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      in Soccer

      Rashford linked AGAIN, Arsenal’s £41.6m transfer boost, Ben White’s last minute start – updates

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      ARSENAL are stepping up on their pursuit for Manchester United star Marcus Rashford this summer.The out of favour England international has struggled to impress this season and Mikel Arteta could be willing to revitalise his career at the Emirates.
      Any money spent on Rashford will be recouped by Arsenal’s FOUR deals that are expected to accumulate around £41.6 million in the transfer window.
      And Ben White was a starter for England in their win over Switzerland, following the late withdrawal of John Stones during the warm-up.
      It comes just a day after he responded to criticism from Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher.
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Stay up to date with all the latest from the Emirates in our live blog…
      Napoli demanding £83m for Osimhen
      Arsenal and Manchester United look set to be priced out of a move to sign Victor Osimhen with Napoli demanding a whopping £83million for the striker.
      After scoring ten goals in his opening campaign in Italy, the 23-year-old has chipped in with 15 goals and four assists in 25 games in all competitions this term.
      According to Corriere dello Sport via Fichajes, both Arsenal and United are keen on securing the ex-Lille ace’s services.
      It has also been said that the likes of Tottenham, Liverpool, Newcastle and Real Madrid have also shown interest in recent months.
      But a move this summer appears unlikely with Napoli demanding £83m in order to part ways with the player.
      Tielemans summer transfer
      Youri Tielemans has put Arsenal and Manchester United on red alert after declaring he wishes to play Champions League football.
      And that will be a boost to Mikel Arteta with his Gunners side in pole position to finish fourth this season ahead of the Red Devils and rivals Tottenham.
      Tielemans faces an uncertain future at the King Power Stadium with the Belgium international having just one year left on his contract.
      Arsenal reportedly held talks with the midfielder’s representatives in January over a potential switch to the Emirates.

      Commenting on his future, Tielemans has revealed he is not thinking about next season, but stressed he wants to be competing for Europe’s premier tournament.
      He told Het Laatste Nieuws: “I don’t worry about it [speculation].
      “I want to get the most out of myself this season and finish as high as possible with the team.
      “Of course, I want to play in the Champions League, just like any footballer.
      “Am I ready for a European top club? I’m ready to get the best out of my career.
      “We’ll see what happens next summer, or the summer after that.”
      Thomas Partey and Thomas ‘After’ Partey
      Arsenal’s Thomas Partey met a lookalike and his Ghana team-mates were in hysterics, writes JOSHUA JONES.
      The Arsenal midfielder linked up with his national team for their crunch World Cup play-off with rivals Nigeria.
      And ahead of Friday’s 0-0 first-leg draw in Kumasi, striker Kofi Kyereh posted the sensational video on his Instagram story.
      In the clip, the original Partey is decked out in a Ghana training shirt whilst his fan wore a Gunners shirt.

      How Arsenal could line up with Rashford 
      Arsenal are reportedly ready to add Marcus Rashford to their attacking ranks with the star allegedly unhappy at Manchester United, JOSHUA MBU writes.
      And if were to join the Gunners, it would see the London side assemble an attacking force as young as it would be lethal.
      According to the Mirror, Rashford is disgruntled and Arsenal are ready to offer him an escape route out of Old Trafford.
      In midfield, the Gunners have been linked with a move for Leicester ace Youri Tielemans, whose contract expires in the summer of 2023.
      Arsenal reportedly held talks with the midfielder’s representatives in January over a potential switch to the Emirates.

      Not Keane on that
      Roy Keane let rip at Ben White for his role in Switzerland’s goal against England at Wembley, writes SIMON RICE.
      The Arsenal defender saw a Xherdan Shaqiri cross to the back post float just over his head before Breel Embolo buried the opportunity.
      White was only in the side after John Stones, initially named in the starting XI, had to pull out after picking up an injury in the pre-match warm up.
      Credit: Getty
      But notoriously hard-to-please Keane had no sympathy.
      Speaking on ITV the Man Utd legend said: “It really is tough, you’re up against good teams. Sometimes it’s just slight mistakes which we see for the goal and he just got caught out.
      “It’s good quality from Switzerland and they were on top at that moment in time.
      “He just got caught out, as simple as that. It’s a great finish and he got punished. You hope sometimes to get away with it, but it’s a great delivery and he’s just been caught out.”
      Arsenal legend Ian Wright however stuck up for White.
      He retorted: “I think, being called up as late as he did because of the injury in the warm-up, there was a bit of nerves, you could see that.
      “But I thought he did well in the game to be honest. He did very well.”
      Fortunately, England recovered from that 22nd minute goal to come back and win the friendly clash 2-1.
      Arteta on the milestone
      Mikel Arteta, now 40, is still is the youngest manager in the Premier League.
      He told the Gunners official site: “Honestly, I don’t really think about it, because for me age is relative.”
      “It’s relative for me as a manager and also for the way I look at players.
      “Because for me when people say someone has a lot of experience, what does that mean? Experience of what kind? That’s what is more relevant.
      “So how much experience do I have? A lot or a little, I don’t know because I have been in this league for 20 years.
      “So even though I am Spanish I have experience of this country, I have lived here, I understand the league, the culture, the players.
      “So I don’t know, I just feel lucky to be part of this club, especially at this moment.
      “And especially now when I feel there is a real sense of unity and when I see there is an energy.
      “When I visualise the club and when I see the Emirates I see energy and direction.
      “I see we are connected as a club and that empowers me and gives me the energy to say ‘we can do this and we believe.’
      “Yeah, I feel really young to be fair because I am surrounded by a lot of young people”.
      Arteta turns 40
      It was boss Mikel Arteta’s 40th birthday yesterday and he spoke to Arsenal’s official site.
      Arteta said: “Well when I went into management I had a clear vision of what I wanted to accomplish with Arsenal.”
      “I wanted to build a winning team that was also financially sustainable and that could transmit the values, the identity and the passion that the club has had over the years.
      Credit: Getty
      “There have been some very difficult decisions to make.
      “You have to have a lot of support from within the club to do it, and then the decisions need to be right.
      “Until now I think one of the biggest successes has been to create – as a club – a culture and an atmosphere where our players, staff and everyone can feel that this is a place where they can fulfil their potential.
      “It is a place where they can grow, they can participate and everyone can add value to the club.
      “When you get that, you create a real sense of belonging and that’s something more powerful than just personal interest.
      “I think that’s been one of our biggest wins so far.”
      Not a Rash decision
      Arsenal are plotting a shock summer transfer swoop for Marcus Rashford, according to reports.
      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.
      Credit: Getty
      He has hit a barren run of form and slipped way down the pecking order – with just five goals in 26 appearances across all competitions and two completed 90 minutes.
      The England international was dropped by Gareth Southgate for the current Three Lions camp.
      Good morning to Gunners fans
      Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Youri Tielemans and Darwin Nunez top the transfer speculation list.
      And Gunners’ midfielder Granit Xhaka impressed as he played all the game for Switzerland in their 2-1 friendly defeat against England at Wembley.
      Newcastle and West Ham are expected to rival Arsenal for Everton forward Calvert-Lewin.
      The Toffees are reportedly willing to sell due to worries over Financial Fair Play awards.
      And Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta – 40 yesterday – is expected to make recruiting a proven scorer one of his summer priorities.
      Meanwhile, star Leicester midfielder Tielemans has suggested he wants to play Champions League football.
      Arsenal and Manchester United remain the Belgian’s main suitors.
      So it’s an extra incentive for the Gunners to hold onto fourth place in the Prem ahead of the Red Devils and Tottenham.
      Finally, Newcastle are said to be rivalling Arsenal for Benfica forward Nunez.
      Gunners linked to Dom swoop
      Arsenal, Newcastle and West Ham are tipped to pursue Dominic Calvert-Lewin after suggestions Everton are ready to sell their England striker.
      The Toffees reportedly have worries over Financial Fair Play awards and Calvert-Lewin is arguably their most valuable asset.
      Credit: Getty
      Roma ‘back in for Granit’
      Roma have reportedly reignited their interest in signing Granit Xhaka from Arsenal.
      Jose Mourinho has been keen to sign the midfielder since he arrived in Italy last year.
      Xhaka was also open to the move, but the two clubs could not agree on a fee.
      But, according to Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport, a deal could finally be struck this summer.
      40 up for Arteta
      Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta can properly relax for his 40th birthday – as it’s the international break.
      And when he returns he’ll hope to cement the Gunners’ top-four spot.

      Arsenal, Toon & Hammers in Calvert-Lewin boost
      Arsenal, Newcastle and West Ham are tipped to pursue Dominic Calvert-Lewin after suggestions Everton are ready to sell their England striker.
      The Toffees reportedly have worries over Financial Fair Play awards and Calvert-Lewin is arguably their most valuable asset
      Credit: Getty
      Mourinho predicted Hazard’s Real hell
      Eden Hazard’s injury hell at Real Madrid was predicted by his former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho in 2015.
      Hazard’s spell at Los Blancos has been blighted by repeated setbacks since joining from the Blues three years ago.

      Hazard, 31, has picked up his 16th injury at the Bernabeu – with the Belgium international to to have surgery on his right leg in order to remove a plate.
      He will now miss Real’s Champions League quarter-final first leg tie against his former side at Stamford Bridge on April 6.
      In 2016 it was revealed Hazard was the most fouled player in the Premier League.
      A year beforehand, while Mourinho worked with the winger, the Special One warned the forward’s career could be cut short due to constant fouls.
      He said: “People [are] in love with football in this country – people must be in love with Eden Hazard. The way, match after match, he’s being punished by opponents and he’s not being protected by referees, maybe one day we won’t have Eden Hazard.
      “It’s one, two, three, four, five, ten aggressive fouls against him. They kick and kick and kick, and the kid resists. He’s a very honest guy in the way he plays, but that’s another problem.”
      Latest: England 2 Switzerland 1
      Harry Kane’s 78th minute penalty put England in front for the first time.
      Steven Zuber’s handball from a Marc Guehi header was penalised by VAR, enabling Kane to draw level with Bobby Charlton from the spot as the Three Lions’ all-time top scorer on 49 goals.
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      Youri boost for Arsenal & Man Utd
      Youri Tielemans has put Arsenal and Manchester United on red alert after declaring he wishes to play Champions League football.
      And that will be a boost to Mikel Arteta with his Gunners side in pole position to finish fourth this season ahead of the Red Devils and rivals Tottenham.

      Tielemans faces an uncertain future at the King Power Stadium with the Belgium international having just one year left on his contract.
      Arsenal reportedly held talks with the midfielder’s representatives in January over a potential switch to the Emirates.
      Meanwhile United have identified the ex-Monaco ace as a cheaper alternative to West Ham’s Declan Rice and Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips.
      Tielemans could be sold in the upcoming transfer window with it claimed he has rejected a bumper new deal to stay in the Midlands.
      And in a boost for Arsenal and United, the Foxes are said to have slashed their asking from £60million to just £35m to avoid losing him on a free.
      Commenting on his future, Tielemans has revealed he is not thinking about next season, but stressed he wants to be competing for Europe’s premier tournament.
      He told Het Laatste Nieuws: “I don’t worry about it [speculation].
      “I want to get the most out of myself this season and finish as high as possible with the team.
      H/T: England 1 Switzerland 1
      Luke Shaw punished woeful Swiss defending in first-half stoppage time to cancel out Breel Embolo’s superb headed opener.
      It rescued the Three Lions’ from a poor show, with Arsenal’s Ben White vulnerable in central defence and the visitors lively
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      LATEST: England 0 Switzerland 1
      Breel Embolo’s bullet header from a fine cross put the Swiss in front from one of the first moments of real quality.
      Arsenal centre-back Ben White should arguably have done much better as he seemed to get stuck underneath the ball.
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      LIVE: England 0 Switzerland 0
      Our LIVE MATCH BLOG will have blow-by-blow updates.
      Click HERE for updates from Wembley as the Three Lions, in their changed blue kit, feel their way into this friendly.
      White in for Stones
      Arsenal’s Ben White has replaced John Stones in England’s central defence after the Manchester City star pulled up in practice before the 5.30pm kick-off with Switzerland.
      Xhaka starts against England
      Crystal Palace central defender Marc Guehi and Southampton right-back Kyle Walker-Peters make their England debuts in this evening’s friendly with Switzerland.
      Manchester United skipper Harry Kane is only a sub.
      Palace’s huge input also includes on-loan Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher earning his second cap and Tyrick Mitchell being a sub.
      Arsenal anchorman Granit Xhaka and ex-Liverpool playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri start for the visitors.
      England XI: Pickford, Walker-Peters, Guehi, Stones, Coady, Shaw, Gallagher, Henderson, Mount, Foden, Kane.
      Switzerland XI: Omlin, Widmer, Akanji, Frei, Embolo, Freuler, Xhaka, Steffen, Rodriguez, Vargas, Shaqiri.
      Toon ‘fight Arsenal for Nunez’
      Newcastle are ready to fight Arsenal for Benfica striker Darwin Nunez, according to reports.
      The Magpies are set for another big transfer window, with their controversial Saudi owners set to oversee their first summer at St James’ Park.
      In January they splashed the cash on Kieran Trippier, Bruno Guimaraes, Chris Wood, Dan Burn and Matt Targett.

      And according to The Athletic, they could begin this summer’s splurge with a £50million swoop for Nunez.
      On their podcast Pod on the Tyne, reporter Chris Waugh revealed that the Toon are enamoured by the 22-year-old striker.
      Waugh said: “He’s someone Newcastle, certainly Steve Nickson the head of recruitment, has liked for a long while, they’ve watched a lot.
      “There was almost surprise in January that they didn’t make a bid in the end because there has been a lot of interest.
      “They’ve watched him extensively.”
      How Arsenal lined up in last Koscielny game
      Laurent Koscielny has announced his retirement from football aged 36 following a bitter January exit from Bordeaux.
      The defender departed the Ligue 1 side after being frozen out, and hasn’t found a club in the meantime.

      Since his exit Koscielny has been accused of racist behaviour by Bordeaux ultras – allegations that he vehemently denies.
      The former France international also left Arsenal on poor terms back in 2019, following nine years in North London.
      Despite being club skipper, Koscielny refused to jet out on their pre-season tour in order to force through a transfer.
      He eventually got his wish, meaning that the 2019 Europa League final was the last of his 353 appearances for the club.
      Unai Emery’s side were mauled 4-1 by Chelsea that day, with their former forward Olivier Giroud coming back to haunt the Gunners that day – while Eden Hazard put on a masterclass to bring his time at Stamford Bridge to an end.
      Arsenal’s starting XI that day featured just two players that remain with the club to this day.
      Tite linked with Gunners
      Brazil boss Tite is reportedly in talks with Arsenal over a potential job once he departs his position after the 2022 World Cup.
      The 60-year-old is poised to leave his role within the Selecao set-up later this year after the tournament in Qatar.
      And it has been claimed that he could be heading to the Emirates following discussions with Gunners technical director Edu.

      The pair worked together when Tite was the Corinthians gaffer and Edu was their director of football.
      During ESPN’s broadcast of Brazil’s 4-0 win against Chile on Thursday, in which Gabriel Martinelli made his international debut, TV Globo reporter Eric Faria spoke of the talks.
      He said: “There is already a negotiation of Tite to work in English football.
      “To work at Arsenal. He worked with Edu Gaspar.
      “There is the intention, negotiations have started.”
      How Arsenal lined up the last time Laurent Koscielny played
      Laurent Koscielny has announced his retirement from football aged 36 following a bitter January exit from Bordeaux.
      Arsenal lined up the last time Laurent Koscielny played with just TWO surviving 2019 Europa League final thrashing.
      The defender has departed Ligue Bordeaux 1 after being frozen out, and hasn’t found a club in the meantime.
      The former France international also left Arsenal on poor terms back in 2019, following nine years in North London.
      Despite being club skipper, Koscielny refused to jet out on their pre-season tour in order to force through a transfer.
      He eventually got his wish, meaning that the 2019 Europa League final was the last of his 353 appearances for the club.
      Unai Emery’s side were mauled 4-1 by Chelsea that day, with their former forward Olivier Giroud coming back to haunt the Gunners that day – while Eden Hazard put on a masterclass to bring his time at Stamford Bridge to an end.
      Arsenal’s starting XI that day featured just two players that remain with the club to this day.

      Load more entries… More

    • 225 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Man Utd face competition for Rudiger, Shaw scores stunner for England – United women v Everton ladies updates

      by

      ANTONIO RUDIGER continues to be heavily linked with a shocking switch to Manchester United this summer.But reports suggest that Italian giants Juventus are keen on signing the centre-back once the window opens.
      Meanwhile, Luke Shaw reminded England and Manchester United fans just what he is capable of with a stunning goal for the Three Lions against Switzerland.
      The left back has been in and out of the United team with minor injuries and a loss of form.
      But he reminded fans of his immense qualities with a fine strike from the edge of the box at Wembley.
      And Manchester United women are currently taking on Everton ladies in the Women’s Super League.
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow ALL of the latest news, updates and transfer gossip from Old Trafford right here…
      Napoli demanding £83m for Osimhen
      Arsenal and Manchester United look set to be priced out of a move to sign Victor Osimhen with Napoli demanding a whopping £83million for the striker.
      After scoring ten goals in his opening campaign in Italy, the 23-year-old has chipped in with 15 goals and four assists in 25 games in all competitions this term.
      According to Corriere dello Sport via Fichajes, both Arsenal and United are keen on securing the ex-Lille ace’s services.
      It has also been said that the likes of Tottenham, Liverpool, Newcastle and Real Madrid have also shown interest in recent months.
      But a move this summer appears unlikely with Napoli demanding £83m in order to part ways with the player.
      Paul Pogba admits he’s ‘sad’ at Man Utd
      Paul Pogba has admitted he is “sad” that Manchester United have failed to win a trophy for five years, writes JOSHUA JONES.
      Pogba, 29, returned to Old Trafford in 2016 for £89million.
      But his only pieces of silverware came in that first season back – the League Cup and Europa League under Jose Mourinho in 2017.
      Credit: PA
      United came close by reaching the Europa League final last year, losing on penalties, but will be left empty handed again this term following their Champions League exit against Atletico Madrid.
      It guarantees the Old Trafford giants’ worst trophy drought in 40 YEARS.
      And Pogba – who won four consecutive Serie A crowns with Juventus and the World Cup in 2018 – is not happy about the team’s failure to challenge.
      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.”
      Man Utd 3-1 Everton
      Alessia Russo has her second goal of the game.
      The comeback is complete, United lead 3-1.
      Man Utd 2-1 Everton
      Captain Katie Zelem has scored from the penalty spot.
      With the 54th minute goal, United lead 2-1.
      Man Utd 1-1 Everton
      Top scorer, top finish.
      Alessia Russo scores. Loops her header over Sandy MacIver’s head and into the back of the net.
      Man Utd 0-1 Everton
      Smashing goal from Scotland’s Claire Emslie.
      She beat the back four and slid it past the goalie into the bottom left corner.
      An early blow for United.
      United Starting XI
      Here it is, the Manchester United starting XI to face Everton at Old Trafford.
      It’s kicking off at 12:30

      Shaw on United
      Luke Shaw has had to battle with Alex Telles for the United left-back spot this term as the Red Devils look likely to fail in their pursuit of a top-four finish.
      On top of that, he will be going into the final year of his contract this summer – although has an extra 12-month option and is open to talks.
      Asked whether he needed to be happy to play well, Shaw replied: “I think everyone does. 
      “It’s always important to feel like you’re wanted and especially with England I always feel that.
      “I’m not saying I don’t at United, but especially here, the way things are, I feel wanted and I enjoy my football.
      “A big part of football is the enjoyment and, of course, it’s hard to enjoy when we’re losing and not playing well at club level. We have to face that. 
      “This season hasn’t been good enough at all and it’s hard to enjoy.
      “We’ve got a lot to improve but right now we’re here at England. My focus is on that.”
      Shaw thing with England
      Luke Shaw reveals he feels “wanted” with England, writes JOSHUA JONES.
      And the left-back added he can “play with a smile on my face” on international duty.
      The defender, 26, started for the Three Lions against Switzerland at Wembley on Saturday evening.
      He featured for an hour – blasting in his first goal since the Euro 2020 final – before making way for debutant Tyrick Mitchell.
      Credit: Alamy
      And speaking after the comeback win, he clearly enjoyed the run out under Gareth Southgate after a turbulent season for all at Old Trafford.
      Shaw said: “The environment here that Gareth creates, you always enjoy it.
      “When I come here it’s about enjoyment and playing games with a smile on my face. 
      “We all love playing for our country and when we’re here we’re all focused on what’s happening here.”
      We all love playing for our country.Luke Shaw
      Watch out McFred
      David de Gea has told the Man Utd official site that he would be a defensive midfielder if he gives up the No1.
      Scott McTominay and Fred likely won’t be pushed out of place by De Gea but they will enjoy his view on it.
      De Gea said: “When I was young, I used to play outfield as well.
      Credit: Getty
      “Not just as a keeper. So which position I would like to play if I was an outfielder?
      “I’m not sure but probably midfield. A No6 trying to take the ball and make some good passes.
      “Yes, a holding midfielder, having the ball and trying to make the team play better.”
      Man Utd vs Everton preview
      When it comes to goal of the season contenders Katie Zelem’s jaw-dropping, corner-kick efforts will no doubt be up there this term, writes SANDRA BROBBEY.
      The Manchester United skipper may be hoping for more of the same when the Red Devils’ WSL stars play in front of fans for the first time at Old Trafford.
      Around 25,000 are expected at today’s highly anticipated game with United facing Everton as they continue their quest to play in Europe.
      Credit: Rex
      The atmosphere at the Theatre of Dreams this afternoon will be in stark contrast to the empty stands United performed in front of when they played there last March.
      The Covid pandemic denied fans the chance to be present when Katie, who is the daughter of ex-Macclesfield Town keeper Alan Zelem, helped her team beat West Ham 2-0.
      Zelem, who has made 67 Red Devils appearances, added: “A huge part of football are the fans. I’ve been a fan myself and I’m a player.
      “When you see both sides, you realise how important they are.
      “The game last year was very different. You could almost see it as a dress rehearsal.
      “It’s going to be huge playing there with hopefully 20,000 plus fans. It will be a whole new experience.”
      Not a Rash decision
      Arsenal are plotting a shock summer transfer swoop for Marcus Rashford, according to reports.
      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.
      Credit: Getty
      He has hit a barren run of form and slipped way down the pecking order – with just five goals in 26 appearances across all competitions and two completed 90 minutes.
      The England international was dropped by Gareth Southgate for the current Three Lions camp.
      Good morning Red Devils fans
      Pedro Neto and Antonio Rudiger could yet head to Old Trafford – but Edinson Cavani seems closer to a summer exit.
      And West Ham are now favourites for Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic.
      The Red Devils have been joined by PSG in the hunt for Wolves midfielder Neto.
      The 22-year-old could attract £50million-plus bids as he recently extended his Molineux contract until 2027.
      United also face growing competition for Chelsea centre-back Rudiger.
      Juventus are now thought to be keen on the Germany star too.
      And Newcastle hope their Saudi backing will give them a shot at huge names like the 29-year-old.
      Real Sociedad emerged overnight as frontrunners for United hitman Cavani this summer.
      Mauricio Pochettino and Erik ten Hag are still favourites for the permanent Old Trafford boss job.
      And whoever takes over is expected to have a clear-out.
      Uruguay legend Cavani, 35, is also after more regular starts and possibly one final lucrative move.
      Finally, Leicester’s star midfielder Youri Tielemans – linked to the Red Devils and Arsenal – has reportedly revealed he wants Champions League football soon.
      Utd joined by Juventus in Rudiger race
      Juventus are tipped to rival Manchester United and possibly Newcastle for Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger.
      The Germany star is one of the Blues whose future seems most uncertain in the summer amid their takeover saga,
      Sociedad favourites to land Cavani
      Real Sociedad are frontrunners to sign Manchester United striker Edinson Cavani this summer.
      The Red Devils are expected to freshen up their squad when a new permanent manager arrives.
      And Uruguay striker Cavani, 35, also wants more regular starts.
      NINTCHDBPICT000721404114Credit: EPA
      Ped Devil?
      Manchester United have competition from Paris Saint-Germain in the fight for Pedro Neto this summer, according to reports.
      The Red Devils are eyeing a £50million-plus summer move for the 22-year-old Wolves star.
      However, The Daily Mail report that PSG are “monitoring his progress” for the rest of the campaign.
      The midfielder recently signed a contract extension until 2027 so Wolves can push up the transfer price for wannabe suitors.
      Man Utd could have signed Neto for next to nothing back in 2016 when he came to Carrington on trial from Portuguese side Braga.
      He made his first start for Wolves in 330 days against Crystal Palace earlier this month.
      Juve and Red Devils could battle it out for Rudiger
      Juventus are tipped to rival Manchester United and possibly Newcastle for Chelsea centre-back Antonio Rudiger.
      The Germany star is one of the Blues whose future seems most uncertain in the summer amid their takeover saga.
      West ham tipped to beat Utd to Nikola
      Manchester United look set to miss out on Nikola Milenkovic – because West Ham have a “gentleman’s agreement” to sign him, according to reports.
      The Fiorentina centre-back, 24, has been at the centre of a transfer tug of war.
      A whole host of Premier League sides have been linked with the defender in recent seasons.
      Tottenham, Newcastle, Wolves and Arsenal were among them, as well as United and West Ham.
      However, Milenkovic signed a contract extension last summer, tying him down until 2023.
      Should United miss out on Milenkovic who looks bound for the London Stadium, they may look elsewhere in their pursuit of defensive reinforcements.
      Max Kilman, Jules Kounde, Manuel Akanji and soon-to-be-free-agent Antonio Rudiger are all targets.

      Latest: England 2 Switzerland 1
      Harry Kane’s 78th minute penalty put England in front for the first time.
      Steven Zuber’s handball from a Marc Guehi header was penalised by VAR, enabling Kane to draw level with Bobby Charlton from the spot as the Three Lions’ all-time top scorer on 49 goals.
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      Youri boost for Arsenal & Man Utd
      Youri Tielemans has put Arsenal and Manchester United on red alert after declaring he wishes to play Champions League football.
      And that will be a boost to Mikel Arteta with his Gunners side in pole position to finish fourth this season ahead of the Red Devils and rivals Tottenham.

      Tielemans faces an uncertain future at the King Power Stadium with the Belgium international having just one year left on his contract.
      Arsenal reportedly held talks with the midfielder’s representatives in January over a potential switch to the Emirates.
      Meanwhile United have identified the ex-Monaco ace as a cheaper alternative to West Ham’s Declan Rice and Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips.
      Tielemans could be sold in the upcoming transfer window with it claimed he has rejected a bumper new deal to stay in the Midlands.
      And in a boost for Arsenal and United, the Foxes are said to have slashed their asking from £60million to just £35m to avoid losing him on a free.
      Commenting on his future, Tielemans has revealed he is not thinking about next season, but stressed he wants to be competing for Europe’s premier tournament.
      He told Het Laatste Nieuws: “I don’t worry about it [speculation].
      “I want to get the most out of myself this season and finish as high as possible with the team.
      H/T: England 1 Switzerland 1
      Luke Shaw punished woeful Swiss defending in first-half stoppage time to cancel out Breel Embolo’s superb headed opener.
      It rescued the Three Lions’ from a poor show, with Arsenal’s Ben White vulnerable in central defence and the visitors lively
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      LATEST: England 0 Switzerland 1
      Breel Embolo’s bullet header from a fine cross put the Swiss in front from one of the first moments of real quality.
      Arsenal centre-back Ben White should arguably have done much better as he seemed to get stuck underneath the ball.
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      LIVE: England 0 Switzerland 0
      Our LIVE MATCH BLOG will have blow-by-blow updates.
      Click HERE for updates from Wembley as the Three Lions, in their changed blue kit, feel their way into this friendly.
      England bench Maguire
      Crystal Palace central defender Marc Guehi and Southampton right-back Kyle Walker-Peters make their England debuts in this evening’s friendly with Switzerland.
      Manchester United skipper Harry Kane is only a sub.
      Palace’s huge input also includes on-loan Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher earning his second cap and Tyrick Mitchell being a sub.
      Arsenal anchorman Granit Xhaka and ex-Liverpool playmaker Xherdan Shaqiri start for the visitors.
      England XI: Pickford, Walker-Peters, Guehi, Stones, Coady, Shaw, Gallagher, Henderson, Mount, Foden, Kane.
      Switzerland XI: Omlin, Widmer, Akanji, Frei, Embolo, Freuler, Xhaka, Steffen, Rodriguez, Vargas, Shaqiri.
      Barca warn Chelsea & Utd target Dembele
      Barcelona president Joan Laporta has issued Chelsea transfer target Ousmane Dembele – also linked with Manchester United – a blunt warning amid a contract stand-off.
      Laporta is still holding talks with Dembele, whose deal with Barca runs out in June, and insists he will have to lower his wage demands if he wishes to stay at the Nou Camp.
      As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Barca bigwig has told the winger he will have to adapt to the club’s new salary scale that is set to come into effect next season.

      Laporta also confirmed negotiations are underway with Gavi, Ronald Araujo and Sergi Roberto.
      Romano tweeted: “Barcelona president Laporta tells [Mundo Deportivo]: ‘We’ve no news for Ousmane Dembele contract.
      ‘If he wants to stay, he will have to adapt to our salary scale for next season. ‘Talks are underway with Gavi and Araujo. Sergi Roberto? It’s in the hands of his agent’.”
      Dembele has been linked with a Premier League move this summer and Chelsea are among the clubs keeping tabs on him.
      Load more entries… More

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      in Soccer

      2022 World Cup draw info, Eriksen back with goal for Denmark, England beat Switzerland in friendly, Dembele PAYCUT

      by

      KEEP your eyes peeled because the 2022 Qatar World Cup is happening NEXT WEEK.And Christian Eriksen provided a glimpse of what’s to come in footballs biggest competition by scoring just two minutes into his emotional return for Denmark
      Which has come less than a year after the horrendous heart attack that nearly ended his life.
      England beat Switzerland in a comeback victory thanks to goals from Luke Shaw and Harry Kane, who is closing in on Wayne Rooney’s record goal haul for the Three Lions.
      On the transfer front, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has issued Ousmane Demebele with a paycut warning despite his excellent form of recent.
      Laporta informed the Frenchman that he has to adapt to the new salary scare if is to have a future at the Nou Camp.
      Get all the latest football news and updates here…
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      Eriksen hit with coin in post-game comeback
      A mindless thug threw a coin at Christian Eriksen after the Dane made his first international appearance since his on-pitch heart attack, writes ETIENNE FERMIE.
      The now Brentford player was back in action for his country 287 days after suffering a cardiac arrest on the pitch against Finland at Euro 2020.
      Eriksen shook off a recent bout with Covid to be involved and was summoned from the bench at half-time in the friendly clash against Netherlands.

      Fittingly taking place at the former Ajax star’s old Amsterdam Arena home, Eriksen made an instant impact.
      Introduced with his side trailing 3-1, Eriksen stepped onto a 47th minute Andreas Skov Olsen cutback to fire emphatically beyond Dutch goalkeeper Mark Flekken.
      The Netherlands would go on to win 4-2, before the shocking coin throwing incident after the game.
      Eriksen, 30, was being interviewed on the pitch following his return, but was struck by a projectile midway through.
      The former Tottenham star was momentarily distracted as a coin appeared to strike his side, before carrying on with his answer.
      Looking shocked, he said: “Did they just throw a coin? Unbelievable.”
      This bizarre incident put a sour note to Eriksen’s big day.
      Rudiger ‘new Chiellini’
      Antonio Rudiger will be billed as the “new Chiellini” to help lure him to Juventus this summer, writes ANDREW DILLON.
      The Chelsea defender is out of contract at the end of this season and the Italian giants want him to lead their defence into a new era.
      And their plan for him to ultimately take over from club legend Giorgio Chiellini as the heartbeat of the back line is an added incentive.
      Credit: Reuters
      Rudiger has already been offered a deal worth around £5.5million-a-season over five years to tempt the athletic Germany centre-back.
      The 29-year-old is attracting interest from Europe’s leading clubs as he winds down his contract at crisis-torn Chelsea.
      Rudiger is one of three senior stars who will become free agents at the end of the season, along with club captain Cesar Azpilicueta and Dane Andreas Christensen.
      Pogba admits he is ‘sad’ at Man Utd
      Paul Pogba has admitted he is “sad” that Manchester United have failed to win a trophy for five years, writes JOSHUA JONES.
      Pogba, 29, returned to Old Trafford in 2016 for £89million.
      But his only pieces of silverware came in that first season back – the League Cup and Europa League under Jose Mourinho in 2017.
      Credit: PA
      United came close by reaching the Europa League final last year, losing on penalties, but will be left empty handed again this term following their Champions League exit against Atletico Madrid.
      It guarantees the Old Trafford giants’ worst trophy drought in 40 YEARS.
      And Pogba – who won four consecutive Serie A crowns with Juventus and the World Cup in 2018 – is not happy about the team’s failure to challenge.
      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.”
      Chelsea bidders given April 11 deadline
      Chelsea’s takeover saga will drag on for another fortnight with the four remaining bidders given until April 11 to submit their final proposals.
      The Raine Group have whittled contenders down to a quartet, with an emphasis placed on committing £1billion in future investment into the West London club.
      Each will have until April 11 to potentially up their bids, before the Raine Group will make their final decision.

      According to Sky Sports, this deadline could see the Blues taken over by the end of the next month.
      After Raine decide on their preferred bid, the takeover will still be subject to government approval.
      A key deciding factor could be each bidder’s plans to renovate Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge home.
      The 40,834 capacity is dwarfed by that of Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Tottenham and Arsenal’s homes.
      Shaw thing with England
      Luke Shaw reveals he feels “wanted” with England, writes JOSHUA JONES.
      And the left-back added he can “play with a smile on my face” on international duty.
      The defender, 26, started for the Three Lions against Switzerland at Wembley on Saturday evening.
      He featured for an hour – blasting in his first goal since the Euro 2020 final – before making way for debutant Tyrick Mitchell.
      Credit: Alamy
      And speaking after the comeback win, he clearly enjoyed the run out under Gareth Southgate after a turbulent season for all at Old Trafford.
      Shaw said: “The environment here that Gareth creates, you always enjoy it.
      “When I come here it’s about enjoyment and playing games with a smile on my face. 
      “We all love playing for our country and when we’re here we’re all focused on what’s happening here.”
      We all love playing for our country.Luke Shaw
      Qatar World Cup draw 2022
      By the end of March, 28 of the 32 participants will be finalised for the Qatar World Cup in November.
      The final four places will be decided, three in the intercontinental playoffs in June, and the final European playoff final.
      This has been delayed due to the invasion of Ukraine, who Scotland will face in the semi final.
      Wales lie in wait after Gareth Bale starred in the Miracle of Wales.
      The draw for the tournament takes place on Friday 1 April 2022, in Doha, Qatar at 5pm.
      Dembele told to take a pay cut
      Barcelona president Joan Laporta has issued Premier League transfer target Ousmane Dembele a blunt warning amid a contract stand-off, writes KOSTAS LIANOS.
      Laporta is still holding talks with Dembele, whose deal with Barca runs out in June, and insists he will have to lower his wage demands if he wishes to stay at the Nou Camp.
      As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Barca bigwig has told the winger he will have to adapt to the club’s new salary scale that is set to come into effect next season.
      Credit: Rex
      Laporta also confirmed negotiations are underway with Gavi, Ronald Araujo and Sergi Roberto.
      Romano tweeted: “Barcelona president Laporta tells [Mundo Deportivo]: ‘We’ve no news for Ousmane Dembele contract.
      ‘If he wants to stay, he will have to adapt to our salary scale for next season.
      ‘Talks are underway with Gavi and Araujo. Sergi Roberto? It’s in the hands of his agent’.”
      Not a Rash decision
      Arsenal are plotting a shock summer transfer swoop for Marcus Rashford, according to reports.
      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.
      Credit: Getty
      He has hit a barren run of form and slipped way down the pecking order – with just five goals in 26 appearances across all competitions and two completed 90 minutes.
      The England international was dropped by Gareth Southgate for the current Three Lions camp.
      Good morning to footy fans
      Gareth Southgate claimed England’s stuttering 2-1 comeback win over Switzerland was a “really good exercise” – helped by three debutant defenders.
      Keeper Jordan Pickford showed why he is still No1 ahead of in-firm Arsenal stopper Aaron Ramsdale.
      And Southgate hailed “composed” Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi after his first call-up.
      The other new boys – Southampton right-back Kyle Walker-Peters and Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell as a sub left-back – perhaps have less-clear shots at a World Cup spot this winter.
      But now unbeaten for 21 matches, Southgate said of his Three Lions: “I think they’ve got pride in the way they’ve been playing.
      “And to see some players who perhaps haven’t played as often for us and some new players as well was a really good exercise for all of them.
      “It was a really good test. We went behind, we had tactical problems to solve, we had to defend properly.
      “Of course towards the end of the game we were able to get more experience and some top players onto the pitch, which made us finish strongly.”
      Breel Embolo’s header deservedly put the Swiss in front before Luke Shaw’s fine drive and Harry Kane’s penalty secured victory.
      Skipper Kane is now level with Bobby Charlton’s 49-goal England total – behind only Wayne Rooney’s 53.
      Southgate hails new boys
      Boss Gareth Southgate claims England’s 2-1 comeback win over Switzerland showed their pride as they went 21 games unbeaten.
      Southgate said: “To see some players who perhaps haven’t played as often for us and some new players as well was a really good exercise for all of them.
      “I thought it was a really good test. We went behind, we had tactical problems to solve, we had to defend properly.
      “Of course towards the end of the game we were able to get more experience and some top players onto the pitch, which made us finish strongly as well and that was important for the team and also for the crowd.”
      He added of his squad: “I think they’ve got pride in the way they’ve been playing and we talked last year about that and about their record last year.
      “Of course towards the end of the game we were able to get more experience and some top players onto the pitch, which made us finish strongly as well and that was important for the team and also for the crowd.”
      Arsenal & Newcastle in Calvert-Lewin boost
      Arsenal, Newcastle and West Ham are tipped to pursue Dominic Calvert-Lewin after suggestions Everton are ready to sell their England striker.
      The Toffees reportedly have worries over Financial Fair Play awards and Calvert-Lewin is arguably their most valuable asset
      Credit: Getty
      Guehi reveals his ‘nervous’ family stayed at home
      England’s impressive debutant Marc Guehi revealed his family missed his Wembley joy – as they are too nervous to attend.
      The Crystal Palace centre-back, 21, was ‘fantastically proud’ as he helped see off Switzerland 2-1 in today’s friendly.
      But he told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Sometimes they get a bit nervous so prefer to watch at home.
      “They definitely were tempted, but I know they are watching from afar and supporting me, and I always feel their love in my heart.”
      Chelsea hover amid Dembele contract stand-off
      Barcelona president Joan Laporta has issued Chelsea transfer target Ousmane Dembele – also linked with Manchester United – a blunt warning amid a contract stand-off.
      Laporta is still holding talks with Dembele, whose deal with Barca runs out in June, and insists he will have to lower his wage demands if he wishes to stay at the Nou Camp.
      As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Barca bigwig has told the winger he will have to adapt to the club’s new salary scale that is set to come into effect next season.
      Christian Eriksen scored with his FIRST TOUCH back in international football after his cardiac arrest last year as Denmark lost 4-2 away to Holland.
      The Danes called up the 30-year-old earlier this month following his impressive club comeback with Brentford.
      What a moment ❤️Christian Eriksen scores with his first touch on his return to the Denmark side a year after he suffered cardiac arrest at Euro 2020. pic.twitter.com/pkUPu1f7zq— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) March 26, 2022

      And in a fairytale story the 30-year-old found the back of the net less than two minutes after coming on as a half time substitute in a friendly against the Netherlands.
      It was a typically classy finish too, with Eriksen firing into the top corner from 13 yards out after having the ball cut-back into his path by winger Andreas Skov Olsen.
      But even if the script wasn’t perfect enough, the goal came at the Johan Cruyff Arena, where Eriksen spent three years as a player for Ajax.
      The last time Eriksen represented Denmark was that fateful day in Copenhagen 287 days ago.
      He was loudly applauded by the entire stadium as he made his way onto the pitch for the start of the second half.
      Spain 2 Albania 1
      Dani Olmo snatched Spain’s stoppage-time winner.
      Ferran Torres finally put the dominant hosts in front on 75 minutes.
      But sub Myrto Uzuni punished a blunder by Spain’s debutant Brentford keeper David Raya with a lucky leveller from Albania’s first effort on goal.
      Southampton striker Armando Broja – on loan from Chelsea – shone for Albania.
      But Olmo sneaked a narrowly-deserved victory for Spain.
      Arsenal, Toon & Hammers in Calvert-Lewin boost
      Arsenal, Newcastle and West Ham ae tipped to pursue Dominic Calvert-Lewin after suggestions Everton are ready to sell their England striker.
      The Toffees reportedly have worries over Financial Fair Play awards and Calvert-Lewin is arguably their most valuable asset
      Credit: Getty
      Cottagers want Pope
      EXCLUSIVE: Fulham want Burnley’s Nick Pope to be their No 1 in the Premier League next season, writes ALAN NIXON.
      Craven Cottage boss Marco Silva is keen to get recruitment sorted out early with the club eight points clear at the top of the Championship.
      And the Portuguese has already lined up a major bid for England keeper Pope, who seems sure to move on this summer if Sean Dyche’s strugglers go down.
      Clarets would ask around £20million for Pope, 29, but that could be negotiable if they fail to escape the bottom three.
      Pope faces a cut in wages if the club are relegated — another reason why a move would tempt him, alongside staying in the England frame.
      And he could grab a lucrative deal at the Cottagers, who are never scared to spend on salaries when they are in the top flight.
      No clean get-away after the Italian Sob
      Italy stars left the dressing room in terrible condition after their humiliating loss to North Macedonia.
      The reigning European champions lost 1-0 to the Balkan minnows on Thursday’s World Cup qualifying semi-final playoff and were shockingly eliminated from Qatar 2022.

      Aleksandar Trajkovski’s winner in the second minute of stoppage time stunned the Azzurri at the Renzo Barbera and frustrations boiled over after the referee’s final whistle.
      Roberto Mancini’s men were in such a foul mood they took their anger out on the dressing room in Palermo.
      Corriere dello Sport shared a damning video showing the locker room in an absolute state. Empty plastic bottles and other type of trash were lying around everywhere.
      There was also plenty of food left on the floor by the Euro 2020 winners as the Italian publication described the state of it as a “real shame” and “utter disrespect”.
      This is not the first time Italy leave a locker room behind in ruins as they did the same at Wembley after beating England in the final.
      Of course, the atmosphere was completely different in London as the Italians celebrated their hearts out backstage. A party broke out and there were beer cans, as well as wine and champagne bottles lying everywhere.
      Rest of the England ratings
      Harry Kane – 6
      Some decent link-ups with Foden was about as good as it got for Kane in the first period.
      The England skipper held up the ball to bring others into play but failed to really threaten in the final third – until he won the game from the penalty spot and equalled Sir Bobby Charlton’s record in the process.
      Looked more Kane-like in the final quarter of an hour, though Southgate will want him much more involved against Ivory Coast on Tuesday.
      Subs
      Jack Grealish (for Mount on 61 mins) – 7
      Injected some much-needed energy into the game when he came on as the crowd favourite brought his X factor quality to the team.
      Drifts in and out of the match but the opposition always remains wary, enabling others to pick up pockets of space.
      Declan Rice (for Gallagher on 61 mins) – 7
      Showed his class on the ball when he came on. Clearly England’s most accomplished player when attempting to dictate the tempo of the match.
      The first name on the team sheet for the World Cup.
      Raheem Sterling (for Walker-Peters on 61 mins) – 6
      Played on the right of a midfield four after coming off the bench.
      Didn’t see much of the ball as Grealish received most of the service out on the left. Looked threatening in the closing stages but couldn’t pick anyone out with his back post cross.
      Tyrick Mitchell (for Shaw on 61 mins) – 6
      Gained valuable experience and did not put a foot wrong at the back when he came on for his debut.
      Jude Bellingham (for Phil Foden on 80 mins) – 6
      Helped out the defensive effort in the closing stages with an important clearance from a dangerous delivery.
      Ollie Watkins (for Kane on 89 mins)
      Barely had time for a touch of the ball before the full-time whistle went.
      More England ratings
      Conor Gallagher – 6
      Was full of energy and application but struggled to find his feet in the game in the first half – albeit registering an assist for Shaw’s equaliser.
      Clipped a nice ball over the top for Kane in the second period but the striker couldn’t prod beyond Jonas Omlin.
      Came off after an hour as Southgate shook things up with four changes.
      Jordan Henderson – 7
      Evidently England’s best starting midfielder in the match, he consistently won the ball back and snuffed out danger early on.
      But when Rice emerged it was clear the West Ham man is by some distance England’s best player when it comes to retaining possession.
      Phil Foden – 7
      Played as the link between the midfield and Kane very effectively at times – almost acting as a second striker alongside the Tottenham man.
      Definitely looked the most likely player to make something happen for the Three Lions.
      Seems to be developing a positive understanding with captain Kane.
      Mason Mount – 4
      Was a passenger for much of the first half as he seemed to be dropping deeper into the midfield to play alongside Gallagher and Henderson.
      Never looked a threat going forward – indicative of a player who has only scored one Premier League goal since Christmas.
      Replaced by Grealish 15 minutes into the second half after a difficult evening.
      England ratings
      Jordan Pickford – 8
      Made a smart stop down to his left from Xhaka in the first half and followed that up moments later with a sensational reflex parry onto the bar.
      With the back five crumbling around him inside the opening 30 minutes, Pickford stood up and made the saves which kept England in the game.
      Under pressure from Aaron Ramsdale, Pickford continues to use England as a happy release from his struggles for Everton.
      Kyle Walker-Peters – 6
      One of two England debutants, Walker-Peters missed a sitter in the first 45 before thankfully seeing the offside flag go up to spare his blushes.
      The delivery he is so renowned for at St Mary’s was lacking, but he wasn’t helped out by Foden’s desire to drift into a central role – leaving Walker-Peters isolated on the right.
      Would have impressed Southgate when he won the ball back high up the pitch moments before Shaw equalised.
      Marc Guehi – 6
      Got caught a bit flat-footed a couple of times as the Swiss forward line found space around the back of the England defence.
      The left side of England’s back five looked particularly vulnerable – with Switzerland often finding room to create in between Guehi and Shaw.
      Grew into the game and finished it strongly – understandable given his lack of experience.
      Ben White – 6
      Came in for John Stones just minutes before kick-off after the Manchester City man was injured in the warm-up.
      The Arsenal defender’s calmness on the ball and pinpoint distribution showed he could be the antidote to Harry Maguire’s shortcomings.
      But he also showed his own fragility, losing Embolo when the Swiss striker peeled around the back and nodded home the opener.
      Conor Coady – 6
      With Stones pulling up moments before the match, Coady suddenly found himself the most experienced international centre-back in England’s starting line-up.
      Was commanding from set-pieces at points when England were coming under a little pressure, but does not look capable enough at the heart of an international defence.
      Luke Shaw – 6
      Shaw was caught out of position when he committed himself high up the pitch – often showing the defensive frailties he has been criticised for while playing for Man Utd in recent months.
      But he gave England fans a throwback to his goal in the Euros final by showing them how well he can strike the ball in the final third – bagging his second for his country.
      Was hooked on the hour mark to make way for debutant Tyrick Mitchell.
      England 2 Switzerland 1
      Luke Shaw and Harry Kane’s penalty sealed England’s stuttering comeback win.
      Breel Embolo headed Switzerland’s deserved early opener before Fabian Frei and Xherdan Shaqiri hit the Three Lions’ bar.
      Read all the reaction on this Wembley friendly with our match blog HERE.
      Rep of Ireland 2 Belgium 2
      Sub Alan Browne’s bullet header earned Ireland a late draw with the world’s top-ranked side to make it seven games unbeaten in this lively friendly.
      Michy Batshuayi and Hans Vanaken put Belgium ahead twice, with Chiedozie Ogbene levelling inbetween with a deflected bicycle kick
      Latest: England 2 Switzerland 1
      Harry Kane’s 78th minute penalty put England in front for the first time.
      Steven Zuber’s handball from a Marc Guehi header was penalised by VAR, enabling Kane to draw level with Bobby Charlton from the spot as the Three Lions’ all-time top scorer on 49 goals.
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      Latest: England 1 Switzerland 1
      The Three Lions are still spluttering along as they enter the final half-hour with a raft of changes.
      But Conor Gallagher is impressing in midfield.
      Click on our match blog HERE for updates from Wembley in this friendly.
      Load more entries… More

    • 250 Shares139 Views

      in Motorsport

      F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix LIVE: Build-up as Hamilton starts 16th on the grid, Schumacher reveals he’s OK after crash

      by

      DRIVERS are getting themselves ready for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after an ugly first two days of the event in Jeddah.Mick Schumacher has confirmed with fans that he is ‘OK’ after being involved in a horrifying 170mph crash during qualifying.
      The whole paddock went quiet for what seemed like an eerie few minutes as the son of Michael was involved in a smash on turn 12.
      Meanwhile, Sergio Perez took pole after a superb lap, clocking 1min 28.2sec, with Charles Leclerc 0.025 sec behind, and Carlos Sainz another fifth of a second behind him.
      And Lewis Hamilton limped OUT of qualifying after a miserable Q1, where he failed to make the cut.
      The seven-time world champion was miles off the pace and even labelled his car as ‘undrivable’.
      JOIN SUN VEGAS: GET A FREE £10 BONUS WITH 100s OF GAMES TO PLAY AND NO DEPOSIT REQUIRED (Ts&Cs apply)
      Follow all the action from Jeddah with our live blog below…
      Lew it all along
      Today marks a record for Lewis Hamilton.
      The Brit has the most Grand Prix starts with a single team – 180.
      Mercedes tweeted: “Record. Breaker.
      “Today marks Lewis Hamilton’s 180th F1 Grand Prix with the team.”
      Hamilton has won seven championships – six during this time with Mercedes.

      Drivers worried they’d be attack target
      Frightened F1 drivers were unanimously AGAINST racing in today’s Saudi Grand Prix.
      And they were only persuaded to carry on after lengthy talks with team bosses and F1 chiefs.
      There are claims some felt BULLIED into competing in yesterday’s qualifying, which was overshadowed by Haas ace Mick Schumacher’s 170mph crash.
      Red Bull star Sergio Perez admitted that the drivers were “concerned about our safety” following Friday’s shocking Houthi rebels’ rocket attack on an oil depot just six miles from the circuit.
      Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said: “Everybody is free to take a decision and if a team member decides not to race, they are free to do so.
      “The drivers were pretty united in their initial discussions but then we were able to convince them the race was the best thing to do.”
      Hamilton was banned from talking to media
      Finnish newspaper Iltalehti says Lewish Hamilton was stopped from talking to reporters by F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali after their decision to continue with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. 
      It is said that F1 drivers were overwhelmingly AGAINST competing following safety fears over the track and Friday’s terrorist rocket attack just six miles away.
      The Finnish reports claim: “Stefano Domenicali made sure Hamilton was not allowed in front of the microphones”.
      After a disappointing qualifying session, Hamilton was asked his views on the car.
      He said: “I’m not here to comment on that. We worked together as a group, we all discussed and made a decision as a sport.”
      Schumacher stays off the track
      Haas boss Gunther Steiner says a rush job to fix Mick Schumacher’s car for today’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix would have risked the next race in Melbourne.
      Schumacher, 23, will not be racing today after the terrifying smash left his car split in two.
      The Australian Grand Prix is April 10 and Steiner reckons it wasn’t worth the risk to get Schu driving in Saudi.
      Credit: Splash
      He said: “You could work all night and then on race morning find out you’ve compromised yourself so much because you did everything in a hurry.
      “Then you end up with not all the spare parts in Australia, and then you have a little thing happen in Australia, and then you cannot race when you in theory should be in a better position.
      “It doesn’t make sense to me. It’s just like trying too hard to call it.
      “You have to ship everything from here to Melbourne.
      “We cannot ship it to the UK now to do all the stuff on the car like you need, to crack check and all those other good things.
      “It would be just not a good job for knowing that you cannot end up in the points if you start from the pitlane this year, as there’s too many good teams out there.”
      Flying Finn
      Valtteri Bottas finished sixth in Bahrain last weekend.
      And starts the Saudi Arabia GP in eighth.
      Bottas and Alfa Romeo fans will be chuffed with his start to the season as the Finland man gears up for tonight’s race.

      Grid positions
      A reminder of the grid places today as Red Bull’s Sergio Perez is on pole for the very first time.
      Lewis Hamilton is in 15th – yes, you read that right.
      Mercedes team-mate George Russell will start the race in sixth.
      1) Perez
      2) Leclerc
      3) Sainz
      4) Verstappen
      5) Ocon
      6) Russell
      Credit: Formula 1
      Ferrari closing in on Perez
      Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz start second and third respectively as they look to get another Ferrari victory.
      But Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto has declared that the Formula One drivers are still not 100 per cent happy about racing in Sunday’s Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
      There were fears that the second race of the 2022 season could be called off following Friday’s terror attack just miles away from the Jeddah circuit.
      Credit: Splash
      But Ferrari team principal Binotto has stated that drivers are still not totally happy to compete this weekend.
      He remarked: “I don’t think we said they are 100 per cent happy and fully relaxed.
      “Certainly they are still concerned but they have listened to the assurances we gave them and they understand the importance to stay here, and try to race because that is the best choice we can make.
      “Leaving the country would not have been the right choice..”
      Schumacher ‘OK’ after horror crash
      Mick Schumacher has told fans he is “OK” after his horror 170mph crash in Saudi Grand Prix qualifying, writes TOM SHEEN.
      The Haas driver, 23, will not be racing after the terrifying smash left his car split in two.

      But much to the relief of fans all over the world, the German later took to social media to put their minds at ease.
      He wrote on Twitter: “Hi everyone, I just wanted to say that I’m OK.
      “Thank you for the kind messages. The car felt great, we’ll come back stronger.”
      Haas also confirmed that Schumacher would not be able to race in Sunday’s GP.
      Top 10 – Perez pips the Ferrari partners
      A reminder of the top 10 grid places today as Sergio Perez is on pole for the very first time.
      1) Perez
      2) Leclerc
      3) Sainz
      4) Verstappen
      5) Ocon
      6) Russell
      7) Alonso
      8) Bottas
      9) Gasly
      10) Magnussen
      Hamilton : ‘car was undrivable’
      Lewis Hamilton had a 16th place finish in the Saudi Arabia GP qualifying session on Saturday.
      The seven-time world champion was miles off the pace and shockingly eliminated in Q1, writes SIMON RICE.
      Initially it was unclear exactly why Hamilton was so far off the pace, with team-mate George Russell managing to qualify sixth.
      Credit: Getty
      Wolff explained: “We tried something on Lewis’ car that did not work. He had zero grip on the rear axle. Time to wake up for us.”
      Hamilton, who will start 15th in today’s race due to Mick Schumacher not taking part, said “so sorry guys” over the team radio after his Q1 elimination.
      Elaborating further on his issues he said: “It was something in the set-up that was looking good in FP3. Tried to progress in a similar direction and maybe we went too far.
      “The car was just undrivable – so nervous.”
      Worryingly for Mercedes, those hoping to see Hamilton fight his way towards the front in today’s race may be disappointed.
      The 37-year-old said: “Well, I’ve got the same car as I had in qualifying, so I don’t anticipate moving that far forwards. But I’ll give it everything.”
      Toto-ly unacceptable
      Mercedes chief Toto Wolff was livid after qualifying for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, calling Lewis Hamilton’s 16th place finish “totally unacceptable”, writes SIMON RICE.
      The seven-time world champion was miles off the pace and shockingly eliminated in Q1.
      It was the first time Hamilton had been eliminated at the first stage since Brazil 2017, and his first without a crash since 2009.
      What made the dreadful qualifying session all the more brutal is that Hamilton won in Jeddah only back in December – highlighting how far Mercedes have fallen in just a few months.
      Wolff, 50, told Motorsport Week: “I always love competition. We had a really strong run of eight years leading the pack – not always, but we kind of managed our way into the lead – but this time feels a bit like 2013 when we just weren’t up to the speed of the Red Bulls and probably also the Ferraris.
      “We kept fighting and this is how I feel at the moment – we need to fight.
      “It’s certainly totally unacceptable where we are on performance. We are third on the road, and sometimes not even that like today. It’s just not an option to stay where we are.”
      It’s certainly totally unacceptable where we are on performance.Toto WolffMotorsport Week
      Today’s race information
      Race – 6pm (9pm local time).
      The F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is live on Sky Sports F1.
      You can stream all the action live with a Sky Go account or the Sky Sports app.
      Non-Sky Sports subscribers can still watch the whole race day with a Now TV Day Pass from £9.99.
      Good morning to F1 fans
      Sergio Perez’s stunning first pole ever for today’s Saudi GP is just a sideshow in Jeddah amid more race controversy and Mick Schumacher’s 170mph crash.
      F1 drivers were overwhelmingly AGAINST competing following safety fears over the track and Friday’s terrorist rocket attack just six miles away.
      And Lewis Hamilton amazingly will start only 16th on the grid as he was eliminated from qualifying yesterday after just one stage.
      Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said: “The drivers were pretty united in their initial discussions but then we were able to convince them the race was the best thing to do.
      “Everyone’s opinions matter but we want to avoid a situation where we did not know if the race was on or not.”
      Drivers met for four hours yesterday morning to discuss their worries due to fears the race could be targeted by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen.
      And after the go-ahead was confirmed, concerns about the track itself escalated due to Schumacher’s horror crash.
      The Haas driver, 23, confirmed he was “OK” after being airlifted to hospital – but his car was split in two.
      Perez then stole pole ahead of Ferrari duo Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz – with his Red Bull team-mate Max Verstappen fourth.
      Mexican Perez admitted his surprise and claimed he could “do a thousand laps and not beat” his peerless ride.
      Ferrari aces ‘still concerned’ over racing in Jeddah
      Ferrari’s Mattia Binotto admitted his two drivers were NOT comfortable with racing in Jeddah, writes BEN HUNT.
      When asked by SunSport if his drivers were fully-behind the race going ahead as planned, he said: “I don’t think we said that they are 100 percent happy and fully relaxed.
      “I think they are still concerned but they are listening to the assurance that we give them, the understanding of the importance to stay here and somehow try to race because it’s the best choice we can do.”
      The drivers were also briefed on the security measures that were in place to prevent a similar drone attack on the circuit. And the Ferrari boss said that cancelling the race and fleeing the country was not an option.
      Binotto added: “The drivers met together and certainly they were concerned. After the facts of Friday, no doubt all of us were concerned.
      “The concerns need to be translated into considerations and discussions, and as we as teams had assurance from F1 and from the Saudi government authorities and security agencies that everything would have been safe and under control.
      “Leaving the country would simply not have been the right choice.”I think there was no right reason to leave the country after the facts that happened and with the assurance that we get.”
      Crash victim Schumacher says he’s ‘OK’
      Mick Schumacher has told fans he is “OK” after his horror 170mph crash in Saudi Grand Prix qualifying, writes TOM SHEEN.
      The Haas driver, 23, will not be racing after the terrifying smash left his car split in two.

      But much to the relief of fans all over the world, the German later took to social media to put their minds at ease.
      He wrote on Twitter: “Hi everyone, I just wanted to say that I’m OK.
      “Thank you for the kind messages. The car felt great, we’ll come back stronger.”
      Haas also confirmed that Schumacher would not be able to race in Sunday’s GP.
      Schumacher, son of seven-time worlds champ Michael, lost control and smashed into a wall during Q2 at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

      Hamilton: We work together
      Lewis Hamilton was quizzed about the potential boycott by F1 drivers and said: “I’m not here to comment on that. We work together as a group. We discussed it and made a decision as a sport.”
      It was a similar story for pole-sitter, Sergio Perez, who said he had feared for his own safety when learning of the missile attacks just six miles away.
      He added: “We were concerned about our safety and also of the mechanics and engineers.
      “As drivers, there is only so much we know and it was important we got together. We felt it was the right thing was to go ahead and race.”
      Drivers tight-lipped
      The drivers remained tight-lipped about their conversations last night amid reports they were BULLIED into taking part in today’s qualifying, which was overshadowed by Mick Schumacher’s huge crash, writes BEN HUNT.
      However, SunSport understands that after agreeing to get Sunday’s race over the line, the drivers will soon meet with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to express their concerns over racing in Saudi Arabia.
      But the Italian played down the threat of a strike and added: “I think the word boycott is not the right word because we are not here to be here in two categories. We are here as one family as F1.
      “It is about putting in place all the things that have to be considered where is the line?”
      Drivers were AGAINST Saudi GP go-ahead
      F1 drivers were unanimously AGAINST racing in tomorrow’s Saudi Grand Prix and needed serious convincing to take part, writes BEN HUNT.
      Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said: “Everybody is free to take a decision and if a team members decides not to race they are free to do so.
      “The drivers were pretty united in their initial discussions but then we were able to convince them the race was the best thing to do.
      “The drivers are stakeholders in the sport as are the teams and why everyone’s opinions matter but we want to avoid a situation like yesterday where we did not know if the race was on or not.”
      The shock developments happened here in the Jeddah paddock early on Saturday morning where drivers were locked in a meeting that lasted more than four hours.
      It came after a fuel depot in the city was hit by a missile launched by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen.
      The attack happened midway through practice for the Saudi GP and heightened fears that the race would also be targeted.
      Drivers stood still dressed in their race suits debating the issue before their respective team bosses, F1 and local officials stepped in to persuade them otherwise.
      Hamilton feared crashing in ‘nervous’ car
      Lewis Hamilton endured arguably his worst qualifying performance since the 2009 British GP and says he was lucky he too did not end up in the wall, writes BEN HUNT.
      However, he simply did not have the speed or the handling and was knocked out in Q1 and will start in 16th place.
      He said: “It’s a wonder I wasn’t one of the drivers in the wall.
      “I just struggled with the balance of the car. I didn’t have any rear end. I couldn’t go through the corners without the back snapping out.
      “I just didn’t feel the car beneath me so I struggled with the balance. The car felt very nervous.
      Everyone is working as hard as they can and trying to stay positive.
      “But I don’t anticipate moving very far forwards but I’ll give it everything.”
      Carlos Sainz, who will start in third place, also says discussions need to be made about making safety improvements to the track.
      He said: “Is it worth it having that big accident when you can push out the walls and have more run-off? It is a discussion we need to have because it is on the limit.”
      Perez surprised to land superb first pole
      Sergio Perez hailed his first F1 pole position in 215 attempts.
      The Red Bull man said: “I can do 1000 laps and not beat that one! We did not expect too much and we were focusing mainly on the race.
      “It was difficult this qualifying because we stopped in Q2 and it is difficult to keep your focus to make sure you do that lap.
      “But if I can get pole here, I can get it anywhere in the world.”
      Schumacher in hospital after crash as debate over GP hots up
      Mick Schumacher was airlifted to hospital after suffering a high-speed crash – less than 24 hours after the Saudi Arabian GP was plunged into doubt following a missile attack, writes BEN HUNT.
      Drivers spent over four hours deliberating whether to take part in this race after a fuel depot was hit just six miles away by Houthis rebels.
      But it was the on-track safety that was the focus last night, as this race – dubbed ‘the fastest street circuit in the world’, comes with extreme danger.
      The Jeddah Corniche Circuit features long straights, little-run off areas and concrete walls.
      Throughout Saturday, the track action was frequently brought to a stop for crashes. But none more spectacular than Schuamcher’s, the son of seven-time world champ, Michael.
      Mick, who this week turned 23, ploughed into the wall at around 150mph, destroying his Haas car in the process.
      Medics were immediately deployed along with the ambulance and, after being extracted from the wreckage, he was sent to the medical centre for checks.
      His Haas team confirmed that the German was conscious and had phoned his mum Corinna to let her know he was ok.
      He was then transferred on a stretcher to a waiting medical helicopter.Shrouded by a green blanket, he was then taken to  King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, for precautionary checks.
      After a 57 minute delay, Sergio Perez took his first pole position of his F1 career in 215 attempts.
      Per-fect achievement
      F1 media chiefs labelled Sergio Perez’s pole-clincher a ‘sensational lap’.

      Leclerc admits shock as Perez pips him
      Charles Leclerc admitted he was ‘definitely not expecting that’ as he saw Sergio Perez storm to pole in the final minute.
      Sergio: It’s 1 in 1,000!
      Sergio Perez claimed he could ‘do a thousand laps and not beat’ his peerless pole clincher for tomorrow’s Saudi GP.
      The Red Bull ace added: “What a lap!”
      Perez: ‘What a lap’!
      Red Bull’s Sergio Perez clocked 1:28.200 as his astonishing final lap beat the flying Ferraris of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to land his FIRST EVER POLE.
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      in Boxing

      Kiko Martinez vs Josh Warrington LIVE RESULTS: Warrington all over world champ Martinez in opening round – updates

      by

      JOST WARRINGTON is in the ring to fight Kiko Martinez and grab his IBF featherweight world title.Warrington’s last fight ended in a technical draw after a clash of heads with Mauricio Lara in round two, with the Mexican unable to continue.
      The Leeds born fighter last faced Martinez back in 2017 defeating the Spanish fighter on points to retain his featherweight title.

      Ring walk time: 10pm UK estimated
      Live stream: DAZN – head to their website and sign up for a £7.99-a-month subscription. You can live stream the action from the DAZN app, which is available for download onto your mobile device, tablet or Smart TV.

      Warrington vs Martinez undercard and main event

      Kiko Martinez vs Josh Warrington – IBF world featherweight title
      Maxi Hughes vs Ryan Walsh – IBO world lightweight title
      Maria Cecilia Roman vs Ebanie Bridges; IBF women’s world bantamweight title
      Dalton Smith vs Ray Moylette – Super lightweight
      Calum French vs Angelo Turco Super lightweight
      Mali Wright vs Luis Palmer – light heavyweight
      Cory O’Regan vs Jakub Laskowski – Super lightweight

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      Stay up to date with all the updates from Leeds in our live blog…
      Martinez vs Warrington
      Round 3 – Martinez looking for the right hand over the top of Warrington’s guard.
      Big right hands landing for Warrington, with Martinez cut above his left eye.
      It’s a nasty cut and only a matter of time until the ref or ringside doctor take a look at it. Pace has slowed down heading into round four.
      Credit: PA
      Martinez vs Warrington
      Round 2 – Martinez landed a punch on the bell before round two and is hurt in the opening stages here.
      Warrington lets an explosive combination go as Martinez tries to cover up – it’s one-way traffic.
      The challenger having the better of the exchanges on the inside. Massive start for Warrington.
      Credit: Reuters
      Martinez vs Warrington
      Round 1 – Warrington lands a three punch combination early on.
      Warrington lands another combo and Martinez is backed to ropes…
      Martinez floored with a right hook! Warrington lands a perfect sweeping right hook which knocks down the champ.
      Martinez vs Warrington
      Round 1 – We are underway and the atmosphere is electric in Leeds.
      So much on the line for both men – mostly for Warrington who cannot afford another defeat.
      But can Martinez upset the British applecart yet again?
      Martinez vs Warrington
      Both the British and Spanish national anthems have been played – and we’re now just moments away.
      Will it be repeat or revenge?
      Promoter Eddie Hearn has already warned defeat for either man could spell the end. It’s all to play for.
      Martinez vs Warrington
      And now it’s champion Kiko Martinez’s turn to make his way.
      It was less than five years ago he was beaten by Warrington in this very arena.
      Who would have thought he’d be back and defending the world title.
      Martinez vs Warrington
      Here comes former IBF featherweight world champion Josh Warrington.
      He’s walked into the ring by Leeds United star Luke Ayling.
      This is quite possibly the biggest fight in Warrington’s career.
      Warr path
      Josh Warrington got over his Maurico Lara car crash with a dream motorbike… after his missus finally gave him the green light.
      The 31-year-old Leeds hero suffered a violent loss to the Mexico banger in February 2021, just a few weeks after relinquishing his IBF featherweight title in his effort to land other titles.
      The father-of-two hit rock bottom after the punishing KO but wife Natasha helped lift him out of his funk with the nod for his dream two-wheeled machine.
      Ahead of tonight’s shot at his old belt against Kiko Martinez at his local arena, Warrington revealed: “When I became world champion, I went to a motorbike garage and I came home with a brochure and the missus just burst into tears. She said ‘you can’t, you’ve just become a dad’.
      “Then after the first Lara fight, I was sulking about and my dad was having a mid-life crisis and had just bought a scooter, so I thought I’d get a bike.
      “The missus gave me the blessing and so I went and got one. I think she did it because I was so f*g miserable!
      “She said you’re going to do it at some time, so do it, but just be careful.”

      Roman vs Bridges 
      Bridges gets the decision by unanimous decision!
      The England based-Australian wins the IBF title in front of her adopted Leeds fan base.
      That will put everyone in the mood ahead of Josh Warrington’s main-event fight.
      Credit: PA
      Roman vs Bridges – R4
      Roman lands her best right hand of the night so far but Bridges doesn’t wobble.
      An uppercut from the busty blonde then scores, though,
      It’s back and forth action right up to the bell.
      Both girls are digging in and throwing.
      Credit: Reuters
      Roman vs Bridges – R2
      Roman is not offering much, in a scrappy second round Bridges probably edges it again just through effort and enthusiasm.
      Not much skill on show but Bridges is slashing away at her opponent and trying to land something flush.
      Roman just tucking up and surviving a lot of this early pressure.
      Roman vs Bridges – R1
      Veteran Roman gets booed into the ring by the Leeds crowd that has adoptde Bridges as one of their own.
      But it’s unlikely to offend the defending champion.
      Bridges makes the busier start but most of her shots are caught on Roman’s high guard.
      Roman plays it safe but in doing so probably gifts the Aussie babe the opening round and that could be crucial when they’re tallied up.
      Credit: Reuters
      Cecila Roman vs Ebanie Bridges next
      The Australian bombshell has another crack at a world title in just her ninth fight.
      But Argentine Roman, 39, will be touch and far more experienced after 22 fights.
      Bridges, 35, is trying to land the IBF bantamweight belt
      Maxi Hughes wins via UD
      The three ringside judges called it: 120-108, 119-109 and 118-110.
      Pretty fair from the officials.
      Hughes was just too good and Walsh was short of ideas.
      Hughes vs Walsh – R12
      Walsh might have snatched the final round just by being relentless while Hughes was cautious.
      Walsh drops his hands and asks for a war but Hughes is too shrewd.
      The bell goes and Hughes celebrates.
      Expect the Doncaster man to get a unanimous decision shortly.
      Hughes vs Walsh – R11
      Walsh still not going hell-for-leather and Hughes is banking these rounds.
      The Leeds crowd goes wild when Josh Warrington appears on the big screen.
      They’ll do the same if Hughes gets this decision shortly.
      Last round coming up.
      Hughes vs Walsh – R10
      Some really classy moments of boxing frm Hughes.
      The Doncaster man bobs and weaves out of danger before crasking Walsh.
      A clash of heads has opened another would in Walsh’s hearline.
      Lots more grease smeared over the gash.
      Hughes vs Walsh – R8
      Walsh’s right eyebrow heavy with thick Vaseline now to stem the flow of a cut.
      Hughes keeps his jab busy and lands a left hand.
      Team Walsh cheer and clap a couple of their man’s landed jabs.
      That was a tighter round that ended with Walsh throwing a right hook from miles out that Hughes ducked.
      Hughes vs Walsh – R7
      Hughes ands a precise one-two and trainer Sean O’Hagan cheers.
      Josh Warrington’s Leeds supporters sing “stand up if you hate Man U”.
      Another round to Hughes who is scoring cleverly and not getting dragged into a battle.
      Walsh will now he needs to pull something out of the bag soon.
      Hughes vs Walsh – R6
      Hughes landing the better shots now but Walsh not wobbling or buckling yet.
      Walsh, 35, has never been stopped in his three defeats and is from a tough Norfolk fighting family so won’t be afraid of some pain.
      He seems happy to absorb a fair few for his chance to land one on Hughes.
      A great Hughes jab does rock Walsh’s head back though. The Doncaster man is in a flow now.
      Hughes vs Walsh – R5
      Iron Ryan Walsh and Mai Hughes going right at it for Hughes’ IBO lightweight world title.
      The two southpaws have been trading and Walsh is cut above his right eye.
      Hughes has landed the heavier shots but is not known for his power.
      Walsh will not stop harassing him and trying.
      Credit: PA
      Smith pleased as punch
      Dalton Smith poses with his belt after beating Ray Moylette in Leeds.
      Credit: PA
      Smith vs Moylette – R7
      Smith has two points deducted for the low blow.
      Moylette is back on his feet.
      The fight restarts.
      Smith needs to be careful.
      Moylette down – R7
      Controversy here.
      Smith lands a massive low blow on Moylette and then a hook floors him.
      The ref is not counting so the knockdown will not count.
      Smith could be disqualified.
      Moylette has five minutes to recover and is on his knees in the corner.
      Smith vs Moylette – R6
      Moylette being broken down here.
      It will take a Leigh Wood-level comeback for the Irishman to avoid defeat now.
      Smith is coasting but should try oto end this inside the distance.
      Moylette’s corner might even consider saving him from his own bravery.
      Load more entries… More

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      in Motorsport

      F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix qualifying LIVE RESULT: Perez takes pole, with Leclerc second, Schumacher crash updates

      by

      MICK SCHUMACHER is talking to doctors after being taken away from Q2 in an ambulance, following a huge crash.The whole paddock went quiet for what seemed like an eerie few minutes as the son of Michael was involved in a smash on turn 12.
      Sergio Perez took pole after a superb lap, clocking 1min 28.2sec, with Charles Leclerc 0.025 sec behind, and Carlos Sainz another fifth of a second behind him.
      Lewis Hamilton limped OUT of qualifying after a miserable Q1, where he failed to make the cut.
      The seven-time world champion was bumped down to 17th after the first run of qualifying and will start Sunday’s Grand Prix way down the grid.
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      Follow all the action from Jeddah with our live blog below…
      Ferrari aces ‘still concerned’ over racing in Jeddah
      Ferrari’s Mattia Binotto admitted his two drivers were NOT comfortable with racing in Jeddah, writes BEN HUNT.
      When asked by SunSport if his drivers were fully-behind the race going ahead as planned, he said: “I don’t think we said that they are 100 percent happy and fully relaxed.
      “I think they are still concerned but they are listening to the assurance that we give them, the understanding of the importance to stay here and somehow try to race because it’s the best choice we can do.”
      The drivers were also briefed on the security measures that were in place to prevent a similar drone attack on the circuit. And the Ferrari boss said that cancelling the race and fleeing the country was not an option.
      Binotto added: “The drivers met together and certainly they were concerned. After the facts of Friday, no doubt all of us were concerned.
      “The concerns need to be translated into considerations and discussions, and as we as teams had assurance from F1 and from the Saudi government authorities and security agencies that everything would have been safe and under control.
      “Leaving the country would simply not have been the right choice.”I think there was no right reason to leave the country after the facts that happened and with the assurance that we get.”
      Crash victim Schumacher says he’s ‘OK’
      Mick Schumacher has told fans he is “OK” after his horror 170mph crash in Saudi Grand Prix qualifying, writes TOM SHEEN.
      The Haas driver, 23, will not be racing after the terrifying smash left his car split in two.

      But much to the relief of fans all over the world, the German later took to social media to put their minds at ease.
      He wrote on Twitter: “Hi everyone, I just wanted to say that I’m OK.
      “Thank you for the kind messages. The car felt great, we’ll come back stronger.”
      Haas also confirmed that Schumacher would not be able to race in Sunday’s GP.
      Schumacher, son of seven-time worlds champ Michael, lost control and smashed into a wall during Q2 at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit.

      Hamilton: We work together
      Lewis Hamilton was quizzed about the potential boycott by F1 drivers and said: “I’m not here to comment on that. We work together as a group. We discussed it and made a decision as a sport.”
      It was a similar story for pole-sitter, Sergio Perez, who said he had feared for his own safety when learning of the missile attacks just six miles away.
      He added: “We were concerned about our safety and also of the mechanics and engineers.
      “As drivers, there is only so much we know and it was important we got together. We felt it was the right thing was to go ahead and race.”
      Drivers tight-lipped
      The drivers remained tight-lipped about their conversations last night amid reports they were BULLIED into taking part in today’s qualifying, which was overshadowed by Mick Schumacher’s huge crash, writes BEN HUNT.
      However, SunSport understands that after agreeing to get Sunday’s race over the line, the drivers will soon meet with F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali to express their concerns over racing in Saudi Arabia.
      But the Italian played down the threat of a strike and added: “I think the word boycott is not the right word because we are not here to be here in two categories. We are here as one family as F1.
      “It is about putting in place all the things that have to be considered where is the line?”
      Drivers were AGAINST Saudi GP go-ahead
      F1 drivers were unanimously AGAINST racing in tomorrow’s Saudi Grand Prix and needed serious convincing to take part, writes BEN HUNT.
      Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said: “Everybody is free to take a decision and if a team members decides not to race they are free to do so.
      “The drivers were pretty united in their initial discussions but then we were able to convince them the race was the best thing to do.
      “The drivers are stakeholders in the sport as are the teams and why everyone’s opinions matter but we want to avoid a situation like yesterday where we did not know if the race was on or not.”
      The shock developments happened here in the Jeddah paddock early on Saturday morning where drivers were locked in a meeting that lasted more than four hours.
      It came after a fuel depot in the city was hit by a missile launched by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen.
      The attack happened midway through practice for the Saudi GP and heightened fears that the race would also be targeted.
      Drivers stood still dressed in their race suits debating the issue before their respective team bosses, F1 and local officials stepped in to persuade them otherwise.
      Hamilton feared crashing in ‘nervous’ car
      Lewis Hamilton endured arguably his worst qualifying performance since the 2009 British GP and says he was lucky he too did not end up in the wall, writes BEN HUNT.
      However, he simply did not have the speed or the handling and was knocked out in Q1 and will start in 16th place.
      He said: “It’s a wonder I wasn’t one of the drivers in the wall.
      “I just struggled with the balance of the car. I didn’t have any rear end. I couldn’t go through the corners without the back snapping out.
      “I just didn’t feel the car beneath me so I struggled with the balance. The car felt very nervous.
      Everyone is working as hard as they can and trying to stay positive.
      “But I don’t anticipate moving very far forwards but I’ll give it everything.”
      Carlos Sainz, who will start in third place, also says discussions need to be made about making safety improvements to the track.
      He said: “Is it worth it having that big accident when you can push out the walls and have more run-off? It is a discussion we need to have because it is on the limit.”
      Perez surprised to land superb first pole
      Sergio Perez hailed his first F1 pole position in 215 attempts.
      The Red Bull man said: “I can do 1000 laps and not beat that one! We did not expect too much and we were focusing mainly on the race.
      “It was difficult this qualifying because we stopped in Q2 and it is difficult to keep your focus to make sure you do that lap.
      “But if I can get pole here, I can get it anywhere in the world.”
      Schumacher in hospital after crash as debate over GP hots up
      Mick Schumacher was airlifted to hospital after suffering a high-speed crash – less than 24 hours after the Saudi Arabian GP was plunged into doubt following a missile attack, writes BEN HUNT.
      Drivers spent over four hours deliberating whether to take part in this race after a fuel depot was hit just six miles away by Houthis rebels.
      But it was the on-track safety that was the focus last night, as this race – dubbed ‘the fastest street circuit in the world’, comes with extreme danger.
      The Jeddah Corniche Circuit features long straights, little-run off areas and concrete walls.
      Throughout Saturday, the track action was frequently brought to a stop for crashes. But none more spectacular than Schuamcher’s, the son of seven-time world champ, Michael.
      Mick, who this week turned 23, ploughed into the wall at around 150mph, destroying his Haas car in the process.
      Medics were immediately deployed along with the ambulance and, after being extracted from the wreckage, he was sent to the medical centre for checks.
      His Haas team confirmed that the German was conscious and had phoned his mum Corinna to let her know he was ok.
      He was then transferred on a stretcher to a waiting medical helicopter.Shrouded by a green blanket, he was then taken to  King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, for precautionary checks.
      After a 57 minute delay, Sergio Perez took his first pole position of his F1 career in 215 attempts.
      Per-fect achievement
      F1 media chiefs labelled Sergio Perez’s pole-clincher a ‘sensational lap’.

      Leclerc admits shock as Perez pips him
      Charles Leclerc admitted he was ‘definitely not expecting that’ as he saw Sergio Perez storm to pole in the final minute.
      Sergio: It’s 1 in 1,000!
      Sergio Perez claimed he could ‘do a thousand laps and not beat’ his peerless pole clincher for tomorrow’s Saudi GP.
      The Red Bull ace added: “What a lap!”
      Perez: ‘What a lap’!
      Red Bull’s Sergio Perez clocked 1:28.200 as his astonishing final lap beat the flying Ferraris of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to land his FIRST EVER POLE.
      Top 10 – as Perez pips Ferraris
      1) Perez
      2) Leclerc
      3) Sainz
      4) Verstappen
      5) Ocon
      6) Russell
      7) Alonso
      8) Bottas
      9) Gasly
      10) Magnussen
      Top four
      Perez, Leclerc, Sainz, Verstappen.
      Yes! ***! Yes! ***!’
      Sergio Perez was ecstatic to grab his first ever pole – as he exclaimed on the radio…
      Perez on pole
      An incredible last lap powers Sergio Perez to pole above the Ferraris.
      Leclerc scorches
      Charles Leclerc pips Carlos Sainz – but Sergio Perez seems to have nicked pole!
      Sainz struggling to hold off Leclerc for pole
      The Ferraris look set for a one-two…
      Q3 – first run positions
      1) Sainz
      2) Leclerc
      3) Perez
      4) Ocon
      5) Alonso
      6) Verstappen
      7) Gasly
      8) Bottas
      9) Magnussen
      10) Russell
      Sainz and Leclerc back out on soft tyres
      Sainz and Leclerc are having a shot at boosting their lead times on softer tyres.
      And George Russell has a chance of rising to fourth place.
      Verstappen: I’ve got no grip
      Max Verstappen bemoaned his tyres’ lack of grip in a worrying radio communication for his Red Bull team.
      Verstappen struggling as Sainz clings to fastest time
      With less than seven minutes left, Max Verstappen really needs to up the pace – maybe with a new set of tyres.
      He’s only sixth-quickest so far.
      Sainz is still ahead of Charles Leclerc by 0.4secs.
      Ferraris thriving
      Carlos Sainz is so far quicker at the top by 0.4secs than Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc.
      Leclerc and Verstappen out early
      Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen are out early in the race for pole.
      Q3 starts at 6.53pm
      Ahead of Q3 in a few minutes, here’s the ten who made it through.
      1) Sainz
      2) Leclerc
      3) Perez
      4) Verstappen
      5) Alonso
      6) Bottas
      7) Gasly
      8) Magnussen
      9) Ocon
      10) Russell
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      England 2 Switzerland 1 LIVE RESULT: Harry Kane scores penalty after Luke Shaw equaliser for Three Lions – reaction

      by

      HARRY KANE has scored from the penalty spot to give England the win against Switzerland.VAR ruled that the Three Lions deserved a penalty after spotting a hand ball.
      Luke Shaw had equalised for England in the dying moments of the first half.
      Breel Embolo had given Switzerland the lead at Wembley against an under-strength Three Lions.
      Gareth Southgate’s side are now undefeated in eight games and last lost a game over 90 minutes against Belgium in November 2020.
      Of course that penalty shootout defeat to Italy in the Euros final will not be forgotten in a hurry, even if the Azzurri failed to qualify for Qatar.
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      Stay up to date with the latest from Wembley in our live blog…
      That’s all from Wembley
      England have begun the World Cup year with a win.
      It wasn’t always pretty, it wasn’t particularly exciting, but the Three Lions have recorded yet another victory – and against a decent side too.
      Switzerland ran their hosts ragged in the first half, and showed just why they came through their qualifying group unbeaten, finishing top above Italy.
      Yet a goal on the stroke of half-time from Luke Shaw cancelled out Breel Embolo’s opener, and, in the second period, England took charge.
      The friendly will perhaps be most memorable for Harry Kane’s 49th international goal, struck late on from the penalty spot, that took him level with Sir Bobby Charlton in England’s all-time scorers list.
      Kane will be hoping to hit the half-century on Tuesday when Ivory Coast arrive at Wembley to throw down another challenge, and you’ll be able to follow all the action live with us here at SunSport.
      Until then, thank you for joining us and goodnight.
      Satisfied Southgate praises infectious Gallagher
      Gareth Southgate praised England’s three debutants following a hard-fought victory over Switzerland, and then singled out Conor Gallagher on his first start for his country.
      Palace midfielder Gallagher appeared for an hour alongside Jordan Henderson in midfield, and played a pivotal part in Luke Shaw’s equaliser.
      Afterwards the Three Lions boss said: “It was a really good test. We know that they’re a very good side and I thought it was a great challenge for us.
      “We learnt a lot about some new players, and some relatively inexperienced players in an international shirt, and I thought they all came through it very well.”
      [Conor Gallagher] is infectious, isn’t he? I think he can set the tone for the rest of the team, we see that with his club every week, and he presses with ambition. Some players get close to people and don’t actually win the ball, he goes and makes contact, and turns the ball over.Gareth SouthgateSky Sports
      How the Three Lions rated
      Who was the pick of the bunch? Who else shone in the Wembley sun? And who struggled to make an impact?
      See how we’ve scored England’s stars in our match ratings following today’s 2-1 friendly win over Switzerland.
      Captain Kane in fine company
      Harsh critics of Harry Kane’s goalscoring exploits will point to the relatively low total needed to become England’s record goalscorer.
      However, you only need to look at the players who have netted more international goals than the Three Lions captain in the past seven years to realise just what a special striker he is.

      Match stats from Wembley
      It needed a late Harry Kane penalty to separate the two sides as far the scoreline goes, and the match statistics tell a similar story of a tightly-fought contest.
      Credit: UEFA.Com
      Spot on Harry’s no Gary
      Gary Lineker must have relived his most infamous moment in an England shirt (okay, second-most after his dirty protest at Italia ’90) when he saw Harry Kane stepping up to take this evening’s penalty.
      Lineker was also on 48 England goals, one behind Bobby Charlton’s then-record of 49, when he stepped up to take a spotkick against Brazil at Wembley in 1992.
      The striker, normally so reliable from 12 yards, inexplicably opted for a cheeky chip that was easily saved by goalkeeper Roberto Calos. Lineker never scored for his country again.
      Credit: @GaryLineker Twitter
      Full time – England 2-1 Switzerland
      England come from behind to get the job done on home turf.
      Harry Kane’s late penalty earned the Three Lions victory, but it was a win that they had to fight hard for after Switzerland had taken a first half lead.
      Luke Shaw strike on the stroke of half-time cancelled out Breel Embolo’s opener against the run of the play, before a much-changed England took charge in the second period.
      Kane’s winner takes him on to 49 international goals for England, level with Sir Bobby Charlton, and just four away from Wayne Rooney’s record.

      England 2-1 Switzerland
      90+5. The delivery is swung into the box. It’s miskicked at the near post, Rice is pulled down in the centre, and Grealish heads clear at the back stick.
      That will be the final action of this friendly.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      90+4. Switzerland win a corner.
      The drama of it all.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      90+3. There’s a late chance for Switzerland to level, but Declan Rice gets back to cover.
      The West Ham favourite has been superb since his introduction.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      90+1. Coady almost gets in on the act, but his twisting header is punched away in a most unorthodox manner by Omlin.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      90. A mix-up between goalkeeper and defence almost allow Watkins and Sterling to steal in for a third, but the visitors manage to survive.
      Four minutes of stoppage time will now be played.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      88. There will be no number 50 tonight.
      Harry Kane will save himself for Tuesday’s test against Ivory Coast by sitting out the final few minutes here.
      The captain’s armband is passed to Jordan Henderson as Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins comes on for a late appearance.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      87. Rodriguez whistles a speculative shot over the crossbar, and England are going to make their final change.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      85. Into the final five minutes at Wembley. Can England hold out for yet another friendly success?
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      83. White continues to impress since moving to right wing-back.
      He sparks a move that sees Henderson in an advanced position, and in an area to deliver a cross.
      The Liverpool midfielder sends it long, looking for Bellingham, but the England substitute is too forceful in his attempts to meet it, instead bundling over Mbabu.

      England 2-1 Switzerland
      81. England immediately make their fifth change after taking the lead, and it brings an appearance for young Jude Bellingham.
      The Borussia Dortmund midfielder is on for Phil Foden.
      England 2-1 Switzerland
      79. The England captain makes no mistake from 12 yards!
      Unfocused by all that’s happening around him, the striker runs up and buries the penalty low and into the bottom left corner.
      Omlin went the right way in the Switzerland goal, but couldn’t get near it.
      Harry Kane moves level with Sir Bobby Charlton on 49 goals, and now has only Wayne Rooney ahead of him on the all-time scorers’ list with 53 England goals.

      Goal! Harry Kane scores from the spot!
      VAR Review! Penalty to England!
      The video officials take their time considering the incident, and the longer that they examine the footage, the more confident England become that the decision is going to come their way.
      Eventually, referee Andreas Ekberg is advised to consult the pitchside monitor, and he needs just two replays to return and point for a penalty.

      England 1-1 Switzerland
      74. The corner is sent deep from the right, and finds Guehi at the far post.
      The Palace defender’s header crashes into Zuber, and immediately the England players scream for a penalty.
      The referee isn’t interested but there is a VAR check ongoing.

      England 1-1 Switzerland
      74. White gets forward again, this time on the right, and wins a corner when his low centre is diverted behind.
      England 1-1 Switzerland
      73. The Wembley crowd are getting really excited but it’s not because of anything that’s happening on the pitch. Could it be paper aeroplanes of Mexican waves?
      England 1-1 Switzerland
      71. White almost brings the house down with a thumping effort from 25 yards that whistles just over the crossbar.
      England 1-1 Switzerland
      69. A decent move down the left, and one that involves two of the subs.
      Grealish finds Mitchell via Foden, and the debutant at left-back curls a decent cross into the box.
      Kane gets up to meet it, but can’t get enough power into his header to truly test Omlin, who makes a comfortable save.
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      England vs Switzerland LIVE: Stream, TV channel, team news, kick-off time for TODAY’S international friendly – updates

      by

      ENGLAND will be aiming to continue their momentum ahead of the 2022 Qatar World Cup when they face Switzerland THIS EVENING.The Three Lions went undefeated in their World Cup qualifiers winning eight out of 10 games and comfortably topping the group by six points.
      And Gareth Southgate can use this fixture as an opportunity to give inexperienced players their first senior international debut.
      However, the Swiss will also be heading to the World Cup after going undefeated finishing top of Group C ahead of Euro 2020 winners Italy.
      So the England boss will be well aware that this match is far from a foregone conclusion.
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.nk-headline-heading{color:rgba(71,30,121,1);}.css-1uyse24:before{content:”;top:0;right:0;bottom:0;left:0;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;z-index:1;}.css-n392go{border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-1p5s3t0{padding:0;border-width:0 1px 1px 1px;border-style:solid;border-color:rgba(155,201,183,1);padding:12px;max-height:104px;min-height:98px;}.css-124tga5{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-5jzxpx{overflow:hidden;-webkit-line-clamp:3;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;display:-webkit-box;word-wrap:break-word;line-height:1;}.css-i1acvs{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,99,73,1);text-transform:uppercase;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-i1acvs:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}OLL IN .css-8h3gc3{margin:0;padding:0;color:rgba(34,37,38,1);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;font-family:The Sun;font-size:18px;line-height:1.333;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:0%;font-stretch:normal;display:inline;}.css-8h3gc3:hover:not(:disabled){-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}Ollie Watkins ‘added to England squad for Switzerland & Ivory Coast friendlies’
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      Swiss talisman Xherdan Shaqiri recently completed a move to MLS side Chicago Fire less than six months after joining Lyon from Liverpool.
      After Marcus Rashford’s admission from the squad, England head coach Gareth Southgate said: “I have spoken with him. I think he totally understands where he’s at.”
      “Marcus is very realistic. He knows he has is in a situation where he not been getting in the United team consistently and he will be searching as much as anybody to get that form back.”
      What time does England vs Switzerland kick off?

      England vs Switzerland on Saturday, March 26.
      The match kicks off at 5.30pm in the UK – 6.30pm in Switzerland.
      It takes place at Wembley Stadium, London.
      The sides last met in 2019, where England beat Switzerland on penalties to secure third place in the Nations League.

      What TV channel is England vs Switzerland on and can I live stream it?

      England vs Switzerland is live on Sky Sports Main Event and Football.
      Coverage commences at 4.30pm – one hour before kick off.
      To stream the game live, head to Sky Go or Now TV.

      Teams news
      England
      Kyle Walker is England’s only noticeable full-back absentee with Southgate reportedly using the upcoming friendlies as a chance to look at his other flank defending options.
      Manchester United forwards Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford have both been dropped due to poor form.
      But Arsenal formidable duo, Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe have will be absent with the latter picking up a last minute injury and his Hale End partner suffering with Covid-19.
      However, Crystal Palace players Connor Gallagher and Marc Guehi have both been called up after impressing at Selhurst park this season.
      England Squad
      Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), Nick Pope (Burnley)
      Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Conor Coady (Wolves), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Reece James (Chelsea), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Tyrone Mings (Aston Villa), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Ben White (Arsenal)
      Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund), Conor Gallagher (Crystal Palace), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Mason Mount (Chelsea), Declan Rice (West Ham United), James Ward-Prowse (Southampton)
      Forwards: Tammy Abraham (Roma), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Manchester City), Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Emile Smith Rowe (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City)
      Latest odds
      England 4/6
      Draw 5/2
      Switzerland 9/2
      Odds courtesy of Betfair are correct at time of publication
      Stay up to date with the latest from Wembley in our live blog…
      England favourites for friendly success
      The Three Lions have won their last eight international friendlies, and the bookies have them at a touch of odds-on to make it nine in a row.

      England win 4/6
      Draw 12/5
      Switzerland win 9/2

      Odds from Betfair correct at time of post publication.
      Let’s head down Wembley Way
      Good afternoon and welcome to the Wembley for our live coverage of Saturday’s international friendly between England and Switzerland.

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