More stories

  • in

    England fan looks unrecognisable after shedding SIX STONE in five months to become bodybuilder and Team GB prospect

    ENGLAND fan Dan Clibbon shed a staggering SIX STONE in FIVE MONTHS and cut his body fat by 88 PER CENT to bag a national bodybuilding medal.And despite downing 10 pints-a-day in Germany supporting the Three Lions, the first-time-father-to-be is targeting a Team GB spot for October’s world championship.Dan Clibbon underwent a dramatic body transformation to compete in a bodybuilding contestThe England fan shed a staggering six stone in five months and reduced his body fat by 88 per centAnd the Stoke-born 25-year-old spoke exclusively to SunSport while supporting the Three Lions in GermanySelf-proclaimed “fat lad” Dan, 25, revealed guzzling lager and scoffing pizzas and kebabs left him with a body fat percentage of 40 and weighing 17st 4lbs before his drastic body transformation. But sobriety, a super strict diet and a gruelling daily regime of 4am weightlifting sessions, 10,000-step dog walks and 40 minute night-time cardio workouts left him unrecognisable with just five per cent body fat.Dan, who is 5ft 7in, weighed in at 11st 5lbs as he claimed bronze at last month’s Physical Culture Association (PCA) ‘Naturals’ contest in Telford.And at a streetside bar in Dusseldorf the day after England’s dramatic Euro 2024 quarter-final penalties win over Switzerland, hungover Dan told SunSport: “I’ve always been a big fat lad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“But I’ve been doing powerlifting training for 11 years so I’ve always been strong too. “I’d always wanted to do a bodybuilding show so when I found out my girlfriend was pregnant in January, I thought ‘I’ll never have the chance to do it with a baby’.“So I entered the competition, knuckled down for five months, got on the cardio, got in good shape, won bronze and now I’m back on the beers again!”CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSun reader Dan is ‘back on the beers’ after going sober for five months while trainingBut he says the intense regime was well worth it for the bronze medal he bagged at last month’s PCA Naturals in TelfordDan was virtually unrecognisable after five months of eating clean and training for up to three hours a dayThe 25-year-old has put on 1st 8lbs in the month since the competition but still looks fantastic in these pictures he posed for SunSport for in DusseldorfHaving returned from a holiday to Gran Canaria with girlfriend Kirah Barnes, 23, the couple learned their daughter was due on September 1.Most read in Euro 2024And that kicked structural engineer Dan into gear as his diet switched from junk food and pints of lager to protein and vegetables and eight litres of water-a-day. Stoke-born Dan said: “I was drinking a lot of beer. And although I was eating OK during the week, at weekends it was kebabs, pizzas, anything I wanted really. “But then I started training and all I was doing every day was going to work, walking 10,000 steps, doing cardio, lifting and eating a little bit of food.“I was shredded to the bone in the space of five months. I didn’t have a drink and ate chicken and lettuce basically the whole time.“My daily routine was wake up at 4am, 20 minutes of posing practice, weights sessions at the gym, go to work, go home, 40 minutes of cardio on the cross trainer, get my 10,000 steps in with the dog, more posing practice, back to bed and repeat the next day. For FIVE MONTHS.”Dan woke up at 4am every day to lift weights before workThe structural engineer told SunSport competitors apply fake tan to emphasise their definition under the artificial stage lightsDan said bagging bronze was ‘surreal’ after five months of sacrificeDan is expecting his first child in September as him and girlfriend Kirah prepare to welcome a daughterDespite joking that his girlfriend “hated” him during his intense regime, Southam-based Dan said it did not affect his social life. The Port Vale fan said: “My girlfriend is pregnant so there wasn’t an issue with me not drinking because she wasn’t drinking either.“And I’d still go out with the boys and do exactly what I wanted, I just wouldn’t be drinking.“But the eating was 100 per cent the hardest bit. And you’re doing it for so long, you get to a point where you only want chocolate. “I was so hungry it was ridiculous.“But I ate so much after the show. Burgers, chocolate, sweets, crisps, everything was gone!”Dan spent 40 minutes-a-night on his cross trainer at homeAnd he was drinking eight litres of water-a-day in the week before the competitionPort Vale fan Dan joked his girlfriend Kirah ‘hated’ him during his intense training periodDan was spurred on by the news he was going to have his first baby in SeptemberAfter five months of clean eating this post-competition donut went down a treatDan added: “In the week leading up to the show, I was drinking eight litres of water a day to get rid of all water weight from my system. “I was also taking Peak Max, which is a natural diuretic. And then it was just low carbs, high protein and s*** tons of cardio!“But it was definitely worth it. “When they called my name out and I got third place it was surreal because I had spent five months thinking about getting a medal.”Dan’s bronze last month qualified him to compete for Team GB in the PCA SuperSeries Natural final on October 6 in Seoul, South Korea. A world championship event.But the imminent arrival of his baby girl and the cost of the trip means he may be unable to accept the spot.Dan went from 40 per cent body fat to five in just five monthsDan travelled to Dusseldorf with mates Tom Vousden and Toby Poole who gleefully told SunSport how he had been making up for all the beers he missed out on when training. Especially as the trio watched England beat Switzerland on penalties in Saturday’s quarter-final in a pub packed with fellow Three Lions supporters.And despite putting on 1st 8lbs in the month since the show, Dan is desperate to make it to South Korea. He explained: “I said before Telford I would only do one show. But I’ve got the itch now and would like to do one more in Seoul. “I want to go again because I want to get some gold medals!READ MORE SUN STORIES“Maybe The Sun can sponsor me!”Dan has started an online coaching business to help others get into shape and he can be contacted via his Instagram page.Dan is hoping to travel to South Korea in October to compete for Team GB but needs a sponsor to cover the costs More

  • in

    Germany star Robert Andrich reveals he loves disgusting I’m a Celebrity-style pre-match meal that’s ILLEGAL in the UK

    GERMANY star Robert Andrich plans to devour Spain at the Euros… after tucking into a plate of MEALWORMS.The 29-year-old helped Bayer Leverkusen feast on their Bundesliga rivals as they won a league and cup double in May.Robert Andrich has revealed he enjoys a feast of mealwormsCredit: GettyThe I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here treat is illegal to import into the UKCredit: GettyAnd midfielder Andrich has revealed his secret has been wolfing down a foodstuff eaten more by animals and birds than humans.Mealworms are the larva form of the yellow mealworm beetle. It is illegal to import them into the UK.Andrich spoke of his fondness for the grisly grub in a YouTube chat with his national team-mate David Raum.He insisted: “I love mealworms. They are a good source of protein.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”In fact I don’t just love them – I think they are awesome.”Stunned Leipzig defender Raum bets Andrich to eat one, and says he will order some for his pal.Why eat mealworms?While the idea of eating mealworms may not appeal to everyone, they actually have some amazing health benefits.Mealworms provide several nutrients, including protein, fat, vitamins, and fiber.Live mealworms have more moisture content than dried ones. The moisture content of a live mealworm is 62%, in contrast with 5% for a dried mealworm.Interestingly, the moisture content influences the protein content in live and dried mealworms. There are observable differences in the protein value in live and dried mealworms, and of other nutrient values as well.Dried mealworms have more protein value, at 53%. Fat and fiber values are 28% and 6%, respectively. Live mealworms have a protein value of 20%, fat value of 13%, and 2% fiber. Based on their nutritional makeup, dried mealworms overall have more nutritional value.Many prepare their mealworms meals by either pan-frying or oven baking them.While the UK has banned them, they are enjoyed throughout the EU, United States and Asia, particularly in the southeast of the continent.But the midfielder is unfazed, and maintains: “I think they are terrific.”Andrich’s revelation is the latest insect-related development from Germany’s Euro 2024 campaign.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBees built a nest at the Stuttgart Arena on the eve of their group-stage clash with Hungary.And mosquitoes invaded their training camp last week, stinging several players.Euro 2024’s sexiest players revealedJulian Nagelsmann’s men return to Stuttgart tomorrow for their quarter-final against Spain.Meet Germany’s Euro 2024 WagsGermany’s Wags range from a glam architect to a leading equestrian and a fashion model.Dani ter Stegen (Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s wife)One of Germany’s most popular Wags with over 600,000 Instagram followers. Earned a degree in architecture after moving to Barcelona with her husband.Sara Gundogan (Ilkay Gundogan’s wife)Italian model was never shy to pop a dig at Manchester while Ilkay was at Man City, but has changed her tune and said she misses the city since his move to Barcelona.Jessica Kroos (Toni Kroos’ wife)Couple first met when Toni was 18 and she was 20. Jessica is credited with convincing the soon-to-retire Germany star to sign a new Real Madrid deal at a time when he was wavering.Candice Brook (Leroy Sane’s girlfriend)American model helped Harry Kane get used to Germany and overcome the language barrier following his move to Bayern Munich.Sophia Weber (Kai Havertz’s fiancee)Soon-to-be Mrs Havertz has struck up a close friendship with Martin Odegaard’s partner Helene Spilling. Sophia recently enjoyed a hen party in Ibiza.Lisa Muller (Thomas Muller’s wife)Lisa is a famous dressage rider in Germany and reportedly convinced her husband not to join Man Utd.Find out more about the Germany Euro 2024 Wags hereEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

  • in

    England stars’ pre-match meals to beat Slovenia revealed including baked beans and mountains of pancakes

    ENGLAND stars’ have revealed their pre-match meals ahead of the clash against Slovenia.The Three Lions are set for their final Euro 2024 group match, with qualification to the round of 16 already guaranteed.England players have revealed their pre-match mealsCredit: RexJude Bellingham enjoys some baked beansCredit: GettyDeclan Rice tucks into a stack of pancakesCredit: GettyEngland won their opening match of the tournament against Serbia before drawing with Denmark.A win against Slovenia will see the team qualify top of Group C and the players will be fuelled by their personal pre-match meals. These meals include classics such as baked beans while one star enjoys a mountain of pancakes.Jude Bellingham – Baked beans and eggsThe Real Madrid star loves to tuck into a plate of baked beans and eggs before a match.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Jude Bellingham benefits from the high-quality protein from the meal and is also a good source of carbohydrates.The dish is often described as one of his “favourite meals”.Declan Rice – EIGHT pancakes with syrupThe midfielder goes for one of the more filling meals before a match as he tucks into a mountain of pancakes.Declan Rice claimed it is the “best thing” and has been a “game changer” since joining Arsenal in 2023.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe told Men’s Health UK: “I have four pancakes before a game. Covered in syrup or honey. I swear to God, it’s the best thing.”When I joined the club, I could see the [Arsenal] players eating them and thought to myself, ‘What is going on here?’ But honestly, it’s been a game-changer.’ England’s ultimate footballer rich list“I don’t understand the science behind it, what’s in them or anything like that, but it gives me such a high energy boost. I think that’s why I’m able to rattle around the pitch so much.”If we’re playing at 5.30pm, I’ll sometimes have eight pancakes in a day. I’ll have some at breakfast and I’ll have some more at 3.30pm before we play.”Kyle Walker – Rice puddingKyle Walker likes to remain quick on his feet for a match and eats to make sure of it.The Manchester City defender will have a tin of Ambrosia rice pudding before a match.He explained: “My pre-match meal is rice pudding, that’s it. I used to eat pasta and pasta before a game but then I just felt too heavy.”If we travel away the chef packs me a tin of Ambrosia rice pudding and then I just have that.”Harry Kane – Scrambled eggsThe England captain, like Bellingham, likes to load up on protein before a match.Harry Kane will eat some scrambled eggs and avocado toast, which will provide the body with long-sustained energy.The striker will be hoping he can outrun the Slovenian side and add to his one goal so far at Euro 2024.Phil Foden – Pesto pastaThe attacker will eat the meal three to four hours before a match.READ MORE SUN STORIESPhil Foden will benefit from a boost of energy from the meal and carbohydrates in the pasta.The Manchester City ace will also get a good source of protein which will aid his recovery.England stars’ pre-match mealsHere is a list of the player’s pre-match meals…Jude Bellingham – Baked beans and eggsDeclan Rice – Eight pancakesHarry Kane – Scrambled eggs and avocado toastKyle Walker – Rice pudding Phil Foden – Pesto pasta’We’re struggling with and without the ball’, admits Harry KaneHARRY KANE admits England “haven’t been good enough” at the Euros.Here’s what skipper Kane said after the disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark:”We’re struggling with and without the ball.”The pressing in both games hasn’t been quite right. We haven’t been good enough, from top to bottom, from me to Picks (Jordan Pickford).”Everyone is dropping below their level a bit, in terms of retaining the ball, playing under pressure.”We know there’ll be a bit of noise and disappointment back home.”But it’s a time to stay calm and we’ll get there step by step.”It wasn’t our greatest game but we got away with draw.“We are starting games well. But when the teams are dropping a few players deeper we are not quite sure how to get the pressure on, and who is the one who is supposed to be going.”“In the second half, we changed it with me and Jude (Bellingham)  playing in front of their two midfielders. But it was difficult.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

  • in

    David Beckham pays heartwarming visit to Sven-Goran Eriksson as pair enjoy six special bottles of wine and Swedish meal

    SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON has revealed David Beckham recently spent the day with him at his Bjorkefors farm and brought along “six litres of wine” from dates which hold a special meaning to him.Eriksson went public in January with his terminal cancer diagnosis and admitted the “best case” scenario was that he had a year to live.Former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson enjoyed a heart-warming day with David BeckhamCredit: APDavid Beckham enjoyed six bottles of wine with ErikssonCredit: GettyDuring an interview with Radio Sweden’s P4 Varmland channel the 76-year-old reflected with great pride on the visit of former England captain Beckham to his farm outside Sunne.Eriksson said: “He came with six litres of wine from dates that were important to me.”He had wine from 1948 – the year I was born, very nice of him. He is genuine, he could have been a big diva, but he is quite the opposite.”Beckham also had wine from 1982, the year Eriksson won the UEFA Cup with IFK Goteborg.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd also brought a bottle from 2000, which was the season when he guided Lazio to the Serie A title.Eriksson continued: “He ate herring and potatoes and elk meat.It confirms, in a way, how great he is. He didn’t have to come here. I felt proud that he came.Sven-Goran Eriksson”The previous day he had sent a chef who fixed the food, and then he came and was here for a day. We sat chatting, a lot about football.”Eriksson, who managed England for five years before leaving after the 2006 World Cup, stood down from his role as sporting director at Swedish club Karlstad last year.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe managed a wealth of English talent, including Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney at the 2002 and 2006 World Cups as well as at Euro 2004.Eriksson was able to fulfil a lifelong dream of managing Liverpool when he was given the opportunity to oversee the Liverpool Legends team against Ajax in March.Eriksson, who is a boyhood Liverpool fan, led the side to a 4-2 comeback victory at Anfield.England stars wishes for Sven-Goran Eriksson
    Joe Cole
    TNT Sports pundit Joe Cole, 42, was first in the tributes, recalling a heartwarming story from when he scored against Northern Ireland.
    Cole said: “I just wanted to wish you all the very best and say thank you for all the memories and all the help in my career, making my dream come true playing for England at a World Cup twice.”
    Paul Scholes
    Scholes said: “Hello Sven, I hope you’re doing okay and all the best for the recovery.
    “I just wanted to say it was an absolute pleasure to play for England for you.”
    Michael Owen
    2001 Ballon d’Or winner Owen said: “I hope this finds you in good spirits, I hope you’re keeping fine and I hope you’re enjoying the current England team.”
    Steven Gerrard
    In January, Liverpool legend Gerrard said: “I just wanted to send you my best wishes, send you my love and support.
    “I’ve been thinking about you a lot lately and I’m really looking forward to playing under you at Anfield in March. It will be really special.”
    Gary Neville
    “I’m just sending youall my best wishes and thank you for all the support you gave me whilst with England.
    “I’d love to be able to see you soon.”

    Eriksson declared he has pancreatic cancer earlier this year on Swedish radio station P1.The Swedish icon revealed how he sought medical help after he suddenly collapsed while going on a 5km run.After consulting doctors, he was told he had suffered a stroke and had incurable cancer.He told P1: “Everyone understands that I have an illness that is not good.”Everyone guesses it’s cancer and it is. But I have to fight as long as I can.”When asked about the prognosis, Eriksson said he has “maybe at best a year, at worst a little less, or at best maybe even longer”.What is pancreatic cancer?
    PANCREATIC cancer is the tenth most common type of cancer in the UK and the fifth highest cause of cancer death, according to CRUK.
    The disease affects a large gland that is part of the digestive system – the pancreas is located behind the stomach and under the liver.
    It has two main functions: dripping digestive enzymes into the gut to help break down food, and releasing the hormones insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar.
    Pancreatic cancer occurs when malignant – cancerous – cells form in the tissues of the pancreas.
    Five signs of the disease that could be mistaken for another condition, or niggle, include persistent stomach ache, backache, indigestion, unexplained weight loss and bowel habit changes.
    Other symptoms that might be more obvious include jaundice, difficulty swallowing and vomiting.
    Patients may also suffer the symptoms of diabetes because pancreatic disease stops the production of insulin
    The causes of the disease are not exactly known but there are several risk factors that can make someone more likely to get the disease. More

  • in

    England fans’ must read guide to Frankfurt ahead of Euro 2024 clash vs Denmark including best drinking spots

    ENGLAND fans are swarming to Frankfurt in their tens of thousands for Thursday’s Euro 2024 clash with Denmark.So SunSport has produced a must read city guide for every Three Lions supporter – including the best places to have a beer!England fans are descending on Frankfurt in their tens of thousandsAnd they will be desperate for a good time and an England winSo SunSport has produced this fans’ guide to Frankfurt which every travelling England supporter must readFrankfurt is the financial capital of Germany and home to Bundesliga giants Eintracht Frankfurt.And die-hard fan Basti Roth provided SunSport with expert local knowledge all England supporters should know.From fan zones and must see tourist attractions, to traditional German eateries and the best pubs (of course!), we’ve got you covered…Fan zoneSunSport says: The official Frankfurt fan zone will be on the spectacular northern bank of the River Main.read more on EnglandThe 1.5km stretch of grass sits between the Holbeinsteg and Friedensbrucke bridges – which fans launched themselves into the river from during the 2006 World Cup.Vast screens dotted along the bank, plus one which sits in the water, will make for a perfect place to watch all the live Euro 2024 games – including England vs Denmark if you haven’t got a ticket.The fan zone is just a short walk from Frankfurt’s main station – from where you can get a six minute train to the Deutsche Bank Park stadium.If you have not got a ticket, what better place to watch the Three Lions than with thousands of your fellow fans at this stunning riverside spot.Most read in Euro 2024There are also plenty of pop up food and drink stalls to keep you energised…The Frankfurt fan zone has a giant TV screen floating on the River MainEngland supporters also flocked to the hotspot during the 2006 World CupThe fan zone will show every game of the Euros LIVEEngland fans party in Frankfurt 24 hours ahead of Euro clash with DenmarkStadiumSunSport says: Eintracht Frankfurt’s 58,000 seater Deutsche Bank Park will host England at a major tournament for the second time in 18 years when they meet Denmark on Thursday. But Three Lions fans would be forgiven for forgetting that World Cup 2006 opener.England staggered past Paraguay 1-0 thanks to Carlos Gamarra heading David Beckham’s free-kick into his own net after three minutes.Eintracht Frankfurt finished sixth in the Bundesliga last season.And they beat Barcelona and West Ham on the way to winning the 2022 Europa League final with a win over Rangers on penalties. Chelsea and Arsenal have also visited the ground – also known as the Waldstadion – in Europe in recent years. The stadium was originally opened in 1925.But the most recent renovation, in 2005, cost £127million and saw a retractable roof added. Eintracht have some of the loudest and most passionate fans in Europe.And Gareth Southgate will hope the travelling masses of Three Lions fans can emulate them and drown out their Danish counterparts.England play Denmark in their second Euro 2024 game on Thursday in Eintracht Frankfurt’s 58,000 seat stadiumDeutsche Bank Park had a £127m revamp in 2005 where a retractable roof was addedEngland beat Paraguay 1-0 in their World Cup 2006 opener in the same stadiumBest place for England fans to gatherBasti says: “The area around the River Main.”England fans discovered it during the 2006 World Cup because they were jumping off of all the bridges [into the water].”So some supporters who are a little older will remember that area.”But definitely there because you have the city nearby as well as the old town. Fans will have everything around them.”Frankfurt is a very small town so you can reach everything.”SunSport says: The official fan zone is an amazing central spot to hang out and watch football. Unlike the Gelsenkirchen one which was out of town. But the riverside views are amazing and also you are just around the corner from the historic Romer market which will also be packed with England fans.The sprawling square is surrounded by some iconic traditional German buildings. And both the fan zone and the Romer are easy spots to reach the stadium from on public transport.England fans were seen jumping off bridges into the River Main during the 2006 World Cup in Germany
    The historic Romer market square will be a main gathering point for England fans
    Best pubs for England fans in Frankfurt Basti says: “There are many local pubs in the main central station area. “So I would recommend Yok Yok Eden which is a more relaxed, fun, open air spot where you can get nice drinks, good cocktails and decent beers.”And on the corner right outside the main station is O’Reilly’s Irish pub which is perfect for watching the Euro 2024 games before England play Denmark.”SunSport says: O’Reilly’s is ideal for England fans and will be packed to the rafters. But it is in a perfect location – you can’t miss it as you walk out of Frankfurt’s main train station. The service is good, there is inside and outside seats and you can get a bacon cheeseburger, fries and a pint of Guinness for just 20 euros.At least you could a couple of weeks before the Euros… O’Reilly’s Irish bar is right outside Frankfurt’s main station and is a great place to watch live footballYok Yok Eden is a far more relaxed outdoor bar a little off the beaten track
    Best restaurants for England fans in Frankfurt
    Basti says: “If you’re in Frankfurt you have to try some local food. “And the best spots here for traditional fare are Apfelwein Wagner and Gemalten Haus. “They are traditional Frankfurt restaurants. where you can get traditional German food.”SunSport’s local guide recommends this spot for traditional German foodFrankfurt favourite ‘Green Sauce’ is a speciality at Apfelwein WagnerMust try German beerBasti says: ” I don’t drink a lot of beer. “You might think that’s a surprise for a German man but as I said, we’re not Germans we’re Frankfurters and we drink Apfelwein. “It’s like cider, and if you come here you have to taste it.”SunSport says: We know people say Guinness is not the same outside of Ireland. But the black stuff they served in O’Reilly’s was pretty damn close.Apfelwein is similar to cider and many Frankfurters prefer it to lagerSunSport says the Guinness in O’Reilly’s is almost as good as the black stuff in IrelandMust try German foodBasti says: “Frankfurter sausages are not really a local food.”England fans should try Grüner Soße which translates to green sauce.”It’s made from seven different herbs and you can eat it with potatoes and eggs – or if you want meat, schnitzel! “Order Frankfurter Schnitzel from Apfelwein Wagner or Gemalten Haus and you’ll get your green sauce.”Frankfurt speciality ‘Green Sauce’ is made from seven different herbs and often served with potatoes, eggs and schnitzelMust see tourist attractionBasti says: “I would say you have to go to the historic Römer in the old town. “That’s where Eintracht Frankfurt celebrated their European Cup win. “So you have to see it even as an England fan.”Eintracht fans celebrate their 2022 Europa League victory at the historic Romer market square which has been a popular gathering point for football supporters for decadesFun fact about FrankfurtBasti says: “Frankfurt is a very international city and the people here do not identify as German.”They identify as Frankfurters and they come from all around the world. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You have influences from Turkey and Arabia, everywhere!”When you come to Frankfurt you don’t come to Germany you come to Frankfurt.” More

  • in

    Euro 2024 to be wokest tournament yet with vegan food & unisex loos with floodlights switched off after final whistle

    EURO 2024 is set to be the wokest tournament yet with vegan food, unisex toilets, gender-neutral searches – and floodlights switched off STRAIGHT after final whistles.UEFA is implementing the changes as part of a major “diversity and inclusion” drive and has outlined its moves in a 36-page edict.The 2024 EURO is set to be the wokest tournament yetCredit: AFPFans will be allowed to pick who searches them with the new gender-neutral security searchesCredit: RexThe tournament will also offer vegan food options, which could include vegan kebabsCredit: GettyCrowds will also have access to gender-neutral loosCredit: AlamyTournament organisers have demanded all stadiums in Germany have unisex toilets and offer up “healthy” vegan food – despite being in meat-mad Germany.Gender-neutral security means fans will be allowed to pick who searches them.In other major moves, floodlights will be used sparingly outside game action – and staff at stadia will even have their electricity consumption limited.England fan Danny Moss, 38, of Nottingham, is heading to Germany on Saturday and has tickets for the group stages.More on Euro 2024 He said: “I suppose this is football in 2024 for you. It will be a very different feel to previous tournaments, that’s for sure.”I actually don’t mind vegan food, but I hope the usual burgers and pies will be on offer too, as well as some German sausage, which I’m really looking forward to trying at the games.”As for picking who searches you – can you imagine that at some of the tougher grounds in England? “The same goes for gender-neutral toilets. It is hard to picture happening back home, but I guess this is what they call progress, and they will come in one day.”It all sounds very ‘woke’, and I’m not quite sure how England fans cope with it all to be honest. But we like to have a laugh and I’m sure everyone will just take it in their stride.””Reporting points” will be set up for spectators to record incidents of discrimination and staff working at Euro 2024 must “advocate diversity and inclusion”.Bill Leckie and Robert Grieve dissect last night’s 5-1 defeat to GermanyFloodlights will be switched off straight after the final whistlesCredit: AFPCrowds will be monitored closely under widespread CCTV, AI and plain-clothed officersCredit: GettyUefa’s Euro 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance Strategy states: “Environmental aspects are one of the core priorities for the organisation of the event.”As an organiser, we are aware that the organisation of such a major event, gathering football stakeholders and fans from all over the world, involves a significant footprint.”We are therefore determined to be part of the solution to reduce as much as possible our impacts on the environment.”A Uefa spokesman said: “Gender-neutral entrances represent one dedicated channel at the stadium entrance, where ticket holders can decide if the security check is performed by a male or female steward and no questions will be asked.“Male and female stewards voluntarily agreed to search people of any sex or gender identity.“Gender neutral public toilets can be used by people of any sex or gender identity.”Germany will secure the opening Euros game with a robust ring of steel made up of thousands of armed cops to shield against potential attacks.Security expert Will Geddes, who has worked with Premier League clubs, told The Sun 22,000 cops will be dispatched for today’s match alone.The UEFA Euro 2024 championship presents a “wide spectrum of potential risks and issues” amid a “very high level of risk” from ISIS, he warned.Will explained that the country’s special forces, intelligence services and armed police will be called up to help prepare for and defend against any possible attacks.Crowds will be monitored closely under widespread CCTV, AI, the watchful eye of “super spotters” and plain-clothed officers, he said.Will, who leads a team of security experts at International Corporation Protection (ICP), closely monitors ISIS chatter.Working with analysts who have experience in military, intelligence and law enforcement, his team have seen ISIS make “very specific references to Germany”.The prolific death cult has hurled out repeated threats against events like the Euros, Champions League and Paris Olympics in recent months.Will explained that the mammoth security op will range from snipers spread around the stadium to “super spotters” hidden in amongst the public.”There’s going to be a number of different layers of security”, he said.”You have some 22,000 federal police that will be assigned particularly to the games… including hostile behaviour detection personnel.”These are specialists looking for those indicators for individuals that may have malintent.”Scotland crumbled before a blistering display from Germany as Steve Clarke’s 10-man team lost badly in Munich to start Euro 2024.After barely ten minutes, Florian Wirtz waltzed on to the ball to steer in the first goal, setting the tone in an electrifying Allianz Arena.Nine minutes later, Jamal Musiala’s fierce strike nearly tore through Angus Gunn’s net and the hearts of the startled Scots behind the goal.And with Ryan Porteous’ red card, Kai Havertz scored the third goal from the spot just before the half ended, leaving Scotland with the highest mountains to climb.After Antonio Rudiger’s own goal deflected late in the game, Germany’s fourth goal was scored by replacement Niclas Fullkrug, who struck high into the goal.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe suffering Scotland supporters were ecstatic at the strike, but as the game approached injury time, Emre Can silenced them.That made it certain that this would be the largest victory in a Euros opening game.’Acute’ terrorist threat across Europe
    By Jessica Baker, Foreign News Reporter
    THE threat of terrorism to the security of Europe is “acute”, the EU’s law enforcement agency has warned.
    Europol said the top concern of EU countries is “jihadist terrorism” and foreign terrorist fighters who travel from conflict zones.
    Some fear the terror group ISIS could be looking to leverage conflict in the Middle East to launch a fresh of attacks across Europe.
    Ten jihadist attacks have been foiled by cops in Europe in the past 12 months alone, according to Dutch intelligence agency AIVD.
    The agency claimed attacks planned and intercepted included stabbing rampages at major events and assaults on specific groups and venues.
    Israel’s spy agency meanwhile alleged Iranian terror cells are plotting attacks across the continent ahead of the Paris Olympics.
    The Olympics chief has promised a ring of steel at the Games’ opening ceremony and insisted “security is the priority” to ensure the safety of an expected 15 million fans and more than 10,000 athletes.

    German cops take part in an operational drill to prepare for the Euros at a football stadium in MayCredit: EPA More

  • in

    England stars’ favourite cheat meal and pre-match food revealed ahead of Euro 2024

    CURRY PIE, sausage roll, come on England score a goal.Our Three Lions stars will tuck into curry pies and burgers if they can deliver Euro 2024 success, revealed their private chef.Private chef Jonny Marsh cooks for a number of England’s starsCredit: Instagram @chef_jonnymarsh
    Marsh has teamed up with Deliveroo to offer fans an at-home dining experience on England match daysCredit: DeliverooKyle Walker and Luke Shaw are two of his clients from the Three Lions campCredit: Richard Pelham / The SunMichelin star trained Jonny Marsh cooks for a host of football stars – including several members of Gareth Southgate’s squad in Germany.His clientele includes Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, while his latest one is Manchester United ace Rasmus Hojlund.England’s own Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker and Luke Shaw are just some of Southgate’s men who hire him – and now he has lifted the lid on what it’s like cooking for our Euro-chasing heroes.He told Sun Sport: “Luke Shaw is a big one for me and a big part of my career so far but I’ve cooked for a lot of players in that squad.READ MORE ON FOOTBALL“In the last Euros, it was the game that Bukayo Saka didn’t start, there was a game that I’d cooked for every player on the pitch bar Harry Kane. That’s a pretty cool little fact.“But for me personally, whether it’s meal preps, daily cooking or a one-off event, I’ve cooked for pretty much everybody.”Marsh has now teamed up with Deliveroo to launch a competition for fans, with entry now open via participating restaurants, to win him as a private chef, in their very own home, to cook them a three-course menu during an England group game.And the kitchen whizz, who says a spaghetti bolognese is “a go-to pre-match pasta for sure” for his clients, could you up one of their favourite cheat meals.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSMarsh said: “Everybody is different but I would say the most common is burger – that’s quite a big one.“And, do you know what, since coming back from Christmas and doing my Proper Pies series, pies have become very, very popular.The Sun’s Tom Barclay gives live update from England training and John Stones MISSES session through illness“Hojlund loves a meat pie, Aaron loves the chicken, leek and bacon pie.“There’s a load of variations on pies, which is great because we can always do something but everyone loves a curry pie.“They can take a while as you’re cooking the curry down so that the meat is tender and the pastry is like a hot water pastry so it becomes very, very crisp, which is why pies can kind of stand on their own rather than just have a pastry top.“The water pastry, you’re melting the water, butter and lard together until it’s hot and then pouring it into the flower.“And you can’t roll the dough out while the pastry is hot – you have to cool it down – so that will take a few hours. “All in all, it might take them five minutes to eat but eight or nine hours to make fully.”Jonny’s Beef Vindaloo PieA winning combination of two of English football’s most loved foods, the hot curry and the humble pie…
    INGREDIENTSDough
    • 720g flour • 240g water • 6tbsp butter • 6tbsp lard • Pinch of salt
    Filling
    • 800g beef (diced)
    Curry Paste
    • 2 tsp coriander seeds • 6tbsp chilli powder • 3 tsp cumin seed • 4 cloves • 4 cardamom pods (green) • 2 tsp cinnamon powder • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, roughly chopped • 10 garlic cloves (yes, 10!) • 1 tsp brown sugar • 1 tsp fenugreek seeds • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder • 230g cups water
    Curry Sauce
    • 50g unsalted butter • 1 onion, finely chopped (white) • 2 tsp ginger, finely grated • 4 garlic cloves, finely minced • 2 tbsp tomato paste • 500ml beef stock
    METHOD
    Dough
    1. Add your water, butter and lard to a pan and bring to a boil.
    2. Mix your flour and salt.
    3. You can either use a wooden spoon and a bowl or a food mixer and slowly bring dough together by adding your water and butter mixture slowly to the flour.
    4. Then flour a plate and place the dough on the plate and leave in your fridge to cool down – will take around 2 hours.
    FILLING
    1. Toss beef in salt.
    2. Curry paste: Place the curry paste ingredients in a small food processor with the water. Blitz until smooth.
    3. Fry your beef dice until golden brown, once brown transfer to a bowl.
    4. Curry sauce: Melt ghee over medium-high. Cook onion, ginger and garlic until they become translucent – about 3 minutes.
    5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
    6. Add your beef back to the pan and mix thoroughly, then add your curry paste and mix.
    7. Add beef stock. Slow cook and place lid on top, then cook for 2 hours or until beef is falling apart tender and the sauce has darkened in colour and thickened.
    8. When you have rolled out the dough, place in your non-stick mould and bake for 40 minutes at 175 degrees until golden brown, making sure you brush the pie lid with egg wash before cooking.
    ALLERGENS
    Pastry – Wheat, Milk
    Mash – Milk
    Filling – Although extremely rare, anaphylaxis has been reported with some spices. These reactions are consistent with true allergy. Some reactions can occur with oregano, thyme, coriander, caraway seed, cumin and cayenne pepper.

    He continued: “Players, in terms of cheat meals, it’s not like they are going to KFC and getting a bargain bucket and stuffing their faces full of chicken wings.“Their version of a cheat meal is a lot different to a normal person’s cheat meal.“So a cheat meal for them might be going out for a cheat meal but still eating quite healthy, so it’s all in perspective.“But they won’t be going down to McDonalds and getting 20 chicken nuggets.”Marsh will be watching on like the rest of the nation to see whether his England pals can cook up a storm on the pitch.He said: “I’ve never been asked to do an international tournament as England have their own chef.“They’ve had two or three chefs but had the one sole chef working for them for the last five or six years.“There was an opportunity a few years back if I wanted to apply for it but I’m pretty sure they filled it quickly.“It’s one of them, maybe one day I might be England chef.”Asked on why he had decided to team up with Deliveroo, Marsh said: “I think it’s because it gives people an idea of exactly what I can do on a day-to-day basis in terms of the players.EURO 2024 LIVE: LATEST UPDATES FROM THE TOURNAMENT“It also gives a bit of an insight into players’ cheat meals and that’s what the menu is based around.“So it’s a sort of day in the life and POV of what I get up to but also showing a bit of a fun side to the players and what they like to eat when they are not on strict diets.”The winner can be certain that he will hit the back of the net with whatever magic he cooks up for them – unlike his self-confessed biggest own goal with Man City legend Ilkay Gundogan.“When I very first started with Ilkay I made him like a smoked fish cake,” he added.“I really enjoyed it and made a sweet chilli sauce, it took hours to make and it was really nice. It just didn’t sit with him and he didn’t like it.“I was gutted but at least then I knew that smoked fish was a no-no for the rest of the five years that I was with him.”READ MORE SUN STORIESPrivate chef to pro footballers, Jonny Marsh, has teamed up with Deliveroo to offer fans the chance to eat like an England player, winning an at-home dining experience on match days on 20th and 25thJune.Order from participating restaurants from 14th-16th June, to find out more visit https://deliveroo.co.uk/more/news-articles/baller-bites. More

  • in

    Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend Laura Celia Valk wows in photoshoot before munching pizza

    MODEL wag Laura Celia Valk earns a crust in a photoshoot before tucking into a slice of pizza — as experts reveal the dish is the best food to calm football fans’ nerves.Laura, 25, is sure to be edgy as England ace boyfriend Jude Bellingham, 20, heads to Euro 2024.Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend Laura Celia Valk stuns ahead of the ace’s departure for Euro 2024Credit: PrettyLittleThingLaura tucking into a slice of pizza – which could help her relax while watching Jude in the footie tournamentCredit: Instagram @lauraceliavThe Sun exclusively revealed Laura had started dating Jude in AprilCredit: GettyBut tests on Pitch Side podcast host Theo Baker’s emotional state watching football clips found the taste and smell of pizza had soothing qualities.Professor Oli Buckley, from the University of East Anglia, said: “Pizza has a notable calming effect.”The Sun exclusively revealed Laura had started dating Bellingham in April.She was seen enjoying the slice of pizza, which is said to be one of her favourites snacks along with strawberries.READ MORE ON LAURA VELIA VALKThe 25-year-old had infatuated followers – of which there are nearly 500,000 – rushing to the comments of the post.One user said: “Cutiepieeeee.”A second said: “Very beautiful.”A third said: “How can you be so nice??”Most read in FootballAnother said: “Wishing I were a pizza.”A fifth added: “You look like a fictional character 🤍.”Jude Bellingham’s new flame Laura Celia falls down Netherland’s hottest women list More