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THOMAS TUCHEL is in the frame for the England job after the Three Lions came crashing out of the World Cup.Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range strike saw the French take the lead but Harry Kane netted from the spot to level the score.
However, Olivier Giroud netted to put France ahead towards the end of the game and they have since returned home.
Gareth Southgate is set to consider his future, with two years left remaining on his contract.
Elsewhere, a new ball has been unveiled ahead of the semi-finals as Morocco shocked the world to make the next round.
They join Argentina and Croatia, who both progressed, and will face France.
Keep up to date with all of the action from our live match blogs ahead of the semi-finals:

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Most read in Football
USA’s Reyna upset team-mates
The majority of the USA squad were unhappy with the efforts of their midfielder Gio Reyna at the World Cup.
The Borussia Dortmund star, 20, was a peripheral figure in Qatar, and American boss Greg Berhalter revealed: “We had a player that was clearly not meeting expectations on and off the field.
“[It was] one of 26 players – so it stood out.”
ETH: Rashford can emulate Mbappe
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag believes their striker Marcus Rashford can reach the same level as Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe.
Ahead of Rashford and England’s World Cup quarter-final defeat to Mbappe and France, Ten Hag drew parallels between the two pacy forwards.
He said: “I believe when Marcus’s positioning is on the back of the defending line, there is almost no better player in the world.
“There is Mbappe in this moment, a type like him.
“But when he (Rashford)’s getting in that position, he’s great and you see he’s really improved also out of possession.”
Morocco’s Bounou believes in miracles
Morocco keeper Yassine Bounou says their run to the World Cup semi-finals proves that “miracles” can happen.
The Atlas Lions face holders France on Wednesday with a chance to progress to a final against either Argentina or Croatia.
Sevilla star Bounou, 31, has been key to their success, and said: “I am in the same state as every fan of this team – I keep thinking, ‘pinch me, I’m dreaming’.
“To get this far, we have had to change mentalities, get rid of this feeling of inferiority.
“We are able to face anyone, regardless of the level of the competition.
“Future generations will know that Morocco can perform miracles.”
Four Gunners available after Qatar
A number of Arsenal’s World Cup stars are available for them again after national team duty in Qatar.
Swiss star Granit Xhaka, England’s Ben White, Ghana’s Thomas Partey and American Matt Turner have rejoined the squad ahead of a Dubai Super Cup friendly against AC Milan tomorrow.
Ready for Martinez vs Varane?
The World Cup final could well see two Manchester United team-mates go head-t-head.
Argentina centre-half Lisandro Martínez will be hoping to shut out Croatia in one semi-final in Qatar.
And France defender Raphael Varane will be hoping to shackle Morocco in the other last-four tie.
However it goes down in Sunday’s final, Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag will want them both back fit and focused for a Prem visit from Nottingham Forest on December 27.
Does Saka really need rest?
England’s exit from the World Cup means Bukayo Saka will be heading back to Arsenal for club duty now.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta may well give his 21-year-old winger a rest – but does he really need it?
The guys on the Arsecast Extra podcast discussed this very issue in their latest episode, and it seems to be a point of debate.
A promo for the show says: “We had an interesting question on the Arsecast Extra yesterday about the return of World Cup players.
“[It was pointed] out that in the same time period last season, Saka played more minutes for Arsenal than he did for England in Qatar. Is there really any need for rest?”
Last Gunner standing in Qatar
The only Arsenal player still in with a chance of winning the World Cup is… William Saliba.
Four Gunners – England duo Aaron Ramsdale and Bukayo Saka, Brazil’s Gabriel Martinelli, and France’s Saliba – were called up for Qatar.
Now it is only the 21-year centre-half, who is having a breakthrough season at the Emirates, in with a chance of becoming a world champion as the tournament enters the last-four stage.
Holders France face Morocco on Wednesday for the right to meet either Argentina or Croatia in Sunday’s final.
Ferdinand critical of Southgate substitutions
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand felt England boss Gareth Southgate got his substitutions wrong in their World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
All four of the Three Lions’ changes came after Oliver Giroud had put the French 2-1 up and Manchester City’s mercurial Jack Grealish only got two minutes of injury-time to make an impact.
Ferdinand, 44, who won 81 caps for England, said on his Vibe with Five podcast: “Our substitutions is where I think Gareth Southgate let us down.
“I think he’s been pitch-perfect, touch-perfect in almost every decision he’s made up to this point.
“But you get into a game like yesterday where this is really where it matters now, and I think Gareth Southgate came up short in the tactical element in terms of substitutions.”
Referee Lahoz’s World Cup exit
Spanish referee Mateu Lahoz has been sent home from the World Cup after his display in the fiery last-eight clash between Argentina and Holland, according to Cope.
Dutch right-back Denzel Dumfries was sent off and 15 players were booked during the chaotic clash at the Lusail Iconic Stadium.
USA’s Reyna upset team-mates
The majority of the USA squad were unhappy with the efforts of their midfielder Gio Reyna at the World Cup.
The Borussia Dortmund star, 20, was a peripheral figure in Qatar, and American boss Greg Berhalter revealed: “We had a player that was clearly not meeting expectations on and off the field.
“[It was] one of 26 players – so it stood out.”
Gunners tracking Chelsea star Pulisic
Arsenal are one of a number of clubs interested in Chelsea forward Christian Pulisic, according to the Mirror.
The 24-year-old United States play-making forward caught the eye with his displays at the World Cup and bagged a crucial winner over Iran to help them progress to the knock-out stages.
Juventus keen on Chelsea’s Mount
Juventus are lining up a surprise swoop for Chelsea star Mason Mount, according to CalcioMercatoWeb.
The midfielder, 23, is coming into the final 18 months of his Blues deal and was on show with England at this winter’s World Cup in Qatar.
Apparently, the Old Lady are prepared to sell Weston McKennie and Adrien Rabiot and return on-loan Leandro Paredes to Paris Saint-Germain to fund a move to bring Mount to Serie A.
Rashford set for deal extension
Manchester United are set to trigger a one-year contract extension for England World Cup star Marcus Rashford.
The Red Devils forward justified his selection for Qatar with three goals in five games and is said to be attracting interest from French giants Paris Saint-Germain.
Now United boss Erik ten Hag has confirmed they are ready to exercise their option to extend his deal at Old Trafford.
Five potential Southgate successors
Will he stay or will he go now? Gareth Southgate is said to be considering his future as England boss and SunSport have come up with five potential successors.
Former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is said to be interested if approached. The German is still a free agent after being sacked by the Blues in September.
Fellow former Chelsea manager Frank Lampard is another option. He has not pulled up any trees as Everton gaffer but he never let the Three Lions down as a free-scoring midfielder.
Newcastle chief Eddie Howe has taken them from relegation battlers to Champions League hopefuls, albeit with a very decent transfer kitty. And with Toon stars like Callum Wilson coming into the England reckoning, Howe could fit the bill.
Steve Cooper has done a terrific job in brining giants Nottingham Forest back to the top flight after a painful 23-year absence so he knows how to handle the pressure and expectation which would come with the England job.
And finally, free agent Mauricio Pochettino could do it. He performed heroics at both Southampton and Spurs as – as a former PSG boss – he will have the inside track on Kylian Mbappe if the Three Lions ever come up against France again!
Good morning footy fans!
England’s stars and staff have touched back down on home turf following Saturday night’s heartbreaking World Cup exit.
The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium.
Les Bleus controversially opened the scoring with Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range stunner and Harry Kane levelled things up from the penalty spot before Olivier Giroud extended his scoring record with 53 goals.
England’s heroic captain had the chance to equalise once more with another spot-kick but he sadly missed the target.
That meant that our boys were on the next plane home – but not before they showed their class off the pitch this morning.
England showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar.
Gareth Southgate claims England went “so close” to glory in Qatar and are now consistently “feeding at the top table of world football”.
Southgate told England’s YouTube channel: “Ultimately we’ve fallen short, I can’t get away from that.
“But we’re feeding at the top table of European and world football consistently now.
“If we’re in that place with the depth of squad that we’ve got, then that’s exciting and important for England.
“It’s a difficult time for everybody. We’re really aware of that. I think the players have represented them in the right way, played in the right way.”
Olivier Giroud was reportedly seconds from being subbed when he broke England’s hearts.
The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium last night.
Get French Football News stated: “Didier Deschamps had decided to take Olivier Giroud off for Marcus Thuram before France’s all-time scorer netted – just 1 more stoppage in play & he would have been off. Fine margins indeed.”
Kylian Mbappe has hailed “GOAT” Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford – after initially irking England fans.
The France striker celebrated with a huge mocking laugh when Three Lions’ skipper Harry Kane missed a late match-saving penalty in the World Cup quarter-final.
But he responded positively after icon Ronaldo and England sub Rashford posted touching messages following their weekend exits from Qatar.
Manchester United discard Ron, 37, hinted he is considering his international future after appearing to accept his greatest remaining dream – Portugal winning the World Cup – is now over.
Mbappe replied to the social media post with a GOAL emoji.
And when Rashford posted to say England had given everything, Mbappe sent a heart emoji.
Tuchel wants England job
Thomas Tuchel wants the England job — if  Gareth Southgate decides to walk away.
The former Chelsea chief is back in Germany after being sacked by the Blues in September.
But Tuchel, 49, would love to make a swift return to England as boss of the Three Lions.
He has seen first-hand all the young talent at the country’s disposal, both at Stamford Bridge and in opposition teams.
Chelsea stars Mason Mount, Reece James, Conor Gallagher, Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell have all been part of the current set-up.
The FA is desperate for Southgate to stay on despite Saturday’s 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
Giroud ‘seconds from being subbed’ before goal
Olivier Giroud was reportedly seconds from being subbed when he broke England’s hearts.
The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium last night.
Get French Football News stated: “Didier Deschamps had decided to take Olivier Giroud off for Marcus Thuram before France’s all-time scorer netted – just 1 more stoppage in play & he would have been off. Fine margins indeed.”
‘We were so close’ says Southgate
Gareth Southgate claims England went “so close” to glory in Qatar and are now consistently “feeding at the top table of world football”.
Southgate told England’s YouTube channel: “Ultimately we’ve fallen short, I can’t get away from that.
“But we’re feeding at the top table of European and world football consistently now.
“If we’re in that place with the depth of squad that we’ve got, then that’s exciting and important for England. 
“It’s a difficult time for everybody. We’re really aware of that. I think the players have represented them in the right way, played in the right way.”
England arrive home
England’s stars and staff have touched back down on home turf following last night’s heartbreaking World Cup exit.
The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium.

Les Bleus controversially opened the scoring with Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range stunner and Harry Kane levelled things up from the penalty spot before Olivier Giroud extended his scoring record with 53 goals.
England’s heroic captain had the chance to equalise once more with another spot-kick but he sadly missed the target.
That meant that our boys were on the next plane home – but not before they showed their class off the pitch this morning.
England showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar.
Mbappe hails Ronaldo
Kylian Mbappe has hailed “GOAT” Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford – after initially irking England fans.
The France striker celebrated with a huge mocking laugh when Three Lions’ skipper Harry Kane missed a late match-saving penalty in the World Cup quarter-final.
But he responded positively after icon Ronaldo and England sub Rashford posted touching messages following their weekend exits from Qatar.
Manchester United discard Ron, 37, hinted he is considering his international future after appearing to accept his greatest remaining dream – Portugal winning the World Cup – is now over.
Mbappe replied to the social media post with a GOAL emoji.
And when Rashford posted to say England had given everything, Mbappe sent a heart emoji.
New ball, please
FIFA have revealed their new World Cup ball for the semis and finals.
The “Al Hilm” ball – which translates to “The Dream” in Arabic – replaces Al Rihla – “The Journey”.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina, who beat Netherland’s, face Croatia on Tuesday night.
A day later, reigning champions France face Morocco following their dramatic win over England.
Saka’s breaks silence
Bukayo Saka has broken his silence after England’s World Cup exit with a touching social media post thanking the “special” squad, Gareth Southgate and supporters.
He wrote: “I can’t explain how I feel today, but we gave everything out there and we really wish we could have brought it home for you all this time.
“I just wanted to say a genuine thank you to our fans, you’ve all been amazing both at the games and at home this tournament and we felt it.
“This group are really special and talented, so although we are disappointed now, I am really excited for our future. Thank you to my @England family – my team mates, Gareth, the coaching and all the backroom staff for all their hard work and dedication to help us get this far.
“We will build from this and with your support we will keep improving and making progress together. See you all soon.”
Fury supports England’s heroes
Tyson Fury sent out a message of support to the heartbroken England squad after their World Cup KO.
He tweeted: “Hold your heads up lions. We Go Again @EnglandFootball.
“Support Our Team. Support Our Boys. Support Our Team. In Victory and In Defeat.”
Generous England
Caring England stars showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar following an agonising World Cup exit.
The Three Lions departed as classily off the pitch as they had on it with their unlucky 2-1 quarter-final loss to France.

England players handed out signed shirts and hugged workers, who in turn said Gareth Southgate’s 25-man squad had “made them feel like princes” and became “like family”.
Midfield sensation Jude Bellingham urged fans to “stick with us” as he went over to chat outside the hotel and sign autographs.
Dave the Cat heading to UK
It wasn’t all doom and gloom for England after their heartbreaking World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
The Three Lions’ unofficial tournament mascot, Dave the cat, began his journey to the UK as Gareth Southgate’s squad also headed for home.

Dave became the squad’s mascot after joining England stars at meal times during their stay in Qatar.
John Stones and Kyle Walker pledged to adopt their furry friend if England won the World Cup.
But, despite crashing out 2-1 to France on Saturday, Dave is still heading to the UK to be rehomed.
He was seen being loaded into a crate to begin his journey shortly after Jack Grealish, Harry Maguire and Co left their Souq Al Wakrah hotel today.
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ENGLAND are OUT of the World Cup and have returned home after their defeat to France.Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range strike saw the French take the lead but Harry Kane netted from the spot to level the score.
However, Olivier Giroud netted to put France ahead towards the end of the game.
But Harry Kane missed a penalty late on as the Three Lions went crashing out.
Elsewhere, a new ball has been unveiled ahead of the semi-finals as Morocco shocked the world to make the next round.
They join Argentina and Croatia, who both progressed, and will face France.
Keep up to date with all of the action from our live match blogs ahead of the semi-finals:

World Cup 2022 sign up offer: Get £40 in FREE BETS when you stake £10 at Sky Bet
Stay tuned with all the latest from the tournament…
Most read in Football
Tuchel wants England job
Thomas Tuchel wants the England job — if  Gareth Southgate decides to walk away.
The former Chelsea chief is back in Germany after being sacked by the Blues in September.
But Tuchel, 49, would love to make a swift return to England as boss of the Three Lions.
He has seen first-hand all the young talent at the country’s disposal, both at Stamford Bridge and in opposition teams.
Chelsea stars Mason Mount, Reece James, Conor Gallagher, Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell have all been part of the current set-up.
The FA is desperate for Southgate to stay on despite Saturday’s 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
Giroud ‘seconds from being subbed’ before goal
Olivier Giroud was reportedly seconds from being subbed when he broke England’s hearts.
The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium last night.
Get French Football News stated: “Didier Deschamps had decided to take Olivier Giroud off for Marcus Thuram before France’s all-time scorer netted – just 1 more stoppage in play & he would have been off. Fine margins indeed.”
‘We were so close’ says Southgate
Gareth Southgate claims England went “so close” to glory in Qatar and are now consistently “feeding at the top table of world football”.
Southgate told England’s YouTube channel: “Ultimately we’ve fallen short, I can’t get away from that.
“But we’re feeding at the top table of European and world football consistently now.
“If we’re in that place with the depth of squad that we’ve got, then that’s exciting and important for England. 
“It’s a difficult time for everybody. We’re really aware of that. I think the players have represented them in the right way, played in the right way.”
England arrive home
England’s stars and staff have touched back down on home turf following last night’s heartbreaking World Cup exit.
The Three Lions suffered a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals at the Al Bayt Stadium.

Les Bleus controversially opened the scoring with Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range stunner and Harry Kane levelled things up from the penalty spot before Olivier Giroud extended his scoring record with 53 goals.
England’s heroic captain had the chance to equalise once more with another spot-kick but he sadly missed the target.
That meant that our boys were on the next plane home – but not before they showed their class off the pitch this morning.
England showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar.
Mbappe hails Ronaldo
Kylian Mbappe has hailed “GOAT” Cristiano Ronaldo and Marcus Rashford – after initially irking England fans.
The France striker celebrated with a huge mocking laugh when Three Lions’ skipper Harry Kane missed a late match-saving penalty in the World Cup quarter-final.
But he responded positively after icon Ronaldo and England sub Rashford posted touching messages following their weekend exits from Qatar.
Manchester United discard Ron, 37, hinted he is considering his international future after appearing to accept his greatest remaining dream – Portugal winning the World Cup – is now over.
Mbappe replied to the social media post with a GOAL emoji.
And when Rashford posted to say England had given everything, Mbappe sent a heart emoji.
New ball, please
FIFA have revealed their new World Cup ball for the semis and finals.
The “Al Hilm” ball – which translates to “The Dream” in Arabic – replaces Al Rihla – “The Journey”.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina, who beat Netherland’s, face Croatia on Tuesday night.
A day later, reigning champions France face Morocco following their dramatic win over England.
Saka’s breaks silence
Bukayo Saka has broken his silence after England’s World Cup exit with a touching social media post thanking the “special” squad, Gareth Southgate and supporters.
He wrote: “I can’t explain how I feel today, but we gave everything out there and we really wish we could have brought it home for you all this time.
“I just wanted to say a genuine thank you to our fans, you’ve all been amazing both at the games and at home this tournament and we felt it.
“This group are really special and talented, so although we are disappointed now, I am really excited for our future. Thank you to my @England family – my team mates, Gareth, the coaching and all the backroom staff for all their hard work and dedication to help us get this far.
“We will build from this and with your support we will keep improving and making progress together. See you all soon.”
Fury supports England’s heroes
Tyson Fury sent out a message of support to the heartbroken England squad after their World Cup KO.
He tweeted: “Hold your heads up lions. We Go Again @EnglandFootball.
“Support Our Team. Support Our Boys. Support Our Team. In Victory and In Defeat.”
Generous England
Caring England stars showered hotel staff with gifts as they left to fly home from Qatar following an agonising World Cup exit.
The Three Lions departed as classily off the pitch as they had on it with their unlucky 2-1 quarter-final loss to France.

England players handed out signed shirts and hugged workers, who in turn said Gareth Southgate’s 25-man squad had “made them feel like princes” and became “like family”.
Midfield sensation Jude Bellingham urged fans to “stick with us” as he went over to chat outside the hotel and sign autographs.
Dave the Cat heading to UK
It wasn’t all doom and gloom for England after their heartbreaking World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
The Three Lions’ unofficial tournament mascot, Dave the cat, began his journey to the UK as Gareth Southgate’s squad also headed for home.

Dave became the squad’s mascot after joining England stars at meal times during their stay in Qatar.
John Stones and Kyle Walker pledged to adopt their furry friend if England won the World Cup.
But, despite crashing out 2-1 to France on Saturday, Dave is still heading to the UK to be rehomed.
He was seen being loaded into a crate to begin his journey shortly after Jack Grealish, Harry Maguire and Co left their Souq Al Wakrah hotel today.
Potter & Howe tipped for England
Graham Potter and Eddie Howe are among the favourites to be appointed England’s next manager, with Thomas Tuchel and Steven Gerrard also in the mix.
That’s according to bookmakers Betfair, who’ve installed the pair as frontrunners to succeed Gareth Southgate.
Many have described Chelsea’s Potter as the obvious long-term successor to Southgate and he’s available at 7/2 to secure the position.
Newcastle chief Eddie Howe is fractionally behind in the betting market at 4/1 to swap St James’ Park for St George’s Park.
Pochettino, who revealed he was open to managing a national side, is further behind at 5s.
Steve Cooper is 6/1, ahead of Thomas Tuchel (10/1), Frank Lampard (11/1) and Steven Gerrard (14/1).
England next manager
Betfair odds

Graham Potter – 7/2
Eddie Howe – 4/1
Mauricio Pochettino – 5/1
Steve Cooper – 6/1
Thomas Tuchel – 10/1
Frank Lampard – 11/1
Steven Gerrard – 14/1
Arsene Wenger – 16/1
Brendan Rodgers – 16/1
Sarina Wiegman – 16/1
Wayne Rooney – 20/1
Dean Smith – 25/1

Morgan backs Southgate
Piers Morgan has led the calls from players and pundits for Gareth Southgate to stay as England boss.
He tweeted: “Lots of debate over whether Gareth Southgate should continue as England manager. My criteria is this: could anyone else have done better with this (very good) squad of players?
“I don’t think so, and I like the way his team plays & behaves under him. So, I say: carry on Gareth.”
Lloris backs Kane
Hugo Lloris insists Harry Kane has the strength of character to bounce back from his World Cup penalty agony.
The veteran keeper said: “There were a lot of emotions out there because we were in the middle of a battle and at the end we were all very happy.
“But on a personal level, I am also saddened because Harry is a team-mate, a man whom I respect enormously and someone who took responsibility in a crucial moment of the game. 
“It was a turning point of the match and I can only share this moment of pain with him.
“But I know that Harry is strong and that this hurt will pass for him.”
England crashed out despite winning tactical battle
England have crashed out of the World Cup yet again in devastating fashion, losing to reigning champions France.
Harry Kane will go to bed with nightmares of his late penalty miss after previously converting which would have put the game level once more.
Gareth Southgate’s side were defeated 2-1 but for much of the match England were the better team – so what went wrong?
Many were critical of England and Southgate or struggling to come out on top in big games, especially on the grandest stage at the World Cup.
Defeat to Les Blues didn’t help to silence critics and now supporters are further divided over the future of the Three Lions manager.
England were unfortunate not to progress into the semi-finals, but tournament football can be cruel and takes no prisoners.
SunSport takes you through the three key tactical details where this quarter-final was won and lost between the two European titans – and one player who made the difference.
Ronaldo breaks silence after World Cup exit
Cristiano Ronaldo posted an emotional statement after his “biggest and most ambitious dream” of winning a World Cup ended.
Ronaldo, who is currently a free agent after being sacked by Manchester United, will be 42 by the time the next World Cup kicks off.
It is unknown whether he will play on until then.
Ron wrote on Instagram this afternoon: “Winning a World Cup for Portugal was the biggest and most ambitious dream of my career. 

“Fortunately, I won many titles of international dimension, including for Portugal, but putting the name of our country on the highest level in the world was my biggest dream.
“I fought for it. I fought hard for this dream. In the 5 appearances that I scored in World Cups over 16 years, always alongside great players and supported by millions of Portuguese people, I gave my all. 
“I left everything on the field. I never turned my face to the fight and I never gave up on that dream.
“Unfortunately, yesterday the dream ended. It is not worth reacting to heat.”
‘Thank you for the unconditional support’, says Rashford
Rashford wrote on Twitter: “The last few weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, each and every one of our team gave everything we had to be ready for what was thrown at us, we got close, but not close enough.
“I’ll make a promise that we will come again!
“Thank you for the unconditional support.”
Rashford has enjoyed a resurgence this season for the Red Devils after a difficult last campaign.
The forward carried that form with him into the World Cup, although the 3-0 win over Wales in the final group game was his only start of the tournament.
Rashford vows to come back stronger
Marcus Rashford has vowed England “will come again” after last night’s World Cup heartbreak.
The Manchester United ace came off the bench as the Three Lions went down 2-1 to reigning champions France in the quarter-finals.
Rashford replaced Phil Foden for the final five minutes, and came close to scoring a stunning equaliser with a free-kick that skimmed the roof of the net in stoppage time.
The 25-year-old was superb in Qatar, and was the Three Lions’ joint top scorer with Bukayo Saka on three goals.
Taking to social media the morning after the defeat, Rashford thanked fans for their support and vowed that England will return better than ever.

Pickford and Trippier protect Kane
Jordan Pickford ushered away a camera operator as they tried to film Harry Kane’s penalty agony.
The England captain missed a late spot-kick to equalise in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against France.

It saw the defending champs cling on for a 2-1 win, setting up a semi-final against Morocco.
And devastated England players, including Kane, were overcome with emotion at the final whistle.
One camera operator decided to get a close-up of skipper Kane, who scored a penalty earlier on, as he leaned on his haunches with his head in his hands.
But teammate Pickford was having none of it as he and Kieran Trippier blocked the view.
Rice reveals Southgate’s post-game team talk
Rice, 23, who has 39 caps, delivered a strong midfield performance against France after a difficult start.
Asked about what Southgate said to the players afterwards, he said: “He was so proud of us as a group because of how we’ve been, how we’ve applied ourselves to the last month and what we’ve given in training sessions. Some of the lads that haven’t even had a minute, every day around the group.
“Against France, he got everything spot on again. It’s not on him. It’s not on him at all – the tactics were right, we played the right way.
“I think you can see on my face right now that I’m distraught because we really believed this year that it could be a year.”
England fans gutted but still ‘proud’
Devastated England fans last night drowned their sorrows after the Three Lions lost a nail-biting World Cup quarter-final 2-1 to France.
England battled hard in the second half but heartbroken Harry Kane hit his second penalty of the night over the bar – and with it missed a golden late chance to draw the Three Lions level again.

John Andrews, 39, who watched in Bristol, said: “We didn’t deserve to lose and should have had a penalty in the first half. 
“I couldn’t believe some of the decisions the ref gave. I’m gutted.” 
Gemma Wilson, 32, from Bristol, said: “I really thought Rashford’s free-kick was in. 
“We deserved to get more out of the game. France were lucky. I’m so proud of the team.”
Arts practitioner Andrew Walker, 26,  who watched in Newcastle, said: “I’m proud of the team. I think the penalty that Harry Kane missed was just down to pressure.
“Losing to France is no disgrace, they are the World Champions at the end of the day.”
Saka’s top performance
Notoriously tough-scoring French newspaper L’Equipe gave Bukayo Saka a higher match rating than Kylian Mbappe in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final.
England winger Saka was superb throughout the 2-1 defeat – and scored a seven out of ten from L’Equipe.

Mbappe on the other hand was given a five, with right-back Kyle Walker doing well to keep the shackles on the France dangerman.
But, despite Saka’s score, he wasn’t Player of the Match in the eyes of the French newspaper.
Instead that honour went to France goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.
The captain was given an eight out of ten, higher than anyone else on the pitch.
‘Negativity’ will go away once we win something, says Rice
Rice added: “We weren’t overly-confident over here but we were confident enough that we really could win this tournament and that is not the mentality England have had over the years.
“I think we’ve handled it so well, if you look at the squad we are so young, but we’ve got so many top players.
“We’ve got to a semi-final, Euros final, obviously crashed out here at a quarter-final but in my opinion the better team lost and that shows how far we have come.
“I think sometimes the negativity surrounding us will go away once we have won something again.
“I think there will always be that pressure on us but I feel like it’s starting to sway that way that we’re getting back to a level where people are believing in us and the country is backing us.
“A few years ago, it wasn’t like that. So we can be really proud of ourselves as a group. But we need to go again because ultimately, international football is based on what you win, we haven’t won for years so that is what we want to try and do.”
Rice wants Southgate reign to continue
Declan Rice reckons the “negativity” surrounding England will only disappear once the Three Lions actually win something.
Yet with the next major tournament in Germany just 19 months away, the West Ham midfielder is desperate for Gareth Southgate to stay as manager.
England’s next game is on March 23 2023 and a trip to Naples to face Italy in a Euro2024 qualifier.
Rice said: “We’ve come so far. I think that’s credit to the manager, the spirit that he’s brought to this team and togetherness that we’ve got. Personally, I hope he stays.
“There’s a lot of talk around the manager. I think he’s been brilliant for us. I think there’s a lot of criticism that’s not deserved. I think he’s taken us so, so far. Further than what people expected.
“I really hope he stays because of the core group that we’ve got and what he’s made for us. It’s so special to be a part of, I love playing under him and I love playing for England.

‘Justice’ was served, says Rabiot
France midfielder Adrien Rabiot has bizarrely claimed “justice” was served when Harry Kane missed his second penalty.
The world champions saw off Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions with a 2-1 victory in the World Cup quarter-finals.
With six minutes left on the clock, England were handed the chance to draw level, again from the penalty spot.
Theo Hernandez went through the back of Mason Mount but it took for VAR to intervene for the spot-kick to be awarded.
This time, Kane made a mess of his effort and sent his shot flying over the crossbar.
Such an outcome was “justice”, according to France ace Rabiot, who says “hundreds of actions” similar aren’t awarded.
The Juventus man said: “First of all, I’m not sure that it’s really a foul.
“We’ve seen hundreds of actions like that that aren’t given.
“Of course, when he’s missed, we were happy, it was justice because there was no penalty.”
Lineker claims England’s time will come
England legend Gary Lineker is convinced this current generation of young stars will lead the nation to glory.
He tweeted his support of the Three Lions stars.
The former striker wrote: “Heartbreaking once again, but no shame in losing to an excellent French team and congratulations to them.
“There was so little to choose between the two sides. This fine young @England team gave their all and will only get better.
“Their time will come.”
Their time will come.Gary Lineker
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ENGLAND are OUT of the World Cup after suffering defeat to France.Aurelien Tchouameni’s long-range strike saw the French take the lead but Harry Kane netted from the spot to level the score.
However, Olivier Giroud netted to put France ahead towards the end of the game.
And Harry Kane has missed a penalty late on as the Three Lions came crashing out.
Elsewhere, Morocco continued their fine form in the tournament, shocking Portugal in the quarter-final to secure their place in the last-4.
They join Argentina and Croatia, who both progressed, but will face the winner of England vs France.
Keep up to date with all of the action from our live match blogs:

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Pickford protects Kane
Jordan Pickford ushered away a camera operator as they tried to film Harry Kane’s penalty agony.
The England captain missed a late spot-kick to equalise in Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final against France.

It saw the defending champs cling on for a 2-1 win, setting up a semi-final against Morocco.
And devastated England players, including Kane, were overcome with emotion at the final whistle.
One camera operator decided to get a close-up of skipper Kane, who scored a penalty earlier on, as he leaned on his haunches with his head in his hands.
But teammate Pickford was having none of it.
Kane fights back tears
Harry Kane had to fight back the tears after England crashed out of the World Cup against France.
Gareth Southgate’s side were defeated 2-1 as Les Bleus clinched their place in the semi-final.

Captain Kane blew a late opportunity to draw England level and send the game to extra-time when he blazed a spot-kick over the bar.
That was after he had scored an earlier penalty to equal Wayne Rooney’s record as the country’s all-time top scorer.
And after the whistle he slumped to the turf in a crouched position and brought a hand over his face as he struggled to get to grips with England’s exit.
A number of his heartbroken colleagues raced over to him while manager Southgate, who famously missed a penalty at Euro ‘96, also gave him a hug and offered some words to his talisman.
England are out
It’s all over.
Our World Cup dream is over, as we lose to France 2-1.
Things didn’t go our way, and Kane’s missed penalty sadly made the difference in the end.
Noooo!
After VAR rightly gave England a penalty for a shove on Mason Mount, Harry Kane has missed it.
The Spurs man blazed over the bar in a dramatic fashion – putting his hands to face.
The French celebrated. Let’s keep going.
Giroud to the double
Olivier Giroud puts France 2-1 up with a bullet header.
It was a sublime cross from Antione Griezmann and the former Arsenal striker has buried it, via a deflection off Harry Maguire.
We have it all to do.
We’re level
Harry Kane from the penalty spot – and we’re all square.
Saka went on a mazy run and was brought down in the box. Clear as day.
After a bit of gamesmanship, Kane fired home.
Game on!
Big 45 now
England have 45 minutes to stay in the World Cup.
The Three Lions have played well – but trail by a goal to nil.
Come on England!
Penalty shout
England fans were left fuming after Harry Kane was denied a penalty against France.
The controversial incident occurred around 10 minutes after the defending World Cup champs took the lead through Aurelien Tchouameni.

France lead
Aurélien Tchouaméni has fired France ahead from 30-yards.
England complain of a foul the other end on Saka, but France progressed with the ball before the young Real Madrid midfielder fired him.
All to do now for the Three Lions.
Santos set for axe
Portugal manager Fernando Santos’s future is up in the air.
Fabrizio Romano has reported he said: “Tomorrow I will fly to Lisbon and we will discuss with the president about my future, as always”.
Expectation is that Santos will be sacked.
Flat ball
England’s World Cup quarter-final against France had to be halted after a matter of moments… due to a flat ball.
Players almost immediately complained of a flat ball, causing officials to provide a new one with not even a minute played.
England centre-half Harry Maguire was the one to knock the ball out of play to request a new one.
The game resumed and the focus was back on the last eight match, with a place in the semis against Morocco awaiting the winner.
Ronaldo’s pitch invader
Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup journey almost ended with him being apprehended by a pitch invader.
The teary striker saw Portugal crash out of Qatar 2022 with a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Morocco.

Ronnie, 37, was dropped for the second straight game by boss Fernando Santos.
And he was unable to make an impact when he came off the bench as Morocco became the first-ever African side to reach the World Cup semis.
Ronaldo, who also had WATER thrown at him by a spectator, couldn’t believe his Middle Eastern journey was at an end.
He proceeded to blubber as he stormed off down the tunnel at the final whistle.
England’s Wags ready
England Wags Sasha Attwood, Megan Davison and Anouska Santos looked game-ready as they kitted themselves out in England shirts.
They all posed for the camera and looked positive ahead of the crunch quarter-final clash against France.

England team named
England remain unchanged for their World Cup quarter-final against reigning champions France.
Gareth Southgate has kept Bukayo Saka – his joint tournament top scorer – alongside Phil Foden on the flanks.

They are either side of skipper Harry Kane, who got off the mark in England’s 3-0 last 16 win against Senegal.
Ronaldo’s tears
Cristiano Ronaldo broke down in tears as Portugal were dumped out of the World Cup by Morocco following a shock win.
The axed Manchester United star came off the bench in the second half having been left out for the second game in a row.

But Ronaldo was unable to inspire his side back to level terms as Youssef En-Nesyri’s 42 minute opener settled the side.
For Morocco, they made history as the first African side to reach a World Cup semi-final.
But for Ronaldo, it was heartbreak as he failed in what he warned would be his final crack at football’s greatest prize.
The legendary forward, 37, squandered a late chance in added time but his right-footed effort was drilled low into keeper Yassine Bounou’s hands.
De Jong slams Fernandes
Nigel De Jong hit out at Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes for going to ground too easily.
De Jong, a Premier League winner with City, took aim at Fernandes for his repeated offences of hitting the deck.
He said on ITV: “You could see who was at the end of it and who is laying on the floor again. We all see back in UK watching the Premier League.
“Fernandes has a feeling of going to the ground in circumstances and situations like this.
“It was not enough to give it as a penalty especially in the moment of the game like that.
“The referee made a good call and the VAR made a great call.”
Full-time
Morocco are through to the semi-final of the World Cup after defeating Portugal 1-0.
They are the first African nation to reach the semi-final of the competition.
Cristiano Ronaldo leaves the pitch in tears.
Who would’ve thought it?
Saiss injury woe
The Morocco and Portugal game saw Romain Saiss stretchered off after picking up an injury.
The former Wolves man was in tears as he saw his World Cup quarter-final come to an end.

Saiss’ injury adds to a growing list of Morocco defender stars who are sidelined.
He will join West Ham defender Nayef Aguerd crocked on the North African nations injury list.
Poker face
France’s stars have been practising their poker faces ahead of tonight’s quarter-final clash against England.
Didier Deschamps’ side are reported to have been enjoying playing poker at their World Cup base in Qatar.
A group of France’s more experienced heads have gathered every night to play cards, according to L’Equipe.
Olivier Giroud, Raphael Varane, Hugo Lloris and Antoine Griezmann are alleged to have grown close with while still enjoying “fierce competition” with each other.
But the reigning champions aren’t just sitting around playing poker as they prepare to take on England.
Les Bleus have been hard at work on the training pitch, and have also spent time extensively studying tapes of the Three Lions.
Half-Time: Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
Morocco lead at the break!
It was a goal that the Diogo Costa will not want to see again.
He came out to claim Attiyatt Allah’s looping cross from the left but was beaten to the ball by a magnificent leap from En Nesyri who headed into the unguarded goal.

Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
It’s still 0-0 with 33 minutes gone at the Al Thumama Stadium.
Here’s our reporter Tom Chambers with the update from SunSport’s live blog:
Portugal seem to have taken a leaf out of the Netherlands’ book yesterday and are just pumping the ball up to the big man up front.
Seems a bit early to resort to those tactics – not that the Moroccan defenders have minded too much.
Thousands of fans blocked from entering stadium
Chaos erupted outside Morocco’s World Cup quarter-final against Portugal as thousands of fans were blocked from entering the stadium.
There were several empty seats at the Al Thumama Stadium Qatar as Morocco attempted history to become the first African semi-finalsists.
But several reports claimed that supporters were being blocked from entering with riot police being deployed.
MORE TO FOLLOW

CristiaNO Ronaldo
Another game for Cristiano Ronaldo, another appearance on the substitutes’ bench.
Portugal boss Fernando Santos was not happy with his star man’s reaction when he was substituted against South Korea during the group stages and dropped him for the team’s last 16 game as a result.
Ronaldo’s deputy, Goncalo Ramos, took his opportunity with both hands and now Portugal’s six-time Ballon d’Or winner is on the outside looking in.
Hendo warming up for France
Fans have been stunned by Jordan Henderson’s sensational piece of skill on the training pitch.
The Liverpool midfielder has played a key part in England’s victories over Wales and Senegal.
Henderson was given just 21 minutes in the opening two matches of the tournament, before he was a surprise starter against the Welsh.
And after producing two solid performances, which included scoring against Senegal, he looks nailed on to start against France.
Ahead of the game, Henderson proved that his confidence is clearly high after pulling off a wonderful trick in a training session.
He received the ball in game of rondo, a drill regularly used by the Three Lions, and audaciously managed to somehow flick the ball around Bukayo Saka after a brilliant spin.
Henderson is not known for his showboating, so this came as a shock to many on social media, who have been left astonished by the trick.
One said: “Hendo turning into prime Iniesta 😂.”

Portugal starting XI
As expected, Cristiano Ronaldo is BENCHED again and not included in Portugal’s starting line-up.

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MOROCCO are leading Portugal 1-0 in their World Cup quarter-final.Cristiano Ronaldo has been benched again, and is watching on from the subs’ bench.
The ex-Manchester United star had to watch from the bench as his team-mates thrashed Switzerland 6-1 in the last-16, with his replacement Goncalo Ramos scoring a hat-trick.
But it is Portugal who are behind at half-time, with Youssef En-Nesyri giving his side the lead, heading past Diogo Costa.

Kick-off: 3pm UK time
TV channel: ITV1
Live stream: ITV X
Morocco XI: Bounou, Hakimi, El Yamiq, Saiss, Attiat- Allah, Amrabat, Ounahi, Amallah, Ziyech, En Nesyri, Boufal.
Portugal XI: Diogo Costa, Dalot, Pepe, Rúben Dias, Guerreiro, Neves, Otávio, Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Félix, Gonçalo Ramo

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Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
47, If anything the whistles from the Morocco fans are even louder in this second half.
This is a big test for Portugal.
Second half: Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
46, We’re back underway here at Al-Thumuma Stadium.
Can Morocco hold on or will Portugal find a way back into it?
Let’s find out!
Inside the stadium
SunSport’s Oscar Paul in Qatar:
Yousseff En-Nesyri’s second goal of the World Cup is the difference here at a tense, loud and bouncing Al Thumama Stadium.It was a decent cross from left-back Yahia Attiyat Allah and a good header by the Sevilla striker – but what on earth was Portugal keeper Diogo Costa doing?He came off his line, indicating he was going to punch it clear, but was too weak and got nowhere near it as En-Nesyri nodded home.The game needed a goal, and it’s been absolute chaos ever since the 42nd-minute opener.Bruno Fernandes almost levelled up straight away but saw an audacious strike from a ridiculous angle cannon off the bar.And then right on the stroke of half time, Morocco broke at breakneck speed only for Attiyat Allah to lose all composure and spoon wide from a golden position.
Oscar Paul SunSport
Match stats
Here’s the match stats from that first half.

Disappointing Portugal
Morocco have nullified Portugal’s front three.
Goncalo Ramos has barely had a touch out there.
If only Portugal had someone to come off the bench…
He couldn’t could he?
Half-Time: Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
Morocco lead at the break!
Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
45+2, Attiyat Allah misses the chance to double Morocco’s lead just before half time.
Morocco break forward with a three-on-three counterattack and ball eventually falls to the left back who slices an effort wide when he had time to set himself.
Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal
45, We’re going to play two additional minutes at the end of this half.
The camera cuts to a shell-shocked looking Cristiano Ronaldo on the Portugal bench.
GOAL! Morocco 1 – 0 Portugal

42, Morocco take the lead!
It’s a goal that the Portugal goalkeeper will not want to see again.
He comes out to claim Attiyatt Allah’s looping cross from the left but is beaten to the ball by a magnificent leap from En Nesyri who heads into the unguarded goal.

Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
39, Joao Felix sees a shot fly over the crossbar.
Neither side have their shooting boots on today it seems.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
37, Morocco are growing into this game.
All of a sudden they look comfortable in possession.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
35, The Portuguese defenders have been very wary to commit themselves when Boufal has the ball on the left wing.
The former Southampton man drops his shoulder and sends an effort towards goal but it’s straight at Diogo Costa.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
35, Amallah sweeps the ball miles over the crossbar having been found by Attiat Allah’s cutback from the left.
Good play there by Morocco.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
33, Portugal seem to have taken a leaf out of the Netherlands’ book yesterday and are just pumping the ball up to the big man up front.
Seems a bit early to resort to those tactics – not that the Moroccan defenders have minded too much.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
30, So close from Joao Felix!
His shot from the edge of the box gets a big deflection and lands on the roof of the net.
Bounou had no chance of stopping it after he had thrown himself in the initial direction of Felix’s shot.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
27, Every Portugal touch is being met with whistles from Morocco’s sizeable travelling support at the stadium.
It feels like this game is being played Casablanca.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
26, A decent chance for En-Nesyri as he heads Ziyech’s cross well wide of the Portugal goal.
En-Nesyri got across his marker but couldn’t direct his header on target.
If there’s going to be a goal in this game it seems as though it’ll come from a set piece.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
23, Oof! Bit of a collision between Bounou and Bruno Fernandes.
The goalkeeper did well to claim the ball but was clattered into by the Portuguese midfielder.
Bit of afters between Fernandes and some of the Moroccan defenders but all’s well that ends well.

Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
21, Morocco look quite insightful when they do venture forwards.
They’ve got plenty of players who are good at progressing the ball up to the edge of the penalty area but nobody who you’d bet your house on finishing a chance.
I write this as another dangerous looking Ziyech cross falls safely into the arms of Diogo Costa without a single Moroccan attacker challenging to get on the end of it.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
18, Ziyech cuts inside and shoots but it rolls harmlessly wide of Diogo Costa’s goal.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
16, This already feels like a game that could be decided late on by one of the substitutes…

Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
13, Another free kick from wide on the right sees Raphael Guerreiro have a goal-bound volley well-blocked by a Moroccan defender.
Portugal are finding some joy with set pieces in the early stages here.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
12, Portugal are just popping the ball about, making sure that everyone gets a nice early touch in.
Morocco are just watching them do it and only deciding to press once the ball progresses beyond the halfway line.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
9, There are a number of empty seats inside the stadium and reports that some ticketless fans have been trying to gain entry.
Morocco 0 – 0 Portugal
6, Morocco get forward for the first time.
Attiat Allah gallops forward down the left wing and earns a corner for his side.
The resulting corner is headed over by En-Nesyri when he should perhaps have done better.
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ENGLAND are set to remain UNCHANGED tonight against France from the team that beat Senegal 3-0 in the last-16. The Three Lions face their biggest test yet under Gareth Southgate as they take on rivals France in the World Cup quarter-finals this evening.
It’s been a cushty ride so far for Southgate and Co, havung topping topped group before the victory against Senegal.
But France have superstar Kylian Mbappe, top scorer in Qatar so far, in their ranks and will be looking to do some serious damage to England’s hopes of glory.

Kick-off: 7pm UK time
TV channel: ITV1
Live stream: ITV X
England XI: To follow
France XI: To follow

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Les Bleus hoping for a night to remember
Fans are congregating in fan parks and pubs all over the world to watch this crunch match between two old enemies.
The reigning champions have form for these knockout stages and French fans will be hoping that continues this evening.
Hoping that come the end of the game, ‘Allez Les Bleus’ rings out from the stands.
Credit: Getty
Credit: PA
Credit: Reuters
The man, the myth, the legend
At the ripe age of only 23-years-old Kylian Mbappe is tearing up the record books as each game passes.
Only 13 players have got more goals in the World Cup Finals history than Mbappe, already notching 9 goals.
He averages a goal every 59 minutes with a shot accuracy of 67% and a goal conversion rate of 33%.
Kyle Walker has it all to do this evening.
Credit: Getty
I’ll put your windows through
To truly be the best you have to commit all your time to something and Phil Foden is a true testament to that.
Something which his nan probably didn’t appreciate as much but I am sure every England fan up and down the country are thankful for.
Foden said: “I did break my Nana’s windows a couple of times back in the day. – sorry about that.”
“It’s hard for the coaches to get me off the training pitch.”
“I’m always doing something with a ball, whether it’s at home or wherever I am, whether it is two-touch or a game.”
Qatar, birthplace of a true bromance
When Gareth Southgate named Jordan Henderson in the starting line-up against Wales, deep down he knew he was unleashing a pairing that had really clicked in the camp, on and off the pitch.
Bellingham and Henderson seem to have built a real bond within the camp and there is nowhere this was further evident than on the pitch itself.
The Dortmund midfielder even setting up Henderson for the first against a Senegal team who were frustrating the Three Lions up until that point.
Credit: Getty
Credit: Getty
Credit: Alamy
Much maligned, Southgate’s midfield warhorse
As soon as he came into the first team reckoning in Qatar, fans had a lot to say about the inclusion of Jordan Henderson.
The trio he has formed with Declan Rice and new bestie Jude Bellingham has transformed the English midfield.
Against Senegal, Henderson was as busy as ever offering options all over the pitch and breaking up the opponent’s play.

Al Khor ready for titanic battle
The Al Bayt Stadium is looking in prestine condition as we edge closer to kick-off.
England will feel at home having played here multiple times already.
Not that it matters to a certain Mr Mbappe where he plays, he’ll score goals in the car park if he has to.
Credit: Getty
All smiles in Three Lions camp
In training yesterday, England’s squad seemed relaxed as there was plenty of joking amongst the players during training.
The arrival of Raheem Sterling seemed to galvanise the group as they got their last preparations in for this evening.
With just under four hours until kick, these players have their chance to etch their names in history still.
Kylian causes media frenzy
In the Les Bleus camp this week, things were high octane with the media panic over talisman Kylian Mbappe missing training on Tuesday due to discomfort in his ankle.
Fortunately for France is was merely a false alarm.
The 23-year-old was back on the practice pitches on Wednesday and should form part of an unchanged XI.
Four-hour countdown
We’re now just FOUR hours away from England vs France tonight in the World Cup.
Will Walker stop Mbappe? How will England’s midfield match up to France’s? And can Southgate make the appropriate substitutions if the game is tight?
You’re going to find out later this evening. We’ve got plenty more coverage for you throughout the rest of the day.
Credit: Reuters
England’s potential next opponents
Morocco take on Portugal in 20 minutes in today’s other World Cup quarter-final.
The winner will face England or France next Wednesday for the chance to play in the final on December 18.
Walker on Mbappe
But Kyle Walker was bullish in his comments on the PSG forward, saying that England won’t ‘roll out the red carpet’ for him.
“The game isn’t England v Mbappe, it’s England vs France,” Walker said.
“We will give respect but I’m not going to roll out a red carpet for him to score. It’s do or die as if we lose we go home.
“I’ve come across great players before so I just treat it like another game.
“I’ll give him the respect he deserves but not too much because this is England. No one player makes a team. This isn’t tennis, it isn’t a solo sport.”
Credit: Getty
Project STOP Mbappe
That’s the aim of the evening for England, according to Rio Ferdinand, who says Kyle Walker is fast enough to do so.
“Stop Kylian Mbappe and you stop France – he is the only reason I fear them,” he told the BBC.
“The good news for England is that Kyle Walker is definitely fast enough to deal with Mbappe – he is probably the only defender on the planet who would be happy to take him on in a race, one versus one.
“But this battle is not just going to be about raw pace alone. Mbappe’s intelligence makes Walker’s task on Saturday much harder than that.
“To get through it, Walker is going to need some help out there, so the team’s approach and the focus of the players around him will be crucial too.
“It is going to be fascinating to watch, and success or failure for England could come down to the finest of margins – Mbappe knows one tiny lapse is all it takes, and he will be away.”
Game settings
And this is the stadium where England will play France tonight in their World Cup quarter-final.
Credit: Getty
Credit: Getty
Good omen
England have played twice at the Al-Bayt Stadium now.
The first game was a 3-0 win over Wales and the second was a 3-0 win over Senegal.
Same again tonight, chaps?
Credit: Getty
Captain Kane is confident
“Looking back in 2018 we didn’t really know what to expect — whether we had the full belief to win the tournament I’m not quite sure,” he said.
“We backed that up in the Euros getting to another final and lost by a couple of kicks of the ball and I believe the belief has been building over the past four or five years.
“We entered this tournament hoping and believing we can win it and we have got to the stage now where we expected to be — but now it’s time to push on.
“We face a very tough game and I know everyone is ready. We are prepared and we go into that game with more belief than we had in 2018.”
Credit: PA
Southgate to name UNCHANGED XI
Gareth Southgate is set to name an unchanged England side for Saturday’s World Cup quarter-final clash with France tonight.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and Bukayo Saka were key components of that side, both scoring, and Southgate is set to keep faith in the duo by handing them starts against the reigning world champions.
Henderson will patrol the midfield alongside 19-year-old superstar Jude Bellingham as well as anchorman Declan Rice.
While Saka will start out wide on the right, and will be key in England’s efforts in stopping world beater Kylian Mbappe.
He will also provide support to captain Harry Kane as well as Phil Foden.
Southgate mainstay Jordan Pickford keeps his place in the team, as does Harry Maguire, John Stones and Luke Shaw.
SunSport prediction
Ok, we are simply letting our heart rule here.
England face a monumental task to try and dump out Mbappe et al but their is a wave of euphoria sweeping over the nation…
Go on Gareth and the lads, YOU CAN DO IT!
England 1 France 1 (Eng win on pens)
Credit: Getty
Atmosphere building already
England and France fans are already making their voices heard out in Qatar.
Six hours to go until kick-off.
Credit: EPA
Credit: PA
Credit: PA
Dave the Cat – latest
Three Lions mascot Dave the Cat is coming home – after being adopted by England heroes John Stones and Kyle Walker.
England heroes Stones and Walker initially pledged to rehome him if the Three Lions won the World Cup in Qatar.
But the duo, who will line up against France in tonight’s quarter-final, have now vowed to take him home regardless.
An FA source said: “We’ve been working with the Qatar Animal Welfare Society.
“They’ve treated him for a leg injury sustained during a fight with another cat.”
They added the mog, who strolled into the team’s base in Qatar, would live with either Stones, 28, or Walker, 32.

How to watch England vs France

England’s huge World Cup quarter-final clash with France will be shown live on ITV 1 tonight in the UK.
You can live stream the action from the ITV X app, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
England vs France is FREE to watch, so long as you have a valid TV licence.
Coverage of the game will get going from 6pm GMT.Kick-off is at 7pm GMT.

France stats
And here’s how Les Bleus are getting on.
More shots, less goals, less possession.

England stats
Here’s how the Three Lions have fared so far across the pitch at the World Cup in Qatar…

Southgate in defiant mood
The England boss has been talking over his side’s chances against world champions France.
“I think there’s always been a level of respect for England but I think we’ve got credibility now,” he said.
“To get to a semi-final then a final, I think the rest of the world believe that England are competitive and they know that we have performed under pressure a lot more in the last few years.
“When I travel around Europe and the world and meet football people, there’s definitely a greater appreciation of what we’ve done.”
“Four years ago we could have talked well but we didn’t have actual evidence of winning big matches and going through big nights together as a group,” he added.
“I think over this period of time we’ve had so many of those occasions that now there’s less satisfaction with getting to the quarter-finals, there’s more desire to go further and there’s more evidence that we’ve come through these nights well.
“I think for any team that’s an important part of growing.”
Let’s make French toast
Harry Kane Kane says England are brimming with belief – as the nation hopes they can beat France in tonight’s crunch quarter-final.
Skipper Kane told fans confidence is surging that the Three Lions can go all the way to glory.
Spurs ace Kane used the word “believe” repeatedly in his rallying cry, saying: “We’re not here just to reach a quarter-final.
“Looking back in 2018 we didn’t really know what to expect – whether we had the full belief to win the tournament I’m not quite sure.
“We backed that up in the Euros getting to another final and lost by a couple of kicks of the ball and I believe the belief has been building over the past four or five years.
“We entered this tournament hoping and believing we can win it and we have got to the stage now where we expected to be – but now it’s time to push on.”

What’s the head-to-head?
England have a brilliant record against France.
The Three Lions have won 17 of the 31 games they have faced each other, with France triumphant in nine and five draws.
But the most recent clash wasn’t so great for England – Deschamps guided Les Blues to a 3-2 win in a 2017 friendly.

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