of both the team and him.”
      Wenger believes that Portugal can be a big threat at the tournament.
      He concluded: “Portugal at the moment to me looks to be the best equipped to be dangerous because they won the European Championship in France.
      “They have since had good results in the Nations League, and overall, I would say they have great offensive potential as well. They’re spoiled for choice as well. Portugal produces players.”
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      Bruno Fernandes caught moaning about referee for VAR delay in secret tunnel footage leaked from Man Utd’s final loss

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      BRUNO FERNANDES was caught on tunnel cam footage blasting officials at half-time in Manchester United’s Europa League final anguish.United’s stand-in skipper slated a “three-minute” VAR delay and suggested Villarreal’s Spurs’ loanee Juan Foyth wasted time after a nosebleed.
      Man Utd main man Bruno Fernandes queried the long hold-up for a VAR intervention, at half-time on the way to defeat against Villarreal
      Bruno Fernandes also had strong words about two lengthy stoppages following a nosebleed suffered by Villarreal midfielder Juan Foyth
      Sub Fred can also be heard rallying Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men as they trailed to Gerard Moreno’s soft early goal.
      And striker Marcus Rashford is also cajoled during the revealing clip.
      Fired-up United improved enough after the break to equalise through Edinson Cavani, only for Villarreal to win 11-10 on penalties.
      And Fernandes’ outburst at the interval epitomised their frustration.  
      He voiced anger at the actions of Foyth after the Argentina defender was accidentally kneed in the head by United midfielder Paul Pogba.
      Foyth had a headband put on his nose injury and needed more treatment soon after when his nose began bleeding again.
      The tunnel cam caught Fernandes saying: “The number eight goes twice. 
      “One time he stays down one minute. After again and then after the goal.
      Man Utd substitute Fred can be heard on the tunnel webcam trying to fire up his team during the final in Gdansk, Poland
      Fred also had specific half-time instructions for fellow midfielder Scott McTominay, who started ahead of him
      “You wait one time for VAR. Three minutes?”
      Brazilian Fred took a more positive note, though.
      He urged: “Let’s go guys, let’s go guys. Come on. Eh Scotty [McTominay], second ball, be careful.”
      And there is a shout seemingly towards one of United’s England aces: “Rashy, come on mate.”
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      Whatever Fernandes’ exasperation at half-time, he was one of the first United players to demand unity after defeat.
      He posted on social media: “We win together and we lose together.
      “When someone fails we all fail, when someone scores we all score, when someone does a save we all save… Always UNITED.”
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      Ederson fires penalty into top corner and shows David de Gea how it’s done as Man City gear up for Chelsea final

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      MANCHESTER CITY goalkeeper Ederson showed David De Gea how to take a penalty as he practised ahead of the Champions League final.The Brazil international proved he is not only getting ready to defend his goal as City manager Pep Guardiola considers naming him as a penalty taker should it go to a shootout tonight.
      Manchester City star Ederson is gearing up for a penalty shootoutCredit: PA
      The 27-year-old gave it a go during the Citizens’ training in Porto and the results are very promising for the Manchester giants.
      One of the former Benfica star’s spot-kicks were filmed and he was shown sending the ball to the top right corner with ease.
      Several Champions League finals have been decided on penalties through the years.
      Tonight could be no different as Ederson, as well as Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, may have to fire a shot.
      This comes after Wednesday’s Europa League final between Manchester United and Villarreal, which was decided during a penalty thriller.
      Ederson’s United counterpart De Gea endured a poor display during the shootout as he couldn’t save any of the Yellow Submarine’s 11 spot-kicks.
      De Gea was also the only player to miss his penalty, which led to Villarreal’s first-ever European trophy.
      According to TNT Sports, Ederson took on 11 penalties in training and converted a whopping ten of them.

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      The City goalkeeper revealed earlier this week he wanted the crucial fifth penalty.
      He said: “I am [on the list to take a penalty].
      “I don’t need to train that much, but the fifth one, I’m taking it. The last one, the decisive, I’ll ask for it.”
      He added to the Manchester Evening News: “If the final goes to penalties, I’m going to ask to take it because I’m ready for it.
      “In training sessions sometimes I practise taking them like if it was a game.
      “It’s true that our scoring rate on penalties isn’t the best, we missed some during the season, but the team is ready for any outcome during the game.”
      ⚽ Read our Football live blog for the very latest news from around the grounds
      The Brazilian may be called on to produce some big saves against ChelseaCredit: Getty

      Man City arrive in Porto for Saturday´s Champions League final More

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      Is the Champions League final being broadcast for free? How to stream Chelsea vs Man City LIVE on YouTube without paying

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      NOTHING beats a free football match – and this year’s Champions League final is no exception.As they have done the last few seasons, BT Sport are broadcasting the final for free on YouTube and their website – but it can be a little tricky to find.
      Manchester City and Chelsea go head-to-head in the biggest game in club footballCredit: AFP
      Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City take on Thomas Tuchel’s resurgent Chelsea side in Porto in the third all-English final in recent memory.

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      Can I watch the Champions League final for free on BT Sport?
      Yes! BT Sport are airing Chelsea vs Manchester City live on YouTube and their website.
      You can also watch the match from Portugal on PlayStation or Xbox, while a whole range of smart TVs will also have the showpiece match free-to-air.
      Kick-off for the game in Porto is at 8pm and coverage will begin at 6pm.

      How much is a BT Sport subscription?
      You can get all the BT Sport channels and BT Sport Ultimate for £25 a month via their monthly pass.

      That means you can stream BT Sport via their website, mobile or tablet app, as well as various smart TVs.
      It’s also contract free, so you can cancel whenever you want and BT Sport have got the same number of Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League and Europa League games next season, so worth bearing in mind after the Euros have finished this summer. More

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      Is Champions League final being broadcast for free? How to stream Chelsea vs Man City LIVE on YouTube without paying

      by

      NOTHING beats a free football match – and this year’s Champions League final is no exception.As they have done the last few seasons, BT Sport are broadcasting the final for free on YouTube and their website – but it can be a little tricky to find.
      Manchester City and Chelsea go head-to-head in the biggest game in club footballCredit: AFP
      Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City take on Thomas Tuchel’s resurgent Chelsea side in Porto in the third all-English final in recent memory.

      BETTING SPECIAL Get Man City at 30/1 and Chelsea at 40/1 to win Champions League final

      Can I watch the Champions League final for free on BT Sport?
      Yes! BT Sport are airing Chelsea vs Manchester City live on YouTube and their website.
      You can also watch the match from Portugal on PlayStation or Xbox, while a whole range of smart TVs will also have the showpiece match free-to-air.
      Kick-off for the game in Porto is at 8pm and coverage will begin at 6pm.

      How much is a BT Sport subscription?
      You can get all the BT Sport channels and BT Sport Ultimate for £25 a month via their monthly pass.

      That means you can stream BT Sport via their website, mobile or tablet app, as well as various smart TVs.
      It’s also contract free, so you can cancel whenever you want and BT Sport have got the same number of Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League and Europa League games next season, so worth bearing in mind after the Euros have finished this summer. More

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      Man Utd fans stranded in Poland after being refused boarding on flight home from Europa League final due to Covid mix-up

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      A GROUP of Manchester United fans were forced to spend the night in Poland after being denied boarding to a flight home because of a Covid testing mixup. Around 25 fans arrived at Warsaw’s Modlin airport on Thursday to fly home after their team’’s penalty shoot out defeat against Villarreal in the Europa League final. 
      A group of Man United fans have been stranded in Poland
      The fans say they abided by all the necessary rules which required them to have PCR Covid tests.
      But some of the group were denied boarding for the 9.55pm Ryanair flight to London Stansted – while some of their friends were allowed back to the UK. 
      Builder Michael Cooney, 38, was among the supporters forced to spend another night in Poland because of the mixup, which is believed to have occurred when the Polish authorities ruled the fans should have quarantined upon arrival in the country.
      But Uefa rules stated that anyone with a match ticket would not need to quarantine.  
      Michael, of Salford, Gtr Manchester, said: “It’s been a bit of a joke. We have all followed the rules and regulations to the letter and had all the necessary tests. 
      “We turned up at the airport in plenty of time. United got beat, but we’ve had a good couple of days and just wanted to get home. 
      “Some of my mates who have done the exact same tests are me were allowed home and I was one of the ones who was denied boarding. 
      “It was like if you go to one check in desk you can go home and if you went to the other one you had a problem.
      Michael Cooney, 38, is among those stuck in Warsaw
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      “It wasn’t just football fans who were stopped from boarding. There was a couple of families and a few workers who were stopped as well.”
      Michael and the other fans were forced to spend an extra night in a hotel near the airport and were then escorted by police to the airport today. 
      The group now hope to board the 9.55pm flight to Stansted tonight. 
      He added: “We’ve done some more Covid tests to make sure they can’t turn us back. We need to get home. We have families and jobs to go back to and it’s causing us all a headache.”
      Fellow fan Chris Brookes posted about the situation on Facebook.
      He wrote: What a nightmare trying to sort 25 lads out including myself who were all denied access to the plane.
      “Five of us are fully vaccinated. All had a negative Antigen lateral flow Covid test. 2 had there’s here and the rest took 1 in the UK, all within 72 hours guidelines it allows you to go in and out of the UK/Poland for football.
      “We all turned up for the flight on time. All denied access and placed on the quarantine list wrongly. Now we must get off the list before we can fly home.”
      A Manchester United spokesman said the club was aware of the situation and had been liaising with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
      The Foreign Office said: “We are providing consular support to a number of British Nationals travelling home from Warsaw.”
      Man United slumped to defeat in GdanskCredit: EPA
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      Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ‘set to sign new three-year £27m contract’ despite Europa League final flop

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      MANCHESTER UNITED boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is reportedly set to sign a new three-year deal worth £27million despite suffering heartbreak in the Europa League final.The Red Devils lost an astonishing penalty shoot-out 11-10 to Villarreal as Solskjaer missed the opportunity to claim his first silverware as manager of the club.
      Solskjaer is set to seal a new deal at Man Utd despite failing to win a trophyCredit: PA
      But The Telegraph claims that the disappointing end to the campaign has not dissuaded Man Utd bosses from offering the Norwegian a new contract.
      And it has also been reported that Solskjaer will be backed in the summer transfer window.
      It is said that he will be given the funds to sign up to four players before the start of the new season as they look to close the 12-point gap to Premier League champions Manchester City.
      Man Utd have been linked with a number of big name signings this summer including Borussia Dortmund forward Jadon Sancho and Tottenham striker Harry Kane.
      They are also reportedly sizing up the possibility of bringing Cristiano Ronaldo back to the club as his future at Juventus remains uncertain.
      There has been a steady domestic progression for Man Utd since Solskjaer took over from Jose Mourinho at the end of 2018.
      After finishing sixth in his first season in charge, he the guided them to third in the 2019-20 campaign.
      And that has been followed up by a second place finish this season, albeit well adrift of Man City at the top.

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      Solskjaer’s win percentage – 55.63 per cent – is lower than his predecessor Jose Mourinho but higher than both David Moyes and Louis van Gaal.
      TalkSPORT’s Jason Cundy slammed Man Utd’s performance in Gdansk against Villarreal and believes the failure should signal the end of Solskjaer’s reign.
      He also believes former Inter Milan boss Antonio Conte should replace the ex-Red Devils striker.
      Cundy said: “There’s nothing positive, it was a disaster, this is a disaster for Ole.
      “This was his big moment to prove everyone including me wrong, and he’s proved me right.
      “That display was enough, I’ve seen enough there to move in a different direction. I don’t see Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the man for Manchester United.
      “Ole is held in such high regard, he’s a lovely guy and he’s well liked, he doesn’t seem like a bad person at all, but this is a ruthless industry.
      “Going into next season there is a perfect break now, this is the perfect time.
      “It’s hard to hear, but the truth is he is not up to Man United’s standard, he’s simply not.
      “Antonio Conte, he’s won the Premier League and he’s just won the Serie A title, he knows how to win titles and he is a ruthless manager, he knows how to get a tune out of a team.
      “He’s managed Italy at the World Cup – we’re talking about a seriously experienced man.
      “Look, I’d prefer it if you didn’t [given his Chelsea links] but right now when I heard the news today [of Conte’s rumoured Inter exit] and I see that result – go and get him!”

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