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      England 3 Ivory Coast 0 LIVE REACTION: Watkins, Sterling & Mings bag for Three Lions on comfortable Wembley evening

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      ENGLAND finished the international break with a 3-0 win over Ivory Coast at Wembley. Ollie Watkins, Raheem Sterling and Tyrone Mings scored for Gareth Southgate’s side, who won’t now link up until the Nations League in the summer.

      RESULT: England 3-0 Ivory Coast
      TV/Live stream: Sky Sports Main Event
      England XI: Pope, Mitchell, White, Mings, Maguire, Ward-Prowse, Rice, Bellingham, Sterling, Watkins, Grealish

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      England sign off with win
      Two games, two victories. England’s World Cup year has begun in the best possible fashion.
      Home friendly successes against Switzerland and Ivory Coast may not have the country dreaming of glory in Qatar just yet, but this international break will have provided Gareth Southgate with a greater understanding of the talented squad available to him.
      The World Cup becomes a real prospect on Friday when the draw for November’s group stage takes place, and we’ll have first news of exactly who the Three Lions will be facing.
      Until then, thanks for joining us, and goodnight.
      Southgate slams Maguire boo boys
      England boss Gareth Southgate has hit out at the sections of the Wembley crowd that jeered Harry Maguire.
      The Manchester United defender was booed when the team was announced before kick-off, and he also had some of his early touches mocked.
      Afterwards, Southgate admitted that he couldn’t understand such behaviour, and instead called for total unity with every England player.
      I thought the reception was a joke. An absolute joke! What he’s done for us and the way he’s performed for England has been phenomenal. I don’t get it! We’re either all in this together or we’re not. He’s in an England shirt, and not only should you support a player in an England shirt regardless, but when he’s put in the performances for us that he has, it should be total commitment behind him. His performance tonight was pretty faultless.Gareth SouthgateSky Sports

      Skipper Sterling speaks of pride
      Raheem Sterling has revealed his ‘great pride’ at being selected as England’s captain for this evening’s friendly.
      The Manchester City forward led his country for a third time, and capped the evening with a goal and an assist.
      It’s a good night. It’s always an honour to get the opportunity to wear the captain’s armband and I thought I wore it with great pride, and I felt it was a great team performance.
      It’s a great privilege. Never in my wildest imagination as a young player coming through would I have thought I’d be captaining England one day. That comes with maturity, the manager seeing that in you, and the passion that I have for the country. Raheem SterlingSky Sports

      Hey Jude! Bellingham stars at Wembley
      After tonight’s performance, it’s not a matter of whether Jude Bellingham goes to the World Cup, but whether he starts – and wins it single-handedly.
      The omens are certainly good when the former Birmingham star turns out for the Thee Lions. He’s won on all 12 appearances for his country.
      Credit: @OptaJoe Twitter
      Match stats from Wembley
      It’s been a one-sided affair at the national stadium where England registered 19 attempts on goal – but only one on target in the second half, from which Tyrone Mings scored.
      Credit: UEFA.COM
      Full time – England 3-0 Ivory Coast
      A comfortable night’s work at Wembley.
      First half goals from Ollie Watkins and Raheem Sterling, and a late header from Tyrone Mings ensured England eased to win in their first ever meeting with Ivory Coast.
      The visitors’ task was not helped by the sending off of their captain Serge Aurier on 40 minutes for two bookable offences, the second laughably – for many reasons – because of dissent.
      The caps a thoroughly professional international break for the Three Lions, who have dealt admirably, if unspectacularly, with everything thrown at them.
      England 3-0 Ivory Coast
      90+3. Right at the death, Tyrone Mings gets England’s third.
      Phil Foden swings out a corner from the left, and there was the Aston Villa defender to outmuscle Simon Deli and powerfully head down.
      The bounce deceives goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangare, who is unable to get enough touch on the ball on its return in order to keep it out of the net.
      It’s England’s first attempt on target of the second half, and there will be barely time for the restart.

      Goal! Tyrone Mings makes it three!
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      90. Three minutes of additional time are signalled by the fourth official which means this is the last call for any more paper planes.
      Launch them now, Wembley!
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      89. Kane almost steals in but Gallagher’s ball over the top just has too much on it.
      It looks as though the half century will have to wait.

      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      87. A wee slice of petulance from Foden, who takes a swipe at Konan. I’m not sure where he gets such anger from.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast – Ivory Coast substitution
      85. Yohan Boli – son of former Walsall striker Roger Boli, and the nephew of ex-French star Basile Boli – is on for the hapless Haller.
      Which means we have Boli and Boly on the field, which is quite fun if nothing else.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      83. I’ve just realised Sebastian Haller is still playing. I’m not sure how many touches he’s had but it must be approaching Lukaku at Crystal Palace levels.
      It’s not his fault, but tonight he’s looked like the West Ham version of Sebastian Haller rather than the Ajax superstar.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      81. Into the final ten minutes, and England are keeping possession nicely without really threatening the ten men.
      Mind you, the ten men are almost all camped in their own 18-yard box.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast – England substitution
      79. Another change for the Three Lions, and it’s one that affects the midfield.
      James Ward-Prowse has done himself no harm whatsoever tonight, and will sit out the final 11 minutes or so. On comes Conor Gallagher.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      77. A big chance for Ivory Coast!
      Shaw concedes a free-kick on the right, and it gives Seri his first chance to deliver a set-piece into the England box.
      The Fulham midfielder’s cross is exquisite, and lands perfectly for Deli on the volley at the far post.
      However, the defender gets underneath the ball and sends his shot soaring towards the Wembley roof.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      75. Walker-Peters and Foden play a neat one-two on the right that sends the Southampton man towards the byline.
      On the run, he manages to dig out a fine low cross, but it catches both Kane and Smith Rowe unaware, and evades them both.

      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      73. I’m not sure Harry Kane has touched the ball since being introduced which is usually a sure sign that he’s about to score.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      71. The England end of the pitch is now littered with folded pieces of paper which is either the remains of Serge Aurier’s Villarreal contract or the paper aeroplanes have started again.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      69. The game has reached the inevitable mid-second half, post-multiple change lull, but James Ward-Prowse almost changes all that in an instance.
      The Southampton man picks up possession in midfield, bursts forward and whistle a screamer agonisingly over the bar from 30 yards.
      That would have been some goal.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      67. Kamara endeavours to get forward on the right, but he’s double teamed by Shaw and Smith Rowe, who – just for good measure – invite Bellingham over with a pass to join in.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      65. The tackles are still sliding in somewhat overzealously for a friendly.
      You can bet there are a few Premier League managers watching on, slowly simmering with anger and worry.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      63. A nice early blitz from Smith Rowe, who shows great willingness and skill to get down the left touchline and beyond his marker.
      The Arsenal man certainly has the potential to be a significant part of the England squad.
      England 2-0 Ivory Coast – England substitutions
      61. Here comes the quadruple change for England! On come Phil Foden, Emile Smith Rowe, Luke Shaw and – surely targeting international goal number 50 – Harry Kane.
      Departing after an hour are Raheem Sterling, Jack Grealish, Tyrick Mitchell and Ollie Watkins.

      England 2-0 Ivory Coast
      58. Guess what? It’s glorious again from Bellingham. He glides past his opponent on the turn with the most delicate of touches.
      For the attention of the editors: can we change the page title to the Jude Bellingham live blog, please?
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      Nigeria 1-1 Ghana LIVE RESULT: Nigeria fans INVADE pitch and rip up seats as Ghana QUALIFY for World Cup 2022

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      GHANA have qualified for the World Cup after stunning Nigeria in Abuja.Thomas Partey gave the Black Stars an early lead when his strike went under despairing Nigeria goalkeeper Francis Uzoho.
      William Troost-Ekong equalised with a penalty but it was all in vain as away goals DO count double
      And that triggered shocking scenes at the national stadium in Abuja as thousands of fans invaded the pitch and tore up seats.
      Pitch invasion
      Another video of the shocking scenes in Abuja earlier this evening.
      Nigeria were knocked out of the World Cup by Ghana on away goals.

      The picture in South America
      Later this evening we will be heading to South America.
      Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Ecuador have all qualified, leaving just one spot in the international play-off left.
      Peru, Colombia and Chile can all claim it.
      Follow all the Conmebol action here
      Lewandowski makes it to Qatar
      Poland’s place in the World Cup has been confirmed.
      Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zielinski netted in a 2-0 win over Sweden.
      Cristiano Ronaldo qualifies
      Ghana could face Cristiano Ronaldo after Portugal made it safely through to the World Cup.
      The Portuguese triumphed 2-0 over Italy’s conquerors North Macedonia to make it to the play-off final.
      Poland are also set to go through as they lead 2-0 against Sweden.
      Laser pen shame
      There may be nothing more intimidating than an away play-off in Africa.
      Here’s what Mo Salah had to put up with before missing his penalty in Senegal.
      I mean, just look at this. Salah sails his penalty over… and surely anybody would, given the lasers.Mane scores, Senegal wins the shootout, Egypt out of the World Cup pic.twitter.com/tgHmCmW8uu— Henry Bushnell (@HenryBushnell) March 29, 2022

      Tear gas fired
      Another video of the wild scenes in Abuja as tear gas was fired onto the pitch following riots from the home fans.
      Ghana made it through on away goals thanks to a Thomas Partey strike.

      Around the grounds
      Elsewhere, Cameroon have taken the lead in Algeria and levelled on aggregate.
      Morocco meanwhile lead the Democratic Republic of Congo 1-0 at home and 2-1 on aggregate.
      Senegal qualify
      Sadio Mane has broken Mo Salah’s heart again.
      The Liverpool star hit the winning penalty as Senegal beat Egypt on penalties to qualify for the World Cup, just as they did to win the Afcon final.
      On his part, Salah ballooned Egypt’s first kick as they were beaten 3-1 on pens following a 1-1 aggregate draw.
      Ghana journalists safe
      Good news from Abuja as the Ghanaian journalists are safely in the press conference room after being protected by the Nigerian journalists.

      Home comforts
      The smallest crumb of comfort for Nigeria fans.
      Nigeria still haven’t lost in Abuja for 20 years and they still haven’t lost to Ghana in March.
      They say;“Nigeria haven’t lost in Abuja in almost 20 years”“Ghana have never beaten Nigeria in March”Funny thing? Both records could still be intact after tomorrow yet it’s Ghana that’ll be in Qatar 😅— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) March 28, 2022

      Penalty alert!
      Senegal vs Egypt has gone to penalties!
      Ghana fans marched onto pitch
      The small band of visiting Ghana fans have been led onto the pitch for their own safety after having objects thrown at them from the Nigeria section.

      Pitch battle
      Shocking scenes in Abuja following Nigeria’s exit from the World Cup.
      Super Eagles fans have invaded the pitch and are throwing chairs left, right and centre.

      Penalties loom
      In the other early match we are one minute away from penalties.
      Egypt won the first leg 1-0 and Senegal lead by a single goal in the closing stages of extra time.
      Follow all the action from Senegal vs Egypt here.
      Inseparable
      Attention in Ghana will now turn to who they get in the World Cup draw.
      And one team they have a lot of history with is the United States.
      The Black Stars were drawn with the Americans in 2006, 2010 and 2014 before both teams failed to qualify in 2018.
      Senegal vs Egypt
      We are still playing in Senegal, where Sadio Mane’s side lead Mo Salah’s by a goal to nil.
      The match is into the second half of extra time and it’s looking very much like we will have a repeat of the Afcon final, which was decided on penalties.
      Follow all the action from Senegal vs Egypt here.
      Ghana into Pot 4
      Ghana will need to show the same resilience they showed here in Abuja when they arrive in Qatar.
      The Black Stars have been drawn into Pot 4, which will see them earn the toughest possible draw on Friday.
      Had Nigeria qualified, they would have been in Pot 2 or 3.
      And that result opens the door for Canada to advance to Pot 3, which would be an incredible achievement after they qualified for their first World Cup since 1986.
      Pots are decided by Fifa World Rankings.
      Bogey team
      Nigeria continue their atrocious head-to-head record against Ghana in a tie they were overwhelming favourites to win.
      They have won lost 25, drawn 20 and won just 12 against the Black Stars.
      Full time: Nigeria 1 Ghana 1
      Thomas Partey’s strike sends Ghana to the World Cup while Nigeria miss out for the first time since 2006!
      Nigeria goalkeeper Francis Uzoho will take some time to get over this one after letting the Arsenal star’s shot go straight through his body.
      It would be an exaggeration to call it a deserved win for the Black Stars, but Nigeria didn’t show anywhere near enough in the second half to breach their defence after Troost Ekong’s penalty equaliser.
      Away goals seem a particularly harsh way to decide things but Ghana won’t care a jot.
      Ghana qualify for the World Cup!!!!!!!!!
      90+4: Nigeria 1 Ghana 1
      A long ball goes comfortably wide of Wollacot’s post. Ghana nearly there now…
      90+2: Nigeria 1 Ghana 1
      A poor free kick from Moses Simon floats comfortably over the bar.
      Ghana goalkeeper Joe Wollacot harshly booked for timewasting the second the ballboy gives him the ball.
      90+1: Nigeria 1 Ghana 1
      Free kick to Nigeria on the edge of the box.
      90: Nigeria 1 Ghana 1
      Ghana break and Osman Bukari has the chance to win it.
      But he pulls his shot so wide it hits the corner flag.
      90: Nigeria 1 Ghana 1
      Five minutes stoppage time added on.
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      Senegal 1-0 Egypt LIVE REACTION: Mohamed Salah BLASTS penalty over in shootout as Mane’s side qualify for World Cup

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      MOHAMMAD SALAH skied his penalty in Egypt’s penalty shootout loss to Senegal as the Pharaohs failed to qualify for the World Cup. Salah’s Liverpool team-mate Sadio Mane enjoyed another success over his mate, following their AFCON success in February, as the Lions of Teranga made it to Qatar 2022 instead.

      Start time: 6pm BST
      TV/Live stream: Not televised/MOLA TV

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      Lions admire their Mane
      Sadio ‘Mr Senegal’ Mane has brought some joy to the country this year.
      It all started with a penalty miss in normal time of the AFCON final.
      At that low point, he would have never have guessed things to end as they have.

      Teranga Lions going to Qatar!!!
      What a year this has been for Senegal.
      First ever AFCON title, through to the 2022 World Cup.
      All at the expense of Egypt!!!
      FT: Senegal 1-0 Egypt (agg 1-1) Pens: 3-1
      Senegal have broken Egyptian hearts again.
      It is their main man Mane who does it again.
      There may well be a statue of this guy in the capital soon.
      Pens: Senegal 3-1 Egypt
      Sadio Mane steps up and duly delivers.
      SENEGAL ARE GOING TO THE WORLD CUP!!!!
      Pens: Senegal 2-1 Egypt
      Mohamed has his penalty saved by Mendy.
      Senegal lead in the shootout.
      Pens: Senegal 2-1 Egypt
      Bamba Dieng scores.
      Firing into the top right-hand corner.
      No chance for the keeper.
      Pens: Senegal 1-1 Egypt
      El Solia scores for Egypt.
      In off the underside of the bar and into the roof of the net.
      Pens: Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      Ismaila Sarr scores for Senegal!
      The fans erupt!
      Pens: Senegal 0-0 Egypt
      Zizo sends it wide of the right-hand post.
      Crazy scenes!
      Four penalties missed.
      Pens: Senegal 0-0 Egypt
      Ciss misses!
      El Shenawy saves down to his right.
      Pens: Senegal 0-0 Egypt
      Mohamed Salah blazes it over the bar!
      The pressure getting to big players here.
      Pens: Senegal 0-0 Egypt
      Captain Koulibaly strikes the crossbar!
      Advantage Egypt.
      FT: Senegal 1-0 Egypt (agg 1-1)
      It is that time.
      The chance for a keeper to become a national hero.
      For the penalty taker, a chance to be haunted by tonight if you don’t score.
      FT: Senegal 1-0 Egypt (agg 1-1)
      The final whistle goes.
      After in excess of 210 minutes of football and nothing can separate these teams.
      Penalties tends to do the trick between these two.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      120+1. Play stops again as an Egypt player is down.
      The well struck half-volley appeared to strike the player in the face.
      Easy way to see the rest of added time out.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      120. We will have two additional minutes.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      118. Mostafa Mohamed receives a yellow card.
      We should see quite a bit of added time at the end of the 120 minutes.
      Both sets of players look exhausted.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      115. Abou Cisse tries to rise to the header at the back post was crowded out.
      An Egypt player takes a knee to the back of the head from his own player in the move.
      Play stops as he is treated.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      113. The Lions of Teranga are still trying to find this winning goal.
      Egypt seem more concerned on keeping them out at present.
      Bamba Dieng tries a shot from distance that doesn’t go far wide.
      Idrissa Gueye comes off for Matar Sarr.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      111. Gueye plays a short free kick to his namesake.
      He slips as he tries to shoot from distance with the ball going well over the bar.
      Big shout to try and score your first goal from 35 yards out.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      109. Senegal are seeing more and more of the ball.
      Ismaila Sarr has come alive in extra time.
      He runs at the back line again and is obstructed from the ball.
      Free kick to Senegal out wide on the right.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt – Gueye chance!
      107. Pape Gueye finds the ball at his feet just outside of the box.
      He unleashes a left foot shot that fiercely goes wide.
      No goals for Senegal in his career yet, what a time that would have been to get your first one.
      Kick-off: Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      105. Senegal start the last 15 minutes.
      Time to see who wants this the most.
      It is still anyone’s game.
      HT(ET): Senegal 1-0 Egypt (agg 1-1)
      Still nothing can separate the two teams.
      Aliou Cisse will be tearing his hair out at the chances his side have missed.
      Last chance to do something about this game without penalties.
      Senegal 1-0 Egypt
      105. We will have one additional minute at the end of the first half of extra time.
      Sarr wins another corner for Senegal.
      The ball is clipped in by Gueye and cleared by Egypt.
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      Is Nigeria vs Ghana on TV? Channel, live stream FREE, kick-off time and team news – World Cup play-off second leg latest

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      NIGERIA and Ghana face a straight shootout for a World Cup place as the sides face off in Abuja.Nothing could separate the two West African giants in an evenly contested first leg in Ghana, which finished goalless.
      And crucially, away goals WILL count double in this second leg so the Super Eagles will be expected to play even more cautious this time around.
      What time does Nigeria vs Ghana kick off?

      Nigeria face Ghana TODAY – Tuesday 29 March.
      It is scheduled to kick-off at 6pm UK time – same time locally.
      The match will take place at the Abuja National Stadium in Nigeria which holds a capacity of 60,000.
      Neither side was able to bag a goal in the first leg.

      What TV channel is Nigeria vs Ghana on and can I live stream it?

      Unfortunately Nigeria vs Ghana is not being shown on UK television.
      However, it can be streamed legally via the FREE streaming service Mola TV.
      Mobile and tablet users can download the Mola TV app directly to their devices.

      Team news
      Nigeria XI: Uzoho, Aina, Troost-Ekong, Balogun, Bassey; Etebo, Onyeka, Aribo; Dennis, Osimhen, Lookman
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      Latest odds
      To win in 90 minutes
      Nigeria 5/6
      Draw 7/4
      Ghana 4/1
      To qualify
      Nigeria 1/2
      Ghana 7/5
      *Odds from Betfair correct as of Tuesday 29 March.
      Dennis the menace
      Emmanuel Dennis has called on his Nigeria team-mates to “die on the pitch” to make it to the World Cup.
      But the Watford star didn’t exactly lead by example last week when he turned up a day late for training with the Super Eagles.
      One member of the coaching staff even said before the Hornets star turned up: “We don’t know where he is and it’s not a nice way to make up for his acts before the Africa Cup of Nations [in which he agreed to stay with Watford].
      “The deadline is this afternoon before the start of training. We can’t even reach him.
      “Eguavoen is unhappy with his absence as we have limited time to meet up with them individually, train, travel and perfect tactics for the game.
      “Ekong is here so is Etebo but no word from Dennis.”
      Emmanuel Dennis turned up a day late for his Nigeria call-up
      Nigeria line-up
      It’s all change for Nigeria as they host Ghana for a place at the World Cup.
      Watford’s Emmanuel Dennis comes into the side along with Leicester’s Ademola Lookman.
      However, Lookman’s fellow Fox Kelechi Iheanacho drops to the bench.
      There is also a shock start for Watford’s Peter Etebo, who hasn’t featured for the Hornets since tearing his quad during a 1-1 draw at home to Newcastle on September 25.
      Peter Etebo makes his first start for club or country in six months
      Away goals count double!
      Fans in Europe are getting used to a Champions League without the away goals rule this season.
      However, there has been no such change for the African World Cup play-offs.
      Under both CAF and Fifa rules, away goals WILL count double.
      In tonight’s match, that is likely to play into Ghana’s hands as the Black Stars know any score draw will see them progress to Qatar at Nigeria’s expense.
      African World Cup play-off fixtures
      A reminder of what we have in store tonight.

      Nigeria (0) vs Ghana (0) – 6pm
      Senegal (0) vs Egypt (1) – 6pm
      Algeria (1) vs Cameroon (0) – 8.30pm
      Tunisia (1) vs Mali (0) – 8.30pm
      Morocco (1) vs DR Congo (1) – 8.30pm

      Mane vs Salah
      Nigeria vs Ghana is not the only early kick-off from Africa tonight.
      In another mouthwatering clash, Afcon finalists Senegal and Egypt face off with only one team able to qualify for the World Cup.
      After a dogged defensive display, the Egyptians are taking a 1-0 lead to West Africa for this game.
      Follow all the action as Liverpool’s Sadio Mane and Mo Salah turn from friends to enemies in their quest to make it to Qatar.
      Mo Salah needs to get past Senegal to make it to Qatar
      ‘Ghana must go’
      The first Nigeria fans are making the way to the stadium in Abuja for their World Cup play-off against Ghana.
      The Super Eagles support appeared in high spirits as they chanted “Ghana must go” on the bus to the ground.
      Crowds of up to 60,000 can fit in the Abuja National Stadium, but it is not known whether it will be a full house tonight.

      ‘Do or die’
      Watford’s Emmanuel Dennis has called for his Nigeria team-mates to “die on the pitch” to qualify for the World Cup.
      He told BBC Sport Africa: “These games are the biggest games of my life and my career. We must go all out for our country. It’s do or die.
      “Players must be ready to drop our blood and sweat on the pitch to qualify for the World Cup.
      “I’ve never thought in my head that we didn’t qualify. Impossible. If I’m going to die on the pitch, let me die playing for my people,” Dennis added.
      “You play this tournament one time every four years, and before the four years, you don’t even know what can happen. You can even die before the next one.
      “You might not even be playing football. So many things can happen. So, if you get the opportunity, you need to write history. We have to come out and give everything.
      “We don’t need all the criticism as we must all come together as one to support the players, the country and make sure we are the ones going to the World Cup and not our opponent.”
      Emmanuel Dennis says the Nigeria team must be ready to ‘die on the pitch’
      Head-to-head
      Hosts Nigeria have a staggeringly poor head-to-head record against rivals Ghana.
      The teams have met 56 times with Ghana winning 25 compared to Nigeria’s twelve. Nineteen previous meetings have resulted in draws.
      And there hasn’t been much to get the fans excited about in their last two meetings, which both finished goalless.
      The most recent of these was the first leg in Kumasi last week. Before that, you have to go back to a 0-0 draw at Vicarage Road, Watford in 2011 for the last time the teams met.
      Ghana won all the three meetings before that encounter, with the Nigerians not having picked up a win since 2006.
      Super Eagles vs Black Stars
      Nigeria and Ghana renew hostilities in one of Africa’s biggest rivalries tonight.
      The stakes have never been higher as only one of these two sides will be able to qualify for the World Cup.
      The Super Eagles held the Black Stars to a 0-0 draw in Ghana last week and go into this one as slight favourites.
      However, the Ghanaians could benefit from the fact that away goals still count double in African World Cup play-offs.
      Both sides have it all to prove after sub-par Africa Cup of Nations performances last month.
      Nigeria looked like they may be among the contenders when they beat eventual finalists Egypt 1-0 in the group stage.
      However, they were then stunned in the round of 16 as they were beaten 1-0 by Tunisia.
      Ghana meanwhile failed even to make it out of the group stage.
      The Black Stars picked up a credible point against Gabon following defeat to Morocco.
      However, they were then beaten 3-2 by minnows Comoros in their final group game.
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      Is Senegal vs Egypt on TV? Channel, live stream free, kick off time and team news for TONIGHT’S World Cup 2022 play-off

      by

      MOHAMMAD SALAH and Egypt will look to finish off their revenge mission against Senegal TONIGHT.The Pharoahs were pipped to another Africa Cup of Nations triumph via the penalty shoot-out route in the final by Senegal.
      But it is the Egyptians who will be taking a one-goal advantage into the second leg of their World Cup play-off against the AFCON champions.

      Start time: 6pm BST
      TV/Live stream: Not televised
      Senegal XI: To follow
      Egypt XI: To follow

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      Mo Salah is looking to earn revenge on Liverpool team-mate Sadio ManeCredit: Getty
      What time will Senegal vs Egypt kick off?

      Senegal vs Egypt will take place on TONIGHT – Tuesday, March 29.
      The match will kick off at 6pm in the UK.
      It will be played at Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade, Diamniadio, Senegal

      What TV channel will Senegal vs Egypt be on and can I live stream it free?

      Team news
      PSG’s Abdou Diallo was forced off injured inside 15 minutes in Cairo and will miss this second leg.
      He joins QPR’s Seny Diang and Rennes’ Alfred Gomis on the Senegal treatment table.
      Pape Abou Cisse of Olympiakos is likely to come into defence in Diallo’s place.
      Egypt remain without Ahmed Hegazi and Akram Tawfik.
      Ramadan Sobhi and Mohamed Hany have also withdrawn from the squad through injury.
      Mohamed Abdelmonem came off for Egypt in the 39th minute on Friday with concussion.
      Packed house for second leg
      Fans at Stade Me Abdoulaye Wade are looking to get their places in the ground for this huge encounter.
      Ahead of the 2nd leg of Egypt v Senegal in Diamniadio, fans have been queuing up a whole 7 hours before kick-off🇸🇳The World Cup qualifiers are magic 🙌pic.twitter.com/ddE0TlN3yV— COPA90 (@Copa90) March 29, 2022

      Africa’s most precious gems
      Sadio Mane goes up against Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah tonight with both knowing only one will be on that flight to Qatar.
      It will mean so much to either player to be the one who brings joy to their fans by securing their place in the World Cup.
      The bragging rights over the other will just be the icing on the cake.
      This is for the fans
      The Senegal coach highlights what is needed of his squad:
      The good match is the one we win, the goal conceded against Egypt takes us out of the game. On the whole game, we could have been better. In tonight’s game, our goal is to equalize first and then win. The 0-1 defeat in Cairo is behind us, we have the opportunity to write history in our new stadium, we can’t go back, I’m focusing on that.Aliou CisseSenegal coach
      Football frenzy for game
      Senegal fans are in party mood for tonight’s game.
      Credit: @FootballSenegal
      Top two lock horns
      There is no denying that when it comes to African football, these two sides have a very good argument for being the two best sides on the continent.
      With only one able to book their ticket to Qatar, the stakes could not be higher.
      It would be a bitter pill for their fans to have to watch a World Cup without their team.
      Senegal wary of Egypt flair
      The Egypt manager aired some views on the task ahead:
      Senegal know that if we have the ball we can do something magical. Two fantastic teams will play, the winner will be football.Carlos QueirozEgypt
      Travel not broadening the mind
      Carlos Queiroz’s side head into tonight’s game without a win in any of their last three away games against the Lions of Teranga.
      They will be looking to end this dry spell and complete their revenge for their AFCON final loss in January.
      Egypt are only one step away from securing their fourth World Cup appearance, equalling Algeria’s current record.
      Watch the lions roar
      Senegal will be confident they can overturn the slender one-goal deficit at home where they have not suffered defeat since July 2019.
      Prior to the defeat in the first leg, they were unbeaten in 13 games across all competitions.
      In this run, they scored 24 goals and kept 7 clean sheets.
      Welcome to Senegal vs Egypt
      Senegal had an unbeaten run in the qualifying group stages where they claimed five wins and one draw to finish top of Group H, eight points clear of second-placed Togo prior to their narrow 1-0 defeat to Egypt in the first leg.
      The Lions of Teranga were also unbeaten in 13 games across all competitions, a run that saw them clinch their first ever Africa Cup of Nations title at the expense of The Pharaohs.
      They suffered a huge blow in the first leg when Abdou Diallo was forced off, he joins Seny Dieng and Alfred Gomis on the sidelines.
      In the absence of Diallo, Pape Abou Cisse could come into the heart of defence alongside Kalidou Koulibaly.
      Egypt remain without Akram Tawfik and Ahmed Hegazi who both suffered long-term injuries at the Africa Cup of Nations in January.
      Ramadan Sobhi and Mohamed Hany have withdrawn from the squad with injuries, while Mohamed Abdel Monem came off in the 39th minute due to a concussion in the first leg.
      Should the Al Ahly defender fail to make tonight’s game, club teammate Yasser Inrahim is expected to replace him, partnering Mahmoud Hamdi.
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      Man Utd ‘ditched Pochettino for Ten Hag after Champions League exit’, Harry Kane £100m transfer interest – latest news

      by

      FORMER Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal has advised Erik Ten Hag to consider his options carefully.The Netherlands head coach suggested that the Red Devils is a “commercial club” and Ten Hag should rule out a move in becoming their new manager.
      It is also reported that United were initially keen on Mauricio Pochettino, but have turned to the Dutchman after being unimpressed by PSG’s Champions League exit to Real Madrid.
      Meanwhile, ex-United superstar and Premier League Hall of Fame inductee, Wayne Rooney has opened up on his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo.
      And the Manchester giants are reportedly ready to make a summer move for English talisman Harry Kane, costing at least £100m.
      It is claimed that the Red Devils have a long standing interest, but informed Spurs they were delaying any approach last summer in order to sign Jadon Sancho.
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      Follow ALL of the latest news, updates and transfer gossip from Old Trafford right here…
      Pat-trick for Cristiano
      PORTUGAL’S World Cup play-off final clash against North Macedonia has been AXED by a French TV channel… and replaced by Patrick Swayze’s classic film Ghost, writes DYLAN TERRY.
      Cristiano Ronaldo and Co will book their place in Qatar if they can beat their minnow opponents in Porto on Tuesday night.
      But broadcaster, W9, have made the decision to drop the match to their streaming platform following Italy’s shock defeat to North Macedonia.

      Meanwhile, Ronaldo has been in the media this week stressing the significance of their match against North Macedonia on Tuesday evening.
      Speaking ahead of the game, the Manchester United star said: “For us, this game is a matter of life and death.
      “There is a responsibility to win this game. For us, also a game of our lives.
      “They have surprised opponents in many games but I believe they will not surprise us.
      “There is no World Cup without Portugal. There are no individualities here.”
      Portugal have qualified for each of the last five World Cups – a run which stretches back to 1998 when they failed to reach the finals for a third successive tournament.
      Next five
      United face Leicester next.

      ‘No position excites me more’
      Luis Enrique appeared to rule himself out of the running for Manchester United’s manager’s role.
      The Spain chief, 51, who led his side to the Euros semi-finals last July, told Marca: “In Qatar I will be with Spain and what may come we will see.
      “Is there any more doubt? Do I have to repeat it more times?
      “There is no position that excites me more than representing my country in Qatar.”
      Shaw ‘smug and wrong’
      Luke Shaw was “smug and wrong” for his “dig” at Manchester United, claims Paul Parker.
      And the Red Devils legend thinks the left-back is lucky to even be in the England squad.
      Shaw scored in the Three Lions’ 2-1 comeback win against Switzerland.
      He then revealed how he felt “wanted” when on international duty and is able to “play with a smile on my face”.
      But Parker – who spent five years at Old Trafford and earned 19 England caps – hit out at the defender, who is always willing to speak honestly to the media.
      The outspoken ex-defender said: “Shaw’s comments were wrong if I’m being honest.
      “Everyone would have seen that as smug and a dig about what’s going on at Manchester United.
      “When you look at his situation then you can come out and say that he’s not playing for United as he hasn’t been consistently good enough.
      “It’s as simple as that. You’ve not been doing what you’re supposed to be doing.”

      Declan Rice tipped for England captaincy
      West Ham legend Julian Dicks says he would be “very surprised” if Man Utd target Declan Rice doesn’t captain England in the future.
      Dicks was a Hammers coach under Slaven Bilic when a then 18-year-old Rice was handed his Premier League debut in the 2-1 win over Burnley in 2017.
      Rice’s exemplary leadership both on and off the pitch has stretched further than just Rush Green and the London Stadium.
      Hammers icon Dicks too believes that Rice’s day of leading the Three Lions will come.
      Speaking to SunSport on whether he thinks Rice will be a future England captain ahead of a Masters Football event in association with Bookmakers.com, Dicks said: “Absolutely. I was a coach at West Ham when Slav gave him his debut. 
      “The easiest thing I can say about Declan is he just keeps everything simple.
      “He wins the ball and gives it simple. 
      “I did the Man Utd vs West Ham game at Old Trafford (this season). 
      “And even though West Ham got beat, Declan was immense, and I mean head and shoulders above everybody else on that pitch, in my opinion.
      “He won every ball. Where the ball was he won it and he’d just give it.
      “So yeah, I’d be very surprised if he wasn’t an England captain in the future.”
      Lopetegui out of United running
      Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui has ruled himself out of contention for the Manchester United job after declaring his commitment to the LaLiga club.
      The Spanish coach has been on United’s shortlist in their search for a new manager, although has rarely been considered a favourite in the same manner as Erik ten Hag and Mauricio Pochettino.
      And any chance of a shock Old Trafford appointment have surely ended today after the 55-year-old confirmed that his desire is to remain at Sevilla.
      He told ABC de Sevilla: “My decision is clear. I want to stay here at Sevilla. I’ve no doubt.”

      Varane eases concerns over injury
      Manchester United fans have breathed a collective sigh of relief after Raphael Varane confirmed he was fully fit despite an injury forcing him off in France’s game with Ivory Coast on Friday.
      The centre-back was removed by Didier Deschamps as a precaution after 57 minutes, and the national coach afterwards confirmed the player had a ‘small problem in his foot.’
      Immediately, watching Red Devils fearing a repeat of the injury that Varane picked up on international duty in October that kept him out for three games.
      However, the 28-year-old has since eased those concerns and revealed he is contention for tonight’s game with South Africa.
      Speaking to RMC Sport yesterday, Varane said: “I’m at 100% for tomorrow. It was a hit, but it was just painful.”
      Leeds tracking United starlet Garner
      Leeds United have been keeping a close eye on young Manchester United ace James Garner during his loan spell at Nottingham Forest.
      The 21-year-old has impressed at the City Ground this season, and has been a key factor in their rise up the Championship table and their run to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
      Set-piece expert Garner has struck three goals and provided six assist in 36 appearances for Forest, and has earned praise for his performances from the likes of Roy Keane and Jurgen Klopp.
      The Elland Road club are unlikely to prise Garner away from Old Trafford permanently, but the Red Devils may consider another season out on loan in order to continue the player’s development.
      Southgate defends Maguire call-up
      Gareth Southgate has leapt to the defence of Harry Maguire after he was asked whether the centre-back is deserving of his place in the current England squad.
      Maguire is expected to start against Ivory Coast at Wembley this evening, and Southgate has indicated he had no hesitation in selecting the 29-year-old despite his indifferent form for Manchester United.
      The Three Lions boss said: “[Harry Maguire] has got us to a World Cup semi-final and a European Championship final so there’s no doubt he’s more than capable of playing at the highest level.
      “He was very good for us in the autumn. [Manchester United] are in a difficult moment, and there could be any number of reasons for that.”
      However, Southgate also suggested that players continually out-of-form for their clubs would be in danger of missing out so long as there are suitable replacements available.
      “It doesn’t mean that players can be poor for a couple of years and then still find their way in. Sometimes it depends on competition for positions.
      “We’ve obviously had some forward players out who haven’t been in good form, but there’s direct, experienced replacements for those players so it is a complicated decision.”

      Ralf’s ref suggestion has backing
      Referees could begin training with Premier League clubs from next season – thanks to a proposal put forward by Manchester United interim gaffer Ralf Rangnick.
      The Daily Mail’s Mike Keegan reports that the German coach raised the idea at a recent two-day summit between top-flight managers and referees’ boss Mike Riley.
      The theory behind the suggestion is that the move would allow for a closer relationship between officials and players, and ‘break down negative preconceptions’ that may be in place.
      Rangnick’s proposition is said to have been met by widespread backing, and will now be considered by PGMOL.
      Antony to follow Erik’s footsteps
      Erik ten Hag wants to make Antony his first signing in the summer – if he lands the Manchester United manager’s job.
      The 22-year-old has been in sparkling form for Ajax this season, contributing with 12 goals and ten assists from wide on the right.
      Indeed, the Brazilian has impressed so much that Ten Hag wants to take the youngster to Old Trafford with him to begin a major squad overhaul at the club.
      It was reported yesterday that United hope to bring in a new right winger despite the big-money purchase of Jadon Sancho last year, and The Telegraph now believe that it’s £30m-rated Antony that fits the bill.
      Red Devils want Porto’s Otavio
      Manchester United are one of three Premier League clubs closely monitoring Porto star Otavio.
      The 27-year-old is enjoying the best season of his career, and has been a key factor in his side’s six-point lead at the top of Primeira Liga.
      The attacking midfielder, who can operate on either flank, has scored five goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions this term.
      His recent performances at club level earned him his first international caps with Portugal, for whom he has scored twice in three games.
      According to A Bola, Otavio’s release fee is €60million although United will be hopeful of landing the player for considerably less than that.

      Good morning Man Utd fans
      Manchester United stars Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire are primed for England duty in tonight’s friendly against Ivory Coast.
      Both defenders took part in training for the Three Lions yesterday and look ready for the friendly clash at Wembley.
      Maguire was an unused sub in Saturday’s 2-1 clash with Switzerland but Shaw started and scored the equaliser as England came from behind to win 2-1.
      They might return to Old Trafford to find their Red Devils team-mate Bruno Fernandez has agreed a new deal.
      United news outlet @UtdPlug says “it will be announced in the coming days”.
      Portugal playmaker Fernandez, 27, has been a key man for the Red Devils since joining from Sporting Lisbon in 2020.
      Meanwhile, United’s understudy keeper Dean Henderson admits loan spells at lower league clubs have been vital to his development.
      The 25-year-old star joined United’s Academy as a 14-year-old and has had temporary spells at Stockport, Grimsby, Shrewsbury Town and Sheffield United.
      He told Manchester United’s website: “If I didn’t [go out on loan], I’d probably be in League One now, just going out on my first loan.
      “I fought for it and I stand by it, the best decision of my life.”
      And there is likely to have been some nostalgia stirred among the club’s fans after they saw a United game with Rooney and Ronaldo on the scoresheet on Sunday.
      Cristiano Ronaldo Jr and Kai Ronney both scored for their Under-12s against West Brom.
      They are the sons of Red Devils legends and former United team-mates Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
      Ferdinand hits back at Rooney
      Rio Ferdinand has had his say on Wayne Rooney calling him ‘arrogant’.
      The pair played together for an incredibly successful Manchester United side between 2004 and 2014.
      At a speaking event this week, Wazza joked Ferdinand was a ‘top player’ but ‘arrogant’ and ‘sometimes did forget he was a defender.’
      On his YouTube show Vibe with Five, Ferdinand explained he and Rooney had often bickered during matches as a way of getting the best out of each other.
      He said: “If the ball came up and he weren’t holding it up I’d be screaming, ‘Wazza hurry up’.
      “He would go, expletive, ‘you do your own job’, and we’d be back and forth constant – but we drove each other.”
      United duo ready for England
      Manchester United stars Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire look ready for England duty in Tuesday’s friendly against Ivory Coast.
      Both defenders took part in training for the Three Lions today and look ready for the friendly clash at Wembley.
      Maguire was an unused sub in Saturday’s 2-1 clash with Switzerland but Shaw started and scored the equaliser as England came from behind to win 2-1.
      Butt: Pochettino’s United’s best option
      Manchester United legend Nicky Butt would like to see Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino come in as the Red Devils’ next permanent manager.
      Butt told FourFourTwo: “I’d go all-out to get Mauricio Pochettino as manager.
      “He’s proven in the Premier League, he’s young and enthusiastic, his style of play would suit United and his backroom staff seem switched on.
      “I met him a couple of times at Spurs’ training ground and had lunch. You’d want to play for him.”
      Fernandes ‘set for new deal’
      Bruno Fernandez is about to agree a new contract extension with Manchester United, according to reports.
      United news outlet @UtdPlug says ‘it will be announced in the coming days’.
      Portugal playmaker Fernandez, 27, has been a key man for the Red Devils since joining from Sporting Lisbon in 2020.
      Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes is said to be closing in on a new dealCredit: Getty
      Parker says United lack matchwinners
      Manchester United legend Paul Parker believes the club only have two matchwinners in their current squad – and neither is Cristiano Ronaldo.
      Speaking to OddsNinja, he said: “United haven’t got the individuals like we talk about at the club many years ago. They definitely haven’t got it.”
      He went on to name forward Anthony Elanga and keeper David de Gea as the only matchwinners in United’s squad.
      He added: “Other than that really, there isn’t really anybody you’d name, who can go and grab hold of the game and get United over the line.”
      United legends’ sons both score
      Cristiano Ronaldo Jr and Kai Ronney both scored for Manchester United Under-12s against West Brom on Sunday.
      They are the sons of Red Devils legends and former United team-mates Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
      Our nice report points out: “Fans can be forgiven for getting a little nostalgic, after seeing a United game with Rooney and Ronaldo on the scoresheet.”
      United fifth favourites for Raphinha
      Manchester United are fifth favourites to sign Leeds superstar Raphinha, according to the bookies.
      Sky Bet have the Red Devils priced at 7/4 to beat a host of other top European clubs to the signature of the Brazilian if he leaves Elland Road.
      The frontrunners are Spanish giants Barcelona at 7/4, followed by German powerhouses Bayern Munich at 7/1.
      Cascarino calls Rashford ‘not clinical’
      Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino says Marcus Rashford is ‘not clinical’ enough to lead the line for Arsenal.
      United forward Rashford is reportedly a transfer target for Mikel Arteta’s Champions League-chasing Gunners.
      Cascarino told talkSPORT: “I’m not sure if Marcus is a solution for Arsenal because Marcus is not clinical.
      “He doesn’t particularly lead the line well and that’s one of the two traits you need if you’re going to play in an Arteta team.”
      Henderson makes honest loan admission
      Manchester United keeper Dean Henderson admits loan spells at lower league clubs have been vital to his development.
      The 25-year-old star joined United’s Academy as a 14-year-old and has had temporary spells at Stockport, Grimsby, Shrewsbury Town and Sheffield United.
      He told Manchester United’s website: “[There] are the things you learn and move on. It was great for me. It’s why I’m sitting here today.
      “If I didn’t [go out on loan], I’d probably be in League One now, just going out on my first loan. I fought for it and I stand by it, the best decision of my life.”
      Van Gaal issues Ten Hag warning
      Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has issued a public warning to Erik ten Hag – advising him against taking the Old Trafford job.
      Ajax boss Ten Hag is the bookies favourite to fill the United hot seat after holding a promising first interview with the club last week.
      However, Van Gaal, now manager of the Dutch national team, has offered his compatriot a word of caution by criticising United’s off-field hierarchy.
      Dutch media outlet AD report Van Gaal as saying: “I think Erik ten Hag is a great coach, he has shown that several times – and a great coach is always good for Manchester United.”
      “Manchester United is a commercial club and those are difficult choices for a coach. It is better to go to a football club.
      “I’m not going to supervise his career and he will call me himself. But he should choose a football club, not a commercial club.”

      No Real deal for Tchouameni – yet
      Premier League pair Chelsea and Manchester United have been handed a boost by the news that – contrary to reports – Aurelien Tchouameni has not agreed to sign for Real Madrid.
      Spanish media had claimed a deal had been done, but Tchouameni’s agent insists that no such move has been confirmed.
      The two English clubs have been monitoring the 22-year-old’s development at Monaco, and both see the player as the ideal midfielder to build their side around for years to come.
      However, Madrid remain very interested despite the press jumping the gun, as do Ligue 1 big-spenders Paris Saint-Germain.
      Tchouameni scored his first international goal for France on Friday, heading home a stoppage time winner against Ivory Coast.
      Credit: @WhoScored Twitter
      United planning Shaw and Rashford talks
      Manchester United are planning to enter discussions with Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford over new contracts, according to ESPN’S Rob Dawson.
      The future of the England pair had been considered uncertain with both underperforming this season, and seemingly unhappy with life at Old Trafford.
      Yet the duo ‘are considered part of a key group of core players that United want to keep’ ahead of a significant squad overhaul in the summer.
      The current deals of both players are due to expire in June 2023.

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      Man Utd ‘want £100m Harry Kane transfer’, Poch backed as next manager, Cristiano Ronaldo labelled ‘f****** annoying’

      by

      MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly ready to make a summer move for Harry Kane.It is claimed that the Red Devils have a long standing interest, but informed Spurs they were delaying any approach last summer in order to sign Jadon Sancho.
      Any deal for the 28-year-old England captain will reportedly cost upwards of £100m.
      Meanwhile, ex-United man Nicky Butt has backed Mauricio Pochettino to be the new manager come next season.
      But reports suggest that Italian giants Juventus are keen on signing the centre-back once the window opens.
      And Wayne Rooney has opened up on his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo and Roy Keane.
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      Follow ALL of the latest news, updates and transfer gossip from Old Trafford right here…
      Ferdinand hits back at Rooney
      Rio Ferdinand has had his say on Wayne Rooney calling him ‘arrogant’.
      The pair played together for an incredibly successful Manchester United side between 2004 and 2014.
      At a speaking event this week, Wazza joked Ferdinand was a ‘top player’ but ‘arrogant’ and ‘sometimes did forget he was a defender.’
      On his YouTube show Vibe with Five, Ferdinand explained he and Rooney had often bickered during matches as a way of getting the best out of each other.
      He said: “If the ball came up and he weren’t holding it up I’d be screaming, ‘Wazza hurry up’.
      “He would go, expletive, ‘you do your own job’, and we’d be back and forth constant – but we drove each other.”
      United duo ready for England
      Manchester United stars Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire look ready for England duty in Tuesday’s friendly against Ivory Coast.
      Both defenders took part in training for the Three Lions today and look ready for the friendly clash at Wembley.
      Maguire was an unused sub in Saturday’s 2-1 clash with Switzerland but Shaw started and scored the equaliser as England came from behind to win 2-1.
      Butt: Pochettino’s United’s best option
      Manchester United legend Nicky Butt would like to see Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino come in as the Red Devils’ next permanent manager.
      Butt told FourFourTwo: “I’d go all-out to get Mauricio Pochettino as manager.
      “He’s proven in the Premier League, he’s young and enthusiastic, his style of play would suit United and his backroom staff seem switched on.
      “I met him a couple of times at Spurs’ training ground and had lunch. You’d want to play for him.”
      Fernandes ‘set for new deal’
      Bruno Fernandez is about to agree a new contract extension with Manchester United, according to reports.
      United news outlet @UtdPlug says ‘it will be announced in the coming days’.
      Portugal playmaker Fernandez, 27, has been a key man for the Red Devils since joining from Sporting Lisbon in 2020.
      Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes is said to be closing in on a new dealCredit: Getty
      Parker says United lack matchwinners
      Manchester United legend Paul Parker believes the club only have two matchwinners in their current squad – and neither is Cristiano Ronaldo.
      Speaking to OddsNinja, he said: “United haven’t got the individuals like we talk about at the club many years ago. They definitely haven’t got it.”
      He went on to name forward Anthony Elanga and keeper David de Gea as the only matchwinners in United’s squad.
      He added: “Other than that really, there isn’t really anybody you’d name, who can go and grab hold of the game and get United over the line.”
      United legends’ sons both score
      Cristiano Ronaldo Jr and Kai Ronney both scored for Manchester United Under-12s against West Brom on Sunday.
      They are the sons of Red Devils legends and former United team-mates Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney.
      Our nice report points out: “Fans can be forgiven for getting a little nostalgic, after seeing a United game with Rooney and Ronaldo on the scoresheet.”
      United fifth favourites for Raphinha
      Manchester United are fifth favourites to sign Leeds superstar Raphinha, according to the bookies.
      Sky Bet have the Red Devils priced at 7/4 to beat a host of other top European clubs to the signature of the Brazilian if he leaves Elland Road.
      The frontrunners are Spanish giants Barcelona at 7/4, followed by German powerhouses Bayern Munich at 7/1.
      Cascarino calls Rashford ‘not clinical’
      Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino says Marcus Rashford is ‘not clinical’ enough to lead the line for Arsenal.
      United forward Rashford is reportedly a transfer target for Mikel Arteta’s Champions League-chasing Gunners.
      Cascarino told talkSPORT: “I’m not sure if Marcus is a solution for Arsenal because Marcus is not clinical.
      “He doesn’t particularly lead the line well and that’s one of the two traits you need if you’re going to play in an Arteta team.”
      Henderson makes honest loan admission
      Manchester United keeper Dean Henderson admits loan spells at lower league clubs have been vital to his development.
      The 25-year-old star joined United’s Academy as a 14-year-old and has had temporary spells at Stockport, Grimsby, Shrewsbury Town and Sheffield United.
      He told Manchester United’s website: “[There] are the things you learn and move on. It was great for me. It’s why I’m sitting here today.
      “If I didn’t [go out on loan], I’d probably be in League One now, just going out on my first loan. I fought for it and I stand by it, the best decision of my life.”
      Van Gaal issues Ten Hag warning
      Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has issued a public warning to Erik ten Hag – advising him against taking the Old Trafford job.
      Ajax boss Ten Hag is the bookies favourite to fill the United hot seat after holding a promising first interview with the club last week.
      However, Van Gaal, now manager of the Dutch national team, has offered his compatriot a word of caution by criticising United’s off-field hierarchy.
      Dutch media outlet AD report Van Gaal as saying: “I think Erik ten Hag is a great coach, he has shown that several times – and a great coach is always good for Manchester United.”
      “Manchester United is a commercial club and those are difficult choices for a coach. It is better to go to a football club.
      “I’m not going to supervise his career and he will call me himself. But he should choose a football club, not a commercial club.”

      No Real deal for Tchouameni – yet
      Premier League pair Chelsea and Manchester United have been handed a boost by the news that – contrary to reports – Aurelien Tchouameni has not agreed to sign for Real Madrid.
      Spanish media had claimed a deal had been done, but Tchouameni’s agent insists that no such move has been confirmed.
      The two English clubs have been monitoring the 22-year-old’s development at Monaco, and both see the player as the ideal midfielder to build their side around for years to come.
      However, Madrid remain very interested despite the press jumping the gun, as do Ligue 1 big-spenders Paris Saint-Germain.
      Tchouameni scored his first international goal for France on Friday, heading home a stoppage time winner against Ivory Coast.
      Credit: @WhoScored Twitter
      United planning Shaw and Rashford talks
      Manchester United are planning to enter discussions with Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford over new contracts, according to ESPN’S Rob Dawson.
      The future of the England pair had been considered uncertain with both underperforming this season, and seemingly unhappy with life at Old Trafford.
      Yet the duo ‘are considered part of a key group of core players that United want to keep’ ahead of a significant squad overhaul in the summer.
      The current deals of both players are due to expire in June 2023.

      United capture teen ace Toby
      Manchester United have completed the signing of England youth star Toby Collyer from Brighton.
      The 18-year-old midfielder has penned a three-and-a-half year contract with the Red Devils.
      Collyer impressed Old Trafford chiefs during a recent trial and shone for their U23s in a match against Huddersfield.
      Now he has committed his long-term future to United after they beat a host of Premier League rivals – including Chelsea – to his signature.
      The youngster, who can also play as a centre-back, played 25 matches for Brighton’s Under-18 and Under-23 sides last season.
      Rooney’s strong words for Rashford
      Wayne Rooney has offered some old school advice to Marcus Rashford as he urged the out-of-form star to break his Manchester United record.
      Rooney made a whopping 559 appearances for United during his playing career, eventually overtaking Sir Bobby Charlton’s tally to become the club all-time top scorer with 253 goals.
      Now he has backed his 24-year-old pal Rashford to ‘f***ing get his head out of his a**e’ so that he will go on and surpass him.
      The United ace burst onto the scene in 2016 towards the end of Rooney’s stay at Old Trafford and appeared to have the world at his feet.
      However, this term the England international’s form and confidence appear to have dropped dramatically – and the player has since suggested that he’s frustrated with life at Old Trafford.
      Speaking at a black tie event in Manchester, Rooney said: “I hope that Marcus Rashford f***ing gets his head out of his a**e and goes and breaks that record. He’s a Manchester lad.”
      Midfielders also on United agenda
      Manchester United also want to sign two midfielders the summer – further fuelling the belief that Paul Pogba will depart Old Trafford.
      The Athletic suggest that the Red Devils want to bring in a pair of central players – one offensive and one defensive – in order to strengthen that area of their squad.
      Newcomers would present midfield competition for Fred and Scott McTominay, and will help to cover the gap left by Pogba’s expected exit.
      The French international is out of contract in June, and has shown little interest in penning a new deal with United.
      The Athletic also believe that right wing is another position being targeted by United chiefs, despite last summer’s signing of Jadon Sancho.
      Rooney response once was blue
      Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has revealed he told Sir Alex Ferguson to ‘f*** off’ when he tried to sign him aged 14.
      The Derby gaffer, now 36, has stated he only had eyes for Everton after being approached by the Red Devils’ legendary manager.
      In an exclusive, Rooney told The Sun: “Sir Alex ­Ferguson tried to sign me when I was 14. He was on the phone to my mum and dad.
      “They said, ‘Alex is on the phone, Manchester United want to sign you’.
      “I said, ‘Tell him to f*** off. I want to play for Everton’.
      “Then as time went on, I knew I had to play for Alex Ferguson. The reason I signed for United was Alex Ferguson.”
      Rooney admits he couldn’t resist the lure of United a second time. He eventually joined them in 2004, and went on to become the club’s all-time top scorer.
      United set sights on Kane
      Manchester United want to bring a stellar striker to the club in the summer – and Harry Kane is at the top of their list.
      The Athletic understand that Old Trafford officials are seriously considering an approach for Kane after holding initial talks with Tottenham back in July.
      The Red Devils will require attacking reinforcements with Edinson Cavani destined to leave, Mason Greenwood unavailable indefinitely following his arrest, and question marks over the futures of Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial.
      Spurs chief Daniel Levy refused to play ball with Manchester City last summer, but may now consider moving the 28-year-old forward on for big money with his contract ticking down.
      Kane, who took his goal tally with England to 49 on Saturday, has only two more years to run on his current deal.

      United still keen on Luis
      Luis Enrique is still considered ‘a genuine contender’ for the Manchester United job despite Erik ten Hag emerging as the clear favourite.
      The Express report that the Red Devils remain extremely interested in bringing the Spain coach to Old Trafford, whose role with the national team would not require a hefty compensation package.
      However, the situation is made more complex by the timing of this year’s winter World Cup.
      It is understood that Enrique wants to lead La Roja through the finals in Qatar, meaning he would not be available to start in the Premier League until January.
      United, on the other hand, want their new manager named ahead of this summer, such is the overhaul expected at the club.

      Good Morning Man Utd fans
      Erik ten Hag is claimed to be “surprised” that he has not been formally offered a contract by Manchester United yet.
      The Mirror report Ten Hag is “stunned” that terms haven’t been proposed to him following his interview last week.
      Ajax chief Ten Hag is not thought to be concerned about money – and had been expecting to be offered a deal soon after talks concluded.
      United are said to have interviewed two other candidates, as well as Ten Hag, for the position.
      Speaking on the United We Stand podcast, Andy Mitten confirmed discussions have been held with three bosses.
      Elsewhere Paul Pogba has admitted he is “sad” that Manchester United have failed to win a trophy for five years.
      He told Telefoot: “I want to win titles, to play for something and this year and the last few years we haven’t won a title. It’s sad.
      “The season is not over yet, but almost because we don’t have any more titles to play for.”
      And interim boss Ralf Rangnick could be without Pogba for Leicester’s visit this Saturday.
      RTL France claim the midfielder missed national team training on Sunday with a “foot contusion.”
      But in a double injury blow Raphael Varane could also be unavailable.
      The centre-back was forced to come off in France’s 2-1 win over Ivory Coast on Friday with a foot injury, and although Varane did train on Sunday, it was only a “special session.”
      Neither of the injuries are thought to be serious, but it’s still sure to give Rangnick an unwanted headache.
      Connolly – Too many statements from Utd stars
      Former Premier League player David Connolly has claimed Manchester United’s stars should not be “making that many statements on social media” after defeats.
      A number of United’s squad have posted lengthy messages across the course of the season, vowing to improve matters at Old Trafford.
      But Speaking to Off The Ball, Connolly said: “I took a lot of criticism when I was playing and I think at times it’s unfortunate but it’s par for the course, whether it’s from the media, newspapers or journalists, shows like this, tons of fans.
      “You accept it and you accept it because you’re playing football, you know you have done so well to be able to play football, you accept that it’s part and parcel of it.
      “In there somewhere I guess is a middle ground that you have to find and I don’t think Marcus or too many other players should be making that many statements on social media.
      “Certainly you can’t apologise incessantly for all your failings in every regard.”
      United manager interviews continue
      Manchester United have reportedly interviewed THREE candidates for the managerial role.
      Erik ten Hag held discussions last week over the role.
      But speaking on the United We Stand podcast, Andy Mitten confirmed that United have now spoken to three candidates over the position.
      And while one of those is Ten Hag, although the identity of the other two remains unknown.
      As well as Ten Hag, Mauricio Pochettino, Julen Lopetegui and Luis Enrique are all thought to be candidates for the role.
      Rooney on telling Fergie to “f*** off”
      Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has revealed he told Sir Alex Ferguson to “f*** off” when he tried to sign him aged 14.
      The Derby gaffer, 36, has stated he only had eyes for Everton after being approached by the Red Devils’ legendary manager.
      Rooney told The Sun: “Sir Alex ­Ferguson tried to sign me when I was 14. He was on the phone to my mum and dad.
      “They said, ‘Alex is on the phone, Manchester United want to sign you’. 
      “I said, ‘Tell him to f*** off. I want to play for Everton’.
      “Then as time went on, I knew I had to play for Alex Ferguson. The reason I signed for United was Alex Ferguson.”
      Arsenal keen on Rashford transfer
      Manchester United academy product Marcus Rashford could be set for a shock move to Arsenal this summer.
      Reports suggest the Gunners are plotting a swoop for the 24-year-old come the end of the campaign.
      The Manchester United forward is enduring a rough time at Old Trafford this season.
      However, according to the Mirror, Rashford could be offered an escape route out of Old Trafford by Arsenal, as the Gunners look to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s goals.
      Exclusive – Rooney reveals Keane bust-up
      Wayne Rooney recalled a hilarious bust-up he had with Roy Keane over turning off rugby league to watch X-FACTOR.
      Following an away game, former United captain Keane was left fuming after Rooney turned over the rugby to watch the singing show.
      Rooney, 36, revealed: “We played ­Newcastle away and afterwards Roy was watching the rugby league. When he went out of the room I put X Factor on and hid the remote. He came back in and asked who turned it over.
      “I said, ‘I don’t know.’ He went up to the plug, pulled it out and said no one could watch anything.
      “At midnight I was asleep and there was a bang on the door. It was security and he said, ‘Roy said, Where’s the remote?’ 
      “The next morning we go ­downstairs to get our pre-match meal and I’m stood next to Roy.
      “I said, ‘Roy, you OK mate? Did you find that remote?’ He said, ‘What the f**k has it got to do with you?’
      “Roy is not everyone’s cup of tea but I really like him.”
      Rooney – Ferdinand is “arrogant”
      Rio Ferdinand also copped from stick from former Wayne Rooney.
      Rooney told fans, some of whom had paid up to £300 a ticket to hear him speak at the Mercure Hotel: “Rio is a top player, but he is just arrogant.
      “You get paid a lot of money at Man United to kick the ball into the net, so just do it.
      “I said: ‘Do your job, and give me the ball, give Ronaldo the ball. Stop standing there messing about.’ Rio is a top lad but he sometimes did forget he was a defender.”
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      John Stones OUT of England squad, Barca ‘AGREE Lewandowski transfer’, Canada reach first World Cup in 36 years – latest

      by

      ENGLAND will be without John Stones for the remainder of the international break. The Man City defender picked up a knock in training and has returned to his club to seek further rehabilitation.
      Meanwhile, Barcelona have agreed a deal to sign two-time Fifa Best award winner Robert Lewandowski, according to reports.
      Canada have reached their first World Cup since 1986 after beating Jamaica 4-0 to top the North American qualifying table.
      USA and Mexico look set to join them if they can manage a point in their respective final games while Costa Rica are set for the play-offs.
      Get all the latest football news and updates here…
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      United duo ready for England
      Manchester United stars Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire look ready for England duty in Tuesday’s friendly against Ivory Coast.
      Both defenders took part in training for the Three Lions today and look ready for the friendly clash at Wembley.
      Maguire was an unused sub in Saturday’s 2-1 clash with Switzerland but Shaw started and scored the equaliser as England came from behind to win 2-1.
      Fernandes ‘set for new deal’
      Bruno Fernandez is about to agree a new contract extension with Manchester United, according to reports.
      United news outlet @UtdPlug says ‘it will be announced in the coming days’.
      Portugal playmaker Fernandez, 27, has been a key man for the Red Devils since joining from Sporting Lisbon in 2020.
      Chelsea quartet travel to America
      Four Chelsea players not in action for their countries during the international break have travelled to America together, it has been has reported.
      Hakim Ziyech, who recently declined a call-up for Morocco, Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku, un-capped Englishman Trevoh Chalobah, and Spain’s Kepa Arrizabalaga enjoyed the break in each other’s company.
      The Chelsea Chronicle’s article says they have ‘decided to spend some time watching an NBA game between the Miami Heat and Brooklyn Nets at FTX Arena in Florida.’
      Terry watches England training
      Chelsea legend John Terry watched England’s current crop in training for tomorrow’s friendly with Ivory Coast.
      The retired England skipper, 41, was present to see the Three Lions squad warming up at Tottenham Hotspur’s Enfield HQ.
      Abramovich ‘suffers suspected poisoning’
      Chelsea’s embattled and outgoing owner Roman Abramovich suffered suspected poisoning along with Ukraine peace negotiators earlier this month, according to the Wall Street Journal.
      The Russian oligarch and two officials are said to have developed symptoms including red eyes, painful tearing and peeling skin while in the role of peacemakers at a meeting in Kyiv. They have now recovered.
      Abramovich is currently selling the Blues as a result of pressure put on him by the UK government in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
      Cascarino calls Rashford ‘not clinical’
      Former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino says Marcus Rashford is ‘not clinical’ enough to lead the line for Arsenal.
      United forward Rashford is reportedly a transfer target for Mikel Arteta’s Champions League-chasing Gunners.
      Cascarino told talkSPORT: “I’m not sure if Marcus is a solution for Arsenal because Marcus is not clinical.
      “He doesn’t particularly lead the line well and that’s one of the two traits you need if you’re going to play in an Arteta team.”
      Pulisic insight into ‘worm’ celebration
      Christian Pulisic says his ‘worm’ goal celebration – after he scored for the USA in their 5-1 win over Panama – was for a young fan with cancer.
      The Chelsea winger revealed it was for 15-year-old Mason Ogle, who has osteosarcoma and was the USA’s matchday ambassador for the game.
      Pulisic said: “I met someone really special yesterday.
      “His name was Mason and his one request was that if I scored, he wanted to see a worm celebration. That’s what that was for.”
      Arsenal tie down prospect Ibrahim
      Teenage midfielder Bradley Ibrahim has signed his first pro deal with Arsenal.
      The 17-year-old joined from Queen’s Park Rangers last summer and has been impressing in the Gunners’ youth ranks.
      The versatile starlet can play in the middle of the park as well as well at centre-half.
      Arsenal youngster Bradley Ibrahim has signed his first ever professional contractCredit: Twitter
      Werner finds comfort in country
      Chelsea striker Timo Werner has admitted that he feels more comfortable playing football for Germany than he does at Stamford Bridge.
      The 26-year-old has struggled to make an impact in the Premier League since joining the Blues for £47million two years ago, scoring just seven times in 49 appearances.
      However, Werner hasn’t lost his touch in front of goal when it comes to the international stage, and was again on the mark on Saturday when the Germans defeated Israel 2-0 in a friendly.
      Werner has netted six times in his last six appearances for his country, and afterwards said: “I’m a striker and always want to score.
      “Things aren’t going the way I’d like at Chelsea so it’s all the better that things are going well here under Hansi Flick.
      “I really enjoy playing football, no matter where I’m playing. There are differences in the style of play between football at Chelsea and here.
      “Maybe the national team suits me better. Here, I always have scoring chances, I can score goals. I feel very comfortable here.”

      Eddie Glad to be going
      Borussia Monchengladbach are considering a move for Arsenal outcast Eddie Nketiah.
      The Gunners had high hopes for the 22-year-old striker, but he’s failed to make a serious breakthrough at the Emirates despite a shortage of attacking options at the club.
      Nketiah is yet to start a Premier League game this season, and has totalled just 114 minutes of game time during 11 substitute appearances.
      The forward is out of contract at the Emirates the summer, and, according to BILD (via Sport Witness), his name is on a ‘secret shortlist’ being drawn up by the Bundesliga club.

      Teen ‘hurt’ after rejecting Reds
      Andreas Schjelderup has revealed his ‘hurt’ at having to reject a move to Liverpool, but hopes to join the Premier League giants in the future.
      The 17-year-old sensation was on trial at Anfield two years ago, but turned down a permanent move in order to stay in his homeland with Nordsjaelland.
      Schjelderup has since built a reputation as being Norway’s latest wonderkid, and again has the eyes of top European clubs upon him after two impressive seasons in the first team.
      The attacking midfielder told Goal: “Of course, it was a bit hard [to reject Liverpool] because when you grow up, you watch the big names and then you hear that they want you so your head starts to spin.
      “But I got a lot of help from my father and agents, who helped me make the right decision.
      “It hurt a little bit for me and my dad in our hearts [not to join Liverpool], but the move here was instead of going to an academy at under-19 or under-17 level.
      “Of course, maybe I can go to a big team in the future. In the long run, for me, this was the best step. When I am ready, I will take the next step.”

      No Real deal for Tchouameni – yet
      Premier League pair Chelsea and Manchester United have been handed a boost by the news that – contrary to reports – Aurelien Tchouameni has not agreed to sign for Real Madrid.
      Spanish media had claimed a deal had been done, but Tchouameni’s agent insists that no such move has been confirmed.
      The two English clubs have been monitoring the 22-year-old’s development at Monaco, and both see the player as the ideal midfielder to build their side around for years to come.
      However, Madrid remain very interested despite the press jumping the gun, as do Ligue 1 big-spenders Paris Saint-Germain.
      Tchouameni scored his first international goal for France on Friday, heading home a stoppage time winner against Ivory Coast.
      Credit: @WhoScored Twitter
      United planning Shaw and Rashford talks
      Manchester United are planning to enter discussions with Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford over new contracts, according to ESPN’S Rob Dawson.
      The future of the England pair had been considered uncertain with both underperforming this season, and seemingly unhappy with life at Old Trafford.
      Yet the duo ‘are considered part of a key group of core players that United want to keep’ ahead of a significant squad overhaul in the summer.
      The current deals of both players are due to expire in June 2023.

      Why Port Vale are England’s best
      League Two Port Vale set a unique record on Saturday afternoon, setting them apart from every other club in the English football pyramid.
      The Valiants defeated Sutton United 2-0 at Vale Park, and, in doing so, became the first side to have beaten each of the other 91 clubs in the Premier League and Football League in a league encounter.
      Perhaps more importantly for the Staffordshire club, the three points was a fourth win in five games, and moved them up to fourth spot in the table.
      Credit: MBaggers37 Twitter
      Blues bidders to learn fate
      The four parties still in the running to buy Chelsea will discover which has the backing of Raine Group next month.
      The bank overseeing the sale of the football club has told the remaining bidders that it intends to present their preferred bid to the government and the Premier League during the week of April 18.
      Sky News understands that a letter has been sent to those on the shortlist, indicating that the government will also be approached to issue a licence enabling a quick sale that could be completed by the end of the season.
      The remaining contenders were told over the weekend that they had until April 11 to refine their final offers.
      League One strugglers sack Robinson
      AFC Wimbledon have parted company with head coach Mark Robinson, the League One club have announced.
      The news came after the south London club slipped to a 1-0 home defeat to Cambridge on Saturday, making it 21 league games without a win.
      The Dons have dropped from being sat in fourth place in September to being fourth from bottom and in the relegation zone.
      Blues monitoring contract rebel Marquinhos
      If Romelu Lukaku is to head to Paris this summer, then at least one player may be heading in the opposition direction.
      It is understood that Chelsea have been keeping a close eye on Marquinhos’ situation at PSG, and are prepared to make an offer for the defender as soon as they receive the green light from their new owners.
      The 27-year-old has two years to run on his deal in the French capital, and, according to L’Equipe, is no closer to signing a new contract with his club.
      However, the Brazilian defender supposedly wants a significant increase in his salary – currently thought to be around £250k-per-week – and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea in a post-Roman Abramovich era could afford such wages.

      Mancini to remain Azzurri boss
      Roberto Mancini hopes to keep his job as Italy head coach despite the country’s embarrassing failure to reach this year’s World Cup.
      The European champions were beaten to top spot in their qualifying group by Switzerland last year, and were then shocked at home by North Macedonia in Thursday’s play-off semi-final.
      Many expected Mancini to step down in the aftermath, but the former Manchester City boss has confirmed that he wants to stay on in the role.
      He said: “We’re on the same point with the [Italian Football] Federation – I’m happy about that, we’re gonna discuss it again in the coming days.
      “We’ll speak about plans for the future and things to be improved as soon as possible.”
      Southgate to rotate Three Lions
      Gareth Southgate will freshen up his England side for tomorrow evening’s friendly with Ivory Coast at Wembley.
      The Three Lions boss has promised to rotate his squad during this international break, and will give game time to as many players in the group as possible.
      That’s likely to mean starts in defence for Harry Maguire and Tyrone Mings, who both sat out Saturday’s win over Switzerland.
      It may also mean a change in goal despite Jordan Pickford’s impressive performance against the Swiss with Nick Pope and Fraser Forster – back in the England squad for the first time since 2017 – waiting in the wings.
      PSG ready to rescue Romelu
      Paris Saint-Germain are preparing to end Romelu Lukaku’s Chelsea nightmare by bringing the striker to the Parc des Princes.
      The Football Insider understands that the Ligue 1 club hope to take advantage of the Belgian’s unhappiness at the Bridge to pick him up on the ‘cheap’.
      Lukaku cost the Blues £97m last summer when returning to the London club for a second spell.
      The 28-year-old insisted that it was his dream move at the time, but it has since turned sour due to a series of below-par performances and misguided interviews.
      The former Manchester United forward has netted just five Premier League goals this term, and only two since early September.
      PSG view Lukaku as the best option to replace Kylian Mbappe, who is widely expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.

      Deal prepared for happy Saka
      Arsenal have been busy finalising a bumper contract to offer Bukayo Saka at the end of the season.
      Transfers expert Fabrizio Romano reports that the plan remains for Gunners officials to sit down with the England international in the summer to discuss his future.
      Liverpool and Manchester City have bees linked with the young star, but Romano believes Arsenal fans have nothing to worry about.
      He states that the 20-year-old is ‘really happy’ with life at the Emirates, and is fully focused on helping the club qualify for the Champions League.
      Spurs heading chase for Memphis
      Tottenham are leading the race to sign Barcelona’s Memphis Depay, according to Mundo Deportivo.
      The Spanish publication believe that Spurs are one of a number of European clubs monitoring the Dutchman’s situation at the Nou Camp.
      Depay is Barca’s top scorer this season with ten goals, but has played less of prominent role since Xavi’s arrival as manager.
      The 28-year-old insists he’s happy at the LaLiga club despite the current form of Ousmane Dembele and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang restricting him to appearances from the bench.
      However, with only a year to run on his current contract, there is the acceptance that both player and club will be considering options in the summer.

      Thiago Silva tight-lipped on future
      Chelsea defender Thiago Silva has refused to comment on the rumours of a possible return to Fluminense.
      Despite signing a one-year extension with the Blues, the 37-year-old has recently been linked with a move back to the Brazilian club he represented between 2006 and 2008.
      The centre-back was speaking to the press after captaining Brazil to a 4-0 win over Chile in World Cup qualifying.
      According to Netflu (via Sport Witness), the player was asked about a possible move back to the club where he is so fondly remembered.
      Thiago Silva has made no secret of his desire to play again for Fluminense before he retires but, on this occasion, he simply smiled and replied: “Next question.”
      Leeds suffer new Bamford blow
      Patrick Bamford will miss Leeds’ crucial relegation run-in after he was ruled out for at least six weeks with a foot injury.
      The England striker has endured a torrid season, managing only ten appearances in all competitions due to a range of different fitness issues.
      The 28-year-old, who hasn’t completed 90 minutes since September, has now ruptured a ligament in his foot after the exacerbation of a previous injury.
      Bamford doesn’t require surgery, but will struggle to feature again this season as the Yorkshire club battle the drop.
      Back-to-back wins have given Leeds some breathing space at the bottom, but they remain only two places outside of the relegation zone.
      Tierney move a Real possibility
      Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney has once again been linked with a big-money move to Real Madrid.
      The Scottish defender has been tracked by the Spanish giants all season, and now looks set to be the focus of a £50million bid.
      The Sunday Post report that Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti has long been an admirer of the 24-year-old, and attempted to sign him from Celtic for Napoli back in 2019.
      Tierney, who scored his first goal for Scotland in Thursday’s friendly draw with Poland, has four years to run on his contract with the Gunners.
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