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      in Soccer

      From drugging teammates with sleeping pills to baffling 95-0 scoreline – inside the murky world of football match-fixing

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      ENGLAND fans are furious after a scandal-hit referee has been chosen for tomorrow’s Euro 2024 semi-final clash.German-born Felix Zwayer, who will oversee the Three Lions game against the Netherlands, was banned for six months for match-fixing back in 2005.Felix Zwayer, who was previously given a ban for match-fixing, will referee England’s semi-final clashCredit: RexThe official previously clashed with Jude Bellingham over decisions made in a 2021 matchCredit: AFPBellingham was fined £34,000 for criticising Zwayer in this post-match interview in 2021The 43-year-old had received a £250 bribe from another referee, Robert Hoyzer, who had links to a £1.7million Croatian gambling syndicate in Berlin.While Zwayer was reinstated as a FIFA-listed ref in 2012, some fear England may be at risk of harsh treatment due to Jude Bellingham criticising him three years ago.The Three Lions ace, then 18, previously fumed at the official in a post-match interview for not giving his side, Borussia Dortmund, a penalty while awarding one to Bayern Munich.Bellingham, whose team lost 3-2 in the 2021 match, was fined £34,000 for raging: “You can look at a lot of decisions in that game.READ MORE FROM FEATURES“You give a referee that has match-fixed before the biggest game in Germany. What do you expect?”Zwayer was one of five refs who helped to expose crooked Hozyer – who was jailed two-and-a-half years and given a lifetime ban from working in the sport. Sadly match-fixing is nothing new in the world of football – here we reveal some of the utterly astounding scandals.Drugging teammatesBack in 2011, a clash between Italian third-division teams Cremonese and Paganese became famous for all the wrong reasons.Most read in FootballObservers noticed Cremonese’s players looked sluggish and reported feeling tired during the match.Some were reported to have struggled to walk and one member of the team crashed his car while driving home from the match.England’s penalty shoot-out secretsMarco Paolini drugged his teammates with sleeping pillsCredit: RAIIt later transpired that Cremonese’s goalkeeper Marco Paolini had been drugging his teammates with sleeping pills in a bid to pay off gambling debts.The footballer, who had placed the drug in their water bottles, was banned for five years after an FA investigation found links to disgraced Singapore businessman Dan Tan.95-0 winMost football fans would be happy with their side winning a match by a couple of goals – but in Sierra Leone eyebrows were raised by two surprisingly flattering score lines in 2022. Gulf FC and Kenama were both investigated by the nation’s football association after the teams managed to score in excess of 90 goals each.It followed Gulf beating Koquima 91-1 – after being ahead 7-1 in the first half – and Kenama thrashing Lumbebu United 95-0 after leading 2-0 before the second half commenced.The two results were annulled due to allegations of match manipulation and the Sierra Leona Football Association launched an investigation.The four teams were initially suspended by organisers. Later they were forced to replay the matches and put investigation.Totenero scandalItaly’s Paolo Rossi was banned for two years as part of the scandalCredit: PA:Press AssociationTotenero remains the world’s most famous match-fixing scandal – and led to a staggering 21 players, club owners and officials being given prison time.It came to light after an Italian newspaper discovered two greengrocers in Rome had masterminded a ring to facilitate teams to throw matches.They had bribed players including some from the football team Lazio, who were regulars in the restaurant, before eventually running out of money. The 1980 scandal, dubbed ‘totenero’ – the Italian word for illegal gambling – led to both Lazio and AC Milan being relegated from Serie A.Of the arrests, the most notable was Perugia forward Paolo Rossi – who was banned for two years before representing Italy at the 1982 World Cup, where he was the tournament’s top goalscorer.Disgrace of GijonWest Germany’s Wolfgang Dremmler scoring in the match against AustriaCredit: PA:Press AssociationAlgeria fans held money up to photographers, alleging there had been a fix between West Germany and AustriaCredit: AP:Associated PressWhile FIFA stated no rules had been broken, many were furious after a match between West Germany and Austria during 1982 World Cup.For both teams to progress through the group stage at the expense of Algeria, Germany needed just a 1-0 victory over the rivals.The only goal of the match came within 10 minutes of the game and after players passed the ball between them unwilling to compete further.Algeria were knocked out of the tournament and angry fans posed in front of photographers with money showing their disapproval of how the game had been fixed.The game – dubbed ‘the disgrace of Gijon’ – led FIFA to introduce a new rule for all final group games to be played simultaneously.Referee outrageJuventus director Luciano Moggi was involved in the ref-fixingCredit: PA:Press AssociationMoggi walking to court in 2010 for his involvement in the 2006 corruption scandalCredit: AFPIn 2006, Italian football suffered yet another scandal when police intercepted phone calls that revealed club officials had arranged for favourable referees. Teams including Juventus, Milan, Fiorentina, Lazio and Reggina were found to have been involved in conversations with the referee organisations. It led to prison sentences and football bans for Fiorentina’s co-owner Andrea Della Valle and Juventus director Luciano Moggi. England’s penalty shootout recordTHE dreaded penalty shootout.England’s nemesis at no fewer than EIGHT major tournaments since 1990, from the West Germany heartache at Italia 90 to Wembley woes on the brink of Euro 2020 final glory.But the perfect shootout win over Switzerland at Euro 2024 gives some reason for optimism…1990 World Cup semi-final vs WEST GERMANY, 04/07/1990 – LOST 4-3Euro 1996 quarter-final vs SPAIN, 22/06/1996 – WON 4-2Euro 1996 semi-final vs WEST GERMANY, 26/06/1996 – LOST 6-5Friendly vs BELGIUM, 29/05/1998 – LOST 4-31998 World Cup last 16 vs ARGENTINA, 30/06/1998 – LOST 4-3Euro 2004 quarter-final vs PORTUGAL, 24/06/2004 – LOST 6-52006 World Cup quarter-final vs PORTUGAL, 01/07/2006 – LOST 3-1Euro 2012 quarter-final vs ITALY, 24/06/2012 – LOST 4-22018 World Cup last 16 vs COLOMBIA, 03/07/2018 – WON 4-3Nations League third-place play-off vs SWITZERLAND, 09/06/2019 – WON 6-5Euro 2020 final vs ITALY, 11/07/2021 – LOST 3-2Euro 2024 quarter-final vs SWITZERLAND, 06/07/24 – WON 5-3OVERALL: Played 12 Won 4, Lost 8Of the teams involved, Juventus received the heftiest punishment with them being stripped of two Serie A titles and relegated to Series B.It led to a number of the team’s star players including Fabio Cannavaro and Zlatan Ibrahimovic leaving the club. Nearly 35 international footballers left the Italian league as a result of the scandal and moved to teams in other European leagues. 146 goals In another scandal involving absurd scorelines, four teams were banned from Nigeria’s lower league after 146 goals were scored in two matches.Both Plateau United Feeders and Police Machine were battling for promotion in 2013 but faced large goal differences so the teams took it into their own hands.Plateau United Feeders were 7-0 up at half-time against Akurba FC but went on to score a staggering 72 more goals.Similarly, Police Machine won 67-0 against Babyaro FC after being 6-0 ahead at halftime.The games saw one player score 11 times, three own goals and new footballs being used instead of retrieving balls from the back of the net. All four teams were banned for 10 years due to the “shameful incident”.Deliberate own goalTwo Brazilian footballers were sacked in an alleged match-fixing scandal in 2022Credit: TwitterIt’s claimed a midfielder deliberately scored an own goal and the keeper did nothing to stop himCredit: TwitterIn Brazil, at least two footballers were sacked after a bizarre own goal one minute before the end of the match. In footage from the game, it appeared that midfielder Julio Campos kick the ball into his own net on purpose and the goalkeeper did nothing to stop it.The game finished with Campos’ team, Atletico Amazonense, losing 4-1 to rivals Sul America in 2022. Two players were fired after the incident and regional prosecutors were asked to launch an investigation into match-fixing. READ MORE SUN STORIESThe loss ruled the team out of the race for promotion to Brazil’s top tier and the club’s president Henrique Barbosa was furious.In a statement, the club branded the actions “serious sabotage” and said Campos had an “unethical attitude” and “was determined to sabotage his own side” from the “beginning of the game”.Former referee Robert Hoyzer was jailed for more than two years and banned from footballCredit: Getty More

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      in Soccer

      How fun-loving Man City hero Jack Grealish was tamed by Sasha Attwood & family tragedy that makes pregnancy so special

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      HE is one of our favourite footballing sons, whose antics off the pitch are almost as famous as his skills on it.But now Jack Grealish is set to ditch his party-boy lifestyle for parenthood.Jack Grealish celebrated Manchester City’s Premier League achievement with girlfriend Sasha AttwoodCredit: InstagramJack looking worse for wear while being held up by security staff as he leaves Man City’s celebration party at 3amCredit: SplashJack and Sasha cradle her bump as the pair announce the pregnancyThe Manchester City winger and his childhood sweetheart Sasha Attwood, both 28, revealed on Sunday night that she is pregnant with their first nipper — to the delight of their millions of fans.Sharing the news on Instagram, proud Jack posted a snap of Sasha’s bump with the couple’s hands on it and wrote: “Life’s biggest blessing.”Uploading the same image, Sasha said: “Half of me, half of you — beyond blessed.”The couple’s baby joy comes on the back of a tough year for Jack, which saw him snubbed from England boss Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man Euros squad.READ MORE ON JACK GREALISH‘Loving life’He had struggled to perform for City, with just three goals and three assists in 36 games last season.But a friend last night said of the pregnancy news: “This is amazing for Jack and Sasha and it will definitely help spur him on with his football.“There’s no hiding from the fact Jack didn’t play like everyone knows he can last season.“He’s well aware of that. But he feels like it’s time to write a new chapter in his life with his perfect little family.”Most read in FootballThe pal added: “Jack and Sasha are besotted with each other and couldn’t be more delighted and excited at the thought of raising their own little one together.Jack Grealish shares video of himself training at Man City during England’s Slovenia snooze-fest after Euro 2024 snub “Getting dropped from the England squad broke Jack’s heart.“He is so proud to represent his country and gives his all every time he pulls on the shirt.“But the silver lining is that he has at least been able to spend more time with Sasha and be at her beck and call as she carries their child.”So in the coming months and years we can expect to see a different side to lovable Jack, who was born in Birmingham, raised in nearby Solihull and who has made his name across the globe.Since bursting on to the scene with a debut for his boyhood club Aston Villa ten years ago, Jack has stolen hearts with his raw personality and genuine connection with supporters.Unlike most of today’s sports pros, who appear scared to share too much, Jack speaks with searing honesty — whether about his performances on the pitch or the family heartbreak he has suffered away from it.And he clearly has no qualms about being snapped enjoying himself out on the lash. He has been pictured at Wayne Lineker’s O Beach bar in Ibiza and with a pal steadying him on holiday in Dubai last month.It is this side of his character that has sometimes landed him in hot water, like when he was snapped bleary-eyed leaving a Las Vegas club with a brunette at 3am in 2022, or when, aged just 19, he was seen passed out on a road in Tenerife.Jack continued to lead the boozy blowout back home, standing topless on a tram to City’s trophy parade, before having Grey Goose vodka poured down his throat. But it is also this side to Jack that has endeared him to fans across the football divide — Birmingham City supporters aside — in a way that only a handful of stars, such as Three Lions legend Paul Gascoigne, have done before. Take, for example, when this sorry journo (a Manchester United fan) was tasked with covering the Champions League final in Istanbul, Turkey, in June last year, where City beat Inter Milan 1-0 to match the Red Devils’ feat of winning that trophy, the Premier League and FA Cup.The following day, as celebrating players downed bottles of beer after little or no sleep, and made their way on to the City-emblazoned team coach outside their hotel, a head kept poking out of the vehicle’s sunroof.It was none other than Grealish — who else? — and he was belting out a rap song and shouting, “Woo!” before they set off for home, the famous old “big ears” trophy in their clutches for the first time. Even as a begrudging rival fan, I couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of a lad who is the same age as me at the pinnacle of his profession and just loving life. Jack continued to lead the boozy blowout back home, standing topless on a tram to City’s trophy parade, before having Grey Goose vodka poured down his throat by a team-mate while covering up his top half with just a hi-vis jacket.Along the way, cheering Jack on through the highs and lows, has been model Sasha. The pair began dating when they were 16, having met at St Peter’s Catholic School in Solihull.They live in a £5.6million Cheshire mansion with their beloved apricot cockapoo Skye, whose fourth birthday they celebrated on Sunday, along with their big pregnancy reveal.Jack was given Skye as a birthday present by Sasha, and calls her the “world’s best dog”.The couple enjoy holidays to destinations including Dubai and the South of France when £300,000-a-week Jack has a break from his footie schedule.‘Deeply in love’But they were left shaken when their home was targeted in a terrifying midweek raid in December as Jack played against Everton — while Sasha and others were inside.Despite some bumps along the road, it is clear for all to see that the couple remain deeply in love.After City’s Champions League final triumph over Inter Milan, Sasha was seen holding the trophy with her man and they shared a kiss on the pitch. Also there was Jack’s family, who he is incredibly close to. The footie ace — who could have played for Ireland thanks to his grandparents’ roots — is the eldest of five kids. His sister Hollie, 20, was born with cerebral palsy and he calls her his ‘best friend’. His dad, Kevin, is a former plasterer and mum Karen is the director of a property management firm.In 2000, when Jack was four, he tragically lost his brother Keelan to sudden infant death syndrome when he was just nine months old. The star dedicated his Aston Villa derby goal against Birmingham to his late sibling in 2018.His sister Hollie, 20, was born with cerebral palsy.Jack has said of his family life: “My little brother passed away when I was young. My little sister has cerebral palsy. She’s like my best friend.” Jack also does his bit for charity. He supports Children In Need and last year became an ambassador for Special Olympics GB, saying passionately: “Nobody should be excluded from opportunities, and I can’t stand bullying or discrimination.” He donated £5,000 to a GoFundMe page for Dylan Lamb, a 20-year-old student given weeks to live after being diagnosed with leukaemia, to help him get medical treatment in America.In 2022, Jack vowed to do a goal celebration for Finlay Fisher, an 11-year-old fan with cerebral palsy, if he scored at the World Cup in Qatar. Lo and behold, he did — and stayed true to his word, performing the lad’s favourite “worm” dance. Jack is the David Beckham of his generation, adored by so many and with the footie skills, boyish good looks and mega-money brand deals to boot. Although his monster calves put Becks to shame.Despite being gutted at missing out on Southgate’s Euros squad, he is first to admit when he has not been up to scratch.After manager Pep Guardiola’s City won a record fourth Premier League title in a row, Jack said: “I don’t feel like I’ve performed well this season.” But Spanish coach Pep, 53, vowed: “Jack will be back.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile getting his career on track again, the footie ace will soon have another mouth to feed.Best brush up on those dribbling skills!Jack toasts Man City’s treble with the team’s goalkeeper Stefan OrtegaJack’s sister Hollie, 20, above, was born with cerebral palsy and he calls her his ‘best friend’ More

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      in Motorsport

      British GP scandals from Schumacher’s infamous Silverstone win to VERY awkward Cara Delevingne chat and X-rated blunder

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      IT’S one of the most legendary races in Formula 1, but the British Grand Prix has had to steer a path through shocks and scandals over the years.From spying on the competition to insane collisions, countless infamous sporting moments have left fans reeling.The British Grand Prix has given fans some of the most memorable moments in Formula 1Credit: Tim Williams/British Photography AwardsMichael Schumacher has been involved in controversies at SilverstoneCredit: AP:Associated PressThe legend celebrated coming second in 1994 – little did he know he’d be disqualified and banned shortly afterwardsCredit: Times Newspapers LtdAnd there’s been some spicy moments off the track too – remember Cara Delevingne’s infamous grid chat with Martin Brundle last year? As Formula 1 returns to Silverstone on Sunday, there could be more fireworks in store, with the likes of Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris, and Max Verstappen all vying for the top prize.Here, we look at the British Grand Prix’s most memorable controversies – from the scandalous to the pure ridiculous.No stopping himMichael Schumacher is considered by many to be the greatest driver in F1 history, but his glittering career didn’t come without a few controversies.READ MORE FEATURES In 1994, the star – who tragically suffered a severe brain injury in 2013 – was hit with a five-second penalty after illegally passing frontrunner Damon Hill on the formation lap.Remarkably, he ignored the punishment and, after 21 laps, was served a black flag, which should have resulted in his disqualification – only to seemingly ignore that too.He finally served the time penalty on lap 27, eventually finishing second as confusion reigned.Princess Diana presented Hill with his award on the podium as Schumacher looked on.Most read in MotorsportHowever, shortly after, Michael was disqualified and banned for two races after being dragged to the FIA’s World Motor Sport Council.His protests that he had not seen the black flag did not go down well with officials.Greatest F1 track on Earth’ created featuring iconic parts from Silverstone, Spa and SuzukaVictory from the pitsSchumacher won in 1998 while not even on the trackCredit: AP:Associated PressIn 1998, Schumacher again came under intense scrutiny when he won the British Grand Prix… from the pit lane.It all started when he was judged to have illegally overtaken Alexander Wurz while the safety car had been deployed as he chased down race leader Mika Hakkinen.The German was given a 10-second penalty for the move, but Ferrari claimed to be confused by whether it would be added to their driver’s time or if he would need to come into the pits for a stop-and-go.Ultimately, Schumacher was called in by his team on the final lap, meaning that by the time he reached the team’s garage, he had already crossed the finish line, sparking fury among their rivals.It soon emerged that the bungling stewards had only announced the punishment with just two laps of the race left.Despite many expressing disappointment at how Schumacher won, the rules at the time were vague, meaning his victory stood.180mph smashLewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen have had one of the most heated rivalries in Formula OneCredit: GettyThe pair collided at top speed, with Max having to go to the hospital to get checked outLewis Hamilton’s wild celebration did not go down well with everyoneCredit: PAWhen it comes to heated rivalries on the grid, very few come close to the intensity of Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.In 2021, their feud came to a head when they collided in a 180mph clash at Copse Corner. It was the first time that year that a battle between the two would end in a collision.Max crashed heavily into the barriers and was taken to hospital for precautionary checks. Lewis was penalised with a 10-second penalty but still went on to win the race by passing Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.He was later accused of “dirty driving by Red Bull’s Christian Horner as the debate about racing etiquette raged.Max also slammed Lewis’ behaviour on X, writing: “Watching the celebrations while still in hospital is disrespectful and unsportsmanlike behaviour, but we move on.”Spygate Nigel Stepney stole hundreds of pages of Ferrari data and passed them on to McLarenCredit: GettyTheir plan came to light when Mike Coughlan’s wife made photocopies of the documentsCredit: Sutton Motor Sport ImagesIn 2007, McLaren was hit with a huge $100million fine in one of the biggest controversies to come out of Formula 1.Dubbed Spygate, it centred around Nigel Stepney, who worked for Ferrari and his old friend, Mike Coughlan, who was the chief designer of McLaren.When Stepney felt like he had been unfairly shut out of a promotion, he stole almost 800 pages of confidential Ferrari data and passed them on to Coughlan. But their plan came crashing down when Coughlan’s wife tried to make copies of the documents at a shop in Woking.The photocopier, a Ferrari fan, became suspicious and alerted the team, who launched a bombshell legal case days ahead of the British Grand Prix in July.While McLaren was initially cleared of wrongdoing, a second investigation led to the record punishment. The scandal remains a huge stain on McLaren’s legacy.Protest on live trackJust Stop Oil protestors recklessly sat on the tracks while a race was underwayCredit: RexThe protestors were arrested and charged for their actionsCredit: RexIn 2022, a huge security lapse at Silverstone saw six environmental protestors storm the tracks and recklessly sit down while the race was ongoing.Luckily, the cars had slowed by the time they got to the protestors, due to a multi-car incident at Turn 1.After they were removed, all six Just Stop Oil protestors were arrested and charged with causing a public nuisance.At their trial, prosecutors said they risked “serious harm” to the drivers and the marshals who had to get them off the tracks. Although they were found guilty of the offence, they were spared jail and handed suspended sentences instead. Cringe snubCara Delevingne declined an interview with Martin Brundle on the gridCredit: Sky Sports F1The model was slammed on social media for snubbing F1 legend MartinCredit: Sky Sports F1Former racing driver turned commentator Martin Brundle is one of the most respected figures in Formula One. The Sky Sports presenter is known for interviewing team principals, drivers, and VIPs before the beginning of each race. But it seemed last year, model Cara Delevingne didn’t get the memo when she appeared to snub him as he approached her for an interview during the grid walk.Initially, a member of her team said she did not want to talk. Martin then responded with: “She doesn’t want to talk? But everybody needs to talk on the grid, that’s the deal now.”🏁 Complete F1 2024 race calendar – details on every Grand Prix and start time this year 🏁 He then took matters into his own hands and asked her for a “quick chat”, to which she said: “No” and added that she couldn’t “hear anything”.As Martin walked away from Cara, he quipped: “Oh well, I’m sure it would have been extremely interesting.”Fans immediately took to social media to slam her over the incident, which went viral.One vented: “Terrible form. This is Martin Brundle’s gridwalk. Has been for eternity.”As the storm grew, Cara was forced to defend herself, telling one fan: “I was told to say no so I did. Thank you for seeing both sides xxx”X-rated displayA screen malfunction resulted in a very awkward sceneCredit: YouTubeIn 2015, fans in attendance were left in fits of laughter after the big screen malfunctioned and appeared to depict a lewd act. The screen showed two men in a jerking motion, with one man’s hand in front of the other. READ MORE SUN STORIESAs the up-and-down hand motions continued, fans could be heard laughing, with one shouting, “What’s he doing?”After a few more seconds, the two men disappeared from the screen as it went completely blank. More

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      in Soccer

      England ace Jude Bellingham gets blessing from higher power as The Sun prays at National Shrine to St Jude for victory

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      THE Sun has sought divine intervention to help England win today — with a prayer at the National Shrine of St Jude, the patron saint of hope.First we placed photos of namesake Jude Bellingham beneath the ornate stained glass windows as shrine chaplain, Brother Paul de Groot, provided moral support.England superstar Jude Bellingham carries the nation’s Euro 2024 hopes after rescuing the team against SlovakiaCredit: GettyThe Sun’s Oliver Harvey has said a prayer at the shrine of St Jude, ahead of the quarter-finalCredit: Gary StoneThe National Shrine to St Jude is located at Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Faversham, KentCredit: Gary StoneWearing a red 1966 Three Lions strip, Sun man Oliver Harvey then knelt and said in prayer: “St Jude, as the apostle of hope, please look kindly on England when they take on Switzerland.“And please give strength to our talismanic hero Jude Bellingham, who bears your name. “But please St Jude, don’t leave it as late as it was against Slovakia. Amen.”Now, we’re giving you the chance to recite our prayer.READ MORE JUDE BELLINGHAMBrother Paul, 73, said: “Many a pilgrim comes here looking and hoping for something and they pray to St Jude and, with luck, it will be answered.”The chaplain watched England’s No10 take our last match into extra time with a last-gasp bicycle kick. He admitted: “I’m not a great football fan but I had the TV on and then it happened — but to be honest it was a dire game.”The National Shrine to St Jude, dedicated in 1955, is an annex to the parish church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Faversham, Kent.Most read in Euro 2024St Jude was once regarded as the apostle of hopeless or lost causes — but that has now changed.Jude Bellingham takes selfies with fans as England star prepares for Switzerland clashBrother Paul explained: “I don’t think for God any cause is lost. “God is willing to hear and help any case which is why we now associate Jude with hope.“God can educate us through the difficulties and trials and tribulations of life. “That might well be happening to the England team now.”Brother Paul de Groot says pilgrims often visit ‘looking and hoping for something’Credit: Gary StoneOne prayer has already been answered — with Bellingham given only a suspended one-match ban for his groin-grabbing goal celebration.The ruling was toasted by supporters in Dusseldorf ahead of the quarter-final showdown.Sales executive Dec Evans, 33, of Blackburn, said: “I am delighted — but it’s a joke they even considered a ban. “He had just scored one of the most amazing goals in England football history — of course he’s going to celebrate.”Some 50,000 Three Lions fans in Germany, backed by millions watching at home, and in bars and fanzones, will be cheering for victory in what will be boss Gareth Southgate’s 100th game in charge.Carpenter Nick Thatcher, 45, of Bristol, said: “We have the best squad and there is no reason why we can’t go all the way.“It’s been a tough watch over the last couple of games, but it’s important the fans get behind the team when they need it most.”Only 6,731 tickets were made available to Three Lions fans through Uefa but a total of 30,000 are set to turn the 47,000-seat Dusseldorf Arena into a home ground for England.Many spent yesterday belting out songs as they sheltered from the rain under awnings outside bars in Dusseldorf’s Old Town.Pharmacist Dean Spotwood, 40, of Sheffield, said: “We gambled when we booked our flights that England would reach the quarter-finals. “It was looking like a disaster when we were 1-0 down to Slovakia, but Jude saved the day.”Ross Bunn, 36, of Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, will be going to his third Euros 2024 game with son Jude, nine. He said: “England haven’t clicked yet and we’re already in the quarter-final. When it does all work out, we can go all the way. “My son is loving it. He was named after actor Jude Law, but I’m loving the fact he now shares it with Mr Bellingham.’’Construction manager Scott Evans, 29, of Bexley, South East London, is there on his stag do with 18 friends and relatives. They booked in November hoping England would secure a Saturday evening quarter-final in Dusseldorf — exactly as it has worked out.Scott’s dad Paul, 58, said: “What better way to celebrate?”England awaitsBack home, fans will down an extra eight million pints in boozers today — giving the pub industry a £38million boost. Around 20million viewers will watch the match on TV after splashing out £200million on snacks and booze at stores.Music fans will also be able to watch the match after organisers of a string of gigs and festivals hurriedly erected big screens or changed set times.The Lightning Seeds, who sang Euro 96 anthem Three Lions with Frank Skinner and David Baddiel, will kick off their set at Lytham Festival, in Lancs, earlier so fans can cheer on England.Even the Big Sheep music festival in Devon — starring The Wurzels — will take a break for the footie. But Wimbledon chiefs sniffed: “We won’t be showing the Euros. “Our screens will be showing the tennis.”England fans are being urged to say the prayer of St Jude for good luckGareth’s lucky 100GARETH Southgate is likely to lead England to victory over Switzerland today, believes The Sun’s Euro 2024 psychic.Chloe Smith, 27, explained: “With Southgate celebrating his 100th game, his luck should spiral through on his angel number, which is also 100.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBut Chloe, of Uttoxeter, Staffs — who does team good luck readings before games — added: “It’s going to be a close one. “England will need to rely on talent — or luck — or both.” More

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      in Soccer

      Inside England squad’s bizarre life at Euro 2024 – from Ed Sheeran gigs to cringe personalised pillows and goodie bags

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      THE pressure may be on for the Three Lions on the pitch, but once the final whistle has blown the team behind the players is making sure they have the perfect environment to relax and recover.The England team is staying at the swanky five-star Spa & Golf Resort Weimarer Land in sleepy Blankenhain for Euro 2024. Pop megastar Ed Sheeran joined the England squad at their base this weekCredit: GettyHe treated them to an impromptu gigCredit: GettyThe England squad are staying in a £300-a-night resort for the Euro tournamentCredit: GettyThey have access to a stunning indoor swimming pool, among other featuresCredit: Darren FletcherOn Monday, they were joined by Ed Sheeran, who treated the team to an impromptu performance to celebrate their win against Slovakia, which took them into the quarter-finals.England fan Ed has been in Germany supporting his team and was spotted in the stands celebrating Jude Bellingham’s winning goal.As the team prepares for their next match against Switzerland, every effort has been made to make the base camp a home-from-home for Harry Kane and co.Manager Gareth Southgate and his staff have ensured the hotel is full of personal touches to ensure homesickness or boredom doesn’t impact the players’ performance on the pitch.READ MORE FEATURES In every player’s room, there are photo collages of their families and pets, along with inspirational notes from their nearest and dearest telling them how proud they are of them for representing their country.Attention to detail is second to none and even the hotel’s sofas have had a cringe makeover – decorated with cushions printed with the faces of their loved ones, according to the Telegraph.And instead of the customary solitary chocolate on their pillows at bedtime, Southgate’s team each have an individually selected goodie bag with their favourite sweets and treats.The hotel even smells like home too, with specific scents imported from England’s UK base, George’s Park, to Germany.Most read in Euro 2024The resort’s corridors feature the same ‘signature’ scent used at England’s headquarters – a “fresh, comforting aroma that is distinguishable and lets you know you’re in a high-end space,” with notes of bergamot, lily, and jasmine. There is a different, more energising fragrance for the gym and recreation areas, while a lavender-based aroma will be used in bedrooms to create a relaxing and sleep-friendly atmosphere at night. England squad get serenaded by Ed Sheeran ahead of Switzerland clash as star finally completes his Lego HogwartsTheir bedrooms have been customised with pictures of their loved ones. Pictured, the hotel ahead of their stayCredit: Darren FletcherSofas in their rooms have been decked out with cushions featuring their family’s facesCredit: Darren FletcherAlongside an indoor pool, there’s also an outdoor pool where they can cool offCredit: Darren FletcherEngland’s players can relax in this luxurious spa after a hard day’s workCredit: Darren FletcherThe hotel’s swanky barCredit: Darren FletcherPools, darts… and Harry Potter LegoThe £300-a-night resort has everything to keep the players entertained in their downtime – two 18 hole golf courses, a luxury spa, saunas, swimming pools, and a a football pitch.There’s also a basketball court and a padel court, dart board, pool table and cinema room – meaning they will certainly have no excuses to be bored.And as Gareth Southgate has allowed the players’ wives and families to come to the resort after each match to give them much-needed family time, there are plenty of activities for the WAGs and children to enjoy.Declan Rice posted a picture of himself and Eberechi Eze enjoying a game of padel, the world’s fastest-growing racquet sport. Padel is a cross between tennis and squash.The team have been mountain-biking around the hotel’s extensive grounds to flush out their legs in between games.The resort also features two 18-hole golf coursesCredit: GettyDeclan shared a snap of the lads playing padelCredit: InstagramHe also showed off the fancy firepit at nightCredit: InstagramAnthony Gordon tries his hand at dartsCredit: GettyKobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer have a game of poolCredit: GettyBut Newcastle star Anthony Gordon came a cropper last week when he fell off his bike whilst trying to film himself cycling, suffering gashes to his face, hands and arms.Another less risky activity keeping the players busy is Lego, with Lewis Dunk building a 6,000-piece Harry Potter castle with the team masseuse.The Brighton captain said: “It’s going to be Hogwarts. It’s not just me. Me and Ben the masseuse, we’re working on it.”To be fair, he has done more than me so far. He’s loving it. I’ve done a little bit. I’m just glad my kids ain’t here to smash it up!”In the evening the team can relax around fire pits over-looking one of the resort’s luxury swimming pools.And all the players have been spotted getting competitive over games of darts and pool.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYAnd Jude Bellingham revealed his new goal celebration was inspired by the card game Werewolf that the team plays together.After scoring the winner in England’s first match against Serbia, Bellingham unveiled a new celebration with Trent Alexander-Arnold where they both fell to one knee and covered their faces with outstretched hands.He later explained the inspiration behind it was a backroom game of cards, saying: “The celebration was from a game we play called wolf and one of the staff always holds his face like that when he doesn’t know what’s going on.READ MORE SUN STORIES“So it was more a celebration for the backroom staff who put in so much work every day and they won’t receive any awards like this or get to have the moments we get to have on the pitch.”But we value them so much and it’s important going through the tournament that we keep that atmosphere.”Lewis Dunk has been building a Lego Hogwarts with the team’s masseuseJude Bellingham says his goal celebration pose is a way to pay tribute to England’s backroom staffCredit: GettyConnor Gallagher and Marc Guehi in a game of head tennis ahead of a training sessionCredit: GettyThe stars have access to the hotel’s pools when at the resortCredit: GettyThere is an incredible gym where the lads can work outCredit: Darren FletcherEngland’s five-point penalty shootout planEXPERT football psychologist Professor Geir Jordet has told Gareth Southgate and his players what they can do to give themselves the best chance of victory in any shootouts.And he has even thrown in a rogue, bold suggestion for the Three Lions manager…1. START PLANNING LAST YEAR “It’s about planning for the opposition’s penalty takers but also ‘how do we win the psychological game against each opponent?’2. SMART SOUTHGATE LEADERSHIP”Southgate will have two minutes to influence his players as effectively as possible, show he has a plan and get confidence across.”3. DICTATE AS A TEAM”A shootout is really a team performance. Have the goalkeeper walk with the penalty taker into the penalty area to basically create a two-versus-one against the other goalkeeper. Dominate the centre circle, support the players who missed.”4. ‘BULLETPROOF’ INDIVIDUAL ROUTINES “Have really good, individualised and rehearsed pre-shot routines that are bulletproof and polished so they’re more likely to be able to resist the stress and more likely to score.”5. SHOOT YOUR SHOT  “Practise the shot itself, trying to simulate penalty shootouts in training. Even recreating 20 per cent of a Euros final penalty shootout is going to have a benefit for your performance.”AND A JOR DROPPING IDEA…Jordan Pickford is the No1 but Dean Henderson actually has a far better penalty record – saving 8/22 (36 per cent) compared to Pickford’s 8/62 (13 per cent).Jordet said: “One could consider making a late substitution for a penalty shootout. I doubt that they dare to do it in case it fails and the pressure is even higher but it would be a very ballsy move.” More

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      Andy Carroll’s troubled history of bar brawls and stag do scandals… and how he rebranded for ‘livid’ wife Billi Mucklow

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      DRUNKEN brawls, racy club nights and the most notorious stag do in football – Andy Carroll’s life off the pitch has often been a series of embarrassing own goals.We revealed this week how the footballer, 35, was filmed stumbling down a posh Mayfair street after scrapping with another man at 1am.Andy Carroll was seen brawling in London at 1am as wife Billi tried to calm him downCredit: SuppliedWitnesses claim he was yelling at members of the publicCredit: SuppliedThe former England star has never been far from scandalCredit: EmpicsAndy and Billi have stuck together through thick and thinCredit: Instagram @billimucklowHe was then seen shouting, “You f***ing want some?” at bystanders while wife Billi Mucklow, 36, and the staff from Sexy Fish restaurant, where they had dined, tried to calm the footie ace down.Towie star Billi is said to be disappointed with her husband for his outburst, with a witness saying: “She was not impressed.“It looked like they had been having a pleasant evening, knocking back the drinks and enjoying the Asian cuisine.“But Andy had a row with a guy as they were preparing to leave.”READ MORE FEATURESIt is just the latest booze-fuelled scandal to hit the former England striker, who infamously nearly torpedoed his own wedding after being pictured in bed with two women on his stag do.In recent years, he has cut a reformed figure on social media, sharing sweet ‘Instagram dad’ snaps of his kids’ birthdays and gushing posts about his wife. But unfortunately for long-suffering Billi, trouble always seems to be around the corner.Drunken brawlsThe couple have three children together, Arlo, eight, Wolf, five, and Marvel Mae, two, while the sports star also has two children, Emilie, 13, and Lucas, 12, from his previous relationship with former fiancée Faye Johnstone.Most read in FootballAndy and Billi started dating in 2013 and got engaged a year later, but she was aware that he had a troubled side before they met.Back in 2010 he was arrested and subsequently fined for assaulting a man outside a Newcastle nightclub.Footie ace Andy Carroll wrecks £130k Mercedes in horrifying head-on crash with Ford FiestaAndy went to court aged 21 for his role in a drunken brawl that left a victim in hospitalCredit: PA:Press AssociationHis time at Newcastle United was marred by his off-the-pitch behaviourCredit: APAndy claims having a family has helped him to calm downBilli is said to be disappointed in her husband over his latest brawlCredit: InstagramAndy had been drinking at the city’s Blu Bambu club on December 7 when things descended into a fight and the victim required hospital treatment.The Premier League star paid £1,000 after admitting to the assault. He was also ordered to pay an additional £2,500 compensation.Then in October 2010 he was charged with assault in an incident with his ex-girlfriend, but due to a lack of evidence, the charges were dropped.That same year, Andy was alleged to have attacked fellow Newcastle player Steven Taylor, leaving him with a broken jaw. Andy was seen with a bandaged hand.I was stupid, I was young, and I was carried away with the lifestyle that I hadAndy CarrollHowever, it was never confirmed by the club, Andy or Steven. He was also involved in a scuffle with a photographer in 2012, just a year before he started dating Billi.Paddy Cummins claimed that he was attacked by a drunk Carroll when he tried to take a picture of him apparently without his leg brace at around 2.30am following a West Ham Christmas party.The footballer was alleged to have tried to gouge the snapper in the eye for trying to take photographs.Andy denied the allegations, and it never went to court.Hotel room fiascoAndy was pictured lying in bed with two unknown women on his stag doTaylor, one of the girls, claimed nothing happened and that Andy was too drunk to try anything onCredit: Simon JonesSince meeting Billi, Andy has credited her with turning his life around – so much so that he has even taken up yoga, which she teaches.In 2019, he told Newcastle United FC: “I’ve got no doubt that I was daft when I was here, and no doubt that I was daft for a couple of years after as well.“But I met my missus, and we’ve got four kids living at home now, we’ve got animals, we’ve got responsibilities. There’s no more behaviour like it was, you know.”I was stupid, I was young, and I was carried away with the lifestyle that I had.“Now it’s completely different. I’m actually a dad, I’ve grown up, and got responsibilities, so… I’ve got a purpose.”Unfortunately for Andy, he landed himself in hot water with his wife and the nation three years later, just days before their wedding.While on his Dubai stag do in 2022, the sportsman invited two girls back to his hotel room.Taylor Jane Wilkey, then 27, was one of the women who ended up back at the accommodation with Andy, and alleged he’d been on a 17-hour bender.Billi was livid over the picturesAnnonymous sourceThe party girl also claimed that she had no idea he was celebrating his upcoming wedding and had been told it was just a lads’ holiday.She told The Sun: “It was an amazing day, the booze was flowing and Andy seemed to be having a great time.“He came over to chat to us and asked what we did, he seemed nice, a gentleman.“But at no point did anyone mention it was a stag do, we were told it was a lads’ holiday. I didn’t know he was getting married.”Taylor told that, despite how it looked, nothing had happened between the girls and the 6ft 4inch footballer.“He was honestly in no state to do anything,” she said, before adding: “I’m so sorry for all this mess — but I did nothing wrong.”The incident came to light when a photo of Andy bare-chested in bed flanked by two girls circulated on the internet.His then wife-to-be was said to be furious at his behaviour, but still opted to go through with their wedding.Wedding bellsThe couple went ahead with their wedding despite the stag do chaosCredit: INSTAGRAMBilli regularly posts photos from their wedding to celebrate birthdays and anniversariesCredit: InstagramThe couple read their vows at a lavish ceremony at Hampshire’s five-star Four Seasons Hotel, where champagne flowed.But Andy’s recent antics still cast a cloud over the happy day. One onlooker said: “Billi and Andy were both emotional when they saw one another, but the atmosphere totally changed when the officiator asked if anyone present knew why they should not be married.“Everyone in the ceremony started to laugh really loudly, and Billi and Andy joined in.“It really broke the ice in what has been a very difficult build up to the wedding for Billi.”They added: “She has been waiting for this day for a long time and after everything that has gone on over the past week, to finally get to say their vows was massive.“Billi was almost 20 minutes late, which added to Andy’s nerves, but after the hysterics, everyone was far more relaxed.”Billi has been getting fed up with Andy’s wild behaviour over the yearsCredit: InstagramAndy was spotted looking cosy with DJ Kitty McPaws last yearBut last year Andy was in hot water again after being filmed cuddling up to a DJ named Kitty McPaws on a night out.A party guest said: “He caressed her bum. It was very flirty.“Someone made a joke that Kitty McPaws was living up to her name because they were pawing each other.“Andy was very carefree. He knew others were watching and that at one stage he was filmed with Kitty.”After the video became public, Kitty said: “He was on a night out and I was DJing. We had a quick chat before my set. That was it.”Andy Carroll’s careerAndy Carroll was just seven years old when he was scouted for Newcastle United’s academy.He then went on to play for their youth team before making his first team debut in 2006.His first match was against Palermo in the UEFA cup where he was brought on as a substitute. At just 17-years-old, he became the youngest player to represent Newcastle United in a European game.While at the club he was seen as a rising star thanks to his goal scoring abilities. In 2011, Andy was transferred to Liverpool FC for a fee of £35million.After a year playing for the club we was loaned to West Ham United, who would later buy him for £15million.His time at the London club was marred by injuries and he only appeared 18 times in the 2013-2014 season. The club released him in 2019, following his ankle surgery and he returned to Newcastle United. In 2021 he was transferred to Reading and a year later moved to West Bromwich Albion.In 2022 he was back at Reading but he left again after a year to move to Amiens in FranceWhile Billi didn’t make any public statement about the incident, behind closed doors she was reportedly furious.At the time, insiders told Closer: “Billi was livid over the pictures. Andy totally denies any wrongdoing at all – he’s assured her that nothing happened and that he was just on a night out with his mates, which ended up carrying on and that it was all just innocent fun – but Billi wasn’t happy.”However, the pair managed to work it out behind the scenes and continued to share photos of their seemingly idyllic life on social media. Car crash horrorAndy was involved in a freak head on collision with another vehicleCredit: © Jeff MooreLuckily no one was seriously hurt in the collisionCredit: RexIn 2022, Andy made headlines after being involved in a horrific car crash in his £130,000 Mercedes GLS SUV.Witnesses saw him and a driver of a Ford Focus being breathalysed at the scene but neither were arrested. The cars had collided head on and the red Ford had been shunted 30 yards up the road. John Cooper, who lives nearby, said: “I heard the most awful bang.“I saw Andy Carroll emerge from his vehicle. He was wandering around in a daze.”The dad-of-three was said to go and check on the occupants of the other motor to ensure no one was seriously hurt. Just one crash victim went to hospital with chest pains. Move abroadAndy enjoys being able to spend time with his family in France without people knowing who he isCredit: InstagramThe couple share lots of photos of them with the kidsCredit: InstagramAndy and Billi doing yoga with their totCredit: InstagramThey often post loved-up snapsCredit: Instagram/@billimucklowNowadays, Andy plies his trade in France, playing for Ligue 2 club Amiens since signing last September.His life with Billi appears more settled, with his wife regularly sharing enviable snaps of their glamorous holidays abroad and pictures of him tending to the kids.For his part, the footballer says he is enjoying the level of anonymity that living in France provides him with.He told MailOnline: “Here [in France] I can walk into the bakery and get a pain au chocolat and no one’s saying, ‘How was the game? Can I get a picture?’ Here I feel like I’m normal. I just wanted to get out. Be free. Be me.”He later added: “Here I can take my kids to the zoo here and they’re not saying, ‘Come on dad’ because people are asking for photos or autographs. There’s a little pub around the corner where me and a couple of the boys went to watch Newcastle beat PSG the other week. What a game! No one said a word to me.”READ MORE SUN STORIESWhile Billi may not have completely tamed Andy’s wild side, she has certainly tempered it with time and patience.However, more of both might be required after his latest brawl. More

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      Honey the psychic eagle delivers verdict on England v Slovakia Euro 2024 showdown

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      HONEY the psychic eagle has landed again … and she predicts a resounding WIN for Gareth Southgate’s squad tonight.The African Tawny eagle, who never gets a prediction wrong, says England will triumph when they face Slovakia at 5pm in the Euro knockouts, where they are down to the last 16.Honey the psychic eagle has backed England to beat Slovakia at Euro 2024Credit: ROB WELHAM / McLELLANSo far Honey has correctly predicted every England game.Bird of Prey handler and owner of Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford, Kent, Alex Leonard commented on her forecast.He said: “Honey’s latest psychic prediction shows that Gareth Southgate’s boys are going to smash it.“Her flight was straight and true – and it’s a clear win for England.READ MORE EURO 2024“Come on England – it’s yours for the taking in knockouts!”Tens of thousands of England fans are in Gelsenkirchen for today’s game.Back home, supermarkets have seen a huge boost in sales of booze, barbecues and burgers ahead of the match.Fans will knock back around 32million pints today — six million more than a normal Sunday — giving a £28.8million boost to pubs.Most read in Euro 2024At home, an expected TV audience of around 16million will tune in, with thousands more watching in bars and in fan zones.England’s five-point penalty shootout plan More

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      Junior Jude Bellingham to a tiny Harry Kane… Three Lions heroes when they were just cubs – so how many do you recognise?

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      ONE cheeky looking lad has his face painted with a St George’s flag while others proudly show off schoolboy medals.But these adorable photos aren’t of youngsters dreaming of emulating their footie heroes – they ARE the Three Lions, snapped playing the beautiful game as youngsters.Harry Kane’s first club Ridgeway Rovers say the England striker is an inspirationCredit: Collect picture .England’s record scorer Harry has come a long way since he began his careerCredit: GettyAhead of tomorrow’s last 16 clash against Slovakia, Robin Perrie and Nick Parker spoke to the players’ former clubs – who have sent their own good luck messages.Harry Kane Bayern Munich & Ridgeway RoversRIDGEWAY Rovers in Chingford, East London has produced not one, but two England captains – with Harry, 30, following in David Beckham’s footsteps.Chairman Ian Marshall said: “I really hope we go on to win this with Harry Kane taking a lead role.“When he wears that armband he’s a true leader for England. He has that ability to raise his game that extra five per cent.READ MORE ON ENGLAND TEAM“Harry means such a lot to us here, but he’s a player to be celebrated by the whole country now.“The kids here love to see Harry do well and he’s a tremendous inspiration for youngsters coming up through this club.”Jude Bellingham Real Madrid & Stourbridge JuniorsJude Bellingham could have become a cricket star if he wanted to, it is claimedCredit: Collect picture .Real Madrid midfielder Jude is one of England’s most exciting playersCredit: GettyTHE way Jude, who turns 21 today, has taken La Liga by storm with Real Madrid, shows he was destined to be a star – and not just as a footballer.At Hagley Cricket Club, Worcs, an 11-year-old Bellingham stood out.Most read in Euro 2024Club chairman Mark Baker, 71, said: “If he had focused on cricket, he could have gone far in the game.”But football was always his first love and he showed he has always been up for the cup when he posed for a pic with the FA Cup as a kid with non-league Leamington FC.Man Utd fans in meltdown over moment Kobbie Mainoo ‘sends Joe Gomez back to Charlton Athletic’ in England training Club chairman Jim Scott, 68, said: “What struck me about young Jude, even at that age, was how remarkably mature he was. “Forget about Jude the footballer, Jude the young man was very well brought up with great manners and great standards.”Bukayo Saka Arsenal & Greenford CelticArsenal academy star Bukayo Saka began his fledgling career a Greenford CelticCredit: Collect picture .Bukayo is now playing in his second European ChampionshipsCredit: GettyTHE 22-year-old flying winger played his first game at Greenford Celtic FC, in West ­London, before moving to Arsenal’s academy. The original club no longer exists and it later became Celtic- 1995 FC.Chairman Albert Tamou said: “We’re very proud Bukayo started at our club and has gone on to achieve such great things.”John Stones Man City & Penistone Church FCJohn Stones’ talent stood out from a young age at Penistone Church FCCredit: Collect picture .John is England’s most important defender with Harrry Maguire out injuredCredit: GettyJOHN, 30, stood out the first time he played for Penistone Church FC, aged seven, in Barnsley.Club secretary Dave Hampshire recalled: “When he joined Penistone it was clear that he had something extra – he had an awareness about him.“When we see Penistone Church FC next to his name it gives the club a boost. “We wish him the very best at Euro 2024.”Kobbie Mainoo Man Utd & Cheadle And Gatley Juniors, Adam Wharton Crystal Palace & Moorland AcademyManchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo is one of England’s newest starsCredit: Kobbie wants to win the Euros after helping his club lift the FA CupCredit: GettyCrystal Palace’s Adam Wharton also made his name as a youngster in LancashireCredit: Collect picture .Wharton was a surprise call-up after a superb second half of the seasonCredit: GettyIT wasn’t long ago that England starlets Adam, 20, and 19-year-old Kobbie were enjoying junior football games in Lancashire.The gifted midfielders may yet play a huge role for England in their first senior tournament, after playing for ­Moorland Academy in Clitheroe and Cheadle And Gatley Juniors, in Stockport, respectively.A Moorland spokesman said: “It’s difficult to put into words how over the moon we are about what Adam has achieved. “We wish him every success.”And Cheadle And Gatley Juniors said they were “so proud” to see Kobbie in the England squad.Coach Steve Vare said: “He wasn’t one of these young lads that might be a little ­arrogant – he was very quiet and he’d let his football do the talking.”Aaron Ramsdale Arsenal & Kyle Walker Man City, both Sheffield United AcademyKyle Walker is one of two England players to come through Sheffield United’s ranksCredit: Blades sportsKyle is now one of England’s most successful players at club levelCredit: GettyKyle’s path was followed by Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron RamsdaleCredit: Collect picture .SHEFFIELD United Academy manager Derek Geary knew both Aaron, 26, and 34-year-old Kyle when they were youngsters.Aaron’s prowess between the sticks singled him out as a special talent, while Kyle’s electric turn of foot caught the eye.Derek said: “I could see straight away that Aaron was going to make it as a professional.“Not just because he was talented, but his character was outrageous.“He was bubbly and full of energy, but he was obsessed with being a goalkeeper and loved being at Sheffield United.“Kyle was very, very fast. “He was very determined, very outgoing, full of energy and ultra-ambitious.“He suited the modern day full-back position. “There was absolutely no doubt in my mind that he was going to go on and have the great career that he has.“They are both now an inspiration to the current players here because they see pictures of them around the Academy.”Phil Foden Man City & Reddish VulcansPhil Foden had ‘frightening’ talent as a youngsterCredit: Man City ace Phil has just become a dad for a third timeCredit: GettyNEW dad Phil, 24, dazzled even as a youngster for Reddish Vulcans in his home town of Stockport.A club spokesman said: “Even at the age of seven his control, ­movement and change of direction were frightening.“He would leave players trailing.“It’s a wonderful knowing that Phil played for us.“He’s inspired a lot of children in our community and we are ­honoured to say that he was once here.”Marc Guehi Crystal Palace & Cray WanderersMarc Guehi is making former club Cray Wanderers very proudCredit: Collect picture .The Crystal Palace defender is one of England’s rising starsCredit: GettyENGLAND’S stand-out defender, 23, at the Euros once played for Cray Wanderers in South East London.CEO Sam Wright said: “It’s fantastic to have a guy who played in our under-7s and under-8s now representing England at the Euros.“We’ve been blown away by how well he has done. “After the Iceland friendly I worried whether the big stage might be too much for him but he’s been absolutely magnificent.“Even when he makes an error he makes sure he recovers and clear the danger.”Jarrod Bowen West Ham & Leominster TownWest Ham star Jarrod Bowen is living his dream by representing EnglandCredit: Collect picture .THE little lad with the face paint and the St George’s Cross hair do is now a millionaire Premier League star with West Ham United. And he’s also dating arguably England’s most famous Wag – Love Islander Dani Dyer.But for the 27-year-old winger it all started at Leominster Town FC, in his home town in Herefordshire.Club chairman Andy Barrington said: “I am incredibly proud that Jarrod made it into the England squad for the Euros.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s a momentous occasion for him, for our club, and our entire community. “His journey from a grassroots footballer at Leominster Town to an international star is nothing short of inspirational.”Jarrod has been looking to make an impact from the bench in England’s opening gamesCredit: Getty More