Football features

Subterms

    More stories

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Best gadgets of Euro 2020, from Gareth Southgate’s £4,800 watch to Italy keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma’s spiked gloves

      by

      THE best way to get ahead at this year’s Euros is by being tech-savvy.At this year’s European Championships, managers and players have turned to technology to steal a march on their rivals.
      Euro 2020 stars like Gareth Southgate are being tech savvy during the tournamentCredit: Rex
      From hi-tech watches that notify of penalties to spiky goalkeeping gloves that help punchers of the ball get more distance on their clearances, we’ve seen some novel inventions at SunSport.
      Here’s the best gadgets of 2020 at the Euro 2020.
      SOUTHGATE’S WATCH
      While patrolling the touchline, Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate has been spotted wearing Hublot’s Big Bang e UEFA EURO 2020 watch worth £4,800.
      One of just 1000 made, the time-piece lets him view info on any match at Euro 2020, which is displayed on the large screen face including cards awarded, substitutions and goals.
      There is also the option to view line-ups and player-rankings – potentially helping the Three Lions chief with his substitutions and giving him the lowdown on opponents.
      However, the most interesting feature are penalty alerts – with any awarded in a match flashing up on the watch.
      Southgate has been spotted wearing a special £4,800 Hublot watchCredit: PA
      The Hublot Big Bang e UEFA EURO 2020 also gives Southgate penalty alerts
      DONNARUMMA’S GLOVES
      Italian goalie Gianluigi Donnarumma has proved to be a safe pair of hands between the sticks for the Azzuri.
      And he clearly has been helped by the amazing gloves he wears – the Adidas Predator Pro mitts costing £100-a-pair.
      Astonishingly, they are fitted with 288 spikes designed to help the wearer punch the ball better.
      They’re also currently worn by the likes of Manchester United star David de Gea and England youngster Aaron Ramsdale.
      But we say, whatever happened to the art of catching the ball?
      Gianluigi Donnarumma sports Adidas Predator Pro gloves costing £100Credit: AP
      The spiked gloves are designed to help a goalkeeper punch the ball betterCredit: EPA
      SWISS SUNGLASSES
      In preparation for their last-16 match against France, where Switzerland upset the odds, their players were spied hard in training at their camp.
      However, if you looked towards where the goalies were being put through their paces you would’ve seen Yann Sommer and Co looking too cool for school in black wraparound shades.
      The battery-powered eye-wear create a flckering effect and help the shot stoppers improve their anticipation.
      They’re made by Japanese company VisionUp and cost upwards of £350.
      Switzerland’s goalkeepers are put through their paces wearing special sunglassesCredit: EPA
      The VisionUP sunglasses cost around £350 and create a slow-mo effect to help the shotstoppers improve their anticipationCredit: EPA
      STATSPORTS BRA
      The sight of Artem Dovbyk whipping off his top after scoring a late winner against Sweden didn’t just show off the Ukraine hero’s impressive abs, we also saw something that looked like a sports bra.
      More specifically, it was a STATSports vest – a company who offer GPS monitoring and analysis for a number of professional clubs and international teams.
      The devices are popular in the world of elite sport and allow coaches and analysts to track performance.
      The vests measure distance covered, speed, acceleration, deceleration and heart rate and provides coaches with valuable information on each individual.
      The data that is collected can be then streamed to a phone, tablet or smartwatch for further analysis and studied by team officials.
      Ukraine star Artem Dovbyk shows off his STATSports vestCredit: Reuters
      The STATSports vest measure distance covered, speed, acceleration, deceleration and heart rate
      TRUSOX
      Many Euro 2020 stars are wearing TRUsox along with their official kits.

      The special socks offer a patented design that helps athletes minimise the movement in their footwear when they move or kick the ball.
      It’s special grips on the base of the sock that help the wearer avoid any potential sliding.
      A host of Italian stars have been seen wearing them, including Ciro Immobile.
      Giovanni Di Lorenzo and Ciro Immobile have worn TRUsox footwear with their official kitsCredit: Getty
      TRUsox socks offer wearers better grip in their football boots More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Emi Martinez has cemented Argentina No1 position after starring at Copa America, with Lionel Messi close to first title

      by

      Lionel Messi is now two games away from his first senior title with Argentina.Part of the responsibility for getting him over the line, and seeing the team through to its first title since the Copa America of 1993, lies with their new first choice goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa.
      Emi Martinez has starred for Argentina in the Copa AmericaCredit: AFP
      It is only a month since Martinez made his debut – on June 3rd in a World Cup qualifier against Chile.
      He is the eighth keeper that coach Lionel Scaloni has looked at since taking over after Russia 2018. And after just six games, he now looks to be the owner of the position.
      If he does not concede, both in the semi final on Tuesday night against Colombia and then in Saturday’s final, then the worst that can happen is a defeat on penalties – as long as, of course, he manages to stay on the field all the way to the whistle.
      He was not able to do that in his second game, a World Cup qualifier on June 8 away to Tuesday’s opponents. He watched content from the other end as Argentina raced into a two goal lead.
      But then came the onslaught. Before half time he was caught up in an ugly collision with giant centre back Yerry Mina and carried off on a stretcher.  Argentina were still two goals up at that point.
      On came Augusto Marchesin of Porto to replace him – and his last act of the game was to pick the Colombian equaliser out of the back of the net.  Argentina crumbled, and the game finished 2-2.
      The stock of Martinez rose higher in his absence. Scaloni could hardly wait to have him fit and ready for the Copa America opener.
      So far he has been beaten just twice in his international career – both times in 1-1 draws with Chile. But now Colombia are going to be asking some questions.
      Martinez stops Ecuador’s Enner Valencia from scoringCredit: AP
      Commanding Martinez has established himself as Argentina’s No1Credit: AFP
      The scoreline makes Argentina’s 3-0 quarter final win over Ecuador look a routine affair. It most certainly was not.
      Two goals right at the end give a false impression. The outcome was in the balance well inside the last ten minutes.
      Argentina had plenty of moments – but so did Ecuador. In front of Martinez there are doubts about the centre backs. Nico Otamendi remains the senior partner.
      There are great hopes for Cristian Romero alongside him, but he was not fit to take on Ecuador, and when he has been playing he has been picking up cards. Ecuador found some holes.
      If former Premier League striker Enner Valencia had a head as big as Harry Maguire’s he would have scored twice – both times he could not get enough contact on his header.
      Martinez is close to helping his country win the Copa AmericaCredit: AFP
      If Argentina win the Copa America it will be Lionel Messi’s first major title with his countryCredit: AFP

      Colombia will have been paying attention. Without James Rodriguez, and unlikely to field a playmaker, they will probably go very direct.
      Juan Guillermo Cuadrado will cross in from the right for big Duvan Zapata to attack. For set pieces Zapata will be joined by Mina – a name that will bring back some painful memories for Emiliano Martinez.
      But if Villa’s keeper stands tall and proud, then Argentina and Messi should end up a game closer to the dream.
      Argentina vs Colombia – Watch LIVE for FREE, channel info and kick-off time More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Cristiano Ronaldo’s luxury £5.5m yacht boasts five luxury cabins, six bathrooms, modern kitchen and can reach 28 knots

      by

      LIFE’S an ocean for Cristiano Ronaldo.The Juventus legend has an amazing £5.5million yacht he’s currently lounging on in Madeira after a star-turn at the Euros.
      Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez are currently in Madeira aboard their yacht
      Juventus legend Ronaldo is the proud owner of the Azimut Grande.
      The super-yacht cost around £5.5million
      The Portuguese football superstar still leads the way in the race for the Golden Boot, despite his country’s exit in the last-16 at the hands of Belgium.
      Last year, he splashed the cash on the lavish 88-feet long Azimut Grande.
      Built in the Versilia shipyards of Azimut-Benett, it boasts five luxury cabins and six stunningly decorated bathrooms.
      There’s also a modern kitchen onboard, as well as two relaxation areas, a huge lounge, and a lavish dining room.
      In terms of its specifications, it’s capable of reaching 28 knots, thanks to two 1,900 horsepower engines, and is made of carbon fibre weighing a whopping 93 tonnes.
      It has five luxury cabins
      There are six modern bathrooms
      The lavish dining room is perfect for a romantic dinner
      A modern kitchen features contemporary appliances
      There’s a bar on deck
      Two lounge areas are perfect for topping up your tan
      The vessel is capable of reaching a top speed of 28 knots
      No expense was spared in the creation of Ronaldo’s new yacht
      The Azimut Grande stands out at 88-feet long
      It is powered by two 1,900 horsepower engines
      HIS OWN YACHT
      Ronaldo bought the super-yacht in 2020 for £5.5million.
      Previously, he used to rent the Africa I yacht from a charter company before buying his own.
      Last summer, he was able to take his family, including missus Georgina Rodriguez out on the Azimut Grande as they sailed along the Tyrrhenian coast for its debut voyage.
      SHOW OFF
      Georgina showed off the vessel by sharing a sexy bikini snap on Instagram perched on deck.
      Georgina Rodriguez has shown off the yacht on her Instagram
      Rodriguez hangs off the yacht for a dip in the Mediterranean Sea
      Ronaldo is served his lunch by Rodriguez
      The Ronaldo family enjoy one of the many cabins
      Ronaldo is enjoying a break after another incredible season
      Ronaldo and Georgina share a romantic moment on board their yacht
      The Azimut Grande was spotted sailing along the Tyrrhenian coast last year
      Rodriguez has certainly taken to the new purchase

      She posted various photos of the family, relaxing in one of the bedrooms, and serving Cristiano lunch.
      Ronaldo, who scored an incredible 29 goals in Serie A last season, won the coveted leading goalscorer title in Italy.
      However, speculation about his future is rife and he’s been linked away with a move away from the club.
      Swimmers shout Georgina Rodríguez’s name as she relaxes on yacht with Ronaldo More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      The decline of Michael Owen from England teen hero to Real Madrid flop and ‘most boring’ pundit on TV

      by

      MICHAEL OWEN has gone from the golden boy of English football to being considered the ‘most boring pundit’ in the sport.Back in 2002, Liverpool star Owen was fresh off his Ballon d’Or victory having catapulted his career with that stunning goal against Argentina at the 1998 World Cup.
      Michael Owen announced himself to the world’s stage with a stunning goal against Argentina at the 1998 World CupCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Owen was the golden boy of English football at the turn of the centuryCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      That summer, the 22-year-old took a trip to Alton Towers and, to escape his adoring fans, he wore a peaked cap and sunglasses.
      From the highs of being named the world’s best player, and sensationally signing for Real Madrid, Owen’s career slowly spiralled towards retirement and beyond.
      In 2019, Owen was involved in an explosive Twitter row with former pal Alan Shearer after the release of his autobiography last summer.
      But where else to begin than with one of the most memorable goals in English football.
      In Saint-Etienne, France, 22 years ago, an 18-year-old Owen went on the most memorable mazy run around a helpless Argentine defence before giving England the lead.
      ROARING LION
      While Glenn Hoddle’s team were beaten on penalties, knocked out the tournament at the last-16 stage, Owen had announced himself to the world.
      Over the next six years, he scored an incredible 118 goals in 216 games for Liverpool, helping the club to an FA Cup, two League Cups, a Community Shield and Uefa Cup.
      Owen won both Young Player of the Year and Player of the Year in 1998 while also picking up his first Premier League Golden Boot.
      He is one of just two Englishmen to win the Ballon d’Or in the last 40 years, with Kevin Keegan picking up the gong in 1978 and 1979.
      So it came as a devastating blow to the Anfield club in the summer of 2004 when Owen was plucked away to be a Galactico in Madrid.
      Owen’s prolific ability helped Liverpool to Uefa Cup victory in 2001Credit: PA:Press Association
      Owen was revered for a sensational goal against Arsenal in the 2001 FA Cup finalCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Owen is the only Englishman in the last 40 years to win the Ballon d’OrCredit: ITN
      Real president Florentino Perez said: “Signing Michael Owen is following our tradition. We are signing an excellent player with talent who is able to give us something special.”
      But the move didn’t go as planned.
      Owen was the subject of criticism from the Bernabeu fans and Spanish press due to his lack of form, and he spent much time as a substitute.
      He left Spain after just a year, having scored 13 goals in 36 games, before returning to England with Newcastle United for £15million.
      Over four years, Owen made just 71 appearances and scored only 26 goals for the Magpies.WHY AYE?
      And it was in the North East where Owen’s public fallout with Alan Shearer began.
      Despite forming a formidable strike partnership together for England, a feud was ignited because of Shearer’s belief that Owen let him down during his spell as Newcastle manager in 2009.
      Owen’s book Reboot: My Life accuses Shearer of slating him as well as describing his move to Newcastle as ‘one of the major regrets’ of his career.
      Newcastle’s most famous book shop, The Back Page, refused to stock Owen’s autobiography.
      In 2019, Owen told BT Sport: “For six or seven years, I hated it. I couldn’t wait to retire.
      “It wasn’t me. All I was doing is coming short, linking play and getting in the box.
      “It ended up with people thinking I was a great goalscorer who didn’t do much else.
      “Mentally I could do it, but physically I couldn’t.”
      Owen sensationally signed for Real Madrid in 2004 but only stayed in Spain for a yearCredit: Reuters
      Owen’s autobiography saw him enter into a public spat with Alan Shearer over their time together at NewcastleCredit: Rex Features
      Owen has said he regrets his move to Newcastle, where he stayed for four yearsCredit: Getty – Contributor
      Owen’s career became synonymous with injuries.
      Having torn his hamstring aged 19, leading to five months out, Owen broke a metatarsal in 2005, tore an anterior cruciate ligament and had persistent problems with his thigh and groin.
      He moved to Manchester United in 2009 where he won a Premier League title but scored just five goals in three years.
      His final year was spent at Stoke City before retiring in 2013.
      Having spent most of the season on the bench, Owen offered to resign and retire at Christmas but held on until the end of the season.’MOST BORING PUNDIT’
      He hung up his boots and picked up the mic.
      It is as a pundit that Owen has had most criticism, with the former striker being labelled ‘boring’, ‘monotone’ and ‘annoying’ across social media.
      Armchair fans took offence to some of the less insightful comments produced by Owen during his punditry.
      An article by Football Faithful was dedicated to some pearls of wisdom, including: “If there’s a bit of rain about, it makes the surface wet”.
      Former Newcastle and Chelsea striker Joe Allon described Owen as having “the personality of a flip-flop”.
      Owen won a Premier League title during a three-year spell at Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Owen’s final year as a professional was at Stoke where he spent most of the season on the benchCredit: Mark Robinson – The Sun
      Owen has been ridiculed for his work as a pundit since retiring in 2013Credit: Rex Features

      Where Owen has enjoyed success in recent years is the stables, having invested in racing horses.
      In 2017, he even made his debut as a jockey, finishing second in the saddle at a charity race in Ascot.
      But, elsewhere, the general consensus is that Owen has had a mare.
      Michael Owen says he’s ‘disappointed’ over spat with Alan Shearer as he discusses autobiography Reboot on Good Morning Britain More

    • 250 Shares199 Views

      in Soccer

      Meet Vlada Sedan – wife of Ukraine star Oleksandr Zinchenko who has rowed with Guardiola and is huge TV star

      by

      THAT’S why they call it the beautiful game.Stunning Vlada Sedan clearly sets pulses racing when she’s interviewing the planet’s best footballers.
      Vlada Sedan is the stunning Wag of Man City star Zinchenko
      Sedan is a Ukrainian TV presenter
      But the 25-year-old Ukrainian TV reporter has eyes for one man… Man City star Oleksandr Zinchenko.
      The two were married in August 2020, a year after Zinchenko proposed to Sedan inside the 70,000-capacity Olympic Stadium in Kiev in front of a heart-shaped display of red roses.
      Zinchenko, 24, confirmed his relationship with Sedan following Ukraine’s 5-0 win over Serbia in June 2019 where he planted a kiss on her cheek.
      And he then embraced his partner after Ukraine beat Portugal 2-1 in October 2019 that secured their Euro 2020 qualification.
      Fans were left wondering whether the two were an item for months before Zinchenko’s public display of affection, though his team-mates were well aware of his relationship.
      It’s easy to see why the Premier League star is so enamoured with the beauty.
      And Sedan took to Instagram last week to announce she is pregnant with the pair to become parents for the first time.
      HIS TEAM-MATES KEPT THE ROMANCE SECRET
      Despite her Instagram page alluding to the fact they were a couple, no-one really knew for sure.
      Well no-one except Zinchenko’s Urkrainian and Man City team-mates, who were in on the secret.
      Sedan regularly shares snaps of herself on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Gorgeous Sedan is aged 25Credit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Sedan works as a reporter on Ukraine’s Channel Football 1/2Credit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Zinchenko couldn’t help but plant a kiss on Sedan after an interview following Ukraine’s Euro 2020 qualificationCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      “Some guys knew about it,” he said on Channel Football 1/2.
      “It was also discussed by my Ukrainian team-mates.” We bet, probably with a hint of jealousy.
      FORGET MATCH OF THE DAY
      Sedan reports for Channel Football 1/2, and has interviewed the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Andriy Shevchenko.
      But it seems she has ambitions to work alongside Gary Lineker, Ian Wright and Alan Shearer on Match of the Day.
      On a visit Manchester to see her beloved, she popped round to the BBC and posed in front of a snap with the footy presenters.
      Sedan has met and interviewed the best footballers on the planet, including Cristiano RonaldoCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Sedan boasts over 404,000 followers on InstagramCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Sedan has become a regular at the Etihad cheering her beau onCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Match of the Day viewers would love to see Sedan flaunting her assets on the showCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      And she also went to a City game to cheer on her beau, enjoying a quick meeting with his boss Pep Guardiola.
      PEP TALK
      Sedan hit out at Guardiola following City’s Champions League exit at the hands of Lyon last year.
      She questioned the Spaniard’s tactics as Pep opted to start three centre-backs against the Ligue 1 side.
      Speaking on her YouTube channel, Sedan said: “Perhaps I have no right to say this, perhaps Zinchenko will forbid me. But to put it mildly, and in order not to swear, this is completely Guardiola’s fault.
      “At such a crucial moment, making such an experimental tactic for Man City is a bummer.
      “I have no right to criticise, but why play three central defenders when the players themselves take their heads.
      “I simply have no words, because to have such a line-up… look what players play at Man City, what a bench. Literally few clubs in the world can boast such reserves.”
      Zinchenko interrupted his own wedding day to apologise to fans for comments from himself and his wife after Man City’s Champions League exit
      ZINCHENKO APOLOGY
      The incident left Zinchecho to issue a statement on their WEDDING DAY where he admitted his wife was wrong to slam Guardiola.
      It read: “Although my wife is a journalist, she is also a fan. During the season she was travelling with us for all away and home games because she is a massive City fan.
      “In the video you can see her emotions straight after the game and she gave an opinion like all fans do because she wanted us to do better.
      “We totally understand now that she shouldn’t post it on social media because she is my wife. But she was not trying to make a journalist’s opinion on the manager.
      “She was simply reacting to the disappointment as a fan.
      “I’m writing right now from my wedding and instead of enjoying that unbelievable moment I have to do this because I can’t skip it and leave it like that. I hope you understand.”

      TROUBLE & STRIFE
      Zinchenko revealed in February how Guardiola has not yet forgotten Sedan’s rant.
      Sedan alleged that the Spaniard told her footballer husband that the ‘most important thing is to be liked by your wife’.
      She claimed that Guardiola brought up the incident in response to the Ukraine international making a joke on his 50th birthday.

      “Zina (Zinchenko) is always Zina. Firstly compliments, best wishes, but then there must be a fly in the ointment.
      “Zina told him, ‘already 50, old age’. Kidding in his own style. Pep looked at him and said: ‘Alex, the most important for me is to be liked by your wife and all will be okay’…”
      Sedans presenting skills and good looks have won her plenty of admirers in the football worldCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Both Zinchenko and Sedan share loved-up pictures on social mediaCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en
      Man City fans will certainly hope to see more of Sedan next seasonCredit: https://www.instagram.com/v.lada_sedan/?hl=en

      FAMILY FORTUNES
      Both Zinchenko and his wife announced they will become parents on social media, much to the delight of their followers.
      And Zinchenko dedicated his goal against Cyprus on Monday to his unborn child by placing a ball under his shirt.
      He then shared the snap on Instagram.

      The England team arrive at basecamp for EURO 2020 More

    • 250 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Robbie Savage’s son Charlie is a Man Utd youth star, who was called up to Wales U18s to face England

      by

      THE apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.Like his famous dad, Charlie Savage, 18, is making waves in the football world – and is currently starring at Manchester United.
      Charlie Savage is making great strides at Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      His dad Robbie Savage famously was a youth player with the Red DevilsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Robbie Savage, front row second from the left, played in the Class of ’92 side alongside David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Paul ScholesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      The talented youngster was called up to the Wales U18 squad to face England on March 29, and gave a good account of himself despite the Dragons losing 2-0.
      Famously, his father, BT Sport pundit Robbie Savage, was a member of the Class of ’92 side featuring the likes of Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, and Paul Scholes.
      Savage Sr, 46, also got 39 caps for Wales – playing for clubs including Leicester City, Birmingham City and Derby County during his career.
      And Charlie even shares his old man’s position – playing in central midfield, where he loves to break up the play.
      LOVES A TACKLE
      Ex–pro Robbie was famous for his tough-tackling style and his energy on the pitch.
      What he lacked in skill, he made up for with high-energy displays.
      Similarly, Charlie is a box-to-box midfielder who loves a tackle and isn’t afraid to get stuck in.
      However, he’s got a bit more to his game in terms of being a creative spark and is a good passer of the ball.
      In 15 appearances for United’s U18 side this season, Charlie has four assists and two goals to his name.
      Talented Charlie Savage is a good distributor of the ballCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Savage, celebrating a goal against Blackburn, also has an eye for goalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Proud of my boy , keeps going , keeps working hard , keeps listening to his coaches , he’s starting to get his rewards 💙⚽️ better finisher than his dad pic.twitter.com/JZmQxzpfJc— Robbie Savage (@RobbieSavage8) November 28, 2020

      His first goal for the club in a 4-1 win over Newcastle was celebrated by Robbie on Twitter.
      “Proud of my boy, keeps going, keeps working hard, keeps listening to his coaches, he’s starting to get his rewards,” he captioned a video of Charlie’s strike.
      He amusingly added: “Better finisher than his dad.”
      KING KONG
      In 2018, Savage was part of a team of first-year United scholars that travelled to Hong Kong for a tournament.
      The Red Devils competed in the Jockey Club Youth Football Academy Summit, and managed to win it.
      Charlie impressed in the competition against local sides and started every game.
      United thrashed the HK Academy 6-1, beat HK All-Stars in the semi-finals and then overcame Guandong Under-17s 3-0 in the final.
      LEICESTER-BORN, WELSH FUTURE
      Charlie was born in Leicester in 2003, a year after Robbie left the Foxes to play for Birmingham.
      Like his dad, Charlie Savage has chosen to represent Wales at youth level
      Charlie Savage is said to have a bright future in the game
      Robbie Savage has spoken of his pride about his son’s progress and said he’s a better finisher than he ever was
      But, proud of his father’s roots, he’s looking into follow in his footsteps and play for the Wales national team.
      In September 2019, he made his debut for their U17 side – and played five times.

      He impressed for the Dragons, who qualified for the elite round before it was postponed due to Covid-19
      Charlie was called up to the U18 team for a match against the Three Lions on March 29.
      Wales Under-18s had not played for more than 20 years since Neville Southall was in charge of the side back in 2000 but the age group has been relaunched with changes to Uefa’s tournament structure.
      Solskjaer says Cavani could stay at Man Utd despite dad’s transfer bombshell and jokes summer heat will change his mind More

    • 238 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      BBC Sport presenter Kelly Somers went from season ticket holder at Watford to interviewing Gareth Southgate at Euro 2020

      by

      BBC Sport presenter Kelly Somers has lit up our screens at the Euros interviewing England’s stars.From sit-down chats with Jack Grealish and Jordan Pickford to pitchside post-match breakdowns with Gareth Southgate, the pretty 35-year-old has been a breath of fresh air.
      Brilliant Kelly Somers has lit up BBC Sport’s Euro 2020 coverageCredit: Getty
      Somers has interviewed England stars including Jack Grealish during the EurosCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers

      Her honest interview with Southgate after the Three Lions beat Germany 2-0 in the last-16 particularly hit home.
      Not only did he reveal his Euro ’96 penalty miss still hurts him to her, he also admitted a belief he was to blame for his team-mates losing the semi-final. Since then, Alan Shearer has defended his case.
      Somers’ love for football began from childhood…
      LOVES WATFORD
      Growing up in London, Kelly supported Watford.
      Her mum and grandma were season ticket holders and she would often attend games.
      It was in 1999, aged 13, she got her first taste of Wembley at the play-off final.
      Watford beat Bolton to gain promotion to the Premier League and Kelly was ecstatic.
      As a kid Somers was a Watford fan growing up and went to many gamesCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      At 13 Somers experienced Wembley for the first timeCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      Excited by the buzz at the 1999 playoff final, Somers knew she wanted to work as a pitchside reporterCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      But it was the atmosphere and the spectacle of the event that won the teenager over.
      “My mum said I was captivated from the moment I walked into the stadium,” she told Fast And Fearless.
      “From then on, I was hooked and went to any game I was allowed to. It was tough as my friends weren’t interested but it’s always been a big thing in my family, so for me it just felt normal.”
      FIRST JOB IN FOOTBALL
      After graduating from Loughborough University, Kelly got a place at Nottingham Trent to study broadcast journalism.
      However, months before she would start the course she got a job offer she couldn’t refuse.
      Then League One club Bournemouth hired her as their media assistant, impressed by her volunteer work with Peterborough United and Doncaster Rovers.
      She was just 21, and as the club continued to progress Kelly worked her way up the chain.
      Kelly enjoys some one-on-one time with England No1 Jordan PickfordCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      Gareth Southgate opens up to KellyCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      In recent years, Somers has worked for the likes of Premier League Productions, BBC’s Final Score, talkSPORT, West Ham United and the Women’s Football League ShowCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      When they were in Premier League, she had already found her specialty – interviewing the players for the club’s online video channel. Soon, she was presenting on the pitch on matchdays.
      In recent years, Kelly has worked for Premier League Productions, BBC’s Final Score, talkSPORT, West Ham United and the Women’s Football League Show.
      “Reporting is something I love – nothing beats the buzz of being at a match. To be there for work is incredible and nothing beats the exhilaration of being thrown to live, to describe a goal.
      “That said, I do a lot in the studio too – and sometimes nothing beats the warmth of that.”
      STICK IT TO THE TROLLS
      As a woman in sport on TV, Somers is unfortunately a target for keyboard warriors – better known as internet trolls.
      Back in March, she was subjected to sexist abuse and told to “stick to women’s football” on Instagram.
      Unbelievably, when she looked up the man who had sent her the nasty message, Somers discovered he had a daughter of his own.
      “On Saturday I got a message from a man on Instagram, telling me myself & other females should get off Final Score & stick to women’s football,” she wrote on Instagram.
      “I searched the man, he has a daughter. Does he send her the same message? That she can only do certain jobs?

      Pretty Somers fronts BBC Sport’s Final ScoreCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      Kelly’s job is the envy of most, but she did once reveal she received sexist abuse onlineCredit: Instagram @kellyesomers
      On Saturday I got a message from a man on Instagram, telling me myself & other females should get off final score & stick to women’s football. I searched the man, he has a daughter. Does he send her the same message? That she can only do certain jobs? #IWD— Kelly Somers (@KellySomers) March 8, 2021

      “The point of me telling this isn’t for sympathy (I feel sorry for him), it’s because messages on IWD are fab but they’re not enough.
      “Everyone should think about their attitudes to women & their jobs, everyday. How would he feel if his daughter received the message he sent?!”
      As always, Kelly is bang on the money.
      Alan Shearer says everything England manager Gareth Southgate has done is perfect More

    • 275 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd’s No7 shirt curse was too big for Sanchez, but can Sancho fill the boots of Best, Beckham, Ronaldo and Cantona?

      by

      JADON SANCHO has FINALLY joined Manchester United – and is expected to take the ‘cursed’ No7 jersy.The England ace, 21, has completed his £73million move from Borussia Dortmund and will rake in £350,000 a week after putting pen to paper on a five-year deal.
      Jadon Sancho is set to take the ‘cursed’ No7 shirt at Man Utd
      Sancho will now follow in the footsteps of Old Trafford greats like George Best, David Beckham, Eric Cantona and Cristiano Ronaldo in wearing the No7 shirt – taking it from Edinson Cavani, according to reports.
      But that has not proven a good omen in recent years with the likes of Memphis Depay and Alexis Sanchez crumbling under the pressure of its history.
      For 50 years, the club’s icons bore that shirt with pride, and did it justice.
      But since Ronaldo donned it for the final time in 2009, no one has truly dealt with the burden of expectation.
      Here, SunSport takes a look back at the superstars to wear the hallowed shirt – and how they fared…

      EDINSON CAVANI, 2020-present
      Edinson Cavani wore the No7 shirt for the 2020-21 season but is set to give it to SanchoCredit: AFP – GettySuccess at United
      Appearances – 39Goals – 17No trophies

      AFTER missing out on Sancho a year ago, United turned to Cavani, signing the Uruguayan on a free transfer after his contract at Paris Saint-Germain expired.
      Cavani went a ways to ending the curse of the shirt, scoring 17 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions in his first season.
      But Cavani was never a long-term solution to the problem, with Sancho set to wear it proudly for years to come.
      Will he live up to the likes of Beckham and Cantona or end up as another Sanchez? Speaking of whom…
      ALEXIS SANCHEZ, 2018-2020
      Credit: Getty ImagesAlexis Sanchez failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford
      Success at UnitedAppearances – 45
      Goals – 5
      No trophies

      After four glorious seasons with Arsenal, Chilean star Sanchez appeared to be a no-brainer when United added him to their ranks for £32m.
      And Robin Van Persie had previously shown that he could adapt from a move from North London.
      However, Sanchez has been a major disappointment – a shadow of the player who ripped defences apart at the Emirates Stadium.
      Just five goals in 45 appearances, he is deemed surplus to requirements – shipped out to Inter Milan on loan before securing a permanent move on a free transfer.

      MEMPHIS DEPAY, 2015-16
      Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Memphis Depay suffered curse of the Manchester United No7 shirt
      Success at UnitedAppearances – 53
      Goals – 7
      No trophies

      Memphis was immediately handed the No7 jersey by Louis van Gaal after signing for £25MILLION from PSV.
      But, despite the hype surrounding his arrival, it was just constant disappointment for the Dutchman, and he left to join Lyon on loan after 12 months, which soon became a permanent deal.
      Depay quickly rediscovered his top form with the French giants and has now joined Barcelona ahead of the 2020-21 season.
      The Dutchman managed just seven goals in 53 games he managed with United.
      GEORGE BEST, 1963-74
      Credit: Getty Images
      George Best celebrates his goal against Benfica in 1968 European Cup final
      Success at UnitedAppearances — 474
      Goals — 181First Division (2) — 1964-65, 1966-67European Cup — 1968Football Writers’ Player of the Year — 1968Ballon d’Or — 1968Ballon d’Or third place — 1971

      In an era where shirt numbers were not assigned, Best donned it in 141 of his 474 games.
      In 1966, he wore it in what is generally considered his greatest-ever performance, netting twice as United battered the great Benfica 5-1 in Lisbon — and against the  same opponents in the European Cup final two years later.
      Best is considered by many the most naturally gifted footballer to have come out of Britain.
      BRYAN ROBSON — 1981-94
      Credit: Getty Images
      ‘Captain Marvel’ Bryan Robson was always there when Manchester United needed him
      Success at UnitedAppearances — 461
      Goals — 99Premier League (2) — 1992-93, 1993-94FA Cup (4) — 1982-83, 1984-85, 1989-90League Cup — 1991-92European Cup Winners’ Cup — 1990-91European Super Cup — 1991

      Immediately picked up the No7 shirt, despite Steve Coppell still being at the club.
      ‘Captain Marvel’ was unlucky to play in a United side which failed to challenge for the title during the 1980s — and is the club’s longest-serving captain, who won 90 England caps.
      A leader whose influence was apparent as his two goals famously helped the Red Devils overturn a 2-0 deficit against Barcelona in one of Old Trafford’s most glorious nights in 1984.
      ERIC CANTONA — 1992-97
      Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
      Eric Cantona was the catalyst for Manchester United success in 1990s
      Success at UnitedAppearances — 185
      Goals — 93Premier League (4) — 1992-93, 1993-94, 1995-96, 1996-97FA Cup (2) — 1993-94, 1995-96PFA Players’ Player of the Year — 1993-94Football Writers’ Player of the Year — 1995-96Ballon d’Or third place — 1993

      First player to be officially assigned the No7 shirt.
      Cantona was the catalyst, who helped transform United from nearly men to Premier League champions.
      He won the title in four of his five seasons at the club — and the only time he failed to was when he was banned for eight months for kung-fu kicking a Crystal Palace fan.
      DAVID BECKHAM — 1992-03
      David Beckham graduated from No28 to No7Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdSuccess at United
      Appearances — 394Goals — 85Premier League (6) — 1995-96, 1996-97, 1998-99, 1999-00, 2000-01, 2002-03FA Cup (2) — 1995-96, 1998-99Champions League — 1998-99Intercontinental Cup — 1999Ballon d’Or runner up — 1999Fifa World Player of the Year runner up — 1999, 2001

      An academy graduate who started off as No28, before moving up through the No24, No10 and eventually No7 shirt when Cantona left.
      Beckham provided vital assists in the Champions League quarter-finals, semi-finals and final in 1999 as United completed an incredible Treble.
      He wore the shirt during his peak years at the club and established himself as the best set-piece taker in world football.
      CRISTIANO RONALDO — 2003-09
      Credit: Getty Images – Getty
      Cristiano Ronaldo was handed No.7 shirt at age of 18 and thrived in it
      Success at UnitedAppearances — 292
      Goals — 118Premier League (3) — 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09FA Cup — 2003-04League Cup (2) — 2005-06, 2008-09Champions League — 2007-08Fifa Club World Cup — 2008Ballon d’Or — 2008Fifa World Player of the Year — 2008Football Writers’ Player of the Year (2) — 2006-07, 2007-08PFA Players’ Player of the Year (2) — 2006-07, 2007-08PFA Players’ Young Player of the Year award — 2006-07Ballon d’Or runner up — 2007, 2009Fifa World Player of the Year runner-up — 2007, 2009

      Replaced Beckham and, at the tender of age of 18, was handed the most prestigious shirt at the club.
      But Ronaldo thrived under the pressure and went from strength-to-strength.
      Won a trophy in all but one season and became United’s fourth Ballon d’Or winner.
      MICHAEL OWEN — 2009-12
      Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
      Michael Owen wasn’t the worst player, but never justified No.7 shirt
      Success at UnitedAppearances — 52
      Goals — 17Premier League — 2010-11League Cup — 2009-10

      In the whole of world football, only Lionel Messi would have been fit to fill the huge chasm left behind by Ronaldo in 2009.
      Injury-prone Owen was nearly 30, had just been released by recently-relegated Newcastle and was only signed as back-up after United had missed out on Karim Benzema.
      Highs included a last-gasp derby winner, League Cup final goal and Champions League hat-trick, but never came close to doing the No7 shirt justice.
      ANTONIO VALENCIA — 2009-19 (No7 for 2012-13 season)
      Credit: Getty Images
      Antonio Valencia reverted back to No.25 after poor season with No.7 shirt
      Success at UnitedAppearances — 339
      Goals — 25Premier League (2) — 2010-11, 2012-13FA Cup — 2015-16League Cup (2) — 2009-10, 2016-17
      Europa League – 2016-17

      United’s 2011-12 Player of the Year was then handed the No7 shirt after three seasons wearing the No25 — and it was again worn by a right-winger.
      However, while Sir Alex Ferguson led his men to a 13th title, Valencia endured without doubt his worst seasons at the club.
      At the end of the campaign, he requested the No25 shirt again and there was no No7 during David Moyes’ reign.
      ANGEL DI MARIA — 2014-15
      Credit: Getty Images
      Despite his staggering fee, it was a disastrous spell in Manchester for Angel Di Maria
      Success at UnitedAppearances — 32Goals — 4

      United and English football’s then record signing at £59.1million.
      Di Maria arrived from Real Madrid after a man of the match performance in the Champions League final, and initially looked a good signing.
      But his form dipped drastically, and he became a liability. Sold to Paris Saint-Germain after just one season for £44m.
      Man Utd wages revealed as Jadon Sancho becomes club’s second highest-paid star on £350k a week after £73m transfer More