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      Meet incoming Man Utd transfer signing Joshua Zirkzee, who was rejected by Bayern Munich and dates a JD Sports model

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      JOSHUA ZIRKZEE will add much-needed firepower to Manchester United’s attack next season.The Dutch forward, 23, seems destined to play his football at Old Trafford next season, after the Red Devils agreed to pay his £34million release clause to his club Bologna.Joshua Zirkzee has taken Serie A by stormCredit: AFPDutch forward Zirkzee featured for Netherlands in the EurosCredit: GettyZirkzee cut short a holiday in Florida and visit to Disney World to link with the Netherlands squadCredit: instagram @zirkzeePersonal terms have also been reportedly agreed, with Zirkzee set to put pen to paper on a deal imminently.The 6ft 4in striker is on international duty with the Netherlands at Euro 2024, although he has only played three minutes in the tournament.After bouncing around around Dutch clubs Ado Den Haag and Feyenoord as a youth, he was snapped up by Bayern Munich when he was 16.However, he failed to establish himself with the Bavarians and was sent on loans to Parma and Anderlecht, before moving permanently to Bologna.Read more Man Utd newsIn Serie A, he earned his stripes – receiving a glowing endorsement from Sweden legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic.While he also showed his commitment to his country, cutting short a dream holiday to Disneyland to join Ronald Koeman’s squad, following a late call-up.Off the pitch, Zirkzee featured in a JD Sports ad alongside his beautiful girlfriend, Celina Kerr.He has also appeared as a model for urban leisure wear brand, No Face No Case.Most read in FootballEarly yearsZirkzee has admitted in the past he had no ‘Plan B’. He only wanted to be a footballer growing up.He grew up in Spijkenisse, South Netherlands where he spent most of his time playing on the Johan Cruyff football courts.Watch Man Utd star Antony show off hidden talent as fans say ‘he’s finding another job already'”I think what the USA has with basketball courts, we have in Holland with the five-a-side pitches,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport.”It makes you tough, you have to be smarter, you have to find a way to keep up with guys that are bigger and stronger than you. I learned on the streets – and that’s where creativity comes to life.”In 2016, after three years with Ado Den Haag, Zirkzee signed with Feyenoord.His heavyweight boxer stature, even evident then, saw him stand out among his peers.In under a year with the Dutch giants, Bayern Munich made Zirkzee an offer that he couldn’t refuse.It was a bitter split from Feyenoord, as the Germans swooped in – convincing the then 16-year-old his development would be best served with them.But in truth…It really wasn’t.Zirkzee did make his breakthrough into the first team in 2019, and appeared destined to be their next No9.He scored twice in his first eight minutes of Bundesliga action, across games against Freiburg and Wolfsburg at the tender age of 18.As youngster, Zirkzee rose through the ranks at Bayern MunichCredit: GettyBut Zirkzee failed to get a run in the first team and sent out on loan for game timeCredit: GettyHowever, despite playing a small part in Bayern’s treble-winning campaign, he struggled to assert himself as a starter.In 2021, understanding his need to play more football, Zirkzee was sent on loan to Parma.He would play just four games until a knee injury meant he had to return back to Munich.Four months later, he would join Belgians Anderlecht for a season long loan.Not only would it put him in the shop window, it would allow him to build his confidence up playing regularly.SuccessThe move proved to be a masterstroke for both player and club.Zirkzee would find his feet playing under Vincent Kompany, who once blasted him for a poor performance during a team talk in a leaked video that surfaced online.Still, it got the best out of the target man.He was the club’s top scorer with a 16 goals in 38 league games.Vincent Kompany lays into Zirkzee in a video that circulated online of a dressing room teamtalkZirkzee returned to Bayern Munich after his Anderlecht loan, but was surplus to requirementsCredit: GettyZirkzee also showed he wasn’t a selfish player, recording nine assists for his team-mates during the campaign.After his successful loan, there was talk he might get his chance at the Allianz Arena.However, an £8million offer from Bologna, which included a 50 per cent sell on clause was too good to turn down.Big breakZirkzee was brought to the Italian club to partner former West Ham man Marko Arnautovic up front.A month after he was unveiled, Thiago Motta became boss. The Italian had different ideas.Arnautovic got the nod, with Zirkzee confessing: “I wasn’t ready mentally, not like Motta wanted anyway.”The understudy sat on the bench and watched the Austrian forward in action – learning about leading the line and the movement Motta wanted from his lone striker.At the beginning of the 2023-24 season, Zirkzee would get his opportunity after Arnautovic was sold to Inter Milan.”The time came to take a step forward,” he explained to the Corriere, “to take on more responsibility, to demonstrate that I was ready and take advantage of the opportunity.”Zirkzee signed for Bologna where he would go on to get his big breakInitially, Zirkzee played second fiddle to Marko Arnautovic – getting the odd appearanceCredit: GettyAnd he did just thatSpearheading Bologna’s attack, Zirkzee would take his chance.A stunning season in the club’s history saw them earn Champions League qualification for the very first time.The Dutchman’s contribution was integral to their success – scoring 11 goals and providing five assists.Former Torino coach Ivan Juric compared him to Zlatan Ibrahimovic after one encounter between the clubs.”He’s an atypical striker that manages to score a lot of goals,” the Croatian added.Ibrahimovic, a senior advisor with AC Milan, said of Zirkzee: “I like him, he’s a good player with very good potential.”It would prompt I Rossoneri to plot a move for the talent, although it appears he has always had his eyes set on joining Manchester United.Soon, Zirkzee became a fans’ favourite under boss Thiago MottaCredit: Alamy6ft 4in forward Zirkzee was also praised by Zlatan Ibahimovic who recognised his talentCredit: Rexread more sport featuresModel lifeAway from the pitch, Zirkzee reportedly dates the stunning model Celina.The influencer and model boasts almost 100,000 followers on Instagram.She reportedly graduated in Berlin with a degree in Media and Communication Management.They have kept their personal lives private on social media, but they were once seen embracing each other on a Valentine’s Day video shoot with JD Sports.The couple wore unisex tracksuits sold by the sports wear giant in the digital ad campaign, which was shared by Celina on her Instagram feed to her followers.READ MORE SUN STORIESCelina Kerr reportedly dates Man Utd bound ZirkzeeCredit: Instagram @ celinajadakerrStunning Celina is a mode who has over 100,000 followers on InstagramCredit: Instagram @ celinajadakerrZirkzee and Celina shot a JD Sports promo campaign on Valentine’s DayZirkzee has also modelled for streetwear brand No Face No CaseHandsome Zirkzee has also modelled streetwear by online brand, No Face No Case.United fans will be hoping the towering frontman is a model pro, too. 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      England warned about Netherlands’ two major strengths by Dutch former Man Utd coach ahead of Euro 2024 semi-final

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      ENGLAND will have to be especially careful of Netherlands stars Virgil van Dijk and Denzel Dumfries during their crunch semi-final clash.The Three Lions face Holland tonight at the Signal Iduna Park for a place in the final of Euro 2024 which will see the winner facing Spain.Ex-Manchester United first-team coach Rene Meulensteen named two major dangers for EnglandCredit: GettyEngland need to be careful of Netherlands star Virgil van Dijk during set-piecesCredit: RexMeulensteen added that Denzel Dumfries could cause problems down England’s leftCredit: RexEngland’s Harry Kane dilemma laid bare as stats show MAJOR problem before Holland clashGARETH SOUTHGATE has a Harry Kane dilemma ahead of the Euro 2024 semi-final, writes Kealan Hughes.England face the Netherlands on Wednesday night as they bid to reach back-to-back Euros finals with their captain the subject of huge scrutiny.Kane, 30, was taken off in extra-time against Switzerland after a lacklustre performance which saw the striker barely involved in play.In 109 minutes, he completed just EIGHT passes – only one of which was in the final third.Kane also made just four touches in the opposition penalty box, with critics lamenting his failure to get into the area to get on the end of one of Bukayo Saka’s many crosses.Alan Shearer has advised Kane to do his work in the box rather than dropping back.In fact his average position against Switzerland was DEEPER than wing-backs Saka and Kieran Trippier.That might be understandable, with the pair bombing on to provide width.But Kane was also, on average BEHIND Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and even holding midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Declan Rice.Read SunSport’s analysis on Southgate’s Kane dilemma in full.And ex-Manchester United first-team coach Rene Meulensteen is adamant England boss Gareth Southgate should be especially careful of the threat Van Dijk and Dumfries carry when they move forward.Meulensteen, 60, believes Inter Milan star Dumfries could prove to be very dangerous down the Three Lions’ left side where they lack a left-back.Luke Shaw is the only left-footed option to cover that position after returning to action in the quarter-finals against Switzerland on Saturday.But the Man Utd star is set to start on the bench once more as he was sidelined since February with an injury.Read More on FootballMeulensteen added that Van Dijk can also create problems in set-pieces with his headers, such as the one he produced in the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea to win Liverpool the trophy.The Dutch tactician, who worked under Sir Alex Ferguson at United for almost 12 years before his departure in 2013, insists much will depend on who Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman starts.But the ex-Fulham manager expects Cody Gakpo, Donyell Malen, Xavi Simons, Jeremie Frimpong and Steven Bergwijn will also play a big role in the semi-final.Meulensteen told SunSport on behalf of Free Bets: “Cody Gakpo, he’s had a good tournament so far and has done OK. Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Depending on who he’s [Koeman] going to play, I hope he’s going to play Malen because I think he has something, he’s got a change of pace, can come inside, outside. “Xavi Simons can do things, he’s a good player but hasn’t been at his best and then you’ve got impact players.SunSport’s Latest Euro 2024 headlines”Ronald Koeman and Gareth Southgate have shown great loyalty to their starting eleven, so I don’t know what he’s going to do on the right-hand side, whether Malen, Frimpong, Bergwijn. “Bergwijn was a bit questionable, people thought why did you play him but that was more to release Dumfries on the right hand side.”If he can run forward, he can cause problems, Dumfries. From set-pieces, Van Dijk with his head is strong.”Those are the players I’d say can cause real problems for England.”Inside Jordan Pickford’s penalty saving technique as he bids to be England’s Euros heroJORDAN PICKFORD has regularly been the hero when it comes to a penalty shootout for his country, writes Jon Boon.The England and Everton goalkeeper, 30, saved Manuel Akanji’s effort for Switzerland to hand the Three Lions an advantage in their shootout win in their Euro 2024 quarter-final.Now, with the help of Goalkeeper.com, we’ve uncovered Pickford’s penalty-saving technique.USES HISTORIC TRENDSPickford is well prepared when it comes to facing the ball from 12-yards.His water bottle trick has become infamous with the list of penalty takers and direction of shot taped on to it.But you cannot always listen blindly to most probable placements, and a goalkeeper’s intuition should also play a role.That human element remains important.UTILISES A MIXED STRATEGYBeing a goalkeeper is often called the ‘loneliest job’ in the world.And when it comes to penalties, your team-mates are solely reliant upon your strategy to save one.Often, we’ve seen goalies who prefer to favour one side – and continuously dive one way.However, Pickford adopts a mixed strategy.Sometimes, he will dive to the power side – saving from Jorginho in the Euro 2020 final.His save from Akanji in the Swiss shootout was made on the placement side.TECHNICAL EXECUTION OF DIVEGoalkeepers are hindered during penalty shootouts – with the Fifa rulebook meaning they have to stay on the line until the shot is taken.That means the lift off of your dive has to be executed a certain way.Pickford launches himself from his back foot behind the line, pushes his body weight forwards, makes no large negative step and keeps both hands active to make the save.This was put into effect when he made saves from Italy’s Andrea Belotti in 2020 and Colombia’s Carlos Bacca at the 2018 World Cup.France’s Mike Maignan, by comparison, takes a large negative step, and struggles to reach his posts.CLUB VS COUNTRY METRICSInterestingly, Pickford is better at saving penalties in shootouts for England than in his overall career average, and better at saving in shootouts vs in game.Clearly, Pickford performs better in an England shirt and when there is bigger pressure.Read our full analysis of Jordan Pickford’s penalty-saving techniques… More

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      Man Utd transfer targets compared as stats show why Ten Hag may have to break the bank again to get the right defender

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      ERIK TEN HAG may have to break the bank to get the right defender this summer.The Manchester United boss is hoping to land TWO new centre-backs.Man Utd are on the hunt for a new defender, with Jarrad Branthwaite a top targetCredit: ReutersReports claim United have had a bid accepted for Leny YoroCredit: GettyAnd he has no less than four star names on his shortlist.The Red Devils look set to be closing in on a deal for Bayern Munich misfit Matthijs de Ligt.And they have also seen two bids rejected for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.Reports claim United have now set their sights on Lille’s Leny Yoro, having a £42million bid accepted despite the teen’s preference to join Real Madrid.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAnd SunSport exclusively revealed yesterday that Ten Hag is also keeping close tabs on England and Crystal Palace sensation Marc Guehi.However, the stats show that £85m-rated Branthwaite boasts the best record of the lot.He made the most appearances of all four men last season, scoring the most goals and winning the most duels.Branthwaite also made the most tackles, interceptions and clearances.Most read in FootballEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSAnd he completed the most blocks too, while also winning possession more than anyone else.When squeezed across an average game, Branthwaite reigns supreme there as well.Greenwood back at Man Utd trainingSunSport understands United are interested in Marc GuehiCredit: GettyThe Red Devils hope to strike a deal for Matthijs de LigtCredit: GettyEven with Guehi and De Ligt getting a fairer shot after playing 10 and 13 less games respectively, Branthwaite still has the top ratio in almost all fields.It means if United are solely going after a new centre-back based on stats, the 22-year-old appears to be head and shoulders above the rest, who are much on an equal level with each other.However, Branthwaite did lag behind the rest of the competition in terms of successful passes and passing accuracy.Yet his dominance in aerial duels won makes him a threat at both ends of the pitch.It also means Ten Hag will have to dig deep as Everton rate Branthwaite as one of the best centre-backs in Europe.His age means he is likely to get even better with more minutes.And the Toffees value Branthwaite at £85m after seeing Man City pay £100m for Josko Gvardiol, also 22 years old, last summer.As far as the other stats go, Lille’s 18-year-old sensation Yoro just about has the next-best numbers after also playing around the same matches as Branthwaite.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut when squeezed down to an average across 90 minutes, there’s not much to choose between him, Guehi and De Ligt.And it may end up boiling down to who is available for the best price. More

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      Premier League’s hottest Wag risks wardrobe malfunction in see-through dress on holiday with Man Utd star husband

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      MAJA LINDELOF has stunned in her latest Instagram post – as she enjoyed a break with Manchester United stars past and present.Maja is the wife of Manchester United and Sweden centre-back Victor – and made the most of the off-season with her hubby.Maja Lindelof posed for a selfieCredit: https://www.instagram.com/majanilssonlindelof/She was in Mykonos with her husband Victor LindelofCredit: https://www.instagram.com/majanilssonlindelof/She also posed in a swimsuitCredit: https://www.instagram.com/majanilssonlindelof/The pair have enjoyed a holiday in Mykonos, Greece, as he prepares to get back to business.The couple were able to take an extra break this year, with Sweden not qualifying for Euro 2024.But he is now back training with United after those squad members who aren’t on international duty returned to Manchester.And while they were away they caught up with his old United team-mate Juan Mata.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLThe former Spain star left Old Trafford in 2022 after eight years there.He is now a free agent after playing for Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe in Japan, but still looked in great shape as he enjoyed dinner with the Lindelofs and his partner Evelina Kamph.Maja looked in great shape as always too in a sheer gold dress, and captioned her selfie: “📍 MYKONOS”The model and fashion blogger boats 251,000 followers on Instagram.Most read in FootballReacting to her latest selfie, one fan wrote: “😍😍😍”Another commented: “🔥🔥🔥 Cute”A third wrote: “🔥🔥🔥Greenwood back at Man Utd trainingShe also paid tribute to her husband behind the cameraCredit: https://www.instagram.com/majanilssonlindelof/The Lindelofs enjoyed a meal by the beach with Mata and his partnerCredit: InstagramThe trio looked extremely relaxed as they lapped up the Greek sunshineVictor Lindelof reported back for Manchester United training todayCredit: GettyHe was being put through his paces with the rest of the squad who were not on international dutyCredit: GettyWhile a fourth said: “Beautiful youuuu😍And a fifth added: “THE DRESS!! ❤️ you are a goddess.”Maja then followed up her selfie with a further upload in a swimsuit at the beach.She captioned her second post, “In love with him behind the camera ❤️”, in tribute to her husband Victor.Maja was previously dubbed the Prem’s “hottest wag” after coming top of a scientific survey which rated the attractiveness of players’ partners.She and Victor married in 2018 and the couple have two children together.Maja and Victor began dating in 2013Credit: Instagram @majanilssonlindelofThe two married in 2018Credit: Instagram @majanilssonlindelofAnd had their first child together in 2019Credit: Instagram @majanilssonlindelofThey had their second child in 2021Credit: instagram @majanilssonlindelofMaja with her husband VictorCredit: GettyMaja is a fan of a selfieCredit: instagramMaja is a big Sweden supporterCredit: Instagram @majanilssonlindelofA golden hour selfieCredit: Instagram/@majanilssonlindelof More

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      Man Utd target shock transfer for Chelsea star Ben Chilwell to battle England rival Luke Shaw for left-back spot

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      MANCHESTER UNITED are considering a shock move for Ben Chilwell according to reports.A move for the left-back would see him compete with Luke Shaw for a place in the United team.United are considering a chock move for Ben ChilwellCredit: GettyBoth players struggled with injury last yearCredit: RexShaw, 28, was chosen by Gareth Southgate for England’s Euro 2024 squad in favour of Chilwell, 27, despite both struggling with injuries last season.Chilwell missed Chelsea’s final seven games of the season with a knee injury, although he was fit enough for the bench in Chelsea’s penultimate Premier League game against Brighton.Shaw meanwhile had not featured for Manchester United since February as he rehabilitated from a hamstring injury.The left-back was fit enough to return for England in their quarter-final victory over Switzerland and came on in the 78th minute.READ MORE ON MAN UTDChilwell was made vice-captain of Chelsea last season by Mauricio Pochettino but it is understood the Blues would be willing to let him go should the right offer arrive.That’s due in part to fitness concerns which saw him play just 13 Premier League games last season and 21 games overall.The Mail report that Manchester United are considering an offer for Chilwell to arrive as competition for Shaw.In comparison to Chilwell, Shaw managed to play just 12 Premier League games last season as he struggled with various injury issues and played 15 games overall.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSLuke Shaw and Ben Chilwell comparedManchester United are reportedly looking at a transfer for Ben Chilwell to provide competition for Luke Shaw. Here’s a look at how the two compareLuke ShawJoined Manchester United in 2014 for £30millionGames played overall: 350Goals: FourEngland caps: 32Trophies won: FA Cup, League Cup x2, Europa League, Community ShieldBen ChilwellJoined Chelsea in 2020 from Leicester for £45millionGames played overall: 271Goals: 15England caps: 21Trophies won: Champions League, Premier League, European Super CupChilwell joined Chelsea from Leicester in 2020 in a transfer worth £45million.During his time at the Blues he has won a Champions League and European Super Cup – featuring 106 times for the Blues.SunSport’s Dan King on why Luke Shaw’s return is so big for EnglandThe Mail also report that Manchester United are “very close” to signing Netherlands and Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee.United are expecting to activate the player’s release clause in the coming days. More

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      Cristiano Ronaldo releases 53-word statement after heartbreaking Euros exit as ex-Man Utd star says ‘we deserved more’

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      CRISTIANO RONALDO spoke out for the first time after Portugal’s heartbreaking exit from Euro 2024.Roberto Martinez’s side crashed out in the quarter-finals on Friday after a 5-3 loss to France on penalties following a drab 0-0 draw.Queríamos mais. Merecíamos mais. Por nós. Por cada um de vocês. Por Portugal.Somos gratos por tudo o que vocês nos deram e por tudo que conquistámos até aqui.Dentro e fora de campo, tenho certeza de que este legado será honrado e continuará a ser construído. Juntos. pic.twitter.com/C34YgfKLmg— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) July 6, 2024

      Cristiano Ronaldo spoke for the first time after Portugal’s eliminationCredit: RexManchester United legend Ronaldo insists Portugal ‘deserved more’ at Euro 2024Credit: RexRonaldo, 39, took to social media and insists the team as well as the fans “deserved more” from this year’s tournament.The Manchester United legend also paid tribute to the supporters and the way they stood by the team in Germany.And the Al-Nassr superstar hinted he will be part of the national team that will challenge for the 2026 World Cup despite his advanced age.Ronaldo posted: “We wanted more. We deserved more. For us. For each one of you. For Portugal.Read More on Football”We are grateful for everything you have given us and for everything we have achieved so far.”On and off the field, I am sure that this legacy will be honored and will continue to be built. Together.”Ronaldo failed to score a single goal during this year’s European championship.The star forward only managed to hit the back of the net during Portugal’s last two penalty shoot-outs against Slovenia and of course France.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHowever, Atletico Madrid ace Joao Felix missed from the spot in Hamburg.And Porto star Diogo Costa couldn’t replicate his penalty heroics against Slovenia this time around as France scored all of their shots.Fans convinced Cristiano Ronaldo made major mistake before penalty shootout that could have cost Portugal vs FranceOusmane Dembele, Youssouf Fofana, Jules Kounde, Bradley Barcola and Theo Hernandez were all on target.How Portugal have performed at the Euros with Cristiano RonaldoCRISTIANO RONALDO has been a model of longevity for more than two decades in an outstanding international career.Euro 2004After making his international debut in 2003, Ronaldo’s first Euros came in 2004.Ronaldo marked his Euro debut with a goal in a 2-1 defeat to Greece – his first for Portugal.He scored his second in the semi-final win over the Netherlands, but Portugal met Greece again in the final, losing 1-0 in shock result.Euro 2008Ronaldo was Portugal captain four years later but Euro 2008 was the least impactful tournament he’s had.There was still time for a standout performance, though, as Ronaldo scored once and set up two more in a group-stage win over the Czech Republic.Euro 2012Playing at Real Madrid at the time, Ronaldo was the top goalscorer at Euro 2012, with three goals, including a brace in the group stage against the Netherlands.Portugal’s quarter-final against Czech Republic was heading towards a stalemate with 10 minutes to go and they needed a special moment from him.His powerful header in the dying minutes took Portugal to the semi-finals where they lost on penalties to Spain.Euro 2016Ronaldo scored three goals in Euro 2016, with Portugal crowned CHAMPIONS after defeating France 1-0 in extra time in the final.After suffering an injury inside the opening 16 minutes against France, he was forced to watch from the sidelines.Yet the Portugal captain became a cheerleader, and helped coach his team-mates to the historic victory.He matched Michel Platini’s record of nine goals by the end of Euro 2016.Euro 2020Ronaldo made history again with FIVE goals at Euro 2020, the most of any player at a Euros.Yet it was arguably Portugal’s least exciting affair, as they exited in the Round of 16 following a 1-0 defeat to Belgium.With his goals in this tournament, Ronaldo became the top goalscorer at the European Championship with 14 goals.THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

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      Fans baffled as Jadon Sancho hangs out with Jake Paul in ‘such random link up’ at Michael Rubin’s all-white celeb party

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      FOOTIE fans were left baffled by Jadon Sancho’s bizarre rendezvous with Jake Paul at a plush American party.The Manchester United outcast is currently enjoying a well-earned holiday following his exploits with Borussia Dortmund last season.Jadon Sancho is currently enjoying a well-earned summer holidayCredit: GETTYThe 24-year-old has been living his best life in AmericaCredit: SPLASHHe was a guest at Michael Rubin’s White Party, where he rubbed shoulders with boxer Jake PaulCredit: INSTAGRAM@MICHAELRUBINSancho has opted to visit the States during his well-deserved break and managed to secure himself an invite to one of the most exclusive shindigs.The 24-year-old, somehow, managed to scoop an invitation to Michael Rubin’s famous White Party in the Hamptons.Sancho – who made sure to stick to the strict dress code – rubbed shoulders with the likes of Emily Ratajkowski, Drake and Megan Foxx.The winger posed for a snap with YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul, which left Red Devils fans stunned.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne wrote on X: “Nah this is a new low for Sancho man… hanging out with Jake Paul.”Another said: “What a randoma** link-up.”And another said: “File this under unexpected link-ups.”One remarked: “No, no, no.”Most read in FootballEngland player ratings: Saka the saviour for Three Lions but subbed Kane stuggles in penalties thriller vs SwitzerlandBUKAYO SAKA showed huge courage as he dug England out of a hole and through on penalties against Switzerland, writes Tom Barclay.The Three Lions looked to be going out when Breel Embolo had put Swiss ahead on 75 minutes.But Arsenal star Saka dragged England back into five minutes later with a stunning effort off the post.To penalties it went – just like it did between these two sides five years ago in the Nations League.And just like back then, Jordan Pickford made a save – repelling the Swiss’s first effort from Manuel Akanji.England were perfect from then on, with Cole Palmer, Jude Bellignam, Saka, Ivan Toney and finally Trent Alexander-Arnold sending the Three Lions into the semi-final.Here’s how the players rated…Jordan Pickford: 7Had his heart in his mouth when Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner deep into extra-time hit the post and bar, but then pulled off a smart stop to take it to penalties.Saved Manuel Akanji’s first spot-kick by diving low to his left.Kyle Walker: 6Spent most of the game on the right side of a three which meant he could not get forward. Embolo got in front of him for Switzerland’s opener. Won the toss so the penalties were taken in front of the England fans.John Stones: 6Crisper passing in the first half, much better than his sloppy Slovakia display, but his deflection on Dan Ndoye’s cross diverted it to Embolo.Ezri Konsa: 6Was decent in the first half of his maiden start at a major tournament but, like the rest of the team, went into his shell after the break.Kieran Trippier: 6Had been expected to play right wing-back but was once again on the left.Solid defensively but, as has been the case throughout the tournament, offered little going forward on his unnatural side.Declan Rice: 7Anticipated, and subsequently, won a number of 50-50s at the base of England’s midfield.It was his decoy run that opened up the space for Saka to find the corner, before his 25-yard wonderstrike was denied by a flying Yann Sommer save in extra-time.Kobbie Mainoo: 6Some decent drives forward from midfield. Looked as if he would fire home an opener just before the break afterBukayo Saka’s nice cutback, but was denied by Granit Xhaka’s excellent block.Bukayo Saka: 8 and STAR MANDid not play at left wing-back as expected, but was England’s most dangerous attacking player throughout – and none more so when he came to the rescue with his 80th-minute leveller which flew in off the post.Showed huge courage in the shoot-out as he stroked home his penalty beautifully, three years on from missing in the last Euros final.Jude Bellingham: 6Produced a few graceful dribbles which showcased his quality in the first half but pretty quiet.Looked knackered but showed big cojones with his low penalty.Phil Foden: 6Admitted before the game that his central role would suit him better and it seemed to in the first 20 minutes, but faded after that.Harry Kane: 4This system just does not suit him. He needs runners, but does not look like he is going to get them.Just could not get into the game and was subbed out of it in extra-time, seconds after he was sent crashing into his manager on the touchline.SUBSCole Palmer (for Konsa, 78): 7One of three players to come on in reaction to Switzerland’s opener – why did it take so long, Gareth? Dispatched England’s first spot-kick with aplomb.Luke Shaw (for Trippier, 78): 6First minutes of football since February, slotting in on the left side of back three as Southgate went for broke.Eberechi Eze (for Mainoo, 78): 6Carved out a nice bit of space for himself in the dying moments but fired wide.Ivan Toney (For Kane, 109): 7It was no surprise to see him come with the prospect of penalties on the horizon – what was more of a shock was that it was for spot-kick maestro Kane. Was knocked over in the box right at the end of extra-time, but nothing was given. Confident penalty.Trent Alexander-Arnold (for Foden, 115): 7Thrown on late into extra-time. Belted home his spot-kick to win it.Gareth Southgate: 4The adjusted back three system worked to a certain extent, but still the approach looked to be to keep it tight and rely on a moment of magic.Saka provided that for the leveller, but given the talent at his disposal, it seemed very limited.Took an age to make a change – prompted only by Switzerland going ahead. But got his subs right when it came to the penalty shoot-out.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSChelsea made two of the biggest transfers ever in January 2023Another chimed in: “I’ve seen it all now.”Sancho’s future with Manchester United is up in the air following Erik ten Hag’s signing of a new contract.Jadon Sancho belts out Adele as he leads Dortmund’s Champions League dressing room celebrations The Dutchman banished Sancho from the first-team squad after the winger hit out at him on social media.That paved the way for a loan return to Dortmund, whom he helped reach the Champions League final.Ten Hag kept a close eye on his performances for the German giants and was impressed by what he saw.After Dortmund’s semi-final first-leg win over Paris Saint-Germain, he said: “So let’s say this: yesterday he played very good and he’s a very good player.”Yesterday he showed why Manchester United bought him and he showed he represents a high value for Manchester United. Which is good.”I’m happy for Jadon, for the performance yesterday and we’ll see what is going to happen in the future.” More

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      Premier League’s hottest Wag goes braless in black leather top as fans envy ‘lucky’ Man Utd star

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      MANCHESTER UNITED star Victor Lindelof was subbed a “lucky” man for his wife’s latest Instagram snaps. Lindelof has been married to social media influencer Maja since 2018. Victor Lindelof’s wife Maja poses in a black outfitShe had fans gushing over her braless lookMaja is a social media starThe model has gained a name for herself with over 250,000 Instagram followers. She shares her extravagant life as a Wag, travelling the world. In her latest post, Maja poses braless in a black dress as fans rushed to her comment section. One said: “Lucky Lindelof.”READ MORE IN football Another added: “Magic in the earrings.”Maja had been enjoying her time on holiday with Lindelof. They vacationed on the Greek island of Mykonos as Maja revealed pictures from their dinner date. The couple have welcomed two children together since tying the knot in 2018.Most read in FootballTheir Mykonos trip follows a getaway to Portugal last month, where Maja also dazzled in another flowing red dress.Lindelof is currently enjoying pre-season after signing a new deal with United through to 2025 back in January.Maja often shares her extravagant life as a WagCredit: instagram @majanilssonlindelofHere she is posing with husband LindeloofCredit: instagram @majanilssonlindelofShe has over 250,000 Instagram followersCredit: Instagram @majanilssonlindelofMaja had been enjoying her time on holiday with LindelofCredit: Instagram @majanilssonlindelofHere she is on a beach dayCredit: Instagram @majanilssonlindelofMeet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024 More