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      Why is ‘snickometer’ technology in use at Euro 2024?

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      EURO 2024 is here – with 24 nations battling it out to be crowned kings of the continent.Germany are the hosts this year as they look to win the European Championship for the first time since 1996.Euro 2024 will take place in Germany this summerCredit: GETTYItaly are the defending nation after they beat England on penalties to claim the Euro 2020 title.The Three Lions will return in Germany as they look to end a 58-year wait for an international triumph.It’s been over half a century since England famously won the 1966 World Cup.Football looks a lot different in the modern day with advanced technology widely used across the sport.READ MORE IN EURO 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSWhy is ‘snickometer’ technology in use at Euro 2024?Fans at home watching Euro 2024 will benefit from an equivalent of cricket’s “snickometer” this summer.For the first time ever, broadcasters will be sent a “touch detection” graphic that is used by tournament referees to make key decisions.The technology can offer greater clarity around offside and handball decisions made by officials.Images will be available to viewers whenever they are used to make a significant judgement during any European Championship game.Most read in Euro 2024Match balls at Euro 2024 are fitted with a motion-sensing microchip that can track every touch at a rate of 500 times a second.The high-tech “Connected ball” was effectively used at the World Cup in Qatar two years ago.It is capable of determining whether the ball makes contact with a hand en route to goal or whether a player strayed beyond the last defender at the exact moment the ball was played.Has the ‘snickometer’ influenced a decision in football before?Think back to the World Cup in Qatar two years ago, VAR officials used the motion-sensing microchip in real time.A famous example of the technology in use was a goal scored by Portugal in a group stage clash against Uruguay.Cristiano Ronaldo thought he notched yet another important goal for his country only for his ‘glancing header’ to be awarded to teammate Bruno Fernandes.Cristiano Ronaldo did not make contact with the ball according to the technologyThe Manchester United captain’s cross flew straight past Sergio Rochet in goal despite viewers thinking Ronaldo got the slightest of touches. Adidas confirmed that the technology used in the ball – which tracks external force – showed that the five-time Ballon d’Or winner hadn’t made contact with the ball.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament. More

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      What is the ‘smart ring’ that Gareth Southgate, England Euro 2024 team & Kim Kardashian wear? Oura benefits explained

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      GARETH Southgate has been keen on introducing developing technologies to aid his side during his eight-year spell as England boss.One such gadget is the celebrity endorsed Oura smart ring — here’s everything you need to know about the device.The England boss was spotted wearing an Oura ring on his left index fingerWhat is a smart ring?Smarts rings are compact wearable electronic devices combining mobile technology with features for convenient on-the-go use.They are typically designed to fit on a finger like a traditional ring and offer functionalities like mobile payments, access control, gesture control, and activity tracking.There are also a number of models aimed at the health and wellness market, featuring biometrics to help monitor your wellbeing, sleep and exercise etc.Three Lions’ players and staff have turned to a celebrity-endorsed wellness tracking ring in their bid to become Euro 2024 champions.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Earlier this year the FA took up a partnership with Google Cloud to add interactive ‘Player Profiling System’ technology to England’s preparations, which profiles how players react to being substituted or benched.Who has been spotted wearing the Oura smart ring?England stars including Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi were spotted wearing the high tech jewellery during training in the week leading up to their opening Euro 2024 fixture against Serbia on Sunday, June 30.Defender John Stones is also a fan, as he told Face Magazine in 2023: “The first thing I do once I’m out of bed is check my Oura ring to see how I’ve slept — it’s addictive.”While some players have worn them during training, it appears unlikely that they would be asked to wear them during matches.Most read in Euro 2024Marc Guehi wearing the Oura ring during training ahead of Euro 2024The ring is also popular with some of the most high profile celebrities on the planet.Prince Harry was snapped wearing the device during a reception at Government House on October 18, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia.Kim Kardashian, Gwenyth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston have all also been pictured wearing the sophisticated tracker.John Stones says the Oura ring is ‘addictive’What does the Oura smart ring do?The smart gadget monitors sleeping habits and reads more than 20 biometrics — including body temperature, heart rate and blood oxygen levels.It then turns these health insights into three daily scores, which in effect tell you when you need more sleep, when you might be getting sick and when it’s time to push yourself.Explaining how the ring can boost performance, the Oura website writes: “Whether you’re managing a professional sports organisation or training elite forces, ensure your team is always performing at the highest level with precise biometrics.”Use accurate, continuous data to prioritise rest, adjust training schedules, monitor recovery, and detect signs of illness, injury, and fatigue.”Prince Harry photographed wearing an Oura ring on October 18, 2018 in Melbourne, AustraliaCredit: GettyHow much is the Oura smart ring?Oura Rings are priced up to £500, with the cheapest set at £277.The Oura Ring Gen3 Horizon starts at £349 for a silver finish or £499 for gold, and the Heritage design starts at £299 for the silver finishIn addition, there is a monthly membership fee of £5.99 a month — but thankfully the first month is free.Jennifer Aniston was pictured wearing her Oura ring at Paramount Studios, LA in June 2024Credit: GettyWhere can I buy the Oura smart ring?In an exciting development, the Oura 3 is now available to buy from John Lewis.This is the first time the Oura ring has been available anywhere other than the Oura website — but now you can purchase your tracker from any of 34 John Lewis stores across the country.Explaining the move, Doug Sweeny, chief marketing officer at Oura, said: “Both ŌURA and John Lewis value the power of technology to enrich lives, and this partnership allows us to bring the benefits of ŌURA to even more people across the UK.””What this means in practice is you can see and try the ring before buying, using the in-store sizer for a perfect fit.READ MORE SUN STORIES”There’ll also be stock in store so you can take your Oura 3 home with you without having to wait for delivery.”If you prefer, the Oura ring is also available from John Lewis online — and of course you can continue to buy the wearable tracker from the Oura website. More

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      in Boxing

      Abdu Rozik boxing fight: Date, start time, TV channel, live stream FREE for Social Knockout 3 clash vs Erali

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      ABDU ROZIK has finally booked in for a stunning boxing debut – and it will be a title fight.The social media sensation will be lacing up his gloves to take on rival Erali Boyqobilov as part of the Social Knockout 3 bill in Dubai – with long-term foe Hasbulla waiting in the wings.The fight headlines the Social Knockout 3 cardCredit: https://x.com/ExSportsTokenRozik – from Tajikistan but now based in the UAE – has a whopping 8.3 million followers on Instagram and is a regular at all of the blockbuster boxing events across the world.However Rozik, 20, has had to postpone his wedding to fiancee Amira to train for the bout.He said: “I never imagined that I’ll get the chance to fight for a title in my life.”After so many good things happening this year for my career and my love life, unfortunately, I have to postpone the wedding as this match will give us huge financial security for the future.”Rozik was diagnosed with dwarfism as a child and says this fight will be the first for a title in his size.He added: “It’s the first-ever title for someone my size and I have a heavy training camp to endure as well these days.”When is Abdu Rozik’s fight?Abdu Rozil vs Erali Boyqobilov takes place on Saturday, July 6.The fight is part of the Social Knockout 3 card in Dubai.Most read in BoxingDubai’s Coca-Cola Arena plays host to the show.What time is Abdu Rozik’s fight on?The Social Knockout 3 fight card kicks off at 7pm local time in Dubai – this is 4pm BST/ 11am ET.Expect Rozik vs Boyqobilov to get underway at around 9pm BST/ 4pm ET.Abdu Rozik announced his first boxing bout on InstagramCredit: Abdu_Rozik InstagramHow can I watch Abdu Rozik’s fight?Abdu Rozik vs Erali Boyqobilov will be broadcast live on the Ex-Sports App.And organisers have said the live stream will be FREE to watch on the app.What is the full fight card?The full fight card for Social Knockout 3 has yet to be released, although some highlights have been unveiled.The UAE’s number one YouTuber Mo Vlogs will also be making his boxing debut and takes on close friend Shero.While Birmingham rap royalty Stefflon Don will be performing during the musical interlude.
      Abdu Rozik vs Erali Boyqobilov
      Mo Vlogs vs Shero
      Stefflon Don to perform live More

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      Portugal vs Czech Republic – Euro 2024: Ronaldo and Co face tough start to campaign – stream FREE, TV channel, team news

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO and Portugal face a tough start to the Euro 2024 campaign.Roberto Martínez’s side take on the Czech Republic in their opening game of the tournament.Portugal take on the Czech Republic in their Euro 2024 openerCredit: GettyTomas Soueck (right) will captain the Czechs at the tournamentCredit: EPAPortugal won the Euros back in 2016 as they beat France in the final at the Stade de France.They failed to replicate their success in the following tournament, as Belgium sent them packing in the round of 16.Portugal reached this year’s finals by topping Group J ahead of Slovakia and Luxembourg.The team won all ten of their group matches, scoring 36 goals and only conceding two.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe Euros in Germany could also be Ronaldo’s last in international football with the star now 39 years old.The five-time Ballon d’Or winner would love to add another international trophy to his esteemed trophy cabinet.They have had a mixed bag of form leading up to the tournament.Out of Portugal’s last five games they have won three but lost two to Croatia and Slovenia.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHowever, it is a tough start to the tournament for Portugal as they face the Czech Republic.The Czechs qualified for the Euros from Group E as runners-up behind Albania.Inside the ten stunning Euro 2024 stadiums including historic final venueThey are also in good form in their recent matches having won five from five, including a 7-1 drubbing of Malta.Team newsPortugal are without Raphael Guerreiro for the tournament due to injury.While Renato Sanches and Manchester City ace Matheus Nunes were not picked by Martinez.The former Everton manager did opt to stand by veterans Pepe and Ronaldo with the pair expected to start the match.The Czech’s big injury blow came to Michal Sadilek who had to pull out of the squad after falling off a bike during training.What has been said? Ahead of the tournament, Martinez has hailed his captain Ronaldo’s commitment to the team.He said: “His commitment as captain is unbelievable. I really enjoyed his work.”He shows solidarity and companionship, and they are important values in a dressing room when you’re going to the Euros.”Czech coach Ivan Hasek  is aiming to take his side as fare as possible.He said: “I will do everything possible to take the team as far as I can in this competition but success and failure are both possible.”I believe in our team, our players, the people around me and in our ability to create a strong, competitive team that can make it out of the group and then, come what may.”I will be satisfied when we advance from the group stage, the fans agree that we gave it our all, and our play pleases them.”That’s important for us. We need to pick the players that will best please our demanding audience and we will try to play football that pleases the fans.”SunSport prediction?Portugal 3-1 Czech RepublicPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      When is Portugal vs Czech Republic?
      Portugal’s opening group stage clash with Czech Republic will take place on Tuesday, June 18.
      The game will kick off at 8pm BST.
      The Red Bull Arena in Leipzig, Germany will play host to the big clash.
      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
      Portugal vs Czech Republic will be shown live on BBC One in the UK.
      You can live stream all the action from the BBC iPlayer app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      Can I watch for FREE?
      Yes, the game is available to watch for FREE, so long as you have a valid TV licence.
      READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Portugal – 8/15
      Draw – 10/3
      Czech Republic – 5/1
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication. More

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      Turkey vs Georgia – Euro 2024: Turks take on big underdogs in tricky Group F clash – Stream FREE, kick-off time, teams

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      TURKEY will kickstart their Euro 2024 campaign with a clash against underdogs Georgia.The team will have the chance to redeem themselves after being tipped as dark horses for Euro 2020.Georgia will be making their Euro bow in GermanyCredit: ReutersThey face Turkey in their opening matchCredit: GettyTurkey disappointed at the tournament as they exited the group stage without winning a single match.This time around, they will face Portugal, the Czech Republic and, of course, Georgia in Group F.Massive underdogs Georgia will be Turkey’s first game of the tournament on Tuesday.Turkey come into Euro 2024, having topped their qualification group ahead of the likes of Croatia and Wales.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLVincenzo Montella’s side, however, is not in the best form, having lost three of their last four fixtures.This run includes a 6-1 hammering by Austria back in March.Georgia caused a massive shock by sealing qualification to the tournament.Willy Sagnol’s side reached the finals after finishing fourth in Group A.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSHowever, they managed to win their playoff qualifiers against Greece and Luxemburg to book their ticket to Germany.It is the nation’s first appearance at the Euros in its history and is currently ranked no.75 in the world.Young stars set to shine at Euro 2024Georgia should not be underestimated, however, as they have a few stars in their team.Key players include Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.Team news?Bournemouth striker Enes Unal will miss the tournament for Turkey.Other big misses will be former Premier League stars Caglar Soyuncu and Ozan Kabak.Georgia however appear to have a clean bill of health with the main focus being on stars Kvaratskhelia and Mamardashvili.The duo have attracted a lot of interest in the transfer market and could put themselves in further in the shop window with a good performance.What has been said? Georgia talisman Kvaratskhelia has insisted that the team’s aim is to make it out of the group stages.He said: “Preparations are at maximum intensity because there is not long to go before our dream – the first match in the EURO for Georgia’s national team, and we are loaded with emotions.”But we are trying to control these emotions. We are preparing as best as we can for the first game, which is the most important because we will keep on going with the same mood as we begin.”Our first goal, just like every other team probably, is to go past the group stage and we will do everything to achieve this.”I hope the game ends in our favour and our goal will be achieved.”Turkey boss Montella believes that this edition of the Euros will be even harder than in 2021.He said: “In my opinion, this competition is more difficult than previous ones because the bar has been raised and even the mid-level teams have improved their level.”So the team must do its best and have conviction but absolutely not arrogance.”SunSport prediction?Turkey 1-1 GeorgiaPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      When is Turkey vs Georgia?
      Turkey’s big clash with Georgia takes place on Tuesday, June 18.
      The game will kick off at 5pm BST.
      Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund, Germany will host the game.
      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
      Romania vs Ukraine will be shown live on BBC One in the UK.
      You can live stream all the action from the BBC iPlayer app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      Can I watch for FREE?
      Yes, you can watch the game for FREE on the BBC so long as you have a valid TV licence.
      READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Turkey – 4/5
      Draw – 13/5
      Georgia – 15/4
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication. More

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      Austria vs France – Euro 2024: Mbappe aiming to get Les Bleus off to flyer – stream FREE, kick-off time, team news

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      FRANCE start their Euro 2024 campaign with a clash against Austria.Les Blues will be hoping to improve on their efforts in the previous tournament.France start their Euro 2024 campaign against AustriaCredit: AFPRalf Rangnick will be in charge of the AustriansCredit: GettyPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      France were knocked out in the round of 16 by Switzerland on penalties despite leading the match 3-1.The Swiss scored two goals in the final ten minutes to tie the match and force penalties.France also suffered heartbreak in the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.They lost in the final to Argentina again following a penalty shootout.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCoach Didier Deschamps’ side come into the competition as hot favourites due to the abundant quality in the squad.The team eased through qualification and have been boosted by the return of N’Golo Kante to the squad.However, Raphael Varane will not be playing part following his retirement from international football.The match against against Austria will not be straightforward.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFormer Manchester United interim boss Ralf Rangnick has got the Austrians playing some brilliant football.The team is unbeaten in their last seven games, a run that includes wins over Germany and Turkey.BBC VS ITV: Who wins in battle of Euro 2024 teamsFrance, on the other hand, has not lost since September and has won six of their last eight matches.Team newsFrance will be without Lucas Hernandez who picked up a knee injury before the tournamentKingsley Coman is a doubt after suffering from illness during the week.Austria will not have star David Alaba as he picked up a knee injury during the season.Midfielder Xaver Schlager will also miss the match due to injury.Austria Euro 2024 guideFORMER Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has transformed Austria since taking the job two years ago.
      But they face a tough task to get out of a group containing France, Holland and Poland.
      MANAGER: Ralf Rangnick
      Played for Southwick in the Sussex County League and ended up managing Cristiano Ronaldo at Old Trafford.
      STAR MAN: Christoph Baumgartner
      The RB Leipzig midfielder has excelled under Rangnick and scored the quickest goal in international history after six seconds against Slovakia in March.
      How Austria attack
      Austria are one of the most interesting tactical teams at the tournament.
      They will play aggressively and take risks in possession, rotating the midfielders and also playing longer passes to the target man/
      How Austria defend
      Austria will play Rangnick’s trademark aggressive gegenpressing style as they look to win the ball high up the pitch.
      However, they will also set traps and encourage the opposition to use the ball in central areas before surrounding them.
      Read the full Austria Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups and latest odds

      What has been said?Kylian Mbappe has insisted that he is keen to complete an international hat-trick of tournament wins with France.He told CNN Sport: “I want to win the Euros. I have to be honest. I won the World Cup. I won the Nations League.”That’s the only one that missed me with the national team after I did everything with the national team. I really want to win this.”My first competition as captain, so it’s really important for me and it’s always important for the country and we want them to be proud of us.”[It’s] another opportunity to write the history of my country.”Austria coach Rangnick is aware of the challenge his side faces when coming up against France.He said: “With France we might have the strongest opponents of all right at the start [of the tournament].”They are the absolute favourites for the title, not only at this EURO, but also in two years at the World Cup.”France surely must be the nation with the highest quality.”Even if the starting XI are injured, the 11 substitutes are not much weaker.”So the first match will be a huge challenge.”SunSport prediction?France 3-1 AustriaPLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.
      France Euro 2024 guideFRANCE are the one nation all England fans are truly afraid of.
      They are many punters’ favourites after knocking the Three Lions out of the 2022 World Cup and will be hoping to do much better than at Euro 2020, when they lost to Switzerland in the last 16.
      MANAGER: Didier Deschamps
      Coming up to 12 years in the job, the only thing missing from his CV is a European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Kylian Mbappe
      Mbappe’s PSG may have underachieved on the European stage but he remains France’s most deadly threat, with a World Cup trophy and a World Cup final hat-trick to his name.
      How France attack
      Expect to see France play in a fluid 4-3-3 – which becomes 4-2-3-1 in possession – throughout the tournament.
      Giroud acts as the focal point in the attack with the two wide players and Griezmann as No 10 supporting.
      How France defend
      We can expect to see France defend high with an emphasis on winning back possession as far up the pitch as possible.
      France will stagger their defensive shape when the opposition are in possession.
      Read the full France Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.

      When is Austria vs France?
      France’s clash with Austria will take place on Monday, June 17.
      The game will kick off at 8pm BST.
      The Merkur Spiel-Arena in Dusseldorf, Germany will play host to the big game.
      What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
      Austria vs France will be shown live on ITV 1 and ITV 1 HD in the UK.
      You can live stream all the action from the ITV X app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
      Can I watch for FREE?
      Yes, you can watch the game for FREE on ITV 1 and the ITV X app, so long as you have a valid TV licence.
      READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
      Austria – 11/2
      Draw – 7/2
      France – 1/2
      *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT More

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      Why isn’t Erling Haaland playing at Euro 2024?

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      EURO 2024 is upon us with the huge international competition set to kick off in Germany on Friday.Some of the best footballing talent across Europe will take to the field in search of prestigious silverware.Germany will host Euro 2024 this summerCredit: GETTYBut some big names will miss out…Why isn’t Erling Haaland playing at Euro 2024?Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland will be the most glaring absence of Euro 2024.Haaland, 23, has taken the world by storm ever since bursting onto the scene in 2019 with Red Bull Salzburg.The striker went on to enjoy his big break at Borussia Dortmund before his £51million move to City in 2022 where he has already broken a series of records.Read More on FootballThe Norwegian sensation has stood out in every competition he has competed in as he shone bright in the Bundesliga, Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and Champions League.But Haaland won’t get the chance to do the same at Euro 2024 as Norway didn’t qualify for the competition in Germany.Stale Solbakken’s men finished third in Group A with six points adrift of second place.The Norwegian national team were bested by Scotland and Spain, who topped the group, which also consisted of Georgia and Cyprus.Most read in FootballThe Treble winner is still yet to qualify for an international tournament despite forging a deserved reputation as the world’s best No9.Thus, the centre-forward will watch all the action on TV with a number of other stars.That includes Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, who is enjoying a stellar Premier League campaign.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHaaland has amassed a staggering total of 30 goals in 32 caps with Norway.The City superstar enjoyed another brilliant campaign in 2023/24 at the Etihad with 38 goals and six assists in 45 appearances under his name.Haaland and Grealish Friendship Test About Favourite Food – YouTube Premier League.mp4That adds to his grand total of 90 goals and 15 assists in 98 appearances since joining Pep Guardiola’s side two years ago.PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament. More

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      What is England’s biggest ever loss and their largest defeat at the Euros?

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      ENGLAND are looking to win their first ever European championship this summer at Euro 2024.The Three Lions came agonisingly close last time out in the Euro 2020 edition three years ago.England are no strangers to heartbreaking defeats throughout their historyEngland boss Gareth Southgate should remember the past when challenging for Euro 2024Gareth Southgate’s men made it the farthest they have ever advanced as they faced Italy in the final at Wembley.However, England suffered yet another penalty heartbreak against the Azzurri and are still without an international title since the 1966 World Cup.Southgate’s men pose as one of the favourites to lift the Euro 2024 trophy in Germany.However, the national team shouldn’t forget the past as history proves it can all still go up in flames.Read More on FootballWhat is England’s biggest loss?England’s biggest ever defeat in their entire history took place during an international friendly.The Three Lions took on the mighty Hungary of old back in 1954 in Budapest.Ferenc Puskas and co ran riot over England as they battered them with a score of 7-1. The performance was so bad that two players – Peter Harris and Jackie Sewell – were never capped again.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSWhat is England’s heaviest loss in the Euros?England have been a lot more fortunate in the Euros as they have never suffered a heavy defeat.The worst it got for the Three Lions was back in 1988 when they lost 3-1 to the Netherlands and the Soviet Union.Southgate speaks out after England humbled by Iceland ahead of EurosBoth games took place in the group stage when the three teams were also drawn with the Republic of Ireland.England lost all three games and finished bottom of the group in what is still remembered as the national team’s worst ever Euros tournament.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT More